“Working with young people is a joy and we, as adults, must be willing to take the time to help them develop into productive citizens,” James said. “Taking part in community recreation programs is about more than sports. It’s about life. The young people learn sportsman-like conduct, character and teamwork while also learning how to play a particular sport.”

*James has also spoken out against and led challenges against injustice.

“I, like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. believe that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” James said. “If we are to truly be one community working together, we must speak out against injustice.”

*James, who has worked with the Meridian Community College Small Business Center and other entities, has worked to help develop new businesses and help them during their formative times.

In 2009, President Barrack Obama gave the nation a new challenge: to roll up our sleeves and help him rebuilt cities across America.

James said he believes in that challenge and believe that the citizens of Laurel can make that difference.

“I’m not running this race for Councilman of Ward 7 by myself, but with you _ the voting citizens of Ward 7,” he said.

James said there are many challenges the city will face in the next four years.

“It does not yet appear what we shall be,” he said. “We, as a community, have what it takes to face and resolve any obstacles that confront us.”

Some of the major issues to be addressed are:

* Infrastructure: new streets, water lines, sewer lines (larger one);

* Housing - For ALL Citizens;

* Community Clean-Up (Monthly);

* Job Training ;

* Community Involvement - Monthly Ward Meetings to keep the residents informed;