White, Parrish race to the finish

Former Dothan High football coach Harry Wayne Parrish and Dothan City School Board member Gayla White will face off in a city-wide runoff for the school board chairman’s seat Tuesday.

Parrish led White in votes in the three-candidate July 14 general election, but did not secure a majority, necessitating a runoff. 

The campaign has been bruising, with accusations and attacks leveled by supporters of both candidates at the other side on Internet forums.

On Sunday, both candidates appeared optimistic about their chances Tuesday, and relieved that the race was coming to an end.

White said she’s worked hard since the runoff to close the deal with Dothan voters.

“I feel good, I feel optimistic, I hope voters go out and vote,” she said.

Parrish said he’s also been campaigning hard since the general election.

“I’m very appreciative of the positive things people have done for me and I believe I can help the school board,” he said.

One factor that may help Parrish in Tuesday’s runoff is a city commission runoff in District 1.  Parrish led White in District 1 in the general election, and a big turnout of voters in that district may help him in the citywide race, as runoff elections usually have much lower turnout than general elections.