sloan (anonymous) says...

Well done residents of Emporia! Your blogging, emails, and phone calls did the trick.

January 26, 2011 at 9:27 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

Sweeeeeet.

January 26, 2011 at 9:34 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

netloafer (anonymous) says...

This is good news, but I don't think it changes the root problem, which is the leadership deficit we have here.

Another thing to be careful about. "Beware the Greeks bearing gifts."

I think the comissioners are starting to feel the earth shake underneath them and they feel uncomfortable. They haven't made this decision because it's something they want to do. They see the power shifting to the people and its unfamiliar territory for them. They like being in power and I suspect they are desperately thinking of ways to now curry public favor.

Keep in mind there's an election coming up and a diverse slate of candidates. This is where people can effect change for the better and to sift the chaff out from the wheat.

January 26, 2011 at 9:35 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Buffalo_Breath (anonymous) says...

No sense, and no backbone.
Good combination.

January 26, 2011 at 9:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

emporiaescapee (anonymous) says...

Question is how long will the commissioners hold off. Could be until this calms down, which maybe not for a while. Kudos to the opposers!

January 26, 2011 at 9:37 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

YEAH!!!!

Ahem...
I would like to thank the commissioners for putting this project on hold. I feel it is the best move given the current economic situation. Now let's talk about 300 miles of unpaved hiking and biking trails! Kidding! Ok, not kidding.

Matt

January 26, 2011 at 9:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

thrashed (anonymous) says...

Finally the thoughts of the town are heard.

January 26, 2011 at 9:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

son't praise them for what they have done, thats what they want, remember, everyone wants to replace them with common sense thinking people? WELL DO it, All they are doing this morning is saying to each other, wow they fell for it, and zimmerman is included in all this. they are the same corrupt bunch as they were last week and keseller is leader of the bunch. the stones will be put up, they will just go a different way to fund them, still spending tax money that they should spend inside the city limits, we all know where emporia is, and if I forget I can see and read the sign the DOT put up.........PLEASE DO NOT TRUST this bunch ,, lets replace the 3 with common sense thinking leaders, not scared to take the 3 on.

January 26, 2011 at 9:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Fish (anonymous) says...

Thank you commissioners! I encourage all to attend the future meeting regarding the monuments so that the commissioners don't try to sneak it in again. Good news!

January 26, 2011 at 10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

Ohh, that wasn't praise, that was sarcasm. Power to the PEOPLE!

Now we just need everyone and their step-sister to attend the meeting where "The city will address the topic again."

I expect the people to turn out in droves. Let's get this nonsensical idea completely out of their heads! Now is not the time to stand by idly; rather now is the time for REAL action!

Matt

January 26, 2011 at 10:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

rabblerouser (anonymous) says...

There is a huge difference between putting on hold and "Canceling"!!!!!! They are just hoping the public will cool down and forget. Public outcry has been heard for the moment. Maybe they should divide up the pile of rocks on the fairgrounds and put them at the entrances....along with a commission member pointing at them like Vanna White!!

January 26, 2011 at 10:03 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Free4all (anonymous) says...

My wife (sunshine) has been e-mailing them. I have never seen her this worked up over a concern and DOES plan on dragging me to a few exciting city commission meetings. Way to go Mr. Kessler, there goes my spare time. Now she will unleash hwe dissapproval not only on here but to you all in person. Hold on to your hats!

January 26, 2011 at 10:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

dont that them, they are the ones that come up with this dumb A$$ idea to begin with along with EVB. they just need followed and watched and listened to everything that comes out of their collective pie holes

January 26, 2011 at 10:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

But, putting it on hold gives everyone the opportunity they wanted, and that's to speak out against this this project in a productive manner, raise awareness and advocate for the money to be spent in the right places.

January 26, 2011 at 10:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

Thanks Mat, and be save over there, And thanks also to all of those so far that are seeing threw this bunch and zimmerman, remember he was 100% with them, and didnt give a damn about what the taxpayes thought

January 26, 2011 at 10:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

sorry about all the spelling errors

January 26, 2011 at 10:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

ToxicPink-
"advocate for the money to be spent in the right places."

Like the English Department at Emporia High. Haha.

Matt

January 26, 2011 at 10:15 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

knute (anonymous) says...

I hope there is some notice when "The city will address the topic again at a future meeting." e.g. it isn't slipped through on the q.t.

Do I think the cm and commissioners would try that? Oh yeah, no doubt.

January 26, 2011 at 10:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

People, now you have seen what a united people with one united voice can do ! But do not turn the heat on the burner down and be vary wary of back door tricks, etc., and continue to demand that the " ROCKS " purchase be canceled, as this I will guarantee you is not the end of this or other wasteful spending ! We all need to stay vigilant and informed and " UNITED " .

I am very proud of all of you and wish to say " GOOD JOB PEOPLE OF EMPORIA " !!

And now the real job will start, that is, deciding who to place on the City Commission who has the same goals and desires of " THE PEOPLE " and will carry through on listening to the people and implementing the will of all/majority of the people !!

January 26, 2011 at 10:19 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

I have sent an email to the commissioners/citymanager demanding that the " ROCKS " purchase be " CANCELED ", not merely put on hold !!

January 26, 2011 at 10:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

I have no doubt that the Commission and City Manager are going to use this extra time to try and figure out how to justify the " ROOKS " as being part of the infrastructure !!

January 26, 2011 at 10:23 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

In other news, Matt Slater's request for a celebratory artillery bombardment has been denied, again.

January 26, 2011 at 10:24 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

Sory, i dun no wat u r talking abut. i got mah edukation ther and i due just fine.

Actually, in all seriousness. I know that's not where the money can be legally spent, or I thought from what I gather, I could be wrong.

But, I have heard that some sciences classrooms at EHS cannot allow students to take home books because there is not enough to go around.

I can't verify that, or tried to, but if its true...wouldn't that just be sad?

January 26, 2011 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Now the " STONES/ROCKS " are being called " MONUMENTS " ?

I wonder why the change in terminology ?

Could be to make us/the people who oppose this feel bad about protesting the purchase of " MONUMENTS " ! Well as I see it a " STONE/ROCK " is a " STONE/ROCK " whether it is called a " MONUMENT " or something else, If it is an unnecessary/unneeded/wasteful use of taxpayer money it is still an " UNNEEDED WASTE " of taxpayer funds !!

Again, I say, be very wary and vigilant people ! As Sherlock Holmes would say, " THE GAME IS AFOOT " !

January 26, 2011 at 10:39 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

Emporia is a tune and it must be sung together. What the people want is very simple-they want a voice in government and a city as good as its promise.If John Wayne got wind of this, he would say,"give the people on the internet a good cause and there is nothing they can't lick. KB THOMAS JR JANUARY 26, 2011.

January 26, 2011 at 10:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

There are more uneeded/wasteful expenditures in the Budget that also need to be put on " HOLD " indefinately, until the economy/jobs situation in Emporia gets substantially better and the City debt is substantially paid down and theTAXPAYERS/PEOPLE/THECITY are better able to afford anything over what is not necessarily a " NEED " !

January 26, 2011 at 10:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

cwalker (anonymous) says...

Jamie Sauder was on the KVOE's on air blog today and gave a great history on the monument project and answered many questions. If you missed it perhaps they have archive the discussion archived on their website.

Chris Walker

January 26, 2011 at 10:47 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

City Commissioners, City Manager and others !

The time of extravagance in spending is over and we, the people , will be watching !!

January 26, 2011 at 10:48 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

cwalker, it was a good history lesson, but there was still no logical answer on why this project, funded by sales tax money that should be going to real infrastructure improvements. if bids have been awarded can the city legally put this on "HOLD" ?

The ONLY reason it was put on hold was because of the number of candidates who filed and there is a chance that " the powers that be" may end up being "the powers that were". I am not being negative, I have lived here all my life and know how things work.

January 26, 2011 at 11:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

I just want people to remember when the sales tax extension until 2024 was being promoted by Steve Sauder and the RDA the promises that were made on how 1/2 of the money would be spent. And nowhere were rock signs mentioned. Go back in your archives and prove me wrong Chris.

I double reddog dare you.

January 26, 2011 at 11:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

nutsaboutools (anonymous) says...

Emporia commission, have you been paying attention to what Topeka is planning, to improve their "image"? Some real good ideas/goals that will benefit the community as a whole.

January 26, 2011 at 11:10 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

lena (Lena Bass) says...

well stated on them listening this ONE time. I hope we remember to vote new people in at election time.

January 26, 2011 at 11:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

reddog (K. B. Thomas Jr.) says...

This is a monumental historic decsion for the people and the people have spoken-they want city government to get the last brushful of paint out of the can. KB THOMAS JR.

January 26, 2011 at 11:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

wyankee49 (anonymous) says...

Will will I see the city commissionors and the city manager pulled their heads out and listened to the people of Emporia. However I have a gut feeling it is just a ploy, We'll see if they really got some brains or is it a election ploy on their behalf.

January 26, 2011 at 11:32 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

b3bill (anonymous) says...

I heard the KVOE on air blog today. I heard nothing said to justify the careless and wasteful spending on those rocks.

If those involved would have instead put forth the same time and effort in assisting with the recruiting of new businesses and keeping the ones already here, plus taking care of the streets, etc., there might be something to show for it. Emporia needs decent paying jobs, not some rocks along the highway!!

Vote NO to all incumbent City Commissioners and keep the charge going to get rid of the City Manager.

January 26, 2011 at 11:43 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

"In a meeting this morning Mayor Jim Kessler said the contracts for the monuments have been put on hold. The city will address the topic again at a future meeting."

When?
Wed. March 2 after primary election?
or April 6 after the general election?

January 26, 2011 at 11:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

AaronSewell (anonymous) says...

It is very disappointing that all the public outcry has forced the commissioners to temp. back off of forward progress for our community. Our community desperately needs more attraction marketing tools to bring in both new businesses and consumer $$ to our city and county. More dollars mean local businesses can grow which means more jobs, expansions, and more tax money flowing into the coffers from both sales tax and real estate taxes because more people can afford homeownership with more available jobs in the community. It is absolutely a snowballs effect. In the sceme of things a $100K expenditure is just a start of a needed plan to make our community more attractive. The commisioners and other forward thinkers involved in this project have a vision to grow our community in years to come and you have to start somewhere whether it is enterance gates, dumping money into mainstreet, or economic developement. All of us that live, work, and play in this community need to be progressive towards growth, look at the END RESULT, be educated fully about the pros and cons to all issues, and not base our sole stance entirely at the initial cost of something.

January 26, 2011 at 11:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gg (anonymous) says...

They SIGNED A CONTRACT my fellow Emporian's, the stones are already purchased now "they" are just figuring out how to force us to accept it and love it at the same time.

January 26, 2011 at 11:50 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

Good for them! Hope they decide to cancel the project all together

January 26, 2011 at 11:53 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gg (anonymous) says...

The Great Pyramids of Emporia, just imagine the headlines around the world. Tourists will flock to Emporia from all around the world to see one of modern man's new marvels. Our imfamous city commission better start building/planning new hotels and designate double decker bus routes.

January 26, 2011 at 11:56 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gg (anonymous) says...

Infamous!

January 26, 2011 at 11:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

thiefs_necktie (anonymous) says...

Faith in the community leaders restored! OK, not really but this is a great step in the right direction.

January 26, 2011 at 11:58 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

TexasGirl (anonymous) says...

Aaron, I think everyone here wants to see the growth of existing businesses and the attraction & addition of new ones. However, I fail to see how a couple of giant rocks will accomplish that.

If I were a prospective business owner looking to relocate to Emporia, I would be more interested in how the existing city needs are met, whether that be science books or parking or filling potholes. Because we not only want people to want to come here; we want them to want to stay.

January 26, 2011 at 12:02 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Guessler (anonymous) says...

AaronSewell wrote: "more people can afford homeownership with more available jobs in the community"
That means more money for you, for the commission you get for selling houses, doesn't it?
The he wrote: "The commisioners and other forward thinkers involved in this project have a vision to grow our community in years to come and you have to start somewhere "
I wouldn't say forward thinkers, they are the Spending Gang, are you part of it? Those stones are nothing of a vision to grow, the rest of Emporia know that.

January 26, 2011 at 12:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

That's a stupid opinion. XD

Ok look, everyone who supports the rocks try to get this through your thick heads.

You cannot attract people to a town, that when they get to that town there is nothing there to offer.

What do we have to offer? What do we have to attract people to our community?

What stands out?

We don't have a hot spot for tourism.

Rocks do not change that.

Rocks do not bring people in when there is nothing that is attractive to begin with.

Rock should be the last thing we do, the first thing we do it bring something of value.

January 26, 2011 at 12:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

doun2others (anonymous) says...

Good job, citizens of Emporia!! The commish and cm would have been complete fools to have proceeded with this project. I think we still need to watch, listen and demand that city government show more common sense and frugality than they've done in the past.

January 26, 2011 at 12:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Pingeon (anonymous) says...

I have to wonder... Even if this project is canceled altogether, how much money is guaranteed to be spent already? They had signed contracts (from the sounds of things). Is there cancellation fees involved? Has some work been done already and must be paid for? It's better than the whole $141k, but still should have not gotten that far...

January 26, 2011 at 12:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

imarun_r2 (anonymous) says...

THANK GOD! What a ridiculous way to waste $100K....do they not read the paper and watch the news to see how many freeking people are without jobs because there's no money in this economy. Then your going to go spend 100 thousand dollars on some "pretty rocks". Absolutely insane!

January 26, 2011 at 12:39 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

We have reason to smile today. And we must be careful about being smug, that would work against us.

This should demonstrate the "we the people" concept upon which our country was first begun. Good work, everyone. Criticism was direct and voices strong and clear. I hope this lets the entire community know how important our next election will be.

Now we must keep our eyes open.

Aaron Sewell, I fail to see how a rock sticking out of the ground is going to attract the kind of "forward progress" you are talking about.

What do people see when they drive into town off some of those entrances? Potholes, giant puddles at storm drains, run down housing, empty storefronts, dirty streets to name just a few. Get real. Build first, brag later. Not all of our entrances open onto Industrial.

We must say, "Look what we did!" Not "This is what we wanna do." People believe in reality, not pipe dreams.

Innovation, yes. That is the process of introducing new ways of doing things. We must use that to our advantage and STOP BEING LIKE EVERYBODY ELSE!!!

Rocks, schmocks. Why can't we be original for a change? We need creative thinking.

I am happy to see that the voice of the people was heard loudly enough to put this plan on hold. Now we have to find out exactly what "on hold" means. If the contracts have already been signed, that doesn't mean much, does it?

January 26, 2011 at 1:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

TexasGirl (anonymous) says...

"We must say, 'Look what we did!' Not 'This is what we wanna do.' People believe in reality, not pipe dreams.

Very well said, create.

January 26, 2011 at 1:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

matt,
sorry you couldn't wrangle that artillery salute for us, but you know what? In my heart, I could hear the thunder. Thanks for the thought, and I'm so glad you could be with us on the Net.

Everyone else, remember, today's meeting was a study session only. Next week they can talk more formally about this. No purchase orders have been drawn up. We do not know whether Kessler has signed any contracts.

January 26, 2011 at 1:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hogan77 (anonymous) says...

Aaron Sewell wrote: "Our community desperately needs more attraction marketing tools to bring in both new businesses and consumer $$ to our city and county."

I have said it before, and will repeat myself only once. As a VISITOR to Emporia, those rocks at the entrances will NOT, I repeat, WILL NOT make me want to visit my old hometown more. They would end up being nothing more than a flat out lie, an eyesore.

You want people to come to Emporia more, spend their hard earned money in your community? Then give me something worth coming to town for. Give me festivals, give me a mall filled with shoppes, give me 6th street and Commercial street with new and interesting stores and food choices, clean up the nasty hotels, and by all means, fix your crumbling streets!!! The last thing I care to do is to drive nearly four hours to lose my tires in the potholes in the streets!!! I refuse, and I do mean REFUSE, to come to my "hometown" when it is nothing more than a "ghost town". If I want to see a shell of what used to be, I will save my hard earned money, drive the 30 minutes to Dodge City where I can get a show along with the history of a town, and come home that night and sleep in my nice, warm, and clean bed.

The idea that these stones is ridiculous!! You want to bring people to the community to visit and to stay, right? Why not send the commissioners on a little field trip to Dodge City, have them take a little lesson in how things are done? The population of Dodge is around the same as Emporia, I think that they are pretty comparable. Not only have they grown in massive ways, they have managed to clean things up while doing it (streets, homes), AND they have a need for people to work. Just take a look at their website: www.dodgecityhasjobs.com . They have not one, but FIVE pages worth of job openings in various fields.

Commissioners: take a trip out west to learn something about how to run a community, how to bring it back from the brink of disaster. And while you are out here, stop out at Casey's Cowtown for the best steaks around. You won't be disappointed, and I'm sure the town will appreciate you actually doing your job for once.

January 26, 2011 at 1:40 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

I would support such a study trip for all members of the commission, but not the current ones. Let's wait until the new one takes office.

Speaking of clean streets, has anyone really paid attention to the Emporia State campus and how clean it always looks? Commercial Street is in direct contrast to that with trash and all kinds of dirt. Why is that? What does Emporia State do that we could be doing, especially on Commercial and Merchant Streets?

January 26, 2011 at 2:35 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

TexasGirl (anonymous) says...

ESU is state property, maintained by state employees. Unlike the city, ESU appears to know that if they take care of (and take pride in) their "infrastructure," they will be more likely to attract prospective students, which in turn leads to job security for the employees. It's a win-win situation. Wake up, City of Emporia!

January 26, 2011 at 2:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

yev_kassem (anonymous) says...

AaronSewell--

Actually, I think that it is completely the opposite of you. I think that it is fabulous that the public outcry got the commissioners to change their mind. That is what is supposed to happen. The commissioners are supposed to do the will of the people. No, you can't please everyone, but it appears that the majority of the people are not for spending money on the rocks (monuments) at this time. If nothing else, the timing is extremely poor.

I understand your point about wanting to improve the look of the city but the commissioners at this point are trying to polish a turd. We are going to make the outside look really neat but once you get past that, it is still &*$%. Fix the roads, fix the drains, clean up the city, quit spending money we don't have on things we don't need and start spending money on things we do need. Help the people of the city find ways to improve their homes to create a better appearance for the city. Attract more industry in to create more jobs and other businesses. And then, once you have all that completed, put out some fancy rocks that show the pride of the new Emporia.

The rocks are priority 2,337 and we are on number 4.

January 26, 2011 at 3:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

AaronSewell,

Please explain, how will $100,000 STONES/ROCKS/MONUMENTS, with nothing on them but " EMPORIA, welcome, serve to attract businesses, tourists, visitors, jobs ?

Especially when EMPORIA'S infrastructure is falling apart, ie, streets, storm sewers that allow the streets to flood when it rains, crumbling sidewalks, one of if not the highest tax rates, for a City its size in the State, quite possibly the Country, which means one of the highes costs of living also , especially when the tourists, visitors can travel 30 to 90 miles in any direction from Emporia and spend less, which will allow them to keep more of their money !!

Now just how is the STONES/ROCKS/MONUMENTS going to overcome the list of detriments I just listed in the above paragraph ?

As soon as a tourist or visiter sees the " ROCKS/STONES/MONUMENTS and does decide to see what Emporia is like and experiences the bad streets, high prices/taxes and are unable to navigate the streets because they are in an auto instead of a boat, because of no infrastructure maintenance, repair/upkeep, they will leave Emporia with what kind of impression ? They will think, My God These People have beautiful " ENTRANCE ROCKS/STONES/MONUMENTS, but they should have spent their money on City infrastructure maintenance !!!

Also a business that is looking for a place to locate looks at how well the Citys infrastructure is kept up and how the tax monies are used ! Is the tax revenue used for keeping the infrastructure in good repair/working order or is it spent on unneeded asthetics that does nothing for the Citys infrastructure ?

AaronSewell, please explain exactly how " ENTRANCE ROCKS/STONES/MONUMENTS will attract businesses, job, tourists, visiotors to Emporia ?

January 26, 2011 at 3:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

AverageCitizen2 (anonymous) says...

meth,

If you look at it with a Remaxed state of mind...it will all make sense.

January 26, 2011 at 3:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

I believe that the City should be looking at, studying the possibility of a Casino on the outskits of Emporia as a prospective creator of tourism, jobs, increased tax revenue !

I can remember my grandfather telling me about the Club/Dinner Club/Gambling place, just East of Emporia, known as THE ROCKS, that was so well known, that " HIGH ROLLERS " came from all over to gamble, dance and listen to live bands there back in the 20's and 30's !

It was located East on old highway 50, just about mile or so East of the Neosho River Bridge on the North side of the highway . I rember it was a large natural stone structure, with a large circular drive leading up to the huge stone front steps and was said to be fantastically beautiful on the inside, with a large orcestra/band Stage, huge Dance Floor, Bar and gambling area, Dining area and kitchen, even private rooms upstairs for gambling and " whatever " ! It was said to outclass anything that Chicago, K.C. had or anything in the area !

Unfortunately in, I believe, mid 1960 It exploded from a natural gas leak and was totally demolished ! At the time the family of a girl I went to highschool with owned and lived in it, I do not remember their names !

Sorry, folks, I had another one of my younger days flash backs !!

January 26, 2011 at 3:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

lowereastside (anonymous) says...

They are putting it on hold until they can just sneak it in without any pesky newspaper running an article about it. I too want to see "Cancelled, We made a Mistake", as the next headline about these rocks. But this is a start.

January 26, 2011 at 3:59 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

cwalker (anonymous) says...

We know the rocks are a popular item but we hope you will read our story on Hungry Kids. It is something we can all make a difference on.

http://www.emporiagazette.com/news/20...

January 26, 2011 at 4 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hogan77 (anonymous) says...

Methusla: A casino is a great way to bring jobs and tourism to Emporia. I honestly cannot remember off the top of my head how many jobs the Dodge City casino brought, but I know it was a good number. Not to mention that when they decided upon having it built, DC chose to also repair streets to improve the travel through town to get to the casino. Now, the situation might be a bit different for Emporia, unless they were to build south of town. You guys have I-35, which prevents most people from going through town, they just go around. Build south of the river bridge, and they might be more likely to at least repair Commercial, if not 6th/Hwy 50. for travelers looking for food and lodging.

A casino doesn't have to be really large to make a big impact. That is something to keep in mind. Even a small gaming floor and maybe a restaurant/bar is enough to get started, and can be added on later.

January 26, 2011 at 4:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

yev_kassem (anonymous) says...

A casino does have to be legal though and the State dictates how many we can have.

January 26, 2011 at 5:01 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

barefooting (anonymous) says...

Hogan, where's the closest state university to Dodge City?

January 26, 2011 at 5:07 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

South of the river bridge is flood plain.

January 26, 2011 at 5:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

I have enjoyed the downtown events like the Main Street Flea Market(Cant think of the real name right at moment) more of those type of things would be nice,Before I got messed up I rode a bike and go down to the Cassiday Rally tons of people and Soden Grove would make a great place (when not under water). I know these are small things but like pennys they add up. One of the candidates in the paper I think yesterdays paper mention the Granda Theater being fixed up and its a great place. Weeklong or just a weekend film festival might bring in a crowd. The new arts building could be a draw?
Any thoughts are am all wet lol

January 26, 2011 at 5:24 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

delostboy (anonymous) says...

AaronSewelll,
you talk about the need for atracting people. Which will be the start of all that this town needs ... I personaly DO NOT want to live in a "Truck Stop " town ..! A town that has "atractions" and is just that . For a town to survive , it has to have industry ! From the mom & pop shops , to full blown industrial businesses ... These are the things that start and keep a towns economic growth happening . You have to have people living in it . In turn this means JOBS for people to earn the money. Then rent or buy housing. Then they will spend the money they make on food, clothing, appliances , etc etc etc. They will pay taxes , and send their kids to our schools .... I can keep going . But I think I've made my point !! So , as for atractions in the town , sure.. But VERY, VERY , VERY MUCH LATER in YEARS to come....!!!!
So Aaron there is your FACTS on HOW a town survives and grows.... With out ALL of these things , we will be NOTHING more then a TRUCK STOP / REST AREA dot on the map .....!!!!!

January 26, 2011 at 5:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

I know this is off topic, but I just found out I know booker5m in real life. =D

I look forward to having discussions with him about his adventures in putting his hat in for the commission!

Also, no telling. =)

January 26, 2011 at 6 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

Toxic is this good or bad lol just kidding

January 26, 2011 at 6:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

Despite the fact that you refer to me as Trouble, I'm pretty sure its a good thing. But, I would be willing to wager you refer to all the girls there as Trouble. lol

I however no longer work there, if that helps. I doubt it. =P

January 26, 2011 at 6:16 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

Would be taking JC or Chopperland

January 26, 2011 at 6:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

JC! You don't have your boss there added on Facebook, I was going to friend you. lol

January 26, 2011 at 6:20 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

Friend away lol I am brain dead right now but sure you will come to in a bit

January 26, 2011 at 6:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

booker5m (anonymous) says...

Ok think I have you placed now

January 26, 2011 at 6:31 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

marko (anonymous) says...

hmmm and 'occasional' river boat.....

January 26, 2011 at 6:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ToxicPink (anonymous) says...

I did, you better be online.

January 26, 2011 at 6:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hometownkid (anonymous) says...

I say if we all "Shop Emporia First" we wouldn't need to raise taxes or put up nice stones saying it is Emporia.

SHOP EMPORIA FIRST !!!

January 26, 2011 at 6:44 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

chiefsfan (anonymous) says...

I don't know about the rest of you folks, but the last time we moved the first thought through my head was that where ever we moved, there must be entrance monuments announcing the city's name and welcoming us before I would move there. AaronSewell, what a crock!! If the powers that be have a hole burning in their pockets to spend that money, then clean up the parks, plant flowers, trees, etc....put planter boxes at the corners of the main streets as they intersect.....beautify the town, but monument stones are not the way to do it.

January 26, 2011 at 6:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

sunshine (anonymous) says...

Mr. Sewell,

Our town desperately needs jobs, some that don't include flipping burgers. Our town desperately needs for our local businesses to stop closing. Our town desperately needs shopping and activity options that will attract visitors. Our town could use more involved citizens who would be willing to clean up the town several times a year, get out and vote at every election and make sure our tax dollars get spent the WE, THE CITIZENS of EMPORIA, want them spent. Our town does NOT desperately need rocks at it's entrances. No one cares about rocks with the town's name on them. Can you give us some figures that show how much tourism and dollars spent in towns with rocks or other such "monuments" at their entrance have increased? I have a hard time believing that these rocks would greatly increase tourism and money coming into Emporia.

January 26, 2011 at 6:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Does anyone remember during the I-35 reconstruction way back, ( I think Commons was city manager)The city bid on a 2 or 3 years contract to keep the right of ways watered and looking good. They were even seeded with native Kansas wildflowers negating the need for constant mowing and at the same time would beautify our cities off ramps with a rainbow of different colored wildflowers.

Heck the city even bought a couple of watering trucks to keep the pine trees and shrubs alive.

i think the 1st spring some dummy from the state mowed all the wildflowers down, killing them, and the city stopped watering the shrubs and trees. There are a few flowers coming back now however. It was not a good example of our city and state working together to beautify the exits. I could be mistaken on this, if so correct me.

Does anyone remember when the downtown area was re-vitalized with new planters, lighting and landscaping? People howled at the design and expense. Again after about 1 year city maintenance was deferred due to budget constraints and it started to look shabby, (still does in some spots). But due to volunteers rounded up by the main street garden adoption program the last two years things are looking better. A lot Better ! Although I do hope there are more volunteers working on the Chamber and Emporia's radio stations gardens. Those gardens were a little shabby last year guys.

Yep, volunteers do make a difference.

January 26, 2011 at 8:41 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Mr. Sewell,

You are upset because the commission listened, (at least temp.) to it's bosses? Isn't that how it is supposed to work?

i just hope our city leaders and the progressive thinkers in town don't take a trip to Vallejo California and bring back any ideas.

http://articles.sfgate.com/2008-05-11...

January 26, 2011 at 9:03 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

We know that K.B. Jr is for these Monuments, (I think).

We know that Aaron Sewell is for these monuments.

is it just a real estate thing?

January 26, 2011 at 9:10 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

How about candidate Joel Phipps?

Are you for these monuments Joel?

January 26, 2011 at 9:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

REWBA (anonymous) says...

The "monuments" have been put on hold. BUT, the entryways into our town still look like an artillery impact area. Much of that could be resolved by reviewing the construction contracts that were awarded for the creation of the interstate interchange aka the "Circles".

I have never looked at them but I am knowledgeable about these types of projects and would be surprised if the drawings didn't include a artists rendering of a finished landscape.

If the finished product doesn't look like the rendering then a notice should be sent to the contractor. All of that erosion is not only insightful, it's a violation of environmental law. Where is the project manager and quality assurance representative for the state? KDOT? Somebody knows that the contractor needs to be recalled to finish the job. At least disk it smooth and seed it. Less grass and more native wildflowers. WE ALREADY PAID FOR IT! Why pay twice?

January 26, 2011 at 9:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

chrissylynn_2 (anonymous) says...

Can anyone tell me how much tourism that expensive A$$ add in Oprahs magazine got us? I bet about as much as those expensive A$$ ROCKS would bring. Rocks on hold now? thats a good thing, now if only they would think before they sign contracts, not after a blog slap to the forehead.

January 26, 2011 at 10:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

romano1784 (anonymous) says...

This makes no difference. The rocks will go up because the commisioners want it up. All they are doing is buying time, and waiting until a new issue is in uproar.

The Emporia City Commission this morning decided to hold off on proceeding with the $101,165 entrance monuments because of public feedback they have received.

All i hear is, "See we care about your opinions, now vote, vote, vote us back in to do our worst some more!"

January 26, 2011 at 10:51 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

I am thinking that the perfect location for a casino would be as follows West of Road G, South of Road 180, East of Road F and North of highway 5o
or
South of highway 50, North of Road 170, East of Road F and West of Road G !

Both locations have plenty of space for 1 casino and room for expansion and possibly more casinos and they are just off three three major traffic arteries and easy to get to and don' t have to worry about flooding !

But of course City services, such as water, sewer, etc., would have to be provided !!

Now you want to talk about a possible large return on investment ! I believe that this would be a great oppertunity for " RETURN ON INVESTMENT " and would draw, tourists, visitors, jobs and revenue to Emporia and Lyon County, in larger numbers than " ENTRANCE MONUMENTS ", " DOG POOP PARKS ON THE PRAIRIE " or " A WATER PARK ON THE PRAIRIE " !!

Along with a casino, casinos comes hotels, restaurants, all sorts of businesses and revenue !!!

January 26, 2011 at 11:05 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hogan77 (anonymous) says...

barefooting: Closest university to Dodge City is in Hays- Fort Hays State University. It is around 1 1/2- 2 hours away.

January 26, 2011 at 11:26 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hogan77 (anonymous) says...

Just for the record Methusla: My husband and I went to the Boot Hill Casino this evening. Even for a Wednesday night, they were pretty full. The restaurant was packed, and I noticed that all of the gaming tables were full, most of the slots were full as well. They were not as busy as say, Friday or Saturday night, but for the middle of the week I would say they are doing a darn good job!

I understand there are rules and such when it comes to the state and casinos, but honestly, if Emporia/Lyon County were to look into it and at least give it a full effort, a casino would certainly be a step in the right direction!

Thought I would also mention: not only did Dodge City repair streets before the casino was complete, but they also brought in TWO brand new hotels, in town, for those coming in from out of town or out of state. The events and convention center at the casino will be open next month, with a free concert on the 17th (Little River Band), and free ice skating to the public to celebrate. The center is the ultimate place to go to, since they offer different sorts of events (concerts, rodeos, etc) and skating as well. Emporia could use something like that too, just a thought in case the casino idea doesn't pan out.

booker5m: A few festival ideas for Emporia: Put together an Irish Heritage group and do a St. Patty's day festival full of street dances, authentic German food and vendors- do this on Commercial street on a Saturday. Oktoberfest: Same thing. You guys have a great looking Main Street (from 6th on North), why don't you take advantage of this and close it off once in a while for a street fest? BBQ festival is another idea, Christmas in July (get vendors in like a craft fair, as well as lots of snack type items). It isn't hard to come up with festival ideas, you can put them on almost any time you like. All it takes is a little hard work, a group of people willing to put their heads together and come up with it, a small amount of advertising about open vendor spots (hello Gazette, here's your chance to help), get the city to close off a few blocks of downtown, get a small group of security or officers if there is liquor involved, and viola! You have yourself a festival! Heck, if a small town of 1,000 can do this, I see no reason why a larger town of 20k+ can't manage it.

January 26, 2011 at 11:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

REWBA (anonymous) says...

Why follow? Lead!!! Open a bordello!

January 26, 2011 at 11:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

hogan 77,

I have been trying for some time now to get companies, businesses interested in Emporia, myself, by sending pictures of Emporia, along with descriptions of Emporia, even some brochures of Emporia to them, using my own money ! But I am not a wealthy person/man and cannot afford to do this any longer, what with the increase in taxes, etc.. ! However I would like to see the City Commission follow up on my Casino idea, if they would, as I believe that it would be a good investment and beneficial to all of the people of Emporia !!!
I wish I were wealthy, I would try to generate interest in getting Casinos to look at Emporia with out the Citys help !!!

January 26, 2011 at 11:58 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

hogan 77,

After all, Dodge City is not much larger than Emporia, but must have smarter City leaders !!!

January 27, 2011 at 12:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

krazykansan (anonymous) says...

I think they decided the helium balloon idea would work better.

January 27, 2011 at 12:16 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hogan77 (anonymous) says...

Methusla, last time I looked, on citydata.com, the population of Dodge City was 25,955 in 2009 and up 3.1% from 2000. Emporia was at 24,868 in 2009 and down 7.1% from 2000. Both figures come from the same website. Size wise, they are very close. Emporia does have the university, whereas Dodge City only has a community college. But when you compare the two, you can certainly see who is doing better just by the change in population and the amount of retail and restaurants open.

City leaders in Emporia need to grow up and learn a thing or two. You simply cannot run a town by wasteful spending. They need to take a big time out, and figure out a reasonable way to bring revenue, jobs and families back to the community. Silly rocks won't accomplish this. Perhaps the next step in getting Emporia back on track is to kick out the leaders that are pushing for this ridiculousness, and bring in new blood, young blood, people that have more than half a brain and perhaps some wonderful, new ideas to bring the town back to it's glory.

I know that nothing will bring my family and I back to Emporia to live. But, as a former resident (born and raised there, thank you very much), it saddens me to see things fall apart like they have. My daughter has wished to attend ESU to become a teacher, but at this rate I highly doubt she will stay once she is done.

I have no clue if Emporia offers this or not, but my own community offers a small business owners program. The help is through Economic Development, and I know they help people wanting to own a small business with finding loans, grants, whatnot. Emporia needs more hometown business, especially in all of these empty storefronts downtown and the empty buildings on 6th. Hometown business will help keep the money in the community, instead of it all ending up in big corporation's pockets. It will also help bring some new jobs to the table, things other than flipping burgers at McDonalds. I know my own community is suffering the loss of our only discount "variety" store in town, Alco chose to close all Duckwalls stores. So now Economic Development is looking to fill that void. They would love to have someone local start up a store, but because no one has shown much interest, they are looking to bigger corporations like Family Dollar or Dollar General. We have the desire to bring in a local small business, unlike Emporia, which in my opinion makes our tiny community stronger.

January 27, 2011 at 1:07 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

I just went line by line through the city's budget, and couldn't find anything that had to do with the entrance stones.

http://domino.emporia-kansas.gov/Web%...

Also, if we eliminated the CVB and RDA from the budget, that would free up $630,500. Just sayin ;-)

Matt

January 27, 2011 at 4:44 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

http://emporia-kansas.gov/

Go here, and click on 2011 budget on the right side of the screen. The above link doesn't seem to work.

Matt

January 27, 2011 at 4:46 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

methusla,

Unless you can talk some Indian tribe into buying land around Emporia, or Don Hill and Peggy Mast changing the states constitution, your idea for a casino is moot.
State law only allows 4 state owned casinos and Dodge city happened to be chosen as the western location for one of them. And so far they are raking in the dough.

January 27, 2011 at 5:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

Now it would have been nice if our reps and the RDA had jumped in and said Emporia, Emporia, when the towns around Wichita balked at a state owned casino being located there. But i think the locations have all been decided now and even with our location to major roadways Emporia won't be the site of a casino.

January 27, 2011 at 5:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hometownkid (anonymous) says...

Steve-

If the city doesn't want smoking in public places and liquor sales on sunday. There is no way they would have wanted a casino in this county. !!! Why would they want the extra revnue???

January 27, 2011 at 7:02 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hometownkid (anonymous) says...

Maybe we should get Theresa Walters or Steve Sauder on the RDA They seem pretty good at getting things done !! Maybe even one of the city commissioners that are on their way out !!

Now that's an idea !

January 27, 2011 at 7:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

marko (anonymous) says...

i hear there are a few acres available out by the south roundabout

January 27, 2011 at 7:29 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

I know i know,

I was just responding to meth about his idea for a casino.

That is why I am no longer a member of the chamber of commerce.

Back a long time ago the chamber thought it was a good idea to bring a federal prison to the old C of E campus. What a blow up that caused!

Then when a group of SALOON owners asked the chamber to back liquor by the Drink, it was, "Oh my God, We can't do that. it's way to controversial".

Lost my membership and my respect.
Nothing since then to really regain it.

January 27, 2011 at 8:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justaflushaway (anonymous) says...

Walters or sauder on the RDA, are you kidding, just how old are you, 15?

January 27, 2011 at 8:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

Well, Steve, all I can say is, although my ancestory is of the Cherokee Nation and that particular Native American Nation is/was not indiginous to Kansas and is and presently located in Oklahoma and possibly California, I doubt that they would agree to buy the land that I speak of , especially since the self appointed leadership/Gods of Emporia are as dense as " ROCKS / Stones / Monuments and have no, as my ancestors would say " WISDOM " !! And it would seem that the State of Kansas has no " Wisdom " either !!!

A lower ranking Chief of the Cherokee Nation and a relative of mine are planning on visiting me, sometime in February to look at papers, photos and documents that I have of my Cherokee ancestors to find out more about my Cherokee heritage / lineage and ancestors .

If and when they arrive I will respectively bring up my idea to Chief Takeena Dalton ( Gray Wolf Howling ) of the " prairie eagle warriior band of the Manitoba Metis of the great plains Metis Nation " of which, I am a bonafide member and see what they think of the Idea !!

And Steve my friend, you may have lost your membership, but , as long as you do what is right and just by and to your " brothers " you will never lose your " Respect " !

Your respectful friend and " brother " " Standing Buffalo " a.k.a. methusla !!!

January 27, 2011 at 9:36 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

Steve, you're not alone for not belonging to the Chamber. I know several merchants in town who don't belong to the Chamber because for the membership fees they charge, you don't get anything in return. Not anything of real consequence. Most have told me the money saved is better spent on advertisng themselves or doing something that attracts customers for themselves.

January 27, 2011 at 10:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

hometownkid (anonymous) says...

I was just saying flush...when those two want something done they work very hard to get it done.....no matter what others are saying or wanting. With that kinda drive maybe they would be good for the RDA

January 27, 2011 at 10:25 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

methusla (anonymous) says...

hometownkid,

The only thing is, the main reason and motivation behind what they ( the Sauders ) do what they do is so they can puff up their collective chests and egos and say " See what I/we have done for you " LOWLY " people of Emporia, " I am SAUDER " hear me " ROAR " and then go to slapping each others backs, with huggs, kisses and hand shakes, without any regard as to the cost to those who cannot afford any more sales tax hikes or extensions or property tax hikes, or stupid, needless City spending , or the hardships it may cose the " PEOPLE " and Deeper City / people debt !!!

January 27, 2011 at 11:21 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

I think the best thing that could ever happen to the CVB and RDA is for their budget to be cut, completely and immediately. I'm sure we could find a MUCH better use for $650,000/yr.

January 27, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

sail (anonymous) says...

I think many would join the chamber if they had a plan of action laid out and identified how they were going to improve Emporia . Something more that a mission statement and lip service.

January 27, 2011 at 12:14 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )