Jackson Free Press

Friends, Below is a topline from the survey yesterday. Further below is a repeat of the explanations and qualifiers-these are important. From the blog traffic it appears that some don't read below the first paragraph. I had several calls and emails this morning looking for this ZataPulse wave, one from a healthy critic of this exercise. And yesterday, I ran into one of the candidates, who will remain nameless. He blew off some campaign steam with a few choice words about our survey work. And then he wanted to make sure we were surveying again last night and insisted that I add him to the email list!! Go figure.

We sampled 507 telephone voter households across seven wards. Here were the numbers:

April 24th Zatapulse Survey
Crisler 26%

Harvey Johnson 27%
Hohrn 11%
Melton 19%
Fair 3%
Other Candidate 7%
Undecided
7%

The sample was 60% Black, and 31% white. (balance of Asian, Latino and self-described "other"). If you increase the Black voter turnout assumptions and assume that the "other race" is only 2% of the total and that white voters make up the difference, then you can see what happens with increase in Black voter turnout %: It increases Johnson's share:
[...]

A couple of observations:

1. Voters are paying more attention now. The televised debate (I did not see) will create some buzz. More important is how the candidates react after the debate. Will there be new TV and radio ads? Are some of the second tier candidates ganging up on one of the leaders? Did one or more of the candidates get an unusual lift from their performance?

2. With Melton in a 10+ candidate race, anything could happen. But conventional wisdom suggests Harvey Johnson will be in the runoff. Campaign war chests and field staffs for the Crisler and Hohrn campaigns will probably decide who's in the other slot.

Attached are the pivot tables for yesterday's survey. If you want to drill down by ward, age range , gender, or race click on the down arrow and then chose which set of data you want to observe.
[...]

* The sample was 60% Black, and 31% white. (balance of Asian, Latino and self-described "other")
* Women are oversampled
* Older voters are oversampled.

Please read on for important additional information.

Why we are doing this: We have several friends in the Jackson Mayor's race but no candidates who are clients. We are intrigued by the dynamics of this race and have decided to do some survey work for public dissemination.

About the survey. This sample of 500+ voter phone households is a rough approximation of historical voter registration and turnout. While we do track the respondents self-identification by age, race, and gender we have not weighted the survey by these demographics or by voter frequency. [...]

Methodology We used an interactive, automated call with keypad responses to record results. The numbers are scrambled and randomly dialed with a quota of respondents by ward. As the name suggests, our ZATAPULSE takes the pulse of the electorate. It is not an "MRI". It is a useful tool for short surveys of this nature and we have used it for more than 200 races across the country. We employ a similar methodology as Survey USA or Rasmussen. Still, the tool has limits. We caution you that this race is fluid and that each candidate is likely to have a more robust, internal poll. Nonetheless, we are confident that this is the most accurate, timely information that is publicly available.

About Zata3 Zata|3 is a political consulting firm for Democratic candidates and progressive causes. Company President Brad Chism splits time between his Washington, DC and Jackson, MS offices. For each of the last three years, Zata|3 had won more awards by the AAPC for its telephone voter contact programs than any other firm in America. For more information, go to http://www.zata3.com

Finally, to repeat to very important points.

First, as the name implies with ZataPulse. "We are taking the Pulse of the electorate, not performing an MRI."

Secondly, this is the best info you'll get for free.

Previous Comments

ID

146292

Comment

I cant wait until all the candidates come out to endorse HJ. if i was Harvey i would have the endorsements roll out day by day and stack the cards against puppet doll crisler, the man with no substance.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T02:51:27-06:00

ID

146293

Comment

I agree that Crisler has no substance, frankly I hope any of the top candidates get in (including Sledgeman) besides Crisler.

Author

Powerman

Date

2009-04-26T07:26:20-06:00

ID

146294

Comment

New Jack..Im still waiting on your definition of "Puppet" And Im only asking because you keep throwing it out. and folks are throwing it out for a LOT of candidates. But you do know of course that ALL the top three candidates have major white backing so Im trying to understand. Are you just using that to rehash stuff youve heard others say? And Im challenging everyone I see doing this. So Im not nitpicking. We've got to be smarter this time and just going along with what a campaign's talking points are isnt what we need to be doing. So what do you mean puppet?

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T08:47:12-06:00

ID

146295

Comment

Like Donna might say, if you've got data, please share. Otherwise it's just worthless to call anyone anyone's puppet.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2009-04-26T09:18:31-06:00

ID

146296

Comment

Ditto, Ironghost and Kaze, on being smarter this time around. The top candidates all have a wide range of support of all races. So the whole puppet of the white man won't work as well this time around. Ironically, Melton had virtually all the support of the actual WPS; wish people cared as much then and wondered why (not that it's helped them, either, except for the ones who really want to just see Jackson fall apart under black leadership, and some of those goobers are still out there).

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T11:54:59-06:00

ID

146297

Comment

kaze i knew you or ladd would comment on my post when i said puppet, So im ready this time. I was born here like you so im tired of Jackson leaders who caters to the powers that be. WPS or whoever wants to control Jackson. Examples: Frank Melton's lawyer was dale danks. Frank at first didn't want to challenge byrams incorporation because dale danks also represented Byram. Do you know the city of Ridgeland took land from us along Highland colony parkway during this currnet administration and nobody stood up to say something but stokes. A small city took land from us but we cant take land from Byram. This administration's lack of care comes from having a conflict of interest with outsiders,appeasing or going along to get along. So i was for crisler at first but not anymore and im tired of people ironghost, you and ladd telling me to stop listening to othor. The sarcastic responses that are posted on here when i say crisler is a puppet infers that im dumb and gullable. Im a smart man whatever conclusion i have come to is my own, i just so happen to agree with othor. I dont trust Crisler and aint nobody gone make me change my mind. This my city and if i smell a rat like i did with Frank Melton i will say so, and i was right. We dont have time for a paper candidate(crisler) to come in and make us lose four more years i aint having it. This is my opinion and im skilled in my observations, No hard feelings GOOD SUNDAY

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T12:10:20-06:00

ID

146298

Comment

NJ: The only thing I know that was in doubt up there was a land grab either Ditto or Johnson tried ages ago. That failed like all others Jackson tried because others already had plans for the land and better lawyers. For instance: HC Bailey and Co. have had the whole Highland Colony parkway plan on tap for nearly 20+ years now? Since the early 70's, at least.

Author

Ironghost

Date

2009-04-26T12:25:29-06:00

ID

146299

Comment

kaze i knew you or ladd would comment on my post when i said puppet, So im ready this time. I was born here like you and im tired of Jackson leaders catering to the powers that be. WPS or whoever wants to control Jackson. An example for you, Frank Melton's lawyer was dale danks and as a result frank didn't want to challenge byrams incorporation at first because dale danks also represented Byram. Do you know the city of Ridgeland took land from us along Highland colony parkway during this current administration and nobody stood up to say something but stokes. A small city took land from us but we cant take land from Byram. This administration's lack of care comes from having a conflict of interest with outsiders,appeasing or going along to get along. John Hhorn's vote on the civil rigts location, hmmm catering to outsiders. So i was for crisler but my gut says hes another melton when it come to talking up the rhetoric against Jackson while doing a bill cosby on Jacksonins. I laugh when people such as ironghost, you and ladd tell me to stop listening to othor(indirectly). The sarcastic responses that are posted on here when i say crisler is a puppet infers that im dumb and gullable. Im a smart man whatever conclusion i have come to is my own, i just so happen to agree with othor(directly). My gut feeling says hes no good. If i smell a rat like i did with Frank Melton i will say so, and i was right. We dont have time for a paper candidate(crisler) to come in and make us lose four more years. I love love Jackson to much for that. I voted for crisler i live in his ward but on substance and experience he cant touch HJ with a 50 foot pole. This is my opinion and im skilled in my observations, No hard feelings GOOD CONVO and GOOD SUNDAY.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T12:30:29-06:00

ID

146300

Comment

The last post is a better post my bad for the double but i had to clean it up.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T12:33:11-06:00

ID

146301

Comment

Jackson already had the land thats where Ridgland Police had to stop after they finished harassing me. lol

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T12:35:03-06:00

ID

146302

Comment

This isn't about Crisler or anyone else, NewJack, and it's your business who you choose to believe. But it is also our prerogative to discuss with you, so please try not to act so offended that people aren't buying outright your general statements about people without further evidence. This is about being careful about the hype you believe. My paper has not decided who we are supporting (plan to by the end of tomorrow, God willing), and we are interested in observations from anyone or everyone to help us. However, the kinds of stuff that is spread to divide people along racial lines with no substance to it is a problem, no matter who says it or what race they are. I understand your point about Melton, and tried to warn people from the very beginning about his ties to certain people, and to get them to ask why they would support him so strongly as a bloc. But the truth is that Melton's supporters (white, black and other) are spread out over various candidates in this primary. That's why it doesn't make any sense to say that one candidate in this race is the "puppet" of the WPS, which is splintered at best. I do understand why supporters of certain candidates, or of division, want you and others to say that, though. I just think you're better than that. I don't believe you have said, specifically, who Crisler is a puppet of—perhaps that would help the discussion, as long as you don't go down the road of defaming people by name.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T12:42:47-06:00

ID

146303

Comment

Oh, and for the record, I believe that a lot of the animosity and hideous treatment of Harvey Johnson in past years, and misleading rhetoric about him, resulted directly from the fact that he was seen as an "arrogant" black man by white Jackson. I heard one newspaper publisher, for instance, say four years ago he didn't like him because he had never come to visit his newspaper. Meantime, the first time he visited our offices, I believe, was last week for his endorsement interview. And, not to ruffle some feathers, but the fact that some black Jacksonians say the same thing about him -- arrogant -- doesn't change my view of where it came from. Has he done things to make that reputation worse? Did the bunker mentality of his administration hurt the perception? No question on both. But I get what you're talking about. That doesn't mean it makes sense to pass along the rhetoric of people supporting him (or Melton) that Crisler is automatically a "puppet" because he might have the most multi-racial support this time. I truly don't think that should be the biggest concern about Crisler.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T12:48:56-06:00

ID

146304

Comment

Im not selling Ladd, you tell me what turned me against a man who had my support at first. I know melton had black support from those citizens who was ill informed, so tired of crime that they would give up their civil rights or lacked critical thinking skills. You want me to say who crisler is catering to but i cant say. I couldn't tell you who frank was catering to at first but we all found out who had his ear, Ladies in northeast Jackson maybe. You run a paper that im a big fan of and i know its important that YOU have facts you can see and verify. I dont beleive all the rhetoric that comes out of othors mouth but one thing i do agree with him on is that Crisler is bought and paid for. Im sorry i dont have the invoice but we have seen this before so we know what store it comes from.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T13:01:17-06:00

ID

146305

Comment

I like Crisler but the debate didn't help him, even though people will look past all those telling signs and still vote for him. After the last mayoral election Ladd we cant have another folly. Thats why im so passionate not angry but passionate.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T13:07:51-06:00

ID

146306

Comment

New Jack, speaking on who "loves Jackson" I can say in all honesty and in ACTION that I Love this city to death! Have stayed and fought the good fight when others stood by complained and watched. On that there is no argument. I don't doubt you love this city as well. My comments are never sideways, implied, or have any undertones. If I have something to say to or about someone Ill go to their house and tell em. Period. So my words arent to sway you from what anybody else thinks. that's your business. But having been born and raised here, Ive taken it upon myself to challenge and fight this riduculous, unfounded, lazy stance that my folks take that folks are "puppets" or "bought" when we make up 75% of the citizenry. If they do New Jack then we need OUR butts whipped! Period. I dont subscribe to that pure foolishness. All of the candidates involved INCLUDING HJ have major name white backers..Let me repeat. HJ has MAJOR NAME WHITE backers. Is HE a "puppet" because clearly thats what your defintion implies. And since you say your observations are intelligent and valid you should be able to see that. No one implied you are dumb NJ. thats what my folks do when faced with having to actually prove a point. Which you havent done yet btw. You instantly go for the "you think Im dumb" line. I got way more respect for your opinion than that brother. Bottom line is..we all want the same thing for our city. I just refuse to play into excuses as to why things are as they are now. Nobody, especially me, wants a patsy and a "yes" man..but apparently you want a "NO" man who will just tell every rich white or black guy who wants to do biz in the city "NO" so it can make us "feel" better. I still await the PROOF that any of the candidates including HJ is bought and paid for. You produce it and Ill bow out AND... I WILL STAND BESIDE YOU AND FIGHT TO KEEP HIM/HER OUT OF OFFICE.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T13:18:08-06:00

ID

146307

Comment

I will be glad when we reach the point, as a culture, where "has substantial white support" does not translate to "is a puppet of his white supporters." Ditto for black support/black supporters, for that matter (which we hear a lot about on talk radio re white legislators who, in the words of the last Republican state chair, "vote with the black caucus"). I was suspicious of Marshand Crisler early on because he had so much wealthy white support and I didn't know why. I'm less suspicious now. These are by and large just folks who have a lot of investments in the city and want to get rid of Melton and saw Crisler as the most viable way to do that. I don't blame them for that, and it doesn't make Crisler anybody's "puppet." You want to talk about candidates who are puppets of white bigots, look at the three city councilpersons who supported a saggy-britches ordinance that would have left it legal to wear boxers in public as long as one didn't wear saggy pants over them. I mean, that's a blatant racial profiling law, it got Melton's support and Stokes' support and Blunton's support and Tillman's support...and I'm supposed to be worried about Crisler because he's getting money from white businessmen? Please. If we're worried about policy...let's look at policy. Conspiracy theories can only take us so far.

Author

Tom Head

Date

2009-04-26T13:28:01-06:00

ID

146308

Comment

And mind you NJ. Im NOT..repeat NOT trying to sway your vote. youve voiced your support for HJ and thats cool. This isnt to GET your vote for anyone this to encourage folks to vote for their candidates based on the GOOD qualities of THEIR candidate not by spreading fodder about the others. If you changed your vote to HJ because he said something you like or has a platform you agree with then cool. but if you switched because folks are throwing the puppet line around or you found out some white folks are giving someone's campaign money LOL(still sounds crazy)..then thats not really vetting the candidate.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T13:29:18-06:00

ID

146309

Comment

btw, this poll gives me hope that Melton will not make the runoff. Remember that older voters are OVER-sampled...and most of Melton's remaining support, at least from what I've seen of it, comes from retirees. And he's still in a distant third with 19%. I'd love to see Horhn in the runoff but I will not be crushed if it breaks down to Harvey and Crisler. If Melton doesn't make the runoff (and I expected him to after that last round of polls), I will be extremely happy. Looking forward to the JFP endorsement btw, Donna. When is it gonna go public...? Wednesday with the new issue, or is there a chance it could show up on the site before then?

Author

Tom Head

Date

2009-04-26T13:31:12-06:00

ID

146310

Comment

Tom, well said. "...I will be glad when we reach the point, as a culture, where "has substantial white support" does not translate to "is a puppet of his white supporters." Ditto for black support/black supporters, for that matter" GOLD!:-) nobody's said anything about the affluent black folks who have given to ALL the campaigns. We have GOT to get out of this.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T13:34:01-06:00

ID

146311

Comment

Tom, but Im STILL not down with these polls. :-).

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T13:36:08-06:00

ID

146312

Comment

Nice posts, all. Right on, Kaze. No one is treating you like you're dumb, NewJack. We are treating you like you're intelligent. I think it's safe to say that neither Kaze or I or Tom or anyone else here would spend time challenging you on this point if we didn't think you were smart enough to provide or demand proof of serious allegations like "bought and paid for." It's people who spread rhetoric without evidence, and then slam people who criticize them for such low standards who are treating you like you're dumb. They just assume you'll believe anything. I'm not criticizing you for supporting HJ, either. My paper did four years ago because he had been a good mayor -- perhaps Jackson's best ever, low bar or not -- and he had been given such a bad rap by people just passing along stuff without demanding proof. Our editorial board may endorse him. You could be saying what you're saying about any of the candidates, and I would be responding the same because I believe you are too intelligent to pass along those kinds of things without evidence. As for Tom's statement, I think we are getting closer to a world where "substantial white support" does not mean that -- President Obama is leading us there. He is a bridge-builder, and I don't I ever once have heard him whine about the "white power structure," although he knows there is one there -- institutional racism -- that we all have to work together to overcome. He is not the one to make unsubstantiated allegations, and he has worked hard to build multi-racial alliances and to be a role model to us all. And right on about the racist saggy-britches ordinance, not to mention the support of people like Stokes for unconstitutional attacks on young African Americans. The old Citizens Council could have written that script. And probably did. The saddest part is that the people who spread unsubstantiated race rhetoric to divide us are playing right into those old coots' hands, and legacy. We have to reject race division in all its forms.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T13:41:49-06:00

ID

146313

Comment

Folks do you know its folks I run into everyday in the Black community and in the rap community who are saying that Obama is a pawn for the New World Order? Folks who say that there is NO way a "real" Black man could be elected president without some "help" . there's so much b.s. on youtube and on the net about this "conspiracy". and its frustrating. I know for a fact folks here would loudly denounce those accusations against our Prez but you dismiss all of that logic when it relates to LOCAL POLITICS. Obama had major white support, couldnt have won the white house without it. Is HE a puppet? He had major corporations run by white folks who have business interests in America and no one round here called HIM a puppet. We've set the bar so damn low around here now that anyone who has white money on his report is a puppet. LAughable. Sad but laughable.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T13:49:29-06:00

ID

146314

Comment

I stand by what i say haven't been wrong thus far. Im not a racist or a fool and didn't say anyone called me one or that you dont love your city, we just have different opinions. Of course crisler isn't the only black candidate with white support. Kaze im glad your working with the developers downtown and you are in a position to let us black folk know that some of us are stuck in old rhetoric. lol

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T14:05:55-06:00

ID

146315

Comment

Indeed. Im just real weary from hearing folks throw these accusations around about all the candidates without any proof at all. If you can prove it. again..show it..and I will stand shoulder to shoulder with you. Ill be your biggest ally. but otherwise...

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2009-04-26T14:20:02-06:00

ID

146316

Comment

its called faith kaze, didnt you go to church today.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T14:37:11-06:00

ID

146317

Comment

wow....what posts! its sad that NewJack is getting such attacks, and i think puppet may not convey what NewJack is fully saying, but there is much reason to say puppet, because Crisler has not demonstrated any reason or resume that merits such overwhelming support! Taking a bullet isnt remotely relevant to being a mayor, he has no administrative record, no real development experience sub par leadership on council, no significant policy record, and was also removed as police chief of Utica, which no one, press, media, anyone even brings up, yet....he gets support from many major "players" in Jackson business community, and legendary white miss dems...why? something is foul and crisler is being defended with no merit or record...puppet may not be appropriate, but repsectable candidate isnt appropriate either, something is going on, and it aint good!

Author

freemagnolia

Date

2009-04-26T14:59:14-06:00

ID

146318

Comment

We've set the bar so damn low around here now that anyone who has white money on his report is a puppet. LAughable. Sad but laughable. That is a very tragic, but honest statement, Kaze. Thank you for making it. It can be hard to be straightforward about destructive groupthink among "one's people"—I've had to do it my entire life, too. But it's so necessary if we are to get, well, to the promised land together. (smile) Funny thing about H. Johnson: He was long on Mr. Tisdale's "brown society" list for supposedly being a pawn of white interests. And NewJack, why have faith in rumors without evidence? People who spread unsubstantiated rumors either have an agenda or are too foolish to know any better. I'm not saying that's you. I know you mean well. Wouldn't it be nice to support a candidate -- in your case, Harvey Johnson, for what he IS and stands for, rather than having to tear down someone else in the process? We'll all be healthier for that approach, and our city will be as well. From where I sit, there are several good candidates this time (very different from four years ago, where there was one real choice if you did your homework). Each of them has drawbacks. We are in the enviable position of being able to choose from whomever we think is the best. That is what our board is going to try to do this week. So, my advice is tell people *why* you are voting for H. Johnson -- talk about specifics of why you think he was, and can be, a good mayor. You are going to convince a whole lot more undecideds that way than by passing on unsubstantiated rumors about his opponents. Put another way, preach a positive sermon, brother. ;-) You'll get mroe followers that way.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T15:46:58-06:00

ID

146320

Comment

MY endorsements as follows. MAYOR: Harvey Johnson, Experience trumps bullets. WARD 1: Jeff Weill, Aint nobody gone beat him.He stood up to Frank and didn't wear a cowboy hat. WARD 2: Chokwe Lumumba, Legal experience good for council. WARD 3: Harrison Michael, Looks and sounds knowledgable WARD 4: Amos Norris, She smart and bout getting it done. WARD 5: Dagner Cook, Stern and principled and three women on the council rocks!!! WARD 6: Johnnie Mcdaniels, Another lawyer to fight against city legal when the executive branch dont wanna share their lawyers. WARD 7: Barret Simon, like jeff wiell she wont get beat. She was a solid opposition to Frank and his threr coucil votes.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T17:26:16-06:00

ID

146321

Comment

WARD 5: Dagner Cook, Stern and principled and three women on the council rocks!!! Are you brown-nosin' me? ;-) I love a world where the same person endorses Weill and Lumumba. ;-) Sounds like you want Council to lawyer up! Interesting choices. You're definitely giving this thought. Go spread the enthusiasm and make sure everyone you know votes. We're going to the bug the hell out of people between now and Election Day. I want to see a record turnout this time, and I think we can all make it happen! We don't need a piddley turnout like last time when as many people were voting against someone as for someone. We need scores of people in every ward turning out because they want to vote for the best candidates, after giving it good thought and attention. All, be sure to read up on candidate interviews and our coverage since January at http://www.jfpelectionblog.com ...

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T18:12:40-06:00

ID

146322

Comment

Yes Ms Ladd i am brown nosing you, and i do want the council to lawyer up after this melton mess of dictating city legal. SORE yall get the point. Many people complain about how many people are running but as the conservative right says "competition makes our democracy better". I have been listening to all the candidates for various offices and im impressed and proud, but we cant pick them all someone has to lose.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-26T19:10:34-06:00

ID

146323

Comment

No question about that. Let's just pick based on who will be the *best* mayor. Melton got there by really negative campaigning and dishonest rhetoric and media coverage. We can do better this time. May let the best man or woman win -- fair and square. I know, that's not the Jackson way, but I believe it can be. But to get there, each of us has to be diligent about demanding that our messengers factcheck and deal in honesty.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-26T19:28:54-06:00

ID

146328

Comment

While Mayor Melton appears to be trending downward in the recent polling, I would be surprised if he didn't make the run-off. Incumbents, even historically unpopular ones, usually attract at least 25% of the electorate, and with this crowded field, 25% should have been enough to secure a spot in the run-off. Or so I thought. This recent poll shows that the lesser-known candidates are failing to catch on with voters, and unless they're able to see a bump in the next several days, will see their support erode further as their supporters latch on to candidates deemed more electable. This phenomenon will benefit Crisler and Harvey Johnson the most, and will end up forcing Melton to hit 30% or more, a number that's possible but not a sure bet.

Author

TravisChildersSaidNothing

Date

2009-04-26T21:49:42-06:00

ID

146329

Comment

I'm taking the opposite. I don't believe Melton will make the runoff. Yes, he has a loyal following in some pockets, but the city overall is suffering from Melton fatigue. Having as many candidates as there are does split the anti-Melton vote and could be somewhat to his advantage. I believe the Crisler, Harvey Johnson and even the John Horhn campaigns (though he his behind Melton in the latest Zata 3 poll) are strong enough to have a Melton-free runoff.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2009-04-27T08:01:19-06:00

ID

146330

Comment

I agree that Crisler seems like he is not authentic....like he's saying what they're telling him to say. Is he a puppet? Maybe, but I definitely don't think his strings are limited to white business people. I'm just scared that when he goes off the talking points (as he did at the debate) everyone will be mad again- just like with Melton. I want the next mayor to be able to make sound decisions and speak to the city with or without talking points and notes from his campaign staff. As I said in the other discussion, there were 2 Crislers at the debate- the pre-prepared one and the impromptu one. Which one would be Mayor? I sure didn't like the impromptu Crisler.

Author

News Junkie

Date

2009-04-27T08:32:14-06:00

ID

146331

Comment

One more thing. Did the poll take into consideration the Jeff Weill situation? At least some of the voters in Ward 1 will not even vote in the democratic primary. How many? I don't have a clue, but I know some will defend Jeff no matter what.

Author

News Junkie

Date

2009-04-27T08:35:28-06:00

ID

146332

Comment

Jackson is going to be fine, thanks to the fact that "Mayor Meltdown" has made us all realize that WE, the PEOPLE, must be active and alert. Out of the worst catastrophe, good can (and will!) triumph. Regardless of who you support... let's focus on a Jackson where we ALL work TOGETHER for the greater good: a vibrant city with great business and entertainment options and a viable tax base which in turn can help fund the needs of a stretched social safety net. In simple words, we need major economic success so we can take that coin and turn to the least among us and help them achieve their personal best.

Author

Jeff Good

Date

2009-04-27T08:56:36-06:00

ID

146333

Comment

If Meltdown makes it to a runoff, it will be because of a significant erosion of support for either Crisler or Junior which I can't see happening at this point. At the end of the day I believe it will come down to a runoff between Crisler and Junior for the win. The general election is irrelevant. The winner of the Dem primary will be mayor.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2009-04-27T09:02:06-06:00

ID

146338

Comment

Now that Chism has changed his white voter percentages his numbers are closer to the others I have seen. Just about everyone with knowledge of the Jackson political scene has always had Harvey Johnson leading the ticket into the runoff. The question has always been who would make into the runoff with him. Up until four weeks ago most people were sure it would be Crisler. Now most everyone I know sees a dog fight between Crisler and Melton for the second spot. I'm not a gambler but based on my hearing that Melton's people believe they are in a tight race and Crisler's people believe he is leading everyone, including Harvey (which may explain why Crisler asked Harvey that dumb question at the debate), I am inclined to now think we will have a rematch of 2005, Harvey versus Melton. And as regards NJ's picks, with the exception of taking Joe Lewis in ward 6 and being uncertain between Lumumba and Stingley in ward 2 I will "right on" his picks. I was torn between Harvey and Crisler. However Crisler's performance in the debate sent me squarely into the Harvey corner. Going to the ward 2 forum at Tougaloo tomorrow night and hope to decide on ward 2 then.

Author

wellington

Date

2009-04-27T09:55:40-06:00

ID

146339

Comment

I have to agree that it will be a Crisler/H. Johnson run-off. I believe Melton has entered the final days of his reign. My picks are: Jeff Weill, Ward One - It's a no-brainer Tom Stingley, Ward Two - Previous Grants' Experience with City. Attorney & Mediator Ward Three, I can only wish Ward Four, Jackie Norris, brings new ideas and mix to the council. Young and Fresh. Ward Five, Betty Dagner Cook, brings steady experience and always represented her Ward well. Ward Six, Joe Lewis, Brings Code Enforcement Experience and "know-how" and "know-why" about this damaging force in the City. He was super-responsive in his former positiion and Ward 6 could not ask for a more energetic person. Ward Seven, Margaret, of course. The really hard hurdle the City is facing is keeping the interest of voters to return for the run-off on May 19th. Some of the Council positions will probably be in the run-off.

Author

Razor

Date

2009-04-27T10:06:54-06:00

ID

146340

Comment

OOh, I forgot to include my pick for Mayor. Its' Crisler for reasons I have stated elsewhere. Can't believe anyone would say he's like Melton. Truly offends me, regardless of how acute one's powers of observation are. Until people of both races put down this club of racism, Jackson will never be the City it should. Power structures, etc. are words aimed to damage and control. Words have meanings and to me, WPS is a racist comment. We must pull together if we are going to make substantial progress. It is 2009, not 1969. We need to start acting like people facing a brave new future not those with eyes backward and full of leariness.

Author

Razor

Date

2009-04-27T10:14:04-06:00

ID

146342

Comment

So jeff good would the proposed Arena Downtown be apart of that economic success. Wellington I liked Joe Lewis but he has melton stains, and lumumba is gonna win.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T10:50:20-06:00

ID

146343

Comment

Robert Johnson if you dont make it to the runoff i will vote for you as Police cheif.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T12:22:29-06:00

ID

146346

Comment

New Jackson, I do not know enough about the arena.. nothing has been presented to the public. As I understand it, a quasi-governmental committee has funded a feasibility study... that's GREAT! We need as MANY projects being looked at as possible... more options mean more choices for what our community can support! So, NJ, I support progessive thinking and research, I can't weigh in on an issue until the facts are shown... so, let's you and me sit tight and let the stucy come back... and we can see. The big issue here will be funding, and I am not too enthused about more sales taxes... that is why I am not a fan of the proposed 1% tax which is being bandied about right now for infrastructure and police. If we say yes to THAT, then we are going to turn around and do it again for an arena??? The capacity of our community to burden this is a subject that demands research. So, step one? Vote in a great mayor and council. READ THAT TO MEAN CHANGE !!!! Step two? Let's work together on building capacity in Jackson among its residents and businesses. Step three? Look at Arenas and other large format ideas. So, for now... just today... I suggest we stay focused on vetting the candidates... and trust me when I say this... DO NOT BELIEVE WHAT THEY SAY... take a look at what they do/have done. I fell for that twice... no more.

Author

Jeff Good

Date

2009-04-27T13:00:46-06:00

ID

146347

Comment

Yeah Jeff frank Melton got you. Thats one so who is the second person that fooled you? I know your not talking about Mr. Harvey Johnson. Oh I know you have physic abilities to look into the future and Mr Crisler is second mistake. Mr Good you have time to change, consider me the Ghost of voting for the wrong mayor past. LOL i love it!!!!

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T14:16:26-06:00

ID

146348

Comment

I guess one of the nice things about posting anonymously on a message board vs. putting one's name out there and actually doing stuff is that it doesn't create a paper trail for anonymous people to ridicule later. It takes a big man to admit he made a mistake, and a very small man to ridicule him for admitting it. Jeff was one of the first to go out there and say what a mistake the first Melton term was, in an op-ed for the C-L mere months after Melton took office. That's worth quite a bit, from where I stand.

Author

Tom Head

Date

2009-04-27T14:23:14-06:00

ID

146350

Comment

Tom Head chill out bro have a sense of humor.Mr Tougaloo alumni If you wanna know my real name just ask. I love making my points in a way that makes me laugh. keyword ME

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T14:39:19-06:00

ID

146353

Comment

Ward 6 Attorney Rodney R. Dixon-city and state experience and former educator

Author

Powerman

Date

2009-04-27T15:04:26-06:00

ID

146358

Comment

Donna, Tom, etc., Do you think Harvey Johnson has acknowledged any mistakes from his two terms as Mayor? I must admit I haven't followed this race as much as I would like, but it seems Harvey Johnson is well-positioned for victory IF he adequately addresses the issues voters had with him four years ago. Americans - and Jackson is no different - love a second act, but they expect the person to learn from his or her mistakes. If Johnson is willing to advocate what went right in his eight years, to accept blame for what went wrong, and to promise a new approach to combat his earlier shortcomings, he'll be truly appealing to the Jackson voters and won't just be simply an alternative to Mayor Melton. Johnson could be stubborn about his record and probably still win given Melton's unpopularity, Crisler's missteps, and the others' lack of name identification, but his tone could determine whether he's the mayor for one more term or four more.

Author

TravisChildersSaidNothing

Date

2009-04-27T17:08:15-06:00

ID

146361

Comment

Robert Johnson just rode down my street in south jackson with like 8 cars lined up in a row, clean vehicles with Robert johnson signs on the sides blowing their horns and chanting vote for robert johnson. Im not voting for you Mr Robert Johnson but i do appreciate your unique solicitation for my vote. like i said before since the citizens of Jackson Already have vetted you through your tenure as police cheif and this campaign i will love to see you back as police cheif. My man is HJ.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T19:04:00-06:00

ID

146363

Comment

Travis, Harvey Johnson has acknowledged mistakes both in public and, more specifically, to us in interviews, especially about communications with the public and about some management issues. That's just to answer your question, not to lend to any comparison with other candidates at this stage.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T19:46:13-06:00

ID

146364

Comment

Excellent point Tom, if I had a nickel for every time I've missed a race, I wouldn't have to work! The fact that Harvey Johnson has said nothing about the his eight years in office in terms of shortcomings is worth mentioning. When Bill Clinton lost the governor's race in Arkansas after one term, a bunch of his campaign was based on what he learned from that loss, he got re-elected and...well...the rest is history.

Author

Hayes

Date

2009-04-27T19:49:53-06:00

ID

146365

Comment

The fact that Harvey Johnson has said nothing about the his eight years in office in terms of shortcomings is worth mentioning. That's actually not true, Hayes.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T19:55:58-06:00

ID

146367

Comment

I sent my post in as you were sending yours...I stand corrected and am glad I'm wrong. I liked (and still do) and supported Harvey in 2005 but am supporting Marshand Crisler this go around. We served in the Guard together and became friends. I think he's what Jackson needs right now.

Author

Hayes

Date

2009-04-27T20:01:13-06:00

ID

146369

Comment

Crisler's anger issues surfaced at the debate and left me questioning his ability to deal effectively with difficult situations in office that will inevitably arise. I had been open to considering him for my vote. After the debate, I cannot. I do not believe he is ready to be mayor. Maybe after some maturing. I believe he might make a good Police Chief. Horne impressed me as being a man who has the experience and level headedness to step into the mayorial role and possibly bring with him open lines of communication with the legislature which can be important as our city grows and evolves. Also, his debate performance impressed me as his being above pettiness and able to keep his eye on the goal and not get sidetracked in irrelevant minutia (spelling?). Anything but Melton, of course.

Author

J.T.

Date

2009-04-27T20:08:39-06:00

ID

146370

Comment

I know you're supporting Crisler, Hayes. Is it because, as Wyatt says in his Sun endorsement, you think he has the best chance of beating H. Johnson?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T20:09:00-06:00

ID

146371

Comment

Also, Wyatt isn't exactly helping dispel the notions of white North Jackson conspiracy theories here: The Jackson mayoral race is a tricky one. Northsiders have one shot to get it right or it will be deja vu all over again. Our best shot is Marshand Crisler. If he doesn’t make the runoff, then it’s a choice between Frank Melton and Harvey Johnson. Sheriff McMillin got it right. He knows that Crisler is our best chance for progress. We should follow his lead and vote for Crisler. John Horhn is another option, but the polls show Crisler significantly ahead of Horhn. We need to back the strongest candidate. If Northsiders split their vote between Horhn and Crisler, then it will be a runoff between Melton and Johnson. I don’t have anything against Johnson other than eight years is enough. Fresh blood is a good thing. Melton was certainly fresh blood, but unfortunately it was spiked. Any mayor that gets tanked and goes on a house-bashing spree should not be re-elected, even if it was a crack house. [...] Northsider and polling expert Brad Chism told the Rotary Club of North Jackson last week that Johnson and Melton are the clear favorites. Chances are, they will get in a runoff. Chism said the only ward that could change that is northeast Jackson with its historically high turnout. If Ward 1 voters turn out strongly for Crisler, he has a chance. If Crisler makes the runoff, he would have an excellent chance to win the general. [...] One big-time problem is that my friend Jeff Weill is running for re-election on the Republican ticket. He has an opponent, a young doctor at UMC. Jeff has been incredibly valuable serving on the city council. Losing him would be a blow. But you can’t vote in both the Republican and Democratic primaries. You have to choose. It’s like that movie, “Sophie’s Choice,” when the mother has to pick one of her two children to save from the Nazis. Yuck. Jeff suggested that families split their vote, having the husband vote in the Republican primary and the wife in the Democratic. Not a bad idea.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T20:13:47-06:00

ID

146372

Comment

Ladd their goes your evidence lol. And he dosen't list why crisler is ready to lead except that crisler might be the best person to beat my man HJ.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T20:20:55-06:00

ID

146373

Comment

Not at all, while I think he does have a great chance of beating Harvey in a runoff, I'm supporting him because he strikes me as the best man for the job. I hear you J.T. on his temper at the debate but I think Jackson should want someone, in its leaders, who is willing to show emotion. I just believe that after the roller coaster this city has been on for four years, it needs stability more than anything else. If you think about it, you want your Mayor to make the city work and allow the business community to create the jobs and generate a larger tax base. You really look to the President for political inspiration and leadership...maybe even your Governor. But you should want your Mayor to make things work! Protect the public and keep the trains running on time...if you will. Donna, I don't think it will be bad for Jackson if Harvey is elected. He's a stable guy, I just think it's Marshand's time.

Author

Hayes

Date

2009-04-27T20:25:08-06:00

ID

146374

Comment

Ladd i feel this thing is finna get ugly and nasty. Hayes I live in Crisler's ward and i voted for him to lead my ward but i want as my mayor so to me thats says a lot.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T20:38:45-06:00

ID

146375

Comment

I respect your right to do that, ain't this country great!!

Author

Hayes

Date

2009-04-27T20:40:42-06:00

ID

146376

Comment

Not really just making the best of it you know

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T20:51:22-06:00

ID

146377

Comment

NewJack, be careful. This is not evidence that Crisler is a puppet of white conservatives. It does indicate that many of the white conservative supporters of Melton are now behind Crisler. They may well be supporting Crisler because they have seen they really mucked up by pushing Melton and now want to vote for whomever they feel can beat him. That doesn't mean that Crisler has signed on to do their bidding, which is what a "puppet" is—important distinction, especially if you're trying to avoid defaming people. I have seen no evidence that this is true. One thing I will say—not in regards to a particular candidate—white North Jackson has been both gullible and tunnel-visioned in past elections. When one considers the remarkable, unconditional support they as a group gave Ed Peters over the years, despite massive warning signs, then you really have to wonder.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T21:00:18-06:00

ID

146378

Comment

Hayes, I'm curious about something, considering how down with North Jackson you are: Do you believe that North Jackson would go for Melton in a runoff against Johnson? Still?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T21:02:03-06:00

ID

146379

Comment

Absolutely not. Ward 1 (btw, I don't live in Ward 1) would vote for Bozo the Clown over Frank. I know it messes up theories and such, but I'd submit that the reason Ward 1 went against Harvey is more that they didn't see anything coming out of City Hall they liked and less they drunk the Melton koo-aid. Believe it or not, it's sometimes pretty simple as opposed to some big dark theory or conspiracy...people want strong leadership. They weren't getting that from Johnson. I do think you're right about some in the business and Jackson political circle. They weren't getting from Harvey what they wanted...as MS. Franklin says...RESPECT. But to your question...if it's a Melton/Johnson redux....Harvey will get 75% of the vote in ward 1.

Author

Hayes

Date

2009-04-27T21:14:39-06:00

ID

146380

Comment

RESPECT hayes or he was too uppity. Ladd im leaving that discussion alone about the WPS because we gone disagree all day, Moving on.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T21:24:29-06:00

ID

146381

Comment

I know people dont want to see this election turn devisive.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-27T21:26:57-06:00

ID

146382

Comment

I know where you live, Hayes. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-27T21:32:35-06:00

ID

146383

Comment

Ladd, you say that HJ has expressed in his private interview with the JFP the he "learned" from his mistakes of the past. Granted, he is truly a bright, articulate and persuasive man; and, a gentleman. I've supported him both times he ran before. And, I never drank the Melton kool-aid. But, the truth is I now realize I supported HJ because i liked him and not because i gave it enough thought to think through whether he might do the best job. I've had 4 years to think about it. HJ said a lot of the right things and he's smart as hell. But his track record of performance cannot be ignored. Perhaps i should say, his track record of non-performance should not be ignored. I have neither heard nor seen ANYTHING that suggests that HJ will do anything differently if re-elected; nor have i heard or seen anything that convinces me that, in his heart, he feels like he made mistakes that he needs to learn from. You may have a different perspective from your private interview. I, of course, didn't get to privately interview all the candidates. I'm just looking at and sorting through all the public information on all the candidates and am trying to make an educated judgment. I love Jackson. I hate politics. It just seems to me that HJ had his chance and blew it. Melton had his chance and blew it. We have several competent alternatives to pick from this time: Marshand has youth, yet experience. He may not be the perfect candidate and has some maturity issues. But the people who support him believe that he will have a diverse and professionally run administration. And, truthfully, i think his youth and openness to a new order could be what we need in this city, at this particular time in our history. John Horhn has maturity, smarts and contacts; his record shows he's a pragmatist, not necessarily a theorist. He gets along with blacks and whites, north and south. He's still young enough to identify with the new generation populating Jackson and savy enough to politick with the older generation. Robert Johnson is a smart and articulate businessman. He has a long record of public administration experience, not just in law enforcement, but in city management as well. He is modest, capable, honest and intelligent. My only concern is whether or not he has been out of Jackson politics for so long, that he really doesn't have a real handle on its problems.

Author

FriendsofJackson

Date

2009-04-27T22:06:26-06:00

ID

146384

Comment

No question: The best candidate would be a composite of all their strengths without any of their weaknesses! ;-) BTW, Johnson has also talked in public forums about mistakes he's made. I would be curious as to how you think he "blew it." Specifics at this stage help everyone make up our minds. Crisler hinted that he would have a great city administrator, but wouldn't tell us who it was, even not for publication. So that promise didn't help a lot, sadly. We're very concerned about all their ability to hire the right people, no doubt. Right now, all we have on the Crisler front to judge that by is his campaign staff. And I agree that Horhn has impressed me in many ways from the beginning. Robert Johnson has grown on me as well, especially as a straight talker. Personally, I am in no mood for rhetoric or sound bites. I will also add that Eddie Fair was *very* impressive in our conversation with him. Whoever is elected, if not him, needs to pick his brain on zen management ideas. Isn't it nice to have choices? It was very interesting to be completely undecided and be able to really look at every possible aspect of the various candidates, I will say. And tough.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T08:26:31-06:00

ID

146386

Comment

One thing I will say—not in regards to a particular candidate—white North Jackson has been both gullible and tunnel-visioned in past elections. When one considers the remarkable, unconditional support they as a group gave Ed Peters over the years, despite massive warning signs, then you really have to wonder. The same can be said of black Jacksonians who keep re-electing Kenny Stokes year after year after year. Tunnel-vision and gullibility are not traits exclusively held by white North Jacksonians.

Author

QB

Date

2009-04-28T09:34:55-06:00

ID

146387

Comment

Ed Peters is an even more conspicuous choice than Kenneth Stokes, especially given that Stokes takes advantage of the relative isolation of his elderly constituents, seldom has viable competition, etc. Until the Internet really caught on, Ward 1 had more media access than anybody, and he had some real competition at times, so there was no excuse for reelecting Ed Peters. Then again, I may have voted for Ed Peters for all I know--I have no idea. I was less policy-conscious back then, knew absolutely nothing about the Hinds County DA race, and might have just voted for the incumbent. So Peters, and Stokes, both benefit from that dynamic. Re the mayor's race, Donna, it sounds like you're EXACTLY where I am on it--undecided. I've been leaning towards Horhn, still basically am, but a lot of that's affected by the fact that I just know and like the guy, and that's not necessarily a great reason to pick one candidate over another. So I don't know. We've got a really, really good bunch this year.

Author

Tom Head

Date

2009-04-28T09:47:03-06:00

ID

146388

Comment

No, they are not traits exclusive to North Jackson. And Stokes has become a huge problem, as a lapdog to Melton. He made more sense in the past, back when he and Ben Allen canceled each other out so to speak. And Tom's point about Peters is right on, and much of what I'm saying. There really is no excuse on that one -- at least not an excuse worth discussing out loud. I'm no longer undecided, Tom, but I was until almost 6 p.m. yesterday. It's been a tough one, which is ultimately a good thing, I hope. We did not make our decision lightly, and in fact it rather surprised me considering where I was a month or so ago. You'll know tomorrow. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T10:03:39-06:00

ID

146390

Comment

Ladd i wont start today but that johnathen jones dude is being a team player i wish the rest of Jacksonians will be team players. Now ladd be nice.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-28T10:24:44-06:00

ID

146391

Comment

No official endorsement by the JFP. Yet. Large Harvey Johnson ad at the top of the website next to the JFP logo. Just wondering...

Author

chaffeur

Date

2009-04-28T10:40:20-06:00

ID

146393

Comment

I'm surethe JFP is not letting him have it for free.

Author

golden eagle

Date

2009-04-28T10:58:41-06:00

ID

146394

Comment

Duh, of course the ad isn't free. We're a business, and Todd and his team will be happy to sell a Web or print ad to everyone who wants one.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T11:06:02-06:00

ID

146395

Comment

Duh, I KNOW it's paid advertising. I was merely making an observation, not an indictment -- the JFP is more scrupulous than most media about maintaining its credibility and integrity, and this product placement, together with some of the teaser comments, naturally leads to a bit of light-hearted speculation. Geez...

Author

chaffeur

Date

2009-04-28T11:41:43-06:00

ID

146396

Comment

Well, it's an inference that starts rumors. Let me put it to rest: I don't give a damn who advertises when it comes to making editorial and endorsement decisions. Ask all the people we've pissed off over the years. We have a very strong "wall between church and state," as we call it in the journalism industry. As a result, our readers trust us more than papers that sell editorial. On that point, though, I was simply amazed that Wyatt Emmerich said they don't endorse because it's bad for business. Then last night I picked up his (also-shrinking) paper at McDade's and saw a section where candidates are paying for the Sun to "announce" their candidacy. Huh?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T11:51:44-06:00

ID

146397

Comment

How did HJ "blow it"? Just a couple of examples; why is trustmark park in rankin county? 100% HJ fault. not even debatable (well, everything is debatable); people who did the deal wanted it in Jackson, but they simply could not do it HJ's way or no way. why did it take so long for K.E. i bet if you asked the folks who finally got it done (probably have to do it off the record), they'd tell you it was done in spite of both HJ and Melton. look at his appointments to boards and commisions in the city. only melton's are worse. doing business with city hall was a joke. certainly no comparison to madison and rankin county in terms of cost, efficiency and just plain old fashioned service. hj had 8 years to fix known problems and didn't. melton's idea to fix has been, well, absurdly surreal. Perhaps one of the tuffest issues tho is HJ just can't get along with the business community of jackson. i don't mean the white business community. i mean the business community period. ask the chamber folks - black and white - the cooperation and participation by HJ was adversarial, at best. we're not talking about sucking up to some alleged white power structure. damn, we're talking about just being politically smart enough to cast your net wide enough and be as inclusive with all segments of our community. excluding white and black business folks is just, well, not very smart, and does not produce results. it produces antagonism, mistrust, polarization, etc. it does not mean you have to agree or have to given in. but it also doesn't mean you can sit on an island and prophesy about great "policies" while you can't get a consensus from the folks you need. HJ had a lot of money for his last campaign. look at the reports. yet, he got stomped! you can't blame it all on melton and his "charm". HJ failed the people and would have been vulnerable to any viable candidate. in short, the man is old (well, over 60?), from another generation, is fixed in his ways, has a proven track record that didn't work for Jackson. I like the man. he's a nice guy. he's smart. but, he's had his turn. he's still old school and scarred in a lot of ways. we need a new day, a chance to have more inclusion, new ideas, more newjack type folks in play. i just don't see any chance of that with HJ.

Author

FriendsofJackson

Date

2009-04-28T12:09:36-06:00

ID

146398

Comment

I say we start email bombing these candidates to see which ones respond, what they have to respond, and how communicative they are with the public. I'm working on my draft email currently and will be sending it out today or tomorrow. Responding to emails tells me a lot; 1) how technically savvy each candidate/campaign is, 2) how quick each is in responding to the public, 3) what substance there is to certain answers each gives. I'm not going to send the generic questions that they have become robotic in answering either. I want to know specifics, and it will be yet another way I narrow down my ultimate vote.

Author

chip

Date

2009-04-28T12:12:23-06:00

ID

146399

Comment

BTW, all, I want to correct something being said about John Horhn. Supporters of other candidates are saying that he voted against MAEP (Adequate Education) funding. But when Adam called Nancy Loome at The Parents Campaign to factcheck that statement, she said that he and others voted not to fully fund it after Katrina because the money wasn't there, and that it would be disingenuous to call him out for it. This, friends, is the kind of campaigning I really hate.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T12:15:04-06:00

ID

146400

Comment

Chip, I understand your passion on that idea, but you should understand that the candidates are not going to have time to answer "e-mail bombs" in the final days of a campaign. I can't get through all my e-mail, and I'm not running for office. Be fair to them by not expecting something they can't deliver.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T12:16:47-06:00

ID

146402

Comment

HJ said he had to choose between the baseball stadium and the convention center and he picked the one that would bring the city more money and wouldn't be empty after baseball season. I think thats pretty rational Friendsof so why haven't you given him credit for the convention center, union station and metro parkway if your gonna be critical be fair because you seem one sided.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-28T12:35:03-06:00

ID

146403

Comment

Ladd, Why bash Crisler for not revealing his CAO pick and not get Johnson (HJ) about his Police Chief? Remember, we did without a Police Chief for 18 months. The position of CAO never existed until Johnson.

Author

Razor

Date

2009-04-28T12:35:16-06:00

ID

146404

Comment

HJ said he had to choose between the baseball stadium and the convention center and he picked the one that would bring the city more money and wouldn't be empty after baseball season. I don't know if the convention center is going to work or not, but I will point out one thing -- single-purpose ballparks are not always the economic development generators that people hope. The problem is, sometimes the team sucks and minor league teams rarely generate the passionate following the major league teams do. (Fortunately the Braves do fairly well on this front.) When the team goes downhill, the investment goes with it. That's why a downtown arena makes more sense than a downtown ballpark, because the arena can be used for all different types of events, while a ballpark is more limited. (And as an avid baseball fan, I had no idea any of that was true until it I learned it on that trip to Little Rock.)

Author

Todd Stauffer

Date

2009-04-28T12:47:51-06:00

ID

146405

Comment

Razor, I realize you're a Crisler supporter, but don't mischaracterize me. I said: Crisler hinted that he would have a great city administrator, but wouldn't tell us who it was, even not for publication. So that promise didn't help a lot, sadly. We're very concerned about all their ability to hire the right people, no doubt. Right now, all we have on the Crisler front to judge that by is his campaign staff. Crisler has no executive experience; thus, it is very relevant who he is going to choose as CAO to make up for that weakness. Pointing that out is not "bashing." You will note that I have been defending the Crisler "puppet" rumor against the conspiracy theorists for days if not weeks now, because I don't think that's fair to him. One thing I am seeing out of some of the Crisler camp is thin-skinnedness. In fact, his campaign was the only one that called to complain about Jackson Breland's humor piece picking on all the candidates at the debate last week. He needs people around him who know better.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T12:48:01-06:00

ID

146406

Comment

And on iTodd's point -- right. We have stories of arenas of various sorts that haven't worked out around the country. They're not top of my list for eco-devo. We do need a convention center hotel, obviously, and it needs to be funded without people with questionable pasts.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T12:49:28-06:00

ID

146409

Comment

But, Ladd, did you note that I said the article was very funny at 6:30 in the morning? Although, it was not allowed on this site until around 12 hours later? Specifically, though, did you ask Johnson who his Police Chief would be? Has anyone asked him why he fired Robert Johnson as Chief? Or, did you ask Robert Johnson why Harvey Johnson fired him. Seems to me that if Robert Johnson went on to occupy the "biggest, baddest law enforcement" position in the State, that Harvey Johnson might have allowed the JPD to flourish under his administation if he had kept RJ. I am amazed that anyone considers being a Major in the Armed Forces a non-executive position. Many of the top positions in the U.S.Government are filled by persons who have only been Officers instead of people who have been in business. The ability to lead is not confined to the private sector IMHO.

Author

Razor

Date

2009-04-28T13:35:39-06:00

ID

146412

Comment

When it comes to development of big projects as an arena and the convention center some people take a scared approach to building in Jackson, but in the suburbs people dont question if it will work. Im not saying Racism is involved. I say go for it we cant be stuck as the same old Jackson. Im for an Arena downtown like a 16,000 seat Arena along with a movie theater. Lets make downtown a destination like John Horhn said. I agree Ladd Whats taking so long on that Texas developer, even factoring in the bad economy they said the groundbreaking was supposed to happen in march.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-28T13:50:06-06:00

ID

146413

Comment

I'm for the movie theater; the arena I'm not persuaded about yet. It'll take up a LOT of valuable downtown real estate. Not a dealbreaker, but I'd like to see some indication of where it would be, how big it would be, how on Earth the parking issue would be resolved, and how much business it would need to generate to break even.

Author

Tom Head

Date

2009-04-28T13:51:52-06:00

ID

146414

Comment

It's OK with me if that developer takes a long time. Not sure that is the right choice for reasons we have reported. But in this town, it's hard to tell people stuff until it's too late. That's why we're so often in reactive-trying-to-clean-up-the-mess phase.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T13:55:09-06:00

ID

146415

Comment

Sorry on the moderation delay, Razor. No conspiracy there; it's press day, and my "allow" feature isn't letting me open them for some reason. We should make you a member, instead of a guest. You've proved you're not here to troll. iTodd? I didn't ask Harvey Johnson about Robert Johnson. That question isn't a priority to me, as I can understand from my own experience why R. Johnson of the past might not be a stellar motivator and leader (although I suspect he'd be better now). It's also not as important to me to know who any mayoral candidate is going to choose as chief (the most political and abused football in this city) at the moment as to know who is going to run the city day in and day. You may disagree with that assessment, but that's fine with me. Major or no major, I'm concerned about Crisler's administrative leadership and decision-making. I'm concerned about Harvey Johnson's communication/negotiation skills. I could go on for each candidate, but don't have time. If you're looking for someone who's going to pick a candidate and defend everything about them, you've come to the wrong place, Razor.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T14:02:14-06:00

ID

146416

Comment

I agree Tom with your need for more info. Im just saying i can bet you that the suburbs will do it if we dont and you know what will be said about Jackson if that happens. I say put it behind the convention center on court between the new federal courthouse and galletin. We need it!! We can host the swac football and basketball championships, concerts. The movie theater needs to be neutral for all Jacksonians because percetion will play into its location. If my friends and loved ones dont mind going to clinton or pearl to see a movie then they wont mind going to their own downtown theater. You go to clinton and pearl jacksonians support and is keeping their movie theaters profitable.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-28T14:02:41-06:00

ID

146417

Comment

(Anyone notice that right now there are more than 900 people on the site at once? Obviously, a record.)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-28T14:04:09-06:00

ID

146418

Comment

I just looked up "email bombing" and I didn't know the term had negative connotations regarding it. That's not what I meant. I just meant that emails to the candidates will show that there are lots of concerned citizens and it will say a lot for the candidates who actually take the time to respond with answers. I do not intend to "send huge volumes of e-mail to an address in an attempt to overflow the mailbox or overwhelm the server where the email address is hosted in a denial-of-service attack," which is what I found to be email bombing.

Author

chip

Date

2009-04-28T14:04:47-06:00

ID

146419

Comment

Ladd only the proud mother of her child would notice that. LOL

Author

NewJackson

Date

2009-04-28T14:11:53-06:00

ID

146421

Comment

Looking at parking for a new arena downtown, I definitely would look at putting some park-and-ride located around the perimeter of downtown to allow people to park near downtown and then ride buses, light rail, etc into the core/to the destination. Parking garages are also a possibility, but I would never support the building of a new parking lot anywhere downtown (unless they are noted as temporary and do not require the demolition of any structure for its sole existence).

Author

chip

Date

2009-04-28T14:29:51-06:00

ID

146422

Comment

I would love to see Jackson get a movie theater. I hate driving all the way to Pearl just to go see a movie. And yes, I know Clinton has a movie theater, but I don't like going there. It's dark, dingy and just not well kept.

Author

Lady Havoc

Date

2009-04-28T14:50:06-06:00

ID

146424

Comment

Thinking of all of the movies my family and I plan to see at Madison's Malco or Pearl's Riverwind this year (starting this weekend), it would have been nice to spend those dollars in Jackson.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2009-04-28T15:31:29-06:00

ID

146425

Comment

Anyone notice that right now there are more than 900 people on the site at once? Obviously, a record. Just wait until tomorrow! When you release your endoresements, this page just may top 1,000! I'm so glad to see that there are so many people concerned about this election. I hope that translates to high numbers at the polls on election day.

Author

News Junkie

Date

2009-04-28T16:21:57-06:00

ID

146434

Comment

There has been talk of bringing a cinema of some sort to downtown as part of the Capitol Green project. I'm guessing it would be along the lines of Malco's Studio on the Square in Memphis which is a 4-plex that plays mainly arthouse/limited platform films, serves alcohol and offers a broader food menu than a typical mainstream theater. Of course I'd love to see something like that go into the Capri building in Fondren as well. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Author

ed inman

Date

2009-04-28T19:16:15-06:00

ID

146438

Comment

where's my last post? Did i get censored?

Author

FriendsofJackson

Date

2009-04-28T23:44:46-06:00

ID

146441

Comment

We're not the government; we don't have the power to "censor," Friends. Occasionally we delete posts that do not follow the user agreement, but I don't recall seeing anything untoward from you. Maybe another editor if it was really awful. What was it about? I think you're already member status, so they should show up automatically (new registrants are "guests" until we promote them, meaning their posts don't show up without approval). Chances are, the tech just didn't deliver for you on that one. That happens to us all from time to time.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-29T08:22:03-06:00

ID

146444

Comment

actually, i was dishing out a little criticism to you, Donna, that's why i thought i got axed. It was just my usual brilliant post (ha!) that, at 2am, sounds a lot better than in the bright of day. Anyhow, i was suggesting that maybe you should back off some of this blog. I have great respect (if not fear) for your intellect and abilities and want to hear your opinions. But, i'd kind of like to hear more from other commoners like me out there without every blog they enter being editorialized by you. I'm sure you can't help yourself, but you really need to let some of us verbally joust with each other without being, well corrected or interrupted by you. I know where you are coming from, but one reason why i study your JFP blogs is to hear from a wide variety of voices and opinions, which clearly are not always in line with mine. It helps me soften my edges and better understand my community, when i hear, feel and read the emotion, though sometimes ill-guided in my judgment, in their blogs. In short, a lot of the stuff is subjective and opinion-based and does not necessarily need to be dissected like a debate. I don't know if you get my point. I truly value YOUR opinion and JFP's opinion, but i really do want people to feel uninhibited about being able to state their opinions (without libeling people) on the JFP blogs. JFP blogs have been the best source for me to get a pulse on the community i live in and love. But, Donna, you gotta let your baby have some wings and grow a little, even when they say things you don't always agree with. It's like raising kids. that's it for me. gotta get back to work before i get caught "blogging"!

Author

FriendsofJackson

Date

2009-04-29T09:52:51-06:00

ID

146445

Comment

You are right about the "thin skinness" of the Crisler campaign. Most of it is caused by his campaign manager who is suspicious about anything and anyone who does not agree with her, particularly Jacksonians. That is why several local people who were supporting Crisler have pulled away from the campaign.

Author

wellington

Date

2009-04-29T09:54:26-06:00

ID

146447

Comment

Crisler's Campaign Manager has brought order and accountability for every dollar spent. Critize and characterize all you want, she is all business, all the time. Unfortunately, some have not liked being marginalized in their opinions but it is a well run and fruitful campaign full of promise for a better future for Jackson.

Author

Razor

Date

2009-04-29T09:59:18-06:00

ID

146448

Comment

I am most definitely not impressed by Crisler's campaign manager, either. I would say she is hurting him on several fronts that he may not be fully aware of (which concerns me in its own right). Friends, you are welcome to criticize me or anyone else here as long as it's fair and respectful, and not childish trolling. And understand that just because you say it doesn't mean I or others agree with it, so please try not to be offended by that. Everyone's voices are welcome here, and have been for years, as long as they adhere to the standards of the user agreement. I, however, will continue to express my opinion as I feel the need or desire, as I have done from day one (and actually do much less these days due to general busyness). And I welcome everyone rising to a certain fact-based debate level on this site and not just lashing out against people based on emotion. A major role of all the editors and moderators on this site is to interject and ask for factual backup when people make statements that may not be true, or to steer them away from personal attacks and the like, and steer the discussion in a substantive direction. That practice will not change here. With due respect, it sounds like you feel "inhibited" because someone disagrees with something you've said. There's not a whole lot the rest of us can do about that. Buck up! After all, it's not like you're posting under your real name here. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-29T10:19:39-06:00

ID

146450

Comment

Everyone's voices are welcome here, and have been for years, as long as they adhere to the standards of the user agreement. She's absolutely right. Just ask Ironghost, our resident curmedgeon - err, Republican. :) I love you, honey. Really. :D

Author

Lady Havoc

Date

2009-04-29T11:55:48-06:00

ID

146451

Comment

I love him, too, Lady. Really. In the right way, of course. ;-)

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-29T12:00:20-06:00

ID

146454

Comment

I must be slipping, I thought I was the resident curmudgeon. :)

Author

BubbaT

Date

2009-04-29T12:16:13-06:00

ID

146455

Comment

We can have more than one, Bubba!

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2009-04-29T12:17:15-06:00

ID

146458

Comment

Bubba: Yup, you are as well. But, well, considering he's my husband, I think of IG first. He's all curmudgeon, all the time. ;)

Author

Lady Havoc

Date

2009-04-29T12:52:36-06:00

ID

146466

Comment

I'm a professional. :) (this has been my two-minute break!)

Author

Ironghost

Date

2009-04-29T13:29:05-06:00