The Daily Hustle: 1/18/11

If there's one thing the Hustle loves more than politics, it's free food.

Therefore, you can only imagine his joy at Laura Morrison's campaign kick-off tonight, going down at Nuevo Leon.

Says the Place 4 incumbent:

... We will officially start my campaign for re-election to the Austin City Council with a kick-off celebration. It will be a time to reflect upon our successes and look ahead to the future of our city. Please join me for great food and great company. Everyone is welcome!

Morrison's campaign kick-off, “featuring Hon. Sheryl Cole, Hon. Bruce Elfant, and Danette Chimenti,” is happening today at Nuevo León, 1501 E,. Sixth, 5:30-8pm. In other news, incumbents have been touting their 2010 fundraising haul, with Morrison announcing nearly $68,000 in contributions. We'll have more tomorrow.

… Not to piddle in Morrison's pool, but now's as good a time as any to take a first look at her declared opponent for Place 4, “local, fresh, organic” candidate Eric Rangel. The Hustle doesn't know much about Rangel other than what's on his campaign website, which is coherent if not terribly specific. Still, he lists separate “platforms” for separate issues – economic development, community building, and transportation – which include a couple concrete proposals, including a push for single-member districts.

Rangel's apparently kicked-off his campaign already – see the video below. But he's holding a meet and greet at Second Street retail destination Plain Ivey Jane, 408 W. Second, Jan. 27, 5-8pm. Here's looking forward to meeting him.

What the hell else is happening?

On the city calendar: City Council's Public Health and Human Services Committee meets in the Boards and Commissions room at City Hall, 3pm.

The Zoning and Platting Commission meets in Council Chambers at City Hall, 6pm.

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