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Middleton wins Democratic primary
Published Tuesday, May 6, 2008
NATCHEZ — Jake Middleton defeated incumbent Mayor Phillip West with 52.5 percent of the vote Tuesday night, according to unofficial results.
Middleton brought in 2,528 votes versus West’s 2,285 votes.
West had 47.5 percent of the votes.
Absentee and affidavit ballots have not been counted yet, but Middleton said he feels he is leading by a wide enough margin that once the additional votes are tallied, they probably won’t alter his lead.
Middleton said he believes those paper ballots will be more than likely split evenly between him and West.
But West isn’t making up his mind yet.
“I’m not optimistic or pessimistic,” he said. “I’m just going to wait to see the end results.”
Middleton said he believes the race was a clean one, as he and West have been friends for a long time.
“Phillip and I have been friends for 35 years,” Middleton said. “I think we both have an amount of respect for each other. We’ve never had a cross word.”
West said he did not think the race was clean.
“It was a race filled with distortion and deceit,” he said, referring to information that was put out.
West said he did not want to expand on his comment.
Middleton said the race between he and West was challenging.
“This was a tough battle,” he said. “Phillip is a very competitive person, he knows what it takes to win, I know what it takes to win.”
“Unfortunately only one of us can win.”
Middleton said he has nothing but respect for West.
Middleton said he is thankful for his support, from both the voters and his campaign team.
“This has probably been the best campaign of the six campaigns I’ve ever run,” Middleton said. “I’ve had so much support.”
“If I had to do it over again I wouldn’t change a thing, I really wouldn’t.”
Middleton said his campaign has been developing for two years now.
“I was always thinking about what was the best way to run the city,” he said.
And that way is open and honest, he said.
“That’s the only way I know how to do business,” he said. “The cards have always been on the table face up.”
Middleton said he and his campaign team are going to take today off but then jump right back into campaign mode on Thursday.
“I’m hoping to build more support before the June 3 general election,” he said. “I hope to gain support and get stronger as we go.”
Middleton said he thinks the voters understand the kind of person he is and the kind of mayor he could be.
“I think a lot of people who know me and how hard I worked for the city understand I’m not in this for the money but for the love of Natchez, bottom line,” Middleton said. “I’m not the smartest guy but I promise I’ll be a good mayor.”
West said he is thankful for the support he received from his voters and campaign team members.
West said he was not bowled over by the results.
“I was not shocked, but I was surprised,” he said.
If his lead holds through the paper vote counting, Middleton, who has served on the board of aldermen for 16 years, will face Chick Graning, who is running Independent, in the general election on June 3.
Comments
Posted by Negotiator (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Attaboy!!
Posted by Terry1982 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
NO PHILLIP NO! You done a great!
Posted by Negotiator (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes Phillip yes.... take a hike.
Posted by NtzRiver (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Finally someone who cares about people and not themselves. If he wins lets hope he gets rid of West corrupted hires who work in the maintence department behind the police station.
Posted by OldGrandDad (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Absentee ballots counted yet?
Posted by watcher (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ND - Please post the NUMBERS!
Posted by ntzmom (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
They did post the numbers. Its in the live thread.
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My prediction was on base and very close-right at 50%/50%. Congrat's to Mr. Middleton!
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Congrats Middleton......Where is hitormiss at now lol
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Amend Fire39212!
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 8:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thsnk You Negotiator!
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I hope hitormiss is on a permanent vacation...hmm, I can't remember what my prediction was, but I'm sure someone will look it up and remind me that I was wrong...does anyone know what the turnout was?...I figured PW would get a squeaker win...seems that there was a lot more disgruntlement than I thought...congrats Jake...see you in the general election.
BTW, just what is a "gruntled" voter?...or are there any?
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OldGrandDad...as usual you're on top of things...I was wondering the same thing, does the count include absentee ballots?
Posted by sayitloud (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Congrats Jake!! Way to go!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is probably over - but there are over 300 absentee votes and up to 75 affidavit votes. The 75 will be mostly for West, if they are all allowed. The headline is misleading but may be right - wait for a Dewey defeats Truman reversal!
If Jake won well done, I am shocked at the low turnout and by the result.
Posted by ntz143 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I hope people remember in the general election that Jake has been an alderman for years.....so what has he done? nothing. Sue Stedman faced the same problem. Its ok to tout experience but warming a chair in the city council chambers does not qualify a person as a leader. Please look at both candidates very carefully before you vote!!
Posted by DuckCommander (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am suprised they say Jake is the winner when there are that many absentee ballots
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
(HitorMiss) She or He is gone to get one of those jobs in the 250, no 200, no 190 businesses that people contacted West about locating in Natchez ? There was a "Smokescreen" set up, But God Bless the people of Natchez, who saw thru this and Thank you very much for voting!
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There is like 336 i thought they were counted in..But, I could be wrong there....they were talking about them on the radio this morning.
Posted by Peace007 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Congratulations to all the winners. I hope all of you will do a good job for Natchez.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The radio coverage was the usual mess and the Democrat's results were up much much faster. The radio did include the absentee vote numbers and they did not declare a winner! Jake did seem happy though.
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Oh rushingjr they just contacted west about coming to natchez...I thought his website said they were here...No wonder noone knew anything about those businesses lol...I was thinking maybe like snocones businesses that only do business in the summer they were counting lol
Posted by steve_o (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Absentee balloting is already over, Holloway said, and 376 absentee ballots have been cast."
From todays democrat
Posted by OldGrandDad (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks y'all for the information on the absentee votes. I'm running late. Gotta catch a train. Or is it a plane? Crap! I guess I need to find my ticket and check. Bye.
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Thank you steve_o for the info...
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sam you predicted 64% - I predicted under 60% - But a win for Phillip. Terrible day for Bubber, Joyce had a close race but looks like she is safe. Change is in the air. If Middleton has won I actually think it is a bad result for Chick.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Four years ago in the Smith West runoff the total number of votes was:
Smith 2963 - 49.06%
West 3069 50.81% -
That was the official certified result. This time almost 2,000 less votes. West did not get his vote out.
Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe thats the 2000 people who have left town?
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok - Correction time - Runoff last time 6032 total votes including absentee and affidavit
So far we have 4813 votes plus 376 absentee and maybe 60 affidavit so a total of 5249. Not a bad turnout.
The Democrat is taking a risk to announce a winner with about 436 votes uncounted and only a margin of 243 ---
Posted by Boolos (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
PW - "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (Galatians 6:7 KJV)
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
natchez1...thank you, I knew I could depend on you...LOL.
The demographics just didn't workout for me on that prognostication, although I can't say I'm displeased. I think Chick can win because he will be able to communicate better ideas in a better fashion than Jake has yet displayed.
The key is the black vote...now where does it go? Conventional wisdom says they will stay as a block Democratic vote even though PW lost. Conventional wisdom is often wrong though.
I hope that they will give Chick an honest evaluation for their vote because he is a really good listener and uniter and honestly wants to help every citizen. I hate to say it, but there may also be an element of resentment at having lost to Jake.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Freedom - only a difference of 783 - I will check on the numbers for the General Election. It had a very large turnout.
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What kind of turnout percentages are we looking at?
Posted by fire39212 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The absentee have been counted....
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
More old numbers - the General Election four years ago had 7157 votes cast for mayor. So my first estimate of 2,000 less votes was not that far wrong, (actually 1908)
I don't think they left town just a low key election, it lacked the fear of a Black Mayor that we had 4 years ago. West if he lost will be kicking himself for not getting his vote out. Middleton's low key campaign might have been a great strategy - lulled West into a false sense of confidence.
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Birds of a feather fly together!
Posted by dixiecrat (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yeah, right on! Of course, Chick has a good chance -- he HAS to be the next mayor -- or else the primary rule of Natchez Mayoral politics will be overturned; that is, the guy with the catchiest nickname is always going to win: you know, like Larry "Butch" Brown, F.L. "Hank" Smith, Phillip "Bucket" West... Charles "Chick" Graning just seems to flow. We're all about tradition here in Natchez, so Jake better just throw in the towel now or come up with a suitably electoral nickname quick!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Last old numbers!
The democrat primary four years ago had 5 candidates and a total vote of 5,646 for Mayor - compared to 5,249 ish! a difference of only 397.
Turnout actually very similar.
Posted by free_radical (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
THANK GOD!!!!!
Posted by gemccull (Gary McCullars) on May 6, 2008 at 9:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
John "Jake" Middleton??
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 9:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dixie - if the Democrat is wrong and West holds on - who wins
Bucket vs Chick --- now that would be close!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Good to see you back Dixiecrat --- your wife must be in bed!
As for nicknames I think you have a point - Chick wins over Jake!
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
dixiecrat...how 'bout "Shake-n-bake"?
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
natchez1...wow, couldn't you just imagine what a KFC general election would have looked like? Bucket...chick...get it?...LOL
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Absentee Ballots need to be counted before the regular ballots are processed. Again Mississippi needs to wake up and develop a voter I.D. law, as Louisiana and so many more states have!
Posted by NtzRiver (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It was amazing that I could go vote on someone else name that I know who wouldn't vote in another area. Could someone imagine that somebody probably did this today. When I went to vote, I asked the lady did she want to see my ID and she said no. WOW. It would make me mad if someone came in before me and voted on my behalf. Legislative needs to wake up unless they are behind it to get more votes for themselves.
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
(Sam) Any more on the absentee's? I've talked to 2 or 3 people with no lucK?
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have been looking back at the results four years ago - I think I'm wrong --- it may be over I think the absentee votes have been counted so it is just up to the affidavit votes - perhaps only 75 so not enough to make the difference. Four years ago there were over 600 absentee votes and the margin of victory was 106 and it did not change too much from election day to when it was certified.
Oh well - Well done Jake - Saw him yesterday and today - more than I can say for Phillip!
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
rushinghjr...no, sorry, I'm in the dark on the absentee and affidavit votes as well, although I suspect that they have been calculated in with the totals since they were cast early.
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Awww...c'mon, nobody liked the KFC joke? Bucket, Shake-n-Bake and Chick...you just can't make this stuff up!
Posted by Ironman (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The absentee votes were not counted neither today nor tonight. They will be counted tomorrow. Today's election is the first Municipal election to use the new voting machines. As with the county elections held in November, the absentee and affidavit votes are entered in the machines the day following the election.
So, tonight's numbers are not final.
Posted by rushinghjr (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
As I have stated several times before, Chick is a good Rotarian and he can pass our 4-Way test. He's wins automatically!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 10:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rushinghjr -- are you a member of the Natchez Rotary club?
The four way test is not an automatic win for Mayor - many Rotarians have run and lost.
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ironman...thanks for the info...so, is there enough margin in the affadavits and absentees to affect the outcome?
rushinghjr...you are a Rotarian and I am a former Rotarian (couldn't make the attendance quota), but many people don't know what the 4-way test is...why don't you illuminate and enlighten?
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ironman - thanks for that info - I knew the votes were not certified but could not find enough information about the protocol for the absentee votes. If you are right the Democrat may really be jumping the gun on announcing a winner.
Sam - The KFC election is something to hope for - so maybe West can pull out the win ---- we should know more tomorrow!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sam - the absentee votes are 376 and Johnny Junkin estimated up to 75 affidavit votes - so plenty of uncounted votes for a margin of 273.
Posted by justmeinchez (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is my understanding the absentee ballots will be counted tomorrow. They are not included at this time
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
natchez1...thank you very much for the joke recognition...I sometimes have to work hard for a chuckle...anyway, real Chick is better than a cardboard Bucket or bland Shake-n-Bake...LOL.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sam - my friend the Dixiecrat should get credit for the KFC line - that was rather good!
Posted by Ironman (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree that there are enough uncounted votes to make a difference in the outcome of the Mayor race, but West would have to garner @70% of them to make up the difference...that I don't think he can or will do.
As for Wards 1 and 5, there is a real good chance that both of these races will be decided by these yet-to-be counted votes.
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
natchez1...you're right...he came up with the nickname idea, I just embellished it and offered Jake's...great work Dixiecrat!
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ironman...you're correct, of course, and what really worries me is that, if, just if, PW ekes out a win, it will put such a fear into him and his supporters that in an effort to ignite his voters for the general election, the campaign will turn ugly, racially dividing and that questionable voting tactics may occur, thus smearing Natchez in the kind of politics we've had for years will continue for another generation.
I certainly hope I'm wrong...I'm hoping that PW is a zebra that has changed his stripes.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rushing - as for the 200ish new businesses I actually think that is probably close to a correct number - however I know many have already failed. Not too surprising as many businesses fail in their first 3 years.
I know in just my block 6 businesses have opened in the last 4 years -- and all are still going! -
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ironman - I don't think Middleton's lead is unsurmountable, the 75 or so affidavit votes are Phillip's - some won't count. Middleton's lead drops to around 183 with 376 absentee - then he only needs about 51%.
It is going down to the wire.
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Some folks are gonna lose some sleep tonight, but not me...goodnight all...I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Sam, you are right that if West holds on it will motivate his base.
Four years ago I actually think the Stedman campaign made it all about race, yes Phillip wanted to be the first black mayor but he did not run a campaign based on fear. The Independent candidate got threats to get out of race - the threats came from the white community.
Posted by johnwentworth (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
natchez1, are you sensitive to the last mayor's race because you were personally involved?
Posted by johnwentworth (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
In the general election we had three people running, not just two. Richard Branyan ran as an independent, Sue Stedman as Republican, and West as a Democrat. Would West have won if Branyan wouldn't have ran?
Posted by johnwentworth (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well Natchez1 from what I understand, you would know all the details of the Branyan campaign.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
John - I am 100% sure the Branyan campaign had little effect on the last election. The word was out a vote for Branyan was a vote for West.
Posted by johnwentworth (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
the post got out of order for some reason. reverse the order of the 11:45 post
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
John - I read the paper
Posted by johnwentworth (anonymous) on May 6, 2008 at 11:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The results from the 2004 election:
certified numbers showed:
West with 3,515 votes
Stedman with 3,415
Branyan with 227
Well Natchez1, if you aren't who I am implying you are, then who are you?
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 12:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
John check your email!
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 12:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Natchez1...
Well my curiosity is roused. You and I once corresponded about a prior mayor race. You told me that you would reveal your identity if I wished. I know you own a business downtown. I began guessing a while back about your identity and now it is just killing me. Ok...call me a cat!
Could you send me an email and let me know? I am a scaredy cat, else I would reveal myself ---so if you don't feel comfortable, it's ok. I still agree with about 95% of your posts :-)
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 12:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Scarlett - I re-read your old posts - still have no guesses to your identity. I agreed with many of your views - can't work out why you hate Henry Watts so much, (I don't know Henry well but I don't think he is a moron). Glad you are in favor of the Condos and dislike the way "under the hill" is heading.
What fun.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 12:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Uh oh! Doing some research huh? HA! I do the same sometimes.
Honestly, I'm not trying to "call you out". Just curious. I would never, ever try to beg or bully anyone into revealing themselves -- you just always stick out to me...in a good way! You are one of the few calm voices of reason. Lambchop is another favorite of mine.
P.S. I really don't hate Henry. He's actually quite a likeable fellow. Politically...that's another story.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 12:53 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok updated story - lots of votes still not counted - story confirmed absentees and affidavits still to be counted. I do think the paper misrepresented Phillip's record, but that is no surprise.
I liked Jakes comments.
Glad the fight was clean - someone had to lose. I am not sure we know yet who has!
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 1:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Scarlett - I sent you an email
Posted by NtzMom55 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 1:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Lookin' Good! Time for some changes.
Posted by scarlettohara (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 1:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Natchez1 -- thanks! I sent you one, as well.
Posted by hitormiss (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 2:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
fire39212
I see I was missed tonight. Wife and I played cards with friends, listened to election returns and YES spoke with the Mayor. The 200 new business openings on West website are correct. They were confirmed with Paul Doss, along with the permits department. I checked into them myself and they are correct.
sammohon, yes I am on permanent vacation, retired.
About the election, absentee ballots and affidavits are not counted until in the morning. Some of the election machines were having trouble through out the day, causing problems. The margin between Middleton and West is 213 votes. If West wins 50% of the absentee ballots he wins.
Oh yea, samohon, why would West supporters choose your candidate? You have done nothing but bash their candidate.
Congratulations to West and Middleton and their supporters for a clean race. I wish I could say the same to the Democrat.
Posted by Mucasplug (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 6:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Chick will get about 20% of the vote in the general election. He deserves less. I heard he got his political cards printed at office depot, and there are 5 local printers in Natchez. That says it all.
Posted by callinitlikeitis (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 7:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"WE SHALL RISE AGAIN !" comes to mind.
to philip west, bubba west: "bye, bye, bye" (new kids on the block)
Posted by huggybear1156 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 7:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
WAY TO GO JAKE from one of those who had to leave the area to follow a job... I remember playing scrambles golf together several times over the years. Good luck the rest of the way... I'd vote for you if I was still there.
Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:20 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The only way West can win is the Wilkinson County way at this point. Jake is the winner and congrats, there isn't a more deserving person.
Jake should beat Granning in a landslide. Granning has absolutely ZERO experience.
Posted by firered (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Actually "bye,bye,bye" was N'Sync... LOL.. Wrong boy band.. (And I am quite ashamed to know that!!!!)
Posted by xenon314 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The Rotarian's 4-way test of the things we think, say, or do:
First: Is it the truth?
Second: Is it fair to all concerned?
Third: Will it build good will and better friendships?
Fourth: Will it be beneficial to all concerned?
Posted by sideline (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by callinitlikeitis (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 7:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"WE SHALL RISE AGAIN !" comes to mind.
to philip west, bubba west: "bye, bye, bye" (new kids on the block)
Might as well get it out your head. You can believe it wont rise ever again.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It could be looked at alot of different ways.
Posted by natchez500 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
yes middleton will get the black vote because all of chicks group is republician they have already promised to give th polic dept to someone like mayfield who with the other republicians want to get into the city gov. when this is spread in the black community chick is a goner the republicians will not run adams county and they know it, but they continue to keep the black and white community in a stir and thats all they want natchez garden club bunch of trouble makers
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sideline, just curious, what did you take that to mean?
Posted by sideline (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
In whatever context it was implied. Ask the sender don't ask me.
Posted by jack (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:02 a.m. (Suggest removal)
yes natchez500 chick is already beat and does not know why but look at the good side people like willie b jones a convicted felon will be gone or will he middleton never did anything on the board about it so why now come on middleton you need to rise early this morning and see the roses you have got to make changes with the police and fire dept also you wanted hte job and i am told you are too lazy to be mayor please sir prove me wrong
Posted by SayItRight (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Jake took the high road on commenting about the race. West took the victimization route. Good for Jake.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I didn't mean to offend anyone, I was just curious. What exactly will or won't "rise again"? Or, I guess I should ask "who and what" (since it said "We will rise again"). It doesn't really matter at this point, because I personally think this whole thing could still go either way.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:15 a.m. (Suggest removal)
And I agree with you, sayitright. It does say something for a candidate to be diplomatic about their responses. It may have been better for West to not even make a comment. We still shouldn't count our chickens yet, though.
Posted by sideline (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
No offense taken.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The results were very close in this election. The fact that the votes were split pretty evenly should tell the people of Natchez that either man will do the job.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks, sideline.
Posted by roberth33 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
nah nah nah nah.
nah nah nah nah.
hey hey hey.
good bye!
Posted by loneconservative (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I have no love for either one of them.
Posted by Preacher (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It's really been interesting how close our elections have been in the last few years. Both national and local elections have almost split hairs. Elections for canditates and on issues both seem to divide us right down the middle. Does this simply reflect our major differences in opinions and politics, is it cultural or has it always been this way and I am just now noticing it more? It looks like it will continue to be a tough road ahead as long as we continue to pull in two completely different directions. The pendulum continues to swing wide and most of us simply hang on for the ride.
Posted by Groverhar (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 9:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Way to go Jake. You da Man. Bring it home in June.
Posted by Doc_Fungo (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Binky, Bubber, & Bucket in 2012!!!
Posted by andy (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 10:55 a.m. (Suggest removal)
i woke up this morning and what has happened good for natchez middleton now get rid of people like jones and stay far away from republicans and the blacks will go with you to the polls in june they have no where else to go and beware of dunkleys,jones, howards, fords and people like sue stedman and tommy ferrell then you can go far bad for you mr chick you cannot get away from the republicians you are one natchez is still dem
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Now, let the time begin, where all the promises mentioned and made by the winner, be manifest. If not, it will be the same ole' empty promises bandwagon. Also, for those who are just getting in, surely now, you will see, who and where the true power lies. Congrats to you all, let's get to the task of getting REAL, good paying jobs to Natchez that will last.
Posted by whataboutit (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sam, I thought the KFC joke was too funny. But no nickname needed for Middleton. Chick (small Chicken)
Jake (small Turkey) Put them both together and you have a Bucket of Birds.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Teach - I am not sure Jake promised anything - he had few ideas and his main platform seemed to be to be "a hands on mayor".
Not sure what that means.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Anyone know when the results will be final? Why is it that people want to use their nick names anyway? I sure wouldn't!
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I guess if it's short for your name, that's one thing, but I would not want someone calling me Binky, Bucket or Bubber! These are grown men.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Larry Gardener thought it would take at least all day today and probably tomorrow before all the results were known. If the race becomes too close to call it will take much longer as all the affidavit votes will be questioned.
Posted by froggie (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Thanks, Natchez1.
Posted by natchez500 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
well mayor west now you see your own people beat you because you would not change things you embarrassed way too many folks phillip see you on the golf course ps let willie b jones drive you now
Posted by Countyboy (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am sure some people won't like this but here goes. I bet it would be safe to say that at least half of the readers of the Natchez Democrat do not live in the city limits of Natchez. I am one of these people. I could care less about alderman and mayor elections. How about some actual news from the "news"paper. I still haven't seen an article about Adam's County Water having a truck and trailer stolen last Thursday night. Taxpayers pay for that equipment so why are we not informed when it is stolen. Seems like sometimes stories are done on things that happen to prominent downtown people while actual news is just left out without so much as an acknowledgement.
Sorry if it sounds like I am whining, but I just want some REAL NEWS.
Posted by natchez1 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 2:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
West is only behind 185 - closed Middleton's 273 margin with only wards 1 and 5 being counted. he has to big black wards 2 & 4 yet to count. He has picked up votes in wards that were one slightly more black and one slightly more white. Middleton though does have the majority white wards to count -- It is still too close to call.
Posted by Teach4Peace (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 2:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
With it being an election Tuesday on yesterday, the majority of the articles will be focused on that, I would think. I think the Natchez Democrat does a good job at covering stories that affect the community, at large, albeit some articles could stand more detail, if present. The online site is better than most cities' newspaper web-sites, greater in size.
Posted by dooniew35 (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 2:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I thought Phillip West done a good job overall. He made some mistakes but who wouldn't with the type of residents of Natchez that stood so graciously behide him. People,wise up and whom ever is mayor,stand behind his actions, submit your suggestions,and just maybe together ya'll might get Natchez to the kind of city that is inviting to all sorts of new comers and the young residents there will decide to stay.
Posted by justmeinchez (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 2:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What is Granning's platform? How does it compare with Jake's, or is there a comparison? Will some one check them out on cable channel 4 and give me an honest opinion?
Posted by sammohon (anonymous) on May 7, 2008 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mucasplug...what a disgusting moniker...I was told today, that Chick approached all 5 local printers and because of the bulkiness of the order and the short time frame in which it had to go out none could do the job...therefore, as a last result he went to Office Depot...why don't you ask the printers?...try again!
Posted by oldsaw (anonymous) on May 8, 2008 at 1:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
sammohn,
I not sure your candidate would like you using poor planning as an excuse for not using a local printer.
Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on May 8, 2008 at 9:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good post OldSaw. Graning wasn't even running during this primary, why the urgency to get his stuff out for the Democratic Primary????? Makes you wonder. What a poor excuse for not shopping with a locally owned business. Glad Jake won, he's a local business owner and would certainly understand the need to shop from locally owned vendors. VERY IMPORTANT, glad this issue was brought up.
Posted by callinitlikeitis (anonymous) on May 8, 2008 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"you can be your own worst enemy".
philip west, (your own people) turned against you in this election. while they supported you in the beginning (mostly because of race, just to have their own 'color' as mayor), when your 'TRUE COLOR/s' started showing (your people) had to admit & realize that skin color is not a pre-requisite of being a good mayor.
white people did not start slavery. it was AFRICA that sold it's (own people) and shipped them to America. AFRICA sold them for MONEY.
white people gave them food, shelter, clothing. yes, they had to work for it. don't we all?
study up on history and see just who it was that betrayed (their own people).
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