Even before the polls close today, state Auditor Susan Montee -- a Democrat with no serious primary opposition -- will be on the streets with St. Louis Police Chief Dan Isom and Mayor Francis Slay to visit "National Night Out" events around the city to highlight anti-crime and anti-drug efforts.
The aim, says Slay's office in a release, is to "heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back."
“It’s important for every resident to feel safe in their neighborhood every day,” said Slay in a statement. “National Night Out is an important event designed to strengthen communities, connect neighbors, build partnerships with the police, and take back the night. I’m proud that State Auditor Susan Montee and Police Chief Dan Isom will join me for National Night Out 2010 – and I hope this event encourages even more citizens to get involved in their communities.”
As we've reported earlier here at the Beacon, Montee's presence appears to be partly political. She's from western Missouri, and wants to bolster her Democratic support here -- especially since her Republican rival in November will definitely be from the St. Louis area. The only question is whether the GOP nominee will be Tom Schweich or Allen Icet. Republican voters will make that decision today.
The trio's "National Night Out" stops begin at 6 p.m. and include:
--5400 Nottingham
Southampton
--6500 Smiley
(Epiphany Church – inside gym)
--3800 Windsor
(between Spring and Vandeventer)
---Target Bike Giveaway
St. Louis Ave and Belt St.
This article originally appeared in the St. Louis Beacon.
