It's a shame something can't be worked out. The town is starting to feel so anti-business. From excessive parking tickets that I hear one popular business owner continually refer to as "punitive", to the sandbagging of a potential restaurant at the former Chico's that has led to the horrific, garish eyesore of a campaign office in the shopping district (that will be there until November, virtually guaranteeing a second consectutive Christmas shopping season as a vacant storefront), it's almost like Doylestown is putting up a "go away" sign.

As Mr Bender stated, if the transfer wasn't approved the Moose would stay at the location. If the transfer was approved there would be a new entity.
All of the local residents fought against the Moose and it's history. Council's vote against the transfer is voting to keep the Moose. The residents railed against the Moose but decided to keep it by protesting so hard against having a new charity-centered club occupy 127 E State Street.
Congratulations! You now get to keep the thing that you most despise!

I have only been to the Moose on probably two or three occasions but its a nice place. I think its horrible that the township listens to these people. If you move to Doylestown and buy a home next to a bar that has been there for probably a hundred years, don't complain about loud music. Youre the one who decided to live there in town.

So, would the number of people served increase? What emphasis would be on the restaurant versus the bar? The answer to these questions will provide insight into the impact on the neighborhood. Why should the council say yes without good answers? 86 West was supposed to be a restaurant ... and anyone who visits can clearly see it's a bar. How many ally-peeing drunks can Doylestown tolerate without losing its family-friendly character?

Would love for someone to do a comparison on police calls involving ALL the bars in town. I would almost guarantee the Moose hardly receives the most calls. This has been a sad, politically based witch hunt for too long. Shame. Shame. Shame.

@Jim - Food vs alcohol, potential number served were answered at the meeting. Mr Bender stated that the focus would shift to food and that the number of members compared to the Moose would remain similar.
The proposed club would have been run as a non profit with (some portion of) proceeds from membership and sales going to local charities rather than the Moose charities in Illinois and Florida.
Seemed like a good plan to me with a significant upside to the neighborhood. Again, they now get to keep the ting that they despise - the Moose - because they railed so hard against a potential change.

As an employee, I'd like to make a few comments. We strive very hard to not be a nuisance to our neighbors. This includes a policy of checking the outdoor perimeter every half hour after 9 PM, seven days a week. Current and past employees have joked about it, saying "there's nothing out there" or "it's quieter than a mouses _ _ _ _". We have done everything to comply with the Mayor, Boro Police Department and PALCB. We have not had one call or complaint that required police presence in over one year, to my knowledge. I'll wager no other bar/restaurant in the Boro can say that. Yet comments like "The music is so loud, it shakes our windows" is published as fact to the public? If this has happened, it hasn't in the 27 months I have worked there. If anyone is interested in coming INSIDE to form a balanced opinion, you are welcome to!!! You'll find a small group of 25 or so is inside socializing, having dinner and networking for their businesses. You will find Doctors to Lawyers, Teachers to Local Merchants, Merck Executives to Manufacturers. The list goes on! Carpenters, Realtors, Artists, Salon owners, Copywriters, Photographers, Musicians. Sherrifs, IT Technicians, Financial Advisers, Bankers, Restaurantuers, Caterers, Builders, Small business owners, etc. all helping each other. The definition of community if you ask me. I agree with Rich, this is a political witch hunt, and as Jeff Lugar says, it feels very Anti-Business to try and shut down what I've just described.

Does any one else think its funny that this guy's name is 'Bender'

Your headline reiterates the ignorance displayed in last night's hearing. This was an application for the transfer of a license under the Standard Club to replace the existing Moose Club. I helped found a non-profit business association in Portland and helped lead a safe-ride program (also non-profit). I've owned and run successful restaurants since age 25. I don't think the naysayers could agree on their complaints. First that we would not generate enough business, but second that we would intensify impact and negatively effect parking. Landing a 747? You are comparing a locally based start-up charity to a 100 year old international fraternity. More like parking my Prius where a 747 calls home. It's time that we join hands, residents and businesses. If you have concerns, let the proprietor know. Thanks to all the neighbors who provided support.

As far as I am concerned Matt Bender spoke eloquently despite a fairly hostile environment. Councilwoman Doyle ate up a huge chunk of the allotted one hour time, grandstanding yet insightful, while insinuating skullduggery was afoot.
The 28 page list of violations by the neighbour that is now thinking his that his move from New Hope perhaps was not so wise, was out dated, and at the end of the day, I agree with Eric, you get what you get, now don't get upset.
You could have placed the license with a new club, yet chose to vote the party line in being the fuddy duddies that were elected, with the not in my town attitude. Heaven forbid we don't respect the neighbourhood residents, the Judge that stood up for the neighbourhood lives on East Court Street, how on earth is he affected? Afflicted more like.
Tessa is spot on wityh her analysis of the Moose, I live close by to the Maennorchor, a place I admire, but the noise from them at closing time makes the Moose sound like a mouse.

Finally I do hope Mr Bender continues on with a fresher presentation, it is worthy.

Patch. Thank you for providing a forum for equal discussion and debate. :)

The Moose is in a residential area? I think it is more accurate to say that some individuals bought houses in a business district. I have a basil plant on my counter, but that doesn't mean I dwell in an agricultural area. My mom plays cards at the Moose occasionally. She is one of the ally-peeing drunks to which you refer Jim. But she wears Depends, so I don't know what the beef is. Spot on word: FuddieDuddie. Impact statement to have thpe council removed please. The needs of the few apparently outweighs the needs of the many when the few and the council are buddies. Geez, I need to start my own hope-nitize campaign and get on the council to fix this. And that stinks, because I'm busy enough already.

First, I have to thank the last comment by Rob for making me and my business partner laugh today. I was at the heated meeting last night, and was very disturbed that the residents of this community wouldnt even contemplate change. I go to the Moose for lunch with my clients and fellow colleagues, the food is amazing the atmosephere of business people give a great feel to the "growing" area. I have a local business in Doylestown, and its not easy to park anywhere in town when you are looking to patron any of the other restaurants/stores. I belong to the CB Rotary and I know that the help Matt Bender alone has provided us with. Ex: we had a huge motorcycle ride for the Travis Manion Foundation and at last moment we needed a cook, Matt stepped in and cooked for over 500 people all day. I think we need people who step up to the plate in this town to make it better! WHO want to make it better!

I still dare Dtown officials to dig up police call records on all of the bars in that town and compare them to the Moose over the past year if they want to throw crazy accusations around.
I think everyone would be surprised...except me.

All,
In reading this article I just wanted to see what was involved in joining a Moose Lodge. I am just curious now about Moose Lodge's as a whole. Can anyone help me out on the first prerequisite on becoming a member. When did the qualification of allowing non Caucasians to become members take affect. And why was this implemented in the first place. This is not a loaded question. I just would like to know the History. Thanks

1. Be at least 21 years old and of good character. Although the Moose once required that a member be Caucasian and not married to a non-Caucasian, this is no longer the case.

2. Possess a belief in a supreme being. It isn't necessary to be a Christian but a religious belief of some kind is expected of Moose members

3. Be willing to pledge your loyalty to the aid of children and your fellow men and women.

4. Ask among your family, friends, neighbors and coworkers to find one who is already a Moose.

5. Ask the Moose to sponsor you as a new member in his lodge.

The core issue and what the hearing was for, is allowing yet another liquor license in the borough. We have all the liquor licenses allowable by PA law. If we move a license from Bristol, we have allowed more liquor licenses than we rightly need. The council voted on that issue and that issue alone. They were right and correct on their action. I can't believe the childish behavior of those who have responded here.

... don't fret, Tessa, yuo can at least take comfort that council is busy with more important matters, like protecting you from the anti-breastfeeding boogie men that are running rampant throughout the borough.
i wonder how many have even bothered to walk down the street to check your business out?

Its confusing why mtatt bender would want to start a non profit when the Moose mission is charity and community service it did it for 99 years. Matt is on the board of directors of the Moose house committe(they oversee rules of the sociial quarters)and is Treasurer.In addition he serves as manager of the social quarters.He would be
responsiable for the the noise compaints in not overseeing events. A failed job and should be replaced. If the front doors were closed and not left open the music would not be heard. What difference the Moose or the Stanard club if same people are in charge.Matt and the board should perform their sworn duties or resign . I hope his wedding to jen walton was not the Wedding that caused the problems. Unfortunately the Moose is being run by a group with their own agenda. Go to Mosseintl.org to get history of the Moose.

@Wolfhound. Your question should be directed to Moose International and is a lame attempt at creating some political theater . This is about replacing an existing club that a few conspiring neighbors hate but seem to be well represented by a borough council that is not interested in facts or local commerce. This is about a new organization that is community based and supports local charity. The moose is not the subject. This is an opportunity for Doylestown to gain something that benefits the community. The people who want to participate are your neighbors, friends and local merchants. They are the fiber of the community. I look forward to this organization making its name here.

If I could please clear the air. Yes, I was treasurer, and I resigned. I have first hand knowledge of the amount of funds raised and sent to Illinois. I have volunteered at the local lodge, and have contributed my expertise to the management. The current management and administration have turned this place around. Zero violations and favorable reviews from the mayor and law enforcement. This was never about the moose, it was about running an establishment that would keep local dollars local.

I like this idea, After sinking, what must have been a sizable investment into making the Moose Lodge building look great inside and out. The owners are stuck with a tenent who's brand and image are tainted.

No matter what good the Moose lodge has done for the community over the past 100 years, and there has been alot. The current community is not apt to forgive the nonsense that happened in the ever more distant past. As a result the membership is not likely to recover

Unfortunately, the building is not likely to be approved for anything other than offices or apartments. I believe the current use is grandfathered since the building was built for the Moose Lodge in the early 1900s, well before zoning was instituted.

Bringing in a new standalone charitable organization with a clean image changes the paradigm. The new club will be able to keep all of its monies locally instead of using them to feed a national organization. Futhermore, the club will be able to craft it's charter and bylaws in way that allow for the rapid growth in membership that is required to support the club, pay the rents required by the building owners, and become a valued community asset

Residents of the borough should not begrudge the building owners for trying to change the paradigm. They should be supporting them and wishing them much success, as it will ultimately be a success for the community. They should step up and join the club.

Paddy you're telling lies to further your own cause. Which is what? I can't say, other than if you are who I think you are, you should get over your 'board voted removal' and get on with your life. Things change...

Do I detect the sweet smell of nepotism here? Uh Oh. Not a good thing.

How does one join tje standard club

@Bill. Not being childish, being honest.
Everyone knows if there was a Donkey hanging on that building instead of a moose, they would have had no problem. Glad I moved, because this council makes me ashamed to be a registered Democrat. Just a microcosm of what is wrong with this country.

The boaRd and their followers might consider a retirement community

I am not about to trivialize what is perhaps the greatest tragedy in human history. But if there is a modern-day parallel for the horrific suffering of the Jewish people of Europe during the 1930’s and 40’s, it would surely be the recent tribulations of Steven Agrista and the other unfortunate neighbors of the Doylestown Moose Lodge. Sure, you’ve heard of The Night of Broken Glass, when Nazi storm troopers destroyed Jewish shops and synagogues throughout Germany. But did you hear about the night the Agristas had to retire to their country estate because there was a band playing across the street from their lavish town residence? (Poor creatures could even hear the music through their gate.) Yes, there was fear and starvation at Dachau. But what about the time a limo parked in the Agrista’s neighbor’s driveway for 20 minutes? That’s private property, man! And surely the Fuhrer himself would not wish on his most hated enemy to be awoken briefly on a warm summer night by the passing sound of human voices. We cannot tolerate such injustice! Close the doors of this evil place forever. And while we’re at it, we should evacuate all of the undesirables from Doylestown, individuals and businesses alike, so the chosen ones shall suffer no longer the ignorance of the lower classes. We could relocate them, perhaps, to some type of ghetto. Just temporarily…until we figure out a final solution.

I live in Portland Oregon and have been friends with Matt Bender for years. I've worked with him on several occasions and he's helped me with my restaurant as well. Matt is a VERY successful restaurant owner in a city that Is extremely competitive for food dollars. I've been to town hall meetings similar to the one you all are commenting on as well as the moose lodge in Doylestown. All I can say to your city council is this, Portland is written up constantly by the Ny times. Doylestown isn't! Portland has plenty of young creative people moving here everyday. Doylestown doesn't. Portland is voted every year as the most livable city in U.S. Not the same for Doylestown. I could go on and on but the one thing that's most important is that you can acquire a liquor license for about $3000 "trust me there's like a million of them" and somehow are streets aren't filled with urine and all are windows aren't broken. The town hasn't burned to the ground and all I can think is how ignorant some people are to deny a hard working guy like matt an opportunity to make some money!
Good luck with your city council B.S. or you could vote out small minded council members, all of them!!!
Jason Tucker

Forget the liquor license ... Make it an all ages strip club!
Weekend brunch, legs and eggs, want that scrambled or fertilized?
Take your 1st amendment for a walk around the neighborhood..

Cheers

I think this has run itself into the muck, where it should stay.
But FYI, Forbes lists Portland MAINE as America's most livable city. PDX doesn't even make it into the top 15. Hasn't been on the list for some years now.
Sure Oregon gets a lot of press. Most press is on bars, restaurants and beer! Oh, and coffee. And clouds.
Portland Maine has some of the finest restaurants in America as well. A world class museum and theater. Colleges. But also intelligence, charm and a sense of New England dignity.

Wynne., your mistaken. Like most people in ignoranceville!! Aka doylestown. R.I.F. Reading is fundamental!

http://www.movingtoportland.net/portland-information/praises-for-portland

...But spelling and grammar are apparently not fundamental...(Just kidding Jason; clearly your indignation at being challenged affected your typing prowess and ability to produce a rejoinder consisting of anything more than insulting the intelligence of the person(s) disagreeing with you).

Tom, you've missed the point entirely! I'm no English major, obviously! It was a late night for me here with all the bars and peeing in the streets and all. If you truly hate the moose, and I suspect some people do. Be careful what you wish for because it could be turned into condos but the smart money would get federal funding for low income housing. That would put all of your pseudo liberal friends in a giant conundrum!

I do not hate the Moose nor would I be against a non-profit organization that supported the poor, the sick, the elderly and those with mental health issues. In fact, I requested more information from Mr. Bender earlier in the posts (I have not heard back; is there a link to the Mission Statement for the Standard Club?). And actually Jason, low-income housing would be terrific. Although this is a very wealthy county, there is a dearth of affordable housing. And with cut-backs to the social safety net, housing is going to become even more scarce. It would be a real boon to have housing located near local commerce and healthcare providers as public transportation is not always convenient. If you have any more information regarding the Moose becoming low-income housing, please post it; I certainly know stakeholders in the community with whom I would like to share this (possibly) good news. Thanks Jason!

Sure, I'll get you some info on federally subsidized low income housing. It's truly very popular here and very successful for property owners. But let's find out the true color of the neighbors of the moose. I have a question for them! Please only respond if you live nearby!!
Would you like to replace the moose lodge with low income housing?

Or Tom, if you really are excited about low income housing you could use this invention called google.

Oh, I apologize Jason. I thought perhaps you had some inside information given your previous comment. No need to get me info on federally-subsidized housing--the agency for which I work has frequent interaction with the Bucks County Housing Authority and the Bucks County Housing Group. And yes, I am quite familiar with Google and it's many virtues. In fact, I used it prior to asking Mr. Bender for information about his proposed non-profit and it's mission; I did not have much success finding any answers. By the way, I do live nearby to the Moose so you can put a check mark in the "yes" column for me in the results of your informal survey. Good luck; Mr. Bender is fortunate, indeed, to have such a loyal and caring friend! Imagine--you, living all the way in Portland, taking it upon yourself to conduct a poll to assist him with another business proposal! With a friend like you and the terrific success he had in Portland, one wonders why he would have ever left!

I went to the Maennerchor recently on a Friday night. 300 plus 20-somethings jammed into this overgrown frathouse. Non-members are admitted by the dozen at the door, loaded with alcohol in plastic cups, then sent stumbling and vomiting into the night without the slightest regard for personal or public safety. Fights occur on a regular basis. Inappropriate sexual activity abounds. Wasted slackers not lucky enough to score one of the debauched debutantes roam the town in search of opportunities for vandalism and other types of misconduct. Similar scenes can be found at Puck, Finney's and other local hot spots. And yet, here we are, talking about the Moose Lodge. Where, on the same Friday night, there may be (at most) 20 or 30 people in the entire establishment. Where non-members are not admitted unless accompanied by a member (no paying 5 bucks at the door for access to booze). Where most people are in their mid-30's or older, and are responsible members of the community. The point is this: Eliminating the Moose (or preventing the establishment of a similar club) will do nothing to alleviate the problems described by the local community members Monday evening, because the real problems are still there, and likely always will be in one form or another. But are these really "problems" at all? Or just the nature of living in a town, with other people? Because if you don't like dealing with people and noise, it is very quiet in the township.

Our mission statement "The Standard Club is a community of members united by their emphasis on identifying and donating without measure to those in need within Bucks County, Pennsylvania." The Standard Club will select a new charitable cause annually. The Standard Club is for the community and will welcome all members who share in that belief. Our emphasis is on the food side of restaurant hospitality. Those of you who have questions, please feel send me a direct email 'DoylestownStandard@gmail.com'

Thanks, Tom. Add to that; autism awareness evenings at the Standard club. Weekly evenings of LGBT awareness at the Standard Club. Oh, and speaking of "those in need", Corbett has just cut all funds to the disabled homeless. I am sure that the "socially aware" members of The Standard Club are ready to fill in the gaps. Big job. Needs big bucks. I hope that the Standard Club finds another home to do their socially responsible works. Maybe they could meet at the library.

Did you hear that Snoop Dogg changed his name to Snoop Lion? What are the implications of this for the Moose Lodge?