3 of my favorite neighborhoods, Shaw, Tower Grove East and Tower Grove South have many, many properties without garages. The foundations appear to be there, even remnants of walls and other various structures exist. But, I've got to wonder: what happened to all the garages in Shaw and TGE?
What do you think it would run to build a new garage? Has anyone out there done this, either themselves or contracted it out?
Bragging Time Part 1
Among other St. Louis blogs, I read urbanstl daily. I find it one of the best sources of local news and entertainment. They have an unwritten rule that I don't agree with however. The rule is that you cannot compare St. Louis to other cities. And, while I completely understand this rule is an effort to keep things constructive and not just too negative. However, I think comparing St. Louis to other cities is an important thing to do. My reason? Because I'm of the staunch opinion that St. Louis is the best city in the region and is much cooler than many other American cities. It's okay to brag STL-lovers! I like to hear people talk about why STL is unique to other places, for better and for worse. I love agreeing with the pros and trying to debunk the cons (not always successfully). I want to encourage the comparison of STL to other places on this site and in general. I think it would elevate our sense of pride. This is great place to live, work and play, and most people in the metro region don't even know it, or at least underestimate it.
That being said, I don't think most St. Louisians are good at bragging. On one hand, it's a strength. We are a humble bunch, as I think many Midwesterners are. Bragging doesn't come as easy for us as say a New Yorker, Chicagoan, San Franciscan, Portlander. We're not on an oceanic coast, we don't have mountains, we're not a cosmopolitan "shopping city", we're not a huge metropolis, we're not Cub fans. BUT, we are THE coolest city within a 4 hour drive (maybe 5, maybe 8).
As a whole, I don't think we could collectively be accused of being elitists or even proud for that matter. And here lies one of the problems for our region. However, I am proud. I love St. Louis. I think we're better than any city within a 4 hour drive from here.
I want St. Louis to be the bee's knees. I am firmly convinced that St. Louis is the best city within a 250 mile radius. Hell, it might even be in the top 10 in the country. That's why I like seeing those white and black "CITY" stickers. I like that people are proud of their city. Ever seen a boastful "Ellisville", "Warson Woods", "Marlborough" or "Champ" sticker? Didn't think so. Is that because those cities suck? Or, is it because they have no identity? Not sure, I just wish we had more regional pride. And maybe a merge would lead to more regional pride and unity.
Is that too provocative? I am trying to stir the pot a bit and let anyone who comes across this site know that I am up for hearing all comparisons of St. Louis to other cities in the region, Midwest or country as a whole.
I am pleased to read of Mayor Slay's recent mention of consolidation of services/govts. with the city and suburbs. I am shocked at how many opinions out there think the county would be doing us a favor by merging. Huh? I know the recent discussion is more around service consolidation than expanding the cities borders. But, if that was the case and we absorbed some county municipalities, we'd be doing them a favor. We'd allow them to identify with our heritage, cultural institutions, history, momentum, potential, namesake, world wide identity, etc. I think the county needs more of an identity. For instance, I like that Webster Groves and Kirkwood have a HS football rivalry. I like that they extend that rivalry to include a city to city rivalry. I think both of those cities are decent and nice. I wish more of our neighbors liked and were proud of their cities.
I don't think Rockwood will ever have a great rivalry with Parkway because few identify those schools with a city.
What does St. Charles have on St. Louis? How about Chesterfield, Wildwood, Crestwood, Belleville, O'Fallon, Edwardsville, Columbia, Creve Coeur? I want to know, I really do.
Then to take it a step further, what does Nashville, Kansas City, Louisville, Memphis, Indianapolis, Springfield have on St. Louis.
I am willing to have a civil debate and compare St. Louis to any city, large or small in the region or outside of the region. Which city is better than St. Louis and why? Why is St. Louis better than other cities? Now is your chance, any takers?
That being said, I don't think most St. Louisians are good at bragging. On one hand, it's a strength. We are a humble bunch, as I think many Midwesterners are. Bragging doesn't come as easy for us as say a New Yorker, Chicagoan, San Franciscan, Portlander. We're not on an oceanic coast, we don't have mountains, we're not a cosmopolitan "shopping city", we're not a huge metropolis, we're not Cub fans. BUT, we are THE coolest city within a 4 hour drive (maybe 5, maybe 8).
As a whole, I don't think we could collectively be accused of being elitists or even proud for that matter. And here lies one of the problems for our region. However, I am proud. I love St. Louis. I think we're better than any city within a 4 hour drive from here.
I want St. Louis to be the bee's knees. I am firmly convinced that St. Louis is the best city within a 250 mile radius. Hell, it might even be in the top 10 in the country. That's why I like seeing those white and black "CITY" stickers. I like that people are proud of their city. Ever seen a boastful "Ellisville", "Warson Woods", "Marlborough" or "Champ" sticker? Didn't think so. Is that because those cities suck? Or, is it because they have no identity? Not sure, I just wish we had more regional pride. And maybe a merge would lead to more regional pride and unity.
Is that too provocative? I am trying to stir the pot a bit and let anyone who comes across this site know that I am up for hearing all comparisons of St. Louis to other cities in the region, Midwest or country as a whole.
I am pleased to read of Mayor Slay's recent mention of consolidation of services/govts. with the city and suburbs. I am shocked at how many opinions out there think the county would be doing us a favor by merging. Huh? I know the recent discussion is more around service consolidation than expanding the cities borders. But, if that was the case and we absorbed some county municipalities, we'd be doing them a favor. We'd allow them to identify with our heritage, cultural institutions, history, momentum, potential, namesake, world wide identity, etc. I think the county needs more of an identity. For instance, I like that Webster Groves and Kirkwood have a HS football rivalry. I like that they extend that rivalry to include a city to city rivalry. I think both of those cities are decent and nice. I wish more of our neighbors liked and were proud of their cities.
I don't think Rockwood will ever have a great rivalry with Parkway because few identify those schools with a city.
Let me get back to my bragging, though...
Let's get this straight: St. Louis is the best city in the metropolitan region hands down. I'm willing to hear all arguments to the contrary that pits a specific metropolitan city vs. St. Louis. Which city has more potential to be a world class city? St. Louis or a consolidation of 91 municipalities in the county? St. Louis.
What does St. Charles have on St. Louis? How about Chesterfield, Wildwood, Crestwood, Belleville, O'Fallon, Edwardsville, Columbia, Creve Coeur? I want to know, I really do.
Then to take it a step further, what does Nashville, Kansas City, Louisville, Memphis, Indianapolis, Springfield have on St. Louis.
I am willing to have a civil debate and compare St. Louis to any city, large or small in the region or outside of the region. Which city is better than St. Louis and why? Why is St. Louis better than other cities? Now is your chance, any takers?
Crime Beef #2: Fight or Flight
Here's a common city story I've heard recounted on several occasions: a person used to live in St. Louis or any other big city for that matter. They say they had to leave because the crime just got too bad. They would have loved to stay. Everything they liked to do was so close and affordable. They loved the house, the neighborhood had such character...so on and so on.
Here's how I read that story: You compromised and ran (cut & run). You quit. You lost. You gave up the neighborhood to thugs. You let them take over. You were a visitor. You are part of the problem. You perpetuate and tolerate violence, crime and rude citizen behavior by allowing it to intimidate you, scare you and eventually make you disinvest yourself from the city. Strong words, yes. But:
If you love something, you've got to fight for it. City people in 2009 seem to love their homes, neighborhoods and city. I vow to always fight for my neighborhood. If there are nuisance neighbors or thugs roaming in your neck of the woods, call the cops. Confront them yourself. Make it known that they don't belong. City people love their neighborhoods and put up with things many in the burbs don't deal with. That means we are willing to fight for them and keep them and improve them. Make them places where all people can succeed and pursue their personal dreams. Don't pull a baby-boomer and run for the hills. Pull a Gen-X, Gen-Y and call bullshit on thugs and thieves. Don't be scared of people who are different looking, or posturing, or lurking. Do be scared of people who are threatening to our peaceful, active existence. Take action against them.
I hope I don't come across as a tough guy, or a conservative, gun-happy hypocrite. We've been victims of crime here, no doubt. Minor crime in the big picture, but we still followed through with them with the police and NSOs and aldermen. If my wife or I were ever mugged, personally accosted, or worse, I know what she'd do, I think I know what I'd do. We'd surrender in the moment to save our souls and lives. I'm not a conceal and carry kind of guy, I'll give it up. But look out on the rebound. I will fight. I won't run. I will cry out and try to take the thugs down systematically and collectively.
Call me a wuss, I don't care. I'll give it up to avoid confrontation. My wealth does not lie in my pockets. You can have anything on me. However, I won't run. That's the true loser. There are many who have chosen to run in our history. Many of them are residing in the suburbs of the region. Many hate or fear the city because they ran, they don't get it. I'm kind of glad they're gone. Now the city is ours. Let's keep it and grow it. Stay and fight for this place, it's worth it.
Go Blues! Vancouver can fall. We are strong and have momentum. Fear the underdog.
Here's how I read that story: You compromised and ran (cut & run). You quit. You lost. You gave up the neighborhood to thugs. You let them take over. You were a visitor. You are part of the problem. You perpetuate and tolerate violence, crime and rude citizen behavior by allowing it to intimidate you, scare you and eventually make you disinvest yourself from the city. Strong words, yes. But:
If you love something, you've got to fight for it. City people in 2009 seem to love their homes, neighborhoods and city. I vow to always fight for my neighborhood. If there are nuisance neighbors or thugs roaming in your neck of the woods, call the cops. Confront them yourself. Make it known that they don't belong. City people love their neighborhoods and put up with things many in the burbs don't deal with. That means we are willing to fight for them and keep them and improve them. Make them places where all people can succeed and pursue their personal dreams. Don't pull a baby-boomer and run for the hills. Pull a Gen-X, Gen-Y and call bullshit on thugs and thieves. Don't be scared of people who are different looking, or posturing, or lurking. Do be scared of people who are threatening to our peaceful, active existence. Take action against them.
I hope I don't come across as a tough guy, or a conservative, gun-happy hypocrite. We've been victims of crime here, no doubt. Minor crime in the big picture, but we still followed through with them with the police and NSOs and aldermen. If my wife or I were ever mugged, personally accosted, or worse, I know what she'd do, I think I know what I'd do. We'd surrender in the moment to save our souls and lives. I'm not a conceal and carry kind of guy, I'll give it up. But look out on the rebound. I will fight. I won't run. I will cry out and try to take the thugs down systematically and collectively.
Call me a wuss, I don't care. I'll give it up to avoid confrontation. My wealth does not lie in my pockets. You can have anything on me. However, I won't run. That's the true loser. There are many who have chosen to run in our history. Many of them are residing in the suburbs of the region. Many hate or fear the city because they ran, they don't get it. I'm kind of glad they're gone. Now the city is ours. Let's keep it and grow it. Stay and fight for this place, it's worth it.
Go Blues! Vancouver can fall. We are strong and have momentum. Fear the underdog.
Let's Go Blues!
Positive Press for the City...can it be?
I caught a story on Channel 4's local newscast last night. Larry Conners is running a series called "Good News 4 A Change". I commend him and KMOV for attempting something positive and informative. For whatever reason, I am suspect of big local media such as T.V. and the Post. Maybe I'm overly defensive, but I think the Post and newscasts seem to be pretty negative on STL.
So, I'm happy to see Larry Conners attempting to shed some positive light. Last night he did a story on the residential increases downtown. He interviewed a young family raising a newborn in a rental loft. The woman interviewed was bright, intelligent and optimistic about city living. She mentioned all the things that I like to hear about the city. She got rid of her car, is saving money and time (~$400/month), likes the atmosphere, she isn't scared by the schools and intends to raise their child in the city. Well done! You can email your story ideas to Larry on the website. Maybe they should do a story on the fantastic network of online discussions and blogs related to city living??? Maybe a story on urban gardening??? Any other ideas???
Let's keep the momentum of STL positivity going in the mainstream media.
I would like to see the airwaves and local publications teeming with positive stories on city living. I would like to view more local reporters as advocates to the city, as opposed to ambulance chasers.
Another positive sign: last weekend, KSDK did a story on the Post Office Plaza and interviewed not only the obvious players like Slay and Jim Cloar, but also gave Steve Patterson a spot in the story.
And then I read this story by Jake Wagman on city restaurant, Pi, heading to the White House to make pizza for the prez. Awesome!
So, if you are like me and want to see more positive stuff on the news relating to STL, email the local media with your story. Let's show the region that STL is the place to be: a city with an identity and sense of place. The best city in the region....hands down.
So, I'm happy to see Larry Conners attempting to shed some positive light. Last night he did a story on the residential increases downtown. He interviewed a young family raising a newborn in a rental loft. The woman interviewed was bright, intelligent and optimistic about city living. She mentioned all the things that I like to hear about the city. She got rid of her car, is saving money and time (~$400/month), likes the atmosphere, she isn't scared by the schools and intends to raise their child in the city. Well done! You can email your story ideas to Larry on the website. Maybe they should do a story on the fantastic network of online discussions and blogs related to city living??? Maybe a story on urban gardening??? Any other ideas???
Let's keep the momentum of STL positivity going in the mainstream media.
I would like to see the airwaves and local publications teeming with positive stories on city living. I would like to view more local reporters as advocates to the city, as opposed to ambulance chasers.
Another positive sign: last weekend, KSDK did a story on the Post Office Plaza and interviewed not only the obvious players like Slay and Jim Cloar, but also gave Steve Patterson a spot in the story.
And then I read this story by Jake Wagman on city restaurant, Pi, heading to the White House to make pizza for the prez. Awesome!
So, if you are like me and want to see more positive stuff on the news relating to STL, email the local media with your story. Let's show the region that STL is the place to be: a city with an identity and sense of place. The best city in the region....hands down.
A non-meathead, non-suburban style, non-generic sportsbar
I don't frequent a particular bar, or bars in general for that matter. I've got 3 kids under 8, so you can catch my drift. But I like to drink and watch the occasional game. I have been totally into the Blues for the last 4 months or so. They are rarely on Channel 11, so I want to go somewhere and watch a game and be able to carry on a conversation.
Being in Boulevard Heights, I want to go somewhere close. I go to Garavaglia's Hilltop Inn for Cards games every now and again because I like the atmosphere (reminds me of my beloved hometown of Belleville, IL)....but I don't like Bud/Bud Light, their only drafts.
A friend who lives in Princeton Heights called me up on the spur of the moment to watch the Calgary game last weekend and I said sure. He said I should pick the place. I was on the spot....where can I get a decent beer (Guinness, Schlafly, New Castle) that has nice big TVs and is a civilized environment for guys in their 30's who just want to watch the game and be able to converse?
I googled sports bars in St. Louis. Of course, 90% of the hits were not even in St. Louis. However, there was a glowing review for Barney's on Chippewa and Hampton. Perfect: lots of TVs, nice staff, serviceable pub food, close to home. We gave it a try. Don't believe what you read: It sucks!!!!! There was ridiculous contemporary country music and what I'll call idiot calculated suburban rage music BLASTING over the sound system. They did put the Blues game on and had Guinness in cans, but it was not the place to fit my needs. Left and went to the Ugly Fish Tavern on Meramec. I drive by here all the time. This would have been the perfect place but it was PACKED with tons of people and loud. I'm not complaining, I was happy to see the bar hopping, it's just I'm looking for a place a little more subdued.
So I'll ask the general public, where is a good non-chain place near the south side that has:
Being in Boulevard Heights, I want to go somewhere close. I go to Garavaglia's Hilltop Inn for Cards games every now and again because I like the atmosphere (reminds me of my beloved hometown of Belleville, IL)....but I don't like Bud/Bud Light, their only drafts.
A friend who lives in Princeton Heights called me up on the spur of the moment to watch the Calgary game last weekend and I said sure. He said I should pick the place. I was on the spot....where can I get a decent beer (Guinness, Schlafly, New Castle) that has nice big TVs and is a civilized environment for guys in their 30's who just want to watch the game and be able to converse?
I googled sports bars in St. Louis. Of course, 90% of the hits were not even in St. Louis. However, there was a glowing review for Barney's on Chippewa and Hampton. Perfect: lots of TVs, nice staff, serviceable pub food, close to home. We gave it a try. Don't believe what you read: It sucks!!!!! There was ridiculous contemporary country music and what I'll call idiot calculated suburban rage music BLASTING over the sound system. They did put the Blues game on and had Guinness in cans, but it was not the place to fit my needs. Left and went to the Ugly Fish Tavern on Meramec. I drive by here all the time. This would have been the perfect place but it was PACKED with tons of people and loud. I'm not complaining, I was happy to see the bar hopping, it's just I'm looking for a place a little more subdued.
So I'll ask the general public, where is a good non-chain place near the south side that has:
- decent TVs
- noise levels low enough to hear the commentary
- good beer
- decent food
- low meat-head quota
- friendly service/welcoming atmosphere
Crime Beef
Here's a link to a courtroom story from one of my favorite local writers:
Reasonable Doubt
Aside from this being a fantastic account of our awe inspiring judicial/jury process, I am struck by the comment from the character 'Ms. Straightened Hair':
"Ms. Straightened Hair shifted in her seat. You know, if they'd put the resources into just a few a month to get a solid conviction a lot of this nonsense would stop. I live on the North Side, I wish they'd just do it a few times."
How true. Police and investigators have a lot of room for improvement in this town.
I have never been selected to sit on a jury, nor have I even been interviewed by the prosecutors or defense. But if I do, I hope I have the clairvoyant presence to think and act the way this jury did.
Reasonable Doubt
Aside from this being a fantastic account of our awe inspiring judicial/jury process, I am struck by the comment from the character 'Ms. Straightened Hair':
"Ms. Straightened Hair shifted in her seat. You know, if they'd put the resources into just a few a month to get a solid conviction a lot of this nonsense would stop. I live on the North Side, I wish they'd just do it a few times."
How true. Police and investigators have a lot of room for improvement in this town.
I have never been selected to sit on a jury, nor have I even been interviewed by the prosecutors or defense. But if I do, I hope I have the clairvoyant presence to think and act the way this jury did.
Metro Cut Backs-A Positive Spin???
I am trying to find a silver lining in the recent Metro cutbacks.
On one hand I'm bitter that the county voted down the funding bill for Metro. I am aggravated that city people have to suffer as a result of the county not wanting public transit. The city traditionally votes yes for Metro funding/expansion. I feel sorry for those affected. It just got harder to get to/from work for many.
However, there might be a positive out of all the cutbacks in service. The trains were full yesterday, not a seat to be found on my Clayton to Shrewsbury ride. Same way this morning, I had to share a seat for the first time in my 2 months riding the train. Maybe the buses will become full too. This could help with the perception of Metro. It could appear full, safer, running at capacity.
This could be a good thing. It could change the perceptions (arguably misconceptions) that many have about Metro:
On one hand I'm bitter that the county voted down the funding bill for Metro. I am aggravated that city people have to suffer as a result of the county not wanting public transit. The city traditionally votes yes for Metro funding/expansion. I feel sorry for those affected. It just got harder to get to/from work for many.
However, there might be a positive out of all the cutbacks in service. The trains were full yesterday, not a seat to be found on my Clayton to Shrewsbury ride. Same way this morning, I had to share a seat for the first time in my 2 months riding the train. Maybe the buses will become full too. This could help with the perception of Metro. It could appear full, safer, running at capacity.
This could be a good thing. It could change the perceptions (arguably misconceptions) that many have about Metro:
- only bums and people who can't afford cars ride public transit.
- the buses are never full
- it's scary to ride the metro because there's no one on it
- metrolink platforms are scary/dangerous because you can be the only one getting on/off
If the trains and buses are full to capacity at rush hour and big events, and the off times are more populated, maybe we'll get an increase in ridership. Maybe when the county suburbanites do ride metro or observe the buses in passing, they will seem full and worthy of voting for funding in the future. Maybe passers by will see the bus stops and train stops teeming with people and decide to give public transit a try.
I know, I'm stretching here. I'm trying to be positive. Overall I'm still miffed and sad over the cut backs.
Caffe Latte
For my money, a caffe latte is the ultimate after dinner treat. The best one I've had in St. Louis can be found at Velocity Cafe in the Skinker-DeBaliviere neighborhood. The best!
I'm With Wayne
If you are familiar with the Flaming Lips and/or Arcade Fire, read on:
Wayne Coyne recently spoke candidly to Rolling Stone about Win Butler of Arcade Fire. To boil it down, he basically said Win's an a$$hole and treats people like $hit.
Win Butler responded on his website.
Why am I even concerned with this minor non-news item? Because I am a huge Flaming Lips fan. I think Christmas on Mars is one of the top 10 sci-fi films of all time. I think Steven Drozd is one of the top 10 rock drummers of all time. I think this band has taken psychedelia and prog rock to a new dimension with their 1-2-3 album punch of Soft Bulletin, Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots and At War With The Mystics.
So I trust Wayne's opinions. And if you've ever listened to Arcade Fire, you know they have huge elitist/poseur/pretentious potentials. I like a few songs of their songs, I'm just saying. On the other hand, watch the Fearless Freaks documentary, or listen to the Spider Bite Song or Evil Will Prevail or Yeah Yeah Yeah Song and tell me Wayne Coyne and Steven Drozd are pretentious....I dare you.
Wayne Coyne recently spoke candidly to Rolling Stone about Win Butler of Arcade Fire. To boil it down, he basically said Win's an a$$hole and treats people like $hit.
Win Butler responded on his website.
Why am I even concerned with this minor non-news item? Because I am a huge Flaming Lips fan. I think Christmas on Mars is one of the top 10 sci-fi films of all time. I think Steven Drozd is one of the top 10 rock drummers of all time. I think this band has taken psychedelia and prog rock to a new dimension with their 1-2-3 album punch of Soft Bulletin, Yoshimi Battles The Pink Robots and At War With The Mystics.
So I trust Wayne's opinions. And if you've ever listened to Arcade Fire, you know they have huge elitist/poseur/pretentious potentials. I like a few songs of their songs, I'm just saying. On the other hand, watch the Fearless Freaks documentary, or listen to the Spider Bite Song or Evil Will Prevail or Yeah Yeah Yeah Song and tell me Wayne Coyne and Steven Drozd are pretentious....I dare you.
Southside backyards
Is any south side backyard complete without zoysia, hurricane fence and a Weber Bar-B-Kettle?
Nice weather is upon us....a day at the Holly Hills community garden
Brussel sprouts, mustard greens, collared greens, red leaf lettuce, romaine lettuce, broccoli, garlic, early girl tomatoes, basil, cilantro and parsley are all in the ground. Thanks to Gateway Greening for the affordable, healthy starters. Nothing makes me happier than digging in the dirt, sewing seeds and watching plants grow. Let's hope this simple gift is passed on to the next generation.
Condos on the Hill
There are some new condos on Macklind just south of Southwest on the Hill. This is one of my favorite neighborhoods; and I think this development adds some nice diversity to the housing stock on the Hill. As I recall, this was merely a vacant lot before the condos were constructed. I really like this development. Here are some photos we took yesterday.
I like how they fit in with the awesome building on the corner.
Here's a view from the alleyway, nicely landscaped with some large conifers.
Nice backporches
. There is also a really cool side porch between the farthest north unit and the older building on the corner.
And finally a picture of the spacious, detached garages. I assume the foundations in the background are a couple more units; or more garages, not sure.
Great location, great project. Nice to see.
Annexing St. Louis County Municipalities
I want St. Louis to be a major city. I want us to have a larger population. I want us to become one as a region. Louisville, Indianapolis, Kansas City are all examples of cities that have annexed suburbs to become more efficient and larger in area, population and tax base.
I am sick of the us vs. them mentality when it comes to St. Louis (STL) vs. the 91 cities in St. Louis County (SLC). 91 cities! Ever heard of Champ, Missouri? I certainly have not, however, I would welcome them if they wanted to be part of STL. St. Louis has a population of ~355,663, and St. Louis county has a popluation of 1,016,315. The county has largely taken the many, many expatriates from St. Louis over the years. The many cities in SLC have seen HUGE population increases over the years. Looking at the population in the 20th century, 1930 saw a huge increase of 110%. These big gains continued (1960-73.1% and 1970-35.2%). However the 80's through the 00's have seen minimal gains, all below 3%.
SLC nor STL are tearing it up when it comes to drawing new residents to the region. Ideally, we should be working together as opposed to competing against each other.
So it got me thinking about annexation of inner ring suburbs. I actually like the idea of keep the exurbs out of the equation. Sorry, but I don't EVER see Chesterfield, Ballwin, Ellisville, Fenton, Eureka, etc. wanting to associate with STL on any level. I'm not sure the inner-rings would either, but it's fun to contemplate.
So, as far as I can tell, there are 16 cities that border STL:
I am sick of the us vs. them mentality when it comes to St. Louis (STL) vs. the 91 cities in St. Louis County (SLC). 91 cities! Ever heard of Champ, Missouri? I certainly have not, however, I would welcome them if they wanted to be part of STL. St. Louis has a population of ~355,663, and St. Louis county has a popluation of 1,016,315. The county has largely taken the many, many expatriates from St. Louis over the years. The many cities in SLC have seen HUGE population increases over the years. Looking at the population in the 20th century, 1930 saw a huge increase of 110%. These big gains continued (1960-73.1% and 1970-35.2%). However the 80's through the 00's have seen minimal gains, all below 3%.
SLC nor STL are tearing it up when it comes to drawing new residents to the region. Ideally, we should be working together as opposed to competing against each other.
So it got me thinking about annexation of inner ring suburbs. I actually like the idea of keep the exurbs out of the equation. Sorry, but I don't EVER see Chesterfield, Ballwin, Ellisville, Fenton, Eureka, etc. wanting to associate with STL on any level. I'm not sure the inner-rings would either, but it's fun to contemplate.
So, as far as I can tell, there are 16 cities that border STL:
- U. City pop./area sq. mi. 37,428/5.9
- Spanish Lake pop./area sq. mi. 21,337/7.5
- Lemay pop./area sq. mi. 17,215/4.5
- Jennings pop./area sq. mi. 15,469/3.7
- Bellefontaine Neighbors pop./area sq. mi. 11,271/4.4
- Richmond Heights pop./area sq. mi. 9,602/2.3
- Maplewood pop./areasq. mi. 9,228/1.5
- Shrewsbury pop./area sq. mi. 6,644/1.4
- Glasgow Village pop./area sq. mi. 5,234/0.9
- Northwoods pop./area sq. mi. 4,643/0.7
- Pine Lawn pop./area sq. mi. 4,204/0.6
- Riverview pop./area sq. mi. 3,146/0.8
- Wellston pop./area sq. mi. 2,460/0.9
- Hillsdale pop./area sq. mi. 1,477/0.3
- MacKenzie pop./area sq. mi. 137/0.09
- Clayton pop./area sq. mi. 16,061/2.5
So, if I had my druthers, I'd choose to annex these in order of population gain. I'd keep Clayton as part of SLC, just so new SLC would not have to reinvent their govt. offices/structure.
So if you tiered this in halves, you could have annexation phase I adding U. City, Spanish Lake and Lemay. This would take STL from 355,663 to 431,643. Phase II would add Jennings, Bellefontaine Neighbors, and the rest to bring the grand total to 505,158. STL would go from 355,663 to 505,158!
Think of the tax base increase! Think of the regional power! Think of the consolidation and efficiency! Think of the area! Think of the cultural and identity shifts! Washington University, the Loop, the Galleria, 5 new Metrolink stops...all in St. Louis!
I can dream can't I? Damn it, if Louisville, Indy and KC can do it, why can't we?
Do you see suburban annexation as a good thing for STL, SLC and/or the region? Or, do you like keeping suburbs distinctly separated from the historic city? Or, would you gladly welcome them?
Excellent Medical Facilities in St. Louis
We are fortunate to live in a city that has 2 fantastic teaching hospitals. Between Barnes/Jewish/Children's and SLU/Cardinal Glennon, we are in good hands when medical care is needed.
If you've ever had to go to Children's or Cardinal Glennon, you know they are very special, top notch children's hospitals.
I was again reminded of how nice it is to live in a city with learning hospitals. My wife is getting braces. Our insurance does not cover adult orthodontia. She got a couple bids with some local orthodontists who quoted her in the neighborhood of $5,500. Bummer, eh? She kind of balked a little, and then found out that St. Louis University has an orthodontics school and they accept adult patients to help train and instruct students on the processes.
The cost was quoted at $3,100. Nearly 44% lower than the cost at the private practices we tried. From the website:
"Fees collected at the time of service go toward the operation of the school’s clinics and make it possible to offer ongoing services at reasonable prices.
CADE fees for endodontic and periodontic services are generally 50-60% less than fees charged in private practices in the St. Louis area."
A good cause indeed. A win:win situation if I've ever seen one. And, she also gets the satisfaction of being part of the learning process & experiences of a new generation of orthodontists.
The facilities are top notch, and quite new. She will be receiving her orthodontic work under the close watch of students. Let's hope they keep their Junior Mints to themselves.
If you've ever had to go to Children's or Cardinal Glennon, you know they are very special, top notch children's hospitals.
I was again reminded of how nice it is to live in a city with learning hospitals. My wife is getting braces. Our insurance does not cover adult orthodontia. She got a couple bids with some local orthodontists who quoted her in the neighborhood of $5,500. Bummer, eh? She kind of balked a little, and then found out that St. Louis University has an orthodontics school and they accept adult patients to help train and instruct students on the processes.
The cost was quoted at $3,100. Nearly 44% lower than the cost at the private practices we tried. From the website:
"Fees collected at the time of service go toward the operation of the school’s clinics and make it possible to offer ongoing services at reasonable prices.
CADE fees for endodontic and periodontic services are generally 50-60% less than fees charged in private practices in the St. Louis area."
A good cause indeed. A win:win situation if I've ever seen one. And, she also gets the satisfaction of being part of the learning process & experiences of a new generation of orthodontists.
The facilities are top notch, and quite new. She will be receiving her orthodontic work under the close watch of students. Let's hope they keep their Junior Mints to themselves.
Voting for Slay
Whenever I vote for local politicians, I try to think of who gives me the best chance to address the core issues that are important to me.
Here they are:
Here they are:
- changing our zoning laws to make it harder to turn the city into a series of suburban strip malls and surface parking lots
- annexing suburbs
- gaining resident population in the city
- getting rid of the 1% earnings tax
- developing, gaining diversity in north city; south city is relatively developed and diverse
- improving the PERCEPTION of our public schools
So in the current mayoral field of candidates, who will be the best to address these?
Firstly, I don't think Libertarian or Green party stands a chance. That being said, I don't think Smith or Watson-Wesley-Coleman (WWC) stand a chance either. I think Smith will get a part, maybe 25% of the vote, simply because I suspect there are many who vote strictly along racial lines.
So here's who I think has the best chance to meet by top 6:
- I think this is a pipe dream-best chance-Slay
- Again a pipe dream-best chance-Slay
- We've made slight gains in the Slay years.
- I wouldn't be surprised is Slay is a conservative at heart. More so than the other candidates, anyhow. Conservatives don't like income taxes. That being said, I think this would be a bold move. I don't consider Slay a bold mayor.
- I think only an outsider can bring change to the relative mono-culture that exists on the north side. Slay is probably not enough of an outsider, but he probably gives us the best chance for radical change.
- I think he's more of a fan of not getting involved with the public schools, letting the state take over and not having any accountability for the neg. perception. I think he would be more prone to vouchers or charters and parochials to propose viable options from the SLPS. I don't think the school facilities, funding levels, overall teaching stock is our problem anyhow. I think it's the lack of quality families that send their kids to SLPS. If the halls and corridors were filled with kids from loving homes with caring/concerned parents, we wouldn't be talking about this.
So all in all, I'm not that enthused over Slay as our Mayor. He's the best bet this round, though. He's better that Bosley and Harmon, too. Less scandal, more action when compared to those 2. He has run a relatively clean, low profile office during his tenure. However, I think Slay is truly old school politics. For instance, can you ever see this guy standing up against aldermanic courtesy? However, sadly because no one is running on a new urbanism ticket, we are stuck with the old baby boomer machine politicians once again.
I guess I'll vote for Slay. How about you?
Loughborough and Gravois
I noticed the old plumber's supply building and 7-11 appear to be undergoing some interior work. Let's hope for the best. Anyone know what's going on?
Metro Service Cuts
Now that I'm actually using Metro, I am becoming more interested and aware of it's issues. When it comes to voting for tax increases to fund public transportation, I'm a ho. It's kind of like funding for libraries, park service, fire trucks, more police...it just seems like the right thing to do. I can't vote no, even though I consider myself fiscally conservative.
Anyhow, Metro employees were handing out pamphlets at the various Metrolink platforms to inform users of the service cuts in light of Prop M failing. Let me make this clear: St. Louis could not vote on this! St. Louis county voted this down. It's fair to say that the county has no faith or need for it's public transportation system. St. Louis does and that's a major divide for our region.
Rant over. So what info was in the pamphlet? Who loses service? Does the county suburbs/exurbs loose (rightfully so)? Or, does St. Louis suffer as well?
Here are my opinions on 2 key points in the pamphlet they handed out.
From Metro (effective March 30, 2009):
"We sincerely regret the negative impact that these changes will have on you and the entire region. We will continue to seek funding necessary to restore service as soon as possible."--Mark says: thanks a lot sprawlers!
"MetroBus service in Illinois is not affected because St. Clair County Transit purchases service from Metro and pays for the routes and frequency they choose. Currently, St. Clair County Transit plans no bus service reductions."--Mark says: maybe St. Louis county should take this approach....fee for service....then St. Louis could focus on expanding it's services to the people that want and use buses/trains/shuttles. And St. Louis counties 91 cities could pick and choose the service they want on a city by city, route by route fashion.
Anyhow, Metro employees were handing out pamphlets at the various Metrolink platforms to inform users of the service cuts in light of Prop M failing. Let me make this clear: St. Louis could not vote on this! St. Louis county voted this down. It's fair to say that the county has no faith or need for it's public transportation system. St. Louis does and that's a major divide for our region.
Rant over. So what info was in the pamphlet? Who loses service? Does the county suburbs/exurbs loose (rightfully so)? Or, does St. Louis suffer as well?
Here are my opinions on 2 key points in the pamphlet they handed out.
From Metro (effective March 30, 2009):
"We sincerely regret the negative impact that these changes will have on you and the entire region. We will continue to seek funding necessary to restore service as soon as possible."--Mark says: thanks a lot sprawlers!
"MetroBus service in Illinois is not affected because St. Clair County Transit purchases service from Metro and pays for the routes and frequency they choose. Currently, St. Clair County Transit plans no bus service reductions."--Mark says: maybe St. Louis county should take this approach....fee for service....then St. Louis could focus on expanding it's services to the people that want and use buses/trains/shuttles. And St. Louis counties 91 cities could pick and choose the service they want on a city by city, route by route fashion.
Metro Epiphany
So I was lucky enough to make a transfer in my company to a place much closer to the city. My progressive employer is generous enough to run shuttle buses from it's west county campus to the Clayton Metrolink stop. I am overjoyed with the service I've experienced in the month I've been using public transport.
Positives:
Regarding nice people: I can't help but overhear some conversations. One day, Metro was handing out the revised service routes due to the Prop. M ballot measure that failed in St. Louis County. Many riders were bitching at "the County" in general for voting down the Metro funding. It was interesting to hear many inner suburb residents and riders dissing the outer reaches of St. Louis county as public transit haters. It just goes to show there is very little solidarity amongst municipalities in the burbs. Unfortunately, St. Louis suffers as a result of this.
Anyhow, I am ashamed to say that I have lived in St. Louis for 14 years and have never ridden a Metro bus. Once I-64 reopens, my company will be discontinuing it's shuttle service from the Clayton Metrolink. I will consider my bus options to hook up from the Clayton stop to the place of work. It's a little daunting to try the bus, though. I know it's naive, but how do you pay? How do you stop the bus? These are all rookie questions that I hope to answer in the near future.
Positives:
- clean as a whistle
- bounty of parking spaces at Shrewsbury Metrolink stop
- lots of other riders = safe environment
- amazingly on-time
- nice people
- nice metro employees
Regarding nice people: I can't help but overhear some conversations. One day, Metro was handing out the revised service routes due to the Prop. M ballot measure that failed in St. Louis County. Many riders were bitching at "the County" in general for voting down the Metro funding. It was interesting to hear many inner suburb residents and riders dissing the outer reaches of St. Louis county as public transit haters. It just goes to show there is very little solidarity amongst municipalities in the burbs. Unfortunately, St. Louis suffers as a result of this.
Anyhow, I am ashamed to say that I have lived in St. Louis for 14 years and have never ridden a Metro bus. Once I-64 reopens, my company will be discontinuing it's shuttle service from the Clayton Metrolink. I will consider my bus options to hook up from the Clayton stop to the place of work. It's a little daunting to try the bus, though. I know it's naive, but how do you pay? How do you stop the bus? These are all rookie questions that I hope to answer in the near future.
Baby Steps Toward A Simpler Life
The goal is to walk more and be less car centric and dependent. To truly enjoy the urban experience is too become independent of the suburban strip mall, parking lot, drive thru ways.
I have been making baby steps one by one that is getting closer and closer to my goal of having 1 car payment, eventually one car and a much lower petrol bill. I believe this goal is possible while living in St. Louis.
I started by purchasing a 49cc scooter. It was my first foray into 2 wheeled motorized vehicles, so it was a good learning experience. I rode this thing all over the city running errands and occasionally, to and from my job in Chesterfield which was a long ride.
Word starting getting out that some suburban municipality's police started hassling 49cc scooters by pulling them over and in some casing issuing tickets. Crestwood and Chesterfield were mentioned as having local laws that overreach the states rules on 49cc scooters. Mainly, if you ride a 49cc scooter, it does not need to be licensed, insured, nor do you need a helmet (by law). Now, I'd never ride without a helmet, but the idea of having a scooter as economical transit was highly appealing. The hassle of registering, inspecting, insuring a scooter just didn't make sense to me at the time. However, when hearing the the police were going to make it their business to pull over scooters, I thought I had better consider my options.
However, the scooter does not work for year-round transportation for me. I don't enjoy riding in the winter months. It's dangerous and very, very cold. That being said, I now have the perfect, highly efficient, fun transit option for short trips and to/from work from mid spring through mid autumn.
Next step was to consider my career options closer to the city. I really like the company I work for, so a transfer from the exurbs to the suburbs was an option that I closely considered. I was lucky enough to make a job change the got me much closer to the city.
My new commute allowed me to shave off 24.48 miles per day! That is a big step for me. Another peripheral benefit is that Metro options opened up greatly. It's virtually impossible to get from St. Louis to Chesterfield using Metro. However, Olivette/Creve Coeur is much more Metro-friendly.
My progressive company has agreed to run a free shuttle bus service from the Clayton Metrolink stop to the company campus during the I-64 shut down. They also pay for a monthly Metro pass. This was an offer I couldn't refuse.
I was now able to trim my car commute down to 10 miles per day. That's another big decrease! Thanks company, thanks Metro! I now drive from the hacienda to the Shrewsbury stop. An 11 minute ride on the train to the Clayton stop, then a shuttle from the Clayton stop to the front door of my work place. Awesome! Relaxing, safer, more economical, responsible, etc. I am in hog's heaven. It only adds 12 minutes (on average) to my commute time when I was driving.
The next step is reducing petrol is warmer weather when I can ride the Vino to and from the Metro stop.
