Rubio campaign responds to Fasano

Marco Rubio's U.S. Senate campaign didn't take long getting back to state Sen. Mike Fasano. "Thank you for your letter regarding Governor Crist's strong support for the Obama Stimulus. Or should we say his former support for the Obama Stimulus?" the campaign wrote in a letter to Fasano distributed to the press. "Or is he supporting it again today? Regardless, thank you for your letter."
Fasano said in his Nov. 12 letter to Rubio that he was "disappointed" in the remark and said it "demonstrates a lack of maturity." He ended the one-page letter by asking Rubio how exactly he would have balanced a state budget with a $6-billion shortfall if he refused stimulus dollars
Rubio's campaign's letter, signed by spokesman Alex Burgos, does not answer that question. But it points to a televised interview earlier this year in which Fasano said he did not support the stimulus package.
"Your letter misrepresents Marco Rubio's position on the Stimulus package. Unless you have followed Gov. Crist's lead and changed your position, Mr. Rubio agrees with you that Governor Crist was wrong to endorse it."
"As you know, Rubio believes the Obama-Crist Stimulus to be an incredible waste of taxpayer money and a massive failure. (Speaking of wasting taxpayer money, we noticed you sent your campaign letter using your official Florida Senate email."
The letter goes on to say that Rubio has been asking Crist for a series of debates on the stimulus.
"Unless you have recently changed your mind as well, you are both an opponent of the stimulus and a fervent Charlie Crist supporter. Therefore, you are in a unique position to help facilitate these debates. These debates will offer your candidate, Charlie Crist, the opportunity to outline all the benefits that almost $800 billion of deficit spending has brought to Florida and the country."
--Jodie Tillman, Times Staff Writer

Tampa council's transgender vote ruffles some feathers

Last Thursday, the Tampa City Council preliminarily approved expanding the city's human rights ordinance to offer protection to transgendered people. Other than a discussion about whether the new law would protect the occasional cross dresser, the vote came with little opposition, passing by a 7-0 vote.

Every speaker at the meeting spoke in favor of the change. But when the council takes its final vote on the ordinance Nov. 19, they could face a different scene. Terry Kemple, president of the Community Issues Council, an organization with the stated mission of promoting Judeo-Christian values, is rallying troops to fight the new protections.

“We’re trying to mobilize people to stand in opposition to what is a bad law,” Kemple said. “It discriminates against Christians and provides special privileges for people based on sexually aberrant behavior.” Kemple sent an e-mail to supporters warning them that, among other things, the Tampa law will allow sexual predators to go into restrooms designated for the opposite sex and force business owners, regardless of their religious beliefs, to hire cross dressers. Already, Council members have received a handful of e-mails from people who oppose the measure.

In response to Kemple’s actions, members of Tampa Bay Pride also say they plan to send representatives to Thursday’s meeting.

"Now that Kemple sent out his alert to his people we’re mobilizing furiously,” said Zeke Fread, director of Pride Tampa Bay.

Kemple said no one from his organization went to last week’s meeting because they learned of the vote too late to organize. Fread said his group didn’t go last week because they knew the expanded ordinance would pass.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

Christopher Mitchell kicking off petition drive

Christopher Mitchell, a Democratic candidate for the District 47 state House street, is launching a petition drive this weekend to get his name on the ballot in 2010. Mitchell will face Michael Steinberg, former chair of the Hillsborough County Democratic Party in the primary.

In a news release, Mitchell said this: "Let there be no mistake, we are going to win this election in the primary and ALSO in the general. The voters are going to have a clear choice in this election, namely, a Progressive voice that represents the needs of the community or another Corporatist that pushes the interests of the Business elite. The Republican Party would be making a big mistake taking the voters of this district for granted come November."

So far, the Republican candidates in the race are retired Verizon executive Irene Guy; former Hillsborough County Commissioner Brian Blair; Richard Reidy, an aide to county commissioner Ken Hagan; and business owner Tom Aderhold.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

Welch: I'm not even near a loser ... at least till 2013

Pinellas County Commissioner Ken Welch says he's got no regrets about not running for St. Petersburg mayor, despite being tagged by our sister blog the Buzz as runner up loser of the week Sunday for not doing it.

Welch said he has serious measures with countywide effect to pursue, such as promoting rail and fighting off-shore drilling. "I’ve got my plate full," he said.

But his refrain in the recent campaign was "talk to me in 2013," and that might be revised to 2011.

That's when he will look at how redistricting changed legislative districts and how the field for mayor is shaping up. He wouldn't bite on speculation, such as whether fellow Democrat Kathleen Ford's loss makes it easier for him to run in 2013.

"I think we let the guy get inaugurated and become the mayor before we start talking about running against him," Welch said.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

Hayden announces four endorsements

Democrat Nina Hayden, a Pinellas School Board member, announced four endorsements today for her State Senate campaign for 2010: St. Petersburg City Councilman Karl Nurse, Councilman-elect Steve Kornell, Pinellas School Board Linda Lerner, State Rep. Ronald Brise, D-North Miami.

“Nina Hayden is exactly the right person for us in these challenging times,” said Steve Kornell in Hayden's press release. “I have no doubt that as voters learn more about her they will come to the same conclusion I have --- we need Nina’s fresh voice and leadership working for us on the local level in the State Senate.”

Hayden is expected to face former Sen. Jack Latvala, a Republican, if both avoid primary fights next year.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

State Sen. Mike Fasano blasts U.S. Senate hopeful Marco Rubio

State Sen. Mike Fasano has fired off a letter to U.S. Senate candidate Marco Rubio over comments he recently made about him to the St. Petersburg Times.

At a Pasco County fundraiser last Saturday, the Times asked Rubio what he thought about Fasano's support of his U.S. Senate rival, Gov. Charlie Crist. Rubio said only: "Maybe Mike Fasano supports the stimulus package."

Fasano said in his Nov. 12 letter to Rubio, which he sent out to reporters, that he was “disappointed” in the remark and said it “demonstrates a lack of maturity.”

“Marco, you give a great speech that excites many, but you are woefully unable to provide solid solutions to the real problems the citizens of Florida face,” he wrote. “It is easy when you are not in office to lob bombs at those who still are, but that my friend, is not statesmanship.”

Fasano wrote that “all Republican members of the Florida House of Representatives, all but one Republican member of the Florida Senate, and every Republican Governor in the United States accepted stimulus money. I believe that if you were in the Florida House of Representatives, you too would have voted to accept these dollars in order to protect our seniors, protect our school children, and keep from adding to our struggling resident's tax burden.”

“To recklessly lash out at those who are fighting in the trenches to cut spending, cut waste, reduce property taxes, reduce property insurance, and ensure that critical needs are funded is not only disingenuous, it demonstrates a lack of maturity.”

Fasano ends his one-page letter by asking Rubio how exactly he would have balanced a budget with a $6-billion shortfall if he refused stimulus dollars.

“The citizens of Florida have the right to know your answer now and not next week, next month, or next year. My constituents await your answer,” Fasano wrote. “Concrete answers are needed please, Marco and not more campaign talking points.”

Fasano told the Times in an interview today that Rubio has “put no substance” behind his campaign speeches.

“He’s a young man who’s got a lot to learn,” Fasano said.

--Jodie Tillman, Times Staff Writer

Brickfield backs Rubio over Crist

Pinellas County Commissioner Neil Brickfield has followed ally Tony DiMatteo to support Marco Rubio over his Pinellas neighbor, Charlie Crist, for U.S. Senate.

Brickfield said he actually decided a few months ago, but confirmed the decision this week. Attention has focused on Pinellas Republicans' choice for the Senate nomination because of a straw poll due in January. He downplayed the idea he was shunning Crist.

"I don’t look at it that way. I think that Marco Rubio has a great story to tell," Brickfield said, adding that Rubio's support is growing.

But Brickfield's allegiance isn't too surprising. A former vice chairman of the Pinellas GOP, Brickfield benefited from DiMatteo's support in 2008, when Brickfield was elected to the commission. DiMatteo helps lead Rubio's efforts in Pinellas.

David DeCamp, Times Staff Writer

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Larry Ahern schedules first campaign fundraiser

SEMINOLE -- Larry Ahern, candidate for the State House 51 seat, is holding his first fundraiser this Sunday at Shelter 8 in Lake Seminole Park. The shindig will go from noon to 3 p.m. Ahern is one of two Republicans who has announced a campaign against incumbent Democrat Janet Long. The other Republican is Dawn Thompson of Seminole. Interestingly, Ahern and Thompson have more than a political party in common. Thompson owns a pool care company in Seminole, and Ahern's business is remodeling swimming pools and creating commercial fountains.

Anne Lindberg, Times Staff Writer

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Roche confirms Pinellas commission campaign against Harris

As expected, perennial candidate Norm Roche has filed to run for the Pinellas County Commission in 2010 for the seat held by Democrat Calvin Harris. Roche, previously a Democrat, is now running as a Republican in the race, which also includes former sheriff's candidate Greg Pound as a Constitution Party candidate.

Read Roche's announcement here.

David DeCamp, Times Staff Writer

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Jim Davis, Nina Hayden address Hillsborough young Democrats

Nearly 30 people turned out Tuesday night for a Hillsborough County Young Democrats meeting at Streetcar Charlie's in Ybor City. President Jennifer Fenn told the group it was the largest crowd ever, even though it was a rainy night. Guest speakers were former Congressman Jim Davis and Florida Senate candidate Nina Hayden, who's running for the seat being vacated by Democrat Charlie Justice. Both speakers told the up-and-coming candidates and campaign workers that sincerity is the key to political success.

Hayden, 35, said that after years of working in the public defender's office representing juveniles charged as adults and serving on the Pinellas County School Board, she wants to help develop policy that will keep kids out of the justice system. Specifically, she pledged to push for adequate state funding of education if elected. And she said even though she faces a tough race against Republican Jack Latvala, she's not afraid. "I don't mind the fight," she said.

Davis told the youthful group that they wield enormous influence because they are the future of politics. He also advised them to show respect for Republicans. "A good Democrat is for democracy, not just the Democratic party," he said. Davis said Barack Obama's sincerity and willingness to work with Republicans will spell out success for health care reform. And he said Obama won the presidency because he has faith that Americans want to to make the country and the world better. "This is the promise and beauty of the Obama election that you all made possible," he said. "He believes in us."

Among those soaking it all in was young Democrat Christopher Mitchell, who's running for the District 47 state House seat, and supporters of Christopher Cano, a 26-year-old candidate for the District 60 seat, who were wearing shirts promoting his Web site, cano460.com. Naima Tabernuro, 20, said she met Cano last year when he ran for president of the USF student body. That election, he said, "was a popularity contest. This is purely politics." She said she likes Cano because he will be the "voice of the underdog."

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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County housing agency seeks probe of city authority

In their latest spat, the Pinellas County Housing Authority wants Attorney General Bill McCollum and State Attorney Bernie McCabe to investigate the St. Petersburg Housing Authority for violating the open records law.

Or at least charging too much: the city agency wants the county to pay more than $19,000 for records, notably executive director Darrell Irions' email. The county begs to differ in a fight first noted here at Saint Petersblog 2.0.

The county wants the record to build a case for a $26,000 refund from a law firm that used to work for both of the agencies, back in the day when the authorities were partners and planned a home together, a joint headquarters.

McCollum spokeswoman Ryan Wiggins said the complaint hasn't been received, but generally the attorney general tries to mediate a compromise on records fights.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

Rashid puts Hillsborough commissioners on notice about transit tax

East Hillsborough County activist and businessman Sam Rashid has been less visible on the political front in recent years than he has in the past. But that may be changing.

Rashid sent an email to four of the county's Republican commissioners this week warning them that the board's vote last week to put a transit tax referendum on the ballot next year could spawn a backlash. From him and others. The email went to personal accounts of Chairman Ken Hagan, Mark Sharpe, Al Higginbotham and Jim Norman, as well as a dozen or so others who follow county politics. (Higginbotham and Norman voted against the resolution.)

Interestingly, the email singles out Hagan as recommending the 1-cent sales tax increase to pay for rail, buses and roads. So far, much of the push back from conservatives has targeted Sharpe, who has played a more high-profile role in promoting the proposal. But it was a task force created by Hagan that recommended the sales tax referendum, which he has supported.

Rashid said in an interview that he believes Hagan signed a pledge when he first ran for office that he would not support any new taxes if elected.

"I consider the rail tax a brand new tax," Rashid said. "I also consider a vote to move forward with the referendum a vote in support of that tax."

Here's the body of the email:

"'...Chairman Ken Hagan is recommending that commissioners put a 1-cent sales tax increase proposal on the November 2010 ballot.'" SP Times 11/2009

"That's $170 to $300 million per year taken out of our local economy to pay for a few miles of track. I would like to be on the record as opposing your vote to move forward on supporting the largest single tax increase on the residents of Hillsborough County and would recommend to the local party leadership that they use their influence locally to indentify and inform their members those Republican Commissioners that have violated their core pledges of no-tax increases on residents of our county -- prior to the next election. Since, as one Commissioner recently stated, (late political activist and fundraiser) 'Ralph Hughes is no longer around' to fund such a mailing, we will have to do so ourselves without the help of Ralph. Remember, at the end of the day, this is still a swing county. A few points either way can made the difference in any elected official's chances of re-election and I believe we're obligated to do our part even if it is a Republican that has decided to tax and spend the taxpayer's money contrary to his pledges made to voters prior to his first election."

-- Bill Varian, Times staff writer

 

Mayor-elect, police chief meet ... and that's it

ST. PETERSBURG -- Mayor-elect Bill Foster and Police Chief Chuck Harmon met Tuesday morning and chatted -- and that's all they did.

The incoming mayor and the incumbent chief met didn't make any decisions about the future of of the St. Petersburg Police Department, Harmon said. They didn't discuss policy or reconcile their differing opinions of how to best police the city.

At least not yet.

"It was a good philosophical discussion," Harmon said. "We took an hour to talk about (city) issues. We said we'd work hard for the future and we look forward to working together and that's it."

Which means that, as expected, Harmon will remain as police chief.

Joyner becomes Pinellas delegation chairwoman

State Sen. Arthenia Joyner was voted chairman of the 14-member Pinellas County legislative delegation today. Joyner, a Tampa Democrat whose district includes Pinellas, had been vice chairwoman.

She'll succeed Rep. Ed Hooper, R-Clearwater, not that he'll miss coordinating logistics of the group after today's 3.5-hour meeting in Clearwater. It was the first two hearings on local bills and lobbying pleas by interest groups and residents. The next is 9 a.m. Dec. 14 at St. Petersburg City Hall. 

"This is the time my staff has been looking forward to for almost a year," Hooper said, adding that the typical three-member Senate staff can handle the duties easier than a two-member House office.

Rep. Jim Frishe, R-St. Petersburg, is now vice chairman.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

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Tampa businessman ready to run for City Council

Cory Jeffries, owner of Tampa Pro Massage, says he's likely to run for Tampa City Council in March 2011.

"I'm working on putting together my campaign strategy, my platform," he said. "I can't make a formal declaration until I get all my ducks in a row." Jeffries, 45, said he will run for one of the citywide seats, but he hasn't decided which one yet. Jeffries is president of the Tampa Bay Business Guild, a Chamber of Commerce that caters to gay businesses. He said he is open about his sexual orientation, but he's not going to make it an issue. "That's not what I'm running to represent," he said. "Tampa is a very diverse community. I'd like to be one of the voices of the people in Tampa city government."

So far, only two candidates have filed to run for the three citywide council seats: Navy veteran Joseph Wendt in District 1 and attorney Seth Nelson in District 3. Lawyer Julie Brown said she will file soon to run for the District 1 post.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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Meek speaks from D.C. to Hillsborough Dems

About 350 people turned out Friday night for the Hillsborough County Democratic Black Caucus "Living the Dream" gala, where U.S. Rep. Kendrick Meek was the keynote speaker. Meek, a U.S. Senate candidate, addressed the crowd via Skype from D.C. He chose not to travel to Tampa for the event because he wanted to be in Washington on Saturday to vote on the health care reform bill.

"This is a very historic vote," he said, and gave credit to activists in Hillsborough County -- and U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor -- for pushing for the health care legislation. Meek also drew parallels between Barack Obama and Martin Luther King Jr. "Voters in Florida, voters in Hillsborough County, decided to the let the country's first African-American president, Barack Obama, lead us through these difficult times, and I think you should give yourselves a round of applause for that," he said.

Elected officials at the fundraising dinner included state Sen. Arthenia Joyner, state Rep. Betty Reed, Clerk of the Circuit Court Pat Frank, county Commissioner Kevin Beckner, Tampa City Council chairman Tom Scott, Tampa City Council member Gwen Miller, and Miller's husband, Les, who's running for Hillsborough County Commission.

Also there: Florida Attorney General candidates Dan Gelber and Dave Aronberg, who have been spending a huge amount of time in the Tampa Bay area. "It's politics 101 that campaigns are won and lost on the I-4 corridor," Aronberg said. "I've spent so much time in the Tampa Bay area I'm starting to get mail here."

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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Former Dunedin mayor looks at county, House 45 races

Former Dunedin mayor Bob Hackworth confirmed to Bay Buzz on Friday that he's considering running for Pinellas County Commission or the Florida House District 45 seat in 2010.

Neither race has a Democrat running yet, but both would pose tests with established politicians on the ballot against Hackworth, a Democrat. The commission seat is held by Susan Latvala, a Republican. The House seat race has Pasco School Board member Kathryn Starkey and well-connected lawyer Richard Corcoran, a former top House aide.

Hackworth said he has spent most of his time considering the House race.

"I think I would have to see a path for the Democrats taking back the majority at some point during the term limits for my representation," Hackworth said.

Hackworth lost to U.S. Rep. C.W. Bill Young, R-Indian Shores, by more than 20 percentage points in 2008.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

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Kathleen Ford and Bill Foster attend to their friendship in wake of St. Pete mayoral race

ST. PETERSBURG -- Mayor-elect Bill Foster said he and former rival Kathleen Ford have made up.

The pair have been friends since 1992 and Ford was supporting Foster in the mayoral race before she decided to run against him after they disagreed on some budget issues. The general election soon turned ugly after she mocked his disbelief in evolution and he called her a "divider."

That's all behind them now, said Foster.

"We weren't just acquaintances before," he said. "We were really good friends. Nothing has changed."

He said he planned to get together with Ford before the end of the month.

Ford, however, seemed less bullish about the status of their friendship. She confirmed that Foster apologized this week for some statements he made on the campaign trail.

She said she will likely have a better relationship with Foster than with Mayor Rick Baker, a longtime adversary who trumped her in the 2001 election.

She was still critical of Foster’s policy positions.

“Mr. Foster appears to want to negotiate for a new stadium on behalf of the (Tampa Bay) Rays rather than look out for the best interests of the citizens of St. Petersburg,” she said, vowing to help lead the effort against a stadium.

She said she will continue to keep a close eye on city spending and hopes Foster will, too.

Meanwhile, Ford thanked her supporters.

She also said she was surprised that Foster beat her in absentee ballots. He carried 50.5 percent of the vote before Election Day results were tabulated.

 “I thought we would have been ahead in those. It’s a curious result,” she said.

Read more about Foster and Ford in Sunday's St. Petersburg Times.

Cristina Silva, Times staff writer

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Dingfelder stepping out in south Hillsborough

South Hillsborough County environmental activist Mariella Smith is co-hosting a meet and greet with county commission candidate John Dingfelder on Sunday at 3:30 p.m. Other hosts are Annette  and Terry DeLisle and Sharon and Dean Henry. "What I like about John is that he's a politician who listens to the citizens, who listens to his constituents and he does his homework," Smith said. "He looks into issues before he makes a decision and makes a deicsion based on what's best for the community regardless of special interests or politics."

Dingfelder, a Democrat, has represented south Tampa on the City Council for eight years. He's running for the District 1 commission seat now held by Rose Ferlita, who's expected to run for mayor. Dingelder said he's already been going door-to-door in south Hillsborough.

"I know a lot of people in south Tampa, but i don't know a lot of people in Ruskin, Gibsonton and Apollo Beach and we're going to work hard to change that," Dingelder said.

So far, Dingfelder is the only Democrat who's filed to appear on the ballot for the District 1 seat in 2010. Two Republicans have filed: Anne Madden and Trey Rustmann. Former Republican Florida legislator Sandy Murman has said she may seek the post, too.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

 
 
 

Protesters plan demonstration for Mayor Rick Baker's farewell party

Bay Buzz just received this e-mail:

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7th, 2009
 
    Come Join the Poor People’s Economic Human Rights Campaign, the Refuge, St. Pete For Peace, members of the Homeless Community, and residents of St. Petersburg, and others as we serve a free dinner and protest at the Chamber of Commerce sponsored Celebration of the Legacy of Mayor Baker, as he leaves office. This event takes place at  Demens Landing at Bayshore Dr.and 2nd Ave. South (200 1st Ave. South), St. Petersburg.While the Chamber will be giving awards to Mayor Baker and recognizing him for the supposed good things he has done for this community, we will look at his real legacy. Mayor Baker has been responsible for allowing this City to be labeled the 2nd meanest city in the country in its treatment of the homeless. He is responsible for ordering the horrendous attack on the Homeless community when the St. Pete. Police department and city employees attacked a homeless encampment, and slashing their tents and destroying their belongings. His Police force has been involved in the questionable shootings of Black Youth, including one in the back. He has overseen the elimination of public housing, including the Gram-Rogell Housing complex. He supported developers and big business to the detriment of small business owners. He has overseen the erosion and attempted elimination of Free Speech at Baywalk by supporting the privatization of public sidewalks, and continues to make back door deals with developers and the city council. This is just a few of the things that represent his legacy.
   JOIN US AS WE PROTEST THIS “LEGACY” and SAY “BON VOYAGE” TO MAYOR BAKER. Dinner will be served at 6pm. Please let us know if you can bring a dish to share. For more information, please call Rev. Bruce Wright at 727 278 1547 or email bgcwright@aol.com or you can go to www.stpeteforpeace.org for more info. You can also call Gregory Lockett at 813 924 7786
 
PLEASE NOTE THAT THAT THE VENUE FOR THE EVENT WAS ORIGINALLY AT WILLIAMS PARK, BUT ACCORDING TO ANNOYMOUS SOURCES IT WAS MOVED BECAUSE THE CHAMBER WAS APPARENTLY WORRIED ABOUT PROTESTERS AND MEMBERS OF THE HOMELESS COMMUNITY BEING THERE

Wrestler supports Brian Blair's opponent in District 47 race

Some rivalries never die. Professional wrestler Jimmy Hart, who in the past has faced Brian Blair in the ring, is now backing his opponent in another contest. Hart said he's throwing his weight behind Irene Guy in the 2010 Republican primary for Florida's District 47 state House seat. Blair is also running for the post. Hart was part of the Hart Foundation wrestling team when Blair was one of the Killer Bees.

"I hope I don't get drop-kicked by Brian Blair," Hart said during a phone interview from California, his latest stop on a book-signing tour with Hulk Hogan. Hart met Guy last month when the two volunteered at an event sponsored by Computer Mentors, a non profit that helps underprivileged children gain technological skills. The two are pictured here with Ralph Smith, executive director of Computer Mentors. (Smith is the one in the middle.)

"My main thing is this -- when I met the lady, she came across as very real," Hart said. "She seemed to really know what she was talking about." Hart, who lives in Tampa but not Guy's district, said he hasn't spoken to Blair about what he might like to accomplish in the Florida legislature. "I've known Brian for a long time. I love him to death," Hart said. "But in this case, I think Irene has something to offer."

Blair said Hart apparently still wants to be the bad guy. "He was my arch enemy," Blair said, calling Hart a "far-left liberal" who endorsed Barack Obama. "If he wants to carry on from the 80s and early 90s, we can do that," he said. 

And in case you BayBuzz readers are wondering, Hart and the Hulk will be at the Barnes and Noble on U.S. 19 in Clearwater at 7 pm. Monday for a book-signing.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

What the media are saying about Bill Foster's mayoral win

Tampa Tribune: The stress of the campaign is over, and now Bill Foster is ready to begin planning for his transition to city hall as mayor.

ABC Action News: Newly elected St. Petersburg mayor Bill Foster may shake things up when he takes office in January. He is hoping police there will give chase to criminals as long as it can be done safely. Right now the St. Petersburg police department only gives chase to "violent felony offenders."

MyFox Tampa Bay: St. Petersburg mayor-elect Bill Foster has to close down his law practice, and current mayor Rick Baker has to find a job. "I do intend to apply for the president's job at St. Pete College" Baker says, "That application process- I'm going to have to get working on" on that.

Creative Loafing: Bill Foster awakens this morning to his lifelong dream: He is now the mayor of St. Petersburg.

Tampa Bay Business Journal: He outlined his position on leading business issues for the Tampa Bay Business Journal. He said he would be “ a champion for the public/private investment into clean energy systems and policies” and “supports the vision and regional approach” for light rail and other mass transit options in Tampa Bay Regional Transportation Authority’s plan.

How the St. Petersburg mayor's race was won

ST. PETERSBURG — Poll after poll showed Bill Foster losing to Kathleen Ford.

He decided to heed the advice of many: He went negative in the waning days of the St. Petersburg mayor's race.

Foster TV commercials and mailers began to portray Ford as a "divider" and Foster as a "uniter."

The tactic won him the election, Foster said.

"We didn't poll well until we started running that message," Foster said Wednesday, a day after he was elected mayor with 53 percent of the vote. "We knew that we had to focus on consensus building and our ability to bring people together and that's what we did."

Voting records support his theory. Early mail ballots had Foster slightly ahead, with only 50.5 percent of the vote. But he emerged as the clear victor once Election Day ballots were tabulated and 11 precincts that had been leaning toward Ford fell his way.

His election is the latest win for the city's majority black neighborhoods, which have sided with the victor in every recent mayoral campaign. While Ford, 52, made some early inroads, her efforts fell short.

Foster, 46, started his first day as the mayor-elect at 6 a.m. with a handful of interviews. He stopped by City Hall and thanked city workers for their service. He fielded congratulatory e-mails and telephone calls. Mid-afternoon, he said he planned to take a nap.

It was an anticlimatic finish to a heated campaign that pitted Ford's promise for reform against Foster's vow to continue steady progress.

Read story here.

Click here to see an interactive map with the election results.

Crist picks Duncan to replace Quarles on TBARTA

Gov. Charlie Crist has named former Pinellas County Commissioner Ronnie Duncan, left, to replace Shelton Quarles on the Tampa Bay Regional Transportation Authority. Duncan, an advocate of rail and previous board member, succeeds the former Bucs star, who asked not be reappointed this year.

Attorney Hugh McGuire of Parrish was reappointed. Emilio “Sonny” Vergara, 67, of Brooksville, former executive director of the Southwest Florida Water Management District, will succeed Sarasota banker Michael Bullerdick for a term that ends Sept. 30.

The new faces arrive as the regional agency pushes adding rail and more bus service -- and potentially a higher sales tax -- in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

Hillsborough judicial candidate appears to have violated campaign rules

Tampa attorney Lanell Williams-Yulee signed up two months ago to run for the judicial seat occupied by County Judge Dick Greco Jr.

To kick start her efforts, Williams-Yulee's campaign recently sent out a letter in which she appears to personally seek contributions. One problem: Judicial candidates aren't allowed to solicit their own donations.

Though the letter, which also appears on her campaign Web site, includes Williams-Yulee's signature and is written in first-person, her campaign manager said Williams-Yulee didn't write it. He said her committee members drafted the letter and didn't understand the restrictions that judicial candidates face.

Stetson University political science professor T. Wayne Bailey was surprised by the campaign mailing.

"Gee, I've run into many issues, but this one I hadn't run into," he told the Times. "Because it's so black letter, you see."

To read more, click here.

Colleen Jenkins, Times Staff Writer

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Brian Blair has a plan for the homeless

While his former colleagues on the Hillsborough County Commission have struck out twice with plans to help the homeless, Brian Blair, (left) now a candidate for the District 47 state House seat, offers this plan: Put them in a vacant hotel.

“It makes sense, across the board,” Blair said in a news release. “Hotels are already equipped for sheltering people. And it would, at the same time, help the homeless and create jobs.” Blair says the plan would entail selecting a vacant hotel, renovating it and moving in homeless people after background checks. “It’s not that county residents don’t feel that the homeless should have a place to stay, but the question is always, ‘Where?' Hotels are generally away from neighborhoods and shopping centers," Blair said. 

So far, Blair's opponents in the 2010 Republican primary for the post are Irene Guy, Tom Aderhold and Richard Reidy. According to the latest fundraising reports, Reidy has the most money in his campaign coffers. After two quarters, he reported bringing in $21,804. Guy, though, raised $21,026 in the first quarter after she announced her candidacy. Blair brought in $8,710.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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Julie Brown says she'll run for Gwen Miller's Tampa seat in 2011

Attorney Julie Brown says she's going to run for Tampa's citywide District 1 seat in 2011. That's the post Gwen Miller holds now.

In 2007, Brown ran a tough, but losing, race against John Dingfelder for South Tampa's District 4 seat. The contest turned into a fundraising battle that was so exhausting for Dingfelder that he tried to get the City Council to pass restrictive campaign finance laws after his victory. Brown also got some heat  when auto dealership owner Jason Kuhn collected contributions for her campaign from employees and then reimbursed them. Kuhn said he didn't know his actions were illegal, and immediately rectified the situation. Brown said she'll have more financial controls in place this time around. "Some of the people that really wanted me to win were overzealous and did things I wouldn't have done," Brown said.

Brown is a former assistant city attorney who now is serving her second term on Tampa's Architectural Review Commission.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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RNC chairman Steele lauds Foster win

From a news release, Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele:

"I would like to congratulate Bill Foster on his election to serve as mayor of St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg has also been fortunate to have Rick Baker serve with distinction for eight years and I have no doubt that Bill will build upon what Rick has already accomplished – a strong record of fiscal conservatism and transparency. Bill’s victory is significant since President Obama carried the county in 2008 and has since dramatically increased the Democrat registration. As we approach the 2010 elections, I am confident we will see more Floridians elect leaders who believe in less taxes and less spending."

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Kathleen Ford's concession speech

ST. PETERSBURG -- Kathleen Ford conceded the mayoral race to Bill Foster about 8 p.m. Here's her concession speech to about 200 supporters at the Garden Club of St. Petersburg:

“Well, first of all let me inform you all that I’ve called Mr. Bill Foster and I congratulated him," said Ford, her family lined up behind her in support. "He is now our new mayor of St. Petersburg.”

The crowd responded with some "awwws" and more "boos."

“Well that’s okay, though. We know Bill, and Bill and I have gotten along just fine, contrary to his (campaign) pieces.”

The crowd chuckled a bit at the jab.

Pinellas voting chief: Bad turnout, clean election

LARGO -- Turnout was 26.4 percent for today's elections in St. Petersburg, Largo and St. Pete Beach

In St. Petersburg, 41,050 46,360 of the 156,478 registered voters cast ballots. UPDATE: That's a 29.6 percent turnout. Low but comparable to recent history.

It didn't make for a great turnout, not that heavy lines were expected. The Sept. 1 primary only had 23 percent show up.

But Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections Deborah Clark says voting went off without a hitch.

"We had a great election," Clark said shortly after 8 p.m. as the canvassing board reviewed final returns. "I wish we had more voters, but administratively, we had a great election."

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

Kornell becomes first openly gay official in St. Petersburg. Incumbents sweep.

ST. PETERSBURG — The City Council will welcome one fresh face: Steve Kornell.

He earned more than enough votes to beat Angela Rouson in the race for District 5's seat Tuesday. Incumbents swept the city’s other four council races.

When he takes office Jan. 2, Kornell will become the first openly gay person to hold office on the St. Petersburg City Council. It’s a significant milestone in a city with a large gay community that has faced opposition to past pride displays under conservative leadership.

Kornell, a Pinellas County schools social worker, received 59.5 of the vote. Rouson, a former marketing professional and the wife of state Rep. Darryl Rouson, D-St. Petersburg, received 40.5 percent.

Kornell has an extensive background working with city recreation centers, running both Childs Park and Shore Acres. He wrote a grant that still brings in millions for teen programs. He hopes to help prevent crime and increase youth activities and jobs. He advocates using Penny for Pinellas money to put solar panels on city buildings.

Rouson and Kornell ran a race largely free of mudslinging. They had similar outlooks for the city and both played up their experience working with children. Rouson is a mother of five and community activist.

Here’s how the rest of the races played out:

District 2
In the council’s closest match, Jim Kennedy earned 55.7 percent, beating newcomer Stephen J. “Steve” Corsetti, who earned 44.3 percent.

Kennedy, 52, was appointed to the City Council when member John Bryan committed suicide in 2007. A lawyer active in the community, he had never held office before. On council, he became known for reading documents extensively and chairing two committees.

Corsetti, 65, is vice president of the Riviera Bay Civic Association and previously served as police chief in the small New Hampshire town of Danbury. He raised heavy campaign money and was backed by influential supporters. But it wasn’t enough.

District 4
Leslie Curran, a 12-year council veteran, captured 71.9 percent of the vote to beat writer and educator Pamella Settlegoode, who earned 28 percent.

Curran, 53, owns Interior Motives art gallery and design business and has led efforts to turn the 82-year-old Crislip Arcade on Central Avenue into an artists’ community. She launched Art in the Park at Williams Park and served on the Pier task force. Her track record, she said, proved itself.

Settlegoode, 60, is a fifth-generation St. Petersburg resident who decided to run after reading the newspaper and getting concerned about city issues. She led a grass-roots campaign for change with the help of two students.

District 6
Karl Nurse earned 73.8 percent of the vote to retain his council seat, beating Vel Thompson, who earned 26.2 percent.

Nurse, a community activist who owns a printing business, was appointed to District 6 last year, becoming the first white man to represent the area in decades. Nurse, 55, pushed for open meetings and records and using government stimulus money to hire police officers. Race, he said, wasn’t the overriding issue.

Thompson, a 51-year-old cosmetology student and former manager of the city’s Neighborhood Team, pushed for less waste and more neighborhood policing. She said representation by an African American such as herself would help the district take pride.

District 8
Incumbent Jeff Danner received 72.2 percent of the vote, beating Leonard Schmiege, who received 27.8 percent.

Danner, 49, was a carpenter and contractor who working on historic homes who served on government boards before working his way to City Council. He focused on transportation and boosting local business districts.

Schmiege, 40, got some attention when he brought a video camera to a council meeting and captured a brawl at City Hall, then posted it online. The self-employed technological fan and free speech advocate wanted more transparency in government.

Stephanie Hayes, Times Staff Writer

Kennedy, Curran, Kornell, Nurse and Danner win

FINAL UNOFFICIAL RESULTS BELOW

UPDATED: Incumbents cruising in City Council elections as is Steve Kornell with 85 98 precincts of 115 in.

Previous: Mail ballots are in (plus a precinct) and incumbents plus Steve Kornell are off to early leads.

Council District 2
Steve Corsetti  44.27% 16,331
James R. “Jim” Kennedy Jr. (incumbent)  55.73% 20,557

Council District 4
Leslie Curran (incumbent) 71.94% 27,562
Pamella Settlegoode 28.06% 10,751

Council District 5
Steve Kornell  59.49% 23,746
Angela Rouson  40.51% 16,172

Council District 6
Karl Nurse(incumbent) 73.80% 28,582
Vel Thompson 26.20% 10,145

Council District 8
Jeff Danner (incumbent) 72.19% 25,609
Leonard Schmiege  27.81% 9,867

David DeCamp, Times staff writer

It's Foster, unofficial tally says

FINAL UPDATE: Foster wins in unofficial results (there's a few more mail ballots to review, election officials say).

Bill Foster 52.76% 24,228

Kathleen Ford 47.24% 21,691

Has anyone seen the Ford truck?

Bay Buzz is hearing there's a U-haul truck decked out for mayoral candidate Kathleen Ford that features a monster tv? E-mail us a picture at hurquides@sptimes.com.

The Foster-mobile makes the rounds

Spotted downtown just before 2 p.m. Passenger with speaker system reminds folks it's Election Day and to vote for Bill Foster.

Where the candidates will be tonight

Excited to see who wins? Or just excited that it's over?

Either way, the candidates for mayor and City Council will be spread across the city tonight to celebrate or commiserate with supporters. The polls close at 7 p.m. and the first results (the mail in votes) should come just a few minutes later.

So don't be late.

Mayor -- Bill Foster will be at Ferg's, 1320 Central Ave., and Kathleen Ford will be at The Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Drive South.

District 5 -- Steve Kornell will be at Shackleton's Folly, 4300 6th Street S; Angela Rouson will be at Bella Brava, 515 Central Ave.

District 6 -- Karl Nurse will be at Kizmet, 1101 1st Ave

If you know where others will be tonight, feel free to leave it in the comments.

Stacy Frank announces run for state House

Stacy Frank, an attorney and small business owner, today announced her candidacy for Florida's District 57 House seat. Frank,a Democrat, wants to replace Republican Faye Culp, who is term-limited out of the post. Frank is the daughter of Hillsborough clerk of the circuit court Pat Frank, a former Hillsborough County Commissioner.

Frank's announcement comes with a long list of endorsements, including U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor, Hillsborough County Commissioner Kevin Beckner, Hillsborough County Public Defender Julianne Holt, Tampa City Council members Thomas Scott, Linda Saul-Sena, Gwen Miller, and Charlie Miranda and former Tampa Mayor Sandy Freedman.  

Frank can expect resistance from a vocal group of folks who have been fighting the placement of cell phone towers on Hillsborough County school property, saying they may pose health hazards to children. Frank is CEO of Collier Enterprises II, which holds a contract with the school district to lease land for the towers.

"I will be doing everything I can to make sure she doesn't get elected."  said Carrie Grimail, a cell phone tower opponent. "She's not going to represent us, the people. She's going to be representing her telecommunications buddies. She's defended them in lawsuits. Those are her constituents. That's what she's said through her actions."

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

Iorio gets ready for rail discussion

How important is the Hillsborough County Commission's discussion Wednesday about a referendum on rail to Mayor Pam Iorio? So important that she has cleared her calendar for the day so she can be there.

“They’re taking a very important step for this community, and they need to be able to look out in the audience and know there are people there behind them," Iorio said. She said she won't sign up to be a speaker at the meeting, but will be available to answer any questions if asked. And she said she will be in the audience at any future meetings when commissioners consider asking voters if they would support a 1 cent sales tax to pay for rail and other transportation projects.

How the referendum plays out will be a huge part of Iorio's legacy when she leaves the mayor's office in 17 months. It was three years ago that she encouraged elected officials and business leaders throughout the region to dust off old rail plans, a move that brought Hillsborough County to its current point.

At the time, County Commissioner Mark Sharpe urged caution in moving ahead with such plans, saying they need to be part of an overall transportation plan that includes roads. Now, he's one of the leaders of the referendum pack. One point he likes to make: Only 37 percent of the money generated by the sales tax will go to rail; the rest will go to improve bus service and roads.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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OFA plans Obama documentary watch party

If you don't have HBO and you're hot to see By the People, the documentary about the election of Barack Obama tomorrow, you can attend a watch party hosted by Organizing for America. There's one in Tampa at the Rock-n-Sports Bar and Grille, 1600 E Eighth Ave. in Ybor City. It starts at 8 p.m., though the documentary isn't set to air until 9 p.m.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer

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Jim Kennedy's new mailer in St. Petersburg City Council race

 

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Mary Russell holds fundraiser

SEMINOLE -- Former Pinellas County School Board member Mary Russell has announced a fundraiser. Russell, a Democrat, is running for state House Seat 54 now held by Republican Jim Frishe.

A news release describes the event as a "Meet and Greet" fundraiser hosted by Iris Swarc, a local real estate agent, and Judy Owen, a former high school classmate of Russell's. It'll be Nov. 21 on Sand Key.

Anne Lindberg, Times Staff Writer

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Leslie Waters wants to hear your opinions

SEMINOLE -- Leslie Waters, one of this city's newest council members, has scheduled two town meetings in December to give residents a year-end roundup of Seminole's accomplishments and a preview of future plans. Waters also wants to hear what residents have to say.

The first meeting is scheduled for 10 to 11 a.m. on Dec. 5 in the Community Room at the Seminole Bowling Center at Park Boulevard and Park Street. No reservations are needed. The second is 11 a.m. to noon Dec. 7 at Roskamp Auditorium, Freedom Square, 7800 Liberty Lane. Reservations are requested. Call (727) 398-0244.

Waters is also holding a canned goods drive during the two meetings. All contributions will be given to local Seminole church food pantries.

Anne Lindberg, Times Staff Writer

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