Jackson Free Press

Ward 7 Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon said Mayor Frank Melton rattled her cage this morning on the way to a special council meeting. Barrett-Simon told the Jackson Free Press that Melton's vehicle pulled up behind her car as she drove to a 10 a.m. special meeting on city payroll and claims. Barrett-Simon said Melton's car pulled "up to the bumper" before sounding off its police-issue horn, reportedly shaking Barrett-Simon's car while she drove.

After their arrival at City Hall, Barrett-Simon said she observed Melton and his two bodyguards, Nathaniel Rushing and Michael Recio, exiting the vehicle, whereupon Melton allegedly joked that Recio was mad at Barrett-Simon because "(you) don't want to pay him." Barrett-Simon said that Melton also told her that Recio would be making a point to pull her over in the future "every chance he gets."

The councilwoman has fought Melton's efforts to pay Recio, who only has patrolman status, an assistant chief's wages.

"The whole incident was very troubling to me," Barrett-Simon said. "It was clearly an attempt to intimidate, and I don't appreciate it at all. I thought it was terribly irresponsible for the mayor or sworn police officers to behave in that manner."

Mayor Frank Melton could not be reached for comment.

Previous Comments

ID

97743

Comment

What a punk! As is those who support his behavior! Typical. But, it's allgood, we got Cher-ief and downtown development! Yeah!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-21T19:09:17-06:00

ID

97744

Comment

This is very upsetting. Margaret is a fabulous woman and i hate to think of an honorable position such as councilperson being demeaned in such a way. Melton is obviously a fan of strongarm tactics and i look forward to the day that someone is able to put him and his cronies in place. There should be some kind of official follow-up regarding this incident within the department since it is a clear reference to official duties. (and an apology would be nice)

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-12-22T01:56:47-06:00

ID

97745

Comment

Mac should immediately have Internal Affairs investigate this. Also, this sounds like another matter for the FBI. Police intimidation of a city council member over a financial issue has to be against the law.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-12-22T07:30:57-06:00

ID

97746

Comment

Also, Is this the mayor "doing his job"? What if those idiots in the Chrysler 300 cause an accident and injure or kill someone? Does little frankie want the city to pick up that tab as well? "Leave the man alone and LET him do his job..." Is there anyone out there who still stands behind that?

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-12-22T08:40:47-06:00

ID

97747

Comment

He's just a scared little boy... always picking on women. Jeez dude, man up. And Recio, stop acting like his little punk, man up, and stop picking on women. I would never, under any circumstance, pull over for either Frank or Recio. I would immediately drive to a surrounding city and call the cops. I have zero tolerance this type of behavior.

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-12-22T08:51:35-06:00

ID

97748

Comment

Does anyone recall the mayor saying he wasn't taking that Chrysler 300 when it was first mentioned to the City to purchase one? I guess this mimicks the behavior officer Braxton referred to a few months ago and shows this is typical behavior for the mayor and his bully's. Albert Donaldson's mother also has a witness for the Feds now. I would press charges on him for intimidation by creating fear if I were the council.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-22T09:36:22-06:00

ID

97749

Comment

Come on now, conrades. We all know the mayor was joking or playing with councilwoman Barrett. The act represented terrible taste, it went too far, and was done to the wrong person. Councilwoman Barrett, like most of us, believes Frank is a nut and probably hates his guts, which is quite understandable considering his past regarding her. She may even think he's truly crazy in a dangerous or violent way. I happen to beleive he's rather harmless from a human perspective when sober and without guns. I wouldn't trust him with a gun or without limitations and constraints when it come to policy or decision-making. Other than that, he's a clown, a showman and an entertainer like no other. He makes many of us laugh all the time. A white female law enforcement officer from Winona told me a few weeks ago that she was real fond of our mayor. She said she believes in the things he's trying to do. I had always suspected she was an undercover nuts before making the comments. I had no doubt afterward.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-22T11:18:42-06:00

ID

97750

Comment

Ray the question is when is he not drunk or without a gun ???

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-22T13:22:14-06:00

ID

97751

Comment

The actions of Frank and Recio (allegedly, he said he "wasn’t driving") AGAINST Councilwoman Barrett is just sickening. In my former profession (federal law enforcement) that type of activity/behavior would get you fired and a subsequent jailing (especially adding the appearance of intimidation). This just another incident of an out of control Mayor and a very unprofessional cop. Regards, Larry.

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-22T16:35:18-06:00

ID

97752

Comment

I think they ought to be fired over this. Larry, you are right!

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-12-22T18:07:55-06:00

ID

97753

Comment

"Leave the man alone and LET him do his job..." Is there anyone out there who still stands behind that? No.

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-22T19:51:02-06:00

ID

97754

Comment

I know people who still stand behind Frank, no matter what he does. He could kill someone and his supporters will think the victim had it coming.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-12-22T22:53:05-06:00

ID

97755

Comment

I don't think the Chief/Sheriff has the stones to fire Recio or any of Melton's bodyguards.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-23T00:33:34-06:00

ID

97756

Comment

I agree Pike, he definately does not have the stones!

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-23T00:47:41-06:00

ID

97757

Comment

There is a state law that forbids blue lights in personal vehicles. I wonder if that applies to old Frankie. Probably not!

Author

Darron

Date

2007-12-23T01:16:28-06:00

ID

97758

Comment

I think it does apply! Regards, Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-23T01:26:48-06:00

ID

97759

Comment

Some day some citizen iks just going to get pissed offf and kick frank or Recio's ass on one of these "stops." Then what? Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-23T02:06:51-06:00

ID

97760

Comment

"Leave the man alone and LET him do his job..." Is there anyone out there who still stands behind that?" No. Don't kid yourself, GSG. There is still a 25-30% segment of Jackson that still supports the guy, at least according to more recent opinion polls. But that deosn't mean that he would get re-elected.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-12-23T09:30:57-06:00

ID

97761

Comment

I can't help but wonder about the armed robbery of Councilmember Barrett-Simon and her husband. I think it was at a time when Barrett-Simon had been publically critical of the mayor and his unprofessional, maybe even unlawful behavior. Am I the only one who questions whether the robbery was a coincidence? Now he's deliberately bullying her with his henchmen and using physical intimidation. When is someone going to make Melton answer for his criminal conduct?

Author

LeftCoast

Date

2007-12-23T19:23:21-06:00

ID

97762

Comment

It seems a lot of new are commenting on this subject on JFP, where was the outrage when he destroyed Ridgeway, A black womans property. Does this outrage come from Simon being a white woman. Be fair and consistent people.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-23T19:49:36-06:00

ID

97763

Comment

NewJackson, I sat on the second row of city council chambers the day they had meeting about it. Where were you? This isn't about race; not everything is, you know.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-12-23T20:38:53-06:00

ID

97764

Comment

Sorry newjackson, but apparently you don't get on here much. Despite my username, I am a Black Male and believe me, there was much outrage concerning the vandalism that took place on Ridgeway St. on this website. But, it is truly alarming what took place concerning Margaret. It would have been equally alarming had it been Kenneth Stokes. Maybe not!

Author

Darron

Date

2007-12-23T21:17:28-06:00

ID

97765

Comment

I Don't think it's about race at all its about ignorance. And ignorance does not have a color. All people whether black or white or brown have rights and no mayor, president or any other elected offical should prance around thinking they are above the law.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-23T21:37:08-06:00

ID

97766

Comment

I got to see the old mayor at a Christmas party recently, and I swear the following was true. Donna, you may contact me privately (i figure I am registered, you could find me for confirmation.) The Mayor was very intoxicated. I spoke to him for a little while and he was drunk. he didn't have a drink in his hand at the time, but I smelled the booze, and I was drinking as well, so it was strong, he was slurring, eyes bloodshot, and rambling against the city council. He also had an 11 year old boy with him. He said the boy was a Katrina victim he had taken in, still it was odd since it was an adults only party... Friends said (I did not see) him flashing his ankle holstered pistol at the party. Then he got into his car with the boy and left.... Creepy all the way around and he hit EVERY negative rumor about himself. Lord, Buddah, Allah, Zeus, Thor, Odin, Jesus, Gea, Mars, Jupiter, Ares, Loki, Holy Spirit, Isis, Rah, Oprah and your MajicK (sorry loved Tallegdaga nights) WHO EVER SAVE US

Author

AGamm627

Date

2007-12-23T22:44:40-06:00

ID

97767

Comment

Maybe Gov. Barbour could appoint him to the Senate for a year? You can't do much damage as one out of 100 Senators, DC has a strict gun control law, and we could have a special election for a new Mayor. Win-win?

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-23T23:09:51-06:00

ID

97768

Comment

I've heard similar stories, Agamm. The Mayor's drinking is one of the most well-known, critical but un-reported facts by the C-L. I can't remember if the JFP has discussed it at length.

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-23T23:20:37-06:00

ID

97769

Comment

It seems a lot of new are commenting on this subject on JFP, where was the outrage when he destroyed Ridgeway, A black womans property. Does this outrage come from Simon being a white woman. Be fair and consistent people. Actually, NewJackson, the JFP was the first to report the Ridgeway Street incident. It was the main topic here for months. You can find more articles in the Melton blog. Also, there were daily articles during the trial, and bloggers hung out on the site during the live video feeds, etc., talking about the trial constantly. It wa like RidgewayStreet.com around here. Our discussions even led me to start a civic group, although I don't long how much longer it will be in exstence, but however, I can truly say that the JFP ate, slept and breathed Ridgeway Street.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-12-24T07:03:26-06:00

ID

97770

Comment

L.W. is right. People of all colors on this site, black, white..or as my friend, Kim Wade says "sky-blue green" were all raising hell about Ridgeway St. And yes, the JFP broke the story and all the other media in this town had to pllay catch up.

Author

Cliff Cargill

Date

2007-12-24T07:33:27-06:00

ID

97771

Comment

Look how The Clarion-Ledger led their follow-up story about this the day after Adam wrote the above: Mayor Frank Melton and his three bodyguards got a laugh Friday at the expense of Ward 7 Councilwoman Margaret Barrett-Simon, who seemed shaken by a prank The Clarion-Ledger reporter just characterized the intimidating incident as a "a prank," folks. That newspaper has been Frank Melton's main protector for years now. I can't imagine why corporate doesn't pay attention and investigate why/where he has his hooks in so strongly over there. Start at the metro desk.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-24T10:17:38-06:00

ID

97772

Comment

Chief Malcolm McMillin should immediately re-assign Recio, Wright and Rushing. If he determines that Melton needs JPD bodyguards, he should pick them himself, or rotate JPD officers he doesn't need on other beats through Melton's "protective detail." At this point, anything else is irresponsible andd shows that Melton is still in charge of the police department. Of course, this should have happened after Ridgeway, but we know Melton was controlling that chief. This is an excellent test to see if Melton controls this chief as well.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-24T10:22:49-06:00

ID

97773

Comment

NewJack does have a point—although it doesn't apply to the JFP or the people who post here regularly. I remember when Melton made his rude remarks to the effect of Barrett-Simon *might* have been robbed, I heard many more people outraged about that than about how he has been terrorizing the black community for years. It was if that was the tipping point for many. I'm glad they got there, but people really should consider why the slight on Barrett- Simon bothers them more than the half-a$$ halfway house for boys that Melton is running for young men of his choosing, while running around chasing the ones he doesn't choose to help with machine guns, helping them hate each other. Both should outrage, and do to most people here.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-24T11:07:05-06:00

ID

97774

Comment

Then he got into his car with the boy and left.... Who was driving, Agamm? And the big question: Why hasn't Melton's good friend, Col. Don Taylor, done more over the years to look into how he's "helping" these kids?!? I have reported that Melton was clearly intoxicated and reeked strongly of liquor on the first ride-along I accompanied him on. I will never forget all the people around him who did nothing about it. They are a metaphor for the whole damn city that has long known that Melton is a problem and put him in the city's top office anyway. It baffles and saddens. But the heart should ache more for those kids than anyone else. But they are our city's forgotten kids—assumed to be bad and beyond help. So they get treated like trash, or as Christopher Walker called them to me: pawns. I have seen little sadder in my life than this community's lack of concern about how those kids are being "helped." It says something, and it ain't pretty. Col. Taylor's phone should be rung off the hook, as should Haley Barbour's. Someone needs to be (wo)man enough to take responsibility and stand up to Melton on behalf of the young people of Jackson. But they're black kids. It'd be different if they were white, and we all. friggin. know. it.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-24T11:13:46-06:00

ID

97775

Comment

Iam on this site everyday so i don't need someone telling me about whats on this site or what was on it in the past. I just pointed out a trend that i saw i dont just make up stuff, I see new names posting on this Topic and if your not new than i see this particular topic has brought yall out the of hiding. Iam not blasting JFP i just made reference to people posting on here. And of course everything aint about race in Good ole Mississippi, HA HA a Lie it is. If yall were consistent than i would have saw these "new" names on other Topics. Something about This Particular topic has struck a nerve and we have full participation more activity i would say, You can ask my peeps I log on JFP 500 hundred times in one day and i notice new bloggers or the ones that have been sleep, i guess Simon's skin tone woke some of yall up.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-24T12:11:57-06:00

ID

97776

Comment

This issue makes me sick. The lil melton man has gone over the edge. If he has ANY!!!! repect for the law, WTF is he doing allowing a "so called officer of the law to conduct himself in such a manner? If recio is allowed to misuse police equipment like this, then how else will he be allowed to misuse police equipment? Somebody needs to get both lil melton guy AND!!!!!!!! recio off the streets and QUICK!!!!!!!!

Author

JMK

Date

2007-12-24T13:40:37-06:00

ID

97777

Comment

Donna, Of course the Mayor was driving. I intentionally waited an additional 30 minutes before I left to make sure he was well on his way. AGamma627

Author

AGamm627

Date

2007-12-24T14:49:32-06:00

ID

97778

Comment

We all know the mayor was joking or playing with councilwoman Barrett. The act represented terrible taste, it went too far, and was done to the wrong person. Councilwoman Barrett, like most of us, believes Frank is a nut and probably hates his guts, which is quite understandable considering his past regarding her. She may even think he's truly crazy in a dangerous or violent way. I happen to beleive he's rather harmless from a human perspective when sober and without guns. I wouldn't trust him with a gun or without limitations and constraints when it come to policy or decision-making. Other than that, he's a clown, a showman and an entertainer like no other. He makes many of us laugh all the time. Sometimes i can't see the tongue in your cheek while you type Ray...but just in case you are for serious here: This is a very misguided statement which enables the Mayor right up until he crosses the line and harms people. (Which i no doubt believe was crossed long ago and far away for that man.) One of the problems that harmful antisocial people exhibit is a complete obliviousness to the social signals of their surrounding peers indicating comfort levels. If in fact it was a "prank", Melton should be well aware of the opportunity for very harmful misconceptions inherent in these actions. Giving him the benefit of the doubt as a "clown", if he was unaware of how this could appear then he is clearly dangerous because he has no sense of where the lines lay in civil society. i of course don't give him the benefit of the doubt. He is a dangerous man who will play the system. He will go just far enough to plead ignorance and play dirty in secret. There is every reason to think that Frank may have had a hand in Mrs. Barrett-Simone hold up - if not literally, in the ideologies and environments he sustains. ------ I'm glad they got there, but people really should consider why the slight on Barrett- Simon bothers them more than the half-a$$ halfway house for boys that Melton is running for young men of his choosing, while running around chasing the ones he doesn't choose to help with machine guns, helping them hate each other. You might also question why his remarks regarding Faye Peterson didn't draw more ire.

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-12-24T20:03:15-06:00

ID

97779

Comment

Thats what iam talking about daniel, where was the outrage when he dogged faye and judge green two black women.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-24T20:11:05-06:00

ID

97780

Comment

Iam on this site everyday so i don't need someone telling me about whats on this site or what was on it in the past. I apologize if I offended you, NewJack. I just thought you didn't know, and I wanted to help.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-12-25T08:04:40-06:00

ID

97781

Comment

New Jack I don't think new people posting is a negative sign or a sign of any type of prejudice against anyone. It is nice to see others log on and become a part of the site. After all we are all offering our opinion and its good to be open to hear everyones. So be sweet and have a Merry Christmas.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-25T09:08:04-06:00

ID

97782

Comment

I am sweet classy and iam not mean just making an observation. This topic has garnered more attention than other topics about race or Jackson or things not dealing with race. So to me there must be something that beckoned the masses to respond, could it be because Frank has struck a nerve for crossing the line with a white women, like when he degraded Faye Peterson and Judge Tommie Green and Shirlene Anderson All black women. Where was the outrage then? And Merry Christmas all I hope Everyone is having a good day and lets hope the new year brings new and greater things for Jackson, A New MAYOR!

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-25T10:47:43-06:00

ID

97783

Comment

While I think hiring the Sherriff to be Jackson's Chief of Police was the smartest thing Melton has done so far, I will seek to influence the votes and voters I know to vote for someone else come next election. I checked with the Secretary of State's Office: there is no way to recall an elected county or municicpal officer under Mississippi law. He would have to be convicted of a felony to be removed. My councilwoman was right to be concerned. This guy is an intimidating pri*k!

Author

Turtleread

Date

2007-12-25T14:40:00-06:00

ID

97784

Comment

I voted for Faye Peterson and I support Judge Tomie Green (but I am not in her voting district). AND I am white. I was so sorry to see Ms. Peterson lose the last election and I wish her well. She has "bass ones" to go after Melton. I hope she lands well after her stint as D.A. is over. I don't think all of Melton's problems are over yet--he has not faced the Feds yet! Hopefully, Jackson will have a better 2008 than 2007.

Author

Turtleread

Date

2007-12-25T14:52:17-06:00

ID

97785

Comment

I agree Daniel. I was just giving another perspective. Something should be done about it, but it won't be.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-26T08:52:11-06:00

ID

97786

Comment

You might also question why his remarks regarding Faye Peterson didn't draw more ire. Oh, no doubt. Remember, I wrote this column in July about that: The Mayor and His Women: It took Melton’s treatment of Barrett-Simon to get many folks’ attention about his shabby treatment of powerful women—especially North Jacksonians, many of whom believed Melton’s initial sound bites about running all the “thugs” out of town. After all the shenanigans he’s pulled—most resulting in mistreatment of poor African Americans and excuse making for young criminals in his house, who so clearly need help he can’t give—it was his demonization of Barrett-Simon that made many people wake up (and, I suspect, drew that half-assed apology from Melton to her last week). I’ve heard many people say that he really “crossed the line” when he dissed her in such a way. But that chivalry is overdue. Melton pole vaulted over the line with his ploy to turn a law-and-order district attorney into a cheap whore, and he set the progress of women, especially black women, back 100 years by forcing his police chief to parade around like an obedient maid, at his beck and call. Jackson women deserve better. As does the chief. NewJack's delivery isn't perfect, but his point here is good: Many people need the victim to look like them in order to get upset about it. That said, I think everyone should be outraged over the treatment of Barrett-Simon. I am. But had more people been outraged over the years by Melton's treatment of African Americans—from young men to powerful women like Faye Peterson—we wouldn't be here. And that bears thinking about. If we can't emerge from this Melton mess with a little self-reflection about the role a gullible (and, too often, racist) community played in the ascent of such a person, then we will sell our community short and may well repeat the same mistakes. The truth is: It is very hard for someone who doesn't think he or she is racist to search one's reactions and rationalizations for the monsters that lurk within. I know: I have to do it myself and haven't always liked what I find in my gut instincts. I've found that it helps tremendously to regularly weigh my reactions by asking what is he was black? Or she was rich? Or southern? Or white? Or a Republican? Or whatever it takes to find my hidden biases. It's how I ended up supporting Clinton's impeachment years back and withdrawing our endorsement of David Blount this year. If we can't stand up for our own principles and morals against those who usually say what we want to hear, then we don't mean them. Thus, NewJack is pointing out an Uncomfortable Truth in the reaction to the harassment of Barrett-Simon this week. It pales in comparison to what Melton did to Peterson, and many young black men in this city—and even Anderson, or certainly women through his demeaning use of Anderson as his chief-in-waiting. But, somehow, those victims are assumed to be less deserving of our collective outrage. This isn't aimed at individuals, per se—not coming from me. And it's not about pointing fingers and blaming. It's about getting people to look deep within to excorcize the demons we all have. There isn't shame in having the darkness; that's human—but there is shame in not realizing it and trying to do something about it.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T10:26:39-06:00

ID

97787

Comment

I think these points about treatment of white and black women have some validity but honestly the argument about whether racism has to do anything with perception here is deflecting the whole point of the original post, which is you have a mayor and a policeman acting in a manner that isn't professional and is possibly criminal. Is the race of the victim more important than the victim itself? In the instance of Anderson and Peterson, you had a black guy talking to or about black women, and while there can be something construed as racist, the prevailing thought as Donna's earlier post attests is that the were attacked as women, with the color being more or less irrelevant.

Author

GLewis

Date

2007-12-26T11:00:44-06:00

ID

97788

Comment

NewJack's delivery isn't perfect, but his point here is good: Many people need the victim to look like them in order to get upset about it. These are very good observations; and may well be the most important points coming out of this series of posts. And sometimes it takes a little rough delivery to make the point.

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-26T11:03:21-06:00

ID

97789

Comment

NewJack, very good job on your part. You're a deep and consistent thinker. Oftentimes the only way for someone to overcome a bias, preferential or domineering socialization is to have someone unafraid point it out to them, and pointing it out isn't harmful to the person, althought it's usually perceived as such. As a person who has worked in atmospheres or enviroments mostly dominated by whites most of my professional career, I soon noticed that most of my co-workers believed they had and shared opinions concerning everyday matters and work situations that weren't tainted by racism, bias or prejudice. They were very wrong and the ones I befriended soon learned this lesson. Some were clearly racist and couldn't hide it. Others were racist or bias but weren't acutely aware of it. Some weren't racist at all. I also soon learned that most of those white employers trying to recruit me were looking for blacks who would placate them, look up to them as more able and righteous than the recruitee, who would gladly assimilate and never challenge them, or who were afraid of them for various reasons. I could tell from the interviews this is what they wanted. I even had one employer to ask me how would I deal with an obvious racist person? He clearly wanted me to tolerate it without many complaints or fighting back. Surely, he could tell I wasn't the type to just take it. Unfortunately, there are many black folks with so little self-esteem, self-worth, pride, independence, self-actualization, financial wherewithal, endurance, guts, tenacity, et al, so as to avoid the trappings and abuse of an often unfair system, therefore they suffer constant abuse and assaults. It's not most black folks' fault that they have this lack of self-esteem. I fault them only for not figuring this out at some point and taking measures to rectify it. Self esteem has to be taught to us just like it's taught to white people by parents, teachers, churches, the mass media, civic organizations, fratrnities, sororities, and so on. Most of people who blog here seem to be open minded and trying to learn and overcome personal problems, situations, upbringings, socializations, prejudices and biases, etc. It take a while to do this, and we will never succeed if offended everytime somebody questions us or brings up race or racism. It is what it is! You're either tainted by it or you're not. I believe those untainted or undiseased are are rarely offended. I could be wrong. This is not to say that no one is ever falsely accused of racism. I've seen many false allegations thrown at whites, blacks and other races. In my opinion, most people beyond the disease can defend themselves with no problems.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-26T11:37:42-06:00

ID

97790

Comment

honestly the argument about whether racism has to do anything with perception here is deflecting the whole point of the original post, which is you have a mayor and a policeman acting in a manner that isn't professional and is possibly criminal. Fortunately, we don't have to choose between the points here. We can make the point that the mayor isn't being professional, while examining why this draws more outrage from some people when the victim is white. There is really no need to water down the discussion to make people more comfortable. We're at a point in Jackson where we need to take a hard look at how we got here, so that we won't repeat this kind of idiocy. And our race relations might even get an additional boost out of some honest contemplation of the issue that NewJack raised. Melton knows how to play to people's prejudices—in the case of Peterson, he did something unconscionable by holding that press conference with Chris Walker to say horrible things about her. And aside from many JFP readers (and editors and writers), where was the public outrage!?! Where were the demands for evidence? Can one only imagine the response if he had done THAT to Barrett-Simon!?! Or, was there some sort of bigoted assumption that Melton must have been telling the truth about Peterson because she is a black woman and, therefore, loose? The really sad part is that Melton has played a lot of white people's assumptions in Jackson like a fiddle by demonizing people like Peterson—whom he well knows are willing to challenge, and even arrest, him. Now, he played black assumptions, too, but that's a different conversation. He's really, really good at manipulating the race card. The irony, of course, is that he probably is colorblind himself—he just uses other people's race assumptions to get what he wants, which transcends race. And his treatment of women is plain abysmal, regardless of their race. It's just that many people get more outraged when he mistreats a white woman from North Jackson than when he treats a black district attorney, or a young woman on a West Jackson porch, like a clod of dirt. We will have really grown as a community when the outrage is equally as deafening.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T11:44:09-06:00

ID

97791

Comment

I know when i respond i bring the issue of race into the topics, but every topic that faces Jackson thats on the JFP website has a racists element in all of them, i just have an eye for that element on that particular issue, And being a black young male i guess i have a sensitive radar and can detect it. What do y'all want me to do turn my eyes away just because most blacks are called one sided or unprogressive just because they bring up racism, If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck than its a duck, As blacks when they can get us to stop calling something racists when it is, just because they can't handle or is offended by the truth then were are we headed, we will be a people of falsehood and the truth will always be secondary to fitting in and not stirring the waters. Don't get mad at me because i want live in that fantasy world that racism don't exist in MISSISSIPPI anymore when i know it does, Stop accepting the status quo and go against the grain and go after the old Mississippi bigots that wants You to accept that The current Mississippi Flag dosen't represent slavery or suffering, its "our" heritage. People we are accepting more than what we know we are, for what " just wait time will bring about a change" why not now.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T11:44:49-06:00

ID

97792

Comment

Very nice post, Ray. And the part about self-esteem is so, so important. Race is difficult to talk about—precisely because we haven't talked about it enough. And if you do talk about it, you get accused of "always" talking about it, which inevitably comes from someone who never wants to talk about it. Of course, those of us willing to talk about it in an honest way quickly learn that it gets easier as you do it—kind of like riding a bicycle. And, really, lightning will not strike down a white person who is willing to see lingering racism and talk about it. I tend to think there's a special room in heaven for people willing to care enough about people not like them enough to try to understand their issues and reality. (And it's a noisy room.) I remember a young white man asking me shortly after the paper started, "Why does it always have to be about race?" My answer: "Why can it never be about race?" People talk about race on this site in ways that awe and inspire me. One of the goals of the JFP is to provide a safe space to talk about these issues—without some voice of naive privilege swooping in and shutting it down because any talk about race makes that guy uncomfortable. I have no interest in keeping people comfortable. And if that is your goal, this isn't your site. I'll second the kudos to NewJack for broaching this issue.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T11:51:16-06:00

ID

97793

Comment

Don't get mad at me because i want live in that fantasy world that racism don't exist in MISSISSIPPI anymore when i know it does, I second that emotion. Actually, get mad at me. I don't care. Life's too short to live in denial.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T11:52:51-06:00

ID

97794

Comment

Donna I think you desribed Frank perfectly in that 11:44 post. You have good eyes and ears no doubt, NewJack. Courage too. You're no dummy either!

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-26T11:54:55-06:00

ID

97795

Comment

My courage is for JACKSON, i was born and raised here, went to JIM HILL and now i'am at J STATE, Jackson has so much potential we will never in the near future be the size of Chicago but that dosen't stop us from maximizing to our potential, A vibrant downtown at day and night, flourishing communities with top level schools and paved streets and busy city parks, lower crime and professional an a effective police force. Is all this to much to ask for, its expected and is a reality in the surrounding communities, Jackson can be that shinning example to other majority black cities that its possible to flourish and grow without gentrification and a African American managed city. I'am not excluding whites, they are the backbone of Jackson to, Donna ladd and Jeff Good and Barret Simon and many more. We can as blacks and whites make jackson The best of the new south, but we have to demand more and accept nothing less than honesty and fairness from the media and State legislatures and most of all Ourselves, Its our Jackson Lets make it Great and something we can be proud of and brag on!!

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T12:25:49-06:00

ID

97796

Comment

I dig your passion, NewJack. We need more of it. Keep spreading it; it's contagious. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T12:54:42-06:00

ID

97797

Comment

Wow, this is really a deep discussion and some great posts. I am not a born and raised Mississippian but come from Alabama. The first thing I noticed when I moved her was the lack of respect blacks have for one another. Most of them seemed to have a crab mentality. This shocked me because I really felt with all the history in both Ms and Ala blacks should by now be trying to help eachother. In Ala most of the politics are still being ran by whites and a lot of the prejudice is undercover. Well Mississippi is just the opposite most of the prejudice is not undercover but being done out in the open and its not just white against black but a lot more black against black racism. Ray was right about the self esteem issue, it is very prevelant among the women of Mississippi. The only problem with it is they seem to have almost settled for it being that way And on another note, has anyone considered the fact that Melton has two white bodyguards, he had a white assistant chief and wanted a white fire chief. I think he does a great job of using the race card to get what he wants whether its black , white , male or female. The question is why does it seem like he is invincible ? Does he know something we don't ? Or does his ties with the dark world run a little deeper than any of us could ever imagine I think the JFP does a great job with allowing every one to express how they feel and the great part about it is we can't see anything on the screen but black and white.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-26T14:14:39-06:00

ID

97798

Comment

I was one of the writers that commented early on. My observations were from a law enforcement background and my comments dealt with policy and perception exclusively. Newjacks insight, Ray’s expansion and Donnas’ background on the topic have helped me see the issue “in full view.” This is not just an issue of an out of control Major and an unprofessional cop. I thank all three of you for the enlightenment! Regards, Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-26T14:32:27-06:00

ID

97799

Comment

Check this out. It took McMillin less than a month to get a Clarion-Ledger editor to declare that crime perception is improving. I thought those edit-boyz hated even the thought that crime "perception" in the community matters. Remember how they skewered the (black) police chief under Johnson who presided over actual dropping crime!?! They had a conniption because he mentioned the word "perception." Talk about quadruple standards. That "newspaper" is such a joke. An embarrassing joke. Not to mention, regardless of what you think of McMillin, Hampton's quick embrace of the improvement he's having on "perception" (at least in North Jackson) proves many of the points being made above. I really can't believe that Hampton made that post. I thought he was more astute than this. (Also, y'all have to note how long the Ledger blog URLs are. I can barely stand to go to their new site to criticize the paper anymore. And you know how much I enjoy that!)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T14:53:42-06:00

ID

97800

Comment

Re the self-esteem problem, classy: We need to have this conversation, both about all Mississippians regardless of race, and about African Americans in particular. Clearly, the self-esteem problem in Mississippi comes from our horrendous history, both of violence and then of shame and denial. I believe strongly that we can all help each other recover from it—it can't just be a matter of yelling to somebody: "That happened in the past! Get over it!" (Of course, I think someone who would say that has a bigger problem with self-esteem than those who don't, but I digress.) Helping each other believe in ourselves has to be a group effort—and it's where the rubber meets the road in Mississippi. That's why the JFP harps so loudly about our city's assumptions about young people in certain neigbborhoods; it doesn't take a psychologist to see that our collective attitudes (compounded by a sensationalist corp-orate media) are hurting these kids' self-esteem and belief in their own abilities. So does going around and blaming their parents for problems that our state hoisted on their community. It also doesn't hurt our city and our state to condescend to any person, or group, based on their skin color or anything else. If someone is doing a bad job (be it mayor or newspaper editor), then we should respect them enough to call them out and believe they can do better -- or to fire them if they can't do the job. Having high standards for our state and each other (which we do at the JFP) will help us build our collective self-esteem. Promoting our wins and strengths is good for Mississippians, as is spotlighting our state/city's negatives and problems and doing everything in our power to fix them. We've too often been in this stupid, backward place where we do neither, and that will not do. And it sure won't get us off the bottom of the crab barrel.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:08:10-06:00

ID

97801

Comment

So I know this may be strange to fathom coming from me, but this issue is NOT about race at all. If anything it's about this man trying to intimidate and misuse his power in the city...a usual occurance. I think this is police harrassment and she should definetely look into pressing charges against this man. Suppose she had been so upset by him "picking on her" that she ran into the back of another car and caused an accident and thus, killing someone or being killed. Then would this "joke" be funny? I mean where is the professionalism. How are we to believe this man has the citizen's best interests at heart when he is harassing our city representatives. Hell, if he'll do this to her, we don't stand a chance. Get on his bad side and he sends his dawgs after us too! And just what does it take to get on his bad side....a mere disagreement of opinions. Stand up and say "no I'm not contributing to wrong even if it is the mayor" and you get this sort of treatment. It's ridiculous. I mean this guy is amazing to me. He never tops himself. There is always a stranger act to come. And just what exactly is up with him and Recio. Something's strange about that couple!!!!

Author

Queen601

Date

2007-12-26T15:14:55-06:00

ID

97802

Comment

Ladd i saw that in the ledge today to, i told y'all. Look JPD is getting more resources from Jackson buiseness owners and a joint funding mechanism from Dunn lampton to help fight crime. I guess They wasn't going to help the black chiefs fight crime. http://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=7526984&nav=menu119_3 WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: Agencies Join Forces to Fight Gun Crimes crimehttp://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=7530972&nav=menu119_3 WLBT 3 - Jackson, MS: JPD Receives Two New Police Scooters

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T15:19:15-06:00

ID

97803

Comment

Self esteem has to be taught to us just like it's taught to white people by parents, teachers, churches, the mass media, civic organizations, fratrnities, sororities, and so on. Truer words have never been spoken, Ray. (Sorry about the passive. ) I did not grow up in an atmophere that gave me self-esteem (it's not always abundant in trailer parks); but as I got older, people started seeing my potential and helping and mentoring me in ways that were not equally available to black kids around me. I think of one of my friends at Neshoba Central—a very intelligent black boy who would help me argue with the teachers. He was witty and independent-minded; in fact, a lot like you, Ray. ;-) Despite my poor upbringing, I still had a support system that swooped in and helped me get a good education, scholarships and the like. He went to work in a local factory and has worked there for years. I am no smarter than he is. Maybe not as smart. I know this. But as a white woman, even in my situation, I've been taught that the American dream is mine for the taking. I *believe* there is always a life raft for me, and there always has been. I take risks. I do stupid things. People come to my rescue. They help me. They believe in me. They forgive me (usually). They criticize me and hold me to tougher and tougher standards as I go. That can sting and annoy, but I work harder to meet those standards because, ultimately, I believe I can. That, in turn, builds up my self-esteem more. I have allowed myself to observe that it would not have been the same for me if I were not a member of the white dominant culture. Sure, I could still work and achieve the same things. But would I have believed I could? I'm not sure.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:20:41-06:00

ID

97804

Comment

Queen, you're not saying anything different than the rest of us. I don't think anybody here thinks that *Melton's* actions are about race, as I said above. Race comes in on the community reaction end. NewJack makes another good point about resources. It is simply no conincidence that the new judge was announced the day after Smith (a Peters/Melton/Danks man) defeated Peterson. Now, McMillin is getting resources. Now, do I believe that Anderson asked for what she needed? Probably not. I don't think she had any clue how to run the PD, but that takes us full circle to how wrong it was for Melton to ruin this black woman's reputation by putting her in a chief she didn't know how to do in order to be his proverbial handmaid. Tragic. It also bears serious emphasis that women of all races get a double whammy in Mississippi. I've seen it first hand. There are several (white) men out there who hate me and lie about me because I dared disagree with them. Or, more sadly, because I wouldn't spend much of my free time e-mailing back and forth with them about all sorts of things, from petty to political. It's as if it's assumed that they *deserve* my full attention regardless of how busy I am. And when I make it clear that their being mad at me for not being at their beck and call doesn't devastate me—my self-esteem is in decent shape these days—they get even uglier. I see this play out against women often in Mississippi. I mean, it's not like McLemore or Crisler or even Allen haven't come out just as strong against Melton's antics at points—but do they get terrorized by his tailgating? Where was the press conference about the men's so-called sex lives? Again, Melton treats women like dirt. And many people don't care—well, unless it's against an upstanding North Jackson white councilwoman. (Don't get me wrong: I care, too, about that.) If those bodyguards are still assigned to Melton today, it's a bloody shame. McMillin has to step up and remove them. Someone is going to get hurt by the sophomoric "pranks" that they find so amusing.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:24:04-06:00

ID

97805

Comment

I applaud the blacks who can show that they are "intelligent" and can look at a situation from many different angles, bye saying this is not about race. It very much is, You see we as a people have gotten to comfortable and think just because we don't see hangings anymore and outright blatant racism that it dosen't exist, and oh no Bob or Becky Sue that work at my job cant be racist, they laugh and talk to me and ive been knowing them for years. I think to myself sometimes the same thing, but just because i cant see it dosen't mean its not there, its(Racism) just wrapped up in different things now policies, The word "thugs" which is the same as "niggers", They not gone serve it to you raw its gonna be fixed up so you cant tell.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T15:32:05-06:00

ID

97806

Comment

I don't think anybody here thinks that *Melton's* actions are about race, as I said above. Race comes in on the community reaction end. He's really, really good at manipulating the race card. The irony, of course, is that he probably is colorblind himself—he just uses other people's race assumptions to get what he wants, which transcends race. I'm not so sure about that. It's a reasonable hypothesis that he values the rights of black people less than those of whites; that he feels somehow he is "entitled" to be dictatorial towards them. And his treatment of women is plain abysmal, regardless of their race. It's just that many people get more outraged when he mistreats a white woman from North Jackson than when he treats a black district attorney, or a young woman on a West Jackson porch, like a clod of dirt. Now THIS, I'm sorry to say, has been established by y'alls stories of late. We will have really grown as a community when the outrage is equally as deafening. Amen to that. That's the message that rings loud and clear today!

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-26T15:35:03-06:00

ID

97807

Comment

(OK, Queen, maybe NewJack does. )

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:35:29-06:00

ID

97808

Comment

It's a reasonable hypothesis that he values the rights of black people less than those of whites; that he feels somehow he is "entitled" to be dictatorial towards them. True, GenSherm. I guess the question is whether that's because he knows he can get away with it because the community won't hold him accountable as long as he just targets black people. Or whether it's because he really does thinks that he is the Daddy of all black people. Not sure we can ever know for sure. I will say that the most painful thing I've watched Melton do is condescend to black people in Jackson. I remember going into a woman's house with him after 10 p.m. one Sunday because he wanted to show her and her family off to me (her son was one of "his," it seems). She was in bed, and he kept yelling at her to come out and see him. She kept yelling back that she couldn't. This kind of thing happened over and over again, and he was so pleased with himself. He thinks it's charming. Shudder.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:40:50-06:00

ID

97809

Comment

She was in bed, and he kept yelling at her to come out and see him. She kept yelling back that she couldn't. This kind of thing happened over and over again, and he was so pleased with himself. He thinks it's charming. Gee, I've never tried that one.

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-26T15:45:15-06:00

ID

97810

Comment

Queen, you're not saying anything different than the rest of us. I don't think anybody here thinks that *Melton's* actions are about race, as I said above. Race comes in on the community reaction end. <<<) But at any rate....since this is obviously not a good day for me or you or me and JFP....I'll try back at another time of the month.

Author

Queen601

Date

2007-12-26T15:50:52-06:00

ID

97811

Comment

Donna, thank God for good luck and good people! I might have wounded up in a factory or the armed services too except that Dr. Earlie Washington, a high school classmate, noe head of the Social Work Department at Central or Western Michaigan University. She was so smart so as skip her senor year and attend Tougaloo, free of charge. She came by my house one year later after I graduated from High School and asked where was I going to college. I told her I couldn't afford college, and the next day she brought me an application from Tougaloo that I hurriedly completed and returned. The next week I was accepted and allowed to attend Tougaloo for 4 years for $400.00. I could never repay her or Tougaloo College.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-26T15:57:01-06:00

ID

97812

Comment

For the most part, we are never really honest with ourselves about racial reactions to things. I am bewildered at times of the things that I see and hear that are allowed to take place against minorities that goes unnoticed or very little is said about it. I will keep blowing the same horn that I always do. There are folks like Frank Milton who KNOW that he can get away with just about anything when he isolates it to the black community. I respect the situation with councilwoman Barrett-Simon and do not wish harassment on anyone. But like Donna said, Frank has terrorized the black community and has been cheered on by lots of people. Similar to how Rudy is looked at in New York. He gets praised for cleaning up the streets, but he violated a lot of minorities and created an atmosphere where cops were mistreating folks. I am not one of those people that think the end justifies the means. So, of course the Barrett-Simon situation has a racial element to it. Tune into WJNT any day and you will see totally different levels of expectation the host have for how blacks should be treated and whites should be treated.

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-26T15:57:36-06:00

ID

97813

Comment

et me take this time to tell you that on any other day besides this one, I'd take this comment as an insult because it seems as if you were alerting that my comment was not warranted; and this, as an attempt to catch me before I catch you.... Well, Queen, on that "other day," I would still point out to you that nobody here (except maybe NewJack, and he's doing a great job of saying his piece) is saying that Melton's actions against Barrett-Simon are about race. We kind of have two different threads interwoven here, which are complimentary but distinct, and I can see how it would be easy to mix them up. Saying that is not trying to "catch" you in anything. I have no interest in doing that, whether you do or not. ;-) But as the moderator, I will often point out when someone points a finger at other users that may not be warranted based on the posts. There's sure nothing personal about it, or most of what I post. I'm having a decent day, actually, considering that we're back at work after a wonderful four-day break. A little drowsy, but not bad overall. And I'm really enjoying this dialogue on this thread. It's the first one I've had a minute to engage in for a while. Cheers to all involved. It was great to meet you the other night, by the way, Queen. You are as lovely as I'd anticipated. Hope to see you again soon.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T15:59:38-06:00

ID

97814

Comment

Ray, I had some amazing guardian angels like that who believed in me at pivotal points. Thank God for them. I try to pass it on in the same way. Each one teach one, and all that wonderful jazz. And Goldenae, good point about Rudy. It is very similar. The way he cast a wide net over people of color was horrifying and deadly—and cheered on even by many so-called "progressives." The man (Rudy) has no moral center that I'm aware of. We're lucky that we haven't had casualties on Melton's watch, what with the irresponsible gun games, tailgating, interstate hugs, late-night warrantless raids, and what-not. We even saw it in the George Bell case—the shock based on expectations that such a young man from such a family could not possibly do such a thing (I even had that visceral reaction, and then full intense shame about it afterward). And we see it everytime there is a school shooting in a suburban school with all the "how could it happen here?" quotes. Meantime, that's just about the only place school shootings happen, but the perception is that those areas are "safe" and that certain kids don't commit violence. That perception helps most of the kids in those areas have higher expectations for themselves, but when disturbed kids (with too many guns to play with) slip through the cracks of society, then all of a sudden there is shock and dismay that such things happen in "good" neighborhoods. That, in itself, helps perpetuate the stereotype and the poor self-esteem in communities where expectations are so low. We've to band together to change these expectations in Jackson. It'll be hard, but it's necessary. I suggest starting with calling out the "thug" rhetoric such as it so prevalent on WJNT. And call out double standards such as NewJack did here.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T16:05:09-06:00

ID

97815

Comment

I'am making reference to the reaction part and the outrage part about Frank disrespecting Simon is not consistent with the outrage and reaction when Frank Disrespected Faye and Judge Tommie Green. Thats what i'am saying Qeen601 and if you can show me were its the same than i will apologize to all, but i know you can't so i want apologize. Ladd no need to clarify i know what i was saying and still do. I'am not talking about Frank's actions I'am talking about the biased reactions to Frank's actions concerning a black woman and a white woman. Theres a difference you ask yourselves why!!!

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T16:05:32-06:00

ID

97816

Comment

I'am making reference to the reaction part and the outrage part about Frank disrespecting Simon is not consistent with the outrage and reaction when Frank Disrespected Faye and Judge Tommie Green. OK then, NewJack and I are saying the same thing. I didn't want to speak for you, NewJack, being that this was your well-timed tangent that we went on. Again, nice work.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T16:13:04-06:00

ID

97817

Comment

NewJackson, let me say to you that I feel what you are saying...and as i understand it you're on here everyday....well, I can tell you I participated in what seemed like an eternity of a conversation about the Ridgeway house....right here on this site. I am sure it lasted days and there were masses of opinions, but certainly outrage lingered in the midst. I for one was outraged at his antics there and here the same. The woman is not young and I'm sure she was scared to death. That's the reason I made a comment here. Which by the way was very much warranted....and fit right into the rest of the comments. Although there may have been several different topics here, thus, the title of this freaking this is Mayor rattles Councilwoman's Cage.... Anyway before I get lost on why I came back on here....NewJackson, there was alot of discussion and frustration given to that act on Ridgeway and EVERY SINGLE OTHER ACT that Frank Melton pulls....trust me, they cover IT ALL!!!! Yeah, Donna, nice to meet you too.

Author

Queen601

Date

2007-12-26T16:16:38-06:00

ID

97818

Comment

Ok Queen 601, still not talking about Ridgeway and Franks actions but The difference in reactions concerning Faye Peterson(black woman),Barret Simon(white woman). For future purposes people don't take what i say personal its buiseness all about Jackson For me.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T16:25:24-06:00

ID

97819

Comment

Didn't say you're not warranted, Queen. Don't worry. I love it when you post here. And I second everything you just said in that post. I can understand why the title would lend to confusion about NewJack's race comments. No worries. And I do try to keep threads on-topic. However, NewJack's comments about the less-than-race-neutral reactions to this latest stunt compared to other ones against black women are a natural extension of this conversation, and a needed one. Thus, I'm allowing it. And I think we've clarified it to death at this point, so I'm movin' on. We do try to cover Melton well—unfortunately, there are a lot of voids on that front to fill, although it's not as bad as it used to be back in the day when the media glorified the guy.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-26T16:29:17-06:00

ID

97820

Comment

Iam moving on to ladd, iam ready for some more topics LOL.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-26T16:36:30-06:00

ID

97821

Comment

Just a note on the dynamics that lead to individual perception (especially as it applies to racist perception): Denial of racial motivation implies that somehow all actions and reactions spring forth from a void by way of individual freewill. to expand- Many people deny that they are racist. After all, how could they be? They have been raised to respect ideals of equality and civil rights, to treat each person with disregard to skin color, to love each person as a unique creation...we have friends of different colors, respect and learn from managers and teachers of many colors, we laugh and eat with friends of the whole spectrum. It is a very difficult process to hold ones conscious assumptions at arms length to get a view of how they truly play out in their interactions. Few people are able to examine their assumptions about life and people without bringing along their preconceived notions. (especially those notions which trumpet our virtues) Aside from a handful of humanity, everyones thinking and subsequent action is affected by preconceived notions. We do not think and react in a vacuum. Our personal history and the history of our ancestors and culture are at play each and every time we take in information or spit it out. The question is not whether or not race plays an issue in ones thinking. The question is; to what degree does race (or any other of a list of variables) play a part in our thinking. Perhaps it is miniscule - but let me be clear, if you think race plays no part - you are not in that minority. The only way to weed out the negative affects of racial prejusice in our collective and individual thinking is to be vigilant in pointing it out and discussing it. The only way to move on is through sincere analysis. (Which cannot begin from the assumption that anyone is over it.)

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-12-26T20:45:46-06:00

ID

97822

Comment

I think the point that some of us are trying to say that is being missed is that when Frank's antics were isolated to black neighborhoods, a big part of the white community did not care. Not to excuse anything, but Frank has done a lot of things to lesser known people than Barrett-Simon that are unexcusable. At least she can speak up for herself. If the white community got as big a dose of Frank as the black community has, I do not think he would be tolerated. I saw a white kid get tazzed at a John Kerry speech and FOX thought it was such a tragedy. I have also seen videos of black kids getting beaten down by cops and reasons are always offered for why it occurred. Sean Taylor, the NFL football player, was involved in a few off field incidents. He was murdered in his home and the conventional thinking was that he must have been involved in something. Brett Favre was not an angel in his younger days, but if he got murdered in his home, no one would be bringing all that up. Its unfortunate, but the constant drumbeat of the "thug" rhetoric that the WJNTs of the world have an effect on people's thinking.

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-26T21:31:46-06:00

ID

97823

Comment

GeneralShermanGhost, you may be right about how Frank perceives us black folks. Maybe he does feel he can dictate to us since he said in regards to Chandler's tape that we're too sensitive about the matter. "I don't see any fire chief." Chandler needs firing and an ass-kicking for being so stupid and backward. Frank wanted him as the chief fire department representative. Maybe Frank will hire David Duke as assistant mayor now. In the interest of consistency though, I bet Chandler, like Officer Showtime diplayed earlier, has an unrequited interest in show business or acting. He was funny, too, but I forgot to laugh. Maybe we will get to laugh once his silly butt is fired.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-27T09:25:28-06:00

ID

97824

Comment

Isn't it strange that Barret-Simon was robbed at gun-point some months ago; yet, all of her credit cards, money and ect. was in tact? Now, frank and his body guard pulls up with lights flashing, rolls the window down and says that Recio wll be doing this everyday because she voted against his salary increase. These stories are too similar to claim "prank" or that the issues are unrelated. frank is out of control and everyday brings about something that the citizens of Jackson will pay for. He continues to give reason why his legal bills should NOT be paid by tax payers.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-12-27T10:17:25-06:00

ID

97825

Comment

This from the Ledge story about Terrell Lewis' Police Academy polo parties: But Melton said he was upset by the wording of the party's invitation that included phrases that could be considered racially and sexually derogatory. "The language is what bothers me more than anything else. I'm not going to put up with that," he said. WHO DOES MELTON THINK HE'S KIDDING?!? Remember what I heard him say to the young woman on the porch of the house they raided without a warrant last year in the middle of the night!?! Please. And just how does he think that he has the right "to put up with" language used by other people? Here comes more wink-wink paternalism from the city's daddy.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-27T11:52:36-06:00

ID

97826

Comment

It's also odd that the Ledger reporter didn't mention that Terrell Lewis is Wavee Dave at Jackson State. Maybe she didn't know.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-27T11:54:31-06:00

ID

97827

Comment

The more I think about our Mayor, the more I am reminded of a comment made by a counselor many years ago. Referring to a significant person in my life, who had many rationalizations for her acts and words, the counselor said, "why do you take her at face value? There's no need to 'deconstruct' her logic. She's CRAZY. End of story." So, a new hypothesis. Maybe we've spent too much time trying to "analyze" or "explain" the Mayor's actions and words. He's CRAZY. End of story?

Author

GenShermansGhost

Date

2007-12-27T12:00:15-06:00

ID

97828

Comment

GenSherm, that rather explains why I try to put emphasis on a community that continues to prop up, excuse and laugh at craziness, rather than on Melton himself. We must, must examine why there are people out there who still allows him, for instance, to haul 11-year-old boys around with him when he is alleged intoxicated. What kind of community allows this kind of behavior? What kind of state officials? What kind of police chief? What kind of bodyguards? At the McMillin press conference, I was disgusted to hear so many people in the audience snickering along with Melton's stupid jokes, including a huge insult of WAPT for not reporting the truth. There. is. nothing. funny. about. Melton.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-27T12:27:09-06:00

ID

97829

Comment

To me the incident stands out in its physical intimidation. It's one thing to talk trash (and that is not appropriate); it's another thing to use a moving motor vehicle to make your point.

Author

Izzy

Date

2007-12-27T12:41:06-06:00

ID

97830

Comment

... or a moving sledgehammer. Or police dog. Or mobile command center. Or bodyguards with submachine guns. The intimidation part is old news, but that doesn't make it less horrifying. It's also not more horrifying than Melton's long history of intimidation of people he doesn't like.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-27T12:58:08-06:00

ID

97831

Comment

So lets schedule a party Saturday in the new Police Headquarters and charge everyone to get in. I can't see the harm in it. The city is in a money deficit yet between all the brillant minds trying to come up with money no one came up with this idea. We could use the officers of precinct 2 as security at no charge and rack up the money. Maybe the city employees could do this weekly to get raises !!!!!

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-27T13:10:14-06:00

ID

97832

Comment

Well, if they let one group use a public facility, they have to let any group do it. You can't play favorites with taxpayer property. Of course, Melton et al. probably think they own it now.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-27T13:20:06-06:00

ID

97833

Comment

And just how does he think that he has the right "to put up with" language used by other people? I'd like to be in on his drunken sessions at his restaurant of choice and here what he has to say. I'll make sure to have the video camera on my cell phone rolling if I see such a thing.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-12-27T13:35:39-06:00

ID

97834

Comment

Oh, and don't forget the choice words he said about when WAPT caught him on tape saying he didn't give a s*** what people say about how he runs things.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-12-27T13:37:06-06:00

ID

97835

Comment

Let's subscribe to a VH1 or MTV for a reality show for our mayor. He wouldn't have to do much acting.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-27T13:50:25-06:00

ID

97836

Comment

Miltons take on the video represents what ticks me off most about people like him. When I listened to WJNT, I use to be taken aback when I would hear Kim Wade and others rail on the black community and certain individuals, but go out of their way to excuse actions like those of the firemen in that video. Its one thing for someone to hate another person, but it is a totally different thing for someone to hate themselves. When one has different levels of expectations for respect depending on the race of people involved, they have a problem. When that level of respect is lowered for people of their own race, they really have a problem and they basically hate themselves. They say things like Milton said, that people are making too big of a deal about it. Or when Imus said what he said, folks diminished it by bringing rap into the picture. I really detests when a black person trys to tell me not to make a big deal of someone trying to insult me, but jumps up to defend anything said or done to anyone else.

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-27T13:55:56-06:00

ID

97837

Comment

(The Jackson Police Department is conducting an internal affairs investigation into a private party thrown last week by the son of a deputy chief at the Training Academy. The chief is taking the appropriate action to make sure an incident like that does not happen any more," Assistant Chief Lee Vance said today. "He has made it clear he does not approve of situations like that.") Qouted from CL a little while ago. What happened to the internal investigation of the mayor and assistant fire chiefs action?????????????

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-27T15:55:49-06:00

ID

97838

Comment

Someon emailed me this morning saying Lewis should be fired. I hadn't read the newspaper and had no idea what he was talking about.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-12-27T19:01:53-06:00

ID

97839

Comment

Ray, I feel this is just a distraction from the Chandler fiasco. Although Lewis and the academy issue warrants some attention, tonight on the 6 o'clock news the had no mention of Chandler just Lewis.

Author

classy

Date

2007-12-27T19:27:04-06:00

ID

97840

Comment

By the way, If you remember the first letter the AG wrote to Melton, it "commanded" him to remove the blue lights from his personal vehicle..... There is a copy of that letter somewhere here... Have the blue lights been removed yet?

Author

LawClerk

Date

2007-12-30T16:37:16-06:00