Thecourier 04 28 16

The Vol. 11 Edition 29 Free Thursday April 28, 2016

Wal-Mart Opens New Store

Courier www.couriernews.org

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

THE 2016 COURIER ECO LATINO NEWSPAPER EDITORIAL BOARD The Voice Of The Community

Evelyn Turner Pugh Welcomes 95 More Jobs to Page 11 Her District A Courier Conversation

MCSD District Candidate Pat Hugley Greene

Page 13

Courier Kids

Introducing Our newest Feature; Columbus’ Very Own “Big Shots” Page 20

Page 5

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THURSDAY April 28, 2016

Thank You, But We Don’t Need Your Help According to the street committee there is an individual of the, “Caucasian Persuasion”, in our community, who insists on telling the African Americans in our community how we should interpret an editorial cartoon that appeared in the last issue of this publication. The cartoon, pictured here, for your convenience, has a clear and concise message that Black folks in any community have no problem understanding. They may disagree with it, they may deny it; but even the “intelligent, successful” African American ladies, depicted in this cartoon know exactly what it means.

Oh Yeah, And Another Thing The street committee asks this same individual of the “Caucasian Persuasion”, the next time you choose to “post” information that previously appeared in our publication please post the entire article without detracting Frank Myers name because it incriminates him. Finally, for your information, the saying; “if you don’t want Black folks to know something, put it in writing, because they don’t read”, does not refer to the Courier Eco Latino newspaper. As our slogan states; “Folks Get It, Folks Read It!

The Street Committee

And they “Got” the paper you referred to that was published last month on March 17th and they actually “Read It”.

Because they did, our readers know that what you referred to as an advertisement placed by the publisher of this publication in opposition to M u s c o g e e County School board member A.J. Senior, was in actuality an attempt to take advantage of those who may be less informed.

In fact, the article, which was titled: “Is Frank Myers…John Milton or Cyrus Beene?” actually reports that what you want people to believe was an “advertisement,” was actually a flyer that was being distributed by Frank Myers in opposition of A.J. Senior We published the flyer seen here. So that we aren’t accused of taking advantage of the less informed, we have provided that portion of the article as it appeared: “As it relates to Senior, Myers once again is allegedly behind

the dissemination of a flyer which inaccurately disparages her with blatant lies and innuendos.

Because he is expecting people not to ask questions for themselves and instead just believe what he puts out there, here are the facts that refute each accusation.

1. Her daughter has a Master’s Degree in Education and was hired on her own merit 2. The Ethics violation claim is a play on words because she paid the fees that are accessed when you file late.

All monies were paid and all reports have been filed. If you check the list with the state you will find many of the local politicians have been assessed late filing fees. It amounts to having a traffic ticket and paying it late.

3. Is nonsense because all books and classroom resources are budgeted through the general fund, title funds and MANY local organization donating book bags and schools supplies. In fact, Ms. Senior gave away approximately 300 books bags full of supplies before the 2015 school year started.

4. The only schools in District 3 that could potentially qualify for the Opportunity School District Law if passed are Martin Luther King, Jr, ES and Baker MS.

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper is published bi-weekly *Any editorial content are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper, publisher or staff” Office Location The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Georgia 31901 Email: thecourier@wowway.com Phone: 706.225.0106 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Ga 31906 Visit Us Online At: www.couriernews.org

The real reason he wants her gone is because once she became a board member it was evident she was expected to vote the way he told her to however she refused to be the puppet to his puppet master just because he recruited her.” We have no problem with you using our stories all we ask, is when you do please report the whole story

I Guess We Would Be Wrong The street committee wonders how badly we would be villified if we were to expose the name of the candidate who, after numerous attempts to collect payment, now has a warrant for their arrest that is currently being processed by a vendor for writing a check that was returned for insufficient funds. Please take care of this before our next issue.

A VIEW FROM A PEW

THURSDAY APRIL 28, 2016

Which Line Will You Choose?

informed and have a clear understanding of the information available to us, all of the information, good or bad. Why? Because an uninformed voter, casting a vote is worse than no vote at all. The hunt and peck method of voting is dangerous and unpatriotic! We must not vote for our own self-interests. We must vote for properly inspired and prepared, selfless leadership.

For good or bad, social media has played an important role in this election. The good is that it has allowed candidates to get their message out to large numbers of people, in a matter of minutes, through F a c e b o o k , Tw i t t e r a n d Instagram. Candidates can even provide live video conversations with their “friends’ through “Periscope” and “FaceTime”.

The bad is that it also allows for individuals to set up “Sockpuppet” profiles, which are online identities used for the purpose of deception. It originally referred to a false identity assumed by a member of an Internet community who spoke to, or about, themselves while pretending to be another person.The term now includes other misleading uses of online identities, such as those created to praise, defend or support a person or organization to manipulate public opinion.

This election cycle has had many of them, with the majority of them set up by one known individual from this community.

Come May 25, 2016, the day after the election, there are some of you who will either blame me or thank me, and that’s ok. In this issue we offer our endorsement of candidates

we believe will best serve our community. We realize there will be those of you who disagree with our choices and that is, as Bobby Brown would say, “your prerogative”. After all it is

your vote.

Because each of us has but one vote, it is imperative that before any one of us walks into the voting booth, we be

In spite of all that is good or bad about social media one thing is fact; as a candidate, the number of “Friends” you have, how many people “Like” what you say, or “Share” what

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you “Post”, does not translate into “Votes”, unless they go to the polls and Cast” a ballot.

Until we resolve to stand in the “Vote Here” line, like we stand in the “Jordan’s On Sale Here” line; a “Change Will Never Come” and “Now, Will Never Be The Time”.

In the last election there were 29,528 registered African American female voters in Muscogee County but only 21,531 of you voted. There were 19,508 registered African American male voters but in the last election only 11,922 of you voted.

By contrast; of the 26,028 White females registered in the last election only 17,863 voted and of the 21,001 registered White males only 14,396 went to the polls.

That’s right, add them up. The numbers do not lie! More African-Americans voted in the last election than any other demographic.

For years now I have stated that because we are the majority demographic in Muscogee County, we can elect who we want everytime we go to the polls. The decision of who should represent us as our mayor and as our judges; on our city council and our school board; is entirely up to us. We don’t have to be criticized for “Playing The Race Card” if we use our “Voter Registration Card”.

So let me end somewhat, as I began. Come May 25, 2016, the day after the election, I will either blame YOU or thank YOU and that’s ok, because at least I will know which line you chose.

Vote May 24!

Wane A. Hailes

Opinion/Editorial

Page 4

By Cornell William Brooks President and CEO of the NAACP

Protecting The Right To Vote: Democracy Awakening

When we think about the right to vote, it is and should be understood to be a civic sacrament in the temple of democracy. However, this presidential election will be the first in 50 years without the full protection of the Voting Rights Act.

In 1965, the Voting Rights Act was enacted with the blood, sweat and tears of Americans from all across the country. But 50 years later, we’re still dealing with a multi-hued, multi-racial, multi-ethnic form of bias and discrimination at the ballot box.

To combat this assault on the right to vote, the NAACP has come together with more than 260 organizations – representing the labor, peace, environmental, student, racial justice, civil rights and money in politics reform movements – to stage a mass convergence this month on Washington, D.C. and call for democ Read the full commentary on our website at: www.couriernews.org

April 28, 2016

By Raynard Jackson NNPA News Wire Columnist

Homosexuality Is The New Black

In order to have a fully functioning society, we must have some common baseline of beliefs that join us together, whether it’s a fraternity, a church, or a political party. Without this commonality, belonging to a group or a society is impossible.

We hold these trues to be self-evident: the Earth is round, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, Barack Obama is the president of the United States, and if you are born with a penis you are a male. If you are born with a vagina you are a female.

Oh-oh! These last two are going to get me in trouble. Now I will be called homophobic, hateful, un-Christian, a divider, not fit for public service, unfit for management in corporate America, etc., but the question is, “Why?” In God’s senility, he has become so old and feeble that he is making a lot Read the full commentary on our website at: www.couriernews.org

PAGE 5

COVER STORY

Our 2016 Editorial Board Endorsements

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Here we are once again faced with an election that will affect the lives of those of us who live in Muscogee County.

And again I find myself wondering when, or if we, as African-Americans in this community, will ever recognize the power of our vote.

As the publisher of a newspaper founded with a mission t o e m p o w e r, inspire and encourage the African-American and Hispanic community; a publication that insists on providing information based on facts and not gossip or innuendo, I often feel like a parent who wants to protect his children from the pitfalls of life before it’s too late.

Never before has it been as crucial, as it is now, to be knowledgeable and informed about the potential leadership for our community. We need to know the political position of our candidates, their background, their preparation for, and the direction in which they intend to lead our city. Unfortunately, most of us know more about college and professional athletes and their sports teams than we do about the candidates who are running for our local offices.

I understand fully that we, as AfricanAmericans, regardless of perception, are not a monolithic people who vote as a majority: democrat. And with more and more individuals willing to throw their hat into the political arena it is imperative that we do our research on each candidate. We are no longer in high school. These are not elections for prom king or prom queen. This election is about serious issues with major consequences for us all if we vote out of anger and ignorance.

Before any one of us walks into the voting booth, we must be informed and have an understanding of the information available to us. Why? Because an uninformed voter, casting a vote is worse

than no vote at all. The hunt and peck method of voting is dangerous and unpatriotic! We must not vote for our own self-interests. We must vote for properly inspired and prepared, selfless leadership.

As I have said during each election cycle, I believe the true calling of a newspaper is to share their knowledge and perspective on candidates and issues for the betterment of its community. Newspapers that shy away from endorsements not only are shirking a basic responsibility but also are shortchanging the discussion of ideas that is critical to healthy communities.

As we have proven over the years, and regardless of what whoever may say otherwise, we will never tell you who to vote for; but you can be sure our endorsements will always be based on facts, not gossip, truths, not rumor.

Like a good parent who only wants the best for his children but feels the frustration of their refusal to heed his warnings, I can’t give up on my community.

What we attempt to do with each issue is more than a job for us it is our calling. We feel it our responsibility, whether you listen or not, to provide you with the information we have available that will allow you to make decisions based on the facts.

After all is said and done we hope to provide you with information that will help you make the best-informed decision possible.

To that end, as it relates to this election, on the following pages we offer our endorsements for the May 24th election. Prior to that, however, we have compiled a list of facts that we hope will help you in your decision making process.

1. When are we going to open our eyes? It has been well documented that Muscogee County School Board member, Frank Myers is adamant about replacing school board members, Pat Hugley Greene and A.J. Senior. In

an article appearing in the LedgerEnquirer on April 16, Myers was quoted as saying; “It’s time to put the school system back in the hands of the people,” the board’s first-term District 8 representative wrote. “Please support the following candidates and we will fix our broken school system.” The individuals he was referring to are; Joann Thomas-Brown for District 1, Vanessa Jackson for District 3, Pete Taylor for District 5, and Shelia Williams for District 7.

From the time he was elected to the school board you have heard us refer to Myers as the “puppet master”, constantly trying to manipulate individuals to vote along with him and John Thomas.

We told you how he recruited A.J. Senior during the last election and when she realized he expected her to vote his way and didn’t, his negative and bullying actions resulted in a GBI investigation. We told you how, as recent as the first of this year, when he attempted to recruit Kia Chambers as chairman of the board and she figured him out, he ended up at the last minute pulling his support from her and instead voting for Rob Varner telling the LedgerEnquirer; “We never can figure out where Kia is coming from."

Many thought we were either making this “puppet” story up or either just didn’t believe us but lo and behold, in the same article that appeared on April 16, Shannon Smallman, the current school board member representing District 7 who is not seeking re-election said Myers gave her advice for her 2012 campaign, but their alliance collapsed after she didn’t vote with him in opposition to outsourcing custodians.

“At the beginning of my term, I realized he thought I was a puppet, and I never saw myself that way,” she said.

April 28, 2016

After all of this information being made available to Thomas-Brown, Jackson and Williams and the fact they are still willing to be led by Myers says a lot about their character. You may as well change Franks’ name to “Rollo”, and their names to “Follow”.

2. The numbers don’t lie. There are 31,632 students currently enrolled in the Muscogee County School District. Of that number, 23,801 or 73.14 % are African-American, Hispanic or other minorities. Do you really believe Frank Myers is concerned about your child or the remaining 26.86% (7,831 students).

A persons actions don’t lie either.

3. Pay close attention! There are two candidates in this election who are Republicans but are running as Democrats.

Because they believe the majority of African Americans vote as Democrats, they have changed political party’s in order to garner the “Black” vote. They are; Municipal Court Judge Steven Smith and candidate for Muscogee County Sheriff, Donna Tompkins. This is not the first time for Smith. He won his office the first time using this tactic on unsuspecting voters. According to reliable sources Donna Tompkins stated at a recent political forum that it was suggested she run as a Democrat if she had any chance of winning. It should be noted that Tompkins worked for and is being endorsed by former Muscogee County Sheriff, Ralph Johnson who was in office at the time of the Kenny Walker case.

Although he now resides in Te n n e s s e e , i t appears he still believes he has enough pull to get her elected.

4. Pay attention to “Code Words”. With no one serving on the Superior Court bench who looks like us it is import

SEE Code Words Page 6

PAGE 6

Code Words From Page 5

ant that we pay real close attention to everything the candidates say during local forums. As of this date incumbent, Judge Ron Mullins has yet to appear at any of the forums sponsored by African American organizations. So given that, all we have to go on is what is written in his brochure which we has been received by mail to voters in Muscogee and surrounding areas. In the mailer there are two lines that should be particularly troubling to African Americans. The lines are the following; “A ROCK SOLID COMMITMENT TO KEEP OUR FAMILIES SAFE” and “My pledge to you is simple-trust me with your vote and I will continue to do all that I can to keep you and your family safe from crime.” Now, to the average person this might not even register concern.

To me, however, this immediately raises a red flag.

As a judge, there is only one way you can keep families safe from crime. The only way a judge can do that is to sentence people to jail for a long time. And there is no mistaking the majority of people who are going to jail. If a candidate, running for sheriff made these statements, I could understand because that is there job, to keep us safe from crime, but a judge?

No. The role of a judge is to interpret the law, assess the evidence presented, and control how hearings and trials unfold in their courtrooms. Again, there is only one way he can keep families safe from crime. That is all the reason we need to elect Alonza Whitaker to the bench.

April 28, 2016

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The Courier Eco Latino Editorial Endorsements

City Council District 4

For our editorial board the choice for District 4 was easy, Mayor Pro-Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh

It is easy to become frustrated when areas in the District you live in have roadways that have yet to be completed and there is a perception of a lack of available jobs as well. During an election it is common to place the blame on the incumbent. Challengers do that when they don’t know or don’t understand the intricacies of the position they are seeking. That is why experience counts. Pugh understands and has explained at numerous forums that once you start a project dealing with roadways, deadlines change depending upon what is found once the digging starts. Often there are environmental challenges, safety issues or any number of problems that no one can remotely be aware of until the work begins. Regarding available jobs, since the Mayor Pro-tem took office, over 30 companies have located in District 4 providing employment for over 10,000. It is clear to us that although she may have Parkinson’s, Parkinson’s does not have her. Our choice is: Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh

City Council At-Large

The At-large position on city council should go to political newcomer Tremaine “Teddy” Reese

We have long stated that every citizen in Muscogee county has three city councilors but it has been proven time and time again that for AfricanAmericans in Muscogee County that is not the case. Try as we might our editorial board could not come up with any major event as of late where Skip Henderson was in attendance in South Columbus. It is time to elect someone as our At-Large councilor who will represent all of Columbus. Let’s elect at least the second of our three representatives. We endorse Tremaine “Teddy” Reese as that person. He is well-qualified, capable and prepared to be a fresh voice for the future.

School Board District 1

The editorial board took little time to reach an agreement on Pat Hugley Green

Bottom line, District 1 has an individual in Pat Hugley Green who we know not only looks like us but has proven time and again that she can and will stand strong in addressing our issues and concerns. She has stood toe to toe with Frank Myers, John Thomas and Cathy Vaughn Williams on numerous occasions and has always come out on the side of our children. Green has shown that she has never been nor will she ever be one who will go along just to get along. Over the years she has been accesible and has followed through on her promises. Her only real challenger wants us to believe that she will not be beholden to Frank Myers but our sources say unequivocally that is not true. And our source is extremely credible. With that, we endorse the only one who has proven she will not waiver under pressure, Pat Hugley Green.

School Board District 5 Todd Robinson

City Council District 8

For District 8 we endorse newcomer Walker Garrett. This endorsement is based soley on his responses to the questions asked of him at the various forums. From his responses we believe he is genuine with his concern for this community.

With four individuals vying for the District 5 seat on the Muscogee County School Board, we have an opportunity to level the playing field. With each of the candidates being new to the political process our nod goes to Todd Robinson. Although he has made some comments, during the campaign that were cringeworthy, we still believe he is honest in his willingness to serve the children of his District.

April 28, 2016

School Board District 3 Athavia “A.J.” Senior

Frank Myers, as a part of his “Boot The Board” effort, recruited Athavia Senior. When she realized he expected her to be his “puppet”, voting the way he told her to, she quickly distanced herself from him. Since doing so she has endured his wrath with numerous attempts to embarrass and harass her over the years with unsubstantiated accusations. Through it all she has stood firm in her commitment to serving the children in her District. Athavia Senior deserves our respect and has truly earned our endorsement. Her challenger is a Myers recruit. Need we say more?

School Board District 7 Norene Marvets

Our selection for District 7 was probably the easiest of all. There is only one choice and our endorsement goes to former board member Norene Marvets. In 2012 she was a victim of Frank Myers effort to “Boot The Board” of which Cathy Vaughn Williams was a co-conspirator. Marvets was an active board member who regularly visited her schools and on many occasions assisted them financially always anonymously. Although we believe Cathy and Frank are no longer friends we just don’t trust her. It’s a wellknown fact that politics make strange bedfellows and more importantly we believe a leopard doesn’t change its spots. Finally we can’t help wonder why someone who was “counting down her time to get off the board, now can’t wait, to get back on the board!.

Something in the milks not right so we are going to go with the saying; “You never step in the same s#@% twice.”

PAGE 8

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April 28, 2016

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Sunday School 9:30 A.M Sunday Worship 11:00 A.M Monday Night Prayer 6:00 P.M Tuesday Bible Study 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.

First African Baptist Church

Pastor Curtis Crocker, Jr.

901 5th Avenue

Columbus, Georgia

Sunday Worship Sunday School 9:30 A.M. Morning Worship 11A.M. Transportation Provided

Call 706-323-3367 Sr. Pastor Roderick Green

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Page 9

The Courier Eco Latino Editorial Endorsements

Our endorsement for Clerk of Superior Court, Municipal Court Clerk and Marshal are unanimous and collectively goes to the incumbents. Linda Pierce, Vivian Creighton Bishop and Greg Countryman.

We say collectively because neither of these individuals is being challenged for their job performance, this election is about one thing and one thing only, the lawsuit they have against the city.

This has been evident at each forum when the only confident response their challengers can offer is that if they are elected they will drop the lawsuit.

From Hardman, to Hudson to Spicer, they offer no evidence of mismanaging of funds, no accusations of dereliction of duty and no concerns regarding staff morale issues, because there are none.

ation, as was suggested by the incumbents, but it is too late to go to mediation now. So basically, what he is saying is, this could have been solved with a sit down around a table.

We all can agree that you don’t have to be a genius to know that there is no way the lawsuit can be dropped just because there is a leadership change.

Judge of Superior Court

Alonza Whitak

Our endorsement for Judge of Superior Court goes to Alonza Whitaker.

With his 31 years in the legal profession, he is experienced in all aspects of the law as a judge, defense attorney and prosecutor. He currently serves as Chief Assistant District Attorney for all six counties of the Chattahoochee Judicial circuit and works with law enforcement and court agencies in all counties. To say we need someone who looks like us on the bench is an understatement.

decision. Our only reservation about our endorsement of Linda Pierce is, we know what God can do. We have no idea what the Lord has shared with the Bishop, but we do know sometimes we hear what we want to hear and often times that is not what he said. I guess we will find out May 24th, thus sayeth the Lord.

When you understand, however, that this election is about the lawsuit, then you have to wonder who has the most to gain if the incumbents are defeated. There are certain individuals who have mastered the art of throwing rocks and hiding their hands.

Each of the incumbents runs their office with professionalism, honor and integrity. They are being challenged only because they felt compelled to sue the city because they were not receiving enough money in their department’s annual budgets to adequately serve the citizens of Muscogee County.

In the case of the Clerk of Municipal Court she was asking for a mere $60,000 more. We spoke with the city attorney, Clifton Fay and he informed us that the lawsuit could have very easily been settled months ago in medi-

Of all the challengers of the aforementioned incumbents, the most surprising is Bishop Ann Hardman. Many are asking why a minister, with her stature and two congregations in two different states, would have the time to serve as Superior Court Clerk let alone want to serve in that capacity. We are quite sure she has prayed about her

April 28, 2016

Clerk of Municipal Court Vivian Creighton Bishop

Clerk of Superior Court Linda Pierce

Judge of Municipal Court

Cynthia Maisano

Although we have given her a hard time regarding her constant reminder to African American audiences that she is a “proud graduate of Howard University”, Cynthia Maisano is still our choice for Judge of Municipal Court. Unlike the incumbent Steven Smith, she is not a Democrat for convenience sake. We also believe because of her educational background she will; “Put People First and Justice Always”.

Marshal Greg Countryman

April 28, 2016

PAGE 10

Request for Bids RFB No. 16-0033 Safety Equipment (Annual Contract) Due May 11, 2016 – 2:30 PM Kevin Robertson, Buyer

Fire and Burglar Alarm

Security Cameras Surround Sound

1124 Lockwood Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31906 1.800.769.0694 Curtis Stephens

Cell: 706.888.8522

www.alarmcommunicationinc.com

Sealed responses must be received and time/date stamped by the 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 www.columbusga.org, notify the Buyer via email krobertson@columbusga.org, fax 706.653.4109 or telephone 706.653.4105.

RFP No. 16-0015 ‘CM/GC At-Risk’ Services for City Mill Riverwalk Due: April 29, 2016 – 5:00 PM Della Lewis, Buyer Specialist RFP No. 16-0017 Construction Services for Bibb Mill Riverwalk Due May 13, 2016 – 2:30 PM Della Lewis, Buyer Specialist

*RFP No. 16-0017: A Mandatory Pre-Proposal Conference/Site Visit will be held at 2:00 PM (Eastern) on April 26, 2016 in the office of the project architect, Hecht Burdeshaw Architects, 8 West 11th Street, Suite 300, Columbus GA 31901. There will be a 10-minute grace period.

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. Specifications are available for a non-refundable $20 and $50 fee, respectively, from the Engineering Department, 2nd Floor – Government Center Annex, 420 10th Street, Columbus GA 31901.

Andrea J. McCorvey, CPPB Purchasing Division Manager

C OVER S TORY

Page 11

April 28, 2016

Wal-Mart Is Just The Latest Company To Provide Jobs In District 4

By Greg Hudgison Special To The Courier

Evelyn Turner Pugh, is a 28-year veteran of the Columbus City Council and tireless voice for the citizens of Columbus, GA, particularly the residents of District 4. Evelyn has served on the Council as Mayor Pro Tem for the last eight consecutive years.

Just over two weeks ago Wal-Mart opened its fourth local Neighborhood Market at 4909 Buena Vista Road. The market is a 41,000-square-foot grocery store, which also houses a pharmacy and gas station.

Meet Teysha Thomas, PharmD. Walmart Neighborhood Market Pharmacy Manaager

The Neighborhood Market is located less than a block away from an older Wal-Mart store which will be closing and folding into the Wal-Mart supercenter opening later this summer on Victory Drive.

With this move the newest market has now moved from District 1 to its new home in District 4 and City Councilor Mayor Pro-Tem, Evelyn Turner Pugh, who represents the District, was on hand for the grand opening ceremony.

“This is a great day for our community, said Pugh. Today, because of WalMart, we have provided 95 people with full or part time employment. Wal-Mart is just one of many companies over the years who have committed to locating and providing employment in District 4.”

In her almost three decades of service to the city of Columbus, especially the citizens of District 4, Pugh has been a relentless leader in the areas of economic development, transportation, and recreational improvements in the community.

In the realm of economic development, Pugh knows that real economic development means real JOBS for the district and the entire community. Because of her business and governmental expertise on the local, state, and national levels, District 4 has experienced consistent job growth.

Because of her support of the Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce and job development, several nationally and internationally known companies are located in District 4. These companies, representing a wide range of industries, create new opportunities for the citizens of Columbus to improve the quality of life for themselves and their families.

current and future companies call home.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Some Of The Companies Located In District 4 Include:

Aflac AFS America Blue Cross Blue Shield Coleman American World Group Columbus Productions Columbus Technical College Training Center Consolidated Pipe & Supply Company Cott Beverages Denim North America DNA Technical Finishing First Data Gentry Machine Works Heatcraft North America Heckler & Koch HPPE, LLC ICForm Inc. International Paper Jack T. Rutledge Prison

These companies employ approximately 10,000 people across District 4, in addition to the thousands more employed in numerous small businesses around the district. In order for the district to continue this positive economic momentum, we need a leader like Evelyn Turner Pugh who has the experience and vision to guide District 4 towards a positive future for businesses and residents.

District 4 has benefited from the committed representation of Evelyn Turner Pugh to improve the district and the City of Columbus, and with your support, her positive impact will continue to make District 4 the place residents,

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

JCI Kemira Chemicals Kodak McCauley Propellers McGruder Enterprises Mediacom Muscogee Manor NCR Net Systems/Composite Construction Systems Oneda Corporation Panasonic Ryder Stepan Company Swift Spinning TSYS Walmart West Central Georgia Regional Hospital

Teysha is a graduate of Albany state University in Albany, Georgia and FAMU’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, (Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University) in Tallahassee, FL. She has 18 years of pharmacy experience, including retail, ambulatory care and consultant pharmacy.

Teysha grew up in Columbus, Georgia and is proud to serve the community in which she was raised.

She looks forward to giving back to the very people who helped her become who she is today.

Thomas currently resides in Ellerslie, Georgia with her husband and two sons. In her spare time she enjoys traveling and spendingtime with her family and friends.

Walmart Neighborhood Market 4909 Buena Vista Road Columbus, Georgia 31907 Pharmacy Hours Monday-Friday: 9am-9pm Saturday: 9am-7pm Sunday: 10am-6pm

PAGE 12

Columbus Technical College is Hiring!

We are looking for qualified candidates for the following positions:

Adult Education ESL Instructor Part-time Adult Education Instructor (Quitman County) Part-time Allied Health Instructor Part-time Anatomy & Physiology Adjunct Instructor Part-time Associate Degree Nursing Instructor Full-time Associate Degree Nursing Adjunct Instructor Part-time Automotive Collision Repair Instructional Aide Part-time Bookstore Cashier Part-time Carpentry/Cabinetmaking Adjunct Instructor Part-time Clinical/Didactic Adjunct Instructor Part-time Cosmetology Instructor Part-time Driver’s Education Instructor Part-time Engineering Technology Adjunct Instructor Part-time Esthetics Adjunct Instructor Part-time Institutional Advancement Director Instructional Aide – Cosmetology Part-time Interpreter Part-time Maintenance Technician Full-time Microbiology Adjunct Instructor Practical Nursing Adjunct Instructor

For more details and to apply for these positions please go to www.columbustech.edu and click “CTC Employment.”

Columbus Technical College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

April 28, 2016

Page 13

A C OURIER C ONVERSATION ...

April 28, 2016

Muscogee County School District Candidate Pat Hugley Green District 1

This weeks “Courier Conversation” is with Pat Hugley Green who is the incumbant seeking re-election to the District 1 seat on the Muscogee County School board.

Courier: Why are you seeking re-

election?

Green When I ran in 2004 I prom-

ised to bring Collaboration Accountability Responsiveness Excellence and Success for ALL students. I have delivered on those promises because I care about public education, it is the great equalizer. The fact is collaboration is key to the effectiveness of a board member. My ability to work with my colleagues and other city, state and federal officials resulted in the following successes for District 1:

• In Midtown, collaboratively worked with City Officials to develop over $150 million of real estate projects to include the New School of the Arts • Catapult Academy at the Edgewood Center reduces the drop-out rate- the first year 2015 resulted in the highest number of graduates in the state and Muscogee County had 60 of the 119 graduates who found their new beginning.

• A new state of the art G.W. Carver High School after rethinking renovations • A new Education Central Office where OUR parents no longer have to stand outside in LONG lines and in inclement weather during the registration and other student services

processes. We wanted positive first impression of our education system.

• A new Rigdon Road Elementary School after rethinking renovations • Renamed Eastway Elementary School to Lonnie Jackson Academy after an outstanding community leader through a change in policy.

• Initiated required counselor/student/parent meetings to discuss career and graduation eligibility prior to graduation day. This allows parents and students to manage their high school career and prepare for life after graduation.

• Fought for pay raises for ALL employees • Fought to increase use of minority contractors and subcontractors I am proud of the work and accomplishments in District 1 and I ask for your vote to allow me to continue delivering successful results.

of education is current. The three R’s, Reading wRiting and aRithmetic are long gone because the focus is on Rigor, Relevance and Relationship in order to teach and prepare the 21st century learner to compete globally.

The fact is that families and educators today are faced with “perpetual” change in the standards and metrics that measure success and they are NOT “perpetual” failures.

I am the only candidate who finds it unacceptable to call the hard work of our students, parents, and our educators as perpetual failure. I believe that if you speak it, then you believe it. I believe in our educators and I trust them to continue to make miracles happen in today’s classroom every day.

Courier: What will you do if elect-

ed?

.Courier: What distinguishes you from your opponents?

Green: I will continue to deliver proven

delivering results. My leadership is not about making promises of campaign rhetoric.

My strengths are in effective advocacy for collaborative relationships between Board Members, the Federal, State and City officials through pro ductive communication.

Green: I have a proven record of

I am vested because I’m the only candidate with children in the school district. What parents trust and depend on is that my decisions will be good for their children as well as mine and the rest of the 31,000 students.

My perspective is that of a business manager which allows me to see the big picture as well as a parent to see the perspective from the classroom of today. Over the last twentytwo years as a family business manager we have been recipients of the products of the school system which allows me offer specific input on college and career readiness. As a parent my input effects what new policies and procedures will have on families and students and their overall success. The bottom line is that a diverse perspective is needed for the board to be effective.

My leadership is proven and my experience and knowledge of the new R's

leadership to the voters, children and parents.

I will continue to be accessible to parents, employees and citizens. A strong advocate for friendlier navigation through school services for parents and students and policy information for employees and accountability for citizens. I will continue to advocate for consistency and fairness for every employee and student to insure shared success throughout the entire school district.

Courier: What are the key issues

in this election?

Green: The greatest challenge for the Muscogee County School District like other districts across the nation is convincing the Governor and the federal government that adequately funding public education should be a priority. A primary focus is on the Georgia Milestone Assessment System, GMAS Test. This is Georgia’s

new measure of assessing the academic achievement of students which was rolled out in 2015. The parameters are constantly changing and I believe it will take at least four years before the teachers will have enough trend data to effectively guide the classroom instruction.

Courier: What do you think about

candidate Cathy Williams new found support for you as the devil she knows? What do you think about her past active Facebook campaign against you?

Green: I am very pleased that after

leaving the board table, Ms. Williams is able to appreciate the quality of leadership that I have always provided. I remain committed to working with all of my colleagues for the success of children and public education.

NAME:

Pat Hugley Green AGE: 49

HOME:

Born and raised in the Columbus – Phenix City area

OCCUPATION:

Licensed Insurance Agent 22 years Carolyn Hugley State Farm Insurance Administrative officer 22 years Hugley’s Facility Management

EXPERIENCE:

Board Vice Chair 3rd year School Board Member 3nd term (12 years) Family Business Manager 22 years

EDUCATION:

Masters in Strategic Leadership Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN Bachelors in Communications Arts Johnson C. Smith University, Charlotte, NC

FAMILY:

Married to firefighter Kevin Green 2 elementary school aged children

PAGE 14

Rainbow PUSH Coalition Founder Reverend Jesse L. Jackson appoints Calvin F. Vismale, Jr. Peachtree Street Project Executive Director

April 28, 2016

Innovative leadership with collaborative initiatives sets new agenda for economic equity and voter involvement, registration and turnout for the new South. the Atlanta office of PUSH,” said Jackson. “We are concerned that our people have surrendered their vote; and, with the help of Atlanta’s diverse and formidable leadership, and the experience that PUSH brings to the table, we want to get the vote back into the hands of our citizens who vote in spite of the rain,” added Jackson.

ATLANTA (April 19, 2016). After engaging in a three month search, Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and the Citizen Education Fund (CEF) Board of Directors have appointed Calvin F. Vismale, Jr. as the new Executive Director of its Southern Region Peachtree Street Project. “Calvin Vismale has the passion for justice, the intellectual acumen and the background of economic development and economic justice," Rev. Jackson said. "He has a working knowledge of the South where so much of our challenges remain. We are blessed to have him and I look forward to working with him in his new position.”

Calvin Vismale is an innovative entrepreneur and independent capital market professional who has earned a BA in Banking and Finance from Morehouse College and is not new to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition. Chief Operating Officer Mark Ellis says, “For many years, Calvin has been a key member of the Peachtree Street Project Advisory Board.

We look forward to Calvin’s leadership and to supporting him as he steps into this new role.” Vismale will report directly to Ellis.

“Setting an agenda for the new South will be high among the list of priorities for Vismale as he takes the reigns of

Prior to joining the civil rights organization, Vismale worked for Merrill Lynch, Morehouse College, Calvert Group and Goodworks International. He has also provided consulting services to Lehman Brothers, A.G. Edwards, Paine Weber, Criterion, Williams Capital and Towers Perrin. He is a registered municipal advisor and held a Series 7 plus 63 securities licenses for 28 years.

“I am excited to be afforded the opportunity to provide servant leadership in the Southern Region for Rainbow PUSHCEF Coalition as Executive Director of the Peachtree Street Project,” Vismale said. “It is a high honor to be selected by Reverend Jackson and the CEF Board of Directors to continue the work toward economic equity that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Ralph David Abernathy Jr. asked him to do 50 years ago with Operation Breadbasket.”

As an Atlantan by way of Chicago, Vismale has an extensive history of community involvement.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors for People TV Public Access Cable and has served as Chief Financial Officer of First Congregational Church Community Development Corporation (First CDC), Board President of Sevenanda Community Cooperative, Board Member of the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), founding member of NASP Financial Services Conference and founding Chair of Rainbow Push Peachtree Street Project Advisory Board.

Vismale succeeds Janice Mathis who, after 20 years of service to the Rainbow PUSH Coalition and affiliates, as Vice

President and Executive Director of the Peachtree Street Project, is now the Executive Director of the National Council of Negro Women in Washington, DC. For more information contact www.rainbowpush.org. The Atlanta office may be reached at 404-874-1280.

About the Rainbow PUSH Coalition The Rainbow PUSH Peachtree Street Project was launched in 2000 to work for justice and equality in every aspect of modern life from education and youth development, to financial literacy, business formation and growth.

Rainbow PUSH Coalition (RPC) is a multiracial, multi-issue, progressive, international

membership organization fighting for social change. Its mission is to protect, defend, and gain civil rights by leveling the economic and educational playing fields, and to promote peace and justice around the world RPC was formed in December 1996 by Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. through the merging of two organizations he founded earlier, People United to Serve Humanity (PUSH, 1971) and the Rainbow Coalition (1984). With headquarters in Chicago and offices in Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and Oakland, RPC works to make the American Dream a reality for all citizens and advocate for peace and justice around the world.

RPC is dedicated to improving the lives of all people by serving as a voice for the voiceless.

Who’s Got Next?...

PAGE 15

April 28, 2016

Young Professionals On The Move

Nadine Haralson, provides up close and personal interviews with young professionals who are making a difference in our community. Join us each issue as we introduce, recognize, and celebrate those individuals in Columbus, Phenix City and Ft. Benning who are… “On The Move”

Travolta Bynam

By Nadine Haralson

The definition of God’s gift of doing the impossible, Travolta “Tee Muscogee” Bynam is definitely a young leader on the move. Inspired by his oldest brother, Charlie Bynam (D.S.O.S. Band), Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, and family member, Derek “Fonzworth Bentley” Watkins to pursue entertainment industry endeavors, Bynam has been writing and performing music since the age of 9. Raised by a hard-working single mother, Dorothy Ann Bynam, who also is positioned as 2nd to God on his personal list of life’s heroes, “Muscogee” still managed to graduate with Top Honors from Columbus High Magnet School to attend the black Harvard of Universities- Morehouse College. There, “Muscogee” double majored in Business Administration and film which coerced him to realize that the entertainment industry is where he was going to be working for the rest of his life.

After College, B y n a m became and still is one of Columbus, Georgia’s top songwriters and recording artist. Hailing the stage name “ T e e Muscogee”, Bynam has been a part of the recording group Flowjack F a m i l y, C o business management of top artist Dkeezy aka DK and is a current vocal member of Columbus’ top live band, D.S.O.S- created by his oldest brother. “Tee Muscogee’s” current accomplishments includes being mentored by Davis Broadcasting, Inc.’s DJ Michael Soul and DJ OO KEE. Bynam is positioned as Assistant Music Director/ Assistant to the overall programming department, On-Air Personality for 104.9 FM/Foxie 105, radio show producer for Power 105’s The Breakfast Club Morning Show, DJ OO KEE’s Vanglorious Show, and commercial producer and vocalist for all 6 radio stations at Davis Broadcasting, Inc.

“Tee Muscogee” is also founder of the “Dress for Success” clothing company that helps at risk youth and young adults build appearance and self-esteem for the corporate world of business.

Bynam is also a spiritual/comedic author working on 3 books right now!! He resides in Columbus, Georgia and can be reached via Facebook @Tee Muscogee or teemuscogee@gmail.com for any other business inquiries. Now that’s on the move !!

Janee Rene

By Nadine Haralson

The Courier Janee’ Renee (Janee’ In The Mid-day) graces the airwaves of WKZJ K 92.7, as the Mid-day On-Air Personality. The “Crazy, Sexy, Cool” voice behind the microphone was introduced to the field of radio in her hometown of St. Louis, Missouri.While majoring in Communications, Janee’ became a student announcer for the College radio station 89.5 The Wave. It’s been nothing but growth from that point.

In 2005 Janee’ began working as the community news and talk show producer, as well as, a board operator for “Sunday Morning Live” on the #1 Urban AC station Majic 104.9. Her keen work ethic and charming personality did not go un-noticed. One month later she was hired as a part-time onair personality at Clear Channel’s 100.3 The Beat, the #1 Hip Hop & R&B station in St. Louis.

While at Clear Channel, Janee’ developed great networking skills, interviewed countless community figures, celebrities, peers and began to leave her

footprints in the field of radio/media.

Janee left Clear Chanel for a full-time on-air position with Radio-One. Her tasks included Mid-Day On Air Personality, PSA Director, producer for “Nelly Radio”, Production, and hosting community events. When Janee’ took over the Mid-Day position she took the slot from #6 to # 1 in a couple of months. To date, one of Janee’s most memorable experiences as the mid-day talent would be hosting the “Diva’s of the Lou” event where she was an actual honoree.

Future plans for this determined young talent include helping K92.7 become the #1 Urban AC station in the city of Columbus, GA and venturing in the world of Producing. When Janee’ isn’t working towards accomplishing her goals she spends her spare time acting, volunteering, writing, and mentoring.

Catch Janee’ Monday – Friday 10am3pm on K92.7. Contact information as follows: 314-262-2161 janeerenee1@gmail.com

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1. Thoroughly explain the bail bonds process and confront any possible issues 2. Providing free bail information 3. Quick bond processing – J&J Bonding offers round-the-clock service 4. Offer flexibility and work with you on financial arrangements such as collateral and credit terms

Cash Bond (Pay Full Cash Amount for Bond Directly at the Jail)

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T HE M INORITY Y ELLOW PAGES

A1A Bonding Company 1246 10th Street Columbus, Ga AAA Fast Tax, LLC 3575 Macon Rd. Suite 1 Columbus, Ga Alarm Communications, Inc. 1124 Lockwood Ave. Columbus, Ga Attorney Jose E. Guzman 721 1st Avenue Columbus, Ga Attorney Katonga Wright 3100 Gentian Blvd. Suite 8B Cols, Ga Attorney Shevon S. Thomas 201 9th Street Columbus, Ga Attorney Stacey S. Jackson 927 3rd Avenue Columbus, Ga C Brown & Associates, Inc. 1300 Wynnton Rd Ste 107 Columbus, Ga Courier Eco Latino Group 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Ga Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Ga Dr. Brel Clark, Optometrist 5448 B Whittlesey Blvd Columbus, Ga Dr. Laretha Lockhart, Dentist 1435 54th Street Ste 100 Columbus, Ga Exclusive Wireless 3512 Buena Vista Rd Columbus, Ga First African Baptist Church 901 5th Avenue Columbus, Ga First Step Recovery, LLC 3575 Macon Rd #12 Columbus, Ga Freedom Bonding Company 615 10th St. Columbus, Ga Friendship Baptist Church 831 6th Avenue Columbus, Ga Gametime Barbershop 2409 S. Lumpkin Rd International Funeral Home 927 5th Avenue Columbus, Ga J & J Bonding Company 424 9th Street Suite 10 Columbus, Ga Kee J’s By Jerry 3656 Buena Vista Rd #3 Columbus, Ga Metropolitan Baptist Church 1635 5th Avenue Columbus, Ga Moses Bonding Company 615 Veterans Parkway Columbus, Ga Overflo Beauty & Barber Shop 1816 Midtown Drive Columbus, Ga Progressive Funeral Home 4236 St. Mary’s Rd Columbus, Ga Realtor Tashema Johnson 7830 Veterans Parkway Columbus, Ga Supreme Fast Tax 2450 Wynnton Rd. Columbus, Ga Tax (1) One 3337 Buena Vista Rd Columbus, Ga The Clothes Connection 3360 Buena Vista Rd Suite 19B VH Long Notary Public 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Ga West Georgia Orthodontics 3645 Gentian Blvd Suite 2 Columbus, Ga

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Page 17

African Americans & Diabetes: A Multifactorial Issue

In response to the recent death of national radio personality Doug Banks due to complications involving diabetes, we asked Valley Healthcare System to provide our readers with information regarding what some call,”The Silent Killer”.

By Jasmine Peterson, MPH, PA-C Family Medicine Physician Assistant Valley Healthcare System, Inc. 1600 Fort Benning Rd. Columbus, GA 31903

As African Americans remain one of the leading ethnic groups to be impacted by diabetes, we should ask ourselves as a community why. Of course when we initially think about why diabetes plagues our communities we think of the dietary and hereditary components associated with it. However, we often times forget the other factors that come into play in regards to the increasing rates of diabetes in African American communities. Does it really come down to a simple answer as to why diabetes has become so endemic to the African American population?

In the clinical setting we often see two types of diabetic patients: those who are extremely motivated to combat the disease, and those who choose to placate the severity of their illness and wait until their disease becomes so severe that there is little help that we can offer. Unfortunately, we see more of the latter. Patients will commonly have multiple excuses for why their diabetes is not under control. Some of these excuses include their inability to change their diet due to cost. Diabetics often express that it is more expensive to eat healthier. For instance, the amount of food that one family can buy from a fast food dollar menu is cheaper compared to them buying local produce from their supermarket and then preparing their meals at home. Quite often patients will also express how they are usually cooking for the entire family, and it is hard to make any adjustments

April 28, 2016

to their meals if their family members are not supportive. In addition, many patients also work long hours and it is easier to grab a quick prepared food from a fast food restaurant down the street compared to preparing their meals the night before at home. Finally, we also often hear from our patients that they feel “fine.” When diabetic patients do present to the clinic, it is often for a reason they perceive to be unrelated to their diabetes. Yet, what patients fail to realize is that many of their complaints are linked to their uncontrolled diabetic state.

Another reason why the African American community is plagued by diabetes is because it is to be “expected.” Diabetes has become so common in the African American community it almost seems “normal” to patients. Many patients have grandparents, mothers, fathers, siblings, and friends impacted by diabetes. So when we diagnose patients in the clinic it is almost as if they are not surprised at all. Some patients believe that diabetes just comes as a natural course of life such as does aging, getting married, and having kids. A diagnosis of diabetes is not viewed as something to be worried about because so many African Americans have it and they seem to be doing just “fine.”

Nonetheless, every so often, we do come in contact with patients who are combating their diabetes to the point where they have reversed their diagnosis completely. So we ask ourselves as healthcare providers why are some patients motivated to make a change while others are not? When dealing with diabetes it involves more than just the individual. African Americans who do well with managing their diabetes often have the support of family members and/or friends. Their support systems encourage them to make dietary and physical health changes, often times because they are willing to make those same changes themselves. For exam-

ple, you have those family members willing to make cut back on starches and sweets along with the patient in order to help them lower their blood sugar. They also have them to remind them to check their blood sugar often and to take their medications daily.

Usually patients do need another person outside of their healthcare providers cheering them on to fight this disease.

It should be a team effort.

As healthcare providers it is also our responsibility to consider other environmental barriers that hinder our diabetic patients. Everything is not always in their control. Many diabetic patients in the African American community live in areas with less access to resources that can aid in their fight against diabetes. Many live in food deserts where there is little to no access to fresh produce. It is often common to see multiple fast food restaurants and dollar stores in these communities, but not local supermarkets. Many patients would have to travel further out of their community to get healthier food at a reasonable cost.

Then there comes the issue of obtaining transportation to get to these healthier food options.

Many of our patients have to rely on local transportation or having a friend or family member take them to get the food that they need.

Lastly, as clinicians, we also encourage our diabetic patients to exercise to achieve a more healthier lifestyle, but we often forget that our patients may not live near walking trails, neighborhood parks, or live in a neighborhood that is safe for them to exercise outdoors. Patients often become frus-

trated because it may not be to a lack of trying on their end, but due to the environmental barriers in their community.

As healthcare providers it is important for us to remember that it will take more than just medications to treat our patients. It is our responsibility to take the time to educate our patients about diabetes and the impact it will have on their lives. We have to consider all of the factors that may hinder our patients from managing their disease, and help them develop a plan to navigate around these barriers. If we do not push to make these changes we will also become complacent with the notion of being African American = being diabetic. The African American community should never be “fine” with having diabetes.

Page 18

April 28, 2016

PAGE 20

Alaun-Miguel Christian

COURIER KIDS

Alaun-Miguel Christian age 7 son of Romesha Clayborn was born the first baby of 2009 in Columbus Ga.

Chase Rudy Jenkins

April 28, 2016

Chase Rudy Jenkins is the amazing 10 year old daughter of Ahkelia Copeland and Janessen Jenkins Jr.

His modeling career started at the young age of 5 when he was entered into The Bailey Agency Kids Model Search 2014 owned by Atlanta's Housewive Cynthia Bailey. He placed first best over all for his age group in 3 out of 4 categories.

In 2015 he has done multiple fashion shows, a pageant and was casted to be in Barbershop 3 starring Ice Cube.

Chase is a 4th grader and attends Reese Rd Leadership Academy where she is a member of the broadcast team and student council.

She is a Junior Girl Scout with troupe number 50387 and plays left field for the Crush softball team at Pioneer Little League. In her spare time

He was picked and you can see his debut on the big screen in theaters now.

He's also been featured in two magazines in March of 2015. Aside from modeling and acting he is a Lego fanatic.

There is no limit to what he can build.

At the tender age of 7 he loves soccer, basketball, baseball and track and makes straight As.

Chase likes to play on her skates or scooter outside, play school with her dolls and write stories in her journal.

He's an all around kid and makes his family very proud!!

EXPERIENCE, INTEGRITY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL ALONZA WHITAKER FOR SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE CHATTAHOOCHEE JUDICIAL CIRCUIT Why Whitaker

- 31 years in the legal profession

- Experienced in all aspects of the

law as a judge, defense attorney and prosecutor

- Currently Chief Assistant District

Attorney for all six counties of the Chattahoochee Judicial circuit

- Works with law enforcement and

court agencies in all six counties

of the Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit

- Mentors new attorneys

- Supervises attorneys and investigators

- Serves as Miniser, Missionary worker and Mentor

Career In Law

- Assistant Public Defender Douglas County- Omaha, NE

Family

Married to the former Ms. Caponier Samuel

- Chairperson, Muscogee County

Proud father of three adult sons:

- Assistant District Attorney,

Loving grandfather of two grand-

Child Fatality Review Committee

Chattahoochee Judicial CircuitColumbus, GA

- Environmental Court & Recorders Court Judge, Columbus

Consolidated Government

- Private practice, Whitaker

& Whitaker, P.C. Columbus, GA.

- Chief Assistant District Attorney, Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit Columbus, GA

- Has a career of over 200 jury trials

Immanuel, Christopher and Aaron daughters, Ilyscia and Imani

Education

Diploma Jordan High School

Bachelor of Science Alabama State University Juris Doctorate Creighton University School of Law

PAGE 4

Jueves 28 de Abril 2016

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper is published bi-weekly *Any editorial content are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper, publisher or staff�

Jose E. Guzman, P.C. Abogados Heridas Personales - Derecho Penal - DUI Derecho Familiar - ManutenciĂłn de los Hijos 721 1st Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31901

706.984.8428

Office Location The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Georgia 31901 Email: thecourier@wowway.com Phone: 706.225.0106 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Ga 31906 Visit Us Online At: www.couriernews.org

Pagina 2

Jueves 28 de Abril 2016

The First Annual Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion COMMUNITY SERVANT AWARD

NOMINATION FORM

Name of Nominee____________________________________________ Individual/Company___________________________________________ Title/Position________________________________________________ Address____________________________________________________ City____________________________State___________Zip__________ Business Phone________________Home Phone__________________ Deadline May 6, 2016 Please complete the nomination form and mail to the address below: Courier Eco Latino Newspaper P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Georgia 31906 or Email to: thecourier@wowway.com You May Also Fill Out Nomination Form Online at:

www.couriernews.org

salud y el desarrollo de su hijo.

Van a hablar con su familia sobre cómo resolver los problemas o dar una referencia para problemas especiales. proveedores de Health Check realizan o ayudan en la vinculación de los niños a otros servicios, como los anteojos, audífonos, asesoramiento y prescripciones.

¿Cuál es chequeo?

Health Check (EPSDT) es un programa de atención médica preventiva para los miembros de Medicaid menores de 21 años y para los miembros de PeachCare para niños menores de 19 años en el Departamento de Salud Comunitaria de Georgia.

El programa ofrece servicios de niño sano como exámenes de la vista, vacunas y atención dental. El personal médico examinará a fondo el niño o adolescente y darle disparos contra las enfermedades cuando sea necesario. También le hará preguntas acerca de la

¿Por qué participar en la verificación de salud?

La buena salud es importante para los niños; que ayuda a sacar el máximo provecho de la vida. Los niños necesitan buena vista para leer y ver lo que está sucediendo alrededor de ellos. Necesitan cuerpos fuertes y sanos para caminar, correr y jugar. Necesitan una buena audición para disfrutar de música, hablar con sus amigos y hacer bien en la escuela.

Que necesitan atención dental temprana para que puedan comer y digerir bien los alimentos. Llevar a los niños al

médico o enfermera con regularidad para mantenerlos sanos. Los médicos y las enfermeras pueden encontrar y tratar los problemas de salud antes de que se agraven. También es importante que los niños reciban las vacunas que necesitan para protegerlos de enfermedades como el sarampión, la varicela y la "gripe". ¿Dónde y cómo puedo participar a su hijo?

Llamar con antelación para ver si chequeo está disponible en su departamento de salud local, para hacer por su nombre.

Llame a 706-321-6300 si necesita ayuda.

Para información en Español, por favor Llame Alguno pecado Coste, al 706-321-6300.

ENGLISH

Health Check What is Health Check?

Health Check (EPSDT) is a preventive health care program

for Medicaid members under 21 and PeachCare for Kids members under 19 within the Georgia Department of Community Health.

The program offers well-child services like eye exams, vaccines and dental care. Medical staff will thoroughly examine the child or teen and give shots against diseases when necessary. They also will ask questions about your child’s health and development.

They will talk to your family about how to solve problems or give a referral for special problems. Health Check providers perform or assist in linking children to other services, like eyeglasses, hearing aids, counseling and prescriptions.

Why Participate in Health Check?

Good health is important for children; it helps them get the most out of life. Children need

good eyesight to read and to see what’s happening around them. They need strong healthy bodies to walk, run and play.

They need good hearing to enjoy music, talk with their friends and do well in school.

They need dental care early so they can eat and digest food well. Take children to the doctor or nurse regularly to keep them healthy. Doctors and nurses can find and treat health problems before they become more serious. It’s also important that children get the shots they need to protect them from illnesses like measles, chicken pox and the “flu.”

Where and How Can Your Child Participate?

Call ahead to see if Health Check is available at your local health department, Ask for it by name.

Call 706-321-6300 if you need help.

Eco Latino Vol. 11

couriernews.org

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

La Voz de la Minoría

Edición 29 Gratis

Jueves 28 de Abril 2016

COURIER ¿Cuál es chequeo?

Pagina 2 Nominations Are Now Being Accepted

The First Annual Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Servant Award

Pagina 2

Courier Eco Latino Group Supports

LA 2016 ECO LATINO NEWSPAPER JUNTA EDITORIAL

ENDOSOS

OTO Courier Pagina 5