By Tom Flanigan
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wfsu/local-wfsu-917825.mp3
Tallahassee, FL – Tallahassee mayoral candidate Steve Stewart picked up the endorsement of Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor last week. In so doing, Proctor sent a message to his mostly African-American district that it was okay to vote for Stewart, who is white. On Tuesday, incumbent Mayor John Marks won the backing of many black community leaders.
State Representative Alan Williams, a former aide to Marks, lined up the endorsement party at Frenchtown's showcase Goodbread Hills neighborhood, where once had stood a notorious crime and drug-infested public housing project.
"He and the city commission helped the Housing Authority. along with other folks, bring this to fruition."
The long line of Marks backers included Leon School Board member Joy Bowen.
"I believe that he has been visible. I believe that he cares about the citizens."
She was joined by fellow board member Maggie Lewis-Butler, who praised Marks for reading to young students in the classroom.
"The students love to see the mayor because he's a great role model for our schools."
Community leaders like the Urban League's Ernest Ferrell were also there.
"I remember those shameful years when the highest ranking black employee with the city and county was the position of janitor."
There were the pastors, like 93-year old Dr. Bernyce Clausell, Pastor Emeritus of Calvary Baptist Church.
"The faith community is really supporting John Marks for mayor."
Bethel Missionary's R.B. Holmes is a longtime friend and supporter of Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor, even though Proctor is backing Marks' opponent.
"It's not about Bill. It's not about Marks. It's about the future, and I believe that Mayor Marks is for the future of Tallahassee."
Along with Marks and Stewart, long time Tallahassee no-growth advocate Larry Hendricks is also in the mayor's race.