The City Forum

NOV. 5 Will be YOUR chance to influence CitiTalk-Live Programming, Face to Face!

2011-10-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

Video from the Sept 22, "BlackWhite" Forum.

Join us on Nov. 5, 2011 at the Missouri History Museum (5700 Lindell Blvd.).

Hello CiTiTalk-Live members! Thanks for showing up in the hundreds for our last program.

TCiF will be hosting a "welcome-table" at the Missouri History Museum on Saturday, Nov. 5. We'd like to talk with you about CitiTalk-Live programming going forward. If you're interested in impacting a town hall. creating a dialogues, assisting with the organization, helping direct programs, or just learning more, let us know.

We're listening.

MHM's 2nd annual COMMUNITY ACTION FAIR

Date: Saturday, November 5th, 2011

Time: 12:00 P.M. Vendor tables, refreshments/mingling

1:30 P.M. – 3:30 P.M. Demonstrations

5:00 P.M. – Close

Venue Website: www.mohistory.org

Venue Location: Missouri History Museum – Grand Hall

Thursday, Sept. 22 at the Missouri History Museum

2011-08-08T05:40:00.000-07:00

A Town-Hall Talk Show exploring the historically changing definition of "race" in America.

Thursday Evening, 9/22/2011, at The Missouri History Museum.

THURSDAY, MAY 5....

2011-03-10T06:10:00.000-08:00

Movie Screening & Talk-show - THU MAY 5. 7-9pm

Shelbyville's African Americans, Caucasian Americans, and Hispanic Americans, experienced some of the causing pressures of "Ethnic Flight" during (1) Shelbyville's Civil Rights periods, (2) the Nineties' Hispanic Immigration, and (3) Millennial Somali refugee integration.

To that end, St. Louisans share(d) some of those migration pressures when new types of people move into our neighborhoods, and sometimes we feel threatened by such changes. We're hitting hard on this topic. DON'T MISS!

Normandy Schools Tries Splitting Freshman Classes By Gender

2010-11-26T13:34:00.000-08:00

Gender split classes are not just for private schools anymore. Normandy Public Schools are trying this scheme with high school freshmen. Do you think that tactic will improve learning and test scores appreciably? Do you think that other schools should adopt this strategy? If so, for which grades?

Check the link on STLToday.com for details, HERE.

"Love, Money, & Power": Ethnicity's Impact on STL Politics, Business, & Social Behavior

2010-11-02T05:12:00.000-07:00

FREE LiVE Talk Show & Happy Hour

By CitiTalk-Live! (The CiTY Forum) and SLU Black Law Students Assoc.

Includes expert panelists and great hosts.

at Lola (Downtown - Washington & 14th) on November 18, 2010, from 6-8pm. Great Food. Great Music, Great Panelists, Great People. & Great Conversation.

Immediately Followed by BFREEPaparazzi.com's SIMPLE PLEASURES FINALE @ The Ginger Bistro (in the Loop, 6665 Delmar, until 11pm)

For 20 months, CitiTalk-Live! has produced a series of evening town hall discussions about fun and relevant Gen-X/Y-based topics at local nightspots in St. Louis.

TALK. LEARN. LAUGH. LiVE!

Diversity Awareness Partnership Gala - 11/4/10

2010-10-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

for more info: www.dapstl.org

Southwest Buys AirTran: What this means for Lambert Airport Flights

2010-10-17T08:42:00.000-07:00

Airline Industry consolidation is nothing new for the St. Louis Travel Industry.

Area residents remember when TWA was bought in 1995 by American Airlines. Recently, Delta and Northwest, AmericaWest and USAir, & Continental and United have tied the knot.

Now, Southwest Airlines has announced its intention to buy AirTran airways. While this means that Southwest customers will soon be able to use frequent-flier miles and perks to visit destinations like Milwaukee and Atlanta, one must ask what will happen to STL air ticket prices as a result of the competitive decrease in the airline industry.

Airlines are consolidating to save money on economies of scale, and to offer more destinations to consumers. However, by eliminating competition, the STL consumer has historically lost in regards to the number of flights leaving Lambert Airport, number of direct flights to locations, and an increase in ticket prices.

So, while short-term convenience abound for individuals, this trend has got to worry the Lambert and Regional Officials on the whole. Can they convince some airlines to increase their presence at the airport, somehow? Or will the airport continue to slide in national relevance?

Check out the article on STLToday.com for more details.

STL City & County Merger? It Could Happen...

2010-09-29T20:04:00.001-07:00

In a recent press conference, St. Louis County Executive Charlie A. Dooley alluded to favoring a future governmental merger between STL City and STL Co. While this has long been advocated by many local economists as beneficial, opposition to this notion runs deep - especially in the residential-tax-advateged County.

What do you think? What is the horizon on such a merger, if it were ever to happen? Do you favor regional administrative consolidation, or do you think local rule is best for STL long-term livability?

Check out STLToday.com's article HERE!

Festival of Nations - Aug 28-29 in Tower Grove Park

2010-08-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

Check out this free festival which showcases food, music, merchandise, and performances from cultures on 6 continents. http://www.stlfestivalofnations.org/ Free and open to the public!

Stay tuned for more insightful programming, soon.

-TCiF

"TEAM DUDES" blows out "TEAM LADIES", 4-1, in THE BATTLE of THE SEXES

2010-07-18T07:45:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the great photos from Thursday's CitiTalk-LiVE! fundraising game night (c/o Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Louis and Ela LLC). Adults and kids all had a blast! Full Slideshow coming soon! Thanks for your support, & stay tuned for out next forum!

THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES Fundraising Game Night for BBBS - Thu. 7/15, 6pm

2010-07-14T17:16:00.000-07:00

Some delectable pictures of the scrumptious desserts at Rue Lafayette Coffee & Dessert Cafe/Boutique - our venue for THE BATTLE of THE SEXES (Partial Proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of St. Louis):

THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES (The DECATHLON of GAME) - Thu. 7/15, 6pm

Presented by: TCiF's CitiTalk -LiVE! and Ela LLC's GAME TIME
Date: Thursday, 7/15/10
Time: 6-9:30
Location: Rue Lafayette - Coffee and Dessert Cafe
Address: 2026 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis Mo.
Donation: Adults: $5. Kids under 18: $2
http://www.CitiTalkLIVE.com/

Summary: A Party/Quiz Game "Team Decathalon" to determine the "SUPERIOR" Gender in several fun team contests... and to raise funds for BiG BROTHERs BiG SiSTERS of ST. LOUiS

THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES (The DECATHLON of GAME) - Thu. 7/15, 6pm

2010-06-19T16:55:00.000-07:00

Partial Proceeds will be donated to BiG Brothers BiG Sisters of St. Louis

THE BATTLE OF THE SEXES (The DECATHLON of GAME) - Thu. 7/15, 6pm

Presented by: TCiF's CitiTalk -LiVE! and Ela LLC's GAME TIME
Date: Thursday, 7/15/10
Time: 6-9:30
Location: Rue Lafayette - Coffee and Dessert Cafe
Address: 2026 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis Mo.
http://www.ruelafayette.us/

Summary: A Party/Quiz Game "Decathlon" to determine the "SUPERIOR" Gender in several fun team contests... and to raise funds for a St. Louis Charity to be named soon.

THE OFFICIAL "Decathalon of GAME" events (you can sign up for more than one):
1. Jenga (best-of-3-game series)
2. Spades
3. Connect4 (5-game series)
4. Dominoes
5. Operation (best-of-3-game series)
6. Taboo
7. Perfection (best-of-3-game series)
8. Twister
9. Musical Chairs
10. Battle of The Sexes QUIZ CHALLENGE (winning team collects TWO points)

... other games will be available for non-competitive play (monopoly, scrabble, etc)!

Those playing for the honor and points for "TEAM WOMEN" and "TEAM DUDES" will be selected via those who e-mail TheCityForum@gmail.com, first... and remain in correspondence to us. Other participants will be given wild-cards. Points will be tabulated at the end of the night, and the winning gender will be announced. So if you have a team, and you can play, let us know ASAP.

e-mail TheCityForum@gmail.com to reserve a competitive spot.

MEN vs. WOMEN. The Battle of the Sexes. Game 7. Win or Go Home....

MONEY TALK$ - Regional Arts Commission 6:30pm 5/19/10

2010-04-28T20:52:00.000-07:00

TCiF’s CitiTalk - LiVE! & SLAREP present…
MONEY TALK$

A Paneled Town Hall Talk-Show about how to improve YOUR FINANCIAL STANDING via investment, fiscal planning, & entrepreneurship!

Featuring:
Nate Johnson – SLAREP President / Host
Teddy Blackett – CEO, BFreePaparrazzi LLC
Tim Hayden - SLU Assoc. Prof. , Entrepreneurship
Dr. Jen McCleary –Owner, Triad Chiropractic
.. And other Financial Experts!

Wed., May 19th, 6:30-8:45pm
Regional Arts Commission - 6128 Delmar
Suggested Donation: Just $6

Can St. Ann's NW Plaza Development be Saved?

2010-04-14T20:19:00.000-07:00

Can St. Ann's NW Plaza Development be Saved?

The St. Louis Post-Dispatch examines the renovation and development plans for St. Ann's NW Plaza Shopping Center. NW Plaza was the popping spot back in the 60's and 70's, but now on Sears and a 24-Hr Fitness Gym remain. Can it be redeveloped into a viable commercial property?

"CitiTalk-LIVE!!!: The EDUCATION Forum & GAME T!ME" is Sat. 3/27, 8pm

2010-03-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

TCiF's "CitiTalk-LIVE!!!: The EDUCATION Forum & GAME T!ME" is Sat. 3/27, 8pm @ Legacy Books & Cafe, 5249 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO.

(RSVP HERE: on FACEBOOK or LINKEDiN)

Since Feb. 2009, EVERY SINGLE "CitiTalk-LIVE!!!" town hall that THE CiTY FORUM has organized has been successful in entertaining our audience, and each forum has provoked meaningful conversation and connection in our attendees.

Why?

It is because CitiTalk-LIVE!!! is just like being inside your favorite talk show with the smartest GEN-X/Y people in St. Louis!

Thus, on Sat. 3/27, the Best, LIVE Gen-X/Y Talk Show in St. Louis will talk, laugh, learn, and banter about "The Future of Public/Private Education Options in St. Louis - Improving or Declining?"

But wait, THERE'S MORE! We will also hold a fun video/party game night after the 90 min. talk show.

ela LLC, producers of "GAME TIME!" events, will be generously providing the video, party, and board games!

It all starts at 8pm on Sat. 2/20. Ends at midnight.

It will be held at the Legacy Books & Cafe; 5249 Delmar Blvd. St. Louis, MO.

$10 suggested donation - w/FREE DRINK TICKETS

Don't miss a second!

Thanks for your support, and tell as many friends as you can!

SLPS Opens Another "Gifted School" for K-5 to Retain Middle-class Students

2010-02-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

St. Louis Public Schools is expanding its program for gifted students. They plan to convert Mallinckrodt Elementary School into a program aimed toward gifted students between kindergarten and 5th grade. The school will open next year by servicing students K-2.

Do you think the City should open more of these schools in St. Louis City? Also, do you think that more emphasis should be placed on provided public gifted education for JHS and HS students? Also, does this make SLPS more attractive to young families? Finally, how do you think this affects non-gifted students?

Check out the article in STLTODAY.com by following the link.

Doctors don't make house-calls, but St. Louis teachers do!!!

2010-02-22T19:51:00.000-08:00

STLTODAY.com highlights a pilot program where teachers visit students' homes twice a year to connect with guardians and the home environment. This is a one-year trial to see if the program can effectively improve student performance and rates of parental involvement in the learning process. Click the jump in order to learn more!

Tragedy strikes a St. Louis Workplace. Could reduced "Concealed Weapon Carry" restrictions improved security?

2010-01-07T18:12:00.000-08:00

A tragic workplace shooting spree claimed 3 lives at the ABB Company in St. Louis at Union and I-70 on Jan 7. We here at TCiF extend our condolences to the victims and their families.

Like most workplaces in St. Louis, employees are not allowed to carry concealed weapons onto ABB company property.

If other employees were permitted to carry a concealed weapon, do you think the loss of life could have been reduced?

A) Yes. If another employee had a concealed firearm, the shooter could have be stopped after the 1st shot.

B) No. Another armed employee would have either made no difference or further complicated a dangerous situation.

Education: Will Fitness Requirement for Graduation Catch On, Nationwide?

2009-12-13T16:32:00.000-08:00

A recent CNN article detailed an interesting situation developing at Lincoln University, a HBCU. The school is requiring students whose Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeds a value of 30 to take a fitness course in order to fulfill graduation requirements. The course hours are at cost to the student, and they must pass the course to graduate. Stdents with a lower BMI do not have to take the course.

Some people agree with the premise of publicly-funded schools enforcing fitness education requirements on students. Others believe that such a policy is discriminatory. Do you think that such an intiative should be enforced in St. Louis Public Schools?

A) Yes - The physical welfare of students has an impact on students' future success, so it is justifed and benificial.

B) No - This is another example of "nanny-state" insitiutions going too far and interfering with individual freedoms.

Missouri Histori Museum talks about Health Care Reform

2009-11-26T12:52:00.001-08:00

FYI...

AKA Business Forum on 11/21/09

2009-11-14T11:37:00.000-08:00

Just FYI...

Voting Results for "-isms in the Workplace" Forum @ The Missouri History Museum

2009-10-17T12:20:00.000-07:00

The CAREER FORUM was a success! Thanks to St. Louis' best and brightest for coming out! We had to condense the topic descriptions here, but you can e-mail TheCityForum@gmail.com to ask for a PDF of the full descriptions! Topics and # of votes listed below!

Scenario I: “Frank” vs. Age Discrimination in Job Interviews

A) Seek legal restitution (lawsuit, etc). - 0

B) Take the dates off your resume & update your appearance to appear younger. - 15

C) “Dumb Down” your resume to appear less experienced. - 4

D) Continue down the same path. It’s tough out there and it’s a numbers game! - 19

E) Go back to school for another degree, or seek training in a different field. - 1

Scenario II: “Bill” - A Gay executive deals with making an unpopular decision.

A) Go directly to HR to discuss internal actions, possible legal actions. - 18

B) Talk to the former internal contender and come to an understanding without involving HR. - 20

C) Talk to the group as a whole (ex. Town hall meeting forum) to explain why / how you came up with your decision. - 6

D) Fire the former contender due to insubordination / personal attacks. Make an example out of her. - 4

Scenario III: “Padma,” the New Employee, and Religious Meetings in the Workplace.

A) Talk to the members of the noontime bible group on no longer pressuring the new hire to attend future bible meetings. - 22

B) Ask Senior Faculty members of the bible group to either relocate the group meetings off campus, or shut down their meetings completely. - 4

C) Don’t do anything since she hasn’t come to you with a complaint. If she does refer her to Human Resources. - 0

D) Ask the new hire about her thoughts on the situation. - 20

Scenario IV: “Mary” and the PhilJo Co. Minority Contract

A) Try to verbally convince her boss to extend the contract to PhilJo. - 21

B) Do nothing, because the decision was already made by her boss. - 4

C) Blow the whistle externally to outside authorities and PhilJo. - 14

D) Blow the whistle internally. Discuss the situation with Legal, HR, and any other superiors. - 2

Scenario V: Tenure, the Latina, and the Diversity Initiative – Did the committee make the right decision?

A) Yes. The University President (and also your boss) is promoting "diversity in hiring", and we followed through. This kills 2 birds with one stone. - 0

B) Yes. By hiring the Latina candidates it diversifies our department and will bring about a different backgrounds / thought processes and therefore fresh ideas. - 34

C) No. Race and gender should never be a decisive factor in hiring. It’s “reverse discrimination.” - 1

D) No. The other candidate is #1 in his field, and we missed getting a fantastic hire. - 0

2009-09-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

"In anticipation of the upcoming exhibit, "RACE: Are We So Different?" (Jan. 2010), The Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Beacon and KETC Channel 9 have partnered to create a yearlong series of events, in-depth articles and video pieces that focus on issues of race and discrimination in our region."

Next, in partnership with this event event series, TCiF's next forum will be THE CAREER FORUM - 6pm on Thursday, Oct. 1 @ The Missouri History Museum(Lindell and DeBaliviere Blvd. in St. Louis' Forest Park).
It is FREE.

THE CiTY FORUM presents "The Career Forum": A FREE 100-min. town hall forum about counteracting "-isms" (subtle/overt demographic differences) in our work environments (i.e. Age-ism, sexism, discrimination based on sexuality, racism, and other "-isms"). In a talk-show-like format, we will discuss several scenarios in which demographic differences can cause career difficulties. The audience and a small panel of experts will then collectively decide the appropriate response. This forum will be preceded by a brief networking session.

Networking (with complimentary light refreshments and snacks): 6-6:45pm
Town Hall Forum (with 3 panelists and 2 host-moderators, Sonji Young and Reena Hajat): 6:45-8:35pm

moderated by:
Sonji Young, Civic Engagement Director - The Engagency Group, LLC, and
Reena Hajat, Executive Director - Diversity Awareness Partnership

Featured Panelists:
Dr. David Kaplan (SLU Cook Business School - Diversity),
Mr. Reggie Farrar (HR Manager - Express Scripts), &
Dr. Traice Webb-Bradley (Psychologist - SIUE)

This Event is also supported by URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS of METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS.

Thanks for supporting TCiF. YOUR continued involvement and contributions have made this possible. THANK YOU - tell your co-workers, and invite a friend!

Sincerely,
Kwame A. Ofori
Director - THE CiTY FORUM
Talk. Laugh. Learn. LiVE!

St. Louis Co. - "To SMOKE or NOT TO SMOKE; That is the Question!"

2009-08-29T12:44:00.000-07:00

On Nov. 3, St. Louis County voters will get to decide whether smoking will be banned in most commercial establishments . This measure excludes casino floors, Airport smoking lounges, and bars/clubs whose income from food less than 25 percent of gross income. St. Louis City would likely pass a similar bill if the county version passes. Despite these limitations, should this bill be passed?

A) Yes. It's perfect.

B) Yes. It's a step in the right direction - despite not being a total ban.

C) No. It unfairly handicaps St. Louis Co. bars/clubs versus casinos, Metro East, and St. Charles establishments.

D) No. Government should stay out of the affairs of private business. If the owner wants to allow smoking, it's his decision.

THE CAREER FORUM - Thu. 10/1 @ 6pm

2009-08-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

"In anticipation of the upcoming exhibit, "RACE: Are We So Different?" (Jan. 2010), The Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Beacon and KETC Channel 9 have partnered to create a yearlong series of events, in-depth articles and video pieces that focus on issues of race and discrimination in our region."

Next, in partnership with this event event series, TCiF's next forum will be THE CAREER FORUM - 6pm on Thursday, Oct. 1 @ The Missouri History Museum (Lindell and DeBaliviere Blvd. in St. Louis' Forest Park).
It is FREE.

THE CiTY FORUM presents "The Career Forum": A FREE 90-min. town hall forum about counteracting "-isms" (subtle/overt demographic differences) in our work environments (i.e. Age-ism, sexism, discrimination based on sexuality, racism, and other "-isms"). In a talk-show-like format, we will discuss several scenarios in which demographic differences can cause career difficulties. The audience and a small panel of experts will then collectively decide the appropriate response. This forum will be preceded by a brief networking session.

Networking (with complimentary light refreshments and snacks): 6-6:45pm
Town Hall Forum (with 3 panelists and 2 host-moderators, Sonji Young and Reena Hajat): 6:45-8:15pm

This Event is also supported by URBAN LEAGUE YOUNG PROFESSIONALS of METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS.

THE RULES of THE GAME 2: "Grown Folks' Business"

2009-07-06T21:40:00.001-07:00

Below are statistics on how St. Louis' Generation-X/Y attendees voted at THE CiTY FORUM's (TCiF) Town Hall discussion on 8/8/09. (http://TheCityForum.blogspot.com& thecityforum@gmail.com). Participants discussed several pre-arranged dating/relationship/pick-up scenarios and collectively determined the right thing to do. We combined it with a game night and 90's Urban music listening party.

Join TCiF's Facebook FAN PAGE to stay updated on future forums, including THE CAREER FORUM on Thursday. Oct. 1st at 6pm at the Missouri History Museum.

THE CiTY FORUM presents "The Career Forum": A 90-min. town hall forum about counteracting "-isms" (subtle/overt demographic differences) in our work environments (i.e. Age-ism, sexism, discrimination based on sexuality, racism, and other "-isms"). In a talk-show-like format, we will discuss several scenarios in which demographic differences can cause career difficulties. This forum will be preceded by a 45-min. networking session at 6pm.

RULES 2 SCENARIOS Answers:

RULES SCENARIO #7: You have kids from a previous relationship. When should someone tell this info to prospects?
A) Within the 1st 5 minutes of introducing yourself.
B) On the First Date.
C) On the Second Date, or later...

A) Men: 21% Women: 28%
B) Men: 79% Women: 72%
C) Men: 0% Women: 0%

"RULES 2" SCENARIO #14: Is it OK for a woman to "Pop the Question"; either for (1) marriage, or (2) an exclusive relationship?
A) yes for "1", yes for "2".
B) yes for "1", no for "2".
C) no for "1", yes for "2".
D) no for "1", no for "2".

A) Men: 0% Women: 7%
B) Men: 0% Women: 0%
C) Men: 36% Women: 79%
D) Men: 0% Women: 0%

"RULES 2" SCENARIO #16: You are married to a partner of a different faith (Christian, Muslim, Jewish, etc..). What faith will you teach your children?
A&B) Teach Both faiths.
C) Agnostically, then let them choose when they're teenagers.
D) I'll only marry within my faith, so it's a moot point.

A&B) Men: 67% Women: 72%
C) Men: 0% Women: 0%
D) Men: 33% Women: 28%

RULES SCENARIO #11: Do dating "leagues" predominate dating in St. Louis?
A) Yes - by physical characteristics.
B) Yes - by economic status/class.
C) Yes - by apparent material possessions.
D) Not really - a good personality can allow you to date almost anyone.

A) Men: 59% Women: 80%
B) Men: 6% Women: 0%
C) Men: 0% Women: 0%
D) Men: 35% Women: 20%

"RULES 2" SCENARIO #17: In St. Louis, at what age do most men advance past their "Player" phase? When do most women advance past their "I Need Random Attention from Guys" phase?
A) 24
B) 29
C) 34
D) Undetermined; as long as there is ample SUPPLY, he/she will feel the pull of "playing the field."

A) Men: 0% Women: 0%
B) Men: 0% Women: 0%
C) Men: 0% Women: 0%
D) Men: 100% Women: 100%

Should the St. Louis Police Department Get More Money to Sustain Employment Levels?

2009-06-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

The St. Louis Police Department is facing a budget crisis. The SLPD is currently applying for $18M in federal stimulus funds to avoid firing 105 police officers. The SLPD currently employs 1335 officers with 37 cadets. In addition, the SLPD HQ building has been asses to require $95M in repairs (Source: STLtoday.com).

The hypothesized problem is that although St. Louis' population has stabilized after a steady decline since the 1970's, police staffing has not kept pace with the declining population trend. Although the SLPD has reduced staffing by 1/3 since 1970, the city's population is less than 1/2 of it's 1970 figure. So there are less citizens available to pay for the SLPD, contributing to the shortfall.

The question is this: in light of current crime conditions in St. Louis, should the SLPD reduce staff? The ratio of 4 officers to 1000 citizens is higher than most major US urban areas. However, in this recession environment, we have seen violent crime increase in STL this summer.

Should St. Louis:

A) Pass bonds/tax to come up with the $$$ to keep current police force staffing levels and fix the HQ Building?

B) Continue the SLPD's reliance on Stimulus $$$ Life Support?

C) Encourage the police department to reduce staffing levels?

D) default on its finances, turn city control over to the State, and push for reincorporation into St. Louis County?

Let us know what you think!

Help! Mother Nature vs. STL Metropolitan Sewer District! Can Residents wait to see who will win?

2009-06-18T20:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a wet and wild spring in St. Louis weather-wise. We are currently well above normal rainfall, and residents in several local neighborhoods are really feeling it (literally). Over the last 5 years, flash flooding has been inundating local homes and neighborhoods that have been historically dry. Although flooding has hit Wentzville and Brentwood, the most attention has been paid to the Man-Paved River Des Peres in University City. The following Post-Dispatch article link details the suffering of local residents along the 1100 block of Wilson Avenue in U-City.

Three Popular explanations have been offered for the sudden rash of flash floods:

A) Over-development in natural floodplains (i.e. Chesterfield) has moved the location of water overflow to different areas.

B) MSD (Metropolitan Sewer District) sewers are overwhelmed by new homes/impervious surfaces reducing natural water absorbtion/drainage, and thus need billions for sewer upgrades.

C) Natural Cycles. Like El Nino, it will come and go...

What do you think is the cause, and what do you think should be done?

VOTING RESULTS from THE RULES of THE GAME Town Hall

2009-06-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

How Men and Women voted at the last TCiF Forum/Event on Sat., 06/06/09:

RULES SCENARIO #13: You've been "platonic-ally dating/hanging out with" a friend for a while. You want to escalate your friendship into either casual "hooking up" or a romance. Should you:
A) Do nothing: They'll eventually see how great you are and make a move.
MALE: 0%
FEMALE: 44%
B) Insert alcohol/tight dress to get it crackin.
MALE: 14%
FEMALE: 0%
C) Ornately profess your feelings demonstratively.
MALE: 57%
FEMALE: 56%
D) Give up. You are lost in "THE FRIEND ZONE"!
MALE: 28%
FEMALE: 0%

RULES SCENARIO #10: The best place to find a good significant other is:
A) A place of worship.
MALE: 11%
FEMALE: 25%
B) At an after-hours entertainment function (Bar, Club, or Other Performance).
MALE: 11%
FEMALE: 0%
C) Through Friends.
MALE: 22%
FEMALE: 42%
D) The internet.
MALE: 22%
FEMALE: 8%
E) At work/professional functions.
MALE: 33%
FEMALE: 25%

"RULES" SCENARIO #3: A random cutie contacts you on Facebook and starts trying to HOLLA. You are intrigued. Do you:
A. Ignore the flirtations. You don't know them from a can o' paint!
MALE: 9%
FEMALE: 47%
B. Engage in a prolonged cyber-message courtship, possibly ending in meeting at some party.
MALE: 27%
FEMALE: 27%
C. get it cracking after a few messages. Set up a dinner-date and see what happens.
MALE: 63%
FEMALE: 27%

RULES SCENARIO #5:
Your spouse/fiancee now hates clubbing, dancing, and random socializing in STL. The prefer to be a homebody, but you still love it! Do you:
A) Continue clubbing without them. This is who you are.
MALE: 50%
FEMALE: 50%
B) Endlessly coax them into coming out with you by bartering favors.
MALE: 50%
FEMALE: 50%
C) Hang it up. Stay home forever.
MALE: 0%
FEMALE: 0%

RULES SCENARIO #9: When should a woman begin contributing financially to romantic dates?
A) Only if she invites the other person out.
MALE: 67%
FEMALE: 52%
B) Anytime.
MALE: 22%
FEMALE: 30%
C) By the 3rd Date.
MALE: 11%
FEMALE: 13%
D) Never.
MALE: 0%
FEMALE: 4%

THE RULES OF THE GAME - Sat. June 6th!!

2009-05-16T21:52:00.001-07:00

RULES SCENARIO #13: You've been "platonic-ally dating/hanging out with" a friend for a while. You want to escalate your friendship into either casual "hooking up" or a romance. Should you:

A) Do nothing: They'll eventually see how great you are and make a move.
B) Insert alcohol/tight dress to get it crackin.
C) Ornately profess your feelings demonstratively.
D) Give up. You are lost in "THE FRIEND ZONE"!

RULES SCENARIO #12: You and your spouse/mate are involved in a long-distance relationship. How often do you need to see them?

A) Bi-weekly.
B) Monthly.
C) Every 3 months.
D) "It's complicated" - It's cool to date other people while we're apart so the length of time isn't an issue.

RULES SCENARIO #11: Do dating "leagues" predominate dating in St. Louis?

A) Yes - by physical characteristics.
B) Yes - by economic status/class.
C) Yes - by apparent material possessions.
D) Not really - a good personality can allow you to date almost anyone.

RULES SCENARIO #10: The best place to find a good significant other is:

A) A place of worship.
B) At an after-hours entertainment function (Bar, Club, or Other Performance).
C) Through Friends.
D) The internet.
E) At work/professional functions.

RULES SCENARIO #9: When should a woman begin contributing financially to romantic dates?

A) Only if she invites the other person out.
B) Anytime.
C) By the 3rd Date.
D) Never.

RULES SCENARIO #8: You and one of your good friends discover you have been currently dating the same person for just a few weeks. Do you:

A) Make no changes. Let the best dater WIN!
B) Agree to both not date the person.
C) Demand that one of you stop dating the person.

RULES SCENARIO #7: You have kids from a previous relationship. When should someone tell this info to prospects?

A) Within the 1st 5 minutes of introducing yourself.
B) On the First Date.
C) On the Second Date, or later...

RULES SCENARIO #6: If unmarried, which area code do you think your future spouse would likely be from? And why?
A) 314.
B) 618.
C) 636.
D) Somewhere else.
E) I'll never get married.

RULES SCENARIO #5: Your spouse/fiancee now hates clubbing, dancing, and random socializing in STL. The prefer to be a homebody, but you still love it! Do you:

A) Continue clubbing without them. This is who you are.
B) Endlessly coax them into coming out with you by bartering favors.
C) Hang it up. Stay home forever.

"RULES" SCENARIO #4: Ladies, you are ready to become intimate for the 1st time with your new beau. Do you:

A) Put it down on him, WWE-style: no holds barred! I got dat "good-good"!
B) Hold back a little bit on the freakiness. Save some for later.
C) He ain't gettin' any til marriage. If he liked it he shoulda put a ring on it...

"RULES" SCENARIO #3: A random cutie contacts you on Facebook and starts trying to HOLLA. You are intrigued. Do you:

A. Ignore the flirtations. You don't know them from a can o' paint!
B. Engage in a prolonged cyber-message courtship, possibly ending in meeting at some party.
C. get it cracking after a few messages. Set up a dinner-date and see what happens.

"RULES" SCENARIO #2: You really like him/her, but he/she is a little bit too, well, "EXTRA" in a few places. Do you:

A. Say nothing? This is what you signed up for.
B. Slip them the Listerine/Norelco/Not-so-fresh-feeling value pack from BB&B. Then hide.
C. Say directly "It's either me or those Cornrows in your back hair... Now Choose. "

SAMPLE SCENARIO #1: You are not satisfied with your mate's general attitude towards work and lack of ambition. Although you have tried to convince him/her, he/she seems to be reluctant to change. Do you:

A: Go with the flow - you can't change a person unless they initiate it, themselves.
B: Confront them with an ultimatum - get it together or get out.
C: Keep them around until you find someone better - then, unceremoniously fire the slacker.

CNN Highlights "R-Sole" in U-City as Ground Zero for "Sneakerhead Mecca"

2009-05-12T21:50:00.000-07:00

Okay. That may be a bit strong. But R-sole, right by the Coldstone Creamery in the Delmar Loop, seems to be doing big business with its luxury-priced line of sneakers. So much so that they have opened up a second location in Memphis. Not bad for a niche store. See the entire CNN article here.

Is St. Louis Headed in the Right Direction? Local RUCKUS blamed on a TX politician's statement

2009-05-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

A local ruckus was recently incited when Mayor-Elect Brewster (pictured above) of Austin, TX critiqued St. Louis in a campaign ad. His ad essentially stated: "Elect me if you don't want to become like St. Louis." Once the St. Louis local media got a hold of the commercial, a firestorm od debate was ignited amongst local blogs. View the STLtoday.com post HERE.

What's really interesting is the variety of opinions expressed there. Some say "STL: Love it or LEAVE it." Others quizzically cite our professional sports team as a key advantage. Others cite the St. Louis City population decline since 1950 as a reason to really address long-term planning attitudes.

Read the comments below the linked story. What do you think? Are we headed in "THE RIGHT DIRECTION?"

High-Speed Rail Coming to St. Louis by 2012?

2009-04-17T23:09:00.001-07:00

St. Louis to Chicago in less than 3 hours? The US is now seriously investing in High Speed Rail. It was made official in an administration announcement today. The Chicago-St. Louis route is a priority project, and is part of the stimulus package for economic recovery. This move could really give St. Louis a boost, commercially.

Source: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/04/16/obama.rail/index.html

Imo's vs. Pi - The Battle For St. Louis' Best Pizza

2009-04-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

So maybe you've heard already. President Obama's proclaimed favorite pizza is.... (drumroll) PI deep dish (right across from the Pageant in the U-City/Delmar Loop). Mr. Obama just ordered long-distance delivery from Pi-Owner Chris Sommers, and he is happy to deliver to the White House for the priceless national publicity.

Naturally, the Post-Dispatch article brought out the Lovers, and the "Haters," in the story's comment section. Amongst the typical non-related debates about stimulus money, Iraq, and taxpayer dollars (we are not paying for it, fyi), the question about the best ST. LOUIS STYLE PIZZA came up. Imo's vs. Pi.

Simply put: Which is better, and why?

A. IMO's St. Louis-style thin crust with provolone combo cheese, or

B. Pi's Chicago-style deep dish (or for that matter, any other type of pizza)?

Cast your vote by commenting here!
TCiF ( Unity Forum and Game Night - 4/18 - Nubia Cafe)

Source: http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/3C8F43FA92719BDC862575910082922A?OpenDocument#tp_newCommentAnchor

The Preliminary Topics for THE UNITY FORUM on 4/18 are up. What do you think? Give Feedback!

2009-03-27T16:15:00.000-07:00

THE UNITY FORUM will be a 90-minute town-hall discussion, followed by a game night. Doors will open at 7:30. The discussion will start at 8pm. The game night will start at 9:30. We'll wrap up around midnight. The format will be in a "CNN TalkBack Live" talk-show style.

A preview of Some Sample Topic Questions for the Forum, as moderaterd by Hot 104.1's Jami Dolby and STL Alderman Jeff Cohen. Please comment on these topics there and suggest more if you see fit. We may use them in the forum.

1. What are your impressions of Metropolitan St. Louis, East St. Louis, and St. Charles? Do you have a generally positive or negative impression of where we live?

2. How do you believe Metro St. Louis and its people are viewed by other cities?
i.e. “small-town” mentality?

3. How have you seen the culture of Metro St. Louis change particularly in the last decade? How do you thing the culture will develop in the next decade?
i.e more cosmopolitan, less/more segregated, individualism vs. collectivism

4. What sort of identity do you believe that Metro St. Louis has that sets it apart from other cities?
i.e. why do you like/dislike living here? What makes you stay?

5. What are the origins of social cliques within Gen-X/Y St. Louis residents? Are they here to stay?
Class
Cultural division
School districts
Political constructs / Government institutions
Socio-economic constructs
Geographic divisions
Real-estate segregation

6. If you have lived in another town for more then 3 months, what has been your experience there? Are people more/less friendly initially? Does it take a longer time to form meaningful bonds?

7. Would a reduction in cliquish behavior be good for St. Louis in general?

8. If cliques are a problem in St. Louis, what are some effective ways to expand your social circle responsibly and meaningfully? What are the benefits/drawbacks from doing this?

STL Metro Bus/Rail Cutbacks Become National News on CNN. Should STL County pay the 1/2-penny sales tax?

2009-03-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Last fall, St. Louis County voters were asked to vote in favor of a small tax increase to add funding for bus routes and other mass transit operations in the bedroom communities surrounding the city of St. Louis.

Backers were optimistic, but then saw the mood change as the struggles on Wall Street mounted, and dropping 401(k) balances made voters more stingy. It didn't help, these backers contend, that anger at the first installment of the $700 billion Wall Street bailout also was festering on Election Day.

Now, St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley worries the cutbacks will have an adverse effect on an already struggling area economy.

Should we (St. Louis County) vote for the 1/2-penny sales tax when it appears on the ballot this fall?

excerpts from: http://www.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/03/27/st.louis.no.bus/index.html

THE UNITY FORUM & Game Night

2009-03-20T05:57:00.000-07:00

Hello!

After some hard work, the folks at THE CITY FORUM (TCiF) and SUITESTL.com have organized the next forum, THE UNITY FORUM & Game Night. We are partnering with ULYP-STL, ConnectWith, and FOCUS-STL for this one. The event info is below. Thanks for sticking with us - we plan to hold a forum every 6-8 weeks, henceforth. However, in order to sustain this positive momentum, we need your help!
Tell your friends about THE UNITY FORUM and forward this e-mail to interested parties! The FORUM won't work without the input of enlightened individual like yourself, so we need your help.

Let's create something good in "The Lou". Hope to see you there, and bring a game to share!
-TCiF

Delmar Blvd. = "Barack Obama Blvd." ?

2009-03-05T18:31:00.000-08:00

Within St. Louis City Limits, Delmar Boulevard has been honorably been designated as "Barack Obama Blvd." Is this justified or premature?

Link: http://www.ksdk.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=168033

sample blog

2009-03-02T18:30:00.000-08:00

this is a test blog.

2009-02-28T16:35:00.000-08:00