[Capital Heights]

I just went Urban Hiking in downtown Montgomery and was quite surprised by the activity down there on a Tuesday evening. Lots of folks out walking and seeing the sites. Very Cool.

[bystander1]

I just went Urban Hiking in downtown Montgomery and was quite surprised by the activity down there on a Tuesday evening. Lots of folks out walking and seeing the sites. Very Cool.


Funny that you mentioned that. My friends and I were noticing that we're seeing more foreign groups touring the sites downtown lately. (Probably due to interest over the recent presidential election.)


There will be plenty of places to have a forum meet real soon guys. But the riverboat is available now. Let's think of a time to have one soon.

[hiijakd]

forum meet.
i have a luxury box at the biscuits....we'll meet there soon
ill post some possible dates

[bystander1]

forum meet.
i have a luxury box at the biscuits....we'll meet there soon
ill post some possible dates


OHH MAN! Too cool! Sounds like a winner to me.
:cheers:

[OCA REP]

OHH MAN! Too cool! Sounds like a winner to me.
:cheers:

Like I told you the other night at the ballpark... Byron, just tell us when!

[OldCloverdale]

March 26, 2009

King's opinion sought on tower

By Jill Nolin

The water tower straddles the sidewalk in the Lower Commerce Historic District. It represents both the entrance to Montgomery's evolving entertainment district and a continuing tug-of-war between city historic interests and city officials.

The Montgomery Architectural Review Board, which is responsible for determining the "appropriateness" of changes in Montgomery's historic districts, fought the city's decision to put the tower where it is -- and is still fighting it.

The board has voted to request that Alabama Attorney General Troy King issue an opinion on who has authority to decide whether the water tower stays or goes.

The board is asking the attorney general's office to clarify what the city's ordinances define as "public property."

The city's highest-ranking officials have contended that since the water tower is on a sidewalk, which is a right-of-way area and public property, it is not part of the building project and therefore out of the city board's hands.

The city board also wants King's office to determine whether the board has authority over projects that require more than repairs or maintenance, even if they are in these areas.

The board voted against the tower at its January meeting, even after executive mayoral assistant Jeff Downes told the board members that the tower was beyond their jurisdiction. The board members tacked on a request for the city to find a better place for the tower.

Board member Brandon Brazil, who has been outspoken in his opposition of the tower's location, said that if King's staff accepts the request, he is confident they will find what Brazil already believes to be true.

"There's no way to pull out the right-of-way and say it's not part of the district," Brazil said Wednesday.

Brazil said he believes it's important for King's office to look at the question because the scenario in Montgomery could set a precedent for the rest of the state.

The board voted against the water tower, saying its existence on the sidewalk was inappropriate because the tower was out of its historical context. Brazil went on to say that the water tower made the historic downtown look more like a theme park.

"If you start putting elements like this out there, who knows what's next?" Brazil said.

The water tower was once one of several towers that were part of the downtown Montgomery's skyline. Located on rooftops, the towers provided water, reduced owners' insurance rates and served as identification, according to local historian Mary Ann Neeley, who wrote a letter to the editor in January to speak against the tower's placement.

"Not a single one was in the middle of the sidewalk," Neeley wrote in the Jan. 13 letter. "History, preservation and water towers deserve better."

The city, which has invested about $1 million in improving the public property in the Alleyway Project, removed the tower from a rooftop in the area and placed it on the sidewalk to create an artistic and grand entrance to the Alleyway, also known as Grocer's Alley.

Downes also has said that there would be a "tremendous" expense involved in moving the water tower back to a rooftop because the move would require a crane.

He said Wednesday that he did not want to say much about the board's request until he had time to discuss it with city attorneys.

But he did say he wasn't opposed to the organization's request for a legal opinion.

"If they are seeking clarification, then I think that is good for everybody," Downes said.

Brazil said the board recognizes that the city is in "dire economic straits," but he said the board likely would support any long-term commitment to relocate it.

The city ordinance that defines the board's scope says that the requirement of "certificate of appropriateness" applies to public property within a historic district.

Joy Patterson, spokeswoman for the attorney general's office, declined comment on the situation, saying the request has not been received yet.

Once received, the opinions division will determine whether it will consider the question.

The board had to pass a resolution to officially ask for an attorney general's opinion, and the board did so at its Tuesday meeting.

"Other cities use this (language)," Brazil said at the meeting. "These gray areas come up, so it'd be great to get a higher authority to rule on it."

Devereaux Bemis, director of the Mobile Historic Development Commission, said the sidewalks are considered part of the Architectural Review Board's jurisdiction there. He added that only the board determines when a sidewalk is exempt.

"The Architectural Review Board has control over pretty much everything in the district, including the rights-of-way," he said Wednesday.

[bystander1]

March 26, 2009

King's opinion sought on tower

By Jill Nolin

... The board voted against the water tower, saying its existence on the sidewalk was inappropriate because the tower was out of its historical context. Brazil went on to say that the water tower made the historic downtown look more like a theme park.

"If you start putting elements like this out there, who knows what's next?" Brazil said.



...hmmm, Party Poopers!

...no offense, OCA REP.

;)

[OCA REP]

...hmmm, Party Poopers!

...no offense, OCA REP.

;)

None taken Bud...

The ARB generally does a pretty good job of serving their purpose. I shudder to think what Old Cloverdale (and some of the other historic districts) would be like without their intervention.

[OldCloverdale]

...The ARB generally does a pretty good job of serving their purpose. I shudder to think what Old Cloverdale (and some of the other historic districts) would be like without their intervention.

agree ---- but this water tower issue seems silly ... very silly

[bystander1]

agree ---- but this water tower issue seems silly ... very silly

Yes, my sentiments exactly.

This "quirky" little trademark will actually enhance the value of the buildings in and around the Alley because of its uniqueness--not take away from them.

[Brown Duckz]

Does anyone know of any cheap property in and around Downtown?

[thoraudio]

Does anyone know of any cheap property in and around Downtown?

define cheap.

[Brown Duckz]

define cheap.I'd say sub $200k, possibly something well under appraisal though. Doesn't have to be a huge structure, can be anywhere in and around the downtown area north of I85, east of I65, & doesn't necessarily have to move in/rent ready.

There is a 4 condo unit on Monroe for sale I think, around $225k, but I'm not sure if the property is renovated or setup for renters just yet [parking/common areas/etc].

[hiijakd]

I'm selling my 4 units and commercial property for $850,000. I also have 2 buildings on Perry St. that I might have contracts on but if not they are $100,000 each. That includes my contracting oversight as well, so you could build out as fancy as you'd like at your expense.

[OldCloverdale]

Put this on your calendar for Saturday afternoon!

http://www.oldcloverdale.org/documents/2009_OCA_HomeTour_Poster.pdf

Old Cloverdale Association Tour of Homes and Gardens


Sat, 4 Apr, 2009
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Each spring, those who appreciate older homes and historic neighborhoods, graced with mature trees and gardens, eagerly anticipate the annual Home and Garden Tour presented by the Old Cloverdale Association. Our tour this year will present six residences and a grand garden.

This year’s tour will begin at Cloverdale Park, where Cloverdale resident, Jeff Benton, will conduct a free walking tour from 10:45 to 11:45 AM. Tickets for the tour are $18 in advance and $20 the day of the tour. Advance tickets may be purchased from Cloverdale retailers Apropos, Capitol Book & News, Filet & Vine, M.Bagwell Gallery, and at Gallery East at EastChase. An information and ticket sales tent will be erected in Cloverdale Park on the day of the tour. A trolley will also be available and will run a set route between all of the homes and Cloverdale Park.

Visitors to the Old Cloverdale Home and Gardens tour are requested to wear flat, comfortable walking shoes for safety, comfort, and to protect the floors of the homes; high heels are not permitted. The homes are not wheelchair-accessible, and children younger than 12 are not admitted.

Location: Old Cloverdale Historic District (Cloverdale Park, adjacent to First United Methodist Chuch)
Fees: $18.00 in advance
$20 on the day of the tour

[OCA REP]

I just want to invite all of you to our 2009 Old Cloverdale Tour of Homes and Gardens this weekend. The event will take place this Saturday, April 4th from Noon to 4:00 PM.

We have some great residences and gardens on the tour this year. Provided below are links to documents from our website that contain additional information about the tour:

Old Cloverdale 2009 Home Tour Brochure (http://www.oldcloverdale.org/documents/2009_OCA_HomeTour_Brochure.pdf)

Old Cloverdale 2009 Home Tour Poster (http://www.oldcloverdale.org/documents/2009_OCA_HomeTour_Poster.pdf)

Old Cloverdale Merchant Discount Flyer (http://www.oldcloverdale.org/documents/MerchantDiscountFlyer.pdf)

Hope you can make it out to visit with us on Saturday!

[OCA REP]

Put this on your calendar for Saturday afternoon!

http://www.oldcloverdale.org/documents/2009_OCA_HomeTour_Poster.pdf

Old Cloverdale Association Tour of Homes and Gardens


Sat, 4 Apr, 2009
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Each spring, those who appreciate older homes and historic neighborhoods, graced with mature trees and gardens, eagerly anticipate the annual Home and Garden Tour presented by the Old Cloverdale Association. Our tour this year will present six residences and a grand garden.

This year’s tour will begin at Cloverdale Park, where Cloverdale resident, Jeff Benton, will conduct a free walking tour from 10:45 to 11:45 AM. Tickets for the tour are $18 in advance and $20 the day of the tour. Advance tickets may be purchased from Cloverdale retailers Apropos, Capitol Book & News, Filet & Vine, M.Bagwell Gallery, and at Gallery East at EastChase. An information and ticket sales tent will be erected in Cloverdale Park on the day of the tour. A trolley will also be available and will run a set route between all of the homes and Cloverdale Park.

Visitors to the Old Cloverdale Home and Gardens tour are requested to wear flat, comfortable walking shoes for safety, comfort, and to protect the floors of the homes; high heels are not permitted. The homes are not wheelchair-accessible, and children younger than 12 are not admitted.

Location: Old Cloverdale Historic District (Cloverdale Park, adjacent to First United Methodist Chuch)
Fees: $18.00 in advance
$20 on the day of the tour

OMG... great minds thinking alike! Too weird that we posted this at about the same time. The more people the merrier though! :)

[OldCloverdale]

When does The Alley Bar open?

:cheers:

[bystander1]

When does The Alley Bar open?

:cheers:


I'm not sure, but here's something interesting about the Alley...


Montgomery's Biscuits pitch family-friendly food prices
By Cosby Woodruff • April 4, 2009

You'd expect a team called the Biscuits to be concerned about food, which is one reason you'll pay less for it at Montgomery Biscuit games at Riverwalk Stadium this season.

Recognizing that many families are looking for ways to save money, the new concession prices will allow children 12 and younger to eat free at Sunday games, and every fan can save with Biscuit value meals, according to team spokesman John Laaser.

The economy is the main reason for the food price cuts, he said.

"We certainly are aware of the economic times we are in," he said. "We are doing our part to keep this affordable family entertainment."

On Sundays, the team has expanded its kids events to include free food. Every child 12 or younger will receive a coupon for a free hot dog and 12-ounce soda upon entry to the stadium.

You don't have to be a kid to purchase a value meal. Anyone can buy the meal, which includes one of eight entrees -- such as a hot dog, hamburger or chicken fingers -- plus a bag of chips and a drink, and get it for $2 less than the items would cost if purchased separately.

Laaser denied that the discounts were created to compete with other dining options near the stadium.

A Dreamland BBQ restaurant is scheduled to open Thursday opposite the stadium on the season's opening day, and other restaurants are expected to follow during the 2009 season.
That gives baseball fans more dining options on game days. Laaser said the Biscuits welcomed the new neighbors. He said the team sees them as partners.

"We are not competing with the Alleyway," he said. "We think that will only help us, so we don't look at them as competitors."
Still, he predicted many baseball fans will wait until they get to the stadium to eat.

"Part of the experience is ballpark food," he said.

http://montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090404/NEWS01/904040326&referrer=FRONTPAGECAROUSEL



ahh, free enterprise...

I think it's a win-win for both the customer and the businesses. What ya' think?

[urbansouth]

I think the article is not addressing the issue from the right perspective. The stadium will without a doubt lose conssessions' income and us regular patrons will probably see some of the unique offerings go. However, I think it will be more than compensated by ticket sales.

I believe we will see that the resturants will attract customers that were not initally thinking about going to the stadium. After a meal and a few beverages, they will consider purchasing an affordable ticket and enjoying 4,5,6 innings of quality baseball beore they go home. They won't be purchasing food, but will be contributing to the overall income of the stadium. There is no question that the resturants are a "win-win."

I hate to post such a long reply... but, I had a very astude Montgomerian bounce something off me and I would like to do the same to y'all.

Have any of you visited Boston? Ever been down the 'Freedom Trail'? If so, you may not have realized that the Freedom Trial almost single handily rescued an aging, historic part of Boston (needless to say an historic part of America). Granted Montgomery is no Boston, but my friend proposed using the Freedon Trail model with respect to Montgomery's Civil Rights History as one facet of the downtown revitalization efforts. An aquarium is great and all, but a visitor from California, Nebraska, or even Georgia is not so interested in the large mouth bass. They know about Montgomery because of Rosa Parks and MLK, Jr. Do y'all have any thought on this...

[bystander1]

Looks like a new statehouse will be built after all. But it likely won't be built downtown on Court Square, but rather behind the Capitol building in downtown Bronnerville...our other skyline.


http://www.wsfa.com/Global/story.asp?S=10128806&nav=menu33_2


Plans for a new state house are moving forward

Posted: April 3, 2009 07:33 PM CDT

Updated: April 3, 2009 07:42 PM CDT

Montgomery, Ala. (WSFA) -- Plans to build a new state house are no longer just in the talking stage. The possibility of a new state house has been talked about for more than a dozen years, but now something is actually being done.

Legislators and staff say the present building is too old. They complain the hallways and meeting room are much too small for the elected officials, staff, and the public.

State lawmakers also say the build up of mold all over the building keeps them constantly sick, and the ventilation and electrical systems are all outdated.

Legislative staff members say they're paying about $40,000 a month to the finance department for maintenance and upkeep of the present state house.

According to administrative assistant Don Ladner, the legislature is also paying about $800,000 for utilities and he thinks it will be much cheaper in a new building.

That's why bills have been introduced in the house and the senate to start the process of building a new one right behind the State Capitol on Union Street.

Governor Bob Riley, however, thinks this is not the right time. "When we're asking people to cut back. When we're asking every agency to take a reduction. When we're under a hiring freeze, at least in my opinion, this makes no sense to start talking about building a couple hundred million dollar new state house," said Governor Riley.

The sponsor of the bill in the senate is Roger Bedford, a Democrat from Russellville. In the house, it's the Democrat from Roanoke, Richard Laird.

Laird is also head of the committee that will lead this effort and he says he has a plan that will work.

The legislative building committee will ask David Bronner with the Retirement Systems of Alabama to build the new state house.

The legislature will then lease the building from RSA until it can sell the bonds to pay back RSA.

[bystander1]

I think the article is not addressing the issue from the right perspective. The stadium will without a doubt lose conssessions' income and us regular patrons will probably see some of the unique offerings go. However, I think it will be more than compensated by ticket sales.

I believe we will see that the resturants will attract customers that were not initally thinking about going to the stadium. After a meal and a few beverages, they will consider purchasing an affordable ticket and enjoying 4,5,6 innings of quality baseball beore they go home. They won't be purchasing food, but will be contributing to the overall income of the stadium. There is no question that the resturants are a "win-win."


Yes. From that perspective I agree totally.




Have any of you visited Boston? Ever been down the 'Freedom Trail'? If so, you may not have realized that the Freedom Trial almost single handily rescued an aging, historic part of Boston (needless to say an historic part of America). Granted Montgomery is no Boston, but my friend proposed using the Freedon Trail model with respect to Montgomery's Civil Rights History as one facet of the downtown revitalization efforts. An aquarium is great and all, but a visitor from California, Nebraska, or even Georgia is not so interested in the large mouth bass. They know about Montgomery because of Rosa Parks and MLK, Jr. Do y'all have any thought on this...

I've always felt that the city should do even more to take advantage of its civil war and civil rights history. There have been plenty of plans after plans after plans to do just that, but not much has been done to pull it all together.

True, Montgomery is not Boston, but history-wise it is just as important, if not more, because as it is widely known, these major events changed the course of this country...twice. And they continue to affect change in the world today. Many people in other countries often cite the events that happened here to show how they are trying to change things in their countries.

There are organizations here that operate museums, libraries, etc. to help those ones to learn more about affecting change, but they should all be more coordinated to make a bigger tourism impact on this historic city. More visitors, more tourists, more dollars. That should be exploited to our advantage.

[hiijakd]

stopped by dreamland tonight to say hello and got some ribs and nana pudding. opening night is thursday so get there and grab a slab, then head on over to the biscuits game. lets support downtown development. woot woot.

[bystander1]

I can't wait hiijakd! Some members of my family will be down this weekend we're planning to hang out there.

Speaking of downtown, here's some interesting things about it mentioned in this article...



Extra treats meant to entice fans to Montgomery stadium

By A. Stacy Long • slong1@gannett.com • April 6, 2009

There are a slew of differences that fans will notice this season, starting with the restaurant practically right across the street that's scheduled to open Wednesday.

Dreamland is selling its renowned ribs a short slide from the Riverwalk front gate, combining with the Montgomery Brewing Company to give fans another pre- or post game eating option.

"It will be great to just go next door and get some good ribs," Rauch said.
More dining is scheduled to open during the season in the Alleyway Project -- look for some Italian, a pizza place and "a couple of bars," said Branch Kloess, the city's director of riverfront facilities.

Outside the stadium, there's a new parking deck on Coosa Street that is near completion. The construction is finished, but the city's "street-scaping" started in late March. Coosa will end with a cul-de-sac and no railroad crossing.

The 307-space deck is expected to be ready by Jubilee CityFest in late May. The Biscuits likely will use it for suite and season-ticket parking, plus for players, for night games.

The downtown riverfront area -- aka Biscuitville -- also features evening riverboat cruises that weren't available last season. The Harriott II, the 80-foot long, 96-ton riverboat that is a major part of the city's downtown plan, began the cruises in March. The boat is big enough to carry 400 passengers.

The area's businesses also are considering coordinating events this summer, not to mention concerts at the Riverfront Amphitheater. (Hall & Oates is Saturday.)

"Street parties, family events, we'll do a lot of activities, but with all the vendors," Kloess said. "This place is going to be Entertainment Central."

Inside the stadium, the Biscuits have made a few changes, too, citing an attempt to make the games affordable to families during the national recession.

The Biscuits themselves may be feeling some of the recession's impact.
The team set a franchise-low with 292,181 in attendance last season and had one sponsor downsize its ad on the outfield wall. Now, there is a Tampa Bay Rays logo in the left-field corner and the sponsor is in a smaller spot in right-center field.

With that, the team has finalized what it calls a "Biscuits Stimulus Plan."
Every game, the team will offer value meals where an entree comes with chips and a drink. On Sundays, children 12 and younger eat free.
"We think it will be a great way for families to come out after church and save a few dollars on the kids," Rauch said.

Fans also may notice a new look.

The Biscuits will don new road caps, which are available in the team store. They've replaced the gold-billed blue cap with a biscuit on the front. Instead, for road games, players will have an all-blue hat with a gold, script "B" on the front.

"The thing about the old hat was it was always a very good seller over the Internet," Biscuit Basket manager Monte Meyers said. "People love that biscuit, but the new one is a great, classic hat in a traditional baseball style.

"I think it will do great for us."

They also may notice a difference in the field itself.

On the field, there's a little less grass. The team decided to have a dirt path for hitters to follow between the dugout and home plate.

"The guys tend to wear down a path to home plate and it shows in the grass," Rauch said. "The good thing is, if nobody likes it, we can put the sod back."

http://montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090406/NEWS01/904060310&referrer=FRONTPAGECAROUSEL

[hiijakd]

why can't this city do something like this.
http://content.usatoday.net/dist/custom/gci/InsidePage.aspx?cId=montgomeryadvertiser&sParam=34687166.story

[thoraudio]

why can't this city do something like this.
http://content.usatoday.net/dist/custom/gci/InsidePage.aspx?cId=montgomeryadvertiser&sParam=34687166.story

I dunno... maybe because of the $400,000,000. :D

[jatrippe]

stopped by dreamland tonight to say hello and got some ribs and nana pudding. opening night is thursday so get there and grab a slab, then head on over to the biscuits game. lets support downtown development. woot woot.

Is the new Dreamland open yet? I heard it was opening Wens. for lunch.

[OCA REP]

why can't this city do something like this.
http://content.usatoday.net/dist/custom/gci/InsidePage.aspx?cId=montgomeryadvertiser&sParam=34687166.story

The "Gultch" was rocking pretty good last fall when we were in Nashville for the Auburn/Vandy football game. Ate at a really good restaurant in the gultch called Watermark. Sad when you enjoy your memories of a restaurant visit more than the football game you went to see! :(

[hiijakd]

well there is someone in this city with that kind of money. if only he wasnt an arrogant fool. if he did something worth-wile like this he could put a green roof on every one of the buildings. heck, id cast a bronze statue of him myself to put right out front. if only...................

[thoraudio]

Images from the Montgomery Advertiser about the Dreamland at the Alleyway.

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=1

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=2

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=3

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=4

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=5

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=6

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=7

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=8

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=9

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=10

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=11

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=12

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090408&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904080803&Ref=PH&Item=13

Had lunch at the Brewpub with a friend of mine yesterday. Things are really starting to shape up down there.

[tredici]

Now that's what I call a Dreamland!

[bystander1]

Now that's what I call a Dreamland!


Ahhh yes, it's all about atmosphere.

:cool:

[10101000]

Nice, nice....

[OldCloverdale]

April 9, 2009


Wrong time to replace Alabama State House (http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090409/OPINION01/904090301/1006/rss06)

Alabama legislative leaders who want new offices and meeting space are starting to get that same gleam in their eyes people get who are itching to buy a new car.

As any car salesman can attest, the first step in making a sale is to get someone on the lot and looking at new vehicles. Legislative leaders are figuratively there already, in essence kicking the tires on a costly new State House.

The leaders of a committee looking at building a new meeting place for the Alabama Legislature are proposing adding a wing to the back of the Capitol.

Rep. Richard Laird, chairman of the Legislative Building Authority, and Sen. Roger Bedford, the vice chairman, have introduced bills that would set the stage for the authority to build new legislative chambers and offices at the rear of the Capitol.

"I don't anticipate any problem in the House or Senate because it has widespread support," Laird, D-Roanoke, told the Associated Press. It may have widespread support in the Legislature, but we doubt if it does among the state's taxpayers.

Lots of people who want new cars can't afford to buy them in current economic conditions. And like those everyday citizens, the Legislature needs to put off any serious consideration of new facilities until the economy turns around - and that means fully around.

We are not saying that a replacement for the aging State House is not needed - it is. But now is not the time for legislators to be spending - or even setting the stage to spend - hundreds of millions of dollars on new offices and meeting space for themselves.

Frankly, we prefer a proposal to replace the existing State House behind the Capitol with an all-new building at the opposite end of Dexter Avenue from the Capitol. It could be more costly, but Montgomery city and county officials have indicated a tentative willingness to contribute to a new State House there.

Such a move could make the city's downtown renovation an overwhelming success. It would be likely that the empty storefronts that line parts of Dexter would fill quickly with government-related associations and lobbying groups. The Retirement Systems of Alabama office building now under construction would be a natural fit. The state Supreme Court building is already on Dexter.

But regardless of where it goes, no significant state or local funds should be expended on this project until it is clear that the state's economy has turned a corner.

The current State House was created in 1986 by remodeling an existing state office building to create meeting spaces for the House of Representatives and Senate. Prior to that, the Legislature met in completely inadequate space in the Capitol.

From the beginning, the remodeled former office building, originally built in the early 1960s, was never well-suited for the Legislature. Meeting space for each chamber is cramped, and structural columns that cannot be removed make viewing difficult. There is not enough seating available for the public. Narrow hallways are crowded during sessions, making security difficult to enforce. There aren't enough committee meeting rooms, especially with space for the public. The roof leaks periodically and there are moisture problems on lower floors.

Further attempts to renovate and upgrade the existing State House would be throwing good money after bad. Architects have indicated that it would cost more to renovate the existing building than to construct a new one.

Legislative leaders, of course, say they do not intend to begin work on a new facility immediately. But lots of people go to car dealerships "just to look," and end up driving away in a shiny - and expensive - new car.

The Legislature needs a new facility. But the one they have will do until the state's economy has fully recovered, hiring and pay raise freezes for state employees are ended, unemployment is down to reasonable levels, and Alabama taxpayers - who will have to foot the bill - feel much more comfortable economically.

[thoraudio]

Article from the Advertiser on the Alley.

Dreamland gets ball rolling for Alleyway project

As the Biscuits open today so will the first restaurant in the entertainment district called the Alleyway. Although Dreamland Bar-B-Que officially opens today, the Alleyway itself will not get the grand opening that planners once envisioned.

Property owners initially planned on opening an assortment of restaurants, bars and retail shops in one big event. But different owners have built and leased their properties at their own pace, and the result is that the downtown entertainment district likely will open properties sporadically over several months or even longer.

The delay in itself isn't a problem, but owners who are opening earlier worry that daytime restaurant patrons enjoying outside dining at their establishments may wind up having their meals accompanied by the sounds of construction only a few feet away.

The piecemeal opening didn't dampen enthusiasm for Dreamland, which hosted invited guests for some pre-opening trial runs this week.

Jerry Kyser, one of the property owners and leaders of the Alleyway development, said Dreamland needed to open now so that it could serve people attending Montgomery Biscuits games.

"It was very important for them to make baseball season," he said. "The (entire) alley itself does not have to be open."

Dreamland fronts onto Tallapoosa Street, not the Grocer's Alley. It is so tied to the baseball team that its hours depend on the baseball schedule. It will be open for lunch and dinner and will stay open late on nights that the Biscuits play.

Kyser predicted Dreamland's opening would snowball into more announcements, especially for smaller shops in the project.

"I think that will lead to what we are lacking, the retail shops," he said.

Harvey Farrior, an associate broker with Coldwell Commercial Realty, said interest is picking up in the retail shops that his firm represents. He was showing some of the property on Wednesday and predicted that leases will be in the works soon.

He agreed having a business open will spur additional business.

"Them being first is really going to help get more interest," Farrior said.

SaZa's, an Italian eatery on the Commerce Street side of the project, likely will be the next restaurant to open. A smaller establishment, the Alley Bar, also will open this spring, Kyser said.

After that, it could be a while before any additional establishments open, according to Kyser.

"I really think the major openings will be late summer," he said.

Kyser himself admitted to allowing leasing and construction on a restaurant building he owns to fall behind schedule because he didn't want to open it in a construction zone.

"I have been stalling construction on that," he said.

"It will be a little more challenging to get everyone to finish at the same time."

Farrior said it isn't that important for businesses to open at once. He suggested that diners would not suffer significant interruptions during meals.

He said he doesn't envision any major interruptions during dinner, but admitted construction might be going on while people ate lunch. Still, he said noise would be kept to a minimum.

"I wouldn't think it would be too disruptive," he said.

Kyser said his meeting space, the 129 Coosa Room, opened at the top floor of the building at the same address in December 2007. He added that the slow development of the rest of the project has hampered his ability to market the space.

"It has been a real challenge in my situation," he said.

He said once work on the alley itself is complete, probably within the next week or so, property owners plan to launch a marketing effort for the entire project.

[OldCloverdale]

latest article just a bit gloomy

[thoraudio]

I'm not a fan of faux suburban towns, but The Waters (http://thewatersal.com/) is at least pretty. Here are some pics from the Montgomery Advertiser covering their fun run.

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=1

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=2

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=4

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=7

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=8

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=9

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=10

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=11

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=12

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=14

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=15

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=16

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=17

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=18

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=19

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=20

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=21

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=22

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=23

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=24

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=25

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=26

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=27

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=28

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=29

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090411&Category=COMMUNITIES010302&ArtNo=904110805&Ref=PH&Item=30

[OCA REP]

I must say that things were really jumping last night in downtown Montgomery. We went down for the Hall and Oates concert at Riverfront Amphitheatre and that place was really packed out. There was a HS Prom heading out on the riverboat and it looked to be pretty full... and the Biscuits were playing a double-header next door.

Walked with friends into the new Alleyway next to Dreamland and turned the corner and squeezed through the gate at the Commerce Street end. Things are really looking good and was nice to see Dreamland doing a killer business and 129 Coosa was holding a function in the alley as well.

Not hard to imagine how things can really be once everything down there is firing on all cylinders.

:cheers:

[bystander1]

:previous: I posted something about the alley Thursday night after the Biscuits game, but apparently, it didn't post...

Anyway to make a long story short, me, my friends and family from out of town went downtown Thursday and had a really good time. After the game we went to Dreamland and the staff was great. They greeted us on the sidewalk near the watertower and offered to seat us inside or outside along the Alley. We enjoyed ourselves so much that we decided to come back again Saturday night to watch the Biscuits game.

And like you said, Saturday night was jumpin' downtown. The streets were full of people and parking spaces were full for blocks. The Exchange had a nice crowd outside with a band playing. Dreamland was packed inside and outside. The amphitheater had a line that stretched to near the Renaissance across the street.

While we were at the stadium, we could hear Hall and Oates playing from the amphitheater across the tracks and the crowd was rocking to the music and cheering the game at the same time! It was pretty cool...we were getting a two for one special. We walked around the stadium to the area where you can see part of the amphitheater and saw the riverboat fully lit and setting off for a cruise up the river.

The fireworks at the end of the game capped off a wonderful night for my folks as they kept talking about how fun their night was. They are already talking about coming back to ride the riverboat and do some other things the next time they come to town. I don't know if things could come together that well again right now, but it's possible..

With a little planning, the potential certainly is there to make nights like that typical.

:upload_71700:

[Brown Duckz]

http://i41.tinypic.com/2dieubq.jpg

http://i41.tinypic.com/2qjltz7.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/14vji9s.jpg

http://i42.tinypic.com/vfdojq.jpg

[bystander1]

Nice shots. Are those pics from your friend's HD camera?

[OldCloverdale]

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?Site=DS&Date=20090423&Category=BUSINESS&ArtNo=904230337&Ref=AR&MaxW=318&Border=0
The Montgomery Towne Center on East Boulevard is dotted with empty storefronts. Barnes & Noble, one of the anchors of the center, will close in June.

April 23, 2009


Barnes & Noble to close

http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090423/BUSINESS/904230337&referrer=FRONTPAGECAROUSEL
By Cosby Woodruff

Barnes & Noble will close its Montgomery store at the end of June, the national bookseller confirmed to the Montgomery Advertiser on Wednesday.

The store is in the Montgomery Towne Center shopping center at the intersection of East Boulevard and Troy Highway. The center has been declining for years, and a company spokesman said that is one of the main reasons it decided to leave.

"The Montgomery Towne Center has had numerous retailers close over the last year or two, and no new retailers have filled those spaces," David Deason, vice president of development, said in an e-mail statement.

"The performance of the store has deteriorated to the level that it no longer makes sense to continue to operate," he said.

Stores that once called the center home include Old Navy, Office Depot and Circuit City. An empty Italian restaurant is in front of the main building, and an abandoned theater anchors one end of the center.

Kristy Reynolds, a professor of marketing and management at the University of Alabama, said the formula that led to Barnes & Noble's decision is common throughout the United States.

"It is absolutely critical," she said of a retail business wanting to be near other successful stores.

"Part of the draw of a mall is the effect of all stores that are out there," she said.

Once a shopping center loses one or two major retailers and can't replace them, other stores suffer from lost sales. Before the recession, retailers could overlook that, hoping sales would eventually rebound.

The location of a shopping center also can impact stores, she said. If the shopping district is in an undesirable part of town, it is difficult to recruit new stores.

"The location itself can hurt if it is dated," she said.

Now, many companies are looking for ways to cut expenses, and closing under-performing stores is becoming common.

In January, Barnes & Noble announced it was eliminating more than 100 corporate jobs in a cost-cutting move.

Reynolds said closing locations was to be expected.

"Companies are really looking closely at every location," she said. Stores with low or declining sales usually go out of business.

Barnes & Noble will close its Montgomery store June 30. The company did not say how many workers would be affected or if it will consider opening another store in the market.

One other chain bookseller has operations in the market.

Books-A-Million has three locations in central Alabama. It has stores on East Boulevard and at EastChase in Montgomery and one in Prattville.

[bystander1]

[IMG]Once a shopping center loses one or two major retailers and can't replace them, other stores suffer from lost sales. Before the recession, retailers could overlook that, hoping sales would eventually rebound.


It's tough. They hung in there for quite a while though.

====================

Does anyone know what's the deal with the new crane between Union Station and the Intermodal Deck? Are they preparing to build the pedestrian bridge from the deck to the riverwalk?

[hiijakd]

dreamland was jumping tonight. they're blowing it out, and people said you can't have a restaurant downtown thats open after hours. hopefully this energy will spread. its neat to see people out.

[bystander1]

Probably the same folks who said you couldn't have a watertower on the sidewalk or a successful ballpark downtown...wrong!! :P

[hiijakd]

yeah the crane is for the building of the tower and elevator to the riverfront.

[OCA REP]

Probably the same folks who said you couldn't shouldn't have a watertower on the sidewalk or a successful ballpark downtown...wrong!! :P

As a Biscuit's season ticket holder, I am all over baseball! I did however correct your statement concerning the watertower. We get some things right and occasionally stumble on others... :)

[OldCloverdale]

Does anyone remember the idea of bringing "A" ball to town (instead of "AA") and building a ballpark at Auburn-Montgomery (instead of downtown)?

Thank God that idea disappeared like a fart in the wind.

[OCA REP]

Does anyone remember the idea of bringing "A" ball to town (instead of "AA") and building a ballpark at Auburn-Montgomery (instead of downtown)?

Thank God that idea disappeared like a fart in the wind.

I do recall that... wasn't the team a Single A affiliate of the LA Dodgers?

Thank goodness we held out for our own field of dreams. I think we should next pursue the SEC Baseball Championship... get it away from that horrible, suburban, concrete park in Hoover, AL.

[OldCloverdale]

I think we should next pursue the SEC Baseball Championship... get it away from that horrible, suburban, concrete park in Hoover, AL.

No doubt about it. Todd Strange should make this a priority.

On a much smaller scale, MGM should also try to get the (Montgomery/Huntingdon-based)AISA football championships (http://www.aisaonline.org/athletic_programs.htm) (three games, six teams) to move from Troy to Cramton Bowl.

They should team up with ASU and go after as many SWAC championship events (http://www.swac.org/championships/swac-championships.html) as possible. With the Birthplace of Civil Rights tie-in, it seems like it might help sell the city to the conference.

Make MGM a sports championship destination. Fill those hotels, restaurants, and shops.

[OldCloverdale]

Anybody know anything about a bar going in next to Nancy Paterson's Bistro in Cloverdale?

[OCA REP]

Anybody know anything about a bar going in next to Nancy Paterson's Bistro in Cloverdale?

Yes. I have not been impressed by anything that I have heard so far. Apparently to be named "The Standard" and will be a bar only; no food. I hear they want to have live music in the breezeway seperating them and Nancy's.

Since nothing official has been announced, that is all I will say. From what I hear, there will be significant opposition to the place. I am not 100% sure of the connection, but apparently someone behind it is someway connected to 1048. Draw your own conclusions there...

[OCA REP]

On a much smaller scale, MGM should also try to get the (Montgomery/Huntingdon-based) AISA football championships (http://www.aisaonline.org/athletic_programs.htm) (three games, six teams) to move from Troy to Cramton Bowl.

Nice thought... but until something is done to that dump we call Cramton Bowl, I cannot see them leaving a nice facility like you have in Troy to come up here.

[OldCloverdale]

Yes. I have not been impressed by anything that I have heard so far. Apparently to be named "The Standard" and will be a bar only; no food. I hear they want to have live music in the breezeway seperating them and Nancy's.

Since nothing official has been announced, that is all I will say. From what I hear, there will be significant opposition to the place. I am not 100% sure of the connection, but apparently someone behind it is someway connected to 1048. Draw your own conclusions there...

Why not say more? This is a sharing place.

1048's owner, Doug Gurney, recently opened a second place. I doubt he's involved. Could it be a bartender going out on his own or something?

:cheers:

[bystander1]

As a Biscuit's season ticket holder, I am all over baseball! I did however correct your statement concerning the watertower. We get some things right and occasionally stumble on others... :)

"We" meaning the Architectural Review Board, right? If so, I agree. Most of the time, you all do get things right. :tup:

We should meet up at one of the games soon.
Better yet, let's get hiijakd to open his luxury suite and we could have our next forum meet there! :drunk:

[hiijakd]

monday night (three days from now), at the stadium. we can go the suite and buy our own food downstairs, or if you are interested i can order food for the suite to the tune of about $15-20 per person. i know thor has kids, so you're welcome to bring them. I have 16 tickets, minus 3 for me and two friends leaves 13. respond on here if you want to come and how many you've got. if this monday doesn't work for everyone, i will have more nights available.

[thoraudio]

I'm interested, let me figure out #'s. My 4 y.o. would have no interest, but my boys do. I'll let you know as soon as I figure it out.

[bystander1]

monday night (three days from now), at the stadium. we can go the suite and buy our own food downstairs, or if you are interested i can order food for the suite to the tune of about $15-20 per person. i know thor has kids, so you're welcome to bring them. I have 16 tickets, minus 3 for me and two friends leaves 13. respond on here if you want to come and how many you've got. if this monday doesn't work for everyone, i will have more nights available.


So far, this Monday seems OK. Whatever you decide, I'll go along with the consensus.

[GARDEN MAN]

monday night (three days from now), at the stadium. we can go the suite and buy our own food downstairs, or if you are interested i can order food for the suite to the tune of about $15-20 per person. i know thor has kids, so you're welcome to bring them. I have 16 tickets, minus 3 for me and two friends leaves 13. respond on here if you want to come and how many you've got. if this monday doesn't work for everyone, i will have more nights available.

Sounds good to me,see ya.:banana: :banana:

[thoraudio]

article on Riverfront from Montgomery Advertiser. Also mentions the roundabout at Cottage Hill.

Progress continues on tower, bridge for downtown Riverwalk project

Work is progressing on a tower and pedestrian bridge that will connect the intermodal facility on Molton Street with the Riverwalk.

The project is a crucial part of riverfront development, said Jeff Downes, mayoral executive assistant.

"It will really be a key milestone in the development of the Riverwalk itself," Downes said.

Prominent lighting will make the tower and the bridge visible from Interstate 65 South, drawing attention to the Riverwalk, he said.

The tower and bridge will be one of several entryways to the Riverwalk and will provide easy access to events on the Riverfront for people who park at the intermodal facility, Downes said.

"It will make for easier access, and aesthetically and architecturally it will be very pleasing for the eye," he said.

The tower will be three stories high and will be even with the top level of the parking deck, said Chris Conway, city engineer.

The bridge from the parking deck to the tower will be about 150 feet long, Conway said.

The tower will include both stairs and an elevator, he said.

It is a $3.7 million project and is expected to be completed in the fall of this year.

A design change delayed the project, which originally was scheduled to be completed in March.

Pre-cast concrete panels that were needed for the new design are now available, which has helped move construction forward, Downes said.

Meanwhile, a parking deck on Coosa Street is in the final stages of construction.

Crews are working on streetscaping at the site, including new curb lines, street trees and asphalt on Coosa from Tallapoosa Street to the railroad tracks.

The parking deck, which sits next door to Riverwalk Stadium, soon will be available for hourly parking and monthly leasing, Downes said.

The railroad crossing at Coosa Street will be closed to public vehicles.

"It will be a quiet zone, thus quieting train horns as they come through," Downes said.

A construction project still on the horizon is a roundabout near Cottage Hill.

Documents could be ready for bid in about a month for the roundabout at the intersection of Mobile, Clayton, Goldthwaite and Montgomery streets, Downes said.

Images from said article.

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=1

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=2

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=3

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=4

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=5

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=6

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=7

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=8

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=9

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=10

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=11

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=12

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=13

http://cmsimg.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcsi.dll/bilde?NewTbl=1&Site=DS&Date=20090424&Category=COMMUNITIES010305&ArtNo=904240806&Ref=PH&Item=14

[hiijakd]

i need a count of how many people are coming tomorrow night. meet at 645 by the lighted sign.
me-1 ticket
thoraudio-3 tickets
who else and how many? you are welcome to bring spouses etc. until we reach 16

[bystander1]

Sounds good to me,see ya.:banana: :banana:



Bystander2! Where ya been dude? Good to hear from you again. :)



i need a count of how many people are coming tomorrow night. meet at 645 by the lighted sign.
me-1 ticket
thoraudio-3 tickets
who else and how many? you are welcome to bring spouses etc. until we reach 16


Count 1 for me, hiijakd. :rock:

Look forward to seeing you guys tomorrow.

:cheers:

[GARDEN MAN]

i need a count of how many people are coming tomorrow night. meet at 645 by the lighted sign.
me-1 ticket
thoraudio-3 tickets
who else and how many? you are welcome to bring spouses etc. until we reach 16

Count 1 for me.
Looking foward to the meet,it's been a long time.:banana: :banana:

[OCA REP]

i need a count of how many people are coming tomorrow night. meet at 645 by the lighted sign.
me-1 ticket
thoraudio-3 tickets
who else and how many? you are welcome to bring spouses etc. until we reach 16

I will be there... flying solo tonight.

[thoraudio]

Had a great time at the game tonite. Thanks again, Byron. My boys really liked it too.

Although, its really sad in a way. When I was 8, I got splinters in my tail watching the Rebels play, and my kids sit on leather couches and watch Cartoon Network.... :D

Good seeing all the regulars, and some new people too.

[bystander1]

Yeah, I really enjoyed myself too. It was good to see everyone including the new 'recruits' who I look forward to hearing from on the forum.

Man, these spur-of-the-moment forum meets are pretty cool!

We have to thank hiijakd for pulling this off for us. :yes:

...although I believe I was the one who pushed him up to set a date for it...:D


I'll post the pics soon!

[OCA REP]

i need a count of how many people are coming tomorrow night. meet at 645 by the lighted sign.

Last night was a lot of fun. Good to visit with everyone and awfully nice of the Biscuits to squeeze out a win in the 9th!

Thanks Byron for your hospitality...

[thoraudio]

Images from last night. My pics, unretouched, obviously.

We parked up next to Choices Chinese, just to be able to walk a get a couple of pictures.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits04.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits05.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits06.jpg

The entrance to the Alleyway. Interestingly enough, while there is a minor bruhaha going on over the other entrance (seen later), most of us forumers were concerned with the blandness of this entrance. Still, I like the project, so I don't want to complain too much.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits07.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits08.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits09.jpg

Around the corner to the other, controversial, entrance. Some think it's too theme parky... Others think it's iconic.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits10.jpg

My boys.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits11.jpg

Artistic, huh?

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits12.jpg

Work ongoing in the alley.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits13.jpg

Balconies for condo's, apts, and businesses.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits14.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits15.jpg

The other end of the previously seen entrance.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits16.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits17.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits18.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits19.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits20.jpg

Happy to be here.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits21.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits22.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits23.jpg

View from the box.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits25.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits26.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits27.jpg

Slim crowd tonight.... (but it was a Monday)

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits28.jpg

Baseball? What's that? They get Cartoon Network!

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits29.jpg

This one actually watched the game (for an inning and a half :cool: ) (I think the guy in the back has ocd or OCA or something :) )

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits30.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits31.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits32.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits33.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits34.jpg

Did we score?! Yes!! Free brownies from the lady with the desert cart!

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits35.jpg

Just an innocent Bystander.

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits36.jpg


And in 3 completely unrelated pictures, one of the benefits of living in the country is finding these on your front porch every once in a while :D

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits01.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits02.jpg

http://i526.photobucket.com/albums/cc346/thoraudio1/Biscuits/Biscuits03.jpg

[tsully76]

Hello Everyone This is Terrance Sullivan I am looking forward to discussing montgomery downtown and riverfront news

[thoraudio]

Glad you could join us Terrance

[OCA REP]

Hello Everyone This is Terrance Sullivan I am looking forward to discussing montgomery downtown and riverfront news

Welcome to the party! It was good to see you last night...

[bystander1]

Hello, Terrance! Welcome aboard.

Here are my pics, untouched obviously. You guys can help me name some of the folks I missed...


http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000027.JPG


There's Garden Man, Thoraudio (standing), OCA Rep, and a really cool young lady who is new to the forum: Electra

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000028.JPG

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000029.JPG


It's Terrance! Another new forumer.

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000030.JPG



...I think we've got a live one here...

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000031.JPG

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000032.JPG



Thoraudio's kids...(the Sons of Thunder)

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000033.JPG



There's Byron (hiijakd). The man with the plan!

http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000034.JPG




Group Pics! BTW, someone give me the names of the girls in the pics from the Advertiser.
Sorry Wes, you were already gone. Photoshop yourself in.


http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000035.JPG


http://www.knology.net/~unlmtd/forum/baseball%20dex%2000036.JPG

Good people. Good place. Good time. :cheers:

[thoraudio]

Nice pics....

I thought you were supposed to photoshop my gut out. :(

[tsully76]

Nice pics guys i had a great time with everyone last night. and thanks byron for the invite.

[tredici]

Ugh, looks like y'all had a lot of fun! I wish that I had been able to go :(

[tsully76]

Does anyone know when Sa Za is opening up in the alley and when some more bars are opening up as well.

[hiijakd]

the alley bar has an event on may 3rd i think so they should be open by then. as far as saza im not sure. ill do some checking to see what i can find but from the last time i walked through (yesterday) they are a long way off.

[tsully76]

The pictures from last night are spectacular. I am looking forward to more great times with all of you. Also, I can barely wait for later this year to try Wintzell's Oyster House.

[tredici]

Wintzell's is gonna do great in Montgomery. The one in Tuscaloosa is AWESOME

[bystander1]

Ugh, looks like y'all had a lot of fun! I wish that I had been able to go :(


No problem Alabadrock. We'll let you know far in advance for the next one so you can make it.

Then again, just watch the forum often enough and you'll be sure to find out when.

[tredici]

thanx bystander!

[tsully76]

I would love to see a Dunkin Donuts Downtown. Also would love to have a real sports bar downtown.

[OCA REP]

I would love to see a Dunkin Donuts Downtown. Also would love to have a real sports bar downtown.

Dunkin apparently wants to "re-take" the South when it comes to franchise units. Of course that implies that they had a stronghold here at some point in the past. I can only remember there being one location here... over on the Southern Bypass down from Montgomery Mall. :)

Seriously, they do have aggressive expension plans. Until they land here again, the donuts at G&S Donuts (Madison Ave. and Federal Drive) are pretty darn good!

[bystander1]

I would love to see a Dunkin Donuts Downtown. Also would love to have a real sports bar downtown.


Electra and I are waitng for a Krispy Kreme downtown. It'll make a killin'.

[hiijakd]

preach it about those G&S donuts. they blow KK out of the water.

[tsully76]

Well I would love for them to have a place in the alley. That would be awesome. A Donut Shop that served coffee in the alley would do very well.

[bystander1]

Hmmm, I'll have to try G&S myself. I have a hard time believing they're better than KK.

My wife says G&S taste like store-bakery doughnuts. :yuck:

[tsully76]

I have not tried them either my point is whether itd krispy kreme, dunkin donuts, or g & s donuts it would be nice to have one in the alley. What type of restaurant or bar would you all like to see next in the alley

[RSAHort]

I have not tried them either my point is whether itd krispy kreme, dunkin donuts, or g & s donuts it would be nice to have one in the alley. What type of restaurant or bar would you all like to see next in the alley

A nice steak place. Not Longhorn or Outback. Something Montgomery doesn't have already that is more upscale. I love a good steak.

I know some of you do not like the new RSA Judicial Building project. But I have seen a set of the landscape plans (though I think there will be some small changes in plant selection). There will be some green roof technology on this one (no not the color green though it may still have a green colored roof). I am talking about low maintenance, low growing, drought tolerant plant material. It looks like there will be plantings on 2nd, 5th and 9th floors. Should be interesting. I haven't seen a rendering of the building though.

[OCA REP]

A nice steak place. Not Longhorn or Outback. Something Montgomery doesn't have already that is more upscale. I love a good steak.

I heard talk of a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse for the longest time. Is that dead... or was it ever a possibility?

I haven't seen a rendering of the building though.

I have not seen any either since the initial plans were presented and the opposition/informational meetings were held. I do understand that some of the design elements have changed. It would be nice if someone could locate new rendersings and post or link to them. Like it or not, the building is coming and will be a part of our skyline.

[OCA REP]

Hmmm, I'll have to try G&S myself. I have a hard time believing they're better than KK.

My wife says G&S taste like store-bakery doughnuts. :yuck:

I was raised on the original Price's Donuts here in Montgomery and those at G&S remind me of them. Of course it is all about personal preference...

[OldCloverdale]

OCA REP: heard talk of a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse for the longest time. Is that dead... or was it ever a possibility?

wasn't that a possibility in the Renaissance?

but we ended up with The House

[bystander1]

I was raised on the original Price's Donuts here in Montgomery and those at G&S remind me of them. Of course it is all about personal preference...

Ohh Man, I loved Price's Donuts growing up! OK, you've convinced me to try 'em...


I know some of you do not like the new RSA Judicial Building project. But I have seen a set of the landscape plans (though I think there will be some small changes in plant selection). There will be some green roof technology on this one (no not the color green though it may still have a green colored roof). I am talking about low maintenance, low growing, drought tolerant plant material. It looks like there will be plantings on 2nd, 5th and 9th floors. Should be interesting. I haven't seen a rendering of the building though.

That does sound interesting. If only someone can get the updated renderings on this building...what did I do with Dave's number...

[OCA REP]

OCA REP: heard talk of a Ruth's Chris Steakhouse for the longest time. Is that dead... or was it ever a possibility?

wasn't that a possibility in the Renaissance?

but we ended up with The House

It might have been just in the hotel, but I thought it was talked about for an adjacent area downtown?

[tsully76]

I would personally like to see us get a Improv Comedy Club and a House of Blues downtown.

[OldCloverdale]

May 1, 2009

State House expansion nudges along (http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090501/NEWS0201/905010328/1009/rss04)

Several legislators feel the current State House does not have enough room for constituents who want to travel to Montgomery to participate in government.

By Sebastian Kitchen

The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill Thursday that would give a legislative panel the authority to sell bonds to build a legislative wing onto the current Capitol in downtown Montgomery.

The House approved the bill 47-36. The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Lawmakers have said they are setting the groundwork for when the economy improves, and aren't going to start building yet.

"It's not like we're saying we're going to build a new statehouse any time soon," said House Minority Leader Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn. Hubbard, who is a co-sponsor of the bill, also is chairman of the Alabama Republican Party.

Hubbard said he might not even be a member of the Legislature when a facility is built.

"We have to have a new building," he said.

The state spends heavily for maintenance, including hundreds of thousands for regular roof repairs, and there is mildew, Hubbard said.

"It has outlived its usefulness," he said. "... This is not workable."

Hubbard, Rep. Richard Laird, D-Roanoke, and some other lawmakers said people are often not able to get into committee meeting rooms when they come to Montgomery to participate in government. Laird, the chairman of the Legislative Building Authority, is the sponsor of the bill.

Most of the opposing votes were members of Hubbard's party.

"I just thought the timing of this is very poor with the recession and education spending prorated," said Rep. Barry Mask, R-Wetumpka. "It sends a bad signal out to the voters that we're out of touch."

He said proponents are saying the bill only puts the mechanism in place to build a legislative wing, "but I don't think we need to be talking about a building."

Laird said the bill gives the authority the ability to start planning. He said the authority evaluated whether it was more cost effective to renovate the current building or to build a new one.

Renovating the current facility would cost $183 million while building onto the current Capitol would cost $167 million, Laird said referring to 2008 estimates.

The authority could sell bonds to fund building the facility or enter into an agreement with the Retirement Systems of Alabama, who would build it and lease the building to the Legislature.

"All of this is in preparing for when the time comes," Laird said. "It is going to be left up to some future Legislature."

He said public access is his biggest concern.

Laird said he was a member of the Legislature in 1986 when the members moved from the historic Capitol to the current State House, which was built to house the highway department in 1963.

House Speaker Seth Hammett, D-Andalusia, said he is for the authority moving forward when the economy improves and is against spending more money on the current facility. He said there are problems with the heating and air conditioning, some of the elevators, flooding in the basement, the roof, and mold and mildew.

The bill gives the building authority the power to take control of and close Union Street between Washington and Monroe streets, which separates the State House and the Capitol, and to control surrounding streets and parking lots.

The authority includes three House and three Senate members who are responsible for the management and upkeep of State House property.

[OCA REP]

May 1, 2009

State House expansion nudges along (http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/article/20090501/NEWS0201/905010328/1009/rss04)

Several legislators feel the current State House does not have enough room for constituents who want to travel to Montgomery to participate in government.

By Sebastian Kitchen

The Alabama House of Representatives passed a bill Thursday that would give a legislative panel the authority to sell bonds to build a legislative wing onto the current Capitol in downtown Montgomery.

The House approved the bill 47-36. The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration.

Lawmakers have said they are setting the groundwork for when the economy improves, and aren't going to start building yet.

"It's not like we're saying we're going to build a new statehouse any time soon," said House Minority Leader Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn. Hubbard, who is a co-sponsor of the bill, also is chairman of the Alabama Republican Party.

Hubbard said he might not even be a member of the Legislature when a facility is built.

"We have to have a new building," he said.

The state spends heavily for maintenance, including hundreds of thousands for regular roof repairs, and there is mildew, Hubbard said.

"It has outlived its usefulness," he said. "... This is not workable."

Hubbard, Rep. Richard Laird, D-Roanoke, and some other lawmakers said people are often not able to get into committee meeting rooms when they come to Montgomery to participate in government. Laird, the chairman of the Legislative Building Authority, is the sponsor of the bill.

Most of the opposing votes were members of Hubbard's party.

"I just thought the timing of this is very poor with the recession and education spending prorated," said Rep. Barry Mask, R-Wetumpka. "It sends a bad signal out to the voters that we're out of touch."

He said proponents are saying the bill only puts the mechanism in place to build a legislative wing, "but I don't think we need to be talking about a building."

Laird said the bill gives the authority the ability to start planning. He said the authority evaluated whether it was more cost effective to renovate the current building or to build a new one.

Renovating the current facility would cost $183 million while building onto the current Capitol would cost $167 million, Laird said referring to 2008 estimates.

The authority could sell bonds to fund building the facility or enter into an agreement with the Retirement Systems of Alabama, who would build it and lease the building to the Legislature.

"All of this is in preparing for when the time comes," Laird said. "It is going to be left up to some future Legislature."

He said public access is his biggest concern.

Laird said he was a member of the Legislature in 1986 when the members moved from the historic Capitol to the current State House, which was built to house the highway department in 1963.

House Speaker Seth Hammett, D-Andalusia, said he is for the authority moving forward when the economy improves and is against spending more money on the current facility. He said there are problems with the heating and air conditioning, some of the elevators, flooding in the basement, the roof, and mold and mildew.

The bill gives the building authority the power to take control of and close Union Street between Washington and Monroe streets, which separates the State House and the Capitol, and to control surrounding streets and parking lots.

The authority includes three House and three Senate members who are responsible for the management and upkeep of State House property.

This was discussed extensively the other night at our forum gathering. The general consensus among our members is for this building to be located at Court Square. Unfortunately, the powers that are making the decisions seem intent on closing a vibrant street (Union) and pushing out the back of the capitol.

Is there an organized effort by the City of Montgomery, maybe including the Montgomery County Commission, to push for a Court Square site... or is this option dead? I am not in favor of closing a major artery like Union Street...

[tsully76]

To my knowledge the ability to push for the statehouse at Court Square died on the local level when Mayor Bright was elected to Congress since he wanted to have it at Court Suare and closing Union Streeet is horrible. We have inept State leaders

[tsully76]

I am welcoming my fellow forum members to my annual cookout Jubilee Weekend on Friday May 22, 2009 after 5p.m. holla back

[OCA REP]

To my knowledge the ability to push for the statehouse at Court Square died on the local level when Mayor Bright was elected to Congress since he wanted to have it at Court Suare and closing Union Streeet is horrible. We have inept State leaders

In last week's Montgomery Independent, Todd Strange echoed the call for locating the proposed state house at Court Square. I just hope that some discussions are taking place behind the scenes to promote this idea.

T, you summed up the majority of our state leaders pretty well... :cool: