Magnolia's Ward 3 Alderwoman to be Decided Next Tuesday, April 22

MAGNOLIA’S WARD 3 ALDERWOMAN TO BE DECIDED NEXT TUESDAY, APRIL 22 by Terry Jackson, GAZETTE City Editor - tdjackson56@att.net RICKY NOBILES CARTOONS, SEE A2 & A3

On Tuesday, April 1st, Magnolia voters decided on a new slate of city leaders. Marvin Brumfield was elected as Mayor defeating incumbent mayor Tammy Witherspoon. For Ward 1, “Preacher” Chad Williams defeated Incumbent Becky Magee and challenger Charles White. For Ward 2, Dorothy Dillon defeated incumbent Clarence Burton. For Ward 4, there was no primary because the Joseph Cornacchione (Republican) was unopposed. For Alderman at Large, incumbent Darrell Pounds defeated Jennifer Knox.

Ward 3’s representative will be decided in a Democrat Primary Run-Off this Tuesday, April 22, 2025.

Cheryl Grady and

Theresa Weatherspoon are the two candidates in the run-off. We asked each of these candidates’ five questions that will be of interest to

Ward 3 residents, and have the responses from each candidate. These questions were: 1) What do you want voters of

Ward 3 to know about you? 2) Name 5 specific things that you plan to advocate for and do for the residents of

Ward 3. 3) Since Magnolia’s “town center” is mostly in

Ward 3, how do you plan to revitalize the town and its business district?

4) At the end of your first 4-year term, what do you want voters to remember about your time as the alderman/alderwoman? 5) Why should voters vote for you and what makes you the best candidate?

Although all Wards in the city are important,

Ward 3 contains the city’s Town Center and Main Street.

Ward 3 voters please get out and vote this Tuesday or absentee vote now. Please review their following responses and vote for that candidate that best represents your interest and views.

Cheryl Grady

1) I want the voters to know my leadership qualities and experiences are grounded with honesty, dedication and compassion.

2) I will advocate for: 1. infrastructure initiatives - making sure our residents are supplied with clean water, well maintained and smooth roads, and proper waste management; 2. economic growth and development - improving wealth, education, business development and boosting productivity; 3. enhancing safety - prioritizing friendly streets, good lighting, ensuring effective law enforcement; 4. youth empowerment - allowing youth to participate in public initiatives to improve social skills and behavior, and to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to forge their own path towards a positive future; 5. elderly support / community outreach - encourage social engagements, assist with technology, and ensure home safety.

3) I plan to work with the city council to create initiatives that will all around restore Magnolia to the enriching place we all know that it can be. I plan to use this platform to aid its growth and attract new business and consumers.

4) At the end of my tenure, I want voters to remember that progress is possible and a collective effort. I want the residents of

Ward 3 to feel that their voices and concerns were heard, respected and effectively responded.

5) I love advocating for others. As a dedicated advocate with years of experience in leadership and assisting members of the community, I deserve your vote because I have the essential skills and expertise to excel in the role as an Alderwoman in the city of Magnolia. I am confident in Magnolia’s ability to triumph with the aid of my leadership.

Theresa Weatherspoon

1) I want the voters of

Ward 3 to know that I am deeply committed to our community and passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of our residents. 2) Economic Development for downtown Magnolia, Parks and Recreation for the Elderly, Advocate for Property Rehabilitation for Dilapidated Homes, Create a scholarship program for High School Seniors, and Collaborate with South Pike School District, Public Safety for everyone in Magnolia 3) I am committed to actively engaging with the residents of Magnolia to understand their needs and concerns, while also diligently attracting small businesses to our community. 4) I want the voters of

Ward 3 to recognize that I fulfilled my promises by prioritizing their needs, actively listening to their concerns, ensuring transparency in my actions, and taking significant steps to enhance our community. 5) Voters should choose me because I am from Magnolia and bring a unique combination of experience, dedication, and genuine passion for the community. MISSISSIPPI WOMEN: STRONGEST IN THE HARDEST PLACE by Mac Gordon, GAZETTE Contributing Editor