The_Courier_09-27-18.pdf

The

Courier www.couriernews.org

S ERVING C OLUMBUS , F T. B ENNING , P HENIX C ITY & S URROUNDING A REAS

The Voice Of The Community: Inspirational-Informative-Empowering

Vol. 13 Edition 19 Free Thursday September 27, 2018

A View From A Pew

Publisher Wane A. Hailes Says...The Church Needs Some R-E-S-P-E-C-T “Come As You Are Has Gone Page 3 Too Far”

Davis Broadcasting, Inc. Sponsors “Get Out The Vote” Rally Featuring National Radio Host Michael Baisden And Gubernatorial Candidate Stacey Abrams

The Oldest HBCU Classic

Tuskegee Morehouse HBCU Game The “Granddaddy” Of Them All Returns Page 7

Meet Danielle Forté Esq.

Forté Is A Candidate For Muscogee County Superior Court Clerk Page 9

Page 5

2

THURSDAY September 27, 2018

What’s Happening With The Black History Museum?

Sometimes it pays to be patient.

According to the street committee the board of the Columbus Black History Museum & Archives will be making an announcement in the very near future.

Save The Date!!!

According to the street committee on Saturday October 27, the Divine 9,

The Street Committee

Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, NAACP, The Columbus Urban League, the Courier Eco Latino and Davis Broadcasting, Inc. will gather together to “Stroll To The Polls”. Saturday the 27th is one of the early voting dates and each of the organizations have committed to participating in getting their respective constituents, parishioners, members, readers and listeners out to vote on that date. More Info To Come!

FIRST AFRICAN BAPTIST CHURCH TO CELEBRATE WOMEN’S DAY SUNDAY, OCTOBER 14

Columbus, GA -- First African Baptist Church will hold its annual Women’s Day celebration Sunday, October 14, during the Morning Worship service at 11 a.m. Rev. Joyce Carpenter Young will serve as the guest speaker. The theme this year is “A Woman’s Reflection in God’s Mirror.” Sister Amanda Presley is the Chairperson. Leading up to the celebration on October 14, the women of First African Baptist Church will host the following events in the church’s T.W. Smith Fellowship Hall.

• September 29 5:00 p.m.

The Katie Williams Prayer Breakfast.

• October 7 5:00 p.m.

Women’s Day Musical • October 10 6:00 p.m.

Family Night featuring “FAB Generational Fashion” • October 14 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Church School program with Ashley Brinkley from Valley Healthcare as the guest speaker.

Come celebrate and worship with the women of First African Baptist Church for any or all of these events! For more information, call First African Baptist Church at (706) 323-3367.

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 31906 Email: couriereconews@gmail.com Phone: 706.225.0106 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Ga 31906 Visit Us Online At: www.couriernews.org

Request for Bids RFP No. 19-0008 Mowers and Tractors Due: October 17, 2018 – 2:30 PM Sandra Chandler, Buyer

RFB No. 19-0014 HVAC Preventive Maintenance Services – REBID (Annual Contract) Due: October 10, 2018 – 2:30 PM Kevin Robertson, Buyer Sealed responses must be received and time/date stamped by the respective due dates 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_Opportunities.htm, notify the Buyer via email BidOpportunities@columbusga.gov, fax 706-225-3033, or telephone 706-225-4087.

Andrea J. McCorvey Purchasing Manager

A VIEW FROM A PEW

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2018

The Church Deserves Some R-E-S-P-E-C-T...Come As You Are Has Gone Too Far I recently noticed a billboard on Wynnton Rd promoting a church that says “Come As You Are”. On the billboard is a picture of a sneaker and a dress shoe.

Now I have searched the King James Version, American Standard Version, New Living Translation, New International Version, New Revised Standard Version and the Amplified Version and I cannot find anywhere, any scripture that says “come as you are”. I did find the following scriptures however:

Matthew 11:28 - Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Isaiah 55:1 - Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.

James 4:8 - Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.

Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Revelation 22:17 - And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

Isaiah 1:18 - Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.

Romans 5:8 - But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Matthew 16:24 - Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.

Psalms 34:18 - The LORD [is]

nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

No matter how you try to interpret them none are referring to how you are dressed. So I more than comfortable with my interpretation that “come as you are” is referring to what’s in your heart or soul. Whether you have sinned or a backslider, whether you are a stripper or a convict, whether you are a drug dealer, drug user or pimp you can come as you are and He will accept you. That does not say anything about it being OK to come in a pair of Converse sneakers or Air Jordan’s.

Let me say for the record, I understand that the church is trying to reach “lost souls” and some of those souls may feel, because they don’t possess a suit and tie and dress shoes they aren’t comfortable attending church, however, I still believe that when it comes to churches today this suggestion that you can “Come As You Are” has gone too far.

All due respect to Pastors, Reverends, Elders, Ministers, Bishops and the like but I think it is important that one should dress appropriately and with reverence when going to the house of the Lord.

Despite many of our youth and some adults today not having the luxury of being brought up in a home that recognizes the church as a part of their lives, we need to stop buying the excuse that they don’t have a suit or tie or a nice church dress and shoes to wear to church.

Even the clubs have a dress code. They need to understand if they can find the money to buy what they want to make sure they look good going to

3

the club, they can do the same to look good for the Lord. If they can respect club rules shouldn’t we expect them to do the same when it comes to our churches?

No doubt there will be some preachers who will disagree with me but I think they do our youth a disservice when, in an effort to show our youth they are “down” with them, they show up in the pulpit preaching the word in a T-Shirt, throwback jersey or jeans. Most psychologists will tell you that, contrary to their actions; young people want structure and rules.

If our church rules are more lax than club rules we have a problem. The bottom line; if you are trying to reach today’s youth and young adults they should know that Jesus has a dress code and they should adhere to it.

And as long as I have your attention I think cell phones, IPads and I-phones should be banned for use in churches.

Technology leads to temptation.

There was a time when I was guilty but I no longer even bring mine in the church. I’m sure if He is going to contact me He won’t go through Sprint, AT&T, T-Mobile or Boost.

During a church service a few years ago I noticed a parishioner using the bible, which she had downloaded to her I-Pad instead of her regular bible, I was impressed until halfway through the sermon I realized she was no longer in the scriptures but playing “Solitaire”.

Whether it’s the dress code or cell phones when it comes to the church all I’m asking for is no more than what Aretha asked for, a little; “R-E-S-P-EC-T for G-O-D in His H-O-U-S-E.”

Wane A. Hailes

PAGE 4

F RIENDSHIP B APTIST C HURCH

831 6 TH AVE C OLUMBUS , G A

September 27, 2018

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

THURSDAY September 27, 2018

COVER STORY

PAGE 5

Davis Broadcasting, Inc. Sponsors Get Out To Vote Rally Featuring National Radio Host Michael Baisden And Gubernatorial Candidate Stacey Abrams

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Nationally syndicated radio personality Michael Baisden made a stop in Columbus, Georgia as part of his “Get Out the Vote” Tour. Sponsored by Davis Broadcasting, Inc.’s. K95.7, on which the Michael Baisden Show is broadcast weekdays from 3PM – 7PM, Baisden emceed a rally at the historical Liberty Theatre where he encouraged those in attendance to vote this November.

“I’m touring to add my voice to a message that has been echoed by those who have been uniting our people for years. That message is that our vote is the most precious thing next to God and family. We must take the time to learn about the candidates and encourage our community to not just register to vote but go to the polls and cast your ballot on Election Day.”

In addition to Baisden, Gubernatorial

candidate Stacey Abrams made an appearance with her message of: creating a state Affordable Housing Trust Fund to support communities as they work towards affordable housing solutions, fully funding our public schools and protect them from privatization, strengthening pathways to debt-free graduation at every skill level through expanded HOPE, tuition-free technical college, need-based financial aid, and additional programs, investing in advanced and renewable energy through a Georgia Green Bank and other initiatives, expanding Medicaid, fighting for common-sense gun reforms including universal background checks, repeal of campus carry, and extreme-risk protection orders, championing robust anti-discrimination laws to advance protections for all workers, working collaboratively with legislators to ensure that protections against harassment are strong, comprehensive, and just, statewide, Keeping more money in the pockets of working families

through the Georgia Earned Income Tax Credit and the Cradle to Career Savings Program, advancing criminal justice reform through the elimination of cash bail, fines rather than jail time for small amounts of marijuana, and increased diversion and re-entry programs, ending veteran homelessness in the state of Georgia, making voter registration easy and convenient through expanded online registration, automatic voter registration, and same-day voter registration and strengthening the state’s commitment to the Aging and Disability Resource Centers and home and community-based services.

“This was a great event and we were proud to be a sponsor of the effort to inform our community about the importance of being registered and voting in the upcoming elections,” says Geniece Davis Granville, Vice President of Davis Broadcasting, Inc.

COVER STORY

83rd Annual Tuskegee Morehouse Classic

Page 7

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Thursday Saturday 27, 2018

The "Granddaddy" Of All Classics

This year the Tuskegee Morehouse Classic celebrates its 83rd year making it the longest-running rivalry among historically black colleges and universities. But with festivities scheduled throughout the week across the tricity the annual classic goes way beyond the gridiron.

“Each year we look forward to welcoming hundreds of Tiger fans, says committee chairman Douglas Troutman, a Morehouse graduate.

Of course some of them are Golden and some are Maroon.

No matter which tiger wins, we will still be brothers in the skin.”

“Between 1920 and 1958, Columbus was the venue for every game except one between Georgia and Auburn, until the rivalry grew too large for the site.

The Bulldogs also faced Alabama a few times at Memorial Stadium. But those contests were not open to black Soldiers from Fort Benning or minority residents, noted committee member and Tuskegee University alumni Jimmie Habersham. So the classic’s founders, along with the athletic directors of Tuskegee and Morehouse, decided to create a new cultural and community event.”

“It’s grown to become a very special event,” Troutman said. “The influence of these two historically important schools has grown nationally and worldwide. As their influence has grown, so has our classic. “This is a way to celebrate how important these two schools are to Georgia, Alabama and our region.”

October 7th, 2017

Friday, October 6, 2017

Country Club of Columbus 2610 Cherokee Avenue Columbus, GA 31906

2 Golfer Scramble Callaway Scoring System Prizes Awarded for 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place

Shotgun Start: 8:30 AM Registration (Up to Sept. 21st): $100 per golfer Late Registration (Starting on Sept. 22nd): $125 Per Golfer

Saturday, October 7, 2017

Standard Car Entry Fee - $20 Horse/Motorcycle ATV/Bicycle Entry Fee - $5 Each Parade route will begin at the intersection of Broad St. & Dillingham St. in Phenix City, AL. It will continue down Broad St. turning right onto 13th St. Crossing the Bridge into Columbus, GA. It will then turn right onto Broadway, proceed down Broadway and turn right onto Front Ave. It will end at the Coca Cola Space Center. Route is 1.8 miles.

1 Day Vending (Civic Center Area) - $160.00 After Sept. 29th $210.00 1 Day Vending (Grass Near Stadium) - $300.00 After Sept. 29th $350.00 (Money Order, Cashier's Check, or Cash)

Vending (Parking) - $10.00

Line up begins promptly at 8:00AM (EST)

Tuskegee Morehouse Classic Committee 1170 Brown Ave. Suite Columbus, GA 31906 Phone: (706) 322-5983 Fax: (706) 321-3904 “The Granddaddy Of All Classics”

PAGE 8

The Week In Pictures

September 27, 2018

Page 9

COVER STORY

Thursday Saturday 27, 2018

Meet Danielle Forté, Esq. Candidate For Superior Court Clerk Columbus to practice law in the public sector. She has served as Assistant District Attorney working various positions including general prosecution, child support recovery, and she currently serves as the sole juvenile court prosecutor where she single-handedly litigates over 1200 cases a year with a goal of rehabilitation of our youth.

Throughout her legal career, Danielle has had extensive experience with court clerks’ offices of various jurisdictions at the trial and appellate court level throughout Georgia and the southeast.

In conjuction with that background, Danielle will bring the following to the position of Muscogee County Superior Court Clerk: Efficiency and Excellence coupled with an impeccable work ethic. Under her administration the clerk’s office will provide no less than the best in amenities and services.

User Friendly Clerk Services with an emphasis on customer service to both the legal and at-large community.

High Standard of Competence. Danielle knows the clerk’s office is the nerve center of our judicial system. Having a clerk with legal experience will be a tremendous asset to the office and citizens of Muscogee County. Moreover, Danielle believes the citizens of Columbus deserve the best qualified Superior Court Clerk.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Danielle Forté has more than 20 years of legal experience, practicing law at both the state and federal level. She grew up in Columbus and is the daughter of Ret. Ltc. Col. Levy Forte, Jr. and Jeannetta Forte, former associate director of the Greater Columbus Urban League. She graduated with honors from Hardaway High School where she served as vice-president of the National Honor Society. She has deep roots in her beloved home community dating as far back as the 80’s where during her teen years she was selected and performed community service as a “Gayfer Girl” for Gayfers, a local department store. It was also during her teens she

developed the dream of becoming a lawyer and serving her community.

After high school, Danielle attended and graduated from Spelman College (magna cum laude) and Emory Law School in Atlanta. During her time in Atlanta, she practiced law at both the state and federal level. She became a federal administrative attorney serving as Federal Assistant Regional Counsel for the Social Security Administration with practice areas in Georgia, Kentucky, and Florida where she was appointed to the position of Special Assistant to United States Attorney.

In 2009, soon after the birth of her daughter, Danielle returned home to

Columbus is home for Danielle, her daughter and family. She sees her continued service to the community as Superior Court Clerk as a way to serve and give back to a community that has always supported her. With the task of

managing over 1200 cases a year, she’s learned this: organization and efficiency improve customer service and team confidence. This is the work culture she plans on bringing to the office environment. She feels her law degree and strong background working with multiple court systems for over two (2) decades will be an asset to the Muscogee county Clerk’s office. She understands the functions and organization of the legal system and she is very comfortable communicating with judges and understands their needs.

She wants to share what she’s learned over the years to modernize our court systems here, so that other municipalities will look to Columbus as setting the standard for excellence.

To those asking why she’s running for the office, she explains that being the 2nd largest city in Georgia, Columbus deserves no less than the Atlanta Metro area, Savannah, and Macon with the best in amenities, services, and representation. She is highly qualified and the best candidate for Superior Court Clerk. Danielle’s longevity and history as a legal practitioner show she works hard. She loves Columbus and its citizens and will accept nothing less than the best for the constituents served by the Superior Clerk’s office. As Superior Court Clerk she will fulfill the duties of the office with a firm determination, passion, and spirit of servitude befitting her home community. Under her administration, she will work hard to ensure the amenities and services of the Muscogee County clerk’s office equal or exceed other cities in Georgia.

Thursday September 27, 2018

Page 10

Blogger asiAmber Gives Her Take On The 2018 Bob Wright Symposium

By Amber Williams Special To The Courier

I had an opportunity to attend the soldout 4th Annual Bob Wright Symposium on Business Empowerment. The all-day breakfast and luncheon took place in Columbus, Ga at The Columbus Convention and Trade Center. The event was started by Chairman Dr. Bob Wright, a retired optometrist and former Columbus City Councilor Businessman and philanthropist. He was very involved in the civil rights movement and is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

In 1985 he founded a technology and logistics company called Dimensions International and sold it for millions to Honeywell. He now heads an investment firm and continues to be a leader in the community. The purpose of the business symposium is to provide the Columbus, Georgia community with the opportunity to network and promote business and economic development, as well as engage with local leaders, trailblazers, and entrepreneurs. This year’s theme was “The Year of the Woman.” There were various female panelists from different business industries discussing the challenges and successes of being a trailblazer, entrepreneur, and “glass ceiling” breaker.

The enlightening and inspirational women’s empowerment panel discussion was moderated by ABC correspondent and journalist Byron Pitts and the keynote speaker was ABC journalist Robin Roberts. The first speaker of the morning was Dr. Valerie Daniels Carter, President, and CEO of V&J Foods Holding Company, the largest female-owned franchise organization in the country. The restaurant empire is comprised of restaurants such as Burger King, Auntie Anne’s Soft Pretzels and Captain D’s. Dr. Daniels-Carter spoke of the importance of her faith and knowing whose you are and who you are.

Dr. Daniels-Carter is also a board member of the Green Bay Packers and minority owner of the Milwaukee Bucks Basketball Team.

Dr. Daniels-Carter told an interesting story of how she was waiting for over

5 hours at a job interview and how rude the interviewer was to her to keep her waiting. The day was over and the interviewer was leaving and finally acknowledged her presence, but said they would have to schedule the interview at another time because he was on his way to go hunting with colleagues. So, that day instead of going home Dr. Daniels-Carter asked the interviewer if she could tag along to go hunting with them and the interviewer said sure. She went hunting with the interviewer and his male colleagues to the mountains and you’ll have to read the rest of the details of the story in her book “Your Business Is His Business”, but long story short the interviewer eventually respected her and she got the franchise she was interviewing for.

Dr. Daniels-Carter told the story because of the many barriers she’s faced being a black woman in a predominately white male space. Dr. Daniels-Carter dropped many words of wisdom, but the two that stood out were “failure is not bad all the time” and it’s okay to cut back because “it’s better to do a couple of things really great than do multiple things really bad.”

Dr. Daniels-Carter also shared a touching story of how her now deceased husband worked two jobs before they married and he saved his money from one of his jobs just for her. On their wedding night, he told her that the money was hers for any business she wanted to start because he believed in her.

She said she was blessed to have an amazing support system and that you can teach a trait and have determination, but you cannot teach personality and that with God you can fight the giants of life.

Between speakers, there were breaks and a time for the audience to ask quick questions. The next two speakers on stage were Kimberly A. Blackwell, a top marketing and advertising executive, and top communications strategist Alexis Davis Smith. Alexis Smith spoke of the importance of diversifying your business and that for her every opportunity to make money isn’t always good. She believes in aligning with companies whose values align with her employees and the company’s culture.

She also stated to be humble and strategic and open.

Kimberly Blackwell also dropped nuggets of wisdom by saying there’s a difference between being invited and being included. She also stated a candle doesn’t lose light by lighting another candle. Kimberly Blackwell also made her side hustle her main hustle and made sure she had money saved and opportunities coming her way before she left her old job to pursue her own business. Next lunch was served. After lunch, the fourth speaker was Rose McElrath Slade, who is the founder, president, and CEO of Strategjc Resources, Inc., an international organization specializing in management consulting and information technology. Rose Slade spoke of her strong faith in Jesus Christ and how he has guided her from health battles to business endeavors.

She also spoke of the importance of financial literacy and delayed gratification and remember to look before you before the leap.

The next speakers were sisters Yukia Harris-Walker and Yuneisia Harris, owners of Curvaceous Couture Bridal Collection for curvy women. They also had a reality show called “Curvy Brides” that aired on TLC. They both spoke about the struggles they faced trying to find wedding dresses and outfits for

their body types and through that struggle birthed their business of plus-sized fashions. Also, Emmy Award-winning makeup artist, Eva Jane Bunkley, spoke about being hard working and adaptable. Because of Hurricane Florence Keynote speaker Robin Roberts was a little late, so speakers Melissa HarvilleLebron, who is a NASCAR team owner and lawyer and Dunamis Clean Energy CEO, Natalie M. King, spoke about learning something from every experience of life. Natalie King spoke about the importance of minorities getting involved in industries that are often foreign to the culture so that they won’t be left behind. King also spoke about green energy, horticulture, and the medicinal marijuana industry and how it’s taboo, but a lucrative business.

Finally, the keynote speaker, ABC journalist Robin Roberts, came on stage and talked about her family and faith and coming from a small town and not being limited in life and that anything is possible. She spoke of how she is always grateful, but never content. She also said to make your mess your message and that money heightens what’s already there, to begin with. Robin talked about embracing similarities with other people and how education and sports helped her in life. She grew up in Pass Christian, Mississippi. She talked about her father, who was a Tuskegee Airman, and the important “3 D’s” in their household: Discipline, Determination, and as Robin said, “Da Lord”. Robin’s energetic and positive energy radiated through the room and she spoke about her Rockin’ Robin Production Company.

Robin even hugged some audience members and she answered a lot of questions before she had to leave to go back to NYC. I was one of the audience members who asked a question about her production company and if they were looking for help. She was so generous and gave my information to her assistant! I feel so grateful. After Robin Roberts finished speaking I left, but there were two more speakers Stephanie Burnley and Dr. Michele Hoskins who spoke after Robin. It was my first time going to the symposium and I’m really happy that I was able to go. It’s so important to invest in yourself and your community. I give the event a perfect 10! If you want to know more about the symposium go to http://www.bwsbe.com and check out the social media hashtag #BWSBE2018 for pictures and video snippets.

Page 11

Dr. Bob Wright Hosts Black Business Roundtable

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Fifty years ago an article appeared in the New York Times with the headline, “Mainstream, Inc., of Columbus Helps Negroes Get Franchises”. The “Negro” who headed the group they were speaking of was Dr. Robert L. Wright.

Representatives of Mainstream along with Wright had attended recent franchising industry conferences encouraging franchise companies to seek more “Negro” franchisees.

Fast forward to 2018 and on Wednesday September 12 the day after the Symposium that shares his name

Thursday September 27, 2018

“Bob” Wright hosted a Black Business Roundtable.

Invited guest were introduced to Sylvester Hester, President & CEO of Global Automotive Alliance and Dr. William “Bill” Pickard, Chairman of Global Automotive Alliance. Both individuals discussed entrepreneurship, franchise opportunities and getting in on the “bottom floor” of the ‘Next Big Thing”.

The “Roundtable” promises to become an integral part of the annual symposium giving Black entrepreneurs an opportunity to meet up close and personal with succesful Black business men and women

Page 12

A Word On Black Leaders and Leadership

By Brother Love

We overall are a people of faith. We have demonstrated ultimate staying power through our courage inspired by our indestructible faith in God the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. Our contributions as Black Americans have been leaders in politics, religion, business, education, in law, medicine, etc.

We are a people of original soul, authentic style, and of unforgettable flavor. The U.S.A. is not the U.S. of A. absent Black American history and history makers. We have done more than our part under the worst circumstances. Why should we be bowing low, pleading and begging in any way for other people to recognize and accept us as legitimate or equals? Such appearances or behavior is simply not in our best interest. It's unbecoming our history and heritage, not to mention our legacy. It is not being true to family, community, or to our faith in God.

Its okay to be Black, just as it is okay to be White or Brown.. We are no lost tribe of wanderers, refugees, or vagabonds. We are and should be proud of who we are. Don't be ashamed of the skin color God Almighty assigned you. Brothers and sisters, free your minds. Come into the light of understanding. We don't need a so-called Black leader the White power structure calls up on the phone to get the rest of us in line and tell us how to think what and when, quickly putting out the fires of discontent or shutting down the voices of dissent. We don't need people who support the idea of some elite Black leader that you mandatorily appear before pleading for him or her to give you "permission" to officially enter a political race for public office. This is exactly what made Black Columbus vulnerable to attack. That particular strategy was never going to work out in the Black community's best interest over the decades. It is a case of lack of vision and foresight giving way to plantation politics and slave mentality quackery impeding progress and killing real Black community growth and potential.

It is a direct affront to all of what Black people have come through and accomplished as an oppressed people. The price for our rights and freedom was

paid in blood. Think about that. We need to be about the business of our business in our community. That should be our contribution to the city. A strong Black community makes Columbus stronger and stronger, and likewise for the other communities of Columbus. We all have a stake. I am simply not for ignoring or neglecting people because of the color of their skin. So Black lives matter, and if they don't, we must go to work and make them matter by intelligent and non-violent means and methods.

The Black community is not operating at optimal level because we have talked ourselves into playing sidekicks, sycophants, and cheerleaders, and don't know any better or want any better for ourselves. If I were going to call anybody the Black leader, then it would be someone strong enough and principled enough not to selfishly or vindictively work against his or her own community or people. It would be someone unafraid to put themselves in harm's way fighting for freedom, justice, and equality. It would be a Black man or woman who would be on the front lines speaking out against issues such as voter suppression efforts and the ongoing hacking away at our voter rights and civil rights. It would be someone willing to challenge discriminatory practices of every kind, regardless of the who, what, and when. It would be a person of strength, intelligence, and a wide range of understanding. A person knowing who they are, whose they are, and who they serve.

Now speaking truth to people with power and privilege in powerful positions is a very risky business regardless. Many are not at liberty to do such a job because their incomes and finances are directly linked to the people of power and privilege in this city. Those people should not be in the job, although they can still aid in the fight. Frankly, fearlessly speaking the truth about controversial issues is just risky business period in Columbus. The truth is extremely irritating for people willing to use double standards to get ahead and stay ahead. The truth is light, so it is also bothersome to their volunteer gatekeepers and conscripted foot soldiers living in the Black community. Let's face it, politics is politics. The man that pays the piper calls the tune. We have to be smarter than what some people may have been taught to believe. We must break free of the psychological shack-

les and chains and learn to love, nurture, and protect the Columbus Black community to a better extent than we do now. Strength and self-respect must help define us, not this pleasing and appeasing attitude and approach. We must, increase speed, shift gears, and change direction to stay solidly positioned in the race, or to get back in the race.

Don't be hoodwinked into voting against your best interest or to not exercising your right to vote at all. Serve and protect and strengthen your community at least by getting involved protecting your vote and right to vote. Be a guardian angel of sorts. Reject and expose the trickster along with the trickery. Don't let every skinning grinning Tom, Dick, or Harry with a title, appointment, or election deliver your vote up on a sliver platter to the powers-that-be who are without real respect for the Black community as a whole. It simply makes it all too easy for the person posing as undisputed Black leader to sell the Black community out behind our backs, which is a reason why you as a taxpayer and voter had better ask a whole lot of questions and do a whole lot of research on the answers, the candidates, and the ballot issues that you are asked to publicly support and vote for at the polls. Your vote is your voice.

Speak your mind with your vote. Don't just go with what you heard somebody else say they heard blowing in the wind bright and early some morning. Don't be afraid to know the truth, You should, however, be afraid to not know the whole truth for yourself. Don't be afraid to call something a lie being sold as the truth if it is indeed a lie, and you know so for certain. Have valid facts to support your position and to prove your point. Be ready and well prepared to do battle.

Nothing is more fitting for the fool than a belly full of lies.

The wise know the road to freedom begins with TRUTH. The fool could not care any less about

Thursday September 27, 2018

it. Don't be the fool before the eyes of God, or the eyes man. Every brother isn't a brother, and every sister isn't your sister. Don't be a fool's fool, or any other kind of fool. Trust but immediately switch over to verify mode no matter who comes along pitching this candidate or that ballot issue. Too many people have come to think of the masses of the Black community as simpletons and fools. Some White political candidates and office holders tend to think, and I suppose for good reason given some very clear examples, that if they can just co-op the right Black preachers out of the right churches, and then pull in just the right Black politicians, then they'll have all the Black vote in their hip pockets. If that is true, or continues to be true in this day and time, it makes the preacher and politician a target for corruption, weakens our image, weakens our position, and sets us up for inevitable failure. None of that contributes to a good overall outcome for us. It is absolute insanity.

You might as well all pack up your tattered overalls, your worn-out brogan boots, no undershirts or underpants as I doubt you will need them; put on your big straw hat and start out down the road for the good old cotton fields back home somewhere. Sounds crazy, but the one mindset belongs right up next to the other. If you are doing the one, be ready for the modern day slavery you put yourselves in.

Black does not always have your back.

(To Be Continued)

Page 13

Counseling Psychology Adults, Children, and Family Therapy Depression Behavior Management PTSD ADHD Anxiety Anger Management

APT Counseling Services Dr. Ambroes Pass-Turner 1501 13th Street Suite R Columbus, Georgia 31901 706.366.0960

www.drambroespass-turner.com

Thursday September 27, 2018

Thursday September 27, 2018

Page 14

Urban League to Host 22nd Equal Opportunity Day Dinner & Benefit Charity Gala International Business Leader John Hope Bryant to Serve as Keynote Speaker

By Staff The Courier

To fulfill its mission to empower and shape the community, The Urban League of Greater Columbus, Inc. presents its largest community fundraiser, The 22nd Annual Equal Opportunity Day (EOD) Awards Dinner and Black-Tie Gala on Saturday, October 13, 2018 at the River Mill Event Center. The Reception and Live Auction will commence at 6:00 p.m. and Dinner at 7:00 p.m. with John Hope Bryant, a Global Business and Economic Phenomenon, serving as the key-note speaker on the theme, “Breaking Cycles to Poverty & Bridging the Gap to Economic Success.”

Davis Broadcasting, Michael Soul and WTVM, Cheryl Renee will Co-host the event.

The Equal Opportunity Dinner is the Urban League’s largest annual fundraiser for the benefit of employment, educational, affordable housing and affordable healthcare programs and other assistance and services for the disadvantaged and underserved in our community. This year’s event will focus on bridging the gap to Economic Success, Equal Opportunity and Equal Access for all, realizing the critical role we all play in creating an inclusive community for all.

Urban League Board Chair Bishop L.D. Skinner emphasized the importance of this occasion. “We are honored that nationally recognized John Hope Bryant has agreed to deliver the keynote address. He will focus on economic liberation, success, empowerment, social equity, the power of voting and breaking the bonds of poverty.”

Urban League President/CEO Susan Cooper said, “The Equal Opportunity Day Dinner represents the very essence of the work the Urban League does each day to foster economic empowerment and community development educating and equipping individuals and families with information, tools and resources

needed to improve their quality of life, thereby creating a safe and prosperous community for all. Please join us in our mission to empower and assist others.”

Cooper said, “It is because of your generosity that we have been able to empower communities and change lives for over forty-seven years. We would like to thank you in advance for extending your hand and giving back to the community through the Urban League of G r e a t e r Columbus. We look forward to your support as well as your participation.”

Cooper continued, “Your support will enable the Urban League to continue providing services and b u i l d i n g E c o n o m i c Development Programs that create jobs and Employment Tr a i n i n g ; Affordable Housing and Foreclosure Prevention, Educational Programming to include STEM, GED, computer training and adult literacy workshops; Prison to Work R e - E n t r y Program which assist ex-offenders in becoming productive com-

munity citizens; and Financial Empowerment Programs to include budgeting, financial independence, and credit rebuilding counseling. Proceeds

from this spectacular dinner gala will enable the Urban League to continue serving thousands of people annually.”

PAGE 15

THURSDAY September 13, 2018

7+( 7+ $118$/ )&& &/$66,& 8+..#)'

7$,/*$7( #/ 2/ )'

* ,. ) )( ) ." #!! -. . #&! . * ,.# - #( ."

-)/." -.

1 2 9 ( 0 % ( 5 35,&,1* (YHQW ,1)2 (D U O\ % L U G 2 Q OL Q H

/D UJ H 7 H Q WV 59 6 D Q G 7 U D L OHUV : ( /& 2 0 ( ' $ // 3D U N L Q J

3 K R W R F R X U W H V \ R I 7 D N H 7 K D W 0 H G L D

3OHDVH YLVLW ZZZ IRXQWDLQFLW\FODVVLF FRP IRU )&& 7DLOJDWLQJ ,QIRUPDWLRQ DQG 5HJLVWUDWLRQ

5)& 5) "//6"- '06/5"*/ $*5: $-"44*$ $0..*55&& 13&4&/54 5) & -"3( &45 1"3"% & */ 5) & 53*Ȫ$*5: "3&"

D

)% %

//$*( 9, 9(1'25 S J B G

S P E O F W

Q P S E

V P Z

M J U O V

Q P I T

S F NC F W P O

\ D VSO GL

O O ZL WRUV EL ([KL DWHVW O

HV L 9HQGRUV

DFFHVVRU U\ PHQV HZHO

M VH L G Q ZRPHQ

D K F U PH *UHHN

RQV V FG DVKL I G RO

QHZ

M P D B U J P O T

P Q Q P S U V O J U J F T ' S J E B Z

/ P W F NC F S

$ P M V NC V T

5 S B E F

$ F O U F S

' S P O U

" W F O V F

$ P M V NC V T

( "

P D B U F E

J O

# B M M S P P NT

"

#

$

' P Z F S

" S F B

1

.

"

.

4 B U V S E B Z

/ P W F NC F S

"

+

.D $ M V O H

.F NP S J B M

4 U B E J V N

U I

4 U S F F U

$ P M V NC V T

( "

"

.

1

.

JUDSKL[ E\ %/,66 7(&+12/2*,(6

),5( 83 7+( &/$66,& :((.(1' :,7+ 7+( '<1$0,& 7

4 B U V S E B Z

/ P W F NC F S

$ P M V NC V T

5 S B E F

$ F O U F S

' S P O U

" W F O V F

$ P M V NC V T

( "

P D B U F E

J O

# B M M S P P NT

"

#

$

' P Z F S

" S F B

1

.

"

.

G P S

B E E J U J P O B M

J O G P

D B M M

P S

W J T J U

X X X

G P V O U B J O D J U Z D M B T T J D

D P N

# DP

4 B U V S E B Z

/ P W F NC F S

' $ $

Q B S B E F

3 F H J T U S B U J P O

J T

Q F S

W F I J D M F 1 M F B T F

W J T J U

ZZZ I R X W D L Q Q F L W \O D F V V L F

F R G P P S

' $ $

1 B S B E F

J O G P S N B U J P O

B O E

3 F H J T U S B U J P O

Page 16

Thursday September 27, 2018

Page 17

Thursday September 27, 2018

K92.7 PRESENTS THE 7th ANNUAL JAZZ ON THE RIVER SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2018 AT WOODRUFF RIVERFRONT PARK

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

K92.7 presents its sixth season of Jazz on the River, Sunday, September 30th , 2018 at Woodruff Riverfront Park, 1000 Bay Avenue, Columbus Georgia, 4pm showtime.

Performing on the show: Nate Myers, The Hamiltones, David Banks Gospel Jazz Experience, Columbus’ Own Big Saxxy and a special tribute to the Queen Of Soul - Aretha Franklin by L'tanya Sugarlips Shields hosted by K92.7’s BIG LES, MICHAEL SOUL, AND G SMOOVE. “We are excited to bring to the TriCity community our best line-up of artists to date for the seventh season of Jazz on the River” says Promotions Director Karen Robinson.

“We have extended the show to four hours for your listening enjoyment”.

A variety of food and craft vendors will be on hand. This event is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and join K92.7 for Jazz on the River along the Chattahoochee River in uptown Columbus at the Woodruff Riverfront Park, 1000 Bay Avenue- Sunday, September 30th 2018. Showtime: 4pm.

PAGINA 7

27 de Septiembre 2018

PAGINA 6

27 de Septiembre 2018

PAGINA 5

27 de Septiembre 2018

Pagina 4

2018 Tri-City Latino Festival

27 de Septiembre 2018

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". TambiĂŠn ofrecemos, sin cargo, Pre arreglado y Pre-Funded planes funerarios, seguros de consultorĂ­a, 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

27 de Septiembre 2018

Pagina 2

Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson Honored By The Georgia Hispanic Chamber Of Commerce

By Wane A. Hailes The Staff In recognition of the influence that the Latino community has had on the state of Georgia

the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce presented the first annual “50 Most Influential Latinos in Georgia” on Thursday

September 13, 2018. One of the selected nominees is our very own Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson.

Columbus City Councilor Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson was born in Manati, Puerto Rico on November 22, 1957. She has faithfully represented the Citizens of District 7 for the past 24 years, being elected in 1995 and re-elected for another term in 2018. She has helped to bring more than $400 million dollars in capital projects to her district.

Community Advancement and past president of HELO or Hispanic Elected Officials, a national organization, Georgia Association of Latino elected Official, State of Georgia Commission on Hispanic a f f a i r s , Tr i - C i t y L a t i n o Association, Community Warriors, American Legion, Tri-City Latino Association, and Columbus Steam Center

Councilor Woodson only lived in Columbus for two years before she was elected to office, thus making history by becoming the first Latino to be elected as a City Council, member in the consolidated city/county government. Her political experience has led to thousands of new jobs in Columbus, Georgia including Total Systems Credit Card Processing/TSYS, AFLAC Insurance Company Expansions, and Columbus South Business Expansions.

Her years of knowledge and experience has also helped to make Columbus, Georgia a better place to live, work and play – New and Affordable Housing, Recreation Facilities, Restoration / Redevelopment of Uptown Columbus, Urban Whitewater Rafting, Zip Line, Wa l m a r t , a n d t h e n e w National Infantry Museum to name a few.

Councilor Woodson has been recognized for her hard work and dedication during her years as a public servant.

She has received the Keep Columbus Beautiful “Litter Prevention Award”, PERTY Favorite City Leader Award, Ernestine Aurelia Mack Service to Mankind Award (AKA), and the Rainbow Push Coalition Woman on the Rise Award, Women of Action, The Courier Community service award, The Harold “Lefty Encarnacion community service award, The Dr. Ophelia DeVore Unsung Hero Honors, Mundo Hispanico Atlanta Distinguish Person of the Year, The Panamanian Association of Columbus Ga Mother of the year, William H. Spencer High School Generosity in service, Spenserian Serv ice Award, Davis Broadcasting Women of Excellence Award, Columbus Georgia Chapter of J.U.G.S Women of Acton Honoree, Jack Brinkley, Sr. Lifetime Service Awards and many more Awards, Proclamation, Certificate.

Councilor Woodson proudly served in the United States Army for 15 years and is a strong supporter of soldiers and military families. Councilor Woodson has been an active member of more than twenty civic/ community based organizations involved in making Columbus a better place to live for all of its citizens.

Organizations such as C.A.D or Columbus Against Drugs, Winter field on the move, American Red Cross, South Columbus Revitalization, Georgia Municipal Association, National League of Cities,

Councilor Woodson enjoys empowering people and showing them that if they believe in God and themselves, anything is possible.

Councilor Woodson has two adult children and five grandchildren. Her greatest satisfaction comes from helping others, giving back to her community, and ensuring that all of the citizens of Columbus, Georgia are represented with equal voice.

Eco Latino Vol. 13

Edición 20 Gratis

Jueves 27 de Septiembre 2018

Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson Recognized By Georgia Hispanic Chamber Of Pagina 2 Commerce

couriernews.org

S ERVING C OLUMBUS , F T. B ENNING , P HENIX C ITY & S URROUNDING A REAS

La voz de la comunidad hispana

6th Annual Tri-City Latino Festival

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

Pagina 4