Remember: Annual family meeting dates-
"LEADERSHIP"
January 14th, 2012 at the Hampton Inn South Portland Airport location from 4-8pm
"ALL FAMILY MEMBERS"
January 15th, 2012 same location from 9:30-4.
Come one, come all!!
Not sure showing up would be a good idea, though it would be entertaining. While not-for-profits can't legally keep people out of meetings, these meetings aren't portrayed as a part of these organizations. They cost no money to the attendees, and they are listed under "Family Reunion" at the places these meetings are held. Because there is no organization name attached to these "get-togethers" they could probably say it's a private reunion, and have unwanted persons removed. Of course, we all know it's all part of the same thing.... Interesting to note- they forbid any cell phones to be on at ALL at these meetings, and have "security" people stationed at each door to monitor who comes and goes, and to keep an eye out for any rogue cell phone users. I bet they are afraid someone might record something, and therefore connect these "reunions" to the non-profit organizations.
I am just curious if they ever videotape these meetings for archival purposes, in particular because everyone is not able to get to Maine for this meeting.
In business, for profit and not for profit, we video tape everything. (It's considered normal, to have a secretary take notes, and to record the meetings)
Why not ask for it, so people can go back and study the video tapes at future dates, and for future conversations?
There are a multitude of spy stores that sell equipment much more advanced than cell phones, which both video tape and record the words.
Do the leaders use Power point presentations? Do yuo get hand outs?
What happens to people if they get up and ask hard questions?
What if people want to take control....like a revolution....the little and medium people, and insist on a new change of voting for power positions, trustees, vestry, elected term policies, like 1-3 years, wardens, etc.
Thank you for your response. It is very interesting.
Will Gary be at this meeting? Or has he left already?
Is the Manvan the new Leader? Will he prophecy at meeting?
I truly believe that all of you in the CULT are entitled to a profesionally videotaped copy of this meeting, since it is only once a year.
How many fly in from Colorado? Does the airfare come from tithing?
I know...I ask a lot of questions....but I hope you can share some more answers.
From what I know, they have taped EVERYTHING in the past and KM has held all the information. I dont' know if he'd still be doing this as he's in the CO contingent now, but maybe he's part of the contingent that was granted a reprieve under some of the latest prophesies.
Under no circumstances has any meeting or teaching that has been missed been released when it is a big meeting format like this (I know, I've asked). They will do power points at times, but not about the more "business" aspects of what they talk about. They usually relate to the dead memory of Jack to get people to do what they want, although I've seen them use the dead memory of other members as well to remind people of their faith in god and to be good little doers for the group.
About the rumors that Goon has left... he has not left, but is planning on leaving.... perhaps more will be known about that after the meeting.
There is no agenda handed out.
The Man is the leader, but only technically of ONE of the superclans... the other two heads are considered interrum leaders until their progeny decide to step into their role as King, which I personally believe to be doubtful, especially PR's kid. The other leaders would be the 12 elders in general, 4 from each super clan.
No tithe money is allowed to be used for those who travel, although they have reimbursed funds in the past for people who wanted to go to retreats, I'm not aware if they still do it for this meeting. I do not know if they will fly the elders and other leaders for free. Some really careless comments have been made in the past about "saving up" for the excursions, and it being "really important" or "mandatory" for people to attend this "business" meeting.
They usually talk about the general leadership, voting on new positions or vacant positions (I don't believe there are any now), tithing, and the family plan.
Overall they always bring up Jack, "our father", and remind us of the covenant, although most members aren't actually allowed to have a written copy of the covenant themselves and most are not sure what it actually states and demands.
In my personal experience, no one has ever prophesied at these, those happen at prayer meetings and meditation retreats or shabbatons.
It could be entirely likely that they will schedule a family prayer session because so much is changing and stage a prophesy to scare the ever living wits out of people and get more money.
It has been rare that a person has stood up and asked an outright question at one of these, but I've seen it happen... when Jack was alive. Not many hard questions are asked, or tolerated. They mostly just talk at everyone for a few hours.
But I've been out for few years, so this information could be dated.
Teachings have always been recorded. I don't believe they have ever recorded these types of meetings, nor has any printed info gone out about them after the fact (Jan.Superclan Meetings). Technically Van is leader of his superclan, but he is the accepted "King" of the entire family. They even had a ceremony at a retreat in CO where he traipsed through the crowd with a crown and robe, everyone oohing and aaahing. Gary hasn't left. I also have not heard when he is or where he is going. He does have a business to run, though Van is the CEO, so will probably handle it in his absence. Van actually holds more power than Gary in the decision making. His word is the final word. Gary's actual position was "high priest" therefore he headed the group of priests, but nothing more technically. As a result of his status as Abba's pet, people held him up in a position very much like Abba's, though he always claimed (publicly) to not want this. AV, in taking over gary's position as high priest will not have nearly the influence Gary has. Regarding tithe, members generally donb't write checks to NERT or UMI specifically, but write them to their clan head. This money then gets turned over, and eventually makes it's way to those organizations. Therefore, I think this money may never be kept track of as income, and would not be part of an audit. Members pay for specific things directly to UMI, like meditation weekends and weeks, which happen regularly. These are done under the name UMI, and is what is kept as income for the organization. Legally, I don't believe there would be any consequences for people giving their own money to other private individuals for whatever reason they choose. I may be mistaken. I would love to know more from someone who may have more information.
If you have used your deduction to the CULT, as a " income tax write off" on your personal income tax, then there is a paper trail, because the CULT, has to report all income because of it's 501c3 status.
Even if you yourself have not personally written off this deduction on your tax returns, there are many families that have used this "deduction" on their tax returns.
Even if a business donates, it is reflected on their tax return.
The 501c3 status is critical, because then the CULT does not have to pay taxes, and is evaluated by the IRS at a non profit in "good standing".
Non profits, who are not in good standing can receive a "letter of concern" which can lead to them losing their 501 c3 status.
If you wrote a check, to Van for a new crown and tiara, then the check should go in to the CULT and the CULT would write a check to the Costume store, for the amount. This line item would show up on this years tax returns under "OUTFITS/ DRESSWEAR".
A leader should not accept a check directly from you to him, because then you cannot claim it as a tax deduction, and it is not reported as income to the CULT.
It is simply not the way a non profit can keep its status. Maybe that is why Pnina only found a few years of returns for the UMI. Where are all the tax returns before this2007/2008?
As members who donate, you are entitled to a full reporting of how every penny is spent and accounted for. Churches, Synagogues, etc all have annual meetings where they hand out the audited tax returns so that people can ask questions.
In addition, you should expect to see or request, a 2012 CULT budget at this meeting. People discuss and vote on line items to see if they make sense. Everyones input is valued....in all non profits.
You should also receive financial reports on each CULT project....budget vs actual expenses.
For example, 2011 BUNKER EXPENSES actual vs 2011 Real expenses Food Supplies Food Building materials Beds Sewage lines
A recap from the project manager on this. How many people can fit? How long? Who are they? How does one get selected to be housed? How long is housing to last for? The purpose of the BUNKER Housing, etc.
Everyone is entitled to have access to all of the info that is part of your non profit. TRANSPARENT.
Same with UMI. What is the building? Who gets to go? DO they charge for seminars and classes? What is the income from classes....expenses...net gain or loss.
what is the 2012 budget for UMI. What was 2011 budget vs. reality.
Can you get someone to email the people who are putting together this meeting, and insist that you want full disclosure.
The youth who have grown up in the CULT are smart, educated people. I know some of the schools people have gone to, or are attending.
I assure you, that if you were on the Board of Directors for the ASPCA, and you went to an annual meeting, you would leave with full disclosure and knowledge about two things.
How the money was spent in 2011 and what the projected expenses are for 2012.
Imagine if you were at an ASPCA meeting, and they told you that they received 2 million in donations, but they have decided to build a CAT Bunker, (not Dogs...too big and loud)....and can only save 200 cats for 4 months when the world ends.
Wouldn't you stand up in shock and say, then I withdraw my pledge? You are not using the money wisely, or the way it was intended?
In regards to Willows comment: People do infact, write checks directly to NERT adn UMI. At the beginning of each calendar year, tithers receive a form to be included with your taxes. Yes, this money is listed on everyone's taxes as deductions.
There is now actually a small cost associated with attending the Annual meetings (Jan 14-15). And yes, there are "look outs" stationed at the doors. No one is searched, so sneaking in a recording device would be easy. I might try that!
All of Jack-off's "lessons" are on CD now and available to anyone who asks (in the family). JH is selling these for a nominal fee.
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Back in the early 1980's, Newsweek did an article on the Shoresh Yisha cult which was, at that time, in operation on Long Island. Not long after the article was written, the cult began to disperse. People assumed, the group had broken up and disbanded. I assure you that is not the case at all.
The group, though losing a few members, is still is full swing in Maine (mostly) and Colorado. They are now focusing on "the end of days" building elaborate compounds in Northern Maine. Through recent "prophecies" the end is expected sometime around October 2012. This group believes through its prayers and meditations, it can be the "redeemer" for Israel's follies. God, knows what's going to happen in October when "the great destruction" doesn't occur. The members of this group have spent their entire lives waiting for the Messiah. I'm terrified.
I married into this group thinking it was a benign Jewish group. I was sadly mistaken and have spent many years opening my spouse's eyes to the hypocrisy and money grubbing ways of this group.
The group is having it's annual meeting on January 15, 2012 at the South Portland, Maine Hampton Inn (airport location) from 9:30-4PM.
It would be so wonderful for Newsweek to do a follow-up story showing this group is still in full-swing. They thrive on secrecy and it would be so good to see to "curtain pulled back" even a little.
The following is a link to the old Newsweek article:
If people do, in fact write checks directly to NERT and UMI, and receiving tax deductions, then legally, they are covering themselves to a point. This has not been my experience. But if there is good book keeping in this regard, I don't see a problem with them being audited. I have never paid a fee to attend any meeting. They were always held under the name of so-and-so family reunion. As far as this meeting goes, anything worth recording will be said at the "leader" meeting the prior day, and you will not be allowed access unless you are "supposed" to be there.
As far as the covenant, every family member has been encouraged to ask their ch for a copy if they do not have them, At least as of a couple years ago, it was encouraged, especially for the younger generation, to receive a copy.
I don't have much knowledge of the legality of not-for-profits, but I noticed in Ex's comment: "Any Jews for Jesus contributor can request our last audited financial statement." I assume most of the tithe-paying members aren't questioning the financial statements. They are all close friends and family also. Would NERT or UMI be required to disclose their financial info to a non-contributor? I just think that when you have an organization full of contributors who are close friends and relatives, there aren't going to be many questions. No one who is committed enough to still be paying tithe, or paying for meditation retreats is going to question anything. In fact, they will stand behind and defend the leaders.
If people are writing checks directly to UMI and NERT, then it is already known exactly who is and isn't paying tithe. Have individuals been contacted about their lack of paying? If so, how? If not, why not?
I think that those of you in the CULT, have a wonderful opportunity at this January annual meeting to make change....significant change.
A few of you can put together an agenda of what you would like discussed at this meeting. Email, or distribute to everyone ahead of time and do it anonomously if you need to.
But take back your ownership and responsibility of your non profit.
Don't you think the Portland hotel and rooms and flights are going to show up on something down the road as a 2012 expense? You have a right to know.
By the way, I am not suggestig that the money should not be spent this way. It is good to have an annual meeting.
But a real working meeting, has break out sessions, and chances for groups of people to present their thoughts (with the support of the group) about issues.
At the end of the meeting there hould be a list compiled of "Outstanding issues" that have not been resolved. That is OK. But there needs to be a committee assigned to resolve them in 2012.
You have this meeting in 2 weeks. You have been brainwashed to not stand up to them.
But would you act that way in your business life? Personal life?
If you all (meaning the youth)....present concerns....united......they will have to tip the tiara and crown off to you...because you have stopped acting like sheep.
I am not suggesting people leave or stay, all I am talking about, is make this a responsible organization. If PR's little son A is going to become a special leader...he should be made painfully aware, that if he signs his names on documents that are not accurate, there are huge penalities.
Don't agree to what your heart tells you is wrong.
Suggest that you get rif of super clans and kings and princes and priests, and instead elect normal 12 -15 people, to serve as the CULTS board of Advisors.
People who have no financial gain, but new people of all ages, who have not been in charge.
I suggest....OCCUPY THE PORTLAND HOTEL....just like Occupy wall Street. This is your chance, your time, to make BIG changes.
Get Rid of the KINGS, and elect Leaders. Leaders who are willing to be accountable, transparent, and not be secretive.
And since, this year, of 2011, so many of you youth, were made aware of the Foibles of ABBA article, demand explanations.
The CULT should have a mission statement. Maybe it is time for you, the new generation to make it in to something you want, not using fear, judgement, cruelty, punishment and isolation to people who ask questions.
As Cher says "This is not a dress rehearsal fo your life. This is it"
I am excited at the prospect of some of you pushing these issues. Most of you think it....but push it back to the part of your brain that doesn't have to deal with it.
All of us in the early days were manipulated in the same ways, by our priests, elders, Jack and power structure.
But you are the majority....the people are the masses...not the dancing, over dressed newly claimed KIngs.
Go on the internet. Look up 990's for any misc non profit. See what is supposed to happen at annal meetings. Read annual reports. (Non profits do this!!!) Call an accountant. Find out!
Become the change by OCCUPYING CHANGE...don't leave the hotel until you are all done. Call and hold it over for an extra day. WHy can't you say, "I think we have enough new agenda items that we are going to have to stay one more day. In fact, the time that is being reserved for LEADERSHIP..the super powers, shuld be given to the people. "
You are all so entittled, and we all did the same thing back in the 80's.
Do you know, noone really found out how jack got the money to buy a mansion, how he sold it, where the millions of dollars of tithes went in all those years. We were tithing 20% like blind sheep.
Shame on us. But you have all the cards in your favor right now. The Kings are reading this post....they won't be surprised....just insist that the peoples needs be respresented on the AGENDA.
As an fyi. it was Newsday of Long Island who covered this issue..the Foibles of Abba. It was on the front page of their Magazine Section and received HUGE press.
Their website is not Newsweek..but Newsday. The link is: http://www.newsday.com/long-island
60 minutres and NEWSDAY have alos been sent the email! :) Also, regarding tithing. Of yes, these is a clear record of who pays tithe, how much and when. No one is contacted directly and asked why they are not tithing. Instead, the broad issue of tithing is brought up in meeting after meeting on the mish level-- and of course at the annual meeting. Lessons from Jack-off are presented and asked to be read so that the non-tithers will get paying! Sick!
You had a good question about family and friends all beng involved in NERT and UMI. Here is part of a post I posted on Freckle Faces wall. It shows the imortance of clean boundaries between non profits, their boards, and who might financially benefit from them.
"Nonprofit agencies are required to have a volunteer board of directors. A volunteer board means that no member of the board is paid by the agency. A mistake many nonprofits have made is appointing the executive director of an agency as the board president. This is a conflict of interest, and is strictly prohibited. The board of directors serves as the final governing body of a nonprofit organization, and acts as a monitor for the executive director position.
In regard to the board of directors, each agency must also have a conflict of interest clause drafted in their official policies and procedures. The conflict of interest clause must state that no member of the board of directors will benefit financially by sitting on the organization's board. For instance, an individual sitting on your board owns a roofing company. That individual's company cannot bid to replace the roof of your organization's building, as they would then financially benefit from sitting on the board of directors."
Every mish/clan is different. Each one handles it differently. Some don't bring up tithing at all. Some don't report who is or isn't tithing in their group, and just send it in as a whole. Part of the tithe teachings is that those who don't pay are shaming their families, and the other members of the clan are required to make up what is selfishly being kept by the non-tithers. It is up to each CH how it is handled, though they are the person who has to answer for all of their members.
Ex, I get what you are saying. What I am saying is, there may be a right way to do it, but that is not what is happening, or what is going to happen with this group. They are only registered as non-profits to cover their butts as much as possible IF anything happened. They are by no means TRYING, in any way, to function as genuine non-profits. And they will not. That would be the exact opposite of what this group is, a cult, with secrets, and closed to new members (unless you are born or married into).
It's interesting, because if a whole clan just sends in the whole tithe, then do the individuals who contributed get a tax deduction?
And I appreciate your comment about the fact that they are not trying to function as a genuine non profit. It could put RT and ES in a touchy situation since they signed the 990's that Pnina posted a while back.
Is there a position of CULT Accountant? outside auditor?
It's interesting that it is closed to new members. When we were in it, Jack constantly pushed us to evangelize and commit to a number of new people we would bring in to the family, through the coffee houses and bringing people to Shabbat dinners and services.
We were frequently threatened that we could be cut off if we did not succeed.
The group grew way past 1500 in the early 80's....maybe more. At that point tithing had gone from 10 to 20 percent. We were pushed to get the highest degree from college, and the best paying jobs. We were pushed to make more and more....and then Jack moved out of the little Massapequa church house to a glorious estate.
I cannot imagine the complications of everyone now being families and friends. We were all families and friends, but our children were a few years old, it was much easier to leave as a family unit.
Actually I did once while living in Maine. But I was told by my parents that I should make it out to them and they would take care of it. Hindsight's a bitch.
This could be because the person who took over Shoresh around 2007 is an accountant and a good one at that. I would guess that they have since decided to clean up the Family's act and make it more viable and legally sound. The person who took over the shoresh accounts from Jonny J after he died or was unable, as I understand it, had a very hard time with it and needed help... in comes a Man....
UMI only started in 2007, and is run my a few board members who are all in the family. The fact that people "contribute" to them directly would be considered a charitable contribution. In no direct was could it be related to cult activities, except that there are numerous cult member who travel to perform and host the various retreats, teaching seminars, and meditation roundings. These are done specifically in very small groups and in very particular homes with limited sign up time and space available. I'm sure it would not be financially suspect for the people hosting, volunteering, or considered "meditation leaders" to be paid for their services.
Furthermore, the "buildling" expenses could be the compounds if they have hosted ANY meditation events in those compounds.
I'm sorry, but I don't think you'll get them on UMI. It's more like a company than Shoresh was. You'd have to go back to the Shoresh accounts.
The kids now running their parents heritage are very smart, smarter than their parents. They have 20 years of tithe money supporting their higher educations. I doubt these people will make the same illegal mistakes their fathers did.
Not to blow a hole in the balloon... there is something there, you just have to keep looking.
While looking into all the tax reporting ramifications is an interesting pursuit, I think you are overlooking a few factors and questions. First of all, I don’t think those involved are close to caring or asking any “hard” questions about the money, where it’s going or how it’s being used. That’s the nature of cult behavior. They take it on faith and trust that the money will be used and distributed according to some divine plan by those who have been so vested. Or worse, if they have questions or doubts, they are forced, either by peer pressure or fear of retribution, to suppress their questions rather than be considered apostate. To assign any type of legitimacy to the group as a true non-for-profit is also futile. They will never have any type of real corporate structure or any of what corporate organizational structure dictates or implies. Again, this goes against the very nature of the group’s fluid, organic and accepted secretive framework. Any type of bookkeeping is more than likely just enough to cover their bases so that all involved will be protected from any malfeasance. It’s easy enough to create legitimate sounding budget lines with broad purposes assign to them. For instance, a survival bunker could be simply described as a “storage warehouse”. Food supplies can be called “provisions” for an annual staff party or corporate cafeteria, etc. Unless the govt. has a burning desire to investigate this particular group, I don’t see anyone within the group caring or asking anything. They’ve already abdicated their thought processes for the “greater good”. I suppose my first questions would be; 1) Do you want to expose the group as a non-for-profit fraud and seek possible legal action? Unless you have the time and financial resources, I think you may wind up frustrating yourself with this one, causing yourself more anguish than it’s worth. 2) Are you trying to convince those inside the group that their leadership is corrupt? As I said previously, they have already suspended their judgment and reasoning. They are willing participants in perpetuating the rues. 3) Are you hoping to get the govt. involved in some type of investigation? Maybe, if they were stockpiling weapons and ammunition or making some kind of noise about govt. over-throw but technicalities in tax reporting won’t get you there. I would suggest that at this point, you are better off continuing to express yourself through public forums like this blog. Hopefully, that the younger more curious members of the group/cult read them and begin to ask themselves, friends and families about the events of the past and the truth behind the lies and deception. Admittedly, the idea of crashing the up-coming “family reunion” is tempting on some level. But, I don’t see any good coming from such a confrontation either. It would only serve to bolster their beliefs of be persecuted as the “end times” approach. In their minds we would be considered those on the outside who will be, “weeping and wailing and gnashing their teeth”.
The funny thing about a lie; the more you repeat it, the truer it becomes.
Hampton Inn? Are you sure? See this hasn't sounded right to me. Isn't it the Wyndham Hotels by the Maine Mall? It has been for the last however many years. The hotel used to be called the Sheraton, you can see it from I 95, It's got two huge towers and lots of conference room spaces. It's where they have everything! Did they change it this year?
Not sure showing up would be a good idea, though it would be entertaining. While not-for-profits can't legally keep people out of meetings, these meetings aren't portrayed as a part of these organizations. They cost no money to the attendees, and they are listed under "Family Reunion" at the places these meetings are held. Because there is no organization name attached to these "get-togethers" they could probably say it's a private reunion, and have unwanted persons removed. Of course, we all know it's all part of the same thing....
ReplyDeleteInteresting to note- they forbid any cell phones to be on at ALL at these meetings, and have "security" people stationed at each door to monitor who comes and goes, and to keep an eye out for any rogue cell phone users. I bet they are afraid someone might record something, and therefore connect these "reunions" to the non-profit organizations.
Hi Willow,
ReplyDeleteI am just curious if they ever videotape these meetings for archival purposes, in particular because everyone is not able to get to Maine for this meeting.
In business, for profit and not for profit, we video tape everything. (It's considered normal, to have a secretary take notes, and to record the meetings)
Why not ask for it, so people can go back and study the video tapes at future dates, and for future conversations?
There are a multitude of spy stores that sell equipment much more advanced than cell phones, which both video tape and record the words.
Do the leaders use Power point presentations? Do yuo get hand outs?
What happens to people if they get up and ask hard questions?
What if people want to take control....like a revolution....the little and medium people, and insist on a new change of voting for power positions, trustees, vestry, elected term policies, like 1-3 years, wardens, etc.
Thank you for your response. It is very interesting.
Will Gary be at this meeting? Or has he left already?
Is the Manvan the new Leader? Will he prophecy at meeting?
I truly believe that all of you in the CULT are entitled to a profesionally videotaped copy of this meeting, since it is only once a year.
How many fly in from Colorado? Does the airfare come from tithing?
I know...I ask a lot of questions....but I hope you can share some more answers.
Pnina, maybe you can do some research from this website to answer some of Freckle Face's questions::
ReplyDeletehttp://www.irs.gov/localcontacts/index.html
Dear Ex,
ReplyDeleteFrom what I know, they have taped EVERYTHING in the past and KM has held all the information. I dont' know if he'd still be doing this as he's in the CO contingent now, but maybe he's part of the contingent that was granted a reprieve under some of the latest prophesies.
Under no circumstances has any meeting or teaching that has been missed been released when it is a big meeting format like this (I know, I've asked). They will do power points at times, but not about the more "business" aspects of what they talk about. They usually relate to the dead memory of Jack to get people to do what they want, although I've seen them use the dead memory of other members as well to remind people of their faith in god and to be good little doers for the group.
About the rumors that Goon has left... he has not left, but is planning on leaving.... perhaps more will be known about that after the meeting.
There is no agenda handed out.
The Man is the leader, but only technically of ONE of the superclans... the other two heads are considered interrum leaders until their progeny decide to step into their role as King, which I personally believe to be doubtful, especially PR's kid. The other leaders would be the 12 elders in general, 4 from each super clan.
No tithe money is allowed to be used for those who travel, although they have reimbursed funds in the past for people who wanted to go to retreats, I'm not aware if they still do it for this meeting. I do not know if they will fly the elders and other leaders for free. Some really careless comments have been made in the past about "saving up" for the excursions, and it being "really important" or "mandatory" for people to attend this "business" meeting.
They usually talk about the general leadership, voting on new positions or vacant positions (I don't believe there are any now), tithing, and the family plan.
Overall they always bring up Jack, "our father", and remind us of the covenant, although most members aren't actually allowed to have a written copy of the covenant themselves and most are not sure what it actually states and demands.
In my personal experience, no one has ever prophesied at these, those happen at prayer meetings and meditation retreats or shabbatons.
It could be entirely likely that they will schedule a family prayer session because so much is changing and stage a prophesy to scare the ever living wits out of people and get more money.
It has been rare that a person has stood up and asked an outright question at one of these, but I've seen it happen... when Jack was alive. Not many hard questions are asked, or tolerated. They mostly just talk at everyone for a few hours.
But I've been out for few years, so this information could be dated.
Is there anything to add Willow?
Teachings have always been recorded. I don't believe they have ever recorded these types of meetings, nor has any printed info gone out about them after the fact (Jan.Superclan Meetings).
ReplyDeleteTechnically Van is leader of his superclan, but he is the accepted "King" of the entire family. They even had a ceremony at a retreat in CO where he traipsed through the crowd with a crown and robe, everyone oohing and aaahing.
Gary hasn't left. I also have not heard when he is or where he is going. He does have a business to run, though Van is the CEO, so will probably handle it in his absence.
Van actually holds more power than Gary in the decision making. His word is the final word. Gary's actual position was "high priest" therefore he headed the group of priests, but nothing more technically. As a result of his status as Abba's pet, people held him up in a position very much like Abba's, though he always claimed (publicly) to not want this. AV, in taking over gary's position as high priest will not have nearly the influence Gary has.
Regarding tithe, members generally donb't write checks to NERT or UMI specifically, but write them to their clan head. This money then gets turned over, and eventually makes it's way to those organizations. Therefore, I think this money may never be kept track of as income, and would not be part of an audit. Members pay for specific things directly to UMI, like meditation weekends and weeks, which happen regularly. These are done under the name UMI, and is what is kept as income for the organization. Legally, I don't believe there would be any consequences for people giving their own money to other private individuals for whatever reason they choose. I may be mistaken. I would love to know more from someone who may have more information.
If you have used your deduction to the CULT, as a " income tax write off" on your personal income tax, then there is a paper trail, because the CULT, has to report all income because of it's 501c3 status.
ReplyDeleteEven if you yourself have not personally written off this deduction on your tax returns, there are many families that have used this "deduction" on their tax returns.
Even if a business donates, it is reflected on their tax return.
The 501c3 status is critical, because then the CULT does not have to pay taxes, and is evaluated by the IRS at a non profit in "good standing".
Non profits, who are not in good standing can receive a "letter of concern" which can lead to them losing their 501 c3 status.
If you wrote a check, to Van for a new crown and tiara, then the check should go in to the CULT and the CULT would write a check to the Costume store, for the amount. This line item would show up on this years tax returns under "OUTFITS/ DRESSWEAR".
A leader should not accept a check directly from you to him, because then you cannot claim it as a tax deduction, and it is not reported as income to the CULT.
It is simply not the way a non profit can keep its status. Maybe that is why Pnina only found a few years of returns for the UMI. Where are all the tax returns before this2007/2008?
As members who donate, you are entitled to a full reporting of how every penny is spent and accounted for. Churches, Synagogues, etc all have annual meetings where they hand out the audited tax returns so that people can ask questions.
In addition, you should expect to see or request, a 2012 CULT budget at this meeting. People discuss and vote on line items to see if they make sense. Everyones input is valued....in all non profits.
You should also receive financial reports on each CULT project....budget vs actual expenses.
For example, 2011 BUNKER EXPENSES actual vs 2011 Real expenses
Food
Supplies
Food
Building materials
Beds
Sewage lines
A recap from the project manager on this. How many people can fit? How long? Who are they? How does one get selected to be housed? How long is housing to last for? The purpose of the BUNKER Housing, etc.
Everyone is entitled to have access to all of the info that is part of your non profit. TRANSPARENT.
Same with UMI. What is the building? Who gets to go? DO they charge for seminars and classes? What is the income from classes....expenses...net gain or loss.
what is the 2012 budget for UMI. What was 2011 budget vs. reality.
Can you get someone to email the people who are putting together this meeting, and insist that you want full disclosure.
The youth who have grown up in the CULT are smart, educated people. I know some of the schools people have gone to, or are attending.
I assure you, that if you were on the Board of Directors for the ASPCA, and you went to an annual meeting, you would leave with full disclosure and knowledge about two things.
How the money was spent in 2011 and what the projected expenses are for 2012.
Imagine if you were at an ASPCA meeting, and they told you that they received 2 million in donations, but they have decided to build a CAT Bunker, (not Dogs...too big and loud)....and can only save 200 cats for 4 months when the world ends.
Wouldn't you stand up in shock and say, then I withdraw my pledge? You are not using the money wisely, or the way it was intended?
More to come....
In regards to Willows comment: People do infact, write checks directly to NERT adn UMI. At the beginning of each calendar year, tithers receive a form to be included with your taxes. Yes, this money is listed on everyone's taxes as deductions.
ReplyDeleteThere is now actually a small cost associated with attending the Annual meetings (Jan 14-15). And yes, there are "look outs" stationed at the doors. No one is searched, so sneaking in a recording device would be easy. I might try that!
All of Jack-off's "lessons" are on CD now and available to anyone who asks (in the family). JH is selling these for a nominal fee.
Jews for Jesus is transparent!!!
ReplyDeleteJews for Jesus is a not-for-profit, 501(c)3 organization. We trust God for the funding of Jews for Jesus, and He has provided through caring Christians. Each missionary raises his or her own support. Jews for Jesus is not a church, so we ask our Christian friends to support their local churches first. Then we ask people to prayerfully consider giving to our ministry as well. We welcome the support of all Christians, though we particularly appreciate those who include our ministry in their regular missions giving. For those wishing to support our work, we have provided a secure online donation page here.
The Jews for Jesus work year is based on the Jewish calendar, which begins in early fall. Our fiscal year is January 1-December 31. We issue tax deductible receipts for each donation, or individuals may request to have a single receipt for all their gifts issued at the end of each year.
The two charts below describe the sources of our Jews for Jesus support and how that income is spent. While these charts were calculated according to United States figures, they are generally applicable to our work around the world.
Financial Integrity
Accountability: We are governed by a board of directors that meets quarterly. We have a U.S. board, as well as Canadian, South African and European boards of directors.
The executive director is advised by the Jews for Jesus Council, consisting of nine senior missionaries, elected by their peers. They discuss and vote upon strategy and personnel.
We are charter members of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability and are also members of the Interdenominational Foreign Mission Association, both of which hold high standards for financial integrity (more Associations and Memberships).
Any Jews for Jesus contributor can request our last audited financial statement. An independent auditing firm of certified public accountants, Eckhoff Accountancy of San Rafael, California, conducts our yearly audit. We usually receive our audit in the month of May.
EMAIL SENT TO NEWSWEEK 01/02/11 at 11:00 AM
ReplyDeleteGood day,
Back in the early 1980's, Newsweek did an article on the Shoresh Yisha cult which was, at that time, in operation on Long Island. Not long after the article was written, the cult began to disperse. People assumed, the group had broken up and disbanded. I assure you that is not the case at all.
The group, though losing a few members, is still is full swing in Maine (mostly) and Colorado. They are now focusing on "the end of days" building elaborate compounds in Northern Maine. Through recent "prophecies" the end is expected sometime around October 2012. This group believes through its prayers and meditations, it can be the "redeemer" for Israel's follies. God, knows what's going to happen in October when "the great destruction" doesn't occur. The members of this group have spent their entire lives waiting for the Messiah. I'm terrified.
I married into this group thinking it was a benign Jewish group. I was sadly mistaken and have spent many years opening my spouse's eyes to the hypocrisy and money grubbing ways of this group.
The group is having it's annual meeting on January 15, 2012 at the South Portland, Maine Hampton Inn (airport location) from 9:30-4PM.
It would be so wonderful for Newsweek to do a follow-up story showing this group is still in full-swing. They thrive on secrecy and it would be so good to see to "curtain pulled back" even a little.
The following is a link to the old Newsweek article:
http://www.angelfire.com/blog/sonwalker/thefoiblesofabba/index.album/1_copy?i=0&s=1
and this is to a "blog" about the group. It's very informative.
www.jackhickmancult.blogspot.com/
and this contains a lot of historical information on the group:
http://moderndoomsdaycult.com/
Thanks for your time.
Harp Wells
If people do, in fact write checks directly to NERT and UMI, and receiving tax deductions, then legally, they are covering themselves to a point. This has not been my experience. But if there is good book keeping in this regard, I don't see a problem with them being audited.
ReplyDeleteI have never paid a fee to attend any meeting. They were always held under the name of so-and-so family reunion. As far as this meeting goes, anything worth recording will be said at the "leader" meeting the prior day, and you will not be allowed access unless you are "supposed" to be there.
As far as the covenant, every family member has been encouraged to ask their ch for a copy if they do not have them, At least as of a couple years ago, it was encouraged, especially for the younger generation, to receive a copy.
I don't have much knowledge of the legality of not-for-profits, but I noticed in Ex's comment:
"Any Jews for Jesus contributor can request our last audited financial statement."
I assume most of the tithe-paying members aren't questioning the financial statements. They are all close friends and family also. Would NERT or UMI be required to disclose their financial info to a non-contributor? I just think that when you have an organization full of contributors who are close friends and relatives, there aren't going to be many questions. No one who is committed enough to still be paying tithe, or paying for meditation retreats is going to question anything. In fact, they will stand behind and defend the leaders.
If people are writing checks directly to UMI and NERT, then it is already known exactly who is and isn't paying tithe. Have individuals been contacted about their lack of paying? If so, how? If not, why not?
I think that those of you in the CULT, have a wonderful opportunity at this January annual meeting to make change....significant change.
ReplyDeleteA few of you can put together an agenda of what you would like discussed at this meeting. Email, or distribute to everyone ahead of time and do it anonomously if you need to.
But take back your ownership and responsibility of your non profit.
Don't you think the Portland hotel and rooms and flights are going to show up on something down the road as a 2012 expense? You have a right to know.
By the way, I am not suggestig that the money should not be spent this way. It is good to have an annual meeting.
But a real working meeting, has break out sessions, and chances for groups of people to present their thoughts (with the support of the group) about issues.
At the end of the meeting there hould be a list compiled of "Outstanding issues" that have not been resolved. That is OK. But there needs to be a committee assigned to resolve them in 2012.
You have this meeting in 2 weeks. You have been brainwashed to not stand up to them.
But would you act that way in your business life? Personal life?
If you all (meaning the youth)....present concerns....united......they will have to tip the tiara and crown off to you...because you have stopped acting like sheep.
I am not suggesting people leave or stay, all I am talking about, is make this a responsible organization. If PR's little son A is going to become a special leader...he should be made painfully aware, that if he signs his names on documents that are not accurate, there are huge penalities.
Don't agree to what your heart tells you is wrong.
Suggest that you get rif of super clans and kings and princes and priests, and instead elect normal 12 -15 people, to serve as the CULTS board of Advisors.
People who have no financial gain, but new people of all ages, who have not been in charge.
I suggest....OCCUPY THE PORTLAND HOTEL....just like Occupy wall Street. This is your chance, your time, to make BIG changes.
Get Rid of the KINGS, and elect Leaders. Leaders who are willing to be accountable, transparent, and not be secretive.
And since, this year, of 2011, so many of you youth, were made aware of the Foibles of ABBA article, demand explanations.
The CULT should have a mission statement. Maybe it is time for you, the new generation to make it in to something you want, not using fear, judgement, cruelty, punishment and isolation to people who ask questions.
As Cher says "This is not a dress rehearsal fo your life. This is it"
I am excited at the prospect of some of you pushing these issues. Most of you think it....but push it back to the part of your brain that doesn't have to deal with it.
All of us in the early days were manipulated in the same ways, by our priests, elders, Jack and power structure.
But you are the majority....the people are the masses...not the dancing, over dressed newly claimed KIngs.
Go on the internet. Look up 990's for any misc non profit. See what is supposed to happen at annal meetings. Read annual reports. (Non profits do this!!!) Call an accountant. Find out!
Become the change by OCCUPYING CHANGE...don't leave the hotel until you are all done. Call and hold it over for an extra day. WHy can't you say, "I think we have enough new agenda items that we are going to have to stay one more day. In fact, the time that is being reserved for LEADERSHIP..the super powers, shuld be given to the people. "
You are all so entittled, and we all did the same thing back in the 80's.
Do you know, noone really found out how jack got the money to buy a mansion, how he sold it, where the millions of dollars of tithes went in all those years. We were tithing 20% like blind sheep.
Shame on us. But you have all the cards in your favor right now. The Kings are reading this post....they won't be surprised....just insist that the peoples needs be respresented on the AGENDA.
I also sent it to:
ReplyDeleteChannel 8, 2 and 5 news
the Portland Press Herald
The Morning Sentinel
and because I was bored, I also sent it to CNN.
Dear Harps,
ReplyDeleteWhoever you are...you are the best!!!!
As an fyi. it was Newsday of Long Island who covered this issue..the Foibles of Abba. It was on the front page of their Magazine Section and received HUGE press.
Their website is not Newsweek..but Newsday.
The link is:
http://www.newsday.com/long-island
How about 60 minutes?
60 minutres and NEWSDAY have alos been sent the email!
ReplyDelete:)
Also, regarding tithing.
Of yes, these is a clear record of who pays tithe, how much and when. No one is contacted directly and asked why they are not tithing. Instead, the broad issue of tithing is brought up in meeting after meeting on the mish level-- and of course at the annual meeting. Lessons from Jack-off are presented and asked to be read so that the non-tithers will get paying! Sick!
Willow3,
ReplyDeleteYou had a good question about family and friends all beng involved in NERT and UMI. Here is part of a post I posted on Freckle Faces wall. It shows the imortance of clean boundaries between non profits, their boards, and who might financially benefit from them.
"Nonprofit agencies are required to have a volunteer board of directors. A volunteer board means that no member of the board is paid by the agency. A mistake many nonprofits have made is appointing the executive director of an agency as the board president. This is a conflict of interest, and is strictly prohibited. The board of directors serves as the final governing body of a nonprofit organization, and acts as a monitor for the executive director position.
In regard to the board of directors, each agency must also have a conflict of interest clause drafted in their official policies and procedures. The conflict of interest clause must state that no member of the board of directors will benefit financially by sitting on the organization's board. For instance, an individual sitting on your board owns a roofing company. That individual's company cannot bid to replace the roof of your organization's building, as they would then financially benefit from sitting on the board of directors."
Every mish/clan is different. Each one handles it differently. Some don't bring up tithing at all. Some don't report who is or isn't tithing in their group, and just send it in as a whole. Part of the tithe teachings is that those who don't pay are shaming their families, and the other members of the clan are required to make up what is selfishly being kept by the non-tithers. It is up to each CH how it is handled, though they are the person who has to answer for all of their members.
ReplyDeleteEx,
ReplyDeleteI get what you are saying. What I am saying is, there may be a right way to do it, but that is not what is happening, or what is going to happen with this group. They are only registered as non-profits to cover their butts as much as possible IF anything happened. They are by no means TRYING, in any way, to function as genuine non-profits. And they will not. That would be the exact opposite of what this group is, a cult, with secrets, and closed to new members (unless you are born or married into).
Thanks Willow,
ReplyDeleteIt's interesting, because if a whole clan just sends in the whole tithe, then do the individuals who contributed get a tax deduction?
And I appreciate your comment about the fact that they are not trying to function as a genuine non profit. It could put RT and ES in a touchy situation since they signed the 990's that Pnina posted a while back.
Is there a position of CULT Accountant? outside auditor?
It's interesting that it is closed to new members. When we were in it, Jack constantly pushed us to evangelize and commit to a number of new people we would bring in to the family, through the coffee houses and bringing people to Shabbat dinners and services.
We were frequently threatened that we could be cut off if we did not succeed.
The group grew way past 1500 in the early 80's....maybe more. At that point tithing had gone from 10 to 20 percent. We were pushed to get the highest degree from college, and the best paying jobs. We were pushed to make more and more....and then Jack moved out of the little Massapequa church house to a glorious estate.
I cannot imagine the complications of everyone now being families and friends. We were all families and friends, but our children were a few years old, it was much easier to leave as a family unit.
Now, everyone sends in tithe themselves. Everyones gets a tax form, individually.
ReplyDeleteActually I did once while living in Maine. But I was told by my parents that I should make it out to them and they would take care of it. Hindsight's a bitch.
ReplyDeleteI have never gotten a tax form, nor have I ever sent it in individually. Like I said, every clan does it differently.
ReplyDeleteThis could be because the person who took over Shoresh around 2007 is an accountant and a good one at that. I would guess that they have since decided to clean up the Family's act and make it more viable and legally sound. The person who took over the shoresh accounts from Jonny J after he died or was unable, as I understand it, had a very hard time with it and needed help... in comes a Man....
ReplyDeleteUMI only started in 2007, and is run my a few board members who are all in the family. The fact that people "contribute" to them directly would be considered a charitable contribution. In no direct was could it be related to cult activities, except that there are numerous cult member who travel to perform and host the various retreats, teaching seminars, and meditation roundings. These are done specifically in very small groups and in very particular homes with limited sign up time and space available. I'm sure it would not be financially suspect for the people hosting, volunteering, or considered "meditation leaders" to be paid for their services.
Furthermore, the "buildling" expenses could be the compounds if they have hosted ANY meditation events in those compounds.
I'm sorry, but I don't think you'll get them on UMI. It's more like a company than Shoresh was. You'd have to go back to the Shoresh accounts.
The kids now running their parents heritage are very smart, smarter than their parents. They have 20 years of tithe money supporting their higher educations. I doubt these people will make the same illegal mistakes their fathers did.
Not to blow a hole in the balloon... there is something there, you just have to keep looking.
just a thought... UMI, is that 'open' to anyone. or just 'the family'?
ReplyDeleteWhile looking into all the tax reporting ramifications is an interesting pursuit, I think you are overlooking a few factors and questions.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, I don’t think those involved are close to caring or asking any “hard” questions about the money, where it’s going or how it’s being used. That’s the nature of cult behavior. They take it on faith and trust that the money will be used and distributed according to some divine plan by those who have been so vested. Or worse, if they have questions or doubts, they are forced, either by peer pressure or fear of retribution, to suppress their questions rather than be considered apostate.
To assign any type of legitimacy to the group as a true non-for-profit is also futile. They will never have any type of real corporate structure or any of what corporate organizational structure dictates or implies. Again, this goes against the very nature of the group’s fluid, organic and accepted secretive framework. Any type of bookkeeping is more than likely just enough to cover their bases so that all involved will be protected from any malfeasance. It’s easy enough to create legitimate sounding budget lines with broad purposes assign to them. For instance, a survival bunker could be simply described as a “storage warehouse”. Food supplies can be called “provisions” for an annual staff party or corporate cafeteria, etc.
Unless the govt. has a burning desire to investigate this particular group, I don’t see anyone within the group caring or asking anything. They’ve already abdicated their thought processes for the “greater good”.
I suppose my first questions would be;
1) Do you want to expose the group as a non-for-profit fraud and seek possible legal action?
Unless you have the time and financial resources, I think you may wind up frustrating yourself with this one, causing yourself more anguish than it’s worth.
2) Are you trying to convince those inside the group that their leadership is corrupt?
As I said previously, they have already suspended their judgment and reasoning. They are willing participants in perpetuating the rues.
3) Are you hoping to get the govt. involved in some type of investigation?
Maybe, if they were stockpiling weapons and ammunition or making some kind of noise about govt. over-throw but technicalities in tax reporting won’t get you there.
I would suggest that at this point, you are better off continuing to express yourself through public forums like this blog. Hopefully, that the younger more curious members of the group/cult read them and begin to ask themselves, friends and families about the events of the past and the truth behind the lies and deception.
Admittedly, the idea of crashing the up-coming “family reunion” is tempting on some level. But, I don’t see any good coming from such a confrontation either. It would only serve to bolster their beliefs of be persecuted as the “end times” approach. In their minds we would be considered those on the outside who will be, “weeping and wailing and gnashing their teeth”.
The funny thing about a lie; the more you repeat it, the truer it becomes.
Hampton Inn? Are you sure? See this hasn't sounded right to me. Isn't it the Wyndham Hotels by the Maine Mall? It has been for the last however many years. The hotel used to be called the Sheraton, you can see it from I 95, It's got two huge towers and lots of conference room spaces. It's where they have everything! Did they change it this year?
ReplyDelete