80 Cents

Press Release

I wanted to share a remarkable story from the campaign trail with you. Many times, we are so busy that we fail to stop and recognize such wonderful moments when they happen to us; moments like these help me to realize the value of 80 cents.

This story begins like many others, with the Mayor traveling across the state to speak to voters about his plans to help Make Mississippi First.

One afternoon as we began to wrap up and travel home, a young boy who looked to be no more than 8 years old stopped me, and pointed to the Johnny DuPree for Governor lapel pin that I wore on my jacket. He then asked if he could have it. I replied with a simple "sure", and then removed the pin to give to him.

Immediately afterwards, he reached into his pocket and handed me 80 cents.

I remember looking at the change in my hand and then to him, saying "Oh no, the pin is free. You don't have to give me any money."

He then looked at me and said, "I know. I just wanted to help the campaign."

80 cents…Wow!

This was probably the change left over from buying candy or a collection of coins found while moving through the day.

No matter where it came from, he gave it to us.
He probably didn't know the full extent of what he did or the impression he made on me or this campaign, but his willingness to give at such a small age solidifies his hopes for this campaign.
And that is what this campaign is all about.

This campaign is about standing up for that child to ensure that he receives not just an adequate education, but an excellent one.

This campaign is about fighting to ensure that if he gets sick, his parents don't go bankrupt trying to afford healthcare for him.

It's about fighting even harder to ensure that his parents have a job, with good pay, so that he has a good quality of life.

And it's about fighting to ensure that if and when he decides to continue his education, beyond high school, that he is prepared to succeed--and that a higher education is affordable.

We are working together to touch the hearts and minds of people all over this state who believe we can work together to make Mississippi first and that Johnny DuPree's proven leadership will overcome those who want to maintain the status quo.

Mississippians deserve a better option. And, I believe Mayor Johnny DuPree is that option.

Please give a contribution today of $10, $25, $50, or $100 to support this campaign and join with Mayor DuPree to continue to fight for that little boy, his family, and other Mississippi families like his.

I hope that you will join me in believing in the power of 80 cents,

Jared Turner
Finance Director

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