Title: Boston Mayoral Election

" And."

" This is radio Boston I'm Jane Clayson I'm standing in Iraq's -- Dudley square. It's a neighborhood -- undergone a lot of changes in the sixteen years since Tom Menino was first elected mayor. Darken storefronts are now lit dilapidated apartments and offices above are filling. Rapid transit is back the Silver Line cards thousands every day from this to rebuild bus terminal to downtown Boston and back again. Not insufficiently as some would like. But it's better than it used to be. Things still are not perfect crucial parcels are waiting for redevelopment. The former Ferdinand furniture building adjacent to the bus terminal is being renovated for use as city offices. But it's a long way from being completed. Tuesday's election is more than a referendum on the job Mayor Menino has done in places like Dudley square these last sixteen years. He's had to make the case that things have not only gotten better but that they will continue to get better with him at the Helm for another four years. Challenger Michael flyer Eddie has a similar task to convince us that if he's handed the reins Boston will be a better place com 2013. So I'm here today asking passers by what their hopes are for this neighborhood and the city for years from now."

" Right circuit tell me your name for the job blocked. Human -- loved ones up here right so -- you see in the growth and development deadly square that's."

" Justices. Optimal is getting better it's not totally there yet but does get there violence -- style of other big problem especially a Roxbury. Roxbury with -- for the violence and -- it and all that stuff what is changes today."

" Reminds them and Julia Deans and your hopes for this area over the next four years you know they've got a mayor's race coming up and a lot of talk about what might happen here in the next period of time what do you hope. I'm already seeing it but yeah this new development that building. Single family homes this just going up which is really nice and they're going to be ready in this thing. So give people opportunities to basically on their own homes right in the community where there already. Comfortable. So I mean that's pretty."

" Yes. My name -- Don't there's most well. We have a new flood victim and -- gathered some improvement does stumble. They -- that bit them. Because it looks graduate -- you. Things."

" Listeners what do you want Boston to be like in four years and which candidate do you think it's best equipped to bring that vision into reality. We're gonna speak with both candidates this our first city councilor Michael Flaherty and then mayor Thomas Menino. It's your last chance to put a question to either candidate on WBUR before Tuesday's election. Join us with your questions or comments for counselor clarity at 1804238255. That's 18143. Talk. If you have a question for Mayor Menino please -- call for a few minutes will be getting to him at midway through the program. You can also comment online anytime at radio Boston dot -- In the final days of this campaign Michael clarity has little money to spend on media is boosters are trying to make up that deficit was shoe leather. From the Duncan donuts on western avenue and -- radio Boston's Adam Marcus he has sends us this audio postcard from the last days of clarity -- nine."

" Michael planning for -- thank. You. Michael play very familiar of north complaints. My name's Cynthia pranks I've been doing this parkinson's some. Michael -- Michael clamoring for mail -- and I'll."

" Does that get disheartening at all when people brush you'll no doubt after he is prevalent. Michael we're averaging. Go to thank you."

" My name -- Perez on the communications director with the clarity you campaign. We're in Austin we're here today disgusting. The fact that the BRA -- girls communities. An effort to serve the bidding -- think about."

" Let's go to one community -- event took -- community meetings the result is the same that cake is baked. The mayor has made his mind up in the Harry."

" Jackson family. I hope that the clarity and ticket we'll have a chance to earn your vote on November 3 if you like more information my name is marine national and -- volunteer to Michael clarity campaign -- that clarity in campaign office in fields on. Regardless of the and phone banking making calls to voters. And I -- as you've probably heard by now likely assessing immune to these deputy mayor and their campaigning together to improve -- And very exciting to them this story about that the best outcome ever got for me please call. This woman almost -- her phone she was so excited and she said I want to yet signs and line to bumper -- and we anyway send a contribution to mr. that the worst when you did. -- on screen in my -- Menino and just literally screamed it. -- and yes yes. McDonald's my name is -- animal volunteer -- with clarity from their campaign."

" As voices from the last days of clarity on nine joining me now in the studio is Boston city councilor Michael clarity welcome back to me of Boston -- managing. Listeners so we'd love to focus on your questions for the candidates today Collins at 1804238255. That's 180423. Talk. If you haven't made up your mind yet we're especially interested in hearing. From you. Counselor clarity you've been campaigning for the last several months how has this campaign changed the way you seed lost."

" What's exciting in debt every day you meet and you meeting more more people who feel that it is time for change and that the status quo is no longer working. And the really speaks to. You know the need to improve our schools but to make -- streets safer and cleaner into to fight to put people back to work and when you go across the city when you educate folks and people realize that 24000. Kids have dropped out of the Boston Public Schools. When they learn that 100 out of 143 of our schools are failing. And the really graduate 59% of our high -- to within four years when they learn that over a thousand people have been murdered in the streets of Boston. In addition to that over 3000 and instruct by gunfire. And lots of folks in the neighborhoods not working in on the verge of losing their homes so he's a very important critical issues that. That our mayor Mayor Menino has had sixteen years to sol for and a it's time it's time for for new leadership and fresh perspective to view a city that country."

" Go to that first issue of education because it's been a big part of this campaign you are a supporter. -- clarity of lifting the cap on new charter transcripts. But even charter school advocates say. They creating more Charter Schools will not solve all the Boston public school systems problems it's -- how you work to address pressing issues like. The dropout rate which you just mentioned which by some studies is as much as 20%."

" policy several things -- just lifting the try to camp and embracing Travis who want to embrace good charters and and you correct that's not the panacea. But think that the the fact that 8500. Children are on the waiting this right now for Charter Schools and that there are some very good chart of successes in our city. So this is really more about embracing the successes of the terrorist Boston collegiate Pacific rim. Excel match just to name a few are doing great things there educating our children the problem in the folks don't realize is that so many -- we have left Boston. In search of a quality education and we're not getting it cancel things we can focus on this to close the achievement gap. Close the English language learning gap in close -- and how do we do that smaller class size extended school day and a and make sure that children aren't getting quality --"

" Council thirty do you worry about creating and a two tiered education system where the kids who can get into charters -- pilot schools do well. And those left in the neighborhood schools are are essentially left behind academically and."

" Well the first thing is under the -- administration will not be about the politics of pitting public chris' charter versus private first parochial it'll actually for the first time be able -- child in the classroom. In we will embrace equality schools. The issue of asking. Charter Schools to cast the widest net. With real leadership which we have not had in Boston it's not until years sixteen of any new administration that Menino is is embracing charities so where is he Dan. We're gonna miss out on those very precious stimulus dollars the race to the top funds from the Obama administration because we haven't had leadership from Boston so. Having a leader that will embrace successes in hold the chart is colonel Michael Flaherty wants the Charter Schools to stifle with the AM. The special and inclusion and also a two way bilingual. School so we could reach out and in castaway who spent so. The knock on them -- that they cherry pick. And that and the the bright student succeed in those are struggling -- by the wayside in the Boston Public Schools. I dared to to take them in fact -- matters that we need to put pressure on the chart is to it to do the best to to educate all of our children."

" Let's go to the phones on -- in Dorchester he has a question on this point for a counsel Michael flirting Joe welcome during a Boston hello."

" I figured out and they can call you hi my name Michael. As not you'll match up well armed I have -- cheer me all the coalition of state like -- he. -- and and -- regarding the school dropout rate we remember that perhaps 7% to 80% -- In the bought the single parent become. Most of those single parent families are. With others and not father and alt. And we killed it is a a real. Lack of interest though lack urgent trip to trying to keep -- strictly entrance and using law. Detrimental. To keep you on -- it is the on domestic violence domestic abuse at 98."

" Let's get right to it because our time issue council thirty about that it -- great point clearly parental accountability and particularly in dads that make a commitment to get involved in their senator on his education. Has shown not to pay great dividends in Boston the try to school is it is a school I like to point two that -- created -- dads club. And it was led by Joan -- Derrick Williams and have to tell you they've done some phenomenal things over the -- in as a result of the dads club doing so well the some internal competition the moms have now stepped happening on mom's club. It's now becoming sort of a model across the city the common denominator on Boston Public Schools that are actually performing well. And there are few is strong parental participation in again no substitute for a for mom and dad. Or especially dad getting involved in the child's education so I agree with Joe and keep up the great work of -- because it it -- it produces results."

" thank you here's a question from our website counts of clarity from Mary she asks. Why is it that when talking about Charter Schools principals are praised for their success in innovation and when talking about. Failing Boston Public Schools teachers are vilified. When will mr. many in Menino on mr. Flaherty acknowledged that Boston public school principals and doctor Johnson need to be held accountable."

" No doubt about it accountability all begins at the top and actually stacked with the mayor. And the clarity administration I will take responsibility for things that happen. And interesting enough may amino in his first terms and judge me by the schools in judge me harshly and it's why judged him last Monday to debating gave them an F. Based on the 24002 dropping out of school based on 100 out of 143 schools. Underperforming based on the dropout crisis -- based on the Cheney's so so on day one is what is the first thing Larry history the president and respect the teachers because teachers do great things will empower the teachers -- school site budgeting. But it creates cool site autonomy so that school leaders like. Principals and teachers have greater say they have resonates consistent with educating children. I am not an educated but I'll be a support the educators and make sure that is very precious tax dollars. Actually make their way to classroom. Let's also consider the Boston's the most expensive school district in the country seventy chosen a little more than any -- say it's actually 20435. Per student. And again we know that they're not getting attended education but teachers on the front lines they see things happening. Initial Russian because one they have to dip into their own pocket. To a tune of 3400 dollars for school supplies but also when they need things like a math coach cholera or additional. But teaching tools it's like pulling teeth to get it and it won't happen -- the flattered initiation."

" Here's another question for -- counts of clarity from Danielle in Brighton Daniel look Andrea Boston hello."

" I. RE and I welcome. --"

" I Daniel counterpart -- L 24000 kids have dropped out of the Boston Public Schools. 100 out of 143 do the math on that divide 143 to 100 that's a thirty. If Daniel and those tests to score back that's -- thirty that would be a big fat. F that's right -- numbers have been consistent or not there's gonna drag us into -- point is can we afford four more years. Can we afford forming as I say no my children learn the Boston Public Schools thousands of children are in the Boston Public Schools. People are leaving our city in search of magic -- the quality education people leaving the possible tools are signing up for the China's is 8500. Kids on -- is waiting list there's the weren't paced the 10000 a year from now based on sibling preference."

" Let me turn to Boston city development. For a moment accounts of clarity wanted to key neighborhoods that is seen as a growth opportunity for the city is the South Boston. Waterfront and I'm curious -- elected mayor -- quite well the South Boston waterfront look like. In four years."

" So Boston waterfront will will be great opportunity for all the Crescent City to come down to the waterfront and anticipate. They'll be economic opportunity shovels will be in the ground development will be moving forward once again under this administration would missed -- development cycle. Because it's been more about you know the personalities and and issues surrounding. Specific developers as opposed to embracing the plan what's gonna happen differently unify initiation is that we're gonna eliminate the BRA. Whenever standalone planning department just like every other major city. The rules of the game will be fairly applied they'll be predictability of process for residents in the -- community the community and -- beating seriously. And also developers and investors will actually have for the first time. Predictability of processed in will be less about who the developer is where they're from and who they hire and more about their commitment their passion in the merits of their proposal you mention of the."

" RA accounts -- bumped from Fenway has a question about that Bob welcome Purdue Boston hello."

" Good afternoon. Just a quick question in the past few chose its strong support that -- and then recently. When unit -- could decide that you become an opponent. And similarly term limits to change your audience. -- Supposed to looking unit that went you know who takes strong stance something not -- sorting and that's that we in the politics in other ways voters there. Voting at certain times."

" Are about -- counts of good good candidates set collaborate in and and learned a very valuable lessons. I can say them. Never really been a big cheerleader. Of the -- area that's the process that we currently have under the new initiation of the -- is actually that the irony there one in the same. And we need to standalone planning department because of all the Phillies that we have looked. Downtown crossing the gaping hole for a harvest. Those -- direct results of the down economy as a direct result of of of them -- failure of leadership and to hold developers accountable once they get the permits. We're allowing certain consultants or lawyers to -- have buildings torn down. Without the necessary permits and so term limits have always believed in term limits have always felt that it should be a ballot initiative which should be on the ballot for the voters to decide. And in which I would abide by them so we're just expediting term -- process that's gonna that's an address to."

" Followed that -- a little bit because earlier in the campaign you run record as saying he would only support term limits for city officials if the voters approved them in -- in her friend them. Yesterday -- do you are you said that setting term limits would be your first order of business."

" In the first hundred days -- mentioned person -- we will have term limits but why did you change your mind tells her I believe in term limits but I believe it should be -- for the voters to decide. And in my discussions with Sam. This is obviously an important issue for him. And he was able to convince me that you know to process by which would put it on the -- we'll take a lot longer clearly we don't have the time and that by putting it to forward legislatively. That would be it would be probably more prudent way to get it -- so I've never been against term limits let's make that perfectly clear the process by which we get to two elements I've been very supportive of and being ballot initiative. Not necessarily. -- and legislatively that like you said there's a difference between myself from the mayor I will actually listen to folks election give people an opportunity to be heard. I will value and respect differences of opinion are all embrace comments and criticism in the end of the day as the CEO I'll have to make that final decision. But it'll be thoughtful it'll be deliberative in -- people from across Boston having input. Which does not happen right now it's a dictatorship it's all about one person that's one of the big things that people going to be. Excited about and in and and in January."

" Here's another call accounts of clarity from -- she's an Alston and only thank you for winning welcomed -- Boston with the counsel Michael clarity."

" I'm gonna -- under the car in I want all. I want tactic which are -- won't. -- not caught."

" Okay annaly it was. Some difficulty here but I think the question is what you want to lowered taxes counts of clarity on telephone companies and tax universities and colleges colleges and colleges and universities continue to gobble up property in our neighborhoods taking very precious property off of the tax rolls. And as a result -- which is now only 53% of the property in Boston. Actually -- 53% is actually tax exempt. Meaning 47%. Of the rest of us have to pay the freight from video so. It's time for colleges and universities to pay their fair share. I just think about 911 alone city services that -- providing these institutions that are -- caveat I'll caddie and it would that there's some of our largest employers the reading value right as cute as our economic and not because a student's gonna it. But we're still getting pennies on the dollar -- They still continued to take property off the tax was I don't think anyone envisioned the institutional expansion to the extent that it happened when they instituted a pilot program. We need Tyler reform first of all and in the second issue. The Telecom tax the mayor wants the -- text that tell context is only going to be passed down to the subscribe. While he's in this contest in his back and forth. In an effort to try to raise funds for the city. The fact of the matter is not only -- get passes subscribe to we're now at a competitive disadvantage we don't have files because of a personality conflict. Unacceptable leadership is about bringing people together in having it be less about that particular person in this instance the mayor. And more about the people of Boston to everyone else suffers because because he's got something stuck inscribed on a related note ten on our website asks which mayoral candidate will be in favor of citywide Wi-Fi. A look at -- in it's about innovation and technology in -- demonstrated. The fact to embrace it fell like snow melting machines like a new -- Olympian technology. This is about getting Boston on track into the next level you know we're we're losing. -- on the on the on the ground -- with respect to -- You know a local competition. We're never gonna actually -- to capitalize on global competition this is a change in leadership. So on a last minute counselor Michael Flaherty your last pitch before Tuesday's election at least on WP you are. In thirty seconds trip -- the best candidate people have an opportunity -- there -- to step up and have the courage to change that you want four more years of the of the last sixteen. Or they were willing to embrace and usher in the next generation political leadership leaders that will. Collaborate leaders elections roll the sleeves and work in fight to put people back to work. To improve our schools to make -- streets safer cleaner we of the skill set the experience in the passion. To get the job done in for the first time it won't be -- one person will be having their names all of assigns a Crescent City it'll be about helping. People that's the job of mayor and we're ready to get it done."

" Boston's city councilor Michael -- thank you very much for coming into it -- event. -- clarity is a candidate for mayor coming up we take your questions for mr. -- his opponent the current mayor of Boston Thomas Menino. What -- your questions for Mayor Menino are you ready to give him four more years at the -- or is it time for new direction. -- with your questions for the mayor at 1804238255. That's 18143. Talk. Back in sixty seconds I'm Jane Clayson this is writing a cost."

" Needs. Is ready a Boston I'm Jane Clayson we're looking at the last days of the mayoral contest here in Boston we've just spent some time with city councilor Michael flare at eight. Mayor Thomas Menino will be joining us in just a few moments. You can join in the conversation 1804238255. That's 180423. -- Or comet online read my blog about the mayor's race -- radio Boston dot org you can also follow us on Twitter. And -- is on FaceBook chat radio Boston. While we wait for Mayor Menino without would take a minute to remember that there are other races going on around the state right now. And some that are exhibiting an interesting trend. And spoke earlier today with Bridgewater state political science professor Michael Christiana."

" They're dug -- to beat -- kind of anti incumbent view among the voters as an example. A Broxton where there's a possibility a real possibility that the first woman mayor of a Brockton than the -- body will. Will be victorious chi defeated like issued at this stage the incumbent in the preliminary election by 22 percentage -- to -- he's still live there so there. They're gonna fight it out again and -- next week. Think think that there is the Casey and I in Quincy where you see the the current mayor -- Coke is trying to retain the seat but he's facing. The former incumbent. There -- and an aunt but what we're seeing here I think is. 88 general sense that. There is a great deal -- dissatisfaction among the electorate took some might describe it as anger quite obviously the ramifications of of that break recession has -- its Massachusetts sent these various communities."

" You mentioned Brockton and and couldn't see what about Newton but incumbent mayor there isn't even trying early."

" That's that's right they are -- alone wouldn't look cool become former mayor -- Really ran into a great deal of citizen dissatisfaction I think probably the 200 billion dollar high school project that was that was the last straw Newton will be yet. -- either electing to Alter or or steady Warren. Come Election Day."

" Another pocketbook issue for sure so if the economy is underlying all of this of the unhappiness of frustration the anger is. Is due to the great recession our economic condition. Is that someone misplaced given that these municipal leaders have little if nothing to do with their city's financial crises."

" Well -- what what may have helped the incumbent believe -- not as the governor yesterday saying that he's gonna at least for the time being not -- local aid the."

" Bottom line is mayors of the only electoral game in town this year so they are the obvious target."

" Is that there's no question about that and the NB a they're the ones that have to make tough decisions there's a want to have to lay people off."

" So professor broaden this out for us if this is shaping up to be at a throw the bums out year and this anti incumbency. A sentiment that you are explaining and describing what might that mean for the Boston mayor's race is applicable."

" You would you would think so and obviously. I'm Michael clarity and then -- coming together. Is I think probably a strategic clustering their side but on beat the view of -- Mayor Menino. He does appear to be one of those incumbents. May be a Teflon mayor as a term used to be your call back in the old days."

" I appreciate your outlook protection thank you. Michael -- political science professor Bridgewater State College. Will hear from Mayor Menino in just a moment we just heard from city councilor Michael Flaherty. But here in the meantime to helpless a look ahead to Tuesday's election as Boston University professor and a BB UR media commentator John Carroll welcome margin. And Boston Globe columnist Jonathan hockey -- welcome to you. So is campaigns get down to the wire the gloves always seemed to come off -- use seeing John Carroll in these last final -- difference."

" I'm seeing a pretty civil race actually although -- it's it's a real race as opposed to the last two which all due respect to thank you David Malone and Maury -- we're more like -- and typical Boston politics. This -- is a -- is a real race I think that it's sort of a high wire -- for Michael clarity. To tried to set a tone. That that is an off putting but aggressive and I think that that's what he's he's trying to do find that find background. Where he yeah he doesn't alienate people but he also loved -- point with with the voters about these."

" German -- Real race here do you agree what do you sing in these final days."

" Well I guess I created professor Carol I think. You know he didn't strive for civil phones I think he eats -- that. Looking back you know. What what we have the results on on Election Day. You know I'm wondering if team might you know I think that he -- it but it didn't fit more aggressive at certain points in this campaign."

" John Carroll and John anarchy will be with me at the end of the hour a thank you for your thoughts initially a let me bring in now Boston's mayor Thomas Menino mayor Boston since 1993. Welcome to -- Boston -- You have been mayor for sixteen years in the city of Boston. You've said recently that a fifth or sixth term might not even be enough do you think the job requires a fresh set of --"

" Why is a -- every daily work term change -- every game that's. This cornstarch are new Greg cabinet there always are new people to look at government in Britain where apparently don't look at us that he -- I would move -- leap forward -- education. The crime rate build another house -- between the issue of -- in the forefront of that additional. What stale video content to reinvent ourselves continuously forward."

" ask you about that issue in education because we've just spent a good deal of time with counts of clarity speaking about that. And Michael -- says that that's the biggest failure of your administration the performance of the Boston. Public schools you yourself said judge me on the performance of the Boston Public Schools according to the Boston indicators project released by the Boston foundation. The dropout rate in the Boston Public Schools has not improved in the last number of years not 20% of kids. Are dropping out how do you expect to reduce that drop them around in another Menino administration."

" We have stopped the decline of -- dropouts and actually and that will continue to work on this issue you know it's not just about -- again I just go. Sketched out on the dropout rate when they started school on the first grade. K one that's probably creative success right so I program. Tribe and tribe where you were -- to cure the prenatal ripped -- grades. They get there we into the issue of Reading. On the vocabulary. Although -- just don't want. But also -- dropped out. Which every American shut. In the Iraq expertise coming here is dropped out of school jump back into the system we have -- knew where. I can't wait for the our young people come and -- the first time wanna go to logical. Don't forget we are public education actually are Asian in America we take it recipients language barriers. Are physical handicaps everything. We educate our orchards we don't drop can try our schools. There in May and April social -- 100% graduation like some systems so we take every chance. -- education is one of things I look forward to every day to work with the jets. The principals and teachers keeping with the."

" Am I am let me let me bring in one of those students roses in -- pan am rows so welcome -- Boston with mayor Thomas Menino."

" And I -- that -- technicolor living at a care I mean that we have the worst school but our neighbor but. In the city and that we have some of the most violent street. I was wondering I haven't really heard anything about your plans for what are you gonna do you make me feel safe and school what -- you gonna make. Some other kids to art school to that they don't have easy access to a gotten."

" You need a couple of issues there what schools usually talking about that appeared criticism renovations summer school. In that neighborhood also on the issue of guns I a coalition with Mayor Bloomberg -- to reject try to. -- illegal guns we haven't America and -- please have a very. Aggressive program routes via -- Pete and -- BP. And work and what and they put said that. To get them back to the Twitter YouTube blog and get information to the department also nurture -- workers out there. We actually street James walker may it was a blossoms are crime rate is down this year. Initially it down by 25%. I don't even young woman recession until six I worry border. Aren't going to be okay try to figure how what can make -- shape and custody twenties reaching a work with what the community groups. Which really China's ministry work especially."

" They're peers here's -- their comment actually from a new Rican mayor another question about the schools in Greek is in the South -- and McCain welcome -- of Austin Mayor Menino."

" Thank you very much -- I'm going aren't as well. -- let me congratulate you just read that the patriot day that you won the endorsement W Tuesday. -- with -- I've I've worked with in the past to congratulate you on that my question is. But typically I ever have a brother golden Comerica and he actually you know he's learned so much -- a great job. What are going on in the English language services."

" Yes we've found that villagers -- report done by university -- Boston. On English learners we've Rhonda we are very for a major from their because -- state legislation but wouldn't say which what -- we don't I didn't director. Other program. We're invested over four million dollars products might as a law and doesn't door along. Deal looked like groups like always stay and other groups actually to get those Latinos and understand how this. -- to speak English to read just received his cool that's for the -- all about. Given them opportunities and a positive feelings involved as a key. -- parents involved. Get a guy in a while but that's an issue that would take a real seriously -- that's why shall return. Telecharge -- I. A new director wherever it is clearly very -- reporter made -- known to west special decal that's why -- our priority is. Claudia Claudio Martinez there's another catch portion that's. He has he worked for the I'd switch that's fourteen minutes and would do what follows are -- to work -- We will work on an additional."

" Mayor Menino let me ask you about Charter Schools because I master your opponent can accounts of clarity about them as well you recently came out in favor of lifting. They cap on Charter Schools you. He did not."

" I took I want it in district tried. Here's the question him."

" Let me ask the question and you've been opposed to to doing so for fifteen of your last sixteen years in City Hall why -- why change now."

" While the press a large amount -- would -- dot. I want in district Charter Schools like you said earlier that some underperforming schools. I wanna use to tool we have with Charter Schools to put them into some of those underperforming schools. Give them longer school days flexibility. Against curriculum. Actually that he just lost your teacher's performance -- makes them just like -- China but how about school."

" But why not just lift the cap on kind of Charter Schools that have been shown to work manner."

" That's what this charge -- that don't work also. I don't -- more schools I just need better schools -- and and that's what I'm more -- every day in doubt try to go to -- our city and he's got to -- the government are critical. There are some -- go to Boston chart the last couple yet so let's just -- arbitrage -- charter school."

" What a question about education and backed the -- about other issues and even after sixteen years. In office Sino U quibble with some of these statistics but a hundred not of a 143. Boston Public Schools are considered under performing. Do you think you've done enough to improve the situation in the Boston public's."

" It was in the broad foundation -- more than 2006. As most improved schools some competition and all the other school districts America. We don't promised you amber and magical edition improvements were made we did say that that. -- apartments schools. How to have a 50% of schools in Massachusetts are underperforming. Brookline has some question doesn't welding and you know it would you want to know what I'm -- pulled -- This schools that have one program that might have been met. Criteria -- is it's not the old school has been the one program that's prompt. It's somewhat -- Boston that I other analysts have issues we have to make sure that we were all those schools to make a performance goals that's which I don't watch it. That's why he recklessly. And -- That schools -- under the farming. Don't they outperformed. They -- could -- MCAS scores but you know -- saying that hundred schools and don't need as well go to Wellesley and question national schools also."

" Let's turn to another issue Mayor Menino Celine net is so in Boston formally of the seaport district understands -- welcomed the program hello."

" Mister mister mayor I lived. Behind the children you can Anaconda compact. -- streets. Since 1980 -- finally have the latest here. Something like sixteen. Liquor licenses on the -- for that area. -- them a lot of retreat and trail. With almost behaviors. Quality elect came in real issue. What did you plan for basic. Fundamental. Improvement of quality of life for their for spam like."

" Rather it is not are drawn boards sixty additional licenses father -- bat -- that. We'll work toward the different -- some of fort point channel. On organization manager Shattuck great. -- studios a couple of weeks go down there and -- you know what there issues that we have to do we deal looked like just like got an area neighborhood just like any other name would actually question. Duration of development -- well. But I talked about those artists out there that they enjoyed that Madonna it's a great new way government. I commercially as -- you can I of the year. The Irish lost in the work close patient had down there and yes it's it's about -- they -- Soviets don't believe you're better in the future."

" thank you very much for your call Mayor Menino here's comment from our website a listener Steve. Has this question for you about development in Boston quote. Why has every hotel and nearly every office tower on the South Boston waterfront developed by Mayor Menino was friend -- Fallon. While few other projects have moved forward over the past decade. And quote -- deal Lori Mayer. To a broader point. About the perception that your opponent -- and others have suggested that you have to be close to the mayor's office in order to get something done anything to Boston."

" And on this some development in the city that there are some bright strokes that. Are not from -- with me -- their property is not just. Point two IG and the product -- girl. He had -- they can about the Westin hotel downtown. Dallas and fort different individuals or involvement development and wasn't just Joe Brown joked on six class guy he's -- to the city eighty yet. He had a video at a global brokerage comments to scriptural on the Israelis go get a product of a problem that has he done anything wrong no. -- I initiated there's relative opposite I'm not a name on the radio is because it's there's not properly do it they are. My best friends and our friends in my administration that let go is what's good for Boston. That's right why don't don't don't get back this other that we from a with the Mets know get our -- works were actually seen it uses these tiny precious."

" Right there here's another call from Cambridge -- on the path. Welcome to -- Boston Jeff hello."

" While calling from Cambridge mine but -- bright. However I read in the paper again this morning that articulate and how to act. Accidental. And release from one of Boston University Latin outbound. And you've been a strong supporter of the yet self for a lot which has the highest contamination level in. They felt that. I was wondering why you refused to talk to community members like to stop the violence coalition. About the issue for the last eight years of hard work."

" Our art what made social -- and they report. Who are far throwing arm. On the bar elaborate in the viola there's could for the future should you index I think admit -- get safety standards. On the viola bills pile up this country it would not be open its -- needs some rigid standards. Bible the federal government and should the government and that we have control over that I know -- in America has benchmarks can also you talked about how. -- have Mike -- just pick out of Atlanta Georgia. We have a level for bio lab on a college campus premier was really -- what you are saying you whenever out of college campus when --"

" Here's another call from Cambridge to West Roxbury Thomas on the line with -- mayor Thomas Menino Tom go ahead welcome."

" I'm -- over the last eight months I have yet to hear you once talk about your plans for education. For our environment for public safety. Mary had not been specific at all during the campaign will be Boston court is not a plan. We all wanna Mubarak supports the question is actually get there and what should quit while."

" Talk about the environment the last year and a half this administration. Perhaps fact publicized magazines and with a third remission in America -- director for Barcelona registrant all the homes actually. Output 100000 trees right 120 however idea coalition conduct. Our climate controlled virtually remote -- anymore buys more via biodiesel. I bought my -- and pedestrian knowingly and we've got and also would change our captions to. I'm hybrid cabs. We'll continue to do those things we have a plan of Boston -- make it work that's why we guard members and doors are masters of bimetal voters. We have a player and we're aggressive on this issue we've worked on this issue every day."

" Let me ask you mayor a question that development. And specifically about the Filene's sites not -- Filene's whole downtown if it's your reelected. What types of tactics are you prepared to employ to compel. But the current ownership group to either do something without property or sell it to someone who will to take care of it."

" I just wanna get reelected. The trap -- the last several bunch other issue trying to attract other folks from other countries toward destitute but it's not you know if you ask anybody who -- this -- development this country. Say they've shut the cities it brought its other states are global crash our economy that made the development stopped moments and where it is today that's let's talk about it's a global economy is not any mad because our failure -- the the federal government's area. It's a national problem that we have to recount."

" And you were a year and -- I report in The Wall Street Journal suggested that 490 realty trust when the company has been designated as the developers of that site. Is amassing huge amount of money looking for a place to invest it and why not use that money to redevelop the --"

" Himself doing a debt service said the patient that your ability have been out there probably foreclosure on their parent -- there -- very curious deposition back. -- not right now pointer options bankruptcy."

" I give you thirty seconds like I did counselor clarity Mayor -- to tell us quiet the last few days of this race you think you should have another term in Boston."

" I think -- thank you very much rather prominent stationed on this campaign all about moving this city forward. It's about people over Russia probably improve their lives better education. A stronger economy also understand the financial situation the state is in how we manage that that's one thing nobody talks about but shall want port management port. How do you marriage -- his client has actually lost a hundred million dollars or raising it was another sort -- a lot of money from the states. And I asked supporters to blossom to what was your experience. Was approached a government. That makes it work for the people not especially dressed for the people bought -- happened -- ordinary puts us -- everyday just about downtown it's about the -- How improved. They're diversity eventually pole with a different populations to register receipt -- what I actually -- and from certain."

" Mayor Menino we appreciate your time answer thank you mayor Thomas Menino is running for his fifth term as mayor of Clarkston. Listeners stay with us we'll be back with analysis from -- knocking of the Boston Globe and media analyst John Carroll. It'll critique the campaign's message strategies going into the final stretch. This is good to ask the mayor Thomas yeah and then who doesn't conduct business behind closed stories did you know that the black police officers took no confidence vote against the mayor joins me as we elect Michael clarity for fans. And Jane Clayson as Israel Boston much more we'll be right back."

" In this his -- Boston I'm Jane -- we've heard from city councilor Michael Flaherty and from mayor Thomas Menino this hour. Let me bring -- and WBUR media commentator John Carroll and Boston Globe columnist John than hockey to make some. Sense of this campaign so far welcome back. John -- I and the media strategies of these campaigns let me play one of mayor how many knows adds that we've. Seen as so much in recent months of this -- shows an empty desk against various locales around the city Boston."

" This is to -- mayor Thomas M yeah. The man who doesn't conduct business behind closed doors yeah in the neighborhood of Boston yeah you can. Affordable housing project and -- Clinton yeah. Staying power plant in West Roxbury. Treatment he fits in Dorchester."

" John -- what do you think about the mayor's media campaign. Well I think first of all the empty desk that is really interesting now that there is prominent anti -- on the City Hall which is the the -- constantly -- might you needed to move has taken a an unpaid. I'll leave and in the wake of the the email rumpus room. I I think that they had the idea. That Menino is trying to communicate is that he's out there he's active this whole moving Boston forward team is something that is trying to. Fight what usually fourth term minus which is this sort of stagnation and he's trying to convince people that that's not happening."

" Jumping on Q what do you make of that moving Boston forward tagline effective and what what's the what are you trying to communicate what they try to communicate with those words."

" Well I thought they tackling move in Boston forward. Was a reasonably good line and made sense. Not an ad strategist. I had a little bit of problems -- but the empty desk and moving around Boston and in terms of effectiveness that you know it I. I don't know that it resonated exactly -- lately there would have wanted it to."

" I don't feel like I've seen many Menino and airing lately. John Kerry or at least not compared to the blitz leading up to the primary is he holding back."

" I I think he may be holding back for the for the final days I think he also may be concerned about overkill because Michael clarity is not up on television -- radio and on television. I think he's he's in the equivalent of us are running out the clock and a and it's in the sports a contest I think what he wants to do is just get to. Election Day without any major event happening and if he stays off the radar screen that's probably good for him."

" Here's one Michael clarity is a recent ad campaign to doesn't have much money for TV but he has been running several radio spots as you just mentioned John here's one of them."

" This is pastor Bruce -- did you know that the black police officers took -- no confidence vote against the mayor. Did you know that the mail only has two presence of color in this -- And did you know that the mayor stated that we should not be concerned about the homicide rate and that's very delicious and -- and -- because that number."

" John and IKEA and what about that kind of explicit appeal to the black vote and will will it be effective might work."

" Well you know if -- if it brings out more minority voters and they vote for -- clarity. He will be effective but. You know there's no evidence to date that that's going to happen."

" Perhaps the most ridiculous the ubiquitous piece of media from the clarity campaign. And John Carroll has been the billboards around ten amateur pictures of the two men and -- good. Clarity better. There's been another controversial bit of messaging. This year in -- in those ads has it proved to be a smart strategy."

" I'm not I'm not sure that's the way undergoing Michael clarity is seen by many as sort of a -- and -- Mayor Menino and so the idea that that he can come in and exceed what won't renew -- done this is a hard sell I'm not sure that that's the way the best way you could've gone he's also backed off that a little bit since he's. Teamed up with him Noonan and and is on the flew to express. And out of that we'll see how that. Plays out whether -- people will turn out for him not."

" German hockey -- a scenario for a clarity ups on Tuesday."

" An area that. That people are tired of status quo is not good clarity that they are and that and I believe that there are people who are -- the status quo. Then they have to take that next step. Deciding to act on maybe and the need to succeed and kept it goes from Michael's clarity and I don't know maybe it's like looking in the mirror every day in a little bit tired is heavily yearbook. Thinking that's a little bit more dramatic but to go in and you know. Which in you know -- cut it -- you know that that takes. You know that takes them resolve and I'm not sure it's there right now."

" If you were advising -- phone campaigns in these final days -- quickly John Carroll dissent well I I think Michael clarity is gonna step it up as much as he can but I think he's he's probably wise not to go over the long as far as aggressive as Mayor -- I would say take a vacation. There's probably going to be the we've -- work better -- than anything else."

" A Boston University professor and WBUR media commentator John Carroll and from the Boston Globe columnist Jones and hockey always great to speak with people thank you very leaders. Remember Tuesday's Election Day around state of Massachusetts in addition to the Boston mayor's race there -- City Council races in Boston as well as races and other communities. Around Massachusetts. Before we leave you today a look ahead radio Boston a record -- broadcasts at historic Faneuil hall. Before a live audience on Tuesday November 17. At 8 PM. Our program look at gang violence in our city as anti gang activist negotiate the annual holiday cease -- known as the season of peace. Will focus on neighborhoods fighting gang violence that young people who perpetuated. And the innovative new street worker program designed to stop it. Admission to this event will be free of charge would like to join us in the audience on November 17 sent us an email to radio Boston at WV UR dot org. Put in the -- tickets in the subject line give us your name your phone number the number of tickets you'd like. That limit of four per person. Again our website radio Boston dot org or call us at 617358. June 6 -- seventh and we have to see you at Daniel hall on Tuesday November 7. Our program is produced by Adam Nicosia and Jessica -- with help from our interns -- hearts. I feel post is David O'Leary Tim -- is our technical director of the senior producer of radio Boston is mark Nathan. I'm Jane Clayson. Enjoy your weekend and we'll play again and again next week for you crossed."