Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Hey I didn't write this
I received this from a friend of mine who...ah...makes his living......ah..a friend of mine.
Subject: Democrat, Republican or Southerner
Here is a little test that will help you decide. The answer can be found by
posing the following question:
You're walking down a deserted street with your wife and two small children.
Suddenly, an Islamic Terrorist with a huge knife comes around the corner, locks
eyes with you, screams obscenities, praises Allah, raises the knife, and charges
at you.
You are carrying a 40 caliber Glock, and you are an expert shot. You have mere
seconds before he reaches you and your family. What do you do?
THINK CAREFULLY AND THEN SCROLL DOWN
Democrat's Answer:
Well, that's not enough information to answer the question!
Does the man look poor or oppressed?
Have I ever done anything to him that would inspire him to attack?
Could we run away?
What does my wife think?
What about the kids?
Could I possibly swing the gun like a club and knock the knife out of his hand?
What does the law say about this situation?
Does the Glock have an appropriate safety built into it?
Why am I carrying a loaded gun anyway, and what kind of message does this send
to society and to my children?
Is it possible he'd be happy with just killing me?
Does he definitely want to kill me, or would he be content just to wound me?
If I were to grab his knees and hold on, could my family get away while he was
stabbing me?
Should I call 9-1-1?
Why is this street so deserted?
We need to raise taxes, have a paint and weed day, and make this a happier,
healthier street that would discourage such behavior.
This is all so confusing! I need to debate this with some friends for few days
and try to come to a consensus.
Republican's Answer:
BANG!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Southerner's Answer:
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
BANG! Click..... another magazine into the gun
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
BANG! Click….another magazine into the gun, scan and holster.
Daughter: 'Nice grouping, Daddy! Were those the Winchester Silver Tips or Hollow
Points?'
Son: "Can I shoot the next one!"
Wife: "You're not takin' that to the Taxidermist
Subject: Democrat, Republican or Southerner
Here is a little test that will help you decide. The answer can be found by
posing the following question:
You're walking down a deserted street with your wife and two small children.
Suddenly, an Islamic Terrorist with a huge knife comes around the corner, locks
eyes with you, screams obscenities, praises Allah, raises the knife, and charges
at you.
You are carrying a 40 caliber Glock, and you are an expert shot. You have mere
seconds before he reaches you and your family. What do you do?
THINK CAREFULLY AND THEN SCROLL DOWN
Democrat's Answer:
Well, that's not enough information to answer the question!
Does the man look poor or oppressed?
Have I ever done anything to him that would inspire him to attack?
Could we run away?
What does my wife think?
What about the kids?
Could I possibly swing the gun like a club and knock the knife out of his hand?
What does the law say about this situation?
Does the Glock have an appropriate safety built into it?
Why am I carrying a loaded gun anyway, and what kind of message does this send
to society and to my children?
Is it possible he'd be happy with just killing me?
Does he definitely want to kill me, or would he be content just to wound me?
If I were to grab his knees and hold on, could my family get away while he was
stabbing me?
Should I call 9-1-1?
Why is this street so deserted?
We need to raise taxes, have a paint and weed day, and make this a happier,
healthier street that would discourage such behavior.
This is all so confusing! I need to debate this with some friends for few days
and try to come to a consensus.
Republican's Answer:
BANG!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Southerner's Answer:
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
BANG! Click..... another magazine into the gun
BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG! BANG!
BANG! Click….another magazine into the gun, scan and holster.
Daughter: 'Nice grouping, Daddy! Were those the Winchester Silver Tips or Hollow
Points?'
Son: "Can I shoot the next one!"
Wife: "You're not takin' that to the Taxidermist
Thursday, January 10, 2008
2007 Darwin Awards
It's that time when the Darwin Awards are bestowed, honoring the least-evolved among us.
And the Winner for 2007 is:
1. When his 38-caliber revolver failed to fire at his intended victim during a hold- up in Long Beach , California , would-be robber James Elliot did something that can only inspire wonder. He peered down the barrel and tried the trigger again. This time it worked.
The Honorable Mentions:
2. The chef at a hotel in Switzerland lost a finger in a meat-
cutting machine and submitted a claim to his insurance company. The company expecting negligence sent out one of its men to have a look for himself. He tried the machine and he also lost a finger. The chef's claim was approved.
3. A man who shoveled snow for an hour to clear a space for his car during a blizzard in Chicago returned with his vehicle to find a woman had taken the space. Understandably, he shot her.
4. After stopping for drinks at an illegal bar, a Zimbabwean bus driver found that the 20 mental patients he was supposed to be transporting from Harare to Bulawayo had escaped. Not wanting to admit his incompetence, the driver went to a nearby bus stop andoffered everyone waiting there a free ride. He then delivered the passengers to the mental hospital, telling the staff that the patients were very excitable and prone to bizarre fantasies.
The deception wasn't discovered for 3 days.
5. A Texas teenager was in the hospital recovering from serious head wounds received from an oncoming train. When asked how he received the injuries, the lad told police that he was simply trying to see how close he could get his head to a moving train before he was hit.
6. A man walked into a Louisiana Circle-K, put a $20 bill on the counter, and asked for change. When the clerk opened the cash drawer, the man pulled a gun and asked for all the cash in the register, which the clerk promptly
provided. The man took the cash from the clerk and fled, leaving the $20 bill on the counter. The total amount of cash he got from the drawer: $15.
7. Seems an Arkansas guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinderblock through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinderblock and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinderblock bounced back and hit the would-be thief on the head, knocking him unconscious. The liquor store window was made of Plexiglas. The whole event was caught on videotape.
8. As a female shopper exited a New York convenience store, a man grabbed her purse and ran. The clerk called 911 immediately, and the woman was able to give them a detailed description of the snatcher. Within minutes, the police apprehended the snatcher. They put him in the car and drove back to the store. The thief was then taken out of the car and told to stand there for a positive ID. To which he replied, "Yes, officer, that's her. That's the lady I stole the purse from."
9. The Ann Arbor Michigan News crime column reported that a man walked into a Burger King in Ypsilanti , Michigan , at 5 a.m., flashed a gun, and demanded cash. The clerk turned him down because he said he couldn't open the cash register without a food order. When the man ordered onion rings, the clerk said they weren't available for breakfast. The man, frustrated, walked away.
***And the 5-STAR STUPIDITY AWARD WINNER***
10. When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from a motor home parked on a Seattle street, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at the scene to find a very sick man curled up next to a motor home near spilled sewage. A police spokesman said that the man admitted to trying to steal gasoline and plugged his siphon hose into the motor home's sewage tank by mistake. The owner of the vehicle declined to press charges, saying that it was the best laugh he'd had in a very long time.
And the Winner for 2007 is:
1. When his 38-caliber revolver failed to fire at his intended victim during a hold- up in Long Beach , California , would-be robber James Elliot did something that can only inspire wonder. He peered down the barrel and tried the trigger again. This time it worked.
The Honorable Mentions:
2. The chef at a hotel in Switzerland lost a finger in a meat-
cutting machine and submitted a claim to his insurance company. The company expecting negligence sent out one of its men to have a look for himself. He tried the machine and he also lost a finger. The chef's claim was approved.
3. A man who shoveled snow for an hour to clear a space for his car during a blizzard in Chicago returned with his vehicle to find a woman had taken the space. Understandably, he shot her.
4. After stopping for drinks at an illegal bar, a Zimbabwean bus driver found that the 20 mental patients he was supposed to be transporting from Harare to Bulawayo had escaped. Not wanting to admit his incompetence, the driver went to a nearby bus stop andoffered everyone waiting there a free ride. He then delivered the passengers to the mental hospital, telling the staff that the patients were very excitable and prone to bizarre fantasies.
The deception wasn't discovered for 3 days.
5. A Texas teenager was in the hospital recovering from serious head wounds received from an oncoming train. When asked how he received the injuries, the lad told police that he was simply trying to see how close he could get his head to a moving train before he was hit.
6. A man walked into a Louisiana Circle-K, put a $20 bill on the counter, and asked for change. When the clerk opened the cash drawer, the man pulled a gun and asked for all the cash in the register, which the clerk promptly
provided. The man took the cash from the clerk and fled, leaving the $20 bill on the counter. The total amount of cash he got from the drawer: $15.
7. Seems an Arkansas guy wanted some beer pretty badly. He decided that he'd just throw a cinderblock through a liquor store window, grab some booze, and run. So he lifted the cinderblock and heaved it over his head at the window. The cinderblock bounced back and hit the would-be thief on the head, knocking him unconscious. The liquor store window was made of Plexiglas. The whole event was caught on videotape.
8. As a female shopper exited a New York convenience store, a man grabbed her purse and ran. The clerk called 911 immediately, and the woman was able to give them a detailed description of the snatcher. Within minutes, the police apprehended the snatcher. They put him in the car and drove back to the store. The thief was then taken out of the car and told to stand there for a positive ID. To which he replied, "Yes, officer, that's her. That's the lady I stole the purse from."
9. The Ann Arbor Michigan News crime column reported that a man walked into a Burger King in Ypsilanti , Michigan , at 5 a.m., flashed a gun, and demanded cash. The clerk turned him down because he said he couldn't open the cash register without a food order. When the man ordered onion rings, the clerk said they weren't available for breakfast. The man, frustrated, walked away.
***And the 5-STAR STUPIDITY AWARD WINNER***
10. When a man attempted to siphon gasoline from a motor home parked on a Seattle street, he got much more than he bargained for. Police arrived at the scene to find a very sick man curled up next to a motor home near spilled sewage. A police spokesman said that the man admitted to trying to steal gasoline and plugged his siphon hose into the motor home's sewage tank by mistake. The owner of the vehicle declined to press charges, saying that it was the best laugh he'd had in a very long time.
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
City's Response {Finally} to Pythian Castle
LAW
DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
Redacted for public release pursuant to Section 610.024.2 RSMo
.
TO: Mayor Tom Carlson, Members of City Council and City Manager
FROM: Thomas E. Rykowski, Assistant City Attorney
SUBJECT: Pythian Castle – Issues raised by Tamara Finocchiaro at December 17,
2007 City Council Meeting
DATE: January 7, 2008
This report is in response to issues raised at the December 17, 2007, City Council
meeting regarding Pythian Castle. While this matter may appear to be a recent
controversy, these issues began in 2004. While Ms. Finocchiaro implies that her
problems only began with the City Law Department in 2007, she has been dealing with
City staff in various departments for over three years. This memo will outline the
timeline in which the Pythian Castle owner has had to complete all necessary items to
operate the castle in accordance with all applicable City ordinances. If anyone wishes
to receive a more detailed review of this matter, I will be happy to meet with you.
Under City code, all businesses are required to have a license except those exempted
by state statute. Since 2004, or earlier, the Castle has operated without a business
license or valid Certificate of Occupancy. Springfield requires businesses to be licensed
to (a) keep a record of businesses operating in the City; (b) provide a mechanism for the
City to track sales taxes once a Tax ID number is provided by the State; (c) insure that
buildings being used for business operations are safe for the public; and (d) verify that
the uses of the building are permissible within the City’s zoning ordinances.
Additionally, if the business is an eating establishment, the licensing process triggers
health inspections.
Normally, someone applying for a business license must establish that his or her
proposed business is permitted by the applicable zoning classification for that particular
area. In addition, any structure open to the public must meet certain building code
requirements. Springfield, like many other communities, has adopted and follows the
International Building and Fire Codes. These standards vary for residential versus
commercial uses and safety requirements are even greater for an establishment
providing overnight accommodations. One of the initial uses explained to the City by
1
Ms. Finocchiaro was to use the facility as a bed and breakfast, boutique hotel, or themeevent
sleeping quarters.
From 2004 to 2007 staff from Planning, BDS, Finance and Fire Departments have had
intermittent contact with Ms. Finocchiaro. Staff has repeatedly advised Ms. Finocchiaro
that she needs to comply with City Code on various items and that she needs to obtain
a business license and Certificate of Occupancy. On occasion, these meetings would
involve Laura Derrick, an architect hired by Ms. Finocchiaro. Staff has also received
anonymous complaints regarding the operation of the Castle without a valid business
license.
In late August or early September of 2007, the law department was approached with an
issue regarding Pythian Castle. Ms. Finocchiaro may have been operating her business
since late 2003 or early 2004 without either a business license or final Certificate of
Occupancy. While City staff was aware of this, enforcement was stayed since Ms.
Finocchiaro appeared to be trying to work through various building issues. However, it
had become apparent to the Building Development Services and Planning Departments
that Ms. Finocchiaro either did not have the means or the desire to fulfill Code
requirements by completing her development plans and making the required building
changes. The requirements placed upon Ms. Finocchiaro were essentially the same
throughout the entire process.
Based upon the apparent unwillingness or inability of Ms. Finocchiaro to complete the
development plans, BDS and Fire requested the Law Department take steps to require
the owner of the Castle to cease operating until the necessary permits and licenses
were obtained. Prior to taking steps to close the business, the City, through various
departments, continued to work with Ms. Finocchiaro to encourage her to comply with
the development process. Ms. Finocchiaro continued to ignore repeated requests to
cease business operations and had been booking parties greater than 60 people and
allowing the public access to all floors in the building. In fact, when inspectors went to
the building on November 16, 2007 to terminate the illegal uses, inspectors discovered
an occupancy sign allowing 300 customers.
Even though immediate closure was warranted due to Ms. Finocchiaro’s willful
violations for over three years, staff continued to assist Ms. Finiocchiaro by trying to find
a way she could continue to operate in order to avoid placing her in breach of future
contracts. It is important to keep in mind that these bookings should never have been
made since the Castle was not licensed at any time. In an effort to show good faith,
staff obtained permission from the City Manager to meet with Ms. Finocchiaro and her
architect to establish a timeline for finalization of her development plans and completion
of the required building modifications while allowing her to continue to operate under her
original proposal.
At that meeting, the City laid out the evidence of improper uses for Ms. Finocchiaro and
her attorney. Once again, Ms. Finocchiaro, her architect and her attorney all expressed
a desire to continue to operate. Following the October 17 meeting, an Interim Use
Agreement was proposed by the Law Department. Ms. Finocchiaro provided a copy of
2
that Interim Use Agreement to each of you, she omitted page 2 of the document and a
copy of that page is attached as Exhibit 1. The proposal was not negotiable, but
nothing in the Interim Use Agreement was more than had been required by the City
since November 2004.
In the normal process, building permits are not issued until plans have been completely
approved. To allow her to continue to operate under the Interim Use Agreement, one
requirement was the immediate inspection by BDS and the Fire Department. This
inspection resulted in a punch list being provided to Ms. Finocchiaro of items that
needed to be rectified in the final plan, but was designed more to provide a list of
temporary “fixes” that would allow her to continue to operate while more permanent
modifications were being completed. This punch list was essentially the same list that
had been given to her originally in 2004. See Exhibit 2. To the extent building permits
would have been required to make any of the temporary immediate repairs needed for
continued operation under the agreement, those permits would have been issued. Ms,
Finocchiaro ultimately rejected this proposal, and therefore none of the terms of the
agreement were in effect, including the provision allowing her to obtain “special” building
permits without fully complying with standard procedures.
There were two or three events planned during the period that the City was allowing Ms.
Finocchiaro to review the proposed Interim Use Agreement. Since adequate fire safety
measures were not in place in the building, the City offered to allow her to proceed with
these events under the condition that a Fire Marshall was present. This proposal was
not unique to Ms. Finicchiaro. The City had previously utilized this same arrangement
with the Gillioz Theatre. The cost for utilizing a Fire Marshal was set as the cost of
salary and benefits for the Marshal position in the City Salary Schedule. This is the
same process used in calculating the cost of staff time to reply to Sunshine Law
requests.
Thereafter, Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney advised Mr. Rykowski that his client had decided
that rather than attempting to comply with the Interim Use Agreement she would shut
down her business to devote her attention to completing her development plan and
restoring the Castle. In that discussion it was mentioned that, although she was
rejecting the Interim Use Agreement, there were a few upcoming events that she would
like to host and that she would do so with the presence of a Fire Marshal. Since Ms.
Finocchiaro did not agree to enter into the Interim Use Agreement, this option was not
available to her. A confirmation email was sent to Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney, a copy is
attached as Exhibit 3.
From advertisements on radio, the “Sci-Fi” cable network and the Castle’s website, the
city learned that Ms. Finocchiaro was continuing to operate a business at the Castle.
On November 16, 2007, inspectors from the Building Development Service Department
and the Fire Marshal’s office went to the premises and discovered individuals being
allowed to roam freely on all floors of the building. The Castle was once more held
open to the public without a proper business license or Certificate of Occupancy and
contrary to the representations made by Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney.
3
4
During the November 16, 2007 inspection, cars were parked on either side of the
driveway approaching the Castle. To the east side of this driveway, the vehicles are
parking on land that is apparently owned by Evangel University. One of the
requirements for final approval of Ms. Finocchiaro’s development plan was establishing
a parking area sufficient to accommodate the number of patrons she intended to bring
into the facility. Photographs taken during this inspection are attached: Exhibit 4 –
cars parking on both sides of the driveway; Exhibit 5 – dangerous building placards
posted on the building; Exhibit 6 – 300 maximum occupancy sign; Exhibit 7 – guests
descending from the second story; Exhibit 8 – basement door open to occupancy.
Due to the violations noted above, the building was posted as a dangerous building for
failure to comply with the Springfield Building Code. The building was closed for use by
the public as it does not possess a valid Certificate of Occupancy, is not in compliance
with building and fire regulations to allow public use, and was illegally operating without
a business license.
Staff has made every effort to assist Ms. Finnochiaro in obtaining proper permits and
licensing for her business. She has refused to comply and is very belligerent when
advised of her continuing violations. In addition to building code issues, we have
received telephone calls from caterers requesting temporary liquor licenses for events
at Pythian Castle. Since there is no valid Certificate of Occupancy or business license
for the address, caterers have been advised that no temporary liquor licenses could be
issued. This has been ongoing since 2004 and Ms. Finocchiaro has not obtained
easements from Evangel University or the U.S. Military for access or parking, yet she
continues to operate illegally.
____________________________
Thomas E. Rykowski
Assistant City Attorney
Complete Timeline
The following represents a timeline of the city involvement regarding Pythian Castle.
• August 18, 2004 – application received for commercial development.
Reported anticipated uses exceed current zoning. Applicant provided GI
regulations, and advised to contact Planning and Zoning to begin process.
• October/November 2004 – preliminary assessment of the items that might be
needed to bring building into compliance provided to owner. See Exhibit 2.
(Note: all major issues identified in this document continue to be unresolved
today.)
(It appears as though applicant was already operating the business without obtaining a
business license, Certificate of Occupancy, necessary zoning changes, or submitting and
obtaining approval of plans.).
• Fall 2004 – Licensing Department contacted with questions regarding obtaining a
liquor license. No information reported to suggest business already operating.
Record reflects applicant was unhappy with information provided as to the
procedures necessary to obtain business and liquor license. Blank application for
business license sent to Tamara Finocchiaro.
• November 22, 2004 – to assist applicant, city provided documents from a similar
PD to guide her in preparing her development request.
• January 10, 2005 – letter to Pythian Castle owner advising that her application to
the Planning and Zoning Commission was tabled at her request while she waits
for sealed drawings to attach to her application.
• January 14, 2005 – Licensing Department receives anonymous call inquiring if
Pythian Castle is legitimate business and has all necessary licenses. Check by
Licensing Department and BDS show no registered business at that address.
Anonymous individual leaves advertising flyers for Pythian Castle at licensing
desk.
• January 20, 2005 – PD 277 approved by Planning and Zoning Commission 5-0.
• February 10, 2005 – Licensing Department sends letter to Pythian Castle advising
of the illegality of operating without a business license. Pythian Castle is given
10 days to file appropriate paperwork and pay license fee or request a hearing.
• February 10, 2005 – Pythian Castle mentioned in Springfield News-Leader article
regarding Valentine’s Day activities.
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
1
• February 2005 – License application dated October 25, 2004 received in return
envelope provided by Licensing Department following earlier inquiry.
• February 22, 2005 – City Council approves PD 277. Applicant advised to submit
final development plans for review, comment and approval before building
permits and licensing can be obtained.
• March 2005 – facility toured by development review team. Letter sent advising
of requirements for plan submittal.
• October 2005 – complaint received by BDS that business is operating without
license or Certificate of Occupancy. BDS calls designer and receives no
response.
• November 2005 – BDS sends letter to owner outlining steps to comply, orders
public occupancy to cease and business operations to terminate until property is in
compliance with city ordinances. Plans for phase 1 are still not approved, and
only suggest occupancy limit of 60 and all uses confined to first-floor. Complaint
and investigation reveal occupancies greater than 60 and uses on other floors
being allowed by owner.
• December 2005 – letter to owner outlining required corrections.
• January 2006 – code administrator sends additional letter advising owner to cease
operations until in compliance. Code administrator met with owner and designer
to discuss. Owner advised to discontinue business activities until properly
licensed.
• January 2006 – Fire Department comments that site does not have adequate fire
apparatus access. Structure needs to have sprinkler system for public use.
Existing private hydrant may not be operational and is unlikely to be sufficient to
fight fire. Hydrant must be tested for proper pressure and sit may need new
hydrants installed. Parking issues still not addressed from initial submission,
storm water issues still pending, Landmark Board approval still pending, no
lighting plan or signage plan submitted.
• February 2006 – ARC meeting held with designer and owner. Unresolved issues
discussed. Designer promises plans to be resubmitted within two weeks.
• February 24, 2006 – Fire Department notes road must be paved, fire truck turn
around must be improved, sprinkler system may be required depending upon uses
of the building.
(No further contact with city by owner or designer until March 2007. During that time,
Licensing Department was contacted regarding temporary liquor licenses for catering
services and a permanent liquor license for facility. No action was taken at this time as
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
2
licensing believed owner was working with appropriate city departments to obtain
necessary permits.)
• March 2007 – BDS investigator contacts owner twice to establish time frame for
plan submittal and repeats order to cease business uses.
• Plans for phase 1 resubmitted, they are incomplete and are not approved. Plan
review letter sent.
• August 2007 – Law Department sends letter to property owner outlining steps to
comply, orders public occupancy to cease until in compliance.
• Phase 1 plans resubmitted but not approved.
• City Departments meet to discuss the continued illegal operation of this business
and consider options for obtaining cooperation from the owner in moving forward
with the development plans.
• October 2007 – Law department contacts owner advising legal action will be
taken to stop illegal operation. Meeting offered to determine if agreement could
be reached to allow limited uses and a timeframe with definite deadlines to
complete development of phase 1.
• October 17, 2007 – property owner, designer and owner's attorney meet with city
attorneys to discuss project status. Further advised that her activities must cease,
and she must comply with regulations as required of every other business. It was
determined that specific deadlines for compliance should be implemented to assist
the owner in completing her development plans, obtaining permits and finalizing
building modifications. This agreement would also allow her to continue
operating her business while the development process continued, provided such
operations were limited to a maximum of 60 persons on the first floor of the
structure.
• October 26, 2007 – Interim Use Agreement provided to owner and her attorney.
Deadline to accept is set forth. See Exhibit 9.
• November 3, 2007 – attorney for owner advises city attorneys that owner will shut
down to devote full efforts and time to completion of the development project.
• Fire Marshal, and BDS inspectors requested to monitor site.
• November 16, 2007 – inspection by the Fire Marshal, and BDS investigator
reveals castle is still operating with the public being given access to all floors and
the owner has posted a sign indicating an occupancy maximum of 300. Building
posted as a dangerous building and closed.
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
3
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
4
[Paragraph redacted pursuant to Section 610.024.2 RSMo]
Regarding specific issues raised by Tamara Finocchiaro and her supporters
1) “They are good neighbors and friends to many in Springfield. . .”
City response: Ms. Finocchiaro’s character and “neighborliness” is not at issue, she is required
to comply with City ordinances just like all other citizens.
2) “Tamara is doing a brilliant job of restoring the castle to its original grandeur. She
invested a great deal of work in the castle the first year, then applied for a business license three
and a half years ago. Her business plan included exact uses the castle was originally built to
accommodate, yet she has been delayed by Planning and Zoning, red tape, and senseless
requirements for years.”
City response: The amount of time and or money Ms. Finocchiaro has invested in the property is
unknown to the City as no building permits were ever applied for to show what, if any, work was
done to restore the building. Regarding the statement relating to “red tape and senseless
requirements,” the City has only asked Ms. Finocchiaro to comply with fire and building codes
just like every other business in the City. The primary requests involve basic safety equipment
such as sprinklers, fire hydrants, fire apparatus access, appropriate egress exits and emergency
exit lighting. Any improvements made by Ms. Finocchiaro were not inspected as they were
completed without proper building permits. Ms. Finocchiaro has indicated that her intended uses
of the property may include offices, meeting/banquet rooms, art galleries, theater, an indoor
sports facility, a boarding house, a restaurant, retail uses, schools/studios, a bed and breakfast
inn, and residential uses.
3) “Improper administration and denial of permits, unfairly closing the Castle in the face of
events, and plastering dangerous building on the face of a fireproof castle.”
City’s response: At no time was the applicant advised she would be allowed to take out permits
until her final plans were approved. Interim building permits were offered as part of an Interim
Use Agreement which she declined.
The building is dangerous in as much as it meets the code definition of a dangerous building by
its lack of sufficient life safety and other necessary building requirements. The castle was closed
due to continued illegal operation of the business without obtaining a proper business licensing
or passing an inspection.
4) “Little technical details should be overcome.”
City response: Technical details such as requiring adequate ingress and egress, proper
emergency lighting, and fire safety equipment are hardly “little technical details.” All of the
code compliance requirements could have been completed in a matter of months if Ms.
Finocchiaro had continued to move forward with her project. Ms. Finocchiaro is not being asked
to follow any additional or special procedures that are not required of any other citizen.
5) “The City blocked everything and would not leave their desk to inspect the castle.”
City response: The building has been inspected by the City of Springfield on more than one
occasion and Ms. Finocchiaro has been provided with numerous memos and letters regarding the
steps needed to proceed with development of the property. The first memo came from Bob
Hosmer in November 2004. Additional correspondence outlined the findings of the development
review site inspection in March 2005, ARC responses and findings, and the findings of the
inspection done in late 2007 in connection with the proposed interim use agreement.
6) “Tamara Finocchiaro was forced to sign a contract.”
City’s response: Ms. Finocchiaro has never been “forced” to sign anything. An interim use
agreement was proposed and she voluntarily refused to enter into that agreement. The City has
attempted to accommodate Ms. Finocchiaro and has patiently waited for the final development
plan. After nearly two and half years, it became apparent that absent extreme measures on the
part of the City, Ms. Finocchiaro would continue to illegally operate this business and ignore
City regulations which are applicable to every business within the City.
DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM
PRIVILEGED AND CONFIDENTIAL
Redacted for public release pursuant to Section 610.024.2 RSMo
.
TO: Mayor Tom Carlson, Members of City Council and City Manager
FROM: Thomas E. Rykowski, Assistant City Attorney
SUBJECT: Pythian Castle – Issues raised by Tamara Finocchiaro at December 17,
2007 City Council Meeting
DATE: January 7, 2008
This report is in response to issues raised at the December 17, 2007, City Council
meeting regarding Pythian Castle. While this matter may appear to be a recent
controversy, these issues began in 2004. While Ms. Finocchiaro implies that her
problems only began with the City Law Department in 2007, she has been dealing with
City staff in various departments for over three years. This memo will outline the
timeline in which the Pythian Castle owner has had to complete all necessary items to
operate the castle in accordance with all applicable City ordinances. If anyone wishes
to receive a more detailed review of this matter, I will be happy to meet with you.
Under City code, all businesses are required to have a license except those exempted
by state statute. Since 2004, or earlier, the Castle has operated without a business
license or valid Certificate of Occupancy. Springfield requires businesses to be licensed
to (a) keep a record of businesses operating in the City; (b) provide a mechanism for the
City to track sales taxes once a Tax ID number is provided by the State; (c) insure that
buildings being used for business operations are safe for the public; and (d) verify that
the uses of the building are permissible within the City’s zoning ordinances.
Additionally, if the business is an eating establishment, the licensing process triggers
health inspections.
Normally, someone applying for a business license must establish that his or her
proposed business is permitted by the applicable zoning classification for that particular
area. In addition, any structure open to the public must meet certain building code
requirements. Springfield, like many other communities, has adopted and follows the
International Building and Fire Codes. These standards vary for residential versus
commercial uses and safety requirements are even greater for an establishment
providing overnight accommodations. One of the initial uses explained to the City by
1
Ms. Finocchiaro was to use the facility as a bed and breakfast, boutique hotel, or themeevent
sleeping quarters.
From 2004 to 2007 staff from Planning, BDS, Finance and Fire Departments have had
intermittent contact with Ms. Finocchiaro. Staff has repeatedly advised Ms. Finocchiaro
that she needs to comply with City Code on various items and that she needs to obtain
a business license and Certificate of Occupancy. On occasion, these meetings would
involve Laura Derrick, an architect hired by Ms. Finocchiaro. Staff has also received
anonymous complaints regarding the operation of the Castle without a valid business
license.
In late August or early September of 2007, the law department was approached with an
issue regarding Pythian Castle. Ms. Finocchiaro may have been operating her business
since late 2003 or early 2004 without either a business license or final Certificate of
Occupancy. While City staff was aware of this, enforcement was stayed since Ms.
Finocchiaro appeared to be trying to work through various building issues. However, it
had become apparent to the Building Development Services and Planning Departments
that Ms. Finocchiaro either did not have the means or the desire to fulfill Code
requirements by completing her development plans and making the required building
changes. The requirements placed upon Ms. Finocchiaro were essentially the same
throughout the entire process.
Based upon the apparent unwillingness or inability of Ms. Finocchiaro to complete the
development plans, BDS and Fire requested the Law Department take steps to require
the owner of the Castle to cease operating until the necessary permits and licenses
were obtained. Prior to taking steps to close the business, the City, through various
departments, continued to work with Ms. Finocchiaro to encourage her to comply with
the development process. Ms. Finocchiaro continued to ignore repeated requests to
cease business operations and had been booking parties greater than 60 people and
allowing the public access to all floors in the building. In fact, when inspectors went to
the building on November 16, 2007 to terminate the illegal uses, inspectors discovered
an occupancy sign allowing 300 customers.
Even though immediate closure was warranted due to Ms. Finocchiaro’s willful
violations for over three years, staff continued to assist Ms. Finiocchiaro by trying to find
a way she could continue to operate in order to avoid placing her in breach of future
contracts. It is important to keep in mind that these bookings should never have been
made since the Castle was not licensed at any time. In an effort to show good faith,
staff obtained permission from the City Manager to meet with Ms. Finocchiaro and her
architect to establish a timeline for finalization of her development plans and completion
of the required building modifications while allowing her to continue to operate under her
original proposal.
At that meeting, the City laid out the evidence of improper uses for Ms. Finocchiaro and
her attorney. Once again, Ms. Finocchiaro, her architect and her attorney all expressed
a desire to continue to operate. Following the October 17 meeting, an Interim Use
Agreement was proposed by the Law Department. Ms. Finocchiaro provided a copy of
2
that Interim Use Agreement to each of you, she omitted page 2 of the document and a
copy of that page is attached as Exhibit 1. The proposal was not negotiable, but
nothing in the Interim Use Agreement was more than had been required by the City
since November 2004.
In the normal process, building permits are not issued until plans have been completely
approved. To allow her to continue to operate under the Interim Use Agreement, one
requirement was the immediate inspection by BDS and the Fire Department. This
inspection resulted in a punch list being provided to Ms. Finocchiaro of items that
needed to be rectified in the final plan, but was designed more to provide a list of
temporary “fixes” that would allow her to continue to operate while more permanent
modifications were being completed. This punch list was essentially the same list that
had been given to her originally in 2004. See Exhibit 2. To the extent building permits
would have been required to make any of the temporary immediate repairs needed for
continued operation under the agreement, those permits would have been issued. Ms,
Finocchiaro ultimately rejected this proposal, and therefore none of the terms of the
agreement were in effect, including the provision allowing her to obtain “special” building
permits without fully complying with standard procedures.
There were two or three events planned during the period that the City was allowing Ms.
Finocchiaro to review the proposed Interim Use Agreement. Since adequate fire safety
measures were not in place in the building, the City offered to allow her to proceed with
these events under the condition that a Fire Marshall was present. This proposal was
not unique to Ms. Finicchiaro. The City had previously utilized this same arrangement
with the Gillioz Theatre. The cost for utilizing a Fire Marshal was set as the cost of
salary and benefits for the Marshal position in the City Salary Schedule. This is the
same process used in calculating the cost of staff time to reply to Sunshine Law
requests.
Thereafter, Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney advised Mr. Rykowski that his client had decided
that rather than attempting to comply with the Interim Use Agreement she would shut
down her business to devote her attention to completing her development plan and
restoring the Castle. In that discussion it was mentioned that, although she was
rejecting the Interim Use Agreement, there were a few upcoming events that she would
like to host and that she would do so with the presence of a Fire Marshal. Since Ms.
Finocchiaro did not agree to enter into the Interim Use Agreement, this option was not
available to her. A confirmation email was sent to Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney, a copy is
attached as Exhibit 3.
From advertisements on radio, the “Sci-Fi” cable network and the Castle’s website, the
city learned that Ms. Finocchiaro was continuing to operate a business at the Castle.
On November 16, 2007, inspectors from the Building Development Service Department
and the Fire Marshal’s office went to the premises and discovered individuals being
allowed to roam freely on all floors of the building. The Castle was once more held
open to the public without a proper business license or Certificate of Occupancy and
contrary to the representations made by Ms. Finocchiaro’s attorney.
3
4
During the November 16, 2007 inspection, cars were parked on either side of the
driveway approaching the Castle. To the east side of this driveway, the vehicles are
parking on land that is apparently owned by Evangel University. One of the
requirements for final approval of Ms. Finocchiaro’s development plan was establishing
a parking area sufficient to accommodate the number of patrons she intended to bring
into the facility. Photographs taken during this inspection are attached: Exhibit 4 –
cars parking on both sides of the driveway; Exhibit 5 – dangerous building placards
posted on the building; Exhibit 6 – 300 maximum occupancy sign; Exhibit 7 – guests
descending from the second story; Exhibit 8 – basement door open to occupancy.
Due to the violations noted above, the building was posted as a dangerous building for
failure to comply with the Springfield Building Code. The building was closed for use by
the public as it does not possess a valid Certificate of Occupancy, is not in compliance
with building and fire regulations to allow public use, and was illegally operating without
a business license.
Staff has made every effort to assist Ms. Finnochiaro in obtaining proper permits and
licensing for her business. She has refused to comply and is very belligerent when
advised of her continuing violations. In addition to building code issues, we have
received telephone calls from caterers requesting temporary liquor licenses for events
at Pythian Castle. Since there is no valid Certificate of Occupancy or business license
for the address, caterers have been advised that no temporary liquor licenses could be
issued. This has been ongoing since 2004 and Ms. Finocchiaro has not obtained
easements from Evangel University or the U.S. Military for access or parking, yet she
continues to operate illegally.
____________________________
Thomas E. Rykowski
Assistant City Attorney
Complete Timeline
The following represents a timeline of the city involvement regarding Pythian Castle.
• August 18, 2004 – application received for commercial development.
Reported anticipated uses exceed current zoning. Applicant provided GI
regulations, and advised to contact Planning and Zoning to begin process.
• October/November 2004 – preliminary assessment of the items that might be
needed to bring building into compliance provided to owner. See Exhibit 2.
(Note: all major issues identified in this document continue to be unresolved
today.)
(It appears as though applicant was already operating the business without obtaining a
business license, Certificate of Occupancy, necessary zoning changes, or submitting and
obtaining approval of plans.).
• Fall 2004 – Licensing Department contacted with questions regarding obtaining a
liquor license. No information reported to suggest business already operating.
Record reflects applicant was unhappy with information provided as to the
procedures necessary to obtain business and liquor license. Blank application for
business license sent to Tamara Finocchiaro.
• November 22, 2004 – to assist applicant, city provided documents from a similar
PD to guide her in preparing her development request.
• January 10, 2005 – letter to Pythian Castle owner advising that her application to
the Planning and Zoning Commission was tabled at her request while she waits
for sealed drawings to attach to her application.
• January 14, 2005 – Licensing Department receives anonymous call inquiring if
Pythian Castle is legitimate business and has all necessary licenses. Check by
Licensing Department and BDS show no registered business at that address.
Anonymous individual leaves advertising flyers for Pythian Castle at licensing
desk.
• January 20, 2005 – PD 277 approved by Planning and Zoning Commission 5-0.
• February 10, 2005 – Licensing Department sends letter to Pythian Castle advising
of the illegality of operating without a business license. Pythian Castle is given
10 days to file appropriate paperwork and pay license fee or request a hearing.
• February 10, 2005 – Pythian Castle mentioned in Springfield News-Leader article
regarding Valentine’s Day activities.
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
1
• February 2005 – License application dated October 25, 2004 received in return
envelope provided by Licensing Department following earlier inquiry.
• February 22, 2005 – City Council approves PD 277. Applicant advised to submit
final development plans for review, comment and approval before building
permits and licensing can be obtained.
• March 2005 – facility toured by development review team. Letter sent advising
of requirements for plan submittal.
• October 2005 – complaint received by BDS that business is operating without
license or Certificate of Occupancy. BDS calls designer and receives no
response.
• November 2005 – BDS sends letter to owner outlining steps to comply, orders
public occupancy to cease and business operations to terminate until property is in
compliance with city ordinances. Plans for phase 1 are still not approved, and
only suggest occupancy limit of 60 and all uses confined to first-floor. Complaint
and investigation reveal occupancies greater than 60 and uses on other floors
being allowed by owner.
• December 2005 – letter to owner outlining required corrections.
• January 2006 – code administrator sends additional letter advising owner to cease
operations until in compliance. Code administrator met with owner and designer
to discuss. Owner advised to discontinue business activities until properly
licensed.
• January 2006 – Fire Department comments that site does not have adequate fire
apparatus access. Structure needs to have sprinkler system for public use.
Existing private hydrant may not be operational and is unlikely to be sufficient to
fight fire. Hydrant must be tested for proper pressure and sit may need new
hydrants installed. Parking issues still not addressed from initial submission,
storm water issues still pending, Landmark Board approval still pending, no
lighting plan or signage plan submitted.
• February 2006 – ARC meeting held with designer and owner. Unresolved issues
discussed. Designer promises plans to be resubmitted within two weeks.
• February 24, 2006 – Fire Department notes road must be paved, fire truck turn
around must be improved, sprinkler system may be required depending upon uses
of the building.
(No further contact with city by owner or designer until March 2007. During that time,
Licensing Department was contacted regarding temporary liquor licenses for catering
services and a permanent liquor license for facility. No action was taken at this time as
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
2
licensing believed owner was working with appropriate city departments to obtain
necessary permits.)
• March 2007 – BDS investigator contacts owner twice to establish time frame for
plan submittal and repeats order to cease business uses.
• Plans for phase 1 resubmitted, they are incomplete and are not approved. Plan
review letter sent.
• August 2007 – Law Department sends letter to property owner outlining steps to
comply, orders public occupancy to cease until in compliance.
• Phase 1 plans resubmitted but not approved.
• City Departments meet to discuss the continued illegal operation of this business
and consider options for obtaining cooperation from the owner in moving forward
with the development plans.
• October 2007 – Law department contacts owner advising legal action will be
taken to stop illegal operation. Meeting offered to determine if agreement could
be reached to allow limited uses and a timeframe with definite deadlines to
complete development of phase 1.
• October 17, 2007 – property owner, designer and owner's attorney meet with city
attorneys to discuss project status. Further advised that her activities must cease,
and she must comply with regulations as required of every other business. It was
determined that specific deadlines for compliance should be implemented to assist
the owner in completing her development plans, obtaining permits and finalizing
building modifications. This agreement would also allow her to continue
operating her business while the development process continued, provided such
operations were limited to a maximum of 60 persons on the first floor of the
structure.
• October 26, 2007 – Interim Use Agreement provided to owner and her attorney.
Deadline to accept is set forth. See Exhibit 9.
• November 3, 2007 – attorney for owner advises city attorneys that owner will shut
down to devote full efforts and time to completion of the development project.
• Fire Marshal, and BDS inspectors requested to monitor site.
• November 16, 2007 – inspection by the Fire Marshal, and BDS investigator
reveals castle is still operating with the public being given access to all floors and
the owner has posted a sign indicating an occupancy maximum of 300. Building
posted as a dangerous building and closed.
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
3
Pythian Castle Timeline
January 7, 2008
4
[Paragraph redacted pursuant to Section 610.024.2 RSMo]
Regarding specific issues raised by Tamara Finocchiaro and her supporters
1) “They are good neighbors and friends to many in Springfield. . .”
City response: Ms. Finocchiaro’s character and “neighborliness” is not at issue, she is required
to comply with City ordinances just like all other citizens.
2) “Tamara is doing a brilliant job of restoring the castle to its original grandeur. She
invested a great deal of work in the castle the first year, then applied for a business license three
and a half years ago. Her business plan included exact uses the castle was originally built to
accommodate, yet she has been delayed by Planning and Zoning, red tape, and senseless
requirements for years.”
City response: The amount of time and or money Ms. Finocchiaro has invested in the property is
unknown to the City as no building permits were ever applied for to show what, if any, work was
done to restore the building. Regarding the statement relating to “red tape and senseless
requirements,” the City has only asked Ms. Finocchiaro to comply with fire and building codes
just like every other business in the City. The primary requests involve basic safety equipment
such as sprinklers, fire hydrants, fire apparatus access, appropriate egress exits and emergency
exit lighting. Any improvements made by Ms. Finocchiaro were not inspected as they were
completed without proper building permits. Ms. Finocchiaro has indicated that her intended uses
of the property may include offices, meeting/banquet rooms, art galleries, theater, an indoor
sports facility, a boarding house, a restaurant, retail uses, schools/studios, a bed and breakfast
inn, and residential uses.
3) “Improper administration and denial of permits, unfairly closing the Castle in the face of
events, and plastering dangerous building on the face of a fireproof castle.”
City’s response: At no time was the applicant advised she would be allowed to take out permits
until her final plans were approved. Interim building permits were offered as part of an Interim
Use Agreement which she declined.
The building is dangerous in as much as it meets the code definition of a dangerous building by
its lack of sufficient life safety and other necessary building requirements. The castle was closed
due to continued illegal operation of the business without obtaining a proper business licensing
or passing an inspection.
4) “Little technical details should be overcome.”
City response: Technical details such as requiring adequate ingress and egress, proper
emergency lighting, and fire safety equipment are hardly “little technical details.” All of the
code compliance requirements could have been completed in a matter of months if Ms.
Finocchiaro had continued to move forward with her project. Ms. Finocchiaro is not being asked
to follow any additional or special procedures that are not required of any other citizen.
5) “The City blocked everything and would not leave their desk to inspect the castle.”
City response: The building has been inspected by the City of Springfield on more than one
occasion and Ms. Finocchiaro has been provided with numerous memos and letters regarding the
steps needed to proceed with development of the property. The first memo came from Bob
Hosmer in November 2004. Additional correspondence outlined the findings of the development
review site inspection in March 2005, ARC responses and findings, and the findings of the
inspection done in late 2007 in connection with the proposed interim use agreement.
6) “Tamara Finocchiaro was forced to sign a contract.”
City’s response: Ms. Finocchiaro has never been “forced” to sign anything. An interim use
agreement was proposed and she voluntarily refused to enter into that agreement. The City has
attempted to accommodate Ms. Finocchiaro and has patiently waited for the final development
plan. After nearly two and half years, it became apparent that absent extreme measures on the
part of the City, Ms. Finocchiaro would continue to illegally operate this business and ignore
City regulations which are applicable to every business within the City.
Monday, January 07, 2008
A Thomas Jefferson Education
FACE TO FACE WITH GREATNESS:
A THOMAS JEFFERSON EDUCATION
A GEORGE WYTHE COLLEGE SEMINAR SERIES
PRESENTED BY TOUCHSTONE, R. E.
A HANDS ON WORKSHOP
FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS
ON HOW TO MENTOR THE CLASSICS
Students become great by coming face-to-face with greatness; as we spend time with the
greatest thinkers, leaders, prophets, inventors, mathematicians, scientists and statesmen
of history, their greatness begins to rub off.
• The 3 Types of Learning
• The 7 Keys of Great Teaching
• The Phases of Learning
• How to Inspire Math, Arts, and Science through the Classics
• How to Make Every Colloquium Great
• 90-Day Thomas Jefferson Education Start-up Plan
• Colloquium on Little Britches, The Chosen, and The Taming of the Shrew
How can a generation that wasn’t mentored in the classics, mentor their own children in the classics? Do you want to help your children get a superb, leadership education… but just aren’t sure how?
THIS SEMINAR TEACHES YOU HOW!!
Date: January 11-12, 2008
Location: Branson, Missouri
Cost: Before December 20th $159.00 per person*
$298.00 per couple*
$79.00 per youth*
After December 20th $189.00 per person*
$338.00 per couple*
$94.00 per youth*
This George Wythe College seminar is hosted by the Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theatre and is open to the public.
Registration is limited to 70 participants
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For more information or to register, please contact Mara Hughes at:
Phone: (417)239-3845, E-mail: MaraH@hughes-brothers.com
Or Cindy Hughes at:
Phone: (417)239-1095, Email: CindyH@hughes-brothers.com
*Seminar fees are transferable person-to-person, not seminar-to-seminar, and are non-refundable.
A THOMAS JEFFERSON EDUCATION
A GEORGE WYTHE COLLEGE SEMINAR SERIES
PRESENTED BY TOUCHSTONE, R. E.
A HANDS ON WORKSHOP
FOR PARENTS AND TEACHERS
ON HOW TO MENTOR THE CLASSICS
Students become great by coming face-to-face with greatness; as we spend time with the
greatest thinkers, leaders, prophets, inventors, mathematicians, scientists and statesmen
of history, their greatness begins to rub off.
• The 3 Types of Learning
• The 7 Keys of Great Teaching
• The Phases of Learning
• How to Inspire Math, Arts, and Science through the Classics
• How to Make Every Colloquium Great
• 90-Day Thomas Jefferson Education Start-up Plan
• Colloquium on Little Britches, The Chosen, and The Taming of the Shrew
How can a generation that wasn’t mentored in the classics, mentor their own children in the classics? Do you want to help your children get a superb, leadership education… but just aren’t sure how?
THIS SEMINAR TEACHES YOU HOW!!
Date: January 11-12, 2008
Location: Branson, Missouri
Cost: Before December 20th $159.00 per person*
$298.00 per couple*
$79.00 per youth*
After December 20th $189.00 per person*
$338.00 per couple*
$94.00 per youth*
This George Wythe College seminar is hosted by the Hughes Brothers Celebrity Theatre and is open to the public.
Registration is limited to 70 participants
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For more information or to register, please contact Mara Hughes at:
Phone: (417)239-3845, E-mail: MaraH@hughes-brothers.com
Or Cindy Hughes at:
Phone: (417)239-1095, Email: CindyH@hughes-brothers.com
*Seminar fees are transferable person-to-person, not seminar-to-seminar, and are non-refundable.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Top Local Stories 2007
I Welcome your input and your ideas of top 5 stories. Here are mine:
1. Marines come home. I wanted this year's top story to be a warm fuzzy. There was no prouder moment than standing there and watching those Marines get off the bus. Mom's and Dad's pride, the nervous anticipation of brides, the glee of children seeing dad...some for the first time. It was an honor to be a part of that day.
2. The Ice Storm. A horrible event I still have nightmares about. It was a precious time and in a sense a seminal moment in the development of our radio station but at what price? I will treasure the moments of community that we shared but will try to forget the cold and desperation as the days wore on.
3. The Audit. Susan Montee came to town and for many of us provided the redemption we needed after fighting for so long. Now only the most myopic or those with vested interest could deny something is afoul in the kingdom. This story will have the most long term impact of any in 2007.
4. Heers Tower. It was sold, redevelopment started, stopped, the city "re-acquired" the building, ticked off one of the biggest developers in the state to the point he left Springfield and in the end were left over a barrel dealing from a position of weakness trying to keep the last potential investor interested. Are condominiums the key and answer to redevelopment on the square? I hope I am wrong but I don't think so.
5. Storage Container Ordinance. I chose this not because of the significance of the "story" but rather the significance of people for the first time standing up to and backing down City Hall. Brenda and Charlie Teeslink mobilized an army...a coalition of the willing...manufacturers, retailers, citizens and marched on city hall. I hope this becomes the norm.
1. Marines come home. I wanted this year's top story to be a warm fuzzy. There was no prouder moment than standing there and watching those Marines get off the bus. Mom's and Dad's pride, the nervous anticipation of brides, the glee of children seeing dad...some for the first time. It was an honor to be a part of that day.
2. The Ice Storm. A horrible event I still have nightmares about. It was a precious time and in a sense a seminal moment in the development of our radio station but at what price? I will treasure the moments of community that we shared but will try to forget the cold and desperation as the days wore on.
3. The Audit. Susan Montee came to town and for many of us provided the redemption we needed after fighting for so long. Now only the most myopic or those with vested interest could deny something is afoul in the kingdom. This story will have the most long term impact of any in 2007.
4. Heers Tower. It was sold, redevelopment started, stopped, the city "re-acquired" the building, ticked off one of the biggest developers in the state to the point he left Springfield and in the end were left over a barrel dealing from a position of weakness trying to keep the last potential investor interested. Are condominiums the key and answer to redevelopment on the square? I hope I am wrong but I don't think so.
5. Storage Container Ordinance. I chose this not because of the significance of the "story" but rather the significance of people for the first time standing up to and backing down City Hall. Brenda and Charlie Teeslink mobilized an army...a coalition of the willing...manufacturers, retailers, citizens and marched on city hall. I hope this becomes the norm.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
To the Moron known as Joe America
The spelling errors you are chastising me for...are in fact errors made by others. If someone sends me a note I post it verbatim.
I know you want to blame me for every evil that ever befell the earth but I am not the world's spelling teacher. I am not responsible for their poor spelling or your stupidity!
I know you want to blame me for every evil that ever befell the earth but I am not the world's spelling teacher. I am not responsible for their poor spelling or your stupidity!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Letter from Tamara
Vince,
I have been so busy keeping up with this issue, I have not had a chance to talk to you. I am embarassed to say I still don't have a radio so I can wake up to you. That is on my "To Do" list. I hear you have been discussing it. Thank you. In case I don't get to touch base with you personally I am forwarding some responses I have given to questions and concerns. Use the information as you like.
#1 - Fire Hydrant/Minimum Fire Standard
We the owners of Pythian Castle did our first flow test on our hydrant in June 2005. City refused to acknowledge it or the hydrant. They demanded we put a new one in with an 8" line. We dug up the dirt to show them we have an 8" line feeding from a 10" shutoff located on our property. All of this could have been avoided if City of Springfield followed international fire code which recognizes the use of private fire hydrants along as they are flow tested annually. They city has finally adopted this standard this year. Three years after our request for a business license.
Claims have been made we haven't met minimum fire standards. We are one of the only buildings listed in the assessors book as fireproof construction.
Egresses from the rooms can evacuate over 500 people in less than three minutes from doors 2' wider than modern code. Most of our doors and openings are 5' wide, code requires 3'. From the inception of this building, we exceed the standards of modern codes which simply require 1 hour fire ratings. While modern code requires you have enough time to get out of a burning building, ours was built not to burn in the first place.
Very few buildings in this city can claim the same above code standards.
This does not mean we do not have exit signs or emergency lighting. We still live and work in a place where power goes out and people need to exit safely. In the rare case of a fire, we have extinguishers every 75 feet (twice code) and four internal fire hoses (no longer recognized in modern code, but they exist and work all the same).
2) General Response to Absurb Escallation of the Issue
In response to all the people that think I have been willfully operating unlawfully, I would like to remind them I asked for my business license in August of 2004 long before I planned to open. My request to operate a business here should have been a simple request handled by low level employee. To use an existing occupiable building for uses allowed in the current zoning in a structure designed for its use, is a decision that should have taken no more than a week to approve.
Instead of granting us a license, they forced us to rezone to the most expensive and complicated re zoning that exist saying our zoning did not include all our uses. Rather than inspect the building, they converted us to a never developed piece of land and a brand new never been occupied structure. This required us to pay an architect to redraw an existing building with no changes than color in the areas being used and by the public and noting existing egresses, something they could have done in a 20 minute walk thru.
This change then required these plans to be reviewed by the director of building and development, the highest ranking employee in building department. Our renovations requests which entails upgrades to the road and parking and no structural changes to the building could have easily been handled by lower level staff. Permits could have been authorized by the appropriate specialist. Now, after three years of attempting to get a license (the same time it took to build this entire building in the first
place) we are dealing with the second in command of the city's legal department.
To waste our tax dollars on planning and zoning staff, the time of the director of building and development and top legal staff to oversee minor projects is an egregious waste of tax payers money. It could be equated to having the chief of police issue parking violations.
If the people of Springfield thinks three to four years and is appropriate time for businesses to wait for such licenses and the use of this many city employees is acceptable to them, I have no argument. But, they should know, businesses are not going to choose to invest their money here if it requires four year of carrying cost with only the possibility of getting permission. Unfortunately, since my property is not portable, I can't simply move it to a more friendlier place. As a consequence of their actions the city won't only lose a business it is going to lose a historical site.
3) Response to the following question:
"As much as I don't want to say this, you have been operating without a business license. It may not be fair how the city has dealt with you and I can understand the frustration in that and wanting to be up and running but the law is still the law. A lot of folks, myself included, have a hard time getting past that. If anything, I'm wondering if you shouldn't have gone public with this years ago instead of waiting until you were shut down by the city".
For those of you who believe the city is right is shutting down unlawful businesses, you can be assured that we are not free to operate at this time. But, it is our opinion, the city is willfully withholding our certificate of occupancy and license as means of political control and they are intentionally creating fear in the minds of the people to seek support for their agenda. This tactic has has been used by many prominent political persons in history as a means of controlling the minds of the masses. And, it works, even you believe it. We have tried to bring attention to this matter earlier and we have been successful in changing the law regarding private fire hydrants. Unfortunately, people did not realize how bad the problem was and did not take it seriously until we were shut down. And for those supporting the shut down, it should be noted that even now and when I was voluntarily shut down for repairs, I was not able to get permits or inspections for completed work any more than I was before I was open or when I was open. My legal business status has no bearing on the issue.
My apologies for a horribly long email assuming you actually read this far.
Let me know what I can do for you.
Tamara
I have been so busy keeping up with this issue, I have not had a chance to talk to you. I am embarassed to say I still don't have a radio so I can wake up to you. That is on my "To Do" list. I hear you have been discussing it. Thank you. In case I don't get to touch base with you personally I am forwarding some responses I have given to questions and concerns. Use the information as you like.
#1 - Fire Hydrant/Minimum Fire Standard
We the owners of Pythian Castle did our first flow test on our hydrant in June 2005. City refused to acknowledge it or the hydrant. They demanded we put a new one in with an 8" line. We dug up the dirt to show them we have an 8" line feeding from a 10" shutoff located on our property. All of this could have been avoided if City of Springfield followed international fire code which recognizes the use of private fire hydrants along as they are flow tested annually. They city has finally adopted this standard this year. Three years after our request for a business license.
Claims have been made we haven't met minimum fire standards. We are one of the only buildings listed in the assessors book as fireproof construction.
Egresses from the rooms can evacuate over 500 people in less than three minutes from doors 2' wider than modern code. Most of our doors and openings are 5' wide, code requires 3'. From the inception of this building, we exceed the standards of modern codes which simply require 1 hour fire ratings. While modern code requires you have enough time to get out of a burning building, ours was built not to burn in the first place.
Very few buildings in this city can claim the same above code standards.
This does not mean we do not have exit signs or emergency lighting. We still live and work in a place where power goes out and people need to exit safely. In the rare case of a fire, we have extinguishers every 75 feet (twice code) and four internal fire hoses (no longer recognized in modern code, but they exist and work all the same).
2) General Response to Absurb Escallation of the Issue
In response to all the people that think I have been willfully operating unlawfully, I would like to remind them I asked for my business license in August of 2004 long before I planned to open. My request to operate a business here should have been a simple request handled by low level employee. To use an existing occupiable building for uses allowed in the current zoning in a structure designed for its use, is a decision that should have taken no more than a week to approve.
Instead of granting us a license, they forced us to rezone to the most expensive and complicated re zoning that exist saying our zoning did not include all our uses. Rather than inspect the building, they converted us to a never developed piece of land and a brand new never been occupied structure. This required us to pay an architect to redraw an existing building with no changes than color in the areas being used and by the public and noting existing egresses, something they could have done in a 20 minute walk thru.
This change then required these plans to be reviewed by the director of building and development, the highest ranking employee in building department. Our renovations requests which entails upgrades to the road and parking and no structural changes to the building could have easily been handled by lower level staff. Permits could have been authorized by the appropriate specialist. Now, after three years of attempting to get a license (the same time it took to build this entire building in the first
place) we are dealing with the second in command of the city's legal department.
To waste our tax dollars on planning and zoning staff, the time of the director of building and development and top legal staff to oversee minor projects is an egregious waste of tax payers money. It could be equated to having the chief of police issue parking violations.
If the people of Springfield thinks three to four years and is appropriate time for businesses to wait for such licenses and the use of this many city employees is acceptable to them, I have no argument. But, they should know, businesses are not going to choose to invest their money here if it requires four year of carrying cost with only the possibility of getting permission. Unfortunately, since my property is not portable, I can't simply move it to a more friendlier place. As a consequence of their actions the city won't only lose a business it is going to lose a historical site.
3) Response to the following question:
"As much as I don't want to say this, you have been operating without a business license. It may not be fair how the city has dealt with you and I can understand the frustration in that and wanting to be up and running but the law is still the law. A lot of folks, myself included, have a hard time getting past that. If anything, I'm wondering if you shouldn't have gone public with this years ago instead of waiting until you were shut down by the city".
For those of you who believe the city is right is shutting down unlawful businesses, you can be assured that we are not free to operate at this time. But, it is our opinion, the city is willfully withholding our certificate of occupancy and license as means of political control and they are intentionally creating fear in the minds of the people to seek support for their agenda. This tactic has has been used by many prominent political persons in history as a means of controlling the minds of the masses. And, it works, even you believe it. We have tried to bring attention to this matter earlier and we have been successful in changing the law regarding private fire hydrants. Unfortunately, people did not realize how bad the problem was and did not take it seriously until we were shut down. And for those supporting the shut down, it should be noted that even now and when I was voluntarily shut down for repairs, I was not able to get permits or inspections for completed work any more than I was before I was open or when I was open. My legal business status has no bearing on the issue.
My apologies for a horribly long email assuming you actually read this far.
Let me know what I can do for you.
Tamara
Friday, December 14, 2007
Galloping Goose
http://www.examiner.net/stories/062907/new_174025786.shtml
Yea I am making it all up.
This too:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/341623/01659666p pg11 top paragraph.
Yea I am making it all up.
This too:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/341623/01659666p pg11 top paragraph.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Friday, November 30, 2007
Flaapulence
As described by a great listener
the presence of a mixture of gases known as flaapus found in the minds of liberals expelled from liberals through the processes commonly known as flaaple. Flaapus is expelled under pressure as voluntary or involuntary tensing of the liberal brain. This pressure results in the rapid evacuation of nonsense gases from from all bodily opening. Usually is expelled from the mouth but at times it is difficult to tell the origin of flaaple.
The major components of the flaapus by percentage are:[4]
* Oxygen - 0% - 1%
* Nonsense - 20% - 90%
* Haywire - 0% - 50%
* Condonation- 10% - 30%
* Methane - 0% - 10%
Also see Flaapulation, Flaaplating Butthead, and Liberal Democrat
the presence of a mixture of gases known as flaapus found in the minds of liberals expelled from liberals through the processes commonly known as flaaple. Flaapus is expelled under pressure as voluntary or involuntary tensing of the liberal brain. This pressure results in the rapid evacuation of nonsense gases from from all bodily opening. Usually is expelled from the mouth but at times it is difficult to tell the origin of flaaple.
The major components of the flaapus by percentage are:[4]
* Oxygen - 0% - 1%
* Nonsense - 20% - 90%
* Haywire - 0% - 50%
* Condonation- 10% - 30%
* Methane - 0% - 10%
Also see Flaapulation, Flaaplating Butthead, and Liberal Democrat
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Man to Man
The person used his name. I removed it to save him from FLAAPL backwash!
Good morning Vince,
I am XXXXXXX, USMC!
I listen to you every morning!!!! I do not miss. I have called you before a couple of times and had a very good dialogue with you. I am a Marine, I do not serve any longer, but, once a Marine always a Marine. Some would say that I am THE baddest SOB in the valley.
Ha ha ha.
Most important I am a Christian!!!! All be it, a struggling Christian, but a Christian none the less. I believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that ONLY through him are we able to ascend to Heaven and live forever in the presence of God. I also believe that God makes WARRIORS; warriors to protect his flock here on earth so that they may spread His word.
As far as this cat that called in this morning and said that "he attends the Episcopalian church", here in town or where ever. Then turns around and proclaims that he is an avid player of World of Warcraft?! What an idiot, I agree that his pastor has fallen way short of doing his proper duty, as so many do now days. And the smart-a_ _ that called in and said "where in the Bible does it say 'Thou shalt not play W.o.W.', it doesn't". I would like that stupid SOB to mouth off to me!!!
I've looked through the scope at the enemy 900 meters away and told myself, "This is for the good of mankind", and known it to be true.
I've seen atrocities that would make most people sick to their stomach, and asked "WHY?". It was at these times that I realized "Why", because Satan was given rule over this earth; while man was given free will. If God did not make WARRIORS, then these atrocities would go on and on, and the word of God would only reach a very limited few and those few would be and in most cases are severely persecuted.
I believe NOW is the time that the Church as a whole should be teaching, not only about the Lamb of God, but; about the spreading of radical Muslim teachings and how we should be preparing for war against it. I attend South Haven Baptist Church, over on south Campbell. Recently a few of us men got together and started a "Mens Group", and no, it is not PC, nor is it dumbed down. We agreed that we would speak our minds, and talk about real world and every day subjects. You would not believe the looks that I get and the severe rebuttals that I get when I speak of these things. And that is from my OWN church.
You know my kids play video games, but they do not play anything with witchery or satanic symbolism in them. They have racing games and sports games and a Bible game. The only reason they don't have more Bible games is because there are not alot out there for young teens. Don't get me wrong, we do have some (3) "shooter" games, but they are Marine Sniper, and the Bros. in Arms(WWII).
So they are about real battles between good and evil. They do not have any witchery and you do not have to become a beast or wizard in order to be able to play. You do have try to make sure that your team members do not die.
They also receive on going real world self defense training and are talked to about God every day! We set down as a family AT the dining room table EVERY night and talk about our day together. We do not sit in front of the tv and eat in silence while we let the days events go unspoken. People don't know their own children because they don't take the time to visit with them. Kids need to know that their parents are interested in what they do.
I didn't mean to ramble but what is it going to take to reach these people?!
You know, I could be wrong, I'm not. I could be, but I'm not!
May God Bless you and your family Vince.
Your friend,
XXXXXXX
Good morning Vince,
I am XXXXXXX, USMC!
I listen to you every morning!!!! I do not miss. I have called you before a couple of times and had a very good dialogue with you. I am a Marine, I do not serve any longer, but, once a Marine always a Marine. Some would say that I am THE baddest SOB in the valley.
Ha ha ha.
Most important I am a Christian!!!! All be it, a struggling Christian, but a Christian none the less. I believe that Jesus Christ died for our sins, and that ONLY through him are we able to ascend to Heaven and live forever in the presence of God. I also believe that God makes WARRIORS; warriors to protect his flock here on earth so that they may spread His word.
As far as this cat that called in this morning and said that "he attends the Episcopalian church", here in town or where ever. Then turns around and proclaims that he is an avid player of World of Warcraft?! What an idiot, I agree that his pastor has fallen way short of doing his proper duty, as so many do now days. And the smart-a_ _ that called in and said "where in the Bible does it say 'Thou shalt not play W.o.W.', it doesn't". I would like that stupid SOB to mouth off to me!!!
I've looked through the scope at the enemy 900 meters away and told myself, "This is for the good of mankind", and known it to be true.
I've seen atrocities that would make most people sick to their stomach, and asked "WHY?". It was at these times that I realized "Why", because Satan was given rule over this earth; while man was given free will. If God did not make WARRIORS, then these atrocities would go on and on, and the word of God would only reach a very limited few and those few would be and in most cases are severely persecuted.
I believe NOW is the time that the Church as a whole should be teaching, not only about the Lamb of God, but; about the spreading of radical Muslim teachings and how we should be preparing for war against it. I attend South Haven Baptist Church, over on south Campbell. Recently a few of us men got together and started a "Mens Group", and no, it is not PC, nor is it dumbed down. We agreed that we would speak our minds, and talk about real world and every day subjects. You would not believe the looks that I get and the severe rebuttals that I get when I speak of these things. And that is from my OWN church.
You know my kids play video games, but they do not play anything with witchery or satanic symbolism in them. They have racing games and sports games and a Bible game. The only reason they don't have more Bible games is because there are not alot out there for young teens. Don't get me wrong, we do have some (3) "shooter" games, but they are Marine Sniper, and the Bros. in Arms(WWII).
So they are about real battles between good and evil. They do not have any witchery and you do not have to become a beast or wizard in order to be able to play. You do have try to make sure that your team members do not die.
They also receive on going real world self defense training and are talked to about God every day! We set down as a family AT the dining room table EVERY night and talk about our day together. We do not sit in front of the tv and eat in silence while we let the days events go unspoken. People don't know their own children because they don't take the time to visit with them. Kids need to know that their parents are interested in what they do.
I didn't mean to ramble but what is it going to take to reach these people?!
You know, I could be wrong, I'm not. I could be, but I'm not!
May God Bless you and your family Vince.
Your friend,
XXXXXXX
Monday, November 26, 2007
A Christmas Poem
Sent to me by a listener. It fits what we have been up to lately.
*Twas the month before Christmas*
*When all through our land,*
*Not a Christian was praying*
*Nor taking a stand.*
*See the PC Police had taken away,*
*The reason for Christmas - no one could say.*
*The children were told by their schools not to sing,*
*About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.*
*It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say*
*December 25th is just a '
*Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit*
*Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!*
*CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod*
*Something was changing, something quite odd! *
*Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa*
*In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.*
*As Targets were hanging their trees upside down*
* At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.*
*At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears*
*You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.*
*Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty*
*Are words that were used to intimidate me.*
*Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen*
*On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on
*At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter*
*To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.*
*And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith*
* Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace*
*The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded*
*The reason for the season, stopped before it started.*
*So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'*
*Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.*
*Choose your words carefully, choose what you say*
*Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS, not Happy Holiday!*
Friday, October 19, 2007
FLAAPL
I have dealt a lot with these types of late and have a few observations.
1. Approach slowly and talk softly. They are not long on courage and hate being confronted.
2. Don’t refer to absolutes. There are none in FLAAPL – World. There are no rules and if you do agree to any they will be changed or ignored when they get in the way of feelings.
3. Never use facts. Facts confuse FLAAPL’s. You would be better served to restrict yourself to feelings. Feelings no matter how irrational and lacking basis in fact are given far more weight and credence than facts. In fact facts, seem to confuse FLAAPL’s. If you use more than 2 in a 10 minute conversation FLAAPL’s tend to start to turn color and there have even been reports of spontaneous FLAAPL combustion.
4. Don’t use God in a conversation. In FLAAPL-World everything and everyone is a god – hence no moral absolutes, everything is relative to whoever your god is.
Now that you have a few suggestions never take a FLAAPL for granted and never plan on winning a debate with them as soon as things start to go in your favor they will change topic and start to attack your character. Again be warned there are no rules in FLAAPL world so whatever assertion they make will not be based in fact {see rule 3} in fact it will not be based on anything so as to make it impossible for you to refute them.
Remember the American Constitution guarantees their rights even while they are trying to take ours away.
Friday, September 28, 2007
My latest Column in The Community Free Press
Are Satanists on the Square?
Have you heard about this? Unless you have been talking with someone who participates in the game or you know someone who interacts with such, probably not. Are my sources above all reproach? Yes they are and I have no problem going public with this. Will I be mocked by the foolish and non believer? Of course.
Just do it.
Don't ask why, don't put it off just click on the like.
http://www.flashdemo.net/gallery/wake/index.htm
Lord please protect ALL of our troops.
http://www.flashdemo.net/gallery/wake/index.htm
Lord please protect ALL of our troops.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Busy Day
WOW. Lots of links for you.
To learn more about Denise's walk this Sunday: http://hikeforlunghealth2007.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=235615#
To email me for more info or if you want to sponsor Denise:
vjericho@ksgf.com
To download your own copy of the Community Focus 2007: http://www.springfieldcommunityfocus.org/2007_report/communityfocus07.pdf
To learn more about Denise's walk this Sunday: http://hikeforlunghealth2007.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=235615#
To email me for more info or if you want to sponsor Denise:
vjericho@ksgf.com
To download your own copy of the Community Focus 2007: http://www.springfieldcommunityfocus.org/2007_report/communityfocus07.pdf
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Silly List This weeks column in CFP
Recently I did a program on all the silly and ridiculous things the city of
The point of this column isn’t to expand on any one of group of items but rather there are so many of them. Given we pay three city Managers/Deputies/Assistants six figure salaries I would expect better….MUCH BETTER..
1. Lack of consultation on moving route 266 to the airport
2. John Q’s shame…the derelict buildings the city allows to continue standing.
3. Heers Tower…We own it, we are paying for it…we ran one developer out of town…one other gave up on us and a third is holding the city for ransom.
4. Downtown Hotel…The property beside the Expo Center is supposed to have a hotel built on it…that is the lot less 90 feet that John Q controls adjacent to Expo Center…and why does BDK have to have office space in this new building…does it have anything to do with all the business Carlson Gardner does with BDK…just asking!
5. Police Fire Pension…$45,000,000.00 under funded…enough said
6. CU Pension…$74,000,000.00 under funded…more than enough said.
7. Phelps Grove Neighborhood…Oh if you didn’t know The City has decided it is closing the street…ah a week ago…sorry about the short notice to the citizens on that one.
8. No Cruising…last thing we want is people going downtown.
9.
10. Gangs…Oh I forgot we don’t have a gang problem in
11. The Memo…the internal memo that told city police and fire not to send material to Council Members unless the material was run past City manager’s office first..Wouldn’t want Cindy R, Dan C and Doug B to find out what is really going on.
12. Municipal Court…oh yea Mayor “Bow-Tie” doesn’t think $1,300,000.00 is that much money.
13. City Police…we don’t have any…we are down 50 COPS right now with not much hope of catching up on the numbers anytime soon. Why…see # 5.
14. Crime Lab Design…Oooppps…the design costs are a little more than we budgeted for.
15. Parking Garage…OOOOpppps…the bids were a little more than we budgeted for.
16. Parking Garage…the one beside
17. Ice Storm Emergency Plan…..Did we have one? Oh yea call
18. Red Light Traffic Camera…OOOOpppps we underestimated how many people would run the light so now we are ALL paying for the camera.
19. DARE Program…doesn’t exist anymore.
20. DWI Police Squad…Doesn’t exist anymore
21. Ice Arena…OOOOpppps we overestimates how many people skate in the Ozarks. We ALL are paying for this one too!
22. Broadway Crossing Closed. Great idea, create an eyesore and more traffic snarls for rest of us.
I am sure there are more that could be added but by now you get the point…we have a bunch of incompetents running this city…incompetent who should do the honorable thing and resign.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Container Ordinance
Here is the link to read the Container Ordinance.
http://springfieldmo.gov/egov/agenda/2007-254.pdf
http://springfieldmo.gov/egov/agenda/2007-254.pdf
Thursday, August 02, 2007
Gentlemen find your Popsicles!
SW Missouri is an interesting place. We have a resident millionaire who puts up buildings using others people’s money and then puts his name on the building and takes all the credit. If he doesn’t get enough credit he puts up a larger than life statue of himself.
Then we have a mayor who puts a “mayortorium” on the building of new apartment buildings which artificially holds down supply which increases demand which raises rents…oh did I mention this mayor owns a whole bunch of multi-resident buildings in the area.
How about a county that announces it is going to build a museum on property it hasn’t bought yet from private landowners?
Then there is the new road to the airport that Modot has decided is going to mysteriously veer for several hundred yards just so the new road can go through one powerful businessman’s land and help him make more millions.
Yep have you ever wondered?
I have. I have wondered about all of these things.
The other thing I have wondered….where are all the MEN in SW Missouri . I mean the ones with big….popsicles! Big enough to stand up to all this garbage. Big enough to allow them to say “stop this stupidity it is time to run this city, county and state for the betterment of all not just a privileged few!”
Look guys it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to point out all the weirdness that is going on around here. It doesn’t take a brain surgeon to know you stand up to a bully. All it takes is popsicles. So gentlemen I suggest you go to a private place, do a self exam and find your popsicles. Once you do pull a little juice out of them and start standing up for yourselves and this community.
I guarantee as more of you start standing up the more politicians and liberal media types will run and hide because search as they might we all know THEY have NO popsicles!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
