Peduto's hat to fly

City Councilman Bill Peduto will confirm one of the less well-kept secrets in local politics on Dec. 13, when he makes what his holiday party invitation calls "a very special announcement.''

Mr. Peduto will officially throw his hat into the ring in a bid to wrest the Democratic mayoral nomination from Mayor Luke Ravenstahal.  The veteran East End councilman has made it clear for more than a year that he was likely to challenge the mayor.  Mr. Ravenstahl has yet to make a formal announcement of his re-election plans, but he said on the KD-PG Sunday edition several weeks ago that he planned to seek another term. 

City Controller Michael Lamb is also considered a likely candidate in the Democratic race.