Citizen

I am amazed with the lunacy attached to this complaint. A house concert. I attend almost all of them, and it is by choice. very small venue where you can see, hear, and visit with the performer(s). Now, when I see a tupperware party,birthday party, bible study, homeschool, and so on, shall I call this in as a violation? Something that is so nice and affordable and is a pleasurable evening is being attacked. I personally will be on the look out for others violating the above. So, if you are teaching knitting, upholstery, poetry, sewing, stained glass class, and so on, then be sure your event will be tagged. I can assure you that this will take place.
Thanks for asking my opinion
Teri Carpenter

— T 9 December 2009

My wife and I have been to at least thirty-five house concerts at Little Lake Hill. I guess that makes us accessories at best, maybe even conspirators in something that’s organized. So we’re at risk for having the RICO guys show up at our door, demanding our computers and anything else they might be able to haul away in their unmarked black Mercedes.

These house concerts are a pro bono effort. Bett and Bill don’t make a dime. In fact, each concert actually costs them a modest amount of money. The artists get one hundred percent of the proceeds. These artists are all world-class performers, though few could be called famous. Few denizens of City Hall, for example, have ever heard of Scott Ainslie or Kate Campbell or Gerry O’Beirne.
These wonderful performers rarely perform at any venue larger than a house concert or cafe. For the most part, I do think that most of these people do manage to support themselves with their art and their craft, but they are a l-o-n-g way from commercial.

As the ordinance currently stands, it is not only irrational and nonsensical, but also outright unconstitutional, because it tramples multiple rights guaranteed by the first and other ammendments. A municipality arbitrarily banning birthday parties? Home Sunday school classes?
Political fundraisers? Gimme a break. Where in the world did this ordinance come from? James Crow, JD, LLP?

— Nick English 9 December 2009

Bett and Bill are true patrons of the arts, and have provided generous support to many grateful artists. For folk artists in particular, the house concert is a viable way to make a living in a difficult business. Based on public support and participation at the Padgett’s concerts, the Raleigh public appreciates it, too.

I have attended many wonderful music events at their home. In addition, I have taken part in social and political gatherings there and in other homes across the city. To ban or bar these is just plain ridiculous. Bet if it were Bible study meetings we were discussing, no one would dare raise the issue. Let’s let our voices be heard in opposing this censure of a true asset in our community.

— Kate Christmas 9 December 2009

The Padgetts perform a wonderful service to Raleigh with their house concerts. It would be a shame if they are shut down by this. People need to show their support and let their city representatives and the Mayor, know that this is a ridiculous citation and they should be allowed to continue the house concerts unencumbered. The house concerts are one of the fine things that make Raleigh a good place to live, as opposed to a boring, oppressive capital city.

— George Doctoroe 9 December 2009

I am stunned that an asset to the community like the Little Lake House concerts would be banned. It is definitely a violation of the basic terms our country was founded on - “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness”.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to express my support of the Little Lake House concerts. Life wouldn’t be quite as happy without them.

My desire is that this whole episode will simply provide a necessary foil to people’s liberty that unites the large number of supporters into a more cohesive action which eliminates this threat to the Little Lake House venue.

If something is needed to show support or further describe the obviously ludicrous nature of this action by the inspections department or the code which they have to use as their basis, I’m there.

The fact that that the Padgett’s have already had to hire an attorney to take it this far is hard to believe. I would think this would have been resolved at the first supervisor level in the inspections department. I sure wouldn’t want to be in charge of the Inspections Department and have to defend the department’s actions after this has seen the light of day.

-Mike Mazarick

— Mike Mazarick 9 December 2009

I moved to Raleigh about 10 years ago; knowing very few people.; having only grown children, and starting a retirement. As I sought out community involvement, I quickly met the Padgetts as both neighbors and individuals who have worked nonstop for the betterment of the city, state, and world.

How lucky I felt to learn also of their house concerts where one could sit two feet from artists and have a clean well lighted and “certainly affordable” environment to enjoy all kinds of good music. Bett is always advocating and working to save the Light Houses of North Carolina. Bill works tirelessly to save the best for his community. At a time when we most need civility, at a time when we most need community, at a time when we most need Music in our lives, please do not eliminate this from our lives.

I am amazed that the city of Raleigh is not giving Bett and Bill more
awards for their dedication and hard work instead of trying to eliminate” the house concert” from our neighborhood.

— Rose Parli 9 December 2009

As a musician who has played at countless house concerts all over the country for over 20 years, I am amazed that the city of Raleigh has such a backwards law and even worse, acts on the complaint of some petty-minded jerk - one who’s too chicken to even give their name. So many other towns don’t give a fig about house concerts. Here’s another reason for folks to think Southerners are idiots. Well, except for the Padgetts, the house concert attendees, the musicians, their neighbors and … hey, that’s just about everyone, right?

— Jamie Anderson 9 December 2009

I have only been to a couple of the house concerts, which I have enjoyed. But, the bottom line is, this ordinance/law is silly! Obviously it was not meant for house concerts such as these, boy scout troup meetings, bible study groups, or any kind of “tupperware”-like parties (which really do make money). I don’t blame City Council, and the citation might have been legal (since it is for an existing law), but it does seem that the council needs to revisit this ordinance/law in general, and then rescind it.

— Heidi Nelson 9 December 2009

One good thing that may come of this ludicrous citation is that this code which restricts “temporary events” to three a year has been brought to light. Come on you Government Guys. What were you thinking?? Let’s put your energies toward fixing what appears to be, at best, a rule that misses the mark. Let’s let our citizens who support and are enriched by the arts in Raleigh get back to doing just that.

— Pam Olson 10 December 2009

I started attending the concerts at Bett and Bill Padgett’s several years ago and soon learned what an asset these people are to our community. These are selfless people who do good for others in any way that they can. They just don’t sit back and watch in the community, they get involved. I have told a lot of friends about their concerts and other events held in their home. They go and continue to go and are very happy and supportive of their work in the community.

The City of Raleigh ought to pay more attention to its police force who chat on their cell phones failing to see cars right in front of them pass a stopped school bus. I witnessed this recently. I wrote a letter to the Chief of Police with no resonse, and they pick on the Padgett’s for doing good in the neighborhood! What is wrong with this picture?

— Roxanna J. Evans 10 December 2009

Need to scrape this GUMernment off the side walk before someone else steps in it.

— Daniel Sargent 10 December 2009

As a performer who plays many house concerts each year, I am saddened at this turn of events. I have no doubt the “anonymous” person who thought alerting the authorities was a good idea has never attended a house concert.

I am glad, though that this ridiculous code has been brought to light. What genius thought this one up? -So, if I have four kids, one of them can’t have a birthday party? So, if I regularly host a Bible study at my home, I’m a criminal?

Whoever brought this to light clearly has an axe to grind. They must have been looking for a way to shut Bett down. It is my fervent hope that some level-headed thinking will be applied to this code and we will see it rescinded.

As for Thomas Crowder, he apprently is interested in this case because it is of personal interest to him. He said, “Otherwise, every Cub Scout who attends a regular meeting at somebody’s house will be a little criminal,” Crowder says, “and as an Eagle Scout, I can’t have that.” -Well, Mr. Crowder, this isn’t about you, or your personal interest in the Boy Scouts. It IS about rescinding a foolish code that puts many people in the same boat Bett is now in. Regardless of your personal interests, this code needs to be changed. If it isn’t, every birthday party, bible study, tupperware party, Christmas party, New Year’s Eve party, July 4th celebration, yard sale, dinner party, luncheon, etcetra, ad infinitum, ad nauseum, will put the vast majority of Raleigh residents in violation of a code that ought not to have been written in the first place.

— Doug MacKenzie 10 December 2009

Doug — In fairness to Mr. Crowder, that last bit about the Cub Scout criminals was said tongue-in-cheek. This is an old ordinance, apparently, with a brand-new interpretation. But at any rate, he’s not responsible for putting it on the books. Bob

— Bob Geary 10 December 2009

These house concerts are a public service, and a great contribution to the artistic lifeblood of the city. They take place at night, when parking is plentiful. They end reasonably early, the the physical setup of the Little Lake Hill house and grounds is ideally suited for hosting, and they could in no way be considered disruptive.

The city inspectors should reconsider their interpretation, if only because enforcement on an across the board basis would lead to the many absurd results mentioned. The City Council should, in any case, request clarification and, if necessary, redraft the ordinance.

Raleigh needs more top quality music, not less.

— Bill Skeels 10 December 2009

First the Wake County School Board, then the County Commissioners, and now the Raleigh Board of Adjustment: apparently it is politically “in” to look foolish in front of the citizenry.

— Jim White 10 December 2009

We have been to probably 25 of Bett and Bill’s house concerts over the past few years and have enjoyed every one of them. The Padgetts have done a great service to the people of Raleigh, and they should be honored rather than persecuted. Which brings me to the question of why things have even gotten this far. It seems as if the inspections department, upon receiving a complaint, is going after the Padgetts, rather than exploring whether the complaint has any merit. For example, the chief inspector is classifying the house concerts as a “business.” Any ordinary person sees the term “business” as implying making a profit for oneself, as in “He owns a cleaning business.” The Padgetts make no profit from these house concerts and, in fact, incur costs from putting them on. It takes rather acrobatic leaps of reasoning to portray such concerts as a business. Additionally, it would appear that a limit of three “temporary events” in one year is so completely vague, unenforceable, and absurd, that it should not be applied to anything. Perhaps, since these rules are on the books, the chief inspector feels compelled to pursue the complaint as far as he has. OK, I can live with that. However, that gives the Raleigh Board of Adjustment a fine opportunity this coming Monday to demonstrate leadership and common sense. It would be nice to simply dismiss this particular complaint as having no merit. But the entire policy regarding businesses and temporary events seems fatally flawed, so we also advocate a complete review and revision of the city’s policy. Does the city of Raleigh really want to be known as the Grinch who stole house concerts?

— Jim Luginbuhl 10 December 2009

Having known Bett since 1981 as a friend and guitar teacher, I can only hope the response from concerned people will cause this issue to go away. Bett has devoted her life to her family and promoting music. Her passion for her craft and motives for sharing music with as many people as possible should be an example for doing things the right way for the right reasons. I can only hope that reasonable minds will prevail and that she is able to continue sharing the passion that is music!

-Bill Carroll 11 December 2009

— Bill Carroll 11 December 2009

The US Constitution says it best:
Amendment 1 - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791. Note

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

This attempt by some anonymous person and the city of Raleigh to end home concerts at the home of Bett and Bill Padgett makes no sense and is a waste of time and money. These gatherings bring together people for food and beautiful music that enhances the community and in no way is harmful, just the opposite. I always leave with an uplifted feeling that all that attend share and look forward to coming back for the next quality musician(s).

I can understand that some gatherings elsewhere can get out of hand, but to paint all with the blind, same brush makes no sense. I have attended these concerts for several years and they enhance the lives of those in Raleigh that are present. I have never seen a voice raised, or any disruptive behavior…ever!

For Bill and Bett this is a labor of love, an offering for Raleigh and a positive and creative way of bringing outstanding music to us. They actually lose money and valuable time in doing what they do to bring people and music together.

What has happened to this city and this country when we are so controlled by government that we can’t peacefully meet for a wholesome, good time and enjoy an art form of such high quality? Did my family come to North Carolina hundreds of years ago to escape repression for this? They must be rolling in their graves.

I would expect to see this kind of repression and control in the Soviet Union, but this is America! How can anyone that believes in the freedom that our forefathers fought and died for support this suppression. I was flabbergasted to think that this sort of restriction could exist.

I realize that dealing with issues like this on a case-by-case basis is more complicated, but that is what our Constitution and freedom demands and that is our and your Constitutional chore! Shutting down these house concerts sets a dangerous precedent that is frightening to contemplate. What is next; the children’s birthday parties? Is it possible to have too many? What if you have four children?

— Willaim Delamar 11 December 2009

Oh Good grief!!! Can’t anything lovely and unsullied remain in Raleigh? Anybody who knows anything about the Little Lake Hill House concerts knows that it is certainly not a business and that Beth and Bill don’t make any momey on this and that it is done pretty much out of the goodness of their hearts, their love of good folk music and the great luck of having contacts with such good musicians. Those who have attended have become friends, and the concerts are a social mecca for those “folk-centric” people to mix and mingle. Raleigh should be grateful to have this available. Besides the “slipperly slope” scenario about possible violations for tupperware parties, quilting classes or boy scouts, the ordinance really needs to be reevaluated and changed. Seems very suspicious that after all these years, “Somebody” got a bee up their bonnet about the Padgetts and ratted them out. But again “ratting out” makes it sounds like they were actually doing something under the table that needed to be exposed. This is really not the case. I hope that the city of Raleigh will come to their senses and allow the Little Lake Hill House concerts to continue. The provide a valuable service to the Raleigh, if not the whole triangle area.

— Christine Brownfield 11 December 2009

I have attended the Little Lake House concerts and believe they are a true asset to the community. Events such as these are just what Raleigh needs to improve its image and quality of life for it citizens.

So much of what draws people to an area is its cultural offerings. The caliber of neighborhood and smaller events around town have a big role to play in the city’s cultural image just as the museums and large performance halls do.

Eliminating events such as these would send the wrong message. The city would be shooting a gaping hole in its proverbial foot. I’m sure Durham and Chapel Hill would be pleased to have those cultural patrons.

We should all be celebrating this effort by the Padgetts to bring great music and musicians to the area. I hope that Raleigh is forward looking enough to update this old outdated ordinance and not allow bureaucracy and red tape to stifle such a valuable community resource.

— Carolyn Heller 11 December 2009

What a bunch of malarky! If there’s a law that prevents house-concerts (or any other house event) more than three times a year, then it needs fixin’ but quick. Bill and Bett are upstanding citizens providing a public service, but it shouldn’t matter. This law is just plain stupid!

— Ellen Kinsinger 11 December 2009

Raleigh’s inspections department is an important official body. We should all respect the service and authority of the individuals who make up the department. However, they should also answer to good sense and the will of the community which they serve. If all citizens were like Bill and Bett Padgett, we wouldn’t need zoning laws, zoning boards or inspeciton departments. These two amazing people are Raleigh (indeed North Carolina) Treasures. As evidence, take notice that they are pursuing this manner in a responsible and legal manner. Sometimes exceptions need to be made; sometimes laws need to be changed. In any event, we need the Padgetts’ house concerts more than we need this particular law.

— Glenn Looper 11 December 2009

Bett and Bill have been an asset to our community with their house concerts. I have attended many events over the years and have never seen anyone do anything which should bother any neighbors. I wish I lived next door to them, and I like a sense of solitude. However it is nice to be able to get out to mingle with so many nice people who are engaged in the pursuit of culture and intellectual exchange. These events provide that opportunity. The presence of opportunities to learn, through outstanding educational institutions and our community arts events, are one of the main draws for the “best and the brightest” who move to our area. This richness of our area has not just put us on the map, it has made the Triangle enviable. Bett and Bill have served us well. I hope “The Deciders” will allow their endeavor.

— john lestina 11 December 2009

I offer a resounding “LEAVE BETT (& BILL) ALONE!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

— Rob Gelblum 11 December 2009

I’ve got mixed feelings on it — my neighbors throw insane parties that run til 3 AM at night on a fairly regular basis during the year. I’ve talked to them, I’ve called the cops on them multiple times, but it doesn’t stop them.

I’m very sorry that this lady runs a polite show that everyone can enjoy and that she’s doing things nicely — but when I first read this I thought “Thank God now I have something I can maybe use to get help!” I’m going to start documenting their parties and try to use this on ‘em. This law protects people who don’t happen to live next to polite and law abiding citizens. There’s a reason these things exist.

— Likely Tobeunpopular 11 December 2009

I’ve lived in Raleigh all my life, and find it quite the feat that this City can continue to amaze me with asinine ordinances and laws. One would think that I would have become inured to this sort of thing. Our legislators should be proud that they can keep us on our toes like this, for without them, how would we remain sharp and attuned, eh? Shall City Hall haul me away since I have had not three, but four gatherings at my domicile this calendar year? Does the one that I had last December 30th count? Is it counted in Calendar year or within 365 consecutive days? Please edify and document appropriately (notarize??) so that I may adjust my upcoming social calendar.

I know how hard Bill and Bett work to prepare for (and clean up after) these concerts. It’s a massive amount of work, for which they take away nothing, save for the satisfaction that they have enriched the lives of the performers, and the lives of their audience. It must be quite a blow to be penalized for providing this boon to society, but I for one I am proud of them, these ‘illegal’ house concerts being but one of the many reasons I am glad to call them Mom and Dad.

— Will Padgett 12 December 2009

I just sent email to the Neil Boortz show. For those who listen to FM talk, Neil is on 9:30 to 1:00 on 101.1 WZTK. He has a government outrage daily broadcast and this just might get some air time.

http://boortz.com/more/email_boortz.html

“Something for your government outrage portion of your news? From the people who wanted to make garbage disposals illegal (you covered this on the air), they now ant to enforce a law that prohibits four or more social gatherings at you home over the course of one year. So if you have 4 kids, one will have to go without a birthday party.”

— Jim Hansen 12 December 2009

My first time coming to one of Bett Padget’s events was just last month to hear Billy Jones, a remarkable musician. When Bett told us about the citation and the Raligh city ordinance I was incredulous. Not only was this event extraordinarily civil and utterly delightful, it was extremely uplifting and spiritually inspiring. It was the very LAST thing from being a public nuisance and it seemed inconceivable that anyone could have a reason for complaining about it. But I suppose no good deed goes unpunished. I couldn’t help wondering if any frat houses had received citations or been fined for their parties and gatherings. But I especially wondered what kind of person would ANONYMOUSLY call the city about these events without first raising their “concerns” with Bett and Bill? The Padgetts have never had any of their neighbors complain. Clearly this person preferred to operate under the cloak of darkness. This fact alone suggests s/he has another agenda s/he wants to remain hidden. If this caller truly believes s/he acted on behalf of the greater good, then step forward, please, and champion your cause!

But the issue of even greater concern is the nature of the ordinance. It seems to me that it is in DIRECT violation of the first amendment, the right of citizens to assemble. What I’d like to know is how long has this ordinance been on the books and in what other contexts has it been invoked. It seems that in a democracy sucb as ours it represents no less than a draconian and oppressive violation of a fundamental constitutional right.

— Larissa Oryshkevich 12 December 2009

Having had the immense pleasure of attending many of the Little Lake House concerts over the past several years and having promoted a few in my own house from time to time, I am shocked on several levels that this ordinance, which might have relevance in other circumstances, would be applied here to an effort that is in the public interest, that promotes community, that promotes the arts, that allows free speech to be heard in its most artful context and that fundamentally brings joy to all of those lucky enough to partake, all without the least inconvenience to the city of Raleigh. That one small, self-interested/jealous/small-minded (I must assume) voice should attempt to stop this effort perhaps does speak to the democratic process that that voice be heard. it does not speak well of the authorities who are attempting to apply an inordinance whose basic intent surely surely does not apply at Little Lake House. As I mentioned, having run a series of house concerts myself, I can attest that what exchanges hands goes entirely to the artist and does not accrue to Beth and Bill whose effort to put these remarkable events on is tremendous. I can only hope that the powers that be, will see the complaint lodged by the anonymous complainant for what it is: a petty and selfish attempt to stifle a public benefit.

— Mark O'Donnell 12 December 2009

I recall when the Berlin Wall came down and the Russians went broke, that Jesse Helms and his ilk needed a new enemy to whip up the fear and loathing that had kept him in office for so long.

Helms chose artists. And he began a crusade that crippled the National Endowment for the Arts for years. The scars left by his vitriol on our cultural life are still plainly evident.

Is this Raleigh City policy (that appears to violate the First Amendment right to peaceable assembly) a vestige of Helms’ thin and high volume tirades against artists? Or is it an expression of an older fear: McCarthyism? Jim Crow? Slave Codes?

Whatever fear is at its source, the move to silence the music at Little Lake House shames the City of Raleigh and – as its capital – the State of North Carolina.

Even the Chamber of Commerce types should be up in arms over this. It is giving Raleigh a bad name, even with people who have never had the privilege of attending one of these peaceable assemblies or the particular joys of listening to acoustic artists at close range.

When something that appears to be this pointless has been set in motion by human beings, you can generally bet that the point is merely hidden from our view. People do not waste their energy on pointless things.

In this case, a complaint made anonymously against a household that has been active in progressive political causes for decades, seems even to a casual observer to be a political vendetta. For the City of Raleigh to take the bait here and pursue the Padgetts just stinks.

But the broader issue here, the right to assemble peaceably, demands that the issue be resolved and the rules on private gatherings be rewritten to allow the citizens of Raleigh the rights that the rest of America has.

Scott Ainslie
Brattleboro, VT

— Scott Ainslie 12 December 2009

Bill and Beth Padgett are long-time, wonderful supporters of and contributors to the arts in Raleigh. They willingly give their time and energy to numerous civic causes that help make this the delightful place to live that it is.
I only wish I could attend every one of their house concerts, they are so delightful. We are incredibly fortunate that they are willing to contribute all that it takes to bring these musicians to us.
If their house concerts conflict with a law, it is definitely the law that needs to be changed.
Mary Kilburn
Raleigh, North Carolina

— Mary Kilburn 12 December 2009

Dear — Likely Tobeunpopular 11 December 2009

I feel i understand your situation. However, it seems to me that it should be addressed by the public nuisance laws, such as disturbing the peace, sound ordinances, etc. I have lived in college towns most of my life. I would complain too if I were constantly being disturbed by parties/noises thoughout the year. Unless of course I was stupid enough to move in next to a Frat house, fire station, rail road track, etc. This isn’t anything like that. Your beef does not apply any more than if you had friends over for a quiet dinner party, or to watch TV more than three times a year. Do You? Unless you’re really anti-social, I suspect you also would be in violation. Would you want this kind of crack down on yourself and your circle of friends?

Best wishes on resolving your problem, unless you set yourself up for it.

— john lestina 12 December 2009

Unlike actual businesses that bring in live music in order to sell more goods and increase revenues, Bett & Bill have not sought to profit from their house concerts.

To avoid creating situations that can result in such overreaching selective enforcement as we’re seeing here, it’s sometimes necessary to revisit ordinances. There is a place where prudent zoning and common sense intersect. May the City of Raleigh set their GPS to that location.

Come and listen to my story about Little Lake Hill
A lovely place for music, owned by Bett and Bill
And then one day, Bett was strummin’ her guitar
And up through the mail come a document bizarre
Violation, that is. Her crime? Gatherings.

Well, the first thing you know, it’s all over the news
Zen folks said, “uh, Raleigh, get a clue”
Said, house concerts ain’t the thing you need to fear
Plenty of real violations to keep your inspectors in gear
Dives, that is. Exposed wires. Rats in bars.

Well, now it’s time to support live music and its friends
So Bett and Bill can keep having folks kindly droppin’ in
So we’re all invited back again to their locality
To have a heapin’ helpin’ of their hospitality
House Concert, that is. Set a spell, take your shoes off.

Y’all be reasonable now, y’hear?

— Sherry Johnson 12 December 2009

I have attended two of the Little Lake Hill concerts and was amazed that such a fine quality of musical artists were available and willing to come and play in someone’s home like this. I really do not understand how the Padgetts’ concerts can be classified as a business since they don’t make any money and all money collected goes to the artist. This is exactly what happens at political fundraisers–I suppose we can no longer have more than three of those a year unless we want to break the law! What a silly interpretation of the law! I hope they win their case and I hope the law gets changed. I am glad that Thomas Crowder is aware of this problem and willing to work on it since he is my Councilman and I know he will do his utmost to get things righted.

— Janice Sears 12 December 2009

I am utterly shocked that anyone would complain about what Bett & Bill have contributed to this community! My goodness,,, it almost brings me to tears that anyone would COMPLAIN about this! I would actually pay to have them be my neighbors!

Terri Robbins

— Terri Robbins 12 December 2009

To whom it may concern:

I see no need to reiterate the sentiment of the community since I am sure you have hundreds of letters all speaking volumes in appreciation of the Goodwill and community activism of Bill and Bett Padgett.

What I will address is the backbone or framework of the Declaration of Independence and how it applies:

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.–That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

The first part of this paragraph speaks to the rights of the individual and his or her pursuit of happiness. Since everyone’s definition of what makes them happy is very personal, it is not the government’s responsibility to dictate where, when, or how many times a year one may express his or her happiness. Quite simple.

Now, what rights has the governed given to the government? And what metaphor can best describe the government’s responsibility to the individual? “Another person’s rights end where my nose begins” was how Mr. Paul Dearman, my high school history teacher, described it to me. Government, it is your responsibility to use the resources that we have voted on and are paying for through our tax dollars to see that individuals do not encroach on each others’ noses.

Every neighborhood has the right to peace and tranquility and there are rules in place to control how we interact as neighbors. There are also controls through the police force, whose job it is to determine the degree of infraction of any incident to the contrary.

Let’s use another metaphor for the government’s position as umpire for the community, and for the neighbors they represent. “Three strikes and you are out” — or in this case the individual and their pursuit of happiness — now come under the scrutiny of the council.

It is my humble opinion that it is your duty as government not to dictate the what, when, or number of times anyone may pursue happiness. That would be in direct violation of the Declaration of Independence. Instead, it is indeed your duty as government to provide a control measure if there are numerous and valid complaints. Then and only then should government get involved. We the governed have given you the simple power to provide supervision that ensures safe and healthy communities. I am sure twelve men or women of our community’s peers would feel the same way and express same, before any court. If need be before the highest court in the land.

Denny Reid
5040 Tryon Rd.
Raleigh, NC 27606

— Denny Reid 13 December 2009

Having met Bett some years ago at the Festival For The Eno, when it was my pleasure to run the sound system for her performances at the Otter Stage, I have been a true admirer of her musicianship and professionalism (as well as simply wishing I could play like that!). I have no doubt she and her family have conducted their hosting of performances for the pleasure of friends throughout the area and for the benefit of the musicians involved with the same grace she herself performs. (Had I known about the concerts before this, I’d've been there plenty of times, myself…) The Padgetts have my support in their/our quest for justice. “‘Tis the season to be jolly,” - No Grinches Allowed!

Ben M. Mullen
Durham

— Ben M. Mullen 13 December 2009

It saddens me greatly that we are plagued by the corrupt use of a law meant to protect the sanctity of someone’s home. Anytime of the year, it would not be the least bit appropriate, but especially during this time of year when so many people come together and celebrate joy.

Sadly, some anonymous person has brought to our attention the frailty of our government to protect our rights. Why are we here at this gathering spot to discuss what Bett and Bill Padgett peacefully and joyfully do in their own home? Why is the Raleigh city government poking their heads into the home of a well-respected couple who reverently support Raleigh?

Sadly, it seems that the Padgett’s have annoyed someone lacking in ethics. It makes me wonder if this person has a political gain in attacking the Padgett’s. It makes me wonder just how much this anonymous person has to gain at stirring up trouble for the Padgett’s.

You know, the house has a history. Bett and Bill are not the first rebel-rousers to call this property their own. The first lady of the house, Nancy Ferguson, chained herself to the front yard’s majestic maple tree when the city threatened to cut it down. That majestic tree stands in the front yard to this day, thanks to Mrs. Ferguson. Oddly enough, fairly recently the city came through threatening to cut down trees on the Padgett’s property. In the spirit of Mrs. Ferguson, the Padgett’s battled and won not to have the trees cut down. It just makes you wonder, could the anonymous caller have been someone wanting their way with the Padgett’s land?

That’s what it is all about, isn’t it? Could that anonymous person be someone wanting their way with the Padgett’s land, land that they own and have a home on? And in telling the Padgett’s what they can and cannot do in their own home, that anonymous person IS getting his or her own way. OK, so it is not about trees right now, but it is about the Padgett’s being denied the ability to live the way they wish to in their own home.

“Oh but there is a law that clearly states the Padgett’s are in violation of blah blah blah,” someone might argue. “There is a law,” that would be the defense of the anonymous person.

Well, OK, there is a law that states people who live in Raleigh may not have more than 3 gatherings a year. This law was created to protect homeowners from crazy fraternity parties, like the ones from the movie Animal House. This law was not created to be abused by this anonymous person.

I have attended several house concerts. I have greatly been inspired by these house concerts. Allowing guests to sit in a living room and listen to a tremendously talented artist is educational.

What Bett and Bill manage to create through these house concerts, in which they make no profit at all, is a sense of unity within our community.

They create joy.

Joy, something we should all be focusing on right now instead of the sadness this anonymous caller has created.

— Laurie Bishop 13 December 2009

Absurd laws are meant to be broken or changed. This has occurred throughout history. An easy example of this is “Prohibition.” So let’s look at the prohibition of “house concerts” to benefit musical artists, fundraisers to benefit political candidates, community meetings to support greenspace, oh and holiday parties where friends celebrate and make new friends. Certainly, these are a detriment to the common good in Raleigh, NC. Is one of the best places to live in the country the brunt of a bad joke? I wonder what Letterman, Leno, O’Brien, Ferguson, Kimmel, et al would think? This is as good a follow up to the recent “cash for grades” debacle in Goldsboro as we could hope to get here in little ole Raleigh. — Jay Spain, Dec 13, 2009

— Jay Spain 13 December 2009

This is so sad to put attention and focus on something of this nature that brings people together with the artist/artists for an enjoyable and pleasant gathering; offering so many the ability to AFFORD an evening out like this! I would not have been able to afford these wonderful events if it were not for the setting and style offered by the Padgett’s!

Given this attention vs the scams that destroy people is totally sensless and a waist of time and energy…

This is a good thing to open your home and invite people to come together!

Lorraine Buccellato of Cary

— Lorraine Buccellato 14 December 2009

This is really an unbelievable attack on privacy, right to assemble, and common sense. So, let’s see, if over the course of a year I have a political fundraiser, a birthday party, a holiday party, and a family reunion in my home, I’m in violation? Or only if I’m politically progressive? Isolationism may be one of the biggest problems we face in this country. Here are two people successfully building a community around music, and the city of Raleigh considers that a danger that needs to be stopped? Please!

For the record, I’ve never attended a house concert at the Padgett’s. I have attended many in Durham, however. Let’s hope the laws in that city have more thoughtfulness behind them.

Kathy Green

— Kathy Green 14 December 2009

I have attended many of Bett’s house concerts, with great enjoyment. It seems to me that these house concerts have been going on for a long time and no one brought up this silly rule before. What changed? I also never heard of an anonymous complaint being accepted by a government agency either- complaints are supposed to be in writing and signed. So what’s that about?

Our government’s exuberance to “crack down on crime” is being used as an excuse to harrass upstanding citizens of the community. Where’s the crime here? People enjoying themselves in Bett and Bill’s home with music and food? Suddenly this is against the law? No one noticed before?

Bett and Bill share their old Raleigh historic home with friends while supporting the arts. They are involved in the community, support charities, benevolent community projects, and worthy politicians. When I see our law enforcement going after model citizens like Bett and Bill, I wonder who’s next.

There is a hearing today at 1PM. I am expecting the case to be dismissed. Anything less and I will recognize it’s time for revolution. Count me in.

— Nancy Toner Weinberger 14 December 2009

Well, the city of Raleigh has spoken. And, as is common for governmental agencies, the Hydra of our lives, their answer is nonsensical.

They have deemed the house concerts of Bill and Bett Padgett to be a prima fascia business.

I ask you; what kind of business sets out to not make ANY money, and in fact, plans on being in the red with each function?

Doesn’t this place birthday parties, with a hired clown, or other form of entertainment, into the same category? How about a “Tupperware” party, which, of course, is held to actually MAKE money? Political fund-raisers? ANY kind of regularly scheduled event in one’s home, that might require an expenditure?

This is not government by and for the citizens of Raleigh. This is an outrage. The decision by the Board of Adjustments is anti-community, anti-art, anti-music, anti-private property rights, and very well seems to me to be unconstitutional. The last time I looked, we had the right to peaceably assemble, without interferance from the King’s men.

The US Constitution’s First Amendment clearly states that Congress shall make no law that abridges “the right of the people peaceably to assemble”. This ruling by Raleigh’s Board of Adjustments seems to fly in the face of that Amendment.

So, rather than spending the city’s precious resources to combat real crime, they have now made a peacful assembly by upstanding citizens a crime, unless the city is paid their “mordida” to allow people to assemble peaceably. This isn’t just unfortunate, it is yet another notch in the belt of oppressive governance.

The slow, but inexorable python of “government” has squeezed another victim. This time, all lovers of traditional music, and the performing arts are the victims.

How typical of “government”; to go after those who do no harm, are kind, gentle, and only wish to see life enriched. Easy targets, as these are the people who are most willing to follow all sensible rules. This rule, however, makes no sense.

The city of Raleigh has done itself a dishonor, as well as a disservice, and should hang it’s Hydra-heads in shame.

— Doug MacKenzie 14 December 2009

Any word on how the Raleigh Board of Adjustment meeting today went?

— Steve Burnett 14 December 2009

Bett’s house concerts enrich our city. They are unique cultural events that can’t be duplicated in a commercial setting. House concerts are common across the nation, and it will be a black eye on Raleigh if we shackle the good folks who would so generously open their homes so that unique musicians can be heard.

— Lois Nilsen 15 December 2009

In my opinion the ruling by the BOA is unconstitutional as it prohibits the activity of “peaceful assembly” guaranteed by the First Amendment, and that is clearly what happens at these house concerts. I believe that we should all be engaged in not allowing this important and meaningful actively to be denied.

I agree with others that have stated that the interpretation of the law in this case is skewed. I believe the intent of the law is to fully examine those activities that on the surface seem to be a business. That is appropriate. But, once that notion is dispelled, as in this case, the BOA needs to use common sense and back off. Their ruling has set a disturbing precedent.

But, letting freedom ring is not what is happening, so I suggest that a legal defense fund be established to take this to the highest court necessary. Or, maybe the ACLU would be interested in the case or some other legal defense entity. In any case we should not roll over for obvious reasons beyond these house concerts.

I encourage all to write to the newspaper and representatives to keep this issue alive. If a system for accepting donations is needed and established we should all give what we can.

— William Delamar 26 December 2009

I have been to a lot of Bett and Bills concerts over the years. The thing that is truly outragoeus about this process(actually its all outrageous) is that the
powers that be in a small city have placed their laws above the law of the land which is our constitution..
Anyone hwo has ever been to one of these concerts would notice several things…One: that they are quiet and two: that they are peaceful.
If you are on the street walking by during a conert you wouldnt be aware that anything was happening in the house. This clearly meets the definition as stated in our constitution as freedom of peaceable assembly.
Consodering this from a legal viewpoint this law as proposed by the city of raleigh is unconstitutional and steps on our toes…
please….dont tread on me….
G.D. Gross-Raleigh

— Gordon Gross 9 January 2010

I have been to a lot of Bett and Bills concerts over the years. The thing that is truly outrageous about this process(actually its all outrageous) is that the
powers that be in a small city have placed their laws above the law of the land and the freedoms it protects, , which is our constitution..
Anyone who has ever been to one of these concerts would notice several things…One: that they are quiet and two: that they are peaceful.
If you are on the street walking by during a concert you wouldnt be aware that anything was happening in the house. This clearly meets the definition for a guaranteed freedom as stated in our constitution as freedom of peaceable assembly.
Considering this from a legal viewpoint this law as proposed by the city of raleigh is unconstitutional and steps on our toes…
please….dont tread on me….
G.D. Gross-Raleigh

— Gordon Gross 9 January 2010