This weekend (Labor Day weekend) I began to see campaign signs for mayor sprout up like late summer perennials across the lawns and front yards of Newburyport, MA.

Jim Stiles signs sprouted up (this is just the beginning I’m sure of the “sprouting”) in front of the homes of some of “the likely suspects.” It appears that Jim Roy’s group, or at least some of Jim Roy’s group, endorsed Mr. Stiles. No surprise there. Mr. Stiles an avid “Open Waterfront” advocate and parking problem solving enthusiast– two issues dear to Mr. Roy’s heart (and other people’s hearts too.) (I’m sorry, I can’t help myself, “faux progressives.”)

Mayor John Moak’s signs started sprouting near his house and neighborhood and gradually inched outward. Again, no surprise there. During the last campaign, Mr. Moak’s neighbors and friends, were huge supporters, hard workers and a very welcoming “face” of his campaign.

Dan McCarthy’s signs also sprouted up across town. And on Friday afternoon (I believe) of Labor Day weekend, I spotted a fairly large gathering of Dan McCarthy supporters holding signs and waving at 3 Roads (where Storey Avenue meets High Street, at the North End of town). It made me smile, honk and wave.

And Steven Cole’s campaign signs are also sprouting up across town–in Newburyport High School colors and beautifully made. I ran into Mr. Cole on one of my “walks” as he was putting up signs in front of people’s homes. He told me that he had worked hard building the signs, in remembrance of his father, a boat builder, who recently passed away. (Our deepest sympathy for Steven Cole’s loss.)

And, alas, no Gardiner Bacon signs. But I’ve been told that they are coming.

Mary Eaton
Newburyport