Campaign Newsletter, Edition XI:  End Note

November 6, 2003

"3,788 people sought change by casting their vote for me."
-Sherman Lee Dillon, Green Party candidate for Governor

Dear Greens & Friends,

The election is over, and Sherman and I are grateful for your support throughout the campaign. You have helped foster a Greener future for the state of Mississippi. We could not have done it without you. Thank you.

The returns from around the state were encouraging. Of Mississippi's eighty-two counties, only two counties had less than five Green votes. Seven counties had triple digit numbers. Surprisingly, conservative Lee County (Tupelo) had 107 votes.

The potential for growth in our state is tremendous! Southern soil is fertile soil for the Green message. Like I always say, we shall spread across the state like kudzu. We have much work ahead of us.

Sadly, Haley Barbour is our Governor-elect. This means that not only must we strive to build on the foundation that we have created with this campaign, but we must also be vigilant regarding the new administration. We must keep an eye on medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and the already struggling Department of Human Services. We cannot allow "BIG BUSINESS Barbour" to butcher social programs in favor of the rich. We must ensure that fairness for families and communities is sought throughout the next four years and beyond. Truly, our campaign has only just begun.

If you have not joined the Green Party of Mississippi, I would encourage you to do so. The Green Party is a voice of reason in this vastly chaotic world. With clearly defined values of Peace/Nonviolence, Social Justice, Grassroots Democracy, and a focus on Environment, the Greens need your support to help change the world. Please feel free to attend the next meeting of the Green Party of Mississippi, State Executive Committee on Saturday, November 8, 2003. We will meet at 921 N. Congress St. in Jackson at 10 a.m. For more information on the party please check out http://www.greenpartyms.org or http://www.gp.org .

We look forward to your continued participation with Sherman Lee and the Green Party of Mississippi. Once again, thank you for your support.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager

Campaign Newsletter, Edition X:  This is the End

November 1, 2003

"I'd rather vote for what I want and not get it, than vote for what I don't want and get it."
-Eugene V. Debs

Dear Greens & Friends:

The last week of the campaign has been a busy one. We have visited many counties around the state and several universities. Sherman has been running hard and the Green message is getting out.

Unfortunately, we have made a discovery in this last week. People are getting scared. "What if we elect Barbour," they keep asking? Well, the answer is simple. We won't!

Sherman figures it like this:
1.  It takes fifty plus one percent of the vote to win.
2.  Four candidates in the race are not Barbour.
3.  These four candidates, including Sherman, will draw fifty plus one.
4.  Without a majority the House of Representatives decides the election.
5.  Given the Democratic nature of the House, Musgrove will win.

Please vote your conscience and not your fears. Sherman represents the idea of freedom over corporate tyranny, a mandate for change. This idea must be defended. In this case, the way to do that is with your vote. On November 4 vote with honesty and integrity - vote for Sherman Lee Dillon, a man of, for, and by the People.

After voting on Tuesday, November 4, please join us at Soul Shine Pizza, in downtown Jackson for a victory party. Festivities commence at 6 p.m.

Hope to see you there.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign

P.S. If you have not checked out our website recently please take a look.
There is astonishing new information on the Issues page.

Dear Greens & Friends,

A blight has befallen our nation, and the article below makes it quite clear. Please vote for REVOLUTION on November 4, 2003 by casting your vote for Sherman Lee Dillon, Green Party candidate for Governor.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager

P.S.  Please forward this message to as many friends & family members as possible.

(old link removed)

It's easy being Green in Mississippi
Party's governor candidate is the pick of the bunch

By Michael Kelley
November 2, 2003

I'm coming to you this week with news that some readers might find surprising. Contrary to popular belief, the gubernatorial campaign in Mississippi is over.

You may still see stories in newspapers of record and on television newscasts throughout Mississippi, including the northern province of Memphis, that refer to a so-called trip to the polls this Tuesday.

But Sherman Lee Dillon, the Green Party's candidate for governor, has pretty much got the thing sewn up.

Who could possibly vote for millionaire Washington lobbyist Haley Barbour, who, according to an ad I saw on television, has been poisoning the children of Mississippi, or Gov. Ronnie Musgrove, who has been attacking our state flag and helping Mexicans steal our jobs? Or is it Barbour who's collaborating with Mexicans? I can't remember. Maybe they both are.

It doesn't matter. The obvious winner has to be Sherman Lee Dillon, although we know nothing about him.

Actually, that's not quite true. We know from an Associated Press report that he once walked onto a stage at Delta State University while the millionaire Washington lobbyist and the flag desecrater were debating the "issues" in Mississippi and said to the audience: "My name is Sherman Lee Dillon. I'm the Green candidate for governor of the State of Mississippi."

We don't know what else he had to say, about the flag or the big tobacco lobby or anything else. According to the AP, security guards surrounded Dillon and "shuffled him out of the building" - the story didn't say what happened there - while some of his supporters in the audience yelled "Democracy!" and "What are you scared of?"

I know the polls haven't closed just yet in that portion of Mississippi that lies in the Mountain Time Zone, but thanks to the efforts of political consultants who assume everyone in Mississippi is a complete imbecile and wants to bring back caning in the public square as a punishment for collaboratin' with Yankees, the Greens have collard the election.

I sincerely apologize for that remark. But speaking of green, we owe it all to the Mississippi casino industry. According to another Associated Press report, gambling interests and other corporations are coughing up hundreds of thousands of dollars that - if money is, indeed, fungible - eventually winds up in the hands of political consultants.

From there it goes to television advertising campaign blitzes that credit voters with the intelligence of fleas that grew up in blighted flea neighborhoods where none of the flea houses had a single book on the flea bookshelves.

We all know about Haley's nefarious efforts to poison our children and Ronnie's vicious campaign against our flag because casino operators and other corporations are indirectly giving two fiscally conservative candidates more money than they know what to do with.

The money is funneled through groups such as the Republican Governors' Association and the Democratic Governors' Association, so it's all quite legal. And groups such as the RGA and DGA point out with rigid expressions on their faces that money they get from casinos doesn't help candidates because it's used for "operations," not campaigns.

Some of these groups - the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, for example - are making sure that money goes to both major party "operations." When you're not quite sure who's going to be running a state, you always want to make sure every major candidate has enough cash to run a campaign based on the, you know, "issues."

So my exit polling, which is just as reliable as anything you'll see on television Tuesday night, has revealed that a Green Party sweep is in the works. From here on out in Mississippi, once the new leadership has taken office, we're going to see some real tree-hugging - consensual, of course.

Michael Kelley is an editorial writer and columnist for The Commercial Appeal. You can reach him at 529-2785 or by E-mail at: kelley@gomemphis.com
Copyright 2003, commercialappeal.com - Memphis, TN. All Rights Reserved.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition IX:  A Debate of Our Own

October 22, 2003

When:	Thursday, October 23, 2003 @ 7 p.m.
Where:	Central Independent Baptist Church, Brandon, Mississippi
Why:	Spread the Green Word
Participants:	Sherman Lee Dillon, Green Party; John Thomas Cripps, Constitution Party; Shawn O'Hara, Reform Party

Dear Greens & Friends:

The Citizens for Campaign Reform is hosting a gubernatorial debate in Brandon, Mississippi on Thursday. The event will take place at Central Independent Baptist Church. To get to the event you should take the Flowood exit off of I-20 going East from Jackson. Make a right onto U.S. Hwy 80. At Old Brandon Road make a right. This should put you right at the church which is behind Larry's Auto Sales.

Attendance would be a great way of showing support for Sherman Lee and the Green cause. Please come and bring friends. Thanks for your consideration.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign

P.S.  Additionally, it would be a great idea to call Mississippi Broadcasting Network (formerly ETV) and encourage them to carry the debate live on PRM. You can reach MSBN at 601-432-6565 or by writing an e-mail to Marie Antoon, Executive Director at marie@etv.state.ms.us. This action would greatly help our cause.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition VIII: The Last Debate

Monday, October 20, 2003

Dear Greens & Friends:

Monday marks the last exlcusionary debate. If anyone is interested in riding down to the Coast with me please give a shout. I will be leaving Jackson at 2 p.m., briefly meeting activists in Hattiesburg on the way down, and demonstrating from 5:30 to the start time at 7. Coast activists have promised to join.

If the idea of Sherman Lee being excluded causes you concern, please let the host of the event know. They can be reached by phone at 228-8961313 or by e-mail at wlox@wlox.com.

Tuesday is very busy for Sherman. We will be traveling to McComb in the morning. He will put in a radio spot, speak with the local paper and visit with teachers at the local High School. From there we will return to Jackson and visit J.S.U. At 6 p.m. Sherman will be the first speaker at a Candidate's Forum. After speaking Sherman will teach a class at Millsaps and then head to Byram where he will film a spot for Peeples Middle School student run programming.

More news later.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign

Mr. Dillon, Please Be Quiet!
A Debate Commentary

October 15, 2003

In a true act of patriotism, Sherman Lee Dillon, Green Party candidate for governor of Mississippi, attempted to wrestle away the stranglehold on Democracy that the Republican and Democratic parties exercise by crashing the scheduled debate at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, held on Tuesday, October 14. Mr. Dillon resolved that his exclusion was unnecessary, hurtful to the American Republic and a true curtailment of his rights as a citizen running for the office of Governor.  "The People must be allowed to hear all of the choices and this seems like the best way to bring my message to them. Besides, how much respect can citizens show a system that does not respect them," questioned Mr. Dillon, while addressing a group of students at Delta State University.

Mr. Dillon has been excluded from two scheduled debates thus far, at Mississippi State University and at Belhaven College. With sixty percent of the electorate uncommitted to either corporate party candidate, and an unofficial poll indicating that seventy-nine percent of the electorate rejects the idea of a two party debate, Mr. Dillon felt that it was time to take action.

As the debate at Delta State unfolded, Mr. Dillon, who was seated in the audience, leapt onto the stage and spoke from behind the moderator's table. He declared his name and that he too was a candidate for the office of Governor in the state of Mississippi. Many in attendance cheered. Scott Coopwood, publisher of the Delta Business Journal and debate moderator said, "Mr. Dillon! Mr. Dillon, please be quiet!" Much to his chagrin, Sherman did not listen and clearly stated, "I deserve to be heard. The People deserve to hear what I have to say," as he was dragged from the stage by armed guards.

Following Mr. Dillon's dramatic exit, a member of the audience stood up in the balcony and shouted across the auditorium, "Let Sherman Lee speak! He deserves to be heard. The People of Mississippi deserve to hear all of the candidates!" Mr. Coopwood said, "You are only taking time from your candidate." The Dillon supporter retorted as he was bodily removed and threatened with arrest, "How can my candidate be heard if he is not allowed to debate?"

As things quieted down, another Dillon supporter began to shout from the audience, "Sherman Lee Dillon for Governor! Let Sherman debate!" She too was removed. Two other audience members echoed this sentiment, and they too were removed from the auditorium. In total, Mr. Dillon and four of his supporters were bodily removed from the hall.

Mr. Dillon believes that the American form of Republic must be preserved. Diversity is key to that happening. Outside the hall he was heard to say, "I will not allow government of the People to perish from the earth."

Mississippi State University Exclusionary Debate

October 6, 2003

The days of Plessy vs. Ferguson should have long passed. However, regarding Mississippi gubernatorial politics, the people of Mississippi are receiving a heavy dose of "separate but equal." According to Josh Blade, Student Association President at Mississippi State University, the Musgrove and Barbour camps stipulated in their contracts with the University regarding the October 6 debate that they be the only candidates included. The Sherman Lee Dillon Campaign vehemently denounces this action as underhanded and unscrupulous and particularly inappropriate for a State educational institution. Exclusion of the three other candidates thwarts the chance for the people of Mississippi to hear a new message of hope for the state as espoused by Mr. Dillon.

Mr. Dillon also notes with irony the fact that the debate hosted by the Student Association allowed for only forty seven students to attend the event on a campus of over 1,500 undergraduates. To quote a student demonstrator's sign, "No wonder 18-25-year-old voters are apathetic."

In a race in which his opponents have exceeded all previous records for monies raised, Mr. Dillon is the only candidate to address the issue of campaign finance reform. He is not accepting corporate donations or more than $200 from individuals. "How can people making minimum wage be expected to believe that Haley or Ronnie is going to listen to them when they are accepting donations in the thousands of dollars?" Mr. Dillon asked a group of supporters. "Obviously, something needs to change. That is why, if elected Governor, I would support the passage of a 'Citizens' Clean Election Act,' as practiced in Arizona," he said. "This would make politicians accountable and return the faith of the electorate," he concluded.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition VII:  The Debate Situation

Thursday, September 25, 2003

"I am in earnest. I will not equivocate; I will not excuse; I will not retreat a single inch; and I will be heard."
-William Llyod Garrison, 19th Century Abolitionist

Dear Greens & Friends,

If you have not heard, Sherman Lee Dillon is a Civil Rights Champion. On Tuesday, September 23, 2003, he and Shawn O'Hara, Reform Party Candidate for Governor, filed a lawsuit in United States Federal Court, Southern District, Jackson, alleging that their civil rights had been violated by not being included in the Gubernatorial Debates being held on public property. They are joined in the suit by Constitution Party Gubernatorial Candidate John Thomas Cripps. These three gentleman with exceedingly different ideological stances agree on one thing: it is a miscarriage of justice when the majority of candidates for the highest office in the state are excluded from a public forum in favor of an elite set of corporate options.

We are asking people to join us in our disdain for the pandemic problem of candidate exclusion from public fora. On Monday, September 29, 2003, the first debate between Haley Barbour and Ronnie Musgrove will take place at Belhaven College at 7 p.m. As a show of support we would appreciate your presence beginning at 5:30 p.m., with us on Peach Street in front of the college to protest this closed debate. The early request is made due to the fact that doors open to the public at 6 p.m.  We want attendees to see us and know that we find the exclusionary tactics of the two candidates unacceptable. Hope to see you there!

Also of note, on Sunday, September 28, 2003, at 2:00 o'clock in Smith Park, downtown Jackson, we will be hosting a Presidential type fundraiser. Sherman Lee will host a peanut butter and jelly luncheon to raise funds for the campaign. So, if you are in the mood for PBJ and want to support Sherman Lee's efforts come on out. We might even make one special for you like Elvis used to enjoy.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign

P.S. The subject of Sherman's exclusion from the debates would make a great letter to the Editor.

Majority of Candidates File Suit

Tuesday, September 23, 2003

Responding to their exclusion from gubernatorial debates, the majority of candidates in the race for Governor of Mississippi filed today a lawsuit in the United States District Court, Southern Division, in Jackson. Plaintiffs Sherman Lee Dillon of the Green Party, Shawn O'Hara of the Reform Party, and John Thomas Cripps of the Constitution Party declared that their absence from the debates would violate their Constitutional rights. Named as defendants were Haley Barbour (as a candidate for Governor), Haley Barbour (as an individual), Dr. Charles Lee (as an individual), Dr. John Hilpert (as an individual), The League of Women Voters (care of Jane Doe), and The League of Women Voters (care of Jane Doe).

The plaintiffs cite in their complaint the fact that in the August 5, 2003, Republican and Democratic primaries, only about 600,000 people voted. This left over 1.2 million Mississippi voters unrepresented. Therefore, the three candidates have sought equal footing with the Republican and Democratic nominees so that voters can be familiar with the five candidates in the gubernatorial race.

The suit states that the Constitutional rights of the plaintiffs under the First and Fourteenth Amendments have been violated by the refusal of several debate sponsors to include all candidates. Also, division of the candidates into two separate forums, one for the Republican and Democratic nominees and one for the other three candidates, is unacceptable to the plaintiffs. "Through misuse of public properties and/or non-tax privileges," the complaint says, "defendants are violating plaintiffs civil rights, forcing plaintiffs to 'politically drink' out of separate water fountains, as well as, forcing plaintiffs to 'politically ride' on the back of the bus, even though plaintiffs are taxpayers, running for Governor."

Shawn O'Hara
P. O. Box 15275
Hattiesburg, MS 39404
601-544-1424
shawnforgovernor@aol.com

John Thomas Cripps
P. O. Box 283
Perkinston, MS 39573
601-528-5955
guvnah@freemississippi.org

Clarion Ledger Article - "Third-party candidates file suit over exclusion from debates"

Sherman Lee Dillon Spends Grandparent's Day in Tylertown, MS

Gubernatorial candidate, Sherman Lee Dillon's roots run deep. Dillon and his family, including four of his five grandchildren, traveled to Tylertown, Mississippi on Sunday, September 7, in celebration of Grandparent's Day. Dillon and his family visited the plaque honoring the first Dillon in Mississippi, Revolutionary War Veteran, Richard Dillon, at the Walthall County Courthouse.

Dillon further recognized Grandparent's Day by announcing the proposal of his "Bottle Bill." Dillon's "Bottle Bill" provides for the future of his grandchildren and other young Mississippians by rewarding recycling efforts. In other states with similar legislation, the amount of litter and pollution has been reduced.

Dillon calls on the wisdom of the Native American proverb which says, we don't inherit the earth from our fathers, but rather borrow it from our children," challenging all grandparents and parents to "take responsibility for the future." Dillon will be taking his message of environmental concern throughout the state. "We must protect the Earth for the fairness of families and communities of the future."

(read Sherman Lee Dillon's "Grandparent's Day" Speech here)

Grandparent's Day - September 7, 2003

Sherman Lee Dillon has an interesting life. Monday thru Friday he arises at 5 a.m. to greet two of his grandchildren, Delaney and Madeline Coates. A few hours later at 7, his daughter Polly drops off her two children Quincy and Max Thornhill. At other times, his oldest grandchild Chris Dillon can be found in the house after school or when sick.

Sherman Lee is the only grandfather in the race for Governor of Mississippi. This offers him perspective the other candidates lack, and as a hands-on Grandpa to all five of his grandchildren, he knows a thing or two about kids. Foremost he is concerned about their future. What kind of world will they inherit? Better yet, what kind of world will their grandkids know?

As a Green, Sherman Lee realizes that it is important to think about the future, to keep the Seventh Generation in mind. As a Mississippian, this is important because Family is number one in Sherman's life. He wants to be sure that the same streams and rivers he played in as a kid will still be there for his great-grandchildren's kids to enjoy. He does not want to see the air in Tupelo or Olive Branch resemble that of Los Angeles or New York. That is why Sherman feels it is important to protect the environment. He thinks of it as a promise to his kids.

To celebrate Grandparent's Day, on Sunday, September 7, Sherman Lee and his family will travel to the courthouse in Tylertown, Mississippi to pay homage to their ancestor, Richard Dillon, Revolutionary War veteran, who is remembered with a plaque there. At 1:30 p.m., Mr. Dillon will host a press conference on the Courthouse steps to outline a few of his environmental concerns for the state. He will also present a "Bottle Bill" that he feels will help secure jobs and clean up our state. Mr. Dillon thinks that, "A person who is not concerned about the environment is his child's worst enemy."

Women's Equality Day

August 27, 2003

Green Party Gubernatorial Candidate, Sherman Lee Dillon is fed up. As the father of four daughters and the grandfather to three granddaughters, Sherman Lee thinks it is time for Mississippians to heed the rights of our mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts -- all women. August 27 is Women's Equality Day. Sherman Lee thinks that it is not enough that women have had suffrage for eighty-three years. More must done to honor women and ensure equality.

Currently Mississippi holds the number one slot for violence against women, beating out the District of Columbia. Further aggravation is derived from the fact that sixty percent of the men who beat their wives or girlfriends also beat their children, compounding the vicious cycle of violence in our state.

"Mississippi prides itself as being a state of Southern Gentleman, but how can that be when we consistently demonstrate the opposite of honor for the women in our lives," Sherman Lee queried while addressing a local group of citizens? Commenting that, "We must change the way we deal with this problem. If elected Governor, I will present a bill to the legislature entitled the 'Fairness for Families and Community Act.' This legislation will provide a litmus test for officers who answer domestic violence calls. If it is determined that domestic violence has occurred the perpetrator shall be sentenced to a mandatory thirty days in jail. As part of this program counselling and anger management classes will be required. In order to avoid punishing the family, those that commit domestic violence will be allowed to go to work.

People must be taught that violence is a dead-end street. We want people to learn that just as there are consequences to beating up a stranger, so shall there be consequences for maintaining an atmosphere of terror in the home. This will benefit all of our families and communites and hopefully, stop the currently outrageous cycle of violence in Mississippi households."

In celebration of Women's Equality Day, Mr. Dillon will be having dinner with his wife Louise, three of his four daughters and three granddaughter's at his home in south Jackson. He encourages all Mississippians to be more mindful before resorting to violence and to celebrate Women's Equality Day, everyday.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition VI: HOGWASH!

August 19, 2003

Dear Greens & Friends,

Professor Robert McElvaine of Millsaps wrote an article on August 15 in the L.A.Times. He dedicates one of the last paragraphs in the article to Sherman, saying that he thinks Sherman will get less of a percentage than Larry Flynt in California. I say, HOGWASH! Green values are Mississippi values. Let's prove him wrong.
 
If you haven't already, please write a letter to the editor, donate money to the campaign or tell as many people as possible about the campaign and why they should vote for Sherman Lee. Sherman Lee embodies Mississippi. He represents the Future of Mississippi. He needs your support. Spread the word. Donate. Vote!
 
Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign
 
P.S.  Here's the story.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition V: How It Went

August 11, 2003

Dear Greens & Friends,

Our recent Candidacy Announcement press conference and Fundraiser party that followed at Soul Shine Pizza were both successes. Nearly seventy-five people attended the press conference and close to a hundred were present for the party. Thank you for your participation.

Sherman Lee, Anna, and Anna's boyfriend Aaron Gentry sang for us before the press conference. Following the performance, the press conference began at 6 p.m.  We opened the event with a minute of silence in honor of the 100,000 people killed in Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, as a direct result of the first atomic bomb used in battle. Then the state chair of the Green Party of Mississippi, Dr. Janet Rafferty gave a speech outlining the Four Pillars of our party and a few of their applications in Mississippi. She delivered a laudable speech. She then introduced the first Green candidate in the history of our state, Sherman Lee Dillon.

Everyone cheered when Sherman Lee took the podium. He immediately launched into his speech by announcing his candidacy and decrying the current form of campaign finance. He reminded People that the Revolutionary war was fought because of "No Taxation without Representation." He declared the right of the People to rule. He challenged his opponents to limit their spending in this race. He held up the Four Pillars of the Green Party as a light. The crowd applauded throughout.

Both objectives of media coverage and raising much needed campaign funds were accomplished. Two Jackson television stations covered the event. The Planet Weekly (a local Jackson news outlet) editor and publisher attended the event. As a direct result Sherman will be featured on its' cover the week of August 13. Also of note, Emily Wagster Pettus with the Associated Press had a full paragraph in one of her columns that was featured in both the Clarion Ledger and the Sun Herald, regarding Sherman's challenge to his opponents to limit their spending. This is a vast improvement over the one line the campaign has been getting. Slowly but surely our message is getting out.

We thank those that contributed to the campaign - both in time or money. We would not be in the race without you. To those able, please follow suit. Send a donation or volunteer to campaign with us. We can always use both money or your time. Thanks for keeping the campaign in mind and spreading the word.

Peace,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign

P.S. The Dillon Campaign does not accept donations over $200 or those from corporations.

August 6, 2003

The returns are in, and it is official. Sherman Lee Dillon is on the ballot for Governor of Mississippi. Sherman Lee will be joined by family, friends and candidacy supporters on the south steps of the New Capitol on August 6. At that time, he will announce his intent to be the next Governor of Mississippi. Mr. Dillon will hold a press conference at 6 p.m. to make this announcement. This event will be proceeded by a live performance by the Dillon Family Band at 5:30 p.m.

Mr. Dillon will be running on the Green Party ticket. He is the first candidate in the history of the state to seek office under the Green banner. As such, it is no far stretch to say that he is the most progressive candidate to ever seek the office.

The Dillon Campaign will have five planks in its' platform. Mr. Dillon's number one issue will be campaign finance reform. The other four issues that Mr. Dillon intends to champion will be the Four Pillars of the Green Party: Ecological Wisdom, Grassroots Democracy, Social Justice and Peace/Nonviolence.

Mr. Dillon believes that under the current campaign finance system, politicians ignore the pleas of the People and favor the interests of those who have funded their campaigns. During the press conference, Mr. Dillon intends to challenge his opponents in the race to limit their spending as a sign of good faith to the People of Mississippi.

Campaign Newsletter IV:  Neshoba County Fair & Candidacy Announcement Reminder
http://www.dillon4gov.com/announcement.html (http://www.shermanleedillon.com/archive/dillon4gov/announcement)

August 2, 2003

Dear Friends & Greens,

Sherman Lee, Anna (Sherman's daughter, our scheduler) and I traveled to Neshoba County to attend the 114th Annual Neshoba County Fair on July 31. When we arrived we discovered that Sherman had been left off the program due to a mix up with him as a performer last week. However, after some haggling with Fair officials I was finally able to persuade them to let Sherman speak. Whew!

Having arrived at 11 a.m. and not being allotted a slot until 2:50 we had some time to kill. Sherman hung out with college cronies from his Mississippi College days, and Anna, Gwen Wages (one of our Tupelo friends and most loyal fan, next to John, her husband), and I took the opportunity to have lunch on the mid-way and catch a few mule races at the track, a first for Gwen. We then met back up with Sherman and politicked around the fair until time for his speech.

As is customary Sherman espoused the Four Pillars and spoke out about the current campaign finance system. What was different however, was a new line Sherman threw in about how he knew Mississippi could do better. Now this is a direct quote from the Barbour Campaign, but that's the point. Sherman said,"Now that might sound like an echo of one of my opponent's, and it is in a way. However, the Mississippi he envisions and the Mississippi I see are two entirely different places. In my Mississippi the Four Pillars of the Green Party will be applied, and they shall lend a light to our state."

While speaking out about Grassroots Democracy, Sherman said that if elected Governor he would push the Legislature to pass a Citizen's Clean Election Law (more info), as practiced in Arizona. This is phenominal legislation that cleans up elections by removing the need to be funded by lobbyists, corporations, and special interest groups by publicly funding campaigns and thereby restoring faith to the electorate and power to the people.

"Whoa," you might say! However, the law is really a true work of genius. It demands of a candidate that they gather 200 seed checks of $5.00 each or more to demonstrate genuine, grassroots support before they qualify for public funds. The cost of the elections are funded by a 10 percent surcharge on speeding tickets, and even with many candidates running in Arizona it amounts to less than one percent of the overall state budget. Amazing! Mississippi needs this legislation, and should demand it by casting votes for citizen-candidate, Sherman Lee Dillon.

That was our day at Neshoba.

Before logging off your account or shutting down the computer please take time to follow this link. It is quick reminder that on Wednesday, August 6, the day after the primary, we need your support at the New Capitol on the South steps for our Candidacy Announcement at 6 p.m.  Please attend and bring as many friends as will fit in a VW bus or more!

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign
Post Office Box 55604
Jackson, Mississippi 39296
601-948-7818
www.dillon4gov.com

P.S.  It would be a great help to see more letters to the editor about why you will vote for Sherman Lee. Peace

Campaign Newsletter, Edition III:  Interesting Juxtaposition
 
July 25, 2003
 
Dear Greens & Friends,
 
The Campaign is moving right along. Anna Lee, Sherman's silver-throated daughter, has come on board as our scheduler and aid-de-camp. We are glad to have the help.
 
Her first assignment took place on Tuesday, July 15, when she traveled with her Dad down to Sherman's birthplace in Meadeville, for an interview that Sherman gave to the Natchez Democrat. The article appeared in the Sunday, July 20 edition of the paper.
 
On Saturday, July 19, 2003, Sherman Lee made history by appearing at the Black Hawk Festival in Carroll County. The Black Hawk Festival has historically been the stomping grounds for members of the Conservative Citizen's Council and the likes of Byron de la Beckwith. We attended only because we were under the impression that the crowd would be in the thousands and that media outlets from Greenwood, Memphis, and Tupelo would be there. Unfortunately, only the Greenwood paper covered the event, and the crowd size was between 150-200 people. However, we were glad to have attended because it is no far stretch to say that Sherman is by far the most progressive person to have ever have spoken from the Black Hawk stage.
 
When he took the stage he plucked a harmonica from his pocket and played a few bars of the Carroll County Blues, to the pleasure of the crowd. He then launched into his stump speech, telling a bit about himself and his family, espousing the Four Pillars of the Green Party, and denouncing the current campaign finance system of political bribery. For the most part the crowd had been very inattentive to speakers before him. However, they raptly paid attention to what he had to say. In fact, when Sherman discussed the horrible statistics regarding violence against women in our state the crowd's hushed murmurs turned into a deathly pall. They were stunned into quiet. It was really quite a shocking experience. Needless to say his message was ill-received, but I can guarantee you that with that one appearance we hastened the entry of our state into the 21st Century.
 
Following the Black Hawk Festival, Anna had Sherman scheduled to attend a picnic in Jackson, hosted by the 100 Black Men of Jackson, a mentoring organization. After such a hostile crowd in Black Hawk, it was refreshing to be back home in Jackson and to be warmly welcomed by so many. Sherman, Anna and I milled about the crowd meeting and greeting folks and having a generally good time. We talked to people of all ages and from all walks of life. When the jazz band that had been entertaining finished up their set Sherman took the stage and delivered a very heartfelt, extemporaneous speech. As always he spoke of his family, the Four Pillars, and the Green Party. His message was well received. In fact, I would not be surprised if we picked up a few converts from the crowd.
 
All in all, last Saturday was an interesting juxtaposition.
 
We continue to travel the campaign trail, with events scheduled in Jackson and two appearances at the Neshoba County Fair (July 25 &  31). As always, may I remind you that letters of support to the editor of your local paper are welcome and encouraged. We also would be pleased to help organize a house-party in your home. We appreciate your continued support and encouragement.
 
Sincerely,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign
Post Office Box 55604
Jackson, Mississippi 39296
601-948-7818
www.dillon4gov.com
 
P.S.  The Dillon Campaign does not accept corporate contributions or those from individuals exceeding $200.  We encourage you to contribute.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition II:  Where is Sherman Lee Dillon?

July 14, 2003

Dear Greens and Friends,

Friday, June 27, marked the beginning of a very busy campaign run. That evening Sherman and his wife Louise hosted a dinner for Dean Myerson of the Green Party of the United States, Washington D.C. Office, at Hal and Mal's in Jackson. Dean flew down to do a campaign workshop on Saturday, June 28 at Millsaps College. Folks from all over the state attended. Starkville, Oxford, and Tupelo were represented.  The workshop focused on detailing the candidates job, the parties job, and the campaign staffs job down to volunteers. It was very informative and provided good direction.
 
On Independence Day, Sherman Lee attended the Jacinto Festival in Alcorn County, speaking to an audience of 600+, serving as gubernatorial candidate and garnering time on the local FOX station. He was proceeded by Haley Barbour and the Governor in speaking. I was very proud of him and for the Green Party. We have a message in which their is great honor, and a messenger of whom we can be grateful. He warmly greeted the crowd and then proceeded to list the issues he is running on: Campaign Finance Reform and the Four Pillars of the Green Party; nonviolence, grassroots democracy, social justice, ecological wisdom.
 
Later that day he did a "meet and greet" at Ballard Park in Tupelo. Followed by a performance for a private party off the Natchez Trace. Like everyone else he has to pay the bills.
 
Gwen and John Wages were a tremendous help at both the Jacinto and Tupelo events. They provided our wonderful shade canopy, cool drinks, campaign literature and many volunteer hours. Thank you kindly.
 
The following day, Saturday, July 5, he and his wife Louise attended a grassroots political forum hosted by "Stop the Madness," a non-profit citizens group in Biloxi. Sherman gave his stump speech and entertained the group with song. We made good contacts and garnered votes. Unfortunately, the sole reporter from the ABC affiliate refused to cover the fact that we were there. It was perturbing.
 
Lisa and Dan Womack hosted a house party for the campaign on Tuesday, July 8. We are very grateful to the Womacks. Fun was had by all, and the party was well attended. Sherman was introduced by Lisa, and then he delivered his campaign points in a short speech, especially addressing violence against women, the dangerous levels of mercury in our water supplies and the importance of looking after future generations. Afterwards I addressed the issue of campaign finance suggesting donations and soliciting contact information.
 
On July 14, Sherman and I will travel down to Southwest Mississippi to allow Sherman to give an interview to the Natchez Democrat. They are interested in his roots in Meadeville and his roots in the Green Party.
 
Towards the end of the month there are three events scheduled. We have a house party planned at our friend Margaret Drake's house for July 27. This is straddled by two appearances at the Neshoba County Fair on July 25 as a performer and on July 31 as a candidate.
 
If you are interested in hosting a house party in July or anytime throughout the campaign we would be pleased to help organize. Tuesday and Thursday nights work best for Sherman's schedule.
 
Also, if you have not written a letter to the editor or made a contribution both are highly encouraged. Thank you for your continued interest in the campaign. We appreciate the support.

 
Sincerely,
Landon W. Huey
Campaign Manager
Dillon Gubernatorial Campaign
Post Office Box 55604
Jackson, Mississippi 39296
601-948-7818
www.dillon4gov.com
 
P.S. The Dillon Campaign does not accept corporate donations or those from individuals exceeding $200. Thanks!

May 23, 2003

With his wife Louise, Sherman Lee Dillon left for Italy on Saturday, May 17,with Public Radio in Mississippi's Tour of Tuscany group. Mr. Dillon is the candidate for Governor of the Green Party of Mississippi.

Mr. Dillon had planned the trip prior to making his decision to run for Governor. However, with the blessings of his wife, who had been expecting an unfettered vacation, Mr. Dillon will be squeezing in a campaign stop in Fiesole, Italy on Friday, May 23. He and Mrs. Dillon will meet with Ugo Bardi, contact for members of the Green Party in the Tuscany region and professor of Chemistry at the University of Firenze. The Dillons will also attend a luncheon in their honor hosted by members of the Green Party of Italy.

In an e-mail to members of the Italian Green Party, Sherman Lee wrote that, "The potential for the Greens around the world to address many of the dangers of economic globalization and the challenge to grassroots democracy, led me to see if I could visit some representatives from the Italian Greens." He commented to members of his family and to friends before leaving that, "I cannot pass up an opportunity to serve as an ambassador from Mississippi while visiting in Italy." Mr. Dillon was excited to be able to share the same values of Grassroots Democracy, Social Justice, Nonviolence, and Ecological Wisdom that are held in common by Greens the world over.

While in Italy the Dillons, who are devout Catholics, intend to make a pilgrimage to the Shrine of St. Francis of Assisi. They also plan to visit the boyhood home of Mrs. Dillon's father, Louis Virgil Gatti. Mr. and Mrs. Dillon will return to the States on May 29 much refreshed and having experienced Old World hospitality offered by their new Italian friends in the Green Party of Italy.

Campaign Newsletter, Edition I

Thus far the campaign is off to a slow rambling start. However, we have been contacted by the national party with an offer of guidance. This meeting would consist of the Green Party United States Election Committee coming down to do a campaign workshop for us. Dan Kenny is the organizer with whom I have spoken. He asked if it would be acceptable to invite Greens from Alabama and Louisiana to attend. I said, "Of course!" Please mark your calendar for Saturday, May 10 as a potential meeting date.

Sherman Lee and I have been busy striving to create a serious campaign that all of us as Greens can be proud. Our first official campaign stop was in Starkville. Janet and Evan graciously hosted us both in their home and on campus. Sherman spoke to a small Green group on the MSU campus after having lunch in the student cafeteria and walking around campus speaking to students. It was both very informative and invigorating. That was late March.

Aside from policy meetings Sherman Lee has delivered a speech to the AFL-CIO, been a guest on the Charles Evers' Show, a radio call-in program, attended Earth Fest at Millsaps College - speaking with students, and he also delivered a speech to about 200 people at the first public meeting of the Mississippi Policy Forum, a new think tank founded by former gubernatorial candidate John Arthur Eaves. This last event was by far the biggest audience Sherman has addressed. He did a great job and garnered some applause during his speech.

To date the focus of the campaign has been directed at delivering Sherman Lee as a candidate and him espousing the Four Pillars as a good idea for Mississippi. I have faith in him as a worthy representative of the Green Party of Mississippi.

Also of note is the fact that we have received questions from John Wages, Greg Johnson and two non-Green Party members. We welcome your ideas and queries. The answers shall soon be posted on our website www.dillon4gov.com.

Other news of interest is that a few campaign donations have been slowly trickling in. Sherman Lee is dedicated to running a campaign that is honest and answerable to the People not corporations. He will only be accepting donations from individuals and in the amount of $200 or less. Having said that we welcome any money you can send. We still need to raise funds for yard signs, push cards (a must!), and various other campaign expenses. Please help support our cause. We appreciate your support.

That's all of the news for now, more soon. Go Greens!

April 15, 2003

Recently Sherman Lee Dillon, Green Party candidate for Governor, sat in as a guest on the Charles Evers Show on WMPR 90.1. Mr. Dillon outlined the Four Pillars of the Green Party: Grassroots Democracy, Ecological Responsibility, Social Justice, and Nonviolence and cited examples of their respective applications in Mississippi.

Speaking out on Felons' Rights Mr.Dillon expounded on the idea that Mississippi is only one of nine states (Alabama, Florida, Iowa, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, Virginia, and Wyoming) that continue to disenfranchise its citizens who have served time for felony convictions. Mr. Dillon stated that,"If you served your time you have paid your debt to society and should have the right to vote." He further commented that,"There was never a more clear case of 'no taxation without representation.'" The host Charles Evers agreed calling himself, "...a different kind of Republican."

This Tax Day We the People should be aware that nationally over 2% or 3.9 million people have lost their right to vote because of felony convictions, despite having paid their debt to society through time served in the penal system. Our Founding Fathers fought a revolution for the idea that people should not be taxed without being represented. As Governor, Sherman Lee Dillon will heed the mandate of the disenfranchised and restore the rights of those who have paid their debt to society.

On Thursday, February 27, 2003 at 8 a.m. Sherman Lee Dillon of Jackson, will be joined by family and friends at the Mississippi Secretary of State's Office as he files his Statement of Intent declaring his candidacy for Governor. Mr. Dillon a life-long resident of the state and father of seven will make history by becoming the first candidate to seek election on the Green Party ticket in Mississippi. Mr. Dillon promises to be a candidate, "of, for, and by the People." As such he will mount the largest grassroots campaign the South has ever seen. Only donations from individuals amounting to $200.00 or less will be accepted by the campaign. "Sherman Lee wishes to distinguish himself from other candidates and let the People know he is answerable to them alone," said campaign manager Landon W. Huey. Mr. Dillon will campaign on a platform dedicated to bringing about positive business and workforce development based on community economics thereby providing key physical, social, and civic infrastructure while maintaining a vigilant eye on cultural and environmental stewardship for the betterment of all Mississippians regardless of race or class. Mr. Dillon intends to campaign in all eighty-two of Mississippi's counties. Sherman Lee Dillon is a leader for the 21st Century. Please exercise your rights and vote on November 4, 2003.

Sherman Lee Dillon Campaign Post Office Box 55604 Jackson, Mississippi 39206 601-948-7818