Copart's junkyard close to becoming reality

In a note to constituents today, Councilman David Yates (D-25) tells the awful truth about Copart and the company's plans to open what any sensible person would call a junkyard on Pond Station Road.

There has been significant outrage in the community since Copart's plans were revealed.

Yates' statement:

The District 25 office has been notified by Metro Planning and Design that the proposed Copart Facility does not require a Conditional Use Permit, citing that their operation does not exceed the already permitted use of the property under the Land Development Code.

Metro Planning and Design has based their decision on the contention that Copart has applied to only stores vehicle, will not "part" them out for sale, and may only store them in a manner that allows for ease of access.

After several meetings with Copart representatives and their legal counsel, we have voiced our objection to the proposed use at the proposed location. However, our office has continued to work diligently to assist Copart in finding an alternative resolution for all parties- that embraces new business, but protects the use and enjoyment of our neighbor’s properties and the integrity of neighborhoods. We have proposed four alternative suitable options as locations for the Copart facility in other, already heavily industrialized areas more suitable for their business, and we will continue to lobby for their consideration of another site.

It is an understatement to say that we are disappointed with Metro Planning and Designs decision. Based on the current Zoning of the proposed location, it was understood that your Metro Council did not have the authority to review the BOZA decision of the conditional use permit. However, both I and several of my colleges on the Metro Council were prepared to speak out for our constituents and voice our concerns with the proposed use. It is unfortunate that we will no longer be afforded the opportunity to make a public argument to a neutral board on behalf of the citizens directly and indirectly affected.

We will continue to keep you up to date on the progression of this issue.

Click HERE for a copy of the Opinion from Planning and Design.

Please contact our office should you have any concerns, or would like any additional information.

How this plan fits in with the Southwest Greenways project, the Louisville Loop project or the Dixie Highway Corridor Study plan isn't clear. That is because it doesn't fit.

Promised improvements to "quality of life" are obviously not coming for people here.

Just more junk.

The next time you see the mayor, you should ask him what he thinks of our new junkyard. Hell, maybe he will cut the ribbon on it.

While timing the traffic lights on Dixie Highway is nice and new bus shelters and trash cans are better than the over-turned shopping carts riders sit on to wait for the next TARC, these things do not make a real difference in people's lives.

It doesn't help political careers, either.

Last year, people said they didn't want Miller Transportation to build a giant bus maintenance facility at the entrance to a neighborhood. Residents lost.

Last year, people said they didn't want a developer to transfer a parcel of property over to the city because Metro Parks couldn't explain what they were going to do with it. Residents lost.

This year, people said they didn't want these yard sale or flea market businesses to be able to pop up just anywhere. Residents lost.

This year, people said we have finally have enough Family Dollar and Dollar General stores. Please stop granting them permits. Residents lost.

It is over.

We lost.

Forget the flea market, there's a REAL junk yard coming to Valley

A typical salvage auto auction yard

This Thursday, there will be a public meeting to discuss the issuance of a Conditional Use Permit to Copart USA to allow an auto storage and title processing facility on approximately 57 acres at 3100 Pond Station Road.

WHEN: Thursday, May 10, 2012 7 p.m. WHERE: Virgina Avenue United Methodist Church, Fellowship Hall 10015 Stonestreet Road

Copart auctions used and salvage vehicles to auto parts dismantlers, rebuilders, used car dealers, wrecking yards, and the public for insurance and rental car companies.

I have spoken with several residents who are concerned this will be an auto junk yard in direct view from their homes. They cite increased traffic, noise, light pollution as reasons they are against issuing the permit. Also, they don't want anything that resembles a junk yard anywhere near their homes.

I don't blame them.

Copart operates a facility in Lexington, doing business as "Copart Salvage Auto Auctions".

Had enough? Old Melton's now a junk yard/flea market

The Valley Report facebook page has been buzzing with activity over the opening of yet another flea market/yard sale store in the space formerly occupied by Melton's Food Mart on Valley Station Road near the railroad tracks.

Commenters say they are "fed up" with this type of development.

Join our discussion and tell us how you feel about this latest store, and while you are there, check out the photos of this atrocity.

How long do you think it will last? How long can you live with this type of commerce?

Rumor patrol: Ashby Lane apartments "upscale", not "Section 8"

Not a housing project.

There are rumors flying around the southwest about the housing development beginning to take shape near the Greenbelt Highway on Ashby Lane, and I think it is appropriate to address the issue to eliminate any confusion as to what is happening.

Ashby Green Apartment Homes are now under construction at 7401 Ashby Lane. The complex is owned by W.M. Bullitt, LLC.

Ashby Green is not "Section 8" or "low-income" housing nor is it a replacement for Iroquois Homes. It is not owned or being built by the government as a "housing project".

Floor plans and examples of units that will be available are online at the company's website, ashbygreenapartmenthomes.com

The developers of Ashby Green welcome your questions and comments and have made their contact information available on the website.

So now you know.

Tell us what you think about newest retail/restaurant options

With the new year comes a flurry of announcements regarding new stores and restaurants scheduled to open in Southwest Louisville, but the quality of the merchants is up for discussion.

Many readers have asked about the new construction on Greenwood Road near the River City Bank location. The Valley Report has just confirmed the spot will be the site of another Family Dollar store.

A proposed Family Dollar store near Pendleton Road and a franchised salvage place opening next to Target on Dixie caused many residents to question the direction of economic development policy has taken in this part of town, and has strengthened my suspicion that we are doomed to a downward spiral of cash-based businesses that only sell "yard sale" quality goods or off-brand merchandise.

Several residents are now grumbling about the size of the new Cracker Barrel restaurant slated to appear on the corner of Dixie and Bethany Lane. The location is supposed to be considerably smaller than comparable locations throughout Louisville.

You know how I feel about these things.

It is now your turn to sound off about these new announcements. Yes or no? Will you visit these businesses? Or are you so disgusted with the new and existing options that you would consider moving away from the area?

Fire away with your opinions by leaving a comment, and thanks for reading the Valley Report.

Like gypsies in the night: LMPD 3rd Division crime trends for January, 2012

Courtesy of your SW Metro Council representatives, here are the most recent Crime Trends for the LMPD 3rd Division. Specific trends to be aware of are as follows:

There were three separate burglaries reported in the 4800-4900 blocks of Dixie Hwy. Each time, a concrete block was thrown through the front window of the business and all three happened after dark. One report had a suspect listed as a white male.

There was a home burglary reported in Hunters Point. The victim was inside when a white or Hispanic male wearing a red hat and blue jacket, forced his way in the back of the home. Please call police with any information you may have regarding this case.

A green utility trailer was reported stolen from a driveway off Upper Hunters. The trailer is reported to be metal with wooden sideboards and floorboards and has B &G Framing written on the side in black marker. If you spot this trailer, please call police.

3 car break-ins were reported on the lot of Wal-Mart at 7100 Raggard Rd. Police arrested the suspect, who admitted to breaking in to all 3 cars. All property was then returned to the victims.

A theft of a vehicle was reported on Freeman Ave. The vehicle was taken while the victim still had the keys. SUV is a red Mercury Mountaineer KY 040MBN.

A separate vehicle was reported stolen from Iroquois Gardens Dr. That vehicle is described as a 1997 black Honda Civic KY 111HES.

A home burglary was reported on Palatka Rd. where 2 guns were stolen, along with other valuables. The weapons are described as a .22 Springfield rifle and a Remington 12 gauge shotgun.

A burglary of a garage was reported on Elmer Ln. An unknown suspect kicked in the door and took tools along with a red Honda motorcycle.

Vehicle parts were taken from a car lot on National Turnpike during closed business hours. Parts were later recovered after being found by the business owner. Please keep an eye out if you are out along this road, especially during the overnight hours.

A burglary was reported on Gleam where the back door was kicked in and 2 guns, along with a computer were stolen. The weapons were a 12 gauge shotgun and a Remington 860.

2 thefts from autos were reported on East Dr. One vehicle had the window broken out and the other was left unlocked with a purse and its contents taken from inside. Remember to always lock your cars while away from them.

An air conditioning unit theft from a church was reported on Deering Rd.
 
A business burglary was reported on Valley Station Rd. Entry was made to the building and a safe with cash inside was taken.

Another air conditioning unit theft was reported from a church on Valley Station Rd.

Sun Valley on Ashby Ln. was burglarized last week when an unknown suspect/s gained entry to the parking lot and building and took a trailer and valuables. Any information you may have regarding this, please call the police.

There were 5 home burglaries reported South of Greenwood Rd and North of Hwy 841 during the last week, all were entered with force. Keep an eye out, especially if you are home during the day, for any suspicious activity or people that may be around your neighbors or your own home. Never hesitate to call the police with any concerns.

2 home burglaries were reported on Kinross Dr. The back door was pried on one and valuables were taken from inside both homes.

A John Deere green and yellow Gator was reported stolen from a construction site on Lower River Rd. Any information you may have in regards to this theft, please pas along to police.

Again, 2 separate vehicles were reported to have been “broken in” to by the victims leaving them UNLOCKED. If you have anything inside valuable enough to report to the police, LOCK YOUR CAR.

We appreciate any help from the community to solve crime. Please talk to all of your friends, family members, social and professional organizations and make them aware of this new service the Louisville Metro Police Department is offering. The more the information gets out to the community the better our chances of keeping Louisville safe.

This weekend: Forest hiking and keeping Louisville Gonzo

- This Saturday, October 15, is the 7th annual Mayor’s Healthy Hometown Hike at Jefferson Memorial Forest from 10am-2pm. There will be plenty of fun for people of all ages – including a children’s exploration area, Alpine Tower climbs, pumpkin decorating for the kids, hayrides, and canoe and kayaking demonstrations. There will also be a wide array of informational booths from local nature and hiking organizations promoting health, eating right, and living green.

The volunteer trail team and Forest staff will lead hikes at various skill levels and introduce visitors to the native plants and wildlife in the forest. The event is free to the public and the first 500 participants will receive a T-shirt. Mayor Greg Fischer will kick off the event before the hiking and festivities begin.  The hike will be located in the Horine Reservation section of Jefferson Memorial Forest (12304 Holsclaw Hill Road).

The Fall 2011 version of the Jefferson Memorial Forest newsletter is now online. Click here to view it and read about American Chestnut Plantings, the Clifton Heights Greenway update, available public programs, and much more. *Thanks to Vicki Welch's Office

- Also on Saturday is the 2nd Annual Gonzo Fest at the Monkey Wrench. Gonzo Fest is an annual tribute to the works and life of native Louisvillian and world-famous writer Dr. Hunter S. Thompson.

Come on out for a day of art, spoken word, and music. $20 in advance, $25 day of event, $15 with a discount card available at the Monkey Wrench. 21 and over. The Monkey Wrench is located at 1025 Barret Avenue.

Check out the event's Facebook page for more info.

Occupy Louisville begins Tuesday

Peaceful people of all ages and all walks of life will be convening Tuesday, October 4, 2011 at 12 noon, on the corner of 4th and Jefferson Streets in downtown Louisville to begin an ongoing peaceful demonstration called Occupy Louisville.

The mission of the group, as developed by several participants who first met together on Sunday afternoon is simple:  

"Occupy Louisville will be an ongoing non-violent, civil disobedient demonstration opposing corrupt corporate influence in U.S. politics, the influence of money and corporations on democracy and a lack of legal and political repercussions for the global financial crisis. We will also be demonstrating our solidarity with those participating in Occupy Wall Street in New York, and like events all over our nation."

The group who came together and developed this mission also note their mission is subject to revision by a consensus of occupation participants as the action continues.

All participants who agree with the group's mission are welcome to join them, and any donations of food and/or public support from those who are unable will be much appreciated. The occupation, like other ones occurring throughout the country, is planned to continue indefinitely until concrete legislative changes are made that serve our mission.

"The smart rich know they can only build the gate so high. And, sooner or later history proves that people when they've had enough aren’t going to take it anymore." said filmmaker Michael Moore recently on Current TV's Countdown, who supports Occupy Wall Street.

Other celebrities who have already gave their support for Occupy Wall Street include Russell Simmons, Anti-Flag, Salman Rushdie, Margaret Atwood, Noam Chomsky, Bill McKibben, Radiohead and U.S. Senator from Vermont, Bernie Sanders.

Contact: 

curtis morrison

a communications liaison for #occupylouisville participants

curtster3@gmail.com 502.403.9498

Facebook Pages:

http://www.facebook.com/OccupyLouisville

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Occupy-Louisville-Solidarity-with-Occupy-Wall-Street/156082817815249?sk=wall

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Occupy-Louisville-KY/286725418004602

Facebook Event: 

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=144798655617077

Twitter hashtag: 

#occupylouisville

UPDATED: Let us hope this is not our destiny. But it probably is.

The first video is a classic in local television commercial stupidity. Straight out of Alabama:



If that was not enough for you, check out this next entry. Straight out of Valley Station. The ultimate in embarrassing idiocy. May the Lord have mercy on us.

SURPRISE! Old Kroger store will be newest flea market on Dixie

Note: As I have done here only one time before, I feel it is necessary to warn you of the foul mood the following story has put me in. I am liable to use a swear word or two. Proceed with caution. You have been warned. - Brian

Most of the hopes and dreams I had for my neighborhood died a terrible but quick death today, as I experienced with my own eyes what I think may be the final nail in the coffin that contained them.

When I started this site, it was my hope that residents of Valley Station would organize into a single voice to advocate for sustainable progress that made sense. Everyone I talked to had the same hopes for retail, housing and jobs. We may sometimes agree on little else, but we could all say we put our neighborhood first.

But with time, as all other things, the landscape has changed- both economically and politically.

Perhaps our plans were too grand. Maybe we had too narrow a focus. And maybe we misjudged our neighbors. Suppose they don't want the same thing. Suppose they like what we have here and are thrilled with things just as they are?

In January, Business First featured an article about the new owners of the Dixie Valley Shopping Center at 10445 Dixie Highway. The anchor tenant is the Valley Station Wal-Mart.

The shopping center was purchased in foreclosure by a Denver company for $3.3 million dollars.

In a news release, Baceline Investments, LLC said they would undertake an "aggressive revitalization plan for Dixie Valley designed to attract top tenants intended to build on the momentum created by the Wal-Mart renovation."

There were many rumors about what type of tenants might be interested, and the speculation grew as residents began to see improvements made to the center's exterior.

In March, during my meeting with David Yates (D-25), the councilman said he and his staff were excited about the possibilities for the center and pledged to do whatever they could, to the extent possible, to help bring some sought-after merchants to the struggling development.

So it is with a heavy heart I report to you that the former Kroger store in the Dixie Valley Center will now be occupied by another fucking Peddler's Mall flea market. This one is called "Vendor's Village".

What was that about "top tenants"?

I don't know how many of you reading this frequent these places but obviously they have enough business to be profitable and remain open. My personal opinion, as expressed here many times before, is that they are a cancer on the community - a pox upon our houses that keep out good retail development and keep SW Louisville as the punchline to some pretty bad redneck jokes. I am not alone in opposing these places but, evidently, we seem to be in the minority here.

There are now several of these businesses located on Dixie. One is located at the "front door" of Shively at the old Bacon's Department Store. Now this one is at the "front door" of SW Louisville.

I don't know what else to say except that I am immensely disappointed, and I don't know how much longer I can continue to advocate for better if that's not what the community wants. Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe the best we can have is check-cashing stores, used car lots, pawn shops and flea markets. But I remember a time, not too long ago, when we had nice things in SW Louisville.

It sure used to be different out here.

Derby Week starts off with BANG as bin Laden killed, buried at sea

- So it looks like Derby Week 2011 begins with the killing of the world's most hated bastard, Osama bin Laden, brought to you by the boys of Navy SEAL Team Six. I don't know about you, but I'm sure glad that shady, ruthless gang of experts is on our side. Let's hear it for government employees!

Don't you wish we could kick off like this every year? Hell, I'd even buy a Pegasus Pin from that other shady, ruthless gang of experts - Kentucky Derby Festival, Inc.

While some fear the killing of bin Laden might spur some sort of backlash, others are taking it in stride and I am one of them. The news is sure to clear away any lingering fear and doom left over from the torrential rains and set people in Louisville to Party Mode.

-  To encourage Louisville residents and Derby Eve revelers to plan ahead for a safe ride home, Miller Lite Free Rides™ is offering free bus and trolley service on Derby Eve in partnership with the Transit Authority of River City, Kentucky Derby Festival and River City Distributing. For the third consecutive year, free bus and trolley service will be provided Friday, May 6, from 6 p.m. until 1 a.m., courtesy of Miller Lite. Rides on all regularly scheduled TARC bus routes will be free, and a special free trolley service will run every 10 minutes until midnight on the Main-Market route, just south of Waterfront Park. Bus and trolley service will travel to popular Derby Eve destinations including restaurants, bars, neighborhood events and the Derby Eve concert presented by Miller Lite at Waterfront Park. For additional route and schedule information, visit www.MillerLiteFreeRides.com, text "FREE RIDE" to 30364 or call 1-800-FREE RIDES (1-800-373-3743).

You guys getting any rain at your place?

I can't think of anything more uninspiring or utterly more uninteresting than this upcoming "royal wedding" business. Especially in light of the condition of our fair city. So let's get down to brass tacks.

As you know, everything along the river is flooded.

Riverview Park (Greenwood Boat Docks) has been closed and will remain so until the water subsides. The Ohio River has reached the main parking area and will be threatening the playground before it finally retreats back to within its banks.

Note: Because of the seriousness of the flooding situation I won't be using any flood-related cliches.

The bad news keeps coming in, as more rain is in the forecast this week, the heaviest predicted for Wednesday. On Sunday, the National Weather Service stated the Louisville area had received a half-foot of rain in a week.

Governor Steve Beshear has declared a state of emergency.

As we here in Louisville are waiting to see how bad it gets, folks in and around Rough River Lake are highly alarmed at what is going on. The following is from the site's official facebook page:

As of 6:30 pm the lake level is 517.62 msl this is 22.62 ft above summer pool (495 msl) and still rising. The lake is expected to reach or exceed its record pool of 521.6 msl which was set in February 1989. If you have personal property in flowage easement we highly recommend you move it before it becomes inundated.

If you have any related photos you would like to share, please let me know. And don't try to drive over flooded roads.

Stay high and dry, and thanks for reading The Valley Report.

Friday Update: Endless Madness

I am having mechanical difficulties with the hot tub at Headquarters today, so upon submitting the following report I will attempt a more conventional method of relaxation that may or may not involve brewed beverages and some companionship of questionable character. But fear not, your Friday Update is NOW:

- In a passing reference, I had mentioned The Pie Pantry at 9208 Dixie Highway near Johnsontown Road is no longer open for business. I had one comment and a few emails on the subject, so I thought the item should get its own sentence. The Pie Pantry, sadly, is no more. We initially received a rumor that it was to re-open at a different location, but have heard nothing else.

The Pie Pantry, opened with much fanfare, received a write-up in the Courier Journal and was the recipient of several favorable reviews.

- JPMorgan Chase is being accused in a lawsuit of being "at the center" of the Bernie Madoff scheme. In recent years, Chase has been sued more times than the National Enquirer. In case you didn't know how I feel about Chase, click HERE. Also, today (Friday) around noon at the Chase branch in Louisville located on Baxter Ave., there will be a protest by activists bringing awareness to Chase's actions on home foreclosure and the bank's dealings with tobacco farm workers. Read more about that HERE.

Diggity Dave

- In light of the news about the Kentucky Derby Festival people temporarily dropping "Kentucky" from the name this year, it has occurred to me and my Advisory Board that this may be a first step in an attempt to bring in a corporate sponsor for the festival. Example: The 2012 Humana Derby Festival, or The 2013 Humana-YUM! Brands-Advance Auto Parts Derby Festival.

Idea: Let's have the 2011 Jim Butner Auto Sales Pegasus Parade Sponsored By Jim's Towing featuring  Diggity Dave as this year's Grand Marshall. If you're gonna go off the deep end, go big.

I bet you can't wait for the fun to start.

Mayor Fischer's latest back-room deal crushes Iron Quarter

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer confirmed the suspicions of his detractors yesterday when it was announced yet another "back room" secret deal had been made, this time between the new mayor and developer Todd Blue.

Blue will be allowed to raze the historic Iron Quarter buildings on Main Street within 90 days, "hopefully" saving the facades.

A Leo Weekly article from May 2010 cited the Main Street corridor as "home to the second-largest number of cast-iron facades in the world, exceeded only by the famed Soho district in New York City. At least two of the buildings owned by Blue are listed on the National Register of Historic Places."

A Fischer spokesperson says a deal was made because the city was afraid it might lose in court. That is an unfamiliar tactic in Louisville. The city always seemed willing to pursue every other case to the bitter end -even when it was wrong to do so- as it did during the recent legal battle with the firefighters on overtime pay.

But in this case, a deal that circumvented public input and tip-toed past the Landmark Commission was the best the city could do.

In an interview on Fox41, developer Blue said he was impressed with the "pro-business" attitude of the city's new administration while he, like so many others, struggled to make the transition to saying "Mayor Fischer" rather than "Mayor Abramson". It is worth noting that former Mayor Abramson wanted to protect the buildings and tried to coax Cobalt into a deal to save face and get out of the project in 2008.

Blue purchased the dilapidated buildings and allowed them to deteriorate further under his watch. That much is certain.

Holes in the roofs of the buildings since 2008 have gone ignored by Blue and his company, Colbalt Ventures.

Fischer will go to the Metro Council with a request that $450,000 be given to Cobalt Vultures Ventures.

The ultimate fate of the buildings now seems clear.

A sad day. A sad fate. One question remains: What's next?

Read More: Insider Louisville - Downtown getting new parking lot? Iron Quarter deal with city gives Todd Blue permission to clear historic buildings

Will Kentucky be the next Arizona? Observations of a heavily armed liberal in Louisville

Re-posted from my 'Tucker Everblasting' blog at Insiderlouisville.com:
 
My thoughts on this weekend’s events are many, and they are complicated. In a few instances, they are contradictory.

But so what? I lived for eight years under the presidency of George W. Bush in these United States, and I never once tried to jack up a member of Congress.

These are strange and terrible times in Arizona and everywhere else in America, and we were warned. Hell, I even warned a few people.

So maybe we all share in the blame as a society for this weekend’s brutal murder of six people and the wounded survivors that include the main target, Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. One didn’t have to own a crystal ball to see what was coming.

On one hand, I can’t stand any more progressives or liberals taking the “high road” on this. Those types of self-righteous, “non-violent” attitudes and holier-than-thou missives thrown from ivory towers are what got us here to begin with.

They refused to champion their own ideals and let the steamroller of Stone Age beliefs embodied in the Tea Party curb-stompers roll straight into power.

They sat on their hands and let Keith Olbermann do the talking as Sarah Palin’s “hit list” map was revealed, were quiet as church mice while crackpot Sharron Angle declared her “Second Amendment Solution” time after time on national television and kept silent as the conversation in this country turned curiously toward violence.

Hundreds of rally signs spotted and photographed at Tea Party rallies said, “I came unarmed … this time.”

All the left could muster to counter those now non-idle threats was a letter writing campaign to the New York Times.

Violence is the only thing these people understand, and the only thing the Republicans fear is a group of heavily-armed liberals.

But the right doesn’t have to worry about a gunfight. They’re fighting the Democrats.

They traditionally surrender before the fight starts. And they are doing it again by refusing to call a spade a spade when it comes to saying, out loud, why this happened.

On the other hand, I see many of my teabagging friends have lost their Internet connections and phone service this weekend. Nary a sound from them, except for a few who call the alleged shooter a “communist liberal.”

They should be, to preserve their own standing – or what is left of it – unilaterally condemning these types of actions. Considering that the far right has stoked the flames of violence to this degree is sickening.

They owe this country – indeed the world – an apology for turning what should be the envy of the planet (America) into a shooting match in a grocery store parking lot.

As of this writing, I am personally unaware of any public statements from Rush, Hannity, Palin or any other of those dingbats and dunces that own this mess.

Why not a call to “lock ‘em all up” or demand end to such crazed threats and actions? I believe they all share responsibility for the recent threats and violence because they never say “Don’t do that.” Instead, they put out political propaganda with gun targets on people’s faces and say “Let’s take ‘em out!”

What does that say to crazy people?

As I read on Facebook today, “It’s like Pontius Pilate saying, ‘Let’s not put any religious significance into this crucifixion thing.’ “

The left will react predictably and use this as an opportunity to push for tighter gun control. The right will do as always and attempt to distance itself from the heavily armed nutcases and wackos it relies upon to win elections.

What is next for America in 2011?

It looks like the best the public can hope for is the return of “Dancing With The Stars” or “American Idol” to soothe the psyche and properly numb the mind. Then the rest of us can get back to business.

As for me, I’m taking the advice of a long time friend just as I always have: “Buy more ammo.”

Friday rundown - zoning madness, wild rumors

- More zoning madness: Here's my take on the Metro Planning Commission's hearing yesterday. It was a mess.

- New rumors: Darden Restaurant group buys old Circuit City building on Dixie? Darden operates Red Lobster, Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, The Capital Grille, Bahama Breeze and Seasons 52 restaurants.

- Dept.of Please Stop Making Us Defend Your Stupid Decisions: President Obama has appointed William Daley as his Chief of Staff. Daley had been serving as Midwest chairman for JP Morgan Chase, and you know how I feel about those assholes.

- Mayor Greg Fischer's "Day of Service" is tomorrow, January 8. Here is a poster with info (.pdf).

Louisville to Jerry: Here's your hat...what's your hurry?

- In today's Courier Journal print edition: Outgoing Louisville Mayor Jerry Abramson is the subject of yet another wistful tribute. The man who has ruled Louisville for over two decades has been the focus of several "end-of-an-era" type columns lately. We, his true and trusty concubines, will seemingly be poorer in his absence. Especially since the election of the boy-king George W. Bush Greg Fischer. But fear not. Most of the Abramson crowd will be hanging around, continuing to pull the levers of government. Fischer will be a symbolic figure that stutters, stammers and jokes his way through his failed first term. May the Lord have mercy on us, for some voters knew not what they were getting.

- Volunteer Opportunity via The Local Weekly: Tax time is quickly approaching and a great organization is looking for a few good men and women to volunteer as tax preparers for the upcoming tax season. The V.I.T.A. program helps those who are unable to prepare their own tax return or cannot afford to have it done. To volunteer for V.I.T.A please call Larry at 574-3459 or Cindi at 574-3441. V.I.T.A is IRS certified and they will provide all training. If you can read and have computer experience than you can do it. This program was a massive success last year and the continuance of V.I.T.A. depends on volunteers like you!

- Whatever happens with the weather today, please do not flip out and jam on the brakes at the stoplight. If you feel like driving is just too much to handle, stay home. What the hell? You probably have some "thank you" cards to write for all that stuff you got for Christmas, and the last of the holiday wine is just sitting there...waiting.

- Oh, and your tap water is poison.

Fischer has bell rung after media stunt

George W. Bush Greg Fischer, Louisville's mayor-elect, took a turn as a "bell ringer" for the Salvation Army yesterday at the Highlands Kroger. The event lasted all of 30 minutes and was set to coincide with the noon news programs on a traditionally slow news day. It appeared to be less of an attempt to help out than it was a chance to get on television. [Fox41]

I don't know about you, but I think if this guy really wanted to help, he'd just write a gigantic check from his entrepreneur bank account instead of staging a failed, half-hour photo opportunity.

Fischer states his Christmas plans include a huge celebration at home "with his entire family".

True leaders "lead by example". That means showing up unannounced to a soup kitchen or shelter on Christmas, not by displacing petty criminals on community service detail.

The more we see of Fischer, the more we have to fear. Who convinced him this was a good idea?

The good, the bad, two uglies: A midweek summary

- Ford Motor Company is expected to make an announcement regarding plans for the Louisville Assembly Plant on Fern Valley Road. The long-awaited news will come December 9th. Still unknown is what method the company will use to further whipsaw remaining employees. [CJ]

- Kentucky's tallest building will be left with only 120 people working inside after Aegon fulfills its plan to cut nearly 300 jobs over the next year. [Fox41]

- The totally insane Governor of the Commonwealth did something more stupid than even I thought possible today and continued his tradition of portraying Kentucky as a bunch of ignorant, dinosaur-riding, evangelical circus geeks. I'm sure you've heard about this totally illegal and wasteful proposal to fund a Noah's Ark styled "theme park" near the shameful Creation Museum in Northern Kentucky. Check that story here: [Barefoot and Progressive]

To catch up on other gubernatorial shenanigans like late night, holiday weekend press releases detailing Beshear's appointments to boards and committees, check the story here: [Insider Louisville]

Legal Aid Society's free legal clinics

The Legal Aid Society of Louisville has announced its schedule for free legal clinics during November and December. A reservation is required for each clinic you wish to attend. To make a reservation please call 584-1254.

FORCLOSURE CLINIC

TUESDAY, NOV. 30TH AT 11AM

THURSDAY, DEC. 2ND AT 4PM

TUESDAY, DEC. 7TH AT 11AM

THURSDAY, DEC. 9TH AT 4PM

TUESDAY, DEC. 14TH AT 11AM

THURSDAY, DEC. 16TH AT 4PM

Location: 416 W. MUHAMMAD ALI BLVD

Attorneys will be on hand to answer questions about foreclosure and provide advice on alternatives. Foreclosure is often a devastating event for families. That fact leads us to....

DIVORCE CLINIC

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 1ST AT 10AM

Location: 416 W MUHAMMAD ALI BLVD

Clients will receive assistance from attorneys in filing necessary paperwork to file for divorce.

Established in 1921 and the oldest of Kentucky's legal services programs, the Legal Aid Society's mission is to "pursue justice for people in poverty," which we accomplish by providing free, civil legal assistance.

Please direct anyone you know needing legal advice in these areas to call and make a reservation today.