The
Courier
Vol. 11 Edition 32 Free Thursday June 9, 2016
What Happened To Our “Facebook Friends” On Election Day?
Political Consultant Dominick Perkins Offers Revealing Insight Page 9
Plantation Politics
Frank Myers Has Worked To Decide Our Leadership Since 2010 Page 11
Beware Of “SockPuppets” And Troll Accounts
Numerous Fake Facebook Pages Such As “The Real Courier” Have Been Created To Manipulate Public Opinion Page 13
www.couriernews.org
The Voice Of The Community
Dr. Joann Thomas Brown Says: “The Numbers Don’t Lie, People Do”
We Agree, So When Will She Stop Lying to the People?
Lie #6: Dr. Brown Told The Local Clergy On Numerous Occasions That Frank Myers And Josh Mckoon Are Not Involved In Her Campaign
The Truth
If A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words, How Much Are Two Worth? See Page 5 For More “Lies Versus The Truth”
Page 5
2
THURSDAY June 9, 2016
Congratulations Mayor Lowe
At his recent Mayors Ball Phenix City Mayor Eddie Lowe announced that his third annual function raised over $100,000. The dollars raised from the event will provide scholarships for high school students to attend college. To date 30 high school students have received funds for college and 33 students for dual enrollment.
The Street Committee
Really Frank?
Not only are we hearing Frank Myers is alledgedly talking to possible replacements for Superintendent Dr. Daved Lewis, according to the street committee a reliable source has learned that Frank Myers has told Dr. Joann Thomas Brown if she wins he will make her chairperson of the Muscogee County School Board.
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
A VIEW FROM A PEW
THURSDAY JUNE 9, 2016
3
Now was Not The Time For Marquese “Skinny” Averett gratification and recognition and feel entitled to it. And they feel they deserve it NOW!
Two years ago I met with a group of ten African American Millennials at Skippers Seafood on Buena Vista Road. “Skinny” was one of them. The topic of discussion centered on their willingness to serve the community politically but feeling disrespected by the minority leadership and other respected community leaders at the time.
Most had been told; they should wait, it wasn’t the right time, they hadn’t paid their dues yet and even worse; how dare you think about running for office. They were feeling disenfranchised and more than that, angry.
Twice we have listed him as one of our 50 Most Influential African Americans in Columbus, Phenix City and Fort Benning. In 2012, for his organization of the local march in support of Trayvon Martin, the Florida teen murdered by George Zimmerman, we awarded him one of our prestigious Community Service Awards. He has also been featured in our publication as one of the “Young Professionals on the Move”.
As the result of his grassroots efforts, there is no doubt we must and do recognize Marquese “Skinny” Averett as one of the up and coming lead-
e r s o f t h i s c o m m u n i t y ’s “Millennial Generation”.
Defined as those individuals 1834 years of age, Millennials are the children of the “Baby Boomers”. They are civic minded with a strong sense of community both local and global. To their detriment, however, many have entered into adulthood with unrealistic expectations, which sometimes leads to disillusionment. Because they grew up receiving constant praise from their “Baby Boomer” parents and awards for participation claiming everyone is a winner, instead of competing to win, Millennials seek instant
I told them I could relate. I remember having those exact words told to me on numerous occasions by people in this community when I decided to start this publication. I shared with them my sentiment that no one can tell you “when your time is” but God but I also intimated that they had to be informed and prepared. Marquese came to me when he was considering running for the City Council seat in District 4. He asked me what I thought and I told him then like I told him two years ago, that he had every right to run, that I could not and would not tell him not to. I also shared with him that I didn’t think he could win unless he was able to get the members of the largest voting bloc in Muscogee County who reside in that district, African American females, to vote for him.
I did suggest what I would do if I were him. Instead of running for her seat this time, I would meet with his opponent,
Evelyn Turner Pugh, and tell her I would like to run for her seat when she decide to step down. I then would have shared with her my desire to work her campaign in an effort to obtain a greater understanding of not only what her role as a city councilor encompasses and a clear picture of who her supporters are but an opportunity to be introduced to people who have voted for her these past 28 years. This would have shown her two things, 1) I respect her knowledge, experience and her understanding of as well as her contribution to this community and secondly; I am not trying to push her out. Why do I believe that would have been the road to take? Because when she is ready to step down or chooses not to run again she would have to look to me to succeed her because she would have trained me.
I now know, having had conversations with others about this past election, I was not the only person who made the exact same suggestion to Marquese, but he chose not to listen and that’s his prerogative. He’s his own man capable of making his own decisions. Unfortunately the consequences of adhering to “his prerogative” will prevent him from ever winning a seat on City Council if he has to do so by getting elected in District 4. I say this because whenever the Mayor Pro-Tem decides to retire from public service whomever she endorses to take her place will easily take her seat as the representative for that District. And it won’t be Marquese “Skinny” Averett. It will most likely be a female such as Attorney Katonga Wright who had intentions of running this time but
out of respect for Pugh did not, choosing instead to support her campaign as was suggested of “Skinny”. Now “Skinny” may believe, in a head to head contest between him and Wright, he has the following to win. But remember earlier when I talked about Millenials and their unrealistic expectations? According to early voting numbers only 61 people between the ages of 18-34 voted in District 4. Unless, when that time comes, he has been able to translate likes, shares and posts on Facebook to actual votes at the polls, he might be seen at a City Council meeting but it won’t be as a councilor.
Wright, on the other hand, is a young college educated African American female with name recognition. She is articulate, attractive and has a working knowledge of the law, city finances and how government works. That voting bloc of African American women I spoke of earlier will embrace her so quick they will all but carry her to victory with the Mayor Pro-Tem leading the way. By no means am I saying that Marquese “Skinny” Averett has lost his opportunity to lead. On the contrary he has an opportunity to be a great leader in this community. He just needs to decide whether he wants to be an activist or a politician.
Once again I will suggest to him that he will be much better as the former over the latter because history dictates that it is always the young activists that make the greatest difference in our world, as opposed to the politicians.
If only he will listen this time!
Wane A. Hailes
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Editorial Cartoon/Commentary
June 9, 2016
Quincy Williams By Freddie Allen NNPA News Wire Columnist
The Essence of the New Black History Museum Is the True American Story
When the National Museum of African American History and Culture opens in September, Lonnie Bunch, the museum’s founding director said that it will not only tell us a great deal of information about Black folks, but “it will tell us even more about what America is and what it can become.”
Bunch, who previously served as the associate director for curatorial affairs at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. and as a curator of history for the California African American Museum in Los Angeles, Calif., said that, in some ways, the African American community has led the charge in forcing America to be America and broadening discussions around freedom and citizenship.
“When you look at any president, from George Washington on the number one issue they had to deal with at some point was African Americans,” said Bunch. “I really wanted people to recognize that this is all of our stories not just one community’s story.” Read the full commentary on our website at: www.couriernews.org
By Freddie Allen NNPA News Wire Columnist
“Roots” Remake Targets Younger Audience
Tony Award winner Anika Noni Rose admitted that she questioned why Mark Wolper, the son of the producer of the groundbreaking 1977 miniseries “Roots,” would ever consider returning to that story.
The original miniseries, based on Alex Haley’ Pulitzer Prize-winning 1976 novel “Roots: The Saga of an American Family,” won nine Emmy awards and was watched by more than 50 percent of United States population. The miniseries inspired scores of families to trace their own genealogy, according to the Christian Science Monitor. With the legacy and emotional burden of the original “Roots,” Rose said that she needed to understand the mindsets of the producers, their plan and what they were trying to accomplish with the remake. When Mark Wolper sat down to watch the 1977 miniseries with his own son, then 16 years-old, he discovered that the pace and style of the original didn’t resonate with Read the full commentary on our website at: www.couriernews.org
COVER STORY
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June 9, 2016
Dr. Joann Thomas Brown Says The Numbers Don’t Lie, People Do We Agree, So When Will She Stop Lying to the People? By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
viduals seeking your votes.
Candidates hire campaign managers who are politically adept at manipulating words, reports and their opponents record to benefit their own campaign. As a voter if you are not careful it is easy to get caught up in “The Sizzle” and miss “The Steak”, the facts versus the fiction and more bluntly the truth as opposed to the lies. That is why we, at the Courier consistently said you must attend forums and ask questions, serious thought provoking questions of those indi-
Dr. JoAnn Thomas Brown continues to tout her tenure as a principal with the district as the reason she is: “The Solution to End Failing Schools”. We now know that she was terminated as principal of Baker Middle school for being unable to fix it from failing after seven years. If she couldn’t do it as a principal does she really expect us to believe she can do it as a board member?
Brown says: District 1 has 10 perpetually failing schools
Brown says: As your District 1 School Board Representative she will - End the practice of failing to have qualified teachers in every classroom on day one
Lie #1
The Truth
District 1 - has a total of 6 traditional schools not 10 and 1 alternative school that also houses the Catapult Academy. The school of new beginnings is reducing the dropout rate by recapturing young people who have left school without a diploma. All of the schools have shown past growth, which is the new State measurement of success. In 20132014 Fort MS had a 23.9-point gain and in 2014-2015 Rothschild had the largest gain of all Middle Schools with a 9-point gain. The recent celebration is Rigdon having a 12-point gain for the just released report
Lie #2
Brown says: As your District 1 School Board Representative she will: See to it that every child has the books and basic supplies they need to succeed
The Truth
The MCSD FY 2015 budget is spending $4.6 million dollars on classroom supplies, books and electronic media. Pat Hugley Green and other board members voted for the budget and the additional $3 million dollars focused specifically at the schools overcoming challenges.
Throughout her campaign Dr. Brown and her
Lie #3
The Truth
A license to teach is issued by the state of GA not a board member and MCSD has 99% certified and Highly Qualified teaching professionals. So school boards would never propose a policy referencing teacher certifications and requirements.
Lie #4
Brown says: As your District 1 School Board Representative she will - Rebuild teacher morale by increasing the local pay supplement
The Truth
First of all - Teachers cannot count on JoAnn Thomas Brown to rebuild their morale, especially if they talk to former teachers who worked for her. The numerous letters and emails of complaints sent to the administrative office as far back as Superintendent Guy Sims administration we have accessed through our open records request from teachers who stated she ruled by fear and intimidation speaks volumes about her inability to build teacher morale. As it relates to salary increases, teacher pay is determined by the State of GA as well as their pay raises. This year the Governor is offering a teacher pay raise.
recruiter and campaign advisor, current board member Frank Myers have inundated us with blatant lies via social media and mailers sent direct to homes in District 1.
As voting for the upcoming run-off election for the District 1 seat on the Muscogee County School Board between incumbent Pat Hugley Green and Dr. Joann Brown will commence beginning July 5-22 for early voting and election day July 26, we decided to share with you the lies being perpetrated by the Brown campaign versus the truth.
Lie #5
Brown says: As your District 1 School Board Representative she will give her school board earnings each month back to the teachers
The Truth
Everyone is impressed when a political candidate says they will give up their annual salary for them. But when you break the numbers down, the teachers should be insulted by her offer. You do the math. Muscogee County Board members are paid $12,000 a year. There are 2,338 teachers in the Muscogee County School district, when you divide that up I am sure the teachers will be less than impressed with the .42 cents they will receive from Dr. Brown each month.
Lie #6
Brown told the local clergy on numerous occasions that Frank Myers and Josh McKoon was not involved in her campaign
The Truth
As the saying goes these two pictures are worth a thousand words
Lie #7
Brown says: you should believe that this chart says 50% of third grade students in Muscogee County are failing at their reading level.
The Truth
That is not what the report says. Brown, Myers and his other operatives have manipulated the report and are only showing you a portion of a chart they know will illicit an emotional response from parents (see page 13). What they don’t tell you is that Grade level in terms of lexiles is actually a range of scores called "stretch lexiles", not a single cut score, as depicted in the chart. We ask that you read the entire report for yourself at: http://ccrpi.gadoe.org/2015. Don’t be fooled by this lie.
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Ernest Menzie, Jr.
COURIER KIDS
Ernest Menzie Jr. is the son of Alicia and Ernest Menzie Jr and older brother of sibling Aaliyah Menzie. He is in the 7th grade and attends Midland Middle School where he is known to be a great student, hard working and always giving his best. His favorite subject is Math. Like most young boys, Ernest is a huge sports enthusiast. His hobbies include basketball, football, and dance. He is a member of the AAU traveling team The Columbus Hornets, as well as the Dance Captain of Alicia Menzie’s Dance Company.
Young Ernest has a reputation for being a very respectful young man who keeps his cool among chaos. He is a joy to be around and a rare prince.
New Program to Improve Relationships in Couples By Greg Hudgison Special To The Courier
Family Counseling of Columbus, a program of The Family Center of Columbus, Inc., announces the addition of a program designed to increase understanding and practice of the basic skills needed to build healthy relationships in couples.
The group is a four-week program open to couples in an intimate partner relationship. Participants can expect to learn introductory communication skills, sexuality and its role in couple relationships, and the decision to love. The group is open to couples ages 18 and older. The group will meet every Tuesday, beginning July 5 to July 26
from 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Family Center. The cost is $30 per session, per couple. Seating is limited, so registration is required. Please call The Family Center at 706-327-3238 to register. The deadline to register is July 1, 2016.
The Family Center is a private, nonprofit, community service organization dedicated to helping individuals and families enhance their own skills, recognize their potential, and reach their own goals. For over a century, The Family Center has helped to strengthen and empower families facing adversity to achieve emotional, relational, and financial well-being. Our programs include Family Counseling of Columbus, Consumer Credit Counseling Service, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Families and Schools Together. For more information on The Family Center, visit us online at www.familyctr.org, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Samauriya Ellison
June 6, 2016
Samauriya Ellison, 6, is the daughter of Lois Ellison. She is a 2nd grader at Rigdon Road Elementary School. Samauriya is an outstanding student who likes to follow directions, participate in class activities, and be a good friend to fellow classmates.
Her hobbies include playing with her dolls and dancing. Little Miss Samauriya is a dancer at Alicia Menzie’s Dance Company where she excels in Ballet and Hip Hop. Although known to be very quiet, when it comes to her dancing her voice rings out through her performances. She is a serious young girl who has all the grace and style needed to be successful in her future.
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June 9, 2016
Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 2016 Community Service Awards To Feature Jeffrey Osborne
For eleven years the Courier / Eco Latino newspaper has provided the Tri-City and specifically the African-American and Hispanic communities with a publication of positive, quality of life information.
We celebrate our eleventh anniversary with our signature event, “The Community Service Awards” which gives past due recognition to 25 individuals or organizations for their distinguished service to the African-American, Hispanic and other minority communities.
Our event this year will be held at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center on Saturday July 23, 2016 beginning at 6:30 pm. The program, which includes dinner, is two-fold, with first, an awards program recognizing 25 individuals or organizations of Columbus, Phenix City and Fort Benning. The nominees will be chosen in an "Academy Awards Style affair, complete with the pomp and circumstance that goes along with such an event. Awardees will receive an obelisk representing a symbol of recognition and achievement.
At this years event, in addition to our “Publishers Award” we will introduce our Community Servant Award” to be awarded annually in honor of Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion, a well-known and beloved Hispanic businessman who passed away October of last year.
We are pleased to announce that the second part of the event will feature a performance by national recording artist Jeffrey Osborne.
Jeffrey Osborne started his music career in 1970 with a band called Love Men Ltd., who later changed their name to L.T.D. Some of the band's most notable hits included “Back in Love Again,” “Concentrate on You,” “Love Ballad” and “Holding On.” Osborne left the group in 1980 to start a solo career. His solo success includes five gold and platinum albums. Early bird tickets are available now for $40. After June 30th tickets are $50. Reserved tables are available. Tickets may be purchased at the Courier Eco Latino office at 1300 Wynnton Rd, Ste. 104 or by calling 706.225.0106
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Metropolitan Baptist Church 1635 5th Avenue . Columbus, Georgia 706.322.1488
June 9, 2016
P ROGRESSIVE F UNERAL H OME
Service Schedule
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
Evergreen Covington, CEO
4236 St. Mary’s Road
Columbus, Georgia 31907
706.685.8023
evergreenfc@mediacombb.net
T HE L AW O FFICES OF S HEVON S. T HOMAS & ASSOCIATES
Practice Areas: Misdemeanor . Felony . DUI . Personal Injurury . Auto . Divorce . Family . Juvenile . Probate . Wills
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Office: 706-653-1287 Fax: 706-653-1290 Cell: 706-718-7313 Email: broker59@aol.com
Page 9
COVER STORY
June 9, 2016
What Happened To Our “Facebook Friends” On Election Day?
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
Dominick Perkins with Perkins & Associates Political Consulting, LLC served as the political strategist for AtLarge candidate Teddy Reese during his recent campaign. Perkins recently posted on facebook 15 lessons he learned. This is part one of our conversation.
sweeping changes in how the business of the people gets done and who is doing that business. They need to be empowered. 9. Younger voters vote for change and ideas. Older voters tend to vote based on familiarity and who they are comfortable with.
10. Candidates with no voting record talk about ideas. Candidates with no ideas talk about their records. Candidates with neither talk about their opponent.
11. People with more money than you can imagine won't give you a dime. People with nothing will give you more than they probably should. 15 Lessons 1. Never, under any circumstances, expect the media to tell an accurate story of your campaign. Some tend to tell the story they think people want to hear.
2. Raise as much money as possible as soon as possible and make a habit of raising money daily. 3. The deck is stacked heavily in favor of incumbents. Without a boat load of money or overwhelming amount of volunteers it is hard to change minds/familiarize voters with a candidate in such a short amount of time.
4. Canvassing and direct mail are still king. TV is good. Radio is expensive. Social media is a plus, but not moving the needle as much locally because young people who use it don't vote much.
5. The same people telling you to run will be the same people making up excuses about why they can't help you.
6. If 50 people tell you they will vote for you, donate, volunteer, etc., you are lucky if 15 will actually do it.
7. Supporting young leaders is more of a talking point than a reality. Harsh but true.
8. There is a movement of young and middle aged people who are ready for
12. A lot of people don't understand what at-large or citywide means on school board or city council. 13. The fiercest critics of black candidates are voters who look like them.
14. Election outcomes aren't indicators of strength of ideas, amount of effort, strength of candidates or strength of their campaigns. Terrible candidates win and great candidates lose every day.
15. A minute spent worrying about things you absolutely can't control is a minute not spent on voter contact or raising money. The Courier: What made you decide to share this particular information?
Perkins: I have been involved in a number of campaigns of various sizes. Having been an integral part of the Reese campaign I realized that regardless the size of a campaign many of the issues are the same and I decided to post my thoughts.
The Courier: Much of this campaign centered on getting the “Millennial Generation” out to the polls. With the numbers counted we now know that the turnout for the 18-34 year olds was not great. What needs to happen to motivate this demographic?
Perkins: When talking with Millenials who did vote we noticed that they voted for change where older voters vote
for who they were familiar with. Millennials possess a great deal of energy and enthusiasm and understandably in some cases anger. It means nothing, however, unless they learn how to transfer all of that into action. Like many have said You can post, like and comment all day long about your frustrations on Facebook but until you decide to do something about it no one will care. The Courier: I, amongst others believe social media is a great tool for getting people to act what happened?
Perkins: Although social media has been around for a while it is still a relatively new media source. Unlike the usual ways of campaigning, such as mailers, door to door and forums, we are learning on the fly and a lot of people do not know how to use
Facebook, Instagram and others effectively. I think when they do it could revolutionize the way future campaigns will be run. Part II In Our Next Issue
Dominick Perkins with Perkins & Associates Political Consulting, LLC, is one of the most sought after strategists in the southeastern United States. Born and raised in Columbus, Georgia, Dominick is an experienced and passionate public servant, educator, and political strategist. During his career he has served in various roles on federal, state, and local campaigns throughout the southeast. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Georgia Southern University, a Master of Science in International Relations from Troy University, and is a 2014 graduate of the Congressional Black Caucus Institute’s Political Leadership Boot Camp.
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30th Annual Family Day Music Festival Featuring Kelly Price and Israel Houghton Saturday, June 11, 2016 NEW LOCATION: WOODRUFF RIVERFRONT PARK
June 9, 2016
Columbus, GA, May 31, 2016: Davis Broadcasting Inc. of Columbus is proud to once again host the 30th Annual Family Day Music Festival. Each year, WFXE- Foxie 105, WKZJ- K92.7, WEAM- Praise 100.7, WOKS - AM1340, and WIOL FM ESPN 95.7 and WIOL AM CBS Sports Radio 1580AM team up to host one of the most highly anticipated free concerts of the South! The Family Day Music Festival will be held SATURDAY, JUNE 11, 2016 from 2PM-8PM at the CSU Woodruff Riverfront Park and is absolutely FREE to the public. Join us on the river for LIVE music, Kids Activities, and Food Vendors!
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COVER STORY
June 9, 2016
Frank Myers “Plantation Politics” Began With Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
The practice of “plantation politics” is nothing new. The act of elevating select individuals of a minority group over the larger collective was used by European powers to control their colonies. Frank Myers adoption of this practice, and his recruitment of African American candidates from our community to run against our A f r i c a n A m e r i c a n incumbents can be viewed as “picking political cotton” with him serving as the overseer. To understand why Frank Myers feels he has a foothold in the African American political community began with his relationship with City Councilor Jerry “Pops” Barnes.
The Beginning Frank Myers inserted himself in African American politics in Columbus as early as 2010. It began after meeting “Pops” Barnes and Brother Love at a democratic meeting held at Ruth Ann’s. It was at that time Frank Myers agreed to assist the Grass Roots Unity Movement For Change in helping Barnes unseat Suber.
Myers made it clear to the GUMC founders, Love and Ron Jones that he not only wanted to unseat Suber he also wanted to unseat what he considered “The Black Mafia”, which included the African-American political power structure in Columbus and specifically, according to him, State Representative Calvin Smyre, State Senator Ed Harbison, State Representative Carolyn Hugley, and Pat Hugley Green. It was Myers, working along with Josh McKoon who was instrumental, behind the scenes in recruiting opposition for Smyre (Zeph Baker) and Harbison (the late Reginald Pugh). In addition, U.D. Roberts was present at a number of meetings and was instrumental in providing input as a secret advisor to the Barnes campaign.
Teaming with The Grassroots Unity Movement for Change was perfect because coming from a military back-
ground the founders resented the fact that there was an unwritten law that as an African American in this community if you want to run for office you have to get the “Black Political Machine’s” permission to do so. Their view was as an elected official if you are about serving the people you are fine, they won’t bother you, however, they will not go for the status quo if the status quo is not serving the people. Because Myers was serving as Weatherington’s campaign manager, Barnes, Brother Love, Ron Jones and Wetherington became good friends. Early on during the campaign it was realized that Myers had a propensity for telling racial jokes that included the “N word”. One incident is recalled when Barnes asked Brother Love to attend a meeting at Myers office with Myers and U.D. Roberts. Prior to entering Barnes turned to Brother Love and said, “You know Frank is a prankster and so when we walk in he is going to say, “What’s up my “N” word”. Brother Love suggested that because he wouldn’t appreciate being greeted in that manner, he would have to tell him so and that it would probably be best that he not go in. Barnes agreed and told him he would come and get him in a little while. Barnes never came back out, but Myers did a while later and they had a conversation about the word.
Brother Love expressed to him that he does not use that word or any word that derogatorily depicts another human being. Myers appeared to understand and it was assumed his wishes would be respected.
The very next day Myers was at the “Headquarters” along with Brother Love, Ron Jones and Pops Barnes and was sharing how he was enlightened by what Brother Love had to say about the use of the “N word”. Both Ron and Brother Love reiterated their disdain for the word but Jerry “Pops” Barnes spoke up giving his permission to use the word around him whenever he wanted
because as he stated, “My Grandmother said anybody could be a “N word” so I don’t have any problem with you using the word around me”. From that day on, according to Jones and Love, he would continue to tell jokes using the “N word” but only when Pops was present.
After the mayor won his race it became evident that Myers was no longer interested in the Barnes campaign. According to Brother Love, although he would have a run-off against Suber, Myers didn’t think he could beat Suber. With reluctance Myers stayed with the campaign and was shocked and ecstatic that finally there was a crack in “The Black Mafia”.
The day Barnes beat Suber was the day his whole attitude toward the GUMC changed. All of a sudden Barnes felt the organization was too racist and he could no longer be associated with it.
His allegiance turned from Brother Love and Ron Jones toward Myers and the Wetherington Administration. His last words, according to Brother Love and Ron Jones, he spoke to them were, “I don’t even mess with “N words” no more. I got me a whole new set of friends”. And he has not been back to the “Headquarters” since. Nor has Frank Myers. Since that time Myers has continued his “plantation politics” with his “Boot The Board” efforts in 2012 and most recently with his recruitment of Vanessa Jackson, Shelia Williams and Dr. Joann Thomas Brown for the Muscogee County School Board. It is embarrassing for an individual, not of our community to tell us what he is going to do and proceed to do it without fear of consequence. At some point we, as a community, must stand with a unified voice to say enough is enough.
Who’s Got Next?...
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June 9, 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”
Lendon Alexander Georgia.
By Nadine Haralson
Lendon Alexander is a 2009 graduate of Columbus High School with a 4.0 grade-point average and an emphasis in Social Sciences and Spanish.
After graustion he attended the University of Georgia, where in 2012; he received degrees in Political Science and Mass Media Arts. Lendon currently is in his final year at the George Washington University Law School in Washington, D.C. on a partial meritbased academic scholarship.
While in law school, his concentration has been in the fields of intellectual property, labor, and corporate law and he anticipates graduating in May of 2017.
Alexander has received numerous scholarship awards including: The HOPE Scholarship, NAACP Legal Defense Fund Herbert Lehman Academic Scholarship, Larry Leroy Golden Memorial Scholarship, Keith J. Nesbitt National Pan-Hellenic Council Memorial Scholarship, and being named Mr. Diversity 2012 at the University of
One of the things that has helped his growth over the years is involved advantage of different opportunities to serve in leadership for campus organizations. While at the University of Georgia, he served as the Vice-President of the Black Student Union, VicePresident of the NAACP chapter, and as the VicePresident of the Zeta Pi chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Last year, he served on the board of the Black Law Students Association (BLSA) at GW, and currently serves as the Director of Communications for the National Black Law Students Association (NBLSA). Lendon truly considers himself both blessed and fortunate to have been exposed to a wide array of professional experiences. Some of his favorite past experiences include working locally on-air as a radio talent on Foxie 105 at Davis Broadcasting, teaching and mentoring youth after school at The Club on Clover Avenue, and working as a student law clerk in the chambers of a federal magistrate judge.
“One thing I feel is important about my life and who I am is being high on integrity” says Lendon.
“I always want to be a person that someone feels that they can rely on to accomplish anything that I’ve promised. I continually thank and credit God for continuing to guide me and placing his blessing on my life. I hope one day to contribute to diversity in the legal community at large with my perspectives, my life experiences, and my culture. My goal is to always contribute a unique perspective, one crafted as much by my southern heritage and culture as my Washington education.”
Alana Daniels
By Nadine Haralson
Alana Daniels is a 17-year-old senior at George Washington Carver High School who is the youngest to ever be featured on the Young Professionals on the move.
At the age of three her mother enrolled her into a dance company as an activity to keep her young energetic toddler busy. Having excelled quickly as a young dancer, at the age of 10, Daniels tried out for the Lion King on Broadway Production in New York and received two callbacks for her talents. Not yet quite out of High School, in January of 2016 Alana started her own business as a Training Dance Clinician. In her spare time and during school breaks Alana teaches classes at Girls Inc., Passion Works Dance Company and coaches Richard Middle School’s A.G.I.R.L dance teams. She enjoys assisting young dancers in proper dance techniques, form, and dance audition preparations. “There are many dance teams in the city, but not many use the correct techniques or have the background under-
standing when it comes to dancing and performing” says Daniels “so I just want to help improve and be apart of the success.”
Alana has participated in various activities such gymnastics, and cheerleading, but dancing has always been her passion, a passion she just couldn’t and didn’t feel right keeping to herself. An exemplary student Alana currently holds a 4.2 GPA, is in the top 5% of her class, and was recently recognized by the University of Georgia as a Georgia Merit Award recipient. She also received the Community Service Presidential award (2015/2016), and was a Governors Honor Program Nominee (2016).
Upon graduating from High School she hopes of attending Spellman College, in Atlanta, Georgia to major in Biology to become an OBGYN, with a minor in Dance. Her dream along with becoming and operating her own practice as am OBGYN, she also hopes to one day open an Art school that focuses on dance, music, and drama.
PAGE 13
June 9, 2016
Beware Of SockPuppets And Troll Accounts...Fake Facebook Pages Frank Myers and His “Puppet, Fake Preacher, Operative” Use Them To Manipulate Public Opinion
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
School board member Frank Myers and one of his “puppet operatives”, who purports to be a “preacher”, have set up a number of fictitious “Sock Puppet” profiles. We recently learned that they have even created a fictitious facebook page called “The Real Courier” which they claim is a “parody” of this publication, The Courier Eco Latino newspaper. Information on the page says it was created in 2012, which would have been right about the time of the 2012 election.
A quick scroll through its earlier timeline shows a blatant display of attempted character assassinations of everyone from me, our columnist Brother Love, Mayor Tomlinson, Pat Hugley Green, Beth Harris, Municipal Court Clerk Vivian Creighton Bishop, Marshall Greg Countryman, Sanford Bishop and many others. Ironically many of these are the same people this fictitious facebook page endorsed this political season.
Basically these are online identities used for the purpose of deception. Myers and his “puppet preacher man” have created a variety of Facebook pages under assumed names to praise, defend or support a candidate, organization and or cause in an effort to manipulate public opinion. In addition to “The Real Courier” these Facebook “troll” accounts include: “Mcsd Accountability”, Bernie G. Mason” and “Moving Ahead for the people that matter”.
Check them out for yourself and you will see each posts the same information. You better do it quick though because now that they have been exposed we are sure they will take them down before the week is gone.
Bernie G. Mason
MCSD Accountability
According to our sources we understand that this purported preacher who serves as Myers “puppet operative” is being paid for setting up these multiple sock-puppet profiles on facebook and when you, “Connect the Dots” or “Follow the Money” as they say, the names and roles become clear with one surprise. The “Puppet Boy” serves as “the mouthpiece”, Frank Myers role is “the muscle”, and according to a reliable source, State Senator Josh McKoon is allegedly “the bag man”. The surprise is that allegedly the real puppet master pulling all of the strings could very well be Alton Russell who is well known with the Republican Party.
cial relationship but continues to associate himself with Frank Myers who is known for his liberal use of the “N” word. It is obvious “Puppet Boy” condones Myers behavior even at the expense of his own children.
Whether Russells alleged involvement is true or not we do know that “Puppet Boy” is indeed the one behind these fake facebook pages. Here is a list of pages he is associated with creating: “Penny Rooker” and “Ronald Howard”. “Penny Rooker”, who “worked for Jesus” and studied at Columbus State, used the picture of Rabbi Alysa StantonOgulnick, the first African-American woman rabbi and the first to lead a majority-white Jewish congregation. Ronald Howard”, who “worked” at Cold Stone Creamery and “studied” at Columbus Technical College, used the mug shot of Wayne Snowden, a man arrested in Pottstown, Pennsylvania in connection with the shooting of an 8year-old.
To combat against #ThawTheFreeze referendum he created the facebook page of “Lisa L Stone” He apparently doesn't understand anything about IP addresses or the fact that Facebook pages can be tracked by an algorithm so simple a 10 year old could do it. Other fictitious profiles created by this individual include: “Antony Zure” and “The Spider” and “Chucks Butts”. What is most perplexing is that this individual is supposedly in an interra-
We live in a politically correct society where corporate America refuses to tolerate anything that may negatively impact their image. Most companies waste no time promptly terminating
employees for their reprehensible comments on social media outlets such as facebook. We wonder how Kinetic Credit would react to one of their employees use of disparaging remarks against the LGBT community, negative comments regarding a former political candidates autistic child, or creating a facebook page specifically using derogatory and sexually explicit remarks regarding the anatomical body part of a current female school board candidate.
Page 14
Choices: The Nicole Thrasher Story
be great, but in order to do that you must make the right choices. If you think you are battling hardships alone in this cold world pick up a copy of Choices and you will find out otherwise.
Choices, is self-published through CreateSpace ISBN 978-1532723759. It is available on Amazon for $10 paperback and $.99 ebook. You can also purchase directly from the author herself which includes an autograph and personalized note for only $10 as well. About the Author
By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
Inspired by all the struggles Nicole Thrasher has endured throughout her life and the belief that troubles don’t last always. Do you ever feel like sometimes you want to give up?
“A great read. I really admire her courage in sharing such personal and private details of her life. Once I started reading I couldn’t put it down.” Amazon reader review Nicole Thrasher shares with readers how making poor decisions affected her life. She battled drug and alcohol addiction, relationship abuse, miscarriage, and loss. There were times in her life that she didn’t venture off track and lived a productive life as she wanted, but her past always came back to haunt her.
This book is intended for those on the rocky road, but also those on the straight and narrow path. Readers from all backgrounds can relate. Nicole wants people to know that you can overcome anything placed before you and
Nicole Thrasher is a Columbus, GA native that enjoys outside scenery, spending time with family, and Her favorite author is Donald
reading. Goines. Being a 30 year old mother of 6, a full time Office Manager at a nearby Childcare Learning Center, and a new author her life is still far from easy and she is always on the go. She knows that she must continue to strive for greatness to finish this course called…Life! For media inquiries and sales nicolethrasherchoices@gmail.com Website www.nicolethrasher.wix.com/choices
Request for Bids
June 9, 2016
RFB No. 16-0036 Forrest Road Improvements – Floyd Road to Schatulga Road Due: June 22, 2016 Della Lewis, 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 www.columbusga.org, notify the Buyer via email dlewis@columbusga.org, fax 706.653.4109 or telephone 706.653.4105. Plans are available for a non-refundable fee of $100 from the Department of Engineering, 2nd Floor – Government Center Annex, 420 Tenth Street, Columbus, Georgia; Telephone (706) 653-4441 Andrea J. McCorvey, CPPB Purchasing Division Manager
Thank You Muscogee County
I want to express my sincerest appreciation for the volunteers, family, friends and supporter who worked our campaign.
Thank you for your financial contributions, your donated time, and your words of encouragement.
The success of our campaign was due in a large part because of your hard work. To you, I am forever in your debt.
Greg Countryman Muscogee County Marshal
PAGE 15
The Week In Pictures
June 9, 2016
Page 16
“Lawyer Up 2016: Summer Law Camp” By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
We are pleased to announce that the Wright Legal Group, will be hosting the Lawyer Up 2016 Summer Law Camp.
The 4-day camp will last June 6-9, 2016 from 9:00am – 4:30pm. Approximately 16 rising high school students from the Chattahoochee Valley Area will converge on the Columbus Government C e n t e r , Recorders Court, and the Muscogee County Jail to have a real world perspective on the ins and outs of the legal and judicial system. During the intense 4-day camp students will examine court structure, learn about criminal and civil procedure, compete in a mock trial practice, attend workshops on law school planning, discuss leadership, ethics, and government, observe open court, tour the jail, and network with area lawyers and judges. There will be a lunch panel discussion each day, and the camp will conclude with a mock trial presentation by the campers that is open to the public.
“Master of My Fate Leadership and Mentoring Program is an organization for every young dreamer who is aspiring to be a visionary leader one day. Hopefully with this camp, we will equip young men and women to be future lawyers and judges,” Katonga Wright, Managing Partner at The Wright Legal Group, LLC, GABWA Vice-President, Fountain City Bar President, and Founder of Summer Law Programs. “I wish there was a program likes this when I was in high school. We hear of basketball, football, cheerleading, and other sports camps, but we are past due for camps for the business professional careers young people are interested in as well,” Vernessa Clemons, Law Office Administrator at The Wright Legal Group, LLC and Camp Director for Lawyer Up 2016.
June 9, 2016
PAGE 17 By Wane A. Hailes The Courier
The premise behind the Books, Boyz & Barbershops Reading Initiative is not a new one. There are organizations all over the nation who are engaged in similar reading initiatives. The mission
Books, Boyz & Barbershops is the same. To make certain that as many books as possible are in as many barbershops as possible.
Chattahoochee Valley Parent2Parent, LLC is a newly formed local community organization who has chosen to spread literacy across the city. So far,
there are two barbershops who have become official Books, Boyz & Barbershops participants. Brandon Hicks Bay, owner of the Nappy Root Barbershop and Jonah Thomas, owner of Vizionz Master Barbers have welcomed the program into their establishments.
"The goal is to install multiple reading spaces throughout the city," says CVP2P Owner Randalette Williams. "It is my hope that by installing the reading spaces, boys will be inclined to pick up a book and read or parents will read to them while waiting for their haircuts." An educator for 23 years, Williams understands the importance of literacy and comprehension. Also having a son, age 3 sparked a real interest in mak-
June 9, 2016 ing sure boys develop a love of reading.
"Having raised two girls, it was easy to sit down with them and read books. My son is a little different. He primarily wants to play and be your average rough and tumble little boy. He rarely sits still long enough for me to finish a book unless it's bedtime." We're going to stay vigilant however because we understand the importance of reading and education."
Sponsors for Books, Boyz & Barbershops Reading Initiative include The Ferst Foundation, Beaux by Rozvonski and Barnes and Noble. If anyone is interested in sponsoring a reading space please contact Randalette Williams at: chattahoocheeValleyP2P@gmail.com.
Page 18
Community Calendar
June 9, 2016
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
Thank you for your vote! I pledge to serve our community with integrity and responsiveness. - Walker Garrett
Walker
Garrett City Council • District 8
706.761.8028 | wgarrett@columbusga.org
Please join us!! “America Needs Fatima” is sponsoring the National Rosary for Marriage planned for thousands of public locations all across America on Saturday, June 25th at noon. What: National Rosary for Marriage
Who: For all interested to pray a decade of the Holy Rosary to protect natural marriage and families When: Saturday, June 25th, 1200 - 1:00 pm
Where: 6783 Veterans Parkway, Columbus, GA (Open area by Bone Fish)
T HE B LACK & H ISPANIC Y ELLOW PAGES Jose E. Guzman 721. 1st Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31901 706.984.8428 joseguzmanlaw.com
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B USINESS D IRECTORY
S MALL B USINESS S POTLIGHT
You’re out with your friends having a great time. When it’s time to leave, you think you’re in a good position to drive even though you had a couple drinks. Just when you’re almost home, you see blue lights in your rear view mirror and you get pulled over. Next thing you know, you’re being taken downtown and charged with driving under the influence. Just like that, the fun is over.
ets to major drug charges. Our criminal defense attorney is here to guide you during your criminal case.
Does this sound like something you’ve recently gone through? You are not alone. We’ve had plenty of clients come to us looking for a premier defense attorney who is well-versed in handling DUI cases. Everyone makes mistakes, Jose E. Guzman, PC is here to help.
A criminal attorney with an impressive history of success, Mr. Guzman is passionate about defending the rights of individuals accused of committing a variety of crimes. His law firm boasts an excellent reputation in and around Columbus, GA, with fellow attorneys and clients alike commending him for his caring demeanor and his attention to detail.
For over 20 years, Jose E. Guzman, PC has been helping clients in Georgia and Alabama achieve positive results in cases that range from minor traffic tick-
Attorney Jose Guzman attended the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University. After obtaining his Juris Doctor, he served as an assis-
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 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 VH Long Notary Public 416 12th Street Suite 201 Columbus, Ga
706.322.6665 706.507.2775 706.888.8522 706.984.8428 706.610.0049 706.507.5425 706.653.1287 706.225.0106 706.225.0106 706.322.5621 706.507.9132 706.641.8917 706.323.3367 706.221.4860 706.571.0106 706.323.6996 706.243.2009 706.322.8713 706.660.8800 706.507.5659 706.322.1488 706.327.0555 706.689.2800 706.685.8023 404.593.1620 706.507.1040 706.507.3032 706.225.0106
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tant solicitor general at the Office of the Solicitor General. He has since expanded his already impressive legal background by working as a public defender and as a federal defender for the Middle District of Georgia. He currently delivers quality criminal defense for a variety of clients through his private firm. • • • • • •
All drug charges DUI charges Murder charges Burglary and theft Weapon offenses Traffic tickets
If you or someone you know is facing any of the above legal charges, you don’t have to face the legal system alone. Contact Jose E. Guzman, PC in Columbus, GA right away and schedule a consultation. Hours Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday & Sunday Closed
B USINESS D IRECTORY
Support Black & Hispanic Businesses in Our Community Get Listed In Our Black & Hispanic Yellow Pages and Business Directory for only $80 per year Call Us Today And Ask For Nadine at 706.225.0106 *Ask About Being Featured In Our Small Business Spotlight!!
www.couriernews.org Sponsored By
PAGINA 5
Jueves 9 de Juno 2016
La lucha contra la propagación de Zika en Columbus
By Ann Randle Special To Eco Latino Todavía no es verano pero el clima se esta calentando y ya sentimos el calor. El verano estará aquí pronto. Con la salida de la primavera, damos finalmente la bienvenída a días largos, barbacoas, y un hecho real de la vida en Columbus: mosquitos. Los mosquitos son una plaga molesta todos los años, pero con el brote del virus Zika en América del Sur este verano traerá un poco de ansiedad adicional. Los informes más recientes de los Centros para el Control y Prevención de Enfermedades en Atlanta han confirmado 13 casos de Zika en Georgia. Sin embargo, todos estos casos fueron contraidos fuera de los Estados Unidos. Hasta el momento no hay casos que hayan sido causados por los mosquitos que propagan el virus dentro de los Estados Unidos. Sin embargo, el CDC y el Departamento de Salud Pública de Georgia están recomendando precaución ya que el clima calido será propicio para los mosquitos. Aunque las mujeres embarazadas han sido el foco de atención por las malformación en el feto, cualquier persona puede contraer el virus. Y mientras que la enfermedad se contagia principalmente por los mosquitos, puede también propagarse por contacto sexual. El principal tipo de mosquito que transmite Zika — Aedes aegypti — puede ser hallado en Columbus. Aún así, las autoridades están de acuerdo en que la probabilidad de un brote generalizado es baja. La mejor manera de limitar el riesgo de contraer Zika es disminuyendo la exposición a los mosquitos. La major defensa es reducien-
do del hábitat de reproducción de los mosquitos alrededor de su casa. Por suerte, el mosquito Aedes aegypti depende del agua para reproducirse, por lo que una forma simple es vaciar los contenedores de agua alrededor de su casa al menos una vez a la semana. Toda la que pueda acumular agua debe ser eliminada. Incluso el tapón de una botella llena de agua es suficiente para alojar a los mosquitos! Si no puede vaciar el agua, debe ir a una tienda de jardinería y buscar un producto llamado “mosquito dunks.” Estos productos se pueden agregar al agua y son seguros para niños y mascotas, y no dañarán a otros insectos. Los mosquitos adultos prefieren las zonas con mucha vegetación densa. Por esto debe recortar la vegetación densa y cortar el césped. Asegúrese de que sus mosquiteros en las ventanas y las puertas no tienen agujeros. Cuando usted pasa tiempo al aire libre, usted debe usar ropa suelta de color claro. Los repelentes de mosquitos también son eficaces. Una opción es los productos que contienen DEET (por ejemplo OFF!, Cutter, y Repel). Estos productos son seguros para usar con los niños mayores de dos meses. Productos naturales que contienen limón y aceite de eucalipto también puede ser eficaces (estas se encuentra en productos como Repel y Cutter Natural). Debido al rango de vuelo de los mosquitos, los aerosoles del patio trasero no son tan eficaces como la simple eliminación de las fuentes de agua, ya que las aplicaciones repetidas de aerosoles de garaje pueden ser costosas. También hay evidencia de que las luces electromagnéticas, ultrasonidos, o luces negro
con las redes eléctricas no son eficaces en el control de esta plaga. El largo y cálido verano que tenemos delante de nosotros, no tiene que estar infestado de mosquitos. Un poco de preparación ayudará a prevenir Zika en Columbus. Para obtener más información acerca de la prevención de esta plaga, llama a la oficina de Muscogee County Extension (706-653-4200). Puede encontrar mas información sobre el virus Zika en Georgia visitando el sitio web del Departamento de Salud Pública de Georgia (www.dph.georgia.gov) o del CDC (www.cdc.gov). Anne Randle es la Agricultura y Recursos Naturales agente y Claudia Calle es la Asistente del Programa de Familia y Ciencias del Consumidor de la Universidad de programa de Extensión Cooperativa de Georgia. Para obtener más información sobre este u otros temas de jardinería doméstica o familiar de salud, que puede ser alcanzado en 706-6534200.
ENGLISH Combatting the Spread of Zika in Columbus By Ann Randle Special To Eco Latino It may not officially be summertime yet, but with temperatures in the 90s and plenty of sunshine, spring weather is definitely on its way out. With the departure of spring, we can finally welcome back long days, barbecues, and a fact of life in Columbus: mosquitoes. Mosquitoes are an annoying pest every year, but with the outbreak of the Zika virus in South America they bring
some additional anxiety this summer. The most recent reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta have confirmed 13 cases of Zika in Georgia; however, all of these cases were contracted outside of the U.S. So far no cases have been caused by mosquitoes spreading the virus inside the U.S. But the CDC and the Georgia Department of Public Health are recommending caution as the weather warms up. Although pregnant women have been the primary focus of the outbreak coverage so far, anyone can contract the virus. And while the disease is primarily vectored by mosquitoes, it can also spread by sexual contact. Not all mosquitoes carry Zika, but the culprit — Aedes aegypti — can be found in Columbus. Still, officials agree that the chance of a widespread outbreak is low. The key to limiting your risk of contracting Zika is limiting your exposure to mosquitoes. That begins with reducing the breeding habitat for mosquitoes around your home. Luckily, the Aedes aegypti mosquito depends on standing water to breed, so a simple way to reduce their numbers is to empty containers of water around your house at least once a week. Trash that might collect water should be removed. Even a bottle cap full of water is enough to hatch these mosquitos! If water cannot be dumped out, visit a home and garden store and look for a product like mosquito dunks. These products can be added to standing water and are safe around children and pets. They also will not harm other insects. Thick, brushy areas will provide a haven for adult mos-
quitoes. Cut back thick brush and keep grass trimmed. Make sure screens on porches and windows are intact. When outside, wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Mosquito repellents are also effective. DEET (found in products like OFF!, Cutter, and Repel) is safe to use with children over two months. For a more natural approach, lemon and eucalyptus oils (found in products like Repel and Cutter Natural) will also keep mosquitoes at bay. Because of the flight range of mosquitoes, backyard sprays are not as effective as simply removing water sources, and repeated applications of yard sprays may become costly. There is also no evidence that electromagnetic, ultrasonic, or black lights with electric grids are effective at controlling this pest. We have a long, hot summer ahead of us, but it doesn’t have to be mosquito-filled. A little bit of preparation and yard maintenance will go a long way at preventing this virus in Columbus. For more information about prevention of these pests, please contact your local Muscogee County Extension office (706653-4200). Updates on the Zika virus in Georgia can be found at the Georgia Department of Public Health’s website (www.dph.georgia.gov) or from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (www.cdc.gov). Anne Randle is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent and Claudia Calle is the Family and Consumer Sciences Program Assistant for the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension program. For more information on this or other home gardening or family health topics, they can be reached at 706-653-4200.
PAGE 4
Jueves 9 de Juno 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 9 de Juno 2016
Las 5 principales cosas que toda pareja debe saber acerca del amor y el dinero una decisión conjunta basada en sus necesidades financieras. Las cuentas separadas permiten que los individuos conserven su independencia. Las cuentas mancomunadas pueden ayudar a unificar metas. En de de de
(StatePoint) Puede no sonar romántico, pero las parejas que planean una vida juntos deberían desarrollar un diálogo continuo acerca del dinero. No obstante, no todas las parejas dan este paso antes de llevar su relación al siguiente nivel. De hecho, sólo cerca de la mitad de los estadounidenses consideran que es importante conocer la calificación de crédito de su media naranja antes de unificar sus finanzas, según un estudio de Wells Fargo de 2015. Sin embargo, los exper-
tos financieros dicen que comentar cómo ocuparse de las finanzas conjuntas es una de las mejores maneras en que los enamorados se pueden preparar para vivir felices por siempre. Los expertos de Wells Fargo ofrecen estos cinco consejos importantes que deben tenerse presentes al pensar acerca del dinero y su relación de pareja: 1. ¿Van a combinar cuentas? Una pregunta sencilla que exige Servicios prestados la detección de infecciones de transmisión sexual Tratamiento la prueba del VIH Proporcionado para:
SInfecciones de transmisión sexual Clínica extracción de sangreEl propósito de la Clínica de infecciones de transmisión sexual es para diagnosticar y tratar a los pacientes con enfermedades de transmisión sexual y otras enfermedades transmisibles. La clínica también proporciona asesoramiento sobre el VIH, pruebas y notificación a la pareja confidencial.
Muscogee Residentes del Condado aceptará Alabama y Ft. Los residentes Benning (100% pago requerido) Ubicación: Salud y Servicios Humanos de construcción del segundo piso 2100 Comer AvenidaColumbus, Georgia 31902-2.299 Teléfono: (706) 321-6240 o (706) 321-6241 horas: Las 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Lunes - Viernes (Cerrado 12:30-un y media para el almuerzo)
cualquier caso, asegúrese que sus cuentas se unan modo que creen un plan inversiones efectivo.
2. Hacer presupuestos realistas Algunos dicen que la clave para el éxito financiero es gastar lo que uno tiene después de ahorrar, en lugar de ahorrar lo que queda después de gastar. Muchas parejas se encuentran en la segunda posición porque no tienen un presupuesto para controlar sus gastos. Las parejas deben sentarse y hacer una lista de sus ingresos y gastos mensuales combinados, sus metas a corto y largo plazo, y estrategias para ajustarse al programa. 3. Crédito mancomunado
ENGLISH Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinic blooddrawThe purpose of the Sexually Transmitted Infections Clinic is to diagnose and treat Patients with sexually transmitted diseases and any other communicable diseases. The Clinic also provides HIV counseling, testing, and confidential partner notification. Services Provided Sexually transmitted infections screening Treatment HIV testing Provided For: Muscogee County Residents Will accept Alabama and Ft. Benning Residents (100% pay required) Location:
Un error común respecto del crédito es pensar que, cuando uno se casa, la calificación de crédito de su pareja puede reducir la de uno mismo. Aunque esto no es cierto, puede afectar su capacidad de acceder a créditos si los solicitan conjuntamente. Adicionalmente, un buen crédito conforma los cimientos de un futuro financiero sólido para una pareja, y puede ayudar cuando esté solicitando una hipoteca o un crédito para automóvil y, en algunos casos, un empleo. Mantengan un diálogo abierto y continuo: su calificación de crédito puede cambiar rápidamente y no hacer a tiempo un solo pago puede tener un efecto. 4. Hacer compras Siempre puede solicitar un préstamo como persona individual, pero las parejas que buscan hacerlo juntas descubrirán que la mayoría de los Health and Human Services Building Second Floor 2100 Comer Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31902 Telephone: (706) 321-6240 or
prestamistas ven el crédito financiero de ambos solicitantes y tienen en consideración el promedio de ambas calificaciones de crédito al aprobar un préstamo y fijar una tasa de interés. 5. Reglas básicas Al compartir sus metas financieras individuales con el otro, pueden obtener motivación para crear un plan financiero unidos, así como reglas básicas que les ayuden a ahorrar y planear para enfrentar emergencias. Puede encontrar más consejos financieros y recursos en w w w. We l l s F a r g o . c o m ( e n inglés). El amor y el crédito pueden no sonar como la pareja perfecta. De hecho, hablar de dinero puede ser incómodo. Pero cuando están planeando un futuro juntos, estas conversaciones establecen las bases para alcanzar con felicidad sus metas financieras. (706) 321-6241 Hours: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Monday – Friday (Closed 12:30 – 1:30 for lunch)
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 32 Gratis
Jueves 9 de Juno 2016
Las 5 principales cosas que toda pareja debe saber acerca del amor y el dinero
SInfecciones de transmisión sexual Clínica
Pagina 2 Community Service Awards Saturday July 23, 2016
Who Will Receive The First Annual Harold “Lefty” Encarnacion Community Servant Award?
Courier Eco Latino Group Supports
Pagina 2