By Antonio D. French
Filed Friday, August 11, 2006 at 6:02 PM
School Board president Veronica O'Brien was denied a restraining order today against fired Vashon basketball coach Floyd Irons and his friend and supporter, Demetrius Johnson. Labels: Schools, Video_Reports
O'Brien had alleged that the two -- along with several other protestors -- threatened her and her 11 year-old child at one of many recent protests at her home in the Central West End.
But Judge Michael Stelzer, son of 8th Ward Committeeman Jack Stelzer, today denied O'Brien's petition after hearing testimony from witnesses including city police officers and even former Superintendent Creg Williams, who came back to town to testify on behalf of his friend, Irons.
Here's a video of one of those protests:
31 Comments:
Floyd and Demetrius are the "nuts". We FINALLY have leadership willing to challenge Iron's illegal, immoral and bullying tactics. After thirty plus years in the district, isn't the "silence" from within the district from teachers, coaches, and administrators rather telling. No one outside of his inner circle with their own agenda is supporting him. I see no large crowds. We in the district know the real story of Mr.Irons. This is not about "the children"..but the money goldmine he has built at Vashon for HIMSELF..the players get "brief" attention and trophies. (MOST dont go to college).while he makes thousands..that's why he's fighting so hard rather than moving on the Jr College or College levels to coach...and where are those offers? hmmmm..his "controversial" reputation is well known.. read the various Missouri Sports and national Prep Cast Blogs and see what they think of him. I was surprised to see how wide spread.. what WE know is known. Demetrius'interst is FINANCIAL also...lending his name to fund raisers (example Adams Mark fiasco) without any district accountability for the funds...Oh yes..and didnt his sister work for Floyd and get displaced whith the administrative demise of Irons... They are raising such HELL to hold on to "MO money" for themselves.
and one more question...why has no one addressed the fact that besides NOT having administrative certification to be a principal...his serving as administrator and coach violated the law (no one else has been allowed to do it) ..and his serving as Sports Administrator for the DISTRICT while coaching WITHIN the district was a CLEAR conflict of interest.. ask the other coaches how it impacted them?
8/12/2006 9:43 AM
Friends,
Following is the report of what took place yesterday in Judge Michael F. Stelzer's court room yesterday. This is from the catbird's seat, as I had a front row seat and was there for the whole proceeding.
The following account is factual and accurate. However, it must also be noted that the attorney for Floyd Irons and Demetrious Johnson also requested that Mrs. O'Brien be ordered to pay all attorneys' fees. The judge denied that request. That was a judgment in favor of Mrs. O'Brien.
The judge's pronouncements were understandable in light of the fact that much of what transpired was her word against their word, a weak and nonagressive attorney presentation on her behalf and lack of witnesses to what she experienced who would have recognized what was transpiring and the affect on her and her family members.
Protests at homes of public officials are legal, and perhaps that is something that needs to be addressed one day and changed. I have not nor will never participate in a protest at someone's home.
I did learn that Mrs. O'Brien's husband, Mark, came later with the children; and the judge would not let them in the court room. In light of the crowd that was there in support of Irons and Johnson and going in and out of the court room, this decision seemed rather extreme to me. After all, her family is equally affected by what is transpiring.
Another fact that came to light in this case is that Demetrious Johnson's sister is also employed by the department that was eliminated. After the hearing, upon leaving the court house, a leaflet was passed out with the bold title, IT'S ALL ABOUT THE MONEY ! It spells out the fact that Demetrious Johnson has been the recipient of large St. Louis Public Schools payouts under Floyd Iron's leadership and that such payouts ought to be investigated.
When such payouts are added to the fact that Johnson's sister's employment is affected, it is not difficult to see what is at stake. On the witness stand, both parties attempted to emphasize that it is about the kids; but it doesn't take much intelligence to recognize it's about money for adults and not the kids. And this is what the city school district is up against big time and must find the will and wherewithall to turn around the school district to ensure it is "about the kids." (Personal opinion)
Lastly, it is my opinion and concern that Mrs. O'Brien has been singled out for venomous vituperations and angry protests when she is not individually responsible for any decisions the board made or makes. The decisions against which such actions are directed are decisions made by a majority or a unanimous board. To single out one party is extremely prejudicial and ugly.
What could diffuse such ugliness is for the men and women who really care about children and their receiving a quality education to support Mrs. O'Brien and others through acts of kindness, compassion, and refusal to accept the loud din of protests for the financial profit of a couple of men.
When I first learned to type, a typing exercise involved typing, "Now is the time for all men to come to the aid of their party." It supposedly allowed for the use of practically every key on the keyboard. Permit me to suggest a similar exercise for those who genuinely care about children and education: "Now is the time to come to the aid of the Board of Education members and the Saint Louis Public Schools." Well, a "Q" and a "Z" may be missing, but YOU will be part of a most important chapter in urban public school education and the lives of St. Louis' children.
Helen Louise Herndon
8/12/2006 10:30 AM
Does anyone know how Floyd Irons managed to afford the nearly $1.5 million he spent on two homes and a four-family earlier this year? I could understand purchasing the properties one at a time over a period of time, but all within a month seems a bit of a stretch for a high school coach.
Also, I agree that in spite of the fact that Veronica O'Brien is a public official, demonstrating at her home is out of line.
8/12/2006 11:36 AM
This is the United States of America, folks. Remember? Freedom of speech, assembly, etc? "Protests" at public officials homes are oftentimes the only way to draw attention to issues that must be addressed. It is much to easy for public officials to hide from their constituents behind the doors, fences, and security guards of public buildings. If going to their homes is the only way to draw attention to an issue, then so be it. This, of course, does NOT give demonstrators the right to be offensive or threatening.
8/12/2006 5:56 PM
Maybe Coach Floyd Irons has good credit and took out a mortgage to purchase these properties. Maybe Coach Irons had already owned some properties and sold them for a profit which allowed him to purchase these properties. Come with facts not allegations, because people buy properties everday and there is nothing strange about that!
8/12/2006 6:43 PM
Well, someone else posted above what I wrote. Personally, and I have other union friends who feel the same, I believe respect for the private and family life is due even civil or public servants.
I understand how others view it, but I respect families and the right to peace, quiet, and privacy. I think it is difficult to control large crowds, and the mob mentality lies just beneath the surface. I would not do it to anyone of any party no matter how strongly I feel or how angry I am. One's neighbors do not have to be imposed upon by those who disagree with their neighbor.
I will personally respect the line of demarcation between public life and private life.
Since I did not personally post my comments that went to friends and colleagues, I felt perhaps I should clarify why I expressed what I believe in this regard.
I respect the views of others also in this regard.
8/12/2006 8:13 PM
Helen, I think that you make a good point and I've heard others who support Veronica make the same point. What baffles me is that I never heard you or anyone else speak to that point when angry protesters stood outside the homes of Darnetta Clinkscale and Vince Schoemehl. I didn't hear righteous indignation when protesters went to Darnetta's church and 'made their stand' during a service. Is this just something that you've been thinking about and now you've formed (finally) your opinion or is there a double standard?
8/12/2006 8:47 PM
Jim, I may not have mentioned it when protesters went to the others' homes, but I certainly disagreed with them, as I did with the demonstration outside of Jane Cunningham's home.
However, the reason it is raised now as an issue is because of the court hearing dealing with a restraining order to this effect.
That's the only reason I am bringing it up at this time. No one can find anything I have written in the past favoring such demonstrations even against those with whom I have disagreed. It's not like I have changed my mind. I am only expressing it due to the nature of what is currently taking place. The judge also raised the issue as a possibility of being addressed in the future. So I believe it is becoming an issue for thought on behalf of others. I still respect those who feel it is in the purview of freedom of speech.
When it comes to my freedoms, I recognize mine cannot infringe upon those of others. I believe I have been consistent.
8/12/2006 9:31 PM
If you put yourself in the spotlight for good or evil the public and paparazzi will find you. I personally wished I had participated in the initial protest in front of Veronica's home. It angers me that she is making the decisions for my child and her children are attending Clayton schools. The SLPS is in state of total and complete chaos and my child begins school in 2 weeks. I may just keep him home until they have their plan in order. It angers me that the board does not feel I am worthy of an explanation. I am a parent and a tax payer, I do deserve the information and the choice of my own opinion.
8/12/2006 10:37 PM
As for the comments regarding Floyd Irons' accumulation of real estate, you blogger are out of line. I am a mortgage professional and just about anybody can purchase multiple homes these days, even with less than perfect credit. It is also well known that flipping homes if handled properly can produce a substantial income. I believe his primary residence is in Normandy and he and his family have lived there for eons.
8/12/2006 10:40 PM
Star have you ever met Veronica?
8/12/2006 10:53 PM
Hi Helen,
Hey, I have no problem with your position. It is yours and I hope you always have the right to express it. I think you may be confusing some anons' comments with mine. I don't post anonymously.
Jim.
8/13/2006 12:21 AM
Anon at 10:37 PM, please don't keep your child out of school. As a teacher, I can assure you that it will not help your child succeed in his new grade if he waits until the others have had a head start over him. Even when central office issues are confusing, there are caring teachers who want the best for your child's experience this school year. I have seen the effects on students who start later than the others, and it will hurt the child's self esteem and confidence which can plague him all year. Certain grades are particularly painful in terms of teasing by the other students for being the only one in class who doesn't know something that was already taught. A teacher sets the tone for the entire year during that first week, and those who are not there feel "out of the loop" for weeks afterward. I'm sure your son will be happy to extend his summer vacation if given the choice, but if he is there from the very beginning, you will both have a better year.
8/13/2006 12:25 AM
The last anon is absolutely right. Keeping kids out of school is the worst thing a parent can do. It only hurts the child. Showing up a week or two after school starts only adds to "chaos and confusion."
8/13/2006 12:31 AM
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8/13/2006 5:41 AM
Jim, thanks. You're right, and I realized after I had posted that it was an anonymous person who questioned my position. I am definitely against going to someone's church to protest.
Isn't it interesting how one can feel free to write just about anything and sully other people's reputations under the handle of "anonymous?"
Previous anonymous, your language is abusive, unnecessary even if you are frustrated, and why do you bother to read on or participate in such a blog if you have no respect for others? You must have an out-of-this-world opinion of yourself! What conceit. I hope you are not a parent. I sympathize with a spouse to or children of someone who is so out of control.
There are parents and educators dialoguing with one another here, and you disrespect them and blow them off with a slew of profanities. And you're not even man enough to identify yourself.
Fifth to last anonymous, Veronica O'Brien is one person and doesn't make the decisions of the board. Either a majority or a unanimous board make decisions. Have you contacted her personally to inquire and ask what you need to know? I find there are so many nonfactual assumptions made about others.
Even though I disagreed with policies, actions, and decisions of Darnetta Clinkscale or Ron Jackson, I remained respectful of and to them. There are many politicians I disagree with, but I dialogue or discuss issues with them in an attempt to persuade without getting ugly about them.
8/13/2006 6:44 AM
Anonymous teacher, my child is of superior intellect and the current curriculum does not challenge him and yes he is in the gifted program. Having to catch up is not detrimental to his well being as catching up is not a probolem for him. Chaos and lack of organization is detrimental to his emotional well being as I pay for the medications and medical services required to keep him emotionally stable, the negative experiences in the SLPS have already affected his emotional well being. This is why I continue to advocate for him.
8/13/2006 11:46 AM
Anonymous parent - perhaps one of the people that you are working with for medical services could advise you on the best course of action for your child. Consult with one that you trust about keeping your child out of school to get an objective and individualized approach that best fits your child's needs.
8/13/2006 12:27 PM
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8/13/2006 8:21 PM
Instead of protesting, these people need to get together with the school board, and staff members, to find a solution. Everyone needs to work together. The children are not going to benefit from Veronicas removal, or any more fighting. The time for fighting has ended. Why the fuck are you protesting over Craig Williams? Your children do not even have proper restrooms? Instead of fighting over personnel changes, work with the the SLPS to get proper restrooms, books, and then academics. Volunteer at schools, become a leader and unite people, because this really won't solve anything. Do not put energy into fighting the SLPS, but into reform and policy changes.
8/14/2006 8:52 AM
Douglas, your post imply's that the board will work with disgruntled citizens. No one on this board has shown the ability to compromise, not the ability to work with others to make them understand their position. Though I agree we should be working together, no one seems to be able to make peace. It seems business as usual, and usual isn't good.
8/14/2006 11:21 AM
Am I understandig that during the court testimony, the police officers said that Veronica said that had a loaded gun?
What did they do to find out if she had a gun, and if she has a permit for the gun? I am not making allegations of her or anyone, I am asking the question about the testimony.
8/14/2006 12:57 PM
to Helen said:
You said you were in the catbird's seat. Which side called Creg Williams to the stand and what was the purpose of his testimony?
8/14/2006 2:41 PM
Creg Williams was called to the stand by Irons' and Johnson's attorney. It seemed to me to be unnecessary, as it was only to substantiate that Irons and Johnson went to his apartment one night. The other side did not question or contend that fact.
As for the Police Officer's report in which he stated Veronica O'Brien stated she had a loaded gun in her car and would use it, it appeared even the judge found it to be questionable. What Police Officer in learning a loaded gun is near wouldn't investigate? This officer did not investigate. His whole report seemed to fall on the contrived side.
Interestingly, on another blog on this web site, there is a blurb about Percy Green's case against Mayor Slay, and one blogger wrote the following: "Green will lose this battle. Mayor Slay controls the judges and the rulings that come out of court in the City of St. Louis. Mayor Slay will call the judge to remind them to rule against Percy Green and the hearing will be a formality. The fact of whether Percy Green is competent or not does not make any damn difference. Mayor Slay runs St. Louis and any decision that comes out of the court system against him.
Mayor Slay will be in his current position forever, hell he may retire from this position in his late 60's."
I have heard from several people their concern that Slay has such control over our courts.
I also received the following response from someone who attended the last Board of Education meeting: "I thought that Veronica's attorney made a mistake when he didn't allow me to testify to what I saw at the School Board Meeting when Demetrius encouraged the kids to scream obscenities and when he screamed at me to go f myself for supporting Veronica. I thought that it would have helped to show that Demetrius is stirring up ill feelings in every venue. Unfortunately, I couldn't speak to the situation at Veronica's house."
Please permit me to assure everyone on this blog that I am more interested in fact and truth than sidesl. Nonetheless, it is evident that even our legal system is slanted against those who buck up against Schoemehl or Slay.
I personally want to leave this city because it has a sad backdrop that precludes any justice or fairness to so many people who attempt to serve with integrity. My personal opinion. There is such a danger to a one-party community.
8/14/2006 3:12 PM
Helen, though you say "Please permit me to assure everyone on this blog that I am more interested in fact and truth than sides" you are quick to quote those against Mayor Slay, you seem to ignore "fact and truth".
You quoted someone who said "Mayor Slay controls the judges" and therefore will rule against Mr. Green, but ignore the post a little down that says "the freaking Mayor of St. Louis doesn't appoint FEDERAL judges anyways." or the post that says "The Mayor doesn't even appoint circuit judges"
It would seem that you are more interested in slant and inuendo than fact and truth. Please don't pull a Fox News and try and report opinion as fact.
8/14/2006 3:31 PM
Mike,
When I quoted the posting from another blog, the following blog had not been posted yet.
I do not believe the Mayor has any power over federal judges. I just thought the opinion cited is fairly prevalent with many.
Mike, what side do you normally come down on?
I was one of those who originally was in favor of a management turn around team, but saw how it was influenced by those already in place and in power.
8/14/2006 4:15 PM
Helen, my point was that quoting other people doesn't make it fact. You can't claim that you are posting to state facts and then post opinion.
Though you say "I do not believe the Mayor has any power over federal judges", you did nothing to dispel the rumor, or opinion that the Mayor has power over them. You may be trying to get people's opinion's heard but when you see false statements you should try and correct them, not keep recycling false statements. That is unproductive.
8/14/2006 4:34 PM
Inspecteur Clouseau ici: Monsieur Michel (Mike), it seems to me you aren't contributing much to the discussion ici (here). Do you work for City Hall?
On what basis do you accuse the present board of not compromising and working with others? Under monsieur Schoemehl, there was no compromise. It was "my way or the highway."
Madame Helen Louise simply stated her opinion. So why would you go after her and not the previous board members who didn't care what anyone else thought; êtes-vous possiblement (are you possibly) Mike McMillan whose mother has a cushhy position in the Human Resource Department of the SLPS? Just thought I would ask because those who think it's about the kids should know there are many political appointments.
Michel (Mike), je crois (I believe) many would like for you to substantiate your claims and questions.
8/14/2006 4:41 PM
All, Slay controls no one. Can't you tell he can't even control himself. Slay has lost the race before it starts. The word is he has been hanging out with DJ and Irons. He is even doing conferences with DJ. The word I hear is the Feds are about to move in on Irons, DJ and Williams. This will finish Slay off even before the park issue does. What kind of mayor supports a man that was charged with beating a child and has stolen money. Slay must go as he has lost touch. No one likes him. At least some people did like Vince. The word is O'Brien even likes Vince. I'll believe this if she tells me this.
8/15/2006 1:44 AM
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8/15/2006 1:50 AM
Dear Pink Panther, I didn't say the previous board worked with the citizen's, I just said this board hasn't shown any inclination to work with the citizen's.
I am not Michael McMillan.
I do not work for city hall.
Why is it when anyone points to a flaw in your argument, you accuse them of working for city hall. Why can't someone just correct a mistake? I haven't typed on here before because of how vicious you bloggers can be, but I thought I should chime in and correct a misconception. For that I get accused of being a plant. Next time I will just post anonymously.
8/15/2006 11:40 AM
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