By Tony Brockmeyer
In an apparent attempt to mislead the residents of St. Charles and to deflect criticism directed towards her, Mayor York, at the City Council meeting on March 22nd, announced, “I just got a little thing that I wanted to say here and I really wanted to do this for the public. I really haven’t been reading some of the articles in one of the local tabloids. I want to take this opportunity to clarify an issue that seems to be reoccurring in it. Interestingly most of the public isn’t concerned. Every place I go nobody is talking about it. Many understand the job of Mayor. I just wanted to take a moment and clarify contracts and the issue of contracts.
Council passes an ordinance and when that happens that tells myself as Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer of the City and our staff to go forward and make that happen. By charter I have to sign all contracts, documents, easements anything to do with that ordinance.
Even if I veto an ordinance and I want the public to know this, and if it is overridden, I have to by ordinance sign all the contracts, easements, everything. Like it or not. Once it is passed by the Council my job, as Mayor is to go ahead and sign that.” (Editors note; The contract with Express Scripts was not ready for renewal, the legal department had not reviewed it and it had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance. It was apparently signed illegally by the Mayor and could indebt the city $200,000)
The Mayor went on to say, “In this particular issue Express Scripts was one of the contracts layered onto Marsh Advantage. There are no secret documents or anything else. They are on file in our city and we have that. One of the things that has not come out is that this gave the city the ability to save taxpayers $40,000 a year. Unfortunately that’s not been told.” (Editor’s note; There has been no evidence of any savings. It has been estimated the apparent illegal signing of the contract by the Mayor may cost the taxpayers in the neighborhood of $200,000. There were no documents in City Hall. The legal department had never seen the contract. The City Clerk who is in charge of all documents and records had never seen the contract. Express Scripts did send a copy of the contract the Mayor illegally signed to City Hall after the Council requested it. As the Broker of Record Marsh Advantage brings all contracts to the Council for approval before the City enters into them. This did not happed with the Express Scripts Contract.)
Further, the Mayor said, “I know there has been a reoccurring issue of impeachment. The ability to impeach the Mayor and its been written about this. And I just want to assure the public that this is patently wrong. Our Charter does not allow for impeachment. Fourth Class cities allow for impeachment but our charter only allows for recall.” (Editor’s note; Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines IMPEACHMENT – TO BRING A PUBLIC OFFICIAL BEFORE THE PROPER TRIBUNAL ON CHARGES OF WRONGDOING. Section 3.13 along with 31.23 to 31.26 provides for bringing charges against an elected official of St. Charles, including the Mayor, along with the procedures for a trial and the suspension or removal from office or from performing official duties. The Mayor can be impeached.)
The Mayor continued, “I am here to tell the public that I fulfilled my duty as Mayor to sign the documents that the council approved. I am bringing this up because I am just a little tired of the innuendos. They really don’t bother me because I do my job the best that I can day by day every single day and I come in here and do the best I can. But my family, especially my kids have asked me to explain to you to the public the process of contract signing so they don’t have to keep taking the kidding they are getting from all their friends.” (Editor’s note; The contract signed by the Mayor had not been reviewed by the legal department, had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance, and there was no copy or any evidence of the contract in City Hall until a copy was requested from Express Scripts after this matter was brought to light. The Mayor’s children range in age from 19 to approximately 27 and one is a St. Louis City Police Officer who lives in St. Louis.)
In her comments the Mayor was referring to a story in the February 5th edition of the First Capitol News where we reported; ‘ILLEGAL CONTRACT DRAWS FIRE Mayor signs secret document without record being kept in City Hall, and a story in the March 19th edition of the First Capitol News headlined, ‘Unauthorized Signing of Contract By Mayor Could Result In Her Impeachment – Council To Hold Hearings Subpoena Witnesses”.
In June of 2004 Carrie Caskey, who was then the Human Resources Director for the City, brought a contract to the Mayor renewing an agreement with Express Scripts who provided prescription drugs to City employees. The contract was not due to be renewed and the legal department had not reviewed it nor had it been approved by the City Council as required by City ordinance. The Mayor went ahead and signed the contract. At the time of the signing the Council was working on a new insurance plan that would not have included Express Scripts. After the Council approved the new insurance plan Express Scripts informed the City they were going to hold the city to the terms of the Express Scripts contract signed by the Mayor (illegally).
When an attempt was made to cancel the contract illegally signed by the Mayor, Express Scripts advised the City Administration it would take approximately $200,000 to buy out of the contract. A search of City Hall failed to locate any such contract. The City Clerk, who is the keeper of records for the City never received a copy of any such contract. No such contract had been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance.
By a vote of 10 to 0 during an Executive session of the City Council, the members agreed to start an investigation into the activities of the Mayor. The City Charter gives the City Council authority to conduct investigations and to subpoena witnesses and to bring action against elected officials or remove them from office.
City Council President Rory Riddler told the First Capitol News, “The City Clerk has been instructed to query the Council members as to available dates. We have developed a list of witnesses to be called.
The hearings should begin shortly.”
Saturday, April 09, 2005
COMMENTS & COMMENTARY by Charles Hill
Let the party begin, the long awaited convention center is opening this week. I would encourage each and every resident who voted to build it to go visit this weekend. This might be the only weekend we ever see it this full. I know you are saying now Charlie let’s be positive. I am positive. This will be a huge drain on our tax dollars. The real story is of course the Mayor’s and Ken Keilty’s reaction to the Unions wanting to work the conventions. Both sat with their hands out taking in campaign contributions from the Unions, yet now that it is built they have turned their backs. It really started during construction. The bricklayers had a fundraiser for the Mayor, the second she could, the all brick building changed. The hotel is less than 5% brick.
Now the teamsters, decorators and hotel service unions are asking for the jobs they are entitled to. Remember all the literature telling the story of the number of jobs this would create? Their literature did not indicate slave wage jobs, but higher paying, good middle class jobs. The Mayor and Ken have different ideas, they want to lock the unions out. Note to York and Keilty; Unions built this town, they created the middle class, not the classless like you two. Both these politicians are now trying to back off their statements, knowing the power of the Unions and what it can do to York’s political future. Mayor York believe me when you read this, the comments you made will never be forgotten and even you can’t lie your way out of this. As for Kielty, you are the reason you no longer occupy the license office. Your ease at switching sides is all too evident and everyone is beginning to understand what you truly are. Do either of you think the people of this city are stupid and will keep believing your stories? I know the real Union bosses don’t. The pretend ones, who can’t pick a winner in this county, will soon find out they have made deals with less than honorable people. Yet again, you have to question their honor to actually sit at the same table with the likes of York and Keilty.
Those who are running this center had better learn fast who put the center over the top. The chamber members didn’t go and walk or work the polls. The Unions got the convention center passed with hard work and money. The fact is those in charge knew all along they were only using the unions. The only people who didn’t know were the Unions themselves.
Now that I have ranted on the jobs and who should fill them, we have one other problem to solve. Where are all the conventions? Nationally conventions are down. The first couple shows are not real conventions, unless you consider baseball card signing a convention. I would suggest the City hire someone other than the King to market this center. The marks he has already made might be permanent and this could be the one that hurts the most.
Now the teamsters, decorators and hotel service unions are asking for the jobs they are entitled to. Remember all the literature telling the story of the number of jobs this would create? Their literature did not indicate slave wage jobs, but higher paying, good middle class jobs. The Mayor and Ken have different ideas, they want to lock the unions out. Note to York and Keilty; Unions built this town, they created the middle class, not the classless like you two. Both these politicians are now trying to back off their statements, knowing the power of the Unions and what it can do to York’s political future. Mayor York believe me when you read this, the comments you made will never be forgotten and even you can’t lie your way out of this. As for Kielty, you are the reason you no longer occupy the license office. Your ease at switching sides is all too evident and everyone is beginning to understand what you truly are. Do either of you think the people of this city are stupid and will keep believing your stories? I know the real Union bosses don’t. The pretend ones, who can’t pick a winner in this county, will soon find out they have made deals with less than honorable people. Yet again, you have to question their honor to actually sit at the same table with the likes of York and Keilty.
Those who are running this center had better learn fast who put the center over the top. The chamber members didn’t go and walk or work the polls. The Unions got the convention center passed with hard work and money. The fact is those in charge knew all along they were only using the unions. The only people who didn’t know were the Unions themselves.
Now that I have ranted on the jobs and who should fill them, we have one other problem to solve. Where are all the conventions? Nationally conventions are down. The first couple shows are not real conventions, unless you consider baseball card signing a convention. I would suggest the City hire someone other than the King to market this center. The marks he has already made might be permanent and this could be the one that hurts the most.
Council Retains President & Vice President
By Phyllis Schaltenbrand
The team of Rory Riddler, and Bob Hoepfner were re-elected as Council President and Vice President at Tuesday’s Council Meeting.
The leadership of Riddler and Hoepfner was successful in achieving a record amount of legislation and accomplishments for the City of St. Charles. Several Council members expressed they were proud of Council’s ability to take away the control special interests had over the City and return it back to the hands of the people.
Council members said they voted to keep the two leaders because for the first time the Council moved to restore financial accountability to the peopl,e and to prevent the Mayor from violating the charter by interfering with the day to day operation of the City.
They also expressed this year the Council wants to hold City Administrator Alan Williams feet to the fire and get him to clean house and create a City Hall that is responsive and understands residents should come first. The City Administrator is up for his first review in less than two months.
Voting for Riddler were John Gieseke, Bob Hoepfner, Mark Brown, Dottie Greer, and Joe Koester. Bob Kneemiller, Michael Weller and Jerry Reese voted for Bob Hoepfner for president.
Hoepfner was re-elected Vice President of the Council with nine votes. Larry Muench voted for Bob Kneemiller for Vice President.
The team of Rory Riddler, and Bob Hoepfner were re-elected as Council President and Vice President at Tuesday’s Council Meeting.
The leadership of Riddler and Hoepfner was successful in achieving a record amount of legislation and accomplishments for the City of St. Charles. Several Council members expressed they were proud of Council’s ability to take away the control special interests had over the City and return it back to the hands of the people.
Council members said they voted to keep the two leaders because for the first time the Council moved to restore financial accountability to the peopl,e and to prevent the Mayor from violating the charter by interfering with the day to day operation of the City.
They also expressed this year the Council wants to hold City Administrator Alan Williams feet to the fire and get him to clean house and create a City Hall that is responsive and understands residents should come first. The City Administrator is up for his first review in less than two months.
Voting for Riddler were John Gieseke, Bob Hoepfner, Mark Brown, Dottie Greer, and Joe Koester. Bob Kneemiller, Michael Weller and Jerry Reese voted for Bob Hoepfner for president.
Hoepfner was re-elected Vice President of the Council with nine votes. Larry Muench voted for Bob Kneemiller for Vice President.
Man Falls To Death Fleeing Police
Gregory Heffner, 43, of St. Charles fell to his death Tuesday evening from the Highway 370 Discovery Bridge.
Heffner had been traveling west bound on Highway 370 just west of St. Louis Mills Shopping Center when a Missouri State Trooper attempted to stop him for violating the speed limit.
According to the patrol, Heffner drove his vehicle off of the Highway and into a field. He abandoned his vehicle in the field and fled on foot.
While searching the area his body was discovered an hour and a half later beneath the bridge in St. Charles.
The patrol believes Heffner had attempted to jump from the west bound lanes into the east bound lanes, did not realize there was a gap between the two spans, and fell to his death.
According to police Heffner had convictions for stealing, burglary and traffic offenses. He was also wanted for failing to appear in Court on a traffic charge.
From the bridge to the ground, where Heffner’s body was discovered, is approximately 50 feet.
Another man fell from the span in 2003 when he was walking back to his disabled vehicle.
Heffner had been traveling west bound on Highway 370 just west of St. Louis Mills Shopping Center when a Missouri State Trooper attempted to stop him for violating the speed limit.
According to the patrol, Heffner drove his vehicle off of the Highway and into a field. He abandoned his vehicle in the field and fled on foot.
While searching the area his body was discovered an hour and a half later beneath the bridge in St. Charles.
The patrol believes Heffner had attempted to jump from the west bound lanes into the east bound lanes, did not realize there was a gap between the two spans, and fell to his death.
According to police Heffner had convictions for stealing, burglary and traffic offenses. He was also wanted for failing to appear in Court on a traffic charge.
From the bridge to the ground, where Heffner’s body was discovered, is approximately 50 feet.
Another man fell from the span in 2003 when he was walking back to his disabled vehicle.
Local KFC Restaurant Named “Best of the Best”
The KFC restaurant at 4118 Mexico Road in St. Peters has been named “Best of the Best” in KFC operations and customer service. The restaurant is owned and operated by Hecht’s Mgmt. Co., Inc. of St. Charles and managed by General Manager, Barb Wenzara and Manager, Jeff Beaver.
In order to earn the “Best of the Best” designation, a restaurant must have overall operational excellence and the highest scores on a standard set of measurements called C.H.A.M.P.S. These measurements evaluate each restaurant in six key areas of operation - Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, Maintenance, Product Quality and Speed of Service. Approximately 60 restaurants nationwide are awarded this status.
“Being named ‘Best of the Best’ is an accomplishment that marks the highest honors a KFC team can achieve,” said Harvey Brownlee, Chief Operating Officer, KFC Corporation. “Ms Wenzara and her employees can take great pride in this achievement because it means they are doing things ‘The Colonel’s Way’ by having the highest standards for restaurant operations and preparing delicious, high-quality meals for each customer, every day.”
KFC Corporation hosted a four-day celebration at the Adventura Spa Palace in Cancun, Mexico honoring Wenzara and other KFC managers who received the distinguished “Best of the Best” recognition for restaurant excellence. KFC President and Chief Concept Officer, Gregg Dedrick, hosted the event.
KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., is the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain specializing in Original Recipe, Extra crispy and Colonel’s Crispy Strips with home-style sides and freshly made chicken sandwiches. Since its founding by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952, KFC has been serving customers delicious, already-prepared, complete family meals at affordable prices. There are more than 12,000 KFC outlets in 88 countries and territories around the world serving some 8 million customers each day. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, KY. (NYSE: YUM)
In order to earn the “Best of the Best” designation, a restaurant must have overall operational excellence and the highest scores on a standard set of measurements called C.H.A.M.P.S. These measurements evaluate each restaurant in six key areas of operation - Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, Maintenance, Product Quality and Speed of Service. Approximately 60 restaurants nationwide are awarded this status.
“Being named ‘Best of the Best’ is an accomplishment that marks the highest honors a KFC team can achieve,” said Harvey Brownlee, Chief Operating Officer, KFC Corporation. “Ms Wenzara and her employees can take great pride in this achievement because it means they are doing things ‘The Colonel’s Way’ by having the highest standards for restaurant operations and preparing delicious, high-quality meals for each customer, every day.”
KFC Corporation hosted a four-day celebration at the Adventura Spa Palace in Cancun, Mexico honoring Wenzara and other KFC managers who received the distinguished “Best of the Best” recognition for restaurant excellence. KFC President and Chief Concept Officer, Gregg Dedrick, hosted the event.
KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., is the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain specializing in Original Recipe, Extra crispy and Colonel’s Crispy Strips with home-style sides and freshly made chicken sandwiches. Since its founding by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952, KFC has been serving customers delicious, already-prepared, complete family meals at affordable prices. There are more than 12,000 KFC outlets in 88 countries and territories around the world serving some 8 million customers each day. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, KY. (NYSE: YUM)
THE CITY DESK - Rory Riddler City Council President
Voters Deserve Applause
For Navigating April Ballot
You know any election is a good one that makes John Sonderegger turn red and stomp himself into the ground like Rumplestilskin. We hear John was all ready for a big night of celebrating and throwing back some brewskies at Richard Baum’s sure bet victory party when Joe McCulloch’s upset win put a damper on the evening’s festivities. The story of John Sonderegger stomping himself into the ground may or may not be true. You see, by the standards of the Post-Dispatch, their columnists can make up news events to be funny. That’s what Sonderegger did on Wednesday of this week. It must make writing his column a lot easier when he doesn’t have to worry about pesky details like say…facts.
Unlike Rumplestilskin, Sonderegger didn’t stomp himself into the ground because some princess figured out his last name, or because he wouldn’t get to keep her first born. No, John seems to be upset that recent events, as reported in his own newspaper and on Channel 5 News, seem to collaborate what the First Capitol News has been reporting all along. Sonderegger has gone to great lengths to try to demean the First Capitol News and belittle its efforts to report local news. Now his own newspaper and television news reporters were, from John’s unique perspective, giving aide and comfort to the “enemy”. What was the world coming to?
That’s probably why John decided to make up a fictional story last Wednesday based “loosely” on real events, but exaggerating the facts and substituting names of other people who weren’t involved in any way. He could get by telling his editors it was all just tongue-in-cheek, while trying to confuse readers into thinking a very real and serious incident must somehow be just as “made up” or exaggerated as well. Never mind how insulting it was to City Administrator Allan Williams. It seems a poor way to raise the level of public discourse, by deliberately trying to confuse the public. But who am I to argue with a St. Louis newspaper owned by people in Iowa?
My hats off to the voters in the City of St. Charles who weren’t confused by the recent April ballot. City voters said yes to all nine involuntary annexations and overwhelmingly voted no on the repeal of the golf course annexation. In doing so, local voters showed they are a savvy electorate who read and understand complex ballot issues. In my column last week, I tried to help voters understand the annexation issues better and I couldn’t be more pleased that people recognized these issues are in their own best interest.
Voters responded positively, despite last minute efforts by opponents who seem to have underwritten a newspaper insert in the Journal and had people working the polls against the annexation on Election Day. The flyers being passed out at the polls, like the advertising supplement in the Journal, failed to identify who paid for the campaign material as required by State Law.
Four of the involuntary annexations garnered no negative votes in the unincorporated area being annexed and will become part of our community. These include St. Andrews Plaza on Interstate 70 and some existing industrial areas South of 70. Two of the remaining five probably lost outside the City limits to legitimate registered voters who have been living there for some time. But three other areas will be looked at closely to see if there is any cause to believe fraud may have been committed by anyone not registering at their true residence.
I also followed the local St. Charles City School Board races with some interest. Long time incumbent Wayne Oetting came in fourth in a six-person race where only the top three candidates win. I’m sure Mr. Oetting is a sincere individual but he lost my vote, and those of a great many of my neighbors and friends, with his repeated efforts to close Benton and Lincoln Elementary Schools.
Dennis Hahn, another incumbent, edged out Oetting in a close race for the third seat to be awarded this election. Hahn had been an outspoken advocate for keeping these local schools open and received a great many votes from people who appreciate his efforts.
Benton and Lincoln are well-maintained schools with great teachers, staff, students and parents. They are real anchors and centerpieces for our older neighborhoods in the First and Second Wards. They provide stability and enhance property values.
While small by today’s standards, their class sizes have meant a superior education for the children fortunate enough to have attended these institutions. I know this from the personal experience of my own children who went there and from their many friends. To abandon these schools, just to transport students to a new building that would have to be built to house both student populations, made no real sense to me. Unlike many institutional buildings today that are throw away, Benton and Lincoln Elementary, were built to last and serve the community for many generations.
I believe the fate of these neighborhood schools made a difference in the outcome of the School Board election. I hope the other Board members will take note and commit themselves to preserving the great educational environment of our existing local schools.
Again, my hat is off to the voters of St. Charles. Go to the head of the class.
For Navigating April Ballot
You know any election is a good one that makes John Sonderegger turn red and stomp himself into the ground like Rumplestilskin. We hear John was all ready for a big night of celebrating and throwing back some brewskies at Richard Baum’s sure bet victory party when Joe McCulloch’s upset win put a damper on the evening’s festivities. The story of John Sonderegger stomping himself into the ground may or may not be true. You see, by the standards of the Post-Dispatch, their columnists can make up news events to be funny. That’s what Sonderegger did on Wednesday of this week. It must make writing his column a lot easier when he doesn’t have to worry about pesky details like say…facts.
Unlike Rumplestilskin, Sonderegger didn’t stomp himself into the ground because some princess figured out his last name, or because he wouldn’t get to keep her first born. No, John seems to be upset that recent events, as reported in his own newspaper and on Channel 5 News, seem to collaborate what the First Capitol News has been reporting all along. Sonderegger has gone to great lengths to try to demean the First Capitol News and belittle its efforts to report local news. Now his own newspaper and television news reporters were, from John’s unique perspective, giving aide and comfort to the “enemy”. What was the world coming to?
That’s probably why John decided to make up a fictional story last Wednesday based “loosely” on real events, but exaggerating the facts and substituting names of other people who weren’t involved in any way. He could get by telling his editors it was all just tongue-in-cheek, while trying to confuse readers into thinking a very real and serious incident must somehow be just as “made up” or exaggerated as well. Never mind how insulting it was to City Administrator Allan Williams. It seems a poor way to raise the level of public discourse, by deliberately trying to confuse the public. But who am I to argue with a St. Louis newspaper owned by people in Iowa?
My hats off to the voters in the City of St. Charles who weren’t confused by the recent April ballot. City voters said yes to all nine involuntary annexations and overwhelmingly voted no on the repeal of the golf course annexation. In doing so, local voters showed they are a savvy electorate who read and understand complex ballot issues. In my column last week, I tried to help voters understand the annexation issues better and I couldn’t be more pleased that people recognized these issues are in their own best interest.
Voters responded positively, despite last minute efforts by opponents who seem to have underwritten a newspaper insert in the Journal and had people working the polls against the annexation on Election Day. The flyers being passed out at the polls, like the advertising supplement in the Journal, failed to identify who paid for the campaign material as required by State Law.
Four of the involuntary annexations garnered no negative votes in the unincorporated area being annexed and will become part of our community. These include St. Andrews Plaza on Interstate 70 and some existing industrial areas South of 70. Two of the remaining five probably lost outside the City limits to legitimate registered voters who have been living there for some time. But three other areas will be looked at closely to see if there is any cause to believe fraud may have been committed by anyone not registering at their true residence.
I also followed the local St. Charles City School Board races with some interest. Long time incumbent Wayne Oetting came in fourth in a six-person race where only the top three candidates win. I’m sure Mr. Oetting is a sincere individual but he lost my vote, and those of a great many of my neighbors and friends, with his repeated efforts to close Benton and Lincoln Elementary Schools.
Dennis Hahn, another incumbent, edged out Oetting in a close race for the third seat to be awarded this election. Hahn had been an outspoken advocate for keeping these local schools open and received a great many votes from people who appreciate his efforts.
Benton and Lincoln are well-maintained schools with great teachers, staff, students and parents. They are real anchors and centerpieces for our older neighborhoods in the First and Second Wards. They provide stability and enhance property values.
While small by today’s standards, their class sizes have meant a superior education for the children fortunate enough to have attended these institutions. I know this from the personal experience of my own children who went there and from their many friends. To abandon these schools, just to transport students to a new building that would have to be built to house both student populations, made no real sense to me. Unlike many institutional buildings today that are throw away, Benton and Lincoln Elementary, were built to last and serve the community for many generations.
I believe the fate of these neighborhood schools made a difference in the outcome of the School Board election. I hope the other Board members will take note and commit themselves to preserving the great educational environment of our existing local schools.
Again, my hat is off to the voters of St. Charles. Go to the head of the class.
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25
On Monday, April 11, there will be a presentation of the KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 program at 7pm. The public is invited to attend this presentation which will be held in the meeting room at the St. Charles Police Headquarters on Zumbehl at Greystone. The presentation is being given by the president of the group.
RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR - Tony Brockmeyer
Rambling will be brief this week because we needed to make room for the Heritage Residents Association Story which we received at press time.
The unions have decided not to picket the opening of the Convention Center this weekend because talks have begun. However there has been no resolution to this problem that we reported on in our last Edition.
The State Audit of St. Charles has been completed and results are expected within two weeks.
The unions have decided not to picket the opening of the Convention Center this weekend because talks have begun. However there has been no resolution to this problem that we reported on in our last Edition.
The State Audit of St. Charles has been completed and results are expected within two weeks.
Attempt To Takeover Heritage Residents Association Alarms Residents
By Tony Brockmeyer
The Heritage Residents Association will hold their annual meeting on Monday, April 18th. A number of residents have contacted the First Capitol News regarding what they see as an attempt, by former president Cark Maus and the Citizens for Responsible Community, to takeover the HRA. Maus, who is the president of CFRC, also served at one time as the president of HRA.
A letter has been distributed to Heritage residents by Frank Rosner, current president of the HRA who is also running for reelection. “This is an attempt by Maus and the CFRC, a Political Action Committee to takeover our Association and we will fight it,” Rosner told the First Capitol News. “In addition to Maus, Rick Blalock the treasurer of CFRC, is also running. Blalock was defeated for the board in the 2004 elections.
In the letter Rosner points out: Beginning in May, 2004 the association began an in-depth study of the financial activities taken by previous boards. Finding evidence that disturbed the majority of the current board, we asked the HRA lawyer, Joel Brett, for advice. Mr. Brett’s letter states his view of the financial dealings of the previous HRA president. There are two points of concern.
On March 22, 2000 the HRA Board, comprised of Maus, Blalock, Ferguson and former board members Gallie, Funderburk and Shortal arranged to sell to Pat Gallie the HRA-owned A-FRAME BUILDING, including the 2700 square foot underground garage, offices, and storage room. The property, sitting on 1.49 acres of ground with utilities already setup, was sold for a sum of $59,000. Purchased in 1990 by HRA, the A Frame was appraised in 1985 by the County Assessor at a valuation of $219,000. In my opinion the A Frame property was worth $250,000 at the time we sold it to Pat Gallie for $59,000. The HRA residents did vote to sell the property, but it was never listed on the open realty market, and the residents were never informed of the assessor’s valuation.
At the January 27, 2004 board meeting Maus announced he had received a $10,000 check from the developer of the Heritage Trails subdivision, which we wanted to use for installing a new sprinkler system in the medians on Heritage landing at the Heritage station entrance. Maus then told us the developer had changed his mind and that HRA was to write a check for $5000 to his other organization, Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC). The majority of board members present refused to agree with this request and I later discovered Maus had already written the $5,000 check to the CFRC organization. We asked that he return the money to HRA.
THAT MONEY HAS NEVER BEEN RETURNED TO HRA.
The First Capitol News reported on November 6, 2004 that the HRA board, at the suggestion of their attorney, send his letter to the Missouri Ethics Commission as he felt the money transfer could be considered as money laundering. Rosner said that the board has received a complaint form from the Missouri Ethics Commission with a request it be signed and notarizeD so they can investigate the allegations of “laundering contributions”.
Rosner is running for election along with board member Carl Phillips. Rosner said the accomplishments for his term as president include: The first year in five years with positive cash flow. Bank reserve is up $8429. A $4000 net savings for Admin fees for new Management Company, local with St. Charles office. Additional $3500 savings for office expenses. No raise in 2005 assessments.Changed reserve account to Pulaski Bank ($3300 extra interest). Saved $1000 from meeting expenses. Budget policy is changeD - no new projects overran budget. President supplies own cell phone resulting iN a savings of $835. All work projects turned over to Resident Volunteers to cut costs for entire association. A quarterly news letter for the first time in 5 years. New street signs project completed by Carl Phillips. Planted 4000 bulbs, Tulip, Daffodils, Irises. Added 338 mums in addition to other flowers. Tree planting completed and dead trees replaced. Cancelled metal shed building for Heritage Trails.
Since their inception, CFRC members have become involved in St Charles City politics even though none of them reside in St. Charles. They have also become involved in O’Fallon and St. Peters and claim to be responsible for the election of Shawn Brown as Mayor of St. Peters and Donna Morrow as Mayor of O’Fallon. They have also aligned themselves with Adolphus Busch IV and Glennon Jamboretz of the Great Rivers Habitat Alliance, the group fighting a planned commercial development on 1,600 acres owned by the City of St. Peters. It has been reported members of Great Rivers Habitat Alliance have given many thousands of dollars to CFRC. That money was used to defeat candidates in O’Fallon and St. Peters. Their attempt to defeat City Council members in St. Charles was unsuccessful. Maus and other members of CFRC are confidants to the Mayor of St. Charles.
The Heritage Residents Association will hold their annual meeting on Monday, April 18th. A number of residents have contacted the First Capitol News regarding what they see as an attempt, by former president Cark Maus and the Citizens for Responsible Community, to takeover the HRA. Maus, who is the president of CFRC, also served at one time as the president of HRA.
A letter has been distributed to Heritage residents by Frank Rosner, current president of the HRA who is also running for reelection. “This is an attempt by Maus and the CFRC, a Political Action Committee to takeover our Association and we will fight it,” Rosner told the First Capitol News. “In addition to Maus, Rick Blalock the treasurer of CFRC, is also running. Blalock was defeated for the board in the 2004 elections.
In the letter Rosner points out: Beginning in May, 2004 the association began an in-depth study of the financial activities taken by previous boards. Finding evidence that disturbed the majority of the current board, we asked the HRA lawyer, Joel Brett, for advice. Mr. Brett’s letter states his view of the financial dealings of the previous HRA president. There are two points of concern.
On March 22, 2000 the HRA Board, comprised of Maus, Blalock, Ferguson and former board members Gallie, Funderburk and Shortal arranged to sell to Pat Gallie the HRA-owned A-FRAME BUILDING, including the 2700 square foot underground garage, offices, and storage room. The property, sitting on 1.49 acres of ground with utilities already setup, was sold for a sum of $59,000. Purchased in 1990 by HRA, the A Frame was appraised in 1985 by the County Assessor at a valuation of $219,000. In my opinion the A Frame property was worth $250,000 at the time we sold it to Pat Gallie for $59,000. The HRA residents did vote to sell the property, but it was never listed on the open realty market, and the residents were never informed of the assessor’s valuation.
At the January 27, 2004 board meeting Maus announced he had received a $10,000 check from the developer of the Heritage Trails subdivision, which we wanted to use for installing a new sprinkler system in the medians on Heritage landing at the Heritage station entrance. Maus then told us the developer had changed his mind and that HRA was to write a check for $5000 to his other organization, Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC). The majority of board members present refused to agree with this request and I later discovered Maus had already written the $5,000 check to the CFRC organization. We asked that he return the money to HRA.
THAT MONEY HAS NEVER BEEN RETURNED TO HRA.
The First Capitol News reported on November 6, 2004 that the HRA board, at the suggestion of their attorney, send his letter to the Missouri Ethics Commission as he felt the money transfer could be considered as money laundering. Rosner said that the board has received a complaint form from the Missouri Ethics Commission with a request it be signed and notarizeD so they can investigate the allegations of “laundering contributions”.
Rosner is running for election along with board member Carl Phillips. Rosner said the accomplishments for his term as president include: The first year in five years with positive cash flow. Bank reserve is up $8429. A $4000 net savings for Admin fees for new Management Company, local with St. Charles office. Additional $3500 savings for office expenses. No raise in 2005 assessments.Changed reserve account to Pulaski Bank ($3300 extra interest). Saved $1000 from meeting expenses. Budget policy is changeD - no new projects overran budget. President supplies own cell phone resulting iN a savings of $835. All work projects turned over to Resident Volunteers to cut costs for entire association. A quarterly news letter for the first time in 5 years. New street signs project completed by Carl Phillips. Planted 4000 bulbs, Tulip, Daffodils, Irises. Added 338 mums in addition to other flowers. Tree planting completed and dead trees replaced. Cancelled metal shed building for Heritage Trails.
Since their inception, CFRC members have become involved in St Charles City politics even though none of them reside in St. Charles. They have also become involved in O’Fallon and St. Peters and claim to be responsible for the election of Shawn Brown as Mayor of St. Peters and Donna Morrow as Mayor of O’Fallon. They have also aligned themselves with Adolphus Busch IV and Glennon Jamboretz of the Great Rivers Habitat Alliance, the group fighting a planned commercial development on 1,600 acres owned by the City of St. Peters. It has been reported members of Great Rivers Habitat Alliance have given many thousands of dollars to CFRC. That money was used to defeat candidates in O’Fallon and St. Peters. Their attempt to defeat City Council members in St. Charles was unsuccessful. Maus and other members of CFRC are confidants to the Mayor of St. Charles.
THE PEOPLE SPEAK - Letters To The Editor
Letter to the Editor:
I have high hopes for Tim Swope’s recent appointment to police chief in our city. He will need the support of all of us in his efforts in clearing up the matter of what appeared to be the unnecessary manhandling of our new City Administrator, Alan Williams, by some officers in the City police department.
Apparently, not all of the City residents know or believe what is reported to have happened that evening several weeks ago. When the matter is finally resolved a full report of the occurrence should be made public to clear up any misunderstanding of what did happen.
Any police officer who participated in the attack on Mr. Williams should be suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. I would further recommend that a neutral police agency be called in to conduct the investigation.
Carol Diller
Dear Tony:
The Board of Directors of the Frenchtown Heritage Museum would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerry Haferkamp for the kind words in his column, about the museum in the March 19 issue of the First Capitol News.
So many people do not know we exist. The museum has the Richard Vinson collection on display. Mr. Vinson was a man who championed the preservation and history of the Frenchtown and single-handedly collected the evidence of life in the historic neighborhood. His museum was the Frenchtown Museum Corp and was in his home at 1400 N. Second.
After Mr. Vinson’s death the collection was stored by the city of St. Peters. In 2002 the collection was offered to some members of the Historic Frenchtowne Association.
Lynne and Don Federicks and Jerry and Dorothy Boshears accepted the collection and formed a 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation and named it the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. With the help of the Board of Directors of the original museum, later that year they purchased the “Old Firehouse” located at 1121 North Second St. The firehouse was built in 1880 as Ward Four Hose Company #2.
Much of the history of St. Charles is on display at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. The collection covers many areas of life in the past ie; dairies, breweries, school, entertainment and on and on.
Again we thank Mr. Haferkamp for mentioning the museum in his column and are pleased he enjoyed his visit to the museum.
The Board of Directors
Fenchtown Heritage Museum
Dear Editor
Below you will find information about a very special upcoming event. Any support you are able to provide is much appreciated! This fundraising event will benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc., a local and national organization providing bereavement support to families whose lives are touched by the tragic death of a baby through pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or in the first few months of life. SHARE is located on the campus of St. Joseph’s Health Center in St. Charles, MO. Many thanks!
2005 Angel Ball
Please join us for our 3rd annual Angel Ball with dinner, dancing, and an auction to benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc.
touching lives…healing hearts…giving hope…
Friday, April 22, 2005
Junior League of St. Louis - 10435 Clayton Road
6:30 Doors Open for Silent Auction
7:45 Dinner
Honorary Chair:
Mandy Murphey, News Anchor Fox 2
Celebrity Auctioneer:
Paul Brown, Producer/Reporter from Speed Channel
Big Band Dance Music provided by:
Sentimental Journey
$100.00 per person, $50 tax deductible contribution.
To reserve tickets or for more information, please call (636) 947-6164.
Becky M. Bee
First Capitol News:
Mayor Patti York is what is wrong. Her highness looked to the unions for support when her one accomplishment the convention center needed help. Now that York has it built she says let the poor slobs who work there do it for slave wages.
York and Keilty are poor excuses for public servants, but those who should be held most accountable are the Union Chieftains who trusted York and Keilty. They never intended for the workers at the convention center to be Union and have living wages.
York is an elitist who believes she is above all of us little people. Union workers built this City and have generations of our families living here. York grew up in white collar West County and believes that is what St. Charles should become. For those who are not Union, most realize that their standard of living is a direct result of Unions and collective bargaining. I think York’s lack of integrity and honesty should be trumpeted across the lands.
York has sold this City down the river for her own self interest and self importance. York needs to step down and stop using St. Charles for her own self centered ego trips.
Unions built this City and will never forget the dishonesty the Mayor has demonstrated.
Brotherly,
J. Jackson
Dear Editor,
Last week’s article about the City Administrators traffic stop made me to think about the Mayor and comments she made when the Council was acting to take 200 hours of paid time for Sergeant Thomas Mayer away. York told all of us that we should be proud to have the “Top Cop” of the State working in St. Charles and that his efforts in Jeff City benefit the City. She fought hard to keep his hours, hours that we the taxpayers had to pay, so he could do union work.
I have to say if the “Top Cop” thinks the residents of St. Charles are going to put up with his actions towards the City Administrator he is wrong. Many of us have been living in fear for the past months because of letters signed saying that many of our officers had problems dealing with the public, now we have to fear the “Top Cop”.
It is obvious that he got caught on company time and wanted to threaten and intimidate the City Administrator. To think a 60 year old man was forced to the ground with guns pointing at him in St. Charles is difficult for many of us who call this our home. Sgt. Mayer is the same “Top Cop” that filed a hundred million dollar lawsuit against the City because he had his take home car taken away as well as the 200 hours. Mr. Williams had better watch his back, that kind of money will make people do things you would never believe. That kind of money split many different ways is still a lot of money.
I can tell you Mr. Williams, the people are behind you 100%. His actions are reminiscent of the tactics used by the Mob. Mayer has single handedly damaged the reputation of the St. Charles Police Force. He thought he was above the law and untouchable because York let him pick the chief, take a City Police Car to his home in Richmond Heights and use taxpayers money to do Union work.
It is time for someone to stand up and say enough is enough. Chief Swope our eyes are upon you. Many of us have watched you grow to the person you are now, don’t let us down and cave into the pressure of the Mayor and Sgt. Mayer.
If this “Top Cop” is still on the force after the end of this month we all should be fearful. That means the City is under the control of the Police and that is scary.
Please withhold my name, if this “Top Cop” would rough up his boss, what do you think he would do to an average citizen like me?
Name withheld
To the Editor:
Love your paper; keep up the good work. It’s a shame the other three are so
picky about which news they print, but then, I don’t see AB ads in the FCN.
A small suggestion: The City of St. Charles has a number of ‘quality of
life’ ordinances on the books. Most people don’t know they exist. Perhaps a
small reminder on the front or back page would spread the word. Something
along the line of:
Did you know? In the City of St Charles:
Cats (and dogs) are covered by the leash law (and I hope the pooper scooper
part).
Pedestrians have right of way, not just in cross-walks.
Signs may not be attached to utility poles. (Dottie will love you for this
one!)
Bicycles are not to be ridden on sidewalks.
Animal control will assist in trapping small nuisance animals (bunnies,
squirrels, cats and dogs).
Cars may not park on the left side of two-way streets.
Cars may not pass on the right side of traffic (shoulder or parking lane).
You get the idea. I’m sure there are many more. Since Mayor York suggested
kids ride on sidewalks, it would seem like a lot of people are not aware
.
Donna Poeling
Tony
Got this in e-mail It is so true
TAXES
Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
Capital Gains Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Court Fines (indirect taxes)
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel permit tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax Interest expense (tax on the money)
Inventory tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Local Income Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Septic Permit Tax
Service Charge Taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Taxes (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Road Toll Booth Taxes
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone federal excise tax
Telephone federal universal service fee tax
Telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes
Telephone minimum usage surcharge tax
Telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax
Telephone state and local tax
Telephone usage charge tax
Toll Bridge Taxes
Toll Tunnel Taxes
Traffic Fines (indirect taxation)
Trailer registration tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago and our nation was the most prosperous in the world, had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What the hell happened?
AJ Laffluer
I have high hopes for Tim Swope’s recent appointment to police chief in our city. He will need the support of all of us in his efforts in clearing up the matter of what appeared to be the unnecessary manhandling of our new City Administrator, Alan Williams, by some officers in the City police department.
Apparently, not all of the City residents know or believe what is reported to have happened that evening several weeks ago. When the matter is finally resolved a full report of the occurrence should be made public to clear up any misunderstanding of what did happen.
Any police officer who participated in the attack on Mr. Williams should be suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. I would further recommend that a neutral police agency be called in to conduct the investigation.
Carol Diller
Dear Tony:
The Board of Directors of the Frenchtown Heritage Museum would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerry Haferkamp for the kind words in his column, about the museum in the March 19 issue of the First Capitol News.
So many people do not know we exist. The museum has the Richard Vinson collection on display. Mr. Vinson was a man who championed the preservation and history of the Frenchtown and single-handedly collected the evidence of life in the historic neighborhood. His museum was the Frenchtown Museum Corp and was in his home at 1400 N. Second.
After Mr. Vinson’s death the collection was stored by the city of St. Peters. In 2002 the collection was offered to some members of the Historic Frenchtowne Association.
Lynne and Don Federicks and Jerry and Dorothy Boshears accepted the collection and formed a 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation and named it the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. With the help of the Board of Directors of the original museum, later that year they purchased the “Old Firehouse” located at 1121 North Second St. The firehouse was built in 1880 as Ward Four Hose Company #2.
Much of the history of St. Charles is on display at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. The collection covers many areas of life in the past ie; dairies, breweries, school, entertainment and on and on.
Again we thank Mr. Haferkamp for mentioning the museum in his column and are pleased he enjoyed his visit to the museum.
The Board of Directors
Fenchtown Heritage Museum
Dear Editor
Below you will find information about a very special upcoming event. Any support you are able to provide is much appreciated! This fundraising event will benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc., a local and national organization providing bereavement support to families whose lives are touched by the tragic death of a baby through pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or in the first few months of life. SHARE is located on the campus of St. Joseph’s Health Center in St. Charles, MO. Many thanks!
2005 Angel Ball
Please join us for our 3rd annual Angel Ball with dinner, dancing, and an auction to benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc.
touching lives…healing hearts…giving hope…
Friday, April 22, 2005
Junior League of St. Louis - 10435 Clayton Road
6:30 Doors Open for Silent Auction
7:45 Dinner
Honorary Chair:
Mandy Murphey, News Anchor Fox 2
Celebrity Auctioneer:
Paul Brown, Producer/Reporter from Speed Channel
Big Band Dance Music provided by:
Sentimental Journey
$100.00 per person, $50 tax deductible contribution.
To reserve tickets or for more information, please call (636) 947-6164.
Becky M. Bee
First Capitol News:
Mayor Patti York is what is wrong. Her highness looked to the unions for support when her one accomplishment the convention center needed help. Now that York has it built she says let the poor slobs who work there do it for slave wages.
York and Keilty are poor excuses for public servants, but those who should be held most accountable are the Union Chieftains who trusted York and Keilty. They never intended for the workers at the convention center to be Union and have living wages.
York is an elitist who believes she is above all of us little people. Union workers built this City and have generations of our families living here. York grew up in white collar West County and believes that is what St. Charles should become. For those who are not Union, most realize that their standard of living is a direct result of Unions and collective bargaining. I think York’s lack of integrity and honesty should be trumpeted across the lands.
York has sold this City down the river for her own self interest and self importance. York needs to step down and stop using St. Charles for her own self centered ego trips.
Unions built this City and will never forget the dishonesty the Mayor has demonstrated.
Brotherly,
J. Jackson
Dear Editor,
Last week’s article about the City Administrators traffic stop made me to think about the Mayor and comments she made when the Council was acting to take 200 hours of paid time for Sergeant Thomas Mayer away. York told all of us that we should be proud to have the “Top Cop” of the State working in St. Charles and that his efforts in Jeff City benefit the City. She fought hard to keep his hours, hours that we the taxpayers had to pay, so he could do union work.
I have to say if the “Top Cop” thinks the residents of St. Charles are going to put up with his actions towards the City Administrator he is wrong. Many of us have been living in fear for the past months because of letters signed saying that many of our officers had problems dealing with the public, now we have to fear the “Top Cop”.
It is obvious that he got caught on company time and wanted to threaten and intimidate the City Administrator. To think a 60 year old man was forced to the ground with guns pointing at him in St. Charles is difficult for many of us who call this our home. Sgt. Mayer is the same “Top Cop” that filed a hundred million dollar lawsuit against the City because he had his take home car taken away as well as the 200 hours. Mr. Williams had better watch his back, that kind of money will make people do things you would never believe. That kind of money split many different ways is still a lot of money.
I can tell you Mr. Williams, the people are behind you 100%. His actions are reminiscent of the tactics used by the Mob. Mayer has single handedly damaged the reputation of the St. Charles Police Force. He thought he was above the law and untouchable because York let him pick the chief, take a City Police Car to his home in Richmond Heights and use taxpayers money to do Union work.
It is time for someone to stand up and say enough is enough. Chief Swope our eyes are upon you. Many of us have watched you grow to the person you are now, don’t let us down and cave into the pressure of the Mayor and Sgt. Mayer.
If this “Top Cop” is still on the force after the end of this month we all should be fearful. That means the City is under the control of the Police and that is scary.
Please withhold my name, if this “Top Cop” would rough up his boss, what do you think he would do to an average citizen like me?
Name withheld
To the Editor:
Love your paper; keep up the good work. It’s a shame the other three are so
picky about which news they print, but then, I don’t see AB ads in the FCN.
A small suggestion: The City of St. Charles has a number of ‘quality of
life’ ordinances on the books. Most people don’t know they exist. Perhaps a
small reminder on the front or back page would spread the word. Something
along the line of:
Did you know? In the City of St Charles:
Cats (and dogs) are covered by the leash law (and I hope the pooper scooper
part).
Pedestrians have right of way, not just in cross-walks.
Signs may not be attached to utility poles. (Dottie will love you for this
one!)
Bicycles are not to be ridden on sidewalks.
Animal control will assist in trapping small nuisance animals (bunnies,
squirrels, cats and dogs).
Cars may not park on the left side of two-way streets.
Cars may not pass on the right side of traffic (shoulder or parking lane).
You get the idea. I’m sure there are many more. Since Mayor York suggested
kids ride on sidewalks, it would seem like a lot of people are not aware
.
Donna Poeling
Tony
Got this in e-mail It is so true
TAXES
Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
Capital Gains Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Court Fines (indirect taxes)
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel permit tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax Interest expense (tax on the money)
Inventory tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Local Income Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Septic Permit Tax
Service Charge Taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Taxes (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Road Toll Booth Taxes
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone federal excise tax
Telephone federal universal service fee tax
Telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes
Telephone minimum usage surcharge tax
Telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax
Telephone state and local tax
Telephone usage charge tax
Toll Bridge Taxes
Toll Tunnel Taxes
Traffic Fines (indirect taxation)
Trailer registration tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago and our nation was the most prosperous in the world, had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What the hell happened?
AJ Laffluer
THE CONSERVATIVE FACTOR By Alex Spencer
I would like to thank Mr. Pat Sullivan, President of the Homebuilder's Association, for his response to my last column. The homebuilding industry is and always has been the backbone of our country. The Homebuilder’s Association is a professional, well-respected organization which gives much back to the community.
St. Charles County is fortunate to have many fine builders such as Greg Whittaker who not only creates their lovely subdivisions, but stand behind their products. The City of St. Charles can now boast that we have a lovely New Town within our boundaries geared to convenience, ease, and a lifestyle for all tastes and ages.
The First Capitol News is the most widely-read paper within the City. We invite Mr. Sullivan to send us monthly updates regarding his industry so we can keep the public informed and present all sides of any growth issues which may arise.
Homebuilding and sensible growth is contingent upon such things as zoning, variances, and City and County ordinances. It is imperative amicable dialogue and negotiations exist, and are ongoing, between the developers and the various political entities to ensure success and profits for the developer while safeguarding the existing quality of life. Occasionally, these two competing interests clash and become problematic.
In any endeavor, time is money, and it must be recognized developers take a huge economic risk at the onset. One of the greatest problems facing these developments is the bureaucratic run-around and frustration of dealing with Planning & Zoning, Public Works, etc. There have been many legitimate complaints directed at both City and Country entities for making the process more time-consuming and torturous than need be.
Most people contribute money to the candidates who share their values. Business people support pro-business candidates; the Pro-Life lobby supports pro-life candidates, etc. It is very costly to run for public office and candidates rely on donations to carry their message to the voters. There is absolutely nothing illegal or immoral about donors attempting to sway elected officials to their way of thinking. Problems arise when the elected officials forget their oath of office. The burden is on the elected official, not the donors.
That being said and agreed upon, I would like to add my granddaddy always told me it is unwise to get in the middle of other people’s feuds. In our last issue, I believe I responded to comments made by Ed Watkins. He was denouncing City annexation and took a few shots at Councilman Rory Riddler. Most of the annexations passed and Mr. Watkins’ candidate for County Council lost.
To my knowledge, the Homebuilder's Association took no shots at Mr. Riddler, the City Council or the First Capitol News. I could not even tell you if they contributed to the 1980’s and put themselves right in the middle of Mr. Watkins and Mayor York’s feud. My granddaddy would say “it is not a safe place to be when the buckshot starts flying”. Prior to Mr. Sullivan injecting himself, Mr. Watkins joined with the Mayor in her feud. It seems silly anybody would be willing to bend over and take all that buckshot in the rear for another. I think she should bend over and take her own buckshot. If the doer of the deeds deserves credit at times, it is pure logic the doer of the deeds should take the buckshot as well.
The greatest fault at work is not the politicians or their donors. It is the middlemen who perceive themselves to be “power-brokers” and run back and forth between the two to get appointments or personal business opportunity. They are not held accountable but receive the spoils. These are the individuals who attack this newspaper and defend the mayor for the indefensible. These are the individuals who have harassed and threatened our advertisers and boast they “will put this paper out of business.”
If the Mayor’s friends believe reporting facts which give a poor impression of our city is wrong, there is an easy solution to the dilemma. Stop doing the things that would shame our city if reported and published.
The Mayor just informed us, in her recent newsletter, she wishes to be invited into our homes for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, or evening wine parties so she can explain everything to us. This is the same person who has a history of not returning our phone calls. What happened to her busy social calendar?
St. Charles County is fortunate to have many fine builders such as Greg Whittaker who not only creates their lovely subdivisions, but stand behind their products. The City of St. Charles can now boast that we have a lovely New Town within our boundaries geared to convenience, ease, and a lifestyle for all tastes and ages.
The First Capitol News is the most widely-read paper within the City. We invite Mr. Sullivan to send us monthly updates regarding his industry so we can keep the public informed and present all sides of any growth issues which may arise.
Homebuilding and sensible growth is contingent upon such things as zoning, variances, and City and County ordinances. It is imperative amicable dialogue and negotiations exist, and are ongoing, between the developers and the various political entities to ensure success and profits for the developer while safeguarding the existing quality of life. Occasionally, these two competing interests clash and become problematic.
In any endeavor, time is money, and it must be recognized developers take a huge economic risk at the onset. One of the greatest problems facing these developments is the bureaucratic run-around and frustration of dealing with Planning & Zoning, Public Works, etc. There have been many legitimate complaints directed at both City and Country entities for making the process more time-consuming and torturous than need be.
Most people contribute money to the candidates who share their values. Business people support pro-business candidates; the Pro-Life lobby supports pro-life candidates, etc. It is very costly to run for public office and candidates rely on donations to carry their message to the voters. There is absolutely nothing illegal or immoral about donors attempting to sway elected officials to their way of thinking. Problems arise when the elected officials forget their oath of office. The burden is on the elected official, not the donors.
That being said and agreed upon, I would like to add my granddaddy always told me it is unwise to get in the middle of other people’s feuds. In our last issue, I believe I responded to comments made by Ed Watkins. He was denouncing City annexation and took a few shots at Councilman Rory Riddler. Most of the annexations passed and Mr. Watkins’ candidate for County Council lost.
To my knowledge, the Homebuilder's Association took no shots at Mr. Riddler, the City Council or the First Capitol News. I could not even tell you if they contributed to the 1980’s and put themselves right in the middle of Mr. Watkins and Mayor York’s feud. My granddaddy would say “it is not a safe place to be when the buckshot starts flying”. Prior to Mr. Sullivan injecting himself, Mr. Watkins joined with the Mayor in her feud. It seems silly anybody would be willing to bend over and take all that buckshot in the rear for another. I think she should bend over and take her own buckshot. If the doer of the deeds deserves credit at times, it is pure logic the doer of the deeds should take the buckshot as well.
The greatest fault at work is not the politicians or their donors. It is the middlemen who perceive themselves to be “power-brokers” and run back and forth between the two to get appointments or personal business opportunity. They are not held accountable but receive the spoils. These are the individuals who attack this newspaper and defend the mayor for the indefensible. These are the individuals who have harassed and threatened our advertisers and boast they “will put this paper out of business.”
If the Mayor’s friends believe reporting facts which give a poor impression of our city is wrong, there is an easy solution to the dilemma. Stop doing the things that would shame our city if reported and published.
The Mayor just informed us, in her recent newsletter, she wishes to be invited into our homes for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, or evening wine parties so she can explain everything to us. This is the same person who has a history of not returning our phone calls. What happened to her busy social calendar?
PUT ST. CHARLES FIRST
By Jerry Haferkamp
“Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes …they don’t tell the truth, uh
Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies …and I got proof.”
There are lessons to be learned from our music. It is too bad the union leaders who supported the Convention Center didn’t listen to more music. The above words, from a song by Undisputed Truth, could have warned them they were about to be misled when they were told the jobs at the Convention Center would be union jobs.
Our Mayor is now telling them only the construction jobs were promised to be union. Those of us who keep an eye on these things remember the only non-union jobs were to be the ones inside the hotel! “Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes… they don’t tell the truth”. The hotel operator insisted his establishment be non-union. It was the only part of the whole deal that was to be non-union. “Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies… and I got proof”.
The new news??paper came out inserted in the old “Pump Up Patti” ad paper and we need to point out a couple of errors. In bold type in the center section, the word “theirs” was used instead of the proper contraction “there’s”. I only point this out since their friend’s computer hate site loves to point out such errors when they appear in the FCN. The other error was the editor/publisher/financier implied the FCN demeaned the office of the Mayor. The FCN (and PSCF) has the greatest respect for the office. That is exactly why we resent what the current occupant has turned it into.
In the St. Louis newspaper, one of the Mayor’s Pom-Pom squad asked Councilman Gieseke to name the “thugs” on the police force. Councilman Gieseke’s comment was taken out of context and spun like a top. Maybe the letter writer should ask our City Administrator who they are. He now has first hand knowledge.
Speaking of that, have you noticed the Mayor’s concern is we be sure everything was done properly regarding the pursuit? Not a word, not one, has addressed the fact the officer was apparently not where he should have been while on duty. The incident would never have occurred if he hadn’t been where he was. Can we assume there are two investigations? Be careful, Chief Swope. You know how his feelings got hurt the last time he was investigated.
The Mayors “Cheerleader in Charge” wrote in his Blarneytown column Wednesday making fun of the above incident. I doubt if it would have been funny if he were the one face down at gunpoint. It’s sad to say, but I think the only screw he had left has finally worked its way loose.
The Mayor’s message in the City Newsletter chastised the mean, evil, vicious City Council for deleting the $700,000 she uses to keep our water and sewer rates low. It figures out to less than $3 per household per month. I couldn’t even buy a Big Mac with fries with the saving. I could save it up and once a year I could take my wife to Applebee’s on it. The council wants to use it for capital improvements. It’s not like they pocketed the money. Now that it’s gone, I wonder how much our rates will go up. It shouldn’t be more than the $3 per month which was removed.
Today is the day! A while ago I told you of the barbeque fundraiser for the St. Charles West Marching Warrior Band. If you are reading this on Saturday morning, when you finish reading, put the paper down, get in the car and go directly to the Schnucks on Duchesne and get your barbeque while you help these kids. There are several meat choices, various sides and even something for your “sweet tooth”. Your tummy will feel good and so will you. Now put the paper down and get up to Schnucks! You can go to the Convention Center afterward.
No meeting scheduled yet. We’re waiting for the audit report.
Steve, turn out the lights on your way out.
“Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes …they don’t tell the truth, uh
Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies …and I got proof.”
There are lessons to be learned from our music. It is too bad the union leaders who supported the Convention Center didn’t listen to more music. The above words, from a song by Undisputed Truth, could have warned them they were about to be misled when they were told the jobs at the Convention Center would be union jobs.
Our Mayor is now telling them only the construction jobs were promised to be union. Those of us who keep an eye on these things remember the only non-union jobs were to be the ones inside the hotel! “Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes… they don’t tell the truth”. The hotel operator insisted his establishment be non-union. It was the only part of the whole deal that was to be non-union. “Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies… and I got proof”.
The new news??paper came out inserted in the old “Pump Up Patti” ad paper and we need to point out a couple of errors. In bold type in the center section, the word “theirs” was used instead of the proper contraction “there’s”. I only point this out since their friend’s computer hate site loves to point out such errors when they appear in the FCN. The other error was the editor/publisher/financier implied the FCN demeaned the office of the Mayor. The FCN (and PSCF) has the greatest respect for the office. That is exactly why we resent what the current occupant has turned it into.
In the St. Louis newspaper, one of the Mayor’s Pom-Pom squad asked Councilman Gieseke to name the “thugs” on the police force. Councilman Gieseke’s comment was taken out of context and spun like a top. Maybe the letter writer should ask our City Administrator who they are. He now has first hand knowledge.
Speaking of that, have you noticed the Mayor’s concern is we be sure everything was done properly regarding the pursuit? Not a word, not one, has addressed the fact the officer was apparently not where he should have been while on duty. The incident would never have occurred if he hadn’t been where he was. Can we assume there are two investigations? Be careful, Chief Swope. You know how his feelings got hurt the last time he was investigated.
The Mayors “Cheerleader in Charge” wrote in his Blarneytown column Wednesday making fun of the above incident. I doubt if it would have been funny if he were the one face down at gunpoint. It’s sad to say, but I think the only screw he had left has finally worked its way loose.
The Mayor’s message in the City Newsletter chastised the mean, evil, vicious City Council for deleting the $700,000 she uses to keep our water and sewer rates low. It figures out to less than $3 per household per month. I couldn’t even buy a Big Mac with fries with the saving. I could save it up and once a year I could take my wife to Applebee’s on it. The council wants to use it for capital improvements. It’s not like they pocketed the money. Now that it’s gone, I wonder how much our rates will go up. It shouldn’t be more than the $3 per month which was removed.
Today is the day! A while ago I told you of the barbeque fundraiser for the St. Charles West Marching Warrior Band. If you are reading this on Saturday morning, when you finish reading, put the paper down, get in the car and go directly to the Schnucks on Duchesne and get your barbeque while you help these kids. There are several meat choices, various sides and even something for your “sweet tooth”. Your tummy will feel good and so will you. Now put the paper down and get up to Schnucks! You can go to the Convention Center afterward.
No meeting scheduled yet. We’re waiting for the audit report.
Steve, turn out the lights on your way out.
STRAIGHT TALK - Councilman Bob Hoepfner Ward 10
Well it’s spring time and everything is starting to come alive. Everything, I mean flowers popping up out of the ground, trees leafing out, the Convention Center finally done. Now all we have to do is find customers to pay for it. The hotel is three months behind schedule. There is an effort to let the hotelier break their contract and let them out of their commitment to pay the City over $1 1/2 million over a period of time, to operate the food and beverage in the convention center. This is going to throw a bigger financial burden on the taxpayers. You know sometimes when you are involved in different goings on you end up knowing too much. What I mean by that is you wonder how it is all going to work out in the end. I talked to the State Auditors office today. They tell me that next week they will probably bring out the results of the audit. No later than the following week. So soon my friends we will get the professional’s opinion on how the City is running.
We are trying to move forward with the growth of the city. The golf course is going to be developed. That will start pretty quick. It is a shame developments wind up taking some of our assests. We have lost two golf courses, but life will go on. The Casino is planning a nice development. What this all should mean folks is lots more money coming into the City. One would think, at least in my humble little mind, maybe just maybe your elected officials will get rid of that utility tax.
Speaking of taxes, I still want to try to do a state wide referendum to freeze the property taxes if not reduce them, in special circumstances. I understand in Texas when you turn 65 you become exempt from school taxes. There is a good idea because by 65 you have paid your dues for the schools.
The state is cutting funding for age groups. At the senior center they are eliminating the salad bar. Now, this may not seem important to you. I want you to realize however the seniors who go to the center on Fairgrounds go there for a meal which could be their only one meal for the day.
We as a society should be ashamed of the way we treat our senior citizens. They not only cutting meals at the senior center, they are also going to cut back on Meals on Wheels for the home bound. I am not a socialist but I am a taxpaying American and I think we need to take care of those who used to take care of us.
We are going to have a very good Oktoberfest this year. It is going to be three days long and have authentic, German entertainment, food and fun. I am bringing it up now so you can start marking your calendars because you won’t want to miss it. It is going to be better than the Strassenfest.
Still out battling those battles for you folks. I appreciate the calls and support and as long as you hang in there with me I will slug it out every day of the week for you.God bless you, God bless America 949-0956.
We are trying to move forward with the growth of the city. The golf course is going to be developed. That will start pretty quick. It is a shame developments wind up taking some of our assests. We have lost two golf courses, but life will go on. The Casino is planning a nice development. What this all should mean folks is lots more money coming into the City. One would think, at least in my humble little mind, maybe just maybe your elected officials will get rid of that utility tax.
Speaking of taxes, I still want to try to do a state wide referendum to freeze the property taxes if not reduce them, in special circumstances. I understand in Texas when you turn 65 you become exempt from school taxes. There is a good idea because by 65 you have paid your dues for the schools.
The state is cutting funding for age groups. At the senior center they are eliminating the salad bar. Now, this may not seem important to you. I want you to realize however the seniors who go to the center on Fairgrounds go there for a meal which could be their only one meal for the day.
We as a society should be ashamed of the way we treat our senior citizens. They not only cutting meals at the senior center, they are also going to cut back on Meals on Wheels for the home bound. I am not a socialist but I am a taxpaying American and I think we need to take care of those who used to take care of us.
We are going to have a very good Oktoberfest this year. It is going to be three days long and have authentic, German entertainment, food and fun. I am bringing it up now so you can start marking your calendars because you won’t want to miss it. It is going to be better than the Strassenfest.
Still out battling those battles for you folks. I appreciate the calls and support and as long as you hang in there with me I will slug it out every day of the week for you.God bless you, God bless America 949-0956.
McCulloch Elected to County Council
Joe McCulloch Elected To County Council
Newly elected St. Charles County Democratic Councilman Joe McCulloch and his wife Pat celebrating his victory after the polls closed Election day.
McCulloch defeated former St. Charles City Councilman Richard Baum who was the Republican candidate and Jerry Butterbaugh who ran as an Independent candidate.
McCulloch won with 1,784 votes to Baum’s 1,598 and Butterbaugh’s 238.
McCulloch will take his seat on the County Council at Monday’s meeting.
First Capitol News Photo by Tony Brockmeyer
Newly elected St. Charles County Democratic Councilman Joe McCulloch and his wife Pat celebrating his victory after the polls closed Election day.
McCulloch defeated former St. Charles City Councilman Richard Baum who was the Republican candidate and Jerry Butterbaugh who ran as an Independent candidate.
McCulloch won with 1,784 votes to Baum’s 1,598 and Butterbaugh’s 238.
McCulloch will take his seat on the County Council at Monday’s meeting.
First Capitol News Photo by Tony Brockmeyer
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY - By Clara Scott
John Orrick built the home at 701 North Third Street in St. Charles in 1833. Captain Orrick was in the mercantile business and piloted the packet Fayaway from here to St. Louis and back three times a week. This three story handmade brick home featured fireplaces in each of the 12 rooms and an ice cellar for food preservation. Orrick was elected state representative (1844-1846) on the Whig Party ticket.
The main floor has two parlors (formal and informal), a dining room, one bedroom, and a kitchen. The second floor has five bedrooms, and the top floor has two bedrooms. The stable and carriage house once located in the rear of the home have been dismantled.
This home was later to become the home of Welcome A. Robbins, oldest son of Major Moses B. Robbins of Revolutionary War fame. Major Robbins, a native of Volluntown, Connecticut, was buried in the “Graveyard Slough” in Black Walnut. He is one of 40 Revolutionary War soldiers to be buried in this area.
Welcome Robbins and his brother Frederick constructed the extravagant marble and stone Robbins Tomb at Oak Grove Cemetery in 1865. It measures 900-sq. ft. and contains five iron, alcohol-filled caskets with glass face window plates. This unusual Pioneer burial technique eliminated the need for embalming. Mourning family members could also visit the tomb and view the faces of their departed loved ones.
Dr. James Robert Mudd and his wife Mary Caroline (nee Boschert) and family lived in this home for 30 years. A small examining room and office were added to the front of the home. (If you drive by, note the front door glass etching with the Mudd Family name).
Dr. Mudd was elected mayor in 1901 and 1902 was responsible for the installation of the city water works. He was County Coroner for 12 years, in charge of the County Asylum for 21 years and a City Councilman for 12 years. Two of his children also became doctors.
(Information for this article is from McElhiney’s Guidebook to Historic St. Charles Missouri, Richard G. Sperandio, and editor with his permission)
The main floor has two parlors (formal and informal), a dining room, one bedroom, and a kitchen. The second floor has five bedrooms, and the top floor has two bedrooms. The stable and carriage house once located in the rear of the home have been dismantled.
This home was later to become the home of Welcome A. Robbins, oldest son of Major Moses B. Robbins of Revolutionary War fame. Major Robbins, a native of Volluntown, Connecticut, was buried in the “Graveyard Slough” in Black Walnut. He is one of 40 Revolutionary War soldiers to be buried in this area.
Welcome Robbins and his brother Frederick constructed the extravagant marble and stone Robbins Tomb at Oak Grove Cemetery in 1865. It measures 900-sq. ft. and contains five iron, alcohol-filled caskets with glass face window plates. This unusual Pioneer burial technique eliminated the need for embalming. Mourning family members could also visit the tomb and view the faces of their departed loved ones.
Dr. James Robert Mudd and his wife Mary Caroline (nee Boschert) and family lived in this home for 30 years. A small examining room and office were added to the front of the home. (If you drive by, note the front door glass etching with the Mudd Family name).
Dr. Mudd was elected mayor in 1901 and 1902 was responsible for the installation of the city water works. He was County Coroner for 12 years, in charge of the County Asylum for 21 years and a City Councilman for 12 years. Two of his children also became doctors.
(Information for this article is from McElhiney’s Guidebook to Historic St. Charles Missouri, Richard G. Sperandio, and editor with his permission)
MY COLUMN - Mike McMurran Sports Editor
O.K. already, I am well aware the original agreement was to concentrate on high school sports, and I shall – regular readers must remember I am first and foremost a football guy, hence the River City Rage coverage. Things have been somewhat hectic around the McMurran household lately with National Lampoon’s Family Spring vacation (3 adults and 3 children in a van for over 900 miles can wear on a person) but are slowly returning to normal. This spring we will be covering baseball, girls’ soccer, boys’ volleyball as well as both boys’ and girls’ track. Next week, I promise there will be more high school stuff.
On a more serious note, while returning from the Texas Gulf Coast we managed to tune in to KMOX to hear the bulletin announcing the death of Pope John Paul II. Now I can hear many of you already saying, “What does the Pope’s death have to do with sports?” Valid point. The answer is nothing; no matter how hard I try and put a spin on it I cannot think of a way to make it sound like it belongs in the Sports section. At the same time, this is my column, and Phyllis and Tony have pretty much given me the liberty to write about whatever I wish, so if this makes Friday’s edition you know they approved it. But I digress, back to the Pope.
In 1999 my lovely wife Lynn and I attended the Mass celebrated by John Paul at what was then called the TWA Dome. Those who know me at all know I have never, and very likely will never be confused with a pious type person. It took some personal reflection and examination to try and understand why I even attended the Mass – then it struck me – I am an event freak; I like big events, pomp and circumstance, the bigger the better. Believe me, that unusually warm winter’s day back in January 1999 was an event – clearly one of the biggest Saint Louis has ever hosted in my lifetime. But I digress, back to the Pope.
The day began at 2 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parking lot where we were given directions to proceed to Harrah’s Casino in Maryland Heights. After standing in line for over two hours we finally boarded a motor coach which took us to the Dome. I think we arrived downtown about 7 or so. The sea of humanity heading to the Dome was unlike anything I have ever seen in St. Louis. Keep in mind please that I attend all Rams home games, and have attended more than a handful of post-season baseball games – nothing prepared me for the crowd. Another couple of hours were spent waiting in line to get in the Dome, and then an hour or so before the Mass started. For event freaks like myself the Mass was full of pomp and circumstance and pageantry – I got my monies worth. Another wait to leave the Dome, back on the motor coach, I think it was maybe 4 p.m. or so as we passed the airport on our way back to Harrah’s, when one of the most special conversations ever between my lovely wife Lynn and I occurred. “Do you know which part of the homily stands out most in my mind?” rhetorically asked Lynn, rhetorically mind you. I thought for a moment or two and responded “yes.” It was a rhetorical question she informed me, a question asked only for effect, not for information. But I knew the answer, and anyone who knows me at all knows when I have the correct answer it is hard for me to keep my mouth shut (I am getting better though). “O.K. hotshot,” she used my favorite term of endearment, “out of all those thousands of words the Pope uttered, which ones impressed me the most?” I meekly, yet confidently responded, “As the family goes, so goes the nation!” I think she was shocked, but didn’t act as though. At that moment the two of us bonded in a, well, in a mysterical…yes, a spiritual way. We were both at a loss of words – and it is not an example of literary hyperbole to say my wife and I are NEVER, NEVER at a loss of words.
Anyway, I just thought I would share that story with you. Next week more high school sports, and in this column more sports’ commentary.
On a more serious note, while returning from the Texas Gulf Coast we managed to tune in to KMOX to hear the bulletin announcing the death of Pope John Paul II. Now I can hear many of you already saying, “What does the Pope’s death have to do with sports?” Valid point. The answer is nothing; no matter how hard I try and put a spin on it I cannot think of a way to make it sound like it belongs in the Sports section. At the same time, this is my column, and Phyllis and Tony have pretty much given me the liberty to write about whatever I wish, so if this makes Friday’s edition you know they approved it. But I digress, back to the Pope.
In 1999 my lovely wife Lynn and I attended the Mass celebrated by John Paul at what was then called the TWA Dome. Those who know me at all know I have never, and very likely will never be confused with a pious type person. It took some personal reflection and examination to try and understand why I even attended the Mass – then it struck me – I am an event freak; I like big events, pomp and circumstance, the bigger the better. Believe me, that unusually warm winter’s day back in January 1999 was an event – clearly one of the biggest Saint Louis has ever hosted in my lifetime. But I digress, back to the Pope.
The day began at 2 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parking lot where we were given directions to proceed to Harrah’s Casino in Maryland Heights. After standing in line for over two hours we finally boarded a motor coach which took us to the Dome. I think we arrived downtown about 7 or so. The sea of humanity heading to the Dome was unlike anything I have ever seen in St. Louis. Keep in mind please that I attend all Rams home games, and have attended more than a handful of post-season baseball games – nothing prepared me for the crowd. Another couple of hours were spent waiting in line to get in the Dome, and then an hour or so before the Mass started. For event freaks like myself the Mass was full of pomp and circumstance and pageantry – I got my monies worth. Another wait to leave the Dome, back on the motor coach, I think it was maybe 4 p.m. or so as we passed the airport on our way back to Harrah’s, when one of the most special conversations ever between my lovely wife Lynn and I occurred. “Do you know which part of the homily stands out most in my mind?” rhetorically asked Lynn, rhetorically mind you. I thought for a moment or two and responded “yes.” It was a rhetorical question she informed me, a question asked only for effect, not for information. But I knew the answer, and anyone who knows me at all knows when I have the correct answer it is hard for me to keep my mouth shut (I am getting better though). “O.K. hotshot,” she used my favorite term of endearment, “out of all those thousands of words the Pope uttered, which ones impressed me the most?” I meekly, yet confidently responded, “As the family goes, so goes the nation!” I think she was shocked, but didn’t act as though. At that moment the two of us bonded in a, well, in a mysterical…yes, a spiritual way. We were both at a loss of words – and it is not an example of literary hyperbole to say my wife and I are NEVER, NEVER at a loss of words.
Anyway, I just thought I would share that story with you. Next week more high school sports, and in this column more sports’ commentary.
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