Plans for entrance signs hit snag
By Russ Morgan (Contact)
Originally published 04:28 p.m., October 28, 2009
Updated 09:59 a.m., October 29, 2009
Complications have arisen around the city’s entrance signs, and that could conflict with installation of the new Veterans Day signs recently purchased with donations from members of the community.
The plan originally was to have three of the signs installed by Veterans Day, and then unveil the fourth sign during Veterans Day services before installing it at the All Veterans Memorial.
As planning for the new signage progressed, the Building Futures Goal 8 Committee began looking into the city commission’s concerns about the number of entrance signs and how they are placed.
“We’ve had a mishmash of signs at our entrances for a while,” City Manager Matt Zimmerman said during the discussion at Wednesday’s city commission study session, adding that another change could be adding signs to honor Clint Bowyer.
During permit discussions with the Kansas Department of Transportation, the committee decided to propose putting up new posts that will contain the Veterans Day signs, the Clint Bowyer signs and the Inclusive Community signs, the latter of which were not put up according to KDOT regulations.
“What we’re looking for is a sign-off from the city commission that our sign layout for all the signs at all four entrances are OK,” Zimmerman said. “Then we can start installing the veterans signs and the Clint Bowyer signs and moving the Diverse Community signs to the same signpost.”
The difficulty, Zimmerman said, is that there is only so much space and there’s only so much the state will allow the city to do including limitations on space in the right-of-way and a regulation that the only sign that can share space with a city limits sign is one honoring one person.
The new sign proposal did not sit well with Jesse Solis, who spearheaded the fundraising drive for the Veterans Day signs. Solis disputed the placement of the veterans signs and the Clint Bowyer signs on the same signpost.
“This is the first I’ve heard of Clint Bowyer going with the Veterans Day signs,” Solis said. “I don’t know whether the veterans would appreciate that. Nothing against Clint Bowyer, I’m glad he’s done what he’s done for our city. He’s not a veteran.”
If there were no other option, Solis said, he wouldn’t object, but he thought it was important for those who donated money for the new signs to know about it.
“Give them a chance to say something or come here so they’ll know what’s going on,” he said. “They donated money, they care for the veterans.”
The placement of the signs also is important because of a proposal from the Convention and Visitors Bureau to place large stone features at each entrance.
“This is a whole new project, but we knew we had to tie the two together,” Zimmerman said. “We have to have a vision for all of our entrances and get that vision signed off by the commission.”
The project to place the 20-foot high stone features will take time, but the Convention and Visitors Bureau is looking for approval from the city commission to move forward with planning and fundraising. The stone features would have the city’s name and possibly a logo from a sponsor, according to preliminary designs.
Commissioners decided to move forward with plans for the entrance signs and features as they were proposed. It is not clear whether the sign changes will be completed by Veterans Day, but the new veterans signs still will be unveiled.
Commissioners also discussed moving forward with an extension for the Hill’s Pet Nutrition plant. According to the plant’s incentive compliance agreement, construction was to be finished by the end of the year. Commissioners agreed to move the deadline June 30 of next year.
Construction on the plant is almost finished, and some hiring is taking place.
A draft of a community improvement district policy also was discussed at the study session.
This year the state legislature approved the use of the districts, known as CIDs, in Kansas. The districts function in much the same way as Tax Increment Financing districts and Transportation Development Districts, but offer a more broad use of tax dollars to reimburse the costs of development.
“In order for us to use that tool when a development project comes up in the future ... we thought this would be good if we put this in the policies that we have for commercial development,” said Kent Heerman, president of the Regional Development Association.
CIDs are quicker and more flexible than TIFs and TDDs, and there are more options for how the money is used, Heermann said. They also combine property tax and sales tax, unlike the other districts.
A CID only requires the approval of 51 percent of property owners in the redevelopment area, whereas a TDD requires the approval of 100 percent, making a CID easier to put together. The steps to create a CID also are shorter than steps to create the other districts.
In the future, CIDs will probably replace TIFs and TDDs, Longbine said.
“I think what we’re trying to get to is us being proactive in controlling the process of going out and determining what kind of retail we need, what we want it to represent, and how do we go get it,” Longbine said.
Commissioners decided to further discuss the policy at a November study session.
Comments
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Posted by create (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 5:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Those Veteran's signs need to be distinct, just as the service to our country by our veterans is distinct.
If you city commissioners knew about all this sign business to begin with, and I have a sneaking hunch that you did, then why the Hell didn't you say so when the idea for veteran's signs was first proposed and the money raising campaign was going on?
This is so typical of you commissioners. You don't know from one day to the next what is going on. Now you're letting Zimmerman call the shots about his so-called "mish mash" of signs?
I am one of those who contributed to those signs. I am not happy about this at all!!!
Replace William Allen White signs entirely? Say what? Why can't they be in addition to Clint Bowyer signs? After all, WAW put Emporia on the map and his name is well known by journalists everywhere.
Okay Zimmerman, a mish mash of signs is it? But it was okay to install some kind of fancy visitor's dog pi$$ing park?
Those "stone features" aren't those weird looking things at the fairgrounds are they?
Posted by bob (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 5:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Zimmerman, why don't you and your NW Emporia Posse members put the Clint Bowyer signs up in your own yards! I guess these days all you have to do is put some $$ in Zimmy's front pocket and you get your own sign. WTF!!! Jesse, stick to your guns on this one!!
Posted by YY4U (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 6:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just because you put a sign up saying you are an "inclusive community" doesn't make you an inclusive community. This whole signage debate tells everyone where this community stands. We would be more honest as a community if we posted a sign that says:
WELCOME TO EMPORIA, KANSAS
"FOR SALE TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER!!!"
Posted by powercat (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 6:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Emporians may think NASCAR is great but most of America could care less about the sport.
What happens when Clint's career is done? Can the name stand the test of time? Does anyone remember Terry Bivins of Lebo? He was a NASCAR driver should he be included on the sign?
Posted by quarterback (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Should the sign really read "Home of Clint Bowyer"?
He doesn't live here anymore. He has chosen to buy houses in other states. Perhaps they sign should read "Boyhood home of Clint Bowyer".
At least William Allen White lived his whole life in Emporia.
Posted by powercat (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Are people forgetting all the other Emporian's doing things in professional sports and don't they deserve signs?
Jason Lahr - Professional Rodeo
J.L Lewis - Professional Golfer
Gary Stinett - NHRA
Former Professionals
Terry Bivins - Nascar Driver who raced against the legends
(I can't believe Nascar fans don't want to honor Terry)
John Lohmeyer - Professional Football player
Bob Clements - Professional Football player
Larry Krammer - Professional Football player
We have many professionals and they are all worthy of recognition. Why single one person out.
Posted by quarterback (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Where did those signs "We are an inclusive community come from"?
Did the city commission approve them?
And did tax payer money buy them?
Did Zimmerman bring those from Chicago?
Anyone who has lived here for a while knows that we are anything but inclusive.
Posted by JFish (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Replace the W.A. White signs??? No way! W.A. White did some very important work for Emporia. He lived here for a very long time, and still has family living here running the newspaper. He and his family who have passed on are buried in Emporia.
William Allen White is absolutely pivotal in Emporia history and where Emporia has been, is, and even where the town will be. He is part of Kansas history. He is part of United States history.
I'm shocked that anyone would even consider removing the W.A. White signs at the entrance to the community. I cannot imagine such a thing.
William Allen White is a long term, lasting source of pride for Emporia and for Kansas.
Posted by Steve_Corbin (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
SIGN, SIGN EVERYWHERE A SIGN?
Posted by concernedcitizen (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 7:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Please don't remove the Home of William Allen White signs. He was an important figure of Emporia History. I can't imagine how this is an issue to compare a sign for William Allen White and Emporia Founding City of Veterans Day to Clint Bowyer. I agree that it is obvious the city is only concerned about continuing to receive Clints money so they are pushing through this signage issue. All I ask is as an Emporia taxpayer that the city please not use my money to buy signs with Clint Bowyers name on them. I am NOT a fan.
Posted by history (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 8:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If the federal government gave almost a million dollars to preserve the William Allen White house, if the state accepted the house as State Historic site, should the community not recognize the importance and keep up the Home of William Allen White signs up? Take pride in your history. I don't think Emporians get it.
Urge Zimmerman to learn Emporia history before he sells Emporia to the highest bidder.
Posted by Rhoadgunner (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 8:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why would we trade our history for a flash in the pan? This is after all the home of people who have made an impact on something besides their on wallets.
Emporia has plenty of Hero's. If Emporia wants to claim to be the home of someone How about SGT Grant F. Timmerman it would go good with the Home of Veterans Day signs!
How about a sign that list all our other Vets who gave all for us? These are all people who cared for more than themselves!
Clint Bowyer, give me a break!
And where and how did the Inclusive communtity signs come to be?
Why would we want more ugly stone things around town? And what are these going to cost us?
We are no longer a communtiy, we are a collection of homes at the mercy Mr. Zimmerman and the city commision!
If you want to put up a sign how about Jobs Wanted.
Posted by marko (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 8:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Signs, signs, everywhere there's signs. Blockin' up the scenery, breakin' my mind.
Posted by Pingeon (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 9:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Am I understanding correctly that the "Home of William Allen White" signs are going to be replaced and not even an option for a new sign? I think this stinks. Clint Bowyer got me interested in NASCAR (was kind of cool to see someone I knew doing something on a national level and my interest grew from there), Clint does a LOT for the community (and I commend him for it), but I'm not sure this is the right way to go. As others have mentioned, there have been other professional athletes that have come from Emporia and their names aren't anywhere. Is this because they didn't donate money for various things in the community? I think the "Founding City of Veteran's Day" would be a much better way to go.
Posted by spectator (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 9:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't understand what the problem is that the signs to honor the vets are all of a sudden on hold - why can't a sign to honor/thank/whatever Clint be added later on his own special day? He's done a lot for the city, certainly more than zimmerman, but to deny the vets the honor of their sign apart from another sign just because the illinois guy doesn't like the mish mash the hicks have is absurd. Thank you Jesse, and others, for trying to do the right thing. And thank you Clint for your generousity to the city. Zimmerman could, and should, take lessions in 'What is a class act ?" from you both. One more thing, where did this inclusive sign come from and what the H*** is it supposed to mean? Includes a lot of empty businesses? Includes a lot of residents with little or no respect for the cm and his cohorts? Includes a county owned hospital that's barely making it ? Includes poor city employee morale ?
Posted by lifer (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 9:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why is Zimmerman making back room deals on what signs to put up and take down in Emporia.
There have been no real community discussions on the topic. The paper has reported nothing. All of sudden this is sprung on us that they are taking the William Allen White signs down. Perhaps there should be some community discussions discussing the parameters and guidlines for signs.
Zimmerman needs to slow down.
Posted by oh4theluvof (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
From wikipedia:
"The last quarter century of White's life was spent as an unofficial national spokesman for middle America. This led President Franklin Roosevelt to ask White to help generate public support for the Allies before America's entrance into World War II. White was fundamental in the formation of the Committee to Defend America by Aiding the Allies, sometimes known as the White Committee."
When Bowyer has assisted his entire country as White and each veteran has, then he can have a sign.
(At least R. Lee Ermey, who spent as much of his childhood here as Bowyer spent of his IS actually a veteran and as an actor, portrays a lot of military persons...I think that gets a sign before Bowyer, doesn't it?)
Posted by lifer (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Does Clint Bowyer really deserve to have his name at the city entrance? Why just because he gives money?
Should we not consider putting Gary Stinnett's name at the city entrance?
Matt Zimmerman probably doesn't know who he is.
He is a NHRA drag racer located right here in Emporia. He has won 3 world championships in different classes. He is the only person in the world to do this.
NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson has not won 3 championships but Gary has.
Gary is also a business owner in Emporia. He builds drag racing engines for people all over the country. Perhaps your economic development team should pay him a visit.
Gary might not give the money Clint has but he has accomplished amazing feats in the racing world and did I mention he lives here. Matt go visit Gary on Latern Lane.
He is a legend in the drag racing world.
So Matt what is your criteria for putting Clint's name at the front of the city. I contend there are many worthy people or is just based on money.
Matt Zimmerman learn about Emporia and it's history.
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jessie, All I can say is THANK YOU for all the time and effort you have put into these signs, that WERE long overdue!!!! Sounds like we need to understand "priorities" and what truly is important.
Posted by history (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Before Matt Zimmerman puts up Clint Bowyer signs he needs to EXPLAIN to the community why these Emporia sports noteables should not also be on signs. Well we are waiting Matt ... I hope it is not money related.
Jason Lahr - Professional Rodeo
J.L Lewis - Professional Golfer
Gary Stinett - NHRA
Former Professionals
Terry Bivins - Nascar Driver who raced against the legends
(I can't believe Nascar fans don't want to honor Terry)
John Lohmeyer - Professional Football player - KC Chiefs
Bob Clements - Professional Football player
Larry Krammer - Professional Football player
Posted by racefan (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Before Emporia put signs up saying Home of Clint Bowyer shouldn't we check with the town in North Carolina where Clint is really living and see if they have signs up saying the same thing? Isn't it deceptive advertising since Clint doesn't live here anymore.
Posted by YY4U (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 10:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities is an initiative of the National League of Cities. (I suspect that someone is living off some clandestine grant that we the people are paying for). Anyway, the sign is one of the things Members are required to post. See Page 3 of the link.
As a MEMBER of the PARTNERSHIP:
Send NLC photos (digital photos are best) of the sign’s installation including any ceremony that you hold in your community as well as information on any programs, policies, and activities that you currently have in place that promote inclusion, so that NLC can recognize and celebrate cities who are participating in the Partnership.
http://www.nlc.org/ASSETS/03428E6E381C4D...
Posted by oh4theluvof (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 11:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Although a bit obscure, I could find this purpose in the NLC Partnership document:
"Provide support to local officials in focused efforts around affordable housing, race and ethnic relations, and equal citizen participation in community decision-making."
and
".....a partnership to build inclusive communities through committed efforts to increase citizen participation and engagement...."
Do we get to grade our city leaders on this or do they decide that for us too??
Posted by YY4U (anonymous) on October 28, 2009 at 11:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What happened to all the Somalis?
If you read the plan, we are supposed to list all the languages spoken in our community on the sign that says we are working towards an inclusive community. Is redneck a language?
Posted by Steve_Corbin (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 6:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Some dis-jointed thoughts,( I'm good at that).
Story Line:
"As planning for the new signage progressed, the Building Futures Goal 8 Committee began looking into the city commission’s concerns about the number of entrance signs and how they are placed."
QUESTION:
Who is in this committee, and where were they when those Inclusive signs popped up?
STORY:
"The placement of the signs also is important because of a proposal from the Convention and Visitors Bureau to place large stone features at each entrance."
QUESTION:
Another great idea from the CVB! Has that lease for the turnpike property (doggy park) been signed yet?
STORY:
"The project to place the 20-foot high stone features will take time, but the Convention and Visitors Bureau is looking for approval from the city commission to move forward with planning and fundraising. The stone features would have the city’s name and possibly a logo from a sponsor, according to preliminary designs."
QUESTION:
Possibly a logo from a sponsor?
OK CVB, I am ready to sponsor a stone "feature" as long as I can have the "Town Royal" logo on it for all of eternity.
Who else could sponsor a feature?
The possibilities are endless.
I will be reading the police report with re-newed interest waiting to see the assault charge filed on Chris Walker.
Will he punch Matt Zimmerman in the face for even suggesting the removal of W.A. White signs?
Why not replace all these signs with just one that says it all;
WELCOME TO EMPORIA !
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
BY
ZIMMERMAN CONSTRUCTION COMPANY
Posted by Nobody (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You see, Ray Toso still has his "hands on" input with the City, which is obvious. Jeff Longbine pulls right with Toso on Bowyer b.s. - I will comment though that Clint Bowyer has been most generous and Emporia has benefited greatly. My suggestion: Name a street after Clint and have a "Clint Bowyer Day" of celebration every year. Recognizing him by signs isn't our only option here.
Posted by spectator (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Lifer, I doubt zimmerman even knows where Lantern Lane is located. Certainly nowhere he'd allow his Jaguar or new Chevy pickup to be seen. Beneath him, y'know. Sort of like the underpasses. If a certain Jaguar was EVER driven through one of these pot-hole infested trafficways, you can bet your last nickel they'd be in a lot safer condition-the hot patch band aid repairs would give way to real maintainence. Steve, why couldn't we arrange a one-on-one between zimmerman and Walker? [As for reading the report, NO! I want to be there but I'll likely forget what I saw IF the cops ever ask.] We could sell tickets, beverages & food from your establishment of course and then donate the proceeds to, well, "The possibilities are endless." to coin a gentleman's phrase. Let's start off with Walker; Stinnett, Lahr, Lohmeyer, Ermey and all the rest can form a line to the right. And zimmerman will get to meet a new group of F *****g Hicks as he fondly refers to them. I've often wondered why he left Illinois to straighten out the F*****g hicks and rednecks - oh yeah, $100k + a year plus percs.
Posted by FarmRaised (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Aren't they planning on naming a street after Clint Boyer? Why can't they name a street after him and leave up the WAW signs, put up the Veterans Day signs, sounds like we have no choice on the Inclusive Community signs and scrap the stone features. That seems like a fair compromise to me.
Posted by create (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Can we send the National League of Cities our inclusion photos of the night Emporia had a giant town hall meeting to bitch about the Somalians?
How about photographs of the south end? The east side? Let's not forget the NW side and who lives there.
Inclusion? Yes indeed, that smacks of grant money and lies, lies, lies just for a few bucks. You sold us down the river, zimmerman. WE live here. WE are Emporians, you are an outsider looking for his next job wherever the highest bidder is located.
I'm with you, Farm Raised, scrap the stone features.
I'm all for another town meeting!
Posted by rcakmon (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The signs should include Veteran's Day and WAW.
Clint Boywer? Really? Name a street after Clint and call it good.
Posted by glarson (Gwen Larson) on October 29, 2009 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Commissioners on Wednesday did not discuss replacing "Home of William Allen White" with "Home of Clint Bowyer." Our reporter misunderstood an incidental comment at the meeting. The online story has been updated for accuracy.
A suggestion has been made to the commission to add a Clint Bowyer designation, but no final decisions have been made.
Gwen Larson
Executive Editor
Posted by spectator (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 10:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Part of the problem is that Emporia has too many people truly worthy of a 'Home of....' sign. Doggone hicks are SO inconsiderate. Keep up the good fight, Jesse, we're proud of you. Originally attributed to British army intelligence during WW II, ILLEGITIMI NON CARBORUNDUM EST was adopted by US Army General "Vinegar" Joe Stillwell as his war-time motto. Sure seems to apply when dealing with zimmerman and the commission. We better get this figured out because in a few years there will be controversy about a 'Home of Jesse Solis -The Man who tried to erect signs denoting Emporia as the home of Veterans Day' sign.
Posted by justaflushaway (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 12:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
hold on spect,
solis will think you are serious and he will start raising money for his own signs.
And no Clint Bowyer was not a veteran, but he has sure done a lot for emporia in many ways, even if a lot of you cant stand him.
and powercat said: "Emporians may think NASCAR is great but most of America could care less about the sport."
guess you have never turned on a TV to even get a idea of what a NASCAR race looks like. that was really a dumb ass comment you made. your comment reminds me about how most think about your little kids soccer ball you may love it but most who have kids who can actually play a real sport don't care about SOCCER OK let me have it !!!!
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 1:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
justaflushaway, get REAL!!! What is this "blog" concerning?
Posted by ziggurat (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 1:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
William Allen White is still the "first citizen" of Emporia. His name and place in local and national history are proven.
Clint Boyer is a real draw currently with all Nascar aficionados.
We need both on Emporia signs!
Posted by JFish (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you for clarifying and fixing that Gwen. I'm relieved!
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The great tragedies of small town America occur not when right confronts wrong but when two rights confront each other. Tourism and Sporting Events are the number 1 industry of America. However, those Americans that don't know the past have little understanding of the present and absolutely no vision of the future. This is what I call the dumbing down of America. As a 20% disabled Vietnam veteran, I am gratefull for the efforts of Mr. Solis--Compromise might make a good umbrella but a very poor roof. Emporia the town that made Veterans Day a national tradition deserves a stand alone sign and who on this good God's earth would not want that way?
Posted by Rhoadgunner (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I still want to know Who is paying for some more ugly stones! Are we the taxpayers going to pick this tab up?
As for NASCAR I don't have the attention span for it. I get bored after the 5th left turn!
Name a street after Bowyer and call it done. I really don't think we need a day for him! That would be a little over the top don't you think?
Jessie You are doing a good thing, Corbin keep up the comments you tend to pick up on the good stuff.
Posted by FarmRaised (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are so many signs at the north entrance to town on Highway 99 that I can't take them all in when I come home from work. Honestly, they could put up a sign saying “Emporia-the most wonderful place on Earth” and I might notice it, eventually. The one that always seems to jump out at me is the “We Are Building an Inclusive Community” sign. But it never gets old; I still chuckle every time I see it.
Posted by admireed (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This discussion is good. Takes our minds off the million dollar football field, higher teacher salaries, ESU football and wet beans and corn still in the fields
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Right now things are tough all over America but some day I hope Emporia can have a huge circular walking trail near the turnpike enterchange with trails going off the main trail telling a story of Emporia's many deserving celebrities. One that comes to my mind is Paul Terry who according to Dean Smith the famous coach at North Carolina was the first to integrate Kansas Highschool Basketball when Dean's dad Alford Smith was the coach. I talked to Dean Smith in Topeka a couple of weeks ago and he was very appreciative of my efforts.
Posted by upsetcitizen (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DO NOT REPLACE WAW SIGNS!!! Does Clint Bowyer have a statue of himself in our State's Capitol Building???? NO NO NO NO NO NO NO. WAW is an important figure in our community, state, and nation we should honor him.
Posted by EmporiaLegalScholar (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 2:54 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by phiber101 (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 3:16 p.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by paulkersey (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 3:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Don't get me wrong, I appreciate what Bowyer has done for the community, but come on Zimmerman, don't gag on it.
Posted by dale011 (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I think the idea of a Clint Bowyer street and fan day are great. He represents the city well on the national stage.
Posted by Steve_Corbin (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
DARN IT!
Here I was getting fired up for a ZIMMERMAN vs WALKER SMACK DOWN.
And then Gwen comes along and clarifies the story.
Was this really a "misunderstanding of an incidental comment at the meeting, or did someone higher-up call for a make peace meeting with beer and cigars at "TOAD HOLLOW?
Posted by wwjd (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank goodness Russ "misunderstood" the story - you all haven't had a topic to blow out of proportion for a long time! Good ole Emporia
Posted by create (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 6:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Way to wag your tongue AFTER THE FACT, wwjd. This has been a long thread; where were you and your finger wagging at the beginning?
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 7:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ceate, come on, be nice, please! It has gotten so you truly wonder what the commission will come up with next. These signs should have been posted YEARS ago and now that they are finally in the "final" stage-Oh! wiat!!!! They deserve to be on a post by there lonesome!!!!! I know it could be fun to share sometimes, but this is not one of those times! Think the commission understand that?? I doubt!!!!
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 7:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Where is open_eyes? Be neat to see what he has to say about Emporias lovely commission!!!! (and their decision making abilities)
Posted by phiber101 (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 8:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I've got a good idea, how about zimmerman put up these ginormous stone monuments for these signs and place giant hooks on them..........that way they can read "Welcome to Emporia - Home of __________" fill in the blank with whomever has greased his pocket the most lately!!!! Sounds pretty sweet huh!? Maybe he could change it monthly, quarterly, bi-annually or annually! Hell, maybe one of these years my name would be up there!
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 8:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
phiber101, super idea!!!! Also, good luck at having your name there-but afraid down the road you might wish you never said that!!!!! Just might be a "ghost" town!!!!
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Only thting, wouldn't work for Steve. He wants "Town Royal" in letters on one of those stone "thingys'" for all eternity, sure shootin some city commissioner would come along and take it off if it just hung, won't work!!!! Let's make sure it is PERMANENT!!!!!!!!!
Posted by ToxicPink (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What did Bowyer have to suck to make him more important then William Allen White or Veteran's day?
Drive around really fast.
This city is a joke, you "officials" are a joke. You disgust me.
NOTHING is more important then BOWYER PRAISE BE THE NASCAR GODS!
You know what, toss some money at me and I might stop hating on the sorry excuse that has become how our city runs.
Those sitting in their offices cashing in have completely forgotten what this city is about, what the history is. Bowyer is not history yet, he's a kid driving around trying to win races.
WAW, Veteran's Day, those are something our city can be PROUD of. It's REAL history.
Oh and screw being a "tourist attraction" to NASCAR fans, I'd rather sit in legitimate history.
Culture, do you have it?
Posted by create (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I like phiber's giant hooks idea. Once those hooks are installed, we could install yet more signs about a hundred yards ahead saying, "Watch for hooks."
Unsuspecting drivers would immediately begin to worry about their tires. "Hooks? What the...? Hooks? Hooks?"
Posted by spectator (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
justaflushaway, the comment about a sign for Jesse Solis was, I'm positive you know, a 'tongue in cheek' [i.e. absurd] comment on the stupidity that the location for the Veterans' Day signs are a sudden problem. This has been in the works how long and we're just now addressing the issue of posting them? Apparently, an 'Inclusive Community' does not 'include' foresight attributed to the powers-that-be. This isn't the only positive thing Solis has done for Emporia; remember his efforts involving the Pledge of Allegience in Braille? "solis will think you are serious and he will start raising money for his own signs." That was a good one! I'm sure Jesse got a laugh out of it too. But I bet you got zimmerman's attention! [Not as funny as yours, was it?] It would be a travesty to allow W.A.White to be forgotten. At one time, the Gazette was a superb newspaper thanks largely to him. Be nice if even 1/3 of the media had White's abilities, ethics and sense of dedication, wouldn't it? I never met Clint so I can't comment on the Boyers' "rich like he was" attitude, but it cannot be denied that he has helped the community. "Boyer Blvd.", "Clint Court", [for that matter, "Stinnett Street", Lohmeyer Lane", let's keep it going] a sign indicating "Boyhood Home of NASCAR's Clint Boyer" , whatever, but don't demean the Veterans or the City of Emporia as the founding city of Veterans' Day. Let's remember White for his abilities and ethics, Boyer for his generosity and the Veterans and the City of Emporia as the founding city of Veterans' Day. Separately. Just two more things: Lifer - You asked "Why is Zimmerman making back room deals.." It's just what he does. His ethics demand that he take care of us Hicks and Rednecks for our own good. [Another one of those 'tongue in cheek' moments, just.] EmporiaLegalScholar - what in the world are you talking about? "...video tape from EPD..." and "Clint's and his fathers[sic] true colors and respect to the city..."
Posted by spectator (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
phiber, there's been lots of talk about signs on the big rocks but, and I bet even Steve hasn't considered this (or maybe he has, he's a crafty son-of-a-gun; there'd be lots of room for a stadium for the WALKER v. zimmerman bout) how about laying claim to the two, count 'em, two, roundabouts? Gonna be a doggy walk & tourist info center close by... Hmmm? Yeah? Am I good or what? AND you could rent out space for [smaller of course] signs. You could probably sub-lease one to Steve for "Town" and the other for "Royal". Just gets better and better. 'That said, you better act fast before someone else snaps this up and hangs their sign because the cat's out of the bag. Wait a minute. The roundabouts? Suggesting that someone would actually want to have their name visible on the roundabouts? What was I thinking? Forget what I said and I sure didn't mean to offend you! Or Steve!
Posted by TeamKansas (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 10:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Im surprised Zim didnt approve this one ...... "HERES YOUR SIGN EMPORIA!!!!!!" I would like to thank the Gazzette for creating the poll .... 90% wanted something other than the Boyer sign. WOW
For all of those who listed HISTORIC Emporians I added to the list a bit....
Dean Smith - HALL OF FAME Basketball Coach
Jason Lahr - Professional Rodeo
J.L Lewis - Professional Golfer
Gary Stinett - NHRA
Terry Bivins - Nascar Driver who raced against the legends
(I can't believe Nascar fans don't want to honor Terry)
John Lohmeyer - Professional Football player
Bob Clements - Professional Football player
Larry Krammer - Professional Football player
R. Lee Ermey - Host of Lock N' Loaded on the History Channel
Jim Everett - NFL Quarterback
Don Coldsmith - Western fiction author wrote more than 40 books
PLEASE FEEL FREE TO ADD TO THE LIST
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 29, 2009 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I like this clash of ideas--its the sound of freedom. At every City Commission meeting there is always a time for public comment. Come on down, its not very crowded and Steve, We Need You! How about Steve Corbin for City Commission along with Jessie Solis. We need people to represent the common folks of Emporia. Democracy is based on the conviction that there are extraordinary possibilities in just plain speaking folk like Harry S. Truman.
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 12:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The history of Emporia is the history of ideas. This might make a good tourism sign. Seriously!
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 12:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The late Richard Stauffer was one of the artist that carved the stones at the Fairgrounds. These stones are called the Prairie Passage the gateway to the Flint Hills. These Stones are Mysterious and they give the tourist something to remember Emporia by. The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is accordingly to Albert Einstein the source of all true art and science. His lovely widow Mary still lives in Emporia.
Posted by reddog (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 1:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe, We ought to go back to plan 1, which was to move all stones to the 10 acre Tourist Site. This is where they belong. The time is always right to do what is right.
Posted by nks (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 7:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"The roundabouts? Suggesting that someone would actually want to have their name visible on the roundabouts?"
That's the last thing that people need is something to read while dodging all the illegal lane turns, cars going in the wrong direction or cars stopping to figure out where the h&ll they need to go.
Posted by methusla (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
But, to a number of people who live or are now living in Emporia, remembering and preserving history and old things or living or believing in old ways is considered by them, not to be " PROGRESSIVE " and moving " FORWARD " !
How sad, If it were not for our past history and preserving it, there would be no future, progressing or moving forward !
Has everone forgotten that our future, will inevitably become past history !
Everything that is or will be, will eventually become what was !
Posted by sandman (anonymous) on October 30, 2009 at 1:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Meth, No, not everyone have forgotten that history is made today and the trials that the people of the past went thru so we may have the history we have today. I am afraid that many who have the "so called" power, have, which is truly a crime against those of us who do remember.
Posted by glarson (Gwen Larson) on October 30, 2009 at 2:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Moved to a forum:
http://www.emporiagazette.com/forums/ope...