(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this column of those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of The Augusta Press.)
This week has been full of more drama. As we continue to move toward the upcoming election, let’s try to expound on some of the things we have covered. However, we may need to shine a little light on a few additional things.
If you missed the story that ran in Monday’s The Augusta Press about Steven Kendrick’s wife – check it out. It may shed a little light into a situation that could have been a lot worse than it was. Charmain Brackett, the author of the article, did an outstanding job, and it will definitely pull a few heart strings. Check it out and let me know what you think. At this time, I will refrain from sharing my opinion. Some of us know the situation.
As we wait for the naysayers to explain why they didn’t have a problem with the other people who were named in my previous column – who did what some are accusing Kendrick of doing— let me ask, do you remember Kemp and Cruz?… just asking.
I know I mentioned Charmain’s article, but the spectacular pieces didn’t end there.
Last week, Skyler Andrews ran a human interest piece that was probably the best thing he ever wrote…but I’m biased.
Skyler covered the remarkable career of Henry Ingram. I would like to say I had something to do with Mr. Ingram; he’s like my dad.
Henry Ingram’s career has been highlighted by a super successful business that is a staple in our community. He has been appointed to boards that many would say – MATTER MOST. Mr. Ingram has served and led more boards than anyone I know. To know him is to know that none of those accolades would mean a thing to him if it didn’t have the impact to shape this community in a positive way. You ask Mr. Ingram if he loves his city – the utterance you will receive in return is, “Without question.”
I asked TAP, how do you come up with a person like him to talk about? The overwhelming response is that Mr. Ingram is one of “the movers and shakers” in this community. You couldn’t find anyone with a bad thing to say about him. Every comment after the article was positive.
I asked Mr. Ingram how he feels about the article about him. He said, “It was great! However, they forgot to mention the support of my wife and children who are the reason why I am who I am. That would have made it perfect.”
If you missed the article, go check it out and make sure to leave your greeting below and nice words for Mr. Ingram. He reads this column every week.
Where do we go from here?
This past week the question was asked, where do we go from here? This came after discussions about the upcoming elections and people running for office.
The answers lies within. What are the true issues we need to address as a community? I would love for the readers to respond to that question.
The main thing as a community we need at this time is healing. We can hear people talk about cleaner streets, fewer taxes, safer communities, and those things are definitely great talking points. But at this juncture, as a community, we need healing. We need some “come to Jesus time.” (As you know I am a pastor. I always look to Jesus).
Where can we can find leadership that is willing to listen and get things done? We know that having the willingness to get things done is great. But more importantly, one must possess the ability—proven leadership skills and tenacity—to see things through.
Guns and Buses
This past week, we saw a school bus driver speak about issues he has had and witnessed within school transportation. His Facebook post went viral.
I was going to address it here, but I’ve spoken with the editors at TAP, and they asked me to hold off commenting as they have reporters digging into the story. Stay tuned.
Here come the Judge, Here come the Judge
The court saga — “As The Robe Turns”—continues to play out and people have been working hard to see who will get that appointment from the governor to replace Judge Booker.
I will say this: plenty of behind-the-scenes work is being put in and some of it for an unlikely candidate. I can’t wait to see the reaction on some faces when this appointment is made. Dusting off the robe won’t take long for…
Wait! Before I spill the beans on that… The tremendous level of support for Judge Ashley Wright and Judge Stone is becoming overwhelming. The question is, will it continue through this upcoming election? I was just reviewing another invitation for a support event for Judge Wright, and let me tell you – the host list is quite remarkable. The Who’s Who from all corners of this community are there—or I should I say will be there. I think the judge races will not be down racial lines – but maybe a spectrum of people looking for who they feel is the best candidate.
Department Directors coming and going
Once again, some department directors have been on the lips of Commissioners this past week. Maybe all this election talk is making some really evaluate how helpful — or how helpful to themselves — some of them have been. One name that continues to get brought up—depending on how these elections work out… getting ahead of myself again.
Michael Meyers is a columnist for The Augusta Press. Reach him at Michael.meyers@theaugustapress.com
