Republican Disarray: Congressman Misses Randall Gallery to Make Late Votes

The Randall Gallery was missing a rather conspicuous guest last night. While campaign supporters and staff gathered at the downtown gallery, Congressman Carnahan remained in Washington D.C. to cast final votes on issues critical to the future of our nation.

Though Congress was scheduled to end their session on Thursday, the Republican leadership kept members of Congress in Washington into the early morning hours. Republican disorganization forced Congress to make late votes on key bills addressing a number of issues, including; funding our troops, port security and defense policies.

The Republican leadership also worked to push through parts of their right-wing agenda, including warrentless wiretapping, before potentially losing control of the U.S. House or Senate in the upcoming November elections.

Though disappointed that he could not attend the Randall Gallery event in person, Congressman Carnahan spoke briefly to supporters via telephone, addressing the issues facing Missourians in the upcoming election and the importance of taking over leadership in the U.S. House and Senate. The Congressman closed by thanking all those in attendance for their continued support and for understanding his need to remain in Washington D.C. for the final crucial votes of the session.

Fun with Art: Carnahan Supporters Enjoy Randall Gallery Event

The Carnahan in Congress event at the Randall Gallery last night was a great success. A host of Carnahan supporters filled the gallery to advance Congressman Carnahan's re-election effort and to enjoy an evening of art and Missouri cuisine.

Guests enjoyed Missouri wines provided by Crown Valley Winery as well as toasted ravioli, fried catfish, and some stuffed mushroom thingies... The event was led by Judge Debra Carnahan in the absence of the Congressman.

This was my first visit to the Randall Gallery and I really enjoyed all aspects of the event. The ambiance was excellent with enough space for people to mingle and talk comfortably, but also to walk around and explore the various art displays above and below the main event. The Randall Gallery staff provided excellent service and the hors d' oeuvres on offer were very enjoyable.

Seen attending the event were Senator Jean and Secretary of State Robin Carnahan, as well as Revenue Collector Gregg Daly, Aldermanic President Jim Shrewsbury, State Senator Joan Bray, State Representatives Clint Zweifel, Michael Frame, Jane Bogetto, Margaret Donnelly and many others...

Also, congratulations to blogger Travis Reems on his new position with Jim Trout's campaign for State Representative.

Finally, check back in the next couple of days for more photographs from the event and the next installment of Intern Abby...

Randall Gallery: A Celebration of Missouri

Debra & Russ Carnahan
Cordially invite you to join them
for an evening reception at the elegant

Randall Gallery
999 N 13th St
St. Louis, MO 63106

Friday, September 29, 2006
5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

RSVP to 314-534-2004

Federal election law limits contributions from individuals or partnerships to $2,100 per election ($2,100 for the primary and $2,100 for the general.) Each spouse may contribute. Corporate contributions are prohibited. Please do not send cash. Contributions to Carnahan in Congress are not tax deductible.

Great 'Pastabilities': Burns Hosts Brunch in the 85th

State Representative Candidate Bob Burns hosted an excellent brunch at the Pasta House in South County this morning. Burns, a former member of the Affton School Board, welcomed a number of elected officials to the breakfast including Alderman Mike McMillan, Aldermanic President Jim Shrewsbury and State Representative Jeff Roorda.

In brief remarks, Mr. Burns highlighted his differences with both the Blunt Administration and his Republican opponent over issues like Medicaid and Head Start. He pointed out that cuts to Medicare and Head Start have negatively impacted Missourians, not only in the 85th District, but throughout the state.

The candidate also drew a laugh when he suggested that he has been taught to listen to people by Mrs. Burns, his wife of many years, and assured attendees that he would listen carefully to voters- even when he disagreed with their opinions.

The Pasta House, of course, was provided by Mr. Tucci and was tended by an excellent restaurant staff. Thanks to all those at the Pasta House for a great brunch.

Battling Cancer: Carnahan Supports Survivor's Requests

The P-D has a story today about the efforts of "nearly 10,000 cancer survivors and research advocates" who rallied in Washington D.C. to advance the cause of cancer research.

Congressman Carnahan is a strong proponent of cancer research and has signed the Cancer Promise, which pledges to support greater funding and legislative priority for cancer research.

According to the Post Dispatch story, the goals of the rally were:

"To increase research funding. President George W. Bush proposed a $40 million cut in the budget for the National Cancer Institute. The House agreed to that cut, while the Senate proposed a $9 million increase to the current $4.793 billion budget. The institute says it needs almost $300 million more to maintain services.

To renew an early detection program and add $47 million to its budget. The program provides screening and treatment for breast and cervical cancers to low-income, uninsured women, but the American Cancer Society says it only reaches one in five eligible women. The extra funding would help at least 130,000 more women.

To persuade members of Congress to sign a Cancer Promise, in which they support increasing research funding and making cancer-related issues a priority."

Congressman Carnahan is proud to stand with cancer survivors and advocates in advancing cancer research.

Intern Abby: Chasing the Congressman in Affton

Abby got a little out of hand with the special effects... and watch for cameo appearances by other elected officials and Democratic candidates.

Kansas City Star: 3rd CD Synopsis

Interesting analysis of the 3rd Congressional Race in the K.C.Star. The article seems to provide a pretty even-handed analysis of the race. Also, did Combest miss this one? Your thoughts?

Dr. Joycelyn Elders: Education Essential

Former Surgeon General Dr. Joycelyn Elders addressed attendees at that NARAL auction on Saturday night.

Dr. Elders's comments focused on the continuing need for comprehensive health education in the United States. Mixing statistics with anecdotes from her time as the U.S. Attorney General and growing up in Arkansas, Dr. Elders demonstrated the spunk and spirit that have carried her through a long career in health and government.

In a lighter moment, Dr. Elders described working in Washington D.C. as dancing with a bear- you can't sit down until the bear gets tired... and pointed out that she had been dancing with the bear for a long time...

The auction, the largest on record by all accounts, was attended by a significant number of elected officials, including; Congressman Carnahan, Senator Joan Bray, State Representatives Jane Bogetto, Michael Frame among a number of others. Also present were candidates Jake Zimmerman, Jeff Smith, Gen Frank and many others.

Batting .500 - Affton and Arnold Parades

Generally speaking, Congressman Carnahan had a better weekend than most sports fans in St. Louis. The Congressman, staff and volunteers enjoyed a bright, warm and well attended parade in Affton on Saturday. Accompanied by Retired Firefighters of Local #73 as well as State Representative Michael Vogt and candidate Bob Burns, Congressman Carnahan had quite an entourage.

Sunday's parade in Arnold, on the other hand, was rained out. Oh well,- if Bruce Sutter couldn't have his number retired and the Cardinals couldn't play because of rain- the Congressman was in good company. Batting .500 is still a good weekend- even relative to Cardinal fans' inflated expectations for Albert Pujols.

* Update - Field reports tell us that despite the Cardinals game being rained out, Hall-of-Famer Bruce Sutter's number was officially retired in a ceremony on the field.

Your thoughts?

Carnahan Endorsed by Conservation Group

The Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund (DWAF) have endorsed Congressman Carnahan for re-election.

"Now more than ever, it is essential to have Senators and Representatives who understand the value and importance of conserving America's natural heritage," said Rodger Schlickeisen, President of Defenders of Wildlife Action Fund.

"The Bush administration has proven to be disastrous for the environment. That's why it is imperative that we have a Congress that understands the value of conserving our natural heritage for future generations."

During his first term in office Congressman Carnahan has been a strong voice for conservation, including voting against drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and supporting alternative sources of energy that will be more environmentally friendly. He is committed to continuing the fight against Republican policies that are short-sighted and detrimental to the environment.

So, what do you think should be the highest environmental priorities when Democrats return to leadership in Congress? Your thoughts?

Missouri ID Bill Ruled Unconstitutional

Judge Richard Callahan has ruled the contentious Missouri Voter ID law unconstitutional. The P-D is reporting that Judge Callahan found the bill unfair to the poor, and particularly women voters .

This is a victory for the democracy and the more than 240,000 voters who would have potentially been disenfranchised by this law. It is important to note, however, that the State of Missouri is considering an appeal to the Missouri Supreme Court.