The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 05-23-2019 by Webbasedpublications

The

Courier www.couriernews.org

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

Inspirational-Informative-Empowering...Your Source For The Truth

Vol. 14 Edition 11 Free Thursday May 23, 2019

A View From A Pew

In Case You Didn’t Know...”We Ain’t Never Page 3 Scared“

Divide & Conquer Fails

Towing Contract Controversy

Is This Another Example Of City Council’s Good “Ole Boy” Network? Open Records Request Reveals Innacuracies, Discrepancies and Misrepresentations Re-Bid Proposal Provides Significant Changes

D.A. Disrepects NAACP President...Again Page 7

“A Candid Conversation” Part Two

Sheriff Donna Tompkins Responds To Prison Allegations Pages 9

“Bake You Rich” Winner

Charlette Bell Is A Carver Graduate Pages 11

PAGE 4

THURSDAY May 23, 2019

Sheriff Donna Tompkin’s Bold Move According to the street committee in what some are calling a bold move, current Muscogee County Sheriff Donna Tompkins has proposed eliminating the Marshal’s office and offering those officers a position in the Sheriff’s Department. This is not the first time an effort has been made to eliminate the department. Previous attempts have failed. The current Marshal, Greg Countryman has announced that he will be a candidate for the sheriff’s position in 2020. The street committee suggests this will be the most interesting local race in the next election.

The Street Committee

Excuse Me Can I Get Car Too? The street committee wants to know if they can get a city vehicle too? According to the street committee there are a number of city employees riding around on the taxpayers dime. Sources say there is a committee that has been tasked with auditing how many city employees are currently in city- owned vehicles or are receiving a car allowance. Both are being paid for by the taxpayers. What the street committee is hearing is that taxpayers will be surprised when they find out the names and positions of those who are currently riding car note free. In addition to their car allowance they also receive compensation for mileage. Can you say; I want a city job!!!

Request for Bids/Proposals

RFP No. 19-0022 Traffic Incident Management Services & Towing Services (Re-Bid) (Annual Contract) Due: May 31, 2019 – 5:00 PM Della Lewis, CPPB Buyer Specialist

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 23, 2019

In Case You Didn’t Know...We Ain’t Never Scared! strictly on behalf of Black people we feel obligated to include everyone else?

A lot of people will “talk the talk” on facebook and other social media sites, but when it comes time to “walking the walk” very few will show up. Truth be told most conscious brothers and sisters know at least one “Bush Shaker”, someone who is always at the front of the line fighting for AfricanAmericans, someone willing to “shake it up” regardless of his or her own safety.

“Bush Shakers” are unapologetic and unwavering in their resolve to stand up, speak out, and sacrifice their own resources for the betterment of African-Americans. Those who “talk the talk” as well as “walk the walk” don’t cower in fear of white opinion or get nervous at the thought of their actions being disapproved by Black people. As they work to see that final nail driven into the coffin that contains the “Negro,” the “Sellout,” the “Traitor.” they will often be called the same by the ignorant and uninformed, but that won’t deter them.

We have no problem cheering them on from a distant sideline and slap them on the back telling them, “Keep on doing what you’re doing”, but we will secretly deny them or talk against them in our daily professional circles and corporate environment.

Like preachers many “Tree Shakers” are called but few are chosen. When I think of our community it makes me question the sincerity of the conscious brothers and sisters out there who give a lot of lip-service to Black consciousness, but little else of themselves and their resources to further the cause of Black consciousness, especially when it comes to supporting the “Bush Shakers”. Every time the issue of economic discrimination and disparity against African-Americans is raised in this community, someone or some church from the “upper or middle class African-American community gets a contract, without ever having opened his or her mouth on behalf of African-Americans. Thus, those Black folks who

“have” will always benefit, while those Black folks who “have not” shall remain trapped in the belly of a society that cares less about them because we don’t care about ourselves.

Too many of us that “have” refuse to speak out on important issues of existing discrimination and racism in our community thus assuring their contracts and opportunities keep coming. Why is it when those of us who have “arrived” if you will, in corporate America and have the opportunity to hire Black people or at a minimum speak up for other African-American employees or African-American clients of their company, we feel, instead, compelled to go out of our way not to dos o? In most instances we emphasize any and all other races and de-emphasize AfricanAmericans.

Are we so constrained by our own fear of appearing “too Black” that even when we are in a position to speak or act

I don’t know why we as AfricanAmericans are afraid of anything in this country after what our people have sacrificed and gone through to help us reach the heights we have achieved. I do know that we should take better care of and have more respect for the “Bush Shakers” of our community. It is irresponsible, it is shameful, it is insulting and it is embarrassing to all Black people, no matter what socio-economic level you are on, to mistreat one another the way we do. The work that needs to be done will never be completed as long as there are those who are unwilling to do the work and do not support those that do. These same individuals have no problem, however reaping the benefits of those who are willing to do it. Shame on us! Recently a reader shared with me two comments from conversations they had with other African-Americans about this publication. One was; Why does the Courier continue to print all of this negative information about the city, they are just an embarrassment to us? The other; I don’t know who to believe the Ledger Enquirer or the Courier, where do they get their information from? Let me address the latter first.

The mission of this newspaper is to inform, inspire, educate, empower and at times entertain. We have stayed true to our mission over these past years. Our history dictates that during times of racial strife, segregation and the Civil Rights movement there were two stories told, what you read in the mainstream newspaper and what was reported in the African-American newspapers. I can guarantee if you want to

know what is actually going on in this city you can rely on the Courier/Eco Latino. We do not rely on gossip or innuendo but facts not conjecture. Our information comes from a variety of sources but mainly from the city government itself through the Georgia Open Records Act, which is available to any and everyone. Finally the answer to the first comment lies within this story:

“An old man, going a lone highway, came, at the evening, cold and gray, to a chasm, vast, and deep, and wide, through which was flowing a sullen tide. The old man crossed in the twilight dim; the sullen stream had no fears for him; but he turned, when safe on the other side, and built a bridge to span the tide. "Old man," said a fellow pilgrim, near, "You are wasting strength with building here; Your journey will end with the ending day; You never again must pass this way; You have crossed the chasm, deep and wide-Why build you a bridge at the eventide?"

The builder lifted his old gray head: "Good friend, in the path I have come," he said, "There followed after me today, A youth, whose feet must pass this way. This chasm that has been naught to me, to that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be. He, too, must cross in the twilight dim; Good friend, I am building the bridge for him." We will continue to “shake the bushes” for those who come behind us.

Sorry if we embarrass you but In the words of P Diddy and Bone Crusher: “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop” because “We Ain’t Never Scared”.

Wane A. Hailes

Page 4

COVER STORY

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019

Towing Contract Controversy

Is This Another Example Of City Council’s Good “Ole Boy” Network? Open Records Request Reveals Innacuracies, Discrepancies and Misrepresentations Why Does The Re-Bid Proposal Now Include Significant & Confusing Changes? By Wane A. Hailes The Courier For the past two months I have followed the City Council meetings and specifically the Traffic Incident Management Services (Annual Contract) RFP No. 19-0001.

Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing Please see attached. 6. The criteria used to evaluate the proposal for Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing See page 23, Section XXIV of the attached RFP specifications.

As a result of my observations I recently requested, via Open Records Request information regarding the bidding process. The information I received was not only incomplete but also revealed to me, a number of discrepancies, inaccuracies and questions about the integrity of the process. Here is what we requested: 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

Here is the response we received from the City attorney’s office: 1. The names of the evaluation committee members for the bidding process See below committee members involved in this Request for Proposal (RFP) process. Paul Ezell, Columbus Police Department, Robert T. Futrell, Columbus Fire & EMS Department, Larry Parker, Muscogee County Marshal’s Office, Drale Short, Public Works Department, Myron Strange, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office, Thomas Taylor, Metra Transit System

vided by Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing See Section 5 of each proposal, which were provided on May 3, 2019. 4. The list of references the evaluation committee contacted for Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing. Both contractors listed Georgia State Patrol; therefore, only Georgia State Patrol was contacted. 5. The names of the evaluation committee who made the site visits to Columbus Towing & Recovery and

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.

2. The names of the committee members making the decision. Only the 3 voting committee members complete evaluation forms. Drale Short, Paul Ezell and Robert Futrell. 3. The names of the references pro-

Griffin & Griffin Towing. All committee members visited the locations of both vendors, with the exception of one committee member. 5. The completed evaluation forms provided by each of the evaluation committee members for Columbus

7. The evaluation results and the bids submitted by Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing Please see attached evaluation results. RFP’s were provided on May 3, 2019. As we reviewed the information we found what we see as a number of serious concerns. These concerns must be addressed by city council in order for the public and potential vendors to have confidence in the bidding process. Two companies submitted proposals to the Columbus consolidated government by the due date: October 5, 2018, Columbus Towing & Recovery and Griffin & Griffin Towing. 1. Why are there only three evaluations considered as to who is awarded the towing contract when all 6 committee members visited both businesses and provided evaluations? 2. In the final Evaluation Results in the category of Documentation which determines if a vendor has the necessary Columbus Towing & Recovery received a 27 rating from each of the evaluators. which says that they have all of the necessary documentations. If that is so then how can one person say that Griffin & Griffin had all of their documentation but two say they don’t? either you have the necessary documentation or you don’t. Is Evaluator #3 wrong? Did anyone question their score? 3. In terms of checking each of the vendors references The Open Records Request stated that they only checked

Continued On Page 5

Page 5 one reference, Georgia State Patrol, because both companies listed them as a reference. However evaluator #2, stated “Columbus Towing & Recovery Client history of the 3 clients they listed is superior with them providing services to each one for 10+ years”? If, according to the open records request, they only checked one reference per vendor, The Georgia State Patrol, how would they know Columbus Towing & Recovery’s client history is superior? Subjective refers to personal perspectives, feelings, or opinions entering the decision making process. Objective refers to the elimination of subjective perspectives and a process that is purely based on hard facts. G i v e n t h e aforementioned definitions it is clear, according to comments provided by evaluators, that their reasons to support/justify their scoring was not objective: based on hard facts but instead subjective: based on personal perspectives, feelings and their own opinion. This can be validated by comments from evaluator #1 such as: - Vendor has proven his abilities in previous years by being actual holder of this contract… - CTR has excellent client work history and currently holds the contract

COVER STORY CONTINUED

Subjective refers to personal perspectives, feelings,

or opinions entering the decision making process.

Objective refers to the elimination of subjective perspectives and a process that is purely based on hard facts.

which is the towing of private-owned vehicles is not mentioned as part of the proposal. It appears that what the vendors are bidding on are only towing city-owned vehicles and Metra vehicles. When we sought clarification of whether or not the private-owned vehicles were included through an Open Records Request we were told: “the only process legally allowed under the City’s procurement ordinance for posing questions regarding its terms is the option for interested vendors to seek clarifications in accordance with the terms of the RFP.”

On May 14, 2019 I contacted Della Lewis with the procurement Department on the form provided in the proposal informing her that my business partner and I are considering bidding on the

“Given how tainted the process has been the only fair and equitable solution is to allow both Griffin & Griffin Towing and Columbus Towing & Recovery to share the contract. This is not a foreign idea. Currently Opelika and Phenix City, Alabama have multiple towing companies providing service to their cities on a rotation basis.”

There is absolutely no way, given the the evaluators relationship with Columbus Towing & Recovery over the past fifteen years, that Griffin & Griffin Towing would receive a fair and objective evaluation. Especially given that the evaluators, were Paul Ezell, Columbus Police Department and Robert T. Futrell, Columbus Fire/EMS. It’s just human nature to gravitate toward the familiar.

Obviously questions were raised regarding the bidding process because it was determined that there would be a ReBid for the proposal. However, as we reviewed the new proposal, there has been a number of changes, one of

towing contract. Before doing so, however, we needed a few questions answered so we could make an informed decision. “Does the proposal RFP No. 19-0022 Traffic Incident Management Services & Towing Services (Re-Bid) (Annual Contract) include towing private owned vehicles as the result of accidents? If so where is it stated in the proposal?”

Ms. Lewis responded within minutes stating: “I am forwarding your questions to the appropriate individuals. I will promptly inform provide responses as soon as I’m able to.” As of the time we went to press May 22, 2019 we

had not received a response.

I do not understand why it is so difficult to get a simple answer as to whether or not the private-owned vehicles is included in the contract? I could have missed it in my perusal of the document if so all they to do is tell me after all it is a simple yes or no answer. What is the procurement department trying to hide? What happened to being transparent?

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019 In the meantime Columbus Towing & Recovery continues to service the city and being paid even though the contract has expired. This is just not right and is not fair! Given how tainted the process has been and obviously continues to be, the only fair and equitable solution is to allow both Griffin & Griffin Towing and Columbus Towing & Recovery to share the contract. This is not a foreign idea. Currently Opelika and Phenix City, Alabama have multiple towing companies providing service to their cities on a rotation basis.

As the second largest city in Georgia it is time to eliminate this “Good Ole Boy” and “backroom deals” mentality. There is no way one towing company should have a monopoly on towing in Muscogee County.

PAGE 6

F RIENDSHIP B APTIST C HURCH

831 6 TH AVE C OLUMBUS , G A

Courier Thursday May 23, 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

COVER STORY

Page 7

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019

D.A. Julia Slater’s Divide And Conquer Strategy Fails, Disrespects NAACP President...Again By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Malcolm X, in a speech he gave in Palms Garden, New York 0n April 8, 1964 talked about how America uses the “divide and conquer” strategy against Black people.

“She plays one Negro leader against the other. She plays one Negro organization against the other. She makes us think we have different objectives, different goals. As soon as one Negro says something, she runs to this Negro and asks him, "What do you think about what he said?"

That is exactly what D.A. Slater attempted to do on May 6, 2019. Prior to the “10” minute meeting the NAACP President telephoned D.A. Julia Slater’s office and sent an email requesting a meeting regarding her decision to file an appeal regarding the Gates’ case. She did not receive a response. Since there was no response from the DA’s office - President Pendleton went to her office to meet with her at which time she gave the President ten minutes to address the Gates case. President Pendleton encouraged her to reconsider her decision to appeal Superior Court Judge John D. Allen’s decision for a new trial in the Gates case. Slater said she would.

President Pendleton sent an email letter as follow-up to her meeting requesting that Slater appear at an NAACP town hall meeting to discuss her decision regarding Gates.

Instead of responding to the NAACP Presidents email Slater sent an email to former NAACP President Ed Dubose requesting that they meet regarding HIS interest in the Gates case. Dubose hasn’t served as Columbus Branch President since 2005, fourteen years ago! To contact Dubose instead of the current President who reached out to you is once again a blatant disrespect of

the NAACP organization and Pastor L.K. Pendleton’s position in the organization. And given the recent discussions in the media regarding “White privilege” and her abhorrent behavior I feel comfortable saying she, Slater, has demonstrated a total disdain of Black women. Fortunately in this instance, Minister Ed Dubose saw through her tactic and shared with Pendleton the D.A.’s correspondence. Together they responded to Mrs. Slater’s request via email – to seeking understanding why she chose to bypass President Pendleton’s request for a town hall meeting to meet with him.

Finally, close to two weeks later, both Minister Dubose and President Pendleton received letters from Slater stating two different reasons she wouldn’t be able to attend the NAACP sponsored Town hall meeting. She told Dubose she had a family conflict but told Pendleton that because of ethical considerations she cannot speak on the

We hope to see and we are looking forward to seeing you on June 13, 2019, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss other matters as well. We hope that you will arrange your social schedule so that you will get around to seeing us on June 13th.” As an elected official the District Attorney is answerable to the citizens. Her recent actions, however, avoiding a meeting with the NAACP, is quite contradictory to what appeared on her 2012 re-election paraphernalia (see insert).

If she continues to refuse to address the NAACP and answer their questions then she must be answerable to our community through the ballot box.

In the past our local District Attorney’s have been comfortable relying on the outlying counties to “save them” when it comes to determining their fate during the voting process. It is time for that to change. We must make a concerted effort to reach out to African

“Did you know District Attorney Slater has actively pursued accessibility since she took office? DA Slater understands that in order to understand the concerns of the community, elected officials must be out in the community. As part of her service to the citizens, JULIA SPEAKS TO GROUPS WHENEVER SHE IS ASKED. She has spoken to elementary school classes, to civic clubs, and at graduations. Additionally, she attends ceremonies and church services as often as she is able to understand that she cannot always expect the citizens to come to her, sometimes she must come to the citizens.” - Statement Appeared In Her 1012 Re-Election Paraphernalia

Gates case and that it would no longer be necessary for her to meet with the NAACP to that end.

On Friday May 17, 2019 Pendleton sent Slater the following letter:

“My impression is that you are avoiding meeting with us. There is no ethical reason why you can’t discuss the Gates case. And, I believe you only listed this to dodge responsibility. This is not appropriate.

Americans residing in the outlying counties that make up our judicial circuit, which includes: Chattahoochee, Harris, Marion, Muscogee, Talbot and Taylor counties. We need to make sure they are not only registered to vote but go to the polls and cast their ballot As was written earlier the NAACP has invited District Attorney Slater to join them for a town hall meeting on Thursday June 13, 2019 at 7pm. We will keep you informed if she “actively pursues accessibility” by attending.

NAACP President’s Correspondence Timeline

April 8, 2019 Telephoned Mrs. Julia Slater’s office and sent an email requesting a meeting regarding her to file an appeal regarding the Gates’ case. Did not receive a callback nor email response. April 18, 2019 Since there was no response from the DA’s office - President Pendleton went to her office to meet with her at which she gave the President ten minutes as requested. President Pendleton encouraged her to reconsider her decision. Mrs. Slater stated that she would consider my request. President Pendleton sent email letter as follow-up to meeting. May 2, 2019 Sent letter to DA to appear at a town hall meeting. Requested a response by May 6th. To no avail. May 6, 2019 The DA’s legal secretary sent an email request per Mrs. Slater to Rev. Dubose requesting that they meet regarding his interest in The Gates’s case.

May 8, 2019 Reverends Dubose and Pendleton responded to Mrs. Slater’s request via email – to seeking understanding why she chose to bypass President Pendleton’s request for a town hall meeting to meet with him.

May 14, 2019 Both Minister Dubose and President Pendleton received letters from Slater stating two different reasons she wouldn’t be able to attend the NAACP sponsored Town hall meeting. She told Dubose she had a family conflict but told Pendleton that because of ethical considerations she cannot speak on the Gates case and that it would no longer be necessary for her to meet with the NAACP to that end.

May 14, 2019 NAACP President L.K. Pendleton sent District Attorney Julia Slater suggesting that she is avoiding meeting with the NAACP

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

Page 9

COVER STORY

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019

The Muscogee County Jail: Overcrowded - Understaffed - Unsafe A “Candid Conversation” With...Sheriff Donna Tompkins - Part Two

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier 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 two of that conversation.

The Courier: There have been a number of deaths that have occurred in the jail under your watch how do you respond?

Sheriff Tompkins: I want the public to know that we take each of these very seriously and for any death that occurs in the jail there is a review and we review with both our medical, our mental health, our correctional staff each and every time there's an occurrence. Additionally the Department of Justice comes behind us and reviews."

The Courier: There have been a number of complaints that inmates are being physically abusing but their requests to be moved out of “general population” have been ignored. What is your responsibility toward keeping inmates safe? Sheriff Tompkins:

Of course we have a responsibility to keep the inmates safe. If an inmate has a legitimate concern he can inform his attorney and his attorney can contact us. We will review his or her case and will then take the appropriate action. The Courier: Are there currently inmates serving in the prison that have been moved for their safety?

Sheriff Tompkins: There are a number of inmates currently in isolation and there are others that we have had to move to Harris County for their own protection. There are instances in a controversial case where it is in the best interest of the inmate that he not be housed here in Muscogee County. The Courier: Do you have to pay the other jail to house them?

Sheriff Tompkins: At one point we didn’t but now we do. Keep in mind that we provide the same service for other jails in the area. Harris County or Chattahoochee will ask us to house their inmates if they feel it will be for their protection.

The Courier: What are you doing regarding your staffing shortage?

Sheriff Tompkins: We currently have 32 openings which is considerably less than the Columbus Police Department. Like every law enforcement agency we are constantly advertising to fill those positions. We believe our salaries are competitive for this area but it is a constant battle to attract and keep good employees.

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

Page 10

Rho Rho Omega Chapter Awards Scholarships Columbus High School, $1,000.

The Rho Rho Omega Chapter was founded in 1989 and has been giving out high school scholarships in excess of $130,000 since 1999.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

The Rho Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. awarded over $16,000 in scholarships to high school students in the area on Saturday, April 27 during their Annual Scholarship Luncheon at the Citizens Service Center. The scholarship funds were raised from the organizationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; 2019 Pink Ice Educational Ball held in April. Austin Baker, Columbus High School, $2,000; Tiera Allen, Shaw High School, $2,000; Jordyn Sweat, George

Washington Carver High School, $1,000; Ryah Lynch, Northside High School, $1,000; Janiah Fryer, Central High School, $1,000; Quennetta Baldwin, George Washington Carver High School, $1,000; Ty'Kerria Grey, Russell County High School, $1000; Janae Giles, Hardaway High School, $2,250 ($2,000 and $250 for attending an HBCU; Nailah Strother, George Washington Carver High School, $1,000; Kate Kostuch, Harris County High School, $1,000; Joanelys Lamberty, Russell County High School, $1,000; Alana Averett, Columbus High School, $1,000; and Justin Harris,

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019 Pictured with the awardees are the chaptersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Vice President Kathy Willis; Scholarship Chairman LaTrice Love; Chapter President Erika Thomas and 2nd Vice President Lois Ancrum.

Page 11

COVER STORY

Courier Thursday May 23, 2019

Carver Graduate Charlette Bell Is Winner of Food Networks “Bake You Rich”

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier Originally from Columbus, Georgia, Charlette Bell is a graduate of George Washington Carver High School and is the daughter of Robert Bell and the late Freddie Bell.

Bell is a home baker turned professional pastry chef who is passionate about offering exceptional taste experiences that leaves patrons with a desire for more. In her culinary journey she discovered macarons and their versatility in appearance and flavor. She found a way to combine the delicious little morsel with the tastes of both her culinary heritage and popular tastes of today. By sharing her macarons she’s found the perfect way to connect rich, flavorful cultural history by replicating these diverse flavors in her premiumhandcrafted macarons. “It’s amazing how tastes can establish fond nostalgic memories, said Bell. I discovered this after longing for my Grandmother’s delectable desserts once I was on my own. Her pies, cakes and sweet treats were a family indulgence in my childhood. They were made with love and always presented with elegance.”

“I set out to master my favorite desserts and recreate the tastes I loved so that she could coach me. Once she approved I created the family desserts from then on. This quest for mastery led me to study at Le Cordon Bleu. I went on to become a pastry chef. Grandma was indeed proud!”

“After years of sharing my traditional creations with family and friends I discovered the delightful versatility of macarons and in 2010 she created My Fare Lady Macarons.” The launch of Lady Belle stemmed

from her taking a leap of faith after losing her job. Now residing in Stone Mountain, Georgia today, it is her pursuit to bring the delicate French macaron to the masses. Charlette is purposeful about sharing culinary heritage to harmonize people, families and cultures. She launched Lady Belle for consumers who have developed an affinity for macarons, perhaps during their European travels, and would like to be able to enjoy them regularly while at home.

In early 2019 Charlette put her skills to the test as a contestant on the Food networks newest show; “Bake You Rich” hosted by Cake Boss Buddy Valastro. She won with her recipe of Amiens Macarons, lemon poppy seed!! On the show four professional bakers compete for a chance to have one of their unique creations produced and sold online by the Cake Boss. These talented bakers whip up desserts that show who they are as bakers to earn a seat at the table with Buddy Valastro in round one. In the next round, they present the one item they think will help them hit the big time. Finally, the remaining two bakers put all their love and energy into their big-money item in the intimidating production facility at Carlo's Bakery. Currently her products are available nationally sold through the bakery.

When asked to share a word of wisdom she has gained through her life’s experiences she had this to say: “Don’t put an expiration on your passion. Find that one thing that you know you will stick to until it catches fire and when that catches fire it will light up everything else. I could have been content making cakes, pies and cinnamon rolls but I wanted to stand out and it has paid off. Never give up on anything.”

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The May meeting location was the Mildred Terry Library located at 640 Veterans Parkway, Columbus, GA. Call to Order and Host Presentation The meeting was called to order at 9:10. Our meeting host, Enid Vega, opened the meeting by telling us about the history of the Mildred Terry Library and the services offered. Alex followed by guiding us through the Chattahoochee Valley Libraries’ website at www.cvlga.org and telling us about the various resources available through the library system. Resources include rental of meeting rooms, downloading books to kindle, a mobile app to renew your library card. Mango is a resource that provides instruction to learn a new language. Hoopla allows you to check out movies and TV shows. You can even check out a GoPro camera. Introduction of Visitors and New Members Dr. Ivan Aponte, M.D., just arrived here from Puerto Rico. He did charity work there after Hurricane Maria. He is interpreting for patients and he also does healthcare administration. He is the father of 5 children. He is currently alone here in Columbus but has already made good friends and appreciates our Southern Hospitality. Ena Rivera works for the Metra Transit System Planning Department. She is bi-lingual and helps with Metra’s outreach programs. She also volunteers with hospice and has seen some of us there. Lori Conde was here to represent Bobbi Starr, of Micha’s Promise. Lori’s husband is from Venezuela and they have been in Columbus 8 years. They are active with International Friendship Ministry. She works at TSYS. Lily Mills was invited to attend by Van Palmer. She works for Magnolia Manor Assisted Living. She is from Jacksonville, FL and has been in Columbus for 9 months. She and her husband are with the National Guard Demetria Taylor is a social work intern with the Alzheimer’s Association. She will graduate in December with a Masters in Social work. She is looking forward to getting involved with HOC. Maria Marrero was invited by Olin. She is employed by WHINSEC as a translator. She is an interpreter for guest speakers and in classroom. She and her husband have been in Columbus for many years, coming her through Ft. Benning. She is com-

HISPANIC OUTREACH COMMITTEE pleting a communications curriculum at CSU and needs to perform 150 hours of translation services. Please feel free to contact her for assistance for any and all translation needs. Steering Committee Meeting Tuesday, May 7 Steering Committee members talked about the steering committee meeting on Tuesday where we reviewed the new Facebook page and Hispanic Outreach Committee logo. Juan Carlos explained that we’re working out a way to screen/manage what is posted to Facebook so we don’t overwhelm our followers with posts. We discussed the idea of highlighting 1-2 agencies each week. Van asked members to grab the Logo from the Facebook page and adding it to our agency websites or email signatures. The Steering Committee is very grateful to Kathy Rosado, HOC Marketing Director, for developing the Facebook page, Logo and guidelines for posting. Olin talked about some of the great work that Kathy’s organization, NeighborWorks is doing in Columbus. Check-in by Members Sonia Torres attended to represent Chaplain Rosa and Love in Action Ministries. He wanted to thank all the agencies who responded to the email he sent out asking about who operates in Phenix City. They are trying to engage agencies in Phenix City with the HOC. They have attempted to do so in the past without success. Love in Action is raising funds to reroof a school. They are on the HOC meeting schedule to host the August meeting. Next year they would like to sponsor a Health Fair in Phenix City sometime around March. Malinda Shamburger of Interfaith Valley Promise reported that they will hold an awards dinner this fall for the Tom Black Compassionate Service Award. Tom Black started Interfaith Valley Promise in our area. This organization provides temporary sheltering and mentorship for homeless families. Abby Brent is a Transportation Planner with Columbus Consolidated Governments. She talked about the Black Heritage Trail for which they are building an advocacy group

similar to that for the Dragonfly Trail. They will hold a follow up meeting and begin organizing soon. Abby’s focus is bike and pedestrian planning. She noted the recent increase in pedestrian fatalities. They are doing more outreach and education and hope to bridge the language barriers through participation in HOC. Susan Krochmahy is a volunteer for the Alzheimer’s Association. This organization began in 1980 in Chicago. The Columbus office serves 21 counties. All services are free. Anyone can go to www.ALZ.org for more information. They provide support for caregivers and help set up family plans. They work to increase awareness and will come to churches to speak about Alzheimer’s and what they can do for help. Mark your calendars for the Walk for Alzheimer’s coming up September 20. Enid Vega noted that the library partners with CSU to teach English as a second language classes. These are offered on Fridays and Saturdays and are free. See the website for more information. Diana Montenegro is with Valley Healthcare located at 1600 Ft. Benning road. They are federally funded and offer services to anyone who walks in. They take both insured and uninsured patients on a sliding scale. They provide an array of services including behavioral health, dental OB/GYN, vision, pharmacy, etc. They are a one-stop shop. No proof of income needed. Sgt. Ana Vesga of Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office noted that they assist Hispanics in the jail. They frequently host events for free or low cost. Special Olympics coming up. Jack Lockwood of the Health Department highlighted a brochure he brought to help people quit tobacco and related products. He talked about the You Tube channel HOC set up a while back and offered to help members record a short segment for this. He suggested that interested members could do a few sessions after the next HOC meeting. Maria Marrero said she would help with translation as needed. He alerted mem-

23 de mayo 2019 bers to a news item he heard that the federal government is threatening to stop benefits for anyone without legal residency in the U.S. and noted that the group or it’s members may want to take some action. Pastor Juan Carlos Diaz, of Iglesia De Dios Nuevo Pacto, noted that they had to cancel the April Health Fair because they are rebuilding their church. However, they fully intend to hold the September Health Fair as planned. Eloisa Brown, of West Central GA Cancer Coalition reminded everyone that they provide education and informational handouts and brochures. The last Tuesday of the month they offer breast exams at the John B. Amos Cancer Center. Those who are interested must make appointment. Abby Moorman attended on behalf of Karin Tyson of the Sexual Assault Support Center. She reported that they are in need of Spanish speaking volunteers to answer the hotline – currently they have no one. A 30 hour training is required and they do these twice a year. Advocates go to the emergency room to assist victims. They help with prosecution and future medical needs, if any. The next training begins May 21. This is a state recognized certification. Lily Mills reported for Van Palmer who had to leave early. He wanted to mention that the flyer for the blood drive should say for 5/15. It will take place at Thrive, the assisted living and memory care center. The drive is for victims of the tornado in Smith Station. There will be a meeting for professionals who serve older Americans on 5/21. They can seat 40 so please RSVP. Also on 5/21 at Thrive there will be an evening event to honor Thrive. This is free and open to the public. Amber Staples, of the GA Military College, reported that they are looking for opportunities for students to volunteer. They will hold an admissions day in August. Stacey Neale of Paws Humane Society, Pets for Life Program reported that she works with underserved communities to increase access to veterinary care. All of Paws vet services are free or low cost. She encourages everyone to attend the Barks &Blues Festival tomorrow from 4 – 11pm. It is free and open to the public. The Next Meeting Will Take Place On June 14 At The Columbus Health Department. More information to come.

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Pagina 4 97% eficaz en la prevención del sarampión; una dosis es de aproximadamente 93% eficaz.

Tr e s n u e v o s c a s o s d e sarampión en Georgia: DPH Insta a los georgianos a ser vacunados By Dr. Beverly Townsend District Health Director El Departamento de Georgia de Salud Pública (DPH) ha confirmado tres nuevos casos de sarampión en el área metropolitana de Atlanta. Los tres individuos son todos miembros de una misma familia - ninguno de los cuales fueron vacunados. Aunque el riesgo de contraer la enfermedad es baja, el DPH está notificando a las personas que puedan haber estado expuestas al virus

y pueden estar en mayor riesgo de desarrollar el sarampión. La inclusión de estos tres casos adicionales, el total de casos de sarampión en todo el estado en el año 2019 es de seis. El sarampión es una enfermedad respiratoria altamente contagiosa, grave. Es especialmente peligroso para los niños que no pueden ser vacunados hasta que tengan al menos 12 meses de edad los niños y jóvenes que sólo han recibido una dosis de la vacuna contra el sarampión. La vacuna triple vírica es segura y efectiva. Dos dosis de la vacuna MMR son aproximadamente un

El sarampión se transmite cuando una persona infectada respira, tose o estornuda gotitas respiratorias y viajan a través del aire. El virus del sarampión puede vivir en el aire y en las superficies de dos a tres horas. Casi todo el mundo que no ha sido vacunado contra el sarampión conseguirá si se exponen al virus. Los síntomas del sarampión incluyen: - Fiebre (puede ser muy alto) - Tos, flujo nasal y ojos rojos puntos blancos minúsculos en la capa interna de la mejilla también llamadas manchas de Koplik - Sarpullido de pequeños puntos rojos, que se inician en la cabeza y se extiende al resto del cuerpo (puntos puede quedar unido al difundirse) Las personas con síntomas de sarampión deben comunicarse con su proveedor de atención médica de inmediato. NO ir a la consulta del médico, hospital o una clínica de salud pública sin llamar primero para hacerles saber acerca de sus

síntomas. Los proveedores de salud que sospechan que el sarampión en un paciente deben notificar a la salud pública de inmediato.

ENGLISH Three Additional Cases of Measles in Georgia: DPH Urges Georgians to be Vaccinated The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed three new cases of measles in the metro Atlanta area. The three individuals are all members of one family – none of whom were vaccinated. Although the risk of becoming sick is low, DPH is notifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus and may be at increased risk for developing measles. Including these three additional cases, the statewide total of measles cases in 2019 is six. Measles is a highly contagious, serious respiratory disease. It is particularly dangerous for infants who cannot be immunized until they are at least 12 months old and young children who have only received one dose of measles vaccine. The MMR vaccine is safe and effective. Two doses of MMR vaccine are about 97% effec-

tive at preventing measles; one dose is about 93% effective. Measles spreads when an infected person breathes, coughs, or sneezes and respiratory droplets travel through the air. Measles virus can live in the air and on surfaces for two to three hours. Almost everyone who has not been vaccinated will get measles if they are exposed to the virus. Symptoms of measles include: - Fever (can be very high) - Cough, runny nose and red eyes - Tiny white spots on the inner lining of the cheek – also called Koplik’s spots - Rash of tiny, red spots that start at the head and spreads to the rest of the body (spots may become joined together as they spread) People with symptoms of measles should contact their health care provider immediately. DO NOT go to the doctor’s office, the hospital, or a public health clinic without FIRST calling to let them know about your symptoms. Health care providers who suspect measles in a patient should notify public health immediately.

Ayuda ayuda cuando más se necesita Las Mujeres, Infantes y Niños (WIC) Programa de Nutrición es un programa de salud y nutrición © fondos federales para: Los bebés y niños en edad de 1 a 5 años (incluyendo los hijos de crianza)Mujeres embarazadas-Las madres lactantes (hasta 1 año) -Las mujeres posparto (hasta 6 meses) ¿Cómo califico para los beneficios de WIC? En general, WIC está disponible para: embarazadas, mujeres de lactancia, y posparto de bajos ingresos - bajo ingreso de los padres o tutor que es el único proveedor de los niños menores de cinco años que

están en riesgo nutricional y que están en o por debajo del 185 por ciento del nivel federal de pobreza Puede tomar la Evaluación de Elegibilidad de WIC para ver si reúne los requisitos * o llame a su oficina local de WIC para hacer una cita y averiguar qué documentos tendrá que llevar con usted. (Para encontrar la agencia local de WIC utilizar la clínica de la lista) En la cita, el personal de WIC comprobar para ver si usted y su familia califica).The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Supplemental Nutrition Program is a federally-funded health and nutrition program© for: - Infants and Children age 1

to 5 years (including foster children) - Pregnant Women - Breastfeeding Mothers (up to 1 year) - Postpartum Women (up to 6 months) Lo WIC provee Cheques especiales para comprar alimentos saludables de los vendedores autorizados de WIC - leche, huevos, pan, cereales, zumo, mantequilla de maní, y mucho más (ver alimentos autorizados) nformación sobre la nutrición y la salud para ayudar a usted y su familia a comer bien y estar sano Apoyo e información sobre la lactancia materna a su bebé Ayudar en la búsqueda de atención médica y otros servicios

a la comunidad

ENGLISH How Do I Qualify For WIC Benefits? Generally, WIC is available to: - low income pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women - low income parent or guardian who is the sole provider of children under age five who are at nutritional risk and who are at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level You can take the WIC Eligibility Assessment to see if you qualify* or contact your local WIC office to make an appointment and find out which documents

you will need to bring with you. (To find your local WIC agency use the clinic listing) At your appointment, WIC staff will check to see if you and your family qualify). What WIC Provides Special checks to buy healthy foods from WIC-authorized vendors – milk, eggs, bread, cereal, juice, peanut butter, and much more - Information about nutrition and health to help you and your family eat well and be healthy - Support and information about breastfeeding your baby - Help in finding health care and other community services

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8 consejos para aprovechar al máximo su siguiente visita al médico la consulta, puede realizar una prueba gratuita de autodetección en línea en DoIHavePrediabetes.org para saber si tiene prediabetes. Durante la visita, el médico tendrá que confirmar un diagnóstico de prediabetes y puede ayudarle a desarrollar un plan individualizado para evitar que avance hasta ser diabetes de tipo 2.

(StatePoint) Las visitas al médico pueden ser muy productivas con un poco de trabajo de preparación antes de la cita, dicen los expertos. “Para algunas personas, las visitas al médico pueden ser desalentadoras o incluso atemorizantes, pero hay pasos que uno puede dar de antemano para mejorar la experiencia, fomentar la comunicación y, por tanto, mejorar los resultados de salud”, dice Barbara L. McAneny, M.D., Presidenta de la Asociación Médica Estadounidense (AMA). “Al ser abierto y honesto con su médico y al hacer preguntas, puede desempeñar un papel clave en la prevención del avance de las enfermedades crónicas y en cómo fijar un curso más saludable”. Éstas son ocho maneras de sacar más provecho de su próxima visita al médico: 1. Conozca su historial. Un historial de salud familiar puede ayudarles a su médico y a otros profesionales de la salud a identificar si usted tiene un mayor riesgo de determinadas enfermedades y trastornos. Con esta información, pueden tomar decisiones informadas para su atención, desde recomendar tratamientos o diagnósticos concretos hasta ayudarle a planear cambios en el estilo de vida que le ayudarán a mantenerse bien. Antes de su próxima visita, reúna toda la información que pueda para compartirla con su médico.

2. Sea sincero. Es probable que el médico le pregunte acerca de hábitos de salud tales como el consumo de alcohol, tabaco y drogas, así como la cantidad de ejercicio que hace. Es importante ser sincero y preciso al responder a estas preguntas. Pregúntele al médico si usa tabaco, drogas o alcohol, y si necesita ayuda para dejarlos. 3. Haga una lista. Incluso si sólo va a hacerse una revisión periódica, haga una lista de las cosas que quiere comentar durante su consulta y llévela a la cita. Los temas pueden incluir síntomas que haya experimentado, dolencias que haya sufrido y más. 4. Hágase análisis. Pregúntele a su médico acerca de los tamices de salud necesarios en función de su edad, sexo y otros factores de riesgo, lo que incluye su historial familiar. Healthfinder.gov es un buen recurso para encontrar los servicios preventivos recomendados. 5. Descubra cuál es su riesgo y actúe. Hable con su médico sobre el riesgo de padecer diabetes de tipo 2. Antes de

6. Vacúnese. Hable con su médico sobre la importancia de la vacunación. Muchas vacunaciones requieren refuerzos después de que pase un tiempo. Asegúrese de estar al día en sus vacunaciones. 7. Obtenga ayuda. Dígale a su médico si se ha estado sintiendo mal y cree que podría estar sufriendo de depresión. 8. Conozca sus números. Haga el seguimiento de datos de su salud tales como su estatura, peso, índice de masa corporal y presión arterial a fin de compartir las tendencias con su médico y tomar medidas de ser necesario. Visite LowerYourHBP.org para conocer los números de su presión arterial y los riesgos de la presión arterial alta no controlada, también conocida como «hipertensión», que alteran la vida, y encuentre una lista de preguntas para hacerle a su médico con objeto de controlar su presión arterial. Al estar preparado con las preguntas y la información correctas, puede aprovechar al máximo su próxima consulta médica.

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 11 Gratis

couriernews.org

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

La voz de la comunidad hispana

Jueves 23 de mayo 2019

8 consejos para aprovechar al máximo su siguiente visita al médico

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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

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