Force Majeure

Force Majeure-"A French term literally translated as "greater force", this clause is included in contracts to remove liability for natural and unavoidable catastrophes that interrupt the expected course of events and restrict participants from fulfilling obligations." Super Storm Sandy brought to light in so many of our lives the thought that the "Status Quo" is over. It's time for rethinking so many of our priorities in the way we live. Having spent some time in Ortley Beach, north of Seaside Heights, just after the storm, I stood there and thought do we need so much stuff in our lives? Here in the Lil' Apple the term Force Majeure came up at the City council meeting the other night. I was there to hear the discussion of parking and the Convention Hall closing and how it will impact our world here. We took a big hit from the storm and I want to invoke Force Majeure with the city. 1- Suspend fees for outdoor seating permits. 2- Don't add or increase fees for signs, permits, etc. 3- Stop the craziness of taking over private parking lots. We have our agreements with our landlord that will be voided. Is that legal? Which brings up the question is it legal for government to take control of private property? Just sayin'. 4- Force Majeure- come to terms with Madison Marquette on getting Convention Hall up and operating. Put all your egos in a box and float them out to sea. We have bigger fish to fry! Let's not make the Lil'Apple into Lil'Washington. No programming in the Paramount and Convention Hall is a disastrous thought for the season. I like the idea the Werner guy brought up of talking with IStar about using one of those empty lots near Wesley Grove for parking. How about for employee parking instead of the crazy idea of having staff parking up at Bradley Cove. The thought of my staff leaving work late at night and walking to up there, oh boy! Haven't we all taken enough of a hit that agreement can't be found in the short term at least to have a great season?