Sunday Evening Campaign Reflections

Greetings!

I am preparing to attend the last fundraiser in support of our campaign to Energize & Restore the 3^rd District.  The fundraiser is an event called VOTE & Bowl. 

A number of Kansas City’s hottest entertainment groups approached me several weeks ago about coming together as a unified coalition to engage & encourage young people to get out to VOTE.  How could you say no to an ideal like this…throughout history, young people of all races have been the foundation for change not only in America but around World.  I became involved in community issues because my Mother’s desire to “get me involved.”  From that point, I was able to meet several mentors that have helped guide me in all facets of life…for that I’m eternally grateful!

This is one of the reasons why I am disappointed in my opponent Sharon Sanders-Brooks.  For months, she has stated that she wanted to run a campaign without negativity.  As I sit here and read this mailer from her campaign, it is far from the truth.  In case, there are some of you that take Ms Sanders-Brooks words as gospel, I would like to address some of the issues in this mailer that pertain to my campaign.  She states that I want to do the following….

Cut funding from law enforcement

My answer – NOT TRUE - I am the Chairman of the Board for the AD-Hoc Group Against Crime, an organization that mission is to reduce ALL crimes and be a champion for the safety & security of ALL residents in Kansas City, MO.  That goes against everything I have been working for within AD-Hoc for the last 15 years.

Has received numerous campaign contributions from liquor stores

My answer – As far as I know, I have received one campaign contribution from an owner of a convenience/grocery store…YES, this store does sell liquor.  YES, this business owner has a right to support any issue or candidate that he likes…he chose to support my campaign…and YES, I am grateful!  In my conversation with this owner, he mentioned that his family as been active in politics and he understood the commitment needed to be successful.  He also mentioned that he admired any young person that wants to make a difference and he offered a campaign contribution.  This is neither illegal nor immoral.

I want to cut funding for Kansas City Missouri School District

My answer – NOT TRUE – Throughout this campaign, I have continually highlighted a need to empower our youth…through tutoring, mentoring, internships, and additional after-school programs…you can not accomplish this by cutting funding

Just moved to Missouri to run for this election

My answer – NOT TRUE – I am a life-long resident of the 3^rd District…a scholar of the Kansas City Missouri School District.  Like many young adults, I went off to school to obtain a degree from the University of Missouri – Columbia.  And, like many graduates, I received a job opportunity away from my hometown.  I accepted this job, while maintaining my Kansas City residency. I excelled in this position and received an opportunity to return home with a new job offered by the Green Impact Zone to help residents throughout the urban core.  I decided to leave the Green Impact Zone, so that I can concentrate on running for the 3^rd District City Council. 

Was busted for failing to pay my taxes

My answer – NOT TRUE – How was I busted?  Like many residents, I unfortunately forgot to pay a bill.  Fortunately, once this was bought to my attention, I immediately made contact with the proper personnel to determine cost and fees…and bought myself current on this matter.  If my memory serves me correct Ms Sanders-Brooks, you had a very similar situation in 2007, but it pertained to some houses that you were sited for as being an absentee landlord.  I think the Kansas City Call ran an article on this issue recently.

                 

It is unfortunate that Ms Sanders-Brooks wants to run a negative campaign two days before the General Election.  This shows me that Ms Sanders-Brooks has a lack of honesty and integrity; as well as, an inability to be an effective leader and role model.  The 3^rd District needs leadership…

• that can effectively connect with people to get a job done
• that has developed & communicated a 3^rd District Plan that will enhance the lives of our residents
• that cares about people and not political games

I think the Saturday Edition of the Kansas City Star said it best…http://www.kansascity.com/2011/03/19/2738821/the-stars-recommendations-a-new.html

“In the 3rd District, Jermaine Reed is young and eager to serve an urban core area sadly lacking positive leadership from the incumbent, Sharon Sanders Brooks,”

I strongly believe that I am the LEADER that the 3^rd District needs.  This campaign has been an eye-opening experience…I’m about to step into this event….I hope to see you tonight, it started  at 6pm at the VOTE & Bowl Fundraiser at the Lucky Strikes in the KCP&L District.

But, most importantly, I hope that you GO VOTE on Tuesday, March 22^nd.  If you are comfortable with a hard-working, no-nonsense political servant…with no plan for the 3^rd District and has little to show for her four years in City Council than I may not be your candidate. 

But, if you are looking to Energize & Restore the 3^rd District by creating jobs, improving our neighborhood, and empowering our youth…VOTE Jermaine Reed for City Council on Tuesday, March 22^nd.  The polls open at 6am!

Thanks to all that have volunteered…made contributions…offered wisdom and encouragement…I am humbled by your belief in me!  God Bless!