You shouldn’t make too much out of an election that drew only 13 percent of registered voters. Still, there’s nothing good in Tuesday’s election results for Wichita Mayor Carlos Mayans. The incumbent received only 25 percent of the votes, while challenger Carl Brewer, a City Council member, received a whopping 57 percent. Even with a low turnout, that’s a statement.
Posted by Phillip Brownlee
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148 Comments
Oooh, that’s gotta hurt!
The vote was a statement, the support of Brewer by the moneyed interests is also a message. I wonder if Mayans will hear it? Somehow I am doubting it.
Yes, the vote was a statement – A statement that most of our community is not interested enough in the election of our local officials to vote in the primary. Hopefully, our citizens will realize that we MUST be involved in the selection of qualified representatives. One such young talented candidate is Michael O’Donnell II for District 4.
13% of registered voters decide who will be on the ballot for mayor. That’s a very sad fact.
Democracy is not a spectator sport.
Vaya con adios, Carlos.
And don’t let the door hit you on the way out . . .
I think it stated that none of the candidates caught the public’s attention. Particularly with the mayor’s election; those candidates besides the ‘big 2′ simply could not gain traction.
I think, Ben, your comment also applies to the school board at large seat; I expected Karl to place, at a minimum, given his support base, and he did.
I voted for the King for mayor. I thought this year would be his year but it looks like the Eagle already decided that it was going to be between Mayans and Brewer since they are the establishment and serve the interests of the wealthy.
Brewer getting a lot of support is a statement that will carry to April 3.The primary voter turnout is obvious because of the choices that we had on the ballot.It is a “No Brainier”, besides who wants to vote in the primary when the republicans won’t allow you to vote as an independent.
Pastor Mike lets switch that around.How about the candidates getting more involved with the community as qualified representatives for the office that they are running for?Not one of those lazy candidates came to my door to talk to me.How about a good ol’ fashion campaign strategy like a vehicle with loud speakers, decorations and signs on it, parading the neighborhoods asking for your vote.What happen to those days?
Ralph?
>For the record, Bob Knight is neither Brewer’s campaign manager nor treasurer.
>Posted by: Ralph | February 26, 2007 at 06:23 PM
Bob Knight, who served seven terms as Wichita’s mayor and is co-chairman of Brewer’s campaign, said Brewer’s win was an “astonishing statement.”
I’m not happy Bob Knight’sastonished. What’s that saying about Brewer? What’s Bob wondering about the community, to elect that guy.
Still Brewer wants a weak seat as Mayor unless he announces fixes, ideas, plans of action for community problems. I haven’t heard any.
Two City Council candidates came by; I voted for one of them. He will be in the run-off and likely will get my vote – unless the other one in the run-off gives me good reason to vote for him.
I think Bishop might give Schlapp a run for her money. My experience has been that whenever an incumbent is below 50% in the primary he/she is in trouble. The “not incumbent” vote tends to coalesce behind the surviving challenger.
Brewer beat Mayans because the soon-to-be former mayor is all about “I”! “I got Wichita to be one of the best cities in the country!” Oh, yeah? How about the citizens of this community? I guess Mayans is a one-man wrecking crew. Advice to Mr. Mayans: Don’t let the door………!
“How about a good ol’ fashion campaign strategy like a vehicle with loud speakers, decorations and signs on it, parading the neighborhoods asking for your vote.What happen to those days?”
Wiseman;Those DAYS went by the way of the rotary phone, LP records, black & white TV, etc! Get the picture!? Get into the REAL world. You’re a day late and a couple of quarters short!!!
Much is being said about the 13% turnout, but didn’t all the “front runners” make it in to the “Finals”?
One more thing, the number of people who voted for Brewer (Black) and Mayan (Hispanic) only proves again that the charges of Wichita being “racist” is false. It also proves that the ones charging racism got nothing, again.
Doug;
Do you really think that David King David could run this city? He’s an embarassment to anyone who is associated with sound principles. The man has been in and out of trouble from day one, can’t get into City Hall without an escort, has no idea what a financial worksheet is all about, wouldn’t know how to conduct a meeting let alone attend one, etc! King David as mayor of the largest city in Kansas? You just showed me that YOU don’t have a clue about what this city needs. I’m sorry but you’re NOT a very good Wichitan!!!
“… who wants to vote in the primary when the republicans won’t allow you to vote as an independent.”
The city and school board primaries were non partisan – anyone could vote for anyone. The general election is a run off between to two highest vote getters. Notice how noone has party affiliation on their signs?
Have to agree with OMR on the King David deal. Go to KDD’s website read his .pdfs where he has addressed the city council – these speeches are incoherent ramblings.
Ben,
I’d like to see Schlapp taken out, but Bishop has a ways to go.
I have heard word that Schlapp isn’t in her office much. Is there a way to document this that anyone knows of?
fleetwood,
Half as many people voted in this mayoral primary as in the 2004 primary. In other words, more folks preferred to stay home than to vote for either leading candidate–neither of whom happens to be white.
“Only 13 percent of Sedgwick County’s voters turned out Tuesday — that’s down from 27 percent in the 2003 primary, where 15 mayoral candidates fought to advance.
“From what I’ve heard, it seemed to be pretty quiet out there as far as the election goes, said Election Commissioner Bill Gale. “As for four years ago, the mayor race was a hot item and I think there was a lot more money spent on TV ads and campaigning.”
http://www.kansas.com/mld/kansas/16800215.htm
Most folks preferred not to vote at all than to vote for a black or hispanic candidate. Pretty damning indictment of Wichita’s racism, I’d say.
I don’t think race was a factor in the low turnout; just the fact that none of the candidates inspired anyone. As for “the King”; I think votes for him reflect the attitude people have about the choices we had.
How is anybody supposed to get “same song, second verse”. Brewer and Mayans could easily morph in Brewyans — an nobody would notice the difference. If Brewer wants this election win, he needs to spend every hour between now and April 3 convincing the people that Mayor Brewer is going to be more effectual than Councilman Brewer. And that he’s not Bob Knight’s “boy” — oh, and by the way, somebody probably should tell Bob, too!
CF: So now all somebody has to do is nothing…and they’re a racist? Don’t even have to buy a sheet anymore? Hmmmmm.
So true rm. As I have said before, this race is Brewer’s to lose. I think there is a great deal of dis-satisfaction with Mayans. I think Brewer’s claim will be that he will turn gailures like WaterWalk into success. They are already blaming them on Mayans.
However, as I have noted before, Brewer is vulnerable.
rm6046,
I was responding to fleetwood’s claim that the votes for Brewer and Mayans amount to a refutation of racism in Wichita.
The fact that my argument is just as plausible as his, if not more so, shows that he has no basis from which to draw the larger inference about the racism, or lack thereof, among voters in Wichita.
And I hate to break it to you, rm6046, but racism manifests in all sorts of covert and low-profile ways that don’t go anywhere near sheets. Racists know how to express their views to other racists without bringing down public disapproval on their heads.
fleetwood, of course, denies this; he refuses to acknolwedge all but the most overt forms of racism. Makes sense that he would; after all, he’s a Wingnut, aligned with the most racist elements in American society.
cf, you are an idiot. One point after another, stupid, stupider, stupiest.
Ben;You drag out that ‘tired’ old line of Brewer is vulnerable. Tell us how vulnerable he is! I’ve been to a number of his rallies and have heard his views! I’ve asked questions ranging from roads, streets, utilities and gaming! Tell me where you think he is weak. Since you’ve spouted off that he is vulnerable, what subject are you speaking of? I don’t think you have a clue!
CF – I think you will find that the turnout and vote for Mayans and Brewer in ‘white’ precincts might even surpass those in non-white precincts.
OK< let’s just agree that neither argument has any merit whatsoever. Oh, believe me, I know of what you speak. I don’t know if you were her the other day when the subject was immigration — I know personally people who have their KKK kard, and their sheets and dunce caps who are less racist than some of the things that were spewing out on the table then. The tragedy is that people like that really truly do not think there is a racist bone in their body. It’s too bad.
I’ve been as guilty, or maybe more guilty, than the average person, of using racial stereotypes, epithets and thinking from time to time over the years, but at least I’m aware of it.
OMR – If the Sunflower thing blows up I think it could cut into his base. I didn’t say it WOULD happen; just a sort of caveat. If I were betting today I would bet on Brewer to win. However, I think that events could hurt him.
I didn’t say HE was weak; just that a part of his base might not be as reliable as you hope.
Of course, since you spout off that he is invulnerable I am sure he is.
Funny thing is – against Mayans I might be voting for Brewer.
fleetwood,
As usual, you got no answer. So you call names. If I’m wrong, show me where. Refute my argument.
The present election is no proof of the assertiont that Wichitans don’t vote on the basis of race, since you never ask why voter turnout in this election drops compared to the last one.
But of course, you can’t. And because you know you have no answer, and because you know that you look like the dumb-ass Wingnut that you are, you call names.
rm6046,
Indeed. I probably overstated my case. My point was merely to show that fleetwood’s inference was unjustified, and the evidence of the election could be used to support precisely the opposite conclusion.
Ben Huie,
You’re probably correct about the turnout in majority white versus non-white precincts. But for me, the interesting numbers would compare turnout in the same precincts between 2004 and now.
I don’t know the reason for the drop. But a loss of over 50% is one hell of an underperformance in a primary election. And I suspect race is one factor, if most likely not the only factor.
Brewer is vulnerable on two fronts. One, as Ben said, if the Sunflower Coalition thing blows up in his face. But, even more so, IMHO, if Brewer is merely a Mayans clone, why not just re-elect Mayans and we don’t have to change the drapes?
CF – I think the low turnout is simply that nobody liked any of the candidates. Nothing to do with race.
rm – Brewer is definitely NOT a Mayans clone. I think he will be more active in pushing WaterWalk and also opening up gaming. I HOPE he will also push in-city revitalization.
I want to thank the hundreds of Wichita voters that gave me their valuable vote. You likely didn’t know me, but believed in the importance of my platform of designing for an aging population and the value of a national reputation for sanitary restrooms. I spent no money and lost my $45.00 application fee. But what my campaign showed was that a fair person with a good logical platform can attract informed voters. For that I again thank you sincerely !!!
Ben: I’m not saying he IS. I’m saying, in politics, as in beautiful women, perception is EVERYTHING! If the electorate perceives him as part of a failed commission under Mayans, why bother? A failure is a failure is a failure, no matter how you color it.
I hope folks vote over 50% in the general election for Mayor.
I didn’t see apathy of non voters as racism. It’s acknowledgment about our primary process. We usually know who is going to win and carry on to the general election.
There hasn’t been a candidate yet, the history I’ve voted that someone didn’t get in, but should have. Some think Bill Warren was that guy, but he was weird. Too weird for most Wichitans, got third in the vote for Mayor behind Bob Knight’s wife. She campaigned only over the last weekend on name recognition.
That’s why I don’t like Bob Knights influence today. His arguing for a casino outside of downtown. Weird he wanted to represent that group. Wasted time with different counties and officials, its a federal decision about Tribal casino’s first. The fed wasn’t likely to allow it.
Kansas should get non tribal casino’s and one should be downtown. I say let Phil Ruffin step up and buy a license from the state. I hope the County lets us vote on it.
The city has WaterWalk to hurry along, fix Lawrence-Dumont, help the museums, do everything else necessary.
I don’t see a difference politically or goals announced between Brewer and Mayans. It’s not that great of choice.
Good point – particularly since the WIBA endorsed them both.
cf- Where do I start? You make it tough to refute when you make one silly statement after another.
Your credibility is shot, again.
“In other words, more folks preferred to stay home than to vote for either leading candidate–neither of whom happens to be white.”
“Most folks preferred not to vote at all than to vote for a black or hispanic candidate.”
“…racism manifests in all sorts of covert and low-profile ways…”
“Racists know how to express their views to other racists without bringing down public disapproval on their heads.”
“he’s a Wingnut, aligned with the most racist elements in American society.”
Yep, Fleet, it sounds like he’s got your number all right.
Mrage: Bob Knight is living proof of the old adage “we’re all whores…we just have different prices”. And Bob’s market value has fallen farther than yesterday’s Dow Jones, but not as quickly. As I said, Brewer needs to distance himself as far as he can in just over 30 days.
rm – don’t know that he can. For good or for bad he is attached to Bob.
An aside – it seemed to me some time back that Bob came back from his time in Topeka very changed … and NOT for the better. Did you sense anything like that?
I’m not a very good person to ask…I thought he was a prick twenty years ago.
Ben, re: your aside to rm: I noticed the same thing as well.
Is Knight a full-time lobbyist these days?
I don’t know. Do you, Ben?
I don’t what he is doing. I think so.
The funny thing here is that only 13% of the public voted but 75% whine and compain about our Mayor and the way the city is run…mmm…doesn’t really add up! Why don’t you whiners vote or shut up!
The question I posed earlier hasn’t been answered. Didn’t the “front runners” all win?I would agree with sl, if this was the “real” election.
SL,
I see commetary here about Bob Knight who we can’t vote away from Carl Brewer.
Is Brewer’s wife a White woman? Anybody know?
Fleet: Gotta’ agree with you on this one. IMHO, primaries are meaningless and costly. It would cost less to have no primary, just a general election, and then, a “limited” runoff for only those races that no single candidate garnered more than 50%.
“Is Brewer’s wife a White woman? Anybody know?”
What godddamedf’ing difference does that make, Fleet?
Fleet,
Why does it matter to you. It shouldn’t.
I don’t believe so. Why would you ask?
Do you know?
It’s not worth you asking Fleet, give it up.
I’ve only seen her in pictures and TV, yesterday.
mrage- So, what’s the answer?
I already answered your f**king question. Now answer mine.
Fleet,
What’s your problem about her? Your task is find out her name. Who she is. What’s her goals helping Brewer win the Mayor’s chair.
That’s a legitimate curiosity, than what your asking.
mrage said he saw her on tv, you said you didn’t know.
I don’t have a problem with her. I just asked a question.
Fleet Nut, one of your heroes, Clarence “Long Dong Silver” Thomas, is married to a white woman.
So what is the issue if Brewer is married to a white woman?
Fleet,
Bull. You want to know about Brewers wife, ask him yourself. He has an email address. Provide your proper contact information so Carl can answer your question.
ws- Is he?
mrage- you said you saw her on tv. Why won’t you answer the simple question?
Fleet,
Sometimes its not worth answering a stupid question because you have another motive and its obvious.
She’s a lady, far as I could tell. From TV, she went in first to the election party so that’s the gentleman’s way. But turned to Carl, because he’s why the people were there to party.
If all those accept Brewer’s wife and many are smarter, more accomplished than you in that room, have no concern about her.
“Even the color of her skin is being used to determine the content of Clarence Thomas’s character. The fact that she is white has drawn criticism from some blacks who see the marriage as evidence that Clarence Thomas has rejected his roots.”
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/national/longterm/cult/lifespring/main.htm
… and who, besides a racist, would even care?
I have no motive. What is the motive of knowing the answer and not giving it?
“…some blacks who see the marriage as evidence that Clarence Thomas has rejected his roots.”"
“… and who, besides a racist, would even care?”
ws– Are you calling the above named Blacks racists?
I only saw her for a few seconds on television during the assault on their residence. Maybe she is. Maybe it’s significant that I didn’t even really notice nor pay any attention one way or the other. Contrary to what my mother my think, maybe I have matured over the years. :)
“…some blacks who see the marriage as evidence that Clarence Thomas has rejected his roots.”"
As I said, Fleet Moron, who the F cares?
rm-That all sounds Kumbaya and all, but have you no powers of observation? Phony.
ws– Are you calling the above named Blacks racists?
“…during the assault on their residence.”
?????
Are you confusing the Black people? Wasn’t it Kolb?
rm,
Assault on Brewer’s residence? The Sunflower protest is what your talking about?
That was George Kolb’s house.
Fleet,
Give your observations up. I’m sure your grinning with every post. It’s not worth legitimizing what your trying to find out.
Your question came from seeing Brewer’s wife is obvious. Your making a judgment and that’s foolish of you.
“ws– Are you calling the above named Blacks racists?”
Apparently, Dave, er…, Fleet, you do not read or comprehend all that well.
“criticism from some blacks who see the marriage as evidence that Clarence Thomas has rejected his roots.”
I do not recall anyone suggesting that those that criticized Thomas were racists. It would take a complete right wing moron to read that into the excerpt from the article.
Of course, Fleet, facts and information is something that you twist for your own purposes each and every time – which is why no one takes you seriously.
You are the blog clown, Fleet, Bozo with a Blog.
Get over yourself, Fleet Dave.
mrage- Pleased to be providing the answer.The question now becomes, why won’t you? What are your motives? It’s a simple enough question.
Fleet,
Your kind of curiosity never floats in my head.
My motive is to not fuel your craziness.
Its crazy, you saw Brewer’s wife, then ask questions if she’s white.
Its nuts and you know it.
Your motive is asking why Brewer is married to her. Ask him directly, if your brave.
Your not a defender of what you say. Be accountable.
Wiseman;Those DAYS went by the way of the rotary phone, LP records, black & white TV, etc! Get the picture!? Get into the REAL world. You’re a day late and a couple of quarters short!!!
Old Manor Road, are you always this reactionary, without any thoughts?Has it occurred to you that something old or some old ways does not always mean that it is bad?If you had very little money to pay for advertisement, it would be an effective way of advertisement.Would you not want to see the candidates work a little harder for the positions or would you prefer to treat the candidates just like charity and give them handouts.You missed the point of my comment; the other candidates did not stand themselves out above the big money candidates.
I saw a White women walk through the door with him, but the sound was down. I thought she might be a campaign manager.
I don’t care one way or the other about who marries who. Brewer or Justice Thomas. I’m Libertarian that way. My concern is, as noted above, by the genius ws clark, Black women in particular, don’t care for the inter-marriage deal. Rednecks don’t either (there are a few). In a political campaign, things like this makes a difference.
Can you get us an English translation for your post Dave?
Is that it? Is that what you come back with? I repeat, are you OK? Should we call someone?
Well, this thread started deteriorating in a hurry. For the record, Brewer’s wife is Caucasian. So what.
Mrage, Bob Knight is a co-campaign chairman along with Russ Meyers. My response was that Knight is not the “campaign manager.” That would be Beth King who is shown in the election night photos. There is a significant difference. Knight and Meyers are lending their names, but the are not managing the campaign.
To who ever said that Brewer is a clone of Mayans, what a dumb comment. They are not anywhere close to being a like philisophically or otherwise. They are not interchangeable.
As someone noted, Carlos’s message is all about Carlos. I did this. I did that. This election is about providing leadership and building consensus. Carlos does neither.
Fleet,
Just stick with yourself and judge only your perceptions. Don’t consider how anyone else might think or act.
Also, the “moneyed interests” means that the business community is very concerned about the long-term economic health of the community. They have a vested interest. All of YOU have a vested interest in the economic health of the community. Economic growth means jobs, disposable income to be spent at your places of employment, tax growth through increased investments in the community, increased sales taxes, etc. Economically healthy communities translates into lower crime, improved opportunities and overall community well-being.
Does anyone here truly believe that the “leader” of the community should be more interested in themselves as opposed to putting the interests of the community first? If so, vote Mayans.
mrage- I think I like Brewer as mayor. I was only offering an opinion on how it might effect the run. My concerns are valid. Also, it was fun to see all the Libs jump ugly about motives. You people are so predictable.You may be less color blind than you think.
Ralph,
There is no such thing as an advisory in name only.
Both Meyer and Knight have crafted goals of the campaign, talking points. Its guidance for Beth King.
In name only means what…those two are part of Brewers staff in spirit, so just trust him?
I think its a negative to have Bob Knight involved.
Adds to the lack of good feelings for this election.
I don’t see much difference between Mayans or Brewer politically. Your describing a difference phonetically. The way Mayan’s talks.
The reality is both have slowed down progress on some projects.
Mrage, I gotta run and grab a bite. Sure those two provide input, but so are numerous others. And if you think they are telling Beth King what to do, then you don’t know her very well. I don’t care for Bob Knight, but hebrings good along with the bad.
FWIW, Brewer is not Knight’s lackey in any way shape or form.
Lastly, every elected official can be criticized for slowing projects down, especially by those who didn’t get their way. The question for me is one of leadership on community issues.
Is ralph one of the election bloggers from the topic on another thread? “If so, vote Mayans”???What’s up with that?
Fleet,
Your concerns about racism don’t matter. Just vote who you want. Let others choose. Figure out why one of them lost after the election. Not today.
If Mayan’s loses,what’s that say? Racists lost? That’s going to be the Eagle headline?
What if racists don’t ever show up to announce hating the Brewer marriage, its a non story already.
I posted after ralph’s 6:59 post.
Now, there is no question. I’ll give him his props. Concise, on topic, focused. Well done.
mrage– Don’t be mistaken. Things like this matter. I think he will win and it won’t matter much, but I think it is interesting, sociologically Power to him.Some on this blog see a racists around every corner, some would say that Brewer was racist because he married a White, instead of a Black, woman.If he was Republican.
It’s funny watching DA make a fool of himself claiming that Fleet and I are the same human.
You are right. I was mistaken. I was thinking of Kolb’s wife. See, it’s not that difficult to admit being incorrect. Try it someday, Fleet, you might get a little respect. You surely have none now.
I dunno about Fleet, but for me…I would have no trouble admitting a mistake.
When I make one, I’ll let you know. =)
Brewer’s wife is white? Is she MILFY?
Would anybody agree that Brewer might be better with getting along with city council than Mayans?
Nutty,
Give that up already.
Is that how you discuss wives of your buddies.
Or like the advice I offered Fleet, ask Brewer yourself. If you think that’s an appropriate question.
“Your describing a difference phonetically. The way Mayan’s talks.”
Mrage, do you even realize, or care, how your constant mistakes in syntax, grammer, and usage make you look stupid?
It is no wonder your arguments are so stupid.
You are the worst advertisement for Wichita schools one could possibly imagine. I suggest the WE Blog block your posts until you get some remedial GED training.
Wiseman,
Will Skelton’s fire station concerns be acted on faster? He was on the news about a new south side super mall, but needs a KDOT costly redo of an intersection.
Brewer will rally the council and fix Lawrence-Dumont? Not just promote another team to play in that stadium, it desperately needs updating. Chair back seats for all. New dugouts, turf field and better concession area.
Brewer will be more open or just as obstructive on some issues when he was council.
A plan will need city council discussion, the process that helps bring back WSU football. That conversation begins with the county gov first.
There is tension between city and county councils on jail costs. Is that tunnel open underground? I don’t think so between those buildings.
The city gov will have a lot of things to handle, but they must work with the County gov more than ever in future years as partners.
County offers a casino vote, then we get to choose where it will be downtown in some city owned property.
We may get different personalities but I don’t see much difference.
“It’s funny watching DA make a fool of himself claiming that Fleet and I are the same human.”
For the record, I have NEVER said that either Fleet or Dave Nut was a HUMAN.
I do find it curious that Fleet Nut and Dave Wood both went on vacation at the same time and both returned on the same day, but – to tell the truth – who the hell cares?
Honestly, if Homer Arafat fell off the face of the Earth today and took the Fleetwood with him, it would mean absolutely nothing to the world as a whole.
No one would miss either.
No one,
One of my editorial rantings to the Eagle made it to Topeka and cataloged as meaningful about gambling in this community.
I’ve had 8 published editorials over the years.
Your no one that matters.
the 7:23 post was not me
Mrage, why don’t you make corrections to your statements that I quoted.
You can’t do it, can you?
No one,
I don’t care what you think
Who cares if Fleet and Dave Nut are the same person? Both are bullshit artists and neither have anything to add to the debate. Neither have any credibility, especially after the WE Blog meet up.
Davie chose to attend the meet rather than take his wife out to dinner on their aniversary.
Fleet was MYSTERIOUSLY unavailable that evening.
Who the Hell cares?
Fleet Nut? Dave Wood?
Neither has any value to the HUMAN race.
Mrage, can you make the corrections, or can’t you?
Of course you care what I think. You can’t stop typing, no matter how rediculous you appear.
No one,
You misspelled ridiculous, idiot.
Whatever happened to to Tony Casado and that bunch from City Hall? Those were the good ole days!
Mrage, thank you for the correction.
Now we know you can make insults, but this question remains unanswered: can you make the corrections to your sentences?
Did you guys notice the new intern on the page?? “Ross The Intern”??? (for you Letterman fans, I will let somebody else explain that one) ha ha ha!!
I’m baaaaccccckkkk!
Fleet, my post on the other thread was being facetious.
The Mayor is just one vote of 7 which means that the Mayor has to build concensus in driving the direction of community policy. Brewer can do it.
Ben, I’m not sure what Knight is up to these days. If he’s lobbying anything other than the casino, I’m not aware of it. And, I’m aware of alot. I’ll find out.
RalphThat would answer my 7:33 question.
Wiseman. Exactly. Those who actively monitor city council activity and relationships know who is providing leadership and who has whose back.
Sure I voted for King David and why shouldn’t I? The rest of the candidates sucked ass so I should vote for someone else who is a boob simply because that person can raise more money? That’s the problem with Democracy, sometimes people vote for someone another person doesn’t like. If you don’t like it you can always move to China.
Geez, this was my first time going to the Wichita Eagle’s blogs. I can’t beleive they post these interactions between, basically, three or four people. I had to stop reading and post this comment. This just seems unprofessional of The Eagle to let these bozos hash out their racism and ignorant comments. I wanted to know what Wichitans were thinking about the election and I got this garbage. So sad.
Niiiiiiiiiiceeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.
Mayans doesn’t fly AirTran.
I saw that too Ralph. I think he has some ’splainin to do. Especially since his ads feature so much about the taxpayer subsidies.
Ben;Thou protest too much without reading the facts. No where did I say Brewer was invulnerable. Go back and read my post. You said he was vulnerable without posting reasons why. Now that you have I can either accept or deny them. Next time read before you mouth off. Just posting to excite the masses is low. If you can answer a question do so. But leave out the over-glamorization. It’s no good to anyone!
Ralph,
Brewer flew on Delta to DC instead of Airtran.
I don’t care if the flights are close costs. Mayans flew on American more often.
The key is more affordable prices whatever the airline. TV report I saw proved some Airtran flights weren’t the cheapest. May have longer layover. Life isn’t worth suffering a long layover if it can be missed.
Taking it for the taxpayer..I don’t think so.
You can’t point out wide differences between Brewer and Mayans.
Shouldn’t Mayans American Airlines frequent flier miles be retained by the city, and not used by his wife?
The question from the other night, Mrage: do you care to answer, or give up?
Amy,
That’s negotiable policy.
No matter who sits in the Mayor’s chair, on the City Council, flying on taxpayer dollars, its a policy to discuss. Not to shame someone with.
I don’t know specifics of Mayan’s wife taking flights with him. Shouldn’t she pay for her ticket. If she was on her own, that’s different. That would seem like a theft of taxpayer dollars.
But what’s theft, politicans can apologize then pay whatever the amount was back to the city.
Add County and State officials to that question now. Its a state, county and city subsidy to Airtran from all three governments.
Brewer in the future if he wins the Mayor election will fly whatever time is best for him.
I bet he won’t like to choose long layovers flights. Getting in back to Wichita during a weekday after midnight. Some Airtran flights are like that.
Mrage, unfortunately the story behind the story is untold. The probable reason Mayans doesn’t fly AirTran is because much like Bass Pro, AirTran hates Mayans and the feeling is mutual. When the last extension was negotiated with AirTran, a contingent travelled to Atlanta and left Mayans out at the request of AirTran.
Say what you want, but to say that Brewer and Mayans are the same is completey incorrect and misleading.
BTW, did you like how Sharon Fearey stuck a nice fork into Mayans? To paraphrase, “it’s about setting an example.”
Niiiiicccceeee!
Brewer is married to an Anglo, but that is a non-issue, just as it is Brewer being African or Mayans being Cuban.
Race and ethnicity doesn’t matter anymore.
Focus on the issues and leadership skills and ability.
I don’t know about this AirTran fued. Going to raise the BS flag on that one.
He flies AirTran all the time. I’ve never been on a flight with him, but I’ve known people who have and he’s on the AirTran flight to Atlanta.
Joe, are you referring to Mayans or Brewer on your AirTran comment?
Mayans
Yep. Well the feud is real. Just ask anyone who is affiliated with Fair Fares.
KWCH didn’t make up the story. Facts are the facts. If Mayans were flying AirTran on private business, he could and should have said so instead of hiding behind a statement. This coming from a guy who loves leaking information to the media. Those who live by the sword, die by the sword.
Links, names and phone numbers please.
I want to check it out.
Sam Williams, Sullivan Higdon SinkDion Avello, Mayor of DerbyTom Winters, County CommissionerBrian Derreberry, Chamber
Troy Carlson, former head of BIG who now lives in KCDave Wood, former chamber economic development director now living in Louisiana
Doubt that any of those will be critical of Mayans unless they know you. Best bet is Mayor Avello.
Well! I’ll just e-mail the people I can and ask them straight up. I’ll reference this blog and thread, you and your e-mail address.
Just to get the fact straight. If that is what you’re saying.
Go ahead. It’s a free country. But don’t fool yourself thinking that you’ll get any answers that way.
Ralph,
Your in the know, one corporation hates Mayans you mentioned. Do tell just one corporation and example how they shamed him, hating Brewer.
Who cares about Bass Pro Shop, they don’t exist here. If ever they try again in this area, conversation should be with the County for a spot. Or some other city government, just not one in Wichita. Brewer shouldn’t talk to Bass Pro Shop.
Cabela’s still won’t like it regardless. Two BPS in Kansas and only one of them!
The city has other more pressing issues.
Then why did you list the guys?
If you said they have information that will vindicate what you said that AirTran hates Mayans and doesn’t want him flying on their airlines, I know people other wise that saw him on AirTran flying to Atlanta.
Now you are saying they won’t tell me anything, yet you know they have that information, but won’t tell me, but will tell you?
I’m calling BS man! All the way. You’re a fraud.
webblogger61@yahoo.com is a live address right? I hope it is. Because I just e-mailed Dion Avello.
I’m holding you responsible for the claim that AirTran Airlines has requested that Carlos Mayans not attend a Fair Fares contengency, based on some kind unsubstantiated hate.
Let’s see if what you said holds water.
Well Joe, guess I assumed you were “connected.” Apparently not. You wanted to know people who knew and I listed ‘em. How you get information out of them isn’t my issue to deal with.
You say you know people who know Mayans is flying AirTran then you contact KWCH and rebut the accuracy of their report. You call BS on my posts? Look in the mirror.
Mrage, whether or not BPS comes to Wichita is irrelevant. The point is that Mayans compromised the negotiations and BPS didn’t come here. I agree that the city has more pressing issues. BPS is old news for now, but not necessarily completely off the table for this market.
Don’t know of any corporations that have problems with Brewer.
It’s a live addy.
No Raplh! I never said I was in the the “Know”! I don’t know people, in the way you know people, I’m a regular joe.
I know a few aquantainces that have flown on AirTran in the past several years and two of them have seen Carlos Mayans onboard. They have no connection with Mayans or the city. Just circumstances.
I once flew to Dallas sitting right next to a KAKE reporter (who is no longer with KAKE), but that doesn’t make me connected with anybody at KAKE. Just circumstance.
You made the accusation that Mayor Mayans doesn’t fly AirTran because they hate him and actually requested that he not attend a contigency on a Fair Fares meeting.
I called BS on it and I still do. Because that is a bold statement to make. Especially that you list number of names, including public officals who will back you up on that claim.
The story on KWCH about this doesn’t back your claim. It actually refutiates it.
http://kwch.com/Global/story.asp?S=6158420
It specifically mentions that Mayans flew AirTran on contract talks with that Airlines. You are saying otherwise. If you feel that KWCH made an error, you should let them know. You are the one rebutting the accuracy of their report.
It says that Mayans flew American Airlines instead of AirTran because of cost and layover issues when his destination is Washington DC. KWCH backs that up.
No where in the KWCH report does it mention that AirTran Airlines hates Carlos Mayans and that Mayans doesn’t use the airlines because of a feud he has with them.
If you have knowledge otherwise, you need to get with KWCH and add to the story. You mention names of people who have personal information and you made it public on this blog. I contacted the Mayor of Derby to see if your claim is true and I mention to him that you claim you know him and that he has information regarding the accuracy of your claim.
You seem to be back peddeling a bit Ralph. But if you’re telling the truth, because you are in the “know” and you know people, and you are telling the truth about this, then good. I’ll take back my BS statement.
I’m not trying to defend Mayans. We have a mayoral race and if there is a feud between AirTran Airlines and Carlos Mayans, I and the public want to know about that. It would be critical in making a voting decision.
Fair enough. Do an archive search for AirTran Mayans Holdeman. Here’s the trip that I was referring to:
———————————–
AIRTRAN TRIP DIDN’T INCLUDE THE MAYOR
Mayor Carlos Mayans is “frustrated” that he was left out of a visit that Wichita business leaders paid to AirTran Airways officials in Florida recently . “I do not know why I wasn’t asked to go,” Mayans says. “I have been in a lot of negotiations, and the city is the one that at the end of the day has to come up with the money.” Mayans and City Manager George Kolb were scheduled to meet with AirTran but had
Published on February 27, 2005, Page 1C, Wichita Eagle, The (KS)
Joe,
Okay perhaps “hate” and “feud” aren’t the right words so I’ll back pedal in that aspect. Regardless, they didn’t and don’t want to talk with Mayans. Why? Because every time that they did it ended up on the front page.
I take everything back then. My appoligies.
I made a mistake assuming. Thanks for backing up your claims with facts.
You established credibility.
Apologies not necessary. Should’ve remembered about the article sooner.
BTW, Joe, for your own edification, you can get some good background material under the Business Journal archives for free. Just search using key words Mayans and AirTran. Also, read about Mayans and Waterwalk.
As with most news stories, there generally is a story behind the story so one has to read “between the lines.”
I wondered how soon it would be when some idiot would bring up the race of Carl Brewer’s wife! Well, unfortunately last week it happened. What was refreshing was the backlash it created. It showed me that many of Wichita’s voters don’t really care who is sleeping with whom as long has he or she are in tune with the issues at hand. I was appointed by Carl to a seat on the DAB of the 1st district! I was and still am impressed with Mr. Brewer’s leadership style. He has a way of bringing factions together and working through difficult situations in an effort to get the job done. You don’t have to agree with him on everything, but he will listen to your concerns intently. Everyone who has met Carl also has met his wife. Sure, there are some who chafe at his marriage. But, like me and my wife I’m sure the Brewer’s believe it’s not our problem. My wife and I have been married for over a quarter century. Having raised two kids, one who has a respectable professional career and another who is on his way we don’t care what thoughts people have about our marriage. The Brewer’s are citizens of Wichita and his foray into the Wichita political field shows what he is all about. He believes in this community, loves this community and will work hard to make sure Wichita continues to move ahead into the future! We will vote for Carl Brewer!!!
I assume that you are black, OMR, my apologies if I assumed incorectly.
Although my personal multi-culturalism is diluted to the point that no one really knows just what the Hell I am, I do share your frustration with ANYONE that would challenge anyones marriage, regardless of race, color creed or sexual orientation.
You have my express permission to give a good, swift kick to the groin to anyone that would criticize your marriage or Carl Brewers, for that matter.
Perhaps that will help the racist bastards to recognize that we are all brothers and sisters on this planet.
Ws;You are correct that I am a man whose skin is black. However, I have NEVER, and I mean NEVER held that up as something to be ashamed of or walked around using it as an excuse. My father, who was a man of the cloth for the first 24 years of my life told me a man is responsible for his life and his actions during that life. My wife is one tough woman! During our 26 years of marriage she has devoted nearly all of her time and effort into making our union work. She has never been ashamed to be seen in public with me, has worked at a local hospital in a supervisory position for nearly 26 years and help raise two great kids. Not beating my chest, we live in a nice neighborhood on the eastside and our kids have never been in trouble with the law, have never been involved in drugs or alcohol and were always on the honor roll from grade school through high school. We taught our kids to respect each other, respect what they have and to respect those they come in contact with! What gripes me most are people with excuses for their shortcomings. The blame game is no way to raise a family or to make it in life. I believe Carl Brewer has what it takes if elected mayor of Wichita. I truly feel he will make a great mayor and the city of Wichita will bask in his success. He will not be a puppett for any group. Many a time members of Afro-American community come before the 1st district DAB board expecting to get a ‘free lunch’ because they percieve Mr. Brewer, being black will immediately side with them. Especially if they are up against someone who is white. Are they stunned when they found out Carl’s all about accountability! No facts? No plans? No way do they get what they desire! Carl Brewer is a pleasant man, an honest and decent man. He will make Wichita PROUD!
OMR – I agree wholeheartedly with you about the irrelevance of the race of Brewer’s wife. I put that right up there (down there?) with whether or not she colors her hair. WHO CARES! And I will joing wsc about the ’swift kick’!
I do not know Brewer well; have met him a few time is all. I agree with you that he is “a pleasant man, an honest and decent man.” And, I sure hope he makes a good mayor. We definitely need one right now.