Jackson Free Press

Update: Just came in on text message...Mac is the new chief. Donna and Adam are covering and will be in with the scoop. (Listen to the radio show at noon for more: WLEZ-FM, 103.7FM.)

The rumors are flying this morning. Will Melton bring back Bracey Coleman (Michael Recio's father-in-law)? Will Gerald Jones become the chief? Will he try to name Recio himself? Perhaps Abby the police dog? The most recurring rumor, posted this morning by a JFP reader, is that he is going to appoint Sheriff Malcolm McMillin, and consolidate city and county law enforcement. Reached this morning, McMillin would not confirm or deny the rumor.

The mayor's press conference is scheduled for 11 a.m.

Previous Commentsshow

It doesn't matter who the new police chief is as long as Frank is the mayor. If you really think that Melton will stay out of the police departments business once he appoints the new police chief then I have some beach front property off of Farish Street for you. The only person that I could see as a good police chief that would not take any crap from Frank would be McMillin. No one from the three stooges ( Recio, Gerald Jones, Coleman) would stand up to Frank and do what is right.

The truth

Nov 16 2007

It is all unnecessary melodrama by Melton. He needs to resign, short and simple. But, that would probably mess up a few peoples business deals, and we can't have that!

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

MAYOR MELTON IS NAMING MALCOLM MCMILLIN AS THE NEW POLICE CHIEF OF JACKSON!!!!!!!

blu_n_a_redstate

Nov 16 2007

THE BREAKING NEWS IS ON ALL 3 CHANNELS RIGHT NOW!!!! MAYOR MELTON NAMES MALCOLM MCMILLIN AS THE NEW POLICE CHIEF OF JACKSON!!!!!!!

blu_n_a_redstate

Nov 16 2007

I'm watching it too, blu. Too bad I have to leave the house now.

LatashaWillis

Nov 16 2007

This is a diaster waiting to happen. Frank will still want to run things, and McMillan isn't going to let him. They will have a knock down and drag out or else McMillan will quit.

Ray Carter

Nov 16 2007

Could Melton not have had a choice in this matter? Like it came from higher up?

Birdseye

Nov 16 2007

Shows you who really runs jackson, the leland speeds of the world

jd

Nov 16 2007

Can McMillan be both Sheriff and Police Chief? From what I understand, they're combining forces organizing it as two divisions: county & city. Can this be done? Legal Eagles????

katbird

Nov 16 2007

Yeah, what a joke... My prediction is that McMillian must of gotten tied up in the FBI indictments, and this is Melton circling the wagons. Anytime you got Dale Danks standing behind you something ain't right. What is he doing there anyway? Seriously? Look at him grinning standing in between McMillian and Melton like a kid who just got away with stealing cookies.

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

So, the mayor called Haley as a courtesy last night? Right? Anyone checked?

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

Pooling resources, but not combining? Saying that he can deputized police officers so that they can work in County. This is a very interesting concept.

katbird

Nov 16 2007

I believe McMillan can do the job if Frank will let him do the job and stay the hell out of the way. I don't know if Frank can put away his police officer dreams and desires.

Ray Carter

Nov 16 2007

Weren't these guys sworn enemies just months ago? I'm not against the McMillin appointment, but this is way out of left field.

golden eagle

Nov 16 2007

Okay, shock aside...let's look at this idea. Think of how much this can save the city AND county by combining forces. If sheriff deputies can be sent out to handle city crimes (which they can do already) and JPD officers can be sent to handle county crimes, then the money spent on patrols lessens. OH! They didn't speak to the Supervisors or the Council before they did this. Wonder if they consulted the legal department other than Danks?

katbird

Nov 16 2007

Okay. McMillan just said that it isn't the Supervisors' concern if he works outside of the Sheriff's Department. That's interesting to me.

katbird

Nov 16 2007

Could Melton not have had a choice in this matter? Like it came from higher up?--Birdseye I was just about to make a similar comment. Doesn't the law provide that the sheriff of a county step in and take over the police department when that department is in an emergency situation or in violation of the law or as this department CHAOS!!!? Any answers?

blu_n_a_redstate

Nov 16 2007

WOW. I'm stunned.

Jeff Lucas

Nov 16 2007

No, it can't have come from higher up. I don't beleive God would get in this mess. He, he.

Ray Carter

Nov 16 2007

Could Melton not have had a choice in this matter? Like it came from higher up?--Birdseye I was just about to make a similar comment. Doesn't the law provide that the sheriff of a county step in and take over the police department when that department is in an emergency situation or in violation of the law or as this department--CHAOS!!!? Any answers?

blu_n_a_redstate

Nov 16 2007

I'm glad that it's McMillian and not Tyrone Lewis. It will be interesting to see how far this idea flies.

Jeff Lucas

Nov 16 2007

I can promise you that this is not a done deal. There will be a lot and I mean a lot of details that will have to be worked out. The city and county work totally different. I support Mac but I will be surprised if this works out the way the mayor wants it too.

The truth

Nov 16 2007

Mac can barely work with Dumb Anderson and the Board of Supervisors, so how in the world can he work with Meltdown?

Jeff Lucas

Nov 16 2007

Well perhaps the city can used the combined forces numbers to make up the shortfall of officers and thereby retain the million dollar grant it's about to lose as a result of not meeting the quota. Also if the city and county are combined will this lessen the overall tax burden on Jacksonians and oh by the way will we finally get 85% of the services not just pay 85% of the taxes?

BuyJxn

Nov 16 2007

Agreed on the sentiments that Mac won't bow down to anything that Melton says. But, isn't that a GOOD thing? We just got rid of a worthless puppet of a police chief. Hiring Mac seems like a great idea to me. I'll be interested to see if he'll be more willing to release COMSTAT data, etc.

millhouse

Nov 16 2007

"Will Melton bring back Bracey Coleman (Michael Recio's father-in-law)? Will Gerald Jones become the chief? Will he try to name Recio himself? Perhaps Abby the police dog?" This sounds like it's straight from the old TV series, "Soap", where they would always foreshadow the next episodes with a barrage of questions.

millhouse

Nov 16 2007

From the standpoint of the law, Sheriff Mac is the CLEO...ie "Chief Law Enforcement Officer in Hinds County. If something is about to happen with the Feds, this is to prepare for it so the city of Jackson doesn't decend into total and complete chaos.

Cliff Cargill

Nov 16 2007

I should add that I think this is an EXCELLENT move by Mayor Meltdown. If he's smart enough to stay out of JPD business and let a true law enforcement professional with leadership experience like the High Sheriff run the department it could work, and could make a dent in the rampant property crime that is plaguing Jacktown. But this is Meltdown so smart thinking isn't really in play here.

Jeff Lucas

Nov 16 2007

No way, cliff... that ain't how Melton rolls. When has Melton done this City any favors?

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

Wouldn't this also pull up the numbers of JPD (if you count deputies) to levels to avoid losing federal funding? I can't figure this move. I love Sherrif Mac. If anyone could stop Melton from meddling it would be him, but I think Frankie is too addicted to playing cop to stop.

AGamm627

Nov 16 2007

In Frank's next job he can honestly say he was mayor and police chief for 2 years, and not be lying completely.

Ray Carter

Nov 16 2007

I bet the folks who supported Mac out in the County are a bit dejected right now. How much money did they pump into his campaign?

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

Pike, I'm saying by law, little frankie doesn't have a choice. Mac is the CLEO by law.

Cliff Cargill

Nov 16 2007

Let me say I wish ex-chief Anderson the best. She likely did the best she could under the circumstances. She wasn't allowed to do the job. She was dominated by Frank like he tried to do Faye Peterson until she stood up to him and tried to send his ass to prison, to boot. Maybe she wasn't really trying to send him to prison, she was likely trying to stop his illegal ways, and aid us in getting a new mayor. McMillan won't take this shit, so we don't have to worry about him being dominated. He might quit though if Frank doesn't chill out.

Ray Carter

Nov 16 2007

I know he's cleo... but I don't see Melton happily hanging himself.

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

Pike, I'm say he may not have a choice in the matter if the feds are about to come down on him. This is also a way for little frankie to maintain the facade that he is still in control----that is, until the big hammer drops. Because, if he is indeed indicted and there's not a stable plan in place, chaos will erupt.

Cliff Cargill

Nov 16 2007

Trust me... I hope you are right...

pikersam

Nov 16 2007

Oh, I you do! ;-)

Cliff Cargill

Nov 16 2007

know you do, I mean.

Cliff Cargill

Nov 16 2007

re: Wouldn't this also pull up the numbers of JPD (if you count deputies) to levels to avoid losing federal funding? Didn't Melton make a comment regarding this very fact? I believe he said that the two divisions would apply for grants together. I could have mis-heard, though.

katbird

2007-11-16T12:45:52-06:00

ID

96896

Comment

Ain't no feds gonna do anything to Frank. He's already convinced me he can beat the law. He's batting a thousand and the FBI is defeatable. I got 2 bank robbers off one time with the FBI as the police agency and the justice department as the prosecutors. I hope one of them reads this and verify it. What's more astounding the guys had confessed to the crime. Fortunately, the dumb JPD officer promised them probation and reneged on it, therefore allowing me to get the confessions thrown out. I then did a Clarence Darrow over there on Capital street and they both walked free. Those were the good old days when no one was killed. Now I catch hell on every hand with these alleged murderers who the government want to kill, and who also confesses too often. Now I've gone from stellar lawyering to begging for mercy. Somebody got to do it though.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T12:51:02-06:00

ID

96897

Comment

I am really saddened by the fact that frank has successfully screwed the citizens of Jackson: He is a disgrace and a poster boy for ignorance, arrgorance, and the house boy that has tried to prove that there are no capable people who look like him that can serve as Chief of Police for this City. He surrounded himself with damaged goods (people): Those folks that thought and behaved as he did: People who would do anything for a dollar to include keeping his muddy secrets. frank was/is the problem. He has absolutely no clue in managing a City. Im venting now so I will close before I blow a gasket.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-16T13:14:53-06:00

ID

96898

Comment

I bet the folks who supported Mac out in the County are a bit dejected right now. How much money did they pump into his campaign? "Worried" is a better word. Sheriff Mac is the only thing (barely) keeping a lid on crime in the county... especially my area (which abuts rapidly deteriorating, crime-ridden south Jackson.) If Mac gets fed up and walks... well, I hate to think about it. Hinds County is hanging on by a thread as it is.

Author

Byramite4now

Date

2007-11-16T13:19:56-06:00

ID

96899

Comment

I 'use to be' was a fan of Dale and Macs! Today has shown me that people change and not always for the better. I am very disappointed... Dale and Mac should have been parts of the solution! I really believe that no good will come from this...I hope i am wrong.

Author

Big Tee

Date

2007-11-16T13:31:41-06:00

ID

96900

Comment

I know this is off the subject but Elicia Hughes was just found not guilty.....

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T13:47:45-06:00

ID

96901

Comment

I feel you pain, Justjess. It's hard for me to believe somebody in that department couldn't do the job, too. Shirlene might have been able to do it if Frank had stepped aside and allowed it. You don't have to be a genius for that job, just be committed and get the right people in the right place. Make them do their jobs or fire their asses and get somebody who will, which is all McMillan will do. Frank is a damn nut no if and ands about it. He tries to look and act intellectual but his decisions belie that. He further tries to be funny and humorous, but the joke is on him when you have screwed up as proficiently as Frank has. Therefore few, if any, laughs at his jokes. If McMillan wasn't a man Frank would have taken over the press conference completely and made McMillan look like a flonky too. I imagine McMillan, like me, will be a man walking, crawling or rolling until he dies or doesn't further realize he is a man.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T13:53:28-06:00

ID

96902

Comment

Dennis Sweet must have graduated from Tougaloo. When I knew there were 8 or more women on the jury and a witness testified they heard a car pull of after the shooting I knew he had a helluva shot at an acquittal.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T13:57:54-06:00

ID

96903

Comment

Folks, believe me: This is like the painting of a protrait or the directing of a play. Every man on that stage had his parts and as Shakespearian as it sound: They have their entrances and their exits and one man plays many roles during his lifetime. frank's role has been constant: he was a plant for the purchase of WLBT and now he has finanally surfaced as the plant for the City of Jackson to leland speed up its plan to get rid of any position of power for an African-American. This is vicarious racism that has nothing to do with the wearing of a hood; the waving of a confederate flag; or the display of a noose hanging from the back of a truck. This is one of the reasons that slavery lasted so long. There is always a person who is willing to kill the dream for their own person gain. This is the reason that I have continued to blog about the hard work and the positive "inclusive vision" that Mayor Johnson managed by. Some whites understood it and this is the reason the group was so willing to finance the melton campaign. Johnson and his wife have campaign debt while a fool runs loose as a goose in City Hall and is stroked for giving back the golden egg.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-16T14:11:42-06:00

ID

96904

Comment

I have one question for you Justjess. Why? Why bring racism into this. I doubt this is some sort of racist plot to empower white people to take over the City of Jackson.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T14:17:55-06:00

ID

96905

Comment

Excellent, Justjess. I really love that last sentence and phrase "loose as a goose." I'm gonna start caling the mayor that phrase.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T14:20:01-06:00

ID

96906

Comment

Funny that no one had tipped The Clarion-Ledger off about the sheriff's new appointment by this morning. Our phones were ringing off the hook. We couldn't say for certain above because the sheriff wouldn't confirm. But it was no surprise.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-16T14:39:02-06:00

ID

96907

Comment

Truth, do you think today's appointment was Melton's "Plan B" in the event Tyrone Lewis failed to win the Sheriff's position? I could definitely see Melton turning the reins of JPD over to "Sheriff Lewis", working with D.A. Smith to solidify Melton's grip on Hinds County law enforcement. I still can't see McMillian and Melton having an positive working relationship given Melton's history treating JPD like his personal chauffeur service. I hope Anderson declines Melton's *generous* offer to be his personal assistant. If she does, she's a bigger tool than I ever guessed.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-16T14:43:48-06:00

ID

96908

Comment

I have one question for you Justjess. Why? Why bring racism into this. I doubt this is some sort of racist plot to empower white people to take over the City of Jackson. I have one question for you, The truth. Why Not? Should I as an African-American have to deny seeing what I SAW: Deny hearing what I Herd: Deny feeling what I felt to allow some others to continue to feel better. Time, energy nor space will not allow me to discuss this issue in detail; however, I will give you one peice of evidence for my belief that this action is deeply rooted in racism. IT HAS HAPPENED BEFORE: melton CAME TO JACKSON PRETENDING TO BUY WLBT. At that time, WLBT was the only African American owned television istation in the WORLD. Melton fronted money for whites and this "loose goose" gave up that golden egg.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-16T14:44:56-06:00

ID

96909

Comment

Put an a in heard, please.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-16T14:50:34-06:00

ID

96910

Comment

My fellow workers and I have discussed just that question Jeff. I don't believe that McMillin is going to be the lap dog of Frank like Frank hopes he will. I believe Frank is thinking that he will sit back for a few weeks and let Mac have full control and then he will jump right back into the swing of things. I know Mac and he is just as head strong as Melton so we could be in store for some knock down drag out fights. I know that the officers of Jackson won't look at this as a good move until Mac gets rid of Recio. If Recio remains Assistant Chief then we know that Frank still has a hand in the cookie jar. I am so curious to see what will happen next.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T14:50:51-06:00

ID

96911

Comment

But can Mac whip Recio, Frank and Lil Sho'? That's my question. We'll see what happens. Can Frank fire McMillan? I wouldn't take this job if Frank could fire me.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T14:54:40-06:00

ID

96912

Comment

Justjess..why dont ya let the mayor and his wife stay with you since they are in such debt and you're obviously on their payroll by your constant idol worship of him. must you work johnson into every post? the guy is gone for pete's sake. Nobody liked him..face it. Frankie Lucas hasnt been a cake walk but cmon.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-16T14:56:19-06:00

ID

96913

Comment

I guess that is why the United States is such a great place. We all have the right to our own opinion and the right to express it. I am going to bow out of this discussion with you Justjess just because I don't want my blood pressure to go up. It is just funny to me that if Gerald Jones or Bracey Coleman had been appointed Chief then there would have been no mention of racism.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T14:56:43-06:00

ID

96914

Comment

Why couln't toilet paper be colored pink or purple? Why does it have to be white? Do you think an african american invented toilet paper. I feel upset everytime I wipe knowing that I have to wipe with a white colored toilet paper..... Justjess....what I meant by that was I guess we can all think everything and everybody is racist.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:03:00-06:00

ID

96915

Comment

There would have been a mention of racism by some people if Bracey or Jones had gotten the job. I assure you of that. Maybe not here though. That's why I was for Recio, and insider, proven officer wrecking machine, and the completion for the protection. Perhaps we'd gotten to find out how much Recio, Frank and Wright really know about police work if all the officers had indeed quit as the Truth suggested and likely knows. I apperciate your insight Truth. Don't sweat it, Justjess. It's alright to have your opinion. We can't be sure who is right or wrong. Toleration is the key.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T15:06:16-06:00

ID

96916

Comment

Ray, I got my cash on Chief Sherrif Mac in a cage match between him and Recio, Frank and Lil Sho' My question is how long till a blow up. Mac won't be a lap dog, Frank cannot NOT be a bully. Somebody has got to be pulling Frank's strings on this one and Frank must be in REAL trouble. AGamma627

Author

AGamm627

Date

2007-11-16T15:09:06-06:00

ID

96917

Comment

Just in case you didn't know toilet paper ws invented by the Chinese in the 6th century AD.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:09:10-06:00

ID

96918

Comment

Truth I haven't seen any people the color of toilet paper except those painted. And I've looked real hard to find some real white people. He, he.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T15:12:28-06:00

ID

96919

Comment

I like you Ray. I had to calm some of my co-workers down after reading some of your comments but I had to explain to them that a lot of the things you say, you don't really mean.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:15:04-06:00

ID

96920

Comment

Hey Ray, They guys in the office want to take you out to lunch. I promise you won't feel more protected if you will go with us.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:17:51-06:00

ID

96921

Comment

Tell your co-workers they can harass me on the streets and beat me down if they desire, but once I get them on the witness stand I'm the High Sheriff or Police Chief. This is why I'm convinced I'm crazy for using my real name. If I ever saw Lil Sho You Wright in person I'd probably run. I've had much fun with him behind his back. Thanks Truth and please keep them off me. I'm just having fun.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T15:23:32-06:00

ID

96922

Comment

Please open your mind and hear me out. The truth, you have blogged on other threads and so have I. Just today I today I asked the question "Can anyone say N E P O T I S M?" I stated that I was referring to Bracey Coleman being given the chief's job and Recio, his son-in-law serving as Assistant Chief. I also talked about the fact that Gerald Jones was involved with an inmate and the rest is history. So, if either of these two had been hired, I would say that melton continues to put people in positions that many others deserve and are without certain baggage. Whites can talk about great people forever and even Mickey Mouse continues to be a hero. Blacks are expected by some whites to do and say as they are told. Anything different from this is uncomfortable and you are washed up like sand castles. The insensitive statement from Trusip pierced my heart. The Johnson's are not papals. They are hard working people who are well educated and great stewarts of their finances. They are not asking you or anyone for anything. Let me be clear on this. If I thought that this was a need, Trusip and even for you as meanspirited as you sound, my home, beneath all of my clutter has a welcome mat and so does my heart. It is only when we can began to have discussions about race, racism, bigotry and other issues that we can have something in common other than the bragging rights for MS being a "Red State." The red for me in this State represents blood stains and everytime an attempt is made to air feelings or express ideas, someone asks me to sit on the back of the bus and keep quiet.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-16T15:25:26-06:00

ID

96923

Comment

As much trash as I've been talking I wouldn't even feel safe around y'all if the secret service were providing protection for me.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T15:26:21-06:00

ID

96924

Comment

You don't worry about a thing Ray. You now have a get out of jail free card. I thought Frank had used them all but I was able to find one more.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:27:31-06:00

ID

96925

Comment

I would never want you to feel like I am asking you to sit at the back of the bus Justjess. We all have our opinions and I respect yours. I just don't think that there is a huge conspiracy here.

Author

The truth

Date

2007-11-16T15:33:24-06:00

ID

96926

Comment

Nobody's asking you to keep quiet justjess...sooooo sorry to have pierced your heart (or your heart-shaped tatoo of I LOVE Harvey)!!! Just asking you to stop throwing Johnson in nearly every post you make about the city of Jackson. Some of MY co-workers are starting to think you'e the Johnson's bodyguards or something. Evrybody here works hard and looks afrer their finances. Point is..He was stiff as a 2x4 and just as arrogant as you say Frankie Lucas is. He was truly more technical but nobody liked him as a person..case closed. So leave him and his wife be. He's not coming back. Hes an after thought and history. Just like shirlene is. Move forward please. Big Mac is in the house!!!!!

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-16T15:38:35-06:00

ID

96927

Comment

..And for the record *I* respect everyone's opinion as well. Just dont be biased and we'll take it to heart more. You appear to have an agenda with some of the comments you make. If you dont like this administration fine then concentrate on that and stop giving us Johnson's bio everytime you post.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-16T15:41:07-06:00

ID

96928

Comment

Don't worry, Justjess, everything will be alright. Don't waste your time being concerned about the responses of others. Do like I do, say what you feel and don't worry. The truth is larger and greater than any of us. I'm often frustrated by members of the new generation who don't have the history, hardships and burdens we see and carry. They'll see them when we're gone and their slow and clueless behinds are left behind and trapped. The Johnsons are good people and everything you saw they are. Like lots of people I was hurt Harvey didn't see his downfall coming before it was too late. Many of us don't know the gravity of the situation he faced like I believe you do. God bless you, and I'm proud you don't throw stone for stone like I do. You're a christian while I'm still a fool to happy to fight back. I'm 51 and I hope I have about 10 more strong years of fighting fire with fire. Like Malcolm X said I don't beleive in fire, that's why I'm using it to stop other fire.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T15:42:52-06:00

ID

96929

Comment

papals?

Author

Michele

Date

2007-11-16T15:50:30-06:00

ID

96930

Comment

Thats flatering Ray but im not a member of the younger generation..and I certainly don't feel like it lol. I actually think we;ve got some bright promising leaders here coming up the turnpike. some of my contemporaries(Im 53 incidentally) have become old fogies who cling to their old ways. Not a bad thing, cuz Im an old dog. but ya gotta step aside sometimes. The Johnsons are good people Im sure. No one said they werent. Harvey just wasnt a good mayor if you ask me and many other folks thought the same thing obviously. thats all Im saying. god Bless em. Hope they live great productive lives. He just...wasnt...a...good...mayor. that hasnothing to do with his personal life. Now cvan we get back to ponificating on Big Mac?

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-16T15:56:28-06:00

ID

96931

Comment

Kaze, your young butt is not 53. I know you! Did you mean 33?

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T16:00:13-06:00

ID

96932

Comment

In fact..Ive been hiding my true age for years now...Im really an old guy in young rappers guise. My buddies are dusty old farts who sit around and talk about bad these younguns are gonna turn out...Im on in years and ready to just sit around and hold on to the past and my old grudge. How'd I do..with some Ray Carter humor? do I still need work?

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-16T16:00:51-06:00

ID

96933

Comment

You got me lol. Ive been secretly wanting to try some RC humor for a while now! Just to throw some folks off but it didnt take I guess folks are used to me being serious as they know you sometimes kid brother :-) ..BTW Im the eternal 28!!! and holding haaaa!

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-16T16:07:29-06:00

ID

96934

Comment

Kaze I knew you were young when I met you. You had that Moses' gaze he had when he went upon the hill to get the Ten Commandments from God. He couldn't fake it, and neither could you. Straight up, you know what I'm saying. I got it like that! I'm just keeping it P.I. - personal integrity. Back to the police department. I hope this was a good move, and the officers can do their jobs of protecting the citizens. I'm so sorry they and we had to endure Frank's meddling. I hope no one is still around who believes Frank has a clue what he's doing. I still think Lee Vance is a great officer and so too is many more of them. All of them deserve much credit. Lee Vance would have been my choice, and he showed what a true man he is by telling Frank to go to hell when he tried to force Maceo on him. If I couldn't have Lee Vance I wnated the officer that quit after making his own movie telling Frank he wasn't a real police officer. I love the part where he said he would shoot the next person who starred at his broken down vehicle. Why hasn't he been rehired and given some highly esteemed job? What a fine officer he was who mixed "show business" and police work. My kind of fellow!

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-16T16:15:45-06:00

ID

96935

Comment

Lee Vance IS a great officer. And a good man. Ive known him a while myself. He would have been a good choice. I tell you this, its gonna be some major shakeups. Mcmillan has a rep for being hardnosed and hopefully he's gonna bring some cred back..All i can say now is..DONT BE OUT THERE RIDIN DIRTY!!!! And yep..that officer needs his own reality show if for nothing else to keep us laughing in the face of this shuffleboard game. Hope he has a bette grip on his cell phone lol. And for the record...cmon... Straight up? you knowhutimsayin? I got it like dat? LOL!!! You cant fake it either brother.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-16T16:25:20-06:00

ID

96936

Comment

Is there someone that is second in command to McMillin on the county level? If so, would this person be qualified enough and willing to take on a heavier workload if McMillin is doing county and city work?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-11-16T18:25:50-06:00

ID

96937

Comment

So, it appears this whole Gerald Jones charade was to sign off on the raises and promotions of Recio and Wright. Nice going! But, because we have $2 billions dollars in development, it's OK! The tax payers should just piss away money for Melton's inept leadership! That is a crock, and the type of logic you get out of the elite in this town who are the only ones who can afford this type of crap.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-16T19:07:57-06:00

ID

96938

Comment

I saw that on channel 16, Pike. Jones held the position for 48 hours, just long enough to do the mayor's bidding. Wonder what Big Mac thinks of that.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-11-16T19:15:57-06:00

ID

96939

Comment

One of the VPs of the union was transferred this evening by Mac. From what I heard, Recio took a transfer order to Mac and he signed it without even knowing who the person really was. Seems like the wheels of retaliation are starting to turn.

Author

pressthefight

Date

2007-11-16T19:26:25-06:00

ID

96940

Comment

pressthefight, what do you mean? Is the transfer a good thing or a bad thing? Who initiated the transfer?

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-11-16T20:43:44-06:00

ID

96941

Comment

the city has a rule that if you are in an "acting" position for more than 10 days you must be paid for that position. So the idea that Gerald Jones only did the mayor's bidding is actually "following procedure"; which does not happen within the COJ often. So, Chief Anderson's not signing paperwork was a formality; you "we" would have had to pay now or pay later (another lawsuit). Didn't we just pay for legal expenses for the Ridgeway incident??

Author

mom42

Date

2007-11-16T21:09:51-06:00

ID

96942

Comment

One of the VPs of the union was transferred this evening by Mac. From what I heard, Recio took a transfer order to Mac and he signed it without even knowing who the person really was. Seems like the wheels of retaliation are starting to turn. I'm not sure what this "transfer" means. Could someone explain, please?

Author

ellen

Date

2007-11-16T22:13:16-06:00

ID

96943

Comment

So Frank figured out a way to get all that federal grant money JPD was about to lose because of not having enough officers.. deputize all the SO officers as JPD officers, combine SO officers and JPD officers and the number goes to 800+ officers and the requirement is satisfied. Once the money is in the bank, Mac is out. Uh huh.

Author

LambdaRisen

Date

2007-11-17T21:27:44-06:00

ID

96944

Comment

Justjess should not be shot down on a mention of purposeful fiddling in Jackson politics with intentions to ensure a dysfunctional system for African-Americans. As a 28-year-old white male, i have been privy to many an interesting conversation between old white males regarding the deliberate manipulation of the government for personal gain and/or mean-spirited fun. People in power tend to view the power structure itself as not a system intended to represent the people or deserving of integrity above class wishes. People in power tend to see the power structure as a means to flex and preserve their power. The Twin Lakes debacle is a prime example of powerful (white) men bending political wills to achieve their ends. This is not an overtly racist example for the record. To counter Justjess's observation of the events that have transpired in relation to Melton with references to toilet paper and completely juvenile racist overture are just silly and belie your own dismissiveness to the important contemporary issue of racism. It does not take a hard look at the situation to at least speculate that the powerful white men backing Frank in his run for Mayor were well aware that he would make a horrible administrator and felt that they could benefit from such a person in the Jackson Mayoral role. i am stunned that on the JFP website there was no interest in at least exploring where that line of thought leads. i, in fact, do believe that Frank was a plant by powerful monied interests who would like to see property values in Jackson plummet further. It does not seem far-fetched to believe that there are those alive today who take great delight in the downfall of Jackson and in the degradation of the African-American people. As a white male i am often pained to have these types of people talk to me as if i would agree with their assumptions about reality. And the more powerful they are the more crass they seem to be regarding their opinions. (Not to say i haven't met my fair share of powerful people with character.) Racism is alive and well in Mississippi. i am unfortunately made aware of it by being white and having the more backwards members of my race assume they can spew their vitriol in my presence.

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-11-18T06:37:54-06:00

ID

96945

Comment

I've always said the City of Jackson and Hinds County should merge into a Metro Government. Maybe this could be the first step!

Author

James Hester

Date

2007-11-18T08:17:44-06:00

ID

96946

Comment

Excellent post, Daniel. During the campaign, I heard from some powerful *white* people in the community that thought that just this dynamic was at play. I mean, it is worth asking oneself why some people voted for Melton even as they believed (or didn't care if) some of the worst things said about him over the years (including by the police) were true. Something was at play, certainly. And I applaud you and Justjess for trying to explore this in a meaningful way. We don't have to be binary here—one can choose to believe that McMillin can make a better police chief than Shirlene Anderson while at the same time looking carefully at the forces that got us here. And don't forget that we had a local media that censored vital news about Melton for many years. We need to ask why. And perhaps "incompetency" isn't enough of an answer, although it is certainly applicable as well.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-18T10:14:40-06:00

ID

96947

Comment

It does not take a hard look at the situation to at least speculate that the powerful white men backing Frank in his run for Mayor were well aware that he would make a horrible administrator and felt that they could benefit from such a person in the Jackson Mayoral role. i am stunned that on the JFP website there was no interest in at least exploring where that line of thought leads. dj Actually, this avenue has been run up and down on the JFP blogs. But, you cannot just print in an article speculation like this without proof. You can speculate motives, or imply racism, in blogs by citizens who have heard 'this or that' around the City. However, I applaud the JFP for making sure facts ruled over speculation in the articles written about Melton.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-18T10:38:46-06:00

ID

96948

Comment

Pike does make a good point. We've gone to this well a lot. We're not afraid of it. That doesn't mean I'm discouraging another visit, of course. It's also not entirely likely that a group of white people got together and said, "Let's elected this ridiculous black mayor, so that we white folks can regain power in the city, and squelch the state's most progressive political center." Things are (slightly) more subtle and coded these days. And thus harder to prove.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-18T11:28:48-06:00

ID

96949

Comment

justjess what Kaze says is not the bible truth. I back you harvey was a good mayor. and why else would the white power structure let a black man(melton) get away with murder, and have that much power.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-18T12:10:40-06:00

ID

96950

Comment

Actually, Harvey Johnson was a good mayor by traditional mayoral standards. Chief Moore was also a good police chief. What this town always seems to want is a mythical super hero, and no he didn't measure up by those standards. Melton didn't, either. Neither will McMillin, not to be a party pooper. Folks, I'm not qualified to do group therapy, but you have to bear in mind that in a culture that has been told for so long that we are inferior, the conditions are ripe for us to expect superhuman figures to sweep in and solve our problems for us, and not appreciate it when we have people who are willing to go the long slog of what it really takes. The people must change this expectation, or unsavory folks like Melton will keep taking advantage of the community's naive expectations. And it makes us ripe for corruption. And of course, our media—from the Ben & Larry Show to The Clarion-Ledger—have promoted this naive view and the sensationalistic panics that drive citizens to drive out good public servants in favor of media creations who have no clue what running a city, or fighting the conditions that cause crime, really takes. It's time that we all work together to change it and, thus, grow up as a city. Also, it is very provincial and backward to judge a public servant based on how much attention, or how many promises, they give you personally.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-18T12:17:24-06:00

ID

96951

Comment

Both Harvey and his wife are good people despite what others might think and for Trusip to even go there was WRONG and you must be one of the ones on the outside looking in and you don't know nothing but what you hear on the streets. It sounds like you need to get some business because you don't have any business worrying about who staying with who or who needs to be staying who and who is in debt. The only thing or things you need to worry about is who is staying with you or who you are staying with and your own financial situation. As far as Harvey being stiff as a 2x4, whatever. Harvey was a mayor of integrity and handled the business of this city carefully and if you think he is arrogant, that is because you don't know him.

Author

maad

Date

2007-11-18T15:53:46-06:00

ID

96952

Comment

i did not intend to insinuate the JFP itself should devote resources to uncovering this conspiracy...i do assert that it is a worthwhile avenue to explore and that rather than saying it's madness to actually give some thoughts on why it is unlikely. i have seen it done here before and never want to miss an opportunity to let a poster know that a little expounding on the presumptions behind ones beliefs is more helpful than a simple statement thereof. i'm sure alot of getting to this point was a series of taking opportunities to bend the system toward this outcome. The fact of the matter is that everyone has ulterior motives; some constructive and some destructive. It just so happens that the will of rich people makes bigger waves in society because wealth=access. And racism is a reality. You may not know any one who is racist and they may not know anyone who is racist but it is out there and has an influence in society. (If you answered yes to those questions i think it more likely you are oblivious to the racism around you.) Racism is not the whole truth behind any societal ills, but it is there and must be healed to ring about a complete community in our city and state.

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-11-18T16:51:07-06:00

ID

96953

Comment

Well, I dont intend for this discussion to once again turn to the former mayor. But I will say this maad. I can't speak for trusip or anyone else that has a similar opinion. But I can say as far as Im concerned Ive run into a lot of folks who will agree with trusip's line of thinking. Its obvious from the results of the last election. For what ever reason. Ive been down this road with justjess before and dont really wish to again because the same things that jj or you accuse melton supporters of doing you are doing. Johnson has his supporters and Melton has his. Thats how it will always be. Not to go into personal history but Im not one of those on the "outside" looking in as you say. and *I*(and I repeat ME) found him to be technically sound and an excellent city planner but personally aloof, stiff, slow, non-inclusive(when it came to my demographic), and arrogant to a fault. Now, none of those are a crime but dont bode too well in the court of public opinion. and perception at times is 9/10 of reality with voters. Its not like Im making it up. Youve heard it before. Im not the first one to say it. So it has to be stemmed in something. How he came across to you may be totally different I dont know. thats how he comes across to ME.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-18T17:28:23-06:00

ID

96954

Comment

Now, I AM one of those who like Daniel think there are bigger plots at play here. Gentrification is in full effect. and from what Im seeing everyday this city is being handed over to white power brokers who don't have downtown area's current residents in their plans. And I have no doubt that the conversations that Daniel happens upon are happening everyday. However, some of those folks agree with the poison that is being spewed. and though it might not be likely Donna that a group of white folks got together and said "lets get a black mayor elected that will do our bidding" (they dont have to be so saavy because this city has become too apathetic to fight). It IS likely that a group of them got together and said lets buy all of downtown up and get it under our control so that we can run all the black folks out and make it safe for us good white folks to move our businesses back in.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-18T17:34:44-06:00

ID

96955

Comment

i know of three different investors (youngun's in their late 20's and early 30's) who looked for space Downtown to put up galleries and restaurants and all three remarked on how many space owners did not seem interested in renting out their property. It seems odd that owners would purposely keep space empty. One might say that they would rather keep it empty and wait for a better market but considering that they all eventually found someone willing to rent on short leases i doubt that conclusion. Smart businesspeople will rent short term waiting on the opportunity to charge higher rents, not leave it empty ans ensuring that the area stays dormant. One has to wonder...

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-11-18T19:23:20-06:00

ID

96956

Comment

Anybody see where Kenneth Stokes said he wasn't going to confirm McMillin's nomination? I saw it on WJTV this morning and he said "Hell to the naw!" He thinks Mac is too old to handle both the sheriff and chief positions. This is the first time I remember him going against Frank on something. Is that fabric ripping apart? Stay tuned.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-11-19T09:08:06-06:00

ID

96957

Comment

I saw that on WAPT this morning. Sigh.

Author

LatashaWillis

Date

2007-11-19T09:44:23-06:00

ID

96958

Comment

I have nothing against MAC and i think from his record as Sheriff he might do a good job for Jackson, all has to be proven though. My problem is with the notion that is, want anything get managed rite unless a white person is over it. there are blacks out there who believe this inferiority to. You see majority of everyone is singing praises before Mac even gets the job done, A black candidate would be more scrutinized and praises would be held until the job was done, even if the black candidate was as proven as Mac. I know there was someone as capable in JPD to do the job like Lee Vance. Frank didn't make this appointment because of the qualifications of Mcmillan but because Mac is well liked and Frank is not, it was a good political move. I know people on this thread is finna start hollering i'am a racist but iam a realist. So bring it on iam solid.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-19T09:52:27-06:00

ID

96959

Comment

I agree totally, NewJack.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-19T10:03:04-06:00

ID

96960

Comment

Daniel Johnson, Ray Carter, Ladd and others whose seasoned dept of understanding transends emotionalism and opens lines of commnication that allows us to focus on the PROBLEM and not just SYMPTOPMS, I am encouraged. I heard Kenny Stokes' comment last night on both 3 and 16. What is this all about? I raise the same question as Golden Eagle and Pikersam: Does this represent a tear in the fabric. There is always something in Kenny's verbal discharge that is off base. He said that McMillin lets the criminals out of jail in Raymond so how could he come to Jakcson and expect to put criminals in jail. This was sorry rhetoric and Stokes is a lawyer and he knows darn well that McMillin can not let criminals out without an order from a judge. There are people in this community who will jump on that band wagon with Stokes and this also, will become the message from Chicken Little:Those messages that helped to defeat Johnson and are the germs of this City's ills . What exactly is Dale Danks' role in the scheme of things and why wasn't the City Attorney involved in the negotiations? Jackson has a real cancer but, instead of removing it, we are positioning ourselves to cut off all of the bodys good/great parts. frank needs to go and then our City can elect a mayor: One who can appoint a Chief of Police and work for the general good of all citizens.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-19T11:08:17-06:00

ID

96961

Comment

What exactly is Dale Danks' role in the scheme of things and why wasn't the City Attorney involved in the negotiation This seems to be a very important question to me. Why is an attorney suing the city on behalf of Byram standing up there next to the mayor and telling us that he wants the city and county consolidated? He's welcome to his opinion, but he doesn't work for the city.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-19T11:13:03-06:00

ID

96962

Comment

Yeah, Justjess. I'm actually glad Kenny is questioning McMillan becoming Sheriff and Police Chief. His reasons stated last night are astounding, to say the least. Hopefully, he'll rethink the reason(s) stated and provide some more logical and fact based, such as why in the hell do we need one man running both departments when we have had two before that worked as planned and designed and did the job. I think NewJack hit it on the head when he said Frank tapped McMillan because he's white and very popular to get Frank's incomptence out of the headlines and to quell the fallout and discontent in the police department. All warranted I might add. Moreover, I think Frank might be trying to save face with the white power structure who has given up on his crazy and dumb behind. They can't make any more excuses for him - the incompetence is too pronounced and profound. Blind Mellow Jello can see it now. In fact, I don't even know any black folks singing Frank's praise any more. Even Kamikaze has given up on Frank.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-19T11:22:55-06:00

ID

96963

Comment

Ray, There's always Bluntson and Tilman.

Author

Puck

Date

2007-11-19T11:26:04-06:00

ID

96964

Comment

One is blind by loyalty and the other one is blind by hope.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-19T11:29:48-06:00

ID

96965

Comment

Danks is the intermediary between Frank and the white power structure now. Many of them are so disappointed and disdainful toward Frank that they won't even meet and talk to him. The City Attorney, believe it or not, does have some pride and womanhood about herself. She likewise knows how some things will resonate in the black community. Danks is less concerned about this at this point in his life, which make him the perfect go between for this business. And Danks has gotten the boogie man off Frank's butt a few times so Frank trusts him completely. And lastly Danks is leass critical publicly of Frank than others.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-19T11:40:06-06:00

ID

96966

Comment

The comments about Danks are on point. His presence is a clear indication that this deal meets with the approval of the NE Jackson *old money* and powerbrokers. Melton is still a hot potato that they are forced to work with, but with Mac in charge of all county/city law enforcement they can settle back thinking that their investments will be protected. Still, if this deal begins a real dialogue about city-county consolidation I'm all for it, regardless of where it comes from.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-19T12:05:55-06:00

ID

96967

Comment

I think NewJack hit it on the head when he said Frank tapped McMillan because he's white and very popular to get Frank's incomptence out of the headlines and to quell the fallout and discontent in the police department. All warranted I might add. A part of me thinks that Frank nominated McMillin in order to make himself look good. You see, if Mac gets the crime situation under control, it would give Frank a rallying cry of sorts to show that he is an effective mayor and that he did do something about crime. His hard-core supporters would surely eat this up.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-11-19T13:13:29-06:00

ID

96968

Comment

The election of Frank Melton allowed the white power structure to get back into Jackson politics fully and run it. There wasn't anything wrong with Harvey Johnson as mayor. The plot and scheme was to get rid of a True Black mayor who couldn't be bought or told what to do. So they whomever they was beat the crime drum and highlighted how "slow" Harvey was. The crime part played to the whites and northeast Jackson and south Jackson, and the part about Harvey Johnson not doing anything for the city played to the inner city blacks who are often uneducated about whats really going on and look at the news for truth. Frank turns out to be the puppet in all of this, the little man used for a bigger cause by the MAN. Its sad with a 72 percent black population we are still controlled by rich white men.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-19T13:24:56-06:00

ID

96969

Comment

NewJack, I think, is right on in many ways. Certainly, there was a North Jackson "citizen's committee" that came together to figure out how to get Johnson out of office. They know who they are. So do we. And his opponents were willing to hype crime, and downplay successes, in order to get him out. That showed me that crime sure wasn't *their* number-one issue. Power and control, however, would be good bets.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-19T13:53:09-06:00

ID

96970

Comment

Thanks ladd, but will full gentrification take place now. I think one thing about Jackson that is different from other southeast cities is that gentrification hasn't taken a hold yet its in its early stages. Thats why Memphis and Birmingham and other cities our size are ahead of us. Question can any majority Black populated city with a majority black leadership thrive economically without gentrification? Or will they have to yell mercy before they get to enjoy a city that is vibrant in every way. GOOD EXAMPLE, I work downtown at the biggest hotel brand. I'am a young black male 23. I was unloading a Black womans luggage at night and she looked around and said "why is it so dead, Gentrification must hasn't taken place yet" That opened my eyes and i was like wow, just define Gentrification and you will see why i was shocked, like its better to let Gentrification take place than to let a Black runned city flourish on its on.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-19T14:11:47-06:00

ID

96971

Comment

While I think McMillan is a good choice for police chief or sheriff, and both positions, if one person has to have both. But I don't agree one person should have both yet. I'm yet to be convinced they need consolidating. What I don't understand is why any intelligent man would get in this crap at this time and place. Is it for the sake of saving Jackson from Frank's impulsivity and unfitness? Are hidden friendships and debts at play here? Does McMillan have higher aspirations of some nature and kind? Has a deal been cut behind the scenes with more to be revealed later? Is Danks' jockeying for a city manager position or trying to create one for someone else? Does McMillan really believe he's some kind of savior for Jackson and Hinds County? Did the power structure order or recommend a quick fix-up as new business is hanging in the balance and must be persuaded to hang around or not leave or give up on Jackson? Is Frank admitting he doesn't know what to do about crime and he likewise has been convinced McMillan does? Is Frank selling or giving away the city for some ulterior motives? This thing or situation can't be as simple as presented, explained and thought to be! Frank isn't a singularly forward thinking person so something else has to be at play.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-19T14:23:10-06:00

ID

96972

Comment

I'm with Ray. I don't think the taxpayers should agree to a consolidation simply because Melton is such a bad mayor with bad police leaders under him. That's backward. We need a real public discussion on such an issue first. If this is a temporary fix, then maybe. But it doesn't make sense to make these kinds of long-term decisions out of desperation because of one fool mayor.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-19T14:32:28-06:00

ID

96973

Comment

What are the possibilities that we get a new Mayor in the nearer-than-elections future? i guess i keep holding out hope that the FBI or some other entity is going to spring from the shadows and save us from this man. Is this a possibility? Are there other possibilities? Can a referendum be forced to force Melton out of office?

Author

daniel johnson

Date

2007-11-19T16:05:44-06:00

ID

96974

Comment

There's nothing, Daniel. A felony conviction is it. And my guess it that Danks, Coxwell et al would do everything they could to delay the trial. Just guessing. I'm no expert on federal trials. And if Wingate gets it, woo, wee. We could be here a while.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-19T16:14:21-06:00

ID

96975

Comment

Doug Anderson said on WAPT tonight that he was disappointed that Frank didn't tell the Board of Supervisors about appointing McMillin to sheriff. Anderson has been a firm supporter of the mayor; another run in the proverbial stocking?

Author

golden eagle

Date

2007-11-19T18:26:35-06:00

ID

96976

Comment

Tursip, I missed you comment about Former Mayor Johnson being "stiff as a 2x4." Just remember this: Stiff trumps STUPID 24/7. By the way, this is one of the true symptoms of bigotry and racism: You can defend my Black criminals but, cremate Black men who can and did a job by standards set up BY AND FOR WHITE MEN ONLY. You made reference to your co-workers wonder if I am Johnson's body guard. No, remember the City did not have to provide body guards for Ditto or Johnson. He lives with and among people and did not have the type of baggage that requires ducking and dodging. If I were a part of a team effort to kill an intelligent, well trained, well educated, family oriented, community focused Black male, I would do and say the same things you are posting: Stop talking about it. Stop bringing Johnson's name up on blogs. Help me to forget that I along with the CL, some NE Jackson folks, the unknowing and the known, threw our dagger that produced the "MOST UNKINDESS CUT OF ALL." It is interesting to me that you take issue

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-20T14:50:12-06:00

ID

96977

Comment

STIFF is a word that represents STRENGTH, i.e., "keep a STIFFl upper lip," "The competition was STIFF." "We were facing STIFF resistance." BUT: STUPID IS AS STUPID DOES!

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-20T15:17:38-06:00

ID

96978

Comment

If I were a part of a team effort to kill an intelligent, well trained, well educated, family oriented, community focused Black male, I would do and say the same things you are posting: Stop talking about it. Stop bringing Johnson's name up on blogs. Help me to forget that I along with the CL, some NE Jackson folks, the unknowing and the known, threw our dagger that produced the "MOST UNKINDESS CUT OF ALL." Very compelling post, justjess. It has been intriguing to watch the character assassination of both Mayor Johnson and former Chief Moore, seemingly because they were both confident, "arrogant" black men who didn't kowtow to the right people. I had a prominent editor in town tell me once that many powerful (white) Jacksonians didn't like Johnson because he dared to keep them waiting. And the guy telling me didn't even seem alarmed by that admission. I've yet to see an actual reason beyond "arrogant" or "stiff" for the bashing. It was horrendous to watch, and I agree with you that it was even more horrifying to watch many African Americans go along with the game because somebody came along and talked a good game (or they thought it was good). That's when you know that certain people—the ones behind the one talking the good game—are winning the dominance game. The key is to be aware of the game, and refuse to play it, regardless of your race. And I say that from deep in the heart of the Brown Society. You know: Maybe the JFP should start our own Brown Society, and bestow memberships every year? ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T15:25:30-06:00

ID

96979

Comment

Great post justjess. No wonder old folks rule the world while young folks just complain. We got the brains. He, he.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-20T15:35:02-06:00

ID

96980

Comment

They, the moneyed whites and established blacks, are trying to pull the Melton game in other Cities as we speak. It worked with Nagin in NO. It just worked in Birmingham. Talking big about crime, making street level promises, and back-room deals are the new talking points to get elected in the South. The funny thing is like ladd posted (somewhere) today; the weird racial blends, and strange political bedfellows, are both galvanizing and transcending race at the same time.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-20T15:43:19-06:00

ID

96981

Comment

It's funny: Y'all are determined to talk race politics and dynamics today ... on every thread. Careful what I wish for. ;-) Seriously, someone asked me at an AAN convention recently how it is that we have such open conversations about race issues among people of various races and backgrounds on the JFP site, and I told them it is because (a) we moderate the site and don't let a handful of people used to controlling the dialogue shut those kinds of conversation because they don't want it happening and (b) I added jokingly that our state has a couple centuries of anger, silence and shame bottled up that we need to let out. Then I realized that the joking part was probably the most serious answer. As much as I think this dialogue is really important, though, I hate to see it hijack all the threads about the city as it is trying to do right now. Perhaps someone could start a forum post. Ray? Pike? Trusip? Justjess? Maybe: "Race: Is it a four-letter word? Talk among yourselves." So how 'bout that sheriff? (Y'all are great, by the way. Sometimes I look at the site when I've been offline working on something, and I get goose bumps over how badly the people here want to talk to each other. It's humbling. Thank you.)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T15:51:27-06:00

ID

96982

Comment

Justjess. I only take issue because YOU keep bringing his name up! I think it is you who should stop bringing his name up on blogs.. You find a way to interjecct him in every subject. We get it! You liked Johnson. Now lets discuss the issues. You've made your point clear. ..And again when folks use the term thug it is to shine over a bigger issue with our young people and part of the reason folks dont like or trust politicians. "thug" or "baggage"? what is that? It just says to me and a lot of folks who agree with me that there is a class issue here. Some folks feel that others are not worthy of that "privelege". that those who reach out to those type "people" or associate with "those type people" have baggage or harbor "thugs" Controversy or craziness aside politicians could take note to not be so siditty. Im not taking the mayor's side I taking the side of folks who come off as if they are better than others.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-20T16:56:01-06:00

ID

96983

Comment

I think it is you who should stop bringing his name up on blogs.. You find a way to interjecct him in every subject. We get it! You liked Johnson. Now lets discuss the issues. You've made your point clear. Trusip, I'm going to have to disagree with you. First of all, justjess has the right to compare the current mayor with the past mayor, and defend and correct his record and legacy, all she wants. It's useful to look backward at how poorly he was treated by local media and how many lies were told about him by political enemies. And it's relevant to this thread, considering that the last police chief was victim of a political hit because he was Johnson's chief. So, I'm going to say to you what I said to someone else telling you what you could/should talk about on another thread: This is not up to you. Please make your points, and leave the moderation to the site's moderators.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T17:05:57-06:00

ID

96984

Comment

okay cool. No problem. Wont go there again. However, if its ok for her to continue to interject him in the discussion then I will continue to contradict her at every turn. she just happens to interject Johnson in discussions where it is not prudent so at times I feel she is trolling(especailly since YOU feel Johnson was wronged as well). So promote away justjess Im in the minority here. But I would like for her or whoever wishes to comment on the 2nd part of my post because it remains in line with the line of discussion here. ..And again when folks use the term thug it is to shine over a bigger issue with our young people and part of the reason folks dont like or trust politicians. "thug" or "baggage"? what is that? It just says to me and a lot of folks who agree with me that there is a class issue here. Some folks feel that others are not worthy of that "privelege". that those who reach out to those type "people" or associate with "those type people" have baggage or harbor "thugs" Controversy or craziness aside politicians could take note to not be so siditty. Im not taking the mayor's side Im taking the side of folks who come off as if they are better than others.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-20T17:17:17-06:00

ID

96985

Comment

She is not "interjecting" him; she is discussing him, just as someone else might bring up a past president or governor. The fact that you don't like him personally is irrelevant. Frankly, I don't like your attitude of "I will contradict her at every turn." That sounds like you intend to badger her, and this site is not the place for you to do that. Counter statements by other people with cold, hard facts, but don't attack them because they disagree with you. That violates the User Agreement, and you won't last long here if you do it. Return to the topic now, please.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T18:05:13-06:00

ID

96986

Comment

trusip if you felt someone you believed in and admired was lied on and did wrong, you would at every chance defend him or her, justjess just wants the truth to come out just like me so i back justjess like always when she talks about Harvey johnson. I was mad to see people misinformed. So everytime i can iam gone bring him up and say remember what we had. FOOLS! not you trusip just those who voted for him.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-20T18:27:33-06:00

ID

96987

Comment

NewJack makes a good point. It is never a bad thing to try to right wrongs. Not to mention to figure out how those wrongs were perpetuated in the first place. If we can't get the media, and some voters, to look squarely at their own motivations for trashing Johnson/Moore unfairly, we will never have good leaders in this community. And looking back at Jackson's historical treatment of police chiefs, it is really, truly time for the city's residents to do some soul-searching over making crime into a game of sport. If not, we'll never get good ones, like Moore, to take the job. Of course, Melton has played a central role in the trashing of the police department, and other figures who tried to challenge him here, for a couple decades now with a major platform from which to push his agenda. So, arguably, if he were out of Jackson's equation, things could get better on that front. But we'd still have to exorcise some tendences the city has developed over time. We grew from a ground-zero city of Jim Crow straight into a place where strange power coalitions formed for not the right reasons, and now we're here. It's time to let ALL those habits go. If not, we will be ripe for corruption for a long, long time. Orwell comes to mind: Big Brother just has to get the people to focus on the wrong things, and feed their weaknesses, and he can get away with all sorts of stuff. Let's just decide not to be that city anymore, friends.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T18:50:00-06:00

ID

96988

Comment

No problem again..Its just that I never see you come to the defense of anyone on here who supports Melton. Do they not have a right ot come on here and champion him either? You are in agreement with the Johnson issue so I expect you to allow Justjess's cheerleading. but honestly, does it not look exactly like what you accuse Melton's supporters of doing? Can you really say this forum is fair to that? Just asking. So in the intrest of keeping to your request let me give you the facts. A blind man could see that technically(and I stress technically) that Johnson had more experience and more planning skills than Melton. Im no fool. Yes he started plenty of projects and yes he played the "politician" role very well. However, there are more things than that that make a campaign and win you supporters. Sometimes the measure of your success hinges on how well you work with people and whether or not people "like" you. agreed? What people think of you sometimes shapes their reality. Not great but thats how life is. You can be the most qualified person in the world and if people think you're an jerk they'd rather just not deal with you and probably wont give you credit for good deeds or give you the benefit of the doubt in bad times i.e. Barry bonds. Following me so far? Johnson is no longer mayor and couldnt win again if the plague wiped out all viable competition because of his personality. He's simply not likable to a lot of people. Its the stuff that separates Bill clinton from Bob Dole or Barak From Fred Thompson. Again, doesnt make it right, but thats how it is. He's aloof, stiff, condescending to those he feels is beneath him, arrogant, slow... He would just as soon step over a homeless kid as even speak to him. The common man had no access during his tenure. He was truly a politician. Im sure the upper crust elite of Jackson African American community got to touch the hem of his garment but I know for a fact he never had the time of day for anyone on Wood St., Maple St., or Georgetown(where Im from).

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-20T19:17:26-06:00

ID

96989

Comment

trusip your a hater

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-20T19:24:12-06:00

ID

96990

Comment

contd...The mayor may be crazy. Unortodox, a plant by outside forces, stupid, ignorant or all of the above. Yes, his tenure was plagued by controversy, HOWEVER, at the time, he filled a void that folks were looking for. the anti-politician who was touchable. the guy who you could get to and talk to. Not someone from his office, not an underling. Someone who would show up in Maple St. or Pop's or Couples. He didnt talk down to you he talked TO you. And for what its worth it worked this time. Actually future candidates could take a page from THAT part of his campaign. those folks that you say are baggage are people too. Those folks you say are thugs are people too. And this time around they felt like they had someone who was gonna look out for THEM. thats why folks are so passionate about the mayor. thats why its hard despite the messes for them to stop supporting them its because for years they felt like no one cared. And THATS why I and many other folks werent satisfied with Johnson's tenure. You can lay out all the accolades you wish, I see them. But I never felt like he cared and he never acted like he cared. And to some, that made all the difference. It isnt about what hes done for downtown or how dignified he carries himself around professionals its about what he's done for the least of those. I have been dismissed and I have seen others dismissed, ignored, and put off in public when trying to get a word with Johnson. And whether you want to accept it or not that counts to some folks. Its why Georgetoewn loves Kenny. He may not be the most polished or aritculate but I know if I have a problem I can call him and he will get something done. I can even go to his house if need be.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-20T19:30:25-06:00

ID

96991

Comment

Sometimes the measure of your success hinges on how well you work with people and whether or not people "like" you. agreed? Sure, I'm following you. And speaking for myself, I "liked" Johnson a lot better than I did Melton. He wasn't always looking over my shoulder to see where the closest TV camera was. That tends to make me nervous. That said, that is not why I supported Johnson for mayor over Melton. I supported Johnson because he didn't bow down to the Ole Boyz Club or the Mill Street Posse, even as he reached across racial boundaries and took the time to do things, like development that no one had bothered to do since white flight ravaged the city, correctly. I didn't vote for Melton because it was obvious that he was lying and didn't have real plans and trying to divide people. I watched his old Bottom Lines and was amazed at what I saw, and his unsubstantiated attacks on people who challenged him. All that said, I have indeed called down people when they've said certain things about Melton that went too far. And I call down anybody who is badgering another user here (like someone tried to do to you earlier) because guess what: you don't get to. Following me so far? As for Stokes, I used to like him, too, and for the very reason that you stated. However, he has lost my respect as he has demonstrated that his loyalty (or whatever it is) to Melton is more important than the treatment of people in his ward. HOWEVER, at the time, he filled a void that folks were looking for. Sadly, he filled a void by saying what people wanted to hear. That's not filling a void; that's fooling people. And people had been told for so long by the media that Melton was a god and Johnson was a loser that people were just repeating it without anything more substantive to back it up than "Johnson was too stiff." And Melton was a leader on the unsubstantiated criticism. It was an impossible, if rather brilliant if you can pull it off, cycle. But we can reject it now, and especially if we look back and examine it. Now, I trust that your next comment will be about Sheriff McMillin as the new chief (see thread topic above). If you want to talk about something else, go start a forum topic, as we offer you the ability to do. The same goes for everyone else, please. It's not people won't follow you if it's interesting. As of now: zero tolerance for off-thread comments.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T19:30:59-06:00

ID

96992

Comment

All, take me seriously. Any comment deemed off topic will be deleted going forward without further comment. So start a forum topic and bump it. Don't hijack.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T19:40:09-06:00

ID

96993

Comment

As Donna stated..I think McMillan will make an excellent chief-sheriff. No one can argue that. If anyone can fulfill both roles and swerve the political highway, he can. That acting training probably prepared him better than most of the years on the job have for the scrutiiny he will face. It was a good move by this administration. Don't know what Kenny's hang up is. And Mclemore looks like hes going to vote no. It would be a step backwards if he doesnt get confirmed. Although Lee Vance could do the job and I would have guessed him befoe the curve ball was thrown last week.

Author

trusip

Date

2007-11-20T19:40:48-06:00

ID

96994

Comment

As Donna stated..I think McMillan will make an excellent chief-sheriff. Actually, I didn't state that. ;-) He may, but I don't know if it's true. I'm concerned about his ability to do both jobs and whether that is fair to the people who elected him sheriff. I'm also concerned about the precedent it sets. I think a public conversation about consolidation can be had, but not under an emergency situation and not with Danks or Melton moderating the conversation for their own purposes. Or even McMillin, necessarily.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T19:43:45-06:00

ID

96995

Comment

McMillin is a good friend, a pretty good administrator, one heckuva cop, first rate politician and a brilliant PR person. He offers "comfort" and a sense of stability in the turbulent, roiled up waters that is the wake of Meltons march through the Jackson Police Department. That said, he cannot do both jobs effectively. Mac already faces long standing and seemingly intractable problems within his own department, such as jail overcrowding, faulty locks and facilities, outdated vehicles and equipment, insufficient personnel, hiring and retention problems, low pay, and yes even increases in crime in some parts of unincorporated Hinds County; not to mention a contentious relationship with the County Board of Supervisors. All of these issues require full time attention and diligent efforts to address; they can't simply be blamed on the the CBoS and budget problems. Jackson faces similar or even more serious problems that are excerbated by the mayors lack of any sense of governance. Comfort, stability and confidence in the "chief" may be what is needed right at the moment; but Jackson has real problems that requires the undivided attention, energy, committment and an all effort by a chief who is not already facing a full plate.

Author

Robert Johnson

Date

2007-11-20T21:42:43-06:00

ID

96996

Comment

He may, but I don't know if it's true. I'm concerned about his ability to do both jobs and whether that is fair to the people who elected him sheriff. ladd It pains me say this; but Larry - on the radio - made a good point that we have individuals who run companies in MS that are far larger than the combined police forces of JPD and Hinds Co. He mentioned a couple of businesses; yet I thought about Carolyn Shanks at Entergy. just sayin'

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-20T21:43:59-06:00

ID

96997

Comment

And I should add, if a person can be mayor and manage a whole City staff, including Police and Fire Departments, then one person should be able to be the CEO of the Combined Police Departments. We vote lesser people more powers than Sheriff, Hinds and Jackson combined. Let's not over think this.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-20T21:48:27-06:00

ID

96998

Comment

Kenny Stokes and Frank Melton can both go find somewhere else to throw profanities. There is no place for those words in a professional atmosphere. This might deserve another thread. I was shocked when I heard Kenny had joined foul-mouthed Frank on a radio report this morning. And, to think we had some class around here. My Mamma would take a bar of soap to both of their mouths.

Author

madisonresident

Date

2007-11-20T21:52:06-06:00

ID

96999

Comment

I think it's apples and oranges comparing Jackson/Hinds to Entergy, Pike, with due respect to my friend Larry Nesbit (whom I just met recently face to face while having breakfast with McMillin, but I digress). This is public v. private sector, and Shanks has more resources at her disposal. Again, I'm not saying he can't do it; just questioning the wisdom of loading both of these jobs on him—and he just had surgery. But I'll bow out and allow the former police chief, Robert Johnson, to speak with more authority on this than I ever could. Thanks for weighing in, Chief. I have the same concerns you expressed: Comfort, stability and confidence in the "chief" may be what is needed right at the moment; but Jackson has real problems that requires the undivided attention, energy, committment and an all effort by a chief who is not already facing a full plate.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-20T22:19:17-06:00

ID

97000

Comment

McMillian has been given lots of credit for controlling crime "in the county". Other cities in Hinds county have police departments that are better managed, better maintained and better compensated than the JPD. They've got a lot to do with a the crime rate as well. A valid point was made about jail over crowding and other issues related to the county. Certainly the Hinds County Sheriff's Dept isn't JPD but they've got their own issues that need vigilance. I just don't know how McMillian is going to pull this off. Coupled with the fact the he's not in the best of health and I believe, correct me if I'm wrong, his wife has cancer. She might have recovered at this point but that was the last thing I heard. Hopefully I'm wrong about the illness but I've heard it several times. In other news, I'll be holding a press conference tomorrow appointing myself queen of the city and high priestess of all ya'lls business. Since we are the middle of a free for all I thought I'd take advantage.

Author

msgrits

Date

2007-11-20T22:51:54-06:00

ID

97001

Comment

I'm going with Robert Johnson's assessment of the situation.

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-21T09:17:02-06:00

ID

97002

Comment

I'm with Robert Johnson on this issue. It was so well though out and every inch of his commentary makes good sense. I voted for McMillin for Sheriff of Hinds County; however, I do believe that the Capitol City deserves its own police chief. I also know that McMillin is a graduate from a Jr. College and that he moved up the ladder because of his hard work and wonderful work ethics and by taking advantage of all of the training he could get under his belt. I know that there are others who fit this description; some whose education, training and people skills surpasses McMillian's and if given the chance could become another Steward of the City that we can be proud of. I hope that this works for Jackson: I also hope that the real politician who needs to be removed is on his way out.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-11-21T11:43:26-06:00

ID

97003

Comment

I think Johnson's assessment is correct from a technical sense and he should know since he's been there, but Melton needed something to "defuse" tension and appointing Mac was a good move. Considering that while Mac will probably only be there for a couple years at most, some stability and leadership may be more effective during that time than technical competence. Furthermore, anybody Melton appoints would be suspect as a "crony" whereas at least Mac has the appearance of independence. You would have to wonder with Melton as Mayor what competant police professional would take the risk of moving to Jackson and taking on the job which has huge risk and probably little long term professional benefit. I bet Johnson could comment on that as well, and at least Mac has a job security as sheriff for the next 4 years assuming he stays in that position as well.

Author

GLewis

Date

2007-11-21T12:43:37-06:00

ID

97004

Comment

I think Jackson deserves/needs a police chief whose sole job is that of police chief but apparently the powers that be don't agree. Even the city attorney apparently still has a private practice while getting paid for her city gig. http://www.mslawyer.com/mssc/ctapp/20071120/0600255.html

Author

Jennifer2

Date

2007-11-21T13:10:45-06:00

ID

97005

Comment

Gary Anderson for Mayor and Lee Vance for Police chief and Harvey Johnson for city planner and head over the cities economic development. Initiatives for Jackson for the next ten years rebuild the inner city and build an 12,000 seat arena downtown Jackson, put a movie theater downtown and finish Farish street and also lobby the State of Mississippi to fund a stadium for JSU with the city putting up some of the money because the stadium will be the biggest economic development project for the city of Jackson. resurface the streets and improve infrastructure.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-21T13:36:09-06:00

ID

97006

Comment

Er... JSU is using a stadium they can't fill now. Why spend money on another?

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-11-21T14:30:45-06:00

ID

97007

Comment

f@@l if you believe the clarionledger when they annouce our attendance than you wrong. I be at the games what i see and what they report are two different things. Gullable

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-21T14:46:36-06:00

ID

97008

Comment

I nominate Frank as Chief Wolf Ticket Seller in that administration too NewJack. He's gifted at that!

Author

Ray Carter

Date

2007-11-21T14:51:49-06:00

ID

97009

Comment

First off, NJ, don't dare call me a fool. Secondly, I know the Vet can hold near 67,000. I also know that JSU hasn't come close to that. Sure, they've had it near full a couple of times, but is twice a year enough to spring for another stadium?

Author

Ironghost

Date

2007-11-21T14:56:19-06:00

ID

97010

Comment

who cares... now...skipp coon for mayor 2009... basically, i dont think i can make any complaint about mac as chief...it doesn’t feel right...does this mean that the police chief is now an elected position...do we pay him twice...how does this work with the county... I believe that the idea of mac is a red herring...it’s only a distraction...it will create this type of dialogue but it does not speak to the problems of the police department. Nor is it designed to... i enjoy reading the ledgers letters...they make me laugh...why is jackson so concerned with the way it is perceived in pearl, brandon, clinton, (insert white/economic flight area of your choice) they applaud mac as a chief...they applaud melton as the mayor...playing to them sets a very dangerous precedent for the city i love. its far too many questions for me give any thoughts on it now...however, crisler has been very quiet...you know mac is his boss too...its just too many questions vote for skipp "he aint frank" p.s. anyone see the defense of Jackson

Author

skipp

Date

2007-11-21T16:24:04-06:00

ID

97011

Comment

NewJack, calm your butt down and don't name-call.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-21T16:35:59-06:00

ID

97012

Comment

ladd i didn't say fool i said F@@l does that look the same to you and does it means the same to you. But your rite and i'am sorry, i let my frustrations get the best of me iam sorry ironshot.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-21T18:28:39-06:00

ID

97013

Comment

That's OK. It happens to us all. Happy Thanksgiving. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-21T18:37:21-06:00

ID

97014

Comment

Thanks i got a poem ladd i wrote and tried to get your newspaper to print it and they said it was to much in poem form, people please dont steal my poem i wrote this: TERENCE WILLIAMS WHO? Who promised Frank immunity when he destroys the Jackson community, who promised Frank their support whenever his illegal behavior lands him in court, who are the officials that refuse to draw the line, who? all for stopping crime? will we turn our head while justice have fled. I cant believe the crying out of "crime is out of hand" but we excuse the behavior of one man. No Mississippi we haven't found what the world has been searching for centuries, one man who can make crime history.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-11-21T19:13:27-06:00