Metro Jacksonville

Jacksonville by Neighborhood => Urban Neighborhoods => Springfield => Topic started by: Livein32206 on February 18, 2010, 07:23:40 AM

Title: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Livein32206 on February 18, 2010, 07:23:40 AM
Any truth to this rumor? I've heard it from several Springfield neighbors, that she's submitted a letter of resignation. If this is true, then IMO, there shouldn't be anyone placed into that position and it should be disolved. There's no need for that position.

I've also heard rumor that sights are now being set upon the Womens club, and that there's an effort being set in place to 'take that over.' Haven't we (Springfield) had enough battles? Isn't it time to stop this 'in-house' fighting and work towards an amicable solution?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: fsu813 on February 18, 2010, 07:43:50 AM
rumors & speculation. great.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: sheclown on February 18, 2010, 07:44:02 AM
Although darts have been tossed toward the Women's Club, seems like that organization is solid, wants to work toward peace and yet at the same time, be an inclusive club for ALL of the neighborhood.  While some may not like the latter part of that plan, that plan, itself, will ensure its survival, IMHO.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: jason_contentdg on February 18, 2010, 08:35:16 AM
First I've heard of it and know she was still working as executive director this past Tuesday.
Title: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Miss Fixit on February 18, 2010, 08:48:21 AM
Why waste time speculating on this?  If it's true, there will surely be an official announcement in the near future.
Title: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Miss Fixit on February 18, 2010, 09:10:08 AM
Interesting, and really a sensible approach.  Do you know the date of Dr. Gaffney's communication?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Ernest Street on February 18, 2010, 09:11:51 AM
If this is true,I hope "The Pearl" gets her retired Bullhorn for their wall. :-X
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Jvgyrl on February 18, 2010, 10:46:21 AM
Quote from: stephendare on February 18, 2010, 09:06:41 AM
As for the discussion about the Women's Club, this is an email from Dr. Gaffney's Office that came from the public records

QuoteClaude,

With all of the negatively and adverse comments being spread over our neighborhood, I decided to see if I could somehow intervene and at least slow the deterioration of the relationships.  No one approved my actions nor was aware that I was working for a solution.


I felt that if I could get the parties of the neighborhood organizations together to hash out any differences that they have, then our community would be improved.  My suggestion was that the leaders of the woman's club meet with the leaders of SPAR, resolve any issues then join in promoting  both organizations, building their memberships jointly, each visibly supporting the other.  This could be extended to the other groups in the area.  

I was not aware of how deep the resentment was.  The members of the woman's club voiced their strong feelings that SPAR was spreading lies and gossip about them.  Now, they have reluctantly agreed to a meeting .

I would ask that you schedule this meeting,  with an impartial mediator.  I will do anything that I can to assist but I don't feel that I should attend the meeting,  (members of the women's club) apparently do not trust my motives.  I will handle logistics if you like, just give me several times and dates when you are available.

Thank you for your continued community service, just let me know as soon as you can.

This was an email from Lloyd Downing to Claude Molton. While parts of it have some truths most of this is slanted and incorrect. LLoyd is not a member of the club and has been trying to meddle. In fact to make it appear that there is more problems than we have and that it is the WC is unhappy and that the WC needs to be handled. I already talked to Lloyd about his gossip when he was spreading it without all the facts!
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Livein32206 on February 18, 2010, 12:42:28 PM
Quote from: stephendare on February 18, 2010, 09:17:48 AM
If it is true, I would also hope that we can give her the space to resign with a little dignity and respect.  Louise has worked very hard and at times fearlessly and ferociously, and that alone deserves consideration.

While its time to let the reins pass on, I don't think anyone can deny that her heart was in it.

The problems were always one of policy, and I hope that if it is true, that she stays active and involved in the neighborhood.
You've got to be kidding, now all of a sudden she's someone you want to take care of and ensure she has dignity and space? You've spewed enough to make her life a living hell and now you're wanting to stand up and protect her. Isn't she one of those you considered and have referred to as lolas, something along those lines?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Livein32206 on February 18, 2010, 12:43:29 PM
Quote from: fsu813 on February 18, 2010, 07:43:50 AM
rumors & speculation. great.
and ignorance is bliss, right?  ::)
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: sheclown on February 18, 2010, 02:09:10 PM
Quote from: Jvgyrl on February 18, 2010, 10:46:21 AM
Quote from: stephendare on February 18, 2010, 09:06:41 AM
As for the discussion about the Women's Club, this is an email from Dr. Gaffney's Office that came from the public records

QuoteClaude,

With all of the negatively and adverse comments being spread over our neighborhood, I decided to see if I could somehow intervene and at least slow the deterioration of the relationships.  No one approved my actions nor was aware that I was working for a solution.


I felt that if I could get the parties of the neighborhood organizations together to hash out any differences that they have, then our community would be improved.  My suggestion was that the leaders of the woman's club meet with the leaders of SPAR, resolve any issues then join in promoting  both organizations, building their memberships jointly, each visibly supporting the other.  This could be extended to the other groups in the area. 

I was not aware of how deep the resentment was.  The members of the woman's club voiced their strong feelings that SPAR was spreading lies and gossip about them.  Now, they have reluctantly agreed to a meeting .

I would ask that you schedule this meeting,  with an impartial mediator.  I will do anything that I can to assist but I don't feel that I should attend the meeting,  (members of the women's club) apparently do not trust my motives.  I will handle logistics if you like, just give me several times and dates when you are available.

Thank you for your continued community service, just let me know as soon as you can.

This was an email from Lloyd Downing to Claude Molton. While parts of it have some truths most of this is slanted and incorrect. LLoyd is not a member of the club and has been trying to meddle. In fact to make it appear that there is more problems than we have and that it is the WC is unhappy and that the WC needs to be handled. I already talked to Lloyd about his gossip when he was spreading it without all the facts!

Why send a copy of this email to Dr. Gaffney?  What is the motivation?   Dr. Gaffney loves the Women's Club.  I doubt he'll get in the middle of this particular land mine.

Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: sheclown on February 18, 2010, 02:10:19 PM
Quote from: Livein32206 on February 18, 2010, 12:42:28 PM
Quote from: stephendare on February 18, 2010, 09:17:48 AM
If it is true, I would also hope that we can give her the space to resign with a little dignity and respect.  Louise has worked very hard and at times fearlessly and ferociously, and that alone deserves consideration.

While its time to let the reins pass on, I don't think anyone can deny that her heart was in it.

The problems were always one of policy, and I hope that if it is true, that she stays active and involved in the neighborhood.
You've got to be kidding, now all of a sudden she's someone you want to take care of and ensure she has dignity and space? You've spewed enough to make her life a living hell and now you're wanting to stand up and protect her. Isn't she one of those you considered and have referred to as lolas, something along those lines?

good sportsmanship?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Dan B on February 18, 2010, 02:11:36 PM
^ So its a game?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: uptowngirl on February 18, 2010, 02:51:34 PM
Why are either of these two people involved in the WC's and why in the world are people going to Dr. Gaffney about this? SPAR is SPAR, the people running SPAR have had their opportunity in the neighborhood and their track record speaks for itself. Over 20 houses lost, two alley's blocked, and a significant number of residents fed-up. IMHO the leadership over at SPAR should just leave the WC's alone, they seem to be doing just fine!
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Springfielder on February 18, 2010, 04:44:20 PM
Sounds like it's all a power struggle and game to me, which is shameful.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: hooplady on February 18, 2010, 05:43:27 PM
Gosh, I'm a member of both.  Am I having a power struggle with myself?  Shut up. No, YOU shut up!! ???
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: strider on February 18, 2010, 05:56:30 PM
Quote from: uptowngirl on February 18, 2010, 02:51:34 PM
Why are either of these two people involved in the WC's and why in the world are people going to Dr. Gaffney about this? SPAR is SPAR, the people running SPAR have had their opportunity in the neighborhood and their track record speaks for itself. Over 20 houses lost, two alley's blocked, and a significant number of residents fed-up. IMHO the leadership over at SPAR should just leave the WC's alone, they seem to be doing just fine!

This is too good and too accurate of a post not to be repeated!
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Livein32206 on February 19, 2010, 07:51:35 AM
Excellent post, Uptowngirl...certainly makes one not only question the reasoning behind their motives. I also agree that contacting CM Gaffney is totally out of line, it's not like he's a member of either group, nor does he have any say in what either group does or not.

I'm also curious as to why spar, in their weekly update, didn't address the 'rumor' of her resignation. They should confirm or discount the validity of what's being said. If in fact, DeSpain has submitted her resignation, it will be interesting to see what the board does. Will they appoint someone else to this position? Will they begin to work towards healing the ills of spar and the neighborhood? Will they finally start abiding by the bylaws? Time will tell.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: fsu813 on February 19, 2010, 08:29:21 AM
jump to conclusions and leap to conclusions
Fig. to judge or decide something without having all the facts; to reach unwarranted conclusions. (See also rush to conclusions.) Now don't jump to conclusions. Wait until you hear what I have to say. Please find out all the facts so you won't leap to conclusions.
See also: conclusion, jump
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.




Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Livein32206 on February 19, 2010, 12:28:42 PM
Quote from: fsu813 on February 19, 2010, 08:29:21 AM
jump to conclusions and leap to conclusions
Fig. to judge or decide something without having all the facts; to reach unwarranted conclusions. (See also rush to conclusions.) Now don't jump to conclusions. Wait until you hear what I have to say. Please find out all the facts so you won't leap to conclusions.
See also: conclusion, jump
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
Gee thanks, I never would've known that if it weren't for you. Once again, you've jumped in to save all of us.

That wonderful post still does not confirm or deny, which is the basis of why I started this thread in the first place. Since you seem to be the all knowing of spar, why is it that you cannot confirm or deny? Or is it that maybe you're not quite in the loop as you figured yourself to be.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: iloveionia on February 19, 2010, 02:42:27 PM
Ah, hem. 
IMHO, the best thing to do is to go to the source. Call SPAR, ask to speak to Louise, and ask for yourself. 
If Louise is not available, ask someone else who works in the SPAR office.
353-7727
The office IS closed on Fridays, but is open until 3 p.m. Mon-Thursday.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: uptowngirl on February 19, 2010, 02:55:38 PM
If Despain resigned, it should of been in the SPAR newsletter we all just got. The problem here is the poor quality of all SPAR communications. It is unfortunate that these type of threads keep opening up, if communication was better- we would not have this.  All I know for sure are the calls I recieved and what I have been told by (some) of the people mentioned in this thread. I wish this <insert foul word> would just stop! This is my HOME, not some stupid playground for the bored, retired, or power hungry.
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: strider on February 19, 2010, 04:29:06 PM
Many of us have learned that calling SPAR Council, or "going to the source" is not always worth even trying.  Based on past experience, there is no reason to believe that you will get the accurate information. 
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: fsu813 on February 19, 2010, 05:28:21 PM
Quote from: iloveionia on February 19, 2010, 02:42:27 PM
Ah, hem.  
IMHO, the best thing to do is to go to the source. Call SPAR, ask to speak to Louise, and ask for yourself.  
If Louise is not available, ask someone else who works in the SPAR office.
353-7727
The office IS closed on Fridays, but is open until 3 p.m. Mon-Thursday.

that would make the most sense, wouldn't it....

but that's not as negativ.....err......fun....right?  :-\
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Springfielder on February 19, 2010, 06:18:58 PM
 As it's been stated, calling the SPAR office doesn't always lend itself to getting the truth. I just don't understand, that if this is nothing but some rumor, then why hasn't it been cleared up once and for all? Since you seem to be all knowing about SPAR, why is it that you haven't said whether or not it's true? You seem to know everything else, so what's the hold up with coming forth with the truth? Why not just clear the air and confirm or deny?
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Springfielder on February 19, 2010, 08:13:31 PM
you crack me up....I'm finding it difficult to type while laughing so hard. :D 
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: CS Foltz on February 20, 2010, 07:16:56 AM
I try my darndest to discount or ignore rumors!  So I guess time will tell!
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Springfielder on February 22, 2010, 03:44:11 PM
Clearly, it's not a rumor... ::) since it's finally been made public
Title: Re: Rumors of DeSpain resignation from spar
Post by: Steve on February 22, 2010, 04:06:10 PM
Since we have two threads on this subject, please continue the discussion here:

http://www.metrojacksonville.com/forum/index.php/topic,7655.0.html