Here is what we had for our 100 years ago in the Traveler, yesterday...
Arkansas City is the metropolis of Cowley County and always will be. It has the advantages for becoming the metropolis of the great southwest and some day these advantages will be accepted. Because of her superior location, Arkansas City draws an abundance of trade from Cowley, Sumner and Kay Counties.
That was the attitude 100 years ago. Why is the attitude so different today?
Sometimes people worry about what outsiders think. Maybe that should be a concern.
But I believe a larger concern should be convincing ourselves as a city that we are worthwhile.
We need to sell ourselves, and each other, on Arkansas City, before we can convince the rest of the world.
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103 comments:
As a community it is easier to adopt the "woe is me" attitude than "yes we can". We suffered a multitude of setbacks and layoffs in the past and we got some statewide news coverage for those layoffs. We even got some extra funds for schools and community incentives as an at-risk area with unemployment.
We don't seem to want to move beyond that. I even felt that at times the newspaper promoted the negativity and wondered if it was to make Winfield look better.
I am not sure that I still feel that way but I do think that it will take an entire community to move us forward. It can not just be a few positive people, the Chamber, the newspaper or just a few merchants but all of us working together.
At one time, the banks worked to promote the community even though they were competitors. It wasn't about what themselves but about the community. They knew if the community grew so would their institutions. My hope would be that the people in the leadership positions at those banks would finally bury the hatchet, quit the namecalling and help move us forward.
Granted, they can not do it alone. It will take the effort of every man and woman in this town to dream of what we can become and work in that direction.
A change of attitude is free. Helping neighbors, picking up trash, taking care of property, being considerate of others and going the extra mile can make a huge difference.
We need people to step up to lead and guide us. This isn't 1950, 1980 and hardly 2000 anymore. The future is very uncertain for this town and we can not afford to turn our back on the challenges.
Speaking of banks, it might help if the people who control the local banks (the presidents or CEOs)actually lived in the town. I know of one specific bank whose president(s) doesn't even live in the state, and the majority of senior members of the bank don't either; they live somewhere in the Southwest, in John McCain's territory. It hard to rally local banks together when some banks would rather play in the (ex) booming real estate markets in other states than to prop up the local economy.
I agree that we need to look forward, and take steps to go forward. I voted for the sales tax, because the roads need help, and a new hospital is needed. If he Hospital management doesn't screw things up, and the present city management keeps their fingers out of it, it may be a bright jewel in South Central Kansas. I also voted for the bond issue, because I believe school infrastructure changes are needed. Do both these taxes hurt; heck yea. I hate paying taxes, but the money has to come from somewhere.
I try to do my part. I pay my taxes. I try to buy local when I can, but I do go Wichita to buy stuff I can't buy here, or the salesman here says " I can order that. It will be here in 3 days". (I don't want it in three days, I need it either now, or tomorrow.) I have volunteered to serve on city boards; volunteered in a coaching capacity. My kids are volunteering for City Rec programs. All this, because our family believes we need to make a difference, be part of the solution, and leave things better than we found them (and we're not even native Ark City people; we're transplants from eastern KS). Our family is proud to say we are from Ark City when we go places, and they ask us where we are from. The town I use to live in had a motto " a great past, a greater future". That is how we look at things. Trolling these boards sometimes depresses me because nobody seems to want to go "to the future", but hang out in the past.
Some pasted a blog about running for commission. I'd love to, but I can't afford it, I work hours that would interfere with it, and I wouldn't want my employer's business to suffer because of decisions I might make.
When I am visiting friends in Kansas City, Dallas, or Omaha and bring up Ark City, most people bring up that they have heard we have a drug problem in Ark City and they bring up incidents like the one where the middle eastern boy had "terrorist" written on his car. Those two things and the Casinos - Native Lights and the First Council- to our south seem to be what Ark City is known for today.
I attended college at one of the state's bigger universities and no one even knew where we were. I dont think we have a reputation. To many people we just don't exist or they think we are saying Kansas City with a southern accent for Arkansas City and if we say Ark City they think we mean Park City.
We don't get mentioned much in the weather news, the television news or even the Wichita paper unless it is bad news. Perhaps we need more self promoting.
The bad things do get publicized but we could do ourselves a service by promoting good. We may need to look deep to find it but it is there or we would not be living here.
I suppose a hundred years from now you people will still be whining about the Lowes.../../../././..../
You are the one to bring up the topic. Perhaps, you need to get over it or perhaps that illustrates the point the issue runs very very deep.
Shopping in AC is not just about a home improvement store. We need shoes, gifts, restaurants, linens, fabric and I am sure many could add to that. We have good stores but most of us would like more. If those aren't available then yes we will shop elsewhere.
Shopping in AC is not just about a home improvement store. We need shoes, gifts, restaurants, linens, fabric and I am sure many could add to that.
How 'bout a bigger pair of panties? Your's seems to be bunched up.....
I remember all the local stores when I was a kid, like Western Auto, Otasco, TG&Y, K-Mart, Woolsworth's, JC Penneys, etc etc.
Now we have Wal-Mart, and that's about it. Sure, there are some knick knack shops downtown, but they either have the stuff priced WAY higher than you can find it elsewhere, or they just don't have what you need. The days of the downtown stores are sadly a thing of the past.
A Lowe's would have been a step toward getting the restaurants, etc that we desperately need in this town. It's sad when the best place to eat is our steak house.
A Lowe's would have been a step toward getting the restaurants, etc that we desperately need in this town. It's sad when the best place to eat is our steak house.
----------------------------------
I think we have some great resteraunts in this town. I just think we have become to used to having them so they appear bland. How long would an Applebees or Chilis appease everyone before they too get old. Mozitti's, Grinder Man, Bricks, Daisey Mays, Greendoor and several others all appear way to busy when I visit them to not be considered good. Maybe that once again is a prefference thing? As for the other businesses we seem to keep getting empty promises here. Anyone remember the promises for the strip mall next to Wal-Mart? Sure there is a Coming Soon Quiznos sign there but they have been approaching other local resteraunt owners about buying the franchise so as of right now it is a pipe dream. Glad to see Hibbert Sports but honostly has anyone shopped there? I don't see any more selection or better prices than Jan's. The army recruiter just moved from next door to Joe's Barber shop and the check cashing loan place came from the other (empty) strip mall next to Blockbuster. I don't mean to run them down really I am for growth, heck I even stated at the commission meeting that I was for a Lowe's as long as they came in on their dime and not mine. I just think it's sad that we don't seem to appreciate what we do have. We can complain about what we don't have until we are blue in the face but to be honest there are alot of towns with far less. I also believe the reason most of these places don't come here is we don't support the stuff we do have. 24 hour McDonalds learned we weren't big enough, same with the open late Taco Bell and Wendys. State Line Bar and Grill just closed, Our Place is gone, the resteraunt at the Regency struggles or doesn't make it at all, The Dawg House, and several Knick Knack stores across town all could have used our support but where were we? We all need to try and be thankfull for what we do have or one day what little there is may not be here either.
Zach, you gonna run for commissioner?
I think the point of the post was that there are things we don't have. We could grow and use those things and enhance what is here. I did not interpret the post to have much to do with Lowe's but somehow it always goes to that. I think it just meant that there was room for growth and that it would help not hurt the community.
I think the negativity of some of the responses is the very thing that hurts our image and makes us stagnant. This can not be a my way or the highway town. We have to work together and sometimes that will be difficult.
We will have school improvements thanks to the bond issue if the state financially can fulfill their end of the deal. We will have a new hospital and better roads. We do have good things but it is not "getting panties bunched up" to want or dream for more.
We can not grow if we do not dream. We have to aspire for all that this town can be and quit looking back. People move to towns and stay in towns based on quality of life issues.
It is like saying you don't need a Wii game if you have Nintendo 64. No, you don't need it but if we could have it that would be great. Wanting more for the community is the same principal. We may not need it but we can aspire to attain it.
Me as a commish haha yeah right. Only thing I know about being a Commissioner is what I learned from Gordon in Batman comics. There are plenty more qualified people than me. There are 5 of them up there right now who I applaude for being able to deal with such diversity. I didn't mean to sound negative against new. I believe that you are right we do need new in this town but I think industry is the new that would help the whole community grow, not so much box stores and strip malls. Not knocking box stores and strip malls but if we gain industry then we gain revenue which in turn attracts new to the town. New people, new shops, and new resteraunts. I was just stating that while trying to reach for the future don't forget about your past. Let's be honest people we live in a retirement community right now. As gas has rissen the resteraunts suffer first then retail. More youth moves away then moves here all because of lack of jobs. To be honest this cities two biggest draws from out of town is Double Eagle Firearms and the Cassinos. With more industry more youth comes which drags along everything else many of us would like to see in this town.
"Batman is the hero Gotham deserves, but not the one it needs right now. So we'll hunt him, because he can take it. Because he's not a hero. He's a single guardian, a watchful protector. The Dark Knight." - Commissioner Gordon
This town could use a few "Dark Knights".
Zach,
You are on the right track!
What retail can do is bring people to town to shop or spend money! (Ex. Lowes)
What it can't do is bring people to town to buy a home and live!
JJ,
Its your blog but time to put you on the hot seat.
What was the primary reason you came to A.C.?
If you made a list of the top ten things that help you make your decision what were they in the order of priority.
What were the top 3?
What are the things that business and industry consider important.
Labor
Utilities (A.C. water rates?)
Taxes (or incentives)
Location
etc.
(Infrastructure)
Lastly a
Sidenote: I can't believe how
many time I heard the
following repeated.
"If the Two Towns and
County could just work
together and develope
Strother Field."
Zach "Commissioner Gordan" Bryant said:
"Mozitti's, Grinder Man, Bricks, Daisey Mays, Greendoor and several others all appear way to busy when I visit them to not be considered good."
You can't be serious. They are busy because that's all there is. Can you honestly say you'd eat at any of those places if we had some of the good restaurants like Wichita has? A Rib Crib, a Red Lobster, an Olive Garden, a Logan's Steakhouse, an Outback steakhouse? etc etc etc???
NO WAY IN HELL!!!! They get our business because we are geographic prisoners. That's the only reason. Their prices are just as high as most of the places I mentioned, yet the food is nowhere near as good. You know it's true, but you will probably argue anyway.
I'm not argueing you make a fine point. Funny though I find all the resteraunts you just named to be the equivelent of McDonalds. Is fine dining truelly decided by what the television says is good? The Rusty Barrel, Scotch and Sirloin these are fine dining (in my opinion). I have an Aunt and Uncle that live in Arizona near the New Mexico border. My Uncle is a huge fan of Mexican food and every time he comes to town we have to go to Green Door in order to get the "worlds best guacamole" (his saying I personally can live without the green paste) So I guess it's a matter of opinion. Daisy Mays has the best omlett I've ever had, Bricks makes a darn fine chicken fried steak, Mozittis provides a date atmosphere, both Carl's Bar-B-Q and WB Meats have far better ribs than rib crib but that is just my opinion take it or leave it. As for would I still eat there? Little story for you all about the people that own these establishments. I moved away from home at the wise age of 16. I had no job and a lot of the places you speak ill of fed me. Yes I know this is just me but in answer to your question yes I would still eat at every one of them do largely in part to the fact that they set the stone for the rest of the places to come in. They are our neighbors, church deacons, friends, relatives, etc. so it would be very hard for me to decide to boycott their places. Once again not argueing with you. If you don't like any of these that is the opinion you are entitled to. America is awesome that way. I will bring out the old captain of the debate team though and ask about my previous point. Can we support them or better yet how many could we support? How many resteraunts would it take so that everyone is happy and no one gets burnt out on them? Mozzittis had nothing but great reviews when they opened and now we act as though they are old news. Pizza Hutt Wing Street used to be standing room only and now it looks like Pizza Hutt on the hill. Another good question would be why would the resteraunts come here if there is no industry? There is a Lowes in Ponca so I don't see Poncas people tearing up here for a Chilis. There is one in Derby so why would any Wichita resteraunt even consider coming to a place that has less population? And once again if we don't support what we have why would someone want to open anything here? If all our shopping is going out of town then their goal is accomplished they already get your money. Once again I am for new. Please feel free to go back and read what I wrote once more but I ask if you quote me then don't just take the little bit that suits you. Everyone should push for growth and change just don't give up on what we have. Why does it always have to be one way or the other? Could a Chilis not exhist in the same town as a Green Door?
My sarcastic side must kid (I haven't done it in a while) My mom says she will teach you to cook then you are no longer a prisoner. All in fun.
Some of the restaurants in town serve good food. BUT, honestly I can't stand the thought of going into them because I always come out smelling like a giant cigarette. Some I haven't been into in YEARS. Non-smoking section? Don't look now, but the non-smoking section is 5ft away from you. Food's great, but I'll pass, or I just get some take-home if I want. I'm not pushing for any ordinance either. I'm sure the owners are nice people, which is why I'm not calling any names. They've got to make a profit too. Just my opinion.
It shouldn't take a rocket scientist to figure out why this town isn't as prosperous as it once was....ATTITUDE. It seems as though we (people of the city) have a negative attitude of their town and it shows. Why would anyone want to come here??? Don't blame it on the city commissioners...blame it on yourselves!! Only YOU can change your attitude. You change the negativity that you bring to these blogs. Try writing something positive..I know I know there will be back lash from some. But keep trying and pretty soon maybe one other person will write something good.
Let's try to positive about our city. Sure things can be done to improve but until we start with ourselves (attitude) nothing will ever get better.
Geaux AC girl.
Preach it.
:)
"It shouldn't take a rocket scientist to figure out why this town isn't as prosperous as it once was...."
It is the old argument about the silliness of self esteem as a goal unto itself, independent from actual performance.
The reason the town is not as prosperous as it once was is that Ark City has chased out industry with high taxes and punitive attitudes and has failed to be competitive with other towns in new economic development. This has gone on for 20 years and it is now becoming very apparent.
Claiming that it is about attitudes misses the mark. The first step is to recognize the problem.
When a football team loses, the coaches don't just talk about how the game day had great weather or how the uniforms looked good or other self esteem building issues. They hike up their belts and get to work and fix the problems.
Ark City needs to do the same. Unfounded cheerleading won't help.
Problem is the economy is bad today, so Ark City is going to have to live with the fruits of their 20 years of inaction for a while before anything will improve.
Ponca has a Chilis restraunt, but compared to Wichita's and Derbys, there food taste like crap. I was told that most of the food is precooked and they microwave it. For Greendoor? Nothing like grease oozing out of your food and having irritable bowel trouble for the next week, even if one does not normally suffer from that condition. Mozzittis? Way over priced for the dinky portions, Bricks food all tastes alike and I have seen parts of the staff(owners?) be rude too many times to count. Well, I know no one is perfect, but I think if I want more then fast food, I will take it out of town.
"Glad to see Hibbert Sports but honostly has anyone shopped there?"
Zach, it is not always about selection and price! it is about a matter of choice of where i want to spend my money. Several of the stores you mentioned I will not shop at simply because of the way they treat customers. I would rather pay a higher price at Ace than be treated rude at your store. Many times the shop owners around here have forgotten they need to serve the customer. Very rare around here! New orschlens, lets see how it turns out, my guess, LIP STICK ON A PIG! no service and rude manager!
We can start change NOW and not blame the past 20 years or in 20 years we will be blaming the past 40 years. We have to start wanting change and working that way today.
I honestly think people would rather wallow in "poor old Ark City" we don't have...because...
We have negative people all over this town and they are the ones that seem to be talking the loudest and being heard the most. I do not think they are the majority.
I also think we have the mentality that if we stay on the same course "it hasn't hurt us yet". Change scares people and new ideas can be threatening but we have to consider what really is out there.
You think this town will attract business. If you were an industrial recruiter would you come here? Housing may be cheap but what housing? Restaurants - we have a few but not the ones offered in other towns. We aren't near a highway. We are an hour away from a department store, mall, or airport. Cultural opportunities are available but not often. Schools are good but even the competition to offer more classes is going to be difficult with the state budgets.
We have to offer something else and that can not be "I like the past" attitude that we have or this town "sucks".
These blogs point out just how much pleasure some get in putting some businesses down or even progressive attitudes. It is almost always the same businesses getting slammed which makes me know that a few with personal vendettas do lurk on the boards.
All of this can be depressing but there are times when I see a glimmer of hope. After reading a few on this blog, I know there are others that truly want Ark City to be what was dreamed 100 years ago. I just can't believe that the majority don't want to live a community that is proactive toward the future.
laiming that it is about attitudes misses the mark. The first step is to recognize the problem.
>>>>
I do think attitude is the problem :)
It is true you have to have action to solve anything, but you also have to believe.
When a football team loses, the coach does go to the film, see what happened and tries to fix it.
But a huge part of the coaches job is to convince the players that his plan will work and that they can win.
You have to do the work in the weight room and on the practice field to succeed,... but if you dont have that swagger it wont matter.
I remember seeing an interview with Michael Jordan.. He said "when i get the ball, there is no one who can stop me from doing what i want to do."
He wasnt being arrogant or bragging, he was just telling what he believed.
He was one of the greatest and worked harder than anyone .. but he had to know he could do it first. He didnt worry about what you did to try to stop him, because he knew he could beat you anyway.
Or in the words of Yogi Berra....
Ninety percent of this game is mental, and the other half is physical.
I heard M. Jordan was cut from his H.S. basketball team. But, decided that would not determine his outcome. Practiced extra, worked harder, etc. We can make it. We must believe before we do. Not do and then believe.
Careful JJ thay is a quote from the Evil Empire. Haha! (I'm a Yankee fan) The biggest problem I seem to see repeating is the lack in this town of being able to have an opinion. Let's get this clear everything I say is my opinion. It isn't right nor is it wrong but it may clash with what others think. For this there will always be backlash which is the sad state of the world (I feel).
Build confidence in your town. Do you think the Tampa Bay Rays really had the second best tallent in baseball last year? What about the Miami Dolphins going from worst to playoffs? Did these teams fire their whole infastructure and bring in all "new" in order to do these things? No it was hard work with what they had and the belief that they could succeed. (I love sports analogies) We must look inward and do the same. Yes I have been rude in the past, I am the first to admit this. And where I could go into excuses once again I don't think this is the place. I will just appologize once more and hope that all those it need apply to accept.
Anyone who works in a public capacity will realize it is not always the shop owner that is rude. We deal with all walks of life and I guarantee you there is things said and asked of a private owned business that would never be asked at a box store. I have never even had service in a Wal-Mart let alone friendly service yet I bet most of you still shop there. I realize now that we are held at a higher standard than many of the others so I am trying to step up and meet that standard. Hard at times not to laugh in the man's face that thinks "Bigfoot comes on a UFO for vacation" or to give up on the guy from the Osage that can't form full words, or cuss the non-English speaking customers that are angry that you don't understand them. Retail is hard but you are right a bad attitude hurts worse than all those others. As funny as it sounds coming from me God won't let me get angry right now, I've asked every night for that and so far it is working. Threw him I hope I can keep my possitive attitude.
Here is my thought from last night. I want all of you to think about your children. Do you want them working in a town where some of the best paying jobs are the cassinos and their other choice is minimum wage at a box store? Without industry this is what we get.
Once again just my oppinion.
Speak for yourself. I like Mozitti's. Nice people. Once I ordered a couple pizzas, one was done incorrectly. You know, those people didn't say a word except: "can we make you a new one correctly?". Always nice, courteous & friendly. And, I'm full when I leave. My opinion only. Go Mozitti's.
"You think this town will attract business. If you were an industrial recruiter would you come here?"
No.
Too many other, better choices.
Ark City needs to make it very attractive to bring industry in.
There is almost no industry growing right now. The US is in the worst economic shape it has been since the 30's and there is almost no chance of development success right now.
The only thing that can be done is to get off butts and preserve and encourage the industry and businesses that are already here.
(meaning: quit giving Zach and Brick crap. Go buy a power drill downtown this morning and get lunch while you are there.)
I'm not "blaming" the inaction of the past 20 years, just identifying it as the reason Ark City has declined over the past 10.
It is what it is, and the solution is probably not achievable in the near to mid future.
But, when the economy does kick back in and growth starts again, Ark City *must* be ready for developing growth or it will lose even more business to other places and turn into more of a a ghost town than it is today.
In 10 years the 80% of housing (pre-world war II) will be mostly beyond repair and worthless if today's trends continue without turnaround. Think tax base.
There are a number of really good reasons for Ark City to start economic development right now and to be ready with contacts and leads for when it bounces back.
To continue to do nothing will doom Ark City to future irreversible poverty.
See Brahman, Blackwell. Good examples of doing nothing.
Or Ark City's decline. Another good example of doing nothing.
"when i get the ball, there is no one who can stop me from doing what i want to do."
JJ, it is not just self esteem or mentality when MJ says that. It is fact based on actions. If MJ was a loser, nobody would even ask the question or care about the answer.
It is actions, not words.
The real attitude that cripples Ark City is the one where they give each other awards even when their performance is poor. That only works in kindergarten whiffle ball games, not the NBA.
Show me one example of any time in the past 5 years that the city of Ark City (not private groups) has successfully done anything at all to improve the economy of the town by bringing in new payroll.
There is almost no industry growing right now. The US is in the worst economic shape it has been since the 30's and there is almost no chance of development success right now.
-----------------------------------
Honestly I put the blame for this on the American people. We have become a throw away society that trys to buy cheap. In days of old the nation preached shop at home meaning buy American made goods. Now our nation seems to live by the mantra of "always shop for less". Dad instilled in me to buy American which every order I get in has less and less that is available in the U.S.A. brand. I urge more people to push for the American products in their favorite stores in order to save our nations industry and show we will support more.
You do have to have both, action and mentality or attitude.
One by itself wont work.
Action without the right attitude and confidence wont work.
confidence without action wont work.
I think if we could get people believing they would then have more desire to take action.
Ive been saying take action for years .... not many people have. so im tryng the other side now :)
stores in order to save our nations industry
>>
We also need to think outside the industry box.
What is industry?
The community i lived in in s.c., grew a lot by re-inventing itself. It was a suburb of a larger city and they had a lot of competition.
They started getting small computer component companies to come in - employ 50 or so people each, and payed really well.
they gave tax incentives - which you have to do in the modern world - thats just the way it is.
But the point is
We dont have to think just industry. meat packers or widget makers or whatever.
What are the needs out there
Yeah you're correct JJ. IN my words, bring in the small fish and you just "might" catch a larger fish.
Zach, I don't expect personal service at places like walmart, heck alot of times in the downtown stores, i really don't expect it. Most of the shops sales people are friendly and helpful, but their is a select few, that act all uppity and can't even spit out a courteous word or small smile. If I go into a hometown shop, yeah, I would like to see some friendliness.
Zach, I still think you should give it a shot to run for commission or think about it in the future, because you obviously care alot about AC. I don't agree with every one of your viewpoints, but you are being honest and open about things. Thats exactly what I like in a commissioner.
I think I can understand the anger some people have about our local economy. Have you considered what you would do if you were laid off from your current job?
In my case, it would be next to impossible to get a comparable position in pay and benefits locally.
I lived in Dallas for a handful of years before moving back. People ask me all the time if I miss it. The things I miss are restaurants, Target and Half Priced Books - and well it would be nice to drink a beer on a patio now and then.
That said, I've learned to really love this town again. I like window shopping at our little overpriced shops because face it, if you really love something you will buy it. I like that I can call up almost service man and have a house call within a day or two. I like not waiting in traffic for hours. I've been able to afford a home on a single salary and still pay almost a third of what I did for rent in Dallas. More then anything I feel physically safe here. My neighbors know my name and people smile back.
Our town has a lot of potential but we need some strong leadership. We need people who will think outside the box and attempt progressiveness. We need to bring industry in that will create and retain jobs. It is unacceptable that we have such a high percentage of kids on free/reduced programs.
We need leadership to rally morale and get creative!
The news media has us convinced that the world economy is in the tank. The more they say it, the more we quit buying, the more we believe it. We give them an easy excuse not to come by saying "we know that you aren't growing so we know you won't come." We have to say "we know you WANT to grow and we WANT you to come here." What can we do to convince you that we are a good community for you.
I think there are chances for economic growth. I think those opportunities include growth here but they will not happen if we say they won't. They won't happen if we say no.
People don't show up at our door one day and start building the next. It takes years to get a business deal together that will work and yes they are business deals. We have to have our door wide open for those opportunities. Industry, economic development, small business growth and recruitment has to be accepted and not fought.
I have never been to Mazotti's that it didn't take and hour or longer to get my food. No Thanks!!
Pizza hut is earning its nasty reputation. They don't offer the things advertised on television, and they WAY overcharge. Who the heck wants to pay $50 to take 4 people out for pizza? I would rather drive to one of those out of town restaurants for that price and get a little atmosphere to go with it. Their food presentation leaves something to be desired and how hard is that really? Its supposed to be consistant with other pizza huts. The wait staff is substandard and it often takes waiting a while to get noticed just for seating. I guess they just got to fancy for their pants!!
I agree about pizza hut- I had severe diarreah for several days after eating at pizza hut and that had never happened before.
We have become a community of complainers. Do you people not realize that you have friends or family that work at those jobs or own the very businesses you love to bash.
Yeah, you may not like those places but don't go there but stop the bashing. Bet you would love it if people got on here and anonymously attacked you, your place of employment or if your income relied on these places. Enough with the complaining and the finger pointing. It will take all of us to positively work together to make a difference. You got a problem with a business then tell them but don't anonymously post your intestinal problems on the internet.
I think AC people should be more concerned with other things rather than the choices of restraunts and places to shop. I have lived in the KC and Wichita area, and I think the restraunts around here are pretty good for the size of the community we live in. I also don't have trouble finding something I need at the retail options in AC, and if I do Ponca or Wichita are really near by. AC has some problems, but I don't think choices for eating and shopping are it.
I too wonder why we don't try to develop Strother and/or work to get more industries into Cowley County. If we had more people making a good wage, AC would be better. If we had more jobs that required a college education or advanced training in our county, things would be better. Then more people could see the value of education and getting along with everyone and being productive citizens. Most of the problems with Cowley County are the people of Cowley County and there acceptance of a low quality life.
Always seems like the grass is greener on the other side. Doesn't it.
Trouble is, you still have to mow it. Other places aren't that much better than here. I lived in a metropolis for years. AAARGGHH!!
Parking, shopping, and don't go outdoors at Christmastime. Long lines everywhere. I'll take A.C. By the way, if you have a complaint about a local restaurant, you should voice it. They will listen.
@ 12:47
I think that is the problem. Our grass could be green if we'd stop flinging 'fertilizer' at each other and focused on the grass! =)
What about local budget transparency? Who are all the contractors getting our dollars? Are they local?
What about a learning annex that could empower the community?
What purpose does the tourism board serve? Are they getting people into our town? If not, how can we change this?
"if you have a complaint about a local restaurant, you should voice it. They will listen."
-----------------------------
Or spit in your food from what I have been told several times.
Drew there is a group that is specifically supposed to be helping to bring industry here. the address is http://www.cowleyfirst.com
second hand smoker said:
long winded blogs make me tired
I looked at the Cowley First sight and sadly I am not that impressed. Guess they are trying at least, and they got a new director lately so maybe she will do some good. I have a hard time believing Cowley First will do much good from the looks of their website and the info on it. Looks like they are trying to bring in low wage jobs into old out of date facilities. But I guess it is something.
No doubt its a little hard to draw in industry, when there is nothing to offer in ac, taxes are too high. Of course right now would be a bad time to entice industries to take any risks unless the county is willing to offer some incentives. Just my opinion.
entice industries to take any risks unless the county is willing to offer some incentives. Just my opinion.
≥≥≥≥≥
No industry is going to come here , or go anywhere, without tax incentives.
why would they when there are many other counties and cities offering every incentive you could think of ?
But we need to think in new ways.
Even if a factory of some kind moved here, there wouldnt be enough people to take the jobs.
Skyline, creekstone, kanpak, are always hiring ... always have adds needing people.
YOu cant keep trying the same things and expect different results.
We need some new ideas, new ways of thinking, in order to make progress.
What is progress ?
I mean no insult but it is easy to say we need new ideas but finding a person who has them and has the strength and conviction to stand behind them is much harder. I think that is a great arguement for what blogs are for meaning that they let free thinkers to exchange ideas freely. It's so cool to see these blogs have actual conversation bounce off one another. Our local industry is awesome but more would be even better and I think we can all agree on that. I still really don't agree with tax incentiffs, to me in the present state of our country I don't understand how we can allow it. Of coarse I also feel imported goods should be taxed far heavier. But in the case of industry I can understand it more than in the case of retail. I'd like to see a better agreement reached with tax incentiffs also. Didn't we give them to the new owner of the Regency and now that his time is running out he's trying to sell? Please correct me if I'm wrong there.
I think arkansas city could become a musical mecca like branson. in a partnership with winfield.
you already have walnut valley festival and the country roundup in winfield. covering bluegrass acoustical .. and country music
sp that leaves other types of music for ark city.
rock and roll !!!!
:)
both secular and religious in nature
maybe even old gospel.
the area does have a strong musical heritage, . and i think there are more quality musicians in our area than most areas our size.
some of that goes back to buckskin joe.
he called himself a professor of music. he played 16 different instruments, all self taught .. and could teach music as well
he started the ark city municipal band, which is still going.
im trying to get the music going.
we have a start :)
Drew there is a group that is specifically supposed to be helping to bring industry here. the address is http://www.cowleyfirst.com
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Unfortunately that is how we choose to handle things today!
We appoint 1 person or a small committee fund it and expect them to reverse the present trends!
We probably can't go back to the old days - when there were all the industries of the past. But, there are new and even exisiting things that we could promote.
There are things that aren't competitive of a large scale that become competitive on a smaller scale.
Cowley First can only be effective IMHO if there is a willingness to present these opportunities, do research and look at the options. It shouldn't be about Strother Field or the County.
It should be about where an opportunity would best fit and how to get the good ones funded!
There are many things that have been discarded by larger companies but there would still be a demand for that item/service which could be competitive on a smaller scale!
Economic Developement for the area has to be a joint effort!
The capacity we have with both cities is unlike alot of other areas. It is a shame that we are neglegent of our resources!
I hope Cowley First gets the support and cooperation she deserves!
I am certainly dreaming big, but it would be great if Ark City could attract a person or group like the group from Minnesota who is buying up quite a bit of downtown Wichita and attracting businesses to that area (yes, I know one is accused recently of embezzlement, and there is a huge difference between ICT and AC). It is a big dream.
I don't like the idea of tax breaks either - but unfortunately many communities do it, and maybe AC needs to too to compete.
I do agree that Cowley First and anything else like it does deserve support. Too bad the two cities, the two colleges, strother, and maybe some wealthy individuals (Browns, Dockings, Duncans, etc), can't get together and help it out more. A real good grant writer would really help. Cowley CC used to have one but she is gone now I think.
JJ, I like your idea about developing a music scene around here more. Could bring in big $$$, but could also bring in many from the counter-culture (pecan grove) that probably the morality police in AC would fight.
, but could also bring in many from the counter-culture (pecan grove) that probably the morality police in AC would fight.
>>
Yea but its amazing how if it brings enough $$$ it quietens them down.
There is someone planning a rock and roll series this summer, not offficially released yet, but it could be cool. to be released next week :)
im not involved in that.
and our festival is still hanging in there :)
Music has charms to soothe the savage breast
To soften rocks, or bend a knotted oak.
William Congreve (1670 - 1729), The Mourning Bride, Act 1 Scene 1
I think I should have no other mortal wants, if I could always have plenty of music. It seems to infuse strength into my limbs and ideas into my brain. Life seems to go on without effort, when I am filled with music.
George Eliot (1819 - 1880)
Take a music bath once or twice a week for a few seasons, and you will find that it is to the soul what the water bath is to the body.
Oliver Wendell Holmes (1809 - 1894)
I don't know anything about music. In my line you don't have to.
Elvis Presley (1935 - 1977)
A big music festival would be awesome. Have you ever heard of Bonnaroo? A little unknown town that brings musicians of all walks of life and people from all over. Sure we can't start that big but it would be awesome to strive for. I'm sure if everyone thought about it they all know someone they could contact about preforming. Next step, private land (theres tons around here) and private security team. I'd help in that department, wouldn't be the first time I've bounced at a show. Police could do nothing but buy a ticket and enjoy. Just an idea (actually yours I'm just expanding on it), but if we make it a weekend event, provide camping, and invite all forms of art then not only might we draw a huge crowd but we may also find ourselves a bit more cultured from the experience.
That Bonnaroo festival looks awesome! I "googled" it, now I want to save up my money and ask for time off. That would be great for our community. I think labeling a festival "bluegrass" or "rock" just keeps some away and boxes you in. Great music is great, no matter what kind it is.
I know a local girl who goes every year. I think this year I'm going to try and take my son. Try and culture him a little at a young age. Maybe if a group decides they want to go we can all caravan for a fun community experience.
Maybe if a group decides they want to go we can all caravan for a fun community experience.
>>>
LEts do it.
If you can get it going, i can get it promoted in the paper, and here :)
Awesome I will get more info for it and start a list of people wanting to go. This could be a great opportunity for us all to learn a bit about one another.
Um, Bonnarroo is great. I have been there a few times.... love it. I have seen some amazing bands and had some great experiences.
Just a word of caution for those um "naive" people out there it might not be the best venue to start your music festival experience. Rocklahoma might be a better choice.
It is kind of a free for all for hippies. You can definitely enjoy the festival without partaking in the craziness but just be prepared before you head to the show. The local police pretty much just turn a blinds eye to the debauchery but are serious that once the festival is over that the fun times must stop.
Also, get there early, early or you end up waiting in line for hours and hours. I have gotten lucky the times I went and managed to slide in without waiting in line but there were plenty of people waiting upwards of 6 hours or longer to drive into the venue.
With that being said, it is truly an awesome experience and if you love listening to live music, camping, and people watching then you will have a great time.
Don't know of too many people that haven't been to a concert before that would consider going to something this large. Every concert you go to is going to have odd crowds. That is music. Hell myself and my son just went and watched Chad Grey jump around stage in an Elmo costume while singing lead for Mudvayne. Sometimes the artists are even weirder than the crowd. That is the fun. Divercity is awesome. Any ways thanks for the warning. Last year I went and saw over 80 bands. My 8 year old son put near 30 on his belt. I regret nothing. I think this idea should even get bigger than one show. Why not make a Kansas Concert Caravan that helps people find shows and people to travel along with. Sure I know there are bands that some may want to see that I wouldn't and vice versa but I'd like to help people find others to go. In exapmple Myself, my son and a friend are going to Kansas City on the 24th for the Trivium, Coheed and Cambria, and Slipknot show at the Sprint Center. Tickets are available through Ticket Master and run near $30. Anyone wanting to tag along is more than welcome. I can even fit 1 or 2 more in my van. May be a smaller start for the non-concert goers. Disclaimer though these bands are heavy.
Seriously, Your taking an 8 year old to see THIS?
http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images;_ylt=A0oGkl0Ss2dJqW8AkS5XNyoA?ei=UTF-8&p=slipknot&fr2=tab-web&fr=yfp-t-104
I have a 7 year old and find that shocking....
They are masks. haha. If I said I was taking an 8 year old to the KISS reunion tour would you be so bothered? My 8 year old gets autographed stuff in the mail from Rob Zombie, he recieved drum sticks straight from the hands of Matthew McDonough (Mudvayne's drummer), he has also been to numerous WWE and TNA wrestling events. Guess which show he learned the worst stuff from. The one that half of America tunes into every Monday night. I teach him about the conflict in Gaza and other world issues, is that wrong or does that help him think freely? Seeing as how my 8 year old reads better than most fourth graders in his school, does math at a fourth grade level, is respectfull to all that he meets, and can form his own opinion on what he likes and dislikes then I guess my parenting process can't be that bad. I'm sorry but I think that most cartoons on television are far worse than what he will see at any concert. Ever watch Fairly Odd Parents? All adults are idiots, teacher is the bad guy, the kid mouths off to everyone. Who knows guess we will find out later in life if my "wacky" love for all and free thought to all philosophy works or not. I have a feeling you just sounded a little more like your parents than you would like. I'm proud of my son, he knows right from wrong all the while not being sheltered yet still being protected. Realize when you say no to a kid they are 10 times more likely to do it.
Plus he would never forgive me if I took away his chance to sacrifice a goat in the middle of the orgy while Joey Jordenson hangs upside down banging the drums to "Dead Memories"
(Only the upside down part happens and it is really cool)
How 'bout a reniasance fair? I could finally wear my tights without people judging me...
Yes, Because with lyrics like this-
http://www.elyrics.net/read/s/slipknot-lyrics/do-nothingBitchslap-lyrics.html
AND THIS
http://www.elyrics.net/read/s/slipknot-lyrics/fuck-this-world!-lyrics.html
AND THIS
http://www.elyrics.net/read/s/slipknot-lyrics/new-abortion-lyrics.html
And any other song by that band, You would want me to focus on the gimmicky masks!
Since your son is such a good reader, Let's hope he's not picking up and reading the CD pamplet. And you're right, with him hearing all those cuss words at the concerts it's sooo much better than him watching cartoons......
I don't have to sound like " my parents" to know when something shouldn't be happening. There's being a "cool dad" and then just taking it waaaay too far. I get it, You're doing what you think is best for your child. But you have to realize when you come on a blog and speak freely about taking your child to shock band concerts and he's 8 that some of us ( or me) might take issue with it. Let's just leave it at this-
For your sons hearing, Make sure he wears earplugs!
And when did it become a bragging right to brag about a child with manners? They SHOULD have them.
Being the local girl that has been to Bonnaroo a few times I love the idea of a local Caravan. I'll be the first to help plan. Knowing the tricks does help.
Music might be a help to the town. Starting the music from the ground up is where to start. I'm currently allowing a local band to jam in a building I own downtown free of charge. I hope to build this in to a rehearsal space for all forms of music and artist a like.
I've dreamt of a music fest in Ark City much like Bonnaroo since the first time I went. I picture a 6 stage, 3 days down around Paris Park. Two stages in the Park, One stage at the Pool, one in the Pig Palace, One in the College Gem and the final at the former skate Park. Camping at the College baseball fields, Curry field, and behind the Pig Palace.
Its just a dream but with the right people dreaming together it could become real.
Bonnaroo is also very kid friendly. I think its great that kids go to shows. The beautiful thing about Bonnaroo is all types of people and music are welcome. Last year a local church had a tent that gave away free food, coffee, water and the best part was the free shade the provided. Everyone is welcome and no one looked down at anyone for believes. Its a beautiful place.
Wow difference in opinion here. What I'm saying is the sheltered kids grow up and lash out. I really don't need some anonymous person who feels they are better than I telling me how to raise my kid. I don't believe in cuss words. Ever hear sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me? It goes beyond insults in my book. Words are just words.
So lets go there
First song is a message about poitics and how the system has failed- my sentaments exactly.
Second one you listed is about not letting the world judge you for who you are- once again a message I like.
The third is actually my fave.- Its saying you are what you are and not to let the critics get you down- Awesome message.
Maybe if you read the words then you would see this a little clearer rather then just focusing on the fact that there are curse words in them. Funny thing is look up Shakespeare and see if you like all the words he has written. Some of them are quite ugly actually, most poetry is.
So yes let us just agree that we disagree. Unless you want me to call up Sid himself and have him log on and explain every song to you.
As for the manners thing, do you ever go around kids that are not your own? If a child is polite anymore then they deserve to be commended for it. How many people have been cussed by a kid in the last week? I mean come on kids are rude. Seeing as most of them are addicted to the cartoons you defend and not going to Slipknot shows then maybe you have it backwards? Just my opinion
Oh yeah don't let your 7 year old play Guitar Hero or Rock band either they are on that. Not trying to be smart just actually trying to help you in your parenting.
He always wears earplugs if not his gun ear muffs. So worry not.
Also if anyone could turn me on to someone who teaches kids his age to play guitar or drums it would be appreciated. He has a real desire to learn it and I have to have him show me how to use my dang i-pod. Haha.
Talk to Sparks Music.
ZACH BRYANT -- You mean to tell me you let your 8 year old shoot a gun. YOU ARE CRAZY! It is insanity that you think an 8 year old is mature enought to shoot guns. You will end up shot or he will kill himself. You need the parenting lesson here boy
I HAVE BEEN SHOOTING WITH MICK AND HE VERY MUCH UNDERSTANDS GUN SAFTY
There are guns around my son every day. We are next to a gun store remember? I own guns. All guns are locked at all times, but I can't say that for the guns brought in by customers or the guns in your own homes. (Trust me a lot of Ark City homes have guns). So which would be more irresponsible of me, not letting my son near any of them in hopes he never gets curious or teach him how to properly handle a fire arm? I teach him safety with all guns. He knows how to check the safety first, then check if it is loaded, then tear the gun down to clean it before he ever gets to fire it. He has shot with marines, army men, and hopefully one day with some of the local police sense both he and I have befriended many great officers in this town. It's not like the kid has an uzi in his toy box. I don't let him and his friends take the guns out to play war. I have been very possitive on here lately but I have to say it now "BUTT OUT!" How I raise my son is between myself and my ex-wife and you want to know what? He's the best kid a guy could ever ask for. I have an actual relationship with him. He can speak about things and understand what he is talking about that a lot of middle schoolers would have a hard time grasping. You want to jump on bad parents then go get the ones who think the town is their personal baby sitter. Go get the lazy dads who are far to busy to go out and play catch or the mothers that teach their children how to milk the system for every penny they can. I honestly made a mistake here today. I made a kind gesture towards the town and got nit picked by a few because of it. I offer to take anyone to a concert willing to go and get slapped with a link to what the band looks like, then when I comment on their looks I'm told it was never about the looks it was about their cussing. Wow none of your business huh? There was a time the words butt and crap were considered curse words and Elvis and Johnny Cash were devil music anyone remember that? Then when I agree ear protection is good I get hit for letting my son shoot. So great and powerfull Anonymous people please tell me how to raise my child. You all have it so figured out.
dont let em get you down zach
youre doing great.
the naysayers will always be saying nay no matter what.
I know enough about Zach, Zach's family and his ex-wife's family to know you don't need to spend any time worrying about how Zach's son is raised. Its certainly not a topic for public discussion.
What was the topic again? I'm confussed is this blog about Ark City or Zach. The guy has the balls to put his name on what he says. He lives in the piblic eye and trys very hard to do and say the right thing and the close minded people of the town just chop him to bits. I say good job Zach. Stand up for rights. Don't let the he-she get you down.
I agree with Zach for once. Shooting is a great passtime for children IF they are taught the safety issues first and foremost. My son is 12 and has been shooting .22s since he was about 6 with my hand on the gun at first, and never out of arms length until he was 10 or so. He is an awesome shot too, and it gives him one more thing to be proud of himself for.
On the other hand, Slipknot? Mudvayne? There is not a chance in hell I would even let my kids listen to that disgusting garbage, much less take them to their concerts. KISS? Maybe (I've seen them a few times myself), but not openly satanic, curse spewing bands like Slipknot and Mudvayne. Call me old fashioned.
Zach won't be so proud of the fact that he puts his name on his posts when someone calls SRS and tells them about him taking his 8 year old to see Mudvain and slipknot. staying anonymous is best I say.
ANYWAY...the post topic...Stop thinking the tunnels and goings-on in AC were unique. Many KS towns, and other border states towns, are full of tunnels and histories of ill-repute. The "little Chicago" tag is owned, or has been owned by no less than 100 burgs from VA to CO. It has never been, nor will it ever be, anything approaching a "metropolis" with the possible exception perhaps of "metropolis of southern-central southwest Cowley County." But I like it that way.
Haha call SRS. If it wasn't an all ages show then I couldn't take him. Glad to see censorship is alive in AC. Haha seriously I am proud of who I am and I got nothin but love for my son. Once again if you knew even an inkling about me you could see that. I'm not satanic but what if I was? Isn't that my right as an American citizen? When has Mudvayne been openly satanic? KISS = Kids In Service to Satan right? Here is the honest reason these blogs become about me. People with no lives of their own decide they need to "anonymously" try and control everyone else and be damned "sorry can't think of a better word" if you are different or speak up to them. Will Darrin Green get his nose pierced? Probably not. Will Bob Foster get a pin up girl tattooed across his back? Doubt it (Bob is a tad wild though). Will Dottie Smith join me for some mosh pitting? Uh uh. But you know what sets me apart from the anonymous that seem to think they know better than me? I won't tell them how wrong their lives are because they aren't like me. Chew on that you darn anonymous hypocitical cowards.
I'm pretty sure it isn't agianst the law to take a child to a concert. There is no age limit on the tickets. Nor is his son the only child at the show. I don't think that SRS would have much reason to take a child for going to a mainstreem music concert. If you listen to most of the words to the songs they are not about doing awful things. I'm sure most of you think the song When Angles Die is satanic when in truth its a song about teen suicide. I just wish people could live with an open mind. judge not lest ye be judged. RIGHT?
Chew on that you darn anonymous hypocitical cowards.
Yea but how do you REALLY feel ?
That is how I feel. I am calm on here for the most part but challenge my love for my child and you will call forth my anger. No that is wrong of me. I don't care what you people think. Haha. The greatest part is the only person that needs to understand my love for my child is my child. The Anonymous can all take a leap honestly. Your opinion doesn't matter folks do to the lack of conviction in what you say. Honestly put your names to it and I'll spit it the same. I love my son, he knows I love him and that is all that matters. Can I guarantee I am raising him right? No but I am doing my best and I sleep just fine with that. Can any of you guarantee that you are raising your own children right? Tell me what they are going to be like in 5 years. So I'm done with argueing with a bunch of faceless zombies. Bash me if you like just leave my son out of it.
What a retarded waste of tax payers money, just to call srs and have them investigate a parent over what kind of music they listen to. Country and western can be just as bad as rock and rap music. I can think of several instances where kids are yanked from their homes for some of the slightest things yet others are neglected,abused(emotionally and physically) or just live in downright filth. Where is the priorities in life!?
The SRS thing was obviously a joke morons. I got it. why didn't nobody else? It was more about Zach putting his name on his posts than it was actually calling SRS.
Look, the song lyrics that zach lets his 8 year old listen to was so bad that jj deleted them. Hey jj, ever hear of the first amendment? If zach's 8 year old can listen to curse filled satanic lyrics, why can't your blog readers?
JJ owns the blog and can do what he wants.
Callin SRS on me, funny joke. Hahahaha! Hope you don't die of testicle cancer! There's my funny joke.
Ezekiel 23:20 (New Living Translation)
She lusted after lovers with genitals as large as a donkey’s and emissions like those of a horse.
2 Kings 2:23-24 NKJV
Then he went up from there to Bethel; and as he was going up the road, some youths came from the city and mocked him, and said to him, “Go up, you baldhead! Go up, you baldhead!” So he turned around and looked at them, and pronounced a curse on them in the name of the LORD. And two female bears came out of the woods and mauled forty-two of the youths.
Genesis 38:8-10 NASB
Then Judah said to Onan, “Go in to your brother’s wife, and perform your duty as a brother-in-law to her, and raise up offspring for your brother.” Onan knew that the offspring would not be his; so when he went in to his brother’s wife, he wasted his seed on the ground in order not to give offspring to his brother. But what he did was displeasing in the sight of the LORD; so He took his life also.
Exodus 4:24-25 NASB
Now it came about at the lodging place on the way that the LORD met him and sought to put him to death. Then Zipporah took a flint and cut off her son’s foreskin and threw it at Moses’ feet, and she said, “You are indeed a bridegroom of blood to me.”
Judges 3:19-25 ESV
And Ehud reached with his left hand, took the sword from his right thigh, and thrust it into his belly. And the hilt also went in after the blade, and the fat closed over the blade, for he did not pull the sword out of his belly; and the dung came out.
Deuteronomy 23:1 ESV
No one whose testicles are crushed or whose male organ is cut off shall enter the assembly of the Lord.
Deuteronomy 12-14
"Cover up your excrement so that God will not turn away from you."
Hmmmm... Shall we all pull our youth from church now? I don't know that I want my son growing up in this filth. Oh wait those aren't the new Lamb of God lyrics they are from the freaking bible people. JJ I am solid in my faith and mean no harm in this post I just thought maybe people would see that sometimes a good message is given in vulger ways.
You are right Zach, the bible is full of crap. Thanks for showing these awful scriptures so that the religious people might realize how horrible their religion is and turn to satan.
HAIL SATAN!
Behold, I lay yesternight with my father: let us make him drink wine this night also; and go thou in, and lie with him, that we may preserve seed of our father --
Genesis 19:34
Man, atheism is looking better every day.
Zach,
Rest assured that I would never expose any child of mine to that kind of filthy, disgusting, repugnant, stupid, crap.
the bible I mean, not death metal.
This post deleted before it was even written!
I think my point was lost on some. My child attends youth group. I pray every day. My point was that it is easy to take offense when you simply don't have to subject yourself to something. Realize that as you were so angry about Slipknot's lyrics you probably helped line their pockets by looking them up. Little known fact, every time the Catholic church or Tipper Gore has spoken out against Dennis Leary's books, CDs and comedy specials the sales doubled. So esentially thank you nay sayers for helping a band I like be a little bit bigger.
JJ if you would please delete my joke, it was in poor taste and I realize I just sunk to a level I really didn't want to go to.
January 10, 2009 7:31 PM
It's counter productive, and there is really no excuse for it. I appologize to those who read it, getting bashed for poor parenting for two days has put me on edge but that is still no excuse. There is no reason for me to act like those trying to be "good examples".
You mean the one where you wished testicular cancer on that poster? That was HIlarious!
looking up lyrics on the net can in no way earn money for a band. That is the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. If having someone type your name into a search engine made you money, Diora Baird would never have to work again.
Speak your mind Zach. Who cares who you may hurt.
"Tipper Gore has spoken out against Dennis Leary's books, CDs and comedy specials the sales doubled."
Tipper Gore and the Parent's Music Resource Center are idiots. They censored one of Frank Zappa's albums.
It was instrumental only!!!!
Zach:
I think the biggest risk of raising kids is to keep them isolated. They will then discover alcohol, guns, rock music, sex, etc only when they are 21 and out of the house as a matter of rebellion against the parents who restricted it from them. Very dangerous.
Kids always chart their own course. Don't be surprised if when he grows up he listens to another completely different music style.
It sounds like you are raising your son just fine, although you might keep some of the hearing protection for him in the concerts.
Let them call SRS. Everyone imagines the SRS employees are prudish judgmental Saturday Night Live "Church Ladies", but they are as likely to listen to Static X as anyone else.
Thanks for the words of incouragement:) The key to parenting (in my opinion) is to take an interest in what you child likes. I don't care if it's Spongebob and comic books or Beethoven and quantum physics if your kid is into it then show an interest. Yes he is 8 so his interests come from what he's around sure. We took a poll this weekend at the Winfield wrestling tournament to see what kids listen to on their i-pods before their matches. 5 kids had Little Wayne, another 3 had Snoop Dogg, 1 was listening to Korn, 7 the 3 6 maffia, and the list goes on. When I asked Mick why he doesn't listen to rap music he said "Because I don't think shooting people and doing drugs is cool and that's what the songs are about." Huh I think I'm doing just fine. (Prepare to be appauled once more Mick warmed up to Redneck by Lamb of God- he was alone with that band) (He colled down to the sweater song by Weezer both by his choice)
He shares an interest in music with me and we listen to everything from Primus to Pink Floyd, he also has the Muppets "Manna Manna" song on there showing he is a kid (though it is catchy and a bit historic being from the first Muppets show) Like I said in an earlier post I saw over 80 bands this Summer. Mick saw Chris Cornell (which was freaking awesome) he met some cool guys named the Street Drum Corps that do a set much like "Stomp" making him want to play drums that much more. He saw an amazing set by Linkin Park and laughed along to the lyrics of Snot. The funny part is every time I went to a show without him I felt guilty, that is except one. Motley Crue is no place for a child yet there were hundreds there, in some cases even younger than Mick. Go look up those lyrics and you will probably find them harmless yet they exploited women, getting them to undress on stage for a camera, and straight played porn on a huge screen. If Mick had been there we would have left one song in. Wow I do have standards and maybe even a pinch of common sense.
My point is this and honostly this is the last time I post on the subject (I know I'm not going to change any minds here anyways) sometimes that which seems harmless is actually very counterproductive and that which is so gross and appauling can have a decent message. I did not mean for people to take it that I thought the bible is evil, I was misinterperted there. I was just pointing out that their are some ugly passages that lead to overall good. So take it or leave it.
Many of you may find me gross and appauling but I bet a few of you think that (sometimes) my message is good.
Once again sorry to those hurt by my words, there was no excuse for some of what I said.
Their is no right or wrong way to parent, as long as they are not being neglected or mistreated.I listen to almost any type of music except country and opera. I don't like crying in my beer music. Is anyones kid perfect? It doesn't matter who you are or how strict you are, sometimes they are just going to be rebellious or get in trouble no matter what they are tought. Good example, the cops son, the Presidents daughters... Zach, your parenting skills sound a long the lines of the way I am(have) raised my kids. Hang in there, keep up your attitude and when they become teenagers, listen, listen, listen with an open mind, to what they are telling you even when some of it you have to read between the lines.
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