WW continues to explore the areas where WOFF members, and those contemplating leaving, or who are struggling with certain issues, as well as families on the outside, can help themselves as well as others in your situation. Previous blogs have other links as well, and you're invited to scroll back and review those.
So, here begins another list of places, ideas, agencies that may apply to your specific situation, as well as some tips on documenting your experience.
Given that a number of properties in the area may have WOFF ties, a call or letter to the North Carolina Real Estate Commission would be in order to implement a watchful eye on your local realtors, to determine if previous complaints have been filed, or to share an experience you believe was worth a closer look. A complaint or two is one thing, but a series of letters or calls to their office will get their attention and possibly lead to an investigation.
Do WOFF members go through your mail at "home" or even your PO Box? The USPS has a formidable law enforcement branch within it's organization, and takes any matter of alleged mail tampering, very seriously, if you believe this has happened. https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov/
WOFF has an interesting, if yet telling number of firms with which they do business. Have an experience to share? The bar association might be interested in the goings on of some of it's members associated with WOFF. The links page alone will steer you to firms in cases where they were defended. Why such a defense system? Shouldn't these firms also be under scrutiny? http://www.ncbar.org/
Has your doctor or medical facility done something out of the ordinary and you think it's WOFF related, then contact: http://www.ncmedboard.org/
The FCC might be the go-to agency if you feel your isp is being monitored by any internet companies which may be associated with WOFF. Do you think your phone calls are being recorded? They will want to know this. http://esupport.fcc.gov/complaints.htm
Have you experienced local or regional law enforcement unwilling to intervene in certain WOFF matters? Do you believe that your civil rights have been violated? The US Justice Department might be interested if your complaint has specific details: http://www.justice.gov/crt/. LGBT persons who believe their civil rights have been violated should contact: Equality North Carolina
Who carries a concealed weapon in your congregation or area? You might try: :http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/Public_access_to_concealed_carry_lists , and your local sheriff's department; http://www.rutherfordcountync.gov/dept/sheriffs/Main.php or State Bureau of Investigations http://www.ncdoj.gov/SBI.aspx as permit holders names and other information is a matter of public record. It's a good idea to know who's carrying: http://www.docstoc.com/docs/21975592/North-Carolina-Concealed-Handgun-Permit-Statistics-by-County .As of 2009 , Rutherford County reported 2,765 regular applications for a gun permit, 1,206 Valid Permits, 35 regular permit applications denied and 3 regular permit applications revoked. Also of note, see the link: Half Of North Carolina Concealed Carry Permit Holders With Felony Convictions Keep Their Permit Gun laws: http://www.ncdoj.com/getdoc/32344299-a2a7-4ae5-99fd-9018262f64ac/2007-NC-Firearms-gun-Laws.aspx and finally:
http://sunshinereview.org/index.php/North_Carolina
Is an individual making it difficult for you to get information at a local venue? Find out what the chain of command is there and see if the top person is WOFF associated. If not, go to that person and tell them what you are trying to accomplish and let them know that there is someone who is making it difficult for you to find out.WW highly recommends the book: Pulling Your Own Strings. It has made a life changing difference in one person I know and can help you with dealing with those who would want to control you. Everything in this book is common sense that we simply don't apply to everyday life and situations. (by the way, common sense isn't common). WW considers the results of your lessons in this book to be a Dragon Killer to those who would try to control you. Most importantly, It puts you in charge to make your own decisions. Just so you know, WW has no stake on the sale of this book. Besides, a used copy runs for one cent and you pay for just the shipping. Get it. WW will review this and a couple of other books in future blogs.
When writing, calling or asking in person Always be professional, to the point, courteous, and non confrontational. This is the only way civil people make progress.
DOCUMENTING EVERYTHING is very important, even what you believe to be a minor detail, it might be important to an investigation.
In reading recent incident reports as filed by ex WOFF'ers, I noticed that there were certain lack of details, thus making an investigation or for to be charges filed, difficult or impossible. WW understands that it may be hard to DOCUMENT EVERYTHING just after it happened because of the heightened sense of fear, adrenaline, or emotions. This is where witnesses are key. An observer not directly involved can give a more detailed account of the incident.
It may be hard to find a witness if things are being done behind closed doors or if a potential witness is in fear of reprisal. This is why you must train yourself to be able to give as much detail to your account as possible. This includes names, dates, times, what they were wearing, how they carried out an act against you, with what, and when and how many and what they said, where. File a complaint immediately, as soon as it happened.
WW has also discovered that perhaps some (not all) local law enforcement officers may not be comprehensively trained in dealing with potential victims of cult like organizations. This may hinder any possible investigation in handling a potential victim. This is a specialized and necessary type of training and WW encourages local law enforcement to take the initiative to see that it's officers are trained in this area. Like it or not officers, there is a cult in your own back yard and it's members need help. I would also encourage any organizations, profit or otherwise, to bring a treatment facility to the region that treats cult victims. Such a move would bring attention and ultimate credibility to this serious and ongoing tragedy in the community.
WW has concluded from research and observation, that not all members of occupations and industries mentioned in today's blog, are WOFF associated. You might find that hard to conclude this if you are a WOFF'er/ Ex-WOFF'er/Family Member. It's understandable. There is no list of WOFF associated and not associated. You may also have to watch out for people who play both sides.
In your gathering information, or filing a complaint, you may find that dealing with WOFF'ers and WOFF associated people may be defensive. Some may answer a question with a question. Body language and tone are also dead giveaways. WW has experienced this first hand with some members being quite confrontational. Don't fear them as they fear you. You have the power. Truth is power. But also be wary of people you feel you can trust. Only give information relevant to your situation. Never just spill out everything and tell them you're relieved you finally found someone trusting, because not all is as it seems If it's law enforcement and you are a victim, subject or suspect, then you tell them everything, as you should. Same goes for being a witness in court .
HOW you go about reporting or filing a complaint about something you
believe was done wrong to you, and listening to how the other party
responds is key. Most importantly, be absolutely sure, truthful and
careful about your details.
Remember, when filing a complaint, ask yourself if it is reasonable and responsible? Does it have details and facts. Don't leave opinions and hearsay. Leave out commentary and presumption. Ask yourself If you were the one conducting the investigation or interview, would you find holes in the account, an axe to grind, or is it frivolous?
The agencies featured here can and will investigate complaints and will determine if infractions, or crimes, have been committed, and proceed accordingly. Your responsibility is to be truthful, stay alert, and DOCUMENT EVERYTHING, for details and specifics matter. If you are in a situation where you believe what you write down and store isn't safe, it is important to remember: WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN, HOW. If you remember just these words, then you can sort them out in your head or on paper later. Only details will matter in your report. Get the names of every one you talk to when filing your report or complaint you file. Leave out the "set up" that most people don't realize they are including in telling a story.
This "church" and it's leadership and membership is responsible for the well being of our loved ones here on this earth. We hold WOFF accountable through our responsible and lawful vigilance.
If WOFF feels they don't answer to anyone, I disagree, with credibility.
Stay tuned.
ASK QUESTIONS
DOCUMENT EVERYTHING
-WOFFWATCHER
Showing posts with label accountability WOFF. Show all posts
Showing posts with label accountability WOFF. Show all posts
Friday, May 4, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Fish Or Cut Bait...A Special Comment
First, A Story...
A dog lies lazily on his side on a front porch on a hot summer day. Every now and then the dog howls in pain, contemplating getting up, but doesn't. This practice goes on and on and on for hours. A neighbor stops by the house to visit with the dog's owner to talk about some neighborhood gossip when the dog howls again. The neighbor asks "why is the dog howling? . The owner says "the dog is lying on a nail". The neighbor asks "why doesn't he get off the nail?"The owner says: "because it doesn't hurt enough yet".
And, so we have the WOFFer who wants to leave, is thinking about leaving, only the nail causing him/her pain, doesn't hurt enough..... yet.
Since July of last year, I have made my position known on the illegitimacy of WOFF. I have posted words of encouragement, ideas to pursue, challenged WOFF leadership and ideology, provided links to WOFF and related subjects, provided counter ideas to their twisted logic, pleaded with you to leave this tragedy waiting to happen, and even given you scenarios that will most likely occur as time goes on.
And you have read (thank you), and you have looked at the links. Some of you have even posted comments.
And, some of you who read this blog, play for the other team. WW knows that, and much more.
But I digress.
I know, for some people leaving WOFF can be daunting. It might also be complicated because it might not just be you. Your spouse and family might not be on the same page. I know, that's a dilemma. Taking such a big step requires courage and a plan. Yes, it does. Yeah, they might have you locked in pretty good, or at least have you thinking that way.
But all your whimpering, complaining, crying, whining, dreaming, fantasizing.....won't get the job done unless you, like the dog on the porch, Get Off your Lazy, Timid, Behinds and Get Moving.
The place you go to "church" is bad for you. It is bad for your health. It is bad for the people outside it that love you. It is bad for your friends INSIDE the "church". It is bad for the community.
It is bad.
These people are lying to you.
These people are doing insane things in the name of God.
These people have made you their slaves.
What they are doing to you is at the very least, evil, possibly criminal and certainly beyond reprehensible.
This is a place where secrecy, paranoia, constant and ever present monitoring, screaming out demons, abuse, and controversy, lives in your daily life, and can't be good for anyone.
These people above you in leadership will ultimately be investigated and charged if they are responsible for criminal acts and sued for civil ones.
By the way, that "waiver" you signed, will be thrown out in court, and isn't worth the piece of paper on which it is written because it's not enforceable. Their lawyers will tell you otherwise, but they're not YOUR lawyers, don't believe them!
Opponents to this blog would dismiss this as anything but vitriol and bluster.
You are wrong, cult - breath!
The WOFF leadership, such as it is, view the outside world with contempt, paranoia and disdain. They will tell you that I am lying and that terrible things will happen to you if you leave. Again, they are lying to you as they have no proof of this.
THEY WILL NEVER PROVE THIS.
Those who would challenge WOFF would only waste their time, as WOFF will hold strong, in their twisted view.
Of course this is going to be their stance. They know they have you under their thumb and any "outsider" isn't going to sway them, you or anybody in WOFF. They have you scared and believing them. To your families and those outside your "church" ,YOU HAVE BECOME SMILING ZOMBIES OF BLISS.
But REAL FAITH IS ALWAYS WILLING TO BE CHALLENGED.
Real faith can be explored by you outside of this place. Real faith and love await you to explore and worship as you want outside of this place.
These people, Jane Whaley particularly, have gotten rich from YOUR hard work and money. She will get richer and thus, more powerful around those she controls with YOUR money, until she and WOFF is exposed for the fraud that is clearly going on.
Time and time again I have said that this will all end and it will end badly. It will end because people will tell their story to the authorities, the authorities will investigate, and the authorities will not come up empty handed. There will be so much to investigate here that the feds will have their hands full. They will investigate the alleged abuses, both physically and emotionally, to people in their "church" now, and those who have left and continue to come forward. They will investigate the trail of money that comes from YOU, that comes from "secret" contributors (not secret to me, I KNOW who they are) and where the money goes, how it is spent, what for, as well as WHO is paid to keep this organization powerful and moving forward. They will investigate the already documented accounts of people who were electronically monitored. Foreign governments along with our State Department will investigate the legitimacy of foreign students working conditions and treatment,as well as the fund raising in foreign countries.There will be investigations into the chaperoning of WOFF members to Doctor's and clinic visits, which is potentially a violation of the HIPPAA act..
And, it's all because WOFF feels because it is above accountability. How arrogant is that?
WOFF: the bottom line here is that your organization will be dismantled.
Between your current(soon to be ex) followers, ex members, interested community members, Federal Agencies, Me, and more, will see to that.
Laugh and scoff all you want.
However, never underestimate the power of determination. History has shown that determination has brought down governments, civilizations, corruption and evil.
So what makes WOFF so different? Nothing. WOFF leadership is delusional.
God on your side? Not the same as everyone Else's.
Money on their side? That's just WOFF, and there are more of US than you and your money.
The next fight WOFF picks will be their last, as all eyes interested in this place will swarm in with suits and briefcases and badges and lots and lots of paper. Hope the hotels in Rutherford County will be prepared.
So, Fish or cut bait? Read everything I have posted to remind you, to give you ideas, to give you logic to challenge them. And if something happened to you, write everything down in detail, because the cops will want to know. And don't be afraid of them being in cahoots with Jane. Those cops will be found out if they are. The Justice Department will want to know this.
If you plan on getting out, get moving..... Just get out.There is no "nice" way of dealing with these people. Get in their face and tell them to leave you alone. They don't play by the rules, so you don't have to either. But don't do anything stupid or illegal.
By the way: How's that nail feeling about now?
Ask Questions
WOFFWATCHER
A dog lies lazily on his side on a front porch on a hot summer day. Every now and then the dog howls in pain, contemplating getting up, but doesn't. This practice goes on and on and on for hours. A neighbor stops by the house to visit with the dog's owner to talk about some neighborhood gossip when the dog howls again. The neighbor asks "why is the dog howling? . The owner says "the dog is lying on a nail". The neighbor asks "why doesn't he get off the nail?"The owner says: "because it doesn't hurt enough yet".
And, so we have the WOFFer who wants to leave, is thinking about leaving, only the nail causing him/her pain, doesn't hurt enough..... yet.
Since July of last year, I have made my position known on the illegitimacy of WOFF. I have posted words of encouragement, ideas to pursue, challenged WOFF leadership and ideology, provided links to WOFF and related subjects, provided counter ideas to their twisted logic, pleaded with you to leave this tragedy waiting to happen, and even given you scenarios that will most likely occur as time goes on.
And you have read (thank you), and you have looked at the links. Some of you have even posted comments.
And, some of you who read this blog, play for the other team. WW knows that, and much more.
But I digress.
I know, for some people leaving WOFF can be daunting. It might also be complicated because it might not just be you. Your spouse and family might not be on the same page. I know, that's a dilemma. Taking such a big step requires courage and a plan. Yes, it does. Yeah, they might have you locked in pretty good, or at least have you thinking that way.
But all your whimpering, complaining, crying, whining, dreaming, fantasizing.....won't get the job done unless you, like the dog on the porch, Get Off your Lazy, Timid, Behinds and Get Moving.
The place you go to "church" is bad for you. It is bad for your health. It is bad for the people outside it that love you. It is bad for your friends INSIDE the "church". It is bad for the community.
It is bad.
These people are lying to you.
These people are doing insane things in the name of God.
These people have made you their slaves.
What they are doing to you is at the very least, evil, possibly criminal and certainly beyond reprehensible.
This is a place where secrecy, paranoia, constant and ever present monitoring, screaming out demons, abuse, and controversy, lives in your daily life, and can't be good for anyone.
These people above you in leadership will ultimately be investigated and charged if they are responsible for criminal acts and sued for civil ones.
By the way, that "waiver" you signed, will be thrown out in court, and isn't worth the piece of paper on which it is written because it's not enforceable. Their lawyers will tell you otherwise, but they're not YOUR lawyers, don't believe them!
Opponents to this blog would dismiss this as anything but vitriol and bluster.
You are wrong, cult - breath!
The WOFF leadership, such as it is, view the outside world with contempt, paranoia and disdain. They will tell you that I am lying and that terrible things will happen to you if you leave. Again, they are lying to you as they have no proof of this.
THEY WILL NEVER PROVE THIS.
Those who would challenge WOFF would only waste their time, as WOFF will hold strong, in their twisted view.
Of course this is going to be their stance. They know they have you under their thumb and any "outsider" isn't going to sway them, you or anybody in WOFF. They have you scared and believing them. To your families and those outside your "church" ,YOU HAVE BECOME SMILING ZOMBIES OF BLISS.
But REAL FAITH IS ALWAYS WILLING TO BE CHALLENGED.
Real faith can be explored by you outside of this place. Real faith and love await you to explore and worship as you want outside of this place.
These people, Jane Whaley particularly, have gotten rich from YOUR hard work and money. She will get richer and thus, more powerful around those she controls with YOUR money, until she and WOFF is exposed for the fraud that is clearly going on.
Time and time again I have said that this will all end and it will end badly. It will end because people will tell their story to the authorities, the authorities will investigate, and the authorities will not come up empty handed. There will be so much to investigate here that the feds will have their hands full. They will investigate the alleged abuses, both physically and emotionally, to people in their "church" now, and those who have left and continue to come forward. They will investigate the trail of money that comes from YOU, that comes from "secret" contributors (not secret to me, I KNOW who they are) and where the money goes, how it is spent, what for, as well as WHO is paid to keep this organization powerful and moving forward. They will investigate the already documented accounts of people who were electronically monitored. Foreign governments along with our State Department will investigate the legitimacy of foreign students working conditions and treatment,as well as the fund raising in foreign countries.There will be investigations into the chaperoning of WOFF members to Doctor's and clinic visits, which is potentially a violation of the HIPPAA act..
And, it's all because WOFF feels because it is above accountability. How arrogant is that?
WOFF: the bottom line here is that your organization will be dismantled.
Between your current(soon to be ex) followers, ex members, interested community members, Federal Agencies, Me, and more, will see to that.
Laugh and scoff all you want.
However, never underestimate the power of determination. History has shown that determination has brought down governments, civilizations, corruption and evil.
So what makes WOFF so different? Nothing. WOFF leadership is delusional.
God on your side? Not the same as everyone Else's.
Money on their side? That's just WOFF, and there are more of US than you and your money.
The next fight WOFF picks will be their last, as all eyes interested in this place will swarm in with suits and briefcases and badges and lots and lots of paper. Hope the hotels in Rutherford County will be prepared.
So, Fish or cut bait? Read everything I have posted to remind you, to give you ideas, to give you logic to challenge them. And if something happened to you, write everything down in detail, because the cops will want to know. And don't be afraid of them being in cahoots with Jane. Those cops will be found out if they are. The Justice Department will want to know this.
If you plan on getting out, get moving..... Just get out.There is no "nice" way of dealing with these people. Get in their face and tell them to leave you alone. They don't play by the rules, so you don't have to either. But don't do anything stupid or illegal.
By the way: How's that nail feeling about now?
Ask Questions
WOFFWATCHER
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Your Privacy: Are You Being Watched?
WW recently discovered a court case in California involving the Jehovah’s Witnesses and the alleged use of stalking and wire fraud over it's members.
From the ( 4Jehovah.org ) website:
From: Case Number 3:10-CV-03907-MEJ Document 50 filed in The United States District Court For The Northern District of California on May 23, 2011 and from the link: http://4jehovah.org/images/stories/downloads/jehovahs_witness/spying/case-doc50-pp32-33.pdf
In this case, the Plaintiffs Jonathan D Cobb, Sr and Walter Arlene St. Clair provide evidence of wire fraud on pages 32-33, where they state:
“The Defendants have utilized people with specific skills such as Mr. Bruce Radetich, who is an ex-police officer and now a security specialist who, it is believed has been employed in an effort to use illegal means to surreptitiously monitor phone calls in hopes of gaining information as to the possible direction the Plaintiff’s are heading with regard to legal matters. Certain personal cell phones of the Plaintiff’s as well as other parties closely associated with the Plaintiff’s appear as if they have been monitored by parties outside. One particular cell phone used by Jason Cobb was inspected by a cell phone specialist… where it was determined that the phone in question had been set up to allow a remote party to be able to intercept calls and monitor them. Milano the cell phone technician who worked on the cell phone in question has had nearly ten years of experience with various makes and models of phones and this party has agreed to testify about the state of the phone and the potential ramifications of what he discovered while working on Jason Cobb’s cell phone. The technician’s expert testimony can easily show intent and how far the Defendants, acting in consort with various confederates, are willing to go in an effort to try to conceal the true nature of this situation, not to mention clearly defining Wire Fraud issues.” (end of website reference)
In reading many of these types of accounts online, isn't it reasonable to conclude that these practices are not proprietary?
Although the logic of: "If this has happened there, it MUST be happening here" would arguably become the primary thought, specifics and evidence, at the very least, would be needed to confirm this.
However, given documented accounts from former members over the years referencing behavior from WOFF, as it pertains to today's subject, give the casual observer reasonable grounds to conclude that SOME kind of alleged monitoring might also be practiced? If these appear similar, then isn't it interesting given that WOFF is said to have it's own "Security Specialist"?
WW asks questions: Do you have internet and or cable service? Is your internet company associated (that is, does it have members who are in WOFF?).
But then, what else? Who else has access (that you know about) to your: Cell Phone (there's an app for monitoring those monitoring you), computer log files kept by your isp, computer history, registry, (learn how your computer works and keep things private), mail (do you have a PO box? If you do and are asked about it in WOFF, ISN'T THAT EVIDENCE?)
Ask yourself.
Since July 2011, WW has pleaded with residents of Rutherfordton County, former members, current members contemplating leaving WOFF, people at banks, government and law enforcement who are NOT members, to TELL SOMEONE, if they have seen or have evidence (documentation) of anything that could or would get the attention of FEDERAL law enforcement and or GOVERNMENT agencies.
Now, that said, WW has reason to believe that some people in this area are afraid that SOME local authorities might be colluding with WOFF, thus taking a chance by going to someone for help when it might backfire. This is understandable. The local authorities in California weren't associated with the Jehovah's Witnesses and justice took it's course. The infrastructure here seemingly makes this task more difficult. But only SEEMINGLY.
However, area attorneys NOT associated with WOFF, particularly those who have defended others AGAINST WOFF, are most likely to know the players, and they could be a source of information that might prove useful. WW would start with them. They ALSO might know someone higher up who might be able to help.
WW also knows that people have contacted Washington agencies only to get thrown back to NC or regional offices that MIGHT be associated with WOFF. This can be frustrating unless you decide that there is no end to this, and you must see it through.
Specifics, names, truth, evidence, documentation, dates, times, quotes, actions, are among the most important elements in making your case and presenting it.
In calling an agency or calling on an agency in person you can encounter obstacles from the very beginning This can be enough to make anyone want to quit.
But don't. Here's how you get around it.
WW's rule of customer service: If you get someone that can't help you, it's because they: don't care, just killing time for a paycheck, barely got by the training and most likely needs additional training, and (this is true) don't like you (they might be having a bad day).
So, call that place again (or if in person, ask for someone else or go another time). WW GUARANTEES that if you do this, you will get a different answer, and probably one that will be helpful. This works every time, particularly with government employees who are now overworked due to budget and staff cuts, while some have an entitlement complex (again true).
Get AROUND conventional ways of dealing with people for this purpose. This is an unconventional situation, so you should approach it unconventionally. Read WW's earlier blog on Guerrilla tactics and how to deal with people.
-WOFFWATCHER
From the ( 4Jehovah.org ) website:
From: Case Number 3:10-CV-03907-MEJ Document 50 filed in The United States District Court For The Northern District of California on May 23, 2011 and from the link: http://4jehovah.org/images/stories/downloads/jehovahs_witness/spying/case-doc50-pp32-33.pdf
In this case, the Plaintiffs Jonathan D Cobb, Sr and Walter Arlene St. Clair provide evidence of wire fraud on pages 32-33, where they state:
“The Defendants have utilized people with specific skills such as Mr. Bruce Radetich, who is an ex-police officer and now a security specialist who, it is believed has been employed in an effort to use illegal means to surreptitiously monitor phone calls in hopes of gaining information as to the possible direction the Plaintiff’s are heading with regard to legal matters. Certain personal cell phones of the Plaintiff’s as well as other parties closely associated with the Plaintiff’s appear as if they have been monitored by parties outside. One particular cell phone used by Jason Cobb was inspected by a cell phone specialist… where it was determined that the phone in question had been set up to allow a remote party to be able to intercept calls and monitor them. Milano the cell phone technician who worked on the cell phone in question has had nearly ten years of experience with various makes and models of phones and this party has agreed to testify about the state of the phone and the potential ramifications of what he discovered while working on Jason Cobb’s cell phone. The technician’s expert testimony can easily show intent and how far the Defendants, acting in consort with various confederates, are willing to go in an effort to try to conceal the true nature of this situation, not to mention clearly defining Wire Fraud issues.” (end of website reference)
In reading many of these types of accounts online, isn't it reasonable to conclude that these practices are not proprietary?
Although the logic of: "If this has happened there, it MUST be happening here" would arguably become the primary thought, specifics and evidence, at the very least, would be needed to confirm this.
However, given documented accounts from former members over the years referencing behavior from WOFF, as it pertains to today's subject, give the casual observer reasonable grounds to conclude that SOME kind of alleged monitoring might also be practiced? If these appear similar, then isn't it interesting given that WOFF is said to have it's own "Security Specialist"?
WW asks questions: Do you have internet and or cable service? Is your internet company associated (that is, does it have members who are in WOFF?).
But then, what else? Who else has access (that you know about) to your: Cell Phone (there's an app for monitoring those monitoring you), computer log files kept by your isp, computer history, registry, (learn how your computer works and keep things private), mail (do you have a PO box? If you do and are asked about it in WOFF, ISN'T THAT EVIDENCE?)
Ask yourself.
Since July 2011, WW has pleaded with residents of Rutherfordton County, former members, current members contemplating leaving WOFF, people at banks, government and law enforcement who are NOT members, to TELL SOMEONE, if they have seen or have evidence (documentation) of anything that could or would get the attention of FEDERAL law enforcement and or GOVERNMENT agencies.
Now, that said, WW has reason to believe that some people in this area are afraid that SOME local authorities might be colluding with WOFF, thus taking a chance by going to someone for help when it might backfire. This is understandable. The local authorities in California weren't associated with the Jehovah's Witnesses and justice took it's course. The infrastructure here seemingly makes this task more difficult. But only SEEMINGLY.
However, area attorneys NOT associated with WOFF, particularly those who have defended others AGAINST WOFF, are most likely to know the players, and they could be a source of information that might prove useful. WW would start with them. They ALSO might know someone higher up who might be able to help.
WW also knows that people have contacted Washington agencies only to get thrown back to NC or regional offices that MIGHT be associated with WOFF. This can be frustrating unless you decide that there is no end to this, and you must see it through.
Specifics, names, truth, evidence, documentation, dates, times, quotes, actions, are among the most important elements in making your case and presenting it.
In calling an agency or calling on an agency in person you can encounter obstacles from the very beginning This can be enough to make anyone want to quit.
But don't. Here's how you get around it.
WW's rule of customer service: If you get someone that can't help you, it's because they: don't care, just killing time for a paycheck, barely got by the training and most likely needs additional training, and (this is true) don't like you (they might be having a bad day).
So, call that place again (or if in person, ask for someone else or go another time). WW GUARANTEES that if you do this, you will get a different answer, and probably one that will be helpful. This works every time, particularly with government employees who are now overworked due to budget and staff cuts, while some have an entitlement complex (again true).
Get AROUND conventional ways of dealing with people for this purpose. This is an unconventional situation, so you should approach it unconventionally. Read WW's earlier blog on Guerrilla tactics and how to deal with people.
People with evidence: You are out there.
Present Your Evidence to Authorities
Many people are affected by what is going on now.
YOU CAN CHANGE THAT.
ASK QUESTIONS-WOFFWATCHER
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Investigations
About a year ago (January 6, 2011), the United States Senate Finance Committee submitted the results of their investigation of religious non-profit organizations associated with or operated by:
Kenneth Copeland Ministries, Creflo Dollar, Bishop Eddie Long, Paula White, Joyce Meyer Ministries, who cooperated with Grassley’s inquiry, and Benny Hinn.
Recent Huffington Post Article on Best Paid Pastors
The final report concluded that there were "no definitive findings of wrongdoing" and "no penalties for the pastors who refused to cooperate".
The ministries or "churches" replied with seemingly predictable behavior.
Hmm, why are these ministries so secret about their money? Why are so many "leaders" so wealthy?
Find More on the Investigations Here
Although this mission was well intended, the Senator's office and staff may have gone into this without anticipating this kind of reception. These results, although not surprising to WW and kindred spirits (WW readers, with the exception of WOFFWATCHER - watchers, who are not kindred), would most certainly be surprising to people unaware of insiders fierce loyalty to their ministry's system or culture and the lengths they will go to to protect it, notwithstanding the fear and intimidation used by the ministries toward it's members who might stray.
The individuals and their ministries were clearly defiant all the while gaming the system created by government, with a bit of help by lobbyists crafting this system, to distinguish them from other entities.
Huge respect and kudos, however to Senator Grassley's staff for forging ahead with this project. The results, such as they were, actually proved useful because of HOW the subjects of the investigation responded. This now leads to more questions and will certainly lead to more types of investigations, perhaps by other bodies of government, but particularly congress.
WW suggests congress because since Senator Grassley's office took this matter on, and his constituency is in IOWA and NOT North Carolina, it could mean that perhaps YOUR congressman/woman in YOUR district, anywhere in the United States, might feel compelled to start their OWN investigation into these types of ministries.
And why stop at those named in this latest investigation? Why not start with smaller, more local ministries? How about one relatively off the radar, but with similar infrastructure as those previously scrutinized, and with a seemingly rich leader.
Where might you find one like that, WW wonders?
So, if you folks locally feel constrained to contact your local congressman/woman because they fear they might be tied to a "church" in some way, you should still try.
If you're in, say, Orange City Florida, you can contact your congressman there, or Falls Church Virginia, or Coldwater Michigan or Goodlettsville, Tennessee, or San Diego, California, and ask them to conduct an investigation. It is unlikely that they will be tied to ANY NC "church" or ministry.
WW's suggestion to Senator Grassley's staff, if you plan on doing this again (and bless you guys for trying) is that you need a street fighter (no violence necessary or condoned, but someone tough as nails, fearless, if you will) to go in with you to help you with tactics they use and how to counter uncooperative people, you need more people in the grassroots (non church members but those who work with them and facilitate them) to help you gather information instead of insiders, study their unique infrastructure.
Here are a couple of ideas to consider:
the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) and HIPPAA (Health Information Privacy Act) statutes.
Although the purpose of the RICO statute is "the elimination of the infiltration of organized crime and racketeering into legitimate organizations operating in interstate commerce." S.Rep. No. 617, 91st Cong., 1st Sess. 76 (1969). However, the statute is sufficiently broad to encompass illegal activities relating to any enterprise affecting interstate or foreign commerce.
The U.S. Supreme Court has instructed federal courts to follow the continuity-plus-relationship test in order to determine whether the facts of a specific case give rise to an established pattern. Predicate acts are related if they "have the same or similar purposes, results, participants, victims, or methods of commission, or otherwise are interrelated by distinguishing characteristics and are not isolated events".
Perhaps RICO provides an opportunity to enable a full and proper legal investigation into day to day operations and infrastructure.
From the HHS.GOV website website:
"The HIPAA Privacy Rule provides federal protections for personal health information held by covered entities and gives patients an array of rights with respect to that information. At the same time, the Privacy Rule is balanced so that it permits the disclosure of personal health information needed for patient care and other important purposes.
The Security Rule specifies a series of administrative, physical, and technical safeguards for covered entities to use to assure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic protected health information. "
It is not unreasonable to consider an investigation in this category, as it applies to federal law, would apply to ministries that involve their church members to chaperon, observe, participate or otherwise accompany the church member that was getting treated, diagnosed, hospitalized, counseled by a physician or medical practitioner for a condition or disease or routine medical evaluation. Sometimes the clinic or medical practitioner may have ties to the ministry in order to make this practice possible.
Of course, these are just two areas of consideration. There are many more areas of potential investigation to explore.
-WOFFWATCHER
Kenneth Copeland Ministries, Creflo Dollar, Bishop Eddie Long, Paula White, Joyce Meyer Ministries, who cooperated with Grassley’s inquiry, and Benny Hinn.
Recent Huffington Post Article on Best Paid Pastors
The final report concluded that there were "no definitive findings of wrongdoing" and "no penalties for the pastors who refused to cooperate".
The ministries or "churches" replied with seemingly predictable behavior.
Hmm, why are these ministries so secret about their money? Why are so many "leaders" so wealthy?
Find More on the Investigations Here
Although this mission was well intended, the Senator's office and staff may have gone into this without anticipating this kind of reception. These results, although not surprising to WW and kindred spirits (WW readers, with the exception of WOFFWATCHER - watchers, who are not kindred), would most certainly be surprising to people unaware of insiders fierce loyalty to their ministry's system or culture and the lengths they will go to to protect it, notwithstanding the fear and intimidation used by the ministries toward it's members who might stray.
The individuals and their ministries were clearly defiant all the while gaming the system created by government, with a bit of help by lobbyists crafting this system, to distinguish them from other entities.
Huge respect and kudos, however to Senator Grassley's staff for forging ahead with this project. The results, such as they were, actually proved useful because of HOW the subjects of the investigation responded. This now leads to more questions and will certainly lead to more types of investigations, perhaps by other bodies of government, but particularly congress.
WW suggests congress because since Senator Grassley's office took this matter on, and his constituency is in IOWA and NOT North Carolina, it could mean that perhaps YOUR congressman/woman in YOUR district, anywhere in the United States, might feel compelled to start their OWN investigation into these types of ministries.
And why stop at those named in this latest investigation? Why not start with smaller, more local ministries? How about one relatively off the radar, but with similar infrastructure as those previously scrutinized, and with a seemingly rich leader.
Where might you find one like that, WW wonders?
So, if you folks locally feel constrained to contact your local congressman/woman because they fear they might be tied to a "church" in some way, you should still try.
If you're in, say, Orange City Florida, you can contact your congressman there, or Falls Church Virginia, or Coldwater Michigan or Goodlettsville, Tennessee, or San Diego, California, and ask them to conduct an investigation. It is unlikely that they will be tied to ANY NC "church" or ministry.
WW's suggestion to Senator Grassley's staff, if you plan on doing this again (and bless you guys for trying) is that you need a street fighter (no violence necessary or condoned, but someone tough as nails, fearless, if you will) to go in with you to help you with tactics they use and how to counter uncooperative people, you need more people in the grassroots (non church members but those who work with them and facilitate them) to help you gather information instead of insiders, study their unique infrastructure.
Here are a couple of ideas to consider:
the RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) and HIPPAA (Health Information Privacy Act) statutes.
Although the purpose of the RICO statute is "the elimination of the infiltration of organized crime and racketeering into legitimate organizations operating in interstate commerce." S.Rep. No. 617, 91st Cong., 1st Sess. 76 (1969). However, the statute is sufficiently broad to encompass illegal activities relating to any enterprise affecting interstate or foreign commerce.
The U.S. Supreme Court has instructed federal courts to follow the continuity-plus-relationship test in order to determine whether the facts of a specific case give rise to an established pattern. Predicate acts are related if they "have the same or similar purposes, results, participants, victims, or methods of commission, or otherwise are interrelated by distinguishing characteristics and are not isolated events".
Perhaps RICO provides an opportunity to enable a full and proper legal investigation into day to day operations and infrastructure.
From the HHS.GOV website website:
"The HIPAA Privacy Rule provides federal protections for personal health information held by covered entities and gives patients an array of rights with respect to that information. At the same time, the Privacy Rule is balanced so that it permits the disclosure of personal health information needed for patient care and other important purposes.
The Security Rule specifies a series of administrative, physical, and technical safeguards for covered entities to use to assure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of electronic protected health information. "
It is not unreasonable to consider an investigation in this category, as it applies to federal law, would apply to ministries that involve their church members to chaperon, observe, participate or otherwise accompany the church member that was getting treated, diagnosed, hospitalized, counseled by a physician or medical practitioner for a condition or disease or routine medical evaluation. Sometimes the clinic or medical practitioner may have ties to the ministry in order to make this practice possible.
Of course, these are just two areas of consideration. There are many more areas of potential investigation to explore.
-WOFFWATCHER
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Why Not Transparency?
ACCOUNTABILITY: the quality or state of being accountable; especially : an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility or to account for one's actions .
As we continue to find answers through TELL A FRIEND...ASK QUESTIONS theme, among the most compelling, certainly controversial, is how WOFF raises money. This leads to WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
Given WOFF'S apparent success in some legal battles, it is likely that this organization is willing to produce a substantial amount of money toward legally defending their actions.
WW wouldn't blame the untrained eye who might perceive that the types of attorneys, meaning by reputation and size, as well as their apparent success, would appear to make this organization invulnerable.
Smoke and mirrors, my friends. Smoke and mirrors.
It is one of the benefits of winning in court.
Now people can talk themselves into fearing this organization who stood up to it's detractors, having won vindication through the legal system.
Now, an organization can threaten to sue any comer who perceives it might threaten it.
Again, smoke and mirrors.
So, if you have so much money to spend on defending yourself, where could THAT money go toward making a difference (as in feeding hungry people etc)?
Now mind you, this is a litigious society and people are prone to sue for most any reason.
That said, now you go and give everybody the impression that you're going to sue at the drop of a hat, could give people like WW and smart readers of this blog, license to conclude that:
Enter the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability
From it's website...
ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public's trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship.
ECFA accredits its members and holds them to high standards of accountability with respect to governance, financial management and stewardship/fund raising.
ECFA's Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™, drawn from Scripture, are fundamental to operating with integrity.
The basis for establishing ECFA and developing Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™ is stated clearly by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 8:21 (NIV):
"For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men."
Accountability to God is vital, but people form their impressions of both people and organizations by looking at the outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).
The ECFA standards are seldom changed, providing members a steady baseline for consistent application of the standards. The brief statements included in the standards have significant implications; the standards are simple but not simplistic. These are not standards that allow for grading on the curve. Rather, they are pass-fail standards. If a member fails even one of the standards, it is disqualified from ECFA membership.
(Thanks to the ECFA)
WW looked up WOFF to see if they are members. Here's a screen shot from the ECFA website from 1/7/12:
So, it IS possible to safely and responsibly exist as a religious organization, all the while conducting business as usual and easing the minds of your followers and community.
There are MANY religious organizations that are members of this accredited organization. Has WOFF considered joining?
And, if the federal government enters this chapter through investigation, then game over.
So, the more ambitious the projects, the more questions drawn from business as usual activities, the more the vulnerability.
The more vulnerability, the more people are prone to TELL A FRIEND.
The more the friend is told, the more questions:
The size, fear and secrecy ASSOCIATED with WOFF only brings to those not inside, wanting to know WHY? This system of operating is bringing growing attention. This is no longer a group of people in Rutherfordton, NC wanting to know, the whole country and those around the globe are starting to ask questions.
The window available now toward fixing those perception issues, issues with things the media and ultimately feds might find interesting, letting people leave WOFF without fear, accounting for finances, among other things....is still open. But for how long?
A Senate Finance Committee Investigation....on RELIGIOUS organizations. No finds on the first try. But the second one.......
Stay Tuned
WOFFWATCHER
As we continue to find answers through TELL A FRIEND...ASK QUESTIONS theme, among the most compelling, certainly controversial, is how WOFF raises money. This leads to WHERE DOES THE MONEY GO?
Given WOFF'S apparent success in some legal battles, it is likely that this organization is willing to produce a substantial amount of money toward legally defending their actions.
WW wouldn't blame the untrained eye who might perceive that the types of attorneys, meaning by reputation and size, as well as their apparent success, would appear to make this organization invulnerable.
Smoke and mirrors, my friends. Smoke and mirrors.
It is one of the benefits of winning in court.
Now people can talk themselves into fearing this organization who stood up to it's detractors, having won vindication through the legal system.
Now, an organization can threaten to sue any comer who perceives it might threaten it.
Again, smoke and mirrors.
So, if you have so much money to spend on defending yourself, where could THAT money go toward making a difference (as in feeding hungry people etc)?
Now mind you, this is a litigious society and people are prone to sue for most any reason.
That said, now you go and give everybody the impression that you're going to sue at the drop of a hat, could give people like WW and smart readers of this blog, license to conclude that:
1. You indeed have a sizeable warchest, ready to use for the next fight.
2. You're bluffing.
3. You DON'T have a war chest but can come up with the money fairly easily.
ASK QUESTIONS:
- How do you get your money?
- Where does it go?
- Why aren't you transparent?
- So, you have THAT MUCH money to throw around?
Enter the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability
From it's website...
ECFA is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public's trust through adherence to Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship.
ECFA accredits its members and holds them to high standards of accountability with respect to governance, financial management and stewardship/fund raising.
ECFA's Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™, drawn from Scripture, are fundamental to operating with integrity.
The basis for establishing ECFA and developing Seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship™ is stated clearly by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 8:21 (NIV):
"For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men."
Accountability to God is vital, but people form their impressions of both people and organizations by looking at the outward appearances (1 Samuel 16:7).
The ECFA standards are seldom changed, providing members a steady baseline for consistent application of the standards. The brief statements included in the standards have significant implications; the standards are simple but not simplistic. These are not standards that allow for grading on the curve. Rather, they are pass-fail standards. If a member fails even one of the standards, it is disqualified from ECFA membership.
(Thanks to the ECFA)
WW looked up WOFF to see if they are members. Here's a screen shot from the ECFA website from 1/7/12:
So, it IS possible to safely and responsibly exist as a religious organization, all the while conducting business as usual and easing the minds of your followers and community.
There are MANY religious organizations that are members of this accredited organization. Has WOFF considered joining?
ASK MORE QUESTIONS:
- WHY PUT UP WITH ALL THE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR FINANCES?
- WHY NOT SUBMIT TO TRANSPARENCY SO THAT YOU OPERATE YOUR ORGANIZATION WITHOUT AN EVER GROWING INTEREST IN YOUR FINANCES, AMONG OTHER THINGS?
- IF YOU HANDLE YOUR FIGHTS LEGALLY, WOULDN'T IT MAKE SENSE TO DO THIS LEGALLY TOO?
And, if the federal government enters this chapter through investigation, then game over.
So, the more ambitious the projects, the more questions drawn from business as usual activities, the more the vulnerability.
The more vulnerability, the more people are prone to TELL A FRIEND.
The more the friend is told, the more questions:
The size, fear and secrecy ASSOCIATED with WOFF only brings to those not inside, wanting to know WHY? This system of operating is bringing growing attention. This is no longer a group of people in Rutherfordton, NC wanting to know, the whole country and those around the globe are starting to ask questions.
The window available now toward fixing those perception issues, issues with things the media and ultimately feds might find interesting, letting people leave WOFF without fear, accounting for finances, among other things....is still open. But for how long?
On the next blog:
Stay Tuned
WOFFWATCHER
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