March 2006
March 31, 2006
Why the ACC Endorses Clinkscale, Buford
I've gotten a fair amount of grumbling from "progressives", about the ACC endorsement for Clinkscale and Buford.
Just about everyone who I've had a discussion of any length with ends up in shrugging agreement. Here how the conversation usually goes.
The two arguments against the slate are 1. Roberti is/was a jerk. and 2. The APR points have declined from 64 to 39.
Both are true, and meaningless in terms of moving the school system forward.
Here's what matters:
1. We do not have a functional system.
We do not have a functional system - Our school system sucks and it's a sin. In my book, it's a go-to-hell kind of a sin to let kids pretend to go to school and then send them out in the world hardly able to read.
And I overstating the terrible shape 30 years of neglect has had on our schools?
No. Look at the numbers.
10th grade reading - 6.2% met the state standard for proficiency or better. The other 93.8% failed.
Guess what? That was better than math or science MAP scores at the high school level. They were 3.5% passing and 1.4% respectively.
Yes, you read that right. 98.6% of our 11th graders failed to meet the state's standards for proficiency in the subject of science.
With respect to education, I share nothing ideologically with anyone who looks at those numbers and thinks that ANYTHING - jobs, schools, ANYTHING - is more important than creating a system where kids can learn.
Those numbers suck. But what's astounding (more on this in point 3) is that those scores are all higher now than when the reform slate took over in 2003.
Yeah, tests scores have improved under this board majority. Still anyone who's satisfied with them or thinks there should be any other goal than improving academic achievement is plain wrong.
2. The reform slate has one agenda: getting a functional system. Not preserving jobs, making those jobs easier, or preserving schools. They have one agenda - They're trying to give African American kids in St. Louis a shot at life.
“Progressives” who rail angrily about high-handed, high-paid administrators cutting low-wage jobs etc, are missing the real injustice. There is ABSOLUTELY NOTHING progressive about a school system that dooms youth to unemployment and crime.
3. It's working - already, which two years ago I would not have expected. I would have thought that with the shock - closing a $90 million deficit, shuttering half-empty schools, implementing a district-wide curriculum – of changing the direction of a district that accepted crap results for so long, test scores would have declined during the transition.
They haven’t. On the whole they’ve risen. 8 of the 9 MAP categories have seen improvement in test scores since the reform slate took over. That’s amazing and heartening.
More important than the progress of the past two years is the progress in the pipeline. They passed a pay increase to bring teachers' salaries in line with those of the surrounding school districts. They hired a first-class superintendent who is implementing a strategic plan that has lots of intuitively common sense elements - taking 9th graders out of the high school to give them special attention, uniforms, reinvesting in curriculum (something that wouldn’t have been possible if the majority hadn’t rationalized the schools operations (closing empty schools, managing warehouse inventory).
The question most people ask at this point is: Why, since nearly all academic test scores have risen, have APR numbers gone down?
Look here to understand the APR numbers. It's not simple, but it is understandable. And after spending some time with the numbers - the MAP test scores, the rolling averages that determine APR numbers - you'll see that the APR is not an accurate reflection of the progress that's been made.
Honestly, there aren't many people - I think I've found three - that have spent the time to look how APR scores are determined. By my reading, the big reasons for the decline: 1. ACT scores. 2. Drop-out rate.
On the ACT scores - the bad news is that they're going to continue to go down. Rather than just give the test to the best students and thereby artificially raising scores, the plan is for every student to take them. The good news - that's the way a school should work.
Yes, it hurts us on the APR numbers, but going to college should be the expectation we put on every child in the district. Part of that expectation is that everyone takes the ACT.
Finally, there's the drop-out rate. Drop-outs are a huge problem.
Why is drop-out rate important? The unemployment rate for African American men in their 20s who are high school drop-outs is 72%. It may not be totally surprising then that by their late 20s, among this sub-group, more are in jail than at work. By their 30s, 6 in 10 have been incarcerated at some point.
So why has drop-out rate increased? It looks like it's a result of better record-keeping in a better functioning school administration.
A friend of mine who's dug into the numbers a bit, looks at the drop-out and graduation rate and finds them incompatible during the previous several years before the reform slate took over. He thinks that there was shoddy record-keeping: kids that didn't show up were just counted absent for months and months and months and not "dropped out."
I don't know for sure except that it made the APR numbers go down and needs to be fixed because these kids need to stay in school and need to get a good education..
So that's my reading of the state of the schools and the direction of the reforms. I'm voting for Clinkscale and Buford. I think you should too. With them on the board, the pieces are in place to keep the district moving forward.
Thanks for reading.
dave.
"I get by with a little help from my friends...."
Over at St. Louis Schools Watch there is an extensive list of the endorsements Peter Downs And Donna Jones have received.
Peter Downs is the editor of the St. Louis Schools Watch, a watchdog newsletter that has covered the city schools for several years now.
The Carpenter Endorsement
The statement:
Today, St. Louis Recorder of Deeds Sharon Carpenter announced that she is endorsing Jeff Smith, Democratic candidate for the 4th State Senate seat.
Carpenter, the former Democratic National Committeewoman and 23rd Ward Committeewoman who remains one of the most influential figures in City politics, cited Smith’s dedication and passion for public service as reasons for her support. “Jeff demonstrated his dedication to our City long before he decided to run for office. Now, as a candidate, he has shown a tireless work ethic that will serve us well when he is elected.”
Smith also announced the support of Joe Edwards, the businessman and civic leader best known for revitalizing the Delmar Loop, who said, “Jeff will be a breath of fresh air in the Capitol. And he’s exactly what this City needs.”
NY Times Travel
Honest days work...
Smith is endorsing the new effort to increase Missouri's minimum wage from $5.15 to $6.50 an hour.
The effort is being headed up by Pro-Vote, labor and community groups.
An editorial in the Post-Dispatch last March calling for the increase reported figures showing that a 40 hour a week job at minimum wage fell below the poverty line.
March 30, 2006
Smith gets nod from Carpenter
Word is that Sharon Carpenter will soon announce an endorsement of Jeff Smith in the 4th.
Mayor Vetos CRB
Frisella a Hall of Famer
From Tom Weber's KWMU story: "Frisella coached high school and college soccer for many years and was inducted in the St. Louis Old Time Soccer Hall of Fame in 2001."
March 29, 2006
Larry Dissects Derio
Hope he never does op research on me!
CQ Politics
Nice summary of yesterday's filing
Loudon's Last
He withdrew and then re-filed to be at the bottom of the ballot for auditor.
Col Jackson's statement: "We thought the days of political grandstanding associated with the State Auditor's Office would end the day Claire McCaskill left the Capitol, but as the deadline to file for the office came Tuesday we saw the backdoor shenanigans raised to new heights. In John Loudon's desperate attempt to have his name last on the ballot dragged newcomer Sandra Thomas down in to the dirt with him. For the sake of a politically insignificant ballot position, Loudon withdrew his name from the ballot at least twice in one day in an irresponsible duel with Thomas that made a mockery of the filing process. In seeking an office which requires precise management and leadership skills Mr. Loudon displayed neither. Mr. Loudon who has professed to have expert knowledge of the inner workings of state government did not understand the fail safe provisions in place that are intended to prevent this kind of unprofessional manipulation. This is precisely the type of political maneuvering Jack Jackson is determined to remove from the auditor's office. We hope Mr. Loudon does not repeat this kind of irresponsible behavior on Friday and he allows the filing process to continue as intended by Missouri Statue in the best interest of our state's democracy".
March 28, 2006
Greens file in the city
Primary opponents
for Russ Carnahan - Jim Frisella, great uncle of 10th ward committeman John Paul Frisella (it was a surprise to him, btw).
for John Bowman - Herman Larry Buie Sr.
Adams endorsements
Service Employees International Union Local 2000 and the American Federation of Teachers chapter in University City both announced their support for Adams.
New filing in 57th
I'll be on Reality Now tomorrow night
Wednesday, 7pm, KDHX, 881. FM.
Talent upticks
Last Day of Filing
Some bits:
Mark Bishop, Democrat, is filing today for Jefferson County Prosecuting Attorney. He's been Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in St. Louis County for Bob McCulloch.
Any relation to Lamar's famous son Harry?
And going into today, a quick check at the SOS page shows that of the 163 house seats there are 27 Republicans running without Democratic oppostion. Conversely there are 42 Dems running without Republican opponents. Those numbers look good for the Dems.
March 27, 2006
Filing Update
In 59th, Mark Rice has filed against Oxford.
In the 92nd, Portwood got a primary opponent, Rob Pennell, and a Democrat, William Pinkston.
And in the 96th, Pat Yeager got an opponent, Ronald Levy running as a Republican.
Couple of Things
Young Republicans' Happy Hour - Friday, March 31 at C.J. Mugg's in Clayton from 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM.
Updated ScoSag website.
Local author and historian, Bruce A. Raisch, announces the release of his first two, (yes 2) books: Ghost Towns of Wyoming and Ghost Towns and Other Historical Sites of the Black Hills. His official book release party will be at Ari's Restaurant (3101 Hampton at Arsenal) on Saturday, April 8th from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
April 1 - CAN presents "The Journey from Apartheid to a Radically Reformed Catholic Church."
What's Right with the Region
Pay for Play?
Steve Patterson has done an excellent job covering the debate over a proposed McDonalds on South Grand that would lie almost right across the street from the existing establishment.
Patterson has been highly critical of the role played by 15th Ward Alderman Jennifer Florida, in whose ward the McDonald's falls. She has been a staunch advocate of the project even in the face of unprecedented opposition from neighboring Alderman Craig Schmid (20th Ward). Now he says there may be more to Florida's interest in the deal than just politics.
Pyramid Construction has plans for a project that would use the land the existing fast-food joint sits on. Patterson pulled Florida's quarterly reports from 2004. He believe that the numerous Pyramid-related donations to her campaign were designed to curry favor.
Encouraging favorable attention through donations is an age-old practice, but Patterson believes it is related to this project, specifically. That's a serious charge, but Paterson is one serious urbanist.
March 24, 2006
Parker is in
Sylvester Brown is blogging
Three columns a week and still has time?
Filing Closes 5 p.m., First Candidates Forum 7 p.m.
The Tilles Park Neighborhood Assn will host a City Office Candidates Forum at
its next general membership meeting, 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 28, at the SLPOA
Hall, 3710 Hampton. The event is open to the public.
Candidates filed to date for Circuit Clerk, Collector of Revenue, License
Collector and Recorder of Deeds have been invited. Most have responded and are attending.
Opening remarks will be followed by Q&A with time cards used.
TPNA will host a 4th District Missouri Senate and State Auditor Candidates Forum at its May 30 general membership meeting.
The City's Tilles Park Neighborhood is located in wards 23, 24, and 10. Boundaries are Sublette/Macklind on the East, Chippewa on the South, Watson on the West, and Scanlan/Connecticut on the North.
Cbabi to Dutchtown
The Downtown Dutchtown Business Association, has been successful in wooing well-known artist Cbabi Bayoc, of Bayoc Studio, to lease space at Meramec & Virginia, 3301 Meramec.
Bayoc Studio will have a small retail gallery with select paintings and a full portfolio to browse. In addition, the artist will have private space on site to work and train select students.
March 23, 2006
Latest issue
is up. If a PDF isn't good enough, you can either subscribe to receive it by mail or pick it up at area businesses.
Remember classifieds are free. Submit yours for next issue (April 4) here.
Jake Zimmerman kicks off campaign
On Sunday, March 26. Brunch, at The Pasta House Company, in University City, 8213 Delmar from 9-11am.
Miller new 24th committeeman
In a packed house 24th Ward Democrats voted to recommend Chuck Miller as the next Democratic Committeman. Miller faced-off against another active Dem, Josh Wiese. City Democratic Party Chair oversaw the election which brokedown as follows: Miller 26, Weise 21.
March 22, 2006
Last week of filing
Mark Rice hasn't filed against Jeanette Mott Oxford in the 59th.
Sam Page (or anyone else) hasn't filed in the 82nd.
And no one has filed against Charles Portwood in the 92nd.
Overall, Democrats are fielding more candidates in the state representative races (145) than Republicans (132).
52 week high
Via Combest, Guv's approvals up to new 52-week high of 37%.
Couple of things
McLin-Sheriff "has ended his grass-roots campaign" for School Board.
Meanwhile, Jack Jackson picks up an endorsement from Mel Hancock in the auditor's race.
March 21, 2006
McMillan Fundraiser
Forgot the biggest fundraiser of the cycle - will probably net Citizens for McMillan six figures.
Tomorrow night at the Fox.
5 - 8 pm
$600
March 20, 2006
Blog-world StL
Jim Shrewsbury's website did a piece today on political blogs - highlighting ACC, Pub Def and StLToday's Fix. Jo says her blog is running behind the sports section's Tipsheet, but it looks like she beat it pretty handily yesterday which you'd think would have been a hot day for sports folks.
From Today's NY Times
Upcoming Dem Fundraisers
Jeff Smith - 4th Senate District
Hosted by Francis Slay Sr.
Tuesday, March 21st 5:30 - 7:30
The Cedars
$25
State Representative Patricia Yaeger’s Chili Supper Party fundraiser
At the Occasions-Party Place
9451 Gentry (Gentry is off Hoffmeister by the 7-Eleven Store) In Lemay
on Thursday, March 30
6:00-8:00pm
Sheriff Murphy's Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner
Friday, April 21
5:30 - 8:30
Gambrinus Hall, 3650 Wisconsin
$35
March 19, 2006
It's back
As the Post and other sources reported on Thursday, a bill dealing with the way science is taught to middle and high school students that is starting to gain traction in the MO House. The bill, introduced by Rep. Wayne Cooper, R-Camdenton, focuses on distinguishing "verified empirical data" from discussions of theory.
The problem is, much of what we think of as science is based on countless mutually supporting theories. We can take certain measurements, but without a theory or system to provide context, they are meaningless.
If you drop a hammer we know exactly its rate of accelerate towards the ground due to gravity. We can generate all kinds of data based on gravitational attraction, but we don't know how gravity works. There are working theories, of course, and we know enough to send satellites into space, but there is no definitive description of its operation, only theory (though there are some very good theories).
Science is an inherently skeptical endeavor. Yet to get far enough into science education to delve into the reasoning behind the assumptions we use to get to hard, empirical data is beyond the scope of most grade school science teaching. It may be possible to get into that in high school, but by that point, the rest of the industrial world's children are ahead of ours in the curriculum.
Missouri students should be guaranteed a comprehensive and intensive science curriculum that actually teaches science, evolution and all. Sure we could skip evolution, but how do we explain geology if we have to worry about offending people who believe the earth is merely thousands of years old.
Science and its methods should be taken on their own terms and not as we want them to be.
Note: there is also an identical bill in the State Senate SB 1249
March 18, 2006
Local Foodies Get the Nod
The James Beard Foundation (one of the original gastronomic groups in the country. Gourmonds, chefs and professional eaters all vie for tickets to dinners at the foundation) announced its nominations for the 2006 James Beard Award in journalism.
Kristen Hinman of the Riverfront Times was nominated in the Newspaper Feature Writing Without Recipes category for her article, "Something Fishy" in the March 16, 2005 issue.
Post-Dispatch food editor Judith Evans was nominated in the Newspaper Section with circulation under 300,000 category.
The awards will be presented May 7th at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in New York.
Congrats and good luck.
69 vICTORY Party
Coalition Against Police Crimes & Repression invites endorsers, supporters and bill sponsors to a vICTORY Party (that’s victory with a small “v”—we still got work to do!)
for the Passage of Board Bill 69 to establish a civilian review board
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
4:00-7:00 pm
Hosted by American Postal Workers Union - 1770 S. Broadway
(parking on 7th St. side across from Soulard Market)
Acknowledgments ▪ Overview ▪ Next Steps
March 17, 2006
Flu yesterday
Still running at half-speed, but wanted to remind folks of the SLACO conference tomorrow - it's like Mardi Gras for neighborhood activists and wonks.
Best and Worst Nabes to Buy a Home
St. Louis #1 on their "least appreciation" list.
1. St. Louis, Mo.
ZIP Code: 63143
Neighborhood: Maplewood/Richmond Heights
2005 Median Sales Price: $133,100
Total Price Appreciation 2003 to 2005: -28.1%
Appreciation for New Homes: -5.3%
Appreciation for Existing Homes: -28.6%
Charming single-family homes, some dating back to the early 20th century, dot this community. Though some have deemed the area "hot," prices are apparently not.
March 15, 2006
Tomorrow - midnight
is the deadline for getting your FREE classified in the next Arch City Chronicle (March 21 issue). First come, first serve if we fill up before then.
Historic Tax Credits
There's an important vote tomorrow morning in the Senate Ways & Means Committee on the future of the MO Historic Tax Credit program.
Sen. Chuck Gross (R-St. Charles) has tried for several sessions to destroy the credit for budgetary reasons. He has reduced the scope of his bill to barring the credit's use on residential projects and barring its 3-year carryback feature (that makes the HTC so appealing to businesses for purchase and drives its market). Either of these changes would be disastrous for the program and for the City of St. Louis.
This could be a disaster. The legislators may think they are making an adjustment or a small change to the program for budget reasons, but it will cripple the program. A comparable "adjustment" was made by the Iowa legislature in 2004. Their "small change" to their tax credit law brought a halt to historic rehab statewide and created a waiting list for tax credits to 2018!
Becker endorses Downs
Janet Becker, stalwart St. Louis progressive, sent out an email endorsing Peter Downs.
State of Radio
The National Federation of Press Women, Missouri Affiliate, and The Press Club of Metropolitan St. Louis are co-sponsoring a Luncheon Forum
at Webster University Library, Conference Room
101 Edgar Road, Webster Groves
Thursday, March 30th at 11:45 a.m.
"The State of Radio Today"
Moderator: Frank Absher, Saint Louis University journalism instructor, Columnist, St. Louis Journalism Review
Panelists: Bernie Hayes, Webster communications instructor and author of Death of Black Radio;
Dave Ervin, Vice president and General Manager of KMOX Radio;
Annette Bevel, General Manager of WILY/WRXX;
Mike Anderson, Editor/Publisher: http://www.STLMedia.net and former St. Louis radio personality and performer
Box lunch:
NFPW & PC members: $10, non-members: $12
RSVP by 3/28: stlpressclub@logan.edu or 636-227-2100, ext. 1973.
Send checks to Press Club of Metro. St. Louis, Logan College,
Room 111, P.O. Box 1065, St. Louis, MO 63006-1065
WSJ: StL "Untouched"
by housing boom. "Gives more residents a crack at the American dream."
March 14, 2006
This Weekend
I'll be doing a session at the SLACO conference on Saturday.
And I'll sit in with Freeman Bosley Jr., on his radio program Sunday morning. 9am, 100.3 FM. We'll be discussing the upcoming school board elections.
April 4 City Ballot
In addition to the school board race, three other matters:
PROPOSITION EJ
Shall the Board of Trustees of St. Louis Community College (Junior College District of St. Louis, St. Louis County, Missouri) be authorized to increase the operating tax levy for the purposes of implementing recommendations from the GROWTH community engagement process which includes implementing job-training programs,improving instructional programs, enhancing instructional staff, providing necessary computer and technology infrastructure, repairing and replacing roofs, modernizing and replacing heating and cooling systems,improving safety and security operations, and constructing and equipping new instructional facilities by $0.12 cents per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation? If this proposition is approved, the adjusted operating levy of the college district is estimated to be $0.3408 cents per one hundred dollars of assessed valuation.
CHARTER AMENDMENT - PROPOSITION R
Shall the Charter of the City of St. Louis be amended by repealing Section 9 of Article III relating to limitations on the time of filing recall petitions and enacting a new section to be numbered Section 9 of Article III relating to the same subject matter which shall be and read as follows?
Section 9. Limitations on Use.
The Board of Election Commissioners shall prescribe the form of the recall petition. Any such form shall provide for the dating of all signatures thereon. At the time a recall petition is requested the Board of Election Commissioners shall notify the officer who is the subject of the recall petition. No recall petition shall be filed against any officer within the first six months or the last six months of his term nor within eighteen months after a proposition for his recall has been defeated at an election. No recall petition shall be filed against any officer later than one hundred and eighty (180) days from the date the petition is requested by the petitioners from the Board of Election.
PROPOSITION G
Shall the graduated business license tax rates imposed in SECTION ONE of Ordinance 60643 be repealed and new graduated business license tax rates as follows be imposed: St. Louis Employees Graduated Business License Tax
2 or fewer $200.00
3-5 $325.00
6-10 $675.00
11-20 $1500.00
21-30 $2250.00
31-40 $3000.00
41-50 $4500.00
51-75 $7500.00
76-100 $11,250.00
101-150 $15,000.00
151-200 $20,250.00
201-300 $25,500.00
301-400 $30,000.00
401-500 $34,500.00
501 or more $37,500.00
StL is LUV's "Featured Destination"
Sylvester's Side
Another Poll
Via Combest, Rasmussen gives McCaskill 43-40 edge.
March 13, 2006
Sunday TV and cable regulation
I've been wondering about the recent commercials calling for the liberation of television providers in Missouri. I hadn't realized the industry was so repressed.
I caught one of the recent commercials on Sunday. It pointed the curious towards a website, FreedomWorks.org. As it turns out, FreedomWorks is a conservative group based in D.C. and headed by former Rep. Dick Armey (R-TX). The group is supporting similar actions in Kansas, Indiana and three other states. The telecom biz may be a new area given that the majority of their energy is directed towards issues such as TaBOR, flat taxes and school vouchers.
The ads support legislation sponsored by State Sen. John Griesheimer (R-26) and co-sponsored by Sen. Maida Coleman (D-5). Rather than require providers like Charter Communications to obtain franchises from each city served, the bill would create a single, statewide franchise for video service providers. The argument is that the effort in obtaining multiple franchises discourages providers from entering the markets.
Certainly multiple contracts are a headache, but do real barriers to market entry exist?
Continue reading "Sunday TV and cable regulation"Employment Discrimination
"Community Forum on Employment Discrimination"
When: March 25, 2006, 10am
Where: New Northside Family Life Center, 5939 Goodfellow Blvd
Participants: U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
Missouri Commission on Human Rights
St. Louis Civil Rights Enforcement Agency
MoSP
Missourians for Single Payer (MoSP) will be sponsoring the 4th Annual Health Care Weekend on March 25 – 26, 2006.
On the 26th, Jim Hightower will be speaking at the Ethical Society at 11:00 a.m. Jim Hightower is an internationally known radio commentator, columnist, public speaker, political sparkplug and author.
White Privilege Conference
UMSL will host a conference on white privilege April26-29.
StL Deurbanization
BROWN-BAG LUNCH SPEAKERS’ SERIES
JACQUELINE TATOM, WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
“ST. LOUIS DEURBANIZATION: WHAT RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPE FOR ST. LOUIS?”
WHEN: THURSDAY, MARCH 23, 12:15-1:30 PM
WHERE: HARRIS STOWE LIBRARY SEMINAR ROOM (* directions below)
Free and open to the public
*The Harris Stowe Library is located near the corner of N. Compton and Laclede on the Harris Stowe campus just east of the Saint Louis University campus. Turn east off of Compton into the Harris Stowe campus and you will see the library on your left on the far end of the parking lot.
March 11, 2006
Adams fundraiser
Cordially invite you to a reception for University City Mayor Joe Adams
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
At the residence of UMSL prof. Terry Jones
7214 Greenway Avenue
University City, Missouri
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
$ 50
March 10, 2006
School Board Endorsements
Arch City Chronicle endorses Darnetta Clinkscale and James Buford.
They also have the endorsement of the Metropolitan St. Louis Clergy Coalition, 11th Ward Democratic Club, Francis Slay Sr., the 23rd Ward Democtrats and the
28th Ward Democratic club.
Twenty-second Ward Democratic Organization Committeeman James "Jay" Ozier and Committeewoman Fay Davis endorse Peter Downs and Donna Jones for School Board.
Green Applauds Aldermen For Passing Police Civilian Review Board
Her statement:
“I want to thank Alderman Kennedy, the bill’s co-sponsors and everyone in the community who fought tirelessly for a civilian review board. Although the approved bill falls short of its original goal of elected members, this compromise is a huge step forward for the entire St. Louis community.
“I call on the mayor and the police board to follow the will of the people and adopt this review plan.”
CRB Passes
more later
UPDATE: 17-12
UPDATE: The roll-call from KWMU.
Updates
Put some Young Dem and Young GOP pics up in the gallery.
New PDFs are up in Back Issues.
And, remember FREE Classifieds for the March 21 issue - first come, first served.
Another Loop project
#6 in the 4th?
Keep hearing that folks are expecting to see at least another entrant into the 4th Senate race.
Any guesses?
March 09, 2006
Tomorrow's BOA vote in CRB
No need to get the BOA in the morning. ACC doesn't see a vote until the afternoon. It's being placed last on the agenda so as not to tie up other business. Then will come the Gregali filibuster. Both sides will have to worry about losing votes as the session wears on.
El-Amin endorsements
Talibdin El-Amin called today to announce that he has the endorsement of 22nd ward alderman Jeffrey Boyd and 4th ward committeeman James Clayborne.
In the middle of the city-police pension dispute
Here's a bill to increase pay.
March 08, 2006
24th ward website
Federer endorses Farr
From: Wjfederer@aol.com
> Date: Wed, 8 Mar 2006 16:50:41 EST
> Subject: Re: I need your endorsement
> To: lesliefarr@charter.net
>
> Leslie,
> Great!
> You have my endorsement. You are a great American (and a very fast runner! I
> was impressed with your sprinting the day we were interviewed by the
> Riverfront Times)
> Sue and I are so proud of you and your wife.
> America needs you!
> Bill Federer
BOND SPEAKS OUT ON DUBAI PORTS DEAL
In a series of one-sentence blurbs. Would it kill someone in his office to write a frickin paragraph on the subject?
WASHINGTON - U.S. Senator Kit Bond (R-MO) today issued the following statement on the Dubai ports transaction:
“Instead of waiting to learn the ins and outs of the deal, many members of Congress forgot one of my favorite adages, ‘look before you leap’, instead blasting the Administration and threatening to block the deal.
“There is no doubt people have raised a lot of questions about the deal because there are significant misconceptions surrounding it.
“One of the most widespread myths about the deal is that the Administration is outsourcing the security of our ports to a company from the United Arab Emirates.
“Our ports are owned by local governments who are responsible for the ports. It is the Coast Guard and Customs that provide security. The federal government will never outsource our security.
“In the 1990’s Communist China-owned companies were approved to manage ports on the West coast. This deal, however, was not met with any opposition or outcry.
“Another wrong, and dangerous, misperception is that the UAE is a haven for terrorists. The UAE is a friend and ally of the United States, a partner in the global War on Terror, and a strong partner in global port security.
“Unlike China, UAE lets us dock our Navy ships in their ports and fly air operations from their bases and they have been very helpful in intelligence sharing and cutting off terrorist financing and money laundering.
“Businesses do not invest $8 billion in something to let it be blown up. This deal allows one of our most forward-thinking friends in the Middle East to have a stake in our homeland security.
“The UAE is one of our most important strategic allies in the war on terror. Critical allies in the Middle East should be encouraged, not punished.
“So far, there is no evidence that this deal will compromise security in any way. I hope at the end of this process the facts, not fear and fiction, prevail.”
And Because it's a Rainy Wednesday Afternoon...
It's the first ever "Find the Arch City Chronicle Newstands Contest!"
We're just rolling out our new, red Arch City Chronicle paper racks today.
RULES
1. Email me (dave@archcitychronicle.com) the location of one of our bright red ACC racks from now (3:17 CST) until midnight will receive your choice of a free ACC Coffee Mug, ACC T-Shirt or ACC Bumper Sticker.
2. Void where prohibited.
Ready, Go!
FREE CLASSIFIEDS
Next issue, we'll be running a full page of classified ads. They're free!
First come, first served, with preference to paying advertisers.
Castle Coalition
National group is holding an eminent domain seminar here.
Saturday March 25th, from 9am to 4pm at Millennium Hotel. Registration and breakfast begin at 8:30. People must RSVP to Christina Walsh at 703-682-9320 or email cwalsh @ij.org. There is limited space and apparently it is reserved on first come, first served basis. All requests to attend must be in by 3-15-06.
Updated Photo Gallery
Put up some Mardi Gras photos - more coming later.
Earning Tax Hurts City
Shrewsbury asks the question the study don't answer: If not this tax, what tax, or what cuts?
On their own terms
One theme the Democrats wanted attendees to take away from Missouri Senate candidate Claire McCaskill's fundraiser last Friday was that the Democrats are gearing up to take the fight to the Republicans. However, Sen. Barack Obama, D-IL, warned that Democrats shouldn't look at recent Republican success as a sign they should co-opt their tactics.
Obama believes his party can win on the issues; if they focus on explaining their vision for the country they will prevail without the divisive tactics.
Obama and McCaskill took a moment before the luncheon to answer some questions about the Democrats strategy for the 2006 campaign.
"If we tell a story; why we are Democrats, what it means to fight for the little guy, what it means to expand opportunity and include more people in the bounty of the country, then we’ll get attention," said Obama.
Republican tactics, Obama said, are designed to divide the voters and pull a fifty plus one vicotry. Obama pointed to bills on flag burning, gay marriage and estate taxes (often referred to as "death taxes" by Republicans) Senate Republicans are planning to introduce in coming weeks as examples of wedge issues designed to increase turnout in select areas of their base.
Rather than comment on McCaskill's opponent, Sen. Jim Talent (R), Obama preferred to focus on what McCaskill would bring to the Senate. The two got to know each other last year when McCaskill was deciding whether to run for the Senate. He said she represented her constituents well in the Missouri House, was very effective as the Jackson County Prosecutor and protected the fiscal interests of the state as State Auditor.
Continue reading "On their own terms"1st CD Republican
Looks like he's in 3rd CD to me.
March 07, 2006
Meanwhile in Clayton
Things are heating up in the Clayton Board of Aldermen race which will be decided April 4. Two candidates, Bret Rich and Cynthia Holmes are running on a platform opposing the Centene retail development that will surround the proposed Centene Towers. Rich and Holmes say it's an abuse of eminent domain to oust small businesses on Forsyth to make room for other retail establishments with no guarantee of job creation. Word is that Mayor Ben Uchitelle actively recruited a write-in candidate to oppose Rich and has sent out a letter to city residents promoting the Centene developments and listing Holmes' incumbent opponent, Judy Goodman, who faces re-election in four weeks.
March 06, 2006
Stuff
Latest issue will be out tomorrow. It's focused entirely on the city's school system. Hope everyone has a chance to read it and enjoys it.
StL Fed Says: Businesses Don't Just Choose a City, They Choose a Specific Neighborhood.
Joe Palm gets the endorsement of Jesse Todd, committeeman of Ward 18; Mike Jones, former deputy mayor of St. Louis; and Arthur Washington, committeeman of the 21st.
Amber Boykins gets the endorsement of the 26th ward.
March 04, 2006
"Nadal hands Federer first loss of year"
So reports ESPN. Well...it's actually the Swiss Roger Federer and the Spanish Rafael Nadal trading volleys on the tennis court. Nadal beat the seeming unstoppable Federer in today's Dubai Open.
It's not like Chapelle-Nadal and Federer would likely run against each other, but at first I thought I missed something.
March 03, 2006
Obama Stumps for McCaskill
Illinois Senator, Barack Obama (D), was the featured speaker at Mo State Auditor Claire McCaskill's luncheon fundraiser today.
Obama kept the capacity crowd rapt, though 15 year-old Marcus Smith may have stolen the show. The young high school student (and State Sentor Rita Day's godson) introduced Obama.
"I'm going to stop coming down here if you keep having kids like Marcus showing me up," joked Obama.
Before the event, Obama and McCaskill sat down with myself, Jo Mannies of the Post, Ellis Conklin of the RFT and Jason Bailey of the Argus. We were able to ask a few questions of the Senators before the never-ending time crunch of the campaign squeezed us out.
More on that to come.
Gregali holds floor to thwart CRB
14th Ward alderman Stephen Gregali appears to be filibustering, reading various ordinances. One observer says that he believes Gregali intends to keep reading until there is no longer a quorum.
Young meetings next week
Young Democrats of Greater St. Louis
GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Wednesday, March 8th, 7:00 p.m.
Pat's Bar and Grill (upstairs room)
6400 Oakland Ave.
Just like our Party, all are welcome!
An official from the St. Louis Board of Elections WILL BE THERE to demonstrate the new electronic voting equipment. (Sorry about last month's cancellation.)
Young Dems vs. Young Repubs 1st Annual Softball Game is April 8th at Forest Park. Come to the meeting to sign up and gett all the details.
For more information or to place an item on the agenda, please call YD Prez Ross Macholan 314-795-9177.
The St. Louis Area Young Republicans
will meet Thursday March 9, 7:30pm in the auditorium of the St. Louis County Library Headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.
Meeting will feature a State Auditor Panel with candidates Jack Jackson, John Loudon, and Mark Wright. The meeting is open to all ages. If you have any questions, please email monicadurrwachter@yahoo.com
Civilian Review Board
According to sources, the Board of Aldermen will pass a civilian review board this morning. The plan has been modified. It would divide the city’s 28 wards into 7 districts. Each alderman within each district would nominate one candidate creating a pool of four nominees for each seat. The mayor would then choose board members, one from each district.
One sticking point had been whether family members of police officers would be allowed to serve on the board. A compromise was reached on this point also.
One person familiar with the situation said that they believe that they have 18 votes for passage, including the entire black caucus - 12 votes.
UPDATE: Just talked to two aldermen - things looking shakier now. One says that Kennedy might not bring the bill this morning. Says he still has the votes, but the Police are lobbying hard against, making folks nervous. More time could help build consensus. The other says it's still on.
We'll see...
March 02, 2006
BOA tomorrow
10am. be there early.
expect some action.
Sharon Quigley Carpenter Fundraiser
Will be a great event.
Tonight.
5:30 - 7:30, the Cedars.
Host Committee: Senator Eagleton, Mayor Slay, SOS Carnahan and CE Dooley.
Special Guests: Congressman Clay and Congressman Carnahan.
$35 Individual
$60 Couple
$150 Patron.
Inquiries - 314-353-2195
Any guesses on his platform
Chief Wana Dubie running in the 150th.
March 01, 2006
Cleaning out the InBox
Pink Toed Tarantulas and glowing Desert Hairy Scorpions are among the many eight-legged animals now on display at the Sophia M. Sachs Butterfly House's newest exhibit, the Arachnid Wall. The exhibit will be dedicated on Tuesday, Mar. 7 at 9 a.m. The Arachnid Wall exhibit is located inside the Grand Hall at the Butterfly House, 15193 Olive Blvd. at Faust Park in Chesterfield, Mo. Hours are 9a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
Town & Country Alderman Colleen Wasinger filed Tuesday to fill the seat of retiring St. Louis County Councilman Skip Mange. Mange quickly endorsed Wasinger. Wasinger, 40, is both an M.B.A. and an attorney. Her election would be a first for those qualifications on the County Council.
The St. Louis Police Leadership Organization announced their endorsement of Derio Gambaro for Missouri State Senate, 4th District. The group chose the first day of candidate filing for the August 8th primary, to make the announcement. The St. Louis Police Veteran's Association also announced their endorsement
of Gambaro.
Griffey files for LC
Ken Griffey filed today for License Collector, Democratic Primary. In 2004, he ran in the four-man primary for sheriff, coming in second with 18%, incumbent Jim Murphy winning with 60%.
With Coleman out
Wahby endorses Montee. His statement: St. Louis City Democratic Party Chair Brian Wahby enthusiastically endorsed Susan Montee for the Democratic Nominatation for State Auditor today. Following tonight's Fat Tuesday Parade in Downtown St. Louis, the Chairman said "If you had asked me 6 months ago what were the characteristics of my ideal candidate for State Auditor, I'd say - just as I am today- give me a strong person with elected experience, a candidate with the qualifications - such as a CPA, with the ability to marshal the resources to wage an energetic campaign..... We have that ideal candidate in Susan Montee!" I encourage all Democrats in the City to endorse and support Susan Montee for Auditor & she can win!
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