As early voting is starting, my first endorsements:


* Mayor: Mitch Landrieu -or- James Perry. Two excellent choices, head and sholders above the other candidates.

* City Council at large: Arnie Fielkow.

City Council District A: Anybody but Batt. Specifically Susan Guidry or Virginia Blanque.

And a good suggestion from Louis Maistros: "Never vote for a candidate who's name is plastered all over the city's blighted houses."