As promised, I attended the first meeting of a new group which is unnamed at present. We had a good crowd to start with, several people who are active in the community. The facilitator was Steve Pacciano, and he is very knowledgeable on the history of Indiana, Floyd County in particular.
Other attendees included, Rep. Ed Clere, Greg Sekula of 1 So. In., David Barksdale, County Historian, Carol Tobe, Save Our Knobs, Judy Martin & Laura Reynolds of Historic Landmarks, Vic McGinity of F.C.Historicl Society, Don Lopp, and Adam Dickey, Baron Hill's Representative. There were others also but these people were singled out by Steve.
The main focus tonight was to establish that a separate entity is needed for preservation. The group listed nearly 20 organizations already involved with preservation in one way or another. But none of these groups really fit the bill as an education resource or watchdog. So it was decided that a new non-profit organization is needed.
A committee of five people, sorry I did not get all of their names, will write the mission statement and report back to the rest of us on Feburary 2, 2010. Please save that date because we want to get more people involved. New Albany has already lost many historical sites and we need to keep the ones we still have.
Again, the next meeting will be Feb. 2, 2010 at 7:00PM at the Cardinal Ritter Home. See you there.
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Greg Sekula is Director at Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana and Laura's name is Laura Renwick. Laura is Community Preservationist at Historic Landmarks Foundation of Indiana. Both Greg and Laura work out of the Jeffersonville office of Historic Landmarks.
Anon: 10:57 thanks for the correction
Anon 11:05 that has not been decided
Loop?
Lopp?
If so, what do Lopp's finances have to do with any of this, anonymous?
Proof once again that this is a forum only for unaccountable people to spread irresponsible rumors.
Anon 10/2 10:09PM
"this is a forum only for unaccountable people to spread irresponsible rumors"
I am offended by that remark. Many people who read this blog and post here are very responsible. This is not a tabloid as you imply. I also noticed that you did not sign your name. Does that make you one of the unaccountable people also?
Proof once again that this is a forum only for unaccountable people to spread irresponsible rumors.
Shirley, I'll echo this in a specific sense: Someone posting anonymously introduced the notion of someone's personal finances as somehow relevant to the conversation. It is not, and it is an example of the statement quoted above.
You should remove the comments about bankruptcy.
I'll add this: I hope at some point you will see how posting anonymously encourages irresponsibility. We've made the point many times, and the proof is in fact here, in abundance.
I will third those remarks
Ms. Baird:
I have always admired and respected the work of the Historical Society.
I hear your cries of "SAVE THE HISTORICAL BUILDINGS"
HOWEVER-- I ALSO HEAR THE CRIES OF
FAMILIES WITH SMALL CHILDREN.
Why aren't you people listening to the cries of children who are hurting because their parents have lost their jobs?
The children need food and medical care. Maybe no heat or lights.
You should be ORGANIZING a Human Service Group. Yes-- there are some service groups, but, today,
they can not handle the cry for the
needs of poor families.
So-- What is your top priority ?
RESTORE HISTORICAL BUILDINGS
OR
FEED THE CHILDREN ??????
RESTORE HISTORICAL BUILDINGS
OR
FEED THE CHILDREN ??????
This is not an either or choice.
It's like saying either wear gloves or wear a hat. One doesn't make the other more difficult.
I agree with you 9:11. We need to put the children of New Albany first.
We've already saw where our council puts their priorities.
5 members voted to keep insurance for three business owners who work part time two days a month. They knew what being on the council would entell
Downtown is England's wishlist and will destroy the rest of the city to help a few and his pockets.
He over spends and mismanages our money, when we have children going to bed hungry.
BTW, I saw better looking Christmas lights out in the projects than downtown!
I'm with you Shirley on your comment: I am offended by that and me too.
Go back on both of your own blogs for a change.
You might think you own this town the New Albanian but you don't. Worry about all the othe druggies on Main Street. Worry about who can and will attack you next for your bully attitude.
How about just filling up a salt shaker since you have nothing better to do and leave Mrs. Shirley alone!
This is the little peoples blog not yours, right Shirley.
I will say to Chris, that was a great letter if you wrote that in yesterday's Tribune.
See were not all hate mongers!!!!!!!
The YMCA is totally out of place with its surroundings. Maybe them people should appreciate the buildings that are worth protecting and the dilapidated homes and Historic buildings should be knocked down or they should buy them.
Of course not every building in New Albany should be saved.
Good luck renting them out.
I say and feel like you do anonymous take care of our kids first before Historic Buildings.
I did write the letter, and the gentleman in question has selflessly given probably thousands of ours of voluteer work since he retired from the evening news, not only here at the Clark County location of our office, but at the Hospital, and several other places.
He mentors some budding authors, is more than willing to give honest critique on photography to help improve peoples skills.
And he does all of this with out ever asking for a single thing in return, something we can all learn from.
He does not just complain, he WORKS to a solution when he encounters a problem.
It is not an either/or situation with the historic buildings and the hungry children.
I did not take a leadship role in the meeting the other night. I just attended and took notes to report on this forum for anyone who may be interested.
Personally, I wish someone would take the lead in finding a home for the children in the youth shelter. I would be glad to be on a committee but I do not have the resources or time to organize this or any type of human service group. I am sorry to have to say it but it is the truth.
My purpose in starting this blog was to keep people informed as well I could and give everyone a place to give their opinions, good or bad.
I know many people want me to block anonymous comments but I still feel that it is necessary for some people to remain anonymous. I also believe that the people who protest the loudest about anonyminity are posting anonymously themselves just to prove a point.
Shirley, do you think it is proper for anyone, anonymous or otherwise, to slur a public official by inferring a financial difficulty when this has nothing to do with the topic at hand?
That's the question I asked.
Absolutely not. But my comments were not directed at you.
Thank you.
If it is not proper, then doesn't it provide an example of misuse?
BTW, thanks for removing it.
"I still feel that it is necessary for some people to remain anonymous"
I know this is your blog and I respect that, and your right to administer it as you would see fit.
But dont you somewhat feel that by allowing the anonymous bashing, name calling, and threatening comments made by some of the anonymous person(s) on here, is actually encouraging the behavior?
It would be one thing if the majority of the posts were constructive, and offered solutions to problems, but it seems the bulk of the "protected" anonymous postings are of a nature that is slanderous, inaccurate, and filled with subtle threats.
OK, I have been defending people's right to post anonymously.
Now it's your turn. If you wish to remain anonymous on this blog please explain why you do so. I don't want people to use this forum as a way to slam other people and I try to delete such comments when I see them or when others point them out.
So, if you have a reason to be anonymous please say so. I am so tired of being "yelled at".
I say and feel like you do anonymous take care of our kids first before Historic Buildings.
I'm all for governing helping children. However, that takes $$$. CFA is against it if it takes government money, even if it helps feed hungry poor children.
A private historic preservation not-for-profit group would not take any government money. I don't see your point or either kids or old buildings.
..unless Ms. Denhart would like to go on record as supporting a city funded program to help children.
Hmmmm????.
DRIVE DOWN BY THE BRICK BUILDING AT STATE AND OAK ST. THIS IS A PERFECT
EXAMPLE OF THE COST INVOLVED IN RESTORING HISTORIC BUILDINGS. SUCH AN UGLY SITE !
NOW-- IMAGINE A SMALL HUNGRY CHILD WITH TEARS AND HOLDING A HAND OUT BEGGING FOR FOOD.
NOW-- YOU MUST VOTE ON 2 CHOICES:
1. SPEND HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS
OF DOLLARS ON RESTORING THIS
HISTORIC BUILDING.
OR
2. SEARCH AND FIND THE DOLLARS
TO FEED AND CLOTHE THIS CHILD
I can not speak for the Citizens For Accountability, (CFA) but, I believe their hearts are in the right place and they would support the funds to help hungry children.
However, let us point out that the word ACCOUNTABILITY means to open the books and show where the Current Administration and City Council are
spending our money.
__________________________________
Claims without proper receipts.
City charge cards without receipts.
Cell phones used & no records.
__________________________________
If these records were opened, & made public, then,
we could find the money to feed the children.
You anonymous folks are funny.
It's also funny how none of you are trying to answer Shirley's question about anonymity.
DRIVE DOWN BY THE BRICK BUILDING AT STATE AND OAK ST. THIS IS A PERFECT EXAMPLE OF THE COST INVOLVED IN RESTORING HISTORIC BUILDINGS. SUCH AN UGLY SITE !
NOW-- IMAGINE A SMALL HUNGRY CHILD WITH TEARS AND HOLDING A HAND OUT BEGGING FOR FOOD.
You make no points.
First, the site is not finished. When finished, it will look better than ever.
Second, Oak & State is a purely private restoration. No government funds are involved. Why do you care what it cost? Are you saying the private owner should be forced to do something else with his private dollars?
Do you know what the State & Oak restoration cost?
ALMOST NOTHING!
The property owner owns a restoration company. He's doing all the work himself.
Tell me anonymous, why can't a man work on his own property without people telling at him to feed hungry children?
This debate has been on Shirley's blog before.
Some of you "seem" to have short memories.
I find it odd that "other blogs" cry out transparency when there is a level of anonymity on "other blogs". Before I would ask someone to change something I would make sure I didn't do it myself or it would make me a hypocrite.
I also find it odd that "other blogs" complain about "anonymous or otherwise" people slurring public officials when that blog so often slurs public officials, even when it is just as irrelevant.
Shirley, I post anonymously, or what appears to be, because I am not interested with who is saying it but what that person is saying. If an anonymous comment is irrelevant I ignore it but if it catches my attention I would look into it. It has nothing to do with knowing who said it. Unless that is what you really care about. I also agree with you Shirley, I believe that most of the anonymous posting are by those who cry the loudest against it.
Exactly how I feel. It's not who's writing it, it's what they are saying.
If anyone has a right to be upset, is the watch dog group.
Just because you don't like them is "no" reason to attack them.
Hat's off to what they do and what they stand for.
End results is all that matters.
As far as being anonymous, I want to voice my opinion without fear of being slammed on another blog, who if they don't like or agree what you write they continue to attack here or there.
That's my right to not use my name, and the bottom line is they want to shut you and your blog to anonymous postings.
Isn't that why you call it the Voice of New Albany?
Shirley, people like me need an anonymous place to post our thoughts, views and knowledge without fear of being bashed on other blogs, retaliation from others in the community, etc.
I thank you for listening to your commentors and not the ones who run the city of new albany.
Thank you for your efforts for same. Have a great day!
Anonymous postings is a little look at the workings of our town (City of New Albany) from a special perspective. There are no forms to fill out or Departmental heads or elected officials to please!
Any comments are my own, not political or department policy.
Thank you Shirley, they are hiding so much from us citizens.
Why should I put my job for the city on the line? I got a family to feed and I can't afford to lose my health insurance.
The England administration just wants to shut everyone up including us employees.
Why doesn't someone ask the Mayor and City Attorney, why no one even showed up for the court date in Cody's court over the lawsuit?
There are many times when anonymous posting is necessary, when disclosure is apt to bring harsh retribution.
I see no reason why people should be required to divulge their real names when blogging.
Thanks,
Shirley
THE CHICKENS HAVE COME HOME TO ROOST ON ENGLAND. THAT'S WHY HE WANTS TO SHUT US UP.
Shirley,
Thank you so much for your blog and allowing anonymous comments!
Please, do not ban people from posting as anonymous, no matter what some may say!
I post anonymous most of the time. I don’t have a lot of time to keep going back and ‘checking’ to see if someone made a reply to my comment. For me it is better to have my comment ‘dangling’ with no response, rather than have my thoughts out there and people wanting me to ‘come on’ and reply. I just can’t do it. I may go days before I can read all the blogs and all the news stories. I know I miss some.
I do not live in New Albany anymore (but I may someday in the future) and I am sure some people will say what I have to say just doesn’t matter. However, it does to many people because I keep getting phone calls. Remember – if you forget the past you are bound to repeat it. I think that goes on in New Albany a lot. Also, in the past the bad and joking comments about the ‘Potty Police’ would sometimes get to some people and I would get more phone calls. Sounds like New Albany sure could have used the Potty Police these past two years!!! Uunofficial members are trying to do that work).
I agree and believe that many of the anonymous comments that slander, slam, and are inaccurate are indeed from those who want to ban anonymous comments or want others to look bad. I believe some are jealous. Who knows what goes on behind closed doors on those computers. But I know many people are at work with no access to the Internet to respond, when those comments appear. We know, the little people who have to work and answer to someone else about their actions. I used to work at the Census Bureau many moons ago. We could not talk politics at any time or we risked loosing our jobs. Also, I believe there are people who belong to certain churches, who want to remain anonymous with their comments. I also don’t want to join blogger. We all have our reasons. So thanks again for allowing our anonymous comments!!!
Susan
Thank you Susan, you always put everything in perspective.
So, England has now appointed Baylor his official Blog Czar?
Too funny.
You said it so well, Susan.
By the way my real name is not Susan.
Suckers!
"I agree and believe that many of the anonymous comments that slander, slam, and are inaccurate are indeed from those who want to ban anonymous comments or want others to look bad. I believe some are jealous."
Absolutely absurd.
So it is the contention of this "blog" that the people who have suggested that the blog administrator curtail the anonymous slandering, threatening, cursing, and taking every opportunity possible to try and ruin peoples name and reputation by publicly posting lies and such are actually the ones making those postings?
Jealiousy? Really? for example, a person on here is supposedly jealious of a nameless, faceless, factless ghost in a machine, and to comabt such they will post things that could be damaging to their business, their family?
I find this to be the most hilarious thing I have read in quite a while, and i find this stance may well prove to be quite damning to a person who had the ability to actually become a true community leader, and an advocate for change.
Chris, any slandering, threatening, cursing shouldn't happen no matter how you blog. I haven't seen the argument to allow this argued, as of yet.
Having a quasi anti-anonymous blog has not stopped these things from happening on "other" blogs. The problem is not anonymity but how people govern themselves. I can clearly see if Shirley was able to spend all her time she would stop all such inappropriate posting but she can't and she does the best she can. I still believe a blog is best served when thoughts are exchanged without the need to know who someone is and the message is the only focus.
If people have such a problem with Shirley's blog they always have the option not to participate. I question why those who have problems with her blog still do.
Anon,
I like shirleys blog, and I like the exchange of MOST of the information on the blog.
I tune in here mostly to keep up with the health care debates, as Shirley has been excellent and keeping updates on it, and as for me, I have little time to try and keep up with it all myself.
That aside, there are clearly one or two people who post on here (not you, as I have a good idea who you may be or at least I think so), who feel the need to eviscerate pretty much anyone who questions the statements of continual felonious wrong doings coming out of pretty much every single elected or appointed position save two.
If someone so boldly asks a simple question like "why do you feel like this is happening", then all hell breaks loose because their anonymous, nonproven word is seemingly above contestation, and instead of answering a simple question with a response like: "Because I feel" or "Because HERE is the documentation that shows..."
No, instead it turns into a huge debacle of insults, name calling, alledging bribery of public officials, breaking the laws etc...
When that is countered with statements that counter the allegations, then it gets worse with the little threats, and the posting that I for example "hate" some woman I have only spoken to twice, and both times I was not that impressed, and how disappointed my poor dead daddy would be of me, that he would have bowed down and kissed so and so's bum.
The last part of this rant, all of this is done in the name of "protecting the little people", well, guess what, I am one of the little people, and I never asked for it, and as far as the other 50% of registered voters in this city that actually VOTE, about 48% of those are also "little people", they have a voice, they have a means for cleaning up the mess downtown, and having a group of nameless, faceless people acting like an electorial lynch mob for anyone who dares questions their motives doing everything they can to try and enact some form of misdirected social vigilantism on those who question them in every forum possible.
Never assume who is posting on this blog Mr. Drake.
I just love your blog Shirley.
I agree with what you are saying Chris. I can clearly see the difference between someone posting to engage in intellectual exchange and those who are not. I wish New Albany was different, I think it could be. We are a small city and there is a small active citizen involvement that is why it is so important that all parties anonymous or otherwise attempt to put forth the highest level of integrity.
I am not for sure which group of people you are referring to at the end of your post. It seems to describe both groups.
anon 4:20
I am fairly certain with whom I am discussing this matter. I can tell by the writing style, after long emails, its sometimes as clear as hearing someones voice.
Yes I know you should be able to identify people through writing styles that is why I said "or what appears to be anonymous" It works the same for those who say they don’t post anonymously but do.
I have never said that it is wrong to post annonymously
sorry Chris thought your last post was for me.
Anon 3:01 wrote:
"I can clearly see if Shirley was able to spend all her time she would stop all such inappropriate posting but she can't and she does the best she can."
I agree, 100%. However my conclusion from that is entirely different. Since Shirley can't police this blog all the time(who can?), the only real deterrence to improper "behavior" is lifting the hood of anonymity. Some will think twice before bringing Christopher's late father into the discsussions. Someone will think twice before lying about me attacking Larry Kochert after a council meeting, etc.
Yeah, being "known" won't solve all the problems but it will solve some, if not most, and that's more than you can say for wearing a hood.
Why is there a double standard on this anonymous issue?
Over on NAC, the only one who knows who is posting is Baylor. The others who post don't.
Personally I think it's a control issue.
I'm with Susan (and yes she did post her comments), why go through blogger when you can just zap a comment on here.
Maybe FOS is the smart one, they don't have to allow ANY comments.
If Shirley allows anonymous posting that's her right and business.
I say keep the anonymous postings comin.
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