Sandifer Fails to Respond

 Check my posting of 12/21/23 to read the email I sent to Mayor Mickey "The Mouse" Sandifer.

As of today no response has been received.  Actually, that does not surprise me.  Even though "The Mouse" claimed to want to interact with the citizens of Shawnee he forgot to add that that would only be for those who agree with him.  The other reason why he hasn't responded is because he lacks the intestinal fortitude to admit that I was right and he was wrong.  

It won't be long before Shawnee will become aware of how incompetent he really is and those who voted for him will wonder if they were part of the illustrious 330 voters who put him over the top.

Hidden camera recording of Mickey and friends at play:

Email Sent To Mickey "The Mouse" Sandifer

 When I was  in the army and we were presented with a task that was downright dumb we referred to it as a "Mickey Mouse" detail.  Hence the title of this post  Proceed and you will read an email I sent to Mayor Mickey Sandifer:

Mr. Mayor,

I am writing to you concerning your actions at the city council meeting of 12/11/23.  Please be advised that a copy of this email will be published on my blog.  Should you desire to respond just email me and I will post your response, in its entirety (unedited).

Let’s start with the beginning.  You made it a point to advise all present that the meeting would be conducted in a civil manner.  After I spoke regarding the lack of transparency concerning two appointments that you wanted to make your conduct towards the members of the council who apparently were wanting more transparency was anything but civil.  Listening to the audio and reading the minutes (once they are published) will confirm my analysis.  The Shawnee Mission Post, unfortunately gave you a pass on this one.

You kept stating that the appointments were “mayoral appointments”, as if the council had no say in the manner.  It is amazing that with all your years on the council you didn’t learn anything. Yet you used those years as a selling point in your campaign.  Why do I say you didn’t learn anything? The following is from the agenda of the meeting:

Consider the Mayor's selection of two councilmembers to participate in a joint work group with Planning Commissioners to review potential amendments to the Achieve Shawnee Comprehensive Plan.

The City's Comprehensive Plan is revisited and reviewed regularly to ensure the Plan remains relevant over time.  City staff has identified some portions of the plan that may need to be revisited for minor modifications.

Recommendation: Approve the Mayor's selection of two councilmembers to participate in a joint work group with Planning Commissioners to review potential amendments to the Achieve Shawnee Comprehensive Plan.

You will note that the mayor may make the selection, but the council has to approve the action.  Your dictatorial attitude and childish tantrum needs to be held in check.  Again, listening to the audio and/or reviewing the minutes will bear this out.  And again, the Shawnee Mission Post gave you a pass and apparently did not research that what you were attempting to do was not proper.  Or do you expect the council to be a “rubber stamp” council like the one you served on? 

When a member of the council suggested putting the item in front of the Council Committee prior to resubmitting it to the Council you basically went ballistic.  And, you showed that you did not understand your position, as you said that that was not right since you were not a member of the Council Committee.  Again, even after all your years on the council you failed to learn anything about our city government.  The following is an excerpt from Section Eight of Charter Ordinance 45:

The Mayor shall serve as an ex officio member of all Standing Committees but shall not have any voting rights on said Committees.

What that means Mr. Mayor is that you can sit in on the Council Committee meeting.  You can even voice your opinion and attempt to convince others of your position on an issue.  You just can’t vote on items presented to it.  Don’t believe me?  Check with the city attorney.  Maybe you need a refresher course in Shawnee 101.  And again, the Shawnee Mission Post gave you a pass on this one.  Did they ever research Charter Ordinance 45 to show that you were not accurate in your statement? 

You may have won the election, but you did not receive a mandate.  A difference of 330 votes when 14,544 votes were cast translates to the fact that almost half of those voting did not want you in that position and that they will be closely monitoring how you perform.  Just in case you don’t understand what a mandate is……..” When a politician wins an election by a wide margin, that's a mandate to implement their ideas.”

Ray Erlichman

Correspondence With Councilmember Burchfield

 Recently I emailed Councilmember Burchfield concerning the city council meeting of 12/11/23.  A copy of the email is listed below.  In keeping with a desire to maintain transparency her reply email, unedited, is also listed below.  Readers can judge for themselves what they think about each email.  They might also want to listen to the audio of the 12/11/23 meeting.

My email:

Councilmember Burchfield,

 At this past Monday’s council meeting after I made my comments about the lack of transparency regarding the possible appointment of two council members to a joint study group you commented to the effect that even though you were one of the designated individuals you had no problem with delaying action until Jan 8, 2024.

 When it came time to vote on moving the item to January you voted against it, as reported in the Shawnee Mission Post.

 Would you mind clarifying the contradictory action on your part?

 So that there are no misunderstandings regarding transparency, this email will be posted to my blog along with an unedited copy of your response.

 Thank you

 Ray Erlichman

Her reply:

Hello Ray,

Thank you for your email and the opportunity to clarify.

 I don’t believe my actions were contradictory. I spoke that I was open to a discussion on the appointments at the January meeting so that the public had enough time to be informed participants in the conversation. After further comments from city staff, other council members, and the mayor I voted no on the motion because I didn’t believe the Council Committee meeting was the correct place for the discussion, I did not think the Mayor intended to make appointments, and I didn’t believe the city staff were ready to move forward with the workgroup.

 Thank you,

 Laurel

Sandifer's First Night As Mayor - Hail Caesar & Tantrum Throwing

 Last night (12/11/23) was Mickey Sandifer's first night as mayor.  If ya wanna see an example of tantrum throwing and a dictatorial attitude just go to the audio of the meeting by clicking here. Then to save yourself some time go to the 1:54:01 mark.

Here's the background.  There was an item on the agenda about appointing two members of the council to a study group.  The agenda and its accompanying memo did not indicate who they were.  Yours truly contacted staff as to why there were no names listed.  The response was that with the change over the new mayor had not had time to make the selection before the agenda went public.  I found that strange since on a previous item his selection for the Planning Commission was listed.  I considered this to be a lack of transparency and signed up to speak on it.

Well, now comes the meeting and the item comes up.  After the planning director gave his info on the background of the study group, Mickey "Julius Caesar" Sandifer proceeded to go forward with ignoring asking if anyone had signed up to speak.  Yes, I had to shout it out from the audience, "what about those who signed up?" (Was he hoping to push the item and not allow me to speak?) He then asked if anybody had signed up.  I had NO  comments about the two appointees who were mentioned a few minutes earlier.  It was procedure.  Since "Julius Caesar" (hail dictator) had campaigned on transparency it was felt by yours truly that the item should be tabled until January 8th so that the public could be informed who the two appointees were and then comment on them if they thought it was warranted.

Now ya gotta listen to the audio.  Even the two prospective appointees agreed for transparency that the public should be able to comment and were not given that chance.   Listening to the audio you will hear how Sandifer loses it and throws a mini tantrum, especially taking the stand that the mayor appoints.  Yepper, the mayor appoints (actually recommends appointments) but the council has to approve.  It got to the point where "mini me mayor" indicated maybe he wouldn't make appointments.

Cutting to the chase, just listen to the audio.  BTW, the item did get tabled until January 8th, 2024 with all council members voting in favor of that.  

Hmmmm, wonder how the left leaning Shawnee Mission Post will cover Caesar's actions last night.

A word of advice to Caesar............ya better stop trying to be a mini me dictator or you'll lose the support even of your fellow lefties on the council.

Is The Shawnee Mission Post Moving?

 Curious!  Is the Shawnee Mission Post moving their offices?  Rumor on the street is that they are moving into a very beautiful Romanesque styled building.  Here's a picture of the building.  It is very beautiful. Only problem is that it has a slight bent leaning to the left.  It is located at Piazza del Duomo 56126 Pisa Pl, Italy,

Also, what is with their pleas for funding and getting more subscribers?

After each story the reporter who wrote it has a mini bio and a plea for more subscribers.  They want your money.  I remember when a monthly subscription was $5.99 now it's going to be $8.50.  Oh well, thank you Bidenomics.  Hey that's an idea.  Get the king of the lefties to pay (out of how own pocket with no funds from China) for every member of his staff.

What about their advertisers?  They run their ads to look like news stories but they do mark them as "sponsored".  They're not lying, it's just a little deceptive, but isn't that how left leaning media operations function?

December 13th, 2023 Shawnee to Celebrate & Condone Criminal Activity

 If you don't believe the title of this blog post this is what you need to do:

On December 13th, 2023 show up at the Shawnee Town Hall at 11600 Johnson Drive (at Shawnee Town 1929) between 3:30PM to 6:00PM.  There will be a presentation at 4:30PM

What is the occasion?  It's a reception for what will be Shawnee's former mayor, Michelle Distler as her term will end on December 11, 2023.

Fact: Michelle Distler is the first woman to be elected mayor of Shawnee.

Fact: Michelle Distler is the first mayor to be arrested and charged with a felony while serving in office.

Fact: Michelle Distler is the first mayor to enter into a diversion agreement so that the charges would be dropped.  Neat, do the punishment and not get convicted.  IMHO innocent people don't take diversion.

Fact:  Michelle Distler never publicly apologized to the citizens of Shawnee nor to the person whose name she fraudulently used when filing a government document using that person's name.  I should know, I'm still waiting for that apology.  Fat chance of that happening.  Somebody the other night referred to her as the "girl with heart" in reference to the city's new slogan.  Hah....how about the girl with no moral conscience?

Originally I was going to show up at the reception with a going away present for her.  Framed copies of the affidavit for the arrest warrant and of the diversion agreement.  Decided she wasn't worth the cost of the frames (98¢ each at Walmart).

Sidebar:  One good thing about December 13th........Taylor Swift's birthday......go for it Travis!!!!

Former Mayor Jim Allen and Current Mayor Michelle Distler - Clown College Graduates??

 Let's start with former mayor Jim Allen.  This clown has stated publicly that the situation with Shawnee's city manager is the biggest blackeye for Shawnee and he blames the council for it.  What a clown.  Was Distler's arrest for felony perjury not a blackeye for the city?  And what about her getting diversion?  That's where you do the punishment in exchange for getting the charges dropped.  Who takes punishment if they haven't done the crime?  Aha, and. what about former councilmember Justin Adrian?  We remember him don't we?  The former Olathe teacher who spent jail time for "dipsy doodling" with a male student in a classroom.  Guess Jim Allen doesn't consider that a blackeye for the city.  Anything to advance wacko left wing liberal agendas.

And now, what about her not so Honor Mayor.  She claims that there were red flags about the city manager before he was hired.  Is that the whole story?  Did the recruiting company that did the investigation(s) ever come up with anything credible about the supposed red flags?  I wouldn't trust a damned thing her not so Honor Mayor says anymore.  Just read the affidavit for her arrest warrant and see how many different stories she gave the .investigator.  

Final thoughts.........has anybody given any thought to the possibility that the city manager might be a victim in this case?  

Veteran's Day 2023

 To my fellow veterans:  If you served during a time of hostility, "welcome home brother".  If you served during peacetime, thank you for "standing the watch" and being willing to serve.

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Take a couple of minutes please.  Watch this video, and if you have any young ones with you ask them to join you.  

Mickey Sandifer Does NOT Believe in Transparency

 Ahhh yes, Sandifer, the King of "I'll Tell Them What They Want to Hear".

Remember when the subject came up about a proposed community center?  Well Sandifer was very much in favor of it, and did not care what the cost would be to the citizens.  

Anyway, he and the other Ward 4 council rep at the time (Lindsey Constance) held a town hall meeting at the civic centre to go over the proposed project.  But neither one wanted to hear the negatives, concerning increased taxes, exorbitant fees, and operational income projected to run negatively for many years.

Well when a citizen of the community wanted to challenge these two council members, Sandifer tried to shut him down.  That was when he (Sandifer) made the comment "this is not a town hall, it's our show".

Don't believe me?  Click below and hear him say it for yourself,  Yep, when Sandifer speaks y'all wanna be wearing hip waders.

Laurel Burchfield, Sierra Whitted & Jeani Murphy----Bad News for Shawnee

 My opinions and I'm entitled to them.

These three ladies, would be really bad news for Shawnee if they were to get elected to the city council.

Burchfield is running in Ward 4, Whitted in Ward 1 and Murphy in Ward 2.

Burchfield and Whitted appear to me to be the closest thing to carpet baggers since the civil war.  They are still too new to living in Shawnee to really have a good grasp on things.  Murphy has been around a long time, but all three have been trying to pull a snow job on the citizens.

I've touched on this before in other posts here.  First, they are trying to put the blame on the city council for staff leaving.  I published the numbers.  the numbers have been pretty much the same (percentage wise) for many years.  There is always turnover.  Then, they try to put the blame on the council for certain senior members of the staff leaving.  Disgruntle city employees who were used to getting their way without previous councils doing what they were supposed to do.......question and ndot rubber stamp.

These three say that the council hasn't been listening to the "experts" on city staff.  City staff has many fine, capable, intelligent folks.  They are also human.  It is the council's responsibility to question and if the council feels something needs to be adjusted it is staff's responsibility to carry that forward.  The new city manager and the two new assistants understand the proper chain.  Under this council city staff has grown, appropriate adjustments were made to the salary structures for PD & FD, and this has been accomplished with reductions in the mill levy.

Proper review of city projects has resulted in many projects getting done, for less money.  And the city has been able to get its reserves to 57% (27% over industry accepted standards).

This council is not anti-development.  They want the right development in the right areas, without giving up the farm, the way previous councils did.  

If you want to see Shawnee grow and prosper, then you don't want to vote for these three, or MIckey Sandifer for mayor.

The right choices for this election would be, IMHO, Megan Warner in Ward 4, Tammy Thomas in Ward 1 and Eric Jenkins in Ward 2, and Dr. Mike Kemmling for mayor.  Unlike Sandifer, Mike is not beholden to the "old boy network" and nobody is pulling his strings.  Ahhh, Sandifer, the sweet talking bovine scatalogical artist who will say anything to you to get your vote, even if it is completely opposite of what he said to your neighbor.......

Parks & Pipes and Pavement Taxes - Vote Yes

 On, the ballot on Nov. 7th will be two questions which ask voters to say whether or not they want to approve continuing these two taxes.  These are not new taxes.  They both expire in 2025 after the last time that they were approved.

IMHO, it would be to Shawnee's benefit if the voters approved the extensions.  I'm not a fan of taxes, but these two items have proven to be very beneficial for our city over the years.  

The Parks & Pipes tax is 1/8th of a penny and the Pavement tax is 3/8ths of a penny.

If you'd like more info on these items you can click here. Also, if you are looking for specific information on how these funds have been used you can contact the following individuals:

City Manager Doug Gerber dgerber@cityofshawnee.org

Parks & Recreation Director Tonya Lecuru parksandrec@cityofshawnee.org

Public Works Director Doug Whitacre publicworks@cityofshawnee.org

Does Mickey Sandifer Suffer From BCD?

 This man would be an absolute abomination if he were to be elected mayor of Shawnee.

At the recent forum held by the Shawnee Mission Post you won't believe what Sandifer said.

First, in his opening remarks he said he would not enter the office with an agenda.  Huh.  That's plain BS. 

Would you vote for any candidate if they truly did not have an agenda?  I wouldn't.  I want to know what they would do.

Maybe I'd agree with it or disagree with it, but I would want to know what it is?  Actually, he probably has one, but does not want folks to know what it is.  Not a leader as he purports to be.  A puppet and a follower.  Remember how he wimped out voting on the non-discrimination ordinance.  He didn't want to anger certain religious groups by voting for it and he did not want to incur the wrath of the LGBQT+ community by voting against it.  Not a leader, but a puppet on a string.

The forum can be seen here

Also you will be able to see how he is unable to coherently answer and explain things.  

Or, he just makes things up.  At the end of the forum he mentions how the PD & FD budgets make up 3/4ths of the city's budget?  Which side of his feeble braindid he get that info from.  Combined, the two department's budgets are 32% of the city's, slightly less than 1/3.  That info is on the city's web site viewable here

Hmmmmm, did the left leaning Shawnee Mission Post do a fact check on that one?

Or how about this, from Mickey's campaign web site

"I have serious concerns about the City council’s vote to decrease the mill levy tax, against the judgement of the previous city manager and other Shawnee staff. 

We must protect against a revenue shortfall down the road."  First he is one of those who believes that the council should just rubber stamp anything and everythingstaff brings forth.  But let's talk numbers first.  The city sits with 57% in reserves, almost twice (30%) the recommended amount.  This council has reduced the mill levy three times.  By reducing it, as home values go up , the city will still get enough to run itself and still have a healthy reserve.  Mickey just loves raising taxes, he voted for that when he sat on the council and was a strong proponent of the Community Center project which would have saddled Shawnee citizens with an unnecessary tax burden and 72% of the voters shot that idea down at the polls.

Mickey just likes to make things up or embellish various items.  Oh, what is BCD?  Biden Cognitive Disorder.....just like 46 you can't trust anything that comes out of his mouth.  When he speaks, grab your hip waders.

Do we even want to discuss how he and certain members of the previous council received a scathing rebuke from the JoCo DA regarding a KOMA violation for voting for the former Mayor's uncle by marriage to fill an unexpired council term?  Not a leader, just a dancing puppet on a string.

I hate to say this, because I have always been an Elvis fan, but he must have been very prescient, as maybe this song was a peek into the future about Mickey Sandifer.

Mickey Sandifer - Would Be Terrible for Shawnee

 Former city councilmember Mickey Sandifer is running for mayor.  It would be, IMHO, catastrophic if he were to succeed.

Now this might be a little longer read than what I usually post here, but please read it and not just skim thru it.

Mickey comes across as warm and fuzzy and very sincere and believable in what he says.  Talk to him about an item affecting the city that you are in favor of.   Then have a friend, relative, neighbor (not living too close to you and definitely without the same last name) talk to him about the same item, but their opinion is opposite of yours.  Then compare notes with them.  A double whopper with cheese and bacon says he will agree with both folks.  Take it a step further, email him and ask him where he stands on a particular item.  He will contact you and attempt to discuss the item with you over the phone or in person.  Another double whopper with double cheese and double bacon says he won't respond via email.  Believe it has something to do with the written word being a way to be held accountable.

He says he believes in transparency.  That's a laugh.  Many years ago we had a member of the council from Ward 3 who would use the "Miscellaneous Council Items" at a council meeting to literally attack members of the public.  Whether that person had spoken at the meeting earlier that evening, or not.  In those days that section  of the meeting was "reserved" for council comments.  So what happened?  One evening yours truly got up in business from the floor and suggested that Policy Statement 7 be amended to allow for citizen comments in the miscellaneous council items portion.  Eventually staff brought forth the proposed changes to PS-7 for the council to review and act.  Sandifer stated at the meeting he saw no need to allow citizens to address councilmember's comments during that portion of the meeting.  The changes passed anyway.

Now let's talk about Mickey taking three (3) vacations a year paid for with your tax dollars.  The National League of Cities (which we don't belong to any more) holds two meetings a year and the Kansas League of Municipalities holds one.  What Mickey would do is go out the day before the meetings started, stay thru the last hail and farewell morning meeting and then come back the following day.  The result:  two extra hotel nights and the corresponding per diem. Most of the other council members who would go, they had a one or two night stay, Mickey would have a 4 or 5 night stay.  I didn't pull them all, but I have posted some of the expense reports on this blog.  Mickey was always the biggest spender except for one meeting.

One of his most egregious acts with regards to these out of town excursions happened the year he did not run for reelection.  By not filing in June to run again he knew he was off the council at the end of the year.  Yet he signed up for and went to the NLC meeting which was held just weeks before the end of his council term.  Talk about a lame duck. In more ways than one, pretty lame.

Another time on one of the NLC trips to Washington, DC he took his very young granddaughter with him.  I have NO problem with that.  The problem I have is which of the three choices listed did Mickey choose:

1.  Attend the meetings that he was supposed to go to and bring her with him?  Sure and have this youngster sit very quietly and attentively during these sessions?  Yeah, right.

2.  Leave her in the room while he attended the meetings?  Hmmmm, not a good idea, at least in my book.

3.  Go to the meeting session, sign in to indicate he showed up, then immediately leave and take the grandchild sightseeing?

A triple whopper with cheese and bacon says it was probably number three.  I could be wrong, but I doubt it.  Numbers one and two don't make sense.

When Mickey was on the council he was, IMHO part of the group that abrogated their responsibility as elected reps of the people and just rubber stamped anything and everything that was brought before them.

And last but not least.  Remember when the former council passed the non-discrimination ordinance?  Mickey was conveniently absent from the meeting and therefore did not cast a vote for or against the item.  Mr. Two Face was in a pickle.  If he had voted for it he would have alienated a majority of those folks who share the same religious background as him.  If he voted against it he would have been accused of being homophobic by the LGBQT+ community and their supporters.  So, how did Mr. Two Face handle it?  He came up with some bovine scatalogical excuse for not showing at the meeting.  And he says he is a leader.  That's a laugh.  If he were elected mayor, who would be pulling his puppet strings?

Dr. Mike Kemmling has worked diligently as a member of the council to get three years of mill levy reductions passed, to review projects in a manner that staff would then reanalyze them and get them done at a lower cost to the citizens.  Dr. Mike tells it like it is.  Sandifer tells you whatever you want to hear.

IMHO, Kemmling for mayor. Knowledge, experience and a new generational approach to move the city forward.

Israel & Hamas - Will It Affect Us?

 Quite possibly, and in more ways than one.

Let's just look though at one possibility.  Every day the border patrol posts counts of folks coming across the southern border.  And since Biden basically opened the border those numbers are up, way up.  And the BP logs them by country.  And every day there are some from various middle eastern nations.

Now, what about those that sneak across and don't get caught?

Remember that some of the individuals in the 911 attack were here on student visas.  Expired at that.  Heck, what's to say that terrorists have already infiltrated this country and waiting for the signal to cause problems.

The World Trade Center was a well known geographical site, with a total workday population bigger than many small towns in the US,  How about this:

 On a typical weekday, an estimated 50,000 people worked in the complex and another 140,000 passed through as visitors.

What is to say that a group of terrorists wouldn't want to create murderous activities in multiple small towns?  Primarily because the residents might just be a little too complacent?  

I know, if I mention the middle east origin of those coming across the southern border, especially those sneaking across then I am xenophobic, yada yada yada.

And, IMHO, anybody who thinks that all of those same folks are coming across with love in their hearts for our country, well, they are just plain dumb!!!!

Be vigilant folks.  Remember the folks that were slaughtered in their sleep, the infants that were dismembered, the women that were tortured and raped.

Remember how the late Queen Elizabeth had our national anthem played at Buckingham Palace right after 911!

Below is "Hatikvah", the Israeli national anthem.

Did the SM Post Properly Research & Report on Shawnee Staff Losses?

The Shawnee Mission Post has  published various articles blaming the current council for staff  losses.  I noticed that they applied for info under KORA regarding that topic.  Well, so did I.  The info I received is shown below.  

Keep in mind that the members of the current council were elected in 2019 & 2021 so this council, as it is now formed, did not really start functioning until 2022.

Here is the info as I received it.  I will have additional comments below the posting.

 The figures above are interesting.  The current council, as functioning as such has seen a net increase of 19 employees.

Now, let's look at another topic relative to this that the SM Post has been touting:  the loss of senior staff, in particular former city manager Sunderman, former deputy city manager Gard and former city communications director Breithaupt.

Let's look at those three and the question(s) that IMHO the SM Post was remiss in not asking and/or pursuing.

Former city manager Sunderman:  We've covered this one previously.  They quoted him as saying his vision for the city was not the same as the council's.  The council sets the vision.  The city manager is an employee of the council and is responsible for carrying out their directions.  Didn't the council direct him to do certain things that he did not do?  Was his job on the line?  Two questions that IMHO needed to be asked.

Former deputy city manager Gard:  Were her feelings hurt that she did not get the job when Sunderman left?  Check her credentials against the individual that the city did hire to fill that position.  

Former communications director Breithaupt:  She was promoted to that position from communications manager shortly before leaving.  She was already putting in long hours by having to attend various evening meetings, special events and then with the promotion was taking on PIO duties for the PD & FD, putting her on call 24/7.  IMHO the question that needed to be asked was, as an individual with young children how much did that play into her decision to leave for a 9-5 job? Was it her desire to spend more time with her family?  Was that asked? I believe that the job she went to is a 9-5er for a commercial business.

When there is a major change in government leadership it is not unusual for there to be a change in senior staff.   

There are four candidates running for office (3 for council, 1 for mayor) that are trying to use staff losses as a reason to elect them.  IMHO, I think they need a lesson in government, even though one of them is a former council member, and was not an effective one at that.  These 4 people are Sandifer, Burchfield, Whitted and Murphy.  

Personally, I think the SM Post is a left leaning periodical and the four folks mentioned above are in lock step with that philosophy.

Sidebar:  How come the SM Post has not reported that the current council is being very fiscally responsible, to the extent that projects are getting done (and when reviewed by this council at substantial savings) while the city reserves are sitting at 57% when the standard to achieve is 30%?  And this with reducing the mill levy for the citizens.

Does The Shawnee Mission Post Cover for the Mayor?

 It seems like every time there is a disagreement between the mayor and a majority of the council that the SM Post kinda guns for the council.  Big issue, little issue, it doesn't matter.

Here's one, not super important but goes to show a little bit of what I am talking about.  At afairly recent meeting Councilmember Gillette referred to the mayor as a "lame duck".  The SM Post reporter commenting on that said that a "lame duck" was someone whose successor had been elected.  And since we haven't had the mayoral elections yet it didn't apply to Mayor Distler.  Distler was so thrilled with the SM Post that at the next meeting she thanked them for publishing that explanation.

Horse nonsense.  Just another example of the Post's staff needing a review of Government and Politics 101.  A "lame duck" is one whose successor has been elected or will soon be.  Basically, a person whose end of the term of office is approaching and they will not be serving past that date.  It can also be applied to a non-elected person, such as one who has tendered their resignation or who will be retiring.  A "lame duck" can and sometimes does things that because of their impending exit from the scene cannot be held accountable for their actions.  Another example, IMHO, of the staff of the Post doing PP research.  

What I find incredulous is that Distler, based on her education and the number of years that she has been on the political scene did not know the true meaning of the term.  She knows, just playing dum-dum.  Hey, anybody who gets arrested for felony perjury can't be a clear thinking person.

That was obvious when she said she could just go ahead and veto items approved by the council (even if she agreed).  She could.  But she would look like a a real dummy when the council overrode the veto.

Sidebar:  With all the fuss the SM Post has made about city employees leaving how come they haven't said anything about the SMSD?  Oh wait a minute, isn't that board made up of a bunch of southpaws?

Congrats to City Manager Doug Gerber

 Got a pamphlet in the mail the other day about the two items that will be on the ballot.  The Parks & Pipes tax and the Pavement tax.

The congrats are because our new city manager Doug Gerber and his staff did what they were supposed to and that was put out a pamphlet that educated and did not advocate.  When there is a ballot issue like these two items the city can distribute information that educates (tells the good, the bad and the ugly).  The city cannot advocate for one side or the other.

I remembered the info put out under the direction of the former city manager, Nolan Sunderman, regarding the proposed community center.  Many aspects of that literature could have been interpreted as advocating.  Also, much of the bad and the ugly was left out (omission could be considered by some as to be advocating).

It's great having a city manager who understands that he works for the council, not like one who thinks the council works for him (or her).

Laurel Burchfield - Hot Air Extraordinaire

 This candidate for Shawnee city council has, IMHO not lived in Shawnee long enough to understand certain things about this community.

This is from her web site:

Shawnee has seen significant turnover in city staff. In less than two years, six managers and directors have resigned their positions. City council members should listen to the expertise of skilled staff while balancing staff recommendations with community input as well as their own expertise. I will work to instill trust between our council members and staff, and be a good steward of the funding, resources, and talent of our city.

Golly gee willikers Burchfield, who writes your literature?  Kamala Harris?  

OK, I've covered most of this before, but will try it again for you who does not understand what has happened.  First, there will always be resignations after a change in governing bodies.  It happens at all levels.  Duhhhhh, Laurel did you fail to take government 101 in school?  We have a great staff, but, they are human, they can make mistakes, and they are not answerable to the people.  Your suggestion that the council should listen to staff, "while balancing staff recommendations with community input as well as their own expertise" is EXACTLY what this council has been doing.  See what happens when you haven't been here long enough to understand what is happening.

Additionally some of the staff losses have been because some of them were "trained" under a previous city manager who thought she ran the city completely.  Well, of course she thought that, because members of previous councils had abrogated their responsibilities to her.  Heck, we don't need that again.  When that happens you really don't need a council, well, except to rubber stamp everything.  Heck, because of the council's push, the Midland project is going to be $4 million less with a project that substantially more people can live with and accept.  

Now the council is pushing for another mill levy reduction.  Naturlly, left leaning folks don't want to see that.  They want more tax dollars coming in.  Heck, a mill levy reduction would fit right in because home values are rising and the city has substantially more in reserves than what is considered to be "safe".

Laurel is really too new to Shawnee and JoCo to know what has been going on.  She needs to live here for a few more years to understand things.  

Is it true that former Council Member Lindsey Constance supports Laurel Burchfield?  If so, that should, IMHO be an automatic disqualifier.

Five Months Left to Put Up With Distler's Trash

At a recent  city council meeting our not so illustrious mayor, Michelle Distler, seemed to possibly be suffering from CRAREC syndrome.

First, she was bemoaning the fact that the council voted to suspend any new board appointments until after the mayoral election.  She semed to think that the Planning Commission would suffer by being one member short until January.  Question for the mayor:  If you are so concerned about the Planning Commission being short why don't you inquire as to the pervasive absenteeism on that body?

At these PC meetings, here are the numbers for how many Commissioners were absent:

July 17.............2 members absent

July 3..............3 members absent

June 21...........2 members absent

June 5............meeting cancelled

May 15..........all present

May 1..........2 members absent

April 17......4 members absent

April 3........1 member absent

Second, let's talk a history lesson.  A member of the council questioned why the mayor chose the person she did, when another individual, Dave Myres had also expressed interest.  The mayor responded that previously when Mr. Myres had applied a member of the council had thought it was a negative since he had run for office (council) and lost.  Hmmm, is running for office and losing a reason not to be appointed?  Stand by, the history lesson is coming.  The fact that a person chooses to run for office does, IMHO, show that they are interested in serving the city.  OK, here comes the history lesson.  The year that Mr. Myres ran for the city council (Ward III) there was a primary in that race.  Mr. Myres was the top vote getter, and Justin Adrian was #2.  The individual who was the sitting council member at that time Jeff  Vaught was #3 and therefore bounced from running in the general election.  Now we get to the general election, and yes, Mr. Adrian beat Mr. Myres.  But how come Mr. Adrian didn't complete his term as a city council member?  How come he resigned?  The reason for that is an easy one to answer.  That is because Mr. Adrian was convicted of doing things that a teacher (yes, Olathe School District) is not supposed to be doing with a male student.  He wound up doing time in county lock up.

Now, let's look at those numbers:

Primary election (2017)  Dave Myres  609  Justin Adrian  415   Jeff Vaught 308

General election (2017)  Justin Adrian  1128   Dave Myres  1058

Over the years folks have lost elections and then gone on to win other elections or be appointed to various positions of responsibility all over the United States.

Transgender Brainwashing and Young Children

 OK, it was going to come out of my mouth eventually.  Why not now?

All of this stuff about teachers "educating" young children about transgenderism is starting to get to me.

This is absolutely pure out and out brainwashing and manipulation of young minds.  And remember, these so called educators don't want the parents to be involved.

A young child, can, IMHO, really be guided down the road that these folks are trying to lead them.  First, they are an authority figure.  Next, are they making it sound like something these kids might want to try?  Little Bobby thinks it might be nice to become a girl, and little Susie thinks, "wow, if I become a boy maybe I can play football some day."

So, I asked myself, I said "Self, instead of readin', ritin' and rithmatic, why are these supposed educators doing this.?"  And the answer hit me like a ton of the BS that they are tossing around out there.........it's a concerted effort to reduce the population by insuring that more and more of these kids, as they grow up, will be unable to procreate.  Now who wants our population to become a bunch of eunuchs down the road?  Would it be the commies sitting in Beijing?  Or Moscow?

How many of our current group of educators lean so far to the left that their cheeks could almost touch the ground?

Some parents have already seen the light and they are challenging school districts/boards/commissions on this trend.  It's time that more parents, grandparents and others get involved to stop this malicious sick attack on the children of this country.  And when it comes time to elect folks to school boards, commissions or what ever they are called in your area, don't vote for those that support brainwashing kids about this subject.

If ya wanna teach, then teach, but don't indoctrinate, especially something that could destroy lives.  Yes, like the folks who transitioned early in life and then realized it wasn't what it was cracked up to be.

Eric Jenkins for Ward 2 - Shawnee City Council

 The city has been fortunate to have an individual with Eric's background on the council, and who is currently serving his second term as council president.

As the city council has evolved many positive things have materialized with Eric leading the movement on many of these.

With regards to preserving our neighborhoods Eric has chamioned and been successful in defeating multifamily developments in areas adjacent to and inside of our peaceful and family-oriented R-1 zoning districts. A multi-family proposal at 54^th and Nieman was turned down and replaced by the developer with single family homes.  The developer did not just walk away as some would say that Shawnee is not friendly to developers.  We are.  But it needs to be the right kind in the right part of the city.

He sees the absolute most important needs as being Public Safety and Infrastructure.  Efforts by him and the rest of the current city council focuses on these areas first.  A salary analysis was conducted and determined that our police and firefighters were significantly underpaid in comparison to our competitor cities.  Those salaries were raised to remain competitive and not lower our police or firefighter standards. With COVID federal dollars the city acquired a mobile command post for our police department.  These efforts have placed Shawnee on the leading edge in the metro in public safety. 

I'll have more things to say about Eric as we go forward.  For those that may not be aware of it, Eric is a retired US Army Colonel and also retired from FEMA.  While with FEMA, he was that agency's man on the site in charge of supervising the rebuilding of communities after a disaster.  He knows what it takes to make a city function.  We need him to continue to represent the citizens of Ward 2 on the city council, and as such to represent the city when the council needs to take action on various matters.

Megan Warner for Shawnee Council - Ward 4

 

Megan Warner is definitely a person we need on the Shawnee City Council to represent Ward 4.

Her life began at Shawnee Mission Medical Center, now Advent, and she grew up in the neighborhood of 69th and Stearns.  After graduating HS she joined the US Army Reserves, served eight years including a one year deployment in Operation Iraqi Freedom II (2003-2004). As a heavy equipment operator (mostly with HETs), she was eventually honorably discharged as a Staff Sergeant (E6).

Her college education was at JCCC and Friends University in Wichita maintaining a 4.0 GPA at both.  After college she worked as a police dispatcher in Prairie Village while living in Shawnee.

Upon returning from her military duty in Iraq, and while living in Shawnee, she took classes to become a real estate appraiser.  She earned her state appraisal certification and MAI designation for appraisers. Megan is the owner of Keystone Appraisals here in Shawnee.

In 2006 she married Jeremy and they moved to Olathe where she opened her own real estate appraisal business in 2012.  They moved back to Shawnee in 2020.  Here they raise their four children.  Having volunteered for many years to be foster parents they adopted two of their foster children. This means that these two children could live a normal family life as opposed to being shuffled around the foster system.  The family attends the Reformed Presbyterian Church in Shawnee.  Community involvement includes volunteering for Shawnee's Neighbors Helping Neighbors.  She also volunteers for Catholic Charities and Mission Southside, helping refugee women to learn English.

As a city, we would benefit from her experiences as a business owner, a combat veteran, an engaged community volunteer, and a wife and mother.

Unlike her opponent, Laura Burchfield, Megan has spent her life in JoCo and mostly in Shawnee.  Her opponent moved to Shawnee only two years ago after spending fourteen years out of state and out of the country.  We need someone more familiar with local happenings to represent us.

For the record, I'm a Ward 4 resident and Megan gets my vote!!!!

 

It's July 4th and Time to "God Bless America"

 OK, I'm gonna say it.......today is the 247th Anniversary of the greatest country on earth.  Do we have our problems?  Sure, who doesn't. By the same token I am getting sick and tired of those individuals that desire to tear our country down.  Those who belong to the "cancel culture" the "woke" mobs and definitely those that try to turn this country into a socialist institution.  And last but not least, those supposed educators, who, instead of teaching the three R's (reading, riting and rithmatic....showing my age) are trying to indoctrinate our youth with some of the most abhorrent philosophies ever imagined.

Yes, this is the greatest country on earth, and no other country can compare to it.  And those who don't believe it are free to try and see what it is like in other parts of the world.  Not just fancy vacation spots, but everyday living.  And I might also add, many out there need to consider signing up for some time with our military to defend what has been won with the blood, sweat and tears of those who have gone before us.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

Shawnee Ward 1 - Tammy Thomas vs Sierra Whitted

 The Ward 1 city council race in Shawnee is on.  Tammy Thomas, the current incumbent is being challenged by Sierra Whitted.

This is really funny.  Thomas is in her first term, and yet she has been on the council longer than Whitted has lived in Shawnee.  That's right, this Lawrence KS transplant does not know what it means to really live or work in Shawnee, as she still works in Lawrence.  You know Lawrence, the city where most folks are indoctrinated with the super left ideology.  Is this the best that the "opposing" forces could muster?  Someone still wet behind the ears about Shawnee.  Oh, and who is her campaign treasurer, and probably the person that recruited her to run?  None other Lisa Larson-Bunnell, who leans so far left that she makes Joe biden look like a conservative.

OK, on with the good stuff.  Tammy Thomas knows Shawnee, from ALL aspects.  As a resident, she has lived here for a total of 28 years.  As a parent, all 3 of her children had their entire K-12 education in the De Soto School District.  As an involved member of the community Tammy and her husband Bryan, have spent countless hours working and volunteering with the Shawnee Sharks Swim & Dive Team. She is currently the Kansas State Director for a nonprofit "Safe Families for Children".  their mission is to keep children safe and families together, working to keep families away from the foster care system and state engagement. Prior to that Tammy was the Kansas City Regional Director, for the Kansas Department for Children and Families.  She also served on the USD 232 Board of Education from 2009-2013.

Her husband's family has been in Shawnee since the 1960's and ran successful businesses during that time.

Tammy does know Shawnee.  She knows what it takes to live here, get an education for your children and to work here.  Yes, she is conservative in nature.  She has shown that she is a concerned, involved member of the council, unlike her rubber stamping predecessor.  And yes, one of her major accomplishments was to vote to stop the possibility of outside developers, buying up single family residences, and then converting those residences into mini apartments, by remodeling and adding 5, 6 & yes 7 bedrooms.  But left  leaning liberals have chosen that item to erroneously attack those that supported it as being against individuals with differing sexual preferences.  Stopping developers from converting single family residences was and is not anti gay life style.  It was meant to stop the deterioration of residential neighborhoods.  

Unlike her predecessors on the council Tammy has and will continue to question expenses.  That money is property of the citizens of Shawnee.  The city has no money of its own.  That is what a council member is supposed to do.  Not rubber stamp every item that comes across the council dais.  Standing firm with other council members the city will be saving over $4 million on the Midland Drive rehab project and still getting a safer roadway, curbs, gutters, a new sewer & wastewater system, bicycle lanes and a sidewalk so folks don't have to navigate ditches.

Tammy deserves to be reelected to the Ward 1 council seat.  Sierra needs to learn what it is to live and work in Shawnee and not virtually just move here and feel that she is qualified to represent Ward  1 on the council.

Shawnee Mayor's Race - Kemmling vs Sandifer

 

Dr. Mike Kemmling who currently represents Ward II in Shawnee is running for mayor of Shawnee.  He is opposed by Mickey Sandifer, a former councilmember.

 

Mike would bring many things to the office. Among these would be a youthful, current generation outlook, a conservative financial discipline, experience as a business owner and a strong desire to do what is right for those who elect him.  All of this without being beholden to a “good old boys network”.

Unlike Sandifer, Mike has already  shown that he is not a rubber stamp for any group.  Sandifer, along with other members of previous councils abrogated their rights and responsibilities and basically let a former city manager do whatever she wanted to.  He, Sandifer, was a classic puppet on a string.  He also has a history of wasteful spending to attend conferences outside the city. 

Kemmling for Shawnee Mayor has a nice ring to it.

Positive Outcome for Midland Drive Project, Thank You City Council

 It looks like something is going to finally be done about that terrible, unsafe, stretch of road.  Midland Drive, west of I-435 to where it turns and meets Shawnee Mission Parkway.

Let's back up a little.  I'm going to simplify this.The city council was presented with a variety of plans.  The one that staff was recommending would have cost the city $6.5 million in addition to federal funds ($4 million) and JoCo CARS funding.  That plan would also have had serious encroachment into homeowner's property.

The council was looking at a reduced concept, that would not cost the city $6.5 million and that would not have had as much encroachment into homeowner's properties.  City staff had advised the council that if they reduced the plans the city would probably lose the fed's $4 million.  In the old days, the previous councils would have just rubber stamped the recommendation as presented.  This council said no.  They wanted it reworked.  Now, this is where some malcontents would shout that the council was being disrespectful of the staff's work and knowledge.  Not so.  The council has respect for staff, and they also have an obligation to the citizens of Shawnee to act in their best interests.

So what happened.  We know that Councilmember Jacklynn Walters (Ward IV) did a whole bunch of leg work on this project to get it going down a better path (no pun intended).  And, she was supported by Council President Eric Jenkins of Ward II.

So, what is the result?  It appears that the project is going to go forward.  It appears that the cost to Shawnee has dropped to $2.5 million, and, it looks like the $4 million in fed money will still be there, along with the JoCo CARS funding.

What are the basics of the improvement?  First of all the roadway itself will be redone and made to be a safer stretch of roadway. Two dedicated bicycle lanes will be added.  A sidewalk will be added on the north side (no more walking in mud, dirt etc).  Curbs and gutters will be added, and the ditches will be replaced with a stormwater/sewer system.  And last but not least, the encroachment into homeowner's property will be substantially reduced.

Kudos to Councilpersons Walters and Jenkins and the rest of the council that pushed for the plan as finalized.  This was a true win-win for all concerned.

Shawnee Mission Post Blows It, Again

 It is getting worse.  Methinks the SM Post needs to hire some reporters who a) understand government and b) do historical research.  Or, maybe they can't affor those type of reporters.  Heck, they run enough "sponsored" items (that look like news articles) and their staff is constantly pleading for subscribers to get $$$ into the system.  Oh well......

In that left leaning ludicrous article, which appears to try and toss aspersions on the current city council, they were missing a few key points about the council not approving the reappointment of Alan Willoughby to the Planning Commission.

First, as a member of the Planning Commission he is a part of the government of the city.  Guess what.  It's a no-no to use an official position in the city to advocate for or against an item that is to be voted on by the citizens.  His wearing of that t-shirt, on the dais was contrary to that.

Now, if the reporter had done some research she might have come across this article and others at that point in time including doing a search of this blog.  Mr. Willoughby was appointed to fill an eunexpired position on the city council which resulted in the Mayor, Jeff Meyers and various council members being called out by the JoCo DA for violating the spirit of the KOMA.  Then, when he lost the election to serve a full term (the basis of most of the article) Mayor Jeff Meyers nominated him to be reappointed to the Planning Commission.  He had previously served there.  The vote for the appointment was evenly split 4-4. So, Jeff Meyers broke the tie and voted yea.  Oh, did I mention, that Willoughby is Jeff Meyers' uncle by marriage.  That's right, let's keep Uncle Alan in positions of importance, or piss off your spouse.

Some folks wanted to know how Uncle Alan got reappointed four years ago.  That's easy to answer. Mayor Distler recommended the reappointment and the council at that time (which had a different philosophical make up) voted to approve.

As we get into another election season I really think the full time reporters for the SM Post need to study the functions and operations of government and also learn how to research for their articles.  My opinion, and I'm entitled to it.

Does The Shawnee Mission Post Have Tunnel Vision?

 A few weeks ago the Shawnee Mission Post ran an article saying that staff leaving city government was the fault of the city council.  My first impression was that the two young ladies who wrote the article needed to do things.  First, take a class in Government 101, and then really do some historical research on Shawnee's city gjovernment.

One expression that has been bandied about is "diviseveness", including by our perjury committing mayor.  Well ladies, were you aware that the counci is a legislative body.  True, not as many members as the state legislature or the congress, but still a legislative body.  And, guess what?  Legislative bodies are made up of people.  Yes, people, who have different ideas and opinions.  And yes, because of that they will be divided on issues. 

They also mention, again, former city manager Nolan Sunderman who left the city because his vision for the city was not the same vision as the council's.  I covered this before.  The city manager is an employee subordinate to the city council.  The council (who is answerable to the citizens) sets the vision, not the city manager.  Basically the city manager is supposed to do what he is told.  Sunderman apparently thought he could get away with what his predecessor had for many years and do what he wanted.  One of the more egregious acts of insubordination on his part was when the council wanted him to come to them with the info on a 2 mill levy reduction in property taxes.  Sunderman took it upon himself to bring forth the info on a 1/2 mill levy reduction.  The council had him redo that and they passed a 2 mill reduction.

Sunderman's predecessor had for many years basically done what she wanted to do.  The council, while she was in that position basically abrogated their responsibilities and just rubber stamped anything that she and staff brought forth.  If that is the way that city government is supposed to be run then we don't need a council.  Think about that.  Why have the voters changed the face of the council from one that just rubber stamps anything to one that wants answers, explanations, etc.?

That now brings us to the various comments about the council not respecting staff.  Horse s**t.  This council has great respect for staff.  We have some excellent folks on staff at city hall.  Staff is composed of people.  Human beings with human frailties.  It is the council's responibility to review what is brought forth and then make decisions based on their evaluations, not to just willy nilly rubber stamp everything.  Remember, the council needs to answer to their bosses.....the citizens.

The article mentions the departure of Julie Breithaupt who left to go into private industry.  She had been the city's communications manager and then shortly prior to her departure had been promoted to communications director, with a communications manager subordinate to her.  Originally she was attending most of the city's various public meetings (which are held at night) and had to be available 24/7/365 if there were inquiries that required a city response.  When she got promoted the responsibilities of PIO for the PD and FD were put on her plate.  That could mean expanded 24/7/365 accessibility.  So now the question begs to be asked:  Was her departure really because of the council or was it because as a young mother she wanted to spend more time with her family and did not want the to be on call 24/7/365? Anybody ask her for an honest answer to that question?  Could be interesting!!!

Whenever there is a major change in the philosophical make up of a legislative body there will always be staff departures.  This is not new.  

Something else I noticed.  It is my opinion that if one was to print out the Shawnee Mission Post and stand it on its edge it the sheet of paper might have a tendency to lean to the left, instead of just standing straight up with no leaning.

Memorial Day - More Than Just BBQ

 Tomorrow, Monday, May 29th 2023 is Memorial Day.  Many folks will be visiting with friends and relatives.  Lots of meat is going to be tossed on the backyard BBQ, along with corn on the cob, beans and a slew of other enjoyable edibles.  Nothing wrong with that.  Enjoy.

Just one favor.  Take a minute or two (or even three or four) before you sink your teeth into those culinary delights to remember what Memorial Day is all about.  Remmeber the saying, "All gave some, some gave all"?  Well, Memorial Day is to honor those who "gave all".  Keep in mind, if it wasn't for them you might not be in that backyard BBQing.  Sure, we have disagreements on many things in this country.  But, we also have more freedoms than almost all other countries in the world.

So, take those few minutes to remember and remind those with you why Memorial Day is the day that it is.  Especially the youngsters.  Drag them away from their Nintendos, X-Boxes, Cell phones, etc.  Teach them about it.

Shawnee Mission Post Whitewashes Mayor Distler's Indiscretion

 In an article published today, the Shawnee Mission Post did a bunch of rah rah for outgoing Mayor Distler, and just glanced over her perjury arrest.

Yes, she may have been the first female mayor elected, but she was also the first mayor ever to be arrested and charged with a felony.  By performing certain acts (and refraining from others) under a diversion agreement, charges were dropped and prosecution was not pursued.

This is what the SM Post had to say in their long, rah rah article:

That inclination ultimately may have gotten her in legal trouble in March 2020, when Distler reported an alleged violation of the Kansas Open Meetings Act by some city councilmembers in an email thread.

In doing so, she was charged with felony perjury in Johnson County District Court because she used a blogger’s name instead of her own in filing the complaint. The case was dismissed after Distler completed 150 hours of community service.

Here's a real kicker.  In the SM Post's link to their original article about the community service, this is what they wrote:

Distler’s case stems from a March 7 email thread that included four council members as well as others. Distler told an investigator she was concerned that the discussion violated open meetings laws, but reluctant to put her own name on it for fear of repercussions from some political opponents. She said she tried to file anonymously, including identifying information from another person and that the complaint was filed accidentally. Investigators disputed that.

What a bunch of nonsense.  She claimed it was filed accidentally and that investigators disputed that.  What a joke.  If you read the affidavit for the arrest warrant you can count how many different stories she told investigators.  Including the possibility that her daughter transmitted the complaint.  What is ironic, is that all of those stories emanated from the mouth of an individual that works in cyber security.

Well, in a couple of days you will have a chance to read those different stories she told as the arrest affidavit will be republished here.  It had been previously published in other local KC area media outlets.  And we'll also publish  the diversion agreement.  They both make for good reading.

Maybe she'll finally get around to apologizing publicly to the people of Shawnee for her actions,since she cares sooooooo much for the city.  

Celebrate Armed Forces Day @ Wyandotte County Park with F.I.S.H.

 On Saturday, May 20th, 2023 F.I.S.H. (Friends In Service of Heroes) is having their annual celebratory event at the Wyandotte County Fairgrounds 13700 Polfer Rd, KCK.  It will be from 10:00AM to 4:00PM (and if you are used to the 24 hour clock 1000 to 1600 hours).

There will be displays of military equipment, live bands, service dog exhibits and many other military related activities.  

Info can be found by clicking here  Here is a list of their partners that help to support their activities

This is a very family friendly event. Refreshments will be available for purchase.  C'mon out.  Support them and show support for our troops.

Our Military is Being Decimated by the Woke Culture!!!!

 OK, I've just about had it with the woke culture.  All branches of our military are failing to meet their recruiting goals and are bleeding long term members who are failing to continue their time in service.

What is causing this?  The BS of placing more emphasis on woke crap like DEI, CRT and all the rest of the alphabet of garbage topics, within the military and even at the prestigious military academies.

The military is supposed to be trained to defend this country not to make social statements.  Our military needs the latest and greates in weaponology, and tactical training, not who can identify as what to use another gender's bathroom.

Our current Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin is bowing to the Conspirator-in-chief Biden and the rest of the woke culture to accomplish this..

My solution:  First, stop with all of the classes, lectures, books, and pamphlets designed to denigrate our system and that promote the woke culture.  Second, bring back the draft and let's have these whiney, cry baby, woke culture folks drafted into the military, train them to be warriors to defend our country and let them learn what it takes to do so.  That includes all of them, including the LGBQT+xyzabc alphabet soup.  I used to be very understanding and respectful of these folks until they started trying to jam their lifestyle down everybody else's throats.  They are entitled to their lifestyle.  They are not entitled to jam it down my throat.

Please Help a 97 Year Old WWII Vet and His Wife of 74 Years Stay In Their Home

 It has recently been brought to my atention that the parents of a long time City of Shawnee volunteer are experiencing health and financial problems.  Her father is a WWII Vet (part of the "Greatest Generation).  They will be married 74 years this year and are doing anything and everything possible to remain in the home that they have occupied for over 70 years.

A Go Fund Me account has been set up and can be accessed by clicking here.

We have recently been told that Shawnee is a "Hometown With A Heart".  Let's show it........please!!!!!

New City Manager Has the Right Attitude

 Welcome to Shawnee, Doug Gerber.

In a recent article in the Shawnee Mission Post, our new city manager is quoted as saying, “Ultimately, my priorities will be what the governing bodies priorities are.” (spelling/syntax error courtesy of the Shawnee Mission Post).

This is an entirely different, and welcome change from what was displayed by his two previous predecessors who appeared to think the council worked for the city manager.

His background should prove to be very useful to positively affect Shawnee.  We won't hold his fondness for K-State athletics against him.

Read the article at the Shawnee Mission Post.

Mayor Distler's Hypocrisy Knows No Limits

 At the beginning of each council meeting Mayor distler reads a litany of things that folks cannot do/say at a meeting.  This is based on info from Policy Statement 7 (PS-7).  That policy statement even goes so far as to say how members of the council need to act.  To be respectful of other members of the council, yada, yada, yada.

So, what does our hypocritical mayor do at a recent council meeting?  She referred to the council as "shady", "sneaky", "unethical" and "not supportive of staff".  Hmmmm, who is going to "gavel her down"?  Very hypocritical for someone who was arrested for felony perjury to refer to the council in that manner (the first three items).  Folks need to read the affidavit from the DA's office requesting the arrest warrant and see for themselves how many different stories our illustrious mayor came up with regarding her actions.  Folks just might have that opportunity in the not too distant future.  

As for being supportive of staff, the council supports staff.  What the mayor wants, is for the council to rubber stamp everything that staff submits.  That is not what the council is supposed to do.  The council sets policy and is supposed to review what staff prepares, and if they feel it is appropriate to suggest other possible  courses of actions. 

National Vietnam War Veterans Day

National Vietnam War Veterans Day is observed annually on March 29 in the United States. It is a national observance that recognizes veterans who served in the US military during the Vietnam War.

On March 28, 2017, President Trump signed the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act of 2017. This act officially recognizes March 29 as National Vietnam War Veterans Day.

And yet, our illustrious mayor did not issue any kind of proclamation acknowledging this.  At least our council president, Eric Jenkins, COL, USA (Ret.) mentioned it at the last council meeting.

Mayor Distler's "Softball Interview" For Women's History Month

 The current email of the city's weekly newsletter "A Few Good Words" has a softball interview with Mayor Distler since this is Women's History Month.

I feel sorry for the staff member that had to conduct this interview, which can be read here.  They could not ask the tough questions.

Instead I'll ask them.

1.  As the first female mayor of Shawnee how do you feel about being arrested for felony perjury?

2.  As the first female mayor of Shawnee how do you feel about serving a diversion agreement so as not to be prosecuted?

3.  As the first female mayor of Shawnee how do you feel about never having apologized to the citizens of Shawnee (including the person whose name you fraudulently used)?

Now those would be interesting questions to get answers to during Women's History Month.

Loser Lisa Larson-Bunnell is Recruiting Candidates?

 Oh my gosh.  Lisa the Loser Larson-Bunnell is recruiting candidates to run for city office.  You can read it here.  

I gotta laugh at what she says.  First, why isn't she running again?  Hmmm, as an appointed city council person when she ran for a full term, she lost....(dumba$$).  Why did she move from Ward 3 to Ward 4?  Could it be that her neighbors in Ward 3 were not happy with her views for the city?  (dumba$$)  Could she even get support from the public to run?  Door knocking, literature handing out and monetary contributions?  (dumba$$).  What does her family feel about her running again?  Maybe, just maybe they are against it, and that is why she isn't running? (dumba$$).

She says:  "

1. The Council insists on imposing their limited culture and beliefs on our entire community. Their extreme behaviors transcend political party affiliation and lead to dangerous precedents and outcomes. "

 Wow, is that a stupid statement from a dumba$$.  Why did the face of the council change?  Simple, because the citizens were not enamored with her and the others of her leanings who were on the council.  Is that why she lost?  And is that why the two folks who ran instead of Zimmerman and Constance also lost.  Maybe the folks were tired of the left wing, sock it to the public attitude of these people.  Like trying to jam that community center down the city's throat.  (dumba$$)

She even goes on to say that the current council does not rely on the professionals on staff for analysis, etc etc etc.  Hmmmmm, let's talk about the recently departed city manager Nolan Sunderman.  He who thought the council worked for him and not the other way around.  He who was told to bring the info to the budget meeting about a 2 mill reduction in the mill levy and then took it upon himself to bring a 1/2 mill reduction.  Fortunately the council corrected his arrogant move on that one.  Also, she talks about folks leaving.  Hey, that happens when there are changes in government.  Especially with younger folks looking to "move on up".  Just look at Washington.  How many folks have left the Biden administration in only two years?  Man, is Loser LL-B a dumba$$.