Kringles_Helper on 9/22/2008 3:14:17 PM wrote:
I'm not the most involved here...
...but I'm aware of several parties who are in the stages of amphitheater production...
These things seem to be regional...not local...
...and the most successful will be THE best experience...because that is what the musicians are going to dig...that is what their audience is going to dig...
...its the best "value" for the dollar...especially in our current economic condition...
So the question begs to be asked...does Roanoke even NEED to spend its money on a regional effort that is likely to be better implemented by private venture elsewhere?
Is there a web site anywhere where the citizens can discuss the relevant impacts of proposed government spending to maximize the value for their tax dollars?
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scandals on 9/17/2008 1:46:33 PM wrote:
The river front is the only intelligent choice. It will work. All of the logistics make it the best scenario.
Elmwood park is not an answer. Just another band-aid on Roanoke.
It's funny that so many folks who aren't from here, claim to have so many great ideas, and they are so backwards.
The victory stadium site is the best option.
Period.
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Kringles_Helper on 9/16/2008 9:14:23 PM wrote:
Make it classy. Make it beautiful. Less "Sports Arena" and more...dunno...
"Wonderland"
*Giggles*
Ya just gotta take into consideration the performers. If the railroad or the airport are going to create disturbance, you have to compensate for that...because people are paying for the experience...the performance...not the distraction, dig?
Good food!
Just can't go wrong with good food...
If Roanoke is making an effort to produce a very favorable "ripple", then you HAVE to build for the long-term value of Roanoke.
You can produce organic produce at the Countryside Community Gardens for the vendors at the music venue across town...
*Hyah!*
Business Samurai, at your service!
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Soundguy on 6/13/2008 9:22:43 AM wrote:
http://blogs.roanoke.com/cutnscratch/2008/06/sara_evans_styx_grand_funk_railroad_blake_shelton.html/
Tad Dickens and Ralph Berrier are breaking a story about what the folks behind Sweetwater Amphitheater are planning for August 2008.
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TripleActionJones on 5/28/2008 2:38:49 PM wrote:
3 seperate locations?
That's too funny......though I am sure it wasn't to you at the time.
How ridiculous.
My family had a good time at the festival as well.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/28/2008 2:01:23 PM wrote:
Well, we attended a Tina Turner impersonator concert at Elmwood Park last week. This normally would not be my cup of tea, but the concert was fun. The band was very good, and "Tina" gave it everything she had. WDBJ provided a couple of cameramen and a large projection TV, a very nice touch. But, the evening provided an example of how governments screw things up. Buying a beer was a three step process.
1: Have ID checked and get a wrist band.
2: Purchase a chit for a beer.
3: Go to the beer tent and get a beer.
Naturally, these three activities were in three different locations.
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Entropy on 5/12/2008 11:45:10 PM wrote:
First off Z, don't claim it was your idea when many people have had the SAME idea for years. I had the idea when I had to drive to North Carolina to see Lollapalooza in 1992. So Just because you posted it doesn't mean it existed as soon as you thought it up.
The truth is what was posted earlier. the young move away, the old dont care, the middle cant afford it because there's no real industry here.
I keep hearing about this High Tech Corridor, but I have yet to see a major high tech company hire around here that isn't an ops center.
We need better transportation, leadership, and politicians that cater toward growth, rather than the retirees with the money. Too bad that will never happen.
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applejaws on 5/12/2008 10:10:32 PM wrote:
VS site=flood problem,raise the land 9 ft,it wont flood the arena but how are the ticketholders suppose to get there,swim?I think a ampitheater might work,but not at VS or Elmwood.Neither are big enough!Build a 20,000 or,30,000 seat ampitheater somewhere out and away so it wont burden locals.I steer clear of the Civic Center when they have events,to avoid the traffic.I steer clear of Valley View at Christmas.I'm local & dont want to be burdened by it.I'm against it,but if it must be done then do it right & do it big enough to draw large crowds to pull Maroon 5,or One Republic,if they can pull that in,Toby Keith & Josh Turner wont be a problem either.Make them WANT to come here & do what they intend to do,make money.Spend tax money wisely.
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ziranthia on 5/12/2008 9:31:51 PM wrote:
Scandals, I don't consider myself a failure. Let me explain what I see when I come here (to my parents' house) at Thanksgiving and Christmas. The nearby driveways are full of cars (owned by people I grew up with), who are visiting their parents for the holidays. The license plates are from Maryland, North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, Michigan, etc. I can't help but wonder WHY so many people moved AWAY from Roanoke. If Roanoke is SO great, then WHY have so many people moved on? LACK OF OPPORTUNITY. You see, I am just like all those other people. I had to leave in order to better myself. What Roanoke needs is JOBS. Not temp jobs, not Customer Service, not Collections, not Call Center, but REAL JOBS. THEN get an amphitheater
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scandals on 5/12/2008 7:59:12 PM wrote:
Now it's time for me to get on with my life instead of make believe virtual meaning to my life.
Get rid of the bumper sticker and get a life.
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scandals on 5/12/2008 7:56:25 PM wrote:
"Both are much nicer than Roanoke anyway" wa, wa, wa, wa, wawa, wa, wa wa, wawa.
Why are you on here? Doesn't matter. You make no sense. Say whatever you want,Z, however many times you want to. It still is wrong and pitiful. I feel sorry for you. To think that you were rejected by Roanoke so bad that you sit in another state and burn with envy over something you no nothing about or have no power to change. I hope you find something meaningful down there in Atlanta so you can forget about your failure in Roanoke. As for me, I still think an amplitheater would be nice, however it would look and perform like nothing that the small vision that naysayers are comparing this one to. I would be one of those good ones...you know or maybe you don't.
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applejaws on 5/12/2008 7:44:03 PM wrote:
Taxes keep going up.We got rid of the stickers for the cars,now they charge $20 more for those taxes.Homes & property went up in taxes & Kaine is trying to figure out what tax he is going to raise to pay for roads.Enough.Portsmouth found out the hard way!Lets not do the same thing.The economy is not that good now & tho some think its gonna be a short recession, I think this is ONLY the beginning & things are going to get much worse before better.We dont need this now.In 10 years maybe,and in 10 years this one will be obsolete.They have all this stuff for older people that doesnt really draw crowds.I was at Jeffeson Center one day & someone tried to give me tickets to a concert there.I say the ampitheater is a waste of money and time.
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ziranthia on 5/12/2008 5:44:15 PM wrote:
"Others failing makes them not look so bad"
Whatever. Let's forget all the smoke and mirrors, and look at reality. With the current administration, the amphitheater is DEAD ON ARRIVAL, no ifs, and or buts. We can banter, gripe, cry, shoot or even call names. We can say that Roanoke is different than those other places, and that YES, we absolutely CAN make it work, just gives us a chance. We can protest or even beg. IT IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN, NOW. It almost happened in 1999, with Orange Avenue, but failed. The same mistake is not going to happen again, with the current administration. If you absolutely MUST live in a town with an amphitheater, I suggest moving to Raleigh or Virginia Beach. Both are MUCH nicer than Roanoke, anyway.
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Justafan on 5/12/2008 2:54:00 PM wrote:
MsElanaeous: Agreed, we don't fill up the venue's we have now. One of the reasons is parking. I and lots of others I know don't attend events at the Rke Civic Center because we don't want to park downtown and ride a shuttle bus. A rural, spacious setting wouild be great for an undertaking like the amphitheater. It would need to be a regional project. I do like your idea about train travel. I love the rails and wish we had easier access locally.
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scandals on 5/12/2008 2:49:05 PM wrote:
The fact is that most of the folks opposed to an amplitheater in Roanoke aren't from Roanoke, don't like it here and want the region to fail to support there lack of success. I said it before and I'll say it again. It's all about the person and not the place. I've lived all over the world and have been the same everywhere I went. Today's postmodern society has no personal responsibility to there decisions and beds that they make for themselves, instead they blame failure on everyone but themselves. Others failing makes them not look so bad.
Roanoke needs an amplitheater, managed correctly. It works in much smaller places where people have vision and can look past there narrow minded personal blinders. It's good for everyone.
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scandals on 5/12/2008 2:43:28 PM wrote:
Comparing a small amplitheater in Roanoke to an amplitheater in Portsmouth is typical of the Roanoke Times. Think. That is apples to oranges. The coastal region has several large venues and small ones. Just because on doesn't work in Portsmouth has nothing to do with whether or not one would work in Roanoke. How is it managed? What is there compitition? What kind of audience and acts are they targeting?
Once again, broad statements and no real journalism.
It's like when they present some union or group getting a cut in pay or funding and never goin into the details of the actual numbers. Or when they report that cut, when it is actually a cut in proposed funding. Weak. Weak. Weak.
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MsElenaeous on 5/12/2008 2:25:25 PM wrote:
In order for the amphitheatre to work anywhere it has to attract visitors. The locals do not fill the venues we already have. In order to get visitors and the performers as well, Roanoke needs to make it easier for them to get here, and while we're at it, for us to get out. If we had passenger rail service we could target other Virginia cities to come and spend a weekend here. Wouldn't it be nice to leave the car home and track over to Richmond or DC? Instead of everyone aruging all the time it would be more beneficial if everyone pulled together to make something that really would move the valley forward happen, like getting decent passenger rail service.
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Justafan on 5/12/2008 2:07:24 PM wrote:
Sorry, I forgot. Thanks for trying to lead us away from failure, Oh My Queen.
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Justafan on 5/12/2008 2:00:01 PM wrote:
Just poking a little fun "Z". Glad you took it in the spirit it was meant. I'm afraid you idea doesn't stand much of a chance though. There doesn't seem to be much support for a multijurisdictional project in a rural setting. Rke City seems to be the only gov't interested and they insist on one of the downtown locations (as far as I'm concerned, the Victory Stadium site is downtown). Thanks for trying to lead us away from failure.
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ziranthia on 5/12/2008 12:53:33 PM wrote:
Just an observation, Justafan. It's true, though. Everyone was SO convinced that Elmwood was the only way to go, then Reserve took its place. NOW, Reserve is history, and Elmwood is unwanted, just like Orange Ave became eight years ago. Now let's go "regional", which is something I have always preached (even before I was "Z", I was another poster, who preached the same thing). Anyway, I hope you and some others can rally up support for it. Have a great afternoon, J!
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Justafan on 5/12/2008 11:22:34 AM wrote:
All hail ZIRANTHIA, Queen of Ideas, Master of all Time, Space and Dimension. It is SHE and SHE alone who can save us from ourselves. How have we functioned with HER in NoVa and the Greater ATL area??? We are like lost sheep and SHE is our shepherd.
Okay "Z", you've tooted your little horn and we have praised you. Posts like your last one are the reason you so often hear that beautiful quote "shut up and get lost".
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ziranthia on 5/12/2008 10:43:11 AM wrote:
"What this region needs is a MUCH BIGGER amphitheater such as Nissan Pavilion, or Verizon Amphitheater. Place it strategically in between Blacksburg and Richmond/C'Ville and reap the benefits of the entire region, while bringing entertainment to the people."
I find it amusing that now EVERYONE is jumping on this bandwagon. I, Ziranthia, made this suggestion over a year ago, and was told to shut up and go away. Now that Bowers is in command, and Reserve Ave has been crossed of the list, people are adopting MY idea as their very own. If not for Ziranthia, such an idea would not even be discussed on this board. You people are nothing but COPYCATS. At least this gives me the satisfaction that I am always right, and everyone knows it
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Entropy on 5/12/2008 10:22:03 AM wrote:
We need an amphitheater that can draw major nationwide tours and traveling concert festivals. Not an amphitheater that can support small acts. Thats what the Roanoke Civic Center is for. We've already got one of those.
This is going to turn into a "well I don't like that kind of music and I don't think we should bring it to this region" kind of thing, isn't it?
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Entropy on 5/12/2008 10:19:25 AM wrote:
Anyone who supports the dinky amphitheater they want to put in VS or upgrading Elmwood Park should read the article on the front page of roanoke.com about the struggling nTelos Amphitheater in Portsmouth.
http://www.roanoke.com/news/roanoke/wb/161608
They sell 55% capacity for their shows and lose concerts to the much bigger 20,000 person amphitheater at Virginia Beach.
What this region needs is a MUCH BIGGER amphitheater such as Nissan Pavilion, or Verizon Amphitheater. Place it strategically in between Blacksburg and Richmond/C'Ville and reap the benefits of the entire region, while bringing entertainment to the people.
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lovenrv on 5/12/2008 9:28:26 AM wrote:
I think Roanoke would be much better off to spend that money
to continue restoring downtown buildings for lofts, condos, artist live-work spaces and street level retail improvements. The momentum is building downtown and with continued development, more full-time downtown residents and better services + retail you will continue to draw more people downtown - then, you can fill local live-music venues instead of worrying about the amphitheater.
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DiamondDave on 5/12/2008 7:25:24 AM wrote:
And why in the world is a pavilion in Portsmouth a point of comparison? There are plenty of competing venues in Tidewater, and from the article, it sounds like there have been problems with acts of God and poor management. An amphitheater in Roanoke would be the only venue of its kind in the region, and barring hurricanes, hopefully it would be spared the streak of bad luck that Portsmouth has faced.
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DiamondDave on 5/12/2008 7:23:44 AM wrote:
The amphitheater should NOT go in Elmwood Park. This has got to be the dumbest idea I've ever heard. Not only would it destroy the only green space in all of downtown, but it's completely the wrong scale. Elmwood Park is great for weekend festivals and small shows. But an amphitheater must be able to hold several thousand people to draw enough people to make summer concerts profitable.
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inthezoneguy on 5/12/2008 7:23:02 AM wrote:
Am I missing something here? What "great wise one(s)" decided that ther are only two options for the proposed amphitheater location? How about if one ABSOLUTELY must be built...with close and convenient access to an the interstate AND with adequate parking. That would rule out the former V Stadium site AND Elmwood Park sites.
The option of outside the City limits is the best option but makes sense so therefore is NOT an option for the inside-the-box-thinking City Council. There is lots of available land off of 460 east inside Botetourt and Bedford Counties! What a novel idea!!!! Let's see close to 460, 581, I-81/64 via Alternate 220...hum????? Aw forget it. You are right boxed in downtown or underwater sounds better.
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Justafan on 5/8/2008 5:06:12 PM wrote:
"Z", Boy, it is really making me mad that I have been agreeing with you lately. Please say something totally absurd and outrageous so I will know that the earth has not spun off it's axis. Yes, I fear for Roanokers under the Bowers administration as well. Whoever nicknamed him Mayor Retread hit the nail on the head. Hopefully the other council members will be wise enough not to align with him on important issues. Unfortunately, I think the chance of a nice amphitheater in a spaceous rural setting has no chance whatsoever.
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ziranthia on 5/8/2008 4:55:34 PM wrote:
I feel like I am reading my own posts. I was the pioneer of idea for putting the amphitheather in the New River Valley. I made that suggestion long ago, and even Travelguy agreed with it, which was a shock to my system. It's nice to see posters who are enthusiastic about the idea. I feel like I have planted a seed, and it has taken root and grown. That area is really the most ideal area, and building a large facility there is the only way to make this thing work. But in all honesty, with the Bowers administration, the amphitheater will enjoy the same kind of success as Orange Avenue did. Stuck in limbo, waiting for a perfect alignment of city council and the public agreement, which will never happen.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/8/2008 3:20:57 PM wrote:
Thanks, Justafan. It's nice to hear that kind of outlook from an area native. Sure get tired of the contentiousness and narrow mindedness around here. I really think local governments are poorly equipped to do these kinds of projects. The ideal situation is to have a private developer come in, build, and run this facility. Maybe the governments cut the developer some attractive deal to make it happen. And it seems to me that somewhere between Blacksburg and Roanoke would be the ideal location, although I don't know that the proximity of Tech and Radford helps you much in the summer when most of the students are gone.
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Justafan on 5/8/2008 2:03:14 PM wrote:
Except for the 4 years I lived in B'burg going to school, I have lived in the Rke Valley all of my life. I don't want this area to be anything other than it is. I just don't believe we should be so small minded. The amphithater project should include multi-jurisdictions. We could build a great facility, on ample space that would benefit all. Neither Elmwood or VS are suitable for a top notch facility. Some of us remember these same types of ideas in the 60's. The area localities couldn't come together to build a nice Civic Center. Rke City had to have their own and Salem/Rke County had to have their own. Forty years later we have two separate facilities that leave a lot to be desired when it comes to the events they can attract.
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kayeteekaye on 5/8/2008 12:27:39 PM wrote:
Amen Scandals !!
"Let Roanoke be Roanoke... If you want Roanoke to look like [the rest] of the world, then do us all a favor and just move...don't always compare what you think change is to another place that you liked better before you came here...to all of you who always say, up there, we did it this way. If that's case, then hop on 81 north, cut across 64 to 95 and keep heading nor[th] until you get to your heaven."
Couldn't have said it better myself, Thanks!!
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scandals on 5/7/2008 12:43:33 PM wrote:
About the flood zone.
I am in Arch/Eng field. The flood zone is of no consequence. Maybe 50 years ago it would have been an issue (around the time they built VS), but you design for the zone. You take still put the footing and foundation as they would be, but you construct the surfaces and use areas above the flood zone, like all of the building Carilion is building down there. As for parking, there is plenty of parking. Carilion has just built two new parking garages in three years and is planning another. That's in addition to the other two already existing and all of the steet parking and shuttle service from towers mall.
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Justafan on 5/7/2008 12:33:33 PM wrote:
Having David Bowers as mayor makes me real glad I live in Salem.
Scandels: 99% of the time I disagree with "Z", but on this issue she is right. This should be a regional issue, with cooperation from Rke City, Rke County, Salem, Botetourt and maybe Montgomery County. A downtown venue will not work. Not enough room at Elmwood Park and not enough parking there or at the VS site. Put it in a rual setting, with lots of space and parking. Draw good bands and crowds. If the City goes it alone, it won't be any better than the Civic Center. No parking and the only decent shows you get are in the middle of the week and not on weekends.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/7/2008 12:24:11 PM wrote:
David Bowers (From WFIR960.com) "I just can't see us building it (the amphitheater) in a flood zone." He also mentioned keeping Mill Mountain as a park (no restaurant, I guess).
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old_curmudgeon on 5/7/2008 12:04:27 PM wrote:
Umm...I believe Mayor Bowers said the Reserve Ave. site is dead. Ibelieve I heard a sound bite on the radio to that effect this morning.
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scandals on 5/7/2008 11:22:55 AM wrote:
Z,
Sorry I called you a reject and that you are hurt by it. That was not my intention.I just know that the Reserve ave site is the best site and Roanoke needs a small amplitheater to have good bands, which already come to Roanoke and have some progress in its own right and manor. I don't like when others are comparing apples to oranges when convenient for there arguemnent and don't look at the whole picture.
I thought that you felt "rejected" by Roanoke and you have put forth that you have been rejected by Roanoke.
I don't know your family and don't know there opinions about the amplitheater. As for me, I disagree with my family on most issues, so I don't represent them. My wife could care less about anything going on in Roanoke.
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ziranthia on 5/7/2008 11:10:25 AM wrote:
"If saying "Who cares what someone in Atlanta thinks" is tearing you down, I really feel for you when someone really comes at you."
But I recall the word "reject" in your sentence. That IS an insult. As for "dishing it out", I state my opinion about current affairs and so forth, NOT individuals who post on this board. There is a difference. I don't call people rejects. Have I ever called YOU a reject, Scandals? I think not. Who cares where I live. I grew up in Roanoke and still have family there, and YES, I am entitled to my opinion. There are other people from outside Roanoke who post here. Does that mean their opionions are not valid? According to you, their opinions DON'T matter. Not to YOU, at least.
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scandals on 5/7/2008 10:57:41 AM wrote:
Hey old whatever, I'm not the one calling folks rednecks and darlin' and assuming that they are southern. I think it is apparent who has the "nasty attitude" and who just wants to look at the amplitheater objectively.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/7/2008 10:54:27 AM wrote:
I think you make my point. Thanks for writing.
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scandals on 5/7/2008 10:10:02 AM wrote:
old_whatever you are,
Your redneck comment is pretty telling of what you are all about. Using words like darlin' and southern hospitality explains you narrow minded view of the world and your them and us type mentality. Read Z's posts before you start name calling and assuming you know anything. Z has been bashing Roanoke for months and continues to sit in Atlanta and make judgement over Roanoke and it's people.
The fact that you would call someone a redneck on a message board is pathetic and simple. Maybe even stupid. However, stupity can't be cured, misinformation maybe, but not stupidity. I'm trying to talk about the amplitheater here, not find meaning to my life or feel good about myself.
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scandals on 5/7/2008 10:00:35 AM wrote:
Moreover, Not only does my opinion differ from you, you are wrong. Seriously scewed and tainted by the bad experience or whatever is was that makes you hate Roanoke so much. You are looking at this issue with baggage that makes your vision foggy. I am looking at is as a Roanoker who has to live with what happens here. If saying "Who cares what someone in Atlanta thinks" is tearing you down, I really feel for you when someone really comes at you. If your gonna dish it out, your gonna have to learn how to take it too. It doesn't matter where you came from or what has happened in your life. We all have trials and obstacles and I am above bringing that up here. What happens in our personal lives has no bearing on where to build an amplitheatre.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/7/2008 10:00:03 AM wrote:
Dear Scandals
Where is that so-called "Southern Hospitality", darlin'? Methinks your oh-so red neck is showing.
Z, you are certainly entitled to hold any opinion you like. And your latest Wolf Trap comments actually made me smile. To each his own, indeed.
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scandals on 5/7/2008 9:54:10 AM wrote:
Z,
You are injecting your input into a discussion that will not effect you in anyway. On a personal level, I would like to know anyone who can take the time to hear me and know me. However, this is a message board and about as impersonal as it gets. If I saw you face to face, I would care about your life, your world view etc. But, since you live in Atlanta and are wrong about the issue, I will say "who cares what someone in Atlanta thinks". I don't care. If you lived in Roanoke, maybe. But you are just stirring the pot of something you have no vested interest in. Why do you give a rats ass what we do in Roanoke? All you do is put it down and you don't even live here.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/7/2008 8:22:46 AM wrote:
Now that Big Dave Bowers is Mayor (again), this amphitheater issue is likely to die. Of course, Mayor B will have his own half-baked schemes to keep us entertained.
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Entropy on 5/7/2008 2:52:26 AM wrote:
Tying this all together... i saw the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band play Victory Stadium w/ The Grass Roots and Association when I was a kid! fun stuff
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ziranthia on 5/6/2008 8:29:37 PM wrote:
"Who cares what rejects from Atlanta think. "
Scandals, what does that statement solve? Does it make you feel good? Does it empower you in some way to tear someone else down? You don't know me. You don't know what choices I have had to make for myself, or what I have had to deal with, or ANYTHING about me! All you know is that my opinion differs from your own, and that makes me a dart board. You have a nasty attitude and a mean heart. I would tell you about Karma, but I have a feeling that you have already experienced its wrath.
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scandals on 5/6/2008 4:03:15 PM wrote:
Let Roanoke be Roanoke. Let it find its own unique path. Don't be so quick to want it to look like other places. If you want Roanoke to look like of the world, then do us all a favor and just move. You'll be happy and we will too. We don't want a Nissan pavillion. If I did, I would move to Haymarket and deal with all the traffic, crime and twice the BS we have down here. I'm all for change and moving forward, just don't always compare what you think change is to another place that you liked better before you came here. I'm not talking to anyone specifically, but to all of you who always say, up there, we did it this way. If that's case, then hop on 81 north, cut across 64 to 95 and keep heading norht until you get to your heaven.
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scandals on 5/6/2008 3:51:13 PM wrote:
Good. I'm glad that this area can't attract the likes of the Eagles, Rolling Stones etc., that would have been cool 30 years ago, when they were in there prime, but there is some good music coming out now. 96.3rov makes me want to puke already.
I'm not young, but I'm not dead either. The fact is that the reserve ave site is the best site. It is close to 581 and downtown, it has parking all around and is already owned by the city. They already have a brilliant, progressive management company on board and it all makes sense. For once, city council has not screwed it all up. Let's not screw it up either. Who cares what rejects from Atlanta think. Moreover, this is not NOVA, and I don't want it to be. If i did, I'd move there.
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Justafan on 5/6/2008 10:45:37 AM wrote:
The type of acts that play Wolftrap would be great for an amphitheater in The Rke Valley area (just not downtown). This area is never going the attract bands like the Eagles, the Stones or any other band at the height of their popularity. That's fine with me....I listen to very little music written after the mid 80's anyway. I'm behind the times, but I'm happy.
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ziranthia on 5/6/2008 10:26:42 AM wrote:
When I lived in NOVA, I went to Wolf Trap once, and saw the B52's. The parklike setting is very nice, and I enjoyed the concert. Some acts coming there in the near future include Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor, Emmylou Harris, George Benson and The Temptations. The only thing I'm tempted to do is stay away from that! LOL. But to each his own. The last major concert I attended was The Eagles Fairwell 1, which was nothing short of amazing.
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Justafan on 5/6/2008 9:26:11 AM wrote:
I'm going to Wolftrap for the first time in June to see the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Looking forward to a good concert, but I'm sure "Z" will think it's beneath her. Wish we had a venue like that here. If the ampitheater is built anywhere near downtown, it won't be.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/6/2008 8:54:39 AM wrote:
Yep. Rural is definitely better. I travel up to Wolf Trap about once a year for one of those geezer concerts "Z" dislikes so much, and it is quite rural, and quite beautiful. You know, a "park-like setting". Mark Knopfler this year. Already looking forward to it.
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Justafan on 5/5/2008 4:17:56 PM wrote:
No "Z', I live in Salem. You are right that the Truckstop exit would be a bad place, but the next Troutville exit has plenty of open space, however improvements would probably be needed for the I-81 exits and on-ramps. I think Ironto would be a good spot as well. Lots of open space and half way between Roanoke and Christiansburg-B'Burg-Radford.
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ziranthia on 5/5/2008 12:58:10 PM wrote:
Justafan, nice to see that someone agrees with builing an amphitheater outside of Roanoke City. Downtown areas (not only in Roanoke) are bad for large events, because the streets cannot handle the traffic, and parking is limited. I'm not sure about your suggestion of Botetourt. I think you are probably from Daleville, based on one of your posts, so you are all too familiar with the disaster known as the truck stop. The next exit would be Troutville/Nace, which most likely isn't a possibility, and then Buchanan. With your suggestion about Dixie Caverns in mind, the Christiansburg area would be perfect. That area is already very commercial, not to mention close to Tech and Radford.
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Justafan on 5/2/2008 3:45:30 PM wrote:
Never thought I would say this...but I agree with "Z", although maybe the Dixie Caverns area may not be the best place. Those folks have alrady been imposed upon with the regional jail and Spring Hollow Resevoir. A rural setting near I-81 would be much favorable to a downtown setting. Maybe in the Botetourt area. Neither of the downtown sites have enough parking. City officials will never realize that a lot of people don't want to park in a garage and ride a shuttle bus. I haven't been to an event at the Rke Civic Ctr in years mainly due to parking problems. The City Manager seems to like building parking garages, why not build one at the Civic Center to provide more on site parking?
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Walker on 5/2/2008 2:50:33 PM wrote:
Note to all.
Victory Stadium is gone, it's been gone for years now. The new Amphitheater will not be a replica of Victory Stadium.
Of the (2) locations we are discussing...Elmwood or VS site...VS site is far better for a top notch venue.
If someone cannot find the Victory Stadium site from 581 (especially with signage), we may not want them stopping here in Roanoke.
The VS site would require NO removal of current buildings (if you leave the library at Elmwood we are talking a Mayberry Amphitheater at best).
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old_curmudgeon on 5/1/2008 3:54:56 PM wrote:
Thanks for the update SoundGuy. I hope they succeed. Will Sweetwater be a park-like setting? You know, old curmudgeons like me enjoy sitting on the lawn, having a picnic and maybe a glass of wine with our music.
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Soundguy on 5/1/2008 1:34:01 PM wrote:
re: "old_curmudgeon on 5/1/2008 9:35:38 AM wrote:
What ever happened to the Sweetwater amphitheater project?"
I recently asked the same question to one of the people directly involved with the project.
He assured me that substantial progress is occurring, the design details of the facility are being refined to ensure that each dollar of the investors money will be wisely spent.
Sometimes I wonder if Roanoke City Officials hold themselves to the same level of responsibility and accountability when thinking about their "investors"...the taxpayers.
I guess time will tell.
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ziranthia on 5/1/2008 9:39:22 AM wrote:
"Economic development is not how many tickets you can sell"
I realize the term "regional economy" is an unknown concept in Roanoke, but it is well known everywhere else. All economic development does not have to occur in Roanoke City. The neighboring communities can have amenities that contribute to the area as a WHOLE. An amphitheater located anywhere in Roanoke City is a bad idea. Look at Orange Avenue. VS will suffer the same fate. An amphitheater with larger seating capacity and easy access will draw larger crowds, better acts, and generate more profits. A smaller amphitheater in a flood zone will sit there, empty. I don't call that development of any kind, economic or otherwise.
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old_curmudgeon on 5/1/2008 9:35:38 AM wrote:
What ever happened to the Sweetwater amphitheater project?
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roenoke on 4/30/2008 1:45:33 PM wrote:
Things to think about:
-Bigger doesn't equal better.
-Economic development is not how many tickets you can sell.
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ziranthia on 4/30/2008 1:27:45 PM wrote:
Why not build an amphitheater in the Dixie Caverns area, which offers interstate access, and is convenient to Tech and Radford University, as well as people coming from others, like JMU or Emory and Henry. An amphitheater at Elmwood or VS is a waste of land, money, and time. People unfamiliar with every little street in Roanoke are likely to be discouraged from attending an event, because they don't know how to get to the facility and don't know where to park, or simply don't feel like walking two miles or taking some shuttle. Don't forget, college kids are the bread and butter of concert revenues. After all, look at The John Paul Jones Arena in Charlottesville (a college town).
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Walker on 4/29/2008 8:46:25 AM wrote:
Another thing...I seem to remember that a reason for tearing down VS was to do this...build an updated facility for concerts/events, etc.
Funny how people forget things, including me.
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Walker on 4/29/2008 8:44:33 AM wrote:
Justafan-
I cannot recall the total attendance, but I recall reading that it was the largest crowd EVER there. I was there, I believe it. The ENTIRE stadium was full AND the field was fairly crowded as well. No doubt in my mind that it was the largest.
As far as Elmwood park being a superior site...that's a bit of an opinion. I feel exactly the opposite.
Elmwood is WAY too small and people wouldn't be able to use it, as they do now, when it wasn't being used for a concert. Why do you think most amphitheaters are built out in the middle of nowhere? Space. There isn't any downtown. Elmwood would be a stupid idea from the start, unless your happy with the acts that come here already (1964, Bill Deal's Original Rhondels, etc).
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Justafan on 4/28/2008 9:23:13 PM wrote:
Walker, I wasn't able to attend that concert. How many people were there? I went to several Harvest Bowl football games with Va. Tech and several Va. Tech vs. VMI Thanksgiving Day games as a kid back in the mid 60's and they were sell outs. Somewhere around 26,000 fans. If there were that many at that concert, I would really be impressed.
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Walker on 4/28/2008 6:25:03 PM wrote:
Another thing...the DMB concert at VS was the LARGEST crowd that had EVER been there...in nearly 60 years of events.
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Walker on 4/28/2008 6:18:38 PM wrote:
You need only to look at the DMB/Bruce Hornsby concert held years ago at Victory Stadium to see what the TRUE potential is for an amphitheater in Roanoke.
It's as simple as that. The concert was a huge hit. Whether you like that type of music or not, college kids come from all over to see it.
The new amphitheater would have regular stadium seating and probably a field behind that, I would imagine. No bleachers.
I think many Roanokers suffer from Hysterical Pessimism.
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old_curmudgeon on 4/28/2008 2:29:59 PM wrote:
I think CyberSawyer has it right. There ARE things to like about Roanoke, but those things do not appeal to everyone. And the local government(s) waste a LOT of time trying to remake the Roanoke metropolitan area into something it is not. I am a bit older (50+) but I still like to attend concerts, especially outdoor concerts. My tastes are not shared by many around here, though. I think it is unlikely that the proposed amphitheater will book many acts that I would care to see. And, when I attend an outdoor concert, I do NOT want to sit on bleachers, thank you. Park-like setting is what I look for. BTW, why on earth is "Picnic at the Pops" held indoors? Makes no sense to me.
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Thumper on 4/27/2008 1:10:41 PM wrote:
No, not at Reserve Avenue!
??Why not off 13th St. along the Roanoke River, behind the industrial center-there is open flood plain land there! The greenway is close by! Then, build a walking bridge over 116 to the parking lot to Mill Mt. path - where a "lift" can be taken up to Mill Mt. YES!
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ziranthia on 4/27/2008 9:27:41 AM wrote:
Karen, I love that email address! Very funny. But is also reflects an attitude that out-of-towners aren't welcome in the valley. I have experienced that attitude for many years now. True, I have an opinion about Roanoke, and true, I do not live in Roanoke (where I grew up), but that does not make me Judas Iscariot. I simply found something better for myself. Could I hack it in Roanoke? No, but not for lack of trying. Now, years later, I see a three-ring circus/dog and pony act being performed to distract from fact that the only thing really going on is TALK about progress,and no real progress. I call it the way I see it. There are other people, such as myself, who also see the same thing. Anyway, have a nice Sunday, Karen.
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ziranthia on 4/26/2008 9:28:16 PM wrote:
Another intelligent and insightful post from you, Cyber, but I think you are wasting your time with these Roanokers. They only respond to posters who praise Roanoke for all its attributes and its (imaginary) bright future. All the information in the world isn't going to change uneducated opinions. Please refrain from posting again. Hopefully Red Light Management will see the "light", and refrain from this wasteful project. I certainly have submitted my opinion to them, via their website: www.redlightmanagement.com
Have a terrific weekend! I will do the same.
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herewegoagain on 4/26/2008 8:35:10 AM wrote:
I spoke too soon.
It showed up all right in my post, but when I clicked on the link, all weird stuff showed up in the browser address line. Had a time deleting it and making it stay deleted.
Must be a glitch in RT's web software.
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herewegoagain on 4/26/2008 8:29:59 AM wrote:
Read the commentary here
Just checking.
Links seem to work for me.
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Soundguy on 4/24/2008 12:03:27 PM wrote:
Nokester: My skills with links are at great odds with this message board!! I don't know why but on THIS message board if I inset a link it adds (%3Cbr%3E) to the end of the link.
The work around that I use is place your cursor on the link..."Right Click" the link, select "Open in new tab or window" in the new browser go to the web address and backspace out the giberish (%3Cbr%3E)and then hit "enter" again. That will take you to the page I quoted.
I discovered that the message board will also add an additional (http) to the front of a link. Your link (Nokester on 4/23/2008 8:39:30)suffers from this addition as well as the added (%3Cbr%3)I followed the same process and succeeded in opening the .pdf. Hope that helps! Annoying!
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old_curmudgeon on 4/24/2008 8:17:13 AM wrote:
Scandals
According to a Web Site called Hyperphisics, rock concerts can achieve sound levels of 102-106 dB. That's pretty loud. In comparison, a chainsaw at 3 ft reaches 110 dB, and we know how loud a chainsaw is. So, no, I don't think concerns about noise levels at that site can just be dismissed with a wave of a hand.
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 10:55:49 PM wrote:
Back On topic: I wonder if City Manager Darlene Burcham has changed her mind from Jan 2003? Just Curious.
www.roanoke.com/roatimes/special_sections/victory/victory_1.12_side.html
"We have never said that we are a community that could support a full-blown, full-time amphitheater," Burcham said. "We're not after being a Virginia Beach amphitheater or a Wolf Trap."
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 10:46:34 PM wrote:
TruthandHumor--Best proposals so far, your innovative ideas solve so many problem!! Great post!
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 10:44:30 PM wrote:
scandals: So you are also a sound slinger...cool! We will have to get together and compare war stories sometime!
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scandals on 4/23/2008 4:47:57 PM wrote:
TruthandHumor,
Good idea. We should involve all types of animals that just sit around poop, making holes in the ozone layer.
Really though, I'm not a tree hugger.
However, the use of windmills at the soccer field (around them) would be cool. There could also be power generated from the river there.
The "green machine" is gonna break us all.
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scandals on 4/23/2008 4:44:36 PM wrote:
old_curmudgeon,
You're wrong. The decibel level will be no where near the same of frequencies. Or pollution. Or crowd. Or business relationship. The only thing in common about the two are that they are events.
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scandals on 4/23/2008 4:43:06 PM wrote:
Nokester,
The flooding did matter with Victory Stadium, it was the main reason to get rid of it. Evertime it flooded, it would ruin the field and concessions etc. A new project would be raised up above the flood plane.
Why would I find information "demeaning"?
I agree that closer or in downtown is a good idea, but there is no space...unless you want to go over in Gainsboro or across Wumpson and start tearing down section 8 housing.
Soundguy...I am a sound guy too. And I agree, RLM made a good decision in not participating in the construction costs as they won't be the owners.
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old_curmudgeon on 4/23/2008 4:24:21 PM wrote:
Uhh...Won't a Victory Stdium site create noise problems for the hospital? I remember ol' Whitey Taylor had to put mufflers on his race cars, and I guarantee some concerts will be just as loud as those race cars. Just asking.
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 3:35:08 PM wrote:
(cont.)
From:
www.roanoke.com/news/roanoke/wb/157931
"In advertising the project last summer, the city asked potential developers how much they would be willing to invest in development costs. But Friday's news release states that "construction of the facility will be undertaken by the city."
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 3:32:52 PM wrote:
scandals: My point was that when the city originally went looking for proposals for the Victory Stadium site, they wanted developers to invest in the cost...but none of the bit. So now Roanoke's politicians are pushing the use of taxpayer fund for a project that couldn't attract private funds.
The same politicians promote the project on the strength of RLM's participation. RLM has made a good business decision-they get paid and assume NONE of the risk. That is good business for RLM and it that places all the risk on the taxpayers of Roanoke city.
(cont.)
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scandals on 4/23/2008 1:35:28 PM wrote:
Uh....RLM own it. The Victory Stadium site is public property. Ususally, private businesses don't own public property.
It's not an opinion. Victory Stadium site is the best site. Elmwood park would be a nightmare, logistics. And we would also loose a green space downtown.
Victory Stadium site is the way to go. The flooding is not a problem if you design a raised structure. The parking and foundation can be on/below grade, but you ramp and stair up above the flood plain. Just thought I would mention that since so many bring up the flooding issue.
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Soundguy on 4/23/2008 11:35:42 AM wrote:
Nokester: Thanks for the interesting link...which will work if you remove everything prior to the "www" and the characters after "pdf" at the end of the link. I wish Roanoke.com would make it simpler to insert correct links!!
No wonder the mayor and his comrades are so adamant about the Victory Stadium site...they have already spent $120,000 of hard earned tax payer money on RLM's study...so if the people prefer the Elmwood Park site, I'm sure that would require ANOTHER study by RLM or another firm and spending more taxpayer money.
Does anyone wonder: If the Victory Stadium site is such a great idea, why doesn't RLM seek to invest in (or own) the project?
Hmmmmm?
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scandals on 4/22/2008 3:58:15 PM wrote:
Moreover, I was there in '88 for the Dead. I was there in'98 for DMB. I've seen great bands that bring a great crowd. I know the potential for this place. Although I've lived all over the world, I was born here and defend it when folks have blinders on that are always blocking out what is good and can only see what it isn't.
I wish I had the resources to be involved with the amplitheatre. I would give it %100+. Roanokers vary the same as New yorkers or Pakistanians. You speak in generalities have a closed book outlook on this town. I'm not bitter. I'm not saying that everything here stinks. I'm saying, "Look what it was and what it could be". Thank you for praying for me, as I will for you too. There is only one Savior...and I ain't him.
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scandals on 4/22/2008 3:51:50 PM wrote:
Z,
I'm not mean and nasty. Love hopes all things...including an amplitheatre. I live and work here and raise a family here. I know that Roanoke has issues, snobs, rednecks, small minded people, but so does every other place on earth. I'm not into bashing the place or praising it. I just try to look at what's in front of me and make a decision based on what I can and have seen, not what's not there. I work with a lot of musicians in and around Roanoke, and I know that things are changing around here for the better. It just pains me that people look at the here and now and see 10 years ago. Downtown has new life. There are numerous places to see good live music, not just the Iroqious. I don't want that to change.
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ziranthia on 4/22/2008 2:11:50 PM wrote:
Scandals, you are nothing but mean and nasty. I'm sure you will be some sort of saviour to these people for "putting me in my place". I live in Atlanta (College Park area) and I really like it. Please, honey, get rid of that bitterness in your heart. I will pray for you.
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scandals on 4/22/2008 1:40:02 PM wrote:
ziranthia, What planet are you living on? First of all, I don't make any decisions or view points that are according to Roanoke.com, most of the time, I feel that the coverage is a bit one sided and usually wrong. Secondly, what does broadband and everything else you talk about have to do with wether or not kids at VT, Radford and in and around Roanoke will go to an amplitheatre to hear good live music? I have high speed internet and so does everyone I work with 100+ folks, my neighbors, my parents, my sister, my cousins and all of my friends. Who were they polling? corpses?
Everything about your posts are personal. You hate Roanoke...chances are, wherever you are, you will hate that place too, as soon as a few things don't go your way.
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Soundguy on 4/22/2008 11:57:37 AM wrote:
(cont.)
Based on David Trinkle's 4/19/2008 statement from:
www.roanoke.com/editorials/commentary/wb/158727
"This multiphased approach, allowing for public input and further consideration at each milestone, will ensure that the public and city council have the information necessary to make an informed decision about any facility actually built. At certain points in this phased approach with Red Light Management, the city can choose not to fund and move forward to the next phase."
IMO it appears that the agreement between RLM & Roanoke allows the city "escape clauses" if the project meets with resistance.
I suspect that RLM will be happy to continue the relationship...for as long as the city's checks arrive in their office.
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Soundguy on 4/22/2008 11:46:38 AM wrote:
According to The Roanoke Times article dated 4/12/2008
www.roanoke.com/news/roanoke/wb/157931
"Townsend said city officials will likely finalize a contract with the group during the coming week. Red Light will be responsible for three aspects of the project: completing a feasibility study, designing the facility and then operating the amphitheater once it's built."
"Last year, a consultant estimated that building an amphitheater by the Roanoke River could cost $12.6 million.
"In advertising the project last summer, the city asked potential developers how much they would be willing to invest in development costs. But Friday's news release states that "construction of the facility will be undertaken by the city."
(cont.)
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scandals on 4/22/2008 11:09:08 AM wrote:
That's quoted with the grammer issues.
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scandals on 4/22/2008 11:08:03 AM wrote:
I don't know exactly what RLM's role is going to be, I'm just going by what is at the top of the discussion board. I thought that it was pretty clear.
"Roanoke city officials announced recently announced that they have selected Charlottesville's Red Light Management to develop and manage an amphitheater at the former Victory Stadium site on Reserve Avenue".
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ziranthia on 4/21/2008 8:03:46 PM wrote:
Well, aren't you full of spunk. My personal feelings have nothing to do with this. I simply elaborated on a valid argument presented by another poster. Look at some other indicators, which have been presented on Roanoke.com. In a survey of 76 broadband markets, Roanoke finished dead last, due to low usage (29% of households), and many retailers have no intention of coming to Roanoke, and according to them, consumers desiring their presence isn't enough. Roanoke isn't "hip". It is slow to adopt new technology and trends, and has a high percentage of high school dropouts and a low percentage of college graduates. What a lousy place for business to thrive. I have nothing to do with that Scandals.
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Walker on 4/21/2008 7:53:16 PM wrote:
Well said, Scandals.
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scandals on 4/21/2008 6:06:37 PM wrote:
Roanoke is not in compitition with Charlottesville, Va Beach or Richmond. That is the reason that the Classic has gone down hill. Competition. You could get many great acts in a 7-10k seat amplitheatre. I've seen there riders and they will come.
Let's name some:
G. Love
North Mississippi Allstars
Railroad Earth
Widespread Panic
Dave Matthews w/ Tim Reynolds
Ben Harper
Keller Williams
Gov't Mule
and a host of other bands that you have never heard of that pull in people from all around and dollars to back it up.
No, it won't pull in Britny Spears, Aerosmith and Puff Daddy... and for that alone makes it worth it.
remove yourself from the equation... and it all make sense.
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scandals on 4/21/2008 5:55:22 PM wrote:
Find as all the "info" you want about amplitheatres in other location, but anyone who is objective, and works in and around live music knows that this will work. Just because you want it to fail, doesn't mean that it will. If RLM is involved, it will work. Roanoke is not a little, hick town regardless of how many reasons you have to hate it. I've seen great bands in London, NYC, Bern CH, Amsterdam and in Roanoke.
Just because you don't like it, doesn't mean anything to dollar bills. Folks who make big decisions and were qualified to file the RFP for the amplitheatre project spend $$$ on research and don't stick there heads in the sand and compare kazoos to violins. Just because you think small, doesn't mean that we all have too.
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ziranthia on 4/21/2008 2:46:28 PM wrote:
You're welcome, Cyber. I think that with my post, the concept may now be "sinking in" that Roanoke is just not cut out for an amphitheather, and it probably will not happen, at this point. Have a terrific afternoon!
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ziranthia on 4/19/2008 5:57:01 PM wrote:
With that in mind, I'm curious about WHY anyone would think an Amphitheater would work in Roanoke, considering that the John Paul Jones Arean in Charlottesville, The Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Charlotte, and The Walnut Creek Amphitheater in Raleigh would draw the A-list acts, while a small venue in Roanoke would draw Wolftrap-like acts that would probably have low ticket sales and low revenue. I'm curious if this type of comparative information has been reviewed in the decision making process.
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ziranthia on 4/19/2008 5:50:53 PM wrote:
Part 2
for people from all over the state. When the larger outdoor venues in Manassas and Virginia Beach were built, starting in 1995, with substantially larger capacities, the Classic Amphitheatre noticed a steady decline in the quality of shows promoters were able to book there. Although it was still able to secure several A-list acts each season, more and more acts were again skipping Richmond for the larger venues. In its last official season, in 1999, only one act was booked that summer -- Hootie and the Blowfish. After that season, the promoter pulled out of the venue, and the owners were not able to attract the interest of any other promoters. (CONT)
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ziranthia on 4/19/2008 5:49:00 PM wrote:
Dave, I did a little research based on CyberSawyer's post about the Classic Amphitheater at Strawberry Hill in Richmond. This information is being quoted from Wikipedia, and is a little lengthy, but informative.
The Classic Amphitheatre at Strawberry Hill is a 10,000-seat outdoor concert venue in Richmond, Virginia that presented a summer-long concert series of major music acts from 1991 - 1999. Although still standing, the venue is no longer managed by any concert promoter, does not present a summer concert series, and is now primarily used for special events. Prior to the opening of the amphitheatre in 1991,Richmond was the only Virginia stop on the tour of many artists on their summer itineraries, making it a destination venue (CONT)
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Soundguy on 4/19/2008 5:20:18 PM wrote:
www.roanoke.com/editorials/commentary/wb/158727
From the Op-Ed Commentary in the Opinion section...in case the link doesn't work.
Amphitheater decision is far from being made
Dave Trinkle
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Soundguy on 4/19/2008 5:16:36 PM wrote:
www.roanoke.com/editorials/commentary/wb/158727
Another Interesting Statement about the project.
I wonder how much of the $3.3 million went to Red Light? How much does it cost to achieve the result of: "Having Red Light Management, a dynamic entertainment company on top of its game and courted by many cities, want to come and do business in Roanoke is, to me, an exciting announcement."
I would expect a figure large enough for Red Light to feel adequately compensated if the project is never completed. Which according to the statement is a possibility.
"At certain points in this phased approach with Red Light Management, the city can choose not to fund and move forward to the next phase."
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billhudson on 4/18/2008 3:44:16 PM wrote:
Not a worry, I get that sometimes. The e-mail from the N.Y. Times was funny as hell.
Still Pickin'
B.H.
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Walker on 4/18/2008 3:10:17 PM wrote:
Sorry, Didn't know if you were THE Bill Hudson or not, I know that sounds a bit insulting. It's not meant to be. I thought, possibly, that you were of the Hudson Brothers.
Anyways, sorry for the mix-up.
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billhudson on 4/18/2008 2:59:22 PM wrote:
(laughing), no Walker. I always tell folks I am from the South, South Bronx that is.
Still Pickin'
B.H.
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Walker on 4/18/2008 2:46:06 PM wrote:
Bill-
Not to blow your cover or anything, but were you born in Portland, Oregon?
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billhudson on 4/18/2008 2:31:49 PM wrote:
Ziranthia, ok I hear you on that and yes they the promoter might be very well looking at it that way. But from what I understand they still have not made any money unlike Salem. The details I am not involved with. Funny work-“in” and no I live in The Roanoke area but am not home much (N.Y on the25) have not played Roanoke in about 3 or 4 years, maybe I should. I wonder if anyone’s paying.
Still Pickin’
B.H.
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tigerlilly on 4/17/2008 10:39:01 PM wrote:
Neighborhood meeting turns into a forum this evening at Deyerle Court.
I was late as I attended an FOP meeting.
All were there except Wishneff and Bowers. I did get my 2 cents in but I'd like to give some info on what was said.
Mayor Harris after a lengthy give and take regarding the Amphitheater admitted that it was not a priority and that the media had made it so.
Councilman Lea waffled on Countryside Golf Course and wants development also. Not what he had said previously but this was a different audience.
Much discontent on real estate assessments - emphasizing assessments going up while home values going down. One mentioned the "waste" of $$$ which prompted me to strongly agree.
Valerie Garner
Council Candidate
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ziranthia on 4/17/2008 9:21:21 PM wrote:
Hey Bill. Yes, I agree that many people like other types of music. Personally, I hate country music. I enjoy Smooth Jazz and Classic Rock. I wasn't implying that country music rules, and that everyone should listen to it. But the fact of the matter is that every time a concert comes to Roanoke, it's Brad Paisley, Kenny, Tim, Toby, Alan Jackson or Big and Rich. I guess promoters look at the shows that really do well, and country seems to be the "in" thing in Roanoke. Oh, I meant to ask you, don't you actually live in New York? I think I remember you mentioning that one time.
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billhudson on 4/17/2008 4:55:07 PM wrote:
As to what Ziranthia, I hear you and that is true as to County music but there is a host of other people that enjoy other kinds of music, not just County. But here is the one of the missing pieces from the music scene around here…Radio-name just one station that has a concert line so people can find out what’s going on, not one.
Still Pickin’
B.H.
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ziranthia on 4/17/2008 4:16:59 PM wrote:
Easy there, Cyber. It takes very little useful information on this message board to bring out the nerds with their statistically manipulated facts and figures, designed to blow your argument into the ditch. I can't tell you how many arguments I have won on here, against people with flimsy stats and narrow minds.
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Walker on 4/17/2008 9:02:28 AM wrote:
Apple-
I wasn't calling you a commie. I was calling you BITTER (which you admitted to). I was referring to the one of the commies that are running for President. Obama. In reference to the whole "bitter" thing, anyways....
Glad you enjoy living outside of Richmond. You have the choice and option to live anywhere you want. That's one of the beautiful things about our great country.
I'm happy here. Nobody HAS to stay here. Don't make excuses as to why you can't leave, don't blame someone else, just go if you wish to.
I always find it humorous when people claim to be stuck someplace, (I realize there are difficulties sometimes) but people in our country have ALWAYS picked up and left to find their dreams elsewhere. No job for me here, I'll go west. Why are we so pathetic taht we can't do the same now, when its so much easier?
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applejaws on 4/17/2008 12:05:36 AM wrote:
oh yeah and the person that called me a communist in sheeps clothing, I am this way straight out in public, I am not trying to hide anything, and the one that called me a hater, I guess I hit a nerve and deep down you either know that I am right or cant begin to compare because you have no experience to compare it to.I have been around the world and back, yes I lived in Germany for 3 years, I know how people are in other parts of the world and that is what I am basing my experiences on, I have lived in a number of US states and the people here are just not happy nor nice.Greed maybe.
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applejaws on 4/17/2008 12:02:34 AM wrote:
Cyber sawyer,that was very informative & true.I am bitter but after what I have gone through w/ the area here I dont think anyone would be happy or nice.An ampitheater wont work.If you want to waste tax dollars to build one,you can.You have to do whatever city counsel wants anyway.The ampitheater will end up like the civic center.If its not broke why fix it?Remodeling and improving.I'd prefer Virginia Beach to Roanoke,because there is the beach & surrounding area,Charlotte?Better weather & an area that has more to offer.Better shopping!I've been to Richmond many times & thats where I go for hard to find items thats not here.The demand & population there is greater.They carry the odd stuff cause odds are I'm not the only one wanting it.
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billhudson on 4/16/2008 8:45:52 PM wrote:
Point made Walker, it is true about Coren and I hear you ask to bring in people from outside area. It always comes down to filling the seats, so if that can be done in this town I for one would be glad. But I remembered when we brought in Hot Tuna to play. I had to decide Roanoke or Blacksburg. The reaction from Roanoke was no one seemed to know who they were. So I picked Blacksburg.
Still Pickin'
Bill Hudson
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Walker on 4/16/2008 4:47:04 PM wrote:
You sound...to quote a hip new Communist in sheeps clothing..."bitter". I hope you get the help you need.
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Concerts, like the DMB concert, are not solely for citizens of Roanoke. People came from all around for that one. That's my point. We don't have to depend on Roanokers to fill the seats, they will be filled.
That's if the amphitheater is nice and large enough to have solid musical acts.
Bill, like you, I've known and been around Coren long enough to know that he doesn't put his hands in things that fail. He knows how to MANAGE and PROMOTE. This would be a piece of cake for him.
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scandals on 4/16/2008 4:46:35 PM wrote:
You Roanoke haters need some love. If I knew you, I'd give you a hug. Good luck wherever it is that you're going, because in my experience, it is always the person and never the place that matters.
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applejaws on 4/16/2008 4:03:47 PM wrote:
Something else about Roanoke,its a hick town!You can't easily get in & out cause its surrounded by mountains.People want to go where a rain storm wont fill the arena,OR parking lot with the river,& cause the entertainment to cancel.They arent gonna chance it either.Then you have the locals.They didnt like the Grateful Dead fans bathing in the water fountains,and if memory serves me correctly(which I may be wrong)there was the incident where MR KANEIVAL was drunk and showed up at someones house and was thrown in jail.Roanokers cannot handle that then, more traffic on bad roads & speed limits that are designed to keep you here as long as possible when all you want to do is get out.Can this work in a communist commonwealth?I dont think so.
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applejaws on 4/16/2008 3:54:22 PM wrote:
Walker
I agree with the advisores.They are more experienced.I'm not talking about the stinky river,thats sewage,you contributed to it.I am speaking of my child.I will be suing them & everyone involved.They've done so illegally & I have proof, they fabricated evidence,and construed it to mean what they want.Thats what they took.The door will not hit me on the way out,same as last time I will leave willingly and quickly.I'm not waiting to sale my house,in fact I may rent it out along with the other 3,the triplex & quadaplex.I can manage them from a different state as easily as the 20+ properties in Richmond.This time things are a bit different & Roanoke didnt pick on a person of little education and money.I'm having them investigated!
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billhudson on 4/16/2008 1:12:47 PM wrote:
No, not at all, I am talking about some of the name acts I have opened up for and have seen with my own eyes. And yes if Red Light runs it, it might work but it’s a funny thing about filling seats in this town. I know Coren from years ago when he ran Tracks, very hands on guy.
Still Pickin’
Bill
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Walker on 4/16/2008 12:56:19 PM wrote:
cont-
If all you are going to put in front of us is Bill Deal, Blood, Sweat and Tears or the latest version of Three Dog Night, of course nobody will go. But, build a nice 10k seat facility and let Red Light manage it...it will work beyond your expectations.
On a side note, my college band played at the owner of Red Light mgt.'s July 4th party years ago, he's also the Mgr. of Dave Matthews...gee..I wonder if Dave would come back? Of course he would. Red Light knows what they are doing.
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Walker on 4/16/2008 12:54:46 PM wrote:
People go where the music is, regardless of where it is. Granted, our local music scene is pretty slim because of the lack of interest or decent music "clubs".
You bring a decent band to the area, as we have with Dave Matthews years ago, as well as the Grateful Dead, and people will show up in droves.
The reason people don't go to the Roa Civ Center is because they DON'T bring anybody in...and the place is awful acoustically, unless you are Metallica (which was a great show, by the way). The Dead were kind of washed out there.
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ziranthia on 4/16/2008 12:42:13 PM wrote:
Bill, Roanoke caters to country music. If you're Kenny Chesney, Tim McGraw or Brad Paisley, please come, and bring Clay Walker with you. If you are Kanye West or The Blackeyed Peas, stay away, Maroon 5 or Coldplay, you're too hip. If you're The Eagles or Fleetwood Mac doing a reunion tour, or The Stones, you're too big for Roanoke anyway. There is no local music scene to speak of, and no concerts of interest to young people, who are the bread and butter of the concert business. Look at The Grateful Dead. They didn't fit in. LOL
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billhudson on 4/16/2008 12:18:01 PM wrote:
It's a funny thing but this town has some of the best musicians but not many good places in making a living, we have to go else where. So having another venue, I am not sure it would work. Marketing 101, go where it works, not where it does not work. I do not have the big answer here but the way some outside acts have been treated it makes one wonder.
Still Pickin'
Bill Hudson
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ziranthia on 4/16/2008 11:21:25 AM wrote:
It must be nice to live in denial, Walker.
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Walker on 4/16/2008 8:48:49 AM wrote:
"But after I retrieve what the city took from me..."
If you're refering to the stench emanating from the lower Roanoke River, you can have it back. Don't let the door hit you on your way out.
You sound like a half-wit with all your Z-like comments. Two peas in a pod. Looks like we've got another idiot to ignore on the boards.
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The amphitheater is a great idea, I agree with Scandals. The location is as good as any and far better than most.
In my experience at concerts, people that enjoy music...also enjoy nature. The trolley is going to be running from the hospital to downtown, period, not "anywhere".
This will drive business downtown AND offer even MORE parking to visitors.
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applejaws on 4/16/2008 8:39:34 AM wrote:
Scandals,
Lved here since I was 2.I thought this big city was great.Til I lived someplace else.Roanoke is laughed at because of small minds,small brains.I dont know of anyone that moved here from anywhere.Most have been here all/most of their lives.What is it people expect when they move here?The same they would get in any other place.I dont expect the city to change,thats why we dont need an ampitheater.Big change!I know Roanoke!I know the people here are stuck up without a reason,hateful & rude.I'm here for one reason,family!But after I retrieve what the city took from me,I'll leave,family or not,because Roanoke has crossed the line and I've had it,monetary damages will come after I'm gone.I'm not even gonna wait to sale my house.
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applejaws on 4/15/2008 11:58:58 PM wrote:
Scandals,
Lved here since I was 2.I thought this big city was great.Til I lived someplace else.Roanoke is laughed at because of small minds,small brains.I dont know of anyone that moved here from anywhere.Most have been here all/most of their lives.What is it people expect when they move here?The same they would get in any other place.I dont expect the city to change,thats why we dont need an ampitheater.Big change!I know Roanoke!I know the people here are stuck up without a reason,hateful & rude.I'm here for one reason,family!But after I retrieve what the city took from me,I'll leave,family or not,because Roanoke has crossed the line and I've had it,monetary damages will come after I'm gone.I'm not even gonna wait to sale my house.
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applejaws on 4/15/2008 11:37:12 PM wrote:
Accoring to the experts its not a good idea!Now I am not a expert but why pay for trained educated advice that makes money doing this sort of stuff and then not follow it.The newspaper admitted that they had to use the Freedom of Information act in order to even get this information, yet although city counsel tried to pull one over on us some of you seem ok with that.I for one do not like to be lied too and tricked.Its my tax money too.Shelf it and try again next year. Why compete with places that people want to go to? Its a matter of economics and supply and demand. If you keep putting these in every city then there is nothing special. Look at the civic center. I still dont know why they cant use it? Does anyone else?
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applejaws on 4/15/2008 11:30:03 PM wrote:
scandals
1. The site is available.
There are other sites available
2. The new trolley will connect downtown with Riversedge.
the new trolley can take you anywhere in the city
3. There is lots of parking available.
during high school football games parking was limited
4. Many folks are still bitter about Victory Stadium. This would appease.
dont think so
5. That whole area is being developed now.
its being developed by carrilion, for carillion
6. The Greenway goes past it and is expanding.
people going to an ampitheater are rarely interested in nature
7. It is easy to find. You can see it from I-581.
its not that easy to get to from 581
8. The site is still ready and available and suitable for the size.
its not suitable
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old_curmudgeon on 4/15/2008 1:37:45 PM wrote:
I don't know whether or not Roanoke can make an amphitheater work. The city certainly has a history of questionable decisions. But, at least the Charlottesville company they have lined up to run it has a successful track record. BTW, Charlottesville's Downtown Mall provides a nice model of how to make a downtown area work. The Downtown Mall was full of people, old, young, and in-between. The outdoor dining areas were bustling, too. Note to Roanoke: Outdoor dining works much better where there is no car traffic, or at least where the sidewalks are wide enough to accommodate both tables AND pedestrians.
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ziranthia on 4/15/2008 12:38:55 PM wrote:
Hey Walker!!! How are you, pal? Great, I hope! And of course, I hope that YOU and everyone on board today has a terrific afternoon! Who could have asked for a more beautiful day to share opinions with such a fantastic group of people!
Z
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Walker on 4/15/2008 12:32:04 PM wrote:
Scandals, et al, do not waste your time with the Ziramfia. It stinks and is terrible on your digestive system.
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ziranthia on 4/15/2008 11:37:04 AM wrote:
scandals, I'm simply offering my advice, just like everyone else. It's true that I do not like Roanoke, and have no intention of ever moving back there, but that doesn't mean that am incapable of having an opinion about it, or making a suggestion for improving things. I have actually had some good ideas (like locating the amphitheater in the New River Valley), but have been scoffed at. Oh well. I will always be me.
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scandals on 4/15/2008 11:20:49 AM wrote:
ziranthia,
It's great that you are doing so well, thriving. You must be amazing at everything.
If you are so happy in that utopia you live in, why are you commenting on Roanoke message boards. I mean, it must be miserable for you to even think of the place, since it sucks so bad.
The question still stands to everyone. If it sucks so bad here, why are you here? Greyhound fare is only $32. Carry you rearend if it is so bad here!
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scandals on 4/15/2008 11:16:51 AM wrote:
Nokester,
I quote:
"Can anyone provide me with a reason to put in on Reserve Ave? I just cannot seem to come up with any argument that justifies this decision".
1. The site is available.
2. The new trolley will connect downtown with Riversedge.
3. There is lots of parking available.
4. Many folks are still bitter about Victory Stadium. This would appease.
5. That whole area is being developed now.
6. The Greenway goes past it and is expanding.
7. It is easy to find. You can see it from I-581.
8. The site is still ready and available and suitable for the size.
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ziranthia on 4/15/2008 11:03:08 AM wrote:
"I just don't share your rose-tinted glasses comparison of roanoke to a bigger city."
LOL. I can't imagine a Roanoker wearing rose-colored glasses! Ignorance is bliss, I suppose. I live in a much larger city, and IMHO, it is a much healthier, culturally robust, socially diverse and inspirational environment than Roanoke could ever dream of being. Roanoke is "grounded" by self doubt and pessimism. All the local leaders do is TALK and give lip-service to moving forward and attracting young people, and all the general public does is live in a status quo utopia. The only reason people move back to Roanoke is because they can't make somewhere else. Not everyone has what it takes to uproot and not only survive, but THRIVE. I do.
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scandals on 4/15/2008 10:54:15 AM wrote:
to the both of you,
I was born here, but I've lived all over the world. Other states and in Europe. I don't have rosy tinted glasses. I just know that the same folks who come here and complain are the same ones who complained where they came from and will be whiners at there next destination too. I don't know why someone would laugh at Roanoke. Is is a competition?
There is some reason that so many from the north move here. I know many people who move here and expect something and don't get it. So what. Deal with it. Don't expect a whole city to change for you. I don't like many things about my hometown, but I could go elsewhere and dislike much more. There are nice and mean people everywhere. Don't bash a city that you don't really know.
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applejaws on 4/14/2008 11:53:15 PM wrote:
Scandals,
I disagree with you.I've lived outside of Roanoke, for 12 years.I grew up here.The worst mistake I made was moving back.If you can buy it here it is cheaper, gas, food, ect.But things arent easy to find here.In other states you can buy radar detectors for instance, not here.My brother always asked me to get car parts for him in Nashville.They HAD them.They show the same movies here, & if you like art, not everyone does.If you're not a drinker Roanoke has nothing for you.You cant go down by the river to walk.The police are very oppressive here,think they are "bad" & are on power trips because they have a gun & a badge.BIG DEAL!Like I said earlier, people that visit, laugh at Roanoke, IF they've ever heard of it.
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Entropy on 4/14/2008 11:43:20 PM wrote:
However Scandals,
you apparently have not been out of Roanoke to know that almost everything you said being completely false.
There are many fine films that do not come to Roanoke because its not a metropolitan area. The Grandin gets some of them, which is a blessing, but still not all. There are many high-end things I can't find in town here and have to rely on the internet. (Usually Electronic equipment, or stuff for my Mac.)
Roanoke is great, despite my critical view of it, I do love it here. I just don't share your rose-tinted glasses comparison of roanoke to a bigger city. It most certainly is not in the aspects you state.
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Entropy on 4/14/2008 11:38:39 PM wrote:
my point was exactly that scandals... low crime, no problems with traffic... so why so many speed traps?
Perhaps its not that there's too many, but how they're allocated.
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scandals on 4/14/2008 11:15:20 PM wrote:
Entropy, I qoute
"I could go months without seeing a police officer on my daily commute in NoVA... I see 3-5 per day here... silliness".
Gee, uh, do you have any idea how dumb that sounds?
What is the crime like up there in NOVA? and If it's so great up there, why are you here?
How long is your daily commute here?
I agree that the cops here are a little overcharged sometime, but I'd rather have that than softies and backhanded crooked cops who get pay offs not to say anything about thugs, thieves and haters.
I am a world apart from the police, but I'd rather have them than not.
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scandals on 4/14/2008 11:10:01 PM wrote:
AppleJaws, you're right. All the people that move here and expect Roanoke to fix all there problems are usually rude and boring. I keep saying this, people are the same, everywhere. Miserable people in Philly or Asheville are miserable here too. Be careful not to blame your lack of whatever on a place.
Roanoke has a lot to do. The cops here are no different than the cops anywhere else. They show the same movies here that they do in other cities. Roanoke has more art than the small community can stomach. At any given time there are several good live bands playing. You can buy anything here that you buy anywhere else, except it's usually a little cheaper.
Build the amplitheatre! Get a good booking person and promoter and do it right.
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sweetmilk on 4/14/2008 3:01:42 PM wrote:
Shanana is dead.
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Entropy on 4/14/2008 1:17:45 AM wrote:
yeah, just hoping to foster some intelligent discussion.
i dont really have too much of an opinion on the mill mountain thing. Either way is fine by me.
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applejaws on 4/13/2008 9:06:01 PM wrote:
Entro
You have an opinion on everything too....cool!
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