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2015 Preview Episode 1

OC Bar Association President Ashleigh Aitken, WatchDog.org Managing Editor Will Swaim and OC Register Editorioal Director Brian Calle discuss the county's jail informant scandal, a controversial Santa Ana pot shop raid and the recall effort against Superior Court Judge Marc Kelly.


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2015 Preview Episode 2

Voice of OC Editor Norberto Santana discusses his on-line investigative news organization, the challenges facing print journalism, OC's political landscape, his Cuban heritage and how boxing is like reporting.


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INSIDE OC ARCHIVES 2007-2011

Archived Episode - November 17, 2011

The economy's depressed, businesses are complaining. Has California lost its entrepreneurial mojo? Rick discusses the business climate and political gridlock with Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom. Rick also talks about jobs and innovation -- or the lack of it -- with eMachines founder John Hui, UCI business dean Andrew Policano and business writer James Flanigan.


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Archived Episode - November 10, 2011

Home prices are down, sales are sluggish. But at the former El Toro Marine base the Great Park gears up for several thousand new homes. Is there any hope for a residential recovery? Rick talks with the developer, Emile Haddad of Five Point Communities, as well as UCI Professor Kerry Vandell, consultant Richard Gollis and OC Business Journal reporter Mark Mueller.


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Previous Episode - November 3, 2011

Newspapers going broke. Network news viewers tuning out. The Internet on the rise. How is journalism faring in this brave new media world? Rick gets the views of bloggers Jon Fleischman and Dan Chmielewski, citizen activist Chris Thompson and newspaper veterans Jean Pasco and Will Swaim. And David Nazar asks average citizens where they get their news.




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Archived Episode - October 27, 2011

Rick is at the Nixon Library to interview the National Archives' Tim Naftali about the controversy over the library's new Watergate exhibit. Is it disrespectful toward Nixon? And what would Nixon do about such contemporary issues as terrorism and the economy? Rick asks UCI professor Matthew Beckman and Chapman U professor (and Watergate investigator) Ron Rotunda.


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Archived Episode - October 20, 2011

Two police officers charged in a beating death, and accusations that city officials engaged in corruption and a cover-up. Should some Fullerton city councilmembers be removed from office? Pro-recall citizen Chris Thompson, anti-recall citizen Larry Bennett and Councilman Bruce Whitaker debate. And guest host David Nazar interviews recall target and former Fullerton Police Chief Pat McKinley.




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Archived Episode - October 13, 2011

They were prosecuted and convicted for shouting down the Israeli ambassador. But just who are the Irvine 11? Meet two of them, Asaad Traina and Aslam Akhtar, along with their lawyer, Ameena Mirza Qazi. The Feds crack down on medical marijuana clinics; David Nazar reports. And Occupy Wall Street comes to Orange County. Is this a populist groundswell – or a publicity stunt? Judge Jim Gray, Clare Venegas and Steve Young debate.




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Archived Episode - October 6, 2011

The ACLU and an Anaheim gadfly sue the OC supervisors. Is this a First Amendment stand or just a frivolous lawsuit? David Nazar reports. San Juan Capistrano cracks down on a Bible study while an Orange councilman criticizes the Koran. Is it open season on religion in Orange County? Panelists Katrina Foley, Brian Calle and Keith Rodenhuis debate that question, and also examine the county's new budget shortfall.


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Archived Episode - September 29, 2011

Clean energy has a lot of investors thinking green, but now the Solyndra fiasco has a lot of taxpayers seeing red. Should the government pull the plug on pet projects? David Nazar reports, professor Karen Lugo and energy consultant, Debbie Cook debate. And a debate between two men in the center of Costa Mesa's heated budget battles, Councilman Jim Righeimer and labor leader Nick Berardino.




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Archived Episode - September 22, 2011

Orange County's DA charges a Fullerton cop with murder and another with manslaughter in the July 5 beating death of homeless man Kelly Thomas. David Nazar reports on this unprecedented prosecution of on-duty officers in OC, and analysis is provided by Nazar and Consider This panelists Gustavo Arellano, Melahat Rafiei and Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - September 15, 2011

Fiscal crises, political turmoil, an angry public. California's sick - does anyone have a remedy? Rick hears from "the people" and "the politicians" on a special "What's Next California" edition. Guests are State Senator Mimi Walters, Assemblyman Jose Solorio, schoolteacher and Fullerton councilmember Sharon Quirk, Chapman Law School Dean Tom Campbell and Wahoo's Fish Taco founder Wing Lam.




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Archived Episode - September 8, 2011

Protesting union nurses call for a tax on Wall Street to maintain social programs. Is this a bold idea or simply class warfare? David Nazar reports. Should Sacramento script tax breaks for Hollywood or shout "cut?" Are the county supervisors guilty of gerrymandering? Panelists Jerry Amante, Michael Moodian and Will Swaim debate those issues and more.


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Archived Episode - September 1, 2011

One's a Libyan rebel and former political prisoner. The other is an OC businessman and agitator for regime change. Brothers Omran and Omar Turbi discuss their roles in the toppling of Kadafi. A Santa Ana councilwoman apologizes for comparing a commercial landlord to Hitler. Is this a controversy about anti-semitism or wrenching change in downtown Santa Ana? Consider This panelists Jim Gray, Debbie Cook and Jon Fleischman debate. And David Nazar has more on the controversial "Newport Noah" and the big boat in his backyard.




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Archived Episode - August 25, 2011

Why can't politicians on Capitol Hill compromise on job-creation and debt reduction? Congress members Loretta Sanchez and John Campbell debate. Football season arrives early in San Clemente with an off-field clash over a head coach ousted in a probe of alleged sporting-goods kickbacks. David Nazar reports. And Consider This panelists Jennifer Muir and Brian Calle clash over public employee pensions.




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Archived Episode - August 18, 2011

A failing economy, mounting debt, political gridlock. Do Republicans have answers or are they making things worse? Rick talks to U.S. Reps Ed Royce and Dana Rohrabacher. And the city of Fullerton remains in turmoil six weeks after a schizophrenic homeless man, suspected of breaking into automobiles, is beaten by cops and dies. David Nazar reports on the latest developments in the controversy.


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Archived Episode - August 11, 2011

A homeless man dies after being beaten by Fullerton cops, sparking outrage and investigations. Why are city officials mum? Judge James Gray, former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook and Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante discuss this and other issues. David Nazar reports on a new court program -- some military vets who commit crimes get treatment instead of prison. And journalist Will Swaim and Rick debate whether Gov. Jerry Brown has "disappeared."


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Archived Episode - August 4, 2011

A homeless man dies after being beaten by Fullerton cops, sparking outrage and investigations. Why are city officials mum? Judge James Gray, former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook and Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante discuss this and other issues. David Nazar reports on a new court program -- some military vets who commit crimes get treatment instead of prison. And journalist Will Swaim and Rick debate whether Gov. Jerry Brown has "disappeared."


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Archived Episode - July 28, 2011

The Catholic Diocese of Orange and a Norco-based Christian ministry up the bidding for the Crystal Cathedral. Is a bankruptcy battle turning into a holy war? OC Archives Director Jean Pasco, entrepreneur and minister Martha Daniel and Flash Report Publisher Jon Fleischman debate. OC Business Journal Editor Jerry Sullivan and One-Stop Center's Evelyn Bell discuss what looks like a "jobless" recovery. And a Santa Ana councilman breaks the silence over the city's bid for a pro soccer team.


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Archived Episode - July 21, 2011

Meet Miss California, Noelle Freeman. She has beauty, brains and strong political views. David Nazar reports on the controversial idea of luring professional soccer team Chivas USA to Santa Ana. And Santa Ana's on-going controversy over a proposed office tower, and other issues, are debated by Consider This panelists Nick Berardino, Buck Johns and Gustavo Arellano.


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Archived Episode - July 14, 2011

Newport Beach motorcycle cops get paid thousands of dollars a year to wash down their bikes. Are taxpayers getting hosed? Political consultants Melahat Rafiei and Adam Probolsky debate. More from David Nazar's probe of a coaches' "slush fund"-Capo school officials allege embezzlement and schools adopt new policies for equipment purchases. And OC Register columnists David Whiting and Frank Mickadeit "talk trash" about their upcoming boxing match.


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Archived Episode - July 7, 2011

The OC supervisors approve a healthcare grant after English gets added to the program's Spanish name. A cultural compromise? Or was something lost in translation? Rick interviews Latino Health Access CEO America Bracho. David Nazar reports on a feud between Tustin's mayor and school officials. And was it right for the state to take away $48 million from Orange County? Consider This panelists Deborah Gavello, Keith Rodenhuis and Brian Calle debate.


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Archived Episode - June 30, 2011

The county supervisors go on a federal spending diet, rejecting grants to combat obesity. Is less more? Consider This panelists, lawyer Karen Lugo and social scientist Michael Moodian, debate. Irvine Councilman Larry Agran wants Irvine to replace Iowa as the first test of presidential candidates. Wacky idea? Will Swaim and Rick debate. And David Nazar reports on a present-day Noah whose boat building has caused a flood of controversy.


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Archived Episode - June 23, 2011    New Anaheim Mayor Tom Tait discusses the city's never-ending search for a pro basketball team, the challenge of balancing a billion-dollar budget and his kindler, gentler "Hi, Neighbor" program. David Nazar examines what's behind SoCal Edison's and the Gas Co.'s requests for rate hikes. And panelists Brian Lochrie, Jennifer Muir and Gustavo Arellano debate the angry resignation of Costa Mesa's police chief and other issues.


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Archived Episode - June 16, 2011    It's Costa Mesa vs. public employees on the budget, and Costa Mesa vs. the courts and state Legislature on the OC Fairgrounds. How are the battles going? Rick asks Councilman Jim Righeimer. Reporter David Nazar has the latest on his probe of a coaches' "slush fund." And Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante, OC Archives Director Jean Pasco and Voice of OC's Norberto Santana debate pay raises for top county employees and $200,000-a-year Newport Beach lifeguards.


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Archived Episode - June 2, 2011    High gas prices. A slow economy. Tough regs. What's a car company to do? Rick talks with John Krafcik, CEO of the fastest-growing automaker in the U.S., Hyundai. David Nazar reports on the "stink" over a proposed development in San Juan Capistrano. And former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook, "Real Orange" business anchor Pete Weitzner and Lincoln Club Executive Director Clare Venegas debate Orange County DA Tony Rackauckas' lawsuit against Toyota and other issues.


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Archived Episode - May 25, 2011    Supervisor John Moorlach discusses the county's reaction to an audit that finds high-level employees getting improper pay raises and perks. The county's top school official tells David Nazar he is "shocked" by revelations of a coaches' "slush fund." And Judge Jim Gray, Tustin Councilwoman Deborah Gavello and GOP activist Buck Johns debate the merits of pulling out of Afghanistan and pulling the plug on red-light cameras.



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Archived Episode - May 19, 2011    Was President Clinton's impeachment about lying, sex, the law or politics? And why not just forget the whole thing? Judge Jim Rogan, one of the House impeachment managers, discusses his new book on the contentious saga. And who's better, or worse, for ailing California - Democrats or Republicans? OC's political bosses, Republican Scott Baugh and Democrat Frank Barbaro, debate.


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Archived Episode - May 12, 2011    Rex "Wonder Dog" Hudler talks baseball, steroids, the Angels' 50th and the Dodgers' woes. OC Employees Association's Jennifer Muir and the OC Register's Brian Calle debate "double-dipping" by public employees. And part two of David Nazar's investigation into a coaches' "slush fund."


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Previous Episode - May 5, 2011    Russell Goldsmith, CEO of City National Bank and an adviser to the Federal Reserve Board, talks to Rick about jobs, housing, gas prices, government debt and Ben Bernanke. And, say it ain't so, Coach. Records indicate that high school and junior college coaches across the Southland got kickbacks from an equipment supplier. David Nazar has an exclusive report.


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Archived Episode - April 28, 2011    The OC supervisors lose their bid to repeal a big chunk of sheriff deputy pension benefits, as the California Supreme Court declines to hear the case. Was the county's effort just a waste of taxpayer money? And where does the ruling leave the county's under-funded pension plan? Lawyers on opposite sides of the case - Tom Umberg and Mario Mainero - debate. And Governor Jerry Brown comes under the scrutiny of Consider This panelists Jean Pasco, Gustavo Arellano and Jon Fleischman.



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Archived Episode - April 21, 2011    The battle in Washington is fierce between President Obama and the GOP. What's the fight like on the front lines? Congressman John Campbell tells Rick. And a Tea Party activist apologizes for emailing a picture that depicts President Obama as a chimpanzee. Is "sorry" good enough or should she resign her GOP post, too? Political consultant Melahat Rafiei and journalist Will Swaim debate this story and more.


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Archived Episode - April 14, 2011    A battle in Orange Park Acres over a plan to build mansions. In Tustin, a battle to recall the mayor. And budget battles from Washington to Sacramento to Costa Mesa. Retired Superior Court Judge Jim Gray, Tustin Councilwoman Deborah Gavello and businessman Buck Johns debate the issues. And he's fighting many battles - an interview with OC's newest supervisor, Shawn Nelson.


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Previous Episode - April 7, 2011    Japan reels from a tsunami-damaged nuke. Could such a disaster hit San Onofre? In Tustin, a showdown over a plan to build senior housing. What's the Catholic Church got to with it? And budget talks in Sacramento break down as California's budget deficit worsens. Isn't there something Governor Brown can do? Former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook, entrepreneur and minister Martha Daniel and pollster Adam Probolsky debate.


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Archived Episode - March 31, 2011    A suicide in Costa Mesa sparks an angry debate over public employee layoffs. A jury says a county storm drain damaged a couple's home, so why don't officials pay up? And the Sacramento Kings are headed to Anaheim. Is SoCal big enough for three pro basketball teams? Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante, OC Employees Association Jennifer Muir and journalist Will Swaim debate.


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Archived Episode - March 24, 2011    She's Orange County's top law "woman." Sheriff Sandra Hutchens talks about reforming a scandal-plagued department, budget cuts and what keeps her up at night. And constitutional lawyer Karen Lugo defends her involvement in a controversial protest outside an Islamic gathering, and debates the OC Weekly's Gustavo Arellano on illegal immigration and anger over the suicide of a public employee in Costa Mesa.


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Archived Episode - March 17, 2011    It's the biggest game in town: Where to build a new stadium to bring NFL football back to SoCal. Downtown L.A.? City of Industry? Two Majestic Realty execs - John Semcken and Taylor Talt - make their pitch for Industry. And a unique high school that preps kids for Hollywood: Rick talks with Ralph Opacic, founder of the OC High School of the Arts, and two of its grads working in show business, Chad Doreck and Krysta Rodriguez.



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Archived Episode - March 10, 2011    UC Irvine Chancellor Michael Drake discusses the state cuts to higher education, the county DA's prosecution of eleven student protesters, inspector complaints about the university hospital - and good things happening on campus, too. Political consultant Melahat Rafiei and Flash Report Publisher Jon Fleischman discuss the protests outside a Muslim fundraising event in Yorba Linda and the county supervisors' attempt to oust public administrator John Williams.


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Archived Episode - March 3, 2011    Are Santa Ana city leaders corrupt? A coalition of Latino activists have called for a grand jury investigation of dealings by Mayor Miguel Pulido and other city officials.

In an interview with guest host David Nazar, Pulido, Councilman Vincent Sarmiento and Councilwoman Michele Martinez respond to the critics and defend their records.


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Archived Episode - February 24, 2011    From southern California to the Bay Area in under three hours! It's California's planned bullet train. Is it a great idea or a boondoggle? Tom Umberg, vice chairperson of the California High-Speed Rail Authority, debates Reason Foundation policy analyst Adam Summers. And a professor says it's time to get rid of little towns and make Orange County one big city. Another great, or dumb, idea? Rick asks Tustin Councilwoman Deborah Gavello, Voice of OC Editor in Chief Norberto Santana and Lincoln Club Executive Director Clare Venegas.



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Archived Episode - February 17, 2011    Muslim student demonstrators are prosecuted in Orange County. Immigration-rights protesters are charged in Los Angeles. Is the long arm of the law doing its job or over-reaching? And if we're in an economic recovery, where are the jobs? Joining Rick to discuss these issues are former Irvine Councilman Chris Mears, retired Orange County Superior Court Judge Jim Gray and former Orange County Deputy Treasurer Keith Rodenhuis.



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Archived Episode - February 10, 2011    San Clemente residents will soon vote on a proposed shopping center by the ocean. Would this be an enmity or an atrocity? Former Councilman Joe Anderson and resident Charles Mann debate. And Gov. Jerry Brown wants to take billions of dollars that city's collect for redevelopment projects and use those dollars to help plug California's massive budget deficit. Is this a needed move or a cynical power grab? Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante and journalist Will Swaim debate.


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Archived Episode - February 3, 2011    If new Governor Jerry Brown has his way, Californians will be voting soon on whether to tax themselves more to help close the state's huge budget deficit. Is this sound economics or just expedient politics? And San Clemente voters will definitely be voting soon on whether to allow a shopping mall near the ocean. Is this a smart use of city-owned land - or a conservationist's nightmare? Joining Rick to debate these issues and more are former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook, constitutional lawyer Karen Lugo and journalist and author Bill Lobdell.


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Archived Episode - January 26, 2011    The Great Park, Version 2.0 - or is it 3.0? Irvine officials and the park's developer have rebooted, and hope to start building homes late next year. Is the project finally ready to go on-line? And while 27 states have sued to stop the healthcare reform bill, California has joined eight other states to defend it. Is California on the right or wrong side of this national debate? Joining Rick for their own debate are Voice of OC Editor-in-Chief Norberto Santana, former OC Supervisor Todd Spitzer and PBS SoCal reporter David Nazar.


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Archived Episode - January 19, 2011    Everyone's talking about the Arizona shooting spree, and many are pointing fingers of blame -- including an Irvine councilwoman. But are we learning the right or wrong lessons from a tragedy? Aliso Viejo decides to "go green." Is the city embracing the future - or a pipedream? And the "Real Housewives of Orange County" are launching Season Six as spinoffs pop up everywhere. Can you believe it? Joining Rick are Democrat and political consultant Melahat Rafiei, Republican pollster Adam Probolsky and "Real Housewives" creator Scott Dunlop.


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Archived Episode - January 12, 2011    The new governor has unveiled a painful new budget. Deep cuts to programs and more taxes, too. Is this the road to California's recovery, or the road to ruin? And why are Latino groups accusing Santa Ana's mayor of corruption? Rick is joined by OC labor leader Nick Berardino, GOP activist Buck Johns, OC Weekly's Gustavo Arellano and Amir K, OC's "funniest person."



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Archived Episode - January 5, 2011    The Terminator's out - Jerry Brown is in. Can the new "old" governor solve California's budget mess? Can he boost the economy and create jobs? Will he kill that deal to sell the OC fairgrounds? And are there signs of an economic rebound -- in Huntington Beach? Joining Rick to debate these topics and more are Newport-Mesa school board member Katrina Foley, Flash Report Publisher Jon Fleischman and journalist Will Swaim.



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Archived Episode - December 22, 2010:    A new report gives OC's infrastructure a mediocre grade and says more money is the only way to fix the problem. Are local leaders too quick to dismiss the findings? The OC fire authority dismisses a 22-member hand crew. Is it a bad move or a burning necessity? And Sunset Beach folks are burning over the their coastal town's takeover by Huntington Beach. Joining guest host David Nazar are political consultant Melahat Rafiei, publicist Brian Lochrie and Voice of OC Editor-in-Chief Norberto Santana.



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Archived Episode - December 15, 2010:    The economy's getting better, "slowly" better. But does it mean more jobs? A stronger housing market? And teachers strike in La Habra. Are they helping - or hurting - the kids? And a look at the year ahead. Will Californians vote on a tax hike? Joining Rick to debate are Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante, entrepreneur and minister Martha Daniel and Jerry Sullivan, managing editor of the Orange County Business Journal.



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Archived Episode - December 8, 2010:    Cops crack down on kids "out" after curfew. Will it keep them "out" of gangs? A Santa Ana High school goes green - A learning experience - or waste of funds? Protests over a mosque - no, not at Ground Zero, here in southern California. And why was Santa Ana's mayor in line for a $500,000 "finder's fee?" Joining Rick to discuss these topics is former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook, constitutional lawyer Karen Lugo and retired Superior Court Judge Jim Gray.



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Archived Episode - December 1, 2010:    A few Orange County firefighters not only live outside of the county, they commute from outside of the state! Is it time for residency requirements? Do scans and pat-downs at airports make us safer or sorrier? And is Gov. Schwarzenegger pawning California's future by selling off state office buildings? Newly elected Costa Mesa Councilman Jim Righeimer, OC Democratic Foundation Chairman Dan Jacobson and former Laguna Beach mayor Paul Freeman debate.



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Archived Episode - November 24, 2010:    He lured developers, attracted businesses, wired his city, partnered with Disney, and was Anaheim's biggest cheerleader. Now his eight years are up. Mayor Curt Pringle looks back and ahead... The County Supervisors still can't agree on how or whether to regulate lobbyists. Why can't they make up their minds? Also, UC raises tuition by 8% and students protest. These subjects and more are debate by this week's "Consider This" panel: Democrat, Nick Berardino, and Republican, Wayne Gross.



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Archived Episode - November 17, 2010:    The OC supervisors clash over lobbying reform. Lobbyists have to sign up in other counties, why not "Orange" County? And coming to an airport near you - full body scans. Should travelers rail against the machine, or embrace the latest step in anti-terrorism technology? Debating these topics and more are political consultant Melahat Rafiei, Flash Report Publisher Jon Fleischman and journalist Will Swaim.



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Archived Episode - November 10, 2010:    Pulitzer Prize winning cartoonist Michael Ramirez discusses -- in words but mostly in pictures -- Obama, the elections, the economy and more. And, is the Republican Party an endangered species in California? Are the Orange County supervisors too cozy with lobbyists? FlashReport publisher Jon Fleischman, Tustin Councilwoman Deborah Gavello and OC Register columnist Brian Calle debate.



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Archived Episode - November 3, 2010:    The nation goes red. California stays blue. America chooses political newcomers. California picks a governor from yesteryear. To make sense of the election and discuss where we go from here, Rick is joined by Orange County Democratic Party Chairman Frank Barbaro, Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante and Orange County Archives Director Jean Pasco.



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Archived Episode - October 27, 2010:    The mid-term election is only days away now and the nation, California, and Orange County are bracing for big change. The pundits see a wave of red sweeping the country, but will California stay true blue? Here to discuss with Rick these races and much more on this election preview show are: chairman of the OC Republican party, Scott Baugh; past chair of the Democratic Foundation, Wiley Aitken; and VoiceofOC.org Editor Norberto Santana.



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Archived Episode - October 20, 2010:    It's been almost two months since OC District Attorney Tony Rackauckas fired former deputy D.A. Todd Spitzer. And while Spitzer has recently been speaking out Rackauckas has waited until now to tell his side of the story. Guest Host David Nazar discusses the political and legal intrigue behind this ongoing news story with this week's "Consider This" panel: Lawyer, advocate, Bill Mitchell; Jon Fleishman, FlashReport.org; and Norberto Santana, VoiceofOC.org.



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Archived Episode - October 13, 2010:    Is there an upset brewing in the race for an OC Assembly seat? California lawmakers pass a budget, finally. Why isn't anybody cheering? And Orange County has a 10-year plan to wipe out homelessness. Is it a bold idea or just wishful thinking? Huntington Beach Councilman Keith Bohr, Chapman University Law Professor John Eastman and journalist and author William Lobdell debate.



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Archived Episode - October 6, 2010:    More trouble for county guardian John Williams - the supervisors are investigating his office. More controversy in the Congressional race between Democrat incumbent Loretta Sanchez and Republican Van Tran. And more grief for taxpayers-the Los Angeles Times finds that the most popular out-of-state location for Californians to use their welfare debit cards is "Sin City." Entrepreneur Martha Daniel and businessman Buck Johns debate these topics and more, along with Baroness Jill Knight, who provides a British view of U.S. - and OC - politics.



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Archived Episode - September 29, 2010:    Plans for an Islamic cultural center a couple of blocks from Ground Zero has fueled an emotional debate over terrorism, patriotism and the role of Islam in America and the world. Is America's war on terror turning into a Holy War? Or are some Muslim activists being tone-deaf to legitimate concerns and sensitivities of their fellow citizens? The issues are debated by Hussam Ayloush, California Executive Director of CAIR, the Council on American Islamic Relations; Rabbi Dov Fischer of Young Israel of Orange County; and lawyers Karen Lugo and Steve Young.



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Archived Episode - September 22, 2010:    The county guardian investigates a case of alleged elder abuse. Is he trying to protect an old woman - or seize her estate? What's wrong with a museum displaying a Hindu tapestry? There's a swastika on it! And the state attorney general takes aim at bloated public salaries. Could a couple of OC officials be in Jerry Brown's crosshairs? Tustin Councilwoman Deborah Gavello and OC Register columnist Brian Calle debate these issues and more.



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Archive Episode - September 15, 2010:    He called the county bankruptcy. He called the current public employee pension mess too. What's ahead for California? An interview with OC's "Nostradamus," county Supervisor John Moorlach... And it's the Poseidon project - a plant to turn ocean water into drinking water. Poseidon's Scott Meloni says it will help combat droughts and create jobs, too. Former Huntington Beach Mayor Debbie Cook says it's a waste of money and energy.



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Archived Episode - September 8, 2010:    The Homeland and Hef. Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez keeps busy, landing $8 million in Homeland Security funds. Is that bringin' home the bacon, or just doin' pork-barrel spending? And Loretta's lunch at the Playboy Mansion has her election opponent "hopping" mad. Does this story have "legs?" Rick discusses these topics and much more with county labor leader Nick Berardino and Jon Fleischman, publisher of FlashReport.org.



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Archived Episode - September 1, 2010:    He's been a cop, a supervisor, an assemblyman; he wants to be OC's next District Attorney. But right now, he's unemployed: Todd Spitzer, fired by current D.A. Tony Rackauckas. Was it because Spitzer mettled in another investigator's investigation? Or is it really all about politics? Journalist Will Swaim joins Rick to discuss the D.A. intrigue... But first: the continuing saga of the OC Fairgrounds and other topics with the "Consider This" panel: Brandman Univ. professor, Michael Moodian; and Costa Mesa Planning Commissioner, Jim Righeimer.



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Archived Episode - August 25, 2010:    Are Meg's millions exposing Brown's baggage? Or will Jerry's experience trump a novice challenger for Governor? And does Carly have the cash or the message to end Boxer's Senate reign? Also, will voters warm up to Prop 23 an ice California's attempt to slow down global warming? Rick debates these issues and more with his "Consider This" panel: lawyer and former Democratic Senator, Joe Dunn, and lawyer and State Senate GOP leader, Dick Ackerman.



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Archived Episode - August 18, 2010:    Will Californians light-up this fall, or will the initiative to legalize pot get snuffed out by cops and business groups? And OC's richest man is hauled into court over child support. He was paying the kids $10,000 a month, but the mom says it should have been $400,000 a month. Is this justice or gold-digging? Rick discusses these topics and more with his "Consider This" panel: Retired Superior Court Judge, Jim Gray; political consultant, Melahat Rafiei; and Tustin Mayor, Jerry Amante.


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Archived Episode - August 4, 2010:    Hopes or hijinks? Just what happened at the OC Fair with that reporter and the ice guy? And speaking of the fair... is Costa Mesa's plans to purchase the fairgrounds going to get deep-fried? And OC's richest man - billionaire Donald Bren - a victim of identity theft? Rick discusses these questions and more with this week's "Consider This" panel: Costa Mesa City Councilwoman, Katrina Foley; and businessman, Buck Johns, the Lincoln Club... But first: Rick interviews OC's embattled Treasurer, Chriss Street.


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Archived Episode - July 28, 2010:    Recession took its toll on public transportation in Orange County; bus drivers laid off, routes shut down. But with the city of Irvine and the county grand jury embracing mass transit, could the buses be revving up once again? And Pat Haden - former LA Ram QB, scholar athlete, and now successful businessman - has taken over as the athletic director of his troubled alma mater, USC. Can Haden restore cardinal gold, or will SC be dealing blue for years to come? Rick debates these topics and more with his "Consider This" panel: Wayne Gross, Greenburg Traurig LLP; Deborah Gavello, Tustin City Council; and journalist, Will Swain.


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Archived Episode - July 21, 2010:    Is it put up or shut up for that 37 story skyscraper that developer, Mike Harrah, keeps saying he wants to build in Santa Ana? He got the city to relax the rules, but will construction actually ever start? And County Treasurer, Chriss Street, is under fire again. This time for running up $60,000 in travel expenses. Is this lavish spending or as Street says, "Good employee training."? Rick debates these topics and more with his "Consider This" panel: Lawyer, Democrat, Chris Mears; Journalist, William Lobdell; and Jon Fleischman of FlashReport.org.


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Archived Episode - July 14, 2010:    OC basks in the glow of the All-Star game, but will the cheering go on? Are the Angels happy here? Will the NBA shoot hoops in Anaheim? And the Governator flexes his muscles. He plans to pay state workers minimum-wage until he gets a budget. Can the Democrats terminate his plans? Rick discusses these issues and more with his "Consider This" panel: KOCE Business anchor and Chapman Univ professor, Pete Weitzner; entrepreneur and minister, Martha Daniel; and Republican pollster, Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - June 30, 2010:    Huntington Beach is eyeing Sunset Beach. Sunset Beach is eyeing City Hook. Should tiny town join the big city? Or become its own little city? ... And call it Water World 2. Actor Kevin Costner is selling his oil spill cleanup equipment to British Petroleum to help in the Gulf. Is this a Hollywood hit, or just Hollywood hype? Rick discusses these issues with his "Consider This" panel: Energy Consultant, Debbie Cook, and Assist. District Attorney, Todd Spitzer ... But first: the State has a deal to sell the OC Fairgrounds for 96 million dollars. Is this a dream deal or a bad bet? Joining Rick to discuss the pros and cons are former Costa Mesa Mayor, Sandy Genis, and Jim Righeimer, chair of the C.M. Planning Commission.


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Archived Episode - June 23, 2010:    Costa Mesa has a deal to buy the Orange County Fairgrounds from the State. Unions spend a million dollars backing two losers in the recent local elections. And another OC city endorses Arizona's controversial Illegal Immigration law. Rick discusses these issues with his special-edition "Consider This" panel: Nick Berardino, OC Employees Assoc; Karen Lugo, Constitutional lawyer; and Norberto Santana, reporter, Voice of OC.


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Archived Episode - June 16, 2010:    The NCAA throws a penalty flag against USC. And UCI disciplines a Muslim student group for shouting down the Israeli ambassador back in February. Do the punishments fit the crimes? Rick asks his "Consider This" panel: Michael Schroeder, GOP adviser, and Brian Calle, OC Register... But first, another touchy subject: the housing market. Are home buyers back, or are their backs still up against the wall? Rick asks Emile Haddad, CEO, Five Points Communities, the company in charge of private development at Irvine's Great Park.


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Archived Episode - June 9, 2010:    California's most expensive primary elections are finally over. And women did really well. Meg Whitman for Governor, Carly Fiorina for Senate, and Sandra Hutchins for Sheriff. What will this mean for OC, the State, and the Nation? And who will win in November? Here to answer these questions with Rick and analyze all the key races are: former State Senator, Joe Dunn, Director of the Orange County archives, Jean Pasco, and Lawyer, Michael Capaldi.


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Archived Episode - June 2, 2010:    Relief is in sight. Well, relief from those "wannabe Governor" ads with Meg Whitman and Steve Poizner attacking each other. Rick and his guests will handicap that race as well as the heated GOP Senate primary, along with some hotly contested local races. And they debate immigration, the OC Fairgrounds, and some big City Managers' salaries, in a special edition of "Consider This". Joining Rick this week are: Dan Jacobson, Democratic Foundation of OC; Clare Venegas, Lincoln Club of OC; and journalist, Will Swain.


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Archived Episode - May 26, 2010:    Here's the last of a series of interviews of GOP candidates for the US Senate. Rick has spoken with Tom Campbell and Chuck Devore, now he is joined by the former CEO of computer maker, Hewlett Packard, Carly Fiorina...Housing prices are still low, unemployment is still high, and the stock market, well, it's downright scary. So, what's this talk about a recovery? City National Bank CEO Russell Goldsmith, and Chapman Univ. Economist Essie Adibi give their opinions.


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Archived Episode - May 19, 2010:    Orange County Sheriff Coroner. It may well be the most powerful elected office in the county. 3,600 deputies and civilian employees, a 700 million dollar budget, and never a shortage of controversy. Two years ago, then-sheriff Mike Carona resigned after he was indicted on corruption. He was convicted on a single count of witness tampering and is appealing the verdict. Now, three candidates are running for the office, and they're here to debate: the appointed, incumbent Sheriff, Sandra Hutchins; former sheriff's lieutenant, Bill Hunt; and Anaheim Deputy Chief of Police, Craig Hunter.


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Archived Episode - May 12, 2010:    In this second of a series of interviews for the US Senate candidate in California's Republican primary, Rick talks with professor and former Bay-area congressman, Tom Campbell... Is Costa Mesa going to be the next Arizona? The city's major takes a tough stance of illegal immigration and he accuses neighboring Santa Ana of being a sanctuary city... Ex-sheriff Mike Carona appeals his corruption conviction and the judges in the case have some touch questions for the government prosecutor. Could Carona still beat the rap? ... Rick discusses these issues and more with his "Consider This" panelists: Jon Fleischman, FlashReport.org; Melahat Rafiei, Democrat consultant; and Brian Calle, OC Register.


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Archived Episode - May 5, 2010:    Here is Rick's first of a series of interviews with the US Senate candidates for California's GOP primary. To kick things off, he is no stranger to OC, or to this show - Irvine Assemblyman, Chuck Devore... The teacher's strike is over, but the fighting continues in South Orange County as yet another recall is launched against board members of the Capistrano Unified School District. And Anaheim officials want to ban red light cameras. Is this a green light for freedom or are they putting the brakes on common sense? Rick debates these topics and more with this week's "Consider This" panel: Constitutional Law attorney, Karen Lugo; and Nick Berardino, OC Employees Assoc.


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Archived Episode - April 28, 2010:    The strike is over and teachers in south Orange County are back in the classroom, but at what cost to students and the Capistrano school district? ... The city of Costa Mesa says it has the 96 million dollars to buy the County Fairgrounds. Is this real money or funny money? And a Baptist from Georgia comes to California, chicken in hand. Rick discusses these issues and more with his guests: Chic-fil-A president, Dan T. Cathy; Tustin City Council member, Deborah Gavello; and Tustin Mayor, Jerry Amante.


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Archived Episode - April 21, 2010:    Orange County Treasurer Tax Collector. If you own a home, you see that name on your property tax bill. Otherwise, it's pretty much out-of-sight, out-of-mind. But don't be mislead; the treasurer is a powerful public official, 's responsible for investing about six billion dollars for the county and all of its school districts. The current treasurer, Chriss Street has been mired in controversy and has decided not to seek reelection. That leaves four candidates on the June ballot, one of whom needs a majority of the vote to be the next treasurer. Otherwise, the top two are in a November runoff. Rick discusses the job and the upcoming election with three of the candidates: David Lang, Sherri Freidenrich, and Keith Rodenhuis.


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Archived Episode - April 14, 2010:    Do California voters inhale, or go up in smoke this November when they decide whether or not to legalize marijuana. San Juan Capistrano has been taking a hit - a financial hit - because the city's strict regulations have scared off hotel developers. And a tragic death at the Great Park skate rink. But is a law suit reasonable? Rick debates these issues and more in this special edition of "Consider This" with panelists: retired Superior Court judge, James Gray; former HB mayor, Debbie Cook; and Chip Hanlon, Redcounty.com.


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Archived Episode - April 7, 2010:    Burglaries rising in California safest city. Tempers rising over the Republican party expensing a trip to a sex-themed nightclub. And raised eyebrows over the tens of millions of dollars that Meg Whitman has spent already in the governor's race. Rick debates these issues and more with his "Consider This" panel: Irvine City Councilwoman, Beth Krom; Norberto Santana, Voice of OC; and Republican pollster, Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - March 31, 2010:    Not in my backyard. That's what enraged parents and other neighbors have told authorities about housing a sex offender near a Fullerton park, and others in a Huntington Beach hotel. But then, where should paroled sex offenders live? And not in my ecosystem. That's what many are saying about Chevron's plans to build hundreds of homes in Coyote Hills. Is this an assault on nature, or enlightened planning? Rick discusses these issues and more with this week's "Consider This" panel: OC Assistant DA, Todd Spitzer; Costa Mesa City Councilwoman, Katrina Foley; and Chapman Univ. Professor, Pete Weitzner.


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Archived Episode - March 24, 2010:    Score the OC Fairgrounds sale: opponents, one, Governor Arnold, nothing. He calls off a controversial plan to sell the fairgrounds to a private bidder, but there's a new deal in the works. And score health care reform: Democrats, one, Republicans, zero, as Congress passes and the President signs historic legislation. But will the Democrats be big losers with voters in OC and elsewhere in November? Rick will debate these issues and more with this week's "Consider This" panel: Gustavo Arellano, OC Weekly; Deborah Gavello, Tustin City Council; and Buck Johns, the Lincoln Club.


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Archived Episode - March 17, 2010:    Trouble in the County Treasurer's office. Facing a seven million dollar judgement for mismanaging a pension fund, Chriss Street says he won't run again... Also, more trouble for Toyota. Now the automaker is being sued by Orange County's DA... And trouble in Tustin. School district is suing the city over a grading permit. Rick discusses these issues and more with his "Consider This" panel: UCI professor and democrat, Mark Petracca ; journalist, Will Swaim; and GOP advisor, Michael Schroeder.


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Archived Episode - March 10, 2010:    One month after pro-Palestinian students were arrested for shouting down the Israeli ambassador while he was speaking at Univ. of Irvine, the controversy continues to rage. Should the Irvine 11 be expelled from school? Should they be punished at all? And why is UCI a flash-point for Middle Eastern politics? Rick discusses these questions with Rabbi Dov Fischer (Young Israel of OC) and Hussam Ayloush (Council on Amer.-Islamic Relations)... But first, State politics: the race for CA Govenor. Joining Rick to answer why he is running, is former Silicon Valley entrepreneur, state insurance commissioner and Republican candidate, Steve Poizner.


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Archived Episode - March 3, 2010:    Trains, buses and automobiles. Anaheim moves ahead with its plans for a giant transportation hub near Angels stadium. Is this a train of the future, or a train to nowhere? And speaking of automobiles: another setback for the proposed extension of the 241 toll road in South County. Is it time for toll road backers to give up the fight? Joining Rick to discuss these issues and more are the members of this week's "Consider This" panel: Martha Daniel, Entrepreneur; Michael Capaldi, Lawyer; and Jean Pasco, OC Archives.


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Archived Episode - Feb. 24, 2010:    There's some good news on the road: alcohol related fatalities are trending down, so do we still have to scare the heck out of teenagers? InsideOC reports on a mock traffic accident at Laguna Hills High... And continued controversy over the Muslim-student protesters at UC Irvine: should they be prosecuted for shouting down the Israeli ambassador who recently visited the school? And should the university be boycotted by Jewish students? Joining Rick to discuss these issues and more is this week's "Consider This" panel: Norberto Santana, Editor, Voice of OC; lawyer and Democrat, John Hueston; and lawyer and OC Republican Party Chair, Scott Baugh.


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Archived Episode - Feb. 17, 2010:    They may be our biggest export - the Real Housewives of Orange County - now battling it out in five cities, with possibly more to come. Who's to blame for this? He's here! ... Or maybe our biggest export is jobs. To places like Texas. Is California in a battle of the Alamo? Joining Rick to discuss these issues and more is this week's "Consider This" panel: Melahat Rafiei, Democrat consultant; Scott Dunlop, Producer; and Karen Lugo, Lincoln Club.


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Archived Episode - Feb. 10, 2010:    Orange County prisoners are getting out early. The state needs to save money, but isn't there a better way? And OC sheriff deputes have a new contract that freezes pay and shrinks their pension. Fiscal responsibility or more trouble ahead? And it's official: Mission Viejo recalls its mayor. Rick discusses these topics and more in this special edition of "Consider This", with his guests: retired Superior Court Judge, Jim Gray; Tustin Mayor, Jerry Amante; and lawyer, Chris Mears.


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Archived Episode - Feb. 3, 2010:    Judges say a south county family can sue the highway patrol for leaking lurid accident scene photos of their dead daughter. And you know those great deals you get from Priceline and Expedia when you book your hotel? Well, the city of Anaheim says it's getting short changed by those travel sights... And what's this? Could there be a voter revolt, in the tiny town of Laguna Hills? Rick will debate these issues with his "Consider This" panel: Democrat lawyer, Wylie Aitken; OC Weekly reporter, Gustavo Arellano; and Republican lawyer, Wayne Gross. But first: a Chapman University law professor and one of this show's legal experts is getting into politics big time. Why is John Eastman running for State Attorney General?


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Archived Episode - Jan. 27, 2010:    The county's Republican party chairman declares war on public employee unions. High principle or plain crazy? And why won't a judge let the ex-OC sheriff go to Haiti, if he just wants to help out the earthquake ravaged island nation? But first, the future of the County Fairgrounds: The state of California, sinking in red ink and desperate for cash, tried putting a bunch of state-owned properties on the sales block, but only one made it to market - the OC County Fairgrounds. A developer has made the high bid; politicians and many citizens are protesting. What should the Governor do? Rick discusses these issues and more with his guests: High bidder, Steven Craig, and sale opponent, Brian Lochrie; and panelists: Journalist, Will Swaim; Lawyer, Geraldine Ly; and Pollster, Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - Jan. 20, 2010:    The auction has been held for the OC Fairgrounds and a developer has offered 56 million dollars. Local officials and an angry public want the deal stopped. Should the Governor call off the sale or take the money? And a former state senator calls for lobbying reform in OC. Is he hitting special interests where it hurts, or just grandstanding? Rick discusses these issues with this week's "Consider This" panel: Lawyer, Dan Jacobson and Matt Cunningham of RedCounty.com... But first: The growing opposition to the Obama agenda. Is it based on issues or as a local professor suggests, is race a factor? Rick asks his guests, Eric Knowles, UC Irvine and Richard Redding, Chapman Univ.


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Archived Episode - Jan. 13, 2010:    County Treasurer Chriss Street is playing defense as he faces a civil fraud trial in three weeks. But, he's playing offense, too, calling for a congressional investigation of Fed Treasurer, Timothy Geithner. Also, why are supervisors John Moorlach and Janet Nguyen bashing each other? And big plans for little Saigon. Rick discusses these topics and more with his "Consider This" panel: OC labor leader, Nick Berardino; former Huntington Beach Mayor and Democrat, Debbie Cook; and businessman and Republican, Buck Johns.


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Archived Episode - Jan. 6, 2010:    The economy is limping, the state is out of money, water is getting scarce, infrastructure is crumbling; Hey, Happy New Year! But is it really all that bad? Well, the "Consider This" panel is here to talk about planes, trains, and automobiles, and more, including some predictions about what will happen in 2010. Joining Rick are Tustin Councilmember, Deborah Gavello, Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante, and Director of the OC Archives, Jean Pasco.


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Archived Episode - 12/16/2009:    Broadcom execs get a surprise holiday gift. A judge tosses out the charges in a massive stock fraud case. And now the Feds are reeling after their case falls apart. Was it justice or just justice for the rich? Rick discusses this and more with two knowledgeable OC lawyers - John Hueston, Irell & Manella, and Michael Capaldi, Lincoln Club - in this episode of "Consider This" ... But first: A football legend, and now an author and Irvine resident - USC great, "A.D." Anthony Davis.


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Archived Episode - 12/9/2009:   A "Real Housewife" of Orange County joins Rick for this week's interview. The newest star of the reality show that people love or love to hate: Alexis Bellino.... The Muslims and the Mole. A convicted conman from Irvine says the recent unsealing of court documents proves he was an FBI informant. But is he speaking out because he cares about the Islamic community or because he wants millions from the FBI? Rick discusses that story with the "Law Deans" - Erwin Chemerinsky, UC Irvine, and John Eastman, Chapman University.


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Archived Episode - 12/2/2009:   Tiger Woods bangs up his car and bruises his image. How much damage has been to his marketing machine and his local charity? A UCI professor says race is a factor in criticism of Obama. Is that good scholarship or junk politics? And a local high school gets an award of excellence from the US government. Why? Rick discusses these issues and more with this week's "Consider This" panel: OC Weekly's Gustavo Arellano, Entrepreneur Martha Daniel, and Republican pollster Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - 11/25/2009:   An inside look at County finances as folks continue to struggle in these tough economic times. Local bus riders are feeling the pain, but does anyone care? And where will the County's budget ax fall next? Also: a drive, led by a local Republican to recall a Republican has failed. Is this in-fighting healthy or could it seriously damage what's left of the California GOP? Rick discusses these issues and more with his "Consider This" panelists: Republican advisor, Michael Schroeder; Democrat/Lawyer, Jennifer Keller; and Journalist. Will Swaim.


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Archived Episode - 11/18/2009:   Rick interviews one of OC's busiest public officials. He's working on tax reform, bullet trains, and more. He's Anaheim Mayor, Curt Pringle.... OC Supervisor Chris Norby advances to a runoff to fill the seat of disgraced state Assemblyman, Mike Duvall. And the Governator's controversial plan to sell the OC Fairgrounds could get terminated by local groups irate over any sale. What's behind the anger? Rick discusses these issues with his "Consider This" panel: Deborah Gavello, Tustin City Council; Retired Judge Jim Gray; and Clare Venegas, Lincoln Club.


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Archived Episode - 11/11/2009:   The Governor and the Legislature have a deal to modernize CA's water system, but it will cost 11 billion dollars. Should voters drink it up or vote it down? And Lake Forest cracks down on pot clinics. Is the city dealing a blow for the law, or just blowing smoke? Rick debates these issues with his "Consider This" panel: Michael Capaldi, Lincoln Club; Debbie Cook, Energy Consultant; and Pete Weitzner, Chapman Univ... But first, some chicken soup to soothe the soul in these uncertain economic times. Rick is joined by co-author of the "Chicken Soup For The Soul" books, Mark Victor Hansen.


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Archived Episode - 10/28/2009:   Rick's special guest is one of Orange County's most prominent religious leaders, retiring after 31 years as Pastor of St. Andrew's Presbyterian - Rev. John Huffman... The County says it doesn't want to take care of Sunset Beach anymore. It's time for the sleepy seaside town to get annexed or incorporate. What a bummer! And the local toll road agency forgives $41 million in penalties against commuters who didn't pay their tolls. Is that a boon or a bummer for justice? Rick asks his panelists: Jon Fleischman, FlashReport.org; April Blackman, Democrat/Lawyer; and Journalist, Norberto Santana.


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Archived Episode - 10/21/2009:   It's a tough road for automakers these days, But outside Detroit, right here in Orange County in fact, a couple of car makers are rolling along. Rick talks cars and looks at OC's auto industry with David Zuchowski of Hyundai Motor America, and Patrick Hong from Road & Track magazine. But first, a man who would be California's next governor. To kick off the first of a series of interviews with the leading governor candidates, Rick is joined by former Congressman, former UC-Berkeley Business Dean, and former State Finance Director, Tom Campbell.


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Archived Episode - 10/14/2009:   The DA rumbles with the ACLU over a gang crack-down in the city of Orange. A resolution honoring UCI's volleyball team gets spiked by a Bay Area congressman trying to make a point about water rights. And billions of transportation dollars could be headed OC's way. Is it stimulus heaven or pork-barrel hell? Rick discusses these topics and more with the "Consider This" panel: Geraldine Ly, Democrat Lawyer; Wayne Gross, Republican Lawyer; and Peggy Lowe, OC Register.


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Archived Episode - 10/7/2009:   The internet turns 40! So where do we go from here? Rick interviews two special guests, both prestigious scientists who helped designed the world wide web: Richard Taylor, UC Irvine; and Roy Fielding, Day Software... And in a new edition of "Consider This" Rick discusses So. Calif. water supplies, union pensions, and federal judges who are leaving the bench, with his panelists: Jim Gray, Retired Judge; Chris Mears, Lawyer, Democrat; and Adam Probolsky, GOP Pollster.


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Archived Episode - 09/30/2009:   A couple of OC Congressional Reps sure do fly a lot, at taxpayer's expense. They claim it's all part of the job. Can anyone say Junket?... At San Juan Capistrano they're still arguing over a decades-old gasoline leak at a Chevron station. Who's responsible today?... And are the founders of chipmaker, Broadcom, trying to buy justice or are they being unfairly targeted for being rich? Rick discusses these topics with his "Consider This" panel: Entrepreneur, Martha Daniel, Businessman, Buck Johns, and Energy Consultant, Debbie Cook,


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Archived Episode - 09/23/2009:   California - natural wonder and man-made disaster. But if we got ourselves into this mess, shouldn't we be able to get ourselves out? A lot of people have a lot of ideas for reforming the Golden State. Three of them join Rick on his panel for this special "Saving California" edition of "Consider This" - Michael Capaldi of the Lincoln Club, Former State Senator, Joe Dunn, and Steven Greenhut of the OC Register.



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Archived Episode - 09/16/2009:   All that glitters is not gold, especially in the golden state. Money is going down the drain, water is going down the drain, and some lawmakers' behavior is downright draining. Rick discusses and debates these issues and more with this week's "Consider This" panel - Republican Assemblyman Chuck DeVore; Lawyer and Democrat activist, Wylie Aitken; and journalist, Will Swaim.



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Archived Episode - 09/09/2009:   What's happening in the housing market and over at the Great Park? Rick asks his guest, Emil Haddad, CEO of Five Point Communities... Another sex scandal, this time involving an Orange County assemblyman... The parent company of the Orange County Register files for bankruptcy protection... And guess what: a lot of county buses carry very few passengers. Rick discusses these issues with this week's "Consider This" panel: Judge Jim Gray, Julie Hill, Corporate Director, and Jon Fleischman, FlashReport.org


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Archived Episode - 09/02/2009:   The CIA: did the agency commit torture? If so, who should be punished? Mortgage executives: did they blow up the economy, and if so, should they go to jail? The County Supervisors: is their legal case against sheriff deputy pensions a potential big winner, or a foolish waste of money? Rick asks a panel of legal experts: Erwin Chemerinsky (UC Irvine Law School), John Hueston (Defense lawyer), and John Eastman (Chapman U Law School)...


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Archived Episode - 08/26/2009:   Pat Bates, chair of the OC Board of Supervisors, joins Rick to discuss shrinking budgets, runaway pension costs, and other planning problems... The swallows always return to San Juan Capistrano, but with the US Mail leave? And in Texas and Nevada, officials are trying to get businesses to leave the Golden State. Rick debates with this week's "Consider This" panel: Businesswoman/Democrat, Martha Daniel; Clare Venegas (Lincoln Club); and journalist Will Swaim.


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Archived Episode - 08/19/2009:   As bus ridership drops in Orange County, supervisor John Moorlach causes jaws to drop by asking whether it's time to end bus service altogether. And there's a great, new plan for the Great Park. Rick discusses these and other issues in another editon of "Consider This" with his guests: former Huntington Beach Mayor, Debbie Cook; and Tustin Mayor Pro-Tem, Jerry Amante...


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Archived Episode - 08/12/2009:   A parking controversy in Garden Grove; a DUI controversy in Westminster; and a controversial ex-sheriff remains free, for now. Joining Rick to debate these topics and more in this special edition of "Consider This" - lawyer and Democrat, Geraldine Ly; lawyer and Republican, Wayne Gross; and OC Register reporter, Peggy Lowe.


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Archived Episode - 08/05/2009:   They're good-looking and talented. Being a beauty queen in the 21st Century. Rick interviews Miss California Kristy Cavinder and Miss Hollywood Emily Brandenburg. Plus, in this episode of "Consider This" Rick discusses cost cuts by the County Supervisors, taking long shots at Congress, and other local issues with his panelists, Nick Berardino (Labor Leader) and Quang Pham (Entrepreneur)


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Archived Episode - 07/29/2009:   State lawmakers pass a budget and pass much of the pain down the line. OC and its cities cry foul. A provocative county official fed up with the politics calls it quits. And Dana Point has a harbor renovation plan that some boat owners want to sink. Rick discusses these issues with his panelists: Republican Lawyer, Michael Capaldi; Democrat Businesswoman, Julie Hill; and Retired Judge, Jim Gray.


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Archived Episode - 07/08/2009:   Rick is joined by Anaheim's mayor and the new chairman of the California High-speed Rail Authority, Curt Pringle... Huntington Beach gets federal stimulus dollars to clean up a wildlife habitat. Good for coastlines, but is it good for the economy? This week's "Consider This" panel: journalist, Will Swaim; Democrat consultant, Debbie Cook; and Republican pollster, Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - 07/01/2009:   The election, the protests, the crackdown. Dramatic images from Iran have gone around the world. What do local Persian-Americans think of the turmoil in their native land? Rick asks his panelists, UCI Professor Nasrin Rahimieh, and Melahat Rafiei of the OC Democratic Party. But first, a sheriff's update. It's been an eventful and challenging year on the job with OC's new sheriff. Joining Rick to discuss the ups, the downs, and what lies ahead - Sheriff Sandra Hutchens.


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Archived Episode - 06/24/2009:   Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez' vote to defund Guantanamo has her Republican critics smelling blood. Guess who's growing local jobs in this recession: yup, the government. Fine-dining in a dumpster? Bon Appetite. Rick debates these topics, plus stem cell research - the moral and ethical concerns - with his guests, Hans Keirstead (UCI Stem Cell Research Center), Scott Rae (Prof. of Christian Ethics, Biola), Martha Daniel (CEO, IMRI), and Buck Johns (Lincoln Club).


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Archived Episode - 06/17/2009:   The sheriff cracks down on gun permits, the NRA objects. Which side is shooting straight, in the legal sense? And has the Orange County Board of Supervisors mis-fired in taking away pension benefits from sheriff deputies? Joing Rick to discuss these legal issues are the deans of OC's top law schools: Erwin Chemerinsky (UC Irvine Law School) and John Eastman (Chapman U Law School).


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Archived Episode - 06/10/2009:   The state budget begins to take hold in OC. Now bus routes are set to disappear. The DA protests a superviser questioning the cost of his death-penalty cases. Costa Mesa officials say "No Way" to the governor's plan to sell the OC Fairgrounds. Rick and his guests debate these issues and more in another edition of "Consider This." Joining Rick are: Director, OC Archives, Jean Pasco; Democrat and lawyer, Steve Young; and Republican pollster Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - 06/03/2009:   Feuding between the FBI and the local Muslim community. Feuding between Planned Parenthood and the County Supervisers. And yes the supervisers are feuding with their public employee unions, too. Rick examines these battles and more on this special edition of "Consider This", with his guests: Lauryn Picciano (OC Young Republicans), Melahat Rafiei (OC Democratic Party), and Gustavo Arellano (OC Weekly).


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Archived Episode - 05/27/2009:   The voters are defiant, the politicians are chastened and California is still broke. What happens next? And what does it mean to OC? Two political insiders —Scott Baugh (OC Republican Party) and Chris Mears (Lawyer, Democrat)— debate the state's budget crisis on "Consider This". But, first: you know the bad news; is there any good news out there? These two guys say yes! Joining Rick are Andrew Policano (Dean, UCI Merage School of Business) and Jim Flanigan (business writer).


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Archived Episode - 05/20/2009:   The voters deliver a crushing defeat to Governor Arnold Schwartzenegger and Democrat lawmakers; a judge ruled that an OC teacher's anti-Christian comment violated a student's first-amendment rights. And Chevron and the city of San Juan Capistrano square off on water contamination. Rick discusses these issues and more in a special edition of "Consider This", with his guests, Michael Capaldi (Lawyer/Republican), Geraldine Ly (Lawyer/Democrat), and journalist Will Swaim.


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Archived Episode - 05/13/2009:   The FBI, the Muslims, and Mole. Rick talks about this OC spy drama with Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR)... They put out the blazes and arrest the bad guys, but can taxpayers afford the pensions and overtime for cops and firefighters? Also: OC's treasurer gives Congress an earful on bailouts. Rick is joined by former HB Mayor Debbie Cook and OC Treasurer Chriss Street in this edition of "Consider This".


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Archived Episode - 05/06/2009:   Mike Carona has been convicted and sentenced but the saga of the ex-sheriff never ends. Now his former top aide is on the witness stand and is singing like, well, a jail bird. Rick discusses this topic and more in an expanded edition of "Consider This." And joining Rick to do so: Frank Barbaro (OC Democratic Party), Scott Baugh (OC Republican Party), and Scott Moxley (OC Weekly).


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Archived Episode - 04/29/2009:   Mike Carona was dubbed America's sheriff, now he'll be a federal inmate. John Yoo advised President Bush on torture, now he's hounded wherever he goes. And there's a growing movement to legalize drugs. Rick talks and debates legal issues with his legal-expert guests—John Eastman (Chapman Univ.), Mary Ellen Gale (Whittier Law School), and Jim Gray (retired Superior Court judge).


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Archived Episode - 04/22/2009:   They say justice is blind, but is it stupid, too? Rick and his "Consider This" guests—Nick Berardino (OC employees union), Michael Schroeder (Republican lawyer), and Gustavo Arellano (OC Weekly)—discuss the bizarre trial of a bizarre man who took a ketchup bottle. But first, Rick talks about trials of different sort—speed trials—with one of the fastest drivers in the world. Joining Rick is OC's own Ashley Force Hood.


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Archived Episode - 04/15/2009:   Is Sheriff Sandra Hutchins' hardline approach on gun permits softening her political support? And could President Obama's generosity give political support to an Irvine councilwoman's bid for Congress? Rick and his guests, Debbie Cook and Adam Probolsky debate this and more on "Consider This." But first, a guy who needs no stimulus because he is the stimulus of OC's music scene: the maestro of the Pacific Symphony, Carl St. Clair.


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Archived Episode - 04/08/2009:   School districts warn of teacher layoffs, the Governor warns of budget doom, but leaders of his own Republican party are battling him. Who's got it right? Rick debates these topics and much more in this special edition of "Consider This", with Congressman John Campbell, UCI Professor Judy Rosener, and journalist, Will Swaim.


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Archived Episode - 04/01/2009:   Newport Beach can thank Indies like Slum Dog Millionaire for shinning a light on its annual film fest now in its tenth year. Rick travels to Hollywood South with guests, TV personality Mindy Stearns and film producer Jack Gallagher. But first, politics and the economy, with the "Consider This" panel. Joining Rick are Tustin Mayor Jerry Amante, Norberto Santana (OC Register), and Steve Young (Lawyer).


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Archived Episode - 03/25/2009:   President Obama gets a hero's welcome at the OC Fairgrounds, but back in DC his administration is hearing some boos... The Great Park launches its development plans. Some cheers, some jeers... The Economy: can business enterprise get us out of this mess, or is Big Brother the only way out? Rick discusses these issues and more with Democrat entrepreneur Martha Daniel, Republican private investor Murray Rudin, Michael Capaldi of the Lincoln Club, and UCI professor, Mark Petracca.


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Archived Episode - 03/15/2009:   The OC Sheriff is cracking down on gun permits, but the US Supreme Court says law-abiding citizens can own a gun. Who has the final say? And a Yorba Linda woman who lost her home is taking her city to court. Could she win a precedent-setting case? All good questions for lawyers. Joining Rick to debate are John Eastman, Law Dean, Chapman U.; Mary Ellen Gale, Professor, Wittier Law School; and lawyer and citizen activist, William Mitchell...


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Archived Episode - 03/08/2009:   No money, no water, what kind of green state is California these days? And Sheriff deputies want to keep their green as they win round 1 in their ongoing pension battle... Is the County supervisor's legal case going down the drain? Rick discusses these topics and more with his "Consider This" panelists, Will Swaim (LA CityBeat), Judy Rosener (UCI), and Jon Fleischman (FlashReport.org)...


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Archived Episode - 03/01/2009:   He was the religion writer for the Los Angeles Times but he lost his faith. Rick talks with Bill Lobdell about his new book, and with his former pastor, John Huffman, who says God is still alive... But first, a more worldly topic - saving the economy. Rick talks with a high priest of the banking system - Russell Goldsmith, CEO of City National Bank...


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Archived Episode - 02/22/2009:   Remember those golden days, back in 2005? Many experts said home prices would soar for years. But Glenn Stearns warned the bubble was about to burst. Now Glenn gives us new predictions... But first - the ladies who live high even in low times. The often ostentatious, sometimes outrageous Real Housewives of OC. Joining Rick are Jeana Keough and the show's creator, Scott Dunlop...


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Archived Episode - 02/15/2009:   Layoffs, losses, trillion-dollar bailouts, it's enough to make you depressed. Maybe laughter's the best medicine. A couple of comedians - Tim Shaw and Dean Evans - are here to give us a dose of it. But first, a real doctor who runs a university. Chancellor of UCI, Dr. Michael Drake, joins Rick to discuss higher education and current challenges at the university...


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Archived Episode - 02/08/2009:   No same sex marriages, no new taxes, Rick debates the pros and cons of these mega-state issues with his panelists, John Eastman (Chapman U Law School) and Gustavo Arellano (OC Weekly). But first: the County budget. With a deficit projected at more than 80 million dollars, county employees are being let go. What's next? Joining Rick to answer this is OC Supervisor John Moorlach and Nick Berardino, head of the OC Employees Association.


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Archived Episode - 01/25/2009:   Barack Obama is now at the helm. Can he steer us out of this economic storm? Plus, California goes deeper and deeper into hock. The budget deficit is now estimated at a staggering 42 billion dollars! In the next few days the state may have to issue IOUs because it will be out of cash. Rick discusses these issues with his guests, Assemblymen Jose Solorio (D) and Chuck DeVore (R), Energy Consultant Debbie Cook, and Pollster Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - 01/18/2009:   The often lurid trial of former OC sheriff, Mike Carona, has ended. But who won? The sheriff was convicted on a single count. Rick discusses the courtroom drama and what the verdict means with two journalists on this week's "Consider This". But first: Drug Abuse. It's not just an inner-city problem. Rick examines the case for legalizing drugs with OC Superior Court Judge Jim Gray.


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Archived Episode - 01/11/2009:   The county cuts workers, the state cuts schools days. Can anyone stop the bleeding, or is there even more pain ahead? The Carona trial ends; is the ex-sheriff going down? Rick discusses recessionary fear and loathing in OC and Sacramento in another edition of "Consider This" with his guest panelists, Will Swaim (LA CityBeat), Judy Rosener (UC Irvine), and Jon Fleischman (FlashReport.org).


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Archived Episode - 12/21/2008:   Well, Bah, Humbug... Local home prices have hit their lowest level in nearly six years; unemployment is at its highest in 14 years. Will the New Year bring new pain? Can Obama save us? Do we need more bailouts? Or a car czar? Rick examines these questions in a special Recession & Recovery edition of "Consider This" with his guests: Chapman U. economist, Esmael Adibi; IMRI entrepreneur, Martha Daniel; and Tustin mayor, Jerry Amante.


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Archived Episode - 12/14/2008:   Tis the season of giving, and giving, and giving. Will Uncle Santa put even more green under the tree or keep automakers' cities and the state in the red? Well, no green for the LA Times...and where does that leave the Register? Those stories and more, plus predictions for 2009 from Rick and his guests: lawyer and citizen watchdog, Bill Mitchell, lawyer and Democrat, Steve Young, and Republican pollster, Adam Probolsky.


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Archived Episode - 12/07/2008:   In the first segment, Rick discusses the continuing drama of Congress's sister act with the two Congresswomen, Loretta and Linda Sanchez... Then in "Consider This", Rick talks with Gustavo Arellano (OC Weekly) and Clare Venegas (Lincoln Club of OC) about Sheriff Sandra Hutchins' take on the county jail, Yorba Linda residents' claims against the water district resulting from the recent fires, and whether the governor can stop the state's bleeding budget ...


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Archived Episode - 11/23/2008:   The energy crisis, global warming, a plummeting economy, can anybody make sense of it all? And what about all those traffic jams, and jet engines roaring overhead? What are we to do? Rick asks two local officials to debate these issues: OC Assemblyman, Chuck DeVore, and Huntington Beach Mayor, Debbie Cook, in an extended episode of "Consider This" ...


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Archived Episode - 11/19/2008:   The election fallout is hitting both political parties in Orange County, the economy sinks, the state budget deficit grows, a developer battles environmentalists in Newport Beach, and Mike Carona's moneyman turns on him. Rick discusses these issues in a special edition of "Consider This", with his guests, Will Swain, editor, LA City Beat; Judy Rosener, UCI Business professor, and Jon Fleischman, FlashReporter.org ...


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Archived Episode - 11/09/2008:   OC voters say no to gay marriage, took control of spending on public employee pensions, and returned a bunch of embattled incumbents to office. Rick and his panel will analyse state and local election results, but first, he is joined by congressmen, John Campbell and Ed Royce, to discuss the historic Presidential election, the Democratic groundswell, and what it means for the nation and Orange County...


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Archived Episode - 10/26/2008:   A plunging economy, an unpopular President, a lingering war - bad news for Republicans this election. Can conservative Orange County buck the tide? And what upsets are lurking in local races? Joining Rick to discuss these questions are OC Archivist Jean Pasco, Chairman of the OC Democratic Party Frank Barbaro, and Republican pollster Adam Probolsky...


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Archived Episode - 10/19/2008:   Rick interviews Debbie Cook, Rosie Avila, and Steve Young - three candidates each with something in common: they're running against a favored incumbent... The economy is faltering, the stock market is going crazy; how is the financial turmoil impacting OC? Polls suggest John McCain is in big trouble. Is local support also waning? These questions are discussed with this week's "Consider This" panel...


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Archived Episode - 10/12/2008:   Much is at stake in Irvine's mayor race, not just for the city, but for the entire county. Rick talks with the candidates - Democrat councilman, Sukhee Kang, and Republican councilwoman, Christina Shea... Should Orange County voters get the final say on whether sheriff deputies get pension increases? The issue is on the ballot and is debated on this week's "Consider This"...


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Archived Episode - 09/28/2008:   His electrifying swimming won Olympic Gold for himself and for Michael Phelps. Irvine's low-key Jason Lezak makes some waves. And Sarah Palin goes diving - for dollars in Orange County...


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Archived Episode - 09/21/2008:   The stock market roller-coasters, Lehman fails, Merrill sells out, the Fed takes over Fannie, Freddie, AIG, everything, and California is still in hock. Rick navigates the scary economic landscape with Chapman U. professor, Esmael Adibi, developer, Michael Ray, and mortgage broker, Jason Grange...


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Archived Episode - 09/14/2008:   They've gotten a hero's welcome, but what will OC's Olympic winners do when the cheering stops? Rick asks two of them. And is the slowing economy slowing down life in the fast lane? Rick asks the millionaire and his wife...


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Archived Episode - 09/07/2008:   Sacramento still can't balance the budget. Who's to blame? We want more energy, but do we want power plants in our backyards and off-shore drilling? And why is Orange County a big fraud? Rick discusses these issues with this week's "Consider This" panel.


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Archived Episode - 08/31/2008:    Are they speaking too much Spanish and painting too many Mexican murals in a So. County school? Well, the immigration debate hits the classroom... And with public employee benefits draining the county, two local cities want to give even higher benefits. And sheriff volunteers have been told to turn in their badges, but some say they lost their badges! Uh huh. Rick and his guests, Will Swain, Martha Daniel, and Adam Probolsky discuss these issues and more in this special edition of "Consider This"


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Archived Episode:   He was hired, fired, and rehired. Now he's on a roll - Erwin Chemerinsky, provocative dean of UCI's new law school. Do we really need more lawyers? ... Barack Obama holds a fundraiser in Newport Beach, Hollywood environmentalists have a bash in Laguna; are Democrats taking over Republican-dominated OC? Rick discusses these issues with his guests, plus another panel debate on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:   Gas prices rising, home prices falling, more Federal bailouts, Republicans feuding, a billionaire and an ex-sheriff in court. Rick discusses these issues and more with his guests, Will Swain, Michael Ray and Chip Hanlon, in a special edition of "Consider This"...


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Archived Episode:   Orange County's Rock-Star, mega-pastor to the world, Rick Warren is here with wife, Kay, to discuss their unorthodox, "Purpose-driven", ministry. What do global warming and AIDS have to do with getting to Heaven?...


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Archived Episode:   Everybody's talking about the high cost of energy, but does anybody really know what to do about it? More nukes? Offshore drilling? Electric cars? The McCain and Obama plans on this edition of "Consider This." ... But first: are motorists in the OC ready to give up their big, sexy, sporty gas-guzzling trucks, for a Prius or a Smart Car? Rick discusses OC's energy outlook with three experts...


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Archived Episode:   She's the surprising winner of Orange County's sheriff search. How does Sandra Hutchens plan to reform a scandal-plagued office? And did she get the job despite her gender or because of it? Rick asks OC's new top law-woman... OC sheriff deputies have been cashing in big time on overtime. Is it time to cut back? And after all this time, there's still not much to show for the would-be Great Park, especially with its agressive housing plan now on hold. Rick discusses these issues with his panelists on "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:   The Orange County Supervisors interview the Sheriff candidates. Who will they be loyal to? And a loyalty oath stirs controversy at Cal State Fullerton. And a one-time Bush loyalist writes a kiss-and-tell book that rips the President. Rick discusses this and more with his guests, Will Swain, Steve Young, and John Fleischman, in a special edition of "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:   Soon there will only two major candidates vying for President, or does Hillary have other ideas? The acting sheriff stirs up controversy with a plan to release some prisoners early to ease overcrowding. And when it comes to global warming in the state budget, is the governor all gas? Rick covers these issues on the country and state with his panel of special guests.


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Archived Episode:   Scandals in the jail, Grand Jury criticism, the supervisors, the media, controversies over pay & benefits. Sheriff deputies are under fire. What do they have to say? Their union president speaks out... Orange Countians are facing tough times: gas prices are soaring, homes are being foreclosed on. Is there any help in sight? Rick and his guests debate that and presidential politics on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:   The 241 toll road stopped in it tracks. Protests over ocean front homes. Is the Coastal Commission doing it's job? Are environmentalists going overboard? Are developers hell-bend on destroying the environment? To debate these issues, Rick is joined by developer, Sanford Edward, President of Hedland Reserves, and Chad Nelsen, surfer and Environmental Director of the Surfrider Foundation.


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Archived Episode:   Corruption, jail scandals, the code of secrecy; Orange County's next sheriff has a lot of work to do. Rick is joined with guests, Will Swaim, Steve Young, and Adam Probolsky to look at the top candidates for the job... Also, how bad is the local economy? And can Barack hold off Hillary? These issues and more are discussed in a special edition of "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:   The state's in the red and the economy is failing. What's the mayor of a big city to do? Anaheim Mayor Curt Pringle talks about coping in tough times... And who's to blame for the jail scandals? Should some deputies go to jail? Rick is joined by Michele Revelle, CEO, OC Medical Assoc., and OC blogger, Matt Cunningham, in this week's "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:   The Great Park. Is it urban planning at its best, or partisan politics at its worst? Exploring these questions with Rick are Great Park Board members, Christina Shea and Bill Kogerman... Tony Blair is out, George Bush will soon follow. What does that mean for US-British relations? Rick discusses the issue with a leading British politician, Liam Fox, who's visiting the OC.


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Archived Episode:   The troubled economy. The Fed intervenes. Is it too much, or too little too late? And California faces a budget deficit of over 15 billion dollars. Rick talks about the rough road ahead with economist, Esmael Adibi... Racial controversy, exaggerated claims, old age. Rick discusses presidential candidate problems with democrat entrepreneur, Martha Daniel, and republican lawyer, Michael Schroeder.


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Archived Episode:   The economy, the Obama campaign, the Great Park, wherever you look the storm clouds are gathering. Are there any silver linings? Or is it downpour on the way? Joining Rick to forecast all of this in a special edition of "Consider This" are political pundits, Will Swaim, Steve Young, and Jon Fleischman.


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Archived Episode:   Acting sheriff Jack Anderson proposes bold steps to reform a jail system under fire for an inmate beating death. But is he too close to former boss Mike Carona to lead the department out of its troubled past? ... Plus, Rick and his guests, Gustavo "Ask a Mexican" Arellano of OC Weekly and psychotherapist John Jollife, discuss the fall of the high & mighty and other issues on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:   Two more top sheriff officials are out, and the department braces for a Grand Jury action on a jail beating death. Rick discusses that and more with Districk Weekly editor, Steve Lowery, and Republican pollster, Adam Probolsky, on "Consider This." But before an examination of disharmony, here's three guys that make harmony: Stars of OC's red hot music scene, from the band, Melee.


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Archived Episode:    Mike Carona is out, and the Orange County Board of Supervisors is looking for its next top cop. There are a number of candidates looking to replace the former sheriff and we'll be hearing from a few of them. But first, a look at Mike Carona's last days in office, and then Rick interviews former OC Lieutenant Sheriff, Bill Hunt and former OC Assemblyman Ken Maddox


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Archived Episode:    Orange County's top Democrat. Joining Rick is the pride of Katella High School and Chapman University - U.S. Representative, Loretta Sanchez... Castro's out! Does that mean real change for Cuba, and change for the US approach to its problem neighbor? Rick gets the views from O.C. journalists, Gustavo Arellano and Norberto Santana, Jr. on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:    First: the Economy. How bad is it; how bad will it get? Joining Rick to discuss what lies ahead for jobs and pocketbooks are three experts in business, investment, and real estate finance... So what's Obama got? What's Schwarzenegger still got? Charisma, baby. A long-time political reporter and an image consultant will discuss who's got it and who doesn't on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:    Polls, shmolls... can anyone really predict who will win the Presidency? Will Hillary and Barack tear each other up? Will McCain be done-in by his own party's conservatives? And on the local scene, has the Coastal Commission torn up the 241 toll-road extension? Joining Rick to discuss all this is Will Swaim of the District Weekly, Congressional candidate, Steve Young, and Jon Fleischman of FlashReport.org.


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Archived Episode:    In the age of internet news, TV soundbites, and need-to-know, can newspapers compete? "Stop the presses!" is taking on a whole new meaning. Here to discuss are James Flanigan, contributing columnist for the NY Times, and Richard Reisman, publisher of the Orange County Business Journal... Good government or bad bureaucracy? Rick and his guests examine more issues on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:    Tainted products, unfair trade, human rights violations. So why are we supporting China's Olympics? Steroids indictments and congressional hearings; can baseball clear up its mess? We ask Peter Ueberroth... Can Arnold find any way to fix our state's huge budget deficit? And can he save the troubled 241 Toll Road? Political bosses Scott Baugh and Frank Barbaro debate the issues...


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Archived Episode:    California is starting to look like a real prize for the presidential wannabes. Who's going to win in the Golden State? Two veterans of state politics - lawyer and Democrat activist, Wylie Aitken, and businessman and Republican activist, Buck Johns, are here to tell us. But first, Rick asks US Congressman (Irvine), John Campbell, what's happening with the Republicans...


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Archived Episode:    It was a year that ended with falling housing prices, an indicted Sheriff, and none of the presidential candidates looking very Presidential. Where do we go from here? Will Swaim and Rick will debate these issues on "Consider This." But first, Reality TV's Women of the Year, for better or worse. The "Real Housewives of Orange County" is a cable hit... Can the OC take it?


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Archived Episode:    Home prices are falling! How low will they go? And how long will the downturn last? Chapman University economist Essie Adibi makes his predictions... And it's time for New Year's resolutions: Lose weight, exercise more, just be a better person. Psychotherapist John Jolliffe and personal trainer Erin Warren give tips on making, and keeping, those promises...


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Archived Episode:    It's the dreaded 'R' word. Orange County's top economists say we're headed into a Recession... A traffic accident leaves two joggers paralyzed. Who's at fault? Dana Point paid out 50 million. Rick and his guests will debate those issues and more on "Consider This." But first, it's Baseball, with Angels' announcer, Jose Mota...


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Archived Episode:    Assemblyman Todd Spitzer is here to respond to the bashing he's been taking in the media, and a comment on indicted sheriff Mike Carona, in this week's episode of "Consider This"... but first, show and tell - a look at a super dip-stick and a super sparkplug and other super stuff...


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Archived Episode:    The Real Estate crunch. It's hurting home owners, buyers and people who work in the industry. Rick discusses the issues with Emille Haddad of Lennar, and Jeffery John Bitetti of Bacchus... Is it time for the sheriff to get out of town? In "Consider This" we have a heavy-weight debate between Carona adviser Mike Schroeder and newspaper critic, Will Swain...


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Archived Episode:    The wildfires in Santiago Canyon. Joining Rick to discuss the fires is the Chief of the Orange County Fire Authority, Chip Prather... Sheriff Mike Carona isn't talking about his indictment on federal corruption charges except to say that he's innocent. Others are talking. A Carona critic and a supporter debate on "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:    He's been dubbed America's sheriff; now he's Orange County's indicted sheriff. Gustavo Arellano and Matt Cunningham help analyze the Federal case against Mike Carona on "Consider This"... But before we sound the sour notes, let's hit some sweet notes. Joining Rick is the star of the fast rising Pacific Symphony - the Maestro - Music Director, Carl St. Clair.


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Archived Episode:    The Catholic Church abuse scandals; a bishop is here to talk about them, and about social justice, immigration, and the OC religious scene... And what have we learned about the fires? What's gone right and what's gone wrong? Will Swaim and Jennifer Bauman are here to discuss the devastating wildfires and other issues on "Consider This"...


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Archived Episode:    Classrooms are overcrowded, teachers say they're underpaid, schools cry for more money, and the battle brews over vouchers in private vs. public. The education crisis - is there a way out? Rick discusses the issues with Mike Kilbourne representing the Orange County Dept. of Education, and Vicky Murray, Senior Policy Fellow with the Pacific Research Institute.


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Archived Episode:    The drastic steps some people are taking to lose weight: it's called Bariatric Surgery. Rick discusses the battle of the bulge with a surgery patient who has lost 200 pounds and his surgeon... The surfers and environmentalists vs. South County motorists and politicians. Watch a debate over the 241 Toll Road on "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:    Tainted food, defective toys, piracy. The complaints against China mount. But who else is going to stock Walmart and buy our bonds? Economists Peter Navarro and Donald Straszheim debate - China: Friend or Foe?... The Great Park, LAX, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and Bush vs. Congress are discussed with Will Swaim on "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:    OC's connections in Africa - some humanitarian and some business. Rick is joined by someone who's making for-profit investments there - Buck Johns, President of Newport Beach-based Inland Energy... He was hired, fired, and now he's re-hired to be dean of UCI's Law School. The debate over Irwin Chemerinsky with the "Consider This" panel.


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Archived Episode:    Nuclear Energy. Is it the magic bullet to solve our energy problems, or is it a disaster waiting to happen? To find out, Rick is joined by CA State Assemblyman, Chuck DeVore, and Dan Hirsh, President of The Committe to Bridge the Gap... Suddenly there's a lot of new coverage of Orange County. Rick and his guests explore what this is all about in this week's episode of "Consider This."


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Archived Episode:    Why would Eileen Padberg leave her cozy business in the OC to spend two years in war torn Iraq? We'll find out... And they're playing hardball at Angel's Stadium - off the field. Joining Rick on this edition of "Consider This" is Matt Cunningham of Red County OC Blog and Gustavo Arellano of OC Weekly's "Ask A Mexican."


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Archived Episode:    Investigations and allegations. Should Chriss Street step down as OC's Treasurer? Street's here to tell us why he won't resign. And union leader Nick Berardino tells why he wants Street removed from office. Also: Should California change how it votes for President? Rick asks the "Consider This" panel. But, first: turmoil at the Treasurer's office.


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Archived Episode:    The Mortgage Meltdown. It's shaking up the housing and stock markets. Rick discusses the problem with Jason Grange of Premier Mortgage Lender, and Chapman Univ. Economist, Essie Adibi... Plus, Rick is joined by Will Swaim, Publisher of The District Weekly, in a new segment of "Consider This".


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Archived Episode:    Rick examines the rapidly changing news media - sensationalism, bloggers, the decline of daily newspapers and OC's unique media market - with Jean Pasco, long-time OC political reporter and current OC archivist, and Pete Weitzner, professor, journalist, and soon to be morning host on KDOC TV....


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Archived Episode:    What's going on in Santa Ana? Here to discuss the city and politics with Rick is the Mayor of Santa Ana, Miguel Pulido ... And 60 million people in California by the year 2050! The "Consider This" panel - developer, Michael Ray, editor, Kedric Francis, and author, Todd Levinson - discuss ...


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Archived Episode:    Science. Are kids getting enough of it? Joe Adams of the Discovery Science Center and Michael Metzler of the Santa Ana Chamber of Commerce help Rick find an answer... Is the economy as bad or as good as experts claim? Entrepreneurs Martha Daniel and Tracy Price offer their perspectives in this week's Consider This...


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Archived Episode:    Rick is joined by Chriss Street - a guy who made a lot of money as an investor and says he's putting that know-how to work for the taxpayers... It's a Hot Topic, in Washington and in the County. Assemblyman Jose Solorio and Dana Point Mayor, Dianne Harkey will tackle immigration and more...


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Archived Episode:    Rick interviews actress, singer, and Carl's Jr. TV hottie Ashley Hartman... In a segment of Consider This, political operator, Mike Schroeder and muckracker, Steve Lowery - Editor of District Weekly - discuss local sheriff battles and other political biz...


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Archived Episode:   OC Sheriff Mike Carona explains why he wants to keep control of the harbors; why he doesn't want civilians watching his jail and why his critics are off base...

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