In a recent column, Sid Salter cites the Democratic Campaign Committee Senatorial poll, which alleges that Ronnie Musgrove has an eight point lead over Roger Wicker, in the “race” for Trent Lott’s senate seat, and also quotes Stuart Rothenberg, who polls for MSNBC, the most liberal and far left cable network, and Charlie Crook, author of “The Cook Report,” who, in a pervious senate race had Wayne Dowdy favored over Trent Lott, in regards to the “race,” as proof that “Lott’s seat is no longer safe for Republicans.”

The DSCC poll is a classic example of “wishful thinking,” and is about as accurate as the Zogby poll, which had John Kerry leading President Bush by seven points in Florida, on the eve of the 2004 Presidential Election (Bush carried Florida by 350,000 plus votes).

Both Charlie Cook and Stuart Rothenberg, who obviously know very little about Mississippi politics, are Democrat leaning pollsters, and their “analysis” reflect it. Senator Wicker will hold the seat, easily.

Richard Williams

Meridian



Enjoyed the State Games … well, most of it



The State Games of Mississippi is one of the best organized sport activities played in this area every year. I have been a fan of the events for at least six years. I enjoy baseball and basketball the most. The weather delayed some of the baseball games but it continued and hats off to those athletes and coaches. I must say the athletes and coaches showed good sportsman like conduct and outstanding leadership. I am proud to be a fan of baseball in the State Games of Mississippi.

Basketball is another sport I enjoy in the State Games of Mississippi in this area. I must say this has been the worst of all my years attending the events. This year I watched athletes display unsportsmanlike behavior and bring about an embarrassment to themselves and their school. I must say they are not alone. Two area coaches showed poor judgement, character, and unsportsmanlike conduct and became an embarrassment to this community and certainly to themselves. I watch both girls and boys participate in games at Meridian High School and was just amazed at the performance these coaches displayed during the games. ONe coach disrespected the officials and took his team’s chances of participating in the championship game for either the gold or silver medallion. The athletes were hurt by his actions. I sat in the stands of the championship game and people were coming in expecting to see this team and wondered what happened … Coaches have to learn that if you teach discipline you have to put it into practice. The State Games of Mississippi is a great way for athletes and coaches to come together and showcase the talent we have in Mississippi. Coaches and athletes let’s represent Mississippi and our school well in this community.



Darnell Warbington

Meridian



Thanks for making dream a reality



I would like to thank the many people who have helped me in recent months to make my dream a reality.

I have been in martial arts for eleven years now (1997 to present), and I knew right away that I wanted to teach Karate someday. Well, that road to someday has been long and hard, littered with dead ends and discouragements.

But in May of 2007, I earned my Black Belt from Master Mason, who had previously retired from teaching in Marion. He also gave me express permission to teach Shotokan Karate. However, classes were slow to grow, having no building to teach in. I was content with teaching outside, the old-school way. But in order to really make it happen, I needed a place to teach; I needed a building.

Well, a building finally showed itself. In January this year I signed a contract with the MWR (Morale Welfare and Recreation) aboard NAS Meridian, which would allow me to use a building there. I immediately began receiving students and began teaching them. Soon after, I also got permission from Cornerstone Church on Hwy 39N to teach there on Saturdays.

On June 20th I’m proud to say I held my first rank test for those students who have been with me long enough and had learned enough to advance. Ten students received their Yellow Belts, and are now learning new techniques: new strikes, blocks, stances, takedowns, and more! It has made me very happy to have been given such an opportunity

I thank God most of all, who has blessed me with the gift of teaching. I thank Master Mason, who has helped me in many ways throughout the years. I thank my family, who has supported my efforts and encouraged me. And I thank NAS Meridian, the staff of MWR, Cornerstone Church, and the many people who have helped me to get where I am now. Thank you ALL!!!



David J. Mathena

Meridian