Are You Going to Vote Today?

According to the experts, you're too lazy to vote in today's aldermanic primaries. Geez, we just voted last November, and now we've gotta go to the ballot box again?

But voting today does matter. Why? Because in this blue-leaning town, the candidates who win the Democratic primary will go on to win the general election next month. (The exception to the rule is incumbent Republican Fred Heitert, in the 12th ward, who always gets the love.) And believe it or not, there are a couple tight races out there, so your vote counts! (See sample ballot.)

So c'mon, who's it gonna be? In the racially charged 6th ward, which includes Lafayette Square and the western edge of downtown (and is one of the few wards that enjoyed a period of growth since the last census), will it be incumbent and Lewis Reed-endorsed Kacie Starr Triplett or defense attorney-cum-artist Brad Kessler, who appeals to some of the loft-dwellers?

And in the 16th ward, which covers St. Louis Hills, will Donna Baringer be able to hold on to her seat, or will it be usurped by former circuit clerk Mariano Favazza?

How about in the 20th ward, covering rapidly changing Cherokee Street, where longtime (and full-time) alderman Craig Schmid, a man known to get his hands dirty, is being challenged by two candidates, including Shannon McGinnn, a woman who wears her heart on her sleeve and isn't afraid to fight for the poor and working class?

And don't forget the 24th ward, in Dogtown, where incumbent/union rep Bill Waterhouse is fighting for his life against a crowded field of candidates, including the colorful Tom Bauer, a former alderman who now owns his own donkey.

It's up to you, St. Louis. Get ye to the polls and make a difference.