All around me are familiar faces
Worn out places, worn out faces
Bright and early for their daily races
Going nowhere, going nowhere
- Tears for Fears

You may be forgiven for having forgotten that this City is holding elections this year. The lead blanket of the term limits extension is doing what a lot of us predicted: lowered an already pathetic rate of interest by the voting public even further.

That said, there are some people out there who are taking on the incumbency. Give them a shout-out.

Yetta Kurland

Ms. Kurland is an out lesbian (and vegan), which should serve her well in her West Side district, currently represented by Bloomberg fan Christine Quinn. Yetta is a civil rights lawyer and tenant activist. Check out her web site, here.

Rock Hackshaw

What can anyone say about Rock that hasn't been said before? Rock is awesome, and the substantial knowledge I have of black politics is attributable mainly to him. So yes, there's partiality.

That said, I'm still waiting for an explanation of why he's running. His opponent, Mathieu Eugene, is derisively described in Flatbush as Una's Boy; and that he is. I have no idea whether Rock is going to prevail or not; one hopes for the best. But for anyone who cares about the communities Eugene serves or neglects, along with some other political barnacles, change would be of value.

Josh Skaller

I've known Josh for years; he was the tech geek for the campaign of Chris Owens, ran DFNYC's field team, then moved over to the Central Brooklyn Independent Democrats. Interestingly, one of the people running against him for Bill DeBlasio's seat is Bob Zuckerman, the former head of rival Independent Neighborhood Democrats. They're both good people.

But since I don't really know Bob all that well, some thoughts on Josh. He is one of those mythical people that show up. If there's a Progressive cause, Josh will be involved. He's one of those people of whom other people, even the sharper tongues, can say nothing ill. Check him out, here.

Steve Behar

Currently running for Tony Avella's Council seat is Steve Behar. I'd apply everything I said about Josh above to Steve in equal or even in greater measure. Steve is one of those people who belong in public office. Unfortunately, he's running against a Vallone, so it's an uphill climb. That said, if sheer willingness to work is the crucial factor in winning, Steve has a good shot; he's the hardest-working person I know.

Stay tuned for more.