When you have diminished the race relations in your city to the point that you, as the mayor, can't attend a major civic event, then it's like time to consider a different line of public service (Federal Judge Francis G. Slay).
Governor Jeremiah "Jay" Nixon picked up the slack for our ever-absent mayor and welcomed guests including: Don King, Evander "The Real Deal" Holyfield, Floyd "Money" Mayweather, St. Louis Rams star runningback - Steven Jackson and over 9,000 fans to Scottrade Center for the "Gateway To Greatness" Devon Alexander "The Great" vs. Andriy Kotelnik Championship Fight. The match was televised live on HBO. Many believe that St. Louis' Mayor couldn't take the risk of being booed on a major cable network.
The event was an exceptional showing for the city. Devon Alexander "the Great" continues to conquer in and out of the ring taking his record to 21 - 0, 13 KO's by defeating Kotelnik in a unanimous decision. Up and coming St. Louisan, Ryan "The Irish Outlaw" Coyne knocked out his opponent, Warren "The Hit Man" Browning to become the WBC USNBC Cruiserweight Champion.
As St. Louis (one of the final 4 cities in the running to host 2012 Democratic National Convention) positions itself to secure the DNC big show, these types of showings become all the more significant. Events where the public, political and celebrity elements show a strong interconnection will likely influence the decision of where the convention will be held. A city where race is respected would certainly be of greatest consideration in light of the fact that the current President is a Black man and his administration emphasizes respect of race and culture.
Take notes from "Jay", Slay. This is how GOOD BUSINESS is done.
Photos by Robert "Brother Bob" Williams
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