Randy Baron Speaks To Seminole Heights
This was a comment in another post.
I want to thank Scott and the previous posters for their show of support. A lot of people have asked me why I chose to run city-wide. While there were various issues that helped me decide this, one major consideration is the fact that Seminole Heights is a microcosm of all the issues that face the entire city. Code enforcement, traffic calming, economic development along urban corridors, parking, historic preservation, interaction with TPD, interaction with FDOT, right-of –way encroachments, insurance requirements for events on city property - the list goes on. If there is an issue out there, Seminole Heights has usually faced it and taken a leadership role in dealing with it.
I have been fortunate to work with a great many individuals who have helped to make Seminole Heights one of the most activist, influential and successful neighborhoods in the city of Tampa. The presidents of SESHCA and SSHCA, Sherry Simons and Gary Ellsworth, along with their board members, have been instrumental in embracing more cooperation among the three associations. The leaders of the neighborhood’s Crime Watch areas and mobile crime patrols (“hooker patrol”) have developed tactics that have not only successfully drastically reduced crime in the area, but are models for other areas of the city. Our residents have worked to create historic districts and the city’s first residential overlay district. Working with these dedicated people has enabled me to develop knowledge and expertise on a wide range of issues. But it has also taught me that effective leadership requires listening to those around you, both to identify problems and develop solutions.
Having started down the path of success with Seminole Heights (although by no means reaching the end of the journey), I feel there is now an opportunity to apply my experience on a citywide basis. Many of the issues that we face in Seminole Heights require city-wide attention to develop functional solutions. Traffic calming will come to Seminole Heights when the city as a whole focuses on traffic calming, instead of budgeting an amount that is less than that budgeted to a Riverwalk consultant. Parking solutions will come to Seminole Heights when the city as a whole focuses on the rapidly escalating parking crisis which is only getting worse with a geometric increase in density in areas with the biggest problems. Redevelopment of our urban corridors will increase when the city modifies development codes designed for suburban sized lots. While our interaction with Code Enforcement has led to the creation of the Seminole Heights Task Force, a model of inter-department cooperation that needs to be applied to other areas of the administration, Code Enforcement also needs a cohesive city-wide strategy along with computers that provide the information that inspectors need in the field and a commitment to foreclose, when available, on blatant repeat offenders. And we will only get cooperation from FDOT when the city makes it clear that it needs to have a symbiotic relationship with them, not act as a parasitic host for raceways through our residential communities.
In short, there are plenty of issues that need to be addressed on a city-wide basis. I look forward to having the opportunity to apply my experience to develop and implement solutions that will help not only Seminole Heights, but the entire city.
Randy Baron
55 comments:
and that is why you will get my vote and my yard for a sign!
Randy, now that you are running for public office I would like to ask that you clear up a rumor. I understand that you were disbarred from practicing law at one time. Could you expound and explain, please. Thank you...
You have my vote too! If you can find a solution to have code enforcement communicate with any/all city departments, this will be a mircle. IN MOST CITIES, code enforcement is the backbone of the community/city. Tougher code promotes, heatlhier living, lower crime rates, less litter, and all around safer communities. You tackle this issue head on and you will win by a landslide.
It takes a lot to get disbarred from the bar. I looked Mr. Baron up on the Florida Bar's website today, and he is not a member in good standing. I didn't know he was a lawyer, but if he waw one, and if he was disbarred, he is not fit to be in political office. You basically have to do a criminal act to be disbarred, or you have to be a hopless alcoholic or drug addict. I don't vote for criminals, period. I also don't vote for people who can't get their addictions under control.
You are so full of KaKa
Blah Blah..Blah Blah..
You can start by reorganizing code since I don't care for any of them.
Then you will have my vote.
Fire and rehire.
Where do we send campaign contributions?
Sign me up for $100.
Anon 1:21
If Randy was to focus on reorganizing code - per your request - it could not even happen until after he was elected.
I think that would want to make you get off your butt and vote.
Shame on anyone who started the "disbarred" rumor. Ask for background information first, and don't go throwing around negative comments before you know the facts.
Randy,
I would vote for you if you became a member of the Florida Bar. True, the pracitice of law is not always enjoyable. In fact, it is often downright miserable, as there is too much weight on one's shoulders. But I'd rather see you use all your education to your full potential. Become a Florida Bar member and run for office. It can't hurt and it will dispell all the rumors.
There aren't any rumors besides this little clique called "Seminole Heights." That's just a dumb thought and irrelevant to winning this election. Don't think another minute about it Randy.
This is a very important race, Gwen Miller sucks and she needs to be dumped on her ass. A champion for Seminole Heights in city council is an exciting thought.
Connect with people and bring intelligent ideas to the table and you will win.
99 percent of voters could care less about the bar, most think it is a place you get drinks.
The visitors to this blog are a small part of the voting public you need to win over. Concentrate on other areas of the city, Seminole Heights is already behind you.
Good luck, I hope the people of SH realize what a great opportunity this is and act accordingly by supporting your campaign whether they agree with you 100 percent of the time or not.
This would be the best message we could send to City Council and the rest of Tampa -- north, south, east and west, We are Seminole Heights, watch our power GROW!
Go Randy. Please post on the blog when you are ready to host a fundraiser.
I agree Gwen must go! Her and Les have been career polititians way to long.
Why would someone who does not enjoy the law seek the ability to practice it? What is so holy about a law degree? Many people have extra degrees in subjects that interest them but do not use them in their career.
What a ridiculous idea that you won't vote for someone unless he joins the bar? Thinking it would be better if he was a interested City Council Person rather than a disinterested lawyer! Got enough of those already!!
Shame, shame my Seminole Heights neighbors. Are we so willing to support someone JUST because he/she lives in Seminole Heights? Yes, we would like an upper hand in hot topic issues, but we already have that; the mayor is in LOVE with SH and has already started beautification projects. You can't sneeze on Nebraska without a cop asking you for ID.
We just don't show up for the town forum meetings, let alone any of the Seminole Heights neighborhood association meetings. I have been to 1 and the majority attendee was over 65, funny, being that the median age for SH is 39. (You can do the research; it is 39).
So now we are going to support a candidate because he was the president of the Old Historic Seminole Heights Association.
Has anyone ever even run against Randy??? From what I understand he makes scenes when he is not treated as the "president" of Seminole Heights. I can't really comment on personal opinion because when I met Randy (for about 5 minutes) he was too busy staring at my chest to care about what I had to say. So much so, that my husband asked to leave so that he would not “embarrass” us.
I guess he is true politician material.
I just don’t see what good Randy has really done for Seminole Heights. It seems to me that his board of 65+ year olds has handed everything to him.
Michele:
I find yur comments shocking. I've known Randy for years. I have never known him to be "impressed" by his "presidentness" I also have never seen him sgtand and stare at anyone's chest. (
that's not to say he doesn't have a healthy interest in the female gender.) Maybe you should do something to get to know him. He's not intimidating, he has a good sense of humor, he works hard and he's smart. That's a lot more than I can say about the current representive in District 1. I find your description of Randy to be totally off course. Are you sure it was Randy you met?
Michele,
That's what boobs are for, to be ogled. You should be flattered you got something worth ogling. Wear a burkah or strap em down if you don't want to be ogled.
Michele,
A few comments to yours.........
"The mayor is in love with Sem Hts"?????? WTF - until the East Tp initative was created she did not even know how to find SH. Be it good or bad SESH falls within their boundaries and as such has gotten noticed.
What beautification projects???
I would prefer that she take care of traffic issues and not plant a tree that the cuthrough traffic will run over in their haste to get off of Nebraska/Hillsbrough.
The proposed reconfiguring of Nebraska south of Hills is a DOT job and as such the city did not push for any major changes until the associations started to lean on her about it. She wasn't lining up to spend city money on Nebraska - that's what the Kennedy reconfiguration is all about - it is a gateway to the city after all.
Regarding the median age of SH at 39 - you may be correct. As to the board of OSHNA giving Randy everything he wants........well obviously you have never been to a board meeting (they are monthly and open to anyone taking the time to attend) and BTW the board's average age is closer to 39 than 65.
Yes, it is sad to say the older residents are in the majority at the association meetings - maybe that is because they take the time to care about their neighborhood - you've only been to one meeting you say (which is 2 hours once a quarter) but your preconceived notions about how the board and Randy works have already been formed - funny how that can happen. Are you always so quick to jump to conclusions based on minimal interaction (per your post - 1 meeting and 5 minutes with Randy).
Have you been to city council for the Starbucks issue, the church on North street, code issues - retaining walls, speaking with the city about changing the zoning to get businesses in the neighborhood?? I don't think so or you would have seen that Randy has been to all of those and more. I stand corrected if you were there at any of those events.
The only scene I have witnessed is when Randy is at city council and he is taking a stand for the 'hood - and I really would not go as far as calling those instances a scene.
As far as sneezing/cops and ID - that has nothing to do with the mayor's love for SH, it has more to do with the fact that the residents of the area have worked/pushed the cops to be more attentive to those out wandering after a decent hour. We have earned and gained the respect of Cheif Hogue and Asst chief Castor not to mention the district majors in charge.
I appreciate your post but please do not be so quick to judge and take/make some time to be active in your neighborhood - every little bit of positive forward motion makes a difference.
I for one think that Randy has proven that he cares about the neighborhood and if he cares enough to run for city council then the other city neighborhoods will be fortunate to have him in the mix and we will be less so for the time city council issues will take him away from our immediate neighborhood.
Michele is a moron. She (he) has been to "1" meeting, and she now has a firm grasp on Seminole Heights? Give me a break. I would love to know where these cops on Nebraska are...I have countless stories of TPD turning their back on streetwalkers. Also, feel free to point me to the beautification projects...I'm just not seeing them.
I suppose I am taking the bait, because Michele is most likely nothing more than a lonely, bitter man (perhaps with man-boobs), but I would be remiss if I didn't offer my support of Randy. In the years (close to 4) that I have know him, he has never been anything less than professional, and has spent countless hours working with others to make Seminole Heights a better place to live. If you truly don't see what he has really done for Seminole Heights (to quote you), I would suggest that you spend less time pretending you are well endowed, and more time attempting to get your head out of your ass. - Mike Free
All you have to know is that Randy Baron is running against Gwen Miller.
Gwen Miller! She think Seminole Heights is an FSU booster club.
This do-nothing council member better be worried.
She is about to have to get a full-time job!
This just in....Randy is actually an alien from outer space! No, Randy is actually the secret love child of Osama Bin Laden and Kathryn Harris. No, Randy actually used to Randee until her operation. No, Randy is actually Dr. Evil...and he is holding Seminole Heights hostage and demands ONE MILLLLLION DOLLARS!!! bwaa ha ha ha ha!
Michele,
I do not live in Old Sem so cannot comment on the average age of either their board or the residents. I live in SESH and while I am in that age group you seem to dismiss, I am the president of a forward thinking, very active association filled with a very eclectic collection of ages, professions and races. SESH is am energetic, interesting place to live, even though some of us are past your idea of prime. Attending a part of a single meeting and then letting that give you an impression of the entire neighborhood, only tells me you have a very short attention span and because of that, I do not believe you have "researched" much. We, in greater SH live in a highly transitional area. What is true, on the average, one time is not true six months later.
My point is, a single visit to a single meeting tells you nothing. It not only makes you uninformed but also a person who simply lives in the neighborhood, not a participant. If you are not involved, you have no idea what is done by those who work tirelessly every day fighting for the quality of life you enjoy. You also have a skewed idea of how things get done and what it takes to make a difference.
The three associations in SH have formed a union and the power of this union is generally acknowledged by the city. The things that come to SH from the city are a result of hard fought wars, led by people like Randy Baron. While you are at work, or doing your laundry, people like Randy are in front of City Council, or attending the endless meetings with various city departments, which are a requirement of working with the city.
I have had the privilege of working with Randy for a couple of years and find he truly has the neighborhoods at the heart of all he does. While I might agree in totem, with all his opinions, I respect him for how I see him conduct himself on a daily basis. It is not my style to ask you to support my ideas, simply because I think they are right. I feel you should make up your own mind. But to do that you will have to open your eyes, roll up your sleeves and get involved so your view is more than the surface. Look at what goes on behind the scenes. You might be very surprised!
and Sherry - while I do not live in SESH- you statement is why I have respect for all that you and Randy do for your respective associations. I am active and I know the efforts put forth - keep up the good work and thanks, thanks, thanks for all your efforts - also to Gary Elsworth - prez of South SH too!
Wow, ya'll act like someone just kicked your puppy. Simple truth, you don't have to like Randy to live here.
For myself, the jury is still out but swinging to the negative. Oddly, I've only lived back in the neighborhood for a few months and been able to attend 1 yes one OSHNA meeting. What I saw there to form my opinion was, in my perception, a couple of vaguely concealed digs at representatives from new businesses moving into the neighborhood.
It's fine for the association to have it's agenda, but business owner's have a different set of circumstances to deal with than home owners and thusly have their own agenda. Some of the remarks made were, in my opinion, insulting to the owners who took there time to make a good faith effort to introduce themselves to the neighborhood, which they had absolutely NO obligation to do.
but, that's like... just my opinion man. /the big lebowski
You can find fault with just about anyone. Do I agree with Randy on everything-NO. And which we have talked about. The issue is Gwen Miller versus anyone else. She has been pretty ineffectual and unresponsive during her 12 years on council. When I lived in District 5 I considered challenging her re-election because about her only contribution to City Council was seconding motions. I am not sure she has EVER proposed a pro-active anything for the city. Hell, I am not sure she has had an original thought on how to make the city a better place to live and work. Like the saying goes: "If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem." That is the record of Gwen Miller. There were more qualified African-Americans in District 5 but they deferred to Gwen Miller because they were concerned about alienating her husband, Les (a former State Rep. and State Senator).
back to Randy.
Running a neighborhood group is a largely thankless job. I should know, having run two of the three in Seminole Heights. Some appreciate the time an effort that you put into it. Some don't and sadly even more are completely indifferent.
My perception of Randy is that he has tried to do a good job. Are Michelle's comments about OSHNA without merit? No. I have been to far more meetings and attendance is pretty deplorable and of late are mostly current board and committee chairs, former board or committee chairs, and respective spouses, partners, or significant others. Should it be different? Yes. Is that soley Randy's fault? No.
OSHNA just had elections, all the officers were unopposed and there was only one trustee candidate more than the 5 slots. Out of 550 plus members only 59 voted. So, Michelle, you and others who sit it out are as much of the problem or more so. As leader of a neighborhood group you can only work with the talents of those willing to involve themselves.
On most of my issues with the current city council, Randy and I are in agreement. Our biggest disagreement is on taxes and fiscal restraint. Some think that City Council can fix code enforcement or residential traffic issues. Unfortunately with the Strong Mayor system of government, all departments answer soley to the Mayor. But council has the ability to enact ordinances and council has the power of the purse. Council has historically been feable in using it's power over the budget to shape the Mayorial priorities.
In a choice between Randy Baron and Gwen Miller...Randy has my vote and will have whatever other support I can offer. If someone came along that also offered the fiscal restraint that I feel is lacking with this City Council, my choice would be much more difficult.
BUT in a race between Gwen and Randy...I say go Randy!
Mal,
so rather than jumping on board to help out with the association you too are going around kicking puppies. I'm assuming you are happy with the status quo of the neighborhood thus are incline to do nothing - maybe some bitchin' in the future, if your garage gets broken into, about how ineffective the association is about making changes in the neighborhood.
Well you are right - with about what 4,000 households there are about 100 people that take the time to try and make a positive difference - try something new and make that group number 101. I'm sure you have some fresh, positive ideas to bring to the table.
Reach out and be a positive part of your neighborhood - bring Michele while your at it!
Michele,
You should move to Westchase!
A 59 year old, 25 year resident
Now I might become more active in the neighborhood, but right now Tuesdays (which seem to be the popular night for meetings around here) are the night that I volunteer with East Tampa kids - hopefully making a significant impact on the world as a whole rather than worrying about my property values first.
I might have some fresh ideas to bring to the table. BUT I'm sure that I'll have an uphill fight against the attitude that most of you all have that the world owes the neighborhood anything.
My first suggestion would be to not be antagonistic to new businesses with the attitude of "what are you going to do for us?". But unfortunately, reading the attitudes posted on this board, quite a few of you all truly believe that businesses moving into the area should serve your agenda or move out.
Until I see some changes in that mindset, we'll just have to agree to disagree.
To Mal Carne:
you wrote: "... been able to attend 1 yes one OSHNA meeting. What I saw there to form my opinion was, in my perception, a couple of vaguely concealed digs at representatives from new businesses moving into the neighborhood.
It's fine for the association to have it's agenda, but business owner's have a different set of circumstances to deal with than home owners and thusly have their own agenda. Some of the remarks made were, in my opinion, insulting to the owners who took there time to make a good faith effort to introduce themselves to the neighborhood, which they had absolutely NO obligation to do."
I've attended all the OSHNA meetings this past year and I am not sure what you are referring to in these statements. Can you explain it a bit more?
Yesterdazed,
I don't recall seeing you at that meeting. It was in March or April, I believe.
As everyone has their own perception of things, what was said could have been perfectly harmless, but it were to be directed at me, I would have taken great exception to some of the comments.
One of the comments that sticks out in my mind the most was directed towards a representative of SHIP the organization that is moving/has moved into the big blue building on Florida. After she was done speaking, the president was nice enough to offhandedly bring up that hopefully they would see fit to share their parking. The idea is fine and well, but the delivery came off more like "I don't care if you help seniors keep their houses up, if you don't share your parking with local businesses, we don't have anything else to talk about". Again, perception, but that's how I read it and you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
As I said in my original post, the jury is still out on Randy. That first impression is all that I have to go on, but it wasn't a favorable one.
To Mal Carne
Don't know who you are but busy on Tues is just an excuse and not a very good one. There are all kinds of committees in all three of the SH neighborhoods and they meet on many different days and times and require a wide range of involvement, You can choose what works for you and be active in your community.
As to asking businesses to serve our needs. Duh! Where do you live. That is the way it works. You want to operate a business you put it in an appropriate place. No heavy mfg under the tree canopies. No bars next door to schools. Etc. Asking a business to be part of the unity of the area is perfectly normal.
Wow Mal,
I was at that meeting also and I certainly did not read that much into the comment - a tad bit defensive maybe????
The comment regarding parking was related to the ongoing issue of no parking for businesses (see Cappy's current issue) and the intent of SHIP to put up the illegal fence that they did so that no one in the neighborhood can park there - yet they do not use the parcel even for parking for their business. Have you noticed all the "NO TRESPASSING" signs they have put up. This is certainly a business that is reaching out to be a part of their new neighborhood. I am sure they would have availed themselves of the double electric fence option that city council just denied - they have, after all, moved out of Hyde Pk and into the 'hood now so it must not be safe. Can't wait to see the dogs, barb wire and spotlights that go in next. I don't really think that donated building supplies should put them on this level of defensiveness - I could be wrong though!
If you have been a part of the "paint your heart out" initative and the team that SH has had since the beginning of this event you would have seen Randy present at those since his move into the neighborhood - that's working for the eldery so I am sure he looks down on SHIP's efforts to assit those in need.
If you percieve an issue between OSHNA and SHIP developing then why not take it upon yourself to be the contact for the assoc for SHIP. I am sure we can develop a beneficial relationship for all - there are certainly elderly in the neighborhood that could use their assistance.
That would put a positive spin on a perceived negative situation or in your case make lemonaid out of lemons.
Step to the plate and take your obvious care and concern and make it a good thing instead of a negative.
Annon 4:58
Businesses are not here to meet our needs. They exist to make money.
If ship bought the property why do you think other neighbors or businesses should be allowed to park there. Do you allow all your neighbors to park on your property?
Michelle I blame you!! What size are they anyway? Were they hanging out. Maybe being married and all you shouldn't dress like a skank.
Michele, you must be the new neighbor that just moved in next door, you know, under the rock!!! HELLO, the mayor in love with SH??? Are you kidding. She hates SH. She has been an utter failure as a mayor and SH is constantly there pointing this out to her. She has failed at code and SH is always on the phone, in her office, in Santiago's office on TV reminding her what a failure she is. AS far as TPD, she did make a good hire, however it was our own SH groups that forged a relationship with them. While they are much better, there is still room for improvement.
IF this mayor loved SH, she would be on the phone with FDOT every waking hour pushing the Neb. Ave plan through at a faster pace. She would fight to get this crap rolling. Tampa streets are an embarassement to the city. The fact we have a beautiful "riverwalk" and I use that term loosely, is a show of her priorities. Look at the millions of dollars that went into Meridian. A road that, as of now, really serves no purpose. Where did it's funding come from, how long has it been planned? To say she is doing a lot for SH, or the city of Tampa would be laughable.
She is a ribbon cutting, park building mayor that has accomplished little to better tampa.
Anon 8:59,
Suppose you think that rape victims were "asking for it" too, huh?
This one's interesting;
"..As to asking businesses to serve our needs. Duh! Where do you live. That is the way it works. You want to operate a business you put it in an appropriate place. No heavy mfg under the tree canopies. No bars next door to schools. Etc. Asking a business to be part of the unity of the area is perfectly normal..."
Well yes it is. Suprised by my attitude? However, there are two very seperate and distinct elements in the area; businesses and residents. As I said before, they come with two distinctly different sets of priorities. I'm as concerned as the rest of you all with the types of businesses that may come into the area. I'd love to see more retail/restaurant/neighborhood friendly businesses. But again, they don't owe the residents anything. Certain types of new business that we would like to see move in would do quite well by catering to the residents whims/concerns/what have you. But to others, it doesn't make a bit of difference because they don't depend on the neighborhood for their income.
Using SHIP as an example: what do they have to gain or lose by playing nice with the neighbors? They are (I think, so don't quote me) a non-profit that helps fix up seniors' houses. If approached with the classic "what are you going to do for us" attitude, my response would be similar to theirs, with the exception of being followed by derisive laughter and insults.
Cooperation is formed by finding a mutually advantageous common ground for both the business and the residents. If approached along the lines of "you know, I see that you have quite a bit of extra parking. We have a big parking shortage in the neighborhood and we'd like to see if you could be persuaded to share it with local businesses. What can we do for you in return for your cooperation?", there might just possibly be better results. I dunno, I'm just a dumb computer geek/scumbag musician so I don't know much about these sorta things, but it has a certain common sense air to it that just might work.
To Anon:
Are you kidding me? Did you really say that? Let me re-visit your statement for everyone: "Michelle I blame you!! What size are they anyway? Were they hanging out. Maybe being married and all you shouldn't dress like a skank."
Let me guess, if you are a woman, then you have NO mind of your own and can only survive if a man tells you how to survive. If you are a man, then you probably visit under-age websites to lure young girls so that you can control them, if not worse.
You are the very reason that women still have a glass ceiling in 2006. Wake up, you poor excuse of a human!
I think the mayor has done an exceptional job. Perhaps you would prefer Greco come back? What did he do? Oh, that's right, a whole lot of corruption, which filled his bank accounts. Perhaps we need to go back to those days, when the crime rate (especially our little neighborhood) skyrocketed.
MY impressions of Randy have been less than stellar (to say the least), as have many of my neighbors and neighboring businesses. Why don't you go to The Front Porch and ask them about Randy. You'll certainly find out why they don't have a sign yet.
I also understand that leading ANY organization is a thankless job, but you also have to be accountable for it. And for you Anon, go back under the prehistoric rock you came from, you misogynistic idiot.
Going back through the majority of the negative comments made about my attitude, there seems to be a common thread: "if you don't like it, do something yourself to change it". That's fine and well, but off the topic.
Randy is running for City Council. Does he have my vote? I don't know yet. My vote is my own and, well supposedly..maybe...sorta...not really (in this state or Ohio anyway), a way to exercise my opinion.
I have a problem with our president. Am I qualified to run to replace him? Not in a heartbeat. I have a problem with most of the people sitting in the House, Congress, the Governor's seat, the County Commission and the City Council. See above.
The fact that I have doubts about voting for him does not make me a freedom hater. Nor does it warrant such a juvenile response as "well if you think you could do better, why don't you get active and do something about it yourself". I've not really said that I can do better, but the race is not between Randy and myself. However, there is a possibly good or bad thing (depending on which side of the coin that you are on) to come out of the playground jabs; I might just very well rearrange my schedule and become more active with the CA. As the saying goes, be careful what you wish for (j/k).
I do respect your response, Randy. While not back-pedalling, I did say that I based my opinion off of perception.
I moved back into the neighborhood in March and the April meeting was my first introduction to OSHNA. Not knowing the background story, my opinion was rather quickly formed. However, the other side of that coin is that not everyone is privy to information regarding past events or postings. (see move in date)
As a word of friendly advice, (you seem very passionate about the thankless job that you do and if your ideas for the city jibe with my opinions, I'd like to see you succeed in your bid for election)I was a new-comer and the first impression was not that great. You don't often find people like myself, who are open to forming a second opinion. Be aware of that in your words and actions in your candidacy. (disclaimer: nothing in this post was intended as negative. The jury is still out, but you've done a very good job of swinging the pendulum away from the negative column. Best of luck in your candidacy.)
Michelle-
The front porch is hardly a measure of Randy. If you like the food and service you receive there then please continue to enjoy yourself. However, Randy, like many of us who no longer patronize the Front Porch, have a list of reasons no to go there. Flithy tables, over priced food, raw/undercooked food, lousy service, indifferent owner/management, dangerous chairs, a unhealthy and unappealing dusting of your entree with contruction dust. If that is what you can see in the public area, God only knows what the kitchen looks like!
If FP put a Randy Baron for City Council sign up, I would consider it a strong indication that Randy was a hypocite because Patrick certainly has had no inclination to change or improve (unfortunate since we tried repeatedly to excuse each FP visit to FP having a bad day).
I believe that Randy as a City Council member on his worse day will be better than Gwen Miller has been in 12 years. I could be wrong Gwen fooled me 12 years ago.
I have to agree with some of what Michelle says in regards to Randy and TFP and her impressions of him are not due to the establishment having a list of undesirable dining reasons for choosing not to go there. From what I understand, he has no choice as others do which might be an indicator of how Michelle and her neighbors/neighboring businesses might have come to the opinion of their less than stellar impression of him. Kind of sounds to me like more than just "dirty dining" but then that's my opinion.
Having been there for two of the "incidents" that people are guessing about, please let me tell you that what Randy did is what many of us would like to do in similar circumstances. He ordered chicken wings and got wings that were so small a quarter was the SAME SIZE as the drummette. He politely brought it up to the waitress who laughed and said something about a new distributor. We all got a chuckle and shook our heads. Pat was told about it (I forget how but it doesn't matter) and felt that the president of OSHNA should not make comments like that given his position. A similar thing happened with a bowl of chili that was basically a cup, placed in a wide, shallow bowl, and charged as a "bowl".
Now Randy was a paying customer, made a comment about a perceived lack of quality in a non-abusive manner. Like any customer, he has this right. Pat was abusive to him on at least one occasion that I witnessed. Pat has had a rough time with that business and has dealt with many stresses, probably more than I'm aware of, but I don't think trying to silence his customers is a wise move.
All this indicates to me is that Randy sticks up for what he thinks is right, even in uncomfortable circumstances where many of us, myself included, would just eat our meal, pay, and never return. (Which is exactly what I've done.) He conducted himself in a firm, professional manner in spite of being angry with the confrontation.
As a disclaimer, I've known Randy since I started attending OSHNA board meetings several years ago. I was a Trustee on the last board. I consider myself his friend.
People are welcome to come to their own conclusions, but this silly character asassination stuff would be better abandoned in favor of real issues. Randy has taken a series of positions as part of his role in OSHNA. I recommend reviewing those as they are public record.
Shawn, it's good to have friends and defending yours is perfectly understandable although I feel it is always good to hear the "other side" if someone else has one to offer on those two incidents you witnessed (personally, I did not myself). As you said, people are welcome to their own conclusions and how a person handles them self in a public establishment in my opinion is important and tells me what kind of "character" one has, especially if that person should represent a community in office. Doesn't seem that "silly" to me.
As far as any public record positions; I'm sure your friend is very competent in that regard which is not being disputed. The "Character" is what the man is or can be which can sometimes reveal a lot. Maybe Michelle or others see the outcome differently but you made your point – thanks.
Anon 1:38pm
We are pretty much in agreement. If someone has witnessed something, that is another matter.
Other than Michelle claiming Randy was fixated on her breasts, everything else was hearsay and supposition. That is what I was refering to as "silly". Has any other business owner banned him? Is this a trend or an instance of two adults that have bumped heads?
Just trying to put things in perspective. (Which is also why I added my disclaimer. I am biased. )
I get it Shawn...so how about it you folks out there that have witnessed such incidents with Randy at TFP? Let's clear it up then if all he did was act in a firm, professional manner as one person says he did, then say so. If he made threats that you heard, then say that too. As I mentioned, I was not there but it can be disturbing if the latter is what happened. Hey Michelle: were you there when Randy was banned by Pat? Were other patrons of the place there that you know of who can vouch for what they witnessed? You seem to know something about how your neighbors/neighboring business' feel about this issue.
Obviously, it must have been somewhat of a scene if the owner bans you from his place of business so someone else must have a viewpoint. As Shawn pointed out; just trying to put things in perspective so here is your chance to do that.
As I heard it - Randy and his group were not throw out. They completed their meal, paid for it and then as they were walking to their cars in the parking lot Patrick came out and said that he was no longer allowed to come to the FP.
Certainly Patrick's right - but to wait until they have paid and then ban them?? If it was that big of a situation (blow-up) then I would not have had them stay if it was my business.
I hear he has also told the home tour ad person that he would not advertise in their brochure because his customers do not come from the neighborhood.
I for one do not go there at all as I would at least like minimal service which I have never obtained during the Sunday brunch, lunch or dinner visits. I gave them 5 opportunities and walked away 5 times disappointed - either minimal staff or the staff doing double duties on projects that had nothing to do with waiting tables.
I take the FP situation with a grain (shaker actually) of salt - we have a business man who is not neighborhood friendly/indifferent to customers desires - there have been many post here confirming that indifference and on the other hand an individual that lives in the neighborhood that puts in mucho time in trying to keep us moving forward and is not know for throwing attitude.
I have not heard of any other stories about fights with Randy and other businesses in the neighborhood.
Randy did not stand up and scream about demanding service/goods because he is neighborhood assoc president. It is his right as a paying customer to have a reasonable request for service and or goods that have been paid for.
Mal Carne = Bad Meat, that's a pretty appropriate description of a person who prefers negative interpretations of meaningless events. Try gaining more information before you assume the worst. Moron.
Mal Carne lists a name, yet you call him a moron and you list as anonymous. Funny. Shall we say Anonymous = scared little man who lives with his mother?
I would think anyone with the name Mal Carne is probably looking for a laugh and a rise. Which he has succesfully done. So has Michele, who seems to have only stated her (or his, if you read earlier posts)opinion. At leaast she is using a real name. I say let those puppies breather Michele and slap the face of anyone who dares to stare.
At least you spelled moron right.
Although I've lived in this area since a good number of you would have locked the car doors and floored it just to find an on-ramp to 275, I left vallhalla to pursue greener pastures elsewhere for about 4 years. In those years, I didn't pay all that much attention to the current affairs of a neighborhood half the country away from me.
If you read what I said from the beginning, my opinion was based from the perception of an outsider. In retrospect, I was hasty in forming my opinion, and I'll live up to that just as much as I was vocal about my original opinion. Yeah, "I was for it before I was against it". But guess what, I'm willing to publicly admit that my perception was uninformed and hastily arrived at.
I'm Bad Meat - you're a day-late faceless coward. Rather than bore the readers of this blog with more name calling, how's about we just put this to bed?
Anon 6:30 has the gist of the event correct.
If Pat's concern was to prevent bad word-of-mouth, the last thing he'd do is make a huge scene in front of the customers he wanted to keep.
There were no threats. In fact, if I recall correctly, shock and disbelief would better describe it.
This one is better chalked up to "butting heads" more than anything else. There is no pattern or trend here. Sometimes it's nothing more than two people not getting along.
Anon 6:30; "As I heard it".. well you were not there to actually hear anything unlike Shawn who is the only one thus far saying he was. So, again hearsay.
If hearsay is all that is being stated then let me tell you what I heard and maybe Shawn can attest to it or not. Did Randy make a threat to Patrick after being told he was banned? Not in a physical way but something about his clout and influence in the area with the neighborhood that would affect his business in a negative way and that he would see to it? Not saying who I heard that from but I understand it was someone who was there although the actual wording might not be just right but the jest of it was something like that.
Anyone else out there want to confirm or deny that claim?
I don't think anyone other than Randy and Pat are privvy to the conversation as Randy was pulled aside.
I cannot speak for what their exact words are. I can say that Randy has maintained the same story in public: people should go and try it out for themselves and pass their own judgement.
Well I must say that is interesting. Guess no one really is gonna know exactly what words were transpired if spoken privately. Something of a he said/he said I suppose. If as you said there was shock & disbelief then I could imagine that a response would be to defend one self with a possible comment like that in retaliation. Not saying that is what happened but it kind of makes sense that a person would have something to say back rather then just shrug a shoulder as if oh well... folks will find out for themselves. Especially when there is "butting heads" as you mentioned. I just don't know, the jury is still out on that one but thanks for offering more detail to get an insight on this. As I said, very interesting if the threat was for real.
Anon 1:46
That Randy would make a threat like that would be totally out of sync for his character and past and current actions - again as you say - hearsay. So let's just stop beating a dead horse and move on!
Sure thing Anon 5:25; I can do that although this subject no doubt will be brought up again or at least thought of by others in the future. Especially now that Randy has put himself out there as a public figure. Stands to reason folks will wonder regardless if there are some that will always vouch otherwise.
The horse may be dead although not buried yet.
The End.
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