Ex-Mayor of East St Louis Defends Against Being Called “Worst City in Illinois”

Part of my job here at the radio station, aside from finding new ways to introduce Led Zeppelin songs, is writing about local events. Getting the word out about small businesses or community events is something I enjoy quite a bit.

Another part of my job is taking calls from ex-mayors whose town I just trashed online.

Let me explain...

Technically, "I" didn't trash East St. Louis, Illinois.  This YouTuber who does travel videos did. I just made an article about residents being "pissed" about him doing so.  So, guilty by proxy, I guess.

The article proved to be true because the ex-mayor called me personally to contradict everything that was written in that article.

"The comment about the colors that you wear being dangerous is simply not true."

Dr. Debra Powell was none too pleased with the assessment of her beloved town and rightfully so.  Dr. Powell was born & raised in East St. Louis where she eventually became not only the youngest but also the first woman mayor of the town. She has spent many years trying to improve her stomping grounds.

During our call, it was clear that this was not an accurate portrayal of her beloved city, and wanted to spread the word about how great it was.  So, I asked her to send some highlights of East St Louis so she could brag about her town.

Dr. Powell and I have one thing in common for sure.  I take pride in our Quad Cities community even though it's not perfect.

"Our greatest asset is the mindset of the people."-Dr. Debra Powell

Here are some highlights of East St Louis, Illinois

"House of Miles" Davis

"The House of Miles is located in the former home of the late Miles Dewey Davis III. Miles Davis is the most revered jazz trumpeter of all time, not to mention one of the most important musicians of the 20th century."

Katherine Dunham Centers for Arts and Humanities

"Katherine Mary Dunham was an American dancer, choreographer, anthropologist, and social activist. Dunham had one of the most successful dance careers of the 20th century, and directed her own dance company for many years. She has been called the "matriarch and queen mother of black dance." Wikipedia

Famous People from East St. Louis

Tina Turner (Rock & Roll Hall of Famer), Darius Miles (NBA), Hank Bauer (MLB), Dick Durbin (US Senator), Al Joyner (gold medal olympian) are just some of the faces you may recognize from East St. Louis.

Clearly East St Louis' charm and culture rise above the bad headlines.  Seems like this town has a bad PR agent.  They should hire Dr. Powell to do the job.