Dear Mayor Gene McGee,
I just wanted to show my support and wish you the best of luck with your upcoming campaign for re-election. It has always been a pleasure running into you at various school and community events.
You take your job seriously and are always open to discussion and improvements.
 Your interest and presence at our school functions is greatly appreciated by the kids and parents, and continues to show your concern for the continued achievements in the Ridgeland Schools.
Ridgeland is has been a great place to call home because of your leadership.
Sincerely,
Kristen L. Swenson
O.T.M.S./R.H.S. Band Parent

Dear Mayor McGee: 

I’d like to take the opportunity to acknowledge your vision for the City of Ridgeland, and to thank you for our work on the Ridgeland Area Master Plan.  As master planners and advisors to municipalities throughout the Southeast, we see firsthand what it takes to spark positive change.  You stand out as one of those rare visionaries whose ideas and leadership ensure Ridgeland offers its best to future generations. 

Last weekend, Moor Planning Group’s master plan design for Ridgeland won the Merit Award for Planning from the Louisiana Chapter of American Society of Landscape Architects - a credit not only to the design but to your leadership.  Your tireless work ethic, demand for quality, strive for innovation, and smart strategy are second to none.

For any elected official, the people’s work is relentlessly challenging.  But few who hold public office feel the pressure of a mayor.  At the end of the day, it’s the mayor who is responsibility for all issues, large or small.

Ridgeland is blessed to have such an admirable leader.  It has been our pleasure to work with you on this gratifying project.

Sincerely, 

Patrick Moore, Principal
Moore Planning Group, LLC

Dear Dinsmor & Ridgeland Neighbor:

Gene McGee is seeking re-election as Mayor of the City of Ridgeland. We are writing to endorse his candidacy. During his tenure as Mayor, we have worked with Gene on several projects and have found himn to be accessible, fair and open-minded in his approach to resolving important issues that affect us all. 

Gene has been a friend and ally for the residents of Dinsmor, personally supporting and introducing major improvements within our subdivision. Whenever we have called, Gene has answered. He understands the importance of maintaining property values in residential areas such as Dinsmor within the City of Ridgeland.

Because of his 24 years of experience, Gene has a broad understanding of the issues that Ridgeland must deal with. He stands committed to making decisions that are in the best interest of our city and its residents.

On a personal level, we have come to know Gene to be active in his church and devoted to his family with high moral values. We respect him as a neighbor and a friend.

Let us encourage one another to be sure to vote in the primary election on May 5 and re-elect Gene McGee, as Mayor of Ridgeland. He has done an outstanding job in support of our community.

Warmest Best Wishes and Highest Regards, 

 
Mark Fields, Ruthie Hollis, Tom Hudson, Mary Saunders, Mike Smith, Dr. Ken Walley, Carl Watts and Jim Smith
Dinsmor Homeowners

Click here to view original document.

Dear Ridgeland Residents,

 Gene McGee is seeking to be re-elected as the Mayor of the City of Ridgeland. During his tenure as the Mayor, we have worked with him on several projects and found him to be accessible, supportive and open-minded in his approach to resolving these issues that have and will affect us all.

 Gene has been a friend and ally for us and our neighbors, personally supporting and introducing major improvements in our area. He has also been very responsive to our needs and requests. Gene understands the need to maintain and improve property values of Ridgeland’s residents.

 With 24 years of experience, Gene has a broad understanding of the issues that the City of Ridgeland must deal with, and we know he stands committed to making decisions that are in the best interest of our city and its residents.

 On a personal level, we have come to know Gene. He is active in his church, devoted to his family and a man with high moral values. We respect him as a neighbor and as a friend.

 Individually, we encourage one another to be sure to vote in the primary election on May 5th and re-elect Gene McGee, Mayor of Ridgeland. He has done an outstanding job in support of our community.

With Highest Regard

Jim Champlin     
Eric Clark
Larry Miller
Brenda McKenzie
Billy Raphael
Chad Carr
Sells Newman
Roger Caperton
Mark Sorrels
Robert Redd

I would like to take this opportunity to voice the support of my family to Gene McGee for mayor of Ridgeland.  We have lived in Ridgeland for the past 16 years.  Anytime that we have had to approach Mayor McGee with any type of issue regarding the city or our property, he has been very quick to respond and handle any situations that have arisen.  On a more personal note, I would like to say that I have never met a policitician that I believed to be more honest or have more integrity than Gene McGee.  Mayor McGee is very involved with the schools in the city of Ridgeland and is a wonderful example for our students.
 
The Coleman family supports Mayor McGee and will once again help in any way we can with his re-election campaign.
 
Sincerely,
Dianne Coleman

  There is an upcoming city election in Ridgeland, MS and the guy(Gene McGee) who is known as Mississippi’s Cycling Mayor needs your support.  Gene has always had our interests at heart.  Anytime that the cycling community has needed his help, he has delivered.  He has been an advocate for making both Ridgeland and Mississippi a bicycle friendly community. His word as an elected official carried a lot of weight in the House of Representatives when it was needed.  When we were faced at the prospect of not having a place to mountain bike as result of the loss of Little Colorado in Rankin County, he delivered the now Ridgeland Trails located in Madison County. He was instrumental in the getting the Ridgeland Recreation trail along the Natchez Trace which is ideal for recreational cyclists and runners.  Under his leadership Ridgeland has been at the forefront for cycling.

 I can not think of one time that Gene has not been there for us. I just hope you can be there for him by either voting and/or asking someone to vote for him.

Rich Adair

In the 36 years I’ve been a professional law enforcement officer, I’ve served in three cities for five mayors.  I’ve been fortunate to have worked with, and for, some of the finest individuals in Mississippi.  It is because of those experiences in which I’ve seen the impact of a city’s mayor on a police department and, ultimately, on the public that I am endorsing Mayor Gene McGee in his campaign for re-election.

I am fortunate to serve the citizens of Ridgeland as Chief of Police; a position I’ve held since 2002.  While I am responsible for the men and women who serve so capably, the leadership that Mayor McGee provides to all department heads is exemplary, and every employee of City of Ridgeland is aware of his uncompromising commitment to excellence.

Mayor McGee is the most aggressive mayor for whom I’ve worked.  It is because of the way he lives his life that citizens know that he is truly a law-abiding citizen and they respect the example he sets.  He is adamant about assuring that the residents and businesses of Ridgeland are protected and that we remain always vigilant regarding crime.  In fact he has stated frequently that, “One crime is too many.”  On occasion, he has been known to get out of his car to pick-up litter that has been dropped and hand it back to the litterer!  While demanding top performance from the Police Department, he is also generous and sincere about supporting us and in recognizing individual and department accomplishments.

Without a doubt, Mayor McGee is the most professional Mayor with whom I’ve worked.  Weekly meetings with department heads assure that he knows what is happening within every facet of the city.  And, department heads understand that he is to be called if there is an issue of concern—especially crime issues—day or night.  It is his vision for our city that entails a comprehensive blend of business and community that is admired by the department heads and employees. 

A man of true character, Mayor McGee practices what he preaches in life.  I’m proud to have such an outstanding role model for my staff and myself.  It is because of his unquestionable integrity that he expects the same from every employee of the city.  A proud and devoted husband, father and grandfather, the value that he places on his family is obvious.  And the respect he shows to employees and their families is as well.  The commitment he has to assuring that Ridgeland offers an excellent quality-of-life is based on having lived his entire married life—38 years—and having reared his children here. 

It is my belief that the citizens of Ridgeland would be well served by re-electing Mayor Gene McGee.  One has only to look at the amazing growth and progress that have occurred under his leadership to understand his commitment to excellence.  I’m proud to work for such a fine man, I am proud that he is my boss and I’m proud that he is my mayor.

Dear Mayor McGee,

I want to thank you as a former HOA president for encouraging us to pursue the process of creating a gated entrance to protect our community and children from vehicles traveling dangerously fast through the entrance and around our fountain.  Since the gate’s construction, traffic has slowed significantly and there has been no drive through, petty theft in the neighborhood.  Your help in encouraging the Attorney General office to respond to our requests was significant.  Our community is safer, crime is down and our property values have been sustained better than most areas even in our down economy.

In addition, thank you for your dedication to the city.  Your continual commitment in spirit and hours is not unnoticed by our citizens.

Thank you again for your support and encouragement through the long but worthwhile process.

Sincerely,

Bryan Carter
Former President
Montrachet HOA
Ridgeland, MS

Dear Mayor McGee,

My mother had an opportunity to come visit me this past weekend.  It was the first time she has been here since 2006, before my father’s illness and death.  While she was here, I took her all over the city, showing her all the various areas of growth, including The Renaissance and Old Towne.

She asked me to tell you that she was so impressed with the growth and the aesthetic architecture of Ridgeland in less than 3 years.  The cleanliness there was obvious to her as well.  She loved all the unique shops and major retailers which have located in Ridgeland.  In addition, she mentioned several times how nice all the landscaping is all over the city.

I wanted to also pass along my compliments.  Since the opening of the most recent bicycle paths, I have noticed so many people in Ridgeland exercising, enjoying the outdoors and working to become healthier.  I notice lots of people to and from my trip to Fitness Lady on different days and at various times.  Your enthusiasm for biking has really proliferated throughout the city and people seem to really be enjoying the paths, even for walking and running.

After my mom’s trip here, she said she was very encouraged to complete the home improvements she has been trying to take care of on her home and relocate to this area. It means a lot to me for her to be near me now.  And because of what the City of Ridgeland offers, she is inspired to get here sooner rather than later. 

So thank you for your leadership, your vision and your ability to make our city a place where people are offered so many pleasures and opportunities.  Please tell the city employees how much I appreciate all that they do to assist us, to keep us safe and to make Ridgeland a great place to live.  Keep up the good work.

Shana Holt
Ridgeland, MS

Dear Mayor McGee:

We have recently been enjoying the walk/bike trails in Ridgeland, and not only have been getting healthier and more fit, but are very impressed with how nice they are!  We have in the past walked mainly in our neighborhood, but are really enjoying the safety and FUN of these trails.  We’ve been doing the long ones on the weekends, and are trying to get in more of the shorter walks after and before work during the weekdays.

Our 20-year-old daughter, Hayley, is an environmental engineering/sociology major at University of Colorado (CU) in Boulder, and we visit every chance we get.  The city of Boulder is so beautiful, and people are outside DOING things all the time. It’s such a fun and healthy place, with all the walking and biking trails everywhere. Thanks to you, Ridgeland now has these same type of trails, and we really appreciate them so much. Thank you!

We are also very grateful for what we think is the MOST delightful town in which to live in Mississippi.  We really are enjoying the new Renaissance development, and how the new areas are so well-maintained.  Thank you again.

We believe we have bragging rights for the best mayor in Mississippi!

Sincerely,

Janice and Bill Gilreath
Ridgeland, MS

In the last 20 years, since Gene McGee has served the City of Ridgeland as Mayor, Ridgeland’s tax base has more than doubled, thereby creating a larger tax base which in turn keeps the millage rate low.  The citizens of Ridgeland have enjoyed some of the lowest taxes in Mississippi, and the current leadership deserves the credit.

Gerald Barber
Tax Assessor, Madison County

Mississippi Urban Forest Council Letter

An effective mayor must be a leader with problem solving skills; Mayor Gene McGee is a proven leader. He has navigated City of Ridgeland’s explosive growth with innovation, skill and integrity, and the city, its residents and businesses have benefited greatly.

Mayor McGee’s door is always open, and he is available to hear the concerns of citizens, businesses and employees. In addition, he is prepared to address the difficult problems. His willingness to hear the everyday concerns as well as the complex issues keeps Mayor McGee in tune to the concerns of those whom he serves.

John Taylor
Business Owner & Resident

My wife, Joy, and I chose Ridgeland as our home and as the location of our business 32 years ago. During that time, we raised our children and grew our business. I met Gene McGee 29 years ago when we were both involved in our children’s sports, and we became friends. I have been in the position to observe him as a husband, father, community leader, and for the last 20 years, as Mayor of City of Ridgeland. In every facet of his life, he is honest, fair and above reproach.

The phenomenal growth that the city has experienced has been wonderful for the businesses and residents of City of Ridgeland. In addition, under Gene’s leadership, professionals head our city departments, and the services provided are the best. As a friend, I have the opportunity to see the mayor when he’s “off duty,” what you need to know is that he is never “off duty.” He is sometimes faced with making decisions that are not popular with everyone, but I assure you that his decisions are always in the best interest of the City of Ridgeland, its citizens and businesses.

Tom Lester, DVM
Resident and Business Owner
City of Ridgeland

I have known Mayor Gene McGee for over 29 years, and probably know him as well as anyone other than his wife. I know Gene to be a fine Christian, that he loves his church, his family and his friends unconditionally, and is fiercely loyal.

For the 24 years he has served City of Ridgeland, 20 as mayor, he has been a person of uncompromising honesty and integrity, and has worked tirelessly for the benefit of the city, its residents and businesses. Because we know first hand the outstanding job he has performed as mayor and we know his commitment to the future of City of Ridgeland, my wife Janiece and support him in his reelection campaign, and urge you to join us.

Larry Morris, DDS
Resident
City of Ridgeland

I was hired as a professional musician to augment the church orchestra at Colonial Heights Baptist Church for the Christmas music of 1988. It was there that I met Gene McGee, a charter member of the orchestra and hand bell choir. Gene, a deacon and very active in the outreach program of the church, was not the Mayor of Ridgeland at that time. I saw how friends of many years respected Gene and worked diligently for his election to this post. I knew that without any doubt the quality person Gene was by the confidence they had in both his word and actions.

I have had the privilege over these years to pursue a warm relationship with Gene and his family. A very interesting part has been an opportunity to develop musical groups for many civic affairs, which the Mayor has felt were an important part of the ambiance of the City of Ridgeland. In our many endeavors and conversations, there has been a continuing thread of “what is best for the citizens of Ridgeland” and, “what can I do to insure that this is what happens.”

He has many times, when asked, related stories about information he has gained from both state and national travels about cities of like size. It is physically evident, as you see the exciting and tremendous changes that have taken place in Ridgeland, that this is not just a ceremonial position that the post of Mayor has become. I don’t feel that I need to attest to this point. Gene would be the first to point out his respect for the fact that the board of alderman, employees and citizens have all played a tremendous role in this superb development.

I continue to see the same energy in his devotion to his work as I saw many years ago. I would hope that the citizens of Ridgeland would all see the very valid reasons to go to the polls and reelect Gene McGee as Mayor.

Don Hickman
Fellow Church Musician

Under the leadership of Mayor Gene McGee, the City of Ridgeland has become one of the most progressive municipalities in Mississippi. With the City’s aggressive capital improvements program, the Mayor’s sound financial management and excellent departmental leadership, the outlook for the City is bright.

Demery Grubbs 
Financial Advisor
Government Consultants, Inc

We have known Gene McGee, Mayor of Ridgeland, since he came into office, to be a fellow citizen and a true leader. His leadership displays knowledge of the full potential of our community and a deep commitment to see it fulfilled. You may be sure that he has our full support in his bid for reelection as Mayor of City of Ridgeland.

Alice and Dan Tueth
Residents
City of Ridgeland

In the years, my company has been located in City of Ridgeland, we have received the utmost cooperation from the city on issues that affect our business. Gene McGee’s leadership makes Ridgeland an outstanding place to do business and to live. As City of Ridgeland continues to grow, Gene McGee is the person to lead this city to greatness.

Ken Barlow
Resident and Business Owner
City of Ridgeland

As mayor, Gene McGee has led the transformation of Ridgeland from a small town into a flourishing city. His hard work, dedication to safe neighborhoods, emphasis on family values, and firm commitment to business growth and development have resulted in a better way of life for all of us who call Ridgeland home. City of Ridgeland’s future is bright, and will be greatly enhanced by the continued leadership of Mayor Gene McGee.

Sandra Vance
Resident
City of Ridgeland

Last summer, someone moving into Ridgeland asked what kind of mayor we have, and whether he would likely run again. I said that I certainly hope so, and told them a few things about Mayor Gene McGee.

Gene McGee has been a tremendous asset to our growing city, and we need to keep his visionary leadership, his steady guidance and his unfailing care and concern. City government is the closest of all governments to the daily life of people, and Gene is reachable, reasonable and accommodating in making City of Ridgeland work for all of us without allowing it to become a “big brother” that would control and manage our lives.

Gene has worked long and hard to maximize and enhance quality development in our exploding community while saving and preserving the traditional values and advantages of small town life we hold so dear.

With all the things a mayor has to face, from people and problems within and without our city, Gene doesn’t get upset, he doesn’t get mad, he doesn’t get frustrated, he doesn’t give up and he doesn’t quit; he just keeps on keeping on until he gets the job done, with a smile on his face.

It is rare to find a person who is willing to put in the long, selfless and often thankless hours required of a city official with the unfailing grace, dignity, modesty and spirit of public service constantly delivered by Gene McGee. He certainly puts the meaning of “public” into the term “public servant,” and when you have a man like that, you had better keep him as long as you can.

Thank you for once again offering yourself…as our Mayor for another term to us frequently forgetful, often ungrateful and quick-to-complain voters.

Hugo and Susan Newcomb
Residents and Business Owners
City of Ridgeland

I think Mayor McGee’s vision for the City of Ridgeland has been and continues to be, great. I should know about his vision!

Cleve Barham
Resident and Business owner

As Mayor, Gene McGee promotes a business-friendly agenda with city employees and in all of his contacts. When asked, he and his staff always respond quickly to any concerns I have voiced. The City of Ridgeland, under Gene’s leadership, does the best possible job of assisting and promoting business in Ridgeland.

John McComman
Resident and Business Owner
City of Ridgeland

Mayor Gene McGee is one of the biggest supporters of Ridgeland High School. He was instrumental in seeing that the school became a reality. He supports all programs at RHS whether it is football games, academic and band competitions, or cross country events. I have been a school administrator for over 30 years and I can honestly say that I have never experienced support for a school and community like what is given by Mayor McGee. Not only do I appreciate him being a great mayor—I appreciate him being a friend as well.

Lee Boozer, Principal
Ridgeland High School

Mayor McGee is respected on the local and federal level. He demonstrates a high degree of knowledge in regards to all facets of municipal and state affairs, and he does so with a heart for serving his constituents.

He always made himself available for me when I needed, and he made me feel comfortable and satisfied every time I had a problem to discuss or a question to be answered. Mayor McGee is a man of Faith and conviction, and he seems to resolve issues based on these important traits. I have the utmost respect for Gene, and I see a bright future for him in regards to public service.

Tony Phillips

Former Mayor
City of Petal

For over two decades, Mayor Gene McGee has pushed Ridgeland to take seriously its role in shaping the future of the community, and Ridgeland has become the recognized leader in Mississippi for strategic planning.

Jim Borsig

Mayor,

Moments like this “Ridgeland’s Hot Air Ballon Show 2008″  remind Jeni and I just how much we appreciate all of your hard work in bringing RHS into exsistance. When we first moved here from Texas 15  years ago there was only Ridgeland Elementary. Patrick has the honor of being part of the class to exit each school and promptly enter a brand new one, Eric and Kaitie will follow through the years. As we played in Titan Stadium this year and watch the auditorium take shape, we are thankful as ever for your commitment to this community we choose to live and work in. Thanks again.
 
David Wiggins
Wiggins Photography

Mississippi Municipal League had one of its most productive years, under the leadership of our [past] President, Mayor Gene McGee of Ridgeland. Due to his talents as an innovative leader and professional municipal manager, Mississippi Municipal League experienced great success in involving over 650 elected municipal officials in professional training through the Certified Municipal Officials Program.

Mayor McGee’s devotion to the City of Ridgeland, his professional leadership skills and strong personal values have been an example for elected municipals throughout Mississippi, and he is a progressive, positive influence on the League and its members.

George Lewis
Executive Director
Mississippi Municipal League

I am pleased to hear you are going to run for reelection as Mayor of Ridgeland. It has been a pleasure working with you over the years on projects of interest to out mutual constituents

You have my best wishes for success in your campaign.

Senator Thad Cochran

I am always pleased to acknowledge the fine leadership provided by many elected municipal officials in Mississippi. I am particularly proud of the exceptional leadership and vision exhibited by Mayor Gene McGee of City of Ridgeland.

On numerous occasions, he has spoken to the Mississippi Congressional Delegation regarding issues that effect City of Ridgeland and all citizens of Mississippi. I have always found him to be educated on the issues, an effective spokesman on behalf of those he serves and a tireless advocate. Additionally, as a result of the detailed, long-term plans developed under his leadership, City of Ridgeland has been positioned to take advantage of federal grants and funding. This has allowed City of Ridgeland to accomplish important projects without raising taxes or requiring taxpayer funding.

I congratulate the Mayor on his fine service and wish him well as he continues to lead City of Ridgeland into the future.

Former Congressman Chip Pickering
3rd Congressional District

Mr. Mayor,

Read your interview in the Northside Sun.
Appreciate your leadership of the City of Ridgeland.

Gerard R. Gibert, CDP
CEO, Venture Technologies
Ridgeland, MS

It has been a pleasure working with Mayor Gene McGee these past 17 years.  We have worked together as a team on legislation for Ridgeland.  An example of that teamwork is the beautiful new Mississippi Crafts Center.

Gene has focused his interest in providing Ridgeland families a very high quality of life.  He attends and participates in all types of family gathering events and promotes by example healthy life habits, spiritual growth and academic excellence.  Not only is he interested in expanding the city’s bike trails, but he also continues to support musical and drama events by participation.

One of the things I first learned about this mayor is that he is not always promoting himself.  He promotes the city of Ridgeland first and foremost.  His belief that both small and large businesses are important to the health of the city’s economic well being has become stronger and stronger as years go by. Others in the state and around the country have noticed his work in that regard.  Fire and police protection of Ridgeland’s citizens has also been a priority for Mayor McGee.

Altogether, during the years Gene McGee has been mayor, Ridgeland has prospered and I fully support his candidacy for re-election so the city can continue to grow in grace.

Rita Martinson
State Representative
District 58
Madison County

Click here to view the letter

I would be the first to let you know if I have a problem with MY local government.  Especially when the power of government is used to enforce rules to help real estate people (brokers, agents, appraisers), but provide no logical benefit for actual neighbors.  Therefore, I try to be (and wish to be), just as conscientious to thank those who provide service to the citizens of Ridgeland.  They may get paid to do these things but many times they deserve thanks and we don’t take the time to do it.  

This morning my wife was leaving our home on Pear Orchard Road at around 9am, in my car to go to work.  About 100 yards south on Pear Orchard the automatic transmission locked up. She called me at the house and I walked down to where the car was setting in southbound traffic.  My first concern was to get her out of the car and off the road.  I could not get the car off the road since the transmission was totally locked.  Before I even had a chance to call the police or a tow, an unmarked police unit arrived with two very competent and helpful plainclothes officers.  I wasn’t smart enough to get their names, unfortunately.  Do me a huge favor and determine who they were and make sure they know that my wife and I are very grateful for all they did this morning, as well as the dangers they face frequently on all our behalf.  

Also, while I am writing this, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention assistance we received from the Ridgeland Fire Department shortly before Thanksgiving (I think; since I will have to check with my wife for a more exact date).  We had contractors doing renovations in our home while we visited our son and his family on the coast.  At one point while the workers were cutting dry-wall they allowed too much plaster dust to get into the air and set off our ADT smoke alarm.  ADT called here and the worker in charge answered the phone but did not know how to calm the situation.  ADT called the fire dept. and they responded.  The workers apologized and the fireman were very courteous and told the workers that it was all right since that is what the RFD got paid for.  That may be but it is hard to express just how much a home owner appreciates that kind of prompt, professional response; nor how embarrassing it is to know that such emergence services have been called out unnecessarily.  

Jim & Linda Sudduth
Ridgeland, MS

Good Morning!

Sorry I am so late in thanking you all for addressing our creek issues. It has been a long time since our creek has been cleaned out like this and it looks great. Hopefully, that will address our drainage and mosquito issues. Our creek had just about become solid with that thick, stubborn growth causing the water to become stagnate in several places. Thank you so much for listening to our needs and taking quick action upon them. Ridgeland IS the best place to live, I have lived in Cottonwood for 20 years and do not want to live anywhere else. Ridgeland is HOME.

God bless,

Maureen Smith
Ridgeland, MS

Mayor and Aldermen,

I live in Carlton Parke subdivision and wish to thank you for the entire neighborhood for repaving Steed Road. I recently compared it to Woodrow Wilson and Fortification in Jackson, but you have rectified that fact.

I think whatever the enterprise (personal, government or business) the proper maintenance of the assets is a sign of good management priorities. Y’all seem to be ahead of the curve.

Thanks again, 

Bill Hill
Ridgeland, MS

I just want to say thanks for your support of outdoor activities. My wife and I travelled from Arlington TN (north of Memphis) to attend the bike race this weekend and it was the first time visiting your fine city. We have never felt more welcome and at home at a race. For example, we camped at the park Saturday night and met the man whose mom owns the house on the property (his name escapes me now), when he found out we were camping he told my wife that she is welcome to use the shower in the house, that the door is unlocked and to help herself, she took him up on it Sunday morning. That made her a very happy camper.

One of the local cyclists went by Starbucks early Sunday morning and bought us a couple of nice hot Lattes by our tent bright and early Sunday morning. We went into town and had a great meal at Soulshine Saturday evening, the tamales were fantastic.

I could go on and on. I just wanted to personally thank you for your support of events such as this. We will be back and we will bring friends!

Thanks,

Chris Irving

Mayor and Alderman:

On behalf of the residents of Dinsmor I would like to thank you for the projects recently approved for our subdivision.  Your efforts in maintaining the beauty and infrastructure of our area is much appreciated. 

We look forward to thanking you personally and will be recognizing your efforts in our publication “The Dinsmor Dispatch” and at our Annual Homeowners Meeting. We are proud of the work that each of you have done for our great city.

Best Regards,

Jim Smith
Dinsmor Resident

Dear Mayor McGee,

I saw you on the bike trail this morning and it reminded me to do something I have been wanting to do.

I want you to know how very thankful I am for the amazing bike trails we have in Ridgeland.  I love them!  I am not sure where the vision for these trails came from but I commend you on this vision and for the time and money Ridgeland has spent to make these trails a reality. 

About three weeks ago, I was on the newest part of the trail.  I was biking up the hill getting ready to cross the Natchez Trace Bridge.  When I got to the top and looked up (I was out of breath), the sun was setting and that bridge was the perfect spot for enjoying the specular display before my eyes.   It was a moment I will always remember.  Thankfulness swelled in my heart (really) for what the city of Ridgeland has done with these trails.  

I don’t know if there are plans for future trails but I am willing to help in any way possible even though I live in Madison. Speaking of which, do you know if Madison has any plans to build onto the Ridgeland trails?  Is there anything that I can do as a citizen of Madison to encourage that?  I think it would be awesome for Madison County to have trails connecting to all parts of the cities that reside within Madison County.

There are two websites I wanted to share with you that I thought might be of interest.  The first one is www.seattlecentury.com.  Seattle has a bike ride called Seattle Century that is 50-100 miles long that takes you on an amazing tour of spectacular sights in Seattle.  Along the way, the participants are greeted at the rest stops with homemade smoothies, live music, beer from a microbrewery and dinner by a well know chef! I am going to that next year!

The other site is www.bicyclefriendlycommunity.org.  It tells you how your city can become a designated bike friendly community. I think Ridgeland could be awarded this designation!

Again, I thank you!

Regards,

Tiffany Bustin
Madison, MS

Dear Mr. Mayor:

We appreciate very much your support for issues that so directly affect private property rights and small business. These issues are important to us, our customers and clients, and the communities in which we live and work. I’m pleased to inform you of our endorsement of your candidacy for re-election as Mayor of Ridgeland. We appreciate and recognize your fine record of public service and your dedication to the citizens of Ridgeland. It may be helpful for you to know that we base our endorsement decisions on a number of factors:

• past voting record on issues of critical importance to homeowners
• concern for and support of small businesses, and
• commitment to smart growth for our communities.

As we look to the future, we are eager to strengthen our partnership with you and others who are committed to promoting smart, sustained growth of our Mississippi communities, extendinghousing opportunity to everyone, and protecting the rights of property owners. We look forward to working in your campaign, and to working with you in the coming months.

Cordially,
Kathy Adkins, President
Jackson Association of REALTORS