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Post by lisas84 on Apr 2, 2008 7:26:00 GMT -5
In my opinion, there is strong sensibility to some points in this article. Given the high numbers of visitors in an area that can be measured basically in square feet, it makes sense to me to be proactive in an attempt to thwart potential chaos that results in some sort of tragedy.
To flip this concept around, from a PR standpoint, let’s say some unsavory character or two sojourned to Kruise Nite, skulked around and started a fight that resulted in murder or permanent disfigurement. That “news” would likely create permanent disfigurement of the borough in the minds of many visitors who would choose to stay away. Perhaps to take two steps forward one may need to take one step back first, especially if the original direction of those two steps resulted in falling into a cesspool.
That said, this has brought out something wonderful – an opportunity to get out of the comfort zone, out of stagnation, to create a better plan of addressing the key factors that will ensure that this annual event goes forward in a well-controlled, robust and healthy manner. People involved are forced out of their shells to work together.
In addition, according to the article, the intent was not to permanently kill KN – but to suspend it in order to go back to the drawing board and re-develop it. “Suspension” does not mean “termination.”
I know several folks on the FCP, including Mr. Page, who I respect highly because he is grounded, fair minded, and solution-oriented. I have every confidence that he will lead his group to compose and help implement a successful re-engineering of Kruise Nite.
To go back earlier, there were several people, such as Novillero, Kelsey and Fiber, who offered up terrifically viable ideas of how to keep this event sane and solid. I want to give them praise for doing so and hope that more posters here may desire to follow suit.
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Post by novillero on Apr 2, 2008 8:04:09 GMT -5
In my opinion, there is strong sensibility to some points in this article. Given the high numbers of visitors in an area that can be measured basically in square feet, it makes sense to me to be proactive in an attempt to thwart potential chaos that results in some sort of tragedy. To flip this concept around, from a PR standpoint, let’s say some unsavory character or two sojourned to Kruise Nite, skulked around and started a fight that resulted in murder or permanent disfigurement. That “news” would likely create permanent disfigurement of the borough in the minds of many visitors who would choose to stay away. Perhaps to take two steps forward one may need to take one step back first, especially if the original direction of those two steps resulted in falling into a cesspool. That said, this has brought out something wonderful – an opportunity to get out of the comfort zone, out of stagnation, to create a better plan of addressing the key factors that will ensure that this annual event goes forward in a well-controlled, robust and healthy manner. People involved are forced out of their shells to work together. In addition, according to the article, the intent was not to permanently kill KN – but to suspend it in order to go back to the drawing board and re-develop it. “Suspension” does not mean “termination.” I know several folks on the FCP, including Mr. Page, who I respect highly because he is grounded, fair minded, and solution-oriented. I have every confidence that he will lead his group to compose and help implement a successful re-engineering of Kruise Nite. To go back earlier, there were several people, such as Novillero, Kelsey and Fiber, who offered up terrifically viable ideas of how to keep this event sane and solid. I want to give them praise for doing so and hope that more posters here may desire to follow suit. Lisa, under your logic there should be no events because there is always the possibility that some psycopath will show up and start murdering people. I have not heard of any safety concerns at any Kruise Night. I have never heard of fights or traffic accidents as a result of it. Maybe there have been some, but I never heard of it. If street safety is a concern, perhaps crossing guards can be hired at dangerous spots. If people are worried about fights, well, that can happen anywhere. I think Councilwoman Schutzer's comments were over the top and intentionally exaggerated to bolster her case, it was sensationalizing - as well as other comments made.
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Post by lisas84 on Apr 2, 2008 8:11:47 GMT -5
No, Novillero, you misread my post. I never alluded to the idea that there should never be any events. All events should be properly planned and controlled. It is always a good idea to plan with anticipation of potential problems so they may be thwarted.
And, again, your suggestion about crossing guards is a good one.
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Post by stffgpr2003 on Apr 2, 2008 8:40:01 GMT -5
Everyone needs to stay calm and think constructively, pro-actively and dare I say, optimistically, about the present Kruize Night situation. I am going to next week's Council Meeting with an open mind, anticipating that our business community will offer some great recommendations designed to largely address the concerns of the town.
The only thing "killed" so far is Kruize Night "2007-style." I do not believe we will be returning to that same scenario, ever again. If Kruize Night returns it will be presented with major modifications that take into account our resident's quality of life concerns, public safety issues and economic considerations. All of this is left to our due diligence, careful thought and creativity - how to do it right and if it should be done at all.
What is currently on the table is Kruize Night "The Next Generation." Does it have a future? What might future Kruize Nights look like? Can this event be sufficiently retooled to limit the concerns of the past? What benchmarks must we achieve to allow the event to continue? How will we measure the results of the changes made and what will determine success or failure? At what point can we claim success (with change) or decide it is time to pull the plug? Obviously, even with early success, the event still requires close monitoring and continuous tweaking.
Everyone in town is anxious to hear what possible solutions exist. These will be weighed, as presented, and decisions will be made based on their viability.
Most important, in this matter, is that the needs of all are being considered. No one may be completely satisfied with the final outcome - one way or the other. But, as I said before. The decisions made must be right for Freehold Borough - the collective community.
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Post by richardkelsey on Apr 2, 2008 9:28:18 GMT -5
Thanks Marc. I agree. The goal should be to optimize the event to protect all interests. Inevitably, the event has to grow and change.
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Post by admin on Apr 8, 2008 6:30:48 GMT -5
www.app.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080408/NEWS01/804080384/1285/LOCAL09FREEHOLD — Borough Council members assured residents Monday that although they had not yet made a decision about continuing Kruise Night events, they were talking with the Freehold Center Partnership and expected to have a resolution soon. "We're listening. And we're working with the partnership," Councilwoman Sharon Shutzer said at the council's meeting Monday. Several residents attended the meeting to express their feelings about Kruise Nights, popular motorcycle and vintage car shows held every summer in the borough. Most of the speakers were in favor of continuing the events. "We'd hate to see that (Kruise Night) go away," said Peter Zaklukiewicz, treasurer of the Freehold Kruisers. Now hosted by the partnership and the Western Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, the Freehold Kruisers started the car shows nearly 19 years ago. "Everybody looks forward to coming (to the events)," Zaklukiewicz told the council. "It would be a tragedy to give it up." After hearing a presentation from Police Chief Mitch Roth on public safety concerns related to Kruise Night, which can attract thousands of people, the Borough Council had decided to cancel the summer events. But members of the partnership, a local economic development organization, pleaded with officials to reconsider at the council's March 24 meeting. Council members relented somewhat, promising to let the partnership present a plan for running the Kruise Nights that addressed the council's concerns. The council might then decide to allow the car and motorcycle shows to be held this year. The partnership expects to present such a plan this week, partnership chairman Mike Page said in a phone interview before Monday's meeting. Page, who co-owns the Court Jester restaurant in Freehold, said the plan will be given to borough Business Administrator Joseph Bellina. "We (the partnership) have been working really hard on this," Page said. Page declined to describe the plan before the council has had a chance to see it. Once submitted, the plan will be reviewed by Mayor Michael Wilson, the council and by Roth, Bellina said before the meeting. "We want to do it right. Give it (the plan) the proper review," Bellina said. At Monday's meeting, Council President Michael DiBenedetto told residents that when the council made its decision, it would need to take everyone's concerns into account — those of local business owners and those of residents. "Whatever decision we do make, it will not make all of you 100 percent happy," DiBenedetto said.
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Post by novillero on Apr 8, 2008 7:45:00 GMT -5
Any clues about this plan? This article has a lot of words, but no real substance. It sounds like the author talked to council members, Kruize Night participants and the FCP, but the article only talked in generalities. It's very frustrating to be a reader of this newspaper.
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Post by lisas84 on Apr 8, 2008 7:55:19 GMT -5
Good morning, Novillero!
I can understand your frustration for the lack of plan details. I was at the council meeting last evening and it appears that at this moment, the plan of the FCP remains undisclosable to the public until it is presented formally to the council.
I would expect that following this formal presentation, the public would most certainly be informed about the event.
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Post by novillero on Apr 8, 2008 8:03:04 GMT -5
ahh... a secret. shhh.
I guess I should have read this line of the article more carefully:
Page declined to describe the plan before the council has had a chance to see it.
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Post by admin on Apr 8, 2008 8:14:58 GMT -5
I think this article reaffirms much of what we have discussed on the site. Lisa84 rightfully pointed out in the past that this event is likely not DOA and is simply hitting a rough spot.
We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did.
So far, we have all been right! ( as usual)
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Post by lisas84 on Apr 8, 2008 8:18:37 GMT -5
There is nothing subversive or sneaky there. If details are not finalized and approved yet, it makes sense to not release the plan in progress to the media.
As a member of both the media itself and a press relations specialist for various companies and entities that seek to work with the media, I can tell you that this is a highly common business practice.
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Post by fiberisgoodforyou on Apr 8, 2008 8:23:15 GMT -5
I think this article reaffirms much of what we have discussed on the site. Lisa84 rightfully pointed out in the past that this event is likely not DOA and is simply hitting a rough spot. We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did. So far, we have all been right! ( as usual) " We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did."...Then how do you think this should have transpired please? If you where on the FCP or the Council, what would you be doing differently? (this is not directed at Brian this is for all to comment on, but Brain... in-effect you raised this question )
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Post by admin on Apr 8, 2008 8:43:55 GMT -5
I think this article reaffirms much of what we have discussed on the site. Lisa84 rightfully pointed out in the past that this event is likely not DOA and is simply hitting a rough spot. We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did. So far, we have all been right! ( as usual) " We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did."...Then how do you think this should have transpired please? If you where on the FCP or the Council, what would you be doing differently? (this is not directed at Brian this is for all to comment on, but Brain... in-effect you raised this question ) You said it yourself in another post about the time between events. I believe you mentioned the seven month disconnect between parties involved. These issues surrounding the Kruise Nite did not just pop up. As I mentioned previous, I have also heard about the growing issues for a couple of years now. That in mind, none of this is a surprise. What it comes down to is that these discussions in the council meetings, news papers etc. should have occurred some time ago, not when we are on the verge of another season and the event should be upon us. It all comes down to public perception and relations from where I stand. With the timing of these issues it comes across as bad PR and makes it all look to be more of a crisis than I believe it is. Events change and evolve. I am not laying blame at anyones feet, just saying I think there could have been a better way. For the most part all of the discussions combined on this thread have been very accurate. I also think it is safe to say, we will get Kruise Nite back.
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Post by fiberisgoodforyou on Apr 8, 2008 8:57:54 GMT -5
There is nothing subversive or sneaky there. I don't see Novi's comments as subversive or sneaky negitivity. Novi is pointing the string of disconnections regarding a vital economic staple for downtown that has now recieved very public exposure due to a last minute(apparently)call from city Hall and our PD to discontinue this event. Not sayiong this call is right or wrong, buy the timing sucks and is not good for Downtown PR. I'm on the fence with Kruse Night, but I will suggest...,just as neighbors around Bennett street had been poled about use of the old school house, this same attention needs to be paid to the people/families who live around the perimieter of the Kruse night zone too. Not only are the buisness effected, but quality of life issues of the people that live on top of kruse night certinly must be considered too. I lived with Motorcycles and loud street cars till 11:00 PM - Midnight with 3 little babbies trying to sleep, but we managed to live around all that noise, mainly by heading to a boardwalk the last Thursday of each Month. The few times we stayed home, cars continually comming and going with the 1000 watt subwoofers rattling my wall and windows, as they stream in and out of the two parking spaces in front of my house. I swear, somtimes living by the subway "L" is quieter. Call me a malcontent, but a sound ordinance is LONG overdue, how can you enforce it? BTW, the J-Bracking will also be part of a sound ordinance violation (two fines?? ;D), People need to " Mind Your Dbs PLEASE [/u]" (lets see a few of these signs go up around town!). I know that FCP has not reach out to the neighboring renters or home owners. No one has come to speak with us, that I know!
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Post by fiberisgoodforyou on Apr 8, 2008 9:02:26 GMT -5
Did I ?, Oh well and now you did too!!! ;D I think in a way we all said that in a way! I thing Marc said this last year! " We also saw a couple of opinions more or less stating that this entire issue should not have transpired the way it did."...Then how do you think this should have transpired please? If you where on the FCP or the Council, what would you be doing differently? (this is not directed at Brian this is for all to comment on, but Brain... in-effect you raised this question ) You said it yourself in another post about the time between events. I believe you mentioned the seven month disconnect between parties involved. These issues surrounding the Kruise Nite did not just pop up. As I mentioned previous, I have also heard about the growing issues for a couple of years now. That in mind, none of this is a surprise. What it comes down to is that these discussions in the council meetings, news papers etc. should have occurred some time ago, not when we are on the verge of another season and the event should be upon us. It all comes down to public perception and relations from where I stand. With the timing of these issues it comes across as bad PR and makes it all look to be more of a crisis than I believe it is. Events change and evolve. I am not laying blame at anyones feet, just saying I think there could have been a better way. For the most part all of the discussions combined on this thread have been very accurate. I also think it is safe to say, we will get Kruise Nite back.
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Post by stffgpr2003 on Apr 8, 2008 10:57:53 GMT -5
Actually, discussions between the council and the Partnership have been ongoing for quite some time. During the same time period, there have been many changes taking place within the Partnership (e.g replacing the event planning services Allen Consulting provided, as one example). It's leaders have also had to shift gears, back and forth, between Partnership activities and their own personal business issues. Rob Cash and Mike Page have also been advising and assisting Steve Goldberg with the plans for the restaurants that may eventually reside in the American Hotel.
Recently, a few new and key issues entered the Kruize Night picture (e.g. availability of State Trooper and Sheriff Department personnel for 2008, etc.), which caused Chief Roth and the council some added and more immediate concern. This is mostly what propelled the issue to the forefront of attention in recent weeks. As you can all agree, public safety is a key issue in the planning and execution of any such event. These key issues are among the details being worked out and are at the foundation of successful event planning and management.
As was mentioned last evening, all parties are still talking. The talk is thoughtful and serious. The event is being discussed with the best interests of all in mind. Nothing will or should be released to the press until the details are concrete.
As Councilman Dibenedetto commented, last night - whatever the final decision, no one will be 100% satisfied with the final decision. They can't be - since there are people in town that either are 100% for the event or 100% against it. Everyone is looking for a middle ground that serves the best interests of most.
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ka19
Junior Member
Posts: 356
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Post by ka19 on Apr 8, 2008 11:38:50 GMT -5
Although I'm not a motorcycle rider, and I steer clear of Kruise Nights, I have no problem putting up with the occasional motorcycle buzzing a few evenings per year. It's pretty loud though. I find motorcycles to be obnoxious from the get-go, but there's nothing I can do about that.
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Post by fiberisgoodforyou on Apr 8, 2008 12:19:10 GMT -5
And ka19...what of the mobile boom box on wheels pimp my ride cars with the 1000+ watt subwoofers and the over amped kickers? Although I'm not a motorcycle rider, and I steer clear of Kruise Nights, I have no problem putting up with the occasional motorcycle buzzing a few evenings per year. It's pretty loud though. I find motorcycles to be obnoxious from the get-go, but there's nothing I can do about that.
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ka19
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Post by ka19 on Apr 8, 2008 13:37:26 GMT -5
And ka19...what of the mobile boom box on wheels pimp my ride cars with the 1000+ watt subwoofers and the over amped kickers? Although I'm not a motorcycle rider, and I steer clear of Kruise Nights, I have no problem putting up with the occasional motorcycle buzzing a few evenings per year. It's pretty loud though. I find motorcycles to be obnoxious from the get-go, but there's nothing I can do about that. Do they come out on Kruise Nights? While pimped out rides aren't my bag, I don't hear them from where I live. Like I alluded to earlier, my beef is with the apparent shortcomings of the entire world motorcycle muffler industry, not Kruise Night.
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Post by novillero on Apr 8, 2008 13:46:54 GMT -5
Often times the biker has a loud bike as a means of defensive driving. Bikes are hard to see on the road, but easily heard.
As to the "pimped out" cars, they are not part of cruise night, but part of the road traffic. Sit outside Fed's in the summer on a weekend, you'll hear it. It's not a Cruise Night phenomenom.
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Post by novillero on Apr 8, 2008 13:47:29 GMT -5
And ka19...what of the mobile boom box on wheels pimp my ride cars with the 1000+ watt subwoofers and the over amped kickers? Although I'm not a motorcycle rider, and I steer clear of Kruise Nights, I have no problem putting up with the occasional motorcycle buzzing a few evenings per year. It's pretty loud though. I find motorcycles to be obnoxious from the get-go, but there's nothing I can do about that. Anyway, what's with your icon Fiber? Are you supposed to be in some sort of binary shower?
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Post by fiberisgoodforyou on Apr 8, 2008 14:06:55 GMT -5
And ka19...what of the mobile boom box on wheels pimp my ride cars with the 1000+ watt sub-woofers and the over amped kickers? Anyway, what's with your icon Fiber? Are you supposed to be in some sort of binary shower? FIBER OPTICS Novi...deliverer of a cleanest binary shower available, thats why......Fiber Is Good For You!!! ;D I was planning on searching for a new avatar over the next few days anyway! THANKS FOR CARING!
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Post by novillero on Apr 16, 2008 13:26:11 GMT -5
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Post by grasshopper on Apr 26, 2008 8:35:43 GMT -5
Kruize Night will be back--concessions have been made as to parking of the motorcycles (no more bikes on Throckmorton Street) and alcohol will be limited to those seated at tables (no walking around with a drink). Have fun and be safe.
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Post by admin on Apr 26, 2008 15:31:08 GMT -5
Kruize Night will be back--concessions have been made as to parking of the motorcycles (no more bikes on Throckmorton Street) and alcohol will be limited to those seated at tables (no walking around with a drink). Have fun and be safe. Grasshopper, my gut tells me that you know what you are talking about. I am going to put faith that what you write is true. And it does sound like great news. On the above note, and I hope not premature, I have to be a proud admin and say to all readers, you heard it here first. Thank you Grasshopper for letting us know
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Post by admin on Apr 26, 2008 15:37:14 GMT -5
On a similar note, this past council meeting I waited quite some time for the exuctive session to end because I was waiting to catch up to a councilman. They were in there for a very long time and from what I understand it had to do with Kruise Nite. From wht Grasshopper wrote, it sounds like they really did make progress.
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Post by admin on May 1, 2008 5:02:48 GMT -5
Grasshopper said that Kruise Nite is Back. Cheryl confirmed it by mentioning the event is on the FCP event calendar.
Where are the papers? Why so slow? They were so quick to make headlines when the event was in trouble. Shouldn't' they be just as quick and vigilant in reporting this good news that the event is still with us?
Spealing of the event calendar, The concert series looks great as always, and I am sad to see tha there is still no San Genero. Keep the fingers crossed on the latter.
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Post by novillero on May 1, 2008 7:18:03 GMT -5
Wake up Brian, there is no San Genaro festival this year because it is being replaced by ...
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Post by lisas84 on May 1, 2008 8:01:04 GMT -5
...likely an autumn antiques, art and crafts fair, something along those lines.
I will apprise you all of exactly what that event will be and when.
And if any of you have great ideas about themes, etc. please share them. I'm kind of looking at you Nov, as you have a good track record of offering up some fab ideas.
Events are about community, and your input is welcome.
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Post by novillero on May 1, 2008 9:42:45 GMT -5
If San Gennaro is really going to be replaced by an American festival... why not a fall harvest festival with a specific focus on Fall in the region (I always thought San Gennaro was wierd since it was neither religious or Italian). My idea, take it or leave, but since you know how to stroke my ego... Freehold Fall Festival... Something to show off Freehold and celebrate the end of summer/Fall - The farmers market people, - fall flower sellers, - americana crafts, - okay, and some antiques vendors, - maybe a local orchard to do an apple press demonstration (selling their wares too), - local winery with a grape stomping (selling wine or a wine tasting), - the local brewers apprentice or other brewery doing a demonstration (tasting or whatever). - getting the local restaurants to think up americana dishes (or what about shore-themed foods?), and have a contest for best [blank] dish. - what about getting the Boro Football team (and other sports team be some sort of a focus). Small town america with a focus on fall or Freehold itself. Perhaps keeping a specific date or holiday in mind, like maybe around 9/11 or 9/17 (the date the Constitution was signed)... or Founder's Day - 9/15/1919, because on that date... "The first regular council meeting of the newly incorporated Borough of Freehold. Freehold's first police officer, Joseph E. Clancy, was hired for a salary of $3.00 per day." freeholdnj.homestead.com/history.html
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