Man takes on opposition to tattoo/body art place

Ok, we are trying to get any type of business down there and then they don't accept this. I would think that this is some sort of discrimination. What does Moser think he is, some sort of Columbus Mafia head telling people what belongs and what does not belong downtown.
This is a great example of judging a book by its cover. For all we know, this guy could be a god fearing man who appreciates body art. Many may not agree with it, but I have seen many people who are Christians and are have numerous tattoos. This guy deserve a chance and needs to be welcomed into the community. Moser does not have the authority to dictate what does/does not belong because it is up to the community as a whole! Get with the times!!!

I believe that I am now against music stores downtown. A tax paying business owner wants to open up a shop and the Mayor does not want him there? Does he not want the jobs, tax revenue, added trafic downtown...?

BD Medical makes needles that can be used for illegial drugs. Temporary Mayor Mike, please ask them to take their business elsewhere.

No wonder downtown is falling apart, and this city for that fact.

PS: I have no tattoos, or piercings.

For some reason it comes as no surprise that our all mighty mayor would try this kind of BS. One would think they would support any new bussiness, especially in downtown,, but then again, maybe thats why we don't see any new ones starting up. The mayor and his possee are scaring them off. It truly is sad that instead of working for the betterment of a city he is to represent, it appears it's all just about him.. This really sucks. Wonder how many more potential bussiness owners/people have been chased off, and if they will start coming forward to tell about it. Time to get rid of the whole fricking corrupt administration.

Mosher must be satisfied with Columbus being a ghost town. This is twice in recent months he has tried to keep someone from occupying empty spaces downtown.

Your a business man don't let the mayor and others try bulling STAND YOUR GROUND!!!!!!!

Another fine example of the old guard not letting anything new down town. 90% of the buildings are old and falling down and nothing in them. No wonder no one shops down there. Don't want to increase traffic.

Dustin is a very fine young man.
He use to rent a apartment from me and he never had any loud partys and his apartment was always neat and clean.
Just because he wants to open up a tattoo/body art place does not make him a bad person.I am sure if he wanted to open up a nail salon their would be no problem.
Thank you Deb McClain

I pledge allegiance to the DBA of Columbus, Nebraska, and to the Prejudice for which it stands, one Street under Moser, indivisible, with hatred and bigotry for all (except business owners we like)

This does it time for a new mayor ! Man he thinks he owns the whole downtown. Look at all the empty buildings if someone wants to open something, anything let them do it if not might as well start tearin down them empty buildings. Wow A guy tries to run a business and everyone trys to stop him he is not breaking any laws leave him alone ! Remember the big fuss about downtown being for business well this man wants to open a business but these jerks wont let him wow that is BS !

Way to try and take away a man's chance at earning a buck. This type of business is more mainstream nowadays and should be allowed to a chance to flourish. Plenty of other cities/towns have a tattoo parlor in their business district and have had no problems. Another example of old crotchety people in power trying to bring a man down. Power and Progress my butt.

It's so sad that people have to act like Mayor Moser. This happens to be America, not Moserland. Is it better to have downtown empty? Is there a special panel that has to approve your business downtown? Wow, let freedom ring, as long as it's legal, what is the problem? Please tell me, maybe I'm offended by certain things, but who wants to hear about it? Good luck in your venture.

FYI Neither for or against Tatoo Parlors. Such is life in Hooterville! With all the commercial real estate sitting empty here in C-Town we should just be happy someone is willing to be there. I have a feeling Mayor Moser's true colors will come out over this and other issues with downtown. This not in my neighborhood malarky is what makes our town Columbus what it is.

sounds like you got a classy mayor there in Columbus

How dare Columbus do this to a guy who wants to open a legal business - yes I said LEGAL business. Why would the city want more tax dollars coming in? Columbus really needs to stop trying to play big brother and let this happen.

Sounds like Mayor Moser and the "other merchants" that he refers to need to make it monetarily advantageous for Dustin to move somewhere else. Or else get a life and let free enterprise determine if Dustin's business is good for Columbus. A bunch of heavy handed business owners shouldn't be allowed to determine who does or does not start up a new business. If mayor Moser was so concerned, he should have rented the buidling that has been sitting empty for over a year. This is Columbus, not a dictatorship.

Sounds like Columbus needs a new mayor. In the picture he seems to have done a lot of work to the place. Is Moser scared of a guy with long hair? Why does he want to keep people out of "his" downtown? The place is and has been for some time a "ghost town" Whenever someone wants to improve a place and their life, there always seems to be a jerk somewhere who opposes it. Its a wonder there is even a downtown anymore at all.

If this is true and I"m sure it is, I hope you win your fight, I'm in need of a new tattoo and will be your first customer :)

God forbid Moser may get more exposure to his business. Talk about predjuduce, open your eyes Moser people like tattoos. What year is it? Are we as a community still stuck in the dark ages. Moser there are plenty of musicians that have many tattoos, in fact they have more than most. After reading this article I will no longer shop @ Columbus Music as I see the mindset they have toward certain groups of the population in Columbus.

Pathetic. Truly pathetic. Someone buys a building in the dead downtown and wants to start a business, but the judgemental, holier-than-thou "merchants" of Columbus don't want him there because they don't like his business. Wait, let me put that into the proper context: They don't UNDERSTAND his business, so they automatically fear it and judge it accordcing to THEIR business values, not whether it's a viable business that would attract customers and bring revenue to the downtown.

Pathetic.

What, is it going to destroy the "integrity" of the downtown? Please, that downtown has been dead for years, ever since we built the golden road to Wal-Mart (all praise be to Wal-Mart, we give you thanks.....)

Sad. Sad how judgemental people are in that town. You all should be ashamed.

I hope Mr. Milligan stands firm and exposes all of you for the smug self-righteous people you are. Seriously, this has the potential to turn into a black eye for Columbus, and I hope it does. I hope he makes you all look like fools.

UNBELIEVABLE!! This man has every right to have his business downtown. Come on, people. Let's be a lot more open minded!!

I find it very shamefull that people in an area can decide weather you are good enough to be around them. This should not be tolerated for residential area's or businesses. I personaly would not likely find myself doing business at this shop but I do think every person has the right to try their hand at owning a business. Wheather he is succesful should be on him not the "too good" people around him.

Good luck Dustin, I used to live in Columbus and understand what you are up against.

Here we go again...

...Moserville and his cohorts.

You stand your ground. It's stories like these that make me so embarrassed to live in Columbus.

Maybe if he offered the Mayor a free tattoo.

Maybe you thought Moser stood for Capitalism. Maybe you thought Moser stood for Free Trade. Maybe you thought Moser stood for Business. It turns out that Moser stands for: “Merchants Oppose Serious Entrepreneurial Resourcefulness”


Fun Fact; "In 18th c. tattaow, tattow. From Polynesian (Tahitian, Samoan, Tongan, etc.) tatau. In Tahitian, tatu." The word tatau was loaned into English, the pronunciation being changed to conform to English phonology as "tattoo".

I'm going to go right out and get my "COLUMBUS MUSIC" tattoo removed from my backside!

Personally, I find body art and piercings other than ears repulsive, but each to his own. Is what Dustin wants to do legal? As far as I know it is! Is there a demand for this type of shop? I'm sure there is! Who are the DBA to try and obstruct this man? It's not like JC Pennys or any other national chain is ever coming back downtown! Tell us Mayor, just what kind of business do you want moving in?

As a former member of the DBA I am appauled at the content of this story. Recently I had commented on an article posted about the downtown here in Columbus and spoke of a "Lack of Vision" from the downtown business owners. WOW! What an understatemnt. This whole thing smells of just that. In addition there is an odor of discrimination and self serving motives that are truely a conflict of interest for in the the Mayoral position.

Moser needs to go! How can the community go about getting him out of office? Impeachment?

Maybe they should change the story title to "Man appreciates wide encouragement to new business venture", it seems like a lot of people are behind him, hey Moser, how about putting on a post here? This is America, you know, land of free speech, the pursuit of happiness and all. Tell us all your side of the story, there, big guy. Stay out of my downtown! Hey, it's working!!

This gives me an idea. Some people just rented the house next to me and appear to have different ancestry than me. I'm going to invite them over and tell them that me and the other neighbors don't want them here.
What decade is this again?

Hi. Welcome to the neighborhood. Now get the hell out!

A message from the Downtown Business Association

If I remember right...there was a tattoo parlor on 11th St. a couple of years ago. Where was Mad Mike and his posse to keep that business from opening up?!?

And to think, I considered moving back to Columbus...after watching the way the city council and mayor run the town, I think I'd rather move to Schuyler...

Add me to the list of those that would likely not patronize the business, simply because of personal preference. That doesn't mean I think it is not a legit business.

I thought the post from mike3 was just plain funny.

To Dustin Milligan: I would be willing to pay for a tatoo for the mayor if he is intersted. My only requirement is that it must be placed on his forehead in bold letters.

Good luck to you on your business venture. Its too bad you have to contend with such prudes for neighbors.

I let the last incident with the guy who wanted to live on the first floor slide because I can see the whole idea behind designating the downtown 1st floor area for just commerce and not residence's. But this really does it. I can no longer be supportive of the mayor and he will not be getting my vote come election day. This is a legal and legitimate business that he wants out of downtown for what legitimate reason?

I know if I owned a music store next to a tattoo shop, I'd take advantage of it and promote things in my stores window like guitars and amps and such that might draw attention to patrons, instead of discouraging a tax paying business owner from setting up shop next to me.

It saddens me every time I go down 13th street and see it so empty. It would be wonderful to see every store front open for business. When are the founding fathers of this City going to wake up and decide the world is "a-changing" There will never be a downtown like I remember. The Irene Shop, Blue Bird Dress Shop, Levines, Brodkey's, Rexall Drug, just to name a few. Those days are over and have been taken over by stores like Walmart with a lot less quality, less customer service and selection. Since we are "Columbus" we will never see a Kohl's or Target, so let's let the people that want to start a business downtown start them. I ask the Mayor, would you be offended by a bar opening up next door to you because they served alcohol, or a lady's lingerie shop because there would be bras in the window, my gosh mayor--you need to wake up!!!!!!!!
Body Art is part of our culture and has been for a long time. I personally do not have a tattoo but I am certainly not opposed to someone else having one.

Since I wasn't there to hear those comments I won't judge the Mayor. If what is in print is true, he ought to be ashamed. Whats the second word in Columbus's motto???? Oh, and what is the first? Sounds like power is trumping progress.

Does the Mayor oppose Mr. Milligan personally? From the article it doesn't appear that he does. Does he oppose his choice of business? Since the application of the tattoos would take place behind closed doors and would not have an adverse affect on the Mayors business I would say not. From this we can only ascertain that he opposes the clientele that would be on the receiving end of said application. Based on the stereotypical idea of tattoo recipients we can assume that the Mayor is concerned about long haired, tattooed, body pierced, individuals loitering about his place of business. This brings up a question. If these same long haired, tattooed, body pierced, individuals were musicians and entered his business establishment with the intent of purchasing various musical instruments (with cash I might add) would he ask them to leave or provide the service that his business was established for and sell them the instruments? My money is on an exchange of merchandise for monetary gain. This leaves the Mayor looking a bit hypocritical in my eyes. Not wanting to be overly judgmental without all of the facts I would, of course, want to hear some input from "Pickles" before I made further assumptions.

"The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce is a collection of more than 700 businesses, organizations and individuals who are committed to growing the economy, improving quality of life, and enhancing opportunity in the Columbus region."

--From: www.thecolumbuspage.com

This sounds all to familiar, this same thing happened to Fremont about a month ago. Dr. Jacks moved their location to downtown Fremont and everyone was freaking out because they painted the building yellow and that looks horrible and blah blah blah! I think if this man wants to open his business more power to him! The mayor doesn't own his building he can't tell him what he can and can't put into it! I say good luck Dustin and dont give in!!!

Maybe a smoking paraphernalia and sexual aid store would be a better choice for that location. I'm sure it'd do a booming business in Columbus.

Too bad he didn't get that conversation recorded on video or audio tape.

Maybe Moser doesn't want anyone else moving in to his neighborhood period.

The man owns a music store... today's modern rock musicians are big fans of tattoos... you think the two businesses would benefit from each other.

But, it's nice to see Mr. Moser upholding good Christian ideals.

Lame.

Yes he should offer Moser a free tatoo that says STUPID on his forehead!!!

Mr. Dean:
How about publishing the 45 signatures on the petition that was submitted to the Council concerning the living downtown issue. I think a lot of citizens would like top see which business' we no longer want to patronize.
On a side note; don't musicians and body art and piercings go hand in hand? Wouldn't one business compliment the other???

I am not a fan of tattoos, but I AM a fan of new businesses, new jobs and a healthy, thriving economy.

I don't understand the problem? The other such businesses in town are clean, well-kept and thriving, unlike so many others around here. They are an asset, not a detriment to our communiy!

Don't let the DBA mafia, the mayor or anyone else push you around. Stand tall Mr. Milligan. I wish you the best.

I think it just shows everyone who lives in Columbus Nebraska that you "DO" get judged on your looks and life style!!!
It's sad how old fashion this town really is! Just because a couple big shots in this town who own stores on 13th st cant handle the truth!That's why people want choices of stores in this town,so depressing this town is a joke, covered in mexican gang tags and a Wal-mart!!! Wake up citizens of Columbus and show the "big shots" in this town, that there's more out there in life then clothes stores ,or music stores, And if any thing fix the clock in frankfort square that never tells the right time but that columbus for us all!!! Screw up the roads,,, spend money on stuff we don't need!!! The big town of Columbus power and depression not progress!!!!

Moser owns a music business, right? Well, um, I'm pretty sure that musicians/rockstars and tattoos pretty much go hand in hand. Is that guy really that big of an idiot?

Good truthful comments keep it up. I say boycott Columbus music ! Take your business else where weather it be out of town or online the mayor has really out did him self this time. Heck no we dont want anyone to fill up these empty buildings try building a new strip mall.

MAYBE I WILL NOT BE BUYING MY MUSIC, DIAMONDS, OR WOMENS CLOTHES DOWNTOWN, AND I WILL BE VOTING FOR A DIFFERENT MAYOR

Ok, so we go by what people around us want now? Well, I'm pretty sure there's a huge number of Columbus people (including myself) that don't want Moser as a mayor anymore. He's just way back in the years for us... We need open minded people that really want some progresss for our town, not an old guy who thinks he can do whatever he wants with this town... It's almost unbelievable that somebody with such a small brain is our mayor. Go Mr. Miligan! I will be one of your customers =)

Turning away new business in a dead downtown purely based on stereotypical generalizations of a lifestyle you don't understand. I feel sorry for you people. I really do....I just......you know, people like Dustin are braver, more confident, more entrepeneurial than any of you could ever hope to be.

Merchants, you all had the opportunity to embrace a new generation and reach a new level of people, thus bringing in new business for yourselves. Evidently you don't understand that, which is probably why you own a business in downtown Columbus.

Much like downtown as a whole, you are a miserable failure. I hope this kid starts his business and sends in a bigger tax revenue check than each and every one of you, and I hope he photocopies it and sends it to you all to put in your windows.

Downtown Columbus....IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU!

I wish you all the best.

If this doesn't make you ashamed to live in, or be from, Columbus then I don't know what will.

I am going to get a tattoo that says
"RW for mayor". I may also get one that says "Wompas Cat for Mr. Columbus 2010".

I will then just walk around downtown with my shirt off, even though the tats will be on my neck.

"Oh, wow, look, a music shop next door, maybe I'll go in and take a look at that guitar I've been meaning to learn how to play. Oh, and a CD shop across the street, wow, I think I'll check that out too!"

Man, you people are stupid. Just flat out DUMB.

The community has spoken. The decision is unanimous. Mayor Mike should get a tattoo.

I suppose a combination Polish Bed and Breakfast/Tattoo Parlor is out of the question then?

This soon to be former mayor runs a music store but doesn't care for long hairs and tattoos? Jeepers, the last time I observed musicians, many to most of them are rockin the tats and long or "untraditional" hairstyles. What is this? Communist Russia in the 50's? I have a college education, a good paying job, no criminal record and yes, four tattoos (with more to come). Is the mayor saying he doesn't want me near his store? If so, fine with me! I am not a musician (although I try to be), but I will never step foot in this communist's store and I will encourage many of my true musician friends to do the same. I think it would be difficult to be a worse mayor.
To Mr. Dustin Milligan, I wish you and your business the best of luck and when I'm mayor, you can expect an award from me for taking a chance and living in the 21st century.
WHOMPUS CAT for MAYOR 2010!
The campaign starts now!

This is getting ridiculous, Polish immigrants, tatoo parlors. Next thing you know there will be a Jap accupunture clinic or an Indian bead store opening up downtown. Us rich white people need to start taking action. Mayor, it is time to call out the 'good ole boys' and form a posse!!!

I also have to make an apology to all who have read my posts in the past about various issues concerning the city, it's development, etc.
While, I am a very vocal individual about my posts, I should have listened to many of the bloggers on here. I made the critical mistake of voting for Mayor Moser because I thought that change would be good and he was in tocuh with the community and betterment of Columbus. I have been to many city council meetings and have backed him in many instances but this is the STRAW that broke the camels back. I apologize for wasting my vote on Moser and it is now obvious that he is dictating who can and can't start a business in the community. If I remember correctly and if we want to roll with sterotypes, many TALANTED MUSICIANS HAVE TATTOOS AND BODY PEIRCING AND GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY GREATLY. THEY HAVE MONEY TO SPEND AND IF THEY ARE SUPPORTED BY THEIR COMMUNITY THEN THEY JUST MIGHT SPEND LOTS OF MONEY AT THEIR LOCAL MUSIC STORES TO BUY EQUIPMENT, GUEST APPEARANCES, ETC. WAY TO BLOW THAT AWAY. Moser, you have just spoke for the whole community and pigion holed us as a group of people who are very judgemental and that is not acceptable!
I apologize for wasting my time sticking up for you and not listening to the ones who could see through your BS.
Finally, many communities have parlors downtown and have nice apartments on second floors of businesses (ie Fremont, Kearney, etc) and they go for good money and has revitalized the downtown. You should be ashamed of destorying downtown. I would think that you would be ok with the parlor next to you because the way you make yourself sound, those people are trouble but the police dept. is right around the corner so the response time would be within seconds! What a joke!

Mayor,

In the best interest of the City of Columbus and yourself, it is time to resign.

In a few short years all this won't much matter. Once we have a four lane highway to Omaha, the only thing left downtown will be the Courthouse, Police Station, and Post Office. At that point, even a tatto parlor wouldn't waste their time being downtown. Downtown - no selection - high prices - arrogant attitude!

Hey Mr. Mayor Mike. When I lived in Columbus I liked you and I still do. However and a business like this could be a realy good thing for yours. If it is run in a good respectful way. He will do good.I have seen a lot of these type buiness come and go. Hey give him a chance. Beside if he runs a very shady business, in time he will be out and chances are he would be in a lot of hot water issues.

I BELIEVE ITS TIME FOR ALOT OF OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS FROM THE PLATTE COUNTY TREASURER,JUDGES AND THE MAYOR OF COLUMBUS TO STEP DOWN SO THIS COMMUNITY CAN MOVE ON AND PROSPER!!!!

I think it is pretty sad that the mayor is catholic and how he and the others are judging. Last I knew us catholics where taught to get along with everybody whether you where black mexican or whatever same with tattoos and piercings. Its suppose to matter what is inside of people and that is what we are suppose to teach our kids which not everyone does.Milligan you go for what you believe and Iam for you even though I dont have tattoos but that is a choice that God gave people and last I knew I thought we lived in a country where it is free. GOOD LUCK!!!!!

Hmmm,,i feel pretty confident in stating that the mayor has put his foot in his mouth and quite possibly ruined all/any credibility he may have had left.
If indeed he was speaking for fellow business owners, they too need to be brought to light. This is a true form of hypocrisy. Those who see fit to march to a different beat are not good enough to live or make an honest living in the downtown area, but these other business owners will most graciously take their money.
Then too stereotype people,, this galls my but*. As with Whompas Cat, i too make an honest living, actually am associated with the law enforcement system, don't do drugs,(other then the ones the doc sems to think i need to keep funtioning)am an old lady,, 50's,,and have three tats.. Proud of them. Each one has a special meaning, as with most people who get one. I do not fit the strung out, drinking, doping profile that the mayors seems to be afraid of. Actually to look at me,, just another old lady.
To have someone in his authority, to be such a bigot,is not only wrong, but a huge embarrassment.
I truly wish the best of luck to Mr Mulligan, and i will most likely be there in the future to have another major life event documented.

...but, see, only BAD people get tattoos, not good people. All those people in the service that fight for our freedom and get tattoos (or got them years and years ago)? All bad people...All of them. Tattoos only go on bad people....then the drug dealers come into town, because ALL people who have tattoos and are bad people and deal drugs, and they bring the crime with them, and before you know it, you'll have tattooed crime syndicates downtown looting businesses and harming people and dealing drugs and WON'T SOMEONE PLEASE THINK OF THE CHILDREN!!!!! AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH.

Get a grip, people, there's been tattoo shops in town and the world hasn't ended. Kid wants to start a business and help out the downtown, what's wrong with you all?

What ever happend to the tean center that was suppose to go down town? Or was that not let in too?

Way to go Justice. Now everyone will know the Mayor is Catholic. We were trying to keep that quiet!

You know the mayor may be on to something. I saw a movie once were a guy with a tattoo killed alot of innocent people. Keep it up Mayor - I'm behind you.

Im not into tattoos at all, but this is pure BS. I had thought about leasing a building downtown for my business, but forget it. If it werent for my bank being down there, I would never go.
Its too bad a person has to get put down by some of these other businesses, I mean cmon who are they to talk!

It seems to me that Moser would welcome this business next to his, because every famous musician that i see on tv has Ink & Multiple piercings. So the 2 business's side by side couldn't be a better fit for both of them to do well

First of all, there needs to be an IMMEDIATE boycott of Columbus Music. The owner, our Mayor, basically used a threatening and intimidation tactic usually reserved for thugs and crime syndicates to keep a business from coming into downtown and bringing more taxes, business and jobs.

I'd like to point out that, AS MAYOR, his responsibilities include fostering the best interests of the city in which he is charged to serve. This action by our mayor is a direct example of corrupt business practices and is treason to the City he serves.

Proper news media from the state needs to be notified. Channels 6,7 and 10 MUST be made aware of this. As a City, you should all accept nothing less.

Adrian Sanchez, I respectfully ask that you notify the media outlet in nebraska and bring this story to light. This man must be ridiculed and destroyed.

I'd just like to step back and look at this from a more basic standpoint before we get into all this rhetoric and ask some simple questions:

Mike, did you think that Mr. Milligan was just going to go "Oh, O.K. Sorry" and not do or say something? For real, how did you think that this was going to be a good idea? I mean, you're the MAYOR, and you honestly thought you would be able to do this? Did you, at any moment, stop to think about the possible reprecussions that could happen to you, both as mayor and as a business owner? How many of those other merchants are going to stand up, identify themselves, and take your side?

You, sir, are not smart. At all. Not even remotely.

I am a new resident to Columbus, relocatd here for a job and I must say, that each day I am saddened more and more by the "small minded" discrimination by the so-called City Leaders.

This town is dying...majorly dying...other than a few manufacturing plants, some strip malls and fast food-what else is there here ?

Downtown Columbus has the capacity to be an eclectic, fun and market driven place for entertainment, shopping and dining if City Leaders would just let it happen.

Hate to say...I am trying as hard as I can to leave here. Not because of the day to day people I meet-you are all great. However, how this town is planned out and ran by the City-forget it.

I will take all of my tax dollars elsewhere.

Good luck Mr. Milligan-open your business-I want to add to my tattoo collection !

Go with this, Adrian, this is your Watergate right here!!!!!!! Be the person to FINALLY get this fool out of office.

aahhhhhhhhhhahhhahhhaaaaaaaaahhhahhhhhhhhhhhhahhhhaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaahh, still speechless, aaaaaaaaahhaaahaaahhhhhhhhhhhhaaah!

All I hear is lets get the donwtown district back where it use to be. If the city is unwilling to let a man basically follow his dream and express himself through his art whether it be on canvas or in the form of body art I am very saddened. To me this is a HUGE stereotype. I am a mother of 4 and have been married for ten years. I turned 30 last year and I have always wanted a tatoo. My husband and I went and got our first tatoos together and it will be a memory we will share the rest of our lives. What a great oppourtunity to bring something new and fresh to the downtown area only to have it shut down by people that are judgemental and won't even give it a chance. Open your eyes people. We are living in a new and different era! Give him a chance. You may be surprised at the positive feedback he will get.

How many of your DBA merchant buddies are going to stand by you on this one? I'm willing to bet that nobody else comes forward. So I'll ask:

Columbus Merchants: If you were part of the group who our Mayor represented by telling this individual that he is not welcome in the downtown area, please identify yourselves and your business either by posting on this comment section OR by writing a letter to the editor and requesting that it be published in a later edition of the Telegram.

(Dear comment section posters: I'm willing to start a pool to see how many other businesses identify themselves above, but ONLY if I'm able to have the number Zero.)

...this IS nuts!!

The funny part to this story is Dustin is also sugar coating what he has been through. They say 'renovating' like slapping on a little paint to this place- this guy has stuck TONS of money into this shop including and not limited to electrical it had tons of live open wires and plumbing that was purely worthless. THOUSANDS of dollars are being sunk into this place to make his dream into a reality and who is Mike to take that away from him? This young man has a dream- he is an ARTIST much like the people who shop at the music store also ARTISTS so should I be offended when MIKE sells a flute because it conjures naughty thoughts in my mind? This guy is a serious loser and we wonder why no one wants to shop downtown columbus- I VOTE TO RECALL HIS HINEY!!!

I am a responsible smart business woman, and yes, I have a tattoo. Does that make me a bad person? This is one reason why my family is moving out of state this month. We have moved around a lot, and this town is one of the worst communities we have ever lived in. My father-in-law was mayor for his hometown for several years. He turned that town into a beautiful community. All I have seen, since I have lived here in Columbus, is everything moving toward Walmart, and the rest of the town turning into a ghost town. Great job Mayor.

I am a graduate of Columbus High and grew up there. My family is still there and it is sad that downtown is so bare. Have you ever thought about turning downtown into a nice antique, retro, coffee shops, tatto parlor, street vendors....hum maybe that might work...lets look at Eureka Springs in Ark and maybe get some ideas folks. Oh and by the way....get rid of the current MAYOR

Columbus needs to get with the times. If this man wants to bring business to downtown, let him! There are some great tattoo places all over the country, who's to say this one won't be. I don't live in Columbus any more, and very happy to say that. It just keeps going down hill every time I visit. I am a Christian, and I have tattoos. Sounds to me like Mr. Mayor needs to get off his high horse and think of the town...and not himself.

..here's to the end of Mike Moser's political career as mayor(and your business, too, way to go moron.)

Mike, if you're still the Mayor at 5 p.m. on Friday, you will have proved that, not only are you incompetent, irresponsible and corrupt, but you are also delusional and without any shred of honor, decency or moral compass whatsoever.

Cheers.

Not all of the downtown business owners share this view. It is unfair to include all of them in this downtown bashing. I agree, Mayor Moser crossed the line and should be dealt with. But to not patronize any business downtown for the fear that they were one that were not welcoming is just plain unfair. Ask them if they were one and if they answer (hopefully honestly) then make your decision to spend or not to spend your hard earned dollars there. There is alot happening downtown right now and hopefully it is on it's way to revitalizing in the next few years. For this to happen we need more forward thinking and for people to patronize the wonderful business' that are doing what you are doing, just trying to make a living. Thank You. Best wishes to Mr. Milligan.

This is the end. It's over. Please resign and try to limit the ridicule that can and will be suffered by yourself, your family and your business if you choose to remain as mayor.

I feel sorry for your family, but I just can't feel sorry for someone who actually thought that a stunt like this was a good idea.

Good luck doing whatever it is you're going to do. I know I'll always look at you with contempt and disdain. Sad thing is that, reading all these comments, I don't think I'll be alone.

Do you call that a bribe? "I will help you move to another location."

Bet Mayor never wanted all this to come out in the open.

You know, the long-haired, tattooed hippie "loser" has more integrity and class than the entire downtown business merchants put together. Dude is trying to work hard, create a life for himself and his family, and express his art, and all he runs into are ignorant men afraid of things they don't understand.

Later, Mike......

i think everyone needs to mind their own buisness and leave this guy alone, why is it when someone is trying to start somthing there is always someone there to ruin it for them. Grow up and let him be

I am in full support of Mr. Milligan.

Where should we all send our donations to help support Mr. Milligan's cause?

Do you think that he would actually treat people nicely if they came into his store??? Maybe even want to sell me something or offer his service to me??? If so let him move in maybe he would start a trend downtown.They cry because the businesses are leaving downtown. Then when they get legitamate businesses wanting to move down there they don't want him. No wonder we can't have any other stores other than Wal-Mart. They are soo good for us. They run the other businesses out of business then raise their prices. now we can't seem to get another business when they move clear to the other end of town. They need top scratch out the "Power and Progress" Stuff and put up "Backwards Balonga" it makes more sense. Is being a "Knothead" enough Reason to Impeach the mayor and City Council????????? We need change in a big way. Maybe Barack would take the job. I don't agree with the way he does some thing's but he has a good heart.

This is hilarious, from other issues in the past which the honorable tard mayor messed up, and the State had to correct his wrong doings, well now you see his true colors. While I don't have any tattoos or piercings, and don't care for them, he has every right to open and run his business.

I hope all of you whom have voted for the dictator, I mean mayor are proud of your votes.

Hope that by-pass is done soon, so I can avoid most of Columbus on my way to Omaha.

Thanks to the mayor Dustin Milligan recieved the best advertising possible in Columbus. The best part is it was free! Good luck with your business Dustin, things are already looking up.

If you think Mike Moser is acting on his own, think again. There are many who find this type of business offensive. Other shops similiar have tried and failed, 26th ave was one, the other was on 12th street.
Unfortunately the type of people that hang out at these facilities in Columbus have not been the most upstanding and neighbors complained of trash, empty beer bottles and obscene language.
A tattoo parlor is not wanted downtown. Let them go out by a bar where they'd be more comfortable and more at home. Or by the Harley shop.
We want quality shops downtown, not necessarily quantity.

PS I do have tattoos, Finding a good, clean shop is hard, mine is in Council Bluffs.

This guy, I don't know, he may be a paragon of virtue, but his predecessors have left a bad scar.

If this happened last June, why are we now just hearing about it.
I think Mr. Milligan is having problems and is blaming them on the downtown area and Mr. Moser.

I think that there is more to this story then is being told here.

I have first hand information about the negotations with the Mayor and Mr. Lazarevic regarding his quest to renovate the second floor of his building for living quarters. Before the last City Council meeting on the special use application, Mr. Mayor made a promise that he and other prominate business owners downtown would withdraw their objection to the application if Mr. Lazarevic would meet certain conditions. Mr. Lazarevic complied and the Mayor continued to object to the application at the next City Council meeting contrary to his promise. I have 4 kids in area school bands and have, in the past, been a good customer of Columbus Music. I will never step foot in Columbus Music again.

Let's not put the mayor on the first bus out of town just yet. I think he has a couple of screws loose, but he did run unopposed in the last election. We better find someone willing to take his place first.

I think Mickey Mouse could probably win by a landslide in the next election, but unless there is another name on the ballot, we better get used to this guy.

Anyone interested? Its got to be a sure thing.

Wow. Leave it to this town run by a mayor who is obviously a friggin moron. Power and Progress... HA Judging by the last 20 years, Columbus's downtown doesnt show signs if either. You know what Dustin, just do it. Forget the idiots next door and do your thing ! I do not have tatoos nor will probably ever get one, but who cares, doesnt mean I dont think we need a shop here. Our downtown is pitiful and needs a jump start like that. This is why people drive to Norfolk or Lincoln to shop because of people like our stupid mayor. How embarrasing! I didnt think this town had a Mafia who runs the show. Interesting.

OH and P.S BOYCOTT COLUMBUS MUSIC !!!

I think the 45 + signatures on that petition should be part of the city council meeting notes and should be a public record. It would be interesting to know who stuck their neck out last time and probably this time too only now they are going to hide. It's only fair that they identify themselves and only fair to the ones that did not get mixed up into this downtown mess to be considered good, honest merchants. As Bogey's Music said they didn't have any problem with who moved in next to Moser's. Two other ladies wouldn't comment or were unavailable - wonder if that meant they'd welcome him with open arms and offer to help in anyway possible to get his business up and running???? Who are the original 45+ and what businesses do they represent?

Doesn't what the mayor is doing go against the principles this county was built on? As long as Mr. Milligan is engaging in legal business who is the mayor to tell him to go somewhere else? Mr. Milligan is trying to earn an honest buck with his legal trade using his own two hands. I find what moser did totally disgusting, and I'm a guy who has never had and will never get a tatoo. I'm really interested in the mayor's responce. Does anyone else remember when moser vetoed the city council's repeal of the cities ban on concealed handguns only to later lie about it to the media? The mayor has again shown his true colors.

I think that we need to change our city government. Lets get our ego driven mayor and our dollar and cents driven Chuck Whitney and a few others out of the city council. it is time that the city starts to improve me must change and expand our city services and shopping by spending money. A pond that has water flowing into it and not outof becomes stagnant and stinks. If we get rid of Moser and a few city councilmen I am sure that our city administrator can lead this city to be very productive.

i think this is the first blog where basically everyone has had the same opinion on a topic. congrats community of columbus today we came together.

Mayor,

I taught you better than to say "Me and the other merchants don't want you down here." It should be "The other mechants and I ..."

On another point, you should spend some time in church to learn what being a Catholic means. I am ashamed of you.

I do not live in Columbus but I do a lot of business there. I have always believed that music is an art and an expression of one's inner self. And I also, believe that tatoo's and body piercing is art and also,an expression of one's inner self. It is also a form of identification. Both of my sons' were in high school, when they got their tatoo's. Did I have a problem with it? Absolutely not!!!! In fact, I went to grand island and signed the permission for my younger son to get the tatoo. My son's are now in their 20's and respectable young men.
Mayor Moser,you are not God,so please don't act like him. or her. You do not have the right to tell Mr. Milligan that his business is not wanted down here. He is an artist and you and the "other merchants" should welcome him and his business. Besides, it would be wonderful to see downtown columbus get the magic back that was there, not so very many years ago. I have some very fond memories of columbus in the 70's and 80's.
thank you

I'll side with the Mayor on this. There is no story. The Telegram is milking this to attract readers and commentary...and obviously succeeding. Thats what newspapers do.

Places like bars and tattoo parlors are legitimate businesses, but face it. They aren't every business owner's choice for a next door neighbor. Heck, even a nail salon can be offensive to an adjacent business owner, right Jeff?

Moser happens to be one of those business owners. He has every right to ask Milligan to consider other locations and offer to pay for relocation. Milligan tried but couldn't find an alternate site and signed a year long lease. END OF STORY.

People need to realize that while Moser is the mayor, he is also entitled to his opinion as a business owner. Being Mayor does not take that away.

Insert any other downtown property owner's name instead of "MAYOR Moser" and there would have been 1/10 the comments posted. Instead you get the same tired, ridiculous rants.

I'd love to run for mayor, middle of the road and as a business co- owner of a downtown establishment that's not one of your ordinary businesses I completely understand the need to revitalize the downtown area and to give EVERYONE who wants to open a legitimate business downtown the opportunity and tools necessary to do so. Increased tax revenue, area rennovation, increased traffic to area, increase in jobs, local products and services, all a big plus.

Get a lawyer and sue him

I have two kids, one who plays trumpet and one who plays drums. No more Columbus Music for us. This is truly sad.

since ive been and shopped in downtown Norfolk. Is it still thriving? Im just wondering, I always thought ALL the different shops up and down the street was cool.

I'd like to further state my dissatisfaction with the Telegram only posting about 20% of this story for the online edition.

I'm glad I still subscribe to the print edition to read the FULL articles.

Yep Telegram, that was a very nice way to end the on-line article. YOU COULDN"T HAVE PLANNED IT BETTER.

To DBA MEMBER:
What kind of comments are-"We want quality shops downtown" and "A tattoo parlor is not wanted downtown"??? What business do you own, because maybe someone don't want you downtown either. Maybe you should sign your name so the citizens of Columbus know where NOT to shop. I think there is a reason why we have no downtown business and it looks as though it is only gonna get worse!!
To Mayor Mike:
I am truly EMBARRASSED to say I voted for you and I am glad my son quit band so I won't make the mistake of giving you any of my hard earned money.
To City Resident:
I also wonder what happened to the possible teen center downtown. I heard a comment from someone that the kids who wanted to open it were having trouble with permits of some sort. I don't know if that is true or not, but if it is I think Mayor Mike was probably behind that one too. If either of the teens involved in the teen center are reading this, let us know why you haven't opened up.

To DBA Member: Just because you have tattoos does not mean a thing. You have just shown that you are judgemental as Moser. How do you know that your description of "those people" only hang out at Harley shops and Bars. I do both and I have no tattoos and support Poker Runs as well Beer Gardens. I dispise litter and public intoxication. You either must be in Moser's and other like him pocket or ignorant as can be. This gentleman may be fighting an uphill battle by being "labeled", but he also has an equal right to have an opportunity to excel at his craftmanship. You have no idea what kind of artist he is as well what type of work and employees he hires. You should be very disappointed in yourself or else you are a person who rides a Harley and pertends to be an outlaw of some sort. When in reality, you have no survival or street smarts. You have no idea how disappointing this is and I do hope that this story does not only make state headlines, but national headlines as well! Way to make us look like a bunch of goofs!

Please don't group all of the downtown business owners into this catagory. Not all of us are opposed to having him as a neighbor. Give him a chance. one more building not sitting empty sounds good to me.

Paulcan: You can say all you want about how the Telegram is only stirring the pot and print half the story and whatnot. The fact of the matter is that Moser said what he said and the meeting was short and sweet with the fact that noone wants him there.
As a person who wants to have a business, he/she should have every opportunity to be sucessful. Not long ago, there were many bars along 13th street and 26th avenues along with businesses as Mosers. There were no terrible things that happened. Miceks Bar has UP and Midwest Glass next to it and I have never seen any visible damages or litter. Once again, paulcan, you have it wrong!

I would just like to say that I know first hand what has been going on and let me say that just because he is the mayor does not mean that he should have the power to keep anyone from opening his or her business. He said that he would help find another location and did not do that and now that is something that he has to deal with. I must also say that Dustin did look for other places and also found none. Is he just supposed to sit there and fiddle his fingers and say "okay, Mayor Moser, I will move somewhere else just to satisfy you" He has that very twisted. I think people are also here commenting because they HAVE read the rest of the article just as I have. I will take the person up on the offer to start a place where donations can be made for the good cause of the tattoo shop downtown. I will be back with that.

re DBA Member- You have a lot of nerve-maybe not everyone is pleased with the business's downtown -maybe the MUSIC store and the clothing stores and the sporting good stores and the jewelery stores should also move somewhwere else,at least this guy is willing to work and not standing in the WELFARE line(well not yet unless the Mayor forces him out of downtown) It is no wonder I shop in Norfolk there is NOTHING left in Columbus. GOOD LUCK DUSTIN

I have lived in Columbus for most of my life. I like Columbus...but things like this make my stomach upset. I CANNOT believe how nieve and behind the times some people around here seem to be. I HATE it when people say they are embarrased to live here, can't wait to leave, or that they would never move back home. It hurts my heart, because this is home to me and is supposed to be a good place to live. But, ridiculous things like this happen and make our city a complete joke, I understand why they feel that way.

I'm saddened to hear the the DBA thinks they can pick and choose businesses for the downtown area...it's a hard time right now for society in general...everyone deserves a fair chance. Didn't the DBA realize that Hot Potato was directed toward hippie crowds...I mean, come on...who cares which people are shopping downtown as long as people are shopping downtown!? Love your neighbor as yourself, don't judge a book by it's cover...and stop acting like you're better than everyone else. We're all human, we all have faults, and we all have strengths. Let Dustin use his God-given, artistic talent in Downtown Columbus.

Really, DBA...do you think they will be able to drink alcohol and smoke dope in the shop?? Get real. For all we know, they don't even participate in those kinds of activities. Do you??

phoenixs tats props to my boy Serg for making this possible!!!And to the mayor open your eyes a new business in the area new faces from out of town,people that normally wouldn't waste their time peeking their heads in your store just might take a look huh??? would that be good for your half dead business,now your concerns are all based on pre notions that every person that has a tattoo is either a gang member or a biker, well let me welcome you to the twentieth century a time in which tattoos are more than just skulls and cross bones true art in my eyes.So Mayor stop BSing around and you don't like the idea cause you have a tattooed Hispanic and a long bearded tattooed piercer and i would guarantee these men have not shown you any disrespect or given you any reason not to support these men. down with the narrow headed people.

I came across this article online & it definitely caught my eye. I would like to ask the Mayor what is the great issue with having a tattoo/body place not only in your area, but as a neighbor? Is it the competition?Correct me if I'm wrong but these are your exact words:“If a citizen wishes to do so, a firearm can easily be carried openly for everyone to see." Why can children see that it's o.k to walk around with loaded handguns, yet tattoo & body piercing is not welcomed in your town. I think Mr. Milligan deserves a logical expanation. After all, politics is about putting your beliefs aside for the public. Your actions are pure selfishness & uncalled for. Where do YOU as a THE MAYOR which whom every type of race, gender & self expression voted your DISCRIMINATING SELF get off inviting someone to your business to completely shatter their dreams? I'd deny the fact that I voted for you if I did. Mr. Milligan, you have your rights & they are obviously intimidating you. Don't let some IGNORANT, SELF ABSORBED MAYOR discourage...needless to say, Chicago Mayor is no better, he sucks just as much!

That's messed up! Why not put a tatoo/body shop downtown?? First off, it would go great next to a music store!(In fact, a lot of people I know personally are both tatooed & play music.) Secondly, it would bring potential business to the area from people who might not otherwise have a reason to even drive through downtown (well, other than the viaduct being closed). And last, but not least, if the DBA wasn't full of snots and old money, and would take a moment to get to know anyone or open thier minds, they might come to realize that you can't judge a book by its cover. As far as I'm concerned Bogey's is the only always-friendly business downtown. Grow up Columbus!!!

Who in the ---- does Mike Moser think he is? He goes against State Mandate on conceal carry, says who can move in and who cant, and now he wants to say who can and cant have a business down town. I think its time Columbus found some leadership that will stand for and with our people. Downtown is a ghost town and yet Moser is against a Legitimate Business moving in? Im starting to wonder what kind of Business he is running out of his shop. Our mayor is in the news far to often for all the wrong reasons. Hold your ground Dustin. Our Mayor might be the one who has to go.

Scientific facts.

1) 74.23% of pre teen adult video actresses have tattoos.

2)90.264% of murderers on death row have tattoos.

3)99.64% of the drug addicts have tattoos.

Charles Manson has a tattoo, Charles Starkweather had a tattoo, and so did Adolf Hitler, and Heinrich Himmler.

It is also a scientific fact that 98.64% of the people in the above mentioned categories had a relative that owned either a grandfather clock, a music instrument, or both.

From this data one can easily draw their own conclusion.

I am back because I am serious about the cause for Mr. Milligan opening up the shop. I have made a yahoo account to help in this. The email address is phoenixbodymodscause@yahoo.com. Feel free to say what you are willing to help with. I am not a skeam either. I will make sure that I will get all the info to Dustin. Email me for more details on how you can help. Thank you.

looks like this fool is going down hard--another mayor acting as if he is god--screw that--impeach this idiot-----bjjtm

When can we elect a new mayor? This guy is a joke, how many times is he going to pull this stuff??

Dustin is nothing but a decent person. The mayor may not like what he is going to be doing in his business but I can say for certain that Dustin or anyone of his employees would be forcing this body art on the mayor or on anyone who does not want it.

I hope that you can get through this line of bull and that your business is a sucess!! As for the mayor...you need to find a new hobby other than being so picky about everything.

Looks like moser hit a bad note on his horn.

I don't care much for long hair or tattoos and all that stuff BUT I strongly feel Milligan has every right to open up any kind of shop he wants as long as it is legal and keeps it neat.

I made the mistake of voting for moser the first time but the last election I picked none of the above and glad I did now.

I have taught my sons to be hard workers, honest and accountable for their actions. I have taught them not to judge people without knowing them and walking a mile in their shoes. I have instilled in them their mission in life is to enjoy the journey and help someone along the way.

For those of you that don't know Dustin, I encourage you to go meet him. He will give you a firm handshake and look you in the eye. He will treat you with respect, as well he should. Should he come upon you when you are stranded and have car problems, he will stop to help you and more than likely fix your problem. That's the kind of young man he is and has been raised to be.

I find it quite entertaining to find the Mayor and other businesses in Columbus have such a closed mind to Dustin wanting to open a studio and share his talent. That is sad, to say the very least. However, should you close him down and force him out of his business, he will still be respectful, give you a firm handshake, look you in the eye and help you stranded on the side of the road. Because that's the kind of man he is. A good son~~~~~

I'm proud of you Dustin. Forgive those folks that find you offensive. You continue to do what you do and make me proud!
Love
e'

I must clarify that I am not a spokesperson for the businesses downtown. I can only speak for the ones that I have conversed with about this situation. None are in favor of this type of business near ours. We have our livelihood on the line, and many of us deal with young children, teens and shoppers from out of town.
Most of you would change your tune if it were your money that is being thrown down the drain for the likes of another tattoo shop to set up, fail and leave the remmants that we'd have to deal with for years to come.
I also have first hand knowledge of the conversation that Mike had with Dustin and the whole story has not been told.
Only a one sided version by Dustin.
Shame on him for trying to play the victim here. Can't he create a business the old fashioned way, EARN IT.

Welcome to the 1950's Columbus is stuck in it! I can't think of a better business man than Dustin Milligan to "Modernize" the beautiful downtown area...
GOD BLESS DUSTIN MILLIGAN

I have been thinking hard about running for mayor of Columbus. After reading this story I think I just might. Shame on you Mr. Mayor.

AND THE SIGNS THAT READ COLUMBUS IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS THAT ARE PUT UP ON THE OUTSIDE OF TOWN SHOULD ACTUALLY READ....LOG HAIRED FREAKY PEOPLE NEED NOT APPLY, SO TUCK UP YOUR HAIR UNDER YOU HAT AND COME IN TO TOWN AND ASK THE MAYOR WHY? HE'LL SAY YOU LOOK LIKE A FIME UPSTANDING YOUNG MAN/WOMAN, THINK YOU'LL DO... SO THEN TAKE OFF YOUR HAT AND SAY "IMAGINE THAT ME WORKING IN A BUILDING RIGHT BESIDE YOU...WOAH!!!!! SIGN SIGN EVERYWHERE A SIGN BLOCKING OUT THE SCENERY BREAKING MY MIND. DO THIS DON'T DO THAT, CAN'T YOU READ THE SIGN??
AND THE SIGN SAID, ANYBODY CAUGHT TRESPASSING WOULD BE SHOT ON SIGHT SO I JUMP THE RAILROAD TRACKS AND YELLED AT THE MUSIC STORE, HEY11 WHAT GIVES YOU THE RIGHT.
TO PUT UP A FENCE (BY THE RAILROAD TRACKS) TO KEEP ME OUT OR TO KEEP MOTHER NATURE IN. IF GOD WAS HERE, HE'LL TELL YOU TO YOUR FACE, AMN YOUR'E SOME KINDA SINNER!! NOW, HEY YOU MISTER!! CAN'T YOU READ, YOU GOT TO HACE A SHIRT & TIE TO GET A BUILDING. YOU CAN'T EVEN WATCH, NO YOU AIN'T SUPPOSE TO BE HERE. SIGN SAID YOU GOT TO HAVE A MEMBERSHIP CARD TO GET INSIDE UH!
AND THE SIGN SAID EVERYBODY WELCOME, COME IN, KNEEL DOWN AND PRAY. BUT WHEN THEY PASSED AROUND THE PLATE AT THE END OF IT ALL, I DIDN'T HAVE A PENNY TO PAY, SO I GOT ME A PEN AND A PAPER AND I MADE UP MY OWN LITTLE SIGN!!! I SAID, 'THANK YOU LORD FOR THINKING ABOUT ME, I'M ALIVE AND DOING FINE. SING SING EVERYWHERE A SIGN BLOCKING OUT THE SCENERY AND BREAKING MY MIND DO THIS, DON'T DO THAT CAN'T YOU READ THE SIGN!!! Shame on you Mike Moser. time for you to step down from your job. And stop giving Columbus a bad name. Time for a recall of the mayor. And I will never step in his place of business again. Mark it down.

"Me and other merchants don't want you down here"??? Hey Mike! Why not just make him "An offer he can't refuse"??? Who in the hell do you think you are? Uggh.... No downtown lofts? No tatoo shop? All at your almighty discretion? Your self sanctifying attitude is enough to make me sick. Since when does buying a property and running a business require a stop into your MUSIC SHOP to be harassed? Disgusting ego. Gives me the creeps, like waking up next to a severed horse head.

DBA Member:
How come none of you Twelve Club locating on 13th Street? I have driven by there at night and seen many people standing outside havin a smoke or just chatting. To me they just looked like normal folks getting their life on track but I'm sure to you fine upstanding business folks think they looked like undesirables. You DBA donkeys(can't use the correct term) need to wake up. The only reason your business is going to fail is your snobish attitude and lack of customer service. When's the last time you greeted a customer with a smile instead of a disgusted leer?

To DBA member...
Thats right,, i said chicken poop. The nicer version of what i really think of you after your comments. Get freaking real already...Worried about the livelihoods of your families,having to "deal" with young teenagers, and out of town shoppers? What the hel*. Why don't ya grow some kahonies and put your name and business on here for all to see, and sit back and really watch your business drop.(then others will picking up after your failed business). What is the purpose of trying to draw customers from out of town if you all have such a down outlook towards them. And touching on having to pick up after failed businesses? So what did you have to do when recent pizza places have closed, or pharmacies, or clothing stores? You are an idiot. And who really cares about what it is everyone isn't aware of? Bottom line is the mayor had no right to make these comments and abuse his power in this way.

DBA Member:
Since you have first hand knowledge of what the conversation between Moser and Milliganm was, let's here it! Moser was interviewed by the Telegram and he didn't have anything to add othe than "He can do what he wants". So come on lets hear it or was that jusy smoke?

You must all realize that it is not just Mr. Moser that does not want the shop next to his business. If any of you subscribe to the newspaper- you will get the full story. According to the article Mr. Milligan stated that he was searching for about 10 months and looked at more than 20 places to rent- but was turned away when the owners found out what type of business Milligan would be operating. There seems to be a pattern here. So it is not just Moser here or the DBA. Moser just happens to be the scapegoat because he is Mayor who happens to be a business owner. Would there be this much fuss if Mr. Moser was not mayor?

In the past I played with one of the most popular bands in the Columbus area. I and other members of the band left a considerable amount of money with Mike. The instruments he offered were at best of mediocre quality, and his "skills as a musician?"
The guy wasn't qualified to carry my pick bag! At this point I envision Mr. Milligan without a neighbor to his East. I all so foresee the Mayor as a penniless pauper in front of Wal-Mart panhandling for spare change. No money = No home, no car, no wife. I have done some stupid things in my lifetime. I think we all have. But this boneheaded move is without precedent. Why doesn't MM post on here to defend his position? I personally would not buy so much as a pick in his store!

TO: DBA Member…

“I must clarify that I am not a spokesperson for the businesses downtown. I can only speak for the ones that I have conversed with about this situation. None are in favor of this type of business near ours.”
--Maybe he isn’t in favor of your type of business near his, in fact, judging by the number of vacant buildings downtown, a lot of people aren’t interested in having a business near yours.

“We have our livelihood on the line, and many of us deal with young children, teens and shoppers from out of town”
--He is putting his livelihood on the line same as you and also deals with teens and shoppers.

“Most of you would change your tune if it were your money that is being thrown down the drain for the likes of another tattoo shop to set up, fail and leave the remmants that we'd have to deal with for years to come.”
--It’s your own fault if you’re throwing your money down the drain. Why don’t you start a business that customers actually want to go to?
--As far as a business setting up shop, failing and leaving, look around at all of the empty storefronts. Did you try to stop them from opening too?
--What remnants? An empty building same as you have now from the last “legitimate” business

“I also have first hand knowledge of the conversation that Mike had with Dustin and the whole story has not been told.”
--Then tell the story. My guess is that it was even worse than Mr. Mulligan said.

“Only a one sided version by Dustin”
--Let’s hear your version.

“Shame on him for trying to play the victim here”
--He is the victim and it sounds like you’re trying to play the victim.

“Can't he create a business the old fashioned way, EARN IT.”
--It sounds like that is what he is trying to do. Unless by old fashioned you mean he has to suck up to the DBA, join your exclusive little group, get a hair cut and open some mediocre little shop preapproved by the good old boys.

Hmmm...funny the bridal shop lady has no comment about it when the Telegram asks her opinion, she has no problem telling everyone else. She is VERY AGAINST it and was blabbing on about it to me and I said it could bring more people downtown and she told me no it wouldn't, it would only cause trouble. I then said just because people had tattoos doesn't mean they are bad, heck, I wouldn't mind having one myself except I don't have a very high pain tolerance and when she realized she wasn't getting any where with me with her opinions she walked away from me. Mr. Milligan don't let other business owners push you around and open your store, and I hope you have alot of success!!! For those of you who need to buy bridal dresses, accessories (get your tuxedos from Bordy's not from the Groom's store) or need musical stuff, I know Columbus wants you to buy here but Norfolk and Omaha are not that far away and why support businesses that will not support Columbus? I know the next time I'm looking for a homecoming dress, I will NOT be looking here!

I was trying to decide if I should buy a new guitar or get a tattoo. Looks like I'll wait until the tattoo shop opens.

DBA member needs to sell out and retire soon. He/She has done more damage to downtown with these stupid post's than maybe even the Mayor has done. After reading the print edition I will commend Bogey's music on using some common sense. There is a at least one business downtown that still deserves your business. Any other business's that do not want to be associated with this needs to speak up now!

So does this mean he would not let me open a topless bar in the old Rexall building?? I thought it would be a great spot on the corner, with a bank across the street. But now i'm having second thoughts....

Just to let you all know....I forwarded this article to KM3 News. They have some great reporters that can get this story out.

GO DUSTIN!!

I knew that one was coming into this conversation, I am just surprised it took so long. ha ha

The man wanted to buy the building so this young man could not move in people. I dont care if he is the mayor or not. He tired to to buy the building to keep him out...

Anybody rember back in November 2004 right after the election there was a comment in the Telegram about the election of Moser as being a black day for the City of Columbus?
Talk about prophecy!
Just think, a lot thought Mayor Wertz was bad for Columbus.

Just wondering, if the mention of this getting forwarded to a news station, has the mayor or other hypocrits in this city squirming.
I would think that if it got to that point, the mayor would have the decency to resighn, seems as how he has really made columbus look like a city any potential employer/ or businessman would want to avoid. Thanks again Mr Moser,,(saying this very sarcastically)...

Past D.B.A. Member:
As a past business owner downtown, I find Mayor Moser's concern over, Mr. Dustin Milligan's tatoo parlor opening downtown to be unwaranted, as it is a legal business, as any other! as we
already have a tatoo business on 23rd st. now.
Why not Mr. Moser DON'T YOU APOSE THAT ONE? or is it not in (Your Downtown)?.
Mr. Mose is your next move to rename the city MOSERVILLE ?????.
BUILD ANOTHER BRIDGE AND GET OVER IT!.

Wow. Stuff like this continues to make me embarrassed to be from Columbus. I see that there still has been no progress made in tolerance toward everyone. Good luck to Mr. Milligan on getting his business going and I hope that you are successful.

I have to ask why? Why would any body shop in downtown Columbus. These downtown businesses think they are doing you a favor by allowing you to shop here. What a joke, I never shop in downtown Columbus.

Someone ought to build a new shopping area that looks like a downtown (Village Point Mall, 168th & Dodge, Omaha NE.) and compete with the original Columbus downtown. My guess is that these clowns on the DBA would be scratching there bald heads.

Imagine business's that actually want you to shop in their stores and make you feel like you actually want to be there.

well lets open a topless bar downtown right next to the music store im sure they wont mind it or even better next to his house im sure he will be sneaking over there when his lady is sleeping. over even has passion parties right next to his store maybe he will like that one as well or even maybe go in with his store?? there is nothin downtown anymore its all empty building. there is a bar downtown y isnt he havin a cow about that one some drunk can go crash his window and steal some of his stuff duh mayor get on that one

Wow this might set a new record for comments. Man I thought the city council was bad turns out they are not so bad its their leader the Mayor that needs to go ASAP !

u are a coward, true coward, put your name on here and the names of the other businesses that say they dont want the tatoo parlor, step up you cowards. another thing, my sister works and has worked for the channel 6 news for years, i have forwarded her this story and she promises it will make a great story, ill keep you in touch, im telling everyone this will not go away until every coward of a business owener either publicly supports or opposes dustin

I think I will stop down and give Dustin a check today. Help him make his shop as nice as possible.

Maybe others should do the same??

Im A 34yr old physically challenged/unemployed member of the Wayne Nebraska Community....& I Say, Hey Dustin hire me to work in your shop. Let's see if that Pickle changes the Mayors tune. Then you could add a handicapped discrimination suite to the docket.
"Just reading the comments below, WHERE ARE THE NAY-SAYERS?!?.....There Really Is No Place Like Nebraska!

Classic from Telsa! Love that song! People are taking people with tattoos and labeling them as bad. Tattoos need to be by the Harley shop. The most ridiculous thing I've ever heard! AC/DC, Ben Affleck, Jessica Alba, Bret Michaels, Pamela Anderson, Jennifer Aniston, Tom Arnold, Alicia Keys, Caroline Kennedy, Barbie (yes the Barbie doll and even comes with a tattoo machine), David and Victoria Beckham, Jon Bon Jovi, Kobe Bryant, KISS, Tim McGraw, Glen Campbell and Shania Twain to name a few. Do you know what these people have in common, tattoos! If you research them you will find these high profile people do alot of good deeds and are very charitable people. Where do you think they get their tattoos? I don't know been awhile since I've been there but maybe Beverly Hills has a high end tattoo parlor with short hair, clean shaven people in them doing the art work. Just because you have alot of tattoos, long hair, wear leather coats and ride Harleys shouldn't mean a thing. Don't judge a book by the cover! If the store was open and was causing trouble or leaving garbage etc. out in front of the shop you all would have a legitimate complaint but until that happens "Shut the he** up and mind your own business!" If people would worry about themselves and see the faults in them instead of others the world would be a much happier place!

Dustin, You should add a few guitars and wedding dresses to your inventory. Obviously the DBA does not know who their consumer market is. Think of how many musicians and young brides have tattoos? You are sitting on a gold mine!

To those opposing this business...the small-minded, outdated beliefs of this parts of this community never cease to amaze me. If you think only hoodlums, "bad" bikers, miscreants and druggies get tattooed, you are sorely mistaken. Go to a college, pick any one you like. Start checking in with people of all walks of life, all races, all creeds - ask them, and you know what you'll find? They have tattoos. They do. Med students, law students (some of whom will someday be -gasp!- judges with tattoos!), education majors, math majors, artists, even some of the professors, you name it - they're getting "inked". Go to a church, do the same thing. Heck, stop people in the grocery stores. The stereotype you are carrying around in your head about what "kind of people" get tattoos is no longer true, and it hasn't been for a while now. Do yourself a favor and catch up.

Opposing a business who is trying to do JUST what you are trying to do in YOUR business makes no sense. More people downtown is NOT a bad thing, and I am baffled to see how you think it could be. As for "those kinds of people", the ones who ARE hoodlums, who might think of causing trouble...there are PLENTY of buildings downtown already that are drawing the "kinds of people" you THINK you're afraid of, and you know there are. So if things aren't unbearable now, a legitimate business of any kind isn't going to make it worse.

The reality is that those "kinds of people" already exist in your community, and you can't identify them by whether or not they have a tattoo, and they are no bigger a threat to you or your patrons than anyone else anywhere else.

As for litter, etc. - litter is already a problem downtown, and has been since I worked down there ten years ago. And hanging out downtown? Holy moly - perish the thought! Someone might get a wild hair and come in and buy something from you! Gasp! Oh, wait, but for that to happen, you might have to be open later and actually paste a SMILE on your face when someone comes in, even if they don't fit the stereotype you have in your head of what a "good" customer looks like. And that's really the biggest problem - people who are judgemental about things like tattoos and long hair miss out on some really great people, peole who often have plenty of cash to spend.

For the record, I have no tattoos, mostly because I don't dig needles, and I am a middle-aged white female, a mom, and someone who you would most likely think was one of the "good people" if I came in your shop. Just so you don't dismiss me as one of "those people". Open minds are a good thing, folks. You don't have to accept every idea in the world, but it can't hurt to try to accept a few.

Now, about Moser. I've seen your patrons - a great many of them are tattood within in inch of their lives. They come in to buy guitars, and strings, and amps, and sheet music and tablature for what I'm sure you really think are their "rotten little hoodlum bands", don't they? But then, they're paying YOU when they do that, now, aren't they? So maybe it's not that you object to THEM, you object to SOMEONE ELSE getting their money? Your business can draw all the supposed undesirables you want, but everyone else better be selling flowers and homemade soaps shaped like hearts to Grandma and Aunt Mavis, is that about right?

Makes me want to open a music store where customers don't have to deal with people, like, well..like YOU. I'm pretty sure I could get some backing here in your fine community.

Personally I think this has nothing to do with your mayorship (other than the fact that it speaks to what kind of a jerk you are, and who wants a jerk like that for their mayor), but I can say for sure that no one in my family or circle of friends will EVER shop at Columbus Music again. You really hosed yourself, Mike.

Best of luck to you, Dustin. Don't know you, but you deserve a chance - whether folks like your hair, your friends, and your business, or not. Keep your chin up.

Dustin keep up the good fight. You have the strength to do it... GOOD conquers EVIL !!!!!!!!!!!!

Dustin is a VERY GREAT person with good intentions! I dont have any tats however I would like to get one.....If we want to clean up downtown how come nobody is worried about the yucky bars on 11th street! GOOD LUCK DUSTIN!

DBA Member wrote:

"A tattoo parlor is not wanted downtown. Let them go out by a bar where they'd be more comfortable and more at home."

Any reputable buisness looking to set up shop downtown will see this comment and will think they don't need snotty neighbors like this and go elsewhere.

I fear this issue will be the final nail in the coffin for downtown Columbus.

To Realist:

You missed the point.

My point was that "next door business owner" Moser had every right to try and entice Milligan, or anyone for that matter, to consider an alternative locations. I never said Milligan didn't have an equal right to pursue his vocation in Beautiful Downtown Columbus. I personally don't attach any stigma to that business and I wish Milligan well.

You erred in your very first post by insuniating that Moser had acted in an 'official' capacity when he visited Milligan. From reading the ENTIRE article, that does not appear to be the cause.

Admittedly, any 'elected' official should proceed with caution whenever they want to pursue issues as a 'private citizen'

This has to be a record for blogging. I checked this artical yesterday at 11:45 and there was 0 bloggs and as of 11:45 today there are 162. Plus the bloggers stayed more on track than ever with their comments.

I have boycotted Columbus Music.

I'm now in the market for my first Tattoo. When are you expecting to open shop Mr. Milligan?

to DBA.
Lets take a vote. How many "goody people" are against Dustin haveing a legal business near them and how many citizens are hter that do not care what they think! I think you will find the community has spoken out about you and your "goody's" and your mayor too!

Count channels 8 & 10/11 in Lincoln and channel 13 Grand Island to the list of stations that have been notified.

I seem to recall one of our Platte County judge's, has a tattoo on his forearm, is he a bad guy too?

I have known Dustin for a very long time and he has done all my piercings, and I have 12 of them! I cant believe the mayor is telling Dustin that he cant open up a shop down there. Its a business that will help downtown become more busy! How can anybody say they dont want that. Downtown is honestly a freaking ghost town, and nobody ever goes down there, except for the bank and driving because of the detour. Once that viaduct opens there wont be barely any traffic going down there. I think Dustin deserves to open his business up and try to make a living by it. I think the mayor just doesnt want something new and the mayor is just being biass because he doesnt have any piercings or tattoos. Dustin you should do everything in your power to try opening up your shop!! We have been waiting for it and we all know that your just trying to make a living and your good at what you do! Im behind you 110%

It's time for a mayoral recall. This has gotten out of hand. Maybe this is also the time to rethink who our city council members are. Also, what about the Chamber of Commerce? Where do they stand in all of this? I for one am tired of all of the negative publicity that this city gets because of all it's inept leaders. I would ask that anybody stepping foot in Columbus Music
think twice before they do. It is time for this city to START anew!!!

Sergio, (one of the artists involved) apprenticed at our shop in Davenport Iowa for and extensive amount of time. I cant think of a person more deserving of a shop over there... Whats being done by the administration is disgusting, this is America dammit where does he get off!?! Ive not seen your town but judging by the other posts it sounds like your downtown could use some flash or at least traffic. Your mayor needs to rethink his problems if hes given the chance (personally it sounds to me like he needs to be made an example out of but thats not for me to decide) this body art studio could be just the "stimulus" package needed to boost your downtowns economy

I know if I owned a tattoo shop and someone wanted to open a music store next door I wouldn't be too pleased. I can understand why Mr. Milligan would ask Mr. Moser to move elsewhere.

GEEZ! It's not like some smoker is moving in next door or something.

If I were you Mayor Mike , I would APOLOGIZE then RESIGN....It seems to be the norm for political leaders in todays world..The longer you avoid the public the worst it will get..Ask your arm chair advisors what to do as that seemed to work last time...

Rewind. Years ago like around 15 or so there was a Tattoo shop right across the street (west) of Tweets. The only reason the mayor is still in business is all the high school band kids but I hope they take their business else where from now on.

Maybe Mr Moser should move his business accross the street and upstairs next to the gentleman he tried to oust. I bet the community would help pay for that.

this is getting way out of hand Mike. Get over it

Dustin: as a downtown business owner & member of the DBA I would like you to know: not all of us down here are like Mayor Mike & his friends. They, hopefully, are a minority. The rest of us with open minds & a vision of what we COULD have downtown, support you & your business. Please don't give up & good luck.

Mike Moser is a good person. Just because his vision of a better community and downtown doesn't agree with the majority of bloggers here, doesn't make him a bad person or mayor. I can understand his and other businesses downtown wanting to protect the downtown that they have work in all these years. Truth be known, I'll bet the majority of adult residents in this town would agree with him on this issue, it's just that the opponents are more outspoken.

Just a comment: I, for one do not get the tatoo, body piercing thing. Do these characters ever look in the mirror?

hmmmm from wat happend with fight night and crushing dodson also with wishbones this town is a dictatorship obviously. honestly its a tattoo shop not a strip club or a pornography store so why complain? its not soiling columbus's "good name" in any way we already have a tattoo shop so why would another make any difference? we need to expand our town build new businesses and attract people to actually stop and shop right now all we have is the buckle walmart and jc pennys going for us why not expand and earn more money by letting him open his business and bringing more jobs and any one else for that matter

What the heck does long hair and tattoes have to do with the Harley Shop and the bars have to with one another. I dont have tatooes but ive been in the harley shop and have alot of friends who have harleys but dont have long hair and tatooes. Maybe next time you should stop and think before you post and stupid comment like that. Good luck to Mr. Milligan.

To Average Person: A good person would not tell another that their business is not wanted and instead would welcome him/her to the business community and talk about the positives of 11th street. A good person would be one who would welcome him/her to DBA meetings and encourage him/her to meet others and share ideas.
There are some people who don't see the importance of collecting CD's (Bogey's Music), buying music instuments (Columbus Music), eating at a drug store (Tooley's), buying an expensive bicycle (Nebraska Bike) and so on. The point is that Moser is not being the voice of common sense. I am a proud average person who works hard for everything I do and I want to be able to give a person an opportunity to try and flourish the downtown area and bring money into the local community. Bigot is the best word and it is sad. I am willing to bet that Columbus is about to get busy real soon because many T.V. stations in Nebraska have been contacted and this is a REAL STORY!

To whoever said that Dustin is just doing this because he wants someone to blame...fyi: Dustin is not the one that went to the paper....it paper found him! Just wanted to clear that up!!!!

I am not interested in tattoos/body art by any means but this man has a right to have the type of business he wants. He is enhancing the downtown area by remodeling this building and heaven knows the downtown area is is serious need of improvement. So you merchants don't want him down there!! So what! What law is he breaking? and who says your businesses are any more desirable? What are you all so afraid of? Columbus already has very large undesirable element, what possible harm to you and your businesses could a tattoo shop bring? As long as he is following the codes and laws of the city this man has every right to be a business man, just like the rest of you. I don't believe you are any more important than he is. Stop being so afraid...he may bring some business downtown that the rest of you need and can't seem to accomplish very well on your own.

Don't get me wrong, I think Moser is an idiot but I have a hard time believing that he said he didn't want this guy next door. Moser might be an idiot but he can't be THAT stupid. Same with DBA member. Why would you make comments on here but not put what buisness you are. When is the mayor up for election again and maybe the telegram can give us a list on here when each city council member is up for reelection.

MMosher (sp) is showing his true colors now. In the past he fooled the people of Columbus by being very vague in how he phrased things. He tried being 'politically correct' and therefore not necessarily realistic. He is in love with himself and if you get in his way, look out. His ego is much too large for this community.

As Obama said, that if you want to see the true side of Obama, then look at his advisors. I think the same holds true for Mosher. His coffee / breakfast buddies are a downtown realtor; businessman ??; and other 'old money' that thinks this town should be ran the way it was in the 60's and 70's

MM has not changed his philosphy, but maybe just getting sloppy, but now showing the people who he really is (and always has been) Watch out for any vindictive signs or temper tantrums. Just ask those in city hall. Wake up Columbus and get the re-call petitions signed

As a mother of 2 daughters in band. I will be going elsewhere for our band supplies and reeds. Wheather it be out of town or online. Anywhere but Columbus Music.

Dear 2004,

If memory serves me correctly, those words came from old mayor Giebelhaus. Please tell me what that man ever did to better the community of Columbus?

I do not think he was any mayor material to make such a comment. I believe he was judging a book by its cover himself when he had no idea what new perspectives Mike could possibly bring.

Also remember that the other option at the time was Joe Jarecke, a memeber of the current council. As a general statement I do not hear much positive said about that man either. Remember the vote turn out? It was a landslide. The citizens of Columbus spoke loud and clear at the time that they did not want Jarecke.

I think if this is how Columbus down town businsess want to act, then i'm doing my shopping somewhere else. Good Luck Dustin, if the shop opens I'll be getting a tattoo.

I hope Dustin fights this all the way, and of course opens up his shop.

Also why the heck is it that columbus has only been able to have WAL-MART for so many years?

Ive heard its because the city and walmart made a deal the no other big box stores could come in.

Im asking because I really dont know the answer. Id love to see more stores.

One type of shop id like to see in town is a hobby shop, its been so long since we had one, it does get old have to drive an hour & half plus to the nearest hobby shop.

This is B.S. What Mosher is pulling. Thing about this for a minute. What are our kids doing and looking like these days. There is alot of young tallent out there that play MUSUC!!!! Mosher needs to get up to date this is 2009 and just becuase you have tattoos and body piercings or open a tattoo & body art store don't make you a bad influence! I think Mosher is shooting himself in the foot bigtime.

zwiddlez:
Can't remember how many business' Mayor G. tried to run out...let me see..ZERO.
All I can say is the words are ringing true...IT WAS A BLACK DAY FOR COLUMBUS!!!! The clouds are forming faster and faster. Turns out former Mayor G didn't need to read this book, the cover showed it all.
You ain't one of those puppeteers that manipulate Mayor Mike are you? He can't be that dense all by himself!
Landslide yes and when he is done it will take years for Columbus to dig out from it. You can make all the excuses you want, Columbus voters were sucked in. We will never know how Joe would have done, but we do know how Bozo Mike is doing!!

Would'nt the tattoo place fit in better on 11th Street next to the Adult book store?

standing in front of columbus music LET THERE BE A SHOP LET THERE BE A SHOP LET THERE BE A SHOP LET THERE BE A SHOP

Moser...I think yo just skewed downtown business.
Shoppers "DO" have a choice where they want to do business.
By the looks of the comments, they aren't going downtown anytime soon.
Pat yourself on the back again.

I have commented on many things I have seen printed in this Newspaper in the past, but I haven't posted in quite some time. I have NEVER seen an article that has had every single poster on the same side of an issue. Mr Mayor you have an awful lot of explaining to do. I suggest that you suck it up and either defend your position on this issue immediately or apologize publicly to Mr Milligan. Better yet, if you are truly the person you claim to be than you will do both!! I am ashamed as are other posters that I voted for you as well. If I had know your true colors I would have written in another name on the ballot!

2004,

I dont recall many businesses that Giebelhaus brought into the city either. That seems to be a common complaint in this town. I seem to remember hearing people gripe that he wasnt doing enough for the city.

However, that comment from him upon the election of Moser was simply unprofessional and ignorant at best. But then again, I wouldnt expect much else from all the "close-minded" type. In politics, when someone is elected to take your place, the professional thing to do is to just congratulate and step down. I lost all respect for Giebelhaus when I read that.

Then you go on to accuse me of being associated with Moser. For your information, I am not. Whether this shop goes in downtown or not, it doesnt matter to me one way or the other. You know what it means to assume.

Sure we dont know how Joe would have done, but no one knew how Mike would do. Its called electing a new mayor to find out. To assume he would do bad right off the bat, and slander his character in that way was uncalled for. Many people in this town are simply sick of the council. Joe has been on the council for a good many years now. People know what they can expect from him, and guess what, the results of that election spoke rather loud and clear.

My guess is, they didnt like what they see in him.

If you dont like the results of the election, GET OUT AND VOTE! Id bet that the majority of the people here complaining about Mike never even bothered to show up to put their vote in. I would be curious to hear what the actual percentage of registered voters even showed up.

Ultimatly in politics you vote in the person for what they stand for. Its natural to let personal beliefs guide your way and the political field is no different. I would think that a person would want to vote in an individual that stood for their convictions instead of being a push-over. If someone came to the table without any of their personal beliefs, why even elect a person to fill the office and just let the majority rule.

Then again, you never get the majority because given the right to vote, they dont use it!

To "Old Lady"
No. the Adult Book Store is moving to the other side of Columbus Music.

(Just joking)

Good for you- you went directly to our good ol' telegram for some insite! Wow look at all the replys! I am sure you will get your business going... and rightfully so! I am a 30 something person with more than a few tattoos, and am glad that someone licensed is going to do it there in Columbus. I don't feel the desire for anymore, but I know IT IS a desired market and will definitely boost business there in Columbus. I think it's great! I hated having to drive more than a hour just to get a tattoo, there's no reason Columbus shouldn't support this business!! You go Dustin!! And although I'm not in the market for one at this time, I am just glad to know that when and if I am, all I have to do is just go downtown and have it done! You are gonna be successful- you have an amazing reply from this little Columbus Telegram report, and a lot of support by all the replys...I'm sure it will all work out in your favor! Good for you!!

I haven't been in Columbus in a while. Someone wrote on here that there is an adult bookstore on 11th street? Must be since I was in town last. If people are so against the tattoo shop opening, why did they allow the adult bookstore? Just because someone has tattoos and body piercings doesn't make them a bad person or a bad influence, get with the times people. The shop would give opportunities for jobs, and progress for the city....oh, wait...I used to live in Columbus and still care about the town and want it to be successful, but the city needs to get with the times and stop being so against progress, change, and things that are different. Good luck to Mr. Milligan in getting to open your business.

zwiddelz:
One thing no one can deny, even a Moser supporter like you, it was a BLACK DAY for Columbus. You can write all the paragraphs you want and it will still not change that fact. There are over 200 blogs on here and 99% of the posters agree your puppet Bozo Mike was a bad choice. He stands for nothing and does nothing.
By the way, nice try at deflecting this blog from your boy Mike to a past Mayor. Write as you may, but it does not change the fact Moser is BAD for Columbus.

FYI i will edit and comment in caps i am not yelling
Average person
Oct 15, 2009 3:28 PM
Mike Moser is a good person WITH BAD JUDGEMENT. Just because his vision of a better community and downtown doesn't agree with the majority of bloggers here SUCH AS A GHOST TOWN WITH FEW DECIENT BUSINESS,A SCHOOL SYSTEM THATS FAILING, ROAD CONSTRUCTION THAT MAKES THE NOTRH SOUTH COMMUTE TAKES AN HOUR, doesn't make him a bad person or A GOOD mayor. I can understand his and other businesses downtown THAT DONT HAVE THE SPINES TO NAME THEMSELVES wanting to protect the downtown FROM "EVIL CRIMINALS"LOL that HAS NO ECONOMIC INPACT IN COLUMBUS they have workI MEAN MILKED IT OUT in all these years. IM GOING TO SPECULATE AND CALL IT THE..Truth be known, I'll bet the majority of adult residents PEOPLE OVER 60.. in this town would agree with him on this issue THAT YOU CAN ACT LIKE THE GESTAPO AND SCARE PEOPLE OUT OF TOWN THAT AIN'T IN THE GOOD OL BOY CLUB, it's just that the opponents are more outspoken.

Just a comment: I, for one do not get the tatoo, body piercing thing. Do these characters ever look in the mirror? GOOD FOR YOU! YOU HAVE FREEDOM OF CHOICE SO DO I. I AM NOT INTO THE PIERCING THING BUT HAVE TATTOOS AND I HAVE NO PROBLEM LOOKING IN THE MIRROR. MAYBE YOU SHOULD DO THAT MAN IN THE MIRROR MICHAEL JACKSON THING.

2004,

Go ahead and be as ignorant as you want and accuse me of having all this "association" with Moser, of which I do not.

The point is, you brought up a line that came from a past mayor that was downright unprofessional. You seem to think that Joe would have made a better mayor. Well I can play the same assuming game as you and think that you were one of the Jarecke groupies. You can write all the paragraphs that you want too and that doesnt change the fact that Columbus doesnt care for its council and they didnt want Jarecke as their mayor. That was pretty obvious and at the time, he was the only other option.

Plus its a downright childish remark for you to go on and then say "Columbus voters were sucked in". I do not recall any members of ACORN located in Columbus to my knowledge. Nor do I think that anyone was forced at the polls beyond their will to vote for Moser.

If you or anyone else doesnt like the job that Moser is doing, get off your rear end and run for his position. Last time he ran unopposed. Lets see how much you can please ALL citizens of this town at the same time.

All kinds of people have tats or body art. Its not just rockers. Police. fireman, military, All kinds of pro sport players. We would lose most of the husker team if they were to ban tattoos. The public should give Mr.Milligan a welcome downtown party. People should stay away from Columbus Music.////////////////////////////// Question for everyone reading. Does C.P.S buy from Columbus music???? I think the public should know how much tax money goes there. The dba should say sorry. The city council should be upset with mike.

This is a legal business and the mayor cannot prevent him from moving in. And as for the neighboring businesses not wanting him there, I've talked to some who are, in fact, happy to have him as a new merchant. Professional people have tatoos these days........including cops and firemen. Good luck in your new venture Dustin.

To BVET: I believe the adult bookstore was next to the Green Latern which I believe are both closed. I think they were there for many years though. Not on 11th Street but maybe 24th or 26th Avenue on the south side of the tracks north of 11th Street.

You know, I think I have an idea for a business in one of the empty shops downtown myself: Another adult learning center that helps people work on their grammar and spelling. Jeepers, how do some of you peepull make it throo the day?

I thought it was the city of power and progress not impotence and regression!I can't understand why you clowns keep voting these idiots into office around here! Wasn't there a column not to long ago that asked if Columbus was full of whiners!I can see that these city officials give you plenty to whine about! Like those stupid Archs on the Viaduct! What a stupid waste of money! I can't see any structural significance! Someone please explain that one to me! Until you start voting competent people into office you'll just have to suffer!

I don't have tatoos or body peircings but I do drive into Columbus several times a month to do business. Since no one has grown a back bone to build another viaduct which was needed years age, and now streets are blocked off making Columbus difficult to get to I'm not surprised with this latest chapter. The only thing Columbus has is a pitiful Walmart! The downtown has nothing. I will definitely be taking my business to real cities like Grand Island, Lincoln etc. I've run out of patience with this backwards community. The extra time driving will be well worth my efforts. Columbus you are definitely not the city of "power and progress" GET A NEW MAYOR AND CITY COUNSEL

zwiddelz:
Must have hit a nerve as now you have resorted to name calling. We all know what that is a trait of.
At last we agree on something, no one cares for the present City Council. They are all scared to act and are lead by the most incompetent Mayor Columbus has ever had. I also agree we had no choice for Mayor in the last election. Reminds me of a movie title, Dumb & Dumber.
As far as "Black day", Nostradamus was criticized for his prophecies also.
Your writings point toward your approval of Moser, "if you or anyone else doesnt like the job that Moser is doing, get off your rear end and run for his position". So one can only surmise you are one of his few supporters. I didn't write that quote, you did!
Ok, name calling time for you!

And who says Columbus has no entertainment... all you have to do is read the blogs!

2004,

Oh please...name calling. Who was the one calling me dense?

Anyways you seem to miss the point that at the election of either Jarecke or Moser, we had 2 options. I happen to fall into the same category as the majority of voters that didnt feel that Jareke had what it takes to improve the town. So if voting for Moser to see what he could bring to the town is 100% supporting him then so be it. At least I went to the polls and cast my vote.

"I also agree we had no choice for Mayor in the last election. Reminds me of a movie title, Dumb & Dumber."

Well then if we had two choices then one of the dumb ones is going to get elected no matter what. What do we do about that? Either run for mayor yourself and see how the town slanders your name or just settle with the "dumb" ones.

This is just great!Now y'all have invited the liberal news media into "our" Boomtown.Wait until CNN and Jeanie Most hit town.With the kind of segment she will report,every out of job politician will be heading north,south,east,or west right into ground zero on this fiasco!!Then wait when she hears about the Polish immigrant issue.That itself will surely open up the door for a Rod Blagojevich to get another shot at politics.Would Blago make a good mayor or just be a goldmine to the local beauty salons?Mayor Moser and DBA,"Know your role and shut your mouth"on Dustin's dream of being a good business owner and neighbor.Can I go out on a limb here and offer all expense paid tatoo's to the mayor and vetoing DBA's of piccolo's and flutes on their narrow minded cheeks?

Sounds like Columbus' mayor has the same backass mentality as Fremonts mayor Skip Edwards.

I see a lot of the same descriptive words about him here as well (posse, cohorts, cronyism). Both cities are being run into the ground by mayor's who think they own it.

Take back your city! Don't visit his store or vote for representatives like Mike Moser or Skip Edwards!

In reference to the arches on the viaduct they do have a structual purpose. Whether they are worth the extra expense or not you need to ask the Mayor himself. The only real purpose I see for them is to give the UP more room. The Mayor seems to think it is pretty important to bend over for anything the UP wants. In addition to making a mockery of downtown his legacy will also be that of the Mayor that gave away the center of Columbus to the RR.

I think the Public Schools should make all the students purchase all of their Tatoos at Moser's new neighbor.

Good Luck Dustin. Look past these obstacles......they are not your problems but other people who have alot to learn about life and living. Anyone that knows you, knows what a great guy you are. I've only met you a couple times but I have a very respected opinion of you. You have a tremendous amount of support....go for it.

TO: Average Person

I don't have a Tat either and don't really understand what the appeal really is. I also agree with you completely that the business owners downtown have a right to, and are just trying to protect the downtown.

One problem . . . they have been doing this for years and are slowly protecting themselves right out of business.

Bath and Body in Norfolk was told by downtown "leaders" years ago that they too were not wanted.

Suger Plum Oak in Norfolk said the same. They really didn't care though because 50% of their receipts were from Columbus anyway.

I wish I could pick my neighbors! The mayor allowed exotic animals in my neighbor hood, even when it was requested by the residents not to!
The city of power and progress should be more of progress and less of power!

Bottom Line is that Columbus is becoming a TOTAL JOKE AND THE BUTT OF ALL JOKES FOR OTHER CITIES IN THE WHOLE MIDWEST!

Mainstream America. Rootbeer floats
and the Farmer's Market. I'll bet it's
safe to say that there won't be any
'Long-Hairs on the Square' anytime soon
on Thursday evenings.

Tunnel vision or just plain pompous
aristocracy...

... I think we know.

I remember when Bogeys music store was just a "tiny" little store between Glurs tavern and what is now Big Uns. He had Cd's hanging from the ceiling and the roof leaked BAD. He moved uptown to a way better place. Tom is a great guy but do you think he would have the business he has now if his neighbors had hassled him? Let Dustin start his shop, you never know where it may take him or downtown Columbus.

First Mayor Moser costs us $150K to get rid of Joe Frei, then he brings in Popcorn Joe and gets him big raises and now he tries to chase a new merchant out of downtown.
Seeing to further discussion...
How in the heck do you "see" discussion???

To Realist,

The sad thing is, few in this town care. The DBA does not want any competition by business's who would like to locate here. Can you image another horn store wanting to move in. That wouldn't happen. That's bad.

Recall the mayor...recall the mayor...PLEASE SOMEONE RUN FOR MAYOR!! You'll get my vote. Let's get rid of Moser. Someone needs to contact the other media...news stations in Omaha & Lincoln. This guy has GOT TO GO!

This is not the only place that tattoo shops have a problem with. I know for a fact in Omaha a Tattoo shop had to get the OK from ALL the neighbors to rent.

With Dustin, he should have Dave Blessen make HIS building up to code before he even RENTED it out.
The interior DESIGN/PAINT should be the responsability/money of Dustins.

The POOR ME thing tells me he needs to go to a businees class before he opens his door and needs a business plan. For those of you that "know it all" try opening a business. If you need money, the banker wants a business plan!
GOOD LOOKS AND DREAMS don't cut it.

For the people who say how many places are vacant downtown, can you tell me of 4 places? I am counting on 80 places, and thats 5% vacant. And IF you can, does that mean that downtown is a ghost town?

Go out to the EAST Mall and tell me on how thats a Ghost town.
Or to the Mall on 23rd and 33rd. What percentage are they?

Downtown looks full.
The Telegram needs more subscibers so their reporters could put more gas in their cars and drive farther for a story.

If you have such a problem with Columbus and the people that run it, than YOU should run for an office.

OR JUST LEAVE!!

Re: No Comment

Wow, I am going to watch my tongue around town. Never know who may be the next backstabber.

'You Just Don't Get It'

I think that I get it.

Mayors and city councils are
EXEMPT from needing any governing
classes. Common sense and equal
opportunity are arbitrarily dispensed
too.

I thik it is quite funny how a lot of people are "not going to EVER shop at Col. Music" again. What is wrong with you? All we ever hear is how Columbus has no place to shop that we always have to go out of town, etc., etc. Mayor Moser, AKA Mike Moser, businessman, doesn't want a tattoo parlor next door to his business. So?? Neither does 20 other people who turned Mulligan down for renting! Are you going to "boycott" them as well? Where did Mr. Moser ever say that he dislikes people with long hair or with tattoos? Quit putting words in his mouth. Mr Moser knows that he cannot stop Mr Mulligan for opening his shop, but at least he told the truth about his feelings instead of blabbing them to every one else. Why is this all about Mr Moser? Again beacuse he is Mayor? You think it is easy running a business and/or a city? Go ahead give it a try and we will see how many people you upset.I could care less about a tattoo parlor- I really dont care if people have tattoos or long hair or piercings- that is their choice. Maybe Mr Mulligan should sit back and think about why no one wants to rent to him and why no one wants to be his neighbor. People- it is not all Mr Moser here!!

Are you married to the Mayor or 1 of the DBA members? Sure sounds like it. And YES it is about the Mayor. How would you like it if I walked over to your house and told you to try and find a different place to live because I or any of the "neighbors" dont like you? You would be up in arms too. Who are you people and where do you come from,WOW.

I am not sure what is more unbelievable, Moser's stupid remarks or the # of people on this post that have finally realized how phony he is.

I am not sure what is more unbelievable, Moser's stupid remarks or the # of people on this post that have finally realized how phony he is. I have new optimism that a lot of you will soon see through Obama as well. They both give our tax dollars away to corporations so what is the difference between them.

its time to get RID OF THIS SO CALLED P.O.S PERSON KNOWN AS THE MAYOR!!!