Are You Street Smart?
82
St. Louis Gangs
Missouri- Movin' On
NOTE: I received a comment on Facebook about my previous hub, "Exciting Gifts for Everyone" regarding my choice to purchase a stun gun for my sister for Christmas. This person said, "Why is living in St. Louis dangerous?" He could not understand why I would joke about such a thing. I love this city. I can laugh about it or cry about it, but it is what it is - it's called surviving and if you want to live here - being street smart is a necessity.
Street smart has no reference to I.Q. or your educational level of intelligence. Street smart is more of an alertness of personal life. It is comprehending what is going on around you personally - perception. Body language is heavily relied upon, the ability to read other people's expression and mood. The ability to know when to speak and when to stay quiet, which is best most of the time. You should know when to make eye contact - and for how long.
Why is St. Louis Dangerous?
St. Louis is a plethora of gang activity, crime and corruption. According Charles Jaco, of Fox 2 News, "there are approximately 3,420 gang members in the city belonging to about 85 different gangs." The most popular around here are the Bloods and the Crips. Gangs affilate themselves as a family - united by color or tattoos. They have their own language - in sign, verbal and written communication. For example:
- Dog - Blood Gang Member (colors are red)
- Loc - Crip Gang Member (colors are blue)
- Mercy - An order to shoot someone but let them live
- Hood Rats - Female gang members - (usually very tough females)
- Mark - might refer to a kid who wants to leave the gang (could have consequence of death)
- Break yourself - run or you are dead
- Check yourself - shut up - you are about to get your butt whipped
- Riding dirty - don't get in the car! They have drugs or guns
- pimps and hoes - men and women (usually respectively)
- dope - adjective - very cool
- dope - noun - heroin
- Marijuana - chronic or referred to as a blunt
- County bullet - one year in the county jail
- Bracelets - handcuffs
- sku me - excuse me
- 187 - murder
- 314 - referring to St. Louis area code
- white girl - cocaine
If you find yourself here - go WEST!
You often see R.I.P in graffiti here
St. Louis Mafia
The Mafia has ties to St. Louis that date back to the 1800's although it wasn't until after the repeal of prohibition that this little river town began to boom. After 1933 the Mafia was present and prominent here. When I was growing up - the Leisures and the Michaels were the most active. One of the Leisures planted a car bomb under one of the Michael's vehicles and that started a war between the two families with more explosives to follow.
St. Louis was noted for having strong connections through the Mafia to Las Vegas Hotels, particularly, The Dunes and Aladdin.
Roster of St. Louis Mafia
- Mafia-International.com - St Louis Chart
Chart of the St Louis LCN Family members
 | Amazon Price: $31.37 List Price: $50.00 |
 | Amazon Price: $8.50 List Price: $43.95 |
 | Amazon Price: $4.00 List Price: $11.99 |
 | Amazon Price: $3.99 List Price: $4.90 |
 | Amazon Price: $5.00 List Price: $18.95 |
Sheryl Crow performing in St. Louis
My Favorite St. Louisians
- Eminem
- Nelly
- Sheryl Crow
- Ike and Tina Turner
- John Goodman
- Vincent Price
- David Freese
- Ryan Howard
- Maya Angelou
- Josephine Baker
- Tennessee Williams
- Chingy
- Mary Englebreit
- Kevin Kline
It's The Real Slim Shady
Protect Yourself!
I truly believe that females and males alike need to be proactive in learning to protect themselves. That means realizing that if you live in a city full of crime - learn your street smarts. Females are abducted in shopping mall parking lots in broad daylight. According to ABC in a 2006 story, "over 1.9 million women are physically assaulted annually in the United States."
There is a term called "Learned Helplessness" and I have rarely ever heard it used except in the academic environment. It is when a person feels trapped and they have no control over their life situations. For example, the abused wife with tunnel vision who see's no escape from her abuser.
Don't pretend that you can do nothing to prepare yourself if you find yourself in a bad situation. Be proactive. Here are my best tips for keeping yourself safe if you ever have to come to St. Louis:
- Be AWARE - of your surroundings, the people, the language they use
- Make eye contact - but not for too long
- Do not walk alone after dark - power in numbers
- Do not ever wear a red or blue bandana in the City
- Never walk down alley's after dark
- Do not flash cash - no one will think you're cool - it's a sign of an easy mark
- If someone is following you - do not alter the pace of your footsteps but try to cross the street - do not let people approach from behind
- ALWAYS check the front and back seat of your car before you get in - even if you just stopped for gas - many people have been assaulted that way here.
- If someone bumps your car on the highway - do not pull over! Go to the nearest police station and report it there. This is a common trick to get you to pull over on a dark highway.
- Do not drive in the City of St. Louis at night unless you have a predetermined map and current driving directions. Driving down the wrong street can get you new kind of air conditioning and seat jewelry!
- Be very careful going to an ATM machine at night - make sure you go to an area where it is well lit and a public area.
- Do not walk around with lots of bling - that is how we know who the dealers or wanna be's are!
- If you go to a night club - do not accept a drink from anyone! GHB is everywhere!
- Take your drink to the bathroom with you if you leave the table.
- Do not park next to large vans in parking lots. If there is one next to your car enter your car through the opposite door.
- If a man tells you he lost his doggy and he's holding an empty leash - kick him where it counts and run
- Carry mace, pepper spray or a stun gun. Remember mace and pepper spray do not work on approximately 15 - 20% of people for an unknown reason. It can also blow back into your face.
If your car needs autobody work take it to Collision Center of St. Louis - No questions asked! (314) 601-5677 Expertise in repairing bullet holes!
Drive safe in St. Louis!
My nephew, Blake, owns an auto body shop in St. Louis. The photo is a picture of a vehicle that he was employed to repair. It is obvious the driver drove down the wrong street. Once again, awareness! St. Louis is full of fun and exciting things to do. It looks beautiful by day - the shopping, museums and monuments but at night it is another place where nothing is at it seems. The good guys and the bad guys are hard to tell apart.
I asked him, "what's the shizzle with the car?" True to St. Louis style - he didn't ask. He wanted to get the repair job. "I dug a bullet out of the seat," he said unimpressed.
I laughed, "that's St. Louis, for you."
Keep it Real!
- Lose Yourself In My Letter To Eminem
Eminem is a man with a lot to say. He might not always speak his mind the way some people want but oh well, he is who he is. You can take him or leave him. I appreciate him.
The entire area is dangerous!
St. Louis - - Womens Self Defense Instruction Online
Womens Self Defense Instruction Online: Free Lessons, Safety Tips and Non-lethal Weapons. Experienced instructors, educators, coaches, and authors. Fast, Fun, Safe Basic Self Defense Moves for all. - St. Louis, MO Crime Map - Showing Crimes in St. Louis - Crime Statistics, Alerts and Reports - Crime
St. Louis, MO Crime Map - Showing Crimes in St. Louis - Crime Statistics, Alerts and Reports - Crime Stops Here. City and county crime maps showing crime incident data down to neighborhood crime activity - crime alerts and reports.
vote upvote downshareprintflag
- Useful (17)
- Funny (2)
- Awesome (9)
- Beautiful (2)
- Interesting (16)
CommentsLoading...
Hi Tammy - Yep this is known for being probably the most violent city in the U.S. There's a little bit of everything here. I lived in the area featured in the video "worst ghetto in North St. Louis". My whole family lived there....I live about 30 miles outside the City now. It's a crazy place to live! Thanks so much for reading and commenting:) Stay safe!
If you think St. Louis is bad, try growing up on the North side of Houston! I've seen some sh(&(t for sure. Once of my best friends got shot four times with a .45 Colt Commander (just like the one I used to own) at point blank range. He lived, but just barely.
I've been through a lot of bad crap too, but it was long ago and far away. I love living out in the country away from the gangs. But even out here we have pot growers and meth labs.
Just don't forget that Texans usually carry guns and know how to use them. It's for defense for sure.
Hi Austin - I have heard about that part of Houston! Also - I am not sure if you are aware of this - but everyone who doesn't live in Texas has heard about the LAW in Texas! lol I have heard "I'd never want to be in a Texas jail" a few times:)
Same here - it seems like the rurual areas are prime for meth labs because it's easier to conceal the 'special scent' ...traveling meth labs are popular here too. They make it in their trunks!
It is legal to carry a weapon with a permit here - but who cares? Anyone can get one - people sell them out of their trunks under bridges in the City:) lol Sad but true.
Defense can never be over rated! If someone comes into your home here - you have the right to shoot them. If they are in the yard...well clean up the drag marks! lol j/k
Realhousewife this is excellent stuff. Though it doesn't affect me as such as I live in a different country, your description of the the mafia gang wars et all, in St. Louis was a real eye opener maybe comparable to the underworld gang wars we have in Mumbai.
In this day and age, becoming street smart is a necessity because it affects the man on the street.
Voted up and useful.
Dang! I thought Orlando was bad but St Louis has us outbeat! I first learned about violence in St Louis listening to Nelly's songs (love me some Nelly) but I thought he was just trying to sell music...well that's not true anymore. Thanks for stating all the facts Real Deal. Be safe! Stun those suckers!!!
Hey RealHousewife, I'm willing to bet that the person who posted the original comment that led you to write this hub, wasn't even a U.S. Citizen. LOL! However, you did a wonderful job at pointing out the dangers of St. Louis and it's just as bad in many other states too. The amount of gang activity and crime that is assorted with gangs isn't, at least to me, a surprise. Great Hub! Voted up!
Hi Rajan - I bet it's pretty close to your underworld. They are probably connected at some degree. Right! Everyone should have some street sense! Especially if you come here! Lol. Thank you so much!
Hi Sunshine! I'm sure every city has their gray area - this one is just super bad! I posted a question once asking where to take kids on vacation - the second answer was "well I don't know but I live in St. Louis - don't come here! Lmao! Too late!
Nelly wadnt lyin;) lol. One of Nellys peeps that drove his pimp mobile around was crushing on Laurel - he took her for a ride in Nellys van (it had a stripper pole built right in the back!!) omg! Yep momma knows how to fight:) lol. Dirty! Haha!
Hi Cagsil - your right! That guy was from England - I've heard they got their gray areas too:). Maybe nit like here though. I think St. Louis is the most violent city for sure as far as murder, gangs and all that sweet stuff. We even have the freak White Supremicists - and this is hilarious. The KKK tried to "adopt a highway" and their sign that gushed "the part of the highway is sponsored by the KKK". Kept getting stolen!! Finally someone put a camera there and caught the dude that was stealing it every night - he was white!!! LMAO we loved it! That group is huge here and very visible. Id be more afraid of the KKK than the bloods or crips!
Thanks so much Ray - glad I could entertain you:) haha!
Laurel...dang...that's awesome!!! I'm jealous!!! BTW I forgot to answer the title of this hub...Heck yay! :)
Wow remind me to bring my gun with me when I come visit you. This was an eye full about St. Louis. While I was reading it I was thinking about years ago when I lived in California. When we first moved there we were warned that if we had to drive through Watts to make sure that we just looked ahead, kept our windows and doors locked and not to stare or look at anyone on the streets or in other cars. This was way back in 1971, not sure what it's like there now but probably even worse. The little ole town that I live in is quiet and peaceful compared to St. Louis. Even though it is I still lock my car even when I am only running in to grab something from the corner store. Thanks for all the info on St. Louis ... Stay safe and keep that stun gun handy :)
Sunshine - Laurel was singing for a while - she also met Chingy a few times. My girl can sing - I wish she would pursue it!
Hi Susan! I moved outside the city after there was a high speed chase past my front lawn.....too bad for those homies we lived on a dead end street! They hit a car - jumped out and four guys strted running - they caught one in my back yard! It was like noon! Lol.
I moved WEST:) haha! But everywhere here is suspect. Gangs are out here too now. Out in the hills ya got the KKK alive, well and visible.
I went to LA and I thought that was pretty rough - but that whole town closes up at 7pm! People here don't sleep - those are prime working hours! Haha!
If you drive through St. Louis - you just do the same thing as driving through Watts. Don't even look at the cars next to you - an unintentional look can get you shot! But if you're walking - you want to let the people know you can identify them - so a quick look is all it takes - then look at whatever is straight forward!
I have a sheriffs deputy that lives across the street and parks his car there every night - Laurels car was still broken into right on the street!
A very good Hub.. and I like the street Cred Break-Down.. there is bad and good everywhere again great Hub
Scary, I knew St. Louis had a high crime and murder rate but didn't know it was this bad. In most major cities there are huge crime problems and you definitely don't want to venture into the wrong neighborhoods during day or night. It helps to keep a stun gun or some other form of self protection and know how to use it.
Hi Frank - thanks so much! It helps to know if you hear one of those words here - youre in gang territory. Part of the problem is the Crips might rule a block right next to a block owned by the Bloods....lots of street violence.
Ther really are bad areas in every big city....and it's good to know where you should not go! Lol
Hi Mandy - you're a smart girl! And very beautiful - you need a stun gun, mace and pepper spray if you come here! Lol. I have heard it said that there is so much violence toward females it's been call a war on women. I think you'll do just fine - you seem to for sure be srett smart already:). Thanks so much!!
Even in Hawaii there is crime and gangs and areas where outsiders are not welcome. There is no place that I would consider safe anymore. Street smarts are the only thing that will protect you. And a big gun. But do get some training on how to use one. Gun ranges are fun and they are the new bowling alleys! Shooting up targets is a real stress reliever.
Austin - I totally agree! We have plenty of gun ranges here - and I've been:). I have had the opportunity to test fire several weapons, An AK 47 was one of them! Wow! Now that's some power! I used to have a really cool 22 - Taurus - is was a 9 shot, which you don't see often with single or double action. I got rid of it when the babies came along. I had lived on 14 acres alone so I did need protection then.
I've heard that Hawaii has high crime areas - and I was curious about it because you'd think they didn't the way people talk about it.
Kelly, this is amazing. I had no idea St. Louis was so dangerous. You have explained the situation there well along with the street talk. Being street smart is the only way to survive on those streets, similar to our ghettos here in Jamaica. One can never be too careful.
Good article, and it brings up an important point...almost 75% of all gun crime occurs in America's ghettos, and it is committed by gang members killing other gang members.
If you are not a criminal, don't use illicit drugs, not a police officer, and stay out of dangerous neighborhoods, your chances of being shot fall to near zero.
In other words, law abiding gun owners are not the problem at all. Almost all gun crime is committed by those who cannot legally possess a gun in the first place, because they are already criminals.
RHW - I'm speechless. Here I was thinking you a mild mannered woman and you turn into Annie Oakley on me!
The Frog
Hi Willstarr - I agree with you all the way! And it's so true - I looked at the statistics and I believe the clip above states that homicide is highest among African Americans on African Americans and it's all gang related! A gun permit means nothing....and if we were not allowed to have guns we would be in a losing battle. The law abiding citizens would be shot to death while they dialed 911 for a person with a gun! It's sad but it is a fact!!
And according to Victimology most homicide victims had a big part to play in their murders. Here you just stay away from the State Streets, lol. Washington, Nebraska, Virginia, like that!
Thanks so much for making that point clearer!
Hi Frog! Lol. Too funny - I do not mind guns. They don't scare me and I wouldn't have one in my house only because I have tons of kids running around. When I lived alone - I did take gun safety, and know for sure how to handle one. I really enjoyed shooting the different guns too - Dave used to have a huge 44 Magnum....for hunting:) haha just kidding -
Thanks so much Frog - hit me up if you get to St. Louis:) lol
So important to be aware of your surroundings -- whereever you are. And while crime happens 24 hours a day -- I try to teach my kiddos -- nothing good happens after midnight. You need to be home!
Hi Sally! You are so right! And I really think women need to take self defense classes too. We have a mall I used to go to all the time - there is a police substation right in the mall and a few women we abducted in broad daylight right there! I don't even go there anymore!
And so right - all the trouble does seem to happen after dark. You just can't be to careful! There was a little girl here tonight Sally - she had run away from home (ok she came here - I live around the corner) my daughter came upstairs and took me aside and told me - the little girls parents were driving everywhere looking for her. Omg! I pretended like we were leaving - then I told the little 5th grader that Dave was going to drop her off at home. Then I called the parents and let them know Dave was on the way with her. I said no more but really? Sheesh! Then I talked with my kids a long while....crazy!
Wow - this is absolutely crazy. I mean - I knew it was bad but I didn't realize it was that bad. I still want to go to St. Louis. I have always wanted to see the arches. We drove through it last year but we didn't stay. Per warning on how bad the area was we made sure we were a little past the area before we stopped. (And this was before I knew you ... so this was someone saying this all the way from Wisconsin)
I have to say - it is very important for people, woman particularly to be street smart. Woman are more likely to become victims because typically they are not as strong. They need to be aware of this stuff. This is good - really good. The dangers are everywhere and this advice should be headed regardless! :)
Hey BBG! I was afraid to tell you before you get here:) LOL. My area is not like that - but the video above is the first place I ever remember living. On E Prairie. It wasn't that bad then but my grams house got robbed so often they finally stopped locking the door. At least they didn't have to replace that again too. They bought a guard dog? It got stolen too! Lmao! Some guard dog!
The city is fine during the day - but unlike Las Vegas - you don't just walk around. In fact you never see crowds of people walking downtown like you would even in Chicago. At night the streets are empty except bus stops. And you drive fast past those too! Lol
Thank you so much - that IS the most important thing - for women to not be afraid but to be proactive about learning to defend themselves, the confidence alone will make her less vulnerable. I know you would be just fine:) haha soldier:)
I guess I won't be visiting St. Louis anytime soon. Having said that I think your advice applies to tons of cities and islands in the Caribbean as well. It's dangerous out there. Up and useful and interesting.
I had no idea that St. LOUIS was so dangerous. I guess to an outsider, the nice arch and the clean stadium, which is what we see, makes St. Louis appear to be so nice. Of course, every city has a seedy side no one wants to see but it does exist. This was so very interesting. Thanks.
I always say that if I want to avoid anything from happening to me to not put myself in a situation where it could occur. Sometimes Darrel teases me about it because I'll be like, nope I'm not doing that because something might happen, but it has worked for me! You could live in the nicest crime free area and there is still a possibility that something could happen to you. The problem is that those are the people that least expect it and are not ready for it! I have always hated going outside after dark and I have always checked my back and front seat before getting in to my car. Although I am not as knowledgable about the specifics that happen on the street, I am pretty savy when it comes to keeping myself safe... it also helps that my amazing brother-in-law (barbergirls husband) has taught me and my younger sister defensive moves since we were in like 4th grade! You grow up learning how to defend yourself, protect yourself whenever possible, and don't put yourself in bad situations and you are most likely to not have anything happen to you! Although on a side note... there is still a possibility even with all of that. After all you never know when your house might get broken into or when you might meet a psycho path who literally ruins your life. It happens even when you attempt to avoid it! Even knowing all of this I will never change how I think about it... if I don't want it to happen to me, I'm just going to stay away from situations where it would occur!
I use to work downtown STL on Locust Street. Our parking lot was not gated and we were supposed to have one of our male co-workers watch us get to our car in the evening. Right! Never happened. I was accosted crossing the steet regularly. I started noticing a very tall angry black man standing by my car every evening when I went to leave work. I just ignored him. He glared at me until I was out of sight. Not long afterwards, a volunteer at a church on Washington Avenue (one street over from Locust) that provided meals for the homeless had her throat cut for giving a coat to another man, which enraged this dude. The man who was charged with killing her was the man I saw waiting by my car. Another day a homeless dude walked into the office while I was on my lunch break (gone for 10-minutes), went under my desk and stole my purse. STL is dangerous and the cops are disinterested and understaffed. Great article, RealHousewife, because the truth is we're on our own.
Hi BPOP! Right - everyone should have an understanding of their surroundings and learn their street smarts. Comes in handy when traveling too! You just never know what situation you may encounter but it's smart to prepare for as much as you can!
Thanks so much! And yep - lots better places to go for vacation than St. Louis! Sorry to say:(
Myth - you are so smart! Most people do have a part to play in what happens to them. Keepingnyourself away from dangerous situations is more than half the battle. Here - if you see Amy's comment below - it can be dangerous to go to work if you work downtown. My sister's boss bought a new building downtown so she had to drive there. Everyday - there were robberies and cars stolen on that block. One day she called and told me the fast food place had been robbed during that day! Another girl was parked by the curb and a car slammed into hers - the female got out asked her if she was ok then apologized and said, "sorry I got a warrant I gotta go!" then got inthe car and drove away! My friend has the sense to use her cell phone and snapped a picture of the plate on the car as it sped away! Didn't help tho - it was a stolen vehicle! Sheesh! My sister finally had to quit! It was too dangerous to go to work! Lol.
You'll be just fine - you always use your smarts Myth:). Thanks so much for reminding everyone that it's our choices that can put us in danger!
Hi Bruzzbuzz! St. Louis is bad for strangers to it. You have got to know where and where not to go - especially at night. The stadium - I thought was a huge waste of money here! That makes me angry that with all the problems we have the ball players need a new posh stadium....pffft! Crazy! It's nice and there's lots of security there but what about the rest of the city? There are areas here where the police won't go or mailmen won't deliver mail.
The arch - beautiful by day but never go there at night!! Even walking down at the Landing which is heavily policed - an area for night clubs and entertainment right by the arch....a girlfriend of mine had her necklaces ripped off her neck and purse stolen. Common story! Thanks o much for the read and comments!
Hi Amy! I was so hoping you would catch this and weigh in! And you are sooooo lucky! You are a great example of a woman who has to be street smart. Ignoring that guy was the best thing to do! I always look a person in the eye - just for a minute - mentally I'm sizing them up, looking for obvious weapons and making sure they know I saw their face and can identify them. But I never say a word unless spoken to.
Locust is not a great area at all! See my comment above to Myth....my sister worked next door to Feed My People! Not for long though...it was a mess! The receptionist has someone's car towed ohhhhhh don't you know she wished she didn't have that job:(
I didn't even go into the Towing Scandle here with the police.....that scam had been going on since the 1970's!! You said it best Amy - we are on our own here.
I called the police one night because I saw a woman getting dragged out of a car...lots of screaming going on....do you know what the police did? They stopped right in my drive way to ask if I was the one who called the anonymous call - I said well I guess it's not so anonymous since your car with lights is parked in my driveway!! It turned out that it was a domestic dispute...I tried to tell the officer that I had no way of knowing that (and who freaking cares? If my daughter was being dragged out of her car I hope someone would report it and err on the side of caution!! The message from the police to me was - we don't care - don't call us or we will out you!! that is just madness!!
You know how the city is....you're a very smart lady! Thanks so much for commenting St. Louis sista! Lol
I had no idea! I am very interested because I'm a huge St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan--since I was a little girl. I noticed you mentioned David Freese as a favorite St. Louisian. Are you a fan, too? How is the crime around the stadium area? Are there also good parts of St. Louis? I'm just so curious since I'm such a fan of the games. I've been there several times, but only for a game....Great hub. It's good to be prepared!
Hi Victoria Lynn - You hit the one thing that all St. Louisians are united in and that is we all love our Cardinals:) I know it seems like I am being hard on St. Louis - though I did point out I love living here - the question I was answering was "Why is St. Louis Dangerous?" so I really focused on the bad parts.
St. Louis has lots of great attractions - if you live here I guess. We have terrific museums, the arch, the riverfront, Six Flags, numerous gorgeous state parks - The Zoo, a great science center. We have great concert venues and restaurants. The only problem is - almost every single thing I mention should only be done in the day time. You souldn't want to be on the arch grounds at night - or the stadium area either! During games - security is really tight and everyone knows there are cameras everywhere. My 12 year old just went to one of the world series games this season - guess what? She was all freaked out because two drunk females started fist fighting in her section and when police arrived and hand cuffed him - the entire section was screaming to the police in unison "TASE HER TASE HER!" regarding the agressor.
When she came home - still wide eyed and told me all about it - I just had to think...she just got a crash course in good ole St. Louis! So, you see, here it is just crazy!
YOu know I was thinking when I was younger I wish I had more street sense. I never paid attention to anything. Jumped in the cars after leaving them unlocked in a dark alley. Hey - we were young and stupid. Now as I grow older I am super paranoid. I have to check things otherwise I freak out if I am by myself. But did I ever tell you about the monster under the bed... ha ha... I still can't put my feet close to the floor off the bed if the lights are off! LOL - funny story from childhood fears... lol
barbergirl's comment just reminded me of an incident in downtown STL many years ago. My ex is head of international sales at a STL company. When our daughter was about 3 years old, my ex asked us to accompany him and 3 Japanese visitors to dinner. He went into the downtown hotel to retrieve his guests, leaving my daughter and I in the back seat of his unlocked, running vehicle. Two young men, walking and both carrying a beer, casually opened the car door and got in. They saw me in the backseat while walking, but didn't see my young daughter next to me. The one getting ready to drive away changed his mind when his partner looked at me and saw Megan. He said, "shit, there's a kid in the car". They both jumped out. I quickly locked the car doors (I thought they were until the dudes got in). When they came back for a second chance, they couldn't get back in. My 3 year old was my hero, but it could have turned out very badly. This happened in front of an expensive hotel at rush hour, with throngs of people on the street!
And here I thought Chicago where I used to live was bad ... and Miami which is near me now was bad ... but according to your revelations about St. Louis, Kelly, your city wins a Danger Award. BTW, I read recently that Hawaii is the MOST dangerous state to live in according to the current crime statistics.
We all might be safer hiding under that bed that Stacy referred to above. Monsters may be easier to deal with!
Fascinating hub, m'dear, voted up.
Barbergirl's comment reminded me of an incident that happened when my daughter was about 3-years old. Her father, my ex, is head of international sales at a STL company. He asked me to attend a dinner hosting 3 Japanese businessmen. My ex pulled up in front of the expensive, downtown hotel his guests were staying in, left the car running and unbeknownst to me, the doors unlocked. My daughter and I were waiting in the backseat, when two young men, each carrying a beer, checked me out as they strolled by. Much to my horror, they got into the car. As the driver was getting ready to pull away, his cohort exclaimed, "Oh, shxx, there's a kid in the car". They jumped out of the car and I quickly got up and with difficulty locked the doors. They came back for a second chance, but could not get in the car. My three year old was my hero, but it could have ended very badly. This was at rush hour with throngs of people milling by! The streets of STL are mean.
And, yes, RealHousewife, the towing scandal is an example of corruption at the top of the food chain. The chief of police simply retired under pressure and the whole scandalous mess just disappeared. I remember seeing one young woman whose new car was towed by this corrupt company, she had to continue making the payments and was relegated to taking the bus to work everyday! Meanwhile, daddy dearest was providing first-class transportation to his daughter, who was a convicted drugger who'd done time.
i am amazed that it is as unsafe as that. we have a security problem in delhi too but no where near as bad as this.though i guess it is just that you get used to the city you live in and adjust to its conditions.
have you ever wondered why it is that the govt with all the resources at its command cannot get rid of these gangs?in India it is the criminal - politician nexus that is at the root of the biggest gangs and most of the crime. is it the same there??
BBG - I used to sleep in the exact middle of the bed so that the monsters could not reach up from either side! LOL
I grew up in urban-suburban areas,,, and kept moving out. Now I am in what some would call a 'remote' rural area.
Yes, it is nice. people have neighborhood and small town connections. But, even here, we are findinding that a few opportunists are moving in to take advantage of our perceived security.
Street smarts are applicable to country roads, too.
Sometimes we think we immune-- when we should really be aware.
Amy - I am so not surprised but I am saddened to hear that happened to you! Scary and gives me goosebumps! Good thing they were confused when they saw your daughter - sounds like it wasn't part of the plan and it threw them off!
Yes - the politicians are always slinging mud at each other - did you see the video that young kid had taken of the St. George officer who had to resign after it was all over the internet? I thought maybe people would pay more attention then....but that's spit in the wind.
And yes - not only was Mokwa's daughter involved in credit card theft, drugs, and driving some unlucky persons car - then they found out he was heavily involved in the towing scandal. I wonder if his daughter was the beginning of the end for him - it is so sad how that all turned out. I mean....I am certain this was not his vision for his future but greed can do horrible things to people. It is really mean here - my daughter called tonight a little lost trying to find my nephews garage and it is pathetic that we all have to feel afraid and check to make sure they make it from point A to B with no problems! I also had her call me to let me know she had gotten home ok....it is a reality here! Thanks so much for your candid comments Amy! I wondered if it was just me who sees all this going on sometimes because it seems to go unnoticed!
Drbj - I head Chicago is really bad for violence too! St. Louis just seems to be getting worse. I do not understand with all the efforts to revitalize the city - it never seems to get better. I have heard Alaska is pretty dangerous too - so of course, I'd like to go check it out! lol I wonder what it would be like to visit when its the part of the year that is dark 24 hours a day.
I wonder if Hawaii is so dangerous is because it is tropical and gorgeous and everyone wants to live there. I want to live there - heck I'd like to visit:) lol the flight just seems soooooo long - I keep putting that one off. Thanks you so much!!
Hi neeleshkulkarni - Yes! I do wonder why it can't be controlled! I have given that lots of thought....and I think it is just out of control. I really think it could be controlled if the right people were in charge. I think there is a lot of money to be made in crime and not much in politics:) Thank you so much for that interesting observation!
Hi Rochelle - yes you have also made an interesting point - those rurual areas have their shady people too. The difference is - everyone seems to know who they are in town:) lol Seriously - you can't get too complacent. And in our rural areas - lots of people are taking advantage of the large plots of land - it is harder for people to smell. My friend owns property out in a little county called Cedar Hill - and she constantly finds these tank things that are really flammable tossed in her woods! She has little kids - and this material has to be disposed of according to hazardous waste material...its creepy!
It sounds like you are pretty aware but Stay safe!
You are a very aware and intelligent woman, RealHousewife. Don't second guess yourself. Everytime I doubt my observations, and let my guard down, I am quickly reminded to "trust my gut". I've found its better to error on the side of caution, rather then suffer consequences from "wanting to be nice" to those who haven't earned trust. There are more sharks than guppies, ready to seize the moment from someone perceived as weak or "nice".
Its wise to have a check-in system with your children. My worry is who to look to for help when things go awry. Pro-active precautions in a preconceived plan are the best defense on the mean streets of STL. Leaving things to chance entails too much risk.
Right Amy - people that are really wise to the streets can spot and sense a person who is inexperienced. I bet you even have seen the building and photos I included here. I snapped the building right next to HWY 55 near Madison street. I heard they just found another body in a building downtown recently....and what's sad is around here we just go "wow! That's so sad...can you pass the salt please?".
We have discussed the clubs here - and I think I told you how my oldest got GHB'd? The person who took off with her wrecked the car and the police got my girl out of the very wrecked car. (it slammed into a brick car wash near 70 in St. Charles...and nearlyknocked the two story down) I can't say much more because it's still being prosecuted but man!! I couldn't find her - she was right around the corner...Dave and I were waiting to pick her up...we never got a call...someone tricked her into their car after she became extremely dizzy and sick....so freaking scary!!
OMG, Real! I saw where you'd referenced an incident that is now in the courts, but I didn't want to intrude by asking more than you'd said. My daughter, I think I told you, was GHB'd in Vegas by a drug rep attending a convention. She described the feeling as a slowed down, out of it, dizzy sensation that left her unable to walk on her own.
Is your daughter o.k.? I would think she is still recovering. I don't want to think about how this could have turned out. I understand you are limited to what you can say. I am so relieved she and your family are privy to a miracle, Real. And, yes, I saw most of the subjects of your photos daily on my 90-mile, round-trip into downtown STL and back to Hillsboro everyday.
The parking lot that I used daily was across the street from several businesses. After I took the job, I was told a young woman who worked in an AT&T office next door also parked in the lot. The first week of her employment, she was dragged into her car by a man hiding between the vehicles and raped in broad daylight. She survived, but never returned to her job. "Free Parking" is such a rare commodity downtown STL, during my interview, the company touted this perk. Had I known how dangerous the area was, I may well have accepted the Clayton Law Publication position I was offered the same day instead. In an effort to entice me, they threw in free, garaged parking in Clayton near the courthouse. The agency representing me advised I take the job I did, due to their influence. Although hindsight is 20/20, once again, following my gut would have been smarter.
Wow..did not know about St. Louis until now. Another very important reason to be thankful to be alive and be home safe and sound.
You have written a well descriptive hub which answered all my questions. However, found the statement "take your drink to the restroom, if you gotta go" hilarious but, sure there must have been incidents of drinks being spiked thus, the above.
Always wishing you and your family to be safe and be able to snuggle together! Merry christmas, my Friend!
The subject of St. Louis's level of dangerousness can only truly be discussed if you've lived it. It's like being pregnant... until you experience it, you have no clue as to what you're truly dealing with. South St. Louis, North St. Louis, East St. Louis- they're a different world- a jungle if you will... it's kill or be killed in the concrete jungle. I was robbed at gunpoint by 6 boys (they were in their 20's) walking back from the convenience store to grab some papers. Near Jefferson and Lafayette- I remember a street sign that read- 'Accomac' I had my necklace with my ring on it tucked into my shirt because I had been warned about flashing jewelry and the majority of my money tucked into the front part of my undergarments and the change from my $20 I just spent in my wallet. Walking down the street I was approached by 2 guys trying to sell me some smoke- I declined as I had previously taken care of that problem and they just looked at me. I continued walking until I got to my 'friend's' house and was relived to get inside. Less than 10 minutes after we sat down and shook the cold off there was a knock at the door. His Grandfather answered and was knocked backwards against the wall while 6 boys pushed their way inside my 'friend's' house. Guns drawn at my body and face, they demanded I give them my purse. Without hesitation I hand it over and ask them, "Why are you doing this to me?" One of them pushed his gun into my forehead and told me to shut up or they would kill me and my 'friend'. They dumped the contents of my purse out on the floor and proceded to rummage through my belongings until they found my money and debit cards. Kicking around all of the "worthless" things they tell me that they are taking my ID so that I can't prove my identity to the police if I make a police report. Pretty clever the little bastards were. Down to the last detail... after patting down my 'friend' and taking 2 phones and all of the cash we "had", they left without even saying THANKS! The nerve of some people. Mostly, I'm grateful that I'm here today to tell this story and warn people that might be interested in coming here where to stay the hell away from! My necklace was safe in the end and my hidden money stayed hidden. I then used that money to call my Mommy from a payphone and cried myself all the way back home. Fin.
I forgot to mention why I put 'friend' in between apostrophes. The guy that I believed to be my friend bragged to someone else that I knew that he set me up to get robbed and got A CUT OUT OF THE DEAL! Needless to say, I never spoke to him again. Public Service Announcement: METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS POLICE WILL ONLY RESPOND IF THEIR IS A DEAD BODY INVOLVED SO IF YOU ARE CAR-JACKED, BEATEN, ROBBED, OR STABBED AND STILL ALIVE- DON'T WASTE YOUR TIME CALLING 911- JUST START WALKING TO THE NEAREST HOSPITAL- TRUST ME, YOU'LL BEAT THEM THERE. So, to answer your question: Am I Street Smart? Somewhat. Walking on the South-side of St. Louis was not smart... hiding my jewelry and stashing the majority of my money-was. I hope people can benefit from this hub because they don't call it the most dangerous city in the world because we have a lot of abandoned buildings that are fall hazards.
Cool mom - you sound pretty wise to me:) And I am sorry but I just had to LOL at your public service announcement! It is really very true! OMG! I am not sure how old you are - but the south side used to be really nice...I have lived all over the city - I think the area you were in was off Potomac - I used to live on Miami and Compton. And the police scare EVERYONE - people that need them don't even want to call them! I live in St. Charles now - and when my oldest was 17 - I was really sick with flu - she got home about 11pm and I asked her if she could please go get a bottle of 7up from the gas station down the street. It should have taken her minutes - she is pretty responsible so after about 30 minutes I started to pace in front of the window - sorry I'd sent my girl out and it was raining and cold.
Soon...as I paced - I see her walking up with the soda - I asked her wth? There was a road block and the police were stopping everyone and since she had run out with hust her jacket on she didn't have her drivers license with her. The jerks made her WALK home!!! She does have a valid license and she asked if they could run it - they said NO! Then she asked could she please borrow a phone to call me so I oculd come get her - they said NO! Send my 17 year old girl off walking the street alone in freezing raining weather in a jacket. Well - I went up there - so mad and riled up and the big jerks were all standing there in the street and I said, "Which one of you big men sent my little girl out walking in the middle of the night in the rain???!!!" I was in my bathrobe - I was SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO mad! Not one of them would admit it to me - my car was parked in the lot next to them...I got in and drove it off. But see? They had an opportunity to counsel my kid and tell her never drive without your license or whatever - instead now we both hate them all!
No doublt we all learn the hard way sometimes. It is just awful and like Amy above said, "we are on our own." Thanks cool mom - stay cool and stay safe!
Wow Kel, I am exhausted and feeling a little creepy after reading your hub and all the comments. I think your title is great. The subject is so important. Of course, the older I get, I feel more street smart. But I admit, I have made some dumb decisions and became more street smart because of situations that I put myself in, years ago, that scared the crap out of me. Your purchase of stun guns for gifts makes sense. Are they costly?
Sharyn
Hi Sharyn - I can totally understand why you might feel a little creeped out. It is not something we can sweep under the rug though - even our kids have to learn to be street smart if you let them play in the back yard. I was practicing once with Sydney when she was about 3 - (roll playing) and I wanted to make sure she knew and understood what to do if someone asked her to come to their car - so I said, "Ok now you pretend I am a stranger - and you just be you..." ok she agreed...then I pretended to drive up and I said, "little girl - come here I have a whole bunch of candy for you!!" in a singy voice - and I said, "Ok Syd now what are you supposed to say?" and her eyes got real big and she slapped her hands up onto both cheeck and gushed, "OH THANK YOU!" ....
Uhhh....I said, Lets try this again! lol
The stun guns were only 14 bucks a pop!
Don't forget the trick of the stranger looking for a "lost puppy or kitten"! Man, that's really low down.
Did you hear the latest? Sandusky is saying he didn't molest those kids, he was showing them how to properly apply soap in the shower! I wouldn't be his lawyer for any amount of money.
Kelly...
Many comments...It was like walking down a dark St. Louis street...
Now...I lived in Oakland for seven years and I learned many of the tricks you have employed here. (mind...I still got carjacked but what are you going to do...crime is crime) ...I won't be carjacked again...
I remember my at-the-time girlfriend who taught me the eye-contact protocols...let your eye slide over theirs (just to say...I will ID you in a line-up) before settling off into the 1000-yard stare of urban living. I do miss a BIG city.
Some of this...will be in our story of Oz...how could it not?
Thanks,
Thomas
PS...bring the stun-gun when we go drinking in your story!
LOL Hi Thomas - yep - sounds like you are plenty wise to the crooks. If you can ID them - really makes them back down unless they just want to kill you:) haha!
I can't wait for Part 3 of OZ - you are amazing with your fiction! It is really amazing how you can be so creative and fantastic! I want what you have for breakfast.
I will bring both stun guns - the hot pink and the black. So I will dress you accordingly in St. Louis! lol
I couldn't agree with this hub more. there is such a difference between intelligence and street smarts. my mom, for example, if extremely bright intellectually, but she is one of the most ignorant people I know, both about herself and her surroundings. It would be comical if it wasn't sad.
Hi PDX! I wonder if we have the same mom? lol My mom is so like that! She is extremely book smart....but managed to blend her own hand in the kitchen mixer...so I will leave it at that! haha!
Thank you so much! Obviously - you ARE street smart:)
Thanks Kelly. I had to learn to be street smart by breaking away from my sheltered childhood (relatively. I did see 48 of the US states before the age of 16. I just couldn't do anything in them because my mom was always scared I would get killed!)
PDX - oh my gosh! So you did quite a bit of traveling! I did at a really young age too - I am about 9 states short of all 48. Plan to go to all nine asap:)
That is really young to leave home...I bet you learned quite a few lessons! Amazing when you look back sometimes, huh?
Thanks so much for the comment!
good article. i am from st. louis, grew up in south city, was bussed to north city for high school. i had street smarts already but after spending my teen years on the north side, i wised up even more! thankfully i was friends with almost everyone... it's just as important to know people in low places as it is in high places i guess... especially when you are in a rough environment.
i've been bumped on a quiet street late at night in the city. the boys in the car behind me expected me to get out (i'm a white female by the way). i took off, they chased me.
part of the street smarts women should have is to know where the police stations are in the city. i drove straight to the police station and right up to some officers that were coming out of the station. the car that was chasing me drove on. i was quite shaken up and the officers offered to follow me home to make sure i got there safe.
that wasn't the only time i was chased in my car. another time another gangster looking guy was trying to chase me off the road late at night. then he got in front of me and kept breaking really hard and if i tried to go around him, he'd turn that way to block me. knowing the city like i do, i know where the crime is at and where there is always police action. i was too far from a police station so i decided to head towards the area where there would no doubt be police. but i had to trick the guy in front of me so i could get around him. wanting to turn left, i turned on my right blinker and slowly stated to turn my car that way, he turned that way and that's when i yanked my wheel to the left and high tailed it down another street. he turned and chased me. i saw some police lights a few blocks down nd headed right towards them. he turned off before reaching the lights.
it's crazy but each time i was alone after 10 pm. it shouldn't be a problem but i guess that just makes me an easier target. so i try to avoid being out late anymore in the city unless i'm with friends.
but guys, st. louis has it's awesome side too! it's a great place to visit! tons of fun stuff to do! just don't travel around by yourself after dark if you don't know about where you are going.
thx realhousewife!
Hi Urban-Rose - thank you! I love the point you made that it is JUST as important here to know people in both high and low places. That is an awesome statement! So true - and you are right having friends everywhere is best:) You never know who is going to give you a helping hand.
You are so lucky! You had better stay in after dark! lol You are very street smart - the way you handled yourself and didn't loose your cool. Obviously you were thinking on your feet! I think many females have that "learned helplessness" and when the pressure is on they start to cry or beg for mercy. That never works! lol You have got to keep thinking and looking for a way around your obstacles. You will be okay - I can tell.
I am also glad you say - there are so many cool things here to do. I am working on an article about that too - science center - my personal fav is St. Louis City Museum..I recently took my girls on a carriage ride with the horses on the riverfront! Personally - I love this city and I know how to live here - you know what I am saying? But someone had challenged me about why St. Louis is dangerous and wanted to know ....so...I was honest! lol
lots of travelling, Kelly. The highway was my lullaby. I love a a good road trip, which is odd, because I don't like driving. I usually go by train.
PDX - I remember reading that in one of your poems - in fact if I remember you were traveling by train possibly moving somewhere...and you said you liked traveling but not driving in the traffic, maybe? I remember I loved it though because I so love any kind of travel.
Planning a trip to Texas in April! I am starting to get excited!! lol
Nice, Kelly. The poem you're referring to is this one: http://pdxkaraokeguy.hubpages.com/_3gvrkbouobv74/h and it's about taking the train from Portland to go get my now wife and move her down to Portland.
I'm going to be taking the train from Portland to Chicago next month to visit my brother. I'm looking forward to it! Why are you going to Texas?
Hey PDX - Yep! That's the one:) Thanks I loved it! Have fun visiting your brother and on the train. I just took my kids to Chicago on the train and they had a blast! I scheduled a one day trip and we slept all the way there and all the way back and played all day on water taxis and shopping:) lol
I am going to Texas just for kicks and grins! I am going to meet up with hubber Austinstar and we have tickets for a ghost tour and a hotel room at the Driskill! I just know I will have a hub about all that:) lol
We are going to be street smart on 6th St.! I'm looking up the best current restaurants now. They say the Old Spaghetti Warehouse is haunted, maybe we should have a dinner there! Then there is the Old Pecan Street Bakery and Cafe and oh, there are way too many places to eat here in Austin. Totally good food. 2 more weeks!
MMMMMmmmm Did you say spaghetti??? Yeah! And then you added haunted and I am SO EXCITED!!! Deb and I are literally counting the days...it was perfect timing. We have both been able to smooth out life for the hubby and kids before we leave:) lol My bag is already in the laundry room and OPEN! ahhaaha!
Not even two weeks...10 days! Ha!
Thank you for sharing your cities ins and outs, of course one does not differ from the other, just the areas within them. Having grown up on the streets since the age of 13, I must in defence say I had no choice to live and behave in certain ways. I am most grateful I never got into theft. Primarily drug dealing.
The best defence in my opinion is no defence at all. And only retaliate in as much force that is placed on you. There is no material belonging worth a beating or worse-just let it go. If you are physically in danger any tool you have to defend yourself will most likely be used against you, my pistol is a prime example. Stun guns are toys in this life of crime as are all weapons unless prepared to shoot. Saw too many get shot because they hesitated. Scream rape repeatedly and as loud as possible, over and over and over again. Watch any thug run like the wind. Statistics have proven this to be true. I have too.
Thank you for your views on defending oneself. It was a well informed hub. But by the way most people that tag buildings are fantastic artists and really harmless.
Peace
Kimberly
thank you
voted up
Hi Kimberly - I am SO sorry you had to live that way at such a young age. I know that must have had few choices, if any. Don't sweat the drug dealing...I am sure that is one of the only ways for street kids to make a buck. It is terrible but for some - it's real. I call that surviving. The fact that you are here and making complete sentences that are coherent and totally make sense tell me you are tough:). You made it!! Good for you! Great for you! I have a theory that we don't hear a lot of realistic stories about these truths because most of the kids don't survive or they are incoherent by adulthood.
Yeah I know the taggers are just doing their thing - they most want to get a message out. Their names in places that can be seen well and a lot....like social networking:) lol. I did a term paper on the whole culture of grafitti artists! I did write a hub but I really need to revamp it...I was new here then:)
Thank you so much for your comments and I am sure they add a lot to this work. I do want people to see and know that there are kids out there with few resources. It is so easy to look away.....I hate that!
kelly... sleeping on a train defeats the purpose. I like to see the countryside... then again, i don't have kids raising s ruckus
How was your trip PDX? I just got back - I had a blast!
I've never taken a train, but my mom loves it for the passing view of the countryside. It trumps the view from a plane. Like everything, its all about personal preference, but I would imagine the popularity of travel by train is up with the trials and tribulations of security at the airports today.
Oh yes Amy - good point! When I was at the train station last - they had an announcement which stated that as passengers it was our obligation to report any other suspicious packages or people!
I was like, huh? Really? Now I'm security? I did see one baby that was very suspicious looking - I'm pretty sure he was packing but I didn't want to get involved! Lol lol
Hilarious, RealHousewife! Yes, I'd keep my distance from a baby packing suspicious biologic warfare. You certainly had an unforgettable adventure! Hey, I like your hub score!!!
It's amazing isn't it Amy - I've been out of town and not very active - maybe administration is giving me a positive reward for shutting up for a few days? LOL love it!
Interesting Hub ..Enjoyed.. dear Real House wife :)
Awww sweet guide - you're SO sweet! Lol lol. Thanks and I can't wait TP check your hubs out!
Kelly, I haven't gone yet! I'm glad you had a blast!
Gosh RHW, I had no idea! Here in Scotland we are a bit molly-coddled I think. Although having said that, at 17 I was held hostage at knife-point in what most people think of as an idyllic haven - the Shetland Isles. It’s not where you are but who you know that is the main concern as Will and you have pointed out. (He was a friend’s ex-boyfriend, and had few issues I think!)
Yikes RHW! I had no idea the city was that dangerous. Be safe girl. I'm glad to see this Hub getting shared around. Your tips for staying safe are good ones to remember any place - even Akron or Cleveland Ohio! Lock and load folks ;)
Thank you PDX - I thought I responded to this comment? Weird! Anyway - I thought we were going out of town at the same time for some reason? I hope you had or have a good one too!
Oh Melovy - that is scary! Sad but true though - bad stuff happens to good people - everywhere! It's a scary world we live in if you let it get to you. Wow - I bet that experience is one of those that you see in slow motion and never forget - I am sorry to hear that. That must have been terrifying for you! I am so glad you did something right - obviously - so that you are talking to me here today! Thank you so much!
Hey Ardie - I live about 30 miles outside the city now so this is white picket fence area though there is crime here. I do drive into the city quite a bit - but not at night if I can help it. I am scared for people that have no idea and think they can just hop in the car and explore the city. Even in the daytime - there are areas to avoid. I think there was just another report - that St. Louis made number 1 for the most dangerous city to live in.
True too Ardie - everyone = everyone should be proactive. Not only does it make you feel more powerful and help your self confidence but it could save a life - YOURS!
My oldest girl is very street smart and you bet I bought her mace and showed her how to use it when she was about 13. We lived in a pretty rough hood then too though! lol I also armed her with a stun gun! I feel anything I can do to empower her will help keep her safe!
Let me know if you visit and I will make you a color coded map - the blood streets, crips, latin kingpins, lol lol!
Nice Hub! Very informative. St. Louis sounds gnarly
Hi CondoLux - It can be "gnarly". LOL I imagine it is like most places - you have your good parts and your not so good parts. The heart of the city - not so good! lol Also - most anywhere here - you can go in the day time - at night - well lets just say night shift change takes place so everyone needs to lock the doors and stay in.
I hate to sound bad about where I live - but I did just see another news article which reported St. Louis as yet again, the most dangerous city to live in. I am just being realistic. I wish it were different but Mary Poppins - does not live here! lol
Ok, maybe I do not want to visit St. Louis no...eek! LOL, I am sure there is plenty to see!
I did find the term "Learned Helplessness" very interesting...and familiar!
Voted up and shared :)
Wow, I thought it was dangerous here in Baltimore, but that makes me think St. Louis might be worse. I guess each city probably has bad areas and good areas. You guys are lucky if you can carry stun guns. They are restricted here. I have to carry pepper spray, but I would feel better with a stun gun. Considering my luck, I would accidentally use it on myself though! Great hub and voted up!
Wow!!! This hub is intense, great info, was totally unaware of most of this.....I do agree though- stun guns should be common accessories for everyone, just a great way to stay protected :) It's wonderful that you are teaching your kids streetsmarts, wish more parents would teach their kids some smarts! :-)
Hey Jeannie - I heard Baltimore was tough! I did recently hear that St. Louis wins again for highest crime rates...bummer. Someone has to be first! lol Yeah...I did end up ordering a few more of those - for nieces! Hot Pink! lol I played around with it (I HAD to test it - I thought it was only right to be sure...) lol I wouldn't want to have anyone hit me with it! lol
Thank you so much!
Hi emilybee - thank you! I don't see why they shouldn't allow them. I do want my girls to have anything they can to protect themselves. It could be the couple of minutes they need to remove themselves from harm. My little sister called me after she moved to a new apartment...she was alone and kept hearing strange noises so she called me in the middle of the night. I talked to her for a while..we laughed and I said "get a can of hair spray and a lighter - if anyone comes near you just flick your bick, spray and run!" lol We had a guy running around our neighborhood dubbed "The South Side Rapist" and there were like 30 girls that were his victims. They have caught him and his name was Dennis Rabbit...he is in jail now. But yeah - just another shining example of St. Louis.
Thanks and always remember - an ounce of prevention:) lol
Some of the problems in St Louis are also the problems of Kathmandu, where I live.
Hey Vinaya - Have you written a hub about living there? I would love to know more about it - the culture and ways of living! I bet it is cool! I am sure there are similar problems everywhere - here it is just such a large scale. It is a shame! Thank you so much!
It is sad and scary, the world we live in. I have been walking my dog, and one day I got there just after a person was killed at that park. I decided to walk somewhere else, and this area has my alert radar up more than the other place did. I guess I will have to drive farther away just to go for a walk.
Kelly....I am going to pretend I did not read this, OK? I am going to bed soon and don't want nightmares.
I understand it's your home and we all love our Home town but bless your heart for accepting the state of things in the city as just "the way it is."
When you and your whole family lived in the area in the video.....it wasn't like it is now...right?? please say, "right." I'm glad your 30 miles away from the city now. Is that far enough? gulp.
As smart as I know I am, in many areas of life...I can admit I am NOT Street smart. Kind of difficult to get a Street smart education on a country dirt road that runs parallel to miles of farmland. Farmers belong to the Grange...not gangs....Nary a tractor has ever been hijacked or stolen...they talk kinda funny, but only in slang..not in code. Oh, they do have a lot of hoes ...and rakes too. There are bullets in our cars and trucks during deer season only....and "check yourself" means, "Hey, zip up your fly, dude!"
Well, I've made it this far.....suppose if I avoid all cities altogether, I'll be OK??
Thanks for the "street smart" education. I love where I live more than ever. Realy great hub....I voted UP, but there is no "shocking" or "scary." LOL ...Effer
St. Louis was dangerous in the 1960's. I had a friend that lived in a row house near where the Arch. I loved the place it was so old and beautiful to me. Really not in a nice part of town. Than she moved into the ghetto. We visited with her one time and that was the last time. I just was not going in the ghetto again. I use to know the names of the ghetto in Chicago and the one in St. Louis but I have forgotten. One I believe was called Gretna Green. Your so right it is a dangerous. I voted Up.
Hi Millionaire - I am afraid of parks. Especially ones with secluded running trails. I think weirdos hang out at parks a lot - here in St. Louis there is Forest Park - oh my. People do not drive through there at night. I used to have to when I worked at Barnes Hospital - and I would never stop at the stop signs at night. I could just imagine someone knowing it would be a good place to carjack someone. I don't even think the police would pull me over and ticket me for that.
Carry mace with you always and I would alternate my route here. I wouldn't walk the same way each time. Even in nice neighborhoods - like where my mom lives in Wildwood - women were getting attacked on the running paths. No matter where you are - be careful! Thanks so much for the comment!
Hey Effer - that is funny! No there isn't much crime in smaller towns. And no ma'am - I did not live in the city when it was that bad! It was getting that bad though - our house was burned down and that was the last reason we needed to move away. My mom was mugged once. Yeah - it isn't the smartest place to hang around at night!
I do love St. Louis - I do not fear it because I know how to keep myself safe or kick some ass. Either way - I am going to survive:) I know where everything is - I know so many people and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else really unless I was retiring! lol
Thanks so much for the votes too!
Hi moonlake - Oh I don't know what they call it now. There is Pruitt-igoe They tore those old buildings down. They did rehab that ghetto area maybe 10 years ago? It is just as scary as ever! lol The mailmann won't go there! Heck I don't even know if you could get the police in there! That is like hell - that area you are talking about. I think you mean down by Lafayette around 18th or 14th street. And yeah take my advice don't ever go there again! Just have your friend meet you somewhere. Thanks so much!
I was wrong about Chicago it was called Cabrini Green. I knew it was green of some kind. St. Louis name will come to me yet.
Oh Right Moonlake - Cabrini Green was in Chicago! Yes and notorious for crime. I asked my husband and he can't remember what the name was but we both really remember the area. In fact I was down in that "eria" lol not long ago...it looks nice now! But looks can be deceiving! I still would not stop at a stop sign there!
I'm sorry to hear about this Kelly. My dad was born and raised in St. Louis and he said it was a pretty rough town way back then but I was kind of hoping it had cleaned up its act since then. Take care and be careful always.
Hi Bill - what a small world! No St. Louis according to statistics hasn't gotten any better as far as crime goes in years! Sometimes they report like "crime in the city went down 10% this year!" when really it hasn't - they just don't count all the crimes in totality for all the areas together - the average is always on the increase!
Thank you - and I'm pretty confident I can stay safe around here - I know how to mind my bidness:) lol
tammyswallow Level 8 Commenter 5 months ago
Real Housewife,
I had NO idea.. the things I take for granted in life.. It is scary to know that people will bump your car like that. I am glad you are street smart!