Dealing with volunteers for many years, it has seemed that people think we are a TV society - a society that allows us to only turn the switch on or off - or to just switch channels. People don't seem to think that they can cause things to happen. Change the plot or script so to speak.
When we really step on some toes (which we do on occasions) ; someone always says to me "I can't believe you said that."
Issues need to be discussed and hammered about, not just turned on or off. Negotiation, compromise and discussion is what freedom is all about.
Computers are allowing for much greater interactivity - such as this blog - where you can add your comments, ideas or suggestions. To stay silent means: you are afraid or embarassed to express yourself; the issue is of no importance to you; or you feel that making any expression will have no result on the issue discussed.
Our elected officials are very accessible as a rule. Have you taken time to talk to them ?
Imagine being in a job where you came in every day, but you had no direction or assignment of work to do. Be pretty boring and unchallenging, wouldn't it ?
Challenge your elected officials and candidates to discuss your issues. They do work for you, but without your suggestion and direction they may do what you least want them to.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Watching the City in Action ! LOOK OUT ! More Police Coming to SOHO Area.
Mayor Pam Iorio has been conducting a series of Town Hall type meetings across the city over the past few months. The idea is a simple one: go to the neighborhoods, bring along an impressive array of city administrators with pads and pencils in hand, and listen to the gripes, problems, and concerns of the public, and then : RESPOND.
The Oct. 18th meeting was designed to reach the South and West Tampa neighborhoods. If you have never attended one of these events, you should. It is representative government in action. Some of the attendees came with specific concerns about speed bumps on their street, curbs that are needed, potholes and bumps that need repairs, code enforcement issues (like a neighbor converting part of their home into an additional living unit etc.) , and concerns about congregating young people. Mayor Iorio is one of the best elected officials to conduct this type of Town Meeting. She is knowledgeable and responsive. Most of those issues were responded to by an administrator with an assurance that a personal response would be supplied - in time.
The larger issues are usually presented by Neighborhood Associations or community activitists. Community activists are the conscience of the city. They may speak on any subject imaginable. Issues raised at this meeting included : concerns about the overuse of public surveillance monitors; announcement of plans to oppose major sporting events coming to Hillsborough County due to portrayed discrimination against the Gay, Lesbian, Bi, Transexual community; over development and the many problems associated with that issue; and even the concern for the decline of rental housing due to rapidly rising real estate values.
The Courier City neighborhood group expressed concerns about parking problems in the SOHO area. It was acknowledged that plans were already in place to increase Police officers on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights to issue more tickets to violators. The Mayor seemed to have no solution to the parking problems. Concerns about streets being jammed with parked cars and the potential danger created by narrowing streets so that emergency vehicles can not navigate these streets. I asked the Mayor if the goal of this was to raise funds for a new parking garage or for providing expanded mass transit to reduce the demand for parking. Her response was clear: at this time there is no plan for adding any parking to the SOHO area and no plan to add mass transit. When I further challenged about the allowance of more development that is creating greater density and increasing parking needs, theMayor deferred the issue to city administrators. City Council member Linda Saul-Sena, further emphasized the parking problem to the Mayor and administrators. However, if you are looking for the city's solution to this ever increasing problem, the answer may be as clear as the newly written ticket on your windshield.
My general take on the event: people are really concerned about the "appearance" of the City of Tampa and the impact of devlopment. Many commented about lack of landscaping on roadways and many lamented that Tampa was not as pretty as St. Petersburg. Development and roads are on most everyone's minds. Major concerns were expressed by numerous groups concerning the planned development of a condominium/retail project at the corner of Swann and Howard Avenue and the soon to be added traffic. Parking problems in SOHO will be responded to by increasing the amount of parking citations. (doesn't seem like much of a solution to us.)
However, it was my general take on the response that bothered me. Many citizens complained that they had been raising their issue over many years and had received no response. While overall, phone calls seemed to be returned; many calls are still not. It seemed pretty flippant when they heard this: "Well if you have had the problem for 30 years, another 30 days won't matter."
In today's world of instantaneous communication and information, and with the scope of professional administrators; the City needs to be doing a better job of addressing the long term issues of the neighborhoods. (BY THE WAY: no one mentioned the future of the Tampa Museum of Art - maybe the neighborhoods would rather have the money spent on those curbs and potholes that they deal with every day instead) What do you think ?
Thursday, October 13, 2005
Ybor City and Its Challenges
This past weekend while attending a Buc's party, I was gently attacked by an Ybor business owner about how we clearly did not support Ybor City and its efforts. I listened intently and took the comments to heart.
The fact is: I really like Ybor. The rich history and culture reflected in the architecture and character is magnificent to say the least.
The District is working to return Ybor from a reputation as being a party and club district to more of a cultural and business district. That is a great idea. With the many great clubs and restaurants that seem to dominate the area, it is sad that the daytime business isn't stronger than it is. In fact, Ybor doesn't start to happen until 10 pm at best.
With camera and pencil in hand, off I went to see the Ybor Renaissance of ARTS YBOR, a planned Second Wednesday of the Month event designed to showcase the arts and retail side of the area. The galleries offer some creative works in a comfortable atmosphere. Many shops are located in restored old homes that are works of art in themselves.
There was no one there. Business leaders seemed to be invisible. Even though the publicity for the event had been pretty extensive, there was just no one there. The supposed leadership was missing. No real effort by the Ybor Chamber of Commerce. No real effort by the businesses in the district.
At this time, Ybor City is a night time bar and restaurant district with retail shops that cater to that market and nothing more. Unfortunately, due to previous problems of violence, that image is not going to attract the crowd that the districts business leaders are seeking. A meeting of the minds needs to be held - with all businesses represented - to decide the direction of Ybor City. Or the so-called business leaders need to accept Ybor as it is. As a ship without a rudder, this magnificent part of Tampa's heritage will never reach its real potential. What a shame.
Thursday, September 29, 2005
How do we keep it all straight ?
TAMPAGOLD.COM is now providing an automated Calender of Events with a committment to be the Best Calendar in the Tampa Area. Eric Sturm, former calender manager from Verve Tampa Bay, will be managing our site. We are seeking your input ! Check out our calendar and have a look. Regardless of the type of event, we are committed to keeping you informed !
Visit Our Calendar here.
Visit Our Calendar here.
Wednesday, September 21, 2005
There's Nothing Like Professionals
The recent city of Tampa sponsored event at the Tampa Convention Center to bring out comments on Mayor Iorio's Riverwalk idea was truly an event to be savoured.
The hired guns from EDAW clearly showed their expertise and professionalism in lots of different ways. First, their previous projects were diverse, creative, and substantial. Second, their presentation was clear and precise without being arrogant or dictatotial. Third, when they indicated they wanted public input it seemed sincere. BUT most of all, they were informed about and prepared to dance through the maze of local issues that could send the Riverwalk up the river.
When one of the Tampa Museum of Art's riverfront site proponents took a swat at the plan, these EDAW professionals recognized the incoming attack for what it was and responded with a clear indication that the Museum was not their issue, but that their expertise would make the Museum, at whatever location, a part of the Riverwalk connectivity plan. (see more pictures from the meeting here)
With her popularity chart starting to rival President Bush's poll results, Mayor Iorio has committed herself to "creating Tampa's premier attraction."
All she needs is to: 1. keep the Art Museum backers happy; 2. keep the Kiley Park supporters happy; 3. overcome problems created by being on a navigable river with security issues and bridges of various heights, 4. have a design/concept that is liked by everyone;
AND, of course, 5. Find the $20 plus million required to make this happen.
Monday, September 19, 2005
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
The problems of the levees in New Orleans had been known for years. The biggest problem was the failure of the people and the politicians to be willing to bite the financial bullet and make the levees safe.
Now California is examining the same type of issue. With their levees in an earthquake prone area, the proposed cost to bring the levees up to a sufficient safe zone is over $ 1 Billion dollars. That is a lot ! But nothing like the potential disaster if it is not done.
The bill for the repair of the Gulf Coast will be over $200 Billion.
Unfortunately, money does not grow on trees 0r in vineyards. President Bush has been one of the most fiscally irresponsible leaders in our country's history. Hard to believe from a purported conservative, Republican administration.
Republican rhetoric has called the Democrats "taxers and spenders" while under this administration the Republicans have just plain been "spenders" saddling us with a huge debt at the wrong time.
While launching two war fronts, the mislead war in Iraq and the almost forgotten war in Afghanistan, he has engineered tax cuts for the rich resulting in large budget deficits. Now when we need dollars to respond to the largest disaster affecting the American people, the money is not there, except by borrowing even more. When we needed the National Guard to save the Homeland, many were overseas.
The pictures from hurricane affected American streets and neighborhoods make the scenes from Lebanon, Iraq, Somalia, and other combat zones look pretty tame. Hard to look at bodies lying on the side of the road - for days - and not thinking that this can't be happening in America.
We wish a new electionwas close at hand. We need fresh, new, bold leadership with creativity and vision to get America back on track.
The believers still say, "Bush did a better job than Kerry would have done." Maybe, maybe not; but with a forgotten war on the real bad guys that killed thousands of innocent Americans on 9/11, with a falsely justified war on Iraq, with a fiscally irresponsible budgetary policy, and now with the failure of the federal government to quickly and effectively respond to a natural disaster that we could see coming, giving Kerry or anyone else a chance to do better seems like a reasonable idea. We aren't going to talk about the budget surpluses during the Clinton administration or the fact that more Americans are falling into poverty since George W. took office. We aren't even going to be partisan, give us a different Republican - just give us someone different.
Now California is examining the same type of issue. With their levees in an earthquake prone area, the proposed cost to bring the levees up to a sufficient safe zone is over $ 1 Billion dollars. That is a lot ! But nothing like the potential disaster if it is not done.
The bill for the repair of the Gulf Coast will be over $200 Billion.
Unfortunately, money does not grow on trees 0r in vineyards. President Bush has been one of the most fiscally irresponsible leaders in our country's history. Hard to believe from a purported conservative, Republican administration.
Republican rhetoric has called the Democrats "taxers and spenders" while under this administration the Republicans have just plain been "spenders" saddling us with a huge debt at the wrong time.
While launching two war fronts, the mislead war in Iraq and the almost forgotten war in Afghanistan, he has engineered tax cuts for the rich resulting in large budget deficits. Now when we need dollars to respond to the largest disaster affecting the American people, the money is not there, except by borrowing even more. When we needed the National Guard to save the Homeland, many were overseas.
The pictures from hurricane affected American streets and neighborhoods make the scenes from Lebanon, Iraq, Somalia, and other combat zones look pretty tame. Hard to look at bodies lying on the side of the road - for days - and not thinking that this can't be happening in America.
We wish a new electionwas close at hand. We need fresh, new, bold leadership with creativity and vision to get America back on track.
The believers still say, "Bush did a better job than Kerry would have done." Maybe, maybe not; but with a forgotten war on the real bad guys that killed thousands of innocent Americans on 9/11, with a falsely justified war on Iraq, with a fiscally irresponsible budgetary policy, and now with the failure of the federal government to quickly and effectively respond to a natural disaster that we could see coming, giving Kerry or anyone else a chance to do better seems like a reasonable idea. We aren't going to talk about the budget surpluses during the Clinton administration or the fact that more Americans are falling into poverty since George W. took office. We aren't even going to be partisan, give us a different Republican - just give us someone different.
Monday, September 05, 2005
A COMPARISON TO THINK ABOUT
The damage assessment for the area affected by Hurricane Katrina is 90,000 square miles. Sometime this week it is projected that 54,000 federal troops will be on the ground to help this devastated part of our country. OR .60 federal troop member per square mile.
Iraq is almost 169,000 square miles in area. According to CNN, we have 138,000 troops in Iraq. OR .81 federal troop member per square mile.
That does not include Afghanistan or any other assigned locations. Think about it.
Iraq is almost 169,000 square miles in area. According to CNN, we have 138,000 troops in Iraq. OR .81 federal troop member per square mile.
That does not include Afghanistan or any other assigned locations. Think about it.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
LET'S DO THIS !
There will be plenty of blame going around concerning the handling/mishandling of the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. BUT the people without food/water or without a place to go, really do not care about blame for now. They just want the basics that a country like ours should provide.
It is clear that the dangers of the levees were made public years ago. Whether possible or not, when you want help, you want it NOW !
Florida should be re examining all of our disaster scenarios and plans. That is the job our professionals are paid to do.
For the immediate need of desperate families, why shouldn't Tampa make available the empty Fort Homerly Hesterly Armory for temporary housing ? This building could be a great temporary shelter. While it might not be a first class hotel, it is dry and conveniently located for people in need.
Why should we do this ? Because we can.
This property on North Howard Avenue is empty and convenient. The property is still in transition from the National Guard to the City of Tampa. Elvis, Gordon Solie and every wrestler that ever visited this building would surely approve of this use.
Tampa's day for a similar disaster may come some day, wouldn't you want it done for you ?
Call upon Mayor Iorio to respond by clicking here.
AND WHETHER YOU AGREE WITH US OR NOT -
Give to the RED CROSS NOW by clicking here. OR Give to the Bush Clinton Katrina Fund by clicking here.
OR drop off your donations at the St. Pete Times Forum
OR TO SEND A PACKAGE DIRECTLY, Send to REFUGEES - Astrodome -8400 Kirby Drive, Houston, TX 77054. Mark on the front of the package what is enclosed to assist in distribution.
Thursday, September 01, 2005
IT COULD HAVE BEEN US !
Just as during the 9/11 disaster, we are all afforded the amazing ability to get a news (including pictures) immediately of the New Orleans - Gulf Coast disaster caused by Hurricane Katrina.
The TOTAL devastation is incredible. It could have been us.
Hurricane Charley threatened to come right up Tampa Bay, the worst scenario for us according to local planners.
You have to feel the pain of the many displaced people you see on news broadcasts.
The power of the internet is evident again when I realize that if this had happened to me I could be located, in time, by my internet address. I could communicate with worried friends and family from some stray location - assuming I had survived.
Help these people get out of the disaster zone to where they can be safe and can communicate again.
NOW is the time to help these survivors. Tampa groups have already started planning fundraisers and contribution drops. This is great - BUT do something NOW !
Give to the RED CROSS NOW ! As I listen to the news I hear a reporter saying "people are dying now. A man is laying dead on the sidewalk and no one is doing anything."
PEOPLE LAYING DEAD ON THE STREET IN THE U.S.
Local groups doing things to help are great ! But a week will be too late for many people.
GIVE TO THE RED CROSS NOW ! They are waiting for your call. 800-HELPNOW or
Click here.
The TOTAL devastation is incredible. It could have been us.
Hurricane Charley threatened to come right up Tampa Bay, the worst scenario for us according to local planners.
You have to feel the pain of the many displaced people you see on news broadcasts.
The power of the internet is evident again when I realize that if this had happened to me I could be located, in time, by my internet address. I could communicate with worried friends and family from some stray location - assuming I had survived.
Help these people get out of the disaster zone to where they can be safe and can communicate again.
NOW is the time to help these survivors. Tampa groups have already started planning fundraisers and contribution drops. This is great - BUT do something NOW !
Give to the RED CROSS NOW ! As I listen to the news I hear a reporter saying "people are dying now. A man is laying dead on the sidewalk and no one is doing anything."
PEOPLE LAYING DEAD ON THE STREET IN THE U.S.
Local groups doing things to help are great ! But a week will be too late for many people.
GIVE TO THE RED CROSS NOW ! They are waiting for your call. 800-HELPNOW or
Click here.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Tampa Is Lucky Again
Hurricane Katrina unleashed her fury on the upper Gulf Coast sparing us from another potential disaster. If you are "ordered" to evacuate - would you ? Do you trust government officials to advise you correctly before a storm hits ? And do you trust them to take care of you after the event ? Are you really covered under your insurance ?
AND if you evacuated in the middle of the night with almost nothing, and almost everything you had was lost, do you know what you would do ?
Lots of questions to think about.
New Orleans had been lucky for a long time - just like us.
You can help now with a few dollars - for the RED CROSS - click here.
AND if you evacuated in the middle of the night with almost nothing, and almost everything you had was lost, do you know what you would do ?
Lots of questions to think about.
New Orleans had been lucky for a long time - just like us.
You can help now with a few dollars - for the RED CROSS - click here.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
HOW Un-AMERICAN CAN WE BE ?
It amazes me when I hear people so intolerant of others in the U.S.
Critics of the President are called names and told they aren't Americans. Critics of the War are called names and told they aren't Americans. Critics of anything are called names and told they aren't Americans.
What an irony. Many of our founding fathers came here to avoid religious and political persecution. Our Bill of Rights seeks to guarantee freedom of speech and thought.
While I may not ever agree with your opinion - I will ALWAYS agree with your right to state it.
The recent emphasis on democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan is the allowance of people to speak about and vote for their ideas.
Seems to me like it is time for Americans to BE Americans and let citizens speak up for their own ideas.
Whether it be Bikini Bars in East Hillsborough County, HARTLINE, The Art Museum, The Iraq War, - sift through the bombardment of messages reaching you every moment and think about and speak up about what is important to you !
Critics of the President are called names and told they aren't Americans. Critics of the War are called names and told they aren't Americans. Critics of anything are called names and told they aren't Americans.
What an irony. Many of our founding fathers came here to avoid religious and political persecution. Our Bill of Rights seeks to guarantee freedom of speech and thought.
While I may not ever agree with your opinion - I will ALWAYS agree with your right to state it.
The recent emphasis on democracy in Iraq and Afghanistan is the allowance of people to speak about and vote for their ideas.
Seems to me like it is time for Americans to BE Americans and let citizens speak up for their own ideas.
Whether it be Bikini Bars in East Hillsborough County, HARTLINE, The Art Museum, The Iraq War, - sift through the bombardment of messages reaching you every moment and think about and speak up about what is important to you !
WAKE UP AMERICA !!!
Too much can lead to too little.
Stop right where you are right now and take a moment to look around you. How many messages are reaching at you NOW ?
Is there a logo on your drink cup ? Does your computer have a label saying "Intel Inside" ? Are there any business cards in front of you ? Anything like "Microsoft" on your mouse or keyboard ? Does your phone say "Nextel" ?
We are so bombarded with messages that it leads to many of us missing a lot of what is going on.
It is most concerning when it comes to issues that may be really important - maybe even save lives.
Are you aware of the following:
1. 7th Avenue in Ybor is about to return to vehicle traffic from the pedestrian traffic in the past ?
2. considerations are underway to change parts of North Armenia/North Howard just north of the Interstate to TWO Way streets from the current ONE way streets ?
3. people are gathering ballot initiative petition signatures with your name, address, and phone number and not identifying who they are or who they are working for ?
4. a group name BEST (Built Environment for a Sustainable Tampa) is trying to insure that Downtown Tampa does not become just a batch of high rise concrete structures ?
5. a future Tampa Museum of Art will cost city residents about 1 Million per year to operate ?
6. the "New Tampa" area has a strong movement afoot to no longer be a part of the City of Tampa ?
And we have barely begun to scratch the surface of what all is happening in this city.
TAMPAGOLD.com is making significant changes to be able to tell you more about our city and its residents. Your input is critical to making that work. We welcome your comments and input - always !
Stop right where you are right now and take a moment to look around you. How many messages are reaching at you NOW ?
Is there a logo on your drink cup ? Does your computer have a label saying "Intel Inside" ? Are there any business cards in front of you ? Anything like "Microsoft" on your mouse or keyboard ? Does your phone say "Nextel" ?
We are so bombarded with messages that it leads to many of us missing a lot of what is going on.
It is most concerning when it comes to issues that may be really important - maybe even save lives.
Are you aware of the following:
1. 7th Avenue in Ybor is about to return to vehicle traffic from the pedestrian traffic in the past ?
2. considerations are underway to change parts of North Armenia/North Howard just north of the Interstate to TWO Way streets from the current ONE way streets ?
3. people are gathering ballot initiative petition signatures with your name, address, and phone number and not identifying who they are or who they are working for ?
4. a group name BEST (Built Environment for a Sustainable Tampa) is trying to insure that Downtown Tampa does not become just a batch of high rise concrete structures ?
5. a future Tampa Museum of Art will cost city residents about 1 Million per year to operate ?
6. the "New Tampa" area has a strong movement afoot to no longer be a part of the City of Tampa ?
And we have barely begun to scratch the surface of what all is happening in this city.
TAMPAGOLD.com is making significant changes to be able to tell you more about our city and its residents. Your input is critical to making that work. We welcome your comments and input - always !
Monday, August 15, 2005
IN THE EYE OF THE STORMS
Hillsborough County Commissioner Rhonda Storms is a pretty unique politician. She does speak her mind and is consistent with her voting. I like her style - sometimes.
BUT it is her substance that gets all out of whack. She seems totally unconcerned about the possibility that her stand against supporting Gay Pride might be deemed as discriminatory.
Whether or not you agree with her stand, you should be concerned about her attitude. And concerned with her effort to rush through her position without any prior discussion or input. The speed and lack of deliberation on behalf of the commission members sure smells of a planned conspiracy.
Did the other commissioners know this was coming ? If so, when and how ? Was this a violation of the Sunshine Law ? Will we ever know ?
The GLB coalition has now implemented a plan to support merchants that support their cause by posting a sticker on their front door. My history education brings to mind too many times that a marked door was used to discriminate and to persecute.
I hope our County Commission will learn how to unify rather than divide. This would be something we could all be proud of.
BUT it is her substance that gets all out of whack. She seems totally unconcerned about the possibility that her stand against supporting Gay Pride might be deemed as discriminatory.
Whether or not you agree with her stand, you should be concerned about her attitude. And concerned with her effort to rush through her position without any prior discussion or input. The speed and lack of deliberation on behalf of the commission members sure smells of a planned conspiracy.
Did the other commissioners know this was coming ? If so, when and how ? Was this a violation of the Sunshine Law ? Will we ever know ?
The GLB coalition has now implemented a plan to support merchants that support their cause by posting a sticker on their front door. My history education brings to mind too many times that a marked door was used to discriminate and to persecute.
I hope our County Commission will learn how to unify rather than divide. This would be something we could all be proud of.
WHAT SHOULD THE PRESIDENT DO ?
The continuing saga of Cindy Sheehan hanging out by the President's Crawford Texas home has really gotten sour. Nerves at the site seem frayed.
I am no fan of President Bush and have never been a supporter of the war on Iraq. We did not have UN approval and their were no WMD's as threatened, however, that day of decision has passed. T
he President is THE PRESIDENT.
I do not think he should meet with her - again. And ignoring her presence at the ranch will not do any good either. Especially if some one is hurt or tensions escalate.
What a great time to have a good reason to cancel his vacation for a week and head to: a disaster site, a meeting of some conservative group, an international good will mission or something. Maybe with the completion of an Iraq constitution, Bush could sneak into Iraq for a celebratory signing or something. If the President and the media left Crawford, this wrong approach to this serious issue would go away.
We all share the pain of the Sheehan family.
Openly and candidly discussing Iraq's future and our role in it is a much better way to deal with the Iraq issue for everyone's benefit. It is the failure in doing so that has provided Cindy Sheehan with this platform.
I am no fan of President Bush and have never been a supporter of the war on Iraq. We did not have UN approval and their were no WMD's as threatened, however, that day of decision has passed. T
he President is THE PRESIDENT.
I do not think he should meet with her - again. And ignoring her presence at the ranch will not do any good either. Especially if some one is hurt or tensions escalate.
What a great time to have a good reason to cancel his vacation for a week and head to: a disaster site, a meeting of some conservative group, an international good will mission or something. Maybe with the completion of an Iraq constitution, Bush could sneak into Iraq for a celebratory signing or something. If the President and the media left Crawford, this wrong approach to this serious issue would go away.
We all share the pain of the Sheehan family.
Openly and candidly discussing Iraq's future and our role in it is a much better way to deal with the Iraq issue for everyone's benefit. It is the failure in doing so that has provided Cindy Sheehan with this platform.
Monday, July 25, 2005
TAMPA - City of the Arts ?
With a lot of dust being stirred up, it look like the Tampa Museum of Art is still looking for a new home. Mayor Iorio is insistent on an open riverfront - although she hints of mid rise residential/commercial space and talks of a museum district in the Franklin Street Area. The Tampa Museum of Art Board maintains that they need more and new space and have pushed for a riverfront site.
Lots of issues have been raised over these plans. Among them are the continuing operating costs of the museum and of course, the cost of construction too. How important is the building itself ? What size and form of exhibit space is required and can be afforded ?
Do we need to spend the money ? What is the "real" value of the museum ? Should it be in downtown at all ? Lots of questions, and so far not many answers
At a potential cost of construction of over $100 million and a per year city contribution of near $1 million, can or should we afford it ?
What do you think ?
Lots of issues have been raised over these plans. Among them are the continuing operating costs of the museum and of course, the cost of construction too. How important is the building itself ? What size and form of exhibit space is required and can be afforded ?
Do we need to spend the money ? What is the "real" value of the museum ? Should it be in downtown at all ? Lots of questions, and so far not many answers
At a potential cost of construction of over $100 million and a per year city contribution of near $1 million, can or should we afford it ?
What do you think ?
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Ybor City - What should we do ?
With the recent attention that has been given to Tampa's Ybor City, it is no wonder that everyone has an opinion. This multi block area has a clashing combination of businesses, architecture, history, and people.
It does seem that bad news in or even near Ybor gets larger headlines than most other bad news, but a high dollar Public Relations Guru is not the answer. Fix the Problems, Fix the News.
It is not the City's right to randomly close the bars and we will argue to the end for bars or any business to be able to price their legal products as the business owner wishes.
The effects are starting to become noticeable. While week nights were not usually that busy, they have now become even less busy. Some establishments have their own clientele and following, but even they are starting to feel the sting.
Parking in Ybor already adds to your headache. Parking on 7th Avenue is allowed at certain hours. Parking meters are randomly, but frequently enforced. Parking garages are not all that convenient. Private lot hawkers make you wonder about their legitimacy and rates vary according to location. Plus paying $5 or more to park when you are thinking about just a quick beer or two is not very cost efficient.
BUT add to this the charm of the neighborhood and the convenience of so many clubs/restaurants in such close proximity and it does add up to a big asset. The Ybor Market on Saturday mornings is always enjoyable. West Palm Wines is a first rate boutique shop. The Handmade in Florida Craft Gallery is more of an art facility than crafts. And the list goes on.
We would like your opinion on where Ybor City is , and where it should go. Please visit our Poll and let us know what you think. CLICK HERE.
AND of course, your comments are welcome on this blog too.
It does seem that bad news in or even near Ybor gets larger headlines than most other bad news, but a high dollar Public Relations Guru is not the answer. Fix the Problems, Fix the News.
It is not the City's right to randomly close the bars and we will argue to the end for bars or any business to be able to price their legal products as the business owner wishes.
The effects are starting to become noticeable. While week nights were not usually that busy, they have now become even less busy. Some establishments have their own clientele and following, but even they are starting to feel the sting.
Parking in Ybor already adds to your headache. Parking on 7th Avenue is allowed at certain hours. Parking meters are randomly, but frequently enforced. Parking garages are not all that convenient. Private lot hawkers make you wonder about their legitimacy and rates vary according to location. Plus paying $5 or more to park when you are thinking about just a quick beer or two is not very cost efficient.
BUT add to this the charm of the neighborhood and the convenience of so many clubs/restaurants in such close proximity and it does add up to a big asset. The Ybor Market on Saturday mornings is always enjoyable. West Palm Wines is a first rate boutique shop. The Handmade in Florida Craft Gallery is more of an art facility than crafts. And the list goes on.
We would like your opinion on where Ybor City is , and where it should go. Please visit our Poll and let us know what you think. CLICK HERE.
AND of course, your comments are welcome on this blog too.
Saturday, July 02, 2005
SAFETY RECOMMENDATIONS - JUST IGNORE THEM
Over the past two years, a very large and representative BAYSHORE TASK FORCE studied virtually every option for making this scenic drive and recreation area safer for all.
I attended a couple of meetings and was impressed with the size and dedication involved. Citizens from recreation, business, neighborhood, safety, and law enforcement groups were attending frequent meetings to address the concerns about Bayshore Boulevard.
When I interviewed the Mayor, prior to the Task Force's report, asking for her suggestions on Bayshore, she deferred to the Task Force and was proud of their work and efforts. "Why appoint a hard working committee and then make suggestions prior to their report ?" was her answer. Mayor Iorio has supported the construction of the sidewalk since the Task Force's recommendations.
The report was issued with many suggestions to improve safety. (KEY WORD HERE IS: SAFETY) With money and budget restraints; implementing the suggestions have gradually been planned and many suggestions implemented.
If you use Bayshore, you know the lack of a complete southbound sidewalk between Howard Avenue and Bay to Bay creates a safety hazard. That is why the Task Force made the suggestion to install that section of sidewalk.
BUT now, the Bayshore Diplomat condo association and a couple of Bayshore property owners don't want the sidewalk to be constructed in front of their property and have been successful in getting the city to rethink this plan.
This is very simple, if you want to walk on the south bound side of Bayshore, you will have to walk on uneven grass or you will have to cross the street. Still resulting in the safety issue that the Task Force addressed.
Take the Task Force's recommendations: construct the southbound sidewalk - ALL OF IT !
Call the City Council 274-8131.
I attended a couple of meetings and was impressed with the size and dedication involved. Citizens from recreation, business, neighborhood, safety, and law enforcement groups were attending frequent meetings to address the concerns about Bayshore Boulevard.
When I interviewed the Mayor, prior to the Task Force's report, asking for her suggestions on Bayshore, she deferred to the Task Force and was proud of their work and efforts. "Why appoint a hard working committee and then make suggestions prior to their report ?" was her answer. Mayor Iorio has supported the construction of the sidewalk since the Task Force's recommendations.
The report was issued with many suggestions to improve safety. (KEY WORD HERE IS: SAFETY) With money and budget restraints; implementing the suggestions have gradually been planned and many suggestions implemented.
If you use Bayshore, you know the lack of a complete southbound sidewalk between Howard Avenue and Bay to Bay creates a safety hazard. That is why the Task Force made the suggestion to install that section of sidewalk.
BUT now, the Bayshore Diplomat condo association and a couple of Bayshore property owners don't want the sidewalk to be constructed in front of their property and have been successful in getting the city to rethink this plan.
This is very simple, if you want to walk on the south bound side of Bayshore, you will have to walk on uneven grass or you will have to cross the street. Still resulting in the safety issue that the Task Force addressed.
Take the Task Force's recommendations: construct the southbound sidewalk - ALL OF IT !
Call the City Council 274-8131.
Friday, June 24, 2005
GARDENING IN DOWNTOWN TAMPA
As I looked at some of the newspaper maps at planned construction in Downtown, it was easy to think of gardening. Discussion about heights and types of buildings (hotels, condos, retail) sound like selecting the right plant to be sure you can walk between the rows or be sure that the heights work to make the light access correct for the other plants in the garden.
The seeds for downtown redevelopment are already in place. In case you haven't noticed, after years of reaching for new office buildings, the call for them now has become silent.
Already over 5,000 new housing units are starting to grow or are already approved in downtown. Hotels are also on the way. BUT, it is retail space that seems to be lagging behind.
Two Channelside establishments have closed their doors - permanently or temporarily seems to be the question - Newks and Rivals. Part of that comes from the lack of NHL hockey games and the revenue it brings.
When VERVE had a recent DOWNTOWN AFTER SIX function, several hundred people attended to stroll through part of downtown. It was great to see some local businesses stay open a little later to make the event work, but it was a little sad to see all the businesses closed at 6 PM. Regardless of the downtown event, on Saturdays, most retail spaces and restaurants are closed and silent.
A garden starts with a clearing process. Raking, planning, then planting. Not all plants grow at the same speed. You have to be patient and nurturing before the garden really takes hold.
Downtown Tampa is just like that. Let's just hope that in the rush to construct the garden we don't remove some plants that we really ought to keep, like Kiley Park, or allow some in that shouldn't be there.
The seeds for downtown redevelopment are already in place. In case you haven't noticed, after years of reaching for new office buildings, the call for them now has become silent.
Already over 5,000 new housing units are starting to grow or are already approved in downtown. Hotels are also on the way. BUT, it is retail space that seems to be lagging behind.
Two Channelside establishments have closed their doors - permanently or temporarily seems to be the question - Newks and Rivals. Part of that comes from the lack of NHL hockey games and the revenue it brings.
When VERVE had a recent DOWNTOWN AFTER SIX function, several hundred people attended to stroll through part of downtown. It was great to see some local businesses stay open a little later to make the event work, but it was a little sad to see all the businesses closed at 6 PM. Regardless of the downtown event, on Saturdays, most retail spaces and restaurants are closed and silent.
A garden starts with a clearing process. Raking, planning, then planting. Not all plants grow at the same speed. You have to be patient and nurturing before the garden really takes hold.
Downtown Tampa is just like that. Let's just hope that in the rush to construct the garden we don't remove some plants that we really ought to keep, like Kiley Park, or allow some in that shouldn't be there.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
TOWING IN SOHO
Recently I received this email at SOHOTAMPA.COM.
Hey, Mr. Bill! I’ve got a question. Some friends and I were sitting on the deck at the Deck on Friday 10 June. While enjoying our pizzas, we noticed the parking lot at the former Porky’s laundry filling up with various cars and suvs. Then the tow trucks started to arrive. This business is closed. There is very limited parking in hyde park, especially on Friday nites when everyone wants to pub crawl or have dinner. The question is, why would the owners of an extinct business care if their parking were used for the benefit of all??? It just seems to me that most of the businesses that are located in hyde park are here for a reason. And the reason is high pedestrian volume($)! It is pointless that someone with all that unused space would limit access to the property. And, if that is the case, why is there not a fence around the property to keep everyone out???Also, this towing company only took the nicest cars. While on the deck, we noticed a mercedes and 2 bmw’s being towed. The chevy and ford suvs were left behind and not touched while we were there. Maybe they took the high end cars knowing that those owners would most likely get their cars out of hock before an older pos jalopy? Just curious as to your take on the matter. Kevin
Dear Kevin, It has amazed me to see the tow trucks zoom around the neighborhood like sharks in a kid's wading pool. With a cost of over $200 to get your car out of their hands and the total inconvenience of trying to figure out who has it and where it has gone; towing has become a big profit maker for some, and a big headache for others. What is the solution ?
Parking garages, mass transit, a little more give and take from neighbors, better city controls in not allowing new businesses and residences without adequate parking, or all of the above ?
We have raised this issue before ... and will again. We welcome your comments on this issue.
Hey, Mr. Bill! I’ve got a question. Some friends and I were sitting on the deck at the Deck on Friday 10 June. While enjoying our pizzas, we noticed the parking lot at the former Porky’s laundry filling up with various cars and suvs. Then the tow trucks started to arrive. This business is closed. There is very limited parking in hyde park, especially on Friday nites when everyone wants to pub crawl or have dinner. The question is, why would the owners of an extinct business care if their parking were used for the benefit of all??? It just seems to me that most of the businesses that are located in hyde park are here for a reason. And the reason is high pedestrian volume($)! It is pointless that someone with all that unused space would limit access to the property. And, if that is the case, why is there not a fence around the property to keep everyone out???Also, this towing company only took the nicest cars. While on the deck, we noticed a mercedes and 2 bmw’s being towed. The chevy and ford suvs were left behind and not touched while we were there. Maybe they took the high end cars knowing that those owners would most likely get their cars out of hock before an older pos jalopy? Just curious as to your take on the matter. Kevin
Dear Kevin, It has amazed me to see the tow trucks zoom around the neighborhood like sharks in a kid's wading pool. With a cost of over $200 to get your car out of their hands and the total inconvenience of trying to figure out who has it and where it has gone; towing has become a big profit maker for some, and a big headache for others. What is the solution ?
Parking garages, mass transit, a little more give and take from neighbors, better city controls in not allowing new businesses and residences without adequate parking, or all of the above ?
We have raised this issue before ... and will again. We welcome your comments on this issue.
Monday, June 06, 2005
IT MUST BE TOUGH BEING A REPUBLICAN
The amount of rhetoric that comes from the Republican Right is amazing. Especially when you have several assaults on basic Republican values.
First, the massive federal budget deficits. When Carter had deficits, the Republicans called him a TAX AND SPEND LIBERAL ! But when Bush gives them to us at ten times the Carter numbers, the Republicans stay silent.
Second, Iraq. Republicans have generated the policy of "if it isn't in America, we shouldn't get involved." So much for that.
Third, states rights. Today the Supreme Court struck down the use of medical marijuana, all after an appeal from the Bush Administration that challenged 10 states policies over that law. So much for States Rights, a basic issue of the Republican Party.
At this rate, the Republican Party should just change its name to the "BUSH PARTY" or maybe the "BLIND SHEEP PARTY". Either name would better describe their evolving "principles".
First, the massive federal budget deficits. When Carter had deficits, the Republicans called him a TAX AND SPEND LIBERAL ! But when Bush gives them to us at ten times the Carter numbers, the Republicans stay silent.
Second, Iraq. Republicans have generated the policy of "if it isn't in America, we shouldn't get involved." So much for that.
Third, states rights. Today the Supreme Court struck down the use of medical marijuana, all after an appeal from the Bush Administration that challenged 10 states policies over that law. So much for States Rights, a basic issue of the Republican Party.
At this rate, the Republican Party should just change its name to the "BUSH PARTY" or maybe the "BLIND SHEEP PARTY". Either name would better describe their evolving "principles".
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