The great debate

Monday night, the local neighborhood associations hosted Lexington's latest mayoral debate and the word for the evening was "responsive."

Virtually all candidates, as quizzed, mentioned their goal to "respond" to the needs of the neighborhoods and to "be responsive." Some used active voice, some passive. Some wanted to respond "quickly." Others were not so specific as to time frame.

The candidates are Ann Ross (26 years experience, including stints as vice mayor and council at large); Teresa Isaac (former council member at large and former longest-serving vice mayor); Scott Crosbie (current council member at large); and political newcomer, Jim Gray (who operates his family's construction business).

The May primary will determine the runoff between the top two candidates this fall.


THERE they are

Due to the renovation of Loudoun House on Castlewood Drive, the Lexington Art League is temporarily relocating to Meridian Communications, on the third floor of Triangle Center. Lexington Art League offices closed March 11; they will reopen in Meridian on April 1. April 26 will be the next Fourth Friday in their new location at Meridian.


The real telezapper

While Kentucky's new telemarketing No-Call list won't go into effect until July 15, the Attorney General's Office is allowing people to sign up now. As of last Thursday, more than 100,000 Kentucky residents had signed on to the list, according to Attorney General Ben Chandler. In fact, so many calls have poured in that the office has increased the number of employees compiling the list. To avoid busy signals, Chandler advises that callers either wait several days until volume decreases or register on the Attorney General's web site at www.kyattorney general.com. You can also visit wtvq.com (they have a link). Those without access to computers can call toll-free at 800-671-7701. Registration cards will be mailed upon request. People already on the No-Call list don't have to sign up again. Kentucky's current telemarketing law had an estimated 23 loopholes, rendering it largely ineffective according to citizens and legislators, but the new law, with only four exemptions, will rank among the toughest in the nation. Those who currently telemarket in Kentucky will need to study the statute closely (along with the no-call list), or risk severe consequences.-JR


School's out, forever?

If preliminary plans to close Russell Elementary follow through, Lexington will lose one of two remaining educational institutions that served African-Americans prior to the 1972 court-ordered desegregation of Fayette County schools. Low enrollment and an estimated $3.9 million in needed renovation prompted the proposal.

As currently proposed, Russell Elementary would be funneled to Johnson (along with $4.7 million for refurbishment to accommodate them). Parents and community leaders worry not only that Lexington would lose another symbol of its African-American heritage, but also a school that focuses the individual learning styles of every child.

Some community leaders would prefer forgoing renovation of Johnson in favor of building a large, two-school complex downtown that could accommodate a many as 1,000 students – that would mean closing Arlington Elementary along with Russell and Johnson.

Meanwhile, principals at Russell and Johnson have already begun communicating future goals of the combined schools that would maintain some individuality for each. -JR