On Monday the city of Emporia issued a press release clarifing the monument expenses and time line. Below is the information it provided.
Spent to Date
Dave Emig: $ 8,520.00
Alan Tollakson: $ 6,550.00
($3,050 encumbered but not paid)
Bob Davis Quarry: $ 1,000.00
Emporia Gazette: $ 157.92
Bluestem Farm & Ranch: $ 11.99
RHK Enterprises (surveyor): $ 425.00
TOTAL: $16,664.91
Services Donated
A private company has agreed to donate equipment to haul the stones
Bob Davis (donated stones at only the cost of excavation)
Alan Tollakson ($4,000 towards carving one stone)
Dave Emig (hours of attending meetings and developing concept plans without any guarantee that the project would be approved and a contract initiated)
Dave McCullough, city horticulturist (hours developing low maintenance landscaping plans)
Jamie Sauder, Betty Senn, KB Thomas, Mary Stauffer, Mike Scheller, Amy Jordan have donated a combined hundreds of hours considering ideas, reviewing design concepts, getting prices and preparing a budget and lobbying for the project to be included in the budget.
Time Line
Early 2008 — Building Futures program initiated by numerous Emporia agencies
Early 2009 — Goal 8 Committee meets and decides to pursue the idea of improving the entrances
Spring 2009 — Goal 8 Committee decides to pursue idea of a visitors center (idea is tabled due to public criticism)
Summer 2009 — Goal 8 Committee decides to pursue idea of entrance monuments at four entrances into Emporia
July 2009 — $100,500 is requested by Goal 8 Committee for the 2010 budget for the entrance monuments
Sept. 2, 2009 — City Commission adopts 2010 budget (includes $100,500 for entrance monuments)
Oct. 28, 2009 — Goal 8 Committee submitted concept design and proposed locations. City Commission approved.
Winter 2009-10 — Goal 8 Committee decides to seek two additional entrance monuments, at Industrial Road exits
Feb. 10, 2010 — City Commission reviews proposed contract with Dave Emig and discusses whether to proceed with the project
March 3, 2010 — City Commission approves contract with Dave Emig at a cost of $5,800 for the first monument plus $680 for each subsequent monument for design services and $2,990 for each monument for construction services
Aug. 25, 2010 — City Commission approves final design and six locations (subject to bids determining the final number of monuments to be erected)
Nov. 3, 2010 — City Commission approves contract with Alan Tollakson to carve up to six monuments at a cost of $7,500 per monument ($4,000 donated by Tollakson if at least four monuments are carved)
Dec. 1, 2010 — City Commission sets bid date and time to build foundations and set monuments (consent agenda)
Jan. 7, 2011 — bids opened and publicly read in City Conference Room 2 at 2 p.m.
Jan. 19, 2011 — City Commission awarded bid to Mitchell-Markowitz Construction to build foundations and set monuments at an average cost of $10,487 per location (based on six locations)
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Now there is some good reporting, even though it's a press release.
It answers a lot of peoples questions, but it is still a STUPID EXPENDITURE OF TAX DOLLARS.
February 1, 2011 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ksnewsie (anonymous) says...
What's equally as stupid is that this has only now become such an issue. Looks like the money for the project was approved by the city more than a year ago. Why did we not object then? Why did we wait until now?
February 1, 2011 at 10:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
AGREED ksnewsie,
Did you ever hear the story of the farmer hitting the mule upside the head with a 2X4? To get his attention? Got our attention.
And just a thought, if the Gazette had published this picture and amounts as it was being discussed a year ago, none of us would be discussing it now, would we?
We may be a little lazy and not involved in the city commission meetings, but what does that say for our news outlets?
February 1, 2011 at 10:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lcountyvictim (anonymous) says...
Darn - I'm afraid it may be too late to reverse any of the prior passed motions...except possibly the foundation approval if a contract hasn't already been signed and $ paid. The others - stone purchase, design and carving looks like were already approved and entered into contract, legal and binding. Shame on us for not following the minutes of meetings. Too bad the Gazette didn't bring this to light clear back March 2010 when the design contract was approved.
February 1, 2011 at 10:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
ksnewsie,
If the above time line is correct, was there a picture of these entrance rocks in the Gazette in October or November of last year?
Oct. 28, 2009 — Goal 8 Committee submitted concept design and proposed locations. City Commission approved.
February 1, 2011 at 10:49 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
Well, that's one way to slip it under the noses of the Emporia community. Approve it in '08, and start doing in in '11. This way, by the time the actual work begins, the people have a slim chance in heck to get the ball to stop rolling. Way to go!
February 1, 2011 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
Who though placing twenty foot tall dildos at the city entrances was going to be attractive?
February 1, 2011 at 10:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lcountyvictim (anonymous) says...
Maybe the RDA is hoping the entice more gentlement's clubs to the area.
February 1, 2011 at 10:55 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lcountyvictim (anonymous) says...
Gentlemen's - y'all know what I meant.
February 1, 2011 at 11:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
THE CITY MANAGER WAS ON THE COMMITTEE. THERE WAS NEVER AN AGENDA BEFORE ANY MEETING AND WE WERE TOLD NOT TO TALK ABOUT THE PROJECT OUTSIDE OF THE MEETING. THE CITY MANAGER, JAMIE SAUDER AND BETTY SENN MADE THE DECISIONS AND THE REST OF US WERE BRUSHED ASIDE. WE WERE NOT TOLD WHO CAME UP WITH THE IDEA. I WAS NOT ASKED TO BE ON THE COMMITTEE BUT, I CAME TO THE MEETINGS AND ASKED QUESTIONS LIKE WHY ARE YOU PUTTING A STONE INSIDE THE ENTRANCE OF EAST HIGHWAY 50? HOW DOES THAT PROMOTE DOWNTOWN EMPORIA? THE STONE WILL BE LOCATED NEAR THE EAST 6TH AVENUE CASEY'S STORE. THE STONE ON NORTH HIGHWAY 99 WILL BE LOCATED NEAR THE TENNIS COURTS ON MERCHANT AND 18TH AVENUE. HOW DOES THAT PROMOTE DOWNTOWN EMPORIA WAY OFF THE ENTRANCE. THERE WAS TO BE A STONE NEAR KENTUCKEY FRIED CHICKEN AND I THOUGHT, THIS IS NOT AN ENTRANCE AND HIGHWAY 50 WEST WAS TO BE THE LAST ONE LOCATED IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SOUTH ROUNDABOUT BUT, KDOT TURNED IT DOWN FOR SAFETY REASONS. KDOT OFFERED 10 ACRES NEAR THE TURNPIKE FOR LEASE AS A TOURIST CENTER BUT, I WAS NOT ALLOWED TO LOOK AT THE LEASE ALTHOUGH JAMIE, BETTY AND MAT WERE IN ON IT. I WAS TOLD THIS WAS A CITY MATTER. I WAS SURPRISED WHEN ONE OF THE 4 STONES WAS TO BE ON HIGHWAY 50 WEST AND NO STONES NEAR THE KENTUCKEY FRIED CHICKEN. I CALLED JAMIE SAUDER AND ASKED WHAT HAPPENED AND HE SAID THAT HE DIDN'T KNOW. MY FIRST THOUGHT WAS THIS MUST BE FOR POLITICAL REASONS AND JAMIE IS RUNNING FOR CITY COMMISSION OR MAYBE THEY THINK I AM RUNNING AND THEY WILL HAVE THE GAZETTE MAKE A BIG DEAL OUT OF IT TO EMBARRASS ME. ONE OTHER NOTE, I WAS TOLD THE STONES WERE TO BE 20 FEET TALL NOT 10 FEET AS THE GAZETTE REPORTED.
February 1, 2011 at 11:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
ksnewsie,
I did, strainnuously object to this City Entrance landscaping proposal at a cost of $40,000 two years ago and again last year and again most recently ! However was summarly put down by no uncertain terms at all of the public Budget meetings and now the Cost has grown to $101,000, would that be called deceit , lying or just plain " SNEAKYNESS " ?
And now we all know why reddog is staunchly in faver of the " ROCKS " ! As I have said before such is the rule, will and wants of the self appointed " RULING ELITE " ! No idea or proposal is a good one, unless they the " RULING ELITE " have or are the one to think of it and none of their ideas are thought of, by them, to be bad ones !!
February 1, 2011 at 11:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
from the above time line:
Aug. 25, 2010 — City Commission approves final design and six locations (subject to bids determining the final number of monuments to be erected)
I just went back to the gazette archives and there was a article about the city commission passing the budget, but nothing about this project, (unless I missed it).
What Up?
February 1, 2011 at 11:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Jamie Sauder, Betty Senn, KB Thomas
I stopped reading right there.
February 1, 2011 at 11:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Yeah KB, I bet you were "getting prices." The only time you come out of your hole is when you smell a profit. The rest of us are living paycheck to paycheck not even breaking even while you're trying to screw the taxpayers to make some money. Your above post in all-caps is nothing more than a petty attempt to CYA.
You were in on this the whole time, and you were the one who was going to sell the land to the City, weren't you? What was the profit margin on that, turbo? From your posts, I KNEW you had something to do with it, just didn't know what. Boy this sure clarifies some things! You didn't even have to guts to come out and say it.
It also reinforces my initial statement that the only people who were for this idea were either the people who thought it up or could make money off it.
Got any youtube videos to explain that?
Matt
February 1, 2011 at 11:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
I have a question reddog,
do, did you or your family own or anyone on the committee or their " FRIENDS OR CRONIES " or anyone on the City Commissio , by any chance own any land where these " MONSTROSITYS " are to be placed and if so was the land donated or purchased by the City or are you or any of the aboved mentioned persons, friends or CRONIES of the person who owns the land the ROCKS are to be taken / purchased from or any one who is transporting the " ROCKS " or cutting, carving the " ROCKS " or the person who designed the " ROCKS " and is anyway being compensated for their involvement in this " MONSTROSITY OF AN OVERPRICED PROJECT " ?
If so, nuff said !!!
Lord knows what the cost would have skyrocketed to if some donating wasn' t afforded !!!
February 1, 2011 at 11:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
I have yet to see some of these time lines in the minutes of earlier commission action meetings. I could be missing them but now that I have said that the City web site will probably come down for a while for repairs.
February 1, 2011 at 11:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Whats the matter reddog, K.B., the spot light getting hot !!!
February 1, 2011 at 11:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Whoa, Whoa, Everyone.
Let's slow down. i don't think those rocks were going anywhere near property owned by the Thomas family.
reddog stated early on that he HAD been on the committee, but had been shut out of the decision making / planning.
February 1, 2011 at 11:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Steve,
The mention of " SIGNAGE OR MONUMENTS AT A COST OF $101,000, was never in the proposed or Final City Budget, only the mention of, AND I QUOTE, " Landscaping at City highway entrances, at a cost of $40,000 dollars ... which I strainously objected to as uneeded spending !
And was summarily dismissed or ignored or shouted down by some that were at the meetings !!
Everyone that is associated with this, knows that they tried to pull a fast one and either nearly got away with or will still get away with it !!
February 1, 2011 at 11:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
oh4theluvof (anonymous) says...
"Sept. 2, 2009 — City Commission adopts 2010 budget (includes $100,500 for entrance monuments)"
But it wasn't stated that way in the budget, was it? What was it tagged onto? Where does that amount or the words entrance monuments, rocks or Goal 8 Committee appear in the budget as released to the public?? No, after "Spring 2009 — Goal 8 Committee decides to pursue idea of a visitors center (idea is tabled due to public criticism)" they decided to keep this one under the table so it wouldn't get tabled too because they knew it would. As such, it was discussed openly in private so that in public they knew what it was code-named and tagged onto and could pass it and then claim that it was always there and that we just didn't care. It's predictable at this point.
Gazette, what is the link to the original story about it with the photo? You were online then. There should be a link, right?
February 1, 2011 at 11:28 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
methusla,
A simpler way to ask reddog that question would be:
Do you, your family or friends have any beneficial interest in this project?
i see what is happening here, all the posters sniping at each other, while the real people responsible for this project are smiling.
i guess it IS the nature of the beast.
February 1, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Well in that case I appologize to reddog, but that does not let the rest off the " CRONY " hook !
I don' t know how those committees, boards work, but I should think it would take a mojority of all of the members in making a decision to move forward with that decision ! I know I would have raised holy hell if I would have been excluded from the decision making aspect of anything, especially if I were involved in the planning phase, if I were going to be associated with or have my name connected to it, any part of it, planning or otherwise !!
February 1, 2011 at 11:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Steve,
I guess I phrased the question badly, but this attitude of some that they are the only ones who are able to think, have a GOOD, idea or that their status in life make them smarter or better than anyone else and the constant erratic ya da, ya da, ya da, that has nothing to do with anything, drives me " BONKERS " !
February 1, 2011 at 11:40 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
emig, what kind of a concept does a damn ROCK that is cut by the rocks owner need? You, like kbthomas may think that this is such an important thing for emporia and I am sure you stayed up all night to come up with the design, as well try to realize what a rock is, damn, why in the hell were you even needed for this important goal of sticking a DAMN ROCK out of the ground, hell I would think that you should be so proud, Are you like kbthomas, who is the only one who stuck on himself? And who you are somehow related or want to be a part of the good ole-boy leader, OR you have another job coming up for the city later or what is it emig, $8,520.00. How do you feel about SCREWING the tax payer s of the city and those in the county?? Did you notice that a lot of people donated their services, PROBABLY because they have a love for Emporia, and want it to succeed, but not you! and you even had the stones, oh I meant pebbles to have said that you donated a lot of time, BS, $8,520.00 is NOT donating anything, what, maybe 10 hourd total?? there are people who live for 6 months on that amount, you should be so DAMN PROUD of your self, as a lot of others dont look at you that way.
And then you stone carving guy, you say you donated $4000.00 towards carving the the ROCKS!. And just how hard is this ROCK you are carving? isnt it softer than a lot of rock ??? the city should of called around to other memorial carvers and got some priced to carve a DAMN ROCK!!, ( even contacted the rock carvers who did the rock agrden at 6th and Indrustral) but NO you thought that your services would be the best around and probably, by you telling the SSSSTUPID commission that donating $4,000.00 was really nice of you to do you like emig, really have a lot of pride for the city of Emporia, you have NONE!! if the rest of us who do things for this city and do it without even being noticed by others, we do it because we LOVE EMPORIA, We do not expect nor would even accept a damn dime. for what we all do for our city, but NO not you two self-proclaimed important ROCK specialists. Enjoy all that great things that you can buy with our TAX MONEY
February 1, 2011 at 11:41 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
After re-reading (trying to, anyways) Reddog's statements, I actually believe it happened the way he said it did. No one was allowed to talk about it, etc. I also believe Zimmerman, Sauder, and Betty Senn intentionally kept this under-wraps, and tried to sneak it through, because after the fiasco of the Visitor Center, they knew it would be highly unpopular. They probably didn't know it would be THIS unpopular though.
My suggestion is this, and boy am I going to catch hell for it when I get back , but it needs to be said.
Do not renew Zimmerman's contract, and stop funding to the CVB immediately. This project not only needs to be shelved, but the people who are responsible for this "covert op" need to be reprimanded immediately and severely. They also need to go away, so the people (person) who replaces them KNOWS the penalty for this type of action. Absolutely unbelievable.
It won't happen though, unless WE make it happen.
Matt
February 1, 2011 at 11:42 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
By the way, usually the whistleblower blows the whistle BEFORE it comes out in the newspaper. Just saying.
February 1, 2011 at 11:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
oh4theluvof,
That is what is so troubling to me and should be to everyone ! The fact that funds are placed into certain budgetary funds and then can be moved from one fund to another, basically at will and that there is so many " MISCELLANIOUS EXPENDITURE " listed in the City Budget that can not be tracked or accounted for !
I also question the Commission / City Manager about that and was told that there were so many " MISCELLANIOUS ITEMS " purchased that it would talke thousands of pages to list them all !
What difference does that make, they should be listed and an accounting as to the cost and actual need of each item of expediture, whether it would take 1 page or 10,000 pages ! Not accounting for ever item paid for and what it was used for only serves one purpose ! That is to make it easy to hide wrong doing or to Embezzle funds or sneak a pet project by the ones who are really having to pay for uneed purchases, " THE PEOPLE / TAXPAYERS " !
If those hired to make up the Budget, do the Book Keeping, keep track of each and every penny spent, because they will have to work to earn their pay, then get rid of them and get someone who will be responsible and are not afraid to work to earn their pay and that goes for City Manager and Commissioners or regualar employrees as well !
There is no such thing as a " FREE RIDE " !
February 1, 2011 at 11:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Sept. 2, 2009 — City Commission adopts 2010 budget (includes $100,500 for entrance monuments)
Dow Jones Industrial Average on Sep. 2, 2009 -- 9,306.21
Just saying what the state of the economy was in when this GREAT idea was made.
February 1, 2011 at 11:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
PoolHallJunkie (anonymous) says...
One of the main stories today is "TAGGED" talking about Emporia's graffiti problems. Any one want to place bets on how long it will take for one of our new precious rocks to be "TAGGED"??
February 1, 2011 at 12:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Early 2009 — Goal 8 Committee meets and decides to pursue the idea of improving the entrances
DJIA Mar. 6th, 2009 -- 6,595.16, the lowest it's been since 1996, and you thought it was a good idea to spend taxpayer money on ROCKS?
February 1, 2011 at 12:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
I dont believe a damn word that kbthomas types. He is, and always has played every person he can, he is playing the posters here and he still knows what the hell is going on at the city and cvb, and kbthomas you know you do.
February 1, 2011 at 12:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
All I know is that when this town is looking for volunteers for hauling a helicopter from Iowa, an anchor from Philadelphia, or anything else, I will be too busy that day to help. Maybe one of the fine citizens mentioned in this article will do it for free like I did. I doubt it though.
February 1, 2011 at 12:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
mslater (Matt Slater) says...
Mary Stauffer, Mike Scheller, Amy Jordan
I'm guessing these people probably didn't have much to do with it. I'm guessing Zimmerman, his country club buddy Jamie, and Betty Senn, Sauder's "Yes" person, were probably the pushing force behind this.
February 1, 2011 at 12:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
reddog,
If what you say is true, "THE CITY MANAGER, JAMIE SAUDER AND BETTY SENN MADE THE DECISIONS AND THE REST OF US WERE BRUSHED ASIDE." ... that means Mary Stauffer, Mike Scheller, and Amy Jordan were also brushed aside and can verify your story:
There was never an agenda.
Everyone was told not to talk about the project outside of the meeting.
When in the timeline did this occur?
February 1, 2011 at 12:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
All I know is that every time "volunteers" give their time (for free) to do something great in this community, the only people mentioned by name are the people who get paid huge salaries. These are also people who had absolutely nothing to do with the project until the work is done and then they jump in front of the cameras and grab credit....Unless it's a failure, then they shirk responsibility.
February 1, 2011 at 12:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Steve, thank you for your comments. As I have said before on these posts, if I had it my way this project would have been a grant project with private money and I asked the Chamber of Commerce if they were tryig to get some Federal Money for a tourist center in Emporia because we are at a busy Turnpike entrance. I was told that they had to many other projects going and the next thing I realized that Strong City got 6 million dollars Federal money for a tourist center. If we would have just tried, we might have got a piece of the pie. Ths project will benifit in the long run, the whole city of Emporia. This project is a good example of what happens when you don't give people a part of the decision making process. The Thomas family owns the 33 acres on the south roundabout and the property has 1200 feet of frontage to Graphic Arts and Highway 50. We had a big box project going about 4 years ago but, it did not go through when the roundabout project got backed up. This site can be seen from the turnpike and lays pretty flat. One of the stones, I think will be near the site. And this is a good thing for my family and downtown Emporia. Living in Emporia is more like wrestling than dancing. As for all the angry blogers, I feel your pain. The Chamber came up with this idea and I went to the meetings to represent my family and the businesses on highway 50, 6th avenue and downtown Emporia. All I am doing is for a small fee, you can have fun painting the fense. On the other hand, in the old days when things got tough, you went without, but this is the age of instant gratification. EMPORIA LIFE IS LIKE A BIG CANVAS AND WE SHOULD THROW ALL THE PAINT ON IT WE CAN.
February 1, 2011 at 1:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
solong (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
February 1, 2011 at 1:15 p.m. ( permalink )
create (anonymous) says...
reddog, I can hardly believe this about you.
From the sound of things, you may as well have been on the committee since you attended all the meetings and helped with ideas. That's committee work in my book.
Why didn't you tell us you were working with this committee? All this time, you've been posting links about conspiracies when all along this whole thing is in itself A DAMNED CONSPIRACY.
You say, "WE WERE TOLD NOT TO TALK ABOUT THE PROJECT OUTSIDE OF THE MEETING." wtf
If that's not a conspiracy, what is?
Government business has to be transparent or it smacks of fraud.
I am astounded, reddog. You went to all the committee meetings, gave input, yet were not officially on the committee?
Then when the $#it hit the fan, you defended the project like a faithful dog. Like they knew you would.
You know what, KB. They used you. They played you like a fine violin.They knew you have a hell of an ego and they played you. That's what this is all about.
Do you honestly think for a second that any of the regular bloggers on this forum would have stood for one moment while they told us to clam up? That will be the day. Where were your stones?
In the meantime, as usual, they actually believe that the bloggers will calm down and before long those dumb bloggers will start picking on each other. It's a time game.
GUESS WHAT? THIS AIN'T GONNA GO AWAY. Re-read justaflush away and methusla above. No way this ain't gonna go away.
Jeez, I haven't been this po'd in a long time.
February 1, 2011 at 1:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Newtoemporia, I can't recall the exact date but, it was after one of those morning study sessions in which I proposed that there be a public hearing and this should be in the minutes of the meeting but, so many times when I would make meaningfull comments, KVOE and the Gazette would ignore me to the point that I called them propaganda machines.
February 1, 2011 at 1:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
Uhhh... Reddog, East highway 50 is still in the city limits. Or are you looking at the same map that the city uses that omits the east side of Emporia completely? Crumbling roads, shallow ditches, no curbs or sidewalks, etc.... I guess we might be able to deceive people just driving into the east side of town that it actually starts well west of the East Casey's if we didn't put the "pet rock" so close to our neighborhoods. But if we put one there they will actually see how badly the city maintains this area. A lot of homeowners have stuck some major bucks into revitalizing our homes but the city maintainence is non existant.
February 1, 2011 at 1:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
The meeting I referred to was a City Commission Study Meeting. The Candlewoods suites is owned by the Sauder family--nuff said.
February 1, 2011 at 1:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lowereastside (anonymous) says...
Poolhalljunkie, I bet less than 24 hours! LOL
February 1, 2011 at 1:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
REWBA, thanks for the reminder about volunteer work in this community.
Now I'm really pi$$ed.
In view of all this grand volunteer work by these high dollar people, I can't help but think of Justin Klumpe from Olpe who VOLUNTEERED HIS TIME AND EXPERTISE TO PAINT THAT ENTIRE HELICOPTER in the blazing hot sun at Soden's Grove.
And the kids at Olpe Elementary who collected dimes and quarters and all kinds of contributions to buy all the paint.
Emig, and the rest of you fine high dollar volunteers, you dogs!
February 1, 2011 at 1:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
reddog,
When you said, and I quote, "The Chamber came up with this idea and I went to the meetings to represent my family and the businesses on highway 50, 6th avenue and downtown Emporia. All I am doing is for a small fee, you can have fun painting the fense. "
As I see it the Chamber of Commerce is an organization of Business owners / men whose goal is to better their own interests by conning " THE PEOPLE OF EMPORIA " into thinking that what they are doing is actually for the good of the whole community , when in actuality their best and driving intrest is to better their own situation and profits .
And as a so called not-for-profit organization, that is not necessarily true ! And I base my comment on the following !
Emporia Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization and is owned and operated by local business leaders who work to promote business growth in the community.
If you don' t believe that the Chamber of Commerce, CVB is not oriented toward bettering business interests and the CVB interests, as their top priority take a look at the membership guarantee of the Chamber of Commerce at the following site !
http://www.emporiakschamber.org/custo...
then point to Chamber of Commerce, then on the drop down menu point to membership, then on the next drop down menu, point to Direction and then on the next drop down menu click on Mission-Vision-Plan of Work and read and decide for yourself what the priorities of the Chamber of Commerce is and if that priority / plan includes the betterment of the taxpayers of Emporia !
My impression is, No, that the Chamber of Commerce and CVBs goal is the betterment of their businesses and their pocket books at the expense of the taxpayers and the two COC and CVB are connected at the hip, along with the RDA !! And the City Manager as a so called liason is a part and parcel of the " TRIAMESE " triplets, the COC, CVB, CITY MANAGER and their buddies, " CRONIES " on the City Commission !!
February 1, 2011 at 1:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
The Chamber of COMMERCE being touted as a not-for-profit organization is like calling Geoffrey Dahmer a " VEGITARIAN " !!
February 1, 2011 at 1:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
lyon (anonymous) says...
It doesn't cost $10,000 to set a rock in the ground!!
Ha...I agree...Sauders..ha!
Wow, people coming to our town will say, "those rocks are nice." But once they get past that they will see what a mess some of our roads are and run down houses. Now that's an impression they will remember, not the stinkin rocks!
LISTEN TO THE PUBLIC!!!!
February 1, 2011 at 1:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Ooops, was that a bit much !
February 1, 2011 at 1:48 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goforward (anonymous) says...
I think this was an EARMARK in the city commission activities.
February 1, 2011 at 2:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthinkin (anonymous) says...
services donated - Dave McCullough - donated?, really, donated? - since when are paid hours worked by a City employee donated?
February 1, 2011 at 2:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
People, the City Commission had to be convinced by someone that this was a good idea ! And it looks as though it may have been the Chamber of commerce and the CVB as well as the City Manager !!!
However the City Commission being buddy, buddy with the members of the COC and CVB, I believe makes them just as " CULPABLE " as the COC, CVB and City Manager !!!
February 1, 2011 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
fuggetabodit (anonymous) says...
I'll tell you -- every time I read the Gazette nowadays, I read it for more amusement! If you all get a chance, please check out the print edition today. There's a prominent ad on page 3 extolling the "Champion" Jeff Longbine (of course, former City Commissioner and Mayor), and the ad is from...Emporia Building Futures! Yay, Jeff!
You can't make up this stuff. If anyone is familiar with the 1970s National Lampoon Sunday Newspaper Parody (the Dacron, OH Republican-Democrat!), you will see that the Gazette is teetering very close to parody. As I noted in a previous posting, I'm laughing to keep from crying. It just seems as if everything concerning these "monuments" is so inbred!
February 1, 2011 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
Yes create, We really do have unsung heroes who serve selflessly. Then we have greedy scum who grab credit and shirk responsibility. $10,000 ad in the "O", $100K dildo monuments but who will take credit? We know who will get the blame. It's all our fault for not being able to read the criminal mind. I can't help but to think of Kenny Bradstreet when I think of Great Volunteers! I really miss that guy and wish his cane was in these secret meetings. I guarantee it wouldn't be any Secret and everyone involved would have a cane shaped knot on their heads for all to see.
February 1, 2011 at 2:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
I find it odd that you came forward only after bloggers began to suggest an investigation from the Attorney General's office and your name was associated with the rock project.
I wonder ... what else is the government hiding and conducting in back room deals?
"Fraud and falsehood only dread examination. Truth invites it." - Samuel Johnson
February 1, 2011 at 2:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
A question that really needs to be answered.
Especially since fuggetabodit posted above.
I have been asking where the $25,000.00 per year the city gives the Building Futures Program goes, with all of their volunteers.
NOW I THINK I KNOW !
Perhaps it has gone to advertising for the BFP in the paper and wait------------- and KVOE, (owned by Steve Sauder).
And you all thought that measly $10,000.00 ad in "O" magazine was bad.
February 1, 2011 at 2:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
This Kenny Bradstreet sounds like my kinda guy. Sorry he's not around anymore. And God bless Biscuit. Oh how he would have enjoyed all this.
@solong, sorry your comment was pulled, but I did get a chance to read it and truly enjoyed it for the truth.
February 1, 2011 at 2:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
Kenny had Five Purple Hearts.
February 1, 2011 at 2:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
fuggetabodit (anonymous) says...
Thanks, Steve, for your observation. I was a bit taken aback when I saw the Building Futures ad, particularly with Jeff featured as one of "A Community of Champions"! As noted, everything about these monuments seems to be terribly inbred, and insular.
The reason I referred to the NL Sunday Newspaper Parody: In that one, pretty much everything in the fictional community of Dacron is controlled by several families who own industries such as asphalt, trailer construction, and utilities. They all give one another business, as outlined (very slyly) in each newspaper section. And, the publisher and reporters of the Republican-Democrat write badly crafted stories extolling all these fine Dacron industries! Truly a humor classic -- and sadly, with the way the Gazette has been lately, the paper is also becoming a parody of itself.
RiP, Ken Bradstreet.
February 1, 2011 at 3:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Small town America, wouldn't Norm Rockwell have fun with this one on the Saturday Evening Post....If there were more to do in this town, we would have less feuds but, that is small town America. I just wonder how he would use humor with these Rocks? Folks I can go either way on these rocks, it's kind of like a doublespeak, the art of holding two contradictory beliefs at the same time. I learned that from George Orwell. I wonder what George Carlin would say?
February 1, 2011 at 3:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Doublespeak is not holding TWO contradictory beliefs at the same time because the person speaking it already knows one of the terms is false since he made it up. So there is no belief being held.
February 1, 2011 at 3:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Well, I have nothing against a community of champions, or people wanting to honor or laud them, I would much rather it be done with private funds.
Now maybe these ads in the paper and on the radio were donated by the Walker and Sauder families, but I somehow doubt it.
February 1, 2011 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Kind of makes you wonder just who is paying for all that advertising from the chamber and CVB, not to mention BFP. on the radio now doesn't it?
February 1, 2011 at 3:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
This just keeps getting better!
February 1, 2011 at 3:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Go to George Carlon the bankers.....viewer discreetion advised, very offensive language.
February 1, 2011 at 4 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
February 1, 2011 at 4:02 p.m. ( permalink )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
that was kinda harsh.
February 1, 2011 at 4:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
jasper007 (anonymous) says...
At one time, the commission "was not going to re-visit this issue". My take was it's a done deal. Now, we are told "it has been put on hold". Now with the break down of monies spent, and listening to some comments, it does not come to a surprise to me that we will still get these "rocks" shoved where the sun don't shine. Personally, I would rather they were "shoved where the sun don't shine" on the commission and the "hand's out" for my money people!
February 1, 2011 at 4:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justthinkin (anonymous) says...
Dave Emig: $ 8,520.00
01/27/2011 Gazette
The city already agreed to pay Dave Emig $27,140 for design services for the monuments. The vast majority of his contact has already been spent, Zimmerman said.
which is it, Zimmy ?
February 1, 2011 at 4:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
railroadhorn (anonymous) says...
Nothing like reading all these comments on a cold snowy day to light a bit of a fire in me to hold people accountable!
February 1, 2011 at 4:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
justaflush you sound like one of my competitors. I feel your pain. Hang in there, things will get better. You might not believe this but, on my highschool class picture, it said"he has a lot of heart" and I do. My father is still living and I think he has given most of his money away. And now you know the rest of the story. Sir, you have a lot of pent up anger and I will pray for you. I love my enemies because it puts hot coals on there heads. Your actually my friend, only a friend will tell you, your face is dirty. God bless and good night.
February 1, 2011 at 4:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I'm with you, railroadhorn. Being a part of all this local fuming + watching Egypt come unglued in the streets is somewhat warming.
Hooray! Mubarak is stepping down!!! The common man does indeed have power. He always has. And once in a great while, that sleeping giant in all of us awakens.
Obama remarks to American people very shortly.
February 1, 2011 at 4:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Where is Joe the Plumber when we need him.http://www.unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline='Joe+the+Plumber'%3A+Hold+politicians+accountable&articleId=4398da5d-5c02-4a03-b2a4-39964710aaf1
February 1, 2011 at 4:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://www.unionleader.com/article.as...
February 1, 2011 at 4:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
create,
Before this middle east thing is completely over, we Americans will be wishing we had supported those dictators. I mean when gas gets up to 6 dollars a gallon or more because all of the radicals have taken over. Death to the American way of life will come as a slow choking sound at the gas pumps. oh well we have our own little war to wage here in Emporia for now.
February 1, 2011 at 4:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Oh here is another question.
Any one else here that the cost of the super pooper dooper solar powered spot lighting for each of these monurocks has not been included in the cost yet? My "source" says over 5k each monurock.
February 1, 2011 at 4:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
b3bill (anonymous) says...
I wish the search engine for the Gazette online articles was improved. It would be nice to have capability to search specifically for certain words, etc within a specified date range. More people could then do their own research on all kinds of topics.
I can't believe how anyone would believe all this money spent for some rocks would ever produce any tangible returns for the taxpayers. What a complete bunch of goofs that ever cooked all this up.
February 1, 2011 at 5:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
February 1, 2011 at 5:11 p.m. ( permalink )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Instead of worrying about Rocks, you might want to review this video. It is the news behind the news and the story behind the story.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjIc_J...
February 1, 2011 at 5:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Steve, you might be right on that 5 dollar gas. And our president turned his back on this current Mideast Crisis. A lot of people in the Middle East don't think much of women, so making Hillery Clinton a spokesperson is doing nothing but causing problems we don't need.
http://lindseywilliams101.blogspot.com/
February 1, 2011 at 5:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
reddog,
you need to focus less on what we think, and more on what is in front of you.
February 1, 2011 at 5:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
February 1, 2011 at 6:10 p.m. ( permalink )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
review this video on insider trading.
http://lindseywilliams101.blogspot.com/
February 1, 2011 at 6:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
apierich (anonymous) says...
"Services Donated
...
Alan Tollakson ($4,000 towards carving one stone)"
Hm, I remember reading in another article that this was a discount for ordering 4 or more stones. So now discounts count as donations? So if anyone offers a discounted rate on bulk purchases they are to count it as a donation? Is that how he is counting it on his taxes? I've never heard of a business counting a discount as a donation before but it makes me wonder if that is something new or if it has been common practice. I am young and not a business person in any way so I really don't understand how something that was called a discount can turn into a donation.
February 1, 2011 at 6:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Now I know why Santa is so jolly, he knows where the bad girls are.
February 1, 2011 at 6:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
That that that all folks!!!
February 1, 2011 at 6:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Dont forget the Commish put the ok on this garbage. Vote the one up election out and recall the rest. Also time for a new city manager.
February 1, 2011 at 6:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
doun2others (anonymous) says...
The relationship between Zimmerman and the CVB and COC and BFF needs to be more transparent and accountable. I'm personally only planning to vote in new commissioners who are ready to terminate Z's contract. Waay too much power and arrogance for someone who is supposedly serving the public. And, if the tax money we give to those organizations is spent on ridiculous ads (O and the 'champions') then I have many ideas of better ways to spend those tax dollars.
February 1, 2011 at 7:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Sauder says everything has been now the Rdog say everyone was told stay quiet. Someone is talking out both sides of their mouth.
February 1, 2011 at 7:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sunshine (anonymous) says...
It seems to me that a lot of the talking about these signs/monuments/rocks must have been done in the study sessions only. I spent a lot of time looking though the city commission minutes and found very little reference to them. And talk about needing an improvement of the search engine...the one that the city has for the commission meetings seems to be broken.
February 1, 2011 at 7:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Could be the city dont wont you to find anything?
February 1, 2011 at 7:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
In this day and age every city meeting should be recorded and indexed on the city website for everyone to view. Would solve a lot of problems right there.
February 1, 2011 at 7:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
What the ... Facts?
February 1, 2011 at 8 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
The library should have them in print and by the way that KU game is on channel surfing.net........I don't have a tv, to much propaganda.
February 1, 2011 at 8:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
LOL, and the links you post are not? Let me ask you this, if you kept your mouth shut when you told, if we told you know to stop posting crap would you?
February 1, 2011 at 8:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Pray for America. We are living in a scary world.
http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Qaid...
February 1, 2011 at 8:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
WHILE YOU FOLKS ARE WORRYING ABOUT ROCKS, THE CRAP THAT REALLY IS IMPORTANT IS THIS.
http://maxkeiser.com/2011/02/01/kr117...
February 1, 2011 at 9:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
What the hell does that have to do with rocks? Or your own "dirty bomb"?
February 1, 2011 at 9:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Who is Max Keiser ?
Max Keiser is,
, Max Keiser (born January 23, 1960) is a film-maker, broadcaster and former broker and options trader. Keiser is the host of On the Edge, a program of news and analysis hosted by Iran's Press TV.
] He also hosts Keiser Report, a financial tabloid, that broadcasts on RT (formerly Russia Today).[
Previously he produced and appeared regularly in the TV series People & Power on the Al-Jazeera English network.
Thats who Max Keiser is !!! Sounds really credible, doesn' t he !!
February 1, 2011 at 9:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://video.google.com/videoplay?doc...
February 1, 2011 at 9:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIiUqf...
February 1, 2011 at 9:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hz2cZx...
February 1, 2011 at 9:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtmsIq...
February 1, 2011 at 10:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
About as credible as KB Thomas saying he was told to keep his mouth shut and then did so. I was always under the impression the older generations had spines!
Too bad he could not youtube up a video that can confirm what he says!
No one buys the misdirection bud, stop while your ahead.
February 1, 2011 at 10:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
the government can
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LO2eh6...
February 1, 2011 at 10:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
Two thoughts:
1st: With all that's happening in the world, it would be great if The Gazette also reported on Egypt (the entire Middle East for that matter), Hurrican Yasi that's about to cause over $500 million in damages to Australia, the Russian's protest, Ireland's elections ... and the list grows long. Would it be easy to pull from AP wire? Or, would it be worth the consideration to recruit the international student population at ESU? -- I'm certain you would be able to find an international student from most major countries and they could write an article on what's happening in their country, how's it's affecting their citizens, how it might affect their lives as students and how it affects the world (including Emporia) as a whole. At first, it doesn't have to be every day ... Maybe, once a week to begin. But, it would be great to read articles that covered events outside the State of Kansas.
2nd: reddog continues to spam (over and over and over again) every article. He's been asked to stop on numerous occasions. Is there a possibility to block someone (no access to login and forums) if they are found guilty of spamming?
February 1, 2011 at 10:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Someone, take reddogs computer away from him, please !!!
February 1, 2011 at 10:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
newtoemporia,
Let me fill you in on reddog a little bit. His name is KB Thomas JR. and he advertises in the gazette so I doubt they would do anything. He has been doing this for quite sometime now and has no clue about ethical protocol for blogging even thought he spends hours on youtube.
My advice, learn to ignore him. Everybody else does, and after his involvement in this fiasco I am certain this will have real world consequences for him.
Welcome to the forums.
February 1, 2011 at 11:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Harry Truman said,"if you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen." and he also said,"they think I am giving them hell but, I'm giving the truth and it sounds like hell."......newtotown, that was a good idea on international news and that way, I would not have to go into my dog and pony show.to present my point of view. Most conservatives will not give you folks the time of day but, I don't mind getting in there and mixing it up, and now you know why they call me Reddog and if I had to, I can still spear tackle, although some democrats think I played to much football with my helmet off. Good night and God bless and don't take life so serious. Mix in a little humor. Mark Twain said,"nothing so needs reforming as other peoples habits."
February 1, 2011 at 11:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
reddog wrote:
"I don't mind getting in there and mixing it up, and now you know why they call me Reddog and if I had to, I can still spear tackle,"
Why did you not spear tackle or mix it up with the idiots on this project? Oh that's right, you kept your mouth shut, boy Alex Jones would sure be proud of you. Hypocrite.
February 1, 2011 at 11:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
I think it's time for all to quit throwing the rocks especially for goodoleboys who ain't always so good. I sell America and Emporia first everyday and I am disappointed you don't want to take pride in your community. Please don't walk, but go first class. That's what William Allen White did when he first came to town. These monuments are a scapegoat for all the frustrations of mankind and I truely fell your pain. I wanted a public hearing!!! Well I guess we got one right here on the reddog blog.
February 2, 2011 at 12:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Keep digging.
February 2, 2011 at 12:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
I ask for a public hearing right in front of the Commissioners, go look it up.
February 2, 2011 at 12:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
Nothing in the press release says anything about it. Quote:
"Jamie Sauder, Betty Senn, KB Thomas, Mary Stauffer, Mike Scheller, Amy Jordan have donated a combined hundreds of hours considering ideas, reviewing design concepts, getting prices and preparing a budget and lobbying for the project to be included in the budget."
This time line right here says it all:
#
Spring 2009 — Goal 8 Committee decides to pursue idea of a visitors center (idea is tabled due to public criticism)
#
Summer 2009 — Goal 8 Committee decides to pursue idea of entrance monuments at four entrances into Emporia
#
July 2009 — $100,500 is requested by Goal 8 Committee for the 2010 budget for the entrance monuments
Where is your freaking sense? You piss and moan all the time about fiscal restraint here yet you were in on this? This group really went after this project after the visitor's center? You all need your head examined! I will say this once, the people of this town don't want this, won't buy into this, and this kinda crap needs to stop until NEEDS of this town are taken care of. This won't be forgotten.
February 2, 2011 at 12:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
goodoleboy (anonymous) says...
TO:
Jamie Sauder, Betty Senn, KB Thomas, Mary Stauffer, Mike Scheller, Amy Jordan
RE: Stop donating your service
They are not needed, here is your memo.
February 2, 2011 at 12:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
NOW FOR SOME IMPORTANT INTERNATIONAL NEWS. THIS IS A REDDOG ALERT.
http://geraldcelentechannel.blogspot....
February 2, 2011 at 12:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
hogan77 (anonymous) says...
Quote:
"I think it's time for all to quit throwing the rocks especially for goodoleboys who ain't always so good. I sell America and Emporia first everyday and I am disappointed you don't want to take pride in your community. Please don't walk, but go first class. That's what William Allen White did when he first came to town. These monuments are a scapegoat for all the frustrations of mankind and I truely fell your pain. I wanted a public hearing!!! Well I guess we got one right here on the reddog blog."
Response:
PLEASE.
February 2, 2011 at 1:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sandman (anonymous) says...
I placed on another blog.....if they are going to carryout the sign project, could they at least put the date Emporia was established? Do a little educating as the Hard Way Ranch did. Then maybe we could use some of that money as a "tax writeoff" for education, what do you think? :-) They just might be able to buy another stone post with what is "saved"!!!!! :-) Also, hope our city fathers don't plan on using those four post to fence us all in......heaven help us!!!!! One way to keep our population!!!!
February 2, 2011 at 3:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
methusla,
Your post on February 1, 2011 at 11:25 a.m;
got me thinking, I believe you are wrong.
i went back to the city web site and looked at the budget. Under the Multi Year Fund the expenditure of 100,500.00 is listed under landscaping at city entrances.
further down in the CIP ( but not funded) is the 40,000.00 for landscaping at city entrances.
technicality, yes but the 100k was in the 2011 budget.
February 2, 2011 at 7:20 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
I also seem to remember, that we both spoke out against both expenditures.
February 2, 2011 at 7:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
You are right about the $100,500 expenditure being listed in the multi year fund and the $40,000 listed in CIP for highway landscaping and you are also correct about both of us strongly protesting such uneeded expeditures . And we were both pretty much ignored !!!
I guess, this whole needless spend, spend, spend and ask or demand more is affecting my already poor eyesight, but is not affecting either my or yours better judgement !!
You, me, everyone need to be vigilant and keep a keen eye and mind on the costly " SHENANIGANS " of our purported City leaders and their " HANDLERS / CRONIES " !!
February 2, 2011 at 8:01 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
WILLIAM_A (anonymous) says...
Reddog quote
"The library should have them in print and by the way that KU game is on channel surfing.net.........I don't have a tv, to much propaganda"
Just FYI.. The Feds just shut your favorite site down.. Looks like we should be prepared for more of your stupid youtube video.l
February 2, 2011 at 8:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
By, the way since both expenditures were listed on the Budget, does that mean that some time in the future the Commissioners and the boobs that came up with this idea are planning on spending additional $40,000 for more highway entrance landscaping as well ?
If so, Emporia will certainly have some nice highway entrances, at least to someones, " minds eye " !
But what will the rest of the City be like and look like, if money is continuously wasted on unneeded frills and the City itself continues to crumble and die ?
February 2, 2011 at 8:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
This whole thing just keeps getting more troubling everyday. The cost of solar lighting, or even what is planned has not been discussed. Maybe the lighting costs are included in landscaping?
That aside, the MOST troubling thing is how everything has been done.
While some say we citizens were not vigilant in attending commission meetings, my response would be that we elect our commissioners to run the city in a fiscally responsible manner without attending every meeting there is.
And as one who did attend a few meetings, (including the budget meeting), I saw how some peoples ideas were summarily dismissed or ignored.
Some ask why no objection to this when it was approved by the commission?
My response is while the Gazette and KVOE reported on that particular commission meeting, the main story was the commission approving the budget. If the commission approved the drawings and financing at that meeting, why was there no picture or details of the project reported then? It sure would have prevented all this frustration.
Some say that all the "negative" blogger comments will hurt the volunteerism and civic service of people in Emporia. My response is volunteerism is alive and well in Emporia, but when those volunteers ask and receive tax dollars it is everyones responsibility for good stewardship of those funds.
There are members of the Chamber, Convention and Visitors Bureau and Building Futures Program that argue that these "monurocks" will be good for business and tourism and the image of Emporia.
My response is if it is such a great idea, why not use your money for the project. CVB and BFP are allotted approximately $400,000.00 per year in motel taxes, a tax most local residents do not pay.
There are those who say these "monurocks" are infrastructure, something that sales tax dollars from the combined city/county sales tax was promised to be used for.
This doesn't even deserve a response, but I would say that civic auditorium improvements, new or replaced sidewalks, street repair, storm sewer maintenance, are the infrastructure the voters were thinking of when they approved this tax.
February 2, 2011 at 8:14 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
I remember when the visitor center was discussed by the BFP, the public outcry stopped that. Maybe the commission should have considered that before they approved this.
You all remember how upset people were at the spending of over $10,000.00 on an ad in "O" magazine?
Now it seems that CVB and or BFP are spending tax money on local advertising extolling the "Champions" of Emporia.
At least that money is spent locally and going into the businesses of Chris and Steve. Or maybe those ads are being donated by the generous owners of those media outlets?
February 2, 2011 at 8:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
Steve, you are probably right, I am sure the gazette donated it for,,,, hmm about $500.00 dollars and KVOE probably DID donate time for LESS
February 2, 2011 at 8:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
justaflushaway,
I am sure that both outlets have a discount rate for "not for profits". But if they were not FREE, then tax dollars were probably spent, correct?
February 2, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
let's just ask.
CHRIS WALKER, was the ad in last nights paper paid for by the chamber CVB or BFP or was it donated by your paper?
February 2, 2011 at 9:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
An even better question is, who writes the check for that Chamber of Commerce insert that is in the Gazette every few months?
February 2, 2011 at 9:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
sunshine (anonymous) says...
Steve,
You are absolutely right, we should be able to count on our city officials (all government officials) to run the city responsibly, to have our interests in mind, and to ask our opinion on situations like this.
I always assumed that our city officials would take care of the city sensibly, but this issue proves otherwise. I think there were good intentions, I think we can all agree that we should take pride in our town, that it could use some beautification, and that we would like more here, more dollars, more visitors, more variety. The problem is that this type of project is nothing more than frivolous spending when our town needs fixing in so many other areas. There may have been good intentions but its still reckless. We need our city officials to remain level headed and see beyond the sparkle on the surface. Just because it sounds good doesn't mean its a good idea, or that its the right time.
I agree that we shouldn't have to go to every meeting and it comes as no surprise to me that they didn't listen to the few citizens that did attend meetings, because its hard to hear objections when your convinced you are right. BUT, if we show up in droves, it would make it hard for them not to listen.
This is a mess, dollars are already spent, contracts are already signed. It's going to be hard to clean up this pile of poop.
February 2, 2011 at 9:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
After these " MONSTROSITIES " are set in place, will the rest of Emporias entrance signage be removed, so as to cut the cost of maintaing those ! And what is the estimated cost of maintenance of the " MONSTROSITIES " projected to be ? You know, the cleaning of graffiti, washing / cleaning of the dirt, road grime and car, exhaust residue that may collect on them and what about keeping the Painted / colored portions of the " MONSTROSITY " , not to mention the cost of maintaing the planned landscaping around the " MONSTROSITIES " ?
And if the existing highway entrance are not to be removed, these " MONSTROSITIES " are just going to be an added maintenance cost and how many highway entrance signage does a City need anyway ??
You know, I just can' t help but think the cost of this whole thing is just going to keep getting higher !!
February 2, 2011 at 10:33 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
REWBA (anonymous) says...
I've see it happen in Banana Republics. The local media and news outlets are silenced by wannabe dictators either through coercion or force.
If a news outlet becomes accustomed to accepting taxpayer funded advertising for a government agency, that news outlet can be controlled by it's new puppet masters. The news will be filtered to the benefit of the financiers with the threat of shutting off the flow of easy cash.
No hard hitting investigative reporting, no breaking news, just local feel good stories and nice write ups highlighting the goodness of community leaders. Anything that might be seen as derogatory to the dictators goals will result in the pulling of advertisement dollars.
I suggest that the next time one of the "Hench Men" come into the news offices to pressure the publisher just make that incident a headline story. Sure, the taxpayer funded agency might pull their add but your readers are the taxpayers who might pull their support for that agency and send their money grubbing employees to the unemployment line.
The man behind the curtain hates the man behind the mask.
February 2, 2011 at 10:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
ksnewsie (anonymous) says...
The local media can only be silenced if it allows it.
February 2, 2011 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
After listening to Steve Sauder on the radio this morning, I see he is still against anonymous commenting. I think we all explained our position on anonymity once before on the thread belonging to the article he had written, "Supporting the Monument." But I guess he did not hear us. I'm not going to beat on a dead horse here.
Steve Sauder was supportive of KB Thomas or reddog too. He says the rest of us are picking on reddog. He says that according to Jamie, KB was indeed on the committee. So I guess that settles that.
Steve is unhappy when our comments go to conspiracies. Okay, then. My question is this: Why was KB Thomas told not to say anything about what was going on in those committee meetings? Is he blowing smoke? Or is that true.
And Steve, please stop calling this a "blog." This is not a blog, it is a forum. I believe someone explained that to you on air this morning.
Why didn't I call your "on air chat"? My voice is very discernible, that's why. First thing you know I'll be getting a call from Jamie like he called Phil Dillon after Phil's article appeared in the Gazette.
Perhaps Jamie should write an article voicing his side.
February 2, 2011 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
Steve Sauder+ kbthomas= two of a kind
besides, kinda like kbthomas, who gives a damn what sauder thinks or shews from his ugly piehole either?
February 2, 2011 at 11:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
There were a couple of callers towards the end of KVOE's blogg today. Recognized their voices and they both had good points. the 1st said that in a town of our size, stating your opinions publically probably means political suicide. He is correct, it can also affect a business, if a business owner is vocal. i know this guy and he and I agree more than disagree, but we have had our disagreements and I still consider him a friend that has gone above and beyond the call of duty to help our city.
The 2nd guy made a valid point about the frustration of a lot of Emporia citizens and how it may be discounted or not realized by city leaders. He mentioned that our displeasure may be voiced at the ballot box next month. That is not only a valid point it is one that needs to be repeated over and over again.
If you think this was a waste of tax money, you have the option of voting "AGAINST" the commissioner who voted for it. It is up to you the voter.
February 2, 2011 at 11:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Justaflushaway,
You shouldn't discount what someone has to say just because you may disagree with or dislike them.
Steve Sauder is a "force" in politics in Emporia whether or not you or I like it. It is his business that makes this possible, much like Christopher Walker. It's "THE POWER OF THE PRESS" so to speak.
However, you and I have the power of the vote.
So I would ask you politely to not discount their voice. Disagree with them, and let's just RAISE OUR VOICES A LITTLE LOUDER.
Steve Corbin
February 2, 2011 at 11:45 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Excellent post, Steve Corbin -- 8:14 a.m. Yes, it does keep getting more troubling everyday. The more we find out, the more we can't help but wonder. This is becoming an iceberg.
Sunshine, good choice of words, "reckless" for the spending they have done on this project because they did so without regard for the genuine infrastructure of this town.
February 2, 2011 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
First, I want to apologize if my comment on Chris Walker's recent editorial upset anyone. But, when I read the forum and saw some voices placing full responsibility on The Gazette and bashing the article, it stepped on my last German-Irish-Scorpio nerve and I had to say, "enough is enough."
The Gazette is the watch dog for Emporia and Lyon County. And, it does seem that they were caught asleep on many issues. The political reporter has a critical job and should be armed with questions and demanding answers. The citizens can't be everywhere and, even though there are other media outlets, The Gazette should be the unbiased and hard-hitting voice for the community. That's the job of a newspaper. That's why people purchase and put faith in the local paper.
However, it also seems there are back room deals within the government. Is that because The Gazette did not keep the leaders and government in check? Is that because the citizens have become beaten down and feel they don't have a voice? Is it the combination of both?
I read several good points that the citizens elect these officials and hope they have the best interest, in mind, for the town and conduct their jobs with responsibility. However, I have also read that some leaders took over control 20+ years ago and the town has been going downhill every sense. These leaders were able to gain power, not only because of money, but because they were also able to silence the citizens' voices within government meetings.
Those who do attend meetings have expressed that their views are not heard. You have witnessed the power of these forums, when the voices of Emporia and Lyon County unite.
What would happen if all the voices, within this forum, the local coffee shops, restaurants, and bars unite in commission meetings?
What would happen if all these voices unite on election day and, every day thereafter, to hold those officials responsible?
What would happen if all these voices unite and tell the local (corrupt) business leaders to f* off?
If these self appointed (corrupt) leaders left town today, what would happen to Emporia? Would the citizens allow the town to die without their money? Or, would the citizens rise up and rebuild the town?
If it's the second, then unite and rise over the corruption.
February 2, 2011 at 11:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
- That also includes The Gazette.
I, for one, would rather read a smaller paper, with hard-hitting articles that serves the needs of the community, than a paper that has to rely on dirty money to keep a larger paper.
And, if The Gazette needs the money to print the larger paper ... perhaps, they could consider moving some articles (that make the paper larger) exclusively online. That might be able to save printing costs and it would draw more people online and into the forums.
jmo
February 2, 2011 at 12:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
netloafer (anonymous) says...
Steve and Create make what I think is the most important point here. This issue should follow people to the polls.
It goes beyond the monuments themselves, as bad as they are. The city's decision reflects an alarming lack of leadership. How could they not know the public would be overwhelmingly opposed to these "monuments?"
Keep the pressure up. In fact, I recommend you start developing Facebook pages, Twittering, etc. One of the great things about our new media is that it bypasses the old, traditional methods. There are far fewer filters and squelched opinions. But, most important, they allow people to disseminate information quickly without censors blocking them. Look at what happened in Tunisia and Egypt. The grass roots movements were brought together by using new media and it spread like wildfire.
I know Emporia isn't Egypt, but there are a couple of common threads. People are really bothered by this decision and they are expressing themselves. And, we have an opportunity to change things. If we can get a large number of voters to the polls we have a chance, particularly if people who live in under-served and neglected areas express their anger in the voting booth. Who knows. We may be able to elect leadership that is more focused on people than it is on rocks and legacies.
February 2, 2011 at 12:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
newtoemporia,
Whoa,
I am not sure but I don't remember ever mentioning the word "corrupt" If I did I would like to apologize right now.
What this is about is Small town politics. In a small town such as ours everyone knows everyone else. When things are done at the city commission level chances are the people involved know, and in some cases, do business with each other. I am not sure anything illegal was done. NO I will say I am almost certain, nothing Illegal was done.
I am saying the city manager presented and pushed this idea of monurocks to the commissioners and because the commission knew and felt comfortable with most of the parties involved probably thought it was a good idea. An obvious error on their part. If the commissioners really considered this a fiscally responsible use of sales tax money for infrastructure then none of them should be commissioners. Only 1, (Bob Agler) is up for re-election. What are you going to do?
February 2, 2011 at 12:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
"What would happen if all the voices, within this forum, the local coffee shops, restaurants, and bars unite in commission meetings?"
newtoemporia, this has happened once before, a few years ago. So many people showed up at the meeting room of the White Auditorium that there was standing room only; many were turned away because of the fire code. Sorry you missed it. I was one of two forum people who called that meeting through the city. The other was a gal named Renegade who did a lot of the footwork. Bobby Agler helped us organize it. I identified myself then.
Many organizations sent representatives to be part of a panel that answered questions and concerns. Even Channel 13 was there. It was broadcast live on KVOE with Chuck Samples.
Long lines of people stood up to ask questions or give commentaries. Some even prayed. No, it is not impossible.
Do you remember that methusla?
Six months later, I was one of 5 people interviewed for a special on National Public Radio.
The topic dealt with a rather large influx of Somali people that had been brought to Emporia to work for Tyson. Many local people had serious concerns, some pro and some con.
Anyway, it's possible to unite.
February 2, 2011 at 12:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
newtoemporia (anonymous) says...
you never used the word corrupt. i did.
but, if people act dishonestly for money and personal gain, that is the definition of corruption. i never said anything was illegal ... just corrupt practices, by some, to gain power.
February 2, 2011 at 12:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
Excellent comments, netloafer and I couldn't agree with you more about the importance of settling this at the polls. Yes, we must keep this up.
In referring to this rocks scenario, a guest on Steve Sauder's radio program this morning asked, "How long do you beat a dead horse?" I can only answer with, "Is the horse really dead?"
I'm sure several people would love for this entire uproar to cease entirely. Ain't gonna happen.
February 2, 2011 at 12:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Create,
agree this should be settled at the polls.
Do you think Bob Agler should be re-elected?
February 2, 2011 at 12:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
create (anonymous) says...
I'm not real happy with him for voting yes on these rocks. He has a lot of smarts with regard to accounting, and he has been on there long enough to know his way around, but he needed to ask more questions of this committee. The time line is certainly one area that should have alerted him. The large amount of money is another thing that should have caused him to pause and think. You know, we need a whole new commission as soon as possible.
What irritates me most, and this was not Bob Agler who did this, it was Kessler, but the arrogance of saying "we will not revisit this issue" really sticks in my craw. This is the attitude you get when you attend the meetings. They want to ignore you and hope you go away.
February 2, 2011 at 1:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...
William Allen Rocks: Cuss 'em, but read 'em.
February 2, 2011 at 1:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Vote against Agler and recall the rest! They are the ones who approved this mess
February 2, 2011 at 2:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
flyboy32 (anonymous) says...
This whole thing kind of reminds me of this link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=foWClz...
February 2, 2011 at 3:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
booker5m,
Who knows? maybe the other two will get fed up and announce their retirement. Before the election please?
February 2, 2011 at 3:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
As I recall Mr. Agler was the only one on the commission to vote against using the reserve money to balance the budget. Please and I beg of you, don't shoot yourself in the foot.
February 2, 2011 at 3:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
create,
Yes, I remember the meeting about the quest of the Catholic Charities and Tyson pushing for Emporia to become a Somali Refugee Center, which I recall is why and how the people of Emporia got all stirred up, anyway that was the suggestion that got me stirred up anyway !
And I also identified my self when I stood at the microphone to speak, both by my real name and that I was known on the Gazette Forum, you know I will not forget the looks on some of the faces of the panel members and I could also feel some eyes in the audience boring into me, with not so friendly stares !!
And yes, I feel that this " MONSTROSITY " fiasco, may just increase public participation at Public Meetings and increase the number of voters taking to the polls to vote, also !!
" Many voices speaking, united, will get more attention than one voice, crying in the wind "
I seem to remember my grandfather telling me his grandfather use to tell him that !!
February 2, 2011 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Sorry, I meant to say that I was known on the Gazette Forum as " Methusla ",
February 2, 2011 at 3:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
We do have a wide slate of candidates running for the commission.
IT IS IMPORTANT that we become involved and check them out before voting.
We need to elect people that will serve us all FROM 522 Mechanic street.
Not the ones who will serve only those AT 719 Commercial St.
February 2, 2011 at 3:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
reddog,
Bologna ! Or as some would say
BALONEY!
It is an easy vote against something when you know the other 4 are going to vote for it.
February 2, 2011 at 4:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
And I would not vote for any of the present Commissioners, If they were seeking another term ... No way, No how !!!
In fact, I believe that those who are returning, should either resign, be thrown out by way of recall vote or just plain " FIRED ", along with the City Manager and anyone connected with even suggesting such a ridiculous expenditure, now at this time, should be made to pay for the " MONSTROSITIES " with their own personal money .
Its past time for these people to quit expecting everyone in Emporia to help them pay for their own " PERSONAL WANTS " !!
And it past time for the CITY COMMISSION / COMMISSIONERS , any COMMISSION / COMMISSIONERS, no matter who they may be , to get some " ROCKS / BACK BONE " and refuse to be swayed into spending the Citys / The Peoples, taxpayers funds for any " FOOLISHNESS " such as this or any other not needed expenditures ! " NO " is not a hard WORD to learn to say and sometimes " NO " in certain circumstances will lead to a lot less headache in the long run, for everyone !
February 2, 2011 at 4:04 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Has anyone, asked the City or Gazette to arrange some sort of Public introduction, question and answer Round Table with the Commission Candidates, so the people / public may find out more about them, such as their plan / goals for the City ?
Perhaps the University, televisiion station would be interested om televising such an event from the little theater in the civic building or possibly even Kenyon Hall on campus or perhaps the owners of the Granada Theater would be willing to donate the Theatre for such an important Civic event , and make no mistake it is a very important Civic event concerning the Future of The City and the people !!!
I would certainly like to find out more about each candidate, their ideas, concerns, etc. !
There are at least two, possibly three, that I already know something about and will definately not be voting for them . I will not mention them here, as that would not be fair to me or to them !
February 2, 2011 at 4:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
moderator (anonymous) says...
Methusla,
The Chamber of Commerce and League of Women Voters will host a Candidate Meet and Greet on Monday, February 7, at the Flint Hills Technical College conference rooms. The evening will begin at 6:30 p.m. with each candidate giving a two-minute opening statement. After opening statements there will be tables set-up in the back of the room where each candidate will have to opportunity to meet with the public on a personal basis
February 2, 2011 at 4:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
moderatior,
Thank you very much, I will make every effort to attend, depending on weather, of course !
February 2, 2011 at 4:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
I will also be prepaired with what may besome very " POINTED " questions !!
February 2, 2011 at 4:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
flyboy32 (anonymous) says...
Probably "prepared" as well.
February 2, 2011 at 5:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
I am wondering why, a non-biased, non-patisan, group or individual could not sponser/host such a " ROUNDTABLE " , I am not real kean on the CHAMBER OF COMMERCE being involved, as they do have a large stake in who gets elected as City Commissioners and so does the League of Women Voters ! Is there no biased or neutral part so to speak that is not commercially, monetarily or persuasive toward the CITY COMMISSION OR COMMISSIONERS ?
I hate to be such a " NEGATIVE BODY " , but the COC is made up of those who influence and have influenced the City Commission / Commissioners for years, in my opinion the sponser / host / moderator should be a totally disinterested Party , even one from a different town or city !!!
Some of my questions will concern the COC, RDA, CVB and so called not-for-profit entities in general and their funding !!
And with COC, LEAGE OF WOMEN VOTERS, spontaneity on the part of the candidates answers may not be entirely possible, rather answers may be evasive or rehearsed !!
February 2, 2011 at 5:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
If you sit down with them dont see what it matters who the sponser was? Meth did I misunderstood? Late in day lol
February 2, 2011 at 6:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
Meth to create:
"Yes, I remember the meeting about the quest of the Catholic Charities and Tyson pushing for Emporia to become a Somali Refugee Center, which I recall is why and how the people of Emporia got all stirred up, anyway that was the suggestion that got me stirred up anyway !"
Remember that TOM MYERS, x mayor, x city commissioner, was ALL FOR the development of a SOMALIAN city, within the city of emporia, OH, wouldn't that of been great,, it was about the same time, that the city commissioners, others who thought we would follow in their footsteps and everyone else who wanted a picture moment went to their stinking restaurant and broke bread with the STINKIN SOMALIANS, ( has anyone noticed how much better East 12th looks and smells,and very few "HIT and RUNS" in the gazette since they are pirates now?) They all bragged how great the food was, well could of been because they (the somalions) never washed their hands after going to the bathroom or where ever they went, just ask some of the landlords who rented to them!
REMEMBER the name TOM MYERS for city commissioner..
and once again kbthomas is begging, begging for those who are in love with the rocks and want to spend their tax money on them to , vote for agler, yea right-on, what the hell are you going to get out of it if he wins? oh I forgot they dont pay any attention to you, (So you say) if they had a half of mind, they wouldn't!!!, but like you they dont. kbthomasyouraidiot, see Steve ,I'm easing up, did use capital letters, THIS TIME
February 2, 2011 at 7:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Glad to see you have mellow out LOL
February 2, 2011 at 7:15 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
booker5m (anonymous) says...
Did some looking on the recall rules here in Ks and found this
http://sedgwickcounty.org/elections/a...
February 2, 2011 at 7:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
FOR CHRISTS SAKE !
IT DOES NOT MATTER WHO IS SPONSORING THIS FORUM / meeting !
Meth, you are being negative on this! We have a chance to meet and talk to all the candidates in this election.
If you or I were sponsoring this, some would say it was biased in the other direction.
I don't give a darn if our city manager was sponsoring this in his own home, complete with cocktail wienies and canape's . It still is a chance to get to know the candidates and their views, no matter who sponsors it.
I for one think there needs to be a huge shake up in the Chamber and CVB, BFP and the commission.
But don't you think the average Emporia voter can draw a logical conclusion on who to vote for from talking to the candidates? If their answerrs are evasive, tell them they don't have your vote.
I am sorry,.but this is one of the few GOOD ideas to come from 719 Commercial St. and I thank the League of Women Voters and the Tech College for allowing us to become involved.
Warning to the candidates, I'll be the old man with the oxygen tank.
February 2, 2011 at 9:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
and justaflushaway,
thanks for your restraint.
:>)
February 2, 2011 at 9:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
justaflush, create and methusla, you too booker5m and newtoemporia, lets get together at Bruff's after this meeting and compare notes. ;>)
February 2, 2011 at 9:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Steve, Steve,
Please calm down before you implode your oxygen tank, I was just saying it could all be rehearsed, I don' t know and hope it is not and as candid as I hope it will be !
I am planning on attending if at all possible, however
if I don' t make it I am sure you are quite capable of finding out about the candidates and possibly sharing you opinions of them or the best ones for the Job , with the rest of us, any way I value you opinion highly and I am sure there are others in Emporia and on these forums that do also !!
And I agree there needs to be a thorough shake up in the COC, CVB,RDA, EBF, BOE, etc. and the CC and City Managers Office as well, and this is a start !!
I appologize for upsetting you and being " NEGATIVE " , man, Steve, that hurt !!
February 2, 2011 at 9:45 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
0.K., Steve, sounds good to me, Bruffs it is !!
February 2, 2011 at 9:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Sorry meth, but you and I both know how it works in politics, most of it is rehearsed. This will probably be the only opportunity to meet all the candidates at one time before the primary. Otherwise, some will have to depend on campaign ads and slogans.
I just think it's a good idea, no matter who the sponsor is.
sorry for blowing up.
February 2, 2011 at 9:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
they have any good lookin girls working there?? are you really sucking oxygen Steve??
February 2, 2011 at 10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
kansaslawdog63 (anonymous) says...
This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of the usage agreement.
February 2, 2011 at 10:37 p.m. ( permalink )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
The K.B. Thomas Jr. Report Feb. 2, 2011 The unpretentious silient majority will elect the next City Commission. Why do I say this? It's name is public opinion. It's name is held in reverence.It settles everything. Some think it is the voice of God.--Mark Twain.....I am not a poker player but I have the calm confidence of a Christian with 4 aces-Mark Twain.....SOME OF THE NEW COMMISSIONERS WILL ALWAYS DO RIGHT. THIS WII GRATIFY SOME PEOPLE AND ATONISH THE REST.-MARK TWAIN
February 2, 2011 at 11:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
I would be interested to know if the canidates plan to put new rules and regulations on landlords and homeowners or strictly inforce the ones on the books. THIS SHOULD BE KNOWN FOR THE VOTERS. Emporia is doing better than most places across the nation as some communities are down 50% on housing prices. This would be the worst time to clamp down on housing because of high gas bills on homes. Review this article and you will agree Emporia must be doing something right and a lot of it is the promotions of the Emporia Chamber of Commerce. Sometimes I get critical but, I am like a coach, I want to make them better and I don't care if I hurt their feelings.
http://www.lewrockwell.com/rep2/housi...
February 3, 2011 at 12:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Higher gas prices coming.
http://www.investorplace.com/27935/5-...
February 3, 2011 at 12:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
I would hope people would vote for a person for his viewpoints and not his known political party.
http://dowjonesweeklychart.com/?p=456
February 3, 2011 at 1:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
I think the lowes project will have to be extended. How do the canidates stand on Retail Development and TIF.
http://www.newrules.org/retail/rules/...
February 3, 2011 at 1:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
justaflushaway,
always nice looking ladies there. and I am on oxygen, but only between smokes ;>)
February 3, 2011 at 3:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
Housing codes that are on the books now, should be enforced, but they should also be done so with a little common sense and sensibility, as to each individuals economic / money situation and their ability to afford / pay for what is needed to bring their property up to Housing Code Standards !
Unfortunately everyone is not Wealthy and some must live as / in what they can afford ! And that unfortunately is a fact, that is prevailant world wide, even in Emporia, whether we/you like it or not !
February 3, 2011 at 9:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
reddog,
Did you read and understand what was/is or was not/ is not said in the articles on the sites you post ?
For example,
The first paragraph, on the http://www.lewrockwell.com/rep2/housi...
site, pretty much says it all,
We are officially in the middle of the worst housing collapse in U.S. history – and unfortunately it is going to get even worse. Already, U.S. housing prices have fallen further during this economic downturn (26 percent), then they did during the Great Depression (25.9 percent). Approximately 11 percent of all homes in the United States are currently standing empty. In fact, there are many new housing developments across the U.S. that resemble little more than ghost towns because foreclosures have wiped them out. Mortgage delinquencies and foreclosures reached new highs in 2010, and it is being projected that banks and financial institutions will repossess at least a million more U.S. homes during 2011. Meanwhile, unemployment is absolutely rampant and wage levels are going down at a time when mortgage lending standards have been significantly tightened. That means that there are very few qualified buyers running around out there and that is going to continue to be the case for quite some time to come. When you add all of those factors up, it leads to one inescapable conclusion. The "housing Armageddon" that we have been experiencing since 2007 is going to get even worse in 2011.
Does this statement exclude Emporia ?
How about the following, from the same article,
Many analysts are projecting that U.S. housing prices will decline another ten or twenty percent before they hit bottom. In fact, quite a few economists believe that the total price decline from the peak of the market in 2006 will end up being somewhere in the neighborhood of 40 percent.
Does this also exclude Emporia ?
Your comment was spoken like a true COC member, and businessman, Con Man !
February 3, 2011 at 10:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
reddong, continued
How many houses are for sale in Emporia, how long have they been for sale, is housing in Emporia over priced and on the level of housing in Citys 2 to 5 times the size of Emporia, Ho many prospective buyers are there for the housing in Emporia or a better question would be how many of these prospective buyers can afford to by a Home and pay for it ?
Simple but important questions, that THE PEOPLE of Emporia should know and the prospective Commission Candidates should know also !
If coments have offended you reddog, so be it !
But please stop being a COC, thumper and con man !
The people are not as dumb / stupid as you the COC, RDA, CVB, CC, etc., as well as the City Manager believe the people to be !
It's all right to WANT something, but don' t try and force " ALL OF THE PEOPLE " to pay for it, unless " ALL OF THE PEOPLE " also are convinced that it is a good idea and will truly " BE OF BENEFIT " to " ALL OF THE PEOPLE " and has the " APPROVAL OF ALL OF THE PEOPLE " and not be of " BENEFIT TO JUST A FEW OF THE PEOPLE " and the " APPROVAL OF JUST A FEW OF THE PEOPLE " !
February 3, 2011 at 10:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
METHUSLA GOOD POST. This housing market reminds me so much of the downturn in the 1980's when we lost the railroaders and WOLF CREEK power plant was completed. Things looked very dark and I told my family and others that they were not just buying a property but, they are buying the future of Emporia and even at 12% interest this was the buying opporunity of a lifetime and it was. The stock market is at a 2 year high and one site on the enternet said that more CEO'S and people that are called insiders have sold more stock in the last 2 months as I recall than at anytime in history. I see inflation coming and Gold, Silver and good Real Estate in good locations will stand the test. Most people have no idea of the money that flows into Emporia from folks from out of town. We have a huge untaped market and while some towns say it can't be done, other towns are making it happen. A lot of towns don't have a 4 million traffic count in which every citizen benifits from through sales tax. This idea was presented to me and what I really wanted was a vistors center with a grant and private money. I think a good site would be behind Braum's Ice Creame. The 10 acre KDOT site by the Roundabouts won't allow any sales so, I think a site on private property would be better. Ice Creame and clean rest rooms is what I look for on the road across America. All the people will never approve anything. A few people many years ago put there life savings on the line and Emporia is now much more than just the home of William Allen White who died the same year that I was born 1944 and his birthday is within a few days of mine. Could it just be that one great Emporian died and another was born. The best is yet to come. I am aiming for the stars and if I miss and hit the top of the mountian, that's not bad.
February 4, 2011 at 10:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...
Hey steve can I come to that meeting. I would like to know you all better and my speciality is one on one. I think this town royal think tank tank has some merit.
February 4, 2011 at 10:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
methusla (anonymous) says...
reddog,
You keep saying that Emporia has a traffic count of 4 million !
How many or what percentage of the traffic count actually stop to shop, work or buy a home to live and pay taxes in Emporia ?
I agree the stock market is at a 2 year high, but is it a sustained high and will it benefit the little guy or will it only benefit the insiders, the wealthy who can afford to buy and sell stock or hold onto stock until it is able to make them even wealthier ? I personally seen nor experienced any benefit from an extremely high bull market or an expremely low bear market !!
And if as you say, inflation is coming , exactly how do you suppose that will affect that 4 million traffic count you are so fond of bringing up ?
You also say people have no idea how much money flows into Emporia from folks from out of town !
Well, taking into consideration as to how much the City of Emporia is in DEBT, at the hands of the FOOLISH SPENDERS of Emporia, that out of town money is/was NOT NEARLY ENOUGH !!
You also say
" A few people many years ago put there life savings on the line and Emporia is now much more than just the home of William Allen White who died the same year that I was born 1944 and his birthday is within a few days of mine. Could it just be that one great Emporian died and another was born. "
Do you really believe that Emporia is better off now than it was, 15 years ago ?
And yes Emporia is much more than just the home of William Allen White, however I believe that you think far too highly of yourself to consider yourself as another Great Emporian, at the very least that sounds a little conceited !!
After all it is not what we say or how we think of ourselves, it is what we do/our actions that define us or make us great !!
You really, really do need to get over yourself, along with some others, who need to also get over themselves, as you are just people, like the rest of us !!
February 4, 2011 at 11:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
meth, he really has NOT A DAMN CLUE!.
I see that in one of his stupid post that he said he was a Vietnam veteran, HE usually types it this way, VIETNAM VETERAN! , I guess he wants people to think that he was the only Vietnam vet there ever was, IN fact, I was upstairs at the draft office one day and some older guy was up there begging Mrs. Daggett, not to draft his son, later as I was standing outside the post office, I was told who it was up there begging, guess it ran in the family,,,, sad
February 5, 2011 at 7:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
justaflushaway (anonymous) says...
but with his story on another post, it seems like he didn't get that 1-F.. SO from one Vietnam Veteran to another Vietnam veteran, it is MY duty, to say to kbthomas,"WELCOME HOME BROTHER', but damn your still a idiot!
GBU/GBA
February 6, 2011 at 3:04 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
apierich (anonymous) says...
Wow, "William Allen White who died the same year that I was born 1944 and his birthday is within a few days of mine. Could it just be that one great Emporian died and another was born." Messiah complex much?
February 6, 2011 at 12:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )
Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...
Emporia is not better than it was 15 years ago! We have lost so much as far as industry and jobs go.
It has it's problems, but it's not dead either.
A lot of towns and cities all over the world have lost population and the tax base that population provides.
With different people having differing ideas on how to "help out" our town, it will be difficult, but not impossible.
This latest "Rocks" thing has stirred everyone up and brought up some long simmering resentments and feelings. People on different sides of town are blaming each other for all of our problems and that is sad because we are all Emporian's.
We all pull our pants on the same way, we all have to eat, drink and sleep to survive. We may have differing opinions on how to do it, but we must do it.
I grow tired of the continued diatribes of us verses them. We do have differences to be sure, always will. Can we debate our ideas factually without so much animosity for each other?
I think part of the solution will be re-prioritizing how our tax dollars are spent. That will start soon with the election of city commissioners. We will all need to become more involved in our government decisions and also volunteering when needed.
Sorry to sound like a cheerleader, and I know that a good "RIP" towards one another keeps us honest once in a while, but COME ON !
February 6, 2011 at 2:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )