When one encounters a wild dog in the woods, the single animal usually barks, acts threatening, and then runs off. When one encounters a pack of wild dogs, the individual is in mortal danger because the group will attack.
A single predator poses little threat; however, a predator that runs with a group for moral support and unfair attacking advantage is quite deadly. The single predator also lacks courage and is quite cowardly. It is his nature to cut and run without group support. Most predators are opportunistic creatures that can be counted on for little more than “cutting and running” when the going gets tough or immediately after his hunger has been momentarily satisfied.
It takes real courage for individuals to not only face a pack of wild dogs, but stand firm and never retreat. The longer they stand firm and ceases to retreat, the predator must increase the size of the pack in order to have the nerve to go in for the kill.
Wild animals kill for food, to protect their young and to settle boundary disputes. Humans are different in that greed, power over others, and unfair advantage is often their primary driving forces. In many ways animals are far more humane than people because they need a reason to kill other than “because they can.”
Five years ago a new newspaper came to town to serve this city with articles that pertain to the city, its people, and its politics. The First Capitol News prints the news as it happens. Everything that happens in this city is not always pretty and sometimes it is downright disgusting. The public mind is easier to control if all the ugly is glossed over and hidden so that individuals think less therefore insuring the continued control by whoever is in charge.
The First Capitol News covers civic and sports events and has captured beautiful colored photographs of this city and its people to share with the public. For the first time the public has easy access to the government agenda and accurate reporting of what really happens at City Hall. It has made people wonder what was going on prior to The First Capitol News opening all the windows and letting the sun shine in.
All that sunshine does not set well on those hiding their activities cloaked in darkness. Not one of these individuals who have spent the past five years attempting to drive Tony Brockmeyer and Phyllis Schaltenbrand out of business has the courage to stand up and single-handily attack them one on one. A sure way to insure deeper probing and examination is to continue to attack and hope to drive out of business the people printing the truth as it happens. This type of activity makes people who have always been perceived as “smart” look real “stupid.” It also makes them appear to be hiding more than what is printed and does not instill confidence in the public to trust their judgment, much less their leadership.
People as well as animals emit an odor when paralyzed with fear. The odor is becoming overwhelming. What are these people afraid of if the First Capitol News keeps printing? Are they afraid of losing their power grip in the future or afraid of being exposed for past activities?
A handful of egos have used and misinformed all they know to increase the number of wild dogs to add to the pack for the final, ruthless, inhumane kill. Some local organizations were included a long time ago to help attack the First Capitol News for the Mayor and her minions. In order to control any organization, one only has to control the Board of Directors. The members just follow along. No upstanding organization should do the dirty work for the “leader of the pack,” whoever that is. Scaring the public with lies is the oldest gimmick in the world to secure support and votes.
After an attempted break-in at the newspaper, phone threats, unlawful background checks on citizens, harassment of advertisers, and slander, the First Capitol News is alive and well. It is widely read because it has substance and our advertisers reap the rewards of its popularity.
The newest addition to the pack is the creation of another newspaper whose goal is to attack our newspaper and tell “what is really happening in St. Charles County.” The publisher calls himself an “entrepreneur.” “I think that means a jack of all trades open to any and all opportunity to make a buck.” The money behind the operation is a wealthy individual and a few friends who have grudges and absolutely no sense of humor. I’m still attempting to determine which is larger, their pocketbooks or their egos.
I want these gentlemen to do whatever they think they are big enough to do and then witness the temper tantrums when they fall short. I wonder how long they are willing to spend what appears to be $20,000 per month to print their temper-tantrums for the sole purpose of attacking another newspaper which truly provides a public-service. How do you equate all that venom as beneficial to any community?
It seems a handful of power-mongers are exerting a tremendous effort to close a newspaper. I think it would make more sense if they apply a direct approach and form a swat-team to raze the building housing our newspaper. J.Noto would have a fit because he has a thriving business downstairs, but not to worry, that’s just a casualty of war. The winning side has the POWER, and power and who has it is all that matters.
The pack is on the attack because that is what is good for us and good for this community. Now if there is at least one person out there that believes that, then please call me. I want to sell you the Brooklyn Bridge.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
PUT ST. CHARLES FIRST
By Jerry Haferkamp
“Thanks” to all the folks who patronized the SCW Marching Warriors Band barbeque last week. It was a great success and helped finance their activities including the scheduled trip to the Gator Bowl over New Years next winter. The 9th annual Saint Charles West Warrior Band Golf Tournament will be Sunday, May 1st at Mid Rivers Golf Links. We need players, prizes and hole sponsors. Call Joan DeSplinter at 636-947-3620 for information. Time’s short. Do it now!
I hope all our readers got out to the preview of the new Convention Center. I think everyone there was “wowed” by what has to be the most beautiful building in St. Charles. The murals are fantastic. The grand ballroom can be used as one great room, or can be divided into several smaller rooms with the use of hidden room dividers.
The one disappointing exhibit was the electronic screen that told of upcoming events. While they were informative, there was cause for concern. Every event booked was of a nature that would bring local residents to the Center. These events put no one into our motels, restaurants or our businesses. Wasn’t the purpose of this spending of your taxes supposed to bring money into our city? The only revenue our city will see is if you attend these events and go out to dinner in the process. Some of these events were previously held at such prestigious locations as the Belz Outlet Mall. Others are the type that would have used the Family Arena, so we are taking events from the Arena to make the Center look good.
You would have thought that since the chosen few hundred VIP’S (Very Important Pattifriends) were served Champaign and food on their visit Thursday, the peasants (the ones underwriting these events) who attended Saturday could have at least been served an ounce or two of cola or coffee and the leftover crumbs from the food. Since the guests on Saturday weren’t considered to be Very Important People, we found our place with the Convention and Sports Authority board. We just aren’t very important.
If the center is to succeed, all of you not Very Important People need to get organizations in which you have membership interested in using our Center when they have events suited to this facility. With Mr. Powell utilizing his distinctive skills, Global Spectrum’s management will need all the help they can get. Everyone needs to pitch in. When life gives you a lemon, make lemonade. We’ve got the lemon. (A beautiful lemon, but still a lemon) Now, all of us need to get to work.
How long will it be before Joe Oertwerth gets to decide who uses the Convention Center?
Our next meeting is still on hold pending release of the Auditor’s report.
Has Steve Powell been fired yet? Why not?
“Thanks” to all the folks who patronized the SCW Marching Warriors Band barbeque last week. It was a great success and helped finance their activities including the scheduled trip to the Gator Bowl over New Years next winter. The 9th annual Saint Charles West Warrior Band Golf Tournament will be Sunday, May 1st at Mid Rivers Golf Links. We need players, prizes and hole sponsors. Call Joan DeSplinter at 636-947-3620 for information. Time’s short. Do it now!
I hope all our readers got out to the preview of the new Convention Center. I think everyone there was “wowed” by what has to be the most beautiful building in St. Charles. The murals are fantastic. The grand ballroom can be used as one great room, or can be divided into several smaller rooms with the use of hidden room dividers.
The one disappointing exhibit was the electronic screen that told of upcoming events. While they were informative, there was cause for concern. Every event booked was of a nature that would bring local residents to the Center. These events put no one into our motels, restaurants or our businesses. Wasn’t the purpose of this spending of your taxes supposed to bring money into our city? The only revenue our city will see is if you attend these events and go out to dinner in the process. Some of these events were previously held at such prestigious locations as the Belz Outlet Mall. Others are the type that would have used the Family Arena, so we are taking events from the Arena to make the Center look good.
You would have thought that since the chosen few hundred VIP’S (Very Important Pattifriends) were served Champaign and food on their visit Thursday, the peasants (the ones underwriting these events) who attended Saturday could have at least been served an ounce or two of cola or coffee and the leftover crumbs from the food. Since the guests on Saturday weren’t considered to be Very Important People, we found our place with the Convention and Sports Authority board. We just aren’t very important.
If the center is to succeed, all of you not Very Important People need to get organizations in which you have membership interested in using our Center when they have events suited to this facility. With Mr. Powell utilizing his distinctive skills, Global Spectrum’s management will need all the help they can get. Everyone needs to pitch in. When life gives you a lemon, make lemonade. We’ve got the lemon. (A beautiful lemon, but still a lemon) Now, all of us need to get to work.
How long will it be before Joe Oertwerth gets to decide who uses the Convention Center?
Our next meeting is still on hold pending release of the Auditor’s report.
Has Steve Powell been fired yet? Why not?
Straight Talk by Councilman Bob Hoepfner
Hello again out there. Yes, another week has gone by in Paradise. The economy isn’t looking that good. Taxes are rising. It is getting more and more expensive to live these days especially for us folks who are retired.
I am going to pursue an initiative to get rid of the utility tax.I am going to start an initiative drive to get the City to drop the utility tax. There are some who say they must have that money to operate the city.
Well folks let me tell you. We can operate without that utility tax.
Let me give you an example. The Fire Department is the highest paid fire department in the state. These guys work nine days a month and they make wages and benefits of $100,000 a year minimum. Now, there is a move to give them a raise. I say they ought to be treated like the police department, no raise. How do they justify a raise. Try this. They say they will get in good physical condition. Don’t you think that it should be required to have that job to be in good physical condition?
And further justification comes from the fact they know how to install child safety seats. Anyway folks we don’t need to increase their wages while everybody else in this city is not getting a raise. We do not need this extra burden put on the taxpayer. We need to find other ways to cut costs so the resident taxpayers can get a break.
Hopefully folks, we can start being concerned with the plight of the resident taxpayer. Fiscal responsibility. Yes I am calling for fiscal responsibility and compassion for our senior citizens.
Many of you have in recent days called me concerning your ability to pay for your taxes and possibly losing your home. Keep supporting my efforts and we will realize some sort of tax break together.
As usual stay in tune, stay in touch call your councilperson let them know what you are thinking. Call me anytime 949-0956,
I am going to pursue an initiative to get rid of the utility tax.I am going to start an initiative drive to get the City to drop the utility tax. There are some who say they must have that money to operate the city.
Well folks let me tell you. We can operate without that utility tax.
Let me give you an example. The Fire Department is the highest paid fire department in the state. These guys work nine days a month and they make wages and benefits of $100,000 a year minimum. Now, there is a move to give them a raise. I say they ought to be treated like the police department, no raise. How do they justify a raise. Try this. They say they will get in good physical condition. Don’t you think that it should be required to have that job to be in good physical condition?
And further justification comes from the fact they know how to install child safety seats. Anyway folks we don’t need to increase their wages while everybody else in this city is not getting a raise. We do not need this extra burden put on the taxpayer. We need to find other ways to cut costs so the resident taxpayers can get a break.
Hopefully folks, we can start being concerned with the plight of the resident taxpayer. Fiscal responsibility. Yes I am calling for fiscal responsibility and compassion for our senior citizens.
Many of you have in recent days called me concerning your ability to pay for your taxes and possibly losing your home. Keep supporting my efforts and we will realize some sort of tax break together.
As usual stay in tune, stay in touch call your councilperson let them know what you are thinking. Call me anytime 949-0956,
Kiwanis Charity Golf Tournament
Kiwanis Charity Golf Tournament
The St. Charles Kiwanis will hold their 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, May 2nd. The event will be held at the Bogey Hills Country Club in St. Charles. The proceeds from this years tournament will be benefiting: Kiwanis Camp Wyman, Cystic Fibrosis, Unlimited Play and the Child Assessment Center.
This will be a three person scramble. Registration will begin at 9:30 am with a shotgun start at 11am. The cost is $150 per golfer and includes: 18 holes of golf, 2 mulligans per golfer, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin contests. Lunch and beverages on the course, and a steak dinner and open bar following. We are also in need of hole sponsors. Prizes will be awarded for A, B and C flights, three places for each flight.
For more information contact: Bob Davis at 636-946-6552, Jim Lloyd at 636-946-3411 or John Pallardy at 636-922-9090.
The St. Charles Kiwanis will hold their 18th Annual Charity Golf Tournament on Monday, May 2nd. The event will be held at the Bogey Hills Country Club in St. Charles. The proceeds from this years tournament will be benefiting: Kiwanis Camp Wyman, Cystic Fibrosis, Unlimited Play and the Child Assessment Center.
This will be a three person scramble. Registration will begin at 9:30 am with a shotgun start at 11am. The cost is $150 per golfer and includes: 18 holes of golf, 2 mulligans per golfer, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin contests. Lunch and beverages on the course, and a steak dinner and open bar following. We are also in need of hole sponsors. Prizes will be awarded for A, B and C flights, three places for each flight.
For more information contact: Bob Davis at 636-946-6552, Jim Lloyd at 636-946-3411 or John Pallardy at 636-922-9090.
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25
By Phyllis Schaltenbrand
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 is a safety campaign targeting observance of the speed limit on residential streets. In most towns and cities across the U.S., the residential limit is 25 mph. The goal is simply to remind drivers to check their speed and slow down as needed. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 is a friendly reminder to slow down in a fast paced world!
Under the leadership of Councilman John Gieseke, Ward 8, a group is forming to promote the Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 program in St. Charles. According to Councilman Gieseke, “Most drivers speeding on your street live in your neighborhood. It is not unusual for speeders to be clocked in excess of 40 mph (and even 50 mph) in a 25 mph zone.”
Information gleaned from a Database on Police reported accidents in 1999 reveal that a pedestrian hit by a vehicle traveling 30 mph is three times more likely to die than one hit by a vehicle traveling 25 mph.
Councilman Gieseke has offered to attend any organization, school, neighborhood or group meeting to explain the Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 program and provide information on how to start in your neighborhood. You can contact him at 636-368-8362.
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 is a safety campaign targeting observance of the speed limit on residential streets. In most towns and cities across the U.S., the residential limit is 25 mph. The goal is simply to remind drivers to check their speed and slow down as needed. Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 is a friendly reminder to slow down in a fast paced world!
Under the leadership of Councilman John Gieseke, Ward 8, a group is forming to promote the Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 program in St. Charles. According to Councilman Gieseke, “Most drivers speeding on your street live in your neighborhood. It is not unusual for speeders to be clocked in excess of 40 mph (and even 50 mph) in a 25 mph zone.”
Information gleaned from a Database on Police reported accidents in 1999 reveal that a pedestrian hit by a vehicle traveling 30 mph is three times more likely to die than one hit by a vehicle traveling 25 mph.
Councilman Gieseke has offered to attend any organization, school, neighborhood or group meeting to explain the Keep Kids Alive Drive 25 program and provide information on how to start in your neighborhood. You can contact him at 636-368-8362.
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY by Clara Scott
The French home located at 920 North Third Street in City Block No. 61 is the home. No record can be found as to when the house was built, but a record was found where Baptiste Jeaneasue lost title to this house in February 1812 and was sold on the court house steps to Henry Hight for $35.00. It is recorded that Baptiste Jeaneasue made no effort to save this house and his quote was “Now I can buy on Main Street where there is life, activity and people. I can tell you it is a lonely life living way up on the hill away from everything. We long for neighbors. We are tired of living in the country. We will be happier living in the city”.
On February 7, 1815, Henry Hight sold the home to Robert Spencer for $110.00 and again it is recorded that Robert Spencer sold the home on May 26, 1816 to Samuel Dorlaque for $110.00 and his quote was “The new owner will be happy there with so many children; he won’t get so lonesome living so far out.”
It was stated that in 1960, the house was probably 148 years old and would easily bring ten thousand dollars. (Can you imagine a home for $10,000.00?)
The house is made of hand made brick. Twice additions have been added but originally it is recorded in the sale as having three rooms on the main floor and one large room on the next floor and two rooms built ? on street level and ? half in the foundation level where cooking and eating rooms was done. It is thought that many French homes were built this way. The outside walls are 18 inches thick; the inside walls are 12 inches thick made of rows of brick. The windowsills are eight inches deep and originally the home was heated with fireplaces. There was no fireplace in the upper floor, so an opening in the corner of the room allowed heat to go up from the fireplace in the room below.
There is an intriguing inside staircase that leads from the kitchen in the ? basement to the “sleeping” room on the top floor.
The Abstract of Title shows there have been many owners of this old home and how amazing the prices have varied with this home. The home sits 76 ft on Third Street, the lot being 150 ft deep.
In 1941 the home was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Leo Stinger and did extensive remodeling but fortunately they retained the lovely Old French lines and style of this home.
(This article is from Historical Series – The $35 Residence by Edna McElhiney Olson with permission from the St. Charles County Historical Society.)
On February 7, 1815, Henry Hight sold the home to Robert Spencer for $110.00 and again it is recorded that Robert Spencer sold the home on May 26, 1816 to Samuel Dorlaque for $110.00 and his quote was “The new owner will be happy there with so many children; he won’t get so lonesome living so far out.”
It was stated that in 1960, the house was probably 148 years old and would easily bring ten thousand dollars. (Can you imagine a home for $10,000.00?)
The house is made of hand made brick. Twice additions have been added but originally it is recorded in the sale as having three rooms on the main floor and one large room on the next floor and two rooms built ? on street level and ? half in the foundation level where cooking and eating rooms was done. It is thought that many French homes were built this way. The outside walls are 18 inches thick; the inside walls are 12 inches thick made of rows of brick. The windowsills are eight inches deep and originally the home was heated with fireplaces. There was no fireplace in the upper floor, so an opening in the corner of the room allowed heat to go up from the fireplace in the room below.
There is an intriguing inside staircase that leads from the kitchen in the ? basement to the “sleeping” room on the top floor.
The Abstract of Title shows there have been many owners of this old home and how amazing the prices have varied with this home. The home sits 76 ft on Third Street, the lot being 150 ft deep.
In 1941 the home was purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Leo Stinger and did extensive remodeling but fortunately they retained the lovely Old French lines and style of this home.
(This article is from Historical Series – The $35 Residence by Edna McElhiney Olson with permission from the St. Charles County Historical Society.)
Frenchtown Neighborhood Spring Clean-Up April 23rd
Frenchtown Neighborhood Spring Clean-Up April 23rd
The Historic Frenchtowne Association is sponsoring a Frenchtown neighborhood clean-up on Saturday, April 23 from 9am to 12 noon.
Residents wishing to participate should have their “junk” by the curb by 9am. Trailers will come by and pick up the items.
There will be eight dumpsters located on the gravel lot on the east end of Olive St. near the Blanchette Landing. Residents may bring their “junk”, discards, yard waste, etc. to the Olive St. location, but must have proof of residency in Frenchtown. Frenchtown boundaries are Clark St. north to the south side of Tecumseh; Missouri River west to east side of North Fifth St.
The group is in need of more volunteers to help load and unload the trailers. Anyone wishing to help should report to the Olive St. location near the Katy Trail.
Due to environmental issues, there are some items they cannot accept. If in doubt about an item or willing to help please call 946-8682.
The Historic Frenchtowne Association is sponsoring a Frenchtown neighborhood clean-up on Saturday, April 23 from 9am to 12 noon.
Residents wishing to participate should have their “junk” by the curb by 9am. Trailers will come by and pick up the items.
There will be eight dumpsters located on the gravel lot on the east end of Olive St. near the Blanchette Landing. Residents may bring their “junk”, discards, yard waste, etc. to the Olive St. location, but must have proof of residency in Frenchtown. Frenchtown boundaries are Clark St. north to the south side of Tecumseh; Missouri River west to east side of North Fifth St.
The group is in need of more volunteers to help load and unload the trailers. Anyone wishing to help should report to the Olive St. location near the Katy Trail.
Due to environmental issues, there are some items they cannot accept. If in doubt about an item or willing to help please call 946-8682.
Chorale and Children’s Chorus to perform annual Broadway
The Masterworks Chorale and Children’s Chorus will present “Give My Regards to Broadway” on Saturday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m. and again on Sunday, May 1 at 2:30 pm in the historic Lindenwood University Auditorium (formerly Belleville West High School) in Belleville. This annual pops concert has been a favorite with audiences since 1983.
Masterworks Chorale, a 45-voice adult vocal ensemble in their 31st concert season under the direction of founder Dr. A. Dennis Sparger, will open the program with a set of songs from popular musicals including Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady, Marvin Hamlisch’s They’re Playing Our Song and Frank Loesser’s Guys and Dolls. The chorale will also honor the prolific composer Harold Arlen on the centennial of his birth by performing some of his compositions including: “Stormy Weather” and “One for My Baby”.
The 80-voice Masterworks Children’s Chorus will then take the stage to perform selections from Rodger and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music. Members of Firstchoir (grades 1-3) and Upperchoir (grades 4-6), conducted by Nancy Anderson, and Concert Choir (grades 7-12), conducted by Dr. Joel D. Knapp, will be dressed as characters from this popular and moving musical and movie.
The Chorale will open the second half with selections from the new musical Wicked. This “Untold Story of the Witches of Oz”, features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, Academy Award winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt). “Long before Dorothy dropped in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One, born with emerald-green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two unlikely friends end up as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes for the most spellbinding new musical in years.”
As always, it’s wise to have a ticket in advance to avoid standing in line and to be assured of a good seat. Season members enjoy reserved seating for Masterworks concerts.
Advance tickets prices are $15.00 and may be purchased from all chorale members or by calling (618) 236-0182. In addition, tickets are available at the Lindenwood Office, 2600 West Main St, Belleville, (618) 222-1050; Broadway Center of Arts, 124 East Main, Belleville, (618) 233-0431; The Vineyard, 6500 West Main, Belleville, (618) 394-2050; or The Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Ave., (618) 233-0290. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $18.00. Student tickets are always $5.00. For more information about Masterworks Chorale, go to www.singmasterworks.org.
Masterworks Chorale, a 45-voice adult vocal ensemble in their 31st concert season under the direction of founder Dr. A. Dennis Sparger, will open the program with a set of songs from popular musicals including Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady, Marvin Hamlisch’s They’re Playing Our Song and Frank Loesser’s Guys and Dolls. The chorale will also honor the prolific composer Harold Arlen on the centennial of his birth by performing some of his compositions including: “Stormy Weather” and “One for My Baby”.
The 80-voice Masterworks Children’s Chorus will then take the stage to perform selections from Rodger and Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music. Members of Firstchoir (grades 1-3) and Upperchoir (grades 4-6), conducted by Nancy Anderson, and Concert Choir (grades 7-12), conducted by Dr. Joel D. Knapp, will be dressed as characters from this popular and moving musical and movie.
The Chorale will open the second half with selections from the new musical Wicked. This “Untold Story of the Witches of Oz”, features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Pippin, Academy Award winner for Pocahontas and The Prince of Egypt). “Long before Dorothy dropped in, two other girls meet in the Land of Oz. One, born with emerald-green skin, is smart, fiery and misunderstood. The other is beautiful, ambitious and very popular. How these two unlikely friends end up as the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch makes for the most spellbinding new musical in years.”
As always, it’s wise to have a ticket in advance to avoid standing in line and to be assured of a good seat. Season members enjoy reserved seating for Masterworks concerts.
Advance tickets prices are $15.00 and may be purchased from all chorale members or by calling (618) 236-0182. In addition, tickets are available at the Lindenwood Office, 2600 West Main St, Belleville, (618) 222-1050; Broadway Center of Arts, 124 East Main, Belleville, (618) 233-0431; The Vineyard, 6500 West Main, Belleville, (618) 394-2050; or The Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Ave., (618) 233-0290. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $18.00. Student tickets are always $5.00. For more information about Masterworks Chorale, go to www.singmasterworks.org.
MY COLUMN - Mike McMurran Sports Editor
So you say there is nothing exciting to do during the week here in beautiful Saint Charles; wrong I say. Why not check out a high school baseball or soccer game, there is one almost every weekday, some where. “But how do I know who is playing whom (not just being fancy, whom is the objective form and who is the subjective), and where are they playing?” you ask. Fair question – and I have the answer: Right here in your First Capitol News. Starting this week we will run the schedule and results from Duchesne, St. Charles and West high school’s baseball, girls’ soccer and boys’ volleyball teams. Check out a game, you’ll be hooked, I promise. More importantly bring along a youngster. You never know which activity a child might be exposed to that can change a life. Athletics certainly has been the avenue to success for many, and it all starts with youth sports.
Speaking of youth soccer, Saturday morning a group of first grade boys from Academy of the Sacred Heart will take the field at Savvis Center prior to the Steamers match with Milwaukee.
Speaking of the Savvis Center, the Missouri River Otters, who have called the Family Arena home all season, will play their United Hockey League playoff home games at Savvis Center. The 7th seeded River Otters (42-32-6) will take on the 2nd seeded Komets (51-24-5) of Fort Wayne this Friday and Sunday on the road before returning to Savvis for 7 p.m. games Tuesday (April 19) and Wednesday (April 20). Should a game 6 be needed, it will be played at Savvis on Sunday (April 24) at 5 p.m. Scheduling conflicts at Family Arena warranted the move.
Speaking of April 20th (nice transition, wouldn’t you say), I would like to wish a happy 7th birthday to my oldest son Joseph Conway McMurran. It seems like just yesterday when his birth announcement appeared in Bernie Mikilitz’s column. It really did, check the archives.
Lastly, the fifth annual Gateway Athletic Conference Baseball Classic will be played at T.R. Hughes Ballpark this Friday and Saturday. Locally, St. Charles West will take on Holt on Friday with the first pitch scheduled for 6 p.m. On Saturday Duchesne plays Timberland at 10 a.m., and the Pirates of St. Charles tangle with conference rival Warrenton at 3 p.m.
Speaking of youth soccer, Saturday morning a group of first grade boys from Academy of the Sacred Heart will take the field at Savvis Center prior to the Steamers match with Milwaukee.
Speaking of the Savvis Center, the Missouri River Otters, who have called the Family Arena home all season, will play their United Hockey League playoff home games at Savvis Center. The 7th seeded River Otters (42-32-6) will take on the 2nd seeded Komets (51-24-5) of Fort Wayne this Friday and Sunday on the road before returning to Savvis for 7 p.m. games Tuesday (April 19) and Wednesday (April 20). Should a game 6 be needed, it will be played at Savvis on Sunday (April 24) at 5 p.m. Scheduling conflicts at Family Arena warranted the move.
Speaking of April 20th (nice transition, wouldn’t you say), I would like to wish a happy 7th birthday to my oldest son Joseph Conway McMurran. It seems like just yesterday when his birth announcement appeared in Bernie Mikilitz’s column. It really did, check the archives.
Lastly, the fifth annual Gateway Athletic Conference Baseball Classic will be played at T.R. Hughes Ballpark this Friday and Saturday. Locally, St. Charles West will take on Holt on Friday with the first pitch scheduled for 6 p.m. On Saturday Duchesne plays Timberland at 10 a.m., and the Pirates of St. Charles tangle with conference rival Warrenton at 3 p.m.
Rage Coach Reaches Milestone With Career Win # 200
By: Mike Thompson
It was a long time in coming, but with the victory Saturday night against Montgomery at Family Arena, Rage Head Football Coach Mike Wyatt realized the culmination of a dream both personally and professionally. In what he called a ‘theme of love” regarding his players and the sport to which he has devoted the greater part of his working life, Coach Wyatt embraced his 200th career victory. It’s been a road that has seen him travel to and coach in Europe, win championships, work in the NFL, inspire his players in Italy to produce an undefeated Championship season, coach teams that have set amazing offensive records, and along the way, have an impact and influence on the lives of young men who even today, regardless of time or distance, still refer to him as a mentor and friend. The emotion of the 200th win on Saturday is best conveyed by the man who was there for the other one hundred and ninety-nine , Rage Head Football Coach Mike Wyatt, As humans, we all need a sort of validation for our success. We have the need to be cared about and care for otheore about a teammate than himself. I could see the emotion as I told them they could play for themselves, play on this new turf at the Family Arena, play with pride and play under the rules to show respect for their sport and the city they represent. I urged them to get victory number 3 for themselves, and when that happened, the career milestone for me would be remembered as one given by a team that never let up, never backed down , with each man on the field making a contribution to a night that I’ll forever remember.”
The Rage players, assistant coaches and owners made sure Coach Wyatt had a least one tangible reminder. After Saturday’s win, Coach Wyatt was presented with a gold colored football signed by every member of the 2005 Rage team. It rests proudly in the office of Mike Wyatt, serving now as a daily reminder of how skill and preparation and patience and yes, even love, can make success a reality.
It was a long time in coming, but with the victory Saturday night against Montgomery at Family Arena, Rage Head Football Coach Mike Wyatt realized the culmination of a dream both personally and professionally. In what he called a ‘theme of love” regarding his players and the sport to which he has devoted the greater part of his working life, Coach Wyatt embraced his 200th career victory. It’s been a road that has seen him travel to and coach in Europe, win championships, work in the NFL, inspire his players in Italy to produce an undefeated Championship season, coach teams that have set amazing offensive records, and along the way, have an impact and influence on the lives of young men who even today, regardless of time or distance, still refer to him as a mentor and friend. The emotion of the 200th win on Saturday is best conveyed by the man who was there for the other one hundred and ninety-nine , Rage Head Football Coach Mike Wyatt, As humans, we all need a sort of validation for our success. We have the need to be cared about and care for otheore about a teammate than himself. I could see the emotion as I told them they could play for themselves, play on this new turf at the Family Arena, play with pride and play under the rules to show respect for their sport and the city they represent. I urged them to get victory number 3 for themselves, and when that happened, the career milestone for me would be remembered as one given by a team that never let up, never backed down , with each man on the field making a contribution to a night that I’ll forever remember.”
The Rage players, assistant coaches and owners made sure Coach Wyatt had a least one tangible reminder. After Saturday’s win, Coach Wyatt was presented with a gold colored football signed by every member of the 2005 Rage team. It rests proudly in the office of Mike Wyatt, serving now as a daily reminder of how skill and preparation and patience and yes, even love, can make success a reality.
First Capitol News High School Athlete
“No one says life is gonna be easy, sometimes you are going to have to work through the adversity. That makes you a better person, I think.”
Rachel Lee, Senior, Duchesne
Its seems the Creator of the universe smiled broadly upon Rachel Lee, a senior from Duchesne high school, at a very young age. “I’ve been playing soccer as long as I can remember, at least since I was 4 years old,” shares the leading scorer of head coach Dave Thumer’s Lady Pioneers. “By the time I was in the 3rd grade I was playing select soccer and I have never looked back.”
“Rachel is a very special player,” suggests Thurmer, “I would go so far as to say she is probably in the top four players in the entire region. She has it all, she can defend, she dribbles very well, and of course her ability to score is, well, very impressive.” So impressive that Illinois State in Bloomington, IL has already offered Rachel a full ride to play soccer for them in the Missouri Valley Conference starting next season. “Finance, I am going to study Finance,” says Lee.
Rachel will be the third of John and Laura Lee’s three children to have soccer pay for their college education. “My sister Michelle played at SIUE and my brother John played at McKendree College,” proudly tells Lee, “we get it from our dad, who played at Rosary and Riverview Gardens; my mom, well, she’s not too athletic,” she explained.
Maybe not athletic, but certainly a worthy role model. “My parents have prepared me for life, it just so happens I play soccer,” Rachel testifies, “my parents have taught me values, values to live my life by, and most importantly they have taught me a work ethic – if you’re going to do it, do it right,” she says. Thumer concurs, “She is a very talented player, no doubt about it, but she takes nothing for granted and will not be outworked, period,” he shares, “and she is a natural leader. I’m not gonna say she is one of those who leads by example, if one of her teammates needs a verbal boost Rachel is not afraid to tell them. No doubt about it, the younger girls look up to her.”
Rachel likes to eat, and giving her a credit card with unlimited credit at a restaurant could be a dangerous thing. “Unlimited, huh,” she first says. ‘Well, no doubt I would head to Outback. And no doubt I would start with a blooming onion. After that we would have to see. I do like to eat. I think I would order a steak dinner and their chicken breast dinner. If you’re paying for it I will eat it,” she shares.
To nominate an athlete contact Mike McMurran at mcmurran@charter.net or 314.280.9189
Rachel Lee, Senior, Duchesne
Its seems the Creator of the universe smiled broadly upon Rachel Lee, a senior from Duchesne high school, at a very young age. “I’ve been playing soccer as long as I can remember, at least since I was 4 years old,” shares the leading scorer of head coach Dave Thumer’s Lady Pioneers. “By the time I was in the 3rd grade I was playing select soccer and I have never looked back.”
“Rachel is a very special player,” suggests Thurmer, “I would go so far as to say she is probably in the top four players in the entire region. She has it all, she can defend, she dribbles very well, and of course her ability to score is, well, very impressive.” So impressive that Illinois State in Bloomington, IL has already offered Rachel a full ride to play soccer for them in the Missouri Valley Conference starting next season. “Finance, I am going to study Finance,” says Lee.
Rachel will be the third of John and Laura Lee’s three children to have soccer pay for their college education. “My sister Michelle played at SIUE and my brother John played at McKendree College,” proudly tells Lee, “we get it from our dad, who played at Rosary and Riverview Gardens; my mom, well, she’s not too athletic,” she explained.
Maybe not athletic, but certainly a worthy role model. “My parents have prepared me for life, it just so happens I play soccer,” Rachel testifies, “my parents have taught me values, values to live my life by, and most importantly they have taught me a work ethic – if you’re going to do it, do it right,” she says. Thumer concurs, “She is a very talented player, no doubt about it, but she takes nothing for granted and will not be outworked, period,” he shares, “and she is a natural leader. I’m not gonna say she is one of those who leads by example, if one of her teammates needs a verbal boost Rachel is not afraid to tell them. No doubt about it, the younger girls look up to her.”
Rachel likes to eat, and giving her a credit card with unlimited credit at a restaurant could be a dangerous thing. “Unlimited, huh,” she first says. ‘Well, no doubt I would head to Outback. And no doubt I would start with a blooming onion. After that we would have to see. I do like to eat. I think I would order a steak dinner and their chicken breast dinner. If you’re paying for it I will eat it,” she shares.
To nominate an athlete contact Mike McMurran at mcmurran@charter.net or 314.280.9189
Saturday, April 09, 2005
Mayor Attempts To Mislead Residents
By Tony Brockmeyer
In an apparent attempt to mislead the residents of St. Charles and to deflect criticism directed towards her, Mayor York, at the City Council meeting on March 22nd, announced, “I just got a little thing that I wanted to say here and I really wanted to do this for the public. I really haven’t been reading some of the articles in one of the local tabloids. I want to take this opportunity to clarify an issue that seems to be reoccurring in it. Interestingly most of the public isn’t concerned. Every place I go nobody is talking about it. Many understand the job of Mayor. I just wanted to take a moment and clarify contracts and the issue of contracts.
Council passes an ordinance and when that happens that tells myself as Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer of the City and our staff to go forward and make that happen. By charter I have to sign all contracts, documents, easements anything to do with that ordinance.
Even if I veto an ordinance and I want the public to know this, and if it is overridden, I have to by ordinance sign all the contracts, easements, everything. Like it or not. Once it is passed by the Council my job, as Mayor is to go ahead and sign that.” (Editors note; The contract with Express Scripts was not ready for renewal, the legal department had not reviewed it and it had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance. It was apparently signed illegally by the Mayor and could indebt the city $200,000)
The Mayor went on to say, “In this particular issue Express Scripts was one of the contracts layered onto Marsh Advantage. There are no secret documents or anything else. They are on file in our city and we have that. One of the things that has not come out is that this gave the city the ability to save taxpayers $40,000 a year. Unfortunately that’s not been told.” (Editor’s note; There has been no evidence of any savings. It has been estimated the apparent illegal signing of the contract by the Mayor may cost the taxpayers in the neighborhood of $200,000. There were no documents in City Hall. The legal department had never seen the contract. The City Clerk who is in charge of all documents and records had never seen the contract. Express Scripts did send a copy of the contract the Mayor illegally signed to City Hall after the Council requested it. As the Broker of Record Marsh Advantage brings all contracts to the Council for approval before the City enters into them. This did not happed with the Express Scripts Contract.)
Further, the Mayor said, “I know there has been a reoccurring issue of impeachment. The ability to impeach the Mayor and its been written about this. And I just want to assure the public that this is patently wrong. Our Charter does not allow for impeachment. Fourth Class cities allow for impeachment but our charter only allows for recall.” (Editor’s note; Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines IMPEACHMENT – TO BRING A PUBLIC OFFICIAL BEFORE THE PROPER TRIBUNAL ON CHARGES OF WRONGDOING. Section 3.13 along with 31.23 to 31.26 provides for bringing charges against an elected official of St. Charles, including the Mayor, along with the procedures for a trial and the suspension or removal from office or from performing official duties. The Mayor can be impeached.)
The Mayor continued, “I am here to tell the public that I fulfilled my duty as Mayor to sign the documents that the council approved. I am bringing this up because I am just a little tired of the innuendos. They really don’t bother me because I do my job the best that I can day by day every single day and I come in here and do the best I can. But my family, especially my kids have asked me to explain to you to the public the process of contract signing so they don’t have to keep taking the kidding they are getting from all their friends.” (Editor’s note; The contract signed by the Mayor had not been reviewed by the legal department, had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance, and there was no copy or any evidence of the contract in City Hall until a copy was requested from Express Scripts after this matter was brought to light. The Mayor’s children range in age from 19 to approximately 27 and one is a St. Louis City Police Officer who lives in St. Louis.)
In her comments the Mayor was referring to a story in the February 5th edition of the First Capitol News where we reported; ‘ILLEGAL CONTRACT DRAWS FIRE Mayor signs secret document without record being kept in City Hall, and a story in the March 19th edition of the First Capitol News headlined, ‘Unauthorized Signing of Contract By Mayor Could Result In Her Impeachment – Council To Hold Hearings Subpoena Witnesses”.
In June of 2004 Carrie Caskey, who was then the Human Resources Director for the City, brought a contract to the Mayor renewing an agreement with Express Scripts who provided prescription drugs to City employees. The contract was not due to be renewed and the legal department had not reviewed it nor had it been approved by the City Council as required by City ordinance. The Mayor went ahead and signed the contract. At the time of the signing the Council was working on a new insurance plan that would not have included Express Scripts. After the Council approved the new insurance plan Express Scripts informed the City they were going to hold the city to the terms of the Express Scripts contract signed by the Mayor (illegally).
When an attempt was made to cancel the contract illegally signed by the Mayor, Express Scripts advised the City Administration it would take approximately $200,000 to buy out of the contract. A search of City Hall failed to locate any such contract. The City Clerk, who is the keeper of records for the City never received a copy of any such contract. No such contract had been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance.
By a vote of 10 to 0 during an Executive session of the City Council, the members agreed to start an investigation into the activities of the Mayor. The City Charter gives the City Council authority to conduct investigations and to subpoena witnesses and to bring action against elected officials or remove them from office.
City Council President Rory Riddler told the First Capitol News, “The City Clerk has been instructed to query the Council members as to available dates. We have developed a list of witnesses to be called.
The hearings should begin shortly.”
In an apparent attempt to mislead the residents of St. Charles and to deflect criticism directed towards her, Mayor York, at the City Council meeting on March 22nd, announced, “I just got a little thing that I wanted to say here and I really wanted to do this for the public. I really haven’t been reading some of the articles in one of the local tabloids. I want to take this opportunity to clarify an issue that seems to be reoccurring in it. Interestingly most of the public isn’t concerned. Every place I go nobody is talking about it. Many understand the job of Mayor. I just wanted to take a moment and clarify contracts and the issue of contracts.
Council passes an ordinance and when that happens that tells myself as Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer of the City and our staff to go forward and make that happen. By charter I have to sign all contracts, documents, easements anything to do with that ordinance.
Even if I veto an ordinance and I want the public to know this, and if it is overridden, I have to by ordinance sign all the contracts, easements, everything. Like it or not. Once it is passed by the Council my job, as Mayor is to go ahead and sign that.” (Editors note; The contract with Express Scripts was not ready for renewal, the legal department had not reviewed it and it had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance. It was apparently signed illegally by the Mayor and could indebt the city $200,000)
The Mayor went on to say, “In this particular issue Express Scripts was one of the contracts layered onto Marsh Advantage. There are no secret documents or anything else. They are on file in our city and we have that. One of the things that has not come out is that this gave the city the ability to save taxpayers $40,000 a year. Unfortunately that’s not been told.” (Editor’s note; There has been no evidence of any savings. It has been estimated the apparent illegal signing of the contract by the Mayor may cost the taxpayers in the neighborhood of $200,000. There were no documents in City Hall. The legal department had never seen the contract. The City Clerk who is in charge of all documents and records had never seen the contract. Express Scripts did send a copy of the contract the Mayor illegally signed to City Hall after the Council requested it. As the Broker of Record Marsh Advantage brings all contracts to the Council for approval before the City enters into them. This did not happed with the Express Scripts Contract.)
Further, the Mayor said, “I know there has been a reoccurring issue of impeachment. The ability to impeach the Mayor and its been written about this. And I just want to assure the public that this is patently wrong. Our Charter does not allow for impeachment. Fourth Class cities allow for impeachment but our charter only allows for recall.” (Editor’s note; Webster’s New World College Dictionary defines IMPEACHMENT – TO BRING A PUBLIC OFFICIAL BEFORE THE PROPER TRIBUNAL ON CHARGES OF WRONGDOING. Section 3.13 along with 31.23 to 31.26 provides for bringing charges against an elected official of St. Charles, including the Mayor, along with the procedures for a trial and the suspension or removal from office or from performing official duties. The Mayor can be impeached.)
The Mayor continued, “I am here to tell the public that I fulfilled my duty as Mayor to sign the documents that the council approved. I am bringing this up because I am just a little tired of the innuendos. They really don’t bother me because I do my job the best that I can day by day every single day and I come in here and do the best I can. But my family, especially my kids have asked me to explain to you to the public the process of contract signing so they don’t have to keep taking the kidding they are getting from all their friends.” (Editor’s note; The contract signed by the Mayor had not been reviewed by the legal department, had not been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance, and there was no copy or any evidence of the contract in City Hall until a copy was requested from Express Scripts after this matter was brought to light. The Mayor’s children range in age from 19 to approximately 27 and one is a St. Louis City Police Officer who lives in St. Louis.)
In her comments the Mayor was referring to a story in the February 5th edition of the First Capitol News where we reported; ‘ILLEGAL CONTRACT DRAWS FIRE Mayor signs secret document without record being kept in City Hall, and a story in the March 19th edition of the First Capitol News headlined, ‘Unauthorized Signing of Contract By Mayor Could Result In Her Impeachment – Council To Hold Hearings Subpoena Witnesses”.
In June of 2004 Carrie Caskey, who was then the Human Resources Director for the City, brought a contract to the Mayor renewing an agreement with Express Scripts who provided prescription drugs to City employees. The contract was not due to be renewed and the legal department had not reviewed it nor had it been approved by the City Council as required by City ordinance. The Mayor went ahead and signed the contract. At the time of the signing the Council was working on a new insurance plan that would not have included Express Scripts. After the Council approved the new insurance plan Express Scripts informed the City they were going to hold the city to the terms of the Express Scripts contract signed by the Mayor (illegally).
When an attempt was made to cancel the contract illegally signed by the Mayor, Express Scripts advised the City Administration it would take approximately $200,000 to buy out of the contract. A search of City Hall failed to locate any such contract. The City Clerk, who is the keeper of records for the City never received a copy of any such contract. No such contract had been approved by the City Council as required by ordinance.
By a vote of 10 to 0 during an Executive session of the City Council, the members agreed to start an investigation into the activities of the Mayor. The City Charter gives the City Council authority to conduct investigations and to subpoena witnesses and to bring action against elected officials or remove them from office.
City Council President Rory Riddler told the First Capitol News, “The City Clerk has been instructed to query the Council members as to available dates. We have developed a list of witnesses to be called.
The hearings should begin shortly.”
COMMENTS & COMMENTARY by Charles Hill
Let the party begin, the long awaited convention center is opening this week. I would encourage each and every resident who voted to build it to go visit this weekend. This might be the only weekend we ever see it this full. I know you are saying now Charlie let’s be positive. I am positive. This will be a huge drain on our tax dollars. The real story is of course the Mayor’s and Ken Keilty’s reaction to the Unions wanting to work the conventions. Both sat with their hands out taking in campaign contributions from the Unions, yet now that it is built they have turned their backs. It really started during construction. The bricklayers had a fundraiser for the Mayor, the second she could, the all brick building changed. The hotel is less than 5% brick.
Now the teamsters, decorators and hotel service unions are asking for the jobs they are entitled to. Remember all the literature telling the story of the number of jobs this would create? Their literature did not indicate slave wage jobs, but higher paying, good middle class jobs. The Mayor and Ken have different ideas, they want to lock the unions out. Note to York and Keilty; Unions built this town, they created the middle class, not the classless like you two. Both these politicians are now trying to back off their statements, knowing the power of the Unions and what it can do to York’s political future. Mayor York believe me when you read this, the comments you made will never be forgotten and even you can’t lie your way out of this. As for Kielty, you are the reason you no longer occupy the license office. Your ease at switching sides is all too evident and everyone is beginning to understand what you truly are. Do either of you think the people of this city are stupid and will keep believing your stories? I know the real Union bosses don’t. The pretend ones, who can’t pick a winner in this county, will soon find out they have made deals with less than honorable people. Yet again, you have to question their honor to actually sit at the same table with the likes of York and Keilty.
Those who are running this center had better learn fast who put the center over the top. The chamber members didn’t go and walk or work the polls. The Unions got the convention center passed with hard work and money. The fact is those in charge knew all along they were only using the unions. The only people who didn’t know were the Unions themselves.
Now that I have ranted on the jobs and who should fill them, we have one other problem to solve. Where are all the conventions? Nationally conventions are down. The first couple shows are not real conventions, unless you consider baseball card signing a convention. I would suggest the City hire someone other than the King to market this center. The marks he has already made might be permanent and this could be the one that hurts the most.
Now the teamsters, decorators and hotel service unions are asking for the jobs they are entitled to. Remember all the literature telling the story of the number of jobs this would create? Their literature did not indicate slave wage jobs, but higher paying, good middle class jobs. The Mayor and Ken have different ideas, they want to lock the unions out. Note to York and Keilty; Unions built this town, they created the middle class, not the classless like you two. Both these politicians are now trying to back off their statements, knowing the power of the Unions and what it can do to York’s political future. Mayor York believe me when you read this, the comments you made will never be forgotten and even you can’t lie your way out of this. As for Kielty, you are the reason you no longer occupy the license office. Your ease at switching sides is all too evident and everyone is beginning to understand what you truly are. Do either of you think the people of this city are stupid and will keep believing your stories? I know the real Union bosses don’t. The pretend ones, who can’t pick a winner in this county, will soon find out they have made deals with less than honorable people. Yet again, you have to question their honor to actually sit at the same table with the likes of York and Keilty.
Those who are running this center had better learn fast who put the center over the top. The chamber members didn’t go and walk or work the polls. The Unions got the convention center passed with hard work and money. The fact is those in charge knew all along they were only using the unions. The only people who didn’t know were the Unions themselves.
Now that I have ranted on the jobs and who should fill them, we have one other problem to solve. Where are all the conventions? Nationally conventions are down. The first couple shows are not real conventions, unless you consider baseball card signing a convention. I would suggest the City hire someone other than the King to market this center. The marks he has already made might be permanent and this could be the one that hurts the most.
Council Retains President & Vice President
By Phyllis Schaltenbrand
The team of Rory Riddler, and Bob Hoepfner were re-elected as Council President and Vice President at Tuesday’s Council Meeting.
The leadership of Riddler and Hoepfner was successful in achieving a record amount of legislation and accomplishments for the City of St. Charles. Several Council members expressed they were proud of Council’s ability to take away the control special interests had over the City and return it back to the hands of the people.
Council members said they voted to keep the two leaders because for the first time the Council moved to restore financial accountability to the peopl,e and to prevent the Mayor from violating the charter by interfering with the day to day operation of the City.
They also expressed this year the Council wants to hold City Administrator Alan Williams feet to the fire and get him to clean house and create a City Hall that is responsive and understands residents should come first. The City Administrator is up for his first review in less than two months.
Voting for Riddler were John Gieseke, Bob Hoepfner, Mark Brown, Dottie Greer, and Joe Koester. Bob Kneemiller, Michael Weller and Jerry Reese voted for Bob Hoepfner for president.
Hoepfner was re-elected Vice President of the Council with nine votes. Larry Muench voted for Bob Kneemiller for Vice President.
The team of Rory Riddler, and Bob Hoepfner were re-elected as Council President and Vice President at Tuesday’s Council Meeting.
The leadership of Riddler and Hoepfner was successful in achieving a record amount of legislation and accomplishments for the City of St. Charles. Several Council members expressed they were proud of Council’s ability to take away the control special interests had over the City and return it back to the hands of the people.
Council members said they voted to keep the two leaders because for the first time the Council moved to restore financial accountability to the peopl,e and to prevent the Mayor from violating the charter by interfering with the day to day operation of the City.
They also expressed this year the Council wants to hold City Administrator Alan Williams feet to the fire and get him to clean house and create a City Hall that is responsive and understands residents should come first. The City Administrator is up for his first review in less than two months.
Voting for Riddler were John Gieseke, Bob Hoepfner, Mark Brown, Dottie Greer, and Joe Koester. Bob Kneemiller, Michael Weller and Jerry Reese voted for Bob Hoepfner for president.
Hoepfner was re-elected Vice President of the Council with nine votes. Larry Muench voted for Bob Kneemiller for Vice President.
Man Falls To Death Fleeing Police
Gregory Heffner, 43, of St. Charles fell to his death Tuesday evening from the Highway 370 Discovery Bridge.
Heffner had been traveling west bound on Highway 370 just west of St. Louis Mills Shopping Center when a Missouri State Trooper attempted to stop him for violating the speed limit.
According to the patrol, Heffner drove his vehicle off of the Highway and into a field. He abandoned his vehicle in the field and fled on foot.
While searching the area his body was discovered an hour and a half later beneath the bridge in St. Charles.
The patrol believes Heffner had attempted to jump from the west bound lanes into the east bound lanes, did not realize there was a gap between the two spans, and fell to his death.
According to police Heffner had convictions for stealing, burglary and traffic offenses. He was also wanted for failing to appear in Court on a traffic charge.
From the bridge to the ground, where Heffner’s body was discovered, is approximately 50 feet.
Another man fell from the span in 2003 when he was walking back to his disabled vehicle.
Heffner had been traveling west bound on Highway 370 just west of St. Louis Mills Shopping Center when a Missouri State Trooper attempted to stop him for violating the speed limit.
According to the patrol, Heffner drove his vehicle off of the Highway and into a field. He abandoned his vehicle in the field and fled on foot.
While searching the area his body was discovered an hour and a half later beneath the bridge in St. Charles.
The patrol believes Heffner had attempted to jump from the west bound lanes into the east bound lanes, did not realize there was a gap between the two spans, and fell to his death.
According to police Heffner had convictions for stealing, burglary and traffic offenses. He was also wanted for failing to appear in Court on a traffic charge.
From the bridge to the ground, where Heffner’s body was discovered, is approximately 50 feet.
Another man fell from the span in 2003 when he was walking back to his disabled vehicle.
Local KFC Restaurant Named “Best of the Best”
The KFC restaurant at 4118 Mexico Road in St. Peters has been named “Best of the Best” in KFC operations and customer service. The restaurant is owned and operated by Hecht’s Mgmt. Co., Inc. of St. Charles and managed by General Manager, Barb Wenzara and Manager, Jeff Beaver.
In order to earn the “Best of the Best” designation, a restaurant must have overall operational excellence and the highest scores on a standard set of measurements called C.H.A.M.P.S. These measurements evaluate each restaurant in six key areas of operation - Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, Maintenance, Product Quality and Speed of Service. Approximately 60 restaurants nationwide are awarded this status.
“Being named ‘Best of the Best’ is an accomplishment that marks the highest honors a KFC team can achieve,” said Harvey Brownlee, Chief Operating Officer, KFC Corporation. “Ms Wenzara and her employees can take great pride in this achievement because it means they are doing things ‘The Colonel’s Way’ by having the highest standards for restaurant operations and preparing delicious, high-quality meals for each customer, every day.”
KFC Corporation hosted a four-day celebration at the Adventura Spa Palace in Cancun, Mexico honoring Wenzara and other KFC managers who received the distinguished “Best of the Best” recognition for restaurant excellence. KFC President and Chief Concept Officer, Gregg Dedrick, hosted the event.
KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., is the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain specializing in Original Recipe, Extra crispy and Colonel’s Crispy Strips with home-style sides and freshly made chicken sandwiches. Since its founding by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952, KFC has been serving customers delicious, already-prepared, complete family meals at affordable prices. There are more than 12,000 KFC outlets in 88 countries and territories around the world serving some 8 million customers each day. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, KY. (NYSE: YUM)
In order to earn the “Best of the Best” designation, a restaurant must have overall operational excellence and the highest scores on a standard set of measurements called C.H.A.M.P.S. These measurements evaluate each restaurant in six key areas of operation - Cleanliness, Hospitality, Accuracy, Maintenance, Product Quality and Speed of Service. Approximately 60 restaurants nationwide are awarded this status.
“Being named ‘Best of the Best’ is an accomplishment that marks the highest honors a KFC team can achieve,” said Harvey Brownlee, Chief Operating Officer, KFC Corporation. “Ms Wenzara and her employees can take great pride in this achievement because it means they are doing things ‘The Colonel’s Way’ by having the highest standards for restaurant operations and preparing delicious, high-quality meals for each customer, every day.”
KFC Corporation hosted a four-day celebration at the Adventura Spa Palace in Cancun, Mexico honoring Wenzara and other KFC managers who received the distinguished “Best of the Best” recognition for restaurant excellence. KFC President and Chief Concept Officer, Gregg Dedrick, hosted the event.
KFC Corporation, based in Louisville, Ky., is the world’s most popular chicken restaurant chain specializing in Original Recipe, Extra crispy and Colonel’s Crispy Strips with home-style sides and freshly made chicken sandwiches. Since its founding by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952, KFC has been serving customers delicious, already-prepared, complete family meals at affordable prices. There are more than 12,000 KFC outlets in 88 countries and territories around the world serving some 8 million customers each day. KFC Corporation is a subsidiary of Yum! Brands, Inc., Louisville, KY. (NYSE: YUM)
THE CITY DESK - Rory Riddler City Council President
Voters Deserve Applause
For Navigating April Ballot
You know any election is a good one that makes John Sonderegger turn red and stomp himself into the ground like Rumplestilskin. We hear John was all ready for a big night of celebrating and throwing back some brewskies at Richard Baum’s sure bet victory party when Joe McCulloch’s upset win put a damper on the evening’s festivities. The story of John Sonderegger stomping himself into the ground may or may not be true. You see, by the standards of the Post-Dispatch, their columnists can make up news events to be funny. That’s what Sonderegger did on Wednesday of this week. It must make writing his column a lot easier when he doesn’t have to worry about pesky details like say…facts.
Unlike Rumplestilskin, Sonderegger didn’t stomp himself into the ground because some princess figured out his last name, or because he wouldn’t get to keep her first born. No, John seems to be upset that recent events, as reported in his own newspaper and on Channel 5 News, seem to collaborate what the First Capitol News has been reporting all along. Sonderegger has gone to great lengths to try to demean the First Capitol News and belittle its efforts to report local news. Now his own newspaper and television news reporters were, from John’s unique perspective, giving aide and comfort to the “enemy”. What was the world coming to?
That’s probably why John decided to make up a fictional story last Wednesday based “loosely” on real events, but exaggerating the facts and substituting names of other people who weren’t involved in any way. He could get by telling his editors it was all just tongue-in-cheek, while trying to confuse readers into thinking a very real and serious incident must somehow be just as “made up” or exaggerated as well. Never mind how insulting it was to City Administrator Allan Williams. It seems a poor way to raise the level of public discourse, by deliberately trying to confuse the public. But who am I to argue with a St. Louis newspaper owned by people in Iowa?
My hats off to the voters in the City of St. Charles who weren’t confused by the recent April ballot. City voters said yes to all nine involuntary annexations and overwhelmingly voted no on the repeal of the golf course annexation. In doing so, local voters showed they are a savvy electorate who read and understand complex ballot issues. In my column last week, I tried to help voters understand the annexation issues better and I couldn’t be more pleased that people recognized these issues are in their own best interest.
Voters responded positively, despite last minute efforts by opponents who seem to have underwritten a newspaper insert in the Journal and had people working the polls against the annexation on Election Day. The flyers being passed out at the polls, like the advertising supplement in the Journal, failed to identify who paid for the campaign material as required by State Law.
Four of the involuntary annexations garnered no negative votes in the unincorporated area being annexed and will become part of our community. These include St. Andrews Plaza on Interstate 70 and some existing industrial areas South of 70. Two of the remaining five probably lost outside the City limits to legitimate registered voters who have been living there for some time. But three other areas will be looked at closely to see if there is any cause to believe fraud may have been committed by anyone not registering at their true residence.
I also followed the local St. Charles City School Board races with some interest. Long time incumbent Wayne Oetting came in fourth in a six-person race where only the top three candidates win. I’m sure Mr. Oetting is a sincere individual but he lost my vote, and those of a great many of my neighbors and friends, with his repeated efforts to close Benton and Lincoln Elementary Schools.
Dennis Hahn, another incumbent, edged out Oetting in a close race for the third seat to be awarded this election. Hahn had been an outspoken advocate for keeping these local schools open and received a great many votes from people who appreciate his efforts.
Benton and Lincoln are well-maintained schools with great teachers, staff, students and parents. They are real anchors and centerpieces for our older neighborhoods in the First and Second Wards. They provide stability and enhance property values.
While small by today’s standards, their class sizes have meant a superior education for the children fortunate enough to have attended these institutions. I know this from the personal experience of my own children who went there and from their many friends. To abandon these schools, just to transport students to a new building that would have to be built to house both student populations, made no real sense to me. Unlike many institutional buildings today that are throw away, Benton and Lincoln Elementary, were built to last and serve the community for many generations.
I believe the fate of these neighborhood schools made a difference in the outcome of the School Board election. I hope the other Board members will take note and commit themselves to preserving the great educational environment of our existing local schools.
Again, my hat is off to the voters of St. Charles. Go to the head of the class.
For Navigating April Ballot
You know any election is a good one that makes John Sonderegger turn red and stomp himself into the ground like Rumplestilskin. We hear John was all ready for a big night of celebrating and throwing back some brewskies at Richard Baum’s sure bet victory party when Joe McCulloch’s upset win put a damper on the evening’s festivities. The story of John Sonderegger stomping himself into the ground may or may not be true. You see, by the standards of the Post-Dispatch, their columnists can make up news events to be funny. That’s what Sonderegger did on Wednesday of this week. It must make writing his column a lot easier when he doesn’t have to worry about pesky details like say…facts.
Unlike Rumplestilskin, Sonderegger didn’t stomp himself into the ground because some princess figured out his last name, or because he wouldn’t get to keep her first born. No, John seems to be upset that recent events, as reported in his own newspaper and on Channel 5 News, seem to collaborate what the First Capitol News has been reporting all along. Sonderegger has gone to great lengths to try to demean the First Capitol News and belittle its efforts to report local news. Now his own newspaper and television news reporters were, from John’s unique perspective, giving aide and comfort to the “enemy”. What was the world coming to?
That’s probably why John decided to make up a fictional story last Wednesday based “loosely” on real events, but exaggerating the facts and substituting names of other people who weren’t involved in any way. He could get by telling his editors it was all just tongue-in-cheek, while trying to confuse readers into thinking a very real and serious incident must somehow be just as “made up” or exaggerated as well. Never mind how insulting it was to City Administrator Allan Williams. It seems a poor way to raise the level of public discourse, by deliberately trying to confuse the public. But who am I to argue with a St. Louis newspaper owned by people in Iowa?
My hats off to the voters in the City of St. Charles who weren’t confused by the recent April ballot. City voters said yes to all nine involuntary annexations and overwhelmingly voted no on the repeal of the golf course annexation. In doing so, local voters showed they are a savvy electorate who read and understand complex ballot issues. In my column last week, I tried to help voters understand the annexation issues better and I couldn’t be more pleased that people recognized these issues are in their own best interest.
Voters responded positively, despite last minute efforts by opponents who seem to have underwritten a newspaper insert in the Journal and had people working the polls against the annexation on Election Day. The flyers being passed out at the polls, like the advertising supplement in the Journal, failed to identify who paid for the campaign material as required by State Law.
Four of the involuntary annexations garnered no negative votes in the unincorporated area being annexed and will become part of our community. These include St. Andrews Plaza on Interstate 70 and some existing industrial areas South of 70. Two of the remaining five probably lost outside the City limits to legitimate registered voters who have been living there for some time. But three other areas will be looked at closely to see if there is any cause to believe fraud may have been committed by anyone not registering at their true residence.
I also followed the local St. Charles City School Board races with some interest. Long time incumbent Wayne Oetting came in fourth in a six-person race where only the top three candidates win. I’m sure Mr. Oetting is a sincere individual but he lost my vote, and those of a great many of my neighbors and friends, with his repeated efforts to close Benton and Lincoln Elementary Schools.
Dennis Hahn, another incumbent, edged out Oetting in a close race for the third seat to be awarded this election. Hahn had been an outspoken advocate for keeping these local schools open and received a great many votes from people who appreciate his efforts.
Benton and Lincoln are well-maintained schools with great teachers, staff, students and parents. They are real anchors and centerpieces for our older neighborhoods in the First and Second Wards. They provide stability and enhance property values.
While small by today’s standards, their class sizes have meant a superior education for the children fortunate enough to have attended these institutions. I know this from the personal experience of my own children who went there and from their many friends. To abandon these schools, just to transport students to a new building that would have to be built to house both student populations, made no real sense to me. Unlike many institutional buildings today that are throw away, Benton and Lincoln Elementary, were built to last and serve the community for many generations.
I believe the fate of these neighborhood schools made a difference in the outcome of the School Board election. I hope the other Board members will take note and commit themselves to preserving the great educational environment of our existing local schools.
Again, my hat is off to the voters of St. Charles. Go to the head of the class.
Keep Kids Alive Drive 25
On Monday, April 11, there will be a presentation of the KEEP KIDS ALIVE DRIVE 25 program at 7pm. The public is invited to attend this presentation which will be held in the meeting room at the St. Charles Police Headquarters on Zumbehl at Greystone. The presentation is being given by the president of the group.
RAMBLING WITH THE EDITOR - Tony Brockmeyer
Rambling will be brief this week because we needed to make room for the Heritage Residents Association Story which we received at press time.
The unions have decided not to picket the opening of the Convention Center this weekend because talks have begun. However there has been no resolution to this problem that we reported on in our last Edition.
The State Audit of St. Charles has been completed and results are expected within two weeks.
The unions have decided not to picket the opening of the Convention Center this weekend because talks have begun. However there has been no resolution to this problem that we reported on in our last Edition.
The State Audit of St. Charles has been completed and results are expected within two weeks.
Attempt To Takeover Heritage Residents Association Alarms Residents
By Tony Brockmeyer
The Heritage Residents Association will hold their annual meeting on Monday, April 18th. A number of residents have contacted the First Capitol News regarding what they see as an attempt, by former president Cark Maus and the Citizens for Responsible Community, to takeover the HRA. Maus, who is the president of CFRC, also served at one time as the president of HRA.
A letter has been distributed to Heritage residents by Frank Rosner, current president of the HRA who is also running for reelection. “This is an attempt by Maus and the CFRC, a Political Action Committee to takeover our Association and we will fight it,” Rosner told the First Capitol News. “In addition to Maus, Rick Blalock the treasurer of CFRC, is also running. Blalock was defeated for the board in the 2004 elections.
In the letter Rosner points out: Beginning in May, 2004 the association began an in-depth study of the financial activities taken by previous boards. Finding evidence that disturbed the majority of the current board, we asked the HRA lawyer, Joel Brett, for advice. Mr. Brett’s letter states his view of the financial dealings of the previous HRA president. There are two points of concern.
On March 22, 2000 the HRA Board, comprised of Maus, Blalock, Ferguson and former board members Gallie, Funderburk and Shortal arranged to sell to Pat Gallie the HRA-owned A-FRAME BUILDING, including the 2700 square foot underground garage, offices, and storage room. The property, sitting on 1.49 acres of ground with utilities already setup, was sold for a sum of $59,000. Purchased in 1990 by HRA, the A Frame was appraised in 1985 by the County Assessor at a valuation of $219,000. In my opinion the A Frame property was worth $250,000 at the time we sold it to Pat Gallie for $59,000. The HRA residents did vote to sell the property, but it was never listed on the open realty market, and the residents were never informed of the assessor’s valuation.
At the January 27, 2004 board meeting Maus announced he had received a $10,000 check from the developer of the Heritage Trails subdivision, which we wanted to use for installing a new sprinkler system in the medians on Heritage landing at the Heritage station entrance. Maus then told us the developer had changed his mind and that HRA was to write a check for $5000 to his other organization, Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC). The majority of board members present refused to agree with this request and I later discovered Maus had already written the $5,000 check to the CFRC organization. We asked that he return the money to HRA.
THAT MONEY HAS NEVER BEEN RETURNED TO HRA.
The First Capitol News reported on November 6, 2004 that the HRA board, at the suggestion of their attorney, send his letter to the Missouri Ethics Commission as he felt the money transfer could be considered as money laundering. Rosner said that the board has received a complaint form from the Missouri Ethics Commission with a request it be signed and notarizeD so they can investigate the allegations of “laundering contributions”.
Rosner is running for election along with board member Carl Phillips. Rosner said the accomplishments for his term as president include: The first year in five years with positive cash flow. Bank reserve is up $8429. A $4000 net savings for Admin fees for new Management Company, local with St. Charles office. Additional $3500 savings for office expenses. No raise in 2005 assessments.Changed reserve account to Pulaski Bank ($3300 extra interest). Saved $1000 from meeting expenses. Budget policy is changeD - no new projects overran budget. President supplies own cell phone resulting iN a savings of $835. All work projects turned over to Resident Volunteers to cut costs for entire association. A quarterly news letter for the first time in 5 years. New street signs project completed by Carl Phillips. Planted 4000 bulbs, Tulip, Daffodils, Irises. Added 338 mums in addition to other flowers. Tree planting completed and dead trees replaced. Cancelled metal shed building for Heritage Trails.
Since their inception, CFRC members have become involved in St Charles City politics even though none of them reside in St. Charles. They have also become involved in O’Fallon and St. Peters and claim to be responsible for the election of Shawn Brown as Mayor of St. Peters and Donna Morrow as Mayor of O’Fallon. They have also aligned themselves with Adolphus Busch IV and Glennon Jamboretz of the Great Rivers Habitat Alliance, the group fighting a planned commercial development on 1,600 acres owned by the City of St. Peters. It has been reported members of Great Rivers Habitat Alliance have given many thousands of dollars to CFRC. That money was used to defeat candidates in O’Fallon and St. Peters. Their attempt to defeat City Council members in St. Charles was unsuccessful. Maus and other members of CFRC are confidants to the Mayor of St. Charles.
The Heritage Residents Association will hold their annual meeting on Monday, April 18th. A number of residents have contacted the First Capitol News regarding what they see as an attempt, by former president Cark Maus and the Citizens for Responsible Community, to takeover the HRA. Maus, who is the president of CFRC, also served at one time as the president of HRA.
A letter has been distributed to Heritage residents by Frank Rosner, current president of the HRA who is also running for reelection. “This is an attempt by Maus and the CFRC, a Political Action Committee to takeover our Association and we will fight it,” Rosner told the First Capitol News. “In addition to Maus, Rick Blalock the treasurer of CFRC, is also running. Blalock was defeated for the board in the 2004 elections.
In the letter Rosner points out: Beginning in May, 2004 the association began an in-depth study of the financial activities taken by previous boards. Finding evidence that disturbed the majority of the current board, we asked the HRA lawyer, Joel Brett, for advice. Mr. Brett’s letter states his view of the financial dealings of the previous HRA president. There are two points of concern.
On March 22, 2000 the HRA Board, comprised of Maus, Blalock, Ferguson and former board members Gallie, Funderburk and Shortal arranged to sell to Pat Gallie the HRA-owned A-FRAME BUILDING, including the 2700 square foot underground garage, offices, and storage room. The property, sitting on 1.49 acres of ground with utilities already setup, was sold for a sum of $59,000. Purchased in 1990 by HRA, the A Frame was appraised in 1985 by the County Assessor at a valuation of $219,000. In my opinion the A Frame property was worth $250,000 at the time we sold it to Pat Gallie for $59,000. The HRA residents did vote to sell the property, but it was never listed on the open realty market, and the residents were never informed of the assessor’s valuation.
At the January 27, 2004 board meeting Maus announced he had received a $10,000 check from the developer of the Heritage Trails subdivision, which we wanted to use for installing a new sprinkler system in the medians on Heritage landing at the Heritage station entrance. Maus then told us the developer had changed his mind and that HRA was to write a check for $5000 to his other organization, Citizens for Responsible Community (CFRC). The majority of board members present refused to agree with this request and I later discovered Maus had already written the $5,000 check to the CFRC organization. We asked that he return the money to HRA.
THAT MONEY HAS NEVER BEEN RETURNED TO HRA.
The First Capitol News reported on November 6, 2004 that the HRA board, at the suggestion of their attorney, send his letter to the Missouri Ethics Commission as he felt the money transfer could be considered as money laundering. Rosner said that the board has received a complaint form from the Missouri Ethics Commission with a request it be signed and notarizeD so they can investigate the allegations of “laundering contributions”.
Rosner is running for election along with board member Carl Phillips. Rosner said the accomplishments for his term as president include: The first year in five years with positive cash flow. Bank reserve is up $8429. A $4000 net savings for Admin fees for new Management Company, local with St. Charles office. Additional $3500 savings for office expenses. No raise in 2005 assessments.Changed reserve account to Pulaski Bank ($3300 extra interest). Saved $1000 from meeting expenses. Budget policy is changeD - no new projects overran budget. President supplies own cell phone resulting iN a savings of $835. All work projects turned over to Resident Volunteers to cut costs for entire association. A quarterly news letter for the first time in 5 years. New street signs project completed by Carl Phillips. Planted 4000 bulbs, Tulip, Daffodils, Irises. Added 338 mums in addition to other flowers. Tree planting completed and dead trees replaced. Cancelled metal shed building for Heritage Trails.
Since their inception, CFRC members have become involved in St Charles City politics even though none of them reside in St. Charles. They have also become involved in O’Fallon and St. Peters and claim to be responsible for the election of Shawn Brown as Mayor of St. Peters and Donna Morrow as Mayor of O’Fallon. They have also aligned themselves with Adolphus Busch IV and Glennon Jamboretz of the Great Rivers Habitat Alliance, the group fighting a planned commercial development on 1,600 acres owned by the City of St. Peters. It has been reported members of Great Rivers Habitat Alliance have given many thousands of dollars to CFRC. That money was used to defeat candidates in O’Fallon and St. Peters. Their attempt to defeat City Council members in St. Charles was unsuccessful. Maus and other members of CFRC are confidants to the Mayor of St. Charles.
THE PEOPLE SPEAK - Letters To The Editor
Letter to the Editor:
I have high hopes for Tim Swope’s recent appointment to police chief in our city. He will need the support of all of us in his efforts in clearing up the matter of what appeared to be the unnecessary manhandling of our new City Administrator, Alan Williams, by some officers in the City police department.
Apparently, not all of the City residents know or believe what is reported to have happened that evening several weeks ago. When the matter is finally resolved a full report of the occurrence should be made public to clear up any misunderstanding of what did happen.
Any police officer who participated in the attack on Mr. Williams should be suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. I would further recommend that a neutral police agency be called in to conduct the investigation.
Carol Diller
Dear Tony:
The Board of Directors of the Frenchtown Heritage Museum would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerry Haferkamp for the kind words in his column, about the museum in the March 19 issue of the First Capitol News.
So many people do not know we exist. The museum has the Richard Vinson collection on display. Mr. Vinson was a man who championed the preservation and history of the Frenchtown and single-handedly collected the evidence of life in the historic neighborhood. His museum was the Frenchtown Museum Corp and was in his home at 1400 N. Second.
After Mr. Vinson’s death the collection was stored by the city of St. Peters. In 2002 the collection was offered to some members of the Historic Frenchtowne Association.
Lynne and Don Federicks and Jerry and Dorothy Boshears accepted the collection and formed a 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation and named it the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. With the help of the Board of Directors of the original museum, later that year they purchased the “Old Firehouse” located at 1121 North Second St. The firehouse was built in 1880 as Ward Four Hose Company #2.
Much of the history of St. Charles is on display at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. The collection covers many areas of life in the past ie; dairies, breweries, school, entertainment and on and on.
Again we thank Mr. Haferkamp for mentioning the museum in his column and are pleased he enjoyed his visit to the museum.
The Board of Directors
Fenchtown Heritage Museum
Dear Editor
Below you will find information about a very special upcoming event. Any support you are able to provide is much appreciated! This fundraising event will benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc., a local and national organization providing bereavement support to families whose lives are touched by the tragic death of a baby through pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or in the first few months of life. SHARE is located on the campus of St. Joseph’s Health Center in St. Charles, MO. Many thanks!
2005 Angel Ball
Please join us for our 3rd annual Angel Ball with dinner, dancing, and an auction to benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc.
touching lives…healing hearts…giving hope…
Friday, April 22, 2005
Junior League of St. Louis - 10435 Clayton Road
6:30 Doors Open for Silent Auction
7:45 Dinner
Honorary Chair:
Mandy Murphey, News Anchor Fox 2
Celebrity Auctioneer:
Paul Brown, Producer/Reporter from Speed Channel
Big Band Dance Music provided by:
Sentimental Journey
$100.00 per person, $50 tax deductible contribution.
To reserve tickets or for more information, please call (636) 947-6164.
Becky M. Bee
First Capitol News:
Mayor Patti York is what is wrong. Her highness looked to the unions for support when her one accomplishment the convention center needed help. Now that York has it built she says let the poor slobs who work there do it for slave wages.
York and Keilty are poor excuses for public servants, but those who should be held most accountable are the Union Chieftains who trusted York and Keilty. They never intended for the workers at the convention center to be Union and have living wages.
York is an elitist who believes she is above all of us little people. Union workers built this City and have generations of our families living here. York grew up in white collar West County and believes that is what St. Charles should become. For those who are not Union, most realize that their standard of living is a direct result of Unions and collective bargaining. I think York’s lack of integrity and honesty should be trumpeted across the lands.
York has sold this City down the river for her own self interest and self importance. York needs to step down and stop using St. Charles for her own self centered ego trips.
Unions built this City and will never forget the dishonesty the Mayor has demonstrated.
Brotherly,
J. Jackson
Dear Editor,
Last week’s article about the City Administrators traffic stop made me to think about the Mayor and comments she made when the Council was acting to take 200 hours of paid time for Sergeant Thomas Mayer away. York told all of us that we should be proud to have the “Top Cop” of the State working in St. Charles and that his efforts in Jeff City benefit the City. She fought hard to keep his hours, hours that we the taxpayers had to pay, so he could do union work.
I have to say if the “Top Cop” thinks the residents of St. Charles are going to put up with his actions towards the City Administrator he is wrong. Many of us have been living in fear for the past months because of letters signed saying that many of our officers had problems dealing with the public, now we have to fear the “Top Cop”.
It is obvious that he got caught on company time and wanted to threaten and intimidate the City Administrator. To think a 60 year old man was forced to the ground with guns pointing at him in St. Charles is difficult for many of us who call this our home. Sgt. Mayer is the same “Top Cop” that filed a hundred million dollar lawsuit against the City because he had his take home car taken away as well as the 200 hours. Mr. Williams had better watch his back, that kind of money will make people do things you would never believe. That kind of money split many different ways is still a lot of money.
I can tell you Mr. Williams, the people are behind you 100%. His actions are reminiscent of the tactics used by the Mob. Mayer has single handedly damaged the reputation of the St. Charles Police Force. He thought he was above the law and untouchable because York let him pick the chief, take a City Police Car to his home in Richmond Heights and use taxpayers money to do Union work.
It is time for someone to stand up and say enough is enough. Chief Swope our eyes are upon you. Many of us have watched you grow to the person you are now, don’t let us down and cave into the pressure of the Mayor and Sgt. Mayer.
If this “Top Cop” is still on the force after the end of this month we all should be fearful. That means the City is under the control of the Police and that is scary.
Please withhold my name, if this “Top Cop” would rough up his boss, what do you think he would do to an average citizen like me?
Name withheld
To the Editor:
Love your paper; keep up the good work. It’s a shame the other three are so
picky about which news they print, but then, I don’t see AB ads in the FCN.
A small suggestion: The City of St. Charles has a number of ‘quality of
life’ ordinances on the books. Most people don’t know they exist. Perhaps a
small reminder on the front or back page would spread the word. Something
along the line of:
Did you know? In the City of St Charles:
Cats (and dogs) are covered by the leash law (and I hope the pooper scooper
part).
Pedestrians have right of way, not just in cross-walks.
Signs may not be attached to utility poles. (Dottie will love you for this
one!)
Bicycles are not to be ridden on sidewalks.
Animal control will assist in trapping small nuisance animals (bunnies,
squirrels, cats and dogs).
Cars may not park on the left side of two-way streets.
Cars may not pass on the right side of traffic (shoulder or parking lane).
You get the idea. I’m sure there are many more. Since Mayor York suggested
kids ride on sidewalks, it would seem like a lot of people are not aware
.
Donna Poeling
Tony
Got this in e-mail It is so true
TAXES
Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
Capital Gains Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Court Fines (indirect taxes)
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel permit tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax Interest expense (tax on the money)
Inventory tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Local Income Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Septic Permit Tax
Service Charge Taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Taxes (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Road Toll Booth Taxes
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone federal excise tax
Telephone federal universal service fee tax
Telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes
Telephone minimum usage surcharge tax
Telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax
Telephone state and local tax
Telephone usage charge tax
Toll Bridge Taxes
Toll Tunnel Taxes
Traffic Fines (indirect taxation)
Trailer registration tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago and our nation was the most prosperous in the world, had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What the hell happened?
AJ Laffluer
I have high hopes for Tim Swope’s recent appointment to police chief in our city. He will need the support of all of us in his efforts in clearing up the matter of what appeared to be the unnecessary manhandling of our new City Administrator, Alan Williams, by some officers in the City police department.
Apparently, not all of the City residents know or believe what is reported to have happened that evening several weeks ago. When the matter is finally resolved a full report of the occurrence should be made public to clear up any misunderstanding of what did happen.
Any police officer who participated in the attack on Mr. Williams should be suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation. I would further recommend that a neutral police agency be called in to conduct the investigation.
Carol Diller
Dear Tony:
The Board of Directors of the Frenchtown Heritage Museum would like to take this opportunity to thank Jerry Haferkamp for the kind words in his column, about the museum in the March 19 issue of the First Capitol News.
So many people do not know we exist. The museum has the Richard Vinson collection on display. Mr. Vinson was a man who championed the preservation and history of the Frenchtown and single-handedly collected the evidence of life in the historic neighborhood. His museum was the Frenchtown Museum Corp and was in his home at 1400 N. Second.
After Mr. Vinson’s death the collection was stored by the city of St. Peters. In 2002 the collection was offered to some members of the Historic Frenchtowne Association.
Lynne and Don Federicks and Jerry and Dorothy Boshears accepted the collection and formed a 501 (c)3 non-profit corporation and named it the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. With the help of the Board of Directors of the original museum, later that year they purchased the “Old Firehouse” located at 1121 North Second St. The firehouse was built in 1880 as Ward Four Hose Company #2.
Much of the history of St. Charles is on display at the Frenchtown Heritage Museum. The collection covers many areas of life in the past ie; dairies, breweries, school, entertainment and on and on.
Again we thank Mr. Haferkamp for mentioning the museum in his column and are pleased he enjoyed his visit to the museum.
The Board of Directors
Fenchtown Heritage Museum
Dear Editor
Below you will find information about a very special upcoming event. Any support you are able to provide is much appreciated! This fundraising event will benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc., a local and national organization providing bereavement support to families whose lives are touched by the tragic death of a baby through pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or in the first few months of life. SHARE is located on the campus of St. Joseph’s Health Center in St. Charles, MO. Many thanks!
2005 Angel Ball
Please join us for our 3rd annual Angel Ball with dinner, dancing, and an auction to benefit SHARE Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support, Inc.
touching lives…healing hearts…giving hope…
Friday, April 22, 2005
Junior League of St. Louis - 10435 Clayton Road
6:30 Doors Open for Silent Auction
7:45 Dinner
Honorary Chair:
Mandy Murphey, News Anchor Fox 2
Celebrity Auctioneer:
Paul Brown, Producer/Reporter from Speed Channel
Big Band Dance Music provided by:
Sentimental Journey
$100.00 per person, $50 tax deductible contribution.
To reserve tickets or for more information, please call (636) 947-6164.
Becky M. Bee
First Capitol News:
Mayor Patti York is what is wrong. Her highness looked to the unions for support when her one accomplishment the convention center needed help. Now that York has it built she says let the poor slobs who work there do it for slave wages.
York and Keilty are poor excuses for public servants, but those who should be held most accountable are the Union Chieftains who trusted York and Keilty. They never intended for the workers at the convention center to be Union and have living wages.
York is an elitist who believes she is above all of us little people. Union workers built this City and have generations of our families living here. York grew up in white collar West County and believes that is what St. Charles should become. For those who are not Union, most realize that their standard of living is a direct result of Unions and collective bargaining. I think York’s lack of integrity and honesty should be trumpeted across the lands.
York has sold this City down the river for her own self interest and self importance. York needs to step down and stop using St. Charles for her own self centered ego trips.
Unions built this City and will never forget the dishonesty the Mayor has demonstrated.
Brotherly,
J. Jackson
Dear Editor,
Last week’s article about the City Administrators traffic stop made me to think about the Mayor and comments she made when the Council was acting to take 200 hours of paid time for Sergeant Thomas Mayer away. York told all of us that we should be proud to have the “Top Cop” of the State working in St. Charles and that his efforts in Jeff City benefit the City. She fought hard to keep his hours, hours that we the taxpayers had to pay, so he could do union work.
I have to say if the “Top Cop” thinks the residents of St. Charles are going to put up with his actions towards the City Administrator he is wrong. Many of us have been living in fear for the past months because of letters signed saying that many of our officers had problems dealing with the public, now we have to fear the “Top Cop”.
It is obvious that he got caught on company time and wanted to threaten and intimidate the City Administrator. To think a 60 year old man was forced to the ground with guns pointing at him in St. Charles is difficult for many of us who call this our home. Sgt. Mayer is the same “Top Cop” that filed a hundred million dollar lawsuit against the City because he had his take home car taken away as well as the 200 hours. Mr. Williams had better watch his back, that kind of money will make people do things you would never believe. That kind of money split many different ways is still a lot of money.
I can tell you Mr. Williams, the people are behind you 100%. His actions are reminiscent of the tactics used by the Mob. Mayer has single handedly damaged the reputation of the St. Charles Police Force. He thought he was above the law and untouchable because York let him pick the chief, take a City Police Car to his home in Richmond Heights and use taxpayers money to do Union work.
It is time for someone to stand up and say enough is enough. Chief Swope our eyes are upon you. Many of us have watched you grow to the person you are now, don’t let us down and cave into the pressure of the Mayor and Sgt. Mayer.
If this “Top Cop” is still on the force after the end of this month we all should be fearful. That means the City is under the control of the Police and that is scary.
Please withhold my name, if this “Top Cop” would rough up his boss, what do you think he would do to an average citizen like me?
Name withheld
To the Editor:
Love your paper; keep up the good work. It’s a shame the other three are so
picky about which news they print, but then, I don’t see AB ads in the FCN.
A small suggestion: The City of St. Charles has a number of ‘quality of
life’ ordinances on the books. Most people don’t know they exist. Perhaps a
small reminder on the front or back page would spread the word. Something
along the line of:
Did you know? In the City of St Charles:
Cats (and dogs) are covered by the leash law (and I hope the pooper scooper
part).
Pedestrians have right of way, not just in cross-walks.
Signs may not be attached to utility poles. (Dottie will love you for this
one!)
Bicycles are not to be ridden on sidewalks.
Animal control will assist in trapping small nuisance animals (bunnies,
squirrels, cats and dogs).
Cars may not park on the left side of two-way streets.
Cars may not pass on the right side of traffic (shoulder or parking lane).
You get the idea. I’m sure there are many more. Since Mayor York suggested
kids ride on sidewalks, it would seem like a lot of people are not aware
.
Donna Poeling
Tony
Got this in e-mail It is so true
TAXES
Accounts Receivable Tax
Building Permit Tax
Capital Gains Tax
CDL license Tax
Cigarette Tax
Corporate Income Tax
Court Fines (indirect taxes)
Dog License Tax
Federal Income Tax
Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA)
Fishing License Tax
Food License Tax
Fuel permit tax
Gasoline Tax (42 cents per gallon)
Hunting License Tax
Inheritance Tax Interest expense (tax on the money)
Inventory tax
IRS Interest Charges (tax on top of tax)
IRS Penalties (tax on top of tax)
Liquor Tax
Local Income Tax
Luxury Taxes
Marriage License Tax
Medicare Tax
Property Tax
Real Estate Tax
Septic Permit Tax
Service Charge Taxes
Social Security Tax
Road Usage Taxes (Truckers)
Sales Taxes
Recreational Vehicle Tax
Road Toll Booth Taxes
School Tax
State Income Tax
State Unemployment Tax (SUTA)
Telephone federal excise tax
Telephone federal universal service fee tax
Telephone federal, state and local surcharge taxes
Telephone minimum usage surcharge tax
Telephone recurring and non-recurring charges tax
Telephone state and local tax
Telephone usage charge tax
Toll Bridge Taxes
Toll Tunnel Taxes
Traffic Fines (indirect taxation)
Trailer registration tax
Utility Taxes
Vehicle License Registration Tax
Vehicle Sales Tax
Watercraft registration Tax
Well Permit Tax
Workers Compensation Tax
Not one of these taxes existed 100 years ago and our nation was the most prosperous in the world, had absolutely no national debt, had the largest middle class in the world and Mom stayed home to raise the kids.
What the hell happened?
AJ Laffluer
THE CONSERVATIVE FACTOR By Alex Spencer
I would like to thank Mr. Pat Sullivan, President of the Homebuilder's Association, for his response to my last column. The homebuilding industry is and always has been the backbone of our country. The Homebuilder’s Association is a professional, well-respected organization which gives much back to the community.
St. Charles County is fortunate to have many fine builders such as Greg Whittaker who not only creates their lovely subdivisions, but stand behind their products. The City of St. Charles can now boast that we have a lovely New Town within our boundaries geared to convenience, ease, and a lifestyle for all tastes and ages.
The First Capitol News is the most widely-read paper within the City. We invite Mr. Sullivan to send us monthly updates regarding his industry so we can keep the public informed and present all sides of any growth issues which may arise.
Homebuilding and sensible growth is contingent upon such things as zoning, variances, and City and County ordinances. It is imperative amicable dialogue and negotiations exist, and are ongoing, between the developers and the various political entities to ensure success and profits for the developer while safeguarding the existing quality of life. Occasionally, these two competing interests clash and become problematic.
In any endeavor, time is money, and it must be recognized developers take a huge economic risk at the onset. One of the greatest problems facing these developments is the bureaucratic run-around and frustration of dealing with Planning & Zoning, Public Works, etc. There have been many legitimate complaints directed at both City and Country entities for making the process more time-consuming and torturous than need be.
Most people contribute money to the candidates who share their values. Business people support pro-business candidates; the Pro-Life lobby supports pro-life candidates, etc. It is very costly to run for public office and candidates rely on donations to carry their message to the voters. There is absolutely nothing illegal or immoral about donors attempting to sway elected officials to their way of thinking. Problems arise when the elected officials forget their oath of office. The burden is on the elected official, not the donors.
That being said and agreed upon, I would like to add my granddaddy always told me it is unwise to get in the middle of other people’s feuds. In our last issue, I believe I responded to comments made by Ed Watkins. He was denouncing City annexation and took a few shots at Councilman Rory Riddler. Most of the annexations passed and Mr. Watkins’ candidate for County Council lost.
To my knowledge, the Homebuilder's Association took no shots at Mr. Riddler, the City Council or the First Capitol News. I could not even tell you if they contributed to the 1980’s and put themselves right in the middle of Mr. Watkins and Mayor York’s feud. My granddaddy would say “it is not a safe place to be when the buckshot starts flying”. Prior to Mr. Sullivan injecting himself, Mr. Watkins joined with the Mayor in her feud. It seems silly anybody would be willing to bend over and take all that buckshot in the rear for another. I think she should bend over and take her own buckshot. If the doer of the deeds deserves credit at times, it is pure logic the doer of the deeds should take the buckshot as well.
The greatest fault at work is not the politicians or their donors. It is the middlemen who perceive themselves to be “power-brokers” and run back and forth between the two to get appointments or personal business opportunity. They are not held accountable but receive the spoils. These are the individuals who attack this newspaper and defend the mayor for the indefensible. These are the individuals who have harassed and threatened our advertisers and boast they “will put this paper out of business.”
If the Mayor’s friends believe reporting facts which give a poor impression of our city is wrong, there is an easy solution to the dilemma. Stop doing the things that would shame our city if reported and published.
The Mayor just informed us, in her recent newsletter, she wishes to be invited into our homes for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, or evening wine parties so she can explain everything to us. This is the same person who has a history of not returning our phone calls. What happened to her busy social calendar?
St. Charles County is fortunate to have many fine builders such as Greg Whittaker who not only creates their lovely subdivisions, but stand behind their products. The City of St. Charles can now boast that we have a lovely New Town within our boundaries geared to convenience, ease, and a lifestyle for all tastes and ages.
The First Capitol News is the most widely-read paper within the City. We invite Mr. Sullivan to send us monthly updates regarding his industry so we can keep the public informed and present all sides of any growth issues which may arise.
Homebuilding and sensible growth is contingent upon such things as zoning, variances, and City and County ordinances. It is imperative amicable dialogue and negotiations exist, and are ongoing, between the developers and the various political entities to ensure success and profits for the developer while safeguarding the existing quality of life. Occasionally, these two competing interests clash and become problematic.
In any endeavor, time is money, and it must be recognized developers take a huge economic risk at the onset. One of the greatest problems facing these developments is the bureaucratic run-around and frustration of dealing with Planning & Zoning, Public Works, etc. There have been many legitimate complaints directed at both City and Country entities for making the process more time-consuming and torturous than need be.
Most people contribute money to the candidates who share their values. Business people support pro-business candidates; the Pro-Life lobby supports pro-life candidates, etc. It is very costly to run for public office and candidates rely on donations to carry their message to the voters. There is absolutely nothing illegal or immoral about donors attempting to sway elected officials to their way of thinking. Problems arise when the elected officials forget their oath of office. The burden is on the elected official, not the donors.
That being said and agreed upon, I would like to add my granddaddy always told me it is unwise to get in the middle of other people’s feuds. In our last issue, I believe I responded to comments made by Ed Watkins. He was denouncing City annexation and took a few shots at Councilman Rory Riddler. Most of the annexations passed and Mr. Watkins’ candidate for County Council lost.
To my knowledge, the Homebuilder's Association took no shots at Mr. Riddler, the City Council or the First Capitol News. I could not even tell you if they contributed to the 1980’s and put themselves right in the middle of Mr. Watkins and Mayor York’s feud. My granddaddy would say “it is not a safe place to be when the buckshot starts flying”. Prior to Mr. Sullivan injecting himself, Mr. Watkins joined with the Mayor in her feud. It seems silly anybody would be willing to bend over and take all that buckshot in the rear for another. I think she should bend over and take her own buckshot. If the doer of the deeds deserves credit at times, it is pure logic the doer of the deeds should take the buckshot as well.
The greatest fault at work is not the politicians or their donors. It is the middlemen who perceive themselves to be “power-brokers” and run back and forth between the two to get appointments or personal business opportunity. They are not held accountable but receive the spoils. These are the individuals who attack this newspaper and defend the mayor for the indefensible. These are the individuals who have harassed and threatened our advertisers and boast they “will put this paper out of business.”
If the Mayor’s friends believe reporting facts which give a poor impression of our city is wrong, there is an easy solution to the dilemma. Stop doing the things that would shame our city if reported and published.
The Mayor just informed us, in her recent newsletter, she wishes to be invited into our homes for morning coffee, lunch, afternoon tea, or evening wine parties so she can explain everything to us. This is the same person who has a history of not returning our phone calls. What happened to her busy social calendar?
PUT ST. CHARLES FIRST
By Jerry Haferkamp
“Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes …they don’t tell the truth, uh
Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies …and I got proof.”
There are lessons to be learned from our music. It is too bad the union leaders who supported the Convention Center didn’t listen to more music. The above words, from a song by Undisputed Truth, could have warned them they were about to be misled when they were told the jobs at the Convention Center would be union jobs.
Our Mayor is now telling them only the construction jobs were promised to be union. Those of us who keep an eye on these things remember the only non-union jobs were to be the ones inside the hotel! “Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes… they don’t tell the truth”. The hotel operator insisted his establishment be non-union. It was the only part of the whole deal that was to be non-union. “Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies… and I got proof”.
The new news??paper came out inserted in the old “Pump Up Patti” ad paper and we need to point out a couple of errors. In bold type in the center section, the word “theirs” was used instead of the proper contraction “there’s”. I only point this out since their friend’s computer hate site loves to point out such errors when they appear in the FCN. The other error was the editor/publisher/financier implied the FCN demeaned the office of the Mayor. The FCN (and PSCF) has the greatest respect for the office. That is exactly why we resent what the current occupant has turned it into.
In the St. Louis newspaper, one of the Mayor’s Pom-Pom squad asked Councilman Gieseke to name the “thugs” on the police force. Councilman Gieseke’s comment was taken out of context and spun like a top. Maybe the letter writer should ask our City Administrator who they are. He now has first hand knowledge.
Speaking of that, have you noticed the Mayor’s concern is we be sure everything was done properly regarding the pursuit? Not a word, not one, has addressed the fact the officer was apparently not where he should have been while on duty. The incident would never have occurred if he hadn’t been where he was. Can we assume there are two investigations? Be careful, Chief Swope. You know how his feelings got hurt the last time he was investigated.
The Mayors “Cheerleader in Charge” wrote in his Blarneytown column Wednesday making fun of the above incident. I doubt if it would have been funny if he were the one face down at gunpoint. It’s sad to say, but I think the only screw he had left has finally worked its way loose.
The Mayor’s message in the City Newsletter chastised the mean, evil, vicious City Council for deleting the $700,000 she uses to keep our water and sewer rates low. It figures out to less than $3 per household per month. I couldn’t even buy a Big Mac with fries with the saving. I could save it up and once a year I could take my wife to Applebee’s on it. The council wants to use it for capital improvements. It’s not like they pocketed the money. Now that it’s gone, I wonder how much our rates will go up. It shouldn’t be more than the $3 per month which was removed.
Today is the day! A while ago I told you of the barbeque fundraiser for the St. Charles West Marching Warrior Band. If you are reading this on Saturday morning, when you finish reading, put the paper down, get in the car and go directly to the Schnucks on Duchesne and get your barbeque while you help these kids. There are several meat choices, various sides and even something for your “sweet tooth”. Your tummy will feel good and so will you. Now put the paper down and get up to Schnucks! You can go to the Convention Center afterward.
No meeting scheduled yet. We’re waiting for the audit report.
Steve, turn out the lights on your way out.
“Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes …they don’t tell the truth, uh
Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies …and I got proof.”
There are lessons to be learned from our music. It is too bad the union leaders who supported the Convention Center didn’t listen to more music. The above words, from a song by Undisputed Truth, could have warned them they were about to be misled when they were told the jobs at the Convention Center would be union jobs.
Our Mayor is now telling them only the construction jobs were promised to be union. Those of us who keep an eye on these things remember the only non-union jobs were to be the ones inside the hotel! “Smiling faces, smiling faces sometimes… they don’t tell the truth”. The hotel operator insisted his establishment be non-union. It was the only part of the whole deal that was to be non-union. “Smiling faces, smiling faces tell lies… and I got proof”.
The new news??paper came out inserted in the old “Pump Up Patti” ad paper and we need to point out a couple of errors. In bold type in the center section, the word “theirs” was used instead of the proper contraction “there’s”. I only point this out since their friend’s computer hate site loves to point out such errors when they appear in the FCN. The other error was the editor/publisher/financier implied the FCN demeaned the office of the Mayor. The FCN (and PSCF) has the greatest respect for the office. That is exactly why we resent what the current occupant has turned it into.
In the St. Louis newspaper, one of the Mayor’s Pom-Pom squad asked Councilman Gieseke to name the “thugs” on the police force. Councilman Gieseke’s comment was taken out of context and spun like a top. Maybe the letter writer should ask our City Administrator who they are. He now has first hand knowledge.
Speaking of that, have you noticed the Mayor’s concern is we be sure everything was done properly regarding the pursuit? Not a word, not one, has addressed the fact the officer was apparently not where he should have been while on duty. The incident would never have occurred if he hadn’t been where he was. Can we assume there are two investigations? Be careful, Chief Swope. You know how his feelings got hurt the last time he was investigated.
The Mayors “Cheerleader in Charge” wrote in his Blarneytown column Wednesday making fun of the above incident. I doubt if it would have been funny if he were the one face down at gunpoint. It’s sad to say, but I think the only screw he had left has finally worked its way loose.
The Mayor’s message in the City Newsletter chastised the mean, evil, vicious City Council for deleting the $700,000 she uses to keep our water and sewer rates low. It figures out to less than $3 per household per month. I couldn’t even buy a Big Mac with fries with the saving. I could save it up and once a year I could take my wife to Applebee’s on it. The council wants to use it for capital improvements. It’s not like they pocketed the money. Now that it’s gone, I wonder how much our rates will go up. It shouldn’t be more than the $3 per month which was removed.
Today is the day! A while ago I told you of the barbeque fundraiser for the St. Charles West Marching Warrior Band. If you are reading this on Saturday morning, when you finish reading, put the paper down, get in the car and go directly to the Schnucks on Duchesne and get your barbeque while you help these kids. There are several meat choices, various sides and even something for your “sweet tooth”. Your tummy will feel good and so will you. Now put the paper down and get up to Schnucks! You can go to the Convention Center afterward.
No meeting scheduled yet. We’re waiting for the audit report.
Steve, turn out the lights on your way out.
STRAIGHT TALK - Councilman Bob Hoepfner Ward 10
Well it’s spring time and everything is starting to come alive. Everything, I mean flowers popping up out of the ground, trees leafing out, the Convention Center finally done. Now all we have to do is find customers to pay for it. The hotel is three months behind schedule. There is an effort to let the hotelier break their contract and let them out of their commitment to pay the City over $1 1/2 million over a period of time, to operate the food and beverage in the convention center. This is going to throw a bigger financial burden on the taxpayers. You know sometimes when you are involved in different goings on you end up knowing too much. What I mean by that is you wonder how it is all going to work out in the end. I talked to the State Auditors office today. They tell me that next week they will probably bring out the results of the audit. No later than the following week. So soon my friends we will get the professional’s opinion on how the City is running.
We are trying to move forward with the growth of the city. The golf course is going to be developed. That will start pretty quick. It is a shame developments wind up taking some of our assests. We have lost two golf courses, but life will go on. The Casino is planning a nice development. What this all should mean folks is lots more money coming into the City. One would think, at least in my humble little mind, maybe just maybe your elected officials will get rid of that utility tax.
Speaking of taxes, I still want to try to do a state wide referendum to freeze the property taxes if not reduce them, in special circumstances. I understand in Texas when you turn 65 you become exempt from school taxes. There is a good idea because by 65 you have paid your dues for the schools.
The state is cutting funding for age groups. At the senior center they are eliminating the salad bar. Now, this may not seem important to you. I want you to realize however the seniors who go to the center on Fairgrounds go there for a meal which could be their only one meal for the day.
We as a society should be ashamed of the way we treat our senior citizens. They not only cutting meals at the senior center, they are also going to cut back on Meals on Wheels for the home bound. I am not a socialist but I am a taxpaying American and I think we need to take care of those who used to take care of us.
We are going to have a very good Oktoberfest this year. It is going to be three days long and have authentic, German entertainment, food and fun. I am bringing it up now so you can start marking your calendars because you won’t want to miss it. It is going to be better than the Strassenfest.
Still out battling those battles for you folks. I appreciate the calls and support and as long as you hang in there with me I will slug it out every day of the week for you.God bless you, God bless America 949-0956.
We are trying to move forward with the growth of the city. The golf course is going to be developed. That will start pretty quick. It is a shame developments wind up taking some of our assests. We have lost two golf courses, but life will go on. The Casino is planning a nice development. What this all should mean folks is lots more money coming into the City. One would think, at least in my humble little mind, maybe just maybe your elected officials will get rid of that utility tax.
Speaking of taxes, I still want to try to do a state wide referendum to freeze the property taxes if not reduce them, in special circumstances. I understand in Texas when you turn 65 you become exempt from school taxes. There is a good idea because by 65 you have paid your dues for the schools.
The state is cutting funding for age groups. At the senior center they are eliminating the salad bar. Now, this may not seem important to you. I want you to realize however the seniors who go to the center on Fairgrounds go there for a meal which could be their only one meal for the day.
We as a society should be ashamed of the way we treat our senior citizens. They not only cutting meals at the senior center, they are also going to cut back on Meals on Wheels for the home bound. I am not a socialist but I am a taxpaying American and I think we need to take care of those who used to take care of us.
We are going to have a very good Oktoberfest this year. It is going to be three days long and have authentic, German entertainment, food and fun. I am bringing it up now so you can start marking your calendars because you won’t want to miss it. It is going to be better than the Strassenfest.
Still out battling those battles for you folks. I appreciate the calls and support and as long as you hang in there with me I will slug it out every day of the week for you.God bless you, God bless America 949-0956.
McCulloch Elected to County Council
Joe McCulloch Elected To County Council
Newly elected St. Charles County Democratic Councilman Joe McCulloch and his wife Pat celebrating his victory after the polls closed Election day.
McCulloch defeated former St. Charles City Councilman Richard Baum who was the Republican candidate and Jerry Butterbaugh who ran as an Independent candidate.
McCulloch won with 1,784 votes to Baum’s 1,598 and Butterbaugh’s 238.
McCulloch will take his seat on the County Council at Monday’s meeting.
First Capitol News Photo by Tony Brockmeyer
Newly elected St. Charles County Democratic Councilman Joe McCulloch and his wife Pat celebrating his victory after the polls closed Election day.
McCulloch defeated former St. Charles City Councilman Richard Baum who was the Republican candidate and Jerry Butterbaugh who ran as an Independent candidate.
McCulloch won with 1,784 votes to Baum’s 1,598 and Butterbaugh’s 238.
McCulloch will take his seat on the County Council at Monday’s meeting.
First Capitol News Photo by Tony Brockmeyer
A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY - By Clara Scott
John Orrick built the home at 701 North Third Street in St. Charles in 1833. Captain Orrick was in the mercantile business and piloted the packet Fayaway from here to St. Louis and back three times a week. This three story handmade brick home featured fireplaces in each of the 12 rooms and an ice cellar for food preservation. Orrick was elected state representative (1844-1846) on the Whig Party ticket.
The main floor has two parlors (formal and informal), a dining room, one bedroom, and a kitchen. The second floor has five bedrooms, and the top floor has two bedrooms. The stable and carriage house once located in the rear of the home have been dismantled.
This home was later to become the home of Welcome A. Robbins, oldest son of Major Moses B. Robbins of Revolutionary War fame. Major Robbins, a native of Volluntown, Connecticut, was buried in the “Graveyard Slough” in Black Walnut. He is one of 40 Revolutionary War soldiers to be buried in this area.
Welcome Robbins and his brother Frederick constructed the extravagant marble and stone Robbins Tomb at Oak Grove Cemetery in 1865. It measures 900-sq. ft. and contains five iron, alcohol-filled caskets with glass face window plates. This unusual Pioneer burial technique eliminated the need for embalming. Mourning family members could also visit the tomb and view the faces of their departed loved ones.
Dr. James Robert Mudd and his wife Mary Caroline (nee Boschert) and family lived in this home for 30 years. A small examining room and office were added to the front of the home. (If you drive by, note the front door glass etching with the Mudd Family name).
Dr. Mudd was elected mayor in 1901 and 1902 was responsible for the installation of the city water works. He was County Coroner for 12 years, in charge of the County Asylum for 21 years and a City Councilman for 12 years. Two of his children also became doctors.
(Information for this article is from McElhiney’s Guidebook to Historic St. Charles Missouri, Richard G. Sperandio, and editor with his permission)
The main floor has two parlors (formal and informal), a dining room, one bedroom, and a kitchen. The second floor has five bedrooms, and the top floor has two bedrooms. The stable and carriage house once located in the rear of the home have been dismantled.
This home was later to become the home of Welcome A. Robbins, oldest son of Major Moses B. Robbins of Revolutionary War fame. Major Robbins, a native of Volluntown, Connecticut, was buried in the “Graveyard Slough” in Black Walnut. He is one of 40 Revolutionary War soldiers to be buried in this area.
Welcome Robbins and his brother Frederick constructed the extravagant marble and stone Robbins Tomb at Oak Grove Cemetery in 1865. It measures 900-sq. ft. and contains five iron, alcohol-filled caskets with glass face window plates. This unusual Pioneer burial technique eliminated the need for embalming. Mourning family members could also visit the tomb and view the faces of their departed loved ones.
Dr. James Robert Mudd and his wife Mary Caroline (nee Boschert) and family lived in this home for 30 years. A small examining room and office were added to the front of the home. (If you drive by, note the front door glass etching with the Mudd Family name).
Dr. Mudd was elected mayor in 1901 and 1902 was responsible for the installation of the city water works. He was County Coroner for 12 years, in charge of the County Asylum for 21 years and a City Councilman for 12 years. Two of his children also became doctors.
(Information for this article is from McElhiney’s Guidebook to Historic St. Charles Missouri, Richard G. Sperandio, and editor with his permission)
MY COLUMN - Mike McMurran Sports Editor
O.K. already, I am well aware the original agreement was to concentrate on high school sports, and I shall – regular readers must remember I am first and foremost a football guy, hence the River City Rage coverage. Things have been somewhat hectic around the McMurran household lately with National Lampoon’s Family Spring vacation (3 adults and 3 children in a van for over 900 miles can wear on a person) but are slowly returning to normal. This spring we will be covering baseball, girls’ soccer, boys’ volleyball as well as both boys’ and girls’ track. Next week, I promise there will be more high school stuff.
On a more serious note, while returning from the Texas Gulf Coast we managed to tune in to KMOX to hear the bulletin announcing the death of Pope John Paul II. Now I can hear many of you already saying, “What does the Pope’s death have to do with sports?” Valid point. The answer is nothing; no matter how hard I try and put a spin on it I cannot think of a way to make it sound like it belongs in the Sports section. At the same time, this is my column, and Phyllis and Tony have pretty much given me the liberty to write about whatever I wish, so if this makes Friday’s edition you know they approved it. But I digress, back to the Pope.
In 1999 my lovely wife Lynn and I attended the Mass celebrated by John Paul at what was then called the TWA Dome. Those who know me at all know I have never, and very likely will never be confused with a pious type person. It took some personal reflection and examination to try and understand why I even attended the Mass – then it struck me – I am an event freak; I like big events, pomp and circumstance, the bigger the better. Believe me, that unusually warm winter’s day back in January 1999 was an event – clearly one of the biggest Saint Louis has ever hosted in my lifetime. But I digress, back to the Pope.
The day began at 2 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parking lot where we were given directions to proceed to Harrah’s Casino in Maryland Heights. After standing in line for over two hours we finally boarded a motor coach which took us to the Dome. I think we arrived downtown about 7 or so. The sea of humanity heading to the Dome was unlike anything I have ever seen in St. Louis. Keep in mind please that I attend all Rams home games, and have attended more than a handful of post-season baseball games – nothing prepared me for the crowd. Another couple of hours were spent waiting in line to get in the Dome, and then an hour or so before the Mass started. For event freaks like myself the Mass was full of pomp and circumstance and pageantry – I got my monies worth. Another wait to leave the Dome, back on the motor coach, I think it was maybe 4 p.m. or so as we passed the airport on our way back to Harrah’s, when one of the most special conversations ever between my lovely wife Lynn and I occurred. “Do you know which part of the homily stands out most in my mind?” rhetorically asked Lynn, rhetorically mind you. I thought for a moment or two and responded “yes.” It was a rhetorical question she informed me, a question asked only for effect, not for information. But I knew the answer, and anyone who knows me at all knows when I have the correct answer it is hard for me to keep my mouth shut (I am getting better though). “O.K. hotshot,” she used my favorite term of endearment, “out of all those thousands of words the Pope uttered, which ones impressed me the most?” I meekly, yet confidently responded, “As the family goes, so goes the nation!” I think she was shocked, but didn’t act as though. At that moment the two of us bonded in a, well, in a mysterical…yes, a spiritual way. We were both at a loss of words – and it is not an example of literary hyperbole to say my wife and I are NEVER, NEVER at a loss of words.
Anyway, I just thought I would share that story with you. Next week more high school sports, and in this column more sports’ commentary.
On a more serious note, while returning from the Texas Gulf Coast we managed to tune in to KMOX to hear the bulletin announcing the death of Pope John Paul II. Now I can hear many of you already saying, “What does the Pope’s death have to do with sports?” Valid point. The answer is nothing; no matter how hard I try and put a spin on it I cannot think of a way to make it sound like it belongs in the Sports section. At the same time, this is my column, and Phyllis and Tony have pretty much given me the liberty to write about whatever I wish, so if this makes Friday’s edition you know they approved it. But I digress, back to the Pope.
In 1999 my lovely wife Lynn and I attended the Mass celebrated by John Paul at what was then called the TWA Dome. Those who know me at all know I have never, and very likely will never be confused with a pious type person. It took some personal reflection and examination to try and understand why I even attended the Mass – then it struck me – I am an event freak; I like big events, pomp and circumstance, the bigger the better. Believe me, that unusually warm winter’s day back in January 1999 was an event – clearly one of the biggest Saint Louis has ever hosted in my lifetime. But I digress, back to the Pope.
The day began at 2 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s parking lot where we were given directions to proceed to Harrah’s Casino in Maryland Heights. After standing in line for over two hours we finally boarded a motor coach which took us to the Dome. I think we arrived downtown about 7 or so. The sea of humanity heading to the Dome was unlike anything I have ever seen in St. Louis. Keep in mind please that I attend all Rams home games, and have attended more than a handful of post-season baseball games – nothing prepared me for the crowd. Another couple of hours were spent waiting in line to get in the Dome, and then an hour or so before the Mass started. For event freaks like myself the Mass was full of pomp and circumstance and pageantry – I got my monies worth. Another wait to leave the Dome, back on the motor coach, I think it was maybe 4 p.m. or so as we passed the airport on our way back to Harrah’s, when one of the most special conversations ever between my lovely wife Lynn and I occurred. “Do you know which part of the homily stands out most in my mind?” rhetorically asked Lynn, rhetorically mind you. I thought for a moment or two and responded “yes.” It was a rhetorical question she informed me, a question asked only for effect, not for information. But I knew the answer, and anyone who knows me at all knows when I have the correct answer it is hard for me to keep my mouth shut (I am getting better though). “O.K. hotshot,” she used my favorite term of endearment, “out of all those thousands of words the Pope uttered, which ones impressed me the most?” I meekly, yet confidently responded, “As the family goes, so goes the nation!” I think she was shocked, but didn’t act as though. At that moment the two of us bonded in a, well, in a mysterical…yes, a spiritual way. We were both at a loss of words – and it is not an example of literary hyperbole to say my wife and I are NEVER, NEVER at a loss of words.
Anyway, I just thought I would share that story with you. Next week more high school sports, and in this column more sports’ commentary.
Saturday, April 02, 2005
City Administrator Forced Face Down On Ground After Police Traffic Stop
Williams Was Investigating Complaints Mayer Was At Home Of Female Acquaintance While He Was On Duty
By Tony Brockmeyer
The First Capitol News has been told shortly after Midnight March 24th City Administrator Dr. Allan Williams was ordered out of his vehicle at gun point and forced to lie face down on the ground in the parking lot of St. Charles Police Headquarters by Police Sgt. Tommy Mayer.
Dr. Williams, who has been St. Charles City Administrator since the end of December, had been investigating numerous complaints Sgt. Mayer was visiting the home of a female acquaintance while he was suppossed to be on duty. Our sources told us Mayer had been told earlier not to visit at the home while on duty.
After receiving the complaints, Dr. Williams drove by the home on Sibley to see if a police vehicle was there. As he left the area he observed a police vehicle aggressively chasing him. The vehicle came quickly up on his bumper and stayed there for several blocks. At the stop light at Duchesne and Droste, the pursuing police officer turned on his flashing lights. Fearful and afraid to stop, Dr. Williams used his cell phone to contact Chief Tim Swope at home. Swope told Dr. Williams he was caring for his children and could not leave. Swope advised Dr. Williams to drive to the parking lot of Police Headquarters, on Zumbehl and Greystone, at the posted speed limit. Williams heard Chief Swope tell the dispatcher to advise the pursing police car Dr. Williams would meet him in the parking lot of headquarters. He also heard the dispatcher notify the officer, who was later determined to be Sgt. Mayer, of what the Chief had said.We were told by our sources Mayer did not stand down but continued to aggressively pursue Williams with his lights flashing and siren sounding. Our source said Chief Swope also called Mayer on his cell phone to tell him to stand down but Mayer informed the Chief he was in a pursuit, put the phone down and never picked it back up. Dr. Williams continued driving towards police headquarters at a speed estimated to be approximately 25 miles per hour, now with three police cars in pursuit.
Upon exiting his vehicle on the parking lot at police headquarters, Dr. Williams was ordered at gun point by Sgt. Mayer, to lie face down on the ground. Williams was released with no charges.
When contacted by the First Capitol News Dr. Williams said, “This is a personnel matter and is under investigation. I do not think it would be proper for me to make any comments regarding it at this time.”
The police department is making no comment due to the ongoing investigation. No estimates were made as to how long the investigation will take.
Allegations have been made recently that Mayer and other officers close to Sgt. Mayer have been following City Councilmen and illegally using police computers and facilities to do background investigations on City Council members, newspaper people, and others thought to be enemies of the Mayor. Inquiries are being conducted and it is expected several law suits and charges will be filed regarding the illegal actions of those officers.
Sgt. Mayer is the State President of the Fraternal Order of Police and is closely associated with St. Charles Mayor Patti York. York has called Mayer, “The Top Cop In Missouri.” She has traveled the state promoting Sgt. Mayer and the FOP. During her last reelection campaign she was endorsed and supported by Sgt.
M ayer and the FOP.
Mayer had earlier filed a $104 million law suit against the Council members and former acting City Administrator Mike Valenti claiming harrassment. York was not named in the suit. The Council members and Valenti have filed a counter suit against Mayer.
By Tony Brockmeyer
The First Capitol News has been told shortly after Midnight March 24th City Administrator Dr. Allan Williams was ordered out of his vehicle at gun point and forced to lie face down on the ground in the parking lot of St. Charles Police Headquarters by Police Sgt. Tommy Mayer.
Dr. Williams, who has been St. Charles City Administrator since the end of December, had been investigating numerous complaints Sgt. Mayer was visiting the home of a female acquaintance while he was suppossed to be on duty. Our sources told us Mayer had been told earlier not to visit at the home while on duty.
After receiving the complaints, Dr. Williams drove by the home on Sibley to see if a police vehicle was there. As he left the area he observed a police vehicle aggressively chasing him. The vehicle came quickly up on his bumper and stayed there for several blocks. At the stop light at Duchesne and Droste, the pursuing police officer turned on his flashing lights. Fearful and afraid to stop, Dr. Williams used his cell phone to contact Chief Tim Swope at home. Swope told Dr. Williams he was caring for his children and could not leave. Swope advised Dr. Williams to drive to the parking lot of Police Headquarters, on Zumbehl and Greystone, at the posted speed limit. Williams heard Chief Swope tell the dispatcher to advise the pursing police car Dr. Williams would meet him in the parking lot of headquarters. He also heard the dispatcher notify the officer, who was later determined to be Sgt. Mayer, of what the Chief had said.We were told by our sources Mayer did not stand down but continued to aggressively pursue Williams with his lights flashing and siren sounding. Our source said Chief Swope also called Mayer on his cell phone to tell him to stand down but Mayer informed the Chief he was in a pursuit, put the phone down and never picked it back up. Dr. Williams continued driving towards police headquarters at a speed estimated to be approximately 25 miles per hour, now with three police cars in pursuit.
Upon exiting his vehicle on the parking lot at police headquarters, Dr. Williams was ordered at gun point by Sgt. Mayer, to lie face down on the ground. Williams was released with no charges.
When contacted by the First Capitol News Dr. Williams said, “This is a personnel matter and is under investigation. I do not think it would be proper for me to make any comments regarding it at this time.”
The police department is making no comment due to the ongoing investigation. No estimates were made as to how long the investigation will take.
Allegations have been made recently that Mayer and other officers close to Sgt. Mayer have been following City Councilmen and illegally using police computers and facilities to do background investigations on City Council members, newspaper people, and others thought to be enemies of the Mayor. Inquiries are being conducted and it is expected several law suits and charges will be filed regarding the illegal actions of those officers.
Sgt. Mayer is the State President of the Fraternal Order of Police and is closely associated with St. Charles Mayor Patti York. York has called Mayer, “The Top Cop In Missouri.” She has traveled the state promoting Sgt. Mayer and the FOP. During her last reelection campaign she was endorsed and supported by Sgt.
M ayer and the FOP.
Mayer had earlier filed a $104 million law suit against the Council members and former acting City Administrator Mike Valenti claiming harrassment. York was not named in the suit. The Council members and Valenti have filed a counter suit against Mayer.
Freedom of Information Request Filed For Chase Tapes, Incident Report
Freedom of Information Request Filed For Chase Tapes, Incident Report
The First Capitol News has filed a Freedom of Information Request with the City of St. Charles requesting a copy of the Police Incident Report and copies of the dispatch audio tape and parking lot surveillance tapes regarding the pursuit of City Administrator Dr. Allan Williams by Police Sgt. Tommy Mayer.
Publisher, Phyllis Schaltenbrand said, “Our legal counsel has advised us the incident report and tapes are public information as outlined by the sunshine law and must be released.
As of press time the city had not yet responded to our request for the copies.”
The First Capitol News has filed a Freedom of Information Request with the City of St. Charles requesting a copy of the Police Incident Report and copies of the dispatch audio tape and parking lot surveillance tapes regarding the pursuit of City Administrator Dr. Allan Williams by Police Sgt. Tommy Mayer.
Publisher, Phyllis Schaltenbrand said, “Our legal counsel has advised us the incident report and tapes are public information as outlined by the sunshine law and must be released.
As of press time the city had not yet responded to our request for the copies.”
Unions Threaten Pickets At Convention Center Opening
By Phyllis Schaltenbrand
Fireworks erupted during the convention center oversight committee held on Tuesday April 29th. The convention center oversight committee held its first meeting in the new St. Charles Convention Center.
The meeting became heated when a letter was read from Dan McKay, President of Teamsters Joint Council #13 and President of Teamsters Local Union 600, announcing they, along with Decorators and Displaymens Local 39 and Stagehands Local 6, were planning to set up pickets starting opening day. Larry Sachse, Vice President of the Sports Authority spoke out against Roger Pryor and Chairman Ken Kielty for refusing to communicate with the unions. Sache stated, “I talked to Dan McKay twice today and he is upset because Global Spectrum (the company contracted to run the convention center) has refused to return any of his phone calls. Sache said it was his understanding our contract with Global Spectrum required they negotiate in good faith with all unions.
Mayor York said, “ we built this convention center using union labor.” She stated it was her understanding after the center was built, “We were through dealing with the unions.” The Mayor went on to say she was against dealing with three or four unions when it comes to running the center. Mayor York indicated the Teamsters were the demise of the convention center in St. Louis.
Dan Mckay said he objected strongly to York’s statement and pointed out two months ago he received a commodation from the St. Louis Convention and Business Center for his willingness to work them and make concessions in order to generate more business for the convention and tourism products. Frank Condellire, Business Agent for U.S.W.A. Local 39, who was in the audience, received the same award. McKay went on to say the St. Louis Business Journal is also featuring a story on how they have been working as a team for the betterment of St. Louis. Mr. McKay said, “We have been a strong supporter of St. Charles and we represent over 26,000 members throughout St. Charles and surrounding areas.” McKay said, “If St. Charles refuses to meet and discuss the issues at hand, I guarantee you we will set up pickets on opening day. This will include the Mayor’s Ball.”
Councilman Mark Brown who also sits on the oversight committee said, “I was not on the board when all this started. “If this committee is about to spend $500,000 on a grand opening party and have unions picketing the entrance they are out right crazy.” Brown continued, “This is the most ludicrous thing they have done. Brown stated, “You guys need to get this worked out before April the 7th.” Brown went on to say, “This is what happened at the Family Arena and to this day, they have never recovered. We don’t need two white elephant’s in this city.”
Ken Kielty, Sports Authority Chairman, said as far as he was concerned we can open this center with just five janitors and he was not in favor of negotiating with three different unions. Councilman Hoepfner said, “Don’t forget, if it was not for these unions we would not have a convention center.” Kielty commented, “They only gave us $75,000 to run the campaign, we are not going to let them ruin this center like they did in St. Louis.” Councilman Brown said McKay told him Local 600 wanted to work with St. Charles and he was willing to make great concessions to help see that our center is a big success.
The committee then voted to make Roger Pryor and Shrura Lundgren, Global Spectrum Manager, sit down with the unions and listen to their concerns. Pryor balked, but agreed to comply with the committees wishes. Sache said, “We hired Pryor as a consultant to work this out and I assumed it was taken care of.” Sache clarified Pryors consulting work was done during the few months he was off the committee. Pryor said he would not charge the committee for his additional services.
In addition to the convention center opening under union pickets, numerous items were discussed concerning last minute preparations for the grand opening scheduled for this Thursday.
The committee also argued with Paric the construction management company. Paric was requesting $146,000 extra because there were so many change work orders. Sache, Brown and Hoepfner said the contract was to see the project through to completion and pointed out most of the change orders were not the fault of the City. Councilman Hoepfner has been critical of Paric’s Business practices concerning the justice center.
Also, Allowing John Hammond, the hotel operator, to break his contract in which he agreed to pay the convention center $250,0000 to operate the food and beverage service during the first year. The contract provided each year there after would increase by $50,000. Mark Brown pointed out Hammond was responsible for most of the increased construction cost. (Hammond is about four months behind on their construction and has cost the convention center extra money to work around them.). Brown said, “Allowing them to break their contract not only cost us money but now we have to pay Global to operate the food and beverage. Councilman Hoepfner and Brown voted no.
More fireworks are expected at Tuesday’s meeting of the Convention oversite committee.
Fireworks erupted during the convention center oversight committee held on Tuesday April 29th. The convention center oversight committee held its first meeting in the new St. Charles Convention Center.
The meeting became heated when a letter was read from Dan McKay, President of Teamsters Joint Council #13 and President of Teamsters Local Union 600, announcing they, along with Decorators and Displaymens Local 39 and Stagehands Local 6, were planning to set up pickets starting opening day. Larry Sachse, Vice President of the Sports Authority spoke out against Roger Pryor and Chairman Ken Kielty for refusing to communicate with the unions. Sache stated, “I talked to Dan McKay twice today and he is upset because Global Spectrum (the company contracted to run the convention center) has refused to return any of his phone calls. Sache said it was his understanding our contract with Global Spectrum required they negotiate in good faith with all unions.
Mayor York said, “ we built this convention center using union labor.” She stated it was her understanding after the center was built, “We were through dealing with the unions.” The Mayor went on to say she was against dealing with three or four unions when it comes to running the center. Mayor York indicated the Teamsters were the demise of the convention center in St. Louis.
Dan Mckay said he objected strongly to York’s statement and pointed out two months ago he received a commodation from the St. Louis Convention and Business Center for his willingness to work them and make concessions in order to generate more business for the convention and tourism products. Frank Condellire, Business Agent for U.S.W.A. Local 39, who was in the audience, received the same award. McKay went on to say the St. Louis Business Journal is also featuring a story on how they have been working as a team for the betterment of St. Louis. Mr. McKay said, “We have been a strong supporter of St. Charles and we represent over 26,000 members throughout St. Charles and surrounding areas.” McKay said, “If St. Charles refuses to meet and discuss the issues at hand, I guarantee you we will set up pickets on opening day. This will include the Mayor’s Ball.”
Councilman Mark Brown who also sits on the oversight committee said, “I was not on the board when all this started. “If this committee is about to spend $500,000 on a grand opening party and have unions picketing the entrance they are out right crazy.” Brown continued, “This is the most ludicrous thing they have done. Brown stated, “You guys need to get this worked out before April the 7th.” Brown went on to say, “This is what happened at the Family Arena and to this day, they have never recovered. We don’t need two white elephant’s in this city.”
Ken Kielty, Sports Authority Chairman, said as far as he was concerned we can open this center with just five janitors and he was not in favor of negotiating with three different unions. Councilman Hoepfner said, “Don’t forget, if it was not for these unions we would not have a convention center.” Kielty commented, “They only gave us $75,000 to run the campaign, we are not going to let them ruin this center like they did in St. Louis.” Councilman Brown said McKay told him Local 600 wanted to work with St. Charles and he was willing to make great concessions to help see that our center is a big success.
The committee then voted to make Roger Pryor and Shrura Lundgren, Global Spectrum Manager, sit down with the unions and listen to their concerns. Pryor balked, but agreed to comply with the committees wishes. Sache said, “We hired Pryor as a consultant to work this out and I assumed it was taken care of.” Sache clarified Pryors consulting work was done during the few months he was off the committee. Pryor said he would not charge the committee for his additional services.
In addition to the convention center opening under union pickets, numerous items were discussed concerning last minute preparations for the grand opening scheduled for this Thursday.
The committee also argued with Paric the construction management company. Paric was requesting $146,000 extra because there were so many change work orders. Sache, Brown and Hoepfner said the contract was to see the project through to completion and pointed out most of the change orders were not the fault of the City. Councilman Hoepfner has been critical of Paric’s Business practices concerning the justice center.
Also, Allowing John Hammond, the hotel operator, to break his contract in which he agreed to pay the convention center $250,0000 to operate the food and beverage service during the first year. The contract provided each year there after would increase by $50,000. Mark Brown pointed out Hammond was responsible for most of the increased construction cost. (Hammond is about four months behind on their construction and has cost the convention center extra money to work around them.). Brown said, “Allowing them to break their contract not only cost us money but now we have to pay Global to operate the food and beverage. Councilman Hoepfner and Brown voted no.
More fireworks are expected at Tuesday’s meeting of the Convention oversite committee.
Saint Charles Municipal Band to Open 135th Season
The Saint Charles Municipal Band will open its 135th season Sunday, April 3, with its Annual Spring Concert at 2 p.m. at the Lindenwood University Cultural Center, Kingshighway and Adams Street in St. Charles.
“The Municipal Band has been a part of St. Charles for 134 years, and is looking forward to this special anniversary season of music,” said Nancy Garza, the band’s musical director. The Saint Charles Municipal Band traces its roots back to a performance on July 4, 1870, by the Union Volunteer Fire Company of St. Charles.
Musical selections will include Hallelujah Trombone by Henry Fillmore, Big Cage Galop by Karl King, selections from H.M.S. Pinafore, Pirates of Penzance and the Kikado by Gilbert and Sullivan.
Admission to the concert is free. Following a reception immediately after the Municipal Band’s concert, the St. Charles Community Big Band, directed by Earl Kreder, will perform.
For more information about the concerts, contact Earl Kreder at 314-878-5296.
“The Municipal Band has been a part of St. Charles for 134 years, and is looking forward to this special anniversary season of music,” said Nancy Garza, the band’s musical director. The Saint Charles Municipal Band traces its roots back to a performance on July 4, 1870, by the Union Volunteer Fire Company of St. Charles.
Musical selections will include Hallelujah Trombone by Henry Fillmore, Big Cage Galop by Karl King, selections from H.M.S. Pinafore, Pirates of Penzance and the Kikado by Gilbert and Sullivan.
Admission to the concert is free. Following a reception immediately after the Municipal Band’s concert, the St. Charles Community Big Band, directed by Earl Kreder, will perform.
For more information about the concerts, contact Earl Kreder at 314-878-5296.
Way beyond the obvious: The Psychological reasons why men and women take steroids- Dr. Howard Rosenthal
Way beyond the obvious: The psychological reasons why men and women take steroids
Dr. Howard Rosenthal
Feature Article
Angelo Siciliano’s adopted name was Charles Atlas. He stood precisely five feet ten inches tall and tipped the scales at exactly 180 pounds. Atlas was so good at winning the America’s Most Perfectly Developed Man Contest that the promoter of the contest Bernarr MacFadden commented in 1922, “What’s the use of holding them? Atlas will win every time.”
Now fast forward to the year 2005. If we could magically place the mighty Atlas on the field of a major league baseball game he would look average at best. Worse yet, if we could take Atlas in his prime and stick him in an NFL game or worse yet a professional wrestling ring he would look like a peanut. He might even (dare I say it) just get a little sand kicked in his face. Doesn’t that strike you as a little odd?
Do human genetics really change that rapidly? Not on this planet. Then why are athletes so much bigger, better, and stronger than in years past?
It must be better training routines, you say. Not according to the late, great Vince Gironda, who purportedly could whip a body into shape faster than possibly any trainer in history. Gironda, who trained scores of top bodybuilders, and a string of actors far too lengthy to include in this article, would not agree. Well what about those big, burly, high tech glistening chrome machines in our modern gyms? Maybe they are responsible for our new improved super athletes. Here again, Gironda tells us the answer is an unequivocal no, pointing out he was offered nearly every new piece of apparatus on the market. To quote Gironda, aka the iron guru, “you would get more out of trying to lift the machine than work on it according to the designer’s directions.” So what is the answer?
Surprise, surprise, surprise, according to Gironda — who himself was in perfect shape and at the height of his career weighed in at 15 pounds less than Atlas — it is steroids. Now there’s a shocker. And no my friend, I’m not referring to Andro, which not long ago was available at nearly any health food store or pharmacy chain. In fact, a number of athletes I have counseled were adamant they wouldn’t take Andro because it was way too weak. Nevertheless, they said it was rumored Andro would foil tests for other serious steroids. Hmm, I wonder why that would be so important to them?
For those of you who believe ingesting of steroids is new, I can only say wake up and smell the coffee. Steroids, discovered in 1935, are synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. Historians believe the first steroid users were soldiers given the drug in WWII to increase aggressiveness. They made a comeback the 1950s when they were used by Russian weightlifters.
In 1961 top bodybuilder Bill Pearl reports he was trying to ferret out how the Russians were so strong. His investigation led him to see a veterinarian who gave him a steroid t used at the time to fatten up bulls. The drug worked well on Pearl too.
When the first Mr. Olympia 1965 and 1966, Larry Scott (who looked like the All-American boy you would kill for your daughter would bring home on a date), was asked whether he took steroids he replied, “Sure, doesn’t everyone?”
Football Player Steve Courson blew the whistle on his profession when he wrote False Glory: Steelers and Steroids. In this 1991 book he calls the Pittsburgh Steelers “the steroid team of the 70s”, and estimated that 65 to 95% of the top lineman of the era took steroids and related substances.
Football legend Lyle Alzado, who passed away at age 43 in 1992 with a brain tumor, admitted before his death he was ingesting $30,000 a year in performance drugs and dangerous growth hormone. He recalled one period in which he dropped $4000 for human growth hormone alone during a sixteen- week period. Alzado admitted he began using performance drugs in 1969 and “never stopped.” Alzado was a victim of so-called roid rage in which the person harbors extremely aggressive tendencies. Alzado purportedly stated he never met a man he didn’t want to fight!
On the juice: now and then
In no way, shape or form is the problem getting any better. Rather than talking about Atlas or Gironda, let’s take Arnold as a much more recent example. At his peak as a bodybuilder, Arnold was six feet two inches tall and weighed 235 pounds. He was seemingly unstoppable. Experts at the time suggested Arnold had reached the limits of human physical development. Today opponents competing for the same titles weigh about 50 pounds more and are much leaner than Arnold! Again, genetics? Well let’s just say I wouldn’t bet the farm on it!
Why are the steroid monsters getting bigger? Better living through chemistry. Today, athletes — rather than using one or two popular steroids like the champions of yesteryears, which was dangerous enough – are stacking (i.e., combining) all kinds of steroids and growth hormones that make the drugs taken thirty or forty years ago look like a child’s dosage. Some bodybuilders are spending $5000 a month on muscle building drugs and taking over 100 times what a physician would prescribe for a medical condition!
What in the world does abuse have to do with all of this?
So why do people take massive doses of dangerous steroids? Needless to say, the obvious answer is to run faster, jump higher or hit more home runs. For others, teens included, the practice is purely cosmetic, piling an extra six inches of intimidating rock hard muscle on your biceps.
But there is another, less obvious, recently discovered psychological motive. In interviews with male weightlifters it was discovered 1 out of every 4 had memories of childhood physical or sexual abuse. When interviewing weightlifters that did not use steroids, none had such memories.
Steroids: It’s not just a guy thing
Volume 69, number 1, 2000 of the journal of “Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics” featured a landmark article by Amanda J. Gruber and Harrison G. Pope Jr. The article titled “Psychiatric and Medical Effects of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use in Women” did something no previous study had ever done: It investigated the use of steroids in women. 75 women athletes were recruited via advertisement. An alarming 33% reported current or past use! Sixty-five out of 75 women reported extreme dissatisfaction with their bodies or what behavioral scientists call muscle dysmorphia. In this condition athletes and bodybuilders feel small and weak even when they sport a nearly perfect body. It can occur in men and women and on the street it is referred to as “bigorexia.” Roughly speaking, this affliction is roughly the opposite of anorexia.
Just for the record, the general public often suffers from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in which an individual often obsesses about his or her looks or a given body part for an hour or more each day.
Some research has also indicated in women weightlifters a high percentage that used steroids had been raped. A fact not true of women weightlifters clean and steroid free. Of those women using steroids, virtually none ever considered “using” prior to the attack. Interviews revealed the women felt their superior strength would intimidate men or men would simply find them unattractive.
Hence, in both men and women, the drugs were providing a psychological shield against the horrors of physical and sexual abuse.
Perhaps Dr. John Ziegler, who is accredited with discovering the popular steroid Dianabol, or D-bol for short, summed the situation up best. He allegedly said on his deathbed, “I wish I had never discovered steroids.”
As for me, well, I’ve chosen to carry my ailing dog up and down the stairs. It doesn’t cost a dime, it’s an excellent form of static contraction exercise, and unless she decides to bite me it’s a heck of a lot safer than steroids!
Dr. Howard Rosenthal is Professor and Program Coordinator of Human Services at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley. He is the author a number of books including the Encyclopedia of Counseling, the Human Services Dictionary, and Help Yourself to Positive Mental Health. His website is www.counselingshop.com.
Dr. Howard Rosenthal
Feature Article
Angelo Siciliano’s adopted name was Charles Atlas. He stood precisely five feet ten inches tall and tipped the scales at exactly 180 pounds. Atlas was so good at winning the America’s Most Perfectly Developed Man Contest that the promoter of the contest Bernarr MacFadden commented in 1922, “What’s the use of holding them? Atlas will win every time.”
Now fast forward to the year 2005. If we could magically place the mighty Atlas on the field of a major league baseball game he would look average at best. Worse yet, if we could take Atlas in his prime and stick him in an NFL game or worse yet a professional wrestling ring he would look like a peanut. He might even (dare I say it) just get a little sand kicked in his face. Doesn’t that strike you as a little odd?
Do human genetics really change that rapidly? Not on this planet. Then why are athletes so much bigger, better, and stronger than in years past?
It must be better training routines, you say. Not according to the late, great Vince Gironda, who purportedly could whip a body into shape faster than possibly any trainer in history. Gironda, who trained scores of top bodybuilders, and a string of actors far too lengthy to include in this article, would not agree. Well what about those big, burly, high tech glistening chrome machines in our modern gyms? Maybe they are responsible for our new improved super athletes. Here again, Gironda tells us the answer is an unequivocal no, pointing out he was offered nearly every new piece of apparatus on the market. To quote Gironda, aka the iron guru, “you would get more out of trying to lift the machine than work on it according to the designer’s directions.” So what is the answer?
Surprise, surprise, surprise, according to Gironda — who himself was in perfect shape and at the height of his career weighed in at 15 pounds less than Atlas — it is steroids. Now there’s a shocker. And no my friend, I’m not referring to Andro, which not long ago was available at nearly any health food store or pharmacy chain. In fact, a number of athletes I have counseled were adamant they wouldn’t take Andro because it was way too weak. Nevertheless, they said it was rumored Andro would foil tests for other serious steroids. Hmm, I wonder why that would be so important to them?
For those of you who believe ingesting of steroids is new, I can only say wake up and smell the coffee. Steroids, discovered in 1935, are synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. Historians believe the first steroid users were soldiers given the drug in WWII to increase aggressiveness. They made a comeback the 1950s when they were used by Russian weightlifters.
In 1961 top bodybuilder Bill Pearl reports he was trying to ferret out how the Russians were so strong. His investigation led him to see a veterinarian who gave him a steroid t used at the time to fatten up bulls. The drug worked well on Pearl too.
When the first Mr. Olympia 1965 and 1966, Larry Scott (who looked like the All-American boy you would kill for your daughter would bring home on a date), was asked whether he took steroids he replied, “Sure, doesn’t everyone?”
Football Player Steve Courson blew the whistle on his profession when he wrote False Glory: Steelers and Steroids. In this 1991 book he calls the Pittsburgh Steelers “the steroid team of the 70s”, and estimated that 65 to 95% of the top lineman of the era took steroids and related substances.
Football legend Lyle Alzado, who passed away at age 43 in 1992 with a brain tumor, admitted before his death he was ingesting $30,000 a year in performance drugs and dangerous growth hormone. He recalled one period in which he dropped $4000 for human growth hormone alone during a sixteen- week period. Alzado admitted he began using performance drugs in 1969 and “never stopped.” Alzado was a victim of so-called roid rage in which the person harbors extremely aggressive tendencies. Alzado purportedly stated he never met a man he didn’t want to fight!
On the juice: now and then
In no way, shape or form is the problem getting any better. Rather than talking about Atlas or Gironda, let’s take Arnold as a much more recent example. At his peak as a bodybuilder, Arnold was six feet two inches tall and weighed 235 pounds. He was seemingly unstoppable. Experts at the time suggested Arnold had reached the limits of human physical development. Today opponents competing for the same titles weigh about 50 pounds more and are much leaner than Arnold! Again, genetics? Well let’s just say I wouldn’t bet the farm on it!
Why are the steroid monsters getting bigger? Better living through chemistry. Today, athletes — rather than using one or two popular steroids like the champions of yesteryears, which was dangerous enough – are stacking (i.e., combining) all kinds of steroids and growth hormones that make the drugs taken thirty or forty years ago look like a child’s dosage. Some bodybuilders are spending $5000 a month on muscle building drugs and taking over 100 times what a physician would prescribe for a medical condition!
What in the world does abuse have to do with all of this?
So why do people take massive doses of dangerous steroids? Needless to say, the obvious answer is to run faster, jump higher or hit more home runs. For others, teens included, the practice is purely cosmetic, piling an extra six inches of intimidating rock hard muscle on your biceps.
But there is another, less obvious, recently discovered psychological motive. In interviews with male weightlifters it was discovered 1 out of every 4 had memories of childhood physical or sexual abuse. When interviewing weightlifters that did not use steroids, none had such memories.
Steroids: It’s not just a guy thing
Volume 69, number 1, 2000 of the journal of “Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics” featured a landmark article by Amanda J. Gruber and Harrison G. Pope Jr. The article titled “Psychiatric and Medical Effects of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Use in Women” did something no previous study had ever done: It investigated the use of steroids in women. 75 women athletes were recruited via advertisement. An alarming 33% reported current or past use! Sixty-five out of 75 women reported extreme dissatisfaction with their bodies or what behavioral scientists call muscle dysmorphia. In this condition athletes and bodybuilders feel small and weak even when they sport a nearly perfect body. It can occur in men and women and on the street it is referred to as “bigorexia.” Roughly speaking, this affliction is roughly the opposite of anorexia.
Just for the record, the general public often suffers from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) in which an individual often obsesses about his or her looks or a given body part for an hour or more each day.
Some research has also indicated in women weightlifters a high percentage that used steroids had been raped. A fact not true of women weightlifters clean and steroid free. Of those women using steroids, virtually none ever considered “using” prior to the attack. Interviews revealed the women felt their superior strength would intimidate men or men would simply find them unattractive.
Hence, in both men and women, the drugs were providing a psychological shield against the horrors of physical and sexual abuse.
Perhaps Dr. John Ziegler, who is accredited with discovering the popular steroid Dianabol, or D-bol for short, summed the situation up best. He allegedly said on his deathbed, “I wish I had never discovered steroids.”
As for me, well, I’ve chosen to carry my ailing dog up and down the stairs. It doesn’t cost a dime, it’s an excellent form of static contraction exercise, and unless she decides to bite me it’s a heck of a lot safer than steroids!
Dr. Howard Rosenthal is Professor and Program Coordinator of Human Services at St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley. He is the author a number of books including the Encyclopedia of Counseling, the Human Services Dictionary, and Help Yourself to Positive Mental Health. His website is www.counselingshop.com.
THE CITY DESK by Rory Riddler, City Council President
Annexation Best Way To Lessen Burden On Residential Taxpayers
People tend to vote in their own enlightened self-interest, when given all the facts and when issues are presented in a straightforward manner on the ballot. Thanks to confusing ballot language and an attempt to put out false and misleading information, some issues on this April’s ballot promise to be anything but straightforward.
Let me start by giving everyone a “cheat sheet” to help you with the ten annexation issues on the ballot Tuesday. Vote nine times YES and the last time NO. Of course, you only have to remember this formula if you’re planning on voting in your own self-interest.
The first nine annexation areas are “pockets”, some nearly surrounded by our city limits. They are mainly commercial and undeveloped properties. I won’t test your patience trying to write a legal description of each of the proposed annexation areas. Besides, the legal descriptions already ran in a lengthy (multiple page) legal notice required by law. It was so riveting you probably couldn’t put it down.
The easiest way to tell what areas we’re talking about is to look at any map of the City. See those gaping holes that look like someone got tired of coloring in the map? The commercial and undeveloped properties in these areas, are what the ten ballot issues are all about.
One of these pockets is St. Andrews Plaza, just West of Zumbehl on Interstate 70. Most people aren’t aware this retail area isn’t in the City of St. Charles. Yet you have to drive past it to get to our City Limits at Cave Springs. Once in the City of St. Charles, these commercial areas will help expand our tax base. That’s good for residential property owners like you and me. The more commercial, office and industrial property we have paying taxes and supporting municipal services, the less of a burden there has to be on residential property tax payers.
Another important factor is the City of St. Charles will have more to say about what type of development occurs on these properties. It is an opportunity for the City of St. Charles to control its own destiny. Currently we’re forced to play Let’s Make A Deal with developers as they decide whether or not it is in their economic interest to annex into our community. If they don’t come into the City, they develop under County standards, which are less strict than those in the City. For example, the County still allows metal buildings and puts no restrictions on used car lots. What develops around the City is important because it affects people’s image of our community and impacts our property values.
This is one of those issues where the Mayor, City Administrator and majority of the City Council agree. There was some false and misleading information circulated in an attempt by some opponents (mainly County residents) to derail our annexation issues. A ridiculous estimate for raising a two lane road was put into a draft report. I say ridiculous because for about a four block stretch of road, this person had estimated it would cost $10.5 million. What’s more, we never agreed to raise the road and the property owners along the road never asked for it to be raised. All they wanted was a larger culvert and some street lights on existing telephone poles…a minimal cost.
This report had never been approved, or signed off on, by the City Administrator. It was never accepted by the City Council. So we have a horribly inflated and inaccurate figure, about a non-existent project nobody wants, asked for, or authorized, being the subject of two articles in the local press. The mind boggles.
Which brings me to the reason you should vote NO on the tenth, or final, annexation issue. This is one of those instances voters universally hate…the notorious “opposite” of what you mean ballot language. You know the kind I’m talking about, where YES means NO and NO means YES.
The final annexation ballot issue concerns the St. Charles Golf Course. A YES vote would repeal the voluntary annexation of the property into the City of St. Charles and keep it in the County. A NO vote expresses your desire for the property to be in the City of St. Charles.
I say “expresses” your opinion because the voluntary annexation agreement this refers to was withdrawn and the development that prompted citizens to circulate petitions for this vote, was also withdrawn. Meanwhile, a new developer, with far less density and far greater public support from neighbors of the development, has petitioned to the City for voluntary annexation.
While in fact, the issue being voted on is probably null and void, your NO vote will be a positive statement in support of a developer who went to great lengths to accommodate neighbors. In some instances, adjacent property owners were given up to 25 feet of additional property to add to their own backyards as a buffer.
City Councilman Mark Brown, whose ward the development would be located in, also negotiated a tough, but fair, deal where the citizens of St. Charles will be given a ten acre public park complete with amenities. This is a $2 MILLION GIFT to the taxpayers of St. Charles in an area of the City badly in need of additional public park land.
In addition, the developers agreed to front the City’s portion of the extension of Fairgrounds Road South to Friedens Road. For anyone who has tried to get to the Family Arena or travel North or South on Arena Parkway at rush hour, this project will be a great reliever road for traffic. Finally, this developer has set aside a large portion of the land for commercial development, including a new grocery store, badly needed by residents in that area of the City.
St. Charles Golf Course is closed and will not be reopened. Voting YES (against annexation of this property) will not bring back the golf course. Voting NO (against repeal of the annexation) is in the self-interest of all taxpayers and residents of St. Charles. These new residents, who will use our parks, drive on our streets and use other City services, should be in the City, paying City taxes and sharing those costs with you and me.
All we have to remember Tuesday is to Vote nine times YES and the last time NO. And, as always, watch out for hanging chad.
People tend to vote in their own enlightened self-interest, when given all the facts and when issues are presented in a straightforward manner on the ballot. Thanks to confusing ballot language and an attempt to put out false and misleading information, some issues on this April’s ballot promise to be anything but straightforward.
Let me start by giving everyone a “cheat sheet” to help you with the ten annexation issues on the ballot Tuesday. Vote nine times YES and the last time NO. Of course, you only have to remember this formula if you’re planning on voting in your own self-interest.
The first nine annexation areas are “pockets”, some nearly surrounded by our city limits. They are mainly commercial and undeveloped properties. I won’t test your patience trying to write a legal description of each of the proposed annexation areas. Besides, the legal descriptions already ran in a lengthy (multiple page) legal notice required by law. It was so riveting you probably couldn’t put it down.
The easiest way to tell what areas we’re talking about is to look at any map of the City. See those gaping holes that look like someone got tired of coloring in the map? The commercial and undeveloped properties in these areas, are what the ten ballot issues are all about.
One of these pockets is St. Andrews Plaza, just West of Zumbehl on Interstate 70. Most people aren’t aware this retail area isn’t in the City of St. Charles. Yet you have to drive past it to get to our City Limits at Cave Springs. Once in the City of St. Charles, these commercial areas will help expand our tax base. That’s good for residential property owners like you and me. The more commercial, office and industrial property we have paying taxes and supporting municipal services, the less of a burden there has to be on residential property tax payers.
Another important factor is the City of St. Charles will have more to say about what type of development occurs on these properties. It is an opportunity for the City of St. Charles to control its own destiny. Currently we’re forced to play Let’s Make A Deal with developers as they decide whether or not it is in their economic interest to annex into our community. If they don’t come into the City, they develop under County standards, which are less strict than those in the City. For example, the County still allows metal buildings and puts no restrictions on used car lots. What develops around the City is important because it affects people’s image of our community and impacts our property values.
This is one of those issues where the Mayor, City Administrator and majority of the City Council agree. There was some false and misleading information circulated in an attempt by some opponents (mainly County residents) to derail our annexation issues. A ridiculous estimate for raising a two lane road was put into a draft report. I say ridiculous because for about a four block stretch of road, this person had estimated it would cost $10.5 million. What’s more, we never agreed to raise the road and the property owners along the road never asked for it to be raised. All they wanted was a larger culvert and some street lights on existing telephone poles…a minimal cost.
This report had never been approved, or signed off on, by the City Administrator. It was never accepted by the City Council. So we have a horribly inflated and inaccurate figure, about a non-existent project nobody wants, asked for, or authorized, being the subject of two articles in the local press. The mind boggles.
Which brings me to the reason you should vote NO on the tenth, or final, annexation issue. This is one of those instances voters universally hate…the notorious “opposite” of what you mean ballot language. You know the kind I’m talking about, where YES means NO and NO means YES.
The final annexation ballot issue concerns the St. Charles Golf Course. A YES vote would repeal the voluntary annexation of the property into the City of St. Charles and keep it in the County. A NO vote expresses your desire for the property to be in the City of St. Charles.
I say “expresses” your opinion because the voluntary annexation agreement this refers to was withdrawn and the development that prompted citizens to circulate petitions for this vote, was also withdrawn. Meanwhile, a new developer, with far less density and far greater public support from neighbors of the development, has petitioned to the City for voluntary annexation.
While in fact, the issue being voted on is probably null and void, your NO vote will be a positive statement in support of a developer who went to great lengths to accommodate neighbors. In some instances, adjacent property owners were given up to 25 feet of additional property to add to their own backyards as a buffer.
City Councilman Mark Brown, whose ward the development would be located in, also negotiated a tough, but fair, deal where the citizens of St. Charles will be given a ten acre public park complete with amenities. This is a $2 MILLION GIFT to the taxpayers of St. Charles in an area of the City badly in need of additional public park land.
In addition, the developers agreed to front the City’s portion of the extension of Fairgrounds Road South to Friedens Road. For anyone who has tried to get to the Family Arena or travel North or South on Arena Parkway at rush hour, this project will be a great reliever road for traffic. Finally, this developer has set aside a large portion of the land for commercial development, including a new grocery store, badly needed by residents in that area of the City.
St. Charles Golf Course is closed and will not be reopened. Voting YES (against annexation of this property) will not bring back the golf course. Voting NO (against repeal of the annexation) is in the self-interest of all taxpayers and residents of St. Charles. These new residents, who will use our parks, drive on our streets and use other City services, should be in the City, paying City taxes and sharing those costs with you and me.
All we have to remember Tuesday is to Vote nine times YES and the last time NO. And, as always, watch out for hanging chad.
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