From the Lawrence Daily Journal-World for May 29, 1987:

“I’m not so sure it’s a traffic hazard but I do think it’s an aesthetic problem.” This was the statement of Municipal Court Judge George Catt to Daniel Gaffney on the subject of the portable flashing sign in front of Gaffney’s convenience store and gas station, 3300 W. Sixth. After having pleaded no contest to charges that he had violated the city sign ordinance by refusing to remove the sign, Gaffney had been ordered to pay maximum finds of $500 and to serve 180 days in jail on each of two charges involved. Catt said that the sentences would be suspended after Gaffney had served one day on each charge. Catt had refused Gaffney’s request to hear arguments on the constitutionality of the sign ordinance or evidence about the nature and purpose of the sign. “It happens to be across from my office,” Catt told Gaffney. “I can’t help but see it. Any evidence you could give me won’t alter what I’ve seen over the past couple of months.”