UPDATED x2: Greenville Avenue crusader Avi Adelman cited for misdemeanor assault

Pavel Lishin, says:

Wow, awesome - attempting to pepper spray a girl who was with her injured friends, while police officers were around? Was he feeling that threatened?

I can't wait to see the video that Avi will never release.

Rawlins Gilliland, says:

Unconfirmed onlookers described (allegedly) Mr. Adelman as having actually said to the woman he is said to have ‘assaulted’: “Those shoes are soooooo wrong with that jumpsuit which is so tight it looks like a catsuit on your inflated torso.” At which case the offended ‘innocent ingénue’ (alleged) fashionista raised her ‘flap-over evening clutch with aurora-crystal accents’ in anger at which point Adelman foraged for his mace/pepper spray atomizer before becoming himself a victim.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

James Scott, says:

I didn't catch your post before it went bye-bye, Travis, but I have a feeling I probably agree with you.

Travis Bush, says:

WTF? I guess I need to follow Avi's lead and just be more inflammatory with regular words that don't include references to feminine hygiene products..Include it in your filter, Mike, and call it good.

Tracy Yost, says:

dangit I always miss the good stuff

Scott Miller, says:

I did catch your post earlier, Travis. Can't say I disagree.

I would have thought the first comment was more likely to be taken down, seeing how it's rather vague and was posted anonymously.

Scott Doyle, says:

Dave, don't really care what Avi has to say about it. I'd sooner trust a Dallas cop and some random chick than Avi, which says plenty.

Robert Kelly, says:

When your whole schick is based on the negative, this is the type of stuff you get. At least he can't say he wasn't warned to quit his d-bag antics. A bunch of people on here cared enough to try..

Chris Kidd, says:

Ive bit my tongue on this for long enough, I'll say my piece: He finally got what he deserved. Karma can be a mean broad when you do her wrong like he has to his neighbors, business owners and ordinary citizens.

I have a feeling the potential civil suit from this(if said victims are smart) will put him out of business on lower greenville. Maybe he'll sell the shanty on belmont to someone who knows a thing or three about lawn care and keeping their property up. Heck, I may even bid for it at auction ;)

Chris Kidd, says:

Skeeter, Im in agreement, the guy is a Nut with a capital N. When a person starts engaging in conflict with someone who attempts to helped a downed person and prevent them from videotaping it, you have to ask what their real motivation is for what they engage in. In Adelmans case, its slick and sickening self-promotion plain and simple at the lowest common denominator, no matter hell or high water. I know of quite a few people in the lower greenville ave. area who think this guys a total nutjob, a real example of a toothless barking dog with no real bite. Maybe this will be the catalyst for the law to finally put him and his pervert cam in its rightful place.

Pavel Lishin, says:

"I don't know Avi. I don't know you. I don't know what went down between the two of you."

So how come you think that you can form an informed opinion on whether the vitriol is too much? Or are you saying that even if someone raped a kitten while pilfering lunch money from the poor students fund and then drove 90 miles an hour the wrong way down the tollway with a bag of meth in one hand and a bottle of Tequila in the other, letting flyers full of child pornography fly out the back windows, we would be wrong to publicly mock them?

Pavel Lishin, says:

"I'd sooner trust a Dallas cop and some random chick than Avi, which says plenty. "

I want to hear what he says because a) I believe that everyone deserves a say, and b) I'm curious to see how he's going to spin this into some drunken woman threatening life and limb, with him bravely but futilely attempting to fend her off with pepper spray, which he was lucky enough to be carrying, lest someone attack!

Seriously, though: <i>If you're so scared of people in your own neighborhood that you have to carry pepper spray, isn't that a sign that maybe <strong>you're</strong> the one who's not wanted, while everyone else - residents and visitors - are getting along fine?</i>

alexander troup, says:

It is becomming one tuff town,while soon to be a safe as milk and maybe no more horse play for a little while,while it is a time and place.....we wonder...is this becomming the twilight zone city....A/T,..beware of the blue meanies and the yellow submarine..

Travis Bush, says:

Just be cautious that your vitriol does not turn into slander or libel."

Methinks Adelman should heed this warning first...He's made unsubstantiated claims and they have been posted here on Peg News without one note from the Peg Crew that he should refrain from saying things he can't prove.

Travis Bush, says:

jt...just pointing out that porky gets away with a lot of inciting people, spurious claims and inflammatory remarks under the guise of journalism, but commenters have no such protection. You would think there would at least be a level playing field, but then again we wouldn't want to hurt his feelings, now would we?

Travis Bush, says:

Mike, I fully understand and appreciate your position. You guys do a great job..None of it is that big a deal, but I thought it needed to be said in any case. Never been one to shy away from calling it like I see it.

Avi Adelman, says:

I would prefer not to jump into this unkosher open-pit barbecue, but I need to correct Mike's view of my comment re DPD video cameras on Greenville.

I am NOT against the DPD video squad, and in fact welcome them as a vindication and proof of the usefulness of this unique tool to document crime and stupidity no matter where it may be found.

My comments on Unfair Park were actually a cut and paste from an email I sent to DPD Chief Golbeck earlier today, asking that he establish ground rules for the process, especially open records requests.

From what I remember at the DPD Academy, the equipment is high-quality digital, and they have a pretty good editing process too. I have a feeling these officers would rather be in the middle of something interesting like this as compared to taping DPD lectures :)

As to using IMedia volunteers, not a good idea - all their imagery must be collected and shown on the cable channels owned by the City. Even if they were DPD certified (eg take the Crimewatch class), they are still volunteers with no more authority than you or me (although I am a DPD volunteer by virtue of doing the eight week DPD Citizens Academy class last year).

The DPD video will be used differently than my rolls. They will use it for showing the bar owners (as if they care) what is happening, possible evidence in prosecutions of patrons, and I am guessing here but building cases to take to the TABC for license revocations or to the City for Dance Hall revocations.

My A-rolls are strictly for public consumption.

Travis Bush, says:

(although I am a DPD volunteer by virtue of doing the eight week DPD Citizens Academy class last year)

Did they teach you to mace other citizens?

Travis Bush, says:

Super Sow to the rescue!

Scott Doyle, says:

I want to hear what he says because a) I believe that everyone deserves a say...

I don't disagree that everyone should be entitled to their say - that has little to do with whether I personally care about what they say. =p

And Miko, I seem to recall Avi getting away with some pretty questionable language as a content partner (not that I'm entirely innocent myself, but I'm not a content partner!). At work atm, otherwise I'd find and cite.

Chris Kidd, says:

Like I said, he's finally going to get his comeuppance in this situation

alexander troup, says:

Greenville ave, at least has some action, while Deep Elm is...out of tune......A/T, Spread that wealth you greedy .....?

Scott Miller, says:

So does anyone know anything about the guy who was laid out unconscious on Greenville Ave?

As per usual, Adelman seems to have sucked up all the oxygen.

Scott Doyle, says:

Fairly sure he fell over drunk and Avi was trying to film it so he could bitch &amp; moan endlessly about what the bar crowd does to...the bar district. Hence getting pissy about a young woman in the way of his majestic footage, etc.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Skeeter

The world already knows what I learned back in March - you are pompous blowhard with 15,000 email addresses in your so-called database going nowhere. Despite your pomposity and proclomations, none of your skeeter-clones bothered to visit my website. And since I am on your email list for that site, I know you never sent out any kind of call for action either.

As to the victim requiring medical aid, let me say this very slowly so you and all your pompous blogger friends can understand the issue.

The DFR paramedics - including one fire/rescue and one hook/ladder truck - were already on the sidewalk rendering aid to the adult male person. In fact, it took five of them to lift his butt onto the stretcher.

So pray tell, oh legal wizzer, why I would be liable for failing to render aid if the aid was already being provided?????

Did I miss a time warp somewhere???

Do me a favor and crawl back in your hole and come back out say in another three months???

Robert Kelly, says:

The world already knows what I learned back in March - you are pompous blowhard with 15,000 email addresses in your so-called database going nowhere.

Pot-Kettle anyone?

Avi Adelman, says:

My last comment @ Jasonzbtzl

The bar owners want to think their responsibility ends at threshold (sp?), but it doesn't.

If the bars make it a point to attract this kind of garbage, using the best pile of poo they can find (music, drinks, signage), then yes they are responsible for the consequences.

Do you really think the DPD is going to be out here videotaping a ballet? They are out here to document the behavior of the patrons and (wide shot here) the places they come are exiting drunk and disorderly.

This behavior is considered a threat to the public safety and welfare of the community. It's not saying you can't have your bar here. It's saying you can't overserve them or push them outside for the public to clean out their mess.

Those tapes will be shown to the bar owners, along with a score showing who had the most drunks arrested that month.

The TABC will also get the tapes and scorecards, and they will use those official documents to create new official documents - Notices of violations, administrative actions and eventually the revocation of their license.

Jason Rice, says:

Single serving bunnies even.

Travis Bush, says:

Follow me around with a camera, porky, and I'll slap the fat back right off ya...nough said.

And DC..if you like evil bunnies, I have a painting with your name on it!

Travis Bush, says:

I agree, Mike. Alex's bunnies are way uptown..Your bunny looks like he spent too much time at Ship's...

Scott Doyle, says:

*It's not saying you can't have your bar here.*

<img src="http://blog.pharmalive.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/06/o_rly.jpg">

<i>and they will use those official documents to create new official documents - Notices of violations, administrative actions <b>and eventually the revocation of their license.</b></i>

Do you listen to yourself talk, or is it just fun to type in circles?

Jason Rice, says:

I was thinkin'

Jason Rice, says:

::Godwin's law

Unless protected by the spirit of Cesar Chavez as either a thread topic or title.

Travis Bush, says:

I say we initiate the first annual Greenville Ave Swine Hunt...All the Pegsters get loaded and walk around the area looking for pork pie with a video camera...

Jason Rice, says:

Jason? Gestapo as vague.

You gotta add that to the standup routine asap.

Chris Kidd, says:

Im going to address something that needs to be said. I dont have an issue with people keeping others honest. What I have an issue with, when it comes to anyone videotaping, is twisting or using the footage to their own advantage or agenda. I used to work in the TV news business in another life many years ago. Every night, we edited feeds/local footage for air. At times, we would have an assignment editor/director or even reporter who wanted a story told in a certain light to show someone as a victim or as a bad element of society, hence one of the reasons I left the business. But sometimes, even people in the news business had to draw a line at sheer taste and decency. Thats where my issue with Avi is. He appears to have consistantly jumped over that line so much so that I think he has forgotten the line even exists. Im guessing pushing his personal agenda of chasing out all the "evil" bar, club and business owners out of "his" supposed fifedom is the only justification he has to keep going out every weekend to videotape people, innocent or not. He reminds me of a latter day Carrie Nation, who was a nut in her own right and helped bring about the prohibition movement.

Now, to the main point: If the gentleman in question had a diabetic attack, then this adds alot of fuel to the young ladies case and to a potential civil suit for actions that may have taken place. At that point, you have some class and turn off the camera. But, it appears according to whats been said so fair by the parties, that didnt happen, hence the chain reaction that occured and the potential issues that can and probably will occure. To call this a 1st amendment issue and claming you have a right to videotape stumbling drunks for "enforcement" purposes is an insult to the constution and an insult to the intelligence to every single person who calls themselves an American. You've lowered your standards and common decency Mr. Adelman, but that doesnt mean we, the people, have to.

My Advice to everyone here: Quit paying this leech attention. Thats what he wants. As of now, I have nothing further to say on the man or the topic at hand, I hope you do as well.

Scott Miller, says:

Well put, chrisdanger.

Still, you gotta admit this thread has been pretty entertaining- if you have a slightly twisted viewpoint anyway.

Even my meager attempt to interject a bit of gravity resulted in more name calling, Godwin's law, deleted posts and cartoon bunnys.

And by saying that I don't mean to belittle any any actual victims in all of this.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ ChrisHarmless

Two points on your diabetes issue -

1 - The word diabetes did not show up until yesterday in any blog. But I have filed for the DFR report anyways.

2 - And your point is??? Why do you and your blogging cohorts insist on drawing the lines of what I or anyone else who disagrees with your point of view can do?

If instead of me being the one with a camera, what would you say if it was a night-shift videographer from your former television station gig who was out on any Main Street and saw a commotion like this?

You would complain like hell if he did not roll tape first and edit later, because you never know might happen, and tape is really cheap. You might even fire him for NOT doing his job.

You and your friends are so good at pontificating on other people's behavior when it affects your personal playground or behavior matrix.

Thank god you are a lonely voice out in the internet winds, because in the real world I live in, you are completely ignored.

Just so much e-wind blowing down the lanes.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Chris Kidd, says:

Actually Avi, im not alone in my views, not by a longshot, so you've already lost the battle on this issue. From what ive seen and heard here in the Dallas Blog-O-Sphere, most people on here and other sites have major issues with you and your behavior, not because of RPO or keeping beer bottles out of the streets, but because of your sheer lack of good taste and judgment when it comes to your video exploits, which are no better than staged shows like Cheaters or direct to market Bumfight or Girls Gone Wild videos that already saturate late night cable television. Im also going to say around a good 99.9% of the parties you insult because they disagree, including myself, arent the "hapless drunks" you seem to pursue with reckeless abandon every saturday night. All of them have jobs, famlies and lives outside of here.

My advice sir: Find another point of argurment, because we all know who and what you are, which is nothing but a two-bit showman whos worn out his welcome with his neighbors, businesses and the police.

Howard Wen, says:

Man, is this the kind of stuff I have to get Hansel to do on video in order to get more of you to watch his Web show? :-[

Avi Adelman, says:

Maybe this will be the 100th comment...

Survey says... Resident Parking Only needs a petition signed by 2/3rds of the residents or property owners on either one or both sides of the street.

There are 18 RPO streets on Lowest Greenville (including two up north at 5600 Vickery and 5600 McCommas). Using an average of 20 homes per side of street, and 25 sides of streets in those 18 RPO streets, that means over the past ten years nearly 500 people have signed RPO petitions.

All those RPO streets cost residents nearly $10,000 for petitions, signs and hangtags.

If that isn't a damn strong trend indicator that residents would rather have quieter streets than bar trash and noise, what sign from God would prove it to you?

Jason Rice, says:

::sign from God

I think a just and fair proof would be me winning the Lotto.

Shy of that, Pavel with a crew cut.

So where'd ya want this?

Avi Adelman, says:

@ momzilla (cool name too)

If you consider shooting video of any public event an act of harassment, then I bet you really hate watching the evening news and seeing those videographers follow city officials or just about anyone else with a camera.

What would you do without your daily OctoMom fix if photographers weren't there to capture 'the' moment?

Hate to tell you this, but I don't need anyone's permission to shoot something on the public right of way, be they diabetic, on dialysis, or drunk. And it's not like he had a red sign on his forehead that said what his issues were - hey, that's for the paramedics to figure out, right?

If you don't want yourself caught on candid camera on Lower Greenville, don't go out there.

BTW - If the soon-to-arrive DPD videographer was the guy shooting this alleged diabetic, would you still have a conniption??

Discuss among yourselves. Me, I am charging my video batteries for this weekened.

See you on the viewfinder?

Scott Doyle, says:

DPD videographer is less likely to falsely represent the kid's illness as a drunken disorderly. Big difference in the police filming vs a citizen doing so to spread hate speech.

Pavel Lishin, says:

<i><b>Burlyqueen</b>: "What does kitten rape, drugs, and drunken driving have to do with this? Allegations are being made against him without merit or evidence. You assume that he is capable of this misdemeanor because of your disdain for him. That does not make him guilty."</i>

He has not been proven guilty of assaulting a lady, and whatever other charges may be filed against him. I'm pretty sure he's guilty of being a guy that nobody here particularly likes. I'm not calling out for mob justice, here, but if he can angrily call me a drunken lout and basically tell me that I have no business frequenting businesses in his neighborhood, I can call him a cranky old coot. (I don't think that qualifies as libel, does it? I try to be aware.) And yeah, it might be petty of me, but I'm okay with that.

<b>jtmbls</b>: Contributions to my legal fund won't be necessary - I'd rather you contribute to my illegal fund by buying me a drink or two. And as far as cameras go, I'm for them if they effectively and economically lower crime rates - which I'm pretty sure they do not.

<i><b>Avi</b>: "The bar owners want to think their responsibility ends at threshold (sp?), but it doesn't."</i>

You're right, but how far does it reach? As far as I know, bars can be held liable if they over-serve someone and that someone crashes his car, or does something else stupid and/or illegal. But being drunk doesn't equate to being disorderly, and it doesn't mean that they're dangerous. Obviously, I frequent Lower Greenville, and I've never felt threatened by anyone there, no matter how drunk. (And yes, I do know that there has been some violence there - but car wrecks happen, too, and I'm still not afraid of driving.) I think the worries about "public safety" are a little overblown.

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

You know, I really expect, in my sometimes overly naive way, that we can have adult discourse on issues.

Instead the conversation deteriorates to schoolyard name calling and extreme self-righteous defensiveness.

The old caveat still seems to run true: "Me think the man protest too much".

Pavel Lishin, says:

<i><b>AnnMarie</b>: You know, I really expect, in my sometimes overly naive way, that we can have adult discourse on issues.</i>

We are. The issue just happens to be, "Is Avi Adelman a jerk?"

Chris Kidd, says:

Pavel, I believe the term "jerk" is a gross understatement of what said party is. I wont get into it much further, as I have other things I need to focus my energies on, like working at my gig and leering at AnnMaries profile photo LOL ;)

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

LOL Thanks Chris - my ego appreciates it...

Pavel Lishin, says:

chrisdanger: Hey, I'm just trying to circumnavigate these treacherous libel- and slander-filled waters without getting sucked into a legal abyss.

Also, just wanted to say, so long as you're not doing anything else shifty, I don't really see any problems with walking around videotaping public streets. If he hadn't gotten into that alleged altercation with the lady, I wouldn't have cared one iota if he were filming me stumbling bar to bar. In fact, I'd probably ask if I could get a copy of the clip.

Jason Rice, says:

::AnnMaries profile photo

Yeah, AM, the new hairdo is great.

Chris Kidd, says:

Wish you had flowing locks like that jason?? It can happen, you'll just need plugs and whatnot ;) LOL

Jason Rice, says:

Been there - done that.

The irony of aging is that as you lose patience with vanity, your looks go faster than you can compensate anyway.

Obviously, I choose to compensate with charm.

Scott Doyle, says:

Is that what they call chloroform these days?

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

So... I need to keep the hair and completely forget about acquiring the charm - right?

Jason Rice, says:

Working so far.

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

Thank the Goddess!

Travis Bush, says:

Now if we can do something with jtmbls..

Travis Bush, says:

Ha! Nice try, evil orang!

Why not show all of the video? Otherwise, those segments prove absolutely nothing. Drivel! Dallastwits.org messing with people isn't really what most of us want I don't think and if any of you videographers had any balls you would go where the real action happens..you know like real crime..all the time?

Travis Bush, says:

"The valets told me the fine for parking tickets is $75 but that sounded kinda high."

That is your RPO hard at work!

Chris Kidd, says:

The new video clip is..interesting to say the least. That being said, I could also edit something that says im absolved of alot of things as well, or make me and another party look guilty as sin. Like Ive been saying, if it did happen, it'll be handled in the courts, both criminal and civil. I still stand by my previous comments that I made on said party and his inclination to videotape without permission w/ inclination to exploit and harass.

Now, Lets bring on the kittens!

Chris Kidd, says:

I agree with JT, that money should go back into the pockets of the neighbors who requested it be done..

Travis Bush, says:

David..as far as I know, that is the only part of Dallas where RPO is in effect. If I'm wrong fine, but I don't know any other place in Dallas where residents own the part of the street directly in front of their house. (except maybe one blighted area of Preston Hollow). That is basically what RPO boils down to IMO. You make it "us vs them" and there is no community. That is exactly what has happened here. Some day in the future when there are only dollar stores and the Fiesta over there, I'm sure your "community" will be quite pleased with itself.

Travis Bush, says:

Obviously it doesn't, perhaps I should have said it is the only part of Dallas where this is a divisive issue.

alexander troup, says:

David, give the old bush some space....he's been planted like a treee in this community a long time and I am just as willing and viable as any other witness...A/T, I need a Dr Pepper now....

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Travis Bush

"Divisive" is in the eyes of the divided person.

In your case, you speak for the bar patrons who do not live in the area, let alone Dallas.

If you don't live here, you cannot sign the RPO petition. If you don't live here, you cannot tell our neighborhood association what to do or not do with the streets.

If you do live here, you can make your opinion about RPO known. But if 66% of the people on your street want RPO, then start saving your pennies because it IS coming.

As of last night, the newest RPO zone was officially inaugurated with three vehicles getting tickets. This weekend it's gonna be a full baptism as more people park, ignore the signs, don't think the rules apply to them, or think they are sooo special. Those cars will be ticketed and towed - far far away.

Let's say it out loud... RPO is pro-neighborhood, not anti-bar. It is the only tool the City gives its residents that is not subject to any outside interference.

Bars may come and go, but RPO is forever!

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

So... everyone read the Dallas Observer this week? UnFair Park and Buzz.....

Scott Doyle, says:

Avi, I don't mind walking a bit further to bars. If anything, it gives me more opportunity to piss off the people who support you.

Only beef I have is that everyone else's tax monies also help maintain those streets, not just the particular residents living on 'em. Until streets are created and maintained solely by the neighborhood using them, what you're doing is goddamn selfish and hindering resources that could optimally be used to mitigate real issues.

Maybe they beat you back in the homeland, or simply disregarded your existence...either way, you're overcompensating for something. I'd say we should videograph your goings on, but unfortunately it's clear your life sucks to the point you only get off on attempts to ruin everyone else's fun.

If I cared at all, I'd pity you.

Chris Kidd, says:

Scotty, I think you just said what alot of people are thinking about the medialeech whos name we dare not speak. Shrinks ask for 50+ bucks an hour for what you just diagnosed, which is the fact something is missing in said persons life,hence why he overcompensates with his actions.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Scott

"Only beef I have is that everyone else's tax monies also help maintain those streets, not just the particular residents living on 'em. Until streets are created and maintained solely by the neighborhood using them, what you're doing is goddamn selfish and hindering resources that could optimally be used to mitigate real issues."

RPO was created by the City Council in Dallas (you do vote, don't you?) in 1998 -

http://www.barkingdogs.org/news/node/129

SEC. 28-121.12. PURPOSE.

The purpose of this division is to promote the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of certain neighborhoods in the city of Dallas by addressing the problems that arise when residential streets are used for the parking of motor vehicles by persons using adjacent nonresidential parking generators, but who do not reside in the neighborhood. The establishment of resident-parking-only zones would reduce these problems, which include, but are not limited to, hazardous traffic conditions, air and noise pollution, litter, and inability of residents of these neighborhoods to obtain easy access to and adequate parking near their residences.

The City, which has the authority to regulate the use of the streets for the public safety of all its citizens, gave the people an option - provided they pass the gauntlet of petitions, money for signs, vehicle counts and hangtags - to take control of their streets.

This power can be applied to bar patron vehicles, church goers, sprayground attendees, Kmart shoppers and even school parents.

The only problem you have is that our RPO, is used to protect our neighborhood residents' safety and quality of life, denies you and your friends going to the bars a place to park that is close in and free.

I also think another issue is that our association is so goddamn upfront about pushing RPO that you consider it rubbing it in your face.

RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB RUB

Each RUB represents one of 18 RPO zones in the Lowest Greenville area.

Maybe you don't mind walking a block or two, but last night a whole bunch of people saw the new signs on 5700 Prospect and said, screw this crap, we are not paying $10 or more to park down here. I know this because I spoke to them. They went somewhere else, taking their disposable income with them.

You will get your break from me soon enough - maybe. We have one more street in the RPO process and it will be approved soon. That will complete our vision of RPO on every street for two blocks on the east side of Greenville (the west side of Greenville has five RPO streets, which have done fine).

There is NO overcompensation - you don't get Secret Service or Department of Defense clearances if you are mental.

I am good at making sure our message of neighborhood integrity and safety are promoted, while your message of unbridled partying and destruction of private property is being quashed.

L'chaim!

Scott Miller, says:

momzila, I've wondered about that too. Also, don't any of these residents have driveways or apartment parking lots?

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Momzilla

Each RPO resident gets to buy six permanent one-year hangtags for $6.50 each

For special events, they can buy paper hangtags for 10cents each.

@ Scott Miller

We have driveways and sometimes we use them, sometimes don't.

The RPO is meant to keep the problems associated with non-resident parking off our streets. In the case of Lower Greenville, if we keep patron cars off the street, we keep off their garbage, their noise, their empty beer bottles, etc.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Momzilla

The HOAs being nailed in the media are NOT the same as Neighborhood Associations in this discussion.

HOAs are private groups, created when a developer builds an area out, to manage the community property issues - landscaping, signage, styles - as the community grows and the properties are sold. Membership and dues are NOT voluntary - you don't pay, you get in trouble (hence the bad media coverage)

They are usually gated communities too.

Neighborhood Associations are voluntary, membership-driven organizations - usually within cities - that work for the common good. Dues are usually no more than a few dollars, they may sponsor a crimewatch, they might help provide information with home conservation districts and sometimes have kid events in the summer. It just depends on what that group's goals are that year.

@ jtmbls - My clearances came with a deep background check and interviews with previous associates. Mental clarity - obviously an issue on your side - was not assumed.

Scott Miller, says:

Well the lack of available parking has been very effective at keeping me away from some of my favorite restaurants down there since I moved away. Looks like many of them have closed, or in the case of Ali Baba, moved.

Is Dodie's still open?

But then I suppose riff-raff like myself that no longer lives in the area has no business eating dinner in that part of town.

Just allow me to ask one small favor- please don't take your two block crusade up to McCommas. I can still usually park a block away and walk to the Granada or Aw Shucks.

So far I've managed to resist the impulse to pee in anyone's yard but if I had to walk three blocks, all bets are off.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Scott Miller

Dodie's is still open.

There has been RPO on the 5600 block of McCommas since last summer (August?), so your one block walk just got a little longer. It may get longer by the end of this summer too.

The RPO expense was paid for by the owner of National Sports Lounge.

And please be careful holding your bladder, would not want you to get sick now.

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

We (my hoa) are NOT A gated community! We have lots of extra parking, common sense rules to help keep this nice older neighborhood property values up, we are not snobs, we do not charge a fee for parking spaces, measure lawn height, run around with video cameras spying...

And golly gee, we actually TALK to one another.

It's truly amazing what simple TALKING can accomplish.

Scott Doyle, says:

*RPO was created by the City Council in Dallas (you do vote, don't you?) in 1998*

I was 15, so no...I didn't vote. Hence, the rest is <img src="http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/5939/emotwords.gif">

But I would like to point out one thing:

I am good at making sure our message of neighborhood integrity and safety are promoted

You sure the message isn't "We shove around innocent female bystanders for the hell of it!"? That one's heard loud and clear.

Travis Bush, says:

LOL Scott..wordz! At least you didn't get

*"Divisive" is in the eyes of the divided person.*

Still haven't a clue what that even means..

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Ms Wilson

Maybe - I hope - you live in an indyllic area that is NOT near a bar district. Our issues are therefore light years apart. I won't judge yours and you don't have to judge mine.

Our NA was created to protect the quality of life in our area. We do not charge for parking spaces (can't imagine any HOA doing that) but the bars do. We do not measure lawn height.

When we sold the Arcadia Theatre marquee for $10,000 after the fire, our board and others sat down and looked over all the possible uses of the money. We paid for our IRS non-profit certification, we upgraded our servers, we increased our membership (but held our dues at $2).

We also realized that RPO was a long-term and permanent solution to the problem caused by patron parking in the neighborhood. It was the only legal power we had that could not be revoked by outsiders - it was totally under our control. No matter how loud the bar owners moaned about losing free parking spaces, no matter how people from places like (any suburb) complained about not having a place to park for free, their opinions did not matter one single iota.

Our video camera (only one) is used to document our claim that Lower Greenville is a wasteland of humanity and a negative impact on our quality of life in the surrounding neighborhoods by their noise, trash and lowering of property values. Obviously, it worked better than we can imagine since the DPD is now coming out with their cameras.

Since more than 75% of the residents in our association on potential RPO streets (using an average of all the RPO petitions submitted) signed the petitions, that means 75% of the people decided they had enough of noisy streets. No more human bar garbage, trash, damaged vehicles, or fights.

How quiet it is!

Travis Bush, says:

"I hope - you live in an indyllic area that is NOT near a bar district."

Most people have the common sense not to move into a bar district..or is that dance hall district?

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Travis Bush

I have lived in this area for 30 years, when there were only four minor bars.

So does that mean I get to stop the clock and not let bars in, should the bars stop the clock and not let residents move in, or should the bars that are not even legal in this area be allowed to stay open??

Let's make it easier - revoke the Certificate of Occupancy for any so-called restaurant (which is really a bar) that does not have a kitchen or serve any kind of food that does not come out of a bag (like potato chips).

That will surely clear this area of scumbars. Then they can move to Ms. Wilson's neighborhood!

Rawlins Gilliland, says:

Mr. Adelman makes some good points in these last two posts, and I would like to post to them by telling a story of my own that perhaps sheds light on the one-sided attitudes hurled by now at Avi Adelman, however unfairly or understandably invited.

Consider this personal story: I recall at one point a decade ago when my quiet street was overrun with people because of only THREE houses which had become rent houses after being repossessed. Enormous numbers of people, the house across the street having at one time 23-27 people (including 11 children and 9 cars) living there. When I protested the gun shots at New Years and other horror stories and cried foul after an ambulance could not come down the street because of all their cars parked on the street, I was accused of being ‘anti Hispanic’ whatever. I who have lived for decades with Mexican American families, lived in Mexico and Colombia, married a Colombian, speak Spanish and volunteer at various Latino causes, etc. In other words, me? Anti-Mexican?

The people who said that were either those breaking the law or my fellow friends who profess to be the unwitting hypocritical 'more-liberal-than-thou' who themselves live in all Anglo white-white homogenous upper middle class neighborhoods, oten not even in Dallas. In other words, what they were saying was phony. Funny, but many of those who were in fact sympathetic to my plight at that time were Mexican immigrant and Mexican-American families who also lived on my street for years and were longtime neighborhood friends. We worked together to resolve the nightmare.

In my case things are normal again. But I never forgot the hypocrisy of those who were themselves not suffering and in fact clueless who were posturing as ‘open and welcoming’ enlightened citizens when in fact they were isolated and unable to see the plight of others. Having grown up off lower Greenville, and having watched Deep Ellum’s nightlife crumble, it’s not smart or fair to assume anyone who is fighting the blight is a racist grump.

In the case of Avi Adelman, I pass on any further judgment. Yes, I believe his actions are arguably ‘over the top’. But I will never again comment. But I ask that others who are quick to pounce on him…saying that he moved into a bar-laced area and then revolted; is neither true nor fair. Lower Greenville as it is today is a relatively new situation. And it is going downhill fast with the addition of questionable venues being allowed free reign while those who could not care less overwhelming the home life of adjacent neighborhoods. I have no dog in the hunt but I became aware how few who take sides here actually know much of anything about that area’s specific challenges; either historically or currently.

Meanwhile, my friends who live off Henderson Ave (where I grew up) along restaurant row, all have Resident Only Parking. And when I visit their homes or eat at those restaurants, I manage.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Rawlins

Your observations are appreciated.

As noted somewhere (not this blog I think), I worked with the folks who live off Henderson Avenue as I spread the "RPO Gospel" around the area. The neighbors put up all the money required and it was probably the biggest surprise to the bar owners over there to see the signs.

Even today, with the changes on Henderson Avenue (aka The New Old Lower Greenville), RPO is going to take back streets that years ago would never have been on anyone's short list of problem areas.

And if you dare, my offer to take you on a tour of Lower Greenville's underbelly is again made to you or any other poster.

Jason Rice, says:

I have to side with Rawlins, mostly because it's obvious that Avi and I share a hair stylist.

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

I live in a neighborhood that fights tooth and nail to survive; busy streets, expressways... the forgotten stepchild.

But amazingly, we all get along.

Talking, discussing, getting everyone together (homeowners, renters, businesses) and helping each other to help our neighborhood.

We don't go the in-your-face confrontational route; that seems to nothing but alienate everyone else.

I don't think that anyone is going to argue the basic fact that: if you get in someones face and are belligerent/aggressive/arrogant they're going to fight you down.

That is a no-win situation for everyone.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Ms Wilson

We ALL get along with our RESIDENTIAL neighbors. Seventy-five percent of us (a large number no matter the issue) agreed that RPO was good and bar patron parking was bad.

We don't get along with our BAR neighbors. They do not like the fact that we (to borrow your phrase) fight tooth and nail all the zoning violations, the code violations, the parking violations, the noise, etc etc.

They believe God put the residents on earth to provide them income, customers and parking spaces. Their business plan depends on our giving up and giving in.

So now we let the City do its thing (or not), we let the bar patrons kill themselves (or not), and we take control of the absolutely only thing we are allowed to control - our streets.

RPO is a city law designed to let us take back the streets IF we meet all the requirements.

We have met or exceeded those requirements for 8 streets in the past year. We paid nearly $7500 out of our Arcadia Fund to do it. We did not ask for City funds (like that would happen). Two streets outside our area were RPO'd with money from concerned business owners (yes, I asked and yes I set up the meetings between them and the residents).

What gets everyone's pink underwear in a pretty knot is that RPO works wonders AND keeps bar patrons away.

And that is bad, very bad - for the bars.

TOO FRIGGING BAD! If your patrons had behaved themselves, or if you were not charging $10 or more for a parking space, this might not have ever happened.

Think about it... The first RPO streets were done in 1999. It took nearly ten years (and the Arcadia fire) for us to have the money to pay for RPO. And it happened so fast even we were amazed.

It happened fast because in ten years the residents learned how bad things were and wanted to stop the garbage and fights and damaged vehicles any way they could.

And that is bad very bad if you are a bar owner. It is an indictment of your horrible business plan.

And it's a stick up your ass when it comes to attracting more bar patrons.

Time to buy the vaseline, guys, one more RPO and it's checkmate.

Scott Doyle, says:

Pretty sure this is the most active Avi's been in a thread, probably trying to draw attention away from the story of his alleged assault of a young woman.

So, to rerail - Avi, why the aggression? Threatening pepper spray on a female, really?

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Scott

You will just have to wait like everyone else until this gets to court.

Chris Kidd, says:

I'll be looking forward to it as well scott. Orren, maybe its time to put this dead zombified pretty pony of a topic down...

Jason Rice, says:

::put this dead zombified pretty pony of a topic down...

This usually does it.

Let's name the neighborhood <font size="4">Cesar Chavez Heights!</font>

AnnMarie Wilson, says:

Hmm didn't I mention that in-your-face aggression does nothing but piss others off and not inspire any cooperation?

I guess that aggression/aggressive behavior is suppose to be panache in today's world.

I'll pass.

And I wish much success to the young woman that is unfortunately in the middle of this insanity.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Ms Wilson

There is NO in-your-face-agression on Lower Greenville.

There is a deep seated resentment by the bar owners and their patrons against a very successful campaign to create neighborhood integrity that does not include bar patron parking. They are pissed off because there is not one thing they can do, not one person they can call, to get those streets (and all those parking places) back.

They are mad because neighborhood leaders are succeeding in denying them zoning adjustments to expand, bringing code compliance to their front doors, and so many other things that cannot be listed here due to space limitations.

We tried to work with them over the past ten years. And all it got us was grief and lies. They would promise the world - quiet bars, no trash, paid police patrols - but when it came time to make good on the promises, they wanted their pint of blood. "Give us back the RPO streets," they would cry. "Stop calling Code Compliance about our dirty properties. And don't tell anyone we built a patio on what should be our parking spaces." Over and over ad nauseaum.

On the neighborhood side, there is a very strong sense of purpose and pride in being able to protect our quality of life. Our streets are safer and quieter, our cars are not damaged, there is no trash on our lawns.

If the BelmontNA were to fold its tent tomorrow - not likely - the RPO would still be here forever and ever. Instead, we will move on and make sure that bars claiming to be restaurants will slowly but surely be forced to close their doors. And maybe then the property owners will do the right thing, the same 'thing' - urban walkable communities - they kept telling us is coming.

Sadly, for the bar owners and the property owners, the party is almost over. Their bogus investments are about to collapse into a pile of empty beer bottles.

A bar owner told me he is ready to throw in the bar towel, not because of the residential neighborhood, but his business neighbors.

He considered a renovation - new paint job, trashing the smoked-out curtains, new furniture, etc. - but after looking at the expense and the projected income, he is not sure he will even renew his lease.

And so another one bites the dust. That is the new reality on Lower Greenville

Jason Rice, says:

Careful Avi - You drive out all those bars and live theater is likely to step in. That's just one step up from carnies.

Brett Hoerner, says:

"And if you dare, my offer to take you on a tour of Lower Greenville's underbelly is again made to you or any other poster."

So... I came to this late, can you elaborate? Or is it nested in the novel of comments above?

Travis Bush, says:

Can we get some IP checkz up in here?

Russ Vandeveerdonk, says:

All the negative press has hurt lower Greenville. Avi, you have just added to this maelstrom of negativity. Good gosh, I walked down Greenville from Ross to Mockingbird this week-end, so many clubs and restaurants are CLOSED. All the constant "negative" press has people in this metroplex, wanting to go elsewhere and they do. Stop whining and bickering and start re-developing lower Greenville again. Avi, what would you be doing if you were living in Plano or DeSoto or North Richland Hills? I am sure you might be stirring it up in those places as well. Man take a break, I know you get passionate, but soon, if this all keeps going on, the homeless might start moving in and living in all those empty buildings there on lower Greenville. Thank God Snuffers, Kirby's and NSL, to name a few are all staying strong in the "upper part of lower Greenville".

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Russ

Lower Greenville was not killed by me or bad press or RPO. It committed suicide. Granted, that process took ten years to happen, and the property owners are the accessories before the fact, but it was suicide nonetheless.

As to your demand that I start re-developing Lower Greenville... hello, do you see my name on any DCAD files to indicate I own any of these properties??

I did not think so.

The names you see are Andres, Madison Partners and their subsidiaries / shells. If you want their phone numbers, I have them.

But let me save you a dime. If you call, you will get the same message we have been getting for years. "We want to redevelop Lower Greenville as a destination spot for young couples, families and fine dining. Well, at least we say that in public. In reality, we want to rezone the entire area as an entertainment destination for alcoholics, gangbangers and worse.

"In order to do this, we need all the RPO cancelled. We need complete surrender of the thousands of residents to their property rights, and we need to stop all those pesky code compliance and building inspection reports telling the City how bad our properties are.

"We need an abdication of all free parking to one valet service, and we will charge you through the butt to park here.

"And we want it now."

In summary, the property owners need to do the right thing. Their talk about walkable urban environments is just that - talk. And now Henderson Avenue is starting to look like Greenville Avenue ten years ago. RPO is rearing its ugly little head over there too.

As to Upper Greenville, I hate to break the news to you, but the bad guys are already there. Check out M Street's ownership and you might see a few names you recognize from the area south of Belmont.

And have you noticed, for the most part, Upper Greenville got restaurants, but we got the bars. Talk about an unfair distribution of services. Those residents need to feel our pain too.

Robert Kelly, says:

Avi-

Complain-bitch-moan. Lather-rinse-repeat.

God forbid anything positive ever exits your piehole.

The bad guys are here, and you are them.

Andrew Laska, says:

If the bar areas redevelop, it will be economic pressure that drives it. Land prices will demand it as a good investment. It will be less about neighborhood pressure or some alleged self destruction.

With respect to Russ, closings on lower Greenville to me seem more about competition than bad press. People living in the Dallas area have a choice of destination areas whereas those choices were limited in the past.

Chris Kidd, says:

Russ, I think the major issue with LG is not only the fact you a lone nut like avi acting like a horses behind to people on a weekly basis(BTW, good to see you working on your roof/antenna yesterday avi), you have club owners who decided that putting in "Ultra Longues" was a better business move, which has backfired accordingly with the economy. I agree, I would love to see more restaurants, coffee shops and cool shops down that way. I think three things need to happen for that

A) LG from south of the old whole foods to ross needs to go pedestrian only on weekend nights(fri/sat) 6p-2a, plain and simple. Increasing foot traffic to the area will be a better approach than having people blaze up and down the street and also lessen the chances of serious accidents.

B) The LGNA needs to start embracing new businesses. I agree that the pawn shop need to go, as its dragging down the real estate prices and attracting some unsavory customers. But, I dont think every bar/restaurant is going to hose over the neighborhood. The area is mixed development(commercial/entertainment/residental) and it should stay that way. Sit down with these developers/business owners and break bread, let them know the real concerns of the neighborhood, dont "demand" they bend to your will, thats the fastest way to lose face and respect.

C) If you have some bad apples causing problems, report it and drop it. Let the police do their jobs and stay out of their way Avi. That means put away the camera, pepper spray and tazer, be the bigger man. I cant tell you how many cops ive talked to on the beat down there tell me that you've been a serious pain in their collective asses by videotaping or just being there. Stay home and let people be, if a fight breaks out near your house, report it. If it happends down the street, let the cops take care of it accordingly.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ chrisdanger

Lower Greenville cannot go 'pedestrian only' due to the street being a major access road and a public safety emergency route. It will not get approved for ped only under any conditiions (like tables that go underground when a siren goes off).

The neighborhood associations welcome new business, but they do not make rent decisiosn. And to depend on neighborhoods for support/income/patronage is a bad business decision. Plus, do you know many non-liquor businesses that can afford upwards of $30sf and a percentage of sales to the property owner??

Where was LGNA when this area became a bar-zone 10 years ago? Nowhere. They tacitly accepted bad bars here so the good restaurants would stay north of Vickery.

The area is NOT mixed development, the zoning is COMMUNITY RETAIL. Bars are NOT allowed here without SUPs and there are only three (or four?) that are legal. The rest are businesses that claim to be restaurants operating as bars and do not even have a kitchen.

We have sat down with the property owners. They will tell you anything you want to hear as long as you want. But when it comes to hammer time, here comes another bar or another rezoning request or another illegally constructed patio. There is no demanding - the law says do it this way, and they ignore the law.

If I were to base my actions on what a few officers think, or what the bar owners think, or what you think, this area would have gone nuclear years ago. By that theory, we should stay in our homes, hide under our blankets and not do anything to make change happen. That does not work. Obviously change has happened here, and it's due to the proactive work of lots of people who don't want this so-called entertainment area in our neighborhood.

And re the few cops who supposedly don't like seeing cameras next week, I can only wonder if their opinions will control what is documented by their own crews. I seriously doubt that. The two or three officers that I think have stated their opinions on this matter have already crossed the line of biased attitude and everyone knows who they are. Time will deal with their issues later.

As to my antenna, any idea why I can't get Channel 4 on the HD side???

Pavel Lishin, says:

I'm actually fairly interested in the underbelly tour as well. I'd go if you're serious about offering it.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Pavel

Yes, I am serious about it.

I generally land at the Taco Cabana (where the DPD sets up their command post) about 1130pm on Friday evenings.

Send me an email if you are interested in getting there a little earlier.

This weekend should be interesting since the DPD is scheduled to bring their own crews on the street.

Chris Kidd, says:

I dont see an issue with being proactive with your neighborhood, but theres a right and wrong way to do it. Confrontation never makes friends on both sides of the fence. I agree to disagree at times due to the fact its the only civil thing to do.

Speaking of something you mentioned,I like the idea of outdoor seating(deck, porch, lanai, ect..)esp. this time of year. If done right, it adds to the charm/asthetic of the business. I do agree that the decks built on top of the buildings look out of place and a bit trashy. Myself, im more of a fan of the "hill country beer garden" feel(outdoor, trees w/ string lights, tables ect..). let me ask Avi, if that type of outdoor seating was completed on the front/backside of businesses, would it be a major issue with you and the neighbors?

On street closures, its been done in ellum with success with closing main/malcolm x on fri/sat nights for awhile. I dont see a downside to closing off a street on the weekend. The police/fire/EMS still can get through if an emergency occures.

On your antenna issue, It maybe a Line Of Site issue with the towers in Cedar Hill. Why not spring for Dish/DirecTv? They have the same channels in HD and much more ;)

Avi Adelman, says:

@ chrisdanger

Re the dish etc - not interested in getting cable etc until UVerse jumps up a block and covers my street

Re enclosures - show me the parking spaces. If you cover parking spaces on the back lots or the head-in spaces in the front, they have to be replaced with free and clear parking spaces nearby. That is a city code issue, not neighborhood issue. I sincerely doubt the property owners are interested in providing replacement spaces, so it's a moot issue. And since there is RPO in the neighborhood, where will these guys go??

Re closures - this issue came up a few years ago. There are major differences between the streets in deep ellum and lower greenville (I can't remember exactly the terminology, but it has to do with traffic counts, access to routes etc).

There is no confrontation here. I just stand on the street and roll tape. The problem we have is that most people don't realize (or care) that I (or anyone else) can roll tape on the public streets and / or don't want their behavior documented. Hence the phrase heard most often on Lower Greenville - Get that camera out of my (name the body part) now.

Jason Rice, says:

LGUNDERBELLYTOURS.COM is available!

I think you're on to something.

Pavel Lishin, says:

I think we're going to Austin this weekend, but I'll e-mail you or something to see when you're free after that.

Avi Adelman, says:

Unless the weather is really nasty (as compared to the gangbangers?), I am out there on most Saturday evenings.

Colleen Walsh, says:

Rolling tape is for old people.

Travis Bush, says:

LOL I think gangbangers is code for any non-white who crosses the Ross line and enters the Lower Greenville area from East Dallas...

BTW..if someone says "stop filming me" and you refuse to do that, you are just asking for a good a$$ kicking..and a well deserved one at that.

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Travis

Quote - "BTW..if someone says "stop filming me" and you refuse to do that, you are just asking for a good a$$ kicking..and a well deserved one at that. "

And that person would be well-deserving of being arrested for Felony Assault, Property Damage, and numerous civil suits to recover property damages and other expenses. I don't think any of the local news stations have lost a case like this yet.

I remember a certain baseball player with temper issues getting suspended and traded for this kind of behavior too. Anyone???

Travis Bush, says:

You aren't a news station..maybe in your own mind, but I think not. And apparently you are not above the law, which you would do well to remember. For your own sake.

Robert Kelly, says:

lucky i live on the north side or Ross, or I'd be considered a gangbanger

Travis Bush, says:

We all know you yer a straight up G!

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Travis Bush

I don't have to be a news station employee to file assault charges on someone trying to prevent me from rolling video anywhere in the public view or right-of-way.

With the line between traditional media [eg newspaper and tv stations] and new media [bloggers] being almost completely erased, this kind of confrontation is likely to happen again and again.

Did you know that since January 2009, the Dallas Sheriff's Department has NOT issued any 'media passes' to anyone - traditional or non-traditional media. Between budget issues and accreditation blurring, they simply said, Nope, not going there anymore.

Travis Bush, says:

Yeah..keep thinking you are some kind of "media"..that will get you far. One of these days it will be awfully hard to file charges when your head is splayed open and you are bleeding out on a curb somewhere simply because of your self-righteous douchery. Pushing people around so you can get amateur footage of supposed crimes is just that.

Jesus Valadez, says:

Why so many comments?

Jason Rice, says:

Cesar Chavez Deficit Disorder

Travis Bush, says:

I blame JRice..

Jason Rice, says:

Hey - apparently some horses LIKE that crap.

Who knew?

Travis Bush, says:

Jason Rice, says:

Moby - I'm guessing that is comment on the iterative form of most of these threads?

Travis Bush, says:

If you aholes would shut up I could end this thread..:D

Jason Rice, says:

<font size="6">Stop! Or I'll shoot!</font>

Russ Vandeveerdonk, says:

Good one Jason Rice! By the way, Avi, you sure take your efforts seriously and I commend you for that, you have responded to many e-mail/posts here in this story, that is commendable. Have a great day everyone!

Avi Adelman, says:

@ Jason

I thought this thread was dead and buried about a week ago...

@ jtmbls

No one dragged you anywhere, you volunteered.