UPW Urban Pro Weekly

UPW NOVEMBER 9 - 15, 2017

Mayor Hardie Davis By Frederick Benjamin Sr. UrbanProWeekly Staff Writer AUGUSTA When the new year arrives, there will be a mere 60 days before qualifying begins for the 2018 General Primary in May. Speculation that Mayor Hardie Davis will have opposition in his first bid for reelection has been fueled by outrage in some parts of town over the mayor’s insistence that the new James Brown Arena complex be built on the site of the former Regency Mall. But unlike the free-for-all in the last mayoral election where there was no incumbent and a ballot that had swollen to five candidates at one point, this year’s race may not be so raucous. In fact, we here at UPW have been trying to put together a list of prospective candidates and so far have not had much luck finding viable opposition to Davis. None of the candidates who ran

Mayor determined to push ahead for new arena site at Regency Mall INTERVIEW by Ken Makin - Page 2

URBAN PRO WEEKLY

Few viable candidates on horizon to challenge Davis in 2018

against Davis in 2014 have stated publicly that they intend to run this time around. One of the unique characteristics of the 2014 race is that it was the first race since the city was established that a white candidate did not stand for office. Former city administrator Fred Russell, who is white, toyed with the idea and sources close to Brad Usry, who is also white, said that he had considered a run in 2014, but both decided against it. If Davis is going to be challenged this year, that opposition will most likely come from a white candidate. That is not to say that Davis enjoys total acceptance and trust from the African-American community, he doesn’t. But, he does appear to have more of it than any other prospect currently on the scene. In our conversations with voters, UPW has heard things suggesting that many in the African-American community who donated money to the Davis campaign in the past,

may sit on the sidelines this campaign season, but there is not an inkling of opposition from any of “the usual suspects.” Usry, along with Westside Commissioner Sean Frampton, and surprisingly, former mayor Deke Copenhaver, have been mentioned as possible challengers to Davis. If any of them are seriously considering running, they had better get going. It remains to be seen if any of them could peel away significant numbers of Davis supporters. Davis had 20,619 votes in 2014. His closest competitor, former commissioner Alvin Mason, could manage only 5,188 votes. The biggest campaign issue back in 2014 was whether or not to support the special-purpose local-option-sales-tax (SPLOST) which was on the 2014 ballot. Davis and candidate Lori Myles supported the SPLOST package. Mason and Cummings did not support the SPLOST package. 2014 mayoral candidate Helen BlockerAdams was against the SPLOST

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Davis easily defeated field in 2014 election

Alvin Mason

Helen Blocker-Adams

Charles Cummings

Lori Myles

package but had withdrawn from the race before election day. The SPLOST package passed. Any challenger to Davis, white or black, would have to steer his (Davis’) white supporters away from him. Some feel that Davis’ promotion of the Regency Mall site for the new James Brown Arena will ultimately erode a significant amount of Davis’ white support. Davis has been soundly drubbed by the area’s white-controlled media and the conventional wisdom suggests that he will be hurt at the polls as a result. Whether or not that proves to be true, Davis is sure to enjoy a boost from those who support the Southside location for the new arena. Thus, on the issue of the James Brown Arena, Davis is as likely to be helped as he is to be hurt. Qualifying for the 2018 General Primary begins on March 5, 2018 and the election will be on May 22, 2018. Along with the mayor’s seat, five commission seats are on the ballot as well.

UrbanProWeekly - NOVEMBER 9 - 15, 2017

Mayor’s ‘One Augusta’ agenda buoyed by support for JBA at mall BY KEN J. MAKIN Special to UPW

Shades of President Barack Obama’s influence can be seen in the makeup of Augusta mayor Hardie Davis. At first glance, there’s the salt-and-pepper hair — an aging effect of being a politician and a pastor. There’s the unifying campaign slogan, “One Augusta,” which is Davis’ version of Obama’s “Change” ideal. And then, there are the restless and rabid critics. When Makin’ A Difference sat down with the Mayor, the original intent was to kick off a series called “The Poverty Problem.” The intent of the series is to talk with local, high-ranking officials about improving economic growth that focuses on communities and not corporations. A politically-charged response to the Mayor’s efforts to move the James Brown Arena to the old Regency Mall property changed the tone of the conversation, at least initially. “For the last 60 days, it appears as if the media wants to martyr me,” Mayor Davis said. “I’ve become that villain, simply because I expressed a difference of opinion about where we should make investments in our city than the status quo.” The JBA backlash, combined with personal tragedies and challenges, left the Mayor with a decision: buckle under various pressures or strengthen his resolve. In an exclusive interview with Makin’ A Difference, the Mayor insists that he chooses the latter: Makin’ A Difference (MAD): How much of a game changer could the JBA be for South Augusta and Augusta in general? Mayor Hardie Davis (HD): We talked about running on the merits and the very issue of “One Augusta,” an Augusta that works for all of her citizens. No longer could we be or should we be a white Augusta versus a Black Augusta, West vs. South, but when you incorporate into that conversation, the issue around the building of a new James Brown Arena, at the Regency Mall site, it addresses, or at least begins to address in a very significant way, the issue of rampant and pervasive poverty in that corridor — the Gordon Highway corridor. …When you think about a portion of our community that’s been systemically excluded from the overall economic prosperity of our city for the last two decades, maybe even more, then you realize that this is a game changer. If you think about where Regency sits, geographically in the center of the city, the investment size to the tune of roughly about $150 million being invested in that underserved, under-represented

and very impoverished community, it is in fact a game-changing moment that we have an opportunity to move forward if we get support from our commissioners.

MAD: You’ve become very versatile in terms of how you’re presenting information and having dialogue with people. I saw you on Facebook recently, doing a Facebook live video. Talk about being able to reach people in a diverse and unique way.

DAVIS: I think it’s extremely important for us to be able to communicate in as many mediums as possible. People live in a very socially connected world (in terms of social media), with Instagram and Snapchat, or any of those outlets. We’ve got to use every tool at our disposal, because we’re not getting the requisite attention in a positive way from local media. For the last 60 days, it appears as if the media wants to martyr me. I’ve become that villain, simply because I expressed a difference of opinion Continued on page 3

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TRINITY CME CHURCH’S WOMEN’S MINISTRY celebrated its Women’s Day recently as a part of its Ministry Week Celebration. The event was -themed as “A Celebration of Transformational Women.” Among those honored for various achievements were Christine Betts, Dr. Angela Pringle, Attorney Monique Walker, Deanna Brown Thomas, Rev. Jane Thomas, Barbara Gordon, Dr. Miriam Atkins, Ms. Dee Griffin, Dr. Louise Rice, Ella Springs Jones, Audrey Thomas and Agnes Myers. The Rev. Skip Mason is pastor at Trinity CME. Photo courtesy of Ken Makin

”

MAYOR from page 2

about where we should make investrments in our city than the status quo. To that end, when I talk about “One -Augusta,” I don’t just mean in theory. I rthink we have to practice and do something that helps substantiate that. t You’ve got individuals who are sending emails to me, and then posting it on Facebook and social media, having local talk radio guys (address it), and so they have an opinion, and they believe that opinion is the only opinion that matters. I talk to hundreds of residents on a daily basis, and I am their representative. And to that end, when they share their concerns and expectations about this concept of building a new multipurpose arena at the Regency Mall location, those things matter to me. And I believe it is of equal value to the person who sends me an email and then puts it out on social media.

different needs across the entirety of heard at soundcloud.com/makinadifour community and our city, and not ference. Ken J. Makin is the founder only communicate a broad vision, but of “Makin’ A Difference.” Updates on an inclusive vision that certainly war- the show are available via Facebook rants support from all sectors of our at facebook.com/makinadifferencecommunity, and that’s what we’re hop- show. Ken can be reached via email ing to accomplish. at makinadifferenceshow@gmail. DAVIS: It strengthened my resolve at The entirety of this interview can be com or via text at (803) 270-2331. a very difficult time. When you think about again, post the August 22nd deciCOUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION sion by the Coliseum Authority members, which people have seemed to OF RICHMOND COUNTY have lost sight of, four of the six members said we believe this is the best site. We not only believe this is the best site, but we want to move this decision forward. …When I hear from people in The Richmond County School System will accept bids and request the community who say, “Mayor, keep for proposals until 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 13, 2017, for the doing what you’re doing. Mayor, we support this.” …As the People’s Mayor, following: not South Augusta’s mayor, not West Augusta’s mayor, not Black folks’ mayor, 1. Banking Services RFP#17-790 not white folks’ mayor, I’ve got to lead 2. Student Activity Fund Accounting Software RFP#17-792 with an understanding that there are MAD: I hear a strength and confidence in your voice. The adversity and then the support that you’re getting from residents, I can only imagine that all of it has helped to strengthen your resolve.

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UrbanProWeekly - NOVEMBER 9 - 15, 2017

Local agencies join forces to provide new beds for children most in need AUGUSTA The Greater Augusta Family YMCA has partnered with the Augusta Housing Authority and area businesses to provide brand new beds and linens for the children of under resourced families. This new program called “A Place To Dream” is slated to provide more than 100 beds during two delivery days on November 11th and 18th, with a goal of more than 500 beds in the coming months and beyond. Going to bed at night in a clean, comfortable bed is something often taken for granted. Many area residents sleep on the floor, air mattresses, sofas or crowded into a bed with numerous family members. Research has found that children with proper bedding sleep an average of 20 minutes longer each night versus children who have unfavorable sleeping arrangements. That adds up to more than 2 hours a week. Recent studies link poor sleep with cognitive, physical and behavioral health issues. People who do not get enough quality sleep have poor con-

centration, a weaker immune system, an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Families within the Augusta Housing Authority will be the initial recipients via an application process with plans to expand the program throughout the CSRA as resources and volunteer manpower will allow. “These basic needs like a place for a child to get a decent night’s sleep are everywhere in our community. We are incredibly excited and grateful for the A Place to Dream project that will have a tremendous benefit to these families and change the daily lives of these children for the better,” says Gregory Francisco, Ph.D., Director of Planning and Development at the Augusta Housing Authority. Mattresses will be provided by Badcock Home Furnishings of Thomson, GA at a significantly reduced price. Harrison Gresham, owner, says, “It was an easy decision for us to step up and get involved with A Place To Dream.

A STONE PLAQUE COMMEMORATING THE LIFE OF PASTOR NATHANIEL T. YOUNG was unveiled at the corner of Laney-Walker Blvd. and 12th Street on Sat., Nov. 4. Young served as pastor at Thankful Baptist Church for 46 years. The memorial was placed by the Augusta AfricanAmerican Historical Society. Photo by Richard Dunn/for UPW

THE NEW YEAR FOR THE AUGUSTA KAPPA LEAGUE YOUTH began in September highlighting areas of financial, career and educational goals. It exploded with much success starting with a book signing and Q&A with former Senator Charles Walker. The group inquisitively met with the former Senator to discuss the success of his book From Peanuts to Power. They engaged in inspiring conversations about their personal goals, overcoming barriers, establishing wealth and what being successful means. The group will be meeting with Senator Walker again in the near future to discuss their newly found interest in investing in stocks.

UPW Urban Pro Weekly Hephzibah, GA 30815

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Contributors VINCENT HOBBS Photography & New Media KEN MAKIN contributing columnist

Paine College’s Lanica Phillips (L) and Jada Wilks (R) defend at the net during a volleyball game against Georgia College at the HEAL Complex. The Lady Lions were defeated 3-0 by the Lady Bobcats after three sets of play. (11/11/17 - Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

AU’S HOLLAND MARTIN prepares to serve the ball during a volleyball game against USC-Aiken at Christenberry Fieldhouse. (11/11/17 - Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

USC-AIKEN’S EMILY TEELON sets the ball during a volleyball game against Augusta University at Christenberry Fieldhouse. (11/11/17 Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

5 UrbanProWeekly • NOVEMBER 9 - 15, 2017

SportsVIEW

AREA VOLLEYBALL TEAMS IN ACTION • PAINE • AU • USC-AIKEN

UrbanProWeekly - NOVEMBER 9 - 15, 2017

MAKIN’ A DIFFERENCE COMMENTARY by Ken Makin

THE PARANOIA PARADOX

Why is it so difficult to separate the message from the messenger? Before I start this commentary, I want to thank each and every one of you who reads this column. A special thank you goes out to those of you who weigh in on my columns via email or phone. Continue to share this column and this newspaper with the people around you! Steve Bannon. His name is a polarizing one. His alignment with President Donald Trump and his alleged ties to white supremacy ensure that his name will always be at the center of some controversy. Yet here he was recently in Charleston, S.C., with a group of Black business leaders, where he said

the following: “Minority entrepreneurs are the biggest customers of community banks. And you know why they didn’t get recapitalized? Because nobody cares. When it comes time to make the deals, you’re not in the room.” In short, Bannon said that Blackowned businesses are more likely to rely on local banks — banks which didn’t receive the same bailout opportunities as bigger banks nearly a decade ago. Oh, I know what you’re thinking: Bannon has an ulterior motive. It is quite possible. That doesn’t make the message any less true. I choose to describe this dynamic as the “paranoia paradox.” It’s

a dynamic where a profound mes- Check. sage may come from a questionable Muslim ban? Yep. source. A threat to sue universities with Make no mistake about it, I don’t affirmative action policies? Noted. trust Bannon. His policies and ideolHere’s the thing, though. When I ogies speak for themselves. heard Bannon’s comments and that As Louisiana State Representative he met with members of the Black Cedric Richmond explained when business community, I had a singular Bannon left the Trump White House thought: in Augusta, “firing Steve Bannon is “Why aren’t liberals talking like not enough because the issue of this?” him working in the White House has With all of the turmoil going on never only been about him. in the Democratic party, it really is “It’s also been about the racist and a sad day when conservatives — no, discriminatory policies he’s helped supremacists — engage your base draft and implement which hurt regarding wealth inequalities. African Americans and other commuHow it is that an alleged white nities of color.” A return to harder drug laws? Continued on next page

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Bannon from page 6

Ken J. Makin is the founder of “Makin’ A Difference.” Updates on the show are available via Facebook at facebook.com/makinadifferenceshow. Ken can be reached via email at makinadifferenceshow@gmail. com or via text at (803) 270-2331. Past and present columns can be viewed at VersesAndTiles.com.

RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION PROPOSAL NUM. B-17-010-3062 Bond Issue Program PROJECT NAME: SEGO ROLLINS K-8 REPLACEMENT SCHOOL SITE PACKAGE

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY INVITATION TO BID Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the SEGO ROLLINS K-8 REPLACEMENT SCHOOL EARLY SITE PACKAGE by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until November 28, 2017 at 3:00pm, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read. No extension of the bidding period will be made. A Pre-Bid Conference will be held November 16, 2017 at 10:00am local time, 3420 Julia Avenue Augusta, Georgia 30906. Drawings and project manual on this work may be examined at the Department of Maintenance and Facilities, Richmond County Board of Education, 1781 15th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901. Bidding documents may be obtained at the Office of the Architect: STUDIO 3 DESIGN GROUP, P.C. 1617 WALTON WAY, AUGUSTA, GA. 30904 (706) 667-9784 attn: Jennifer Powell Applications for documents together with refundable deposit of $30.00 per set should be filed promptly with the Architect. Bidding material will be forwarded (shipping charges collect) as soon as possible. The full amount of deposit for one set will be refunded to each prime contractor who submits a bona fide bid upon return of such set in good condition within 10 days after date of opening bids. All other deposits will be refunded with deductions approximating cost of reproduction of documents upon return of same in good condition within 10 days after date of opening bid. Contract, if awarded, will be on a lump sum basis. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of 35 days after time has been called on the date of opening. Bid must be accompanied by a bid bond in an amount not less than 5% of the base bid. Personal checks, certified checks, letters of credit, etc., are not acceptable. The successful bidder will be required to furnish performance and payment bonds in an amount equal to 100% of the contract price. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities. BID LIST: The Richmond County Board of Education maintains a bid list for many categories that are let for bid each year. If your company wishes to remain on our bid list, we must receive a response either through a bid or by a no bid response. If we do not receive a response, your company’s name will be removed from our bid list. Please call the bid office at 706-826-1298 if you fail to receive a post card. To promote local participation, a database of Sub-contractors, Suppliers, and Vendors has been developed by the Program Manager, GMK Associates. Contact Jeanine Usry with GMK Associates at (706) 826-1127 for location to review and obtain this database. Bids shall be submitted and addressed to: Dr. Angela Pringle County Board of Education of Richmond County Administrative Office 864 Broad Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 c/o: Mr. C. Gene Spires

UrbanProWeekly • NOVEMBER 2 - 8, 2017

supremacist can speak with more conviction about the concerns in the Black business community than the party whom Black folks have married themselves — for better or for worse? Allow me to explain the difference between Republicans (well, Tea Party Republicans) and Dems. Teapublicans, on the whole, don’t want to associate or identify with Blacks — and the current political climate doesn’t inspire any urgency to do so. They are comfortable with using terms such as “Black on Black crime” and “single parenthood” to characterize our people. Democrats, meanwhile, will pander to you, pray with you and even promote you politically. There’s just one catch — you can’t speak for yourself with the Democrats. The Dems, in their current neoliberal state, want to speak FOR YOU. Why is this significant? Because politicians (READ: the establishment) are afraid to say things like BLACK LIVES MATTER. They are slow to explain why the ‘hood looks the same under Democratic leadership as it does under Republican leadership. Ultimately, letting a politician speak for you is like letting a corporation speak for you. Why? Because politics are controlled by corporate interests (and money) like never before. This is why it’s imperative for Black people to not get caught up in party politics. Even further, we can’t dismiss conversation simply because it doesn’t come from the right person from the right party at the right time. We must learn to separate the message from the messenger, because the truth is always in season. And rest assured, Bannon should be held accountable for this truth. Whenever he pushes policy opposite of this commentary, we should be there to blast him. Black people, on the whole, are in too precarious of a position to fall victim to the paranoia paradox. Like the Good Book says, the truth will make you free.

UrbanProWeekly - NOVEMBER 2 - 8,

2017

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