Karen Kennedy of Dickson …
Wanted to let you know that my car, while parked in our driveway, was broken into and ransacked, but not stolen, on Thursday night. Probably wasn’t stolen only because our son’s car was parked across the apron of our driveway, blocking the exit. First time this has happened to me in 35 years of living on Dickson.

Jane Morris of Thatcher …
Two things. Wouldn’t it be nice to PAY the homeless person (and then people) who keep a block clean? Maybe they wouldn’t be homeless anymore. And don’t blame the couple who wouldn’t valet park. Blame the restaurant that has a giant parking lot and makes people pay to park in it.

Linda Lucks, president of Venice Neighborhood Council …
Ref: Article regarding Starbucks Stakeholder
For the record, the VNC implemented stringent voting rules when Factual Basis Stakeholders were originally permitted. The board designated one seat to be set aside for Factual Basis Stakeholders who must provide written confirmation of ongoing participation in the community to vote (such as membership in a religious or non-profit organization or school). Then, they may only vote for the one seat set aside for factual basis stakeholders. To date, attorney Amanda Seward (who lives on the east side of Beethoven, so not technically in Venice, and Bud Jacobs, former Venice High principal have sat in the seat. All other voters must show proof of living, working or owning property in Venice to be eligible to vote. Even with our strict rules, Venice was the highest NC vote getter in the City in 2010, with 1622 votes. We will soon be recruiting for the May 18 elections to elect a new board. We invite everyone with the time, energy and love of Venice to step up and serve their community.
Comment: Whether Venice keeps the “Factual” stakeholder or not will be up for review whenever the next bylaws are reviewed.