LaNette Samuels has filed to run against current Mayor Julia Nelson. Samuels agreed to answer questions in an Editors Office Interview in support of her campaign.
Editor, Jake McElveen: Do you have any prior political experience, if so when and where did you serve?
LaNette Samuels: I have none.
E: What made you want to run for this position?
L: I was reared in this little town, and I want to give back to the citizens of Manning.
E: What do you see as the three main issues affecting this constituency?
L: The three areas I would like to improve are: crime, employment, and homes that people live in that need repairs.
E: What makes you a stronger candidate than your opponent?
L: I am a people person. I will speak to you today, and every day. I am not a selfish person, and I care about people. I enjoy interacting with everyone. That is my strong suit, I care about people. I especially care about our senior citizens and those with special needs. I would have an open door policy and regular hours where the people can come to me whenever they have an issue.
E: What are the citizens getting when they vote for you?
L: When the citizens vote for me, they are getting a person who cares. I have no agenda other than making Manning a better place to live, and a place where our children can come back home and make a good income. A vote for me is a vote for all.
E: What organization’s, clubs, or boards are you involved with or serve on?
L: I served as Trustee at Union Cypress A.M.E. Church.
E: What is your current education?
L: I am a graduate of Boggs Academy, Keysville, GA. I have a BS Degree from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, NC.
E: What church do you attend?
L: I currently attend ACG Ministries and my pastor is Rev. Antonio Green.
E: Tell us about your family and hobbies so that the citizens may get to know you better.
L: I am the daughter of the late Hayes F. And LaNelle Jackson Samuels, Sr., and the sister of the late Hayes F. Samuels, Jr.. As a child I can remember the Goodmans, Ms. Lucky, Sam’s Barber Shop, the DeLaines, Mercury Cleaners, my family, the Hamiltons, the Thompsons, the Hills, and the Goodmans. I remember on Christmas Day the streets would be filled with kids from the neighborhood all skating and riding bikes down Church Street. I can’t be or do all things by myself but I can try to make the citizens believe in me and help me make Manning a better town than it is today. We have a small town with a big heart. Vote for me for a better tomorrow for us all.
