The
Courier www.couriernews.org
S ERVING C OLUMBUS , F T. B ENNING , P HENIX C ITY & S URROUNDING A REAS
Muscogee County Jail
Inspirational-Informative-Empowering...Your Source For The Truth
Vol. 14 Edition 10 Free Thursday May 9, 2019
A View From A Pew
“Grandma’s Hands”
Page 3
Towing Wars
Overcrowded - Understaffed - Unsafe
A Candid Conversation With... Sheriff Donna Tompkins Part One
The Bidding Process...Was Page 7 It Fair?
Bringing The Fun To You
Video Gaming Service On Wheels Pages 9
Millenial Microphone
D.A. McBride The Spirit Of Entrepreneurs Pages 11
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THURSDAY May 9, 2019
Pam, Say It Ain’t So!
According to the street committee it is alleged that the former candidate for Sheriff of Muscogee County, Pam Brown, is considering another run for the position. Unfortunately, however, we hear the reason she may choose to run is not the right one. The street committee understands that Brown is allegedly telling people she is going to run so that she will split the African American vote between her and Marshal Greg Countryman who recently announced his bid for Sheriff. Her goal, according to sources, is that it will all but insure that the current Sheriff, Donna Tompkins will win outright. We hope that is not the case. If in fact the information is true, the street committee hopes she will reconsider her decision. What we don’t need is another example of how our
The Street Committee
community can be divided and quered. The truth of the matter is Brown would be the Sheriff right if she had met the requirements timely manner.
conPam now in a
Woman To Woman According to the street committee for the District attorney to only offer a 10 minute meeting instead of scheduling a more appropriate time to meet was a show of blatant disrespect of not only the newly elected local President, Pastor L.K. Pendleton but the NAACP organization as a whole. The street committee will be waiting to see what’s next? Will the NAACP succumb to the status quo or will it stay the course? We think Julia Slater has met her match when it comes to Pastor K.
Request for Bids/Proposals
RFB No. 19-0052 Conex Storage Containers (or Equivalent) (Re-Bid) Due: May 22, 2019 – 2:30 PM Heather Biddle, Buyer Sealed responses must be received and time/date stamped by the due date shown above, by the Finance Department/Purchasing Division of Columbus Consolidated Government, 100 Tenth Street, Columbus, GA 31901. To obtain specifications, visit the City's website at https://www.columbusga.gov/finance/purchasing/docs/opportunities/Bid_Op portunities.htm, notify the Buyer via email BidOpportunities@columbusga.org, fax 706-225-3033, or telephone 706-225-4087. Andrea J. McCorvey
Purchasing Division Manager
The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper *Any editorial content are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper, publisher or staff” The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 1300 Wynnton Rd Suite 104 Columbus, Georgia 3190 Email: couriereconews@gmail.com Phone: 706.225.0106 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Ga 31906 Visit Us Online At: www.couriernews.org
A VIEW FROM A PEW
COURIER THURSDAY MAY 9, 2019
Grandma’s Hands
Every now and then I run across an inspirational story quote or message that touches me in a way that I just have to stop and reflect on my life and what God has done for me. This week was one of those times. I can not claim credit for this article and the author is unknown but I hope, as you read it that it touches you the way it did me.
“Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands. When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK. Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. "Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking," she said in a clear strong voice.
"I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK," I explained to her. "Have you ever looked at your hands," she asked. "I mean really looked at your hands?"
I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making. Grandma smiled and related this story: "Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands,
3
though wrinkled, shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life. "They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor. They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.
"They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special. They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse. "They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.
"They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.
"These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life. But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of Christ."
Wane A. Hailes
PAGE 4
F RIENDSHIP B APTIST C HURCH
831 6 TH AVE C OLUMBUS , G A
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
Early Worship 8am Breakfast 9am Sunday School 9:30 am Morning Worship 11am Wednesday Prayer Meeting/Bible Study 7pm Thursday Noon Bible Study 12 noon Sunday Child Day Care Services Available For Those Attending Our Worship WEBSITE : friendshipbchurch.org (O FFICE )706.323-6996 (FAX ) 706.322.7596 (PASTOR ’ S HOME )706.561.6733 friendshipbaptistcolumbus@gmail.com or friendshipbc@juno.com Transportation available, must contact church office by Friday at 12:00 noon.
R EV. D R . E MMETT S. A NITON , J R PASTOR
First African Baptist Church 901 5th Avenue
Columbus, Georgia
Sunday Worship 8am Early Morning Worship Sunday School 9:30am Morning Worship 11am Transportation Provided
Call 706-323-3367 Sr. Pastor Roderick Green
Metropolitan Baptist Church 1635 5th Avenue . Columbus, Georgia
706.322.1488
Pastor Curtis Crocker, Jr.
Service Sunday School 9:30 A.M Monday Night Tuesday Bible Study
Schedule Sunday Worship 11:00 A.M Prayer 6:00 P.M 12:00 P.M & 5:30 P.M
Mission Statement A growing church for growing Christians attempting to grow the Kingdom, one soul at a time.
Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church Corner of 3rd Avenue and 5th Street Rev. Dr. J.H. Flakes Jr. Way Columbus, Georgia 31901 706.324.2055 Rev. J.H. Flakes, III -Pastor Rev. Dr. J.H. Flakes, Jr. - Pastor Emeritus
P ROGRESSIVE F UNERAL H OME Evergreen Covington, CEO
4236 St. Mary’s Road Columbus, Georgia
706.685.8023
evergreenfc@mediacombb.net
Page 5
COVER STORY
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
The Muscogee County Jail: Overcrowded - Understaffed - Unsafe A “Candid Conversation” With...Sheriff Donna Tompkins - Part One
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier Recently Muscogee County Superior Court Judge Ben Land reduced the bond of a man facing a sex crime charge. Stanley Andrews had been incarcerated for more than 1,370 days awaiting Grand Jury indictment on three charges -- aggravated sodomy, obstruction of a law enforcement officer and battery with physical harm.
In doing so Land wrote: "When an individual is locked up by our government for years with no formal criminal charge being asserted, justice is compromised and public trust is eroded. This is not what our Constitution contemplates and not the way our system is supposed to work."
Andrews had been in the Muscogee County Jail for nearly three years and spent 11 months being held at West Central Georgia Regional Hospital for a psychological evaluation. The Courier has received numerous complaints regarding the Muscogee County jail in recent months. Those complaints include a father complaining that his son is being physically abused, tormented and beaten daily while the deputy’s working in the jail just watch. His request to have his son moved out of general population into isolation or sent to the Harris County jail have gone unanswered or ignored.
Relatives have shared stories of a pregnant inmate losing her baby due to the medical staff allegedly issuing her the wrong medication. At least eight inmates have been admitted to Piedmont Columbus Regional for injuries to their eyes. You may recall that one inmate lost an eye to a recent incident in the jail.
We have been told of attorney’s showing up to see their clients only to be told by nurses that they wouldn’t be able to see them. They never received a legitimate reason other than the nurse said they couldn’t see them.
In terms of the attorneys safety we have been told there have been occasions when an attorney has been unable to exit the area where they have been
meeting with a client because the exit buzzer doesn’t work. One attorney shared that if he had not had his cell phone to call for assistance it could have been locked up with his client for hours. We recently sat with the Sheriff and asked about these concerns. Here is part one of that conversation.
The Courier: It is no secret that the jail is overcrowded and understaffed. Can you tell me what the current population is vs. the maximum capacity and how many staff vacancies do you have? Sheriff Tompkins: Currently there are 1222 inmates being housed in our facility. Our maximum capacity is 1066. 100 of those inmates are generally housed in the stockade however because we are doing work on the showers they have moved in the main facility. In regards to the staffing shortage or what I call critical vacancies, we are 33 deputies short.
The Courier: What efforts have you taken to alleviate the problem, both the overcrowding and staff vacancies?
Sheriff Tompkins: We have initiated a number of things. One initiative is our pre-trial release program. This program allows low-level felons to be released on their own recognizance. They must have relatives in the community and some of them but not all, depending on what they are charged with may be required to wear an ankle monitor. There are approximately 100 individuals serving in that capacity.
Another initiative, which I implemented last year after consulting with the judges, was to consider allowing individuals charged with a city ordinance offense to be released on their own recognizance. For example if you are charged with a crime such as drinking in public or loitering and you cannot afford to post a cash bond within 10 hours and you have not been with us before
we will let you out on your own recognizance. We have since included lowlevel misdemeanors such as marijuana, criminal trespass or shoplifting. Now what we are finding is many of these individuals fail to show up for court. Once we do recapture them that privilege is no longer available to them. The Courier: Recently Superior Court Judge Ben Land was extremely vocal about inmates who have been incarcerated in the Muscogee County jail for years without being formally charged. As the Sheriff what is your response to his concerns?
Sheriff Tompkins: I agree with him but it is out of my hands. I share with the judges on a weekly basis the actual number of inmates being housed in our jail. In addition I provide them with a list of inmates who have been housed with us the longest. There are 26 individuals that have been with us the longest. Three inmates have been with us since March 2014. Seven have been incarcerated since January 2015 and twenty-two have been with us since February of 2016. Three of the individuals are “on loan” to Harris County. On loan means that they are being housed in Harris County for their safety. -To Be Continued Join us in our next issue as we continue our “Candid Conversation” with Sheriff Donna Tompkins.
The Longest Serving Inmates In Muscogee County Jail
Charge
2014 Terroristic Threats Murder Child Molestation 2015 Rape Necrophilia Aggravated Sodomy Murder Aggravated Assault Child Molestation Murder
2016 Child Molestation Aggravated Assault Murder Murder Possession Child Porn Burglary Rape Murder Aggravated Assault Murder Aggravated Assault Murder Burglary Armed Robbery Child Molestation Murder Burglary Armed Robbery Murder Murder Rape Theft By Taking
Arrest Date 3/23/14 8/27/14 9/12/14
1/2/15 2/9/15 4/16/15 10/5/15 10/14/15 11/16/15 12/6/15 2/12/16 2/20/16 2/23/16 5/2/16 6/27/16 8/3/16 8/15/16 8/18/16 8/25/16 8/26/16 9/1/16 9/2/16 9/8/16 9/18/16 9/26/16 10/19/16 10/21/16 11/2/16 11/29/16 12/8/16 12/9/16 12/31/16
14th Annual COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
RECOGNIZING INDIVIDUALS/ORGANIZATIONS WHO HAVE PROVIDED DISTINGUISHED SERVICE THE AFRICAN-AMERICAN AND HISPANIC COMMUNITY
Nominations Are Now Being Accepted
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD NOMINATION FORM
Name of Nominee____________________________________________ Individual/Company___________________________________________ Title/Position________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________ City____________________________State___________Zip__________ Business Phone________________Home Phone__________________ Deadline May 24, 2019
Please complete the nomination form and mail to the address below : Courier / Eco Latino P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Georgia 31906 or Email to: couriereconews@gmail.com
You Can Fill Out A Nomination Form Online at: couriernews.org Nominations Also Requested for the
4th Annual Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Servant Award
Presented to a Member Of The Hispanic Community
SAVE THE
Who Exemplifies His Giving Spirit
DATE
SATURDAY JULY 20, 2019
6:30 PM
COLUMBUS CONVENTION & TRADE CENTER COLUMBUS, GEORGIA 31901
TO
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COVER STORY
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
Towing Wars...Was The Bidding Process Fair? Part One
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
On September 5, 2018 the Columbus Consolidated Government, through the Finance Department, announced a request for proposals: RFP # 19-0001. Qualified vendors were invited to submit sealed proposals, subject to conditions and instructions as specified, for the furnishing of: TRAFFIC INCIDENT MANAGEMENT SERVICES (ANNUAL CONTRACT) which in laymen’s terms is the towing contract for the city. The due date for submitting proposals was October 5, 2018. Although the name of the company has changed over the years Columbus Towing and Recovery has continuously held the contract. This year another towing company, the Griffin & Griffin Towing submitted a proposal.
Griffin & Griffin Towing is a Black-owned company but this is not about Black vs. Brown or White, this is about Wrong vs. Right. There will be someone reading this who will say if it is not about race why bring it up? We do so because it is important for people of color to know that there are people who look like us who have worked hard to build a business based on integrity, honesty and hard work. Griffin & Griffin Towing built their business up from a one-tow truck “Mom & Pop” shop several years ago to where they are today, a company with a fleet of trucks equipped to handle any size vehicle and any incident or situation. Their goal has always been to be in a position, when the opportunity was presented they would
be able to compete with any towing company based on having the necessary, appropriate and adequate equipment.
Two companies submitted proposals to the Columbus consolidated government by the due date: October 5, 2018, Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing. For some reason, however, between the evaluation process and awarding of the contract when the topic of the towing contract came before City Council the discussion became extremely contentious. So much so that the final outcome resulted in a decision to vacate both bids and start the
entire bidding process over.
This decision is interesting because prior to vacating the bids there were discussions suggesting that each of the companies receive a portion of the bid. If that is the case then it leads me to believe that Griffin & Griffin Towing had the lowest bid but there were those on City Council who wanted to keep the bid with Columbus Towing & Recovery.
It was announced at the City Council meeting on April 8, 2019 that the new bidding process would begin in April of 2019. As of the time we went to press, Tuesday May 7, 2019 the RFP Bid has yet to be announced. It was also interesting to note that at the same meeting it was announced that longtime Purchasing Manager Andrea McCorvey would be retiring. Could this have anything to do with newly elected Councilor Charmaine Crabb’s request for an audit of the department? According to the Columbus Consolidated
Governments website the Purchase Divisions Mission Statement is: To pro-
vide professional procurement service, guidance and assistance to City departments in obtaining goods and services. To exercise ethical practices and fair competition in our dealings with vendors in areas of procurement.
That is all Griffin & Griffin Towing is asking for. They have played by the rules, prepared themselves for the
opportunity and all they are asking for is a level playing field.
On April 30, 2019 we requested via an Open Records Request from the city the following information: 1.The names of the evaluation committee members for the bidding process 2. The names of the committee members making the final decision 3. The names of the references provided by Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing 4. The list of references the evaluation committee contacted for Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing 5. The names of the evaluation committee who made the site visits to Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing 6. The completed evaluation forms provided by each of the evaluation committee members for Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing 7. The criteria used to evaluate the proposal for Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing 8. The evaluation results and the bids submitted by Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing.
Unfortunately the city was unable to comply with our request within the three day time frame required by law which should have been Friday May 3, 2019. We have been told we should have the requested information by Wednesday May 8, 2019. Don’t miss Part Two in our next issue. Towing Wars...the results of our Open Records Request - To Be Continued
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The Williams Girlz Debut Single On Sale Now
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
LaToya Bell Sworn In To Supreme Court By Staff The Courier
On Monday, April 29, 2019 twenty-five members of the State Bar of Georgia were sworn in to the Supreme Court of the United States of America.
This article of Columbus local group appeared in the recent online issue of Quartetworld.com The Williams Girlz are 6 sisters, all born in the city of Columbus, Georgia to proud parents, Michael and Shammanee Williams - all love God and were raised in the church singing His praises. The Williams Girlz are multi-talented and enjoy a wide-range of creative and artistic expressions in addition to singing, such as: dancing, acting, drawing, and writing music.
Over the years, The Williams Girlz have worshipped in song at local churches and performed at events, making them hometown favorites. As very young girls, they have completed their first single and had other significant accomplishments. Self-taught on instruments, the Girlz have an ear for music and the intrinsic ability to sing in perfect pitch and blend in harmony.
The community has had the opportunity to watch the Girlz grow in grace and develop their gifts from music, to ministry; proving, the anointing is from the womb. God has blessed the sisters with unusual talents and in return they are blessing others by training/mentoring other singers producing spiritually uplifting music.
The Williams Girlz have ministered and/or shared the stage with other anointed gospel artists. Namely, Jekalyn Carr, Robert Hawkins, Kountry Wayne, Prodigy, Damion Murrill & Siloam, and
Dr. Betty Nelson. They have also met great artists and actors such as: the late Tommy Ford from the sitcom “Martin,” Mrs. Erica Campbell from the group Mary Mary, The Anointed Pace Sisters, Signature, Jermaine Dolly, GI, Demetria McKinney from Tyler Perry’s “Why did I Get Married” and many more.
Most recently, The Williams Girlz had the chance to go out to Las Vegas during the 34th Annual Stellar Awards week and perform at two events that helped to introduce them an amazing casts of supporters. They first performed at "A Night of Praise & Worship Vegas' hosted by radio giants Those Baxters and then they followed that up with a wonderful 2nd Place performance at the 'Stellar's Best' competition - where they performed in front of host Vashawn Mitchell and a cast of wonderful judges including Gospel Recording Artists Canton Jones, JessicaReedy; Radio Promoter Tracey Artis of I Hear Music; TroyEdwards of BET & Universal Records; and Rhyann Lamarr writer/producer of Canal Street Movie.
The sky is the limit for these young gifted young ladies! Their Debut Single Release was April 12, 2019
The Williams Girlz are excited to release their debut single to the world. Their new single, "Rising Up To You" was written by group member, Trinity Williams, and was produced by their girls father, Michael Williams.
Amongst those twenty-five shined one bright star hailing from Columbus, Georgia, LaToya Simone Williams Bell. She, as well as the others, satisfied all requirements to be admitted to practice in the highest court in the land. The motion for admittance was made by the State Bar President and newly appointed Georgia Court of Appeals Judge, Kenneth Hodges. Chief Justice John Roberts accepted the motion and LaToya along with the other 24 young lawyers from Georgia were admitted in front of 7 of the 9 Justices. LaToya credits God, her mother, Gladys Williams-Tillmon and strong “village” upbringing in Columbus for where she is today.
Page 9
COVER STORY
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
G&H Party Masters...Brings The Party To You
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier Retired SFC Ray C. Hatter served in the U.S. Army for over 20 years, and served our local community for over 18 years in law enforcement. Hatter recently took a leap of faith becoming a small business owner with the first video gaming service on wheels in Columbus, Georgia, G&H Party Masters.
The name, G&H is special to Ray as it is the first initials of his late parents of whom he says are responsible for him being the person he is today. To quote him," this is just a simple show of respect to the two people I most respect and call my heroes".
G&H Party Masters whose slogan is: “We Bring The Fun To You”, offers a safe way to entertain and party at the location of your choice. “We not only offer video gaming, says Hatter, but we offer throw back movies and throw back music for the older crowd.”
A family owned business they cater to the customers need. Consider G&H Party Masters for birthday parties, church, fraternity, corporate or college events and even family reunions. Look for them at the White Water, Tuskegee Morehouse and Fountain City Classics
Contact G&H Party Masters today at 762.207.2303.
Page 10
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019
Empowering Youth to Soar to Excellence: Tri-City Area Seniors Receive $43,000 in Academic Scholarships ing and motivational speech entitled, Reflections: A College Student's Perspective. Her uplifting message was a perfect transition into the night’s main event – the scholarship presentations.
By Kaye Flonnory and Maxine West Special To The Courier
Oprah Winfrey once said, “Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom.” Through our annual and much-anticipated Senior Soiree, SISTERS Incorporated, and the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, continue to empower and provide Tri-City Area youth with the keys to further their higher education. The Senior Soirée is an annual highlighted event for the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter that locally defines who and what we are as members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This event embodies three key principles – scholarship, sisterhood, and service – that the sorority was founded on. This year’s celebration was held on Thursday, April 18, 2019, at the Green Island Hills Country Club. At the Senior Soiree, a milestone-setting of $43,000
in scholarships – the most ever awarded by SISTERS, Incorporated – were bestowed upon high school seniors graduating from schools in the Tri-City Area. Most of the scholarships were funded from the proceeds of the 12th Annual Rosa Parks Women of Courage Breakfast – where this year’s theme was a salute to Women in Higher Education – held on March 4, 2019, at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center.
Greetings from Dr. David Lewis, Superintendent of the Muscogee County School District, set the tone for the evening’s program, which included dinner and music by Mrs. Karen Jakes accompanied by Mr. Brian Roberts. Mrs. Jakes’ sang an inspiring and passionate rendition of "You Know My Name” by gospel vocalist Tasha Cobbs Leonard. Following dinner, Ms. Akira Battle, a sophomore at Spelman College and a member of the Mu Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, gave an inspir-
Dr. Phyllis Jones, President of SISTERS, Incorporated reflects on the success of this year’s Senior Soirée: “We are extremely proud of all of this year’s recipients. We want to thank the community and all the members of our organization who supported us and made it possible for us to give back to these deserving students. To our recipients, we look forward to witnessing all of the wonderful things that each of you will accomplish – the best is yet to come. We know that you will continue to make us proud.”
Mrs. Pauline Talley, President of the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter, is awed by the community’s generosity stating, “The Columbus community is second to none; and, we are grateful for and humbled by the support we receive each year to fund these scholarships. As these students transition into the next phase of their academic careers, we are confident that they will continue to blossom and flourish. We wish them well and ask for the community’s continued support in making this annual awarding of scholarships possible.” Mrs. Sherry Ramsey and Mrs. Anita Smith served as the Co-Chairs of the 2019 Scholarship Committee.
Seated (Left to Right): Mrs. Anita Smith,
Mrs. Juanita Booker, Dr. David Lewis, Mrs. Pauline Talley, Dr. Phyllis Jones, Ms. Betty Sullivan, Ms. Saundra Ellison, Mrs. Sherry Ramsey Congratulations to all the 2019 scholarship recipients who are pictured as follows:
First Row (Left to Right): Tierra Allen, $1,000; Havahna Wilkes, $1,000; Sienna Taylor, Heritage Award; Miracle Palmer, $1,000; Temple Douglass, $1,000; Payton Massey, $2,000; Quennetta Baldwin, $2,000; Ryah Lynch, $1,500 (Vanessa Booker Morgan Memorial Scholarship); Kennedee Wright, $1,000 Second Row (Left to Right): Trinity Upshaw, $1,500; Skylar Sears, $1,000; De’Jure NeSmith, $1,000; Janelle Florence, $1,000; Nailah Strother, $1,000 ($500 Laverna Johnson Book Scholarship and $500 SISTERS, Inc.); Brelana Powell, $1,000; Janiya Fryer, $2,500; Jessica Hall, $1,000; Caylin Carter, $2,500; May’a Allen, $1,000; Savannah Scott, $1,000; Kayla Davis, $1,000 Third Row (Left to Right): Amiyah Wilson, $1,000; Courtney Strum, $1,000; Josefina Williams, $3,000; Destiny Chisolm, $1,000; Kayla Ford, $1,000 ($500 Gwendolyn Wilkes Memorial Scholarship and $500 SISTERS, Inc.); Jordan Sweat, $1,500; Ashleigh Drew, $1,000; Naomi Pagan, $1,000; Orianna Watters, $1,000; Kate Kostuch, $1,000; Janae Giles, $1,000; Camryn Willis, $1,500 (Dr. Dwayne D. Jakes Memorial Scholarship); James Smith III, Coleman Award; Alana Averett, $3,000.
Alpha Foundation Awards Education Scholarships By Staff The Courier
The Columbus Alphas are proud to announce our 2019 scholarship recipients. On Saturday, April 27, 2019, the Alpha Onward and Upward Foundation presented over $10,000.00 in scholarship awards to 22 graduating high school seniors around Columbus, GA Muscogee Country School District. Congratulations to these future leaders.
Dr. Robert L & June Wright Scholarship
Banks Stamp-Central High School Harvey C. Phelps Memorial Janae Giles-Hardaway High School J. Spencer Kindrick Scholarship Kailen De Saussure-Harris County High Onward & Upward Foundation Justin Harris-Columbus High School
Quennetta Baldwin-Carver High School Josefina Williams-Columbus High School Trinity Upshaw-Central High School Savannah Scott-Columbus High School Kendall Williams-Central High School Joanelys Lamberty-Russell County High Keishona Allen-Harris County High Je’Vion Fluellan-Shaw High School Nailah Strother-Carver High School Ryah Lynch-Northside High School Briell Hudson-Carver High School Sara Copelan-Columbus High School DeAndre DeVouse-Hardaway High Jourdan Watson-Northside High School Jason Williams-Smith Station High Desmond Hamm-Kendrick High School Jeron Clark-Russell County High Jeremiah Hickey-Harris County High Kaylen Jones-Columbus High School
Page 11
COVER STORY
The Millenial Microphone
generation was the best information the previous generation had to provide at that time.
By D.A. McBride Special To The The Courier The awakening of the entrepreneurial spirit around America and the globe has been quite evident over the past few years. More and more Millennials, Baby Boomers, and even Generation Z’s have shifted from seeking traditional methods of employment and branching off to start their own businesses. Why?
Growing up as a child, in a two parent house hold; with both parents holding advance degrees, the greatest emphasis placed on me was to make good grades. The primary reason was to have the “choice” of attending a “good College” and by doing well in college I would be awarded with the prospect of landing a “Good JOB.” A job, better yet a career with a company you can work for and grow old with. If you take care of the company eventually the company will take care of you. That was the mindset instilled into a vast majority of baby boomers and even into many millennials. But what is a job? I’ve heard it described as a Jail Operating as a Business, I’ve also heard it stands for Just Over Broke… Before I stand on my soapbox let me say, I wholeheartedly believe that the information passed down to my
So why the change of mindset? There are a number of factors that contributed this shift. Jobs aren’t as easily available to find. Honestly with the crash of 2008 there are a number of individuals from prior generations that literally cannot afford to retire. Where those jobs and careers would normally be filled by a younger workforce people aren’t in financial position to leave their place of employment at retirement age. Another factor is automatization, robotics factory-type jobs simply need less physical employees to oversee a warehouse or to fill orders. One robot can do the job of 10 physical employees at 3 times the speed, which increases production and profitability for the company, in the end its just good business. Long gone are the days of the employer looking out for their employees even into days of retirement. Companies are looking at their bottom-line figures. What generates profitability is what sticks, anything else you have to “trim the fat.”
I don’t want to beat up on Corporations for being what they were designed to be, but I do want to speak to our community. Columbus, GA: “We do amazing” is our city slogan. This slogan 2 years ago replaced the previous city slogan Columbus, GA: “What Progress Has Preserved.” What a statement to make… what Progressed… Preserved??? How SWAY! The definition of Progress is forward or onward movement toward a destination. The definition of Preserve is to maintain (something) in its original or existing state. So our previous city slogan was is stark contrast of itself! I say that to say when I speak to individuals across cross sections of this city I see a mentality of people still drawn to an old model of working or employment. I hear them now, “Man once I get on at TSYS I’m a, be straight...” or “You work at AFLAC you better not mess it up.” Another one I hear is “If I can get on at the Foundry I’ll be set…” these are just a few of the examples I’ve heard from our community about working in the Tri-city area.
Once again I don’t want to bash anyone that wants a job or to work in a career field but what I would like to do is congratulate and praise all the individuals taking ownership of their lives and destiny! It has been rewarding this year, 2019, to see and meet the number of young and old entrepreneurs in the city of Columbus. My Business partner and I have hosted two separate networking events this year targeted at millennial entrepreneurs of all backgrounds. Our first networking mixer at the end of January was an exciting start and in March, we held our first workshop focusing on Digital Marketing: Creating Small Business Success. Strictly through the power of Social Media, we had over 50 attendees, 5 vendors and 3 dynamic speak-
Courier Thursday May 9, 2019 ers at Roz’s Café. The gems dropped on that evening further fueled my burgeoning entrepreneurial spirit taking more steps to go full time into my own business and walking away from current career trajectory.
Notice I’m currently doing both, as many people are, however instead of viewing it as a side hustle or something I do on the side, I’m treating it like a full-time job in the hours that I’m not trading my time for their money. How much of an hour of your time worth to you? Only you can really answer that. But if you feel like you are worth more than $15 an hour, use your time, talent, and tenacity to dictate your own market worth
Pagina 5
9 de mayo 2019
Celebrar y proteger los parques nacionales
(StatePoint) Al visitar uno de las 419 increíblemente diversas ubicaciones de los parques nacionales por todo el país, los expertos dicen que es importante dar reconocimiento a las personas que han hablado durante décadas con objeto de proteger y mejorar estos increíbles lugares, así como el trabajo que todavía hace falta. “Es difícil imaginar cómo sería Estados Unidos sin el Gran Cañón o las Great Smoky Mountains o la Estatua de la Libertad. Los parques nacionales ofrecen más que rutas para hacer excursionismo, playas y cumbres”, dice Theresa Pierno, Presidenta y Directora Ejecutiva de la Asociación de Conservación de los Parques Nacionales (NPCA). “Encontramos un sentimiento de identidad e inspiración en estos preciados lugares. Hablan de quiénes somos como estadounidenses”. Además, los parques nacionales ofrecen a los veteranos, a los miembros del servicio activo y a sus familias
lugares de consuelo, sanación y reflexión, al tiempo que rinden honores a su servicio. Más de una cuarta parte de nuestras ubicaciones de parques nacionales conmemoran la historia militar, desde Gettysburg en Pennsylvania hasta lugares como los parques nacionales de Yosemite y Sequoia, donde los soldados Buffalo fueron los primeros guardabosques. Los parques nacionales no existen como son hoy por accidente. Hoy, hay panteras de Florida que aún vagan en los Everglades de Florida, los excursionistas de Joshua Tree no ven lo que habría sido el relleno sanitario más grande del país, y la diversa y compartida historia del país se festeja en parques nacionales, desde César Chávez a Birmingham o Stonewall, gracias al trabajo de los conservacionistas, incluyendo a la NPCA. Durante 100 años, la NPCA ha actuado como valiente defensora de los parques nacionales. La idea de la NPCA
surgió a instancias del primer director del Servicio de Parques Nacionales, Stephen Mather, y su colega Robert Sterling Yard, que creían que los parques nacionales necesitaban una voz, independiente del gobierno federal, cuya única responsabilidad fuera protegerlos y mejorarlos para las generaciones presentes y futuras. “Los primeros defensores del parque compartieron una meta que pervive, la de garantizar que se conserve la maravilla de estos lugares”, dice Pierno. Todos y cada uno de nosotros actuamos como beneficiarios de su visión y acción. Ahora es nuestro turno de asegurarnos de que dentro de 100 años la gente todavía pueda ver la erupción del Old Faithful en Yellowstone, aprender sobre la historia de nuestra democracia en Independence Hall y contemplar asombrados a los osos pardos vadear Brooks Falls en busca de peces en Katmai, en Alaska”. Desafortunadamente, los parques
nacionales continúan enfrentando amenazas, entre ellas la contaminación que está dañando su aire y agua, el cambio climático, el desarrollo energético, un financiamiento federal inadecuado y una lista de necesidades de reparación que llega a casi $12 mil millones de dólares en todo el Sistema de Parques Nacionales. Los expertos dicen que los parques también están bajo amenaza por los intentos de descarrilar las políticas y leyes destinadas a proteger estos preciados lugares, desde la repartición de los monumentos nacionales para el desarrollo hasta la rápida aprobación de arrendamientos para petróleo y gas en algunos de los últimos lugares verdaderamente salvajes de Estados Unidos o cerca de ellos. Para obtener más información, visite npca.org/100. “Necesitamos nuestros parques nacionales y ellos nos necesitan para ponernos de pie y ser una voz”, dice Pierno.
9 de mayo 2019
Pagina 4 para ser su “ir a la” fuente de todas sus preocupaciones de cuidado de la salud. Estamos comprometidos a proporcionar la más alta calidad de servicio al cliente para usted y su familia. Por favor, póngase en contacto con el departamento de salud del condado más cercana a usted cada vez que necesita ayuda.
De nuestro Director ... En nombre del personal de la Salud del Distrito Centro-Oeste, quiero darles la bienvenida a nuestra página web. Espero que encontrará información útil para que usted y su familia sana y segura. Nos esforzamos para lograr que las actualizaciones en las áreas de medicina, estilos de vida y los acontecimientos que tendrán un impacto positivo en su salud.
Es el objetivo de la salud pública para prevenir enfermedades, promover una vida saludable y proteger a nuestra comunidad. A partir de la vacunación y programas para ayudar a su hijo a tener un comienzo saludable, a la planificación familiar y el suministro de información y tratamiento de enfermedades de transmisión sexual y el VIH, quiero que nuestros departamentos de salud del condado
Signos vitales
y de defunción legitimaciones reconocimientos de paternidad
Registros Vitales mantiene un registro de todos los nacimientos y muertes en el Condado de Muscogee y ayuda en la presentación y expedición de estos certificados. certificados de nacimiento y de defunción también están disponibles en el condado de Harris, Condado de Crisp y Departamentos de Salud del condado de Sumter. Para otros condados en nuestro distrito, llame a la corte de pruebas en su condado, o puede llamar o venir al Departamento de Salud de Columbus para obtener estos certificados. Para obtener más información, llame al 706-3216130. Horario: Lunes - Viernes 8:00 am - 4:30 pm Servicios prestados: certificados de nacimiento tema (documento de identidad) certificados de defunción tema Ayudar en la modificación de los certificados de nacimiento
* Para ahorrar tiempo cuando usted visita nuestra oficina, por favor imprima una copia de la solicitud de certificado de nacimiento o muerte y llevar el formulario completo con usted. * Tenga en cuenta: la Oficina de Registro Civil no emite tarjetas de seguridad social. Los certificados de nacimiento también están disponibles en el Registro Civil anexo, que se encuentra adyacente a: Departamento de Servicios al Conductor de Georgia 8397 Macon Rd Midland, GA 31820 anexo Teléfono: 706-5610415 anexo Fax: 706-617-6918 HorasMartes - Viernes - am las 8:00 a 5:45 pm Sábado - 08 a.m.-11:45 am
man al público, prevenir enfermedades y lesiones, proteger la vida, y proporcionar la preparación para emergencias con compasión, integridad y responsabilidad.
ENGLISH
Nuestra visión: La visión del Distrito CentroOeste de la Salud es ser el principal proveedor de servicios de prevención, mientras que el fomento de comunidades seguras y saludables. Nuestra misión: La misión del Distrito CentroOeste de la Salud es promover el bienestar y mejorar los resultados de salud a través de servicios asequibles que infor-
From Our Director… On behalf of the staff of the West Central Health District, I want to welcome you to our website. I hope you will find helpful information to keep you and your family healthy and safe. We strive to bring you updates in the areas of medicine, lifestyles, and events that will positively impact your health. It is the goal of public health to prevent illness, promote healthy living, and protect our community. From immunizations and programs to help your child get off to a healthy start, to family planning and providing information and treatment for STD’s and HIV, I want our county health departments to be your “go to” source for all your health care con-
tasas : * Los certificados de nacimiento y muerte cuestan $ 25.00 para una (1) copia certificada y $ 5.00 por cada copia adicional de la misma persona en el mismo momento de la compra. Se requiere identificación válida con foto.
the Probate Court in your county, or you may call or come to the Columbus Health Department to obtain these certificates. For more information, call 706-321-6130. Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
* Hay un cargo de $ 10.00 hasta completar un reconocimiento de paternidad o la legitimación por un niño que es de 1 año de edad o más.
Services Provided: Issue birth certificates (ID required) Issue death certificates Assist in the amending of birth and death certificates Legitimations Paternity acknowledgements
Estamos aquí para tí. El Dr. Beverley A. Townsend Beverley A. Townsend, MD, MBA, FAAFP Director de Salud del Distrito
* Registro Civil ya no se aceptan cheques personales el 1 de abril, 2011.
ENGLISH Vital Records
Vital Records maintains records of all births and deaths in Muscogee County and assists in the filing and issuance of these certificates. Birth and death certificates are also available at the Harris County, Crisp County and Sumter County Health Departments. For other counties in our district, call
To save time when you visit our office, please print out a copy of the application for birth or death certificate and bring the completed form with you. *Please note: the Vital Records Office does not issue Social Security cards. Birth Certificates are also available at the Vital Records Annex, which is located adjacent to:
cerns. We are committed to providing the highest quality customer service to you and your family. Please contact the county health department closest to you whenever you need assistance. We are here for you. Dr. Beverley A. Townsend Beverley A. Townsend, MD, MBA, FAAFP District Health Director Our Vision: The vision of the West Central Health District is to be the premier provider of preventive services while fostering safe and healthy communities. Our Mission: The mission of the West Central Health District is to promote wellness and improve health outcomes through affordable services that inform the public, prevent disease and injury, protect life, and provide emergency preparedness with compassion, integrity and accountability.
Georgia Department of Driver Services 8397 Macon Rd Midland, GA 31820 Annex Phone: 706-561-0415 Annex Fax: 706-617-6918 HoursTuesday – Friday – 8:00 am to 5:45 pm Saturday – 8:00 am to 11:45 am Fees: * Birth and Death certificates cost $25.00 for one (1) certified copy and $5.00 for each additional copy on the same person at the same time of purchase. Valid picture ID is required. * There is a $10.00 charge to complete a Paternity Acknowledgment or Legitimation on a child that is 1 year old or older. * Vital Records will no longer be accepting personal checks effective April 1, 2011.
Pagina 2
(StatePoint) Es muy probable que conozca a alguien con EPOC, o enfermedad pulmonar obstructiva crónica. Es la cuarta causa principal de muerte en los EE.UU., y se le ha diagnosticado a más de 16 millones de estadounidenses. Pero, de acuerdo con el Instituto Nacional del Corazón, Pulmón y Sangre (NHLBI, por sus siglas en inglés), hay millones de personas más que tienen EPOC y no lo saben. ¿Podría usted o alguien a quien usted conozca estar entre ellos? Aquí hay algunas pistas: La EPOC generalmente se presenta gradualmente. Puede empezar a experimentar dificultad para respirar mientras realiza actividades cotidianas, y aunque es fácil pensar que esto es simplemente una parte de “hacerse viejo”, a menudo no lo es. La dificultad para respirar es un síntoma común –y potencialmente peligroso– de la EPOC, así que consulte a un profesional de la salud tan pronto como pueda. Y esté alerta a otros síntomas: tos continua, sonido tipo silbido al respirar y una producción excesiva de esputo, que es una mezcla de saliva y moco. La EPOC puede avanzar rápidamente y hacer que sea cada vez más difícil respirar. A menudo, cuando la gente ve a un profesional de la salud,
EPOC: ¿Tiene usted esta enfermedad?
la capacidad de sus pulmones para trabajar correctamente se ha deteriorado de modo significativo, así que no se retrase. Sin tratamiento, la EPOC puede impedirle realizar actividades básicas, como caminar y vestirse. EPOC: ¿Por qué yo? Si bien la EPOC produce consecuencias devastadoras en muchas poblaciones y regiones, los investigadores ahora saben que determinadas personas corren mayor riesgo de padecer la enfermedad, entre ellos los que fuman o han fumado cigarrillos. Alrededor del 75 por ciento de los casos de EPOC están causados por el tabaquismo, pero las personas que nunca han fumado también pueden desarrollar EPOC y los científicos están trabajando continuamente para entender por qué. La exposición a largo plazo al humo de segunda mano y otros irritantes pulmonares, como la contaminación atmosférica, los vapores químicos y los polvos del entorno o el lugar de trabajo, pueden ponerlo en riesgo. Si tiene una afección genética poco frecuente conocida como deficiencia de alfa1 antitripsina, su riesgo aumenta. Su raza, su sexo y el lugar donde vive también pueden ser
9 de mayo 2019
factores que influyen. En el pasado, la EPOC a menudo había sido etiquetada como una enfermedad de los hombres. Sin embargo, las mujeres tienen un 30 por ciento más de probabilidades de sufrir EPOC que los hombres. Y, aunque la gran mayoría de las personas diagnosticadas son blancas, la EPOC afecta a algunos otros grupos étnicos de manera desproporcionada. Por ejemplo, la EPOC es más común entre los adultos multirraciales o indios americanos y nativos de Alaska, pero menos comunes entre las poblaciones asiáticas, afroamericanas e hispanas. También se pueden encontrar variaciones geográficas. La EPOC es dos veces más común en las zonas rurales que en las partes urbanas del país. Se puede encontrar a muchas personas con EPOC en partes del sureste de los EE.UU., como Kentucky y Virginia, las Carolinas, y en las zonas de los valles de los ríos Mississippi y Ohio, donde se encuentran más comunidades rurales. EPOC: ¿Qué hacer ahora? Visite EPOC Learn More Breathe Better (EPOC Aprenda Más Respire Mejor), un programa del NHLBI, parte de los Institutos Nacionales de Salud, en COPD.nhlbi.nih.gov para saber más. La clave para mantener a raya la EPOC –o evitar que empeore– es comprender y reconocer los signos y síntomas de modo temprano y comentar la enfermedad con un profesional de la salud. Mientras más pronto suceda esto, más pronto usted o su ser querido pueden volver a hacer las cosas que disfrutan.
Taylor funeraria se esfuerza por proporcionar a quienes servimos un servicio completo en cada detalle e impecablemente ejecutado en honor de una vida que ahora puede ser sino un grato recuerdo. Ofrecemos la mayor calidad en servicios profesionales, instalaciones y equipos. Proporcionamos un servicio de "Viva la vida". También ofrecemos, sin cargo, Pre arreglado y Pre-Funded planes funerarios, seguros de consultoría, servicios de notario y apoyo de duelo.
www.thetaylorfuneralhome.com taylorfuneral@bellsouth.net Telephone: 334-298-0364 Fax: 334-298-0186 1514 5th Avenue P.O. Box 2333 Phenix City, AL 36868
Eco Latino Vol. 14
Edición 10 Gratis
Jueves 9 de mayo 2019
¿Tiene usted esta enfermedad? Pagina 2
Taylor funeraria se esfuerza por proporcionar a quienes servimos un servicio completo en cada detalle e impecablemente ejecutado en honor de una vida que ahora puede ser sino un grato recuerdo. Ofrecemos la mayor calidad en servicios profesionales, instalaciones y equipos. Proporcionamos un servicio de "Viva la vida". También ofrecemos, sin cargo, Pre arreglado y Pre-Funded planes funerarios, seguros de consultoría, servicios de notario y apoyo de duelo.
www.thetaylorfuneralhome.com taylorfuneral@bellsouth.net Telephone: 334-298-0364 Fax: 334-298-0186 1514 5th Avenue P.O. Box 2333 Phenix City, AL 36868
couriernews.org
S ERVING C OLUMBUS , F T. B ENNING , P HENIX C ITY & S URROUNDING A REAS
La voz de la comunidad hispana