It seems too soon to think seriously about Ward 1, and putting an end to Councilman Andre Knight’s reign, but you can be sure that behind the scenes there are high intensity maneuvers to hold that seat. One of the most serious attempts is to encourage Terrick Pittman, who is my friend, and I care about, to run as a third candidate. With high regard for Terrick, it comes down to who can beat Andre Knight. A 3-man race only helps Knight.
Troy Davis can win this race. He is known, he is visible all over Ward 1, he is liked, and his high energy propels him forward each day. Ben Braddock once told me, “Troy does good work.” That changed my willingness to take Troy seriously and has since convinced me that through his projects, it is the people of Rocky Mount he seeks to serve. People are DONE with Knight, his behavior, his false narratives that have become unexamined ideas. He looks on the world through racial glasses that dominate his thinking. The power he has garnered has everything to do with him and little to do with improving the life of his constituents. I wrote a few blogs ago that Knight has lost the room. A recent vote on the Council of 5-2 (Knight & Blackwell voting yes) is proof that those on council can form a coalition when necessary to do what is best for those they represent.
Knight realizes Troy Davis is a genuine threat to his shenanigans. In recent meetings, when Knight has had ‘lift off,’ it gives the phrase, High Dudgeon, a fresh interpretation. The larger a threat Troy Davis becomes, the more out of control Knight gets. It’s the same old fly apart when you dare to criticize his style of leadership, which is to bully, award favors, or block your attempts at starting small businesses if they don’t line up with his agenda.
It is the black community that must decide their immediate futures, but there are increasing numbers that have had it with Knight. Troy Davis can win this race and that is the significant action that happens first. Voting for the man who can WIN is the deciding factor in a 3-man race. Otherwise, Knight carries on for his own benefit.
You know these lines…summer time and the living’ is easy. Norah Jones’ voice and jazz piano are the backdrop I leave for you. Corn on the cob, watermelon, baseball, are summer rituals. I don’t want to miss any of these things, but the seriousness of this Troy Davis race in October means getting everybody on board. Please share this blog post with your friends. I raise a glass of sweet tea for your help in this matter. Stepheny
This Norah Jones link comes with my hug. https://youtu.be/xJOtaWyEzaI
Main Street Rocky Mount 