TheCourier09-01-16

The Vol. 11 Edition 37 Free Thursday September 1, 2016

Your Network Can Determine Your Net Worth

Courier www.couriernews.org

The Voice Of The Community

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

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper Announces Partnership With Local Organization To Combat Sickle Cell Disease

Symposium Allows Us To Meet Millionaires Who Page 7 Look Like Us

To Thaw Or Not To Thaw?

That Is The Question

The Answer Is Clear. We Break It Down So Even A 4 Year Old Can Understand

Page 9

Courier Legacy Series...

Next In Line

The Dental Practices of Dr. Henry Cook, II And Dr. Cathy Cook Page 12

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THURSDAY September 1, 2016

Mayoral Candidates Who Wants Next?

According to the street committee, more names have surfaced as potential candidates for mayor. Three names that surfaced months ago include current City Councilors; Jerry “Pops” Barnes and Skip Henderson along with former State Representative Jed Harris and former mayoral candidate Colin Martin.

One name that was being suggested was Counselor Judy Thomas, however, word on the street is she is no longer interested. In fact we are now hearing this may be her last term serving as City Councilor. Three new names coming to the street committees attention are Marshal Greg Countryman, Travis Chambers, who has run unsuccessfully on two previous occasions for City Council and State Representative and Richard Bishop who recently announced his retirement as CEO at Uptown Columbus, Inc. Not so sure how Chambers is going to pull that off being that the street committee understands he has already been offered a position with the Office of the Superior Court if and when Bishop Ann Hardman takes office in January of 2017.

Lawsuit Pending

The street committee has learned that District Attorney Julia Slater and others have been named in a discrimination lawsuit filed by Robert Smith, who recently ran for Sheriff of Muscogee County. According tot the street committee the lawsuit stems from a position Smith alleges he was passed over for. More to come.

The Street Committee

Really Frank?

Not to beat a dead horse but the street committee wants to know how can we even think about taking school board member Frank Myers seriously when he, on the one hand, rants about the condition of his daughters school books but in the same breath votes against purchasing new textbooks? Come on now Frank you can’t be serious!

Should Muscogee County

Have More Precincts?

According to the street committee local voters are once again questioning why there are so few voting precincts in Muscogee County. According to Nancy Boren, Director of Elections and Registration the reason is the technology that now exist allows the County to more with less.

He’s Obviously Doing Something Right The street committee has learned that Superintendent Dr. David Lewis recently received to prestigious appointments State School Superintendent Richard Woods has invited Dr. Lewis along with 18 other superintendent’s across the State of Georgia to be a part of his Superintendents’ Advisory Council for the 2016-17 school year. A membership on this committee will allow Dr. Lewis to provide input pertaining to issues affecting our local school district and to collaborate on solutions.

Second, The National College Board has invited Dr. Lewis to serve as a member of their Superintendent Advisory Council for the 2016-17 school year.

This prestigious national education organization is responsible for expanding access to higher education for millions of students assisting them in transitioning to college through programs and services in college readiness and college success — including the SAT and the Advanced Placement Programs.

The College Board also serves the education community through research and advocacy on behalf of students, educators and schools.

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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 SEPTEMBER 1, 2016

Gabby, Ryan and Colin didn’t believe his last action was a lie because, as most Blacks know White boys will do stupid things like challenge someone with a gun as though they are bullet proof.

Nonetheless, what bothered me most was when the organizers of the Rio Games, after realizing they lied about the robbery, tried to defend them as “just kids who were having fun and made a mistake.” I became even angrier when Billy Bush with Good Morning America pretty much agreed with the organizers insisting to his coanchor Al Roker, that “they didn’t lie they just embellished”.

Over the past few weeks I have been disturbed by some of the issues and comments on social media and network as well as cable television. Like most I have an opinion about them. I understand that many may not agree with my opinion and that is fine with me I will not be angry with you I would hope that we could simply agree to disagree.

Let me start with the Olympic swimmers. Here we have four American swimmers with the Olympic team who claimed they were robbed at gunpoint in Rio de Janeiro. One of the bandits reportedly put a gun to Lochte's forehead.

According to the story Lochte and fellow swimmers Gunnar Bentz, Jack Conger and Jimmy Feigen had left a hospitality house hosted by France early Sunday in a taxi bound for the Olympic Village.

The vehicle was "stopped by individuals posing as armed police officers who demanded the athletes' money and other personal belongings.

"We got pulled over, in the taxi, and these guys came out with a police badge, no lights, no nothing -- just a police badge and they pulled us over,"

"They pulled out their guns, they told the other swimmers to get down on the ground -they got down on the ground.

I refused, I was like we didn't do anything wrong, so -- I'm not getting down on the ground.

"And then the guy pulled out his gun, he cocked it, put it to my forehead and he said, 'Get down,' and I put my hands up, I was like 'whatever.' He took our money, he took my wallet -- he left my cell phone, he left my credentials."

When I first heard this story it sounded suspect to me. First of all you got pulled over by a car with “no police lights, no nothing?” Why would you stop?

Second, you have a gun pointed at you and when you are told to get down on the ground you refuse? Only when they put a gun to your forehead do you put your hands up and was like “whatever”. I almost

All I will say is if this had been Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson, Carmelo Anthony and Paul George of the U.S. Olympic basketball team instead of Ryan Lochte, Gunner Bentz, Jack Conger and Jimmy Feigen, they wouldn’t have been characterized as 30 year-old kids but instead you would have heard them described as “thugs”. I also don’t believe you would have seen Carmelo Anthony grinning sheepishly on the set of GMA alongside Olympic gymnast Laurie Hernandez being announced as contestants on Season 23 of “Dancing With Stars”.

Now let’s talk about Gabby Douglas and Colin Kaepernick not putting their hand over the heart and not standing for the S t a r S p a n g l e d B a n n e r.

Whenever I hear people talk about people disrespecting the flag I am always reminded of a line from the movie, ”The

American President” starring Michael Douglas as President Andrew Shepherd: “America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours. You want to claim this land as the land of the free? Then the symbol of your country can't just be a flag; the symbol also has to be one of its citizens exercising his right to burn that flag in protest. Show me that, defend that, celebrate that in your classrooms. Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free".

Just days after Gabby was blasted for not putting her hand over her heart during the national anthem two White shot put athletes, Ryan Crouser and Joe Kovacs, gold and silver medalist respectively, both failed to put their hands over their hearts as the American flag was raised and the national anthem was played. There was no outrage.

No one questioned their patriotism.

Many of us remember that moving moment of pole vaulter Sam Kendricks, a 2nd Lt. in the Army Reserves who is also White, running in a full sprint to perform his vault when he heard the national anthem playing. He came to a screeching halt, searched for

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the flag, and stood at attention. Funny that nobody questioned the obvious fact that he, too, failed to put his hand over his heart.

Regarding NFL football player Colin Kaepernick, it is ironic that when Timothy McVeigh killed 168 people and injured over 600 people in the Oklahoma City bombing his actions was never called unpatriotic. But here we have an African American male who decides that, as his way of protesting, “a country that oppresses black people and people of color…where there are bodies in the street and people getting paid leave and getting away with murder.", he is vilified in the press and on social media.

I for one am tired of the obvious double standard. I am tired of African Americans patriotism being called into question when their actions conflict with what white people think.

So let me say again “America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours. You want to claim this land as the land of the free? Then the symbol of your country can't just be a flag; the symbol also has to be one of its citizens exercising his right to burn that flag in protest. Show me that, defend that, celebrate that in your classrooms. Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free".

Wane A. Hailes

Editorial Cartoon

You Want Me To Charge Him With What? Terroristic Threats?

Where Did You Go To Law School?

You Should Ask For Your Money Back!

Get Out Of My Courtroom Before I Charge YOU With Stupidity!

And For The Record, In The Future I Suggest You Do Exactly As He Says, And Stay Out Of Their Business!

Case Dissmissed!

COVER STORY

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September 1, 2016

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper Partners With The Association Of Sickle Cell Lower Chattahoochee Region Facts about Sickle Cell Disease

路 SCD is an inherited group of red blood cell disorders.

路 Among people with SCD, "sickle" or abnormally shaped red blood cells get stuck in small blood vessels and block the flow of blood and oxygen to organs in the body. These blockages can cause repeated episodes of severe pain, organ damage, and serious infections, or even stroke.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

The Courier Eco Latino newspaper is proud to announce that we are partnering with the Association of Sickle Cell Lower Chattahoochee Region and their effort to eliminate sickle cell disease in Muscogee County.

For the past 20 years Lois Williams, a retired nurse, has been the face of the organization working tirelessly with a handful of volunteers raising money in a effort to educate our community on a disease that can be eradicated.

It is our anticipation to assist Williams efforts by using our platform along with the mission statement we were founded on eleven years ago, to inform, inspire, educate, and empower the African American communiuty about this very painful disease.

As one with family members who suffer with the trait, we join with her in this fight and are committed as a print media partner to assist in promoting awareness of this disease, educating the community, health professionals and sickle cell clients of the effects of the disease.

We are also committed to raising dollars for the organization as well as utilizing all resources at our disposal

toward providing sickle cell testing and referrals of clients to community resources and support for sickle cell clients and their families.

September is Sickle Cell Month and on September 17th the local organization will host their annual Walk-AThon with registration at Fourth Street Baptist Church beginning at 8:00 AM. and the walk will start at 9:30 AM. visit: www.sicklecellcolumbus.webs.com to register to participate or call 706.566.6329.

Free sickle cell testing will be offered on Saturday as well. In the coming weeks we hope to make another announcement in support of those sufferring from sickle cell.

The Association of Sickle Cell Lower Chattahoochee Region was founded in Columbus, Georgia in 1995 under the leadership of Deborah Tuggle with members Robert Giles, Lois Williams, Marjorie Thomas-Simmons, Annette Bocce, Dorothy Hatchet, Eddie Roberts and Larry Ware.

Association of Sickle Cell Lower Chattahoochee Region 4519 Woodruff Rd. Unit 4 Columbus, GA, 31904-6096 706.566.6329 sicklecellcolumbus@gmail.com www.sicklecellcolumbus.webs.com

路 It is estimated that SCD affects 90,000 to 100,000 people in the United States, mainly Blacks or African Americans. The disease occurs among about 1 of every 500 Black or AfricanAmerican births and among about 1 out of every 36,000 Hispanic-American births. 路 SCD affects millions of people throughout the world and is particularly common among those whose ancestors come from sub-Saharan Africa; Spanish speaking regions in the Western Hemisphere (South America, the Caribbean, and Central America); Saudi Arabia; India; and Mediterranean countries such as Turkey.

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For more information 706-566-6329 4519 Woodruff Rd Unit 4 Columbus GA, 31904 Phone: 706-566-6329 sicklecellcolumbus@gmail.com

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Dr. Theresa Harris...A Leading Lady

As a leader she is currently on tour promoting business and women’s empowerment with her, “Girls Who Brunch Tour, and “The First Five Figure Paycheck.” Dr. Harris is no stranger to hard work. It is the current through which she seamlessly juggles the hats of Scientist, Formulator, Ambassador, Entrepreneur, Life Strategist, Wife and Mother.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Dr. Theresa Harris, PhD, is a leading Medical Research Scientist, Cosmetic Formulator, Global Shea Ambassador, Naturopath, Entrepreneur, Conference Speaker, Radio host and Community leader who is taking the lead in the women to watch. She is the lead Scientist of one of the most highly respected research centers located in Columbus GA, which she founded in 2003. Her research has led to many pharmaceutical drugs being approved by the FDA in the areas of Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes and Stroke. Being on the short list of African American owned Biomedical Research centers in America, Dr. Harris travels extensively training, conducting and auditing leading pharmaceutical drugs. In 2015, she was appointed to an independent committee to adopt policies and procedures and is advisor to the US and Africa on Shea Butter Trade Relations.

In 2011, Theresa founded Leading Ladies, Inc. a female service organization empowering women. The growth of Leading Ladies has given rise to many women becoming empowered.

Leading Ladies has become Dr. Harris tithe back to the community. In 2016, she expanded her love for women’s empowerment and embarked on an empowerment tour with two other doctors promoting health, hygiene and healing for women’s health issues.

The past president and founder of the Black & Minority Chamber of Commerce, her current affiliations are Board Advisor the Professional Football Players Mother’s Association, President of African International Shea Council, Kiwanis International, Board Member of Miller Motte College, Abundant Life Ministries, The Airrogance Agency The Joseph Project and Leading Ladies of Columbus.

You may follow Dr. Harris at: IG@ laehshea, FB@laehshea; www.laehshea.com www.sheabutterchemistry.com www.organicsista.com

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David Henry

September 1, 2016

Can Midnight Basketball Succeed in 2016?

By Nadine Haralson The Courier At a recent forum the mayor suggested that the city might bring back “Midnight Basketball” an early 90’s initiative toward curbing crime by keeping youth off the streets engaging them with basketball leagues as an alternative to drugs and crime.

First a history lesson: “Midnight Basketball” in Columbus was the brainchild of Wane A. Hailes, the publisher of the Courier who was, at the time, the Director of the A.J. McClung YMCA and Byron Hickey who was serving as a member of the Gang Task Force with the Columbus Police Department. It just so happened that each of them saw the movie “Heaven is a Playground’ on the same weekend.

At a chance meeting that following Monday a conversation began about how they could bring the idea of a basketball league to Columbus.

Realizing they couldn’t do the program without money they met with Mike Gaymon who was the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. He recommended we talk with Rick Gordon who was the Director of Parks and recreation at the time. He felt it was a great idea and sent Tony Adams, who was at the time a program director with the department, to Chicago, which, at the time had the most successful program in the country. Upon his return the program began at the A.J. McClung YMCA gym. Having outgrown the YMCA the second year the league moved to Marshall Middle School by the end of the program, seventeen years later the games were being played at Shirley B. Wilson Recreational Center.

The success of the program was because of Tony Adams, Wane Hailes, officer Byron Hickey and the staff working with the program. They knew the kids in the program.

And the kids knew and respected them.

You don’t have that

today. Hickey knew them from his interaction as a member of the gang task force. Hailes knew them through his interaction with them at the Y and Tony and his staff knew these kids through their interaction with them daily at the various parks and recreation centers.

Unfortunately, and no disrespect to the hard work of the current staff, but it does not seem as though that same commitment to the kids exists today. And unless you have that you will have more headaches than it’s worth trying to bring that program back.

It wasn’t about having police officers lining the gym at each game ready to curb any problems. It was “No Workshop, No Jump shot”. It was about every participant in the league knowing that if they cut up in any way they couldn’t play. One significant statistic that was never mentioned is that during the 17-year run of the program there were only three fights and one arrest. The three organizations and individuals were an integral part of the success of the program because they had “boots on the ground” if you will and were aware of any potential problems.

Today there are many success stories of individuals who participated in the program and today are living productive lives as husbands fathers and businessmen. Unless there is a collaboration of law enforcement agencies, and an individual or individuals who know these kids and the kids know and respect them you need to save your time and money because it will not work.

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COVER STORY

September 1, 2016

Your Network Can Determine Your Net Worth businessman, philanthropist and power broker, Robert “Bob” Wright, invited a group of his friends in business from around the country to come to Columbus and share their stories.

Moderated by Byron Pitts, Chief National Correspondent with ABC News, the conversations were down to earth, insightful, informative and inspiring. One theme that permeated through all of their stories was to “never give up”. What was also driven to those in attendance was to “be true to you”, to not compromise your morals, your faith or your values.

Always be true to who you are.

The benefit of attending the event was not for you to walk away believing you will necessarily be the next millionaire but to be inspired by the panelist to be the best you can be. Find your passion and you’ll find your paycheck. Learn everything there is to know about it and with hard work, with an emphasis on the word hard, anything is possible.

Along the way you need to understand that “those of your kind may not be of your color” and “those of your color may not be of your kind.” In other words your family members or your “running partner” “Ray Ray” may not be who you need working for you.

The greatest takeaway for many was “Your Network can determine your Net Worth.” Who are your resources? What type of individuals in the business world do you associate with? Who do you call on when you have a problem pertaining to your business? Who is in your business network?

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

We can turn on the TV every Sunday and see hundreds of African American athletes who make millions of dollars playing a game. The Bob Wright Symposium on Business Empowerment was an opportunity for this community to meet people of color who are making millions of dollars in business, everyday.

For the second year in a row local

Almost the entire panelist had a story of growing up poor in a single parent home. Some had a “village” to help raise them, some didn’t. All had a desire to do better, to live better, to be better. Each of them, because of the network they surrounded themselves with then and now attribute that, hard work and perseverance to the success they enjoy today.

If I were you I wouldn’t miss the event next year!

Dr. Robert L. Wright presently serves as Chairman and CEO of FE Holdings, Inc., a firm dedicated to the investment and growth

of private and public sector companies. He also serves as Chairman Emeritus of Sentel Corporation, headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.

Wright has over 40 years of experience in government, business, finance, politics and project management. He served three consecutive terms as a member of the Columbus, Georgia City Council, and was appointed by President Reagan to the position of Associate

Administrator for Minority Small Business at the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Dr. Wright founded Dimensions International, Inc. (01), a provider of technology solutions to the government and private sectors.

Starting with only three employees in 1985, he built Dimensions International into a worldclass organization with more than 100 offices in 10 countries and over 1,500 employees in 16 different time zones.

PAGE 8 The Gift Of Memory, The Promise Of Hope, The Call To Action An Interfaith Celebration September 11, 2016 4:00 p.m. St. Luke Ministry Center (Corner Third Ave. and 11th St., Columbus, GA) www.facebook.com/stlukeum The community is invited to gather on Sunday, September 11 at 4 pm at St. Luke Ministry Center to honor the 15th anniversary of 9/11 and remember how even in tragedy people from many

Church Calendar

backgrounds came together to help one another. Through music, dance, and reflection, this interfaith gathering will remind us what we experienced 15 years ago and offer hope and opportunities for making positive change in our own community. Speakers include Mr. Farhad Ali Farhani, Mr. Michael Silverstein, Mr. Cedric Hill, Rabbi Beth Schwartz, Ms. Lydia Rice, and more.

Girls, Inc., Voices of the Valley, a Children’s Ensemble from Greater

Beallwood Baptist Church, and students from TAP (Thompson-Pound Art Program) will share music for the afternoon. In addition, adults and older youth are invited to join a community choir for the event which will sing under the direction of Rick McKnight. The community choir will rehearse on Saturday, September 10, 10-noon in Stockwell Hall of St. Luke UMC. Those interested in singing with the choir should contact Rick McKnight, rmcknight@river-

September 1, 2016 center.org. The event will conclude with an ice cream social sponsored by St. Luke. All are welcome. For more information, contact: Rev. Cindy Cox Garrard St. Luke United Methodist cindy@stlukeum.com 706-256-1017.

Rabbi Beth Schwartz Temple Israel rabbi@templeisraelga.com 706-323-1617.

Rev. Grace Burton-Edwards St. Thomas Episcopal Church rector@stthomascolumbus.org 706-324-4264.

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COVER STORY

September 1, 2016

To Thaw Or Not To Thaw...That Is The Question? ment rate * FMV - exemptions The millage rate is simply a tax rate expressed in mills instead of a percentage. Each mill results in $1 in taxes owed for every $1,000 in taxable value; equivalently, each mill represents a tax of 0.1%. In the case of residential property, the millage rate is applied to a portion of the home’s FMV (40% by law in Georgia) less any applicable homestead exemption.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

The History: In an effort to combat increasing property taxes, the residents of Muscogee County voted to approve a property tax freeze in 1983.

What This Means: The property tax system currently in place in Muscogee County is commonly referred to as the “Property Tax Freeze”.

The property taxes of residential homes receiving a homestead exemption are based upon the assessed value of a home at the time a home is purchased.

This assessed value is then fixed or “frozen” until the property is sold or improved, at which time the value of the home is reassessed and then frozen at the newly reassessed value.

The property tax freeze provides that the market value of a home can’t be changed unless the property is sold or transferred to another owner, the home is renovated, or a valuation error is being corrected. The home’s value is automatically frozen when an owner files for a homestead exemption.

Homeowners are only responsible for paying local taxes once the freeze is in place. Rental and commercial properties are exempt from the provisions of this law so renters aren’t directly impacted by the freeze. However, since the rental property owner cannot benefit from the freeze, renters may pay the higher assessed property taxes through their monthly rent.

The Controversy: The concern is one of inequality.

Because of the property tax freeze homeowners who have been in the

same home for many years are likely paying very little in property taxes.

However, the homeowner who recently bought the house next door is assessed taxes at the now higher market value for a similar home. An example: Homeowner (a) has lived in house for 20 years and pays $500 per year in

In Columbus, property taxes are collected from homeowners for use by the State of Georgia, the Columbus Consolidated Government, and the Muscogee County School District, and three different Business Improvement Districts. Locally, the tax revenues are used to pay a portion of the city’s expenditures, operation of the city’s schools, and retirement of debt obligations.

Breaking it down so a 4 year old can understand: First we have to take the personalities

Special Election (Vote for One)

“Shall the Act be approved which eliminates the current base year assessed value homestead exemption for purposes of Muscogee county school and consolidated city-county government ad valorem taxes for homestead properety acquired after January 1, 2017?”

YES NO

property taxes. Homeowner (b) moved next door to Homeowner (a) in the exact same style home this week and pays $3000 per year in property taxes.

How Are Property Taxes Calculated?

The amount of property tax owed by an individual is based on a portion of the fair market value, FMV, of the property being taxed. In Muscogee County, the property tax owed is determined by Property tax = millage rate* (assess-

out of the decision. When you do that, and you realize that the individuals who are the most vocal on both sides of this important issue today more than likely will be dead and gone fifteen to twenty years from now, when we will see the effects of this vote.

Simply put: A Yes vote means you care about the future of the city or the financial growth of Muscogee County. A No vote means you only care about you.

It’s really as simple as that. If you want to continue enjoying all that Columbus has to offer and what makes our community a great place to Work, Live and Play, you must vote yes.

Something To Consider: African Americans are currently the majority demographic in Muscogee County and have been since 2009. At some point we will elect an African American mayor. When that time comes we need to insure that he or she is taking control of a city that is financially stable and not one which the bottom is about to fall out of.

Like the saying, “nobody wants to work but everybody wants to get paid”; no one wants to pay more taxes but everyone wants to enjoy the quality of life this community offers. The amenities this community offers does not come free and a decade from now will be no different.

We say we care about our children, and we say we are concerned about our future. On November the 8th we will know the truth.

We have provided the: PROPOSED CONSTITUTIONAL AMMENDMENT as it will appear on the ballot under SPECIAL ELECTION this November.

Please familiarize yourself with this important issue.

PAGE 10

September 1, 2016

Metropolitan Baptist Church 1635 5th Avenue . Columbus, Georgia 706.322.1488

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

P ROGRESSIVE F UNERAL H OME

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

F RIENDSHIP B APTIST C HURCH E ARLY W ORSHIP 8AM

M ORNING W ORSHIP 11AM

831 6 TH AVE C OLUMBUS , G A

B REAKFAST 9:AM

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W EDNESDAY P RAYER M EETING /B IBLE S TUDY 7PM

WEBSITE : WWW. FRIENDSHIPMBC . ORG

S UNDAY C HILD D AY C ARE S ERVICES AVAILABLE F OR T HOSE ATTENDING O UR W ORSHIP

(O FFICE )706.323-6996 (FAX ) 706.322.7596 (PASTOR ’ S HOME )706.561.6733

R EV. D R . E MMETT S. A NITON , J R PASTOR

C. B ROWN & A SSOCIATES , I NC .

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Carl Brown Representative

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Life, Disability, Health, Dental, Mutual Funds, Annuities, Medicare Supplements, IRA’s, Critical Illness

C OLUMBUS , G EORGIA

Office: 706-653-1287 Fax: 706-653-1290 Cell: 706-718-7313 Email: broker59@aol.com

Practice Areas: Misdemeanor . Felony . DUI . Personal Injurury . Auto .

Divorce . Family .

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Wills

201 9th Street Columbus, Georgia 706.507.5425

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LAUREL MANOR MOBILE HOME PARK 420 MLK JR. PWY SOUTH PHENIX CITY, AL 36869 334-297-0717 Laura Irvin Manager Laurel Manor, LLC 334-297-0717 laurelmanorllc@yahoo.com

PAGE 11

POLITICS

September 1, 2016

Eddie Lowe Re-Elected Mayor Of Phenix City Soldiers from nearby Fort Benning in town for a good time could find themselves drugged and rolled by the ladies of the evening, severely beaten for objecting to the rigged games of chance or found floating face down in the Chattahoochee River if they made too much of a noise about it. The town was so crooked that Gen. George S. Patton once threatened to roll his tanks across the river from Ft. Benning and destroy it.”* *This is an excerpt of Jack Culpepper’s memories growing up in Phenix City during those times.

Phenix City and seven have expanded, creating 302 additional jobs and more than $55 million in investment.

- Created the Positively Phenix City promotional campaign.

- Started the Mayor’s Ball charity event for college scholarships for local students, raising nearly $200,000 over three years and assisting more than 70 students.

- Has pushed through riverfront development projects, including a new downtown parking deck, Courtyard Marriott

hotel and downtown Troy University campus.

Despite the racial overtones of the election Mayor Lowe remains faithful to his community stating in his acceptance speech; “We hope that our great community can continue to see past color and past ethnicity and instead focus on our work ethic, our integrity and our moral compass as we continue to stay “Positively Phenix City”.

In November of 2012 Phenix City, Alabama made history as Eddie Lowe was sworn in as the first African American mayor of Phenix City. He won by a landslide with 64% of the votes twice as many as any of the three other candidates.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Prior to 1954 Phenix City, Alabama was widely known for years as the most corrupt city in the nation. The 1955 movie, The Phenix City Story, provided a dramatized account of the corruption that existed and its outcome.

During the first half of the 20th Century gambling, prostitution, bootlegging, drugs, white slavery, theft and murder and even a black market baby adoption racket was the rule of the day in the city.

There was no point in calling the police; they were all on the take. That went for the sheriff, the judges and the chief prosecutor of the county -- all on the payroll of gangsters.

Once again on Tuesday August 23, 2016 in spite of an effort to oust him with claims from his opponents as the city becoming “too Black”, Mayor Eddie Lowe was re-elected by 59% of the vote over challenger Jerry Barbaree.

During his first term, as mayor, Lowe had a number of accomplishments including: - The city reserve fund has increased to 116 days, a 42 percent increase.

- The city’s debt has been reduced by 5.4 percent.

- New police precincts have been added on the north and south ends of the city.

- Since September 2012, 30 new retail and commercial businesses have opened in Phenix City, creating 320 additional jobs and more than $31 million in investment.

- Two new industries have located in

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PAGE 12

THE LEGACY SERIES...NEXT IN LINE

September 1, 2016

There is no success without succession. Our legacy series is an opportunity to introduce to the community those family owned businesses who, contrary to many, have made or are making a concerted effort to insure the future of the business.

This week we highlight Dr. Cathy Cook, D.D.S. and Dr. Henry Cook, II, D.D.S. both who have followed their father’s footsteps. They each have separate dental practices in Columbus, Georgia.

Fully retired, Dr. Henry Cook, Sr., recently speaking on how proud he is that his children chose to continue his legacy of providing quality dental care to the community, took a moment to reflect on his journey.

“I am the only member of my family to attend college. Both of my parents were deceased by the time I was eleven years old. I made the choice to pursue dentistry after college and while in the US Air Force. I had friends who were dentists and after many discussions of comparing dentistry to medicine, I decided on dentistry due to my artistic and dexterity skills and because of less time involved in completing training and less demands on working hours, etc. My major concern going forward is recruiting enough minorities (especially males) to pursue dentistry as a career because of the high cost of training. Many graduates are finishing school owing $300 to $400 thousand dollars and it is very difficult to start a business with that much debt at the beginning of your career.”

Dr. Cathy Cook And Dr. Henry Cook, II was no other choice or desire for me.

I developed a love for wanting to help people. I started out typing recall cards, letting patients know it was time for the hygiene appointment. For the next four years I worked with the business team assisting in the day to day operations of the business.

Henry II: Dentistry was not my original career field. Since the age of 7 or 8 I wanted to be a physician of some sort; and, my passion has always been surgery. Since I had an interest in science, I got a B.S. degree in biology from Morehouse College in 1994.

It wasn’t until a summer dental program immediately after graduating Morehouse where I actually considered dentistry as a viable career choice.

Courier: Did you always see yourself coming back to Columbus and joining the family business?

Henry II: I always saw myself coming back to Columbus one day; although, I must admit the plan was to come back once I had become an oral surgeon and married. Due to the fact that my parents were in a bad car accident in January 1999 while I was a resident at Harlem hospital in New York City, my plans were changed to come back to Columbus sooner than later.

Courier: At what point in your life did you decide becoming a dentist would be your career choice?

Cathy: Around age 8 I began going into the office with my daddy, watching him and learning all I could grasp about dentistry. From that point on there

Cathy: Yes it was the expectation and it was my desire as well. I knew that my father had built something special in a place I grew up. Not on that my father was masterful in building capacity in my brother and I to continue what he so nobly begun. Columbus was a

place that validated my sense of community, family and self. There are times in life where you actually want to be in a place where everybody knows your name and that is when you’re seeking political office or when you have a business. My father established a “good name” in the dental dentistry and I naturally wanted to walk in his footsteps.

Nothing males my heart swell with pride more than being recognized as the daughter of Dr. Henry Cook the dentist and Mrs. Mamie Cook the educator.

Courier: Did you work outside of the family business after graduating from college as opposed to immediately joining the company?

Henry II: After graduating from Morehouse College, I attended and graduated from Meharry Medical College with a doctorate in dental surgery in 1998. I then did a residency program at Harlem Hospital whereas I treated dental patients during the week and rotated the call schedule every 3rd / 4th night with the oral surgery team.

Cathy: My path was quite different than my brother’s Henry Cook II, although we both headed off to dental school at the same time, I did not go where the path ought to lead, I took instead another path and blazed my own trail.

I joined the U.S. Army and became a military dentist and had the pleasure of serving my country in Fort Benning, GA, Fort Bragg, BC, Fort Stewart, GA and Fort Irwin, CA. However, the choice to serve my country did afford me the opportunity to do my dental residency

Page 13 at Fort Benning, Ga. Outside of my service in the military I have only worked in my father’s practice with him and my brother and my own practice.

Courier: Was there ever any pressure from your parents to join the business or was it something that was expected that you would do at some point?

Cathy: The Only pressure and I would call it wise counsel rather than pressure I received from my parents occurred when I had to decide where to do my dental residency. I had choices in the state of Washington, Colorado, Kentucky and good ole’ Fort Benning, GA. My mother strongly encouraged me to choose Fort Benning, and so I did. In her infinite wisdom and because of her motherly instincts and intuition she knew during that period a time would come that I would draw us closer together and closer to God. I am very thankful for her wise counsel because I simply cannot imagine not being a part of the enormous spiritual growth of my family in those years.

So it was during those days that the fire that was ignited in me to become a dentist at the tender age of eight, that fire began to rage and burn and more than anything I wanted to practice alongside my daddy and my brother. As soon as I resigned my commission I came home and joined the family business and I count it all joy and a huge blessing to be a part of something built by “MY DADDY”. As a matter of fact it ignited the passion in me to do the same, so I honed my craft and my skills in the full art of dentistry and waited for the perfect opportunity to start my own practice. When my God-father Dr. Isaac Hadley decided to retire the opportunity presented itself the time was right and I struck out on my own. I did this because I truly believe and live by my personal mantra that: “Being a dentist means I can bring about positive changes in the lives of my patients. Whether I am helping patients get rid of pain, restoring their ability to chew comfortable and effectively, or improving their smile, they are going to be a happier and healthier, I cannot imagine a more wonderful profession.”

Henry II: I can’t say that my parents pressured me to join the business until after their accident in 1999. At that par-

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ticular time, it was what the family needed as neither of my parents could work effectively at that time.

5. You are involved in various committees, boards and organizations, what are they and why have you chosen those particular ones to be involved with?

Henry II: Presently, my involvement in civic groups and organizations has been minimized as I’m planning and starting a consortium, a private equity fund for Columbus with an emphasis on creating jobs and business along MLK Jr, Boulevard. FOCUS (Future of Columbus Uniting Societies). The idea is to spread this to under-developed areas in south Columbus as well as midtown and uptown. FOCUS also wants to cultivate a new culture of donating to jobs/businesses as opposed to school scholarships because the end result of education is employment.

Moreover, businesses plus churches in the community have to include youth involvement to ensure our future while those senior pioneers in the area can offer insight and advice.

• Other involvements (past &present) include some civic involvement-TAD campaigns and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, mentoring and tutoring students in math and science.

• Columbus Regional Foundation – Past Board Member • Urban League Young Professionals • Omega Psi Phi Fraternity

Cathy: As a single mother of the most wonderful children a woman could have I choose carefully how and to what I will give my time.

However, there are a few organizations in the community that I have loaned my support to because I feel they make a meaningful difference in lives of youth in our community. I want to do all I can while I can to ensure the future of our youth. I serve on the Board of Directors for the Columbus UNCF Campaign and the SAMARC Dream and Achieve Foundation. I am the immediate past-president of the Georgia Dental Society, a position held previously my father and my brother. I also serve on the National Dental Association Board of Trustees, am a spokesperson for the NDA Pew Charitable Trust

Foundation and I serve as the Co-Chair of the New Dentist Conference.

6. What do you see as a major health concern relating to dental care?

Cathy: As I see it, a major health concern relating to dental care is the inability on the patient’s part to seek routine oral care because they lack resources to do so. Small budgets exist in low income families, making it difficult to purchase dental insurance. Medicaid has continually decreased covered procedures. In the state of GA, Medicaid today has no coverage to replace teeth (denture and partials). The inability to properly function and digest food greatly impacts the overall health of all patients.

September 1, 2016 Henry II: A major health concern relating to dental care is incorporating a paradigm shift in the thought process of dental care and treatment. This includes the notion of fixing and saving teeth as opposed to extracting them due to the fact that keeping teeth increases your ability to chew and digest food properly which leads to a longer life span.

To continue, dispel the myths that pregnant women can’t be treated or that teeth can’t be treated while infected.

Time and technology have allowed for different options of treatment.

Unfortunately on the provider side, there are fewer and fewer opportunities to acquire employment with loan repayment. That makes it difficult for Georgia to recruit new dentist owing $300-$400 upon completion of dental school. This leaves fewer providers to care for the needs of our growing population

Moreover, educating parents whom are adamant about how their children are treated to be mindful of that at home, in regards to their child’s brushing and cleaning habits.

Ultimately my most important major health concern is not only healthy teeth but also what foods go in and more importantly what words come out (3D DENTISTRY) because ALL ARE MEDICINE!!

Cathy L. Cook, D.D.S

Henry L. Cook, II, D.D.S.

Completing MAXI AAID implant course Graduate AEGD )Ft. Benning (99) D.D.S. Meharry Medical College (98) Commiss’d US Army Dental Corps (96) Columbus College (90-94) Spelman College (87-89) Columbus High School (87)

Fellowship Global implants (00) Resident Harlem Hospital (99) D.D.S. Meharry Medical College (98) B.S. Morehouse College (94) Columbus High School (89)

PAGE 14

September 1, 2016

Urban League to Host Equal Opportunity Day Dinner & Black Tie Gala

The Urban League of Greater Columbus, Inc. presents its largest community fundraiser, The 20th Annual Equal Opportunity Dinner and Black-Tie Gala to be held on Saturday, October 1, 2016 in the Columbus Convention and Trade Center’s Grand Ballroom. The Reception and Silent Auction will commence at 6:30 p.m. and the benefit Dinner will begin at 7:30 p.m. fThis year’s keynote speaker is the nationally esteemed Dr. Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The theme for this occasion is, “Empowered to Realize the Dream of Unity and Economic Equality for all”.

Urban League President/CEO Susan Cooper said, “Please join us in our mission to empower and assist others to equally access the dream of being in the economic mainstream of jobs, education, affordable housing and healthcare.

This event represents the essence of the work that the Urban League does each day to foster economic empowerment educating and equipping individuals and families with the tools and resources needed to become self-sufficient, as well as to improve their quality of life.”

Cooper said, “It is because of your generosity that we have been able to empower communities and change lives for over forty-five years. We would like to thank you in advance for extending your hand and giving back to the community through the Urban League of Greater Columbus.

We look forward to your support as well as your participation.”

Cooper continued, “Your support will enable the Urban League to continue providing services and building Economic Development Programs that create jobs and Employment Training; Affordable Housing and Foreclosure Prevention, Educational Programming to include STEM, GED, computer training and adult literacy workshops; Prison to Work ReEntry Program which assist ex-offenders in becoming productive community citizens; and Financial Empowerment Programs to include budgeting, financial independence, and credit rebuilding counseling. Proceeds from this spectacular dinner gala will enable the Urban League to continue serving thousands of people annually.”

COVER STORY

PAGE 15

September 1, 2016

Let’s Try This One More Time When It Comes To The Salary Issue Believe Half Of What You See And None Of What You Hear

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

During this political season it has and continues to be a tactic of political party’s to confuse voters with semantics.

A recent article by former school board member, Attorney Fife Whiteside, appearing in the Ledger Enquirer, has some in our community giving each other high-fives. The reason is that they feel his article is vindication for their fight for area teachers to receive a full 3% raise.

We’ve been thought was contrary to want you to

here before with what we a full explanation of why, what the aforementioned believe.

For those of you who missed the explanation here it is again beginning with what Dr. Lewis, superintendent of Muscogee County School District had to say; “The proposed Fiscal Year (FY) 2017 budget for the Muscogee County School District (MCSD) matches additional state funding to award teachers a permanent raise. Governor Nathan Deal’s state budget increase came with a challenge to Georgia’s school districts to end furlough days and raise teacher pay. The district is meeting that challenge and applauds Governor Deal for challenging Georgia’s school districts to raise teacher pay.”

“We were ahead of the curve last year when the Fiscal Year 2016 Budget gave additional pay to its teachers with the longest service and support staff including, but limited to bus drivers, secretaries, and paraprofessionals,” said Dr. David Lewis, Superintendent. “The longservice bonus for teachers in last year’s budget was the first phase of a longterm strategy to increase MCSD employees’. We have the best teachers and support staff in the state, and I am committed to increasing their pay without raising taxes.”

The district’s proposed Fiscal Year 2017 Budget continues the trend using state and local funds to increase pay for

teachers and support staff across the board.

This year, the State budget included a total increase in funding of $1.7 million dollars over last year’s budget. Every penny of the additional $1.7 million dollars is proposed to fund pay increases for teachers and support staff. The district also proposes to contribute $1.9 million in additional local funds. The Superintendent says it is money well spent.

“We appreciate what the State committed in funding and we are using all of the increase to recognize the hard work and dedication of our teachers and support staff,” added Lewis. “It is well deserved and long overdue.”

While the district was allocated an additional $5.7 million in State dollars, the increase was offset by a loss of $4 million dollars in State funding. As a result, the district only received an additional $1.7 million in State funds, which was allocated to increase pay for teachers and support staff.

The concern centers around the 5.7 million dollars the district received from the state and the 1.7 million of that being set a side for raises in teacher salaries. When attempting to get an explain one gets lost when the administration starts talking State QBE Formula Earnings and Austerity Reductions. So we reached out to Claire Suggs, Senior Education Policy Analyst the Georgia.

This is what she had to say;

Partial Funding Restoration Might Not Be Enough to Raise Teacher Salaries Deep and ongoing austerity cuts in state funding since before the recent recession started in 2007 led districts to scale back core services. State budget cuts caused school districts to shrink the standard 180-day school calendar, furlough teachers, eliminate teaching positions, raise class sizes, cut academic programs, draw down reserves and use more local dollars to plug holes in their budgets to offset the cuts. As state lawmakers reduced the austerity cut the past few years, district leaders began to restore these services. Most school systems returned to a 180-day

calendar and many ended teacher furloughs. Some brought back a number of the nearly 9,000 teaching positions they eliminated between 2009 and 2014, which can help shrink class sizes. Yet challenges remain. About 40 districts, or more than 20 percent of the state’s 180 districts, continue to furlough teachers this school year. These teachers still live with a pay cut. The $300 million restored to districts should allow them to address this. It may not be enough to raise teacher salaries for many.

The state is not increasing the salary schedule that serves as the basis for teacher earnings since the 2009 fiscal year. That year the state provided districts with $33,424 for a first-year teacher with a bachelor’s degree, the same amount it will provide next year. State funding for teachers at each level will remain unchanged. Some districts provided raises with local revenue since 2009 and may be able to do so next year but others may not.

Districts leaders will also evaluate if they have the resources to give raises to all employees, including people in positions that are not state-funded.

These employees also endured recent furloughs and stagnant wages. Raising teachers’ salaries and leaving other workers behind could prove difficult.

you understand why there is not the dollars available from the 5.7 million for teacher raises is to know what Austerity reduction means. Think about your budget at home. For over a year now you have needed a new air condition unit, a new wardrobe, your child needs a new computer and you really need a new car. You receive your tax refund and now you have to decide how to prioritize your needs.

The same is what is going on with The MCSD. For years there is a need for new busses to transport our children, the need for supplies that board members have been complaining about and other items.

We ask that before you jump on the “They don’t respect our teachers “bandwagon read the report for yourself and ask the right questions.

If you don’t have time to read the report that is unfortunate but we understand but if you don’t mind we did and if you will allow us just one last observation. This is one anyone should be able to understand or as the old folks would say; “Let me break it down so the goats can eat it”.

If the Governor really wanted our teachers to have a 3% raise he could have easily recommended passing a law raising the pay scale for teachers statewide.

Why didn’t he do that? I mean if he really cared about our educators that would have been an easy thing to do.

Still confused let me attempt to break this down “so the goats can get at it” or like you are a 3 year old. When the Governor gave 5.7 million dollars to our school district he Request for Bids/Proposals knew it wasn’t enough but RFB No. 17-0012 he’s covered Gym Floor Repairs, Stripping & Sealing because years (Annual Contract) ago the Due: September 21, 2016 – 2:30 PM Republican Kevin Robertson, Buyer administration gave the local Sealed responses must be received and time/date stamped school districts by the due date shown above, by the Finance the discrepan- Department/Purchasing Division of Columbus Consolidated cy to use the Government, 100 Tenth Street, Columbus, GA 31901. dollars they To obtain specifications, visit the City's website at receive they http://www.columbusga.org/finance/Excel_Docs/Bid_Opportuniti way they see es.htm, notify the Buyer via email krobertson@columbusfit. ga.org, fax 706.653.4109 or telephone 706.653.4105.

What will help

Andrea J. McCorvey, CPPB Purchasing Division Manager

PAGE 16

Kason Frazier

COURIER KIDS

Kason Frazier (12) is the son of Rashonda Frazier and the oldest brother to Anza and Mykylan Frazier.

Kason is a seventh grader who attends Eddy Middle School. His favorite subject is Science. While attending Eddy Middle last school year, he maintained a position on the A/B Honor Roll, and was ranked “Top Ten” in the Achieve 3000 score.

Like most young men his age, he loves all things sports, with basketball being his favorite. Kason’s other interests and hobbies include anything electronic, and showing off his dance skills with his friends.

Frazier is a very kind and respectable young man, who is always a pleasure to be around, when he gets older he would like to go to college and major in electronics in hopes of one day becoming an Electronic Engineer.

Kaylah Green

September 1, 2016

Kaylah Green (9), is the daughter of Pat Hughley-Green and Kevin Green Sr. Ms. Kayla loves school and excels academically as a third grader at Forrest Road Elementary School.

She has won the Art category for PTA Reflections and Let’s Grow S.T.E.A.M. Kaylah is a lover of fashion, and in her spare time enjoys creating the latest doll fashions, and dollhouse set designs. She also enjoys gymnastics, scouting and creating dance routines.

Known for her bubbly and energetic personality, Ms. Kaylah is a joy to be around and is always up for a good conversation about all things girly and the kid life. As for the future she’s pretty much set on just being a kid and enjoying her life.

It’s That Time Of Year...The Classics Are Back!

CALENDAR OF ACTIVITIES

Sunday, Oct.2, 2016 Classic Worship Service St. Mary Road Church 10am Tuesday, Oct .4, 2016 Proclamations Phenix City, City Hall 706) 575-1442 8am Columbus Council Meeting 5:30pm Tuesday, Oct. 4, 2016 Classic Recruitment Affair Nya Moore Idle Hour Community Center (478) 396-5898 Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016 Media Press Conference Edgar Champagne Columbus Museum 12pm 706-566-0602

Thursday, Oct.6, 2016 Classic Social Hour Barry Debrow Location TBA Friday, Oct. 7, 2016 Franklin Douglass Charity Golf Classic Country Club of Columbus 8:30 am SHOT GUN START D. Troutman 404-545-2176 Friday, Oct. 7, 2016 Classic Tailgating/ Carl Hamilton Parking & Check In (706) 577-0210 Classic Vending Check In Pino Wells Davis (706)649-4515 Friday, Oct. 7, 2016 Classic Banque Vickie Hardaway Convention & Trade Center 801 Front Ave., Columbus 7pm – 9 pm Invitation Required Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016 Classic Parade starts @ 9am L. Miller Line-Up @ 7:45am (334) 614-5306 Collin Powell Pkwy Phenix City, AL Columbus, GA Broad & Dillingham Saturday, Oct. 8, 2016 81st Football Classic Michael Bellamy A.J.McClung Memorial Stadium 600 4th St, Columbus, GA 2pm Kick-Off Saturday Oct. 8, 2016 Post Game Block Party Lisa Goodwin Civic Center Ampitheatre 706-225-3101 Admission $10.00

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Page 17

September 1, 2016

Attorney Forrest B. Johnson...The New Kid On The Block $200,000 to scholarships, food drives, toy drives, and book bag drives, all for the people of our community.

Courier: Many of the law firms have commercials that specifically target African Americans, Hispanics and other people of color, what questions should a person, who has a need for an attorney in your field, ask when seeking representation?

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

With offices in Atlanta and Macon, Georgia, Attorney Forest B. Johnson opened his Columbus office at 1332 Wynnton Road in December of 2015.

We recently sat with Attorney Johnson about his practice and his philanthropic spirit.

Courier: There are a number of Law Firms in Columbus specializing in your area of practice, why do you believe you are the better choice for them?

Johnson: Service to the community.

Commitment to the community. We, at Forrest B. Johnson & Associates are a genuine part of the community. We bring a unique combination of legal experience with 36 years of practice, coupled with our commitment to serve all communities but importantly, the minority community. We have donated over

Johnsdon: The 1st question is to know why the African American, Hispanic and other minority communities are being targeted. The targeting of minorities is not an accident. Most large television advertisers, but not all, realize that the minority communities will not question their legal credentials or trial credentials. There are many in the minority communities who will accept the television commercials’ representations as true, without actually questioning the qualifications of the lawyers handling the case. You as the client, have a right to ask for the credentials of the lawyers representing you.

Ask the Lawyer, “when is the last time you took a case to trial and gotten a jury verdict?” Ask them, “what experience do you have in cases similar to mines?”

Courier: Do you feel there are law firms that are misleading, misrepresenting or at the very least taking advantage of people of color in our community?

Johnson: Absolutely. Again, clients must ask questions of the attorney about his/her qualifications. All personal injury cases are not the same. A lot of information is needed to evaluate any injury

case. “One size does not fit all.”

The difference between Forrest B. Johnson & Associates and some other firms is this: the profits they earn in our communities, are taken out of our communities and reinvested in their communities. With these profits, they are able to send their children to the best private schools and universities.

At Forrest B. Johnson & Associates, we invest what we earn and put it back into our communities. We do this so that our young boys and girls can have the tools they need to succeed. We provide tools for learning, positive family events, and opportunities to go to college for young people who are financially unable to go. So yes, the African American and other communities of color are being taken advantage of. But it is the responsibility of each person to ask the tough questions and then make wise decisions, based not on what is being said on television, but also, what is being done.

Courier: We notice, since you have been in Columbus you have generously given back to the community.

Why is that so important to you?

Johnson: It’s important to me because I am the product of a single parent home; I didn’t meet my father until I was 27 years old. I understand the plight that single mothers have. I understand what it’s like to want to give your

children more, but because of lack of finances, you are unable to do so.

Because of that, I strive to provide support to families who are similar to the one I grew up in. I want the single mother to be able to take her children to a sit-down meal at a restaurant from time to time. I want fathers to be able to take their children to a ball game and not worry about if they can afford sodas to go with their hot dogs. I want young boys to see that they can become whatever they strive to become, if they work hard.

As part of my law firm, I started a program called “Seeds into the Community,” whereby we take a percentage of all that we earn and put it back into our communities in Columbus, Atlanta, and the Middle Georgia areas. Our practice has been in Columbus since December 2015, and since then we have already donated $100,000 in scholarships to local students. We have partnered with other agencies to bring family entertainment, school supplies, and more to the area. We are just getting started here, and the best is yet to come! At Forrest B. Johnson & Associates we are committed to excellence! I EXPECT it internally from my staff and applaud it externally!

Attorney Forrest B. Johnson can be reached locally at 706.223.5380 or info@fbjlaw.com.

Columbus Technical College is Hiring!

We are looking for qualified candidates for the following positions: Adult Education ESL Instructor Full-time Adult Education Instructor Part-time Adult Education ESL Instructor Part-time Allied Health Instructor Part-time Anatomy & Physiology Adjunct Instructor Part-time Automotive Collision Repair Instructional Aide Part-time Carpentry/Cabinetmaking Adjunct Instructor Part-time Engineering Technology Adjunct Instructor Part-time English Adjunct Instructor for Muscogee County High Schools Part-time History Adjunct Instructor Part-time Mechatronics Technology Program Technical Instructor Full-time Paramedic/EMT Adjunct Instructor Part-time Paramedic/EMT Adjunct Instructor (Clinical Coordinator) Part-time 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.

September 1, 2016

PAGE 18

A Trusted Comrade,’ Black Press Legend George Curry Dies at 69

‘By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA News Wire Contributor)

The Black Press lost one of it’s most celebrated warriors when George Curry, veteran journalist and former

Editor-In-Chief of the NNPA News Wire, died from an apparent heart attack on Saturday, August 20. Curry was 69.

Curry, 69, died of a reported heart attack on Saturday, Aug. 20, in suburban Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C.

“On behalf of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), we are all saddened and heartbroken by the sudden passing of one our most admired, respected, and gifted colleagues, George E. Curry,” said NNPA President Dr. Benjamin Chavis. “Black America, and in fact millions of African people all over the world, had come to know George Curry as a fearless scholar and writer who used his pen and wit to aggressively advance the cause of freedom, justice and equality for Black people and for the whole of humanity.”

Chavis continued: “George was our trusted comrade on the frontlines of the Civil Rights Movement and on the front pages of the Black Press of America. We will miss him.”

It’s hard to believe that Curry, who led the NNPA as Editor-In-Chief of its news wire from 2003 to 2007 and then from 2012 to 2015, has died,

said Washington Informer Publisher and NNPA Chair Denise Rolark Barnes, who called Curry a giant in the journalism profession.

“As publisher of ‘The Washington Informer,’ I admired George's leadership as EditorIn-Chief of ‘Emerge,’ the preeminent monthly news magazine targeting issues impacting A f r i c a n Americans,” Rolark Barnes said. “George’s uncompromising journalistic leadership delivered on Emerge’s promise to deliver edgy, hard-hitting, intellectual, well-written and thoroughly researched content that attracted national attention and left an indelible mark on the lives of many.

“As a member and now chair of the National Newspaper Publishers Association, I was honored to carry George’s weekly column in ‘The Washington Informer’ and to work with him while he served as Editor-In-Chief of the NNPA News Wire. George provided so much of his time, energy, wisdom and incredible journalistic genius to the Black Press,” she said.

“His work will stand as a lasting legacy of journalistic excellence and integrity of which all of us in the Black Press and the journalism industry atlarge can feel extremely proud. My prayers and sympathy extend to his family and closest companions. He will be sorely missed.”

Freddie Allen, the managing editor of the NNPA News Wire, called Curry an icon in the Black Press and said that his legacy of mentoring young journalists will bear fruit for many years to come.

Recently, Allen and Curry were part of a Black media delegation that worked with the Black AIDS Institute to cover the 2016 International AIDS

Conference in Durban, South Africa.

“George taught me what it meant to be a professional journalist and also about the importance of working in the Black Press,” Allen said.

“His writing and insight on critical issues affecting the Black community will be sorely missed. I’m thankful for the time we spent together in Durban.”

Curry was a consummate journalist with integrity as his mantra, said Dorothy R. Leavell, publisher of the Crusader newspapers in Chicago and Gary, Indiana.

“We shall miss this voice of reason and thought-provoking columns full of researched facts. It was just the week of August 13th that George wrote a column titled ‘Even Funerals Are Not Family Reunions Anymore.’ He used his family as an example of the loss of closeness that he had enjoyed during his childhood and early adult life and bemoaned the fact that at his cousin Charlene’s funeral the week before that closeness was no longer there,” Leavell said.

“What was ironic is that he pledged that he would try to get his family back together by saying, ‘Neither Big Mama nor Aunt Julia Mae would be pleased that our once close-knit family is in shambles, but as long as I have breath in me, I am going to try to get my family back together.

I know it’s a very long shot, but I owe that to Big Mama and Aunt Julia Mae to keep trying.’

“I’m sure George meant to keep that pledge and perhaps the closeness of his family will become a reality, but at a large cost,” said Leavell, adding that she hoped his family will reunite at his funeral. “We miss you already, George.”

The news of Curry’s death not only reverberated throughout Black media, the loss was also felt in the halls of government.

“The Congressional Black Caucus joins with members of the press from around the country to mourn the loss of George E. Curry, a pioneer in Civil Rights and journalism,” CBC Chairman G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.), said in a statement. “Curry was a giant in journalism and he stood on the front-

lines of the Civil Rights era and used his voice to tell our stories when others would not. The CBC offers our sympathies and condolences to his friends and family, his readers from around the country, and to the countless number of individuals he mentored in the art of reporting and journalistic writing until his untimely death.”

Democratic Presidential nominee Hillary Rodham Clinton even took a moment from her busy campaign to express her thoughts about Curry, whom she called a friend.

“I am saddened by the loss of an outstanding journalist and supportive friend. George E. Curry was a pioneering journalist, a tireless crusader for justice, and a true agent of change,” Clinton said in a statement.

“With quality reporting, creativity, and skillful persuasion he influenced countless people, including me, to think beyond their narrow experience and expand their understanding. George may be gone, but he will not be forgotten.”

The Rev. Al Sharpton called Curry a “trailblazer” and said he was “saddened beyond words” at news of Curry’s death.

In 2003, Curry was named “Journalist of the Year” by the National Association of Black Journalists and he’s also on NABJ’s list of the Most Influential Black Journalists of the 20th Century.

“We pledge to keep the journalistic genius and spirit of George Curry alive in all that we will do in the future to sustain the liberating and empowering voice of Black owned newspapers and media companies,” Chavis said. “George and I were lifelong friends and co-workers at the NNPA, NAACP, SCLC, ANC and just about every other national and international organization that is serious about demanding justice and equality.”

Chavis continued: “The legacy of freedom-fighter journalists like George Curry will never pass away, but will always be kept dear and present in our continued struggles to liberate all from injustice.”

PAGE 6

Jueves 1 de Septiembre 2016

Miembros del Comité 4to Año del Tri-City Latino Festival Sábado, 17 de Septiembre, 2016 Columbus Civic Center Mimi Woodson. "Just because this is a Latin festival doesn't mean it's all Latino's. It is to unite our community and educate our community and our diversity within the community we live in".

Many Grammy-winning Latin artists will also be performing. See the list on page 2.

By Wane A. Hailes Eco Latino The region is getting ready for one its biggest cultural events.

The 4th Annual Tri-City Latino Festival is set for Saturday, Sept.

17. It will be held at the South Commons in Columbus beginning at noon, rain or shine.

The committee members have been working tirelessly to make this event the best one yet.

There will be food, music and entertainment for the entire family.

Although this is a Latin festival, organizers say anyone is encouraged to attend.

The festival is free of charge.

Organizers only ask that you please leave coolers at home and support the vendors.

Normita's Latin American Restaurante & Deli Abierto al Público

One of the favorite attractions is their “All You Can Eat Buffet” serving traditional Latin American dishes for only $6.99 daily.

The hours of operation is Monday thru Friday from 11:30 am – 5:00 pm and Saturday 12 noon – 5 pm.

Delivery is available to the barracks on Ft. Benning and Columbus.

An Army family business, in addition to offering specials for military personnel and veterans, Normita’s

Consider renting Normita’s for your party or special event. Call them today at 706.221.4692.

offers an economic special for $5.29 daily.

“As you know we lost our cofounder, “Lefty” Encarnacion last October, says “Mimi”. One of his goals was that a portion of the proceeds raised each year through this event would go towards sponsoring area youth access to summer programs. During the event we will have an opportunity for those who wish, to donate dollars to make that a reality.”

N OW O PEN

"We want to invite the public to come out," said festival co-chair

By Wane A. Hailes Eco Latino Normita’s Latin American Restaurant & Deli has reopened to the public and once again is providing authentic Latin American cuisine.

This year organizers are asking that those in attendance help bring one of the co-founders last wishes to reality.

Buffet Latino All You Can Eat Only $6.99

Jueves 1 de Septiembre 2016

PAGE 5

Creciente un Pedazo de Mexico en Georgia Durante los últimos seis años, Maricella y Mario Rodea han trabajado para tranformar el área alrededor de su casa en Georgia a un oasis de jardín. Crecen perfectos melocotones, rosas, y hierbas—y mucho más. Su jardín es una conexión a su tierra natal en México.

Maricella y Mario son de Michuacan, México. Sus padres eran agricultores, y ellos enseñaban Maricella y Mario como crecer plantas, especialmente maíz y frijoles.

Después de ellos movieron a Georgia, su conocimiento de la jardinería se ha expandido mucho.

Maricella le gusta cultivar flores como azaleas, rosas, clavelina, y vinca. Mario es responsable de las frutas y las verduras. Ellos todavía cultivan maíz y frijoles, pero ahora la mayor parte del espacio del jardín tiene árboles de melocotón y ciruela. Cosechan una cantidad tan grande de fruta que cualquier jardinero Georgia estaría celoso. Las hierbas también son importantes en el jardín. Maricella y Mario crecen romero, cilantro, eneldo, epazote, y ruda. Ellos crecen las hierbas en macetas en frente de su casa, y a menudo se cocinan con las hierbas.

Lo que es más impresionante sobre el jardín es su tamaño. Maricella y Mario crecer tantas flores, frutas y verduras que se podría pensar que tienen muchos acres. En realidad, todo el jardín es de aproximadamente 900 pies cuadrados, aproximadamente el tamaño de una piscina.

Podría parecer como un desafío a crecer tantas plantas en un espacio pequeño, pero Mario dice que todo lo que necesita para hacer crecer una planta es un agujero para que la semilla. También, Maricella y Mario usan su espacio con prudencia. Debido a que plantan flores y hierbas en macetas, que ahorran espacio. También ahorrar tiempo, ya que no tienen que tirar como muchas malas hierbas. Para las verduras, Mario utiliza rocas y ladrillos para construir parterres. Mario plantó los árboles frutales cerca de la casa para que puedan dar sombra durante el verano.

El jardín en Georgia no siempre ha sido fácil para Maricella y Mario. El suelo de arcilla en Georgia es muy diferente del suelo arenoso en México.

Mario aprendió muy rápido que cuan-

do llueve, el suelo se vuelve fangoso y luego muy duro. La humedad aquí también hace que las plantas crecen de manera diferente. Pero todo el trabajo vale la pena para las cosechas maravillosas.

Mario dice que trabajando en la tierra es parte de la tradición de su familia.

Cuando Maricella & Mario llegaron a Georgia, ellos comenzó a plantar alrededor de su casa. Los sabores y olores del jardín crean un pedazo de México en Georgia para la familia.

Si quiere usted aprender como crecer hierbas & verduras de su patria, o si quiere aprender como crecer frutas & verduras en un jardín pequeño, la oficina de Extension local puede ayudar.

Visita el sitio web, uga.extension.org.

Anne Randle es el agente de Agricultura y Recursos Naturales de la programa de Extensión Cooperativa de la Universidad de Georgia. Para obtener más información sobre este y otros temas de jardines domésticos, contacte con ella, 706-653-4200.

ENGLISH Growing a Piece of Mexico in the Middle of Georgia Maricella and Mario Rodea have spent the last six years turning the small area around their Georgia home into a garden oasis. From perfect peaches to roses and herbs, their garden has become a connection to their home thousands of miles away.

Originally from Michuacan, Mexico, the couple both learned to grow plants from their parents who were farmers. Since settling in Georgia, their knowledge of gardening has expanded well beyond the corn and beans they grew in Mexico.

Maricella tends the flowers, including azaleas, roses, sweet william, and vinca, while Mario is in charge of vegetables and fruit. Corn and beans are still an important part of their garden, but huge peach and plum trees have claimed most of the garden space over the years. Their fruit harvest, abundant and free of insect pests, could make any Georgia gardener jealous. Herbs are also an important part of the garden. They grow rosemary, cilantro, dill, epazote, and ruda in pots in front of their house and use the herbs regularly in meals.

What’s most impressive about this garden is its size. With Maricella’s collection of flowers and enough fruits, vegetables, and herbs to feed their family, you might think the Rodeas had many acres to plant. In reality, their entire garden fits in about 900 square feet, or the size of a swimming pool.

While it might seem like a challenge to grow so much in a small space, Mario doesn’t see it that way. He points out that all you need to grow a plant is a hole for the seed. By planting flowers and herbs in containers, the Rodeas save space and avoid hard work like weed pulling. Building raised beds from bricks and rocks has also increased their growing space. Fruit trees, plant-

ed close to the house due to lack of space, now provide shade and reduce power bills in the summer.

Not everything has been easy for Maricella and Mario, however. The clay soil in Georgia is very different from the sandy soil in Mexico. Mario learned quickly that when it rains here the ground becomes muddy then very hard.

Georgia’s humidity also causes plants to grow differently. But the joy of watching plants grow and being able to use the harvest in the kitchen has made it worth all the trouble.

Mario says working in the soil is part of his family’s tradition. When they first moved here, they immediately started planting around their home. The taste and the smells of the garden have created a piece of Mexico right here in Georgia for this family.

If you would like to know more about growing herbs and vegetables from your home country or growing in a small space, the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension has resources for you. Please contact your local county agent at extension.uga.edu.

Anne Randle is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent for the University of Georgia’s Cooperative Extension program. For more information on this or other home gardening topics, she can be reached at 706-6534200.

PAGE 4

Jueves 1 de Septiembre 2016

Departamento de Salud de Columbus

Dirección postal y la Clínica Localización 2100 Comer Ave. Columbus, GA 31904 Teléfono: 706-321-6300 Fax: 706-3216126 emergencia después de horas 1866-752-3442 Teléfono: 7 06-321-6300 Horario de atención: 08 a.m.-5:00 pm de lunes a viernes Horario de la clínica: Clínica de Salud del Adulto - 706-3216240 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:30-13:30 Último paciente aceptó a las 4:30 pm Salud Infantil - 706-321-6200 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Último paciente aceptó a las 4:00 pm Los niños y jóvenes con necesidades especiales 706-321-6300 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Los niños primero Los bebés no pueden esperar First Care La detección temprana auditiva y la intervención (EHDI) Servicios Médicos para Niños Lanzamiento del proyecto de Georgia Salud Dental - 706-321-6190 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:00-13:00 Llame para una cita.

Distrito de Servicios Clínicos 706-321-6411 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:00-13:00 Llame para una cita.

Gestión perinatal Caso (PCM) 706-321-6207 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:00-13:00 Último paciente aceptó a las 4:30 pm Adolescente Health Clinic 706-321-6109 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:00-13:00 Último paciente aceptó a las 4:00 pm Registros Vitales - 706-321-6130 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 4:30 pm Mujeres, Bebés y Niños - WIC 706-321-6280 De lunes a viernes- las 8:00 am a 6:00 pm Bono Pick-up: 5 primeros días de cada mes-08 a.m. a 6:00 pm Horario sábado para nuevos y existentes solicitantes-Una vez al mes, de 8:00 am a 1:00 pm 2016 Fechas: 16 Jan, 20 Feb, 19 Mar, 16 Apr, 21 May, 18 Jun, 16 Jul, 20

Aug, 17 Sep, 22 Oct, 19 Nov, 17 Dec Cita Línea Directa: 800-789-5502 WIC en Fort Benning 706-682-8455 Situado en la Plaza de Soldados, Building 2613 - 2613 Linskey Calle Fort Benning, GA 31905 Lunes a viernes 8:00 am a 4:30 pm Salud de la Mujer 706-321-6225 Abiertas de 8:00 am a 5:00 pm Cerrada 24:00-13:00 Último paciente aceptó a las 4:30 pm

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

ENGLISH Mailing Address and Clinic Location 2100 Comer Ave. Columbus, GA 31904 Phone: 706-321-6300 Fax: 706-3216126 Emergency After Hours 1-866-7523442 Phone: 706-321-6300 Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Monday though Friday Clinic Hours: Adult Health Clinic – 706-321-6240 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Last patient accepted at 4:30 p.m.

Child Health – 706-321-6200 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Last patient accepted at 4:00 p.m.

Children and Youth with Special Needs – 706-321-6300 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Children First Babies Can’t Wait First Care Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Children’s Medical Services Project Launch Georgia Dental Health – 706-321-6190 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Call for appointment.

District Clinical Services – 706321-6411 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Call for appointment.

Perinatal Case Management (PCM) 706-321-6207 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Last patient accepted at 4:30 p.m.

Teen Health Clinic – 706-321-6109 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Last patient accepted at 4:00 p.m.

Vital Records – 706-321-6130 Open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Women, Infants and Children – W.I.C. – 706-321-6280 Monday-Friday- 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Voucher Pick-up: First 5 days of each month- 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday Schedule for new and existing applicants-Once a month from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 2016 Dates: Jan 16, Feb 20, Mar 19, Apr 16, May 21, Jun 18, Aug 20, Sep 17, Oct 22, Nov 19, Dec 17 Appointment Hotline:

800-789-5502 WIC at Fort Benning – 706-6828455 Located in Soldiers’ Plaza, Building 2613 – 2613 Linskey Street – Fort Benning, GA 31905 Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Women’s Health -706-321-6225 Open 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Closed from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Last patient accepted at 4:30 p.m.

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Pagina 2

Jueves 1 de Septiembre 2016

Los Artistas Intérpretes "LAS VOCES ORIGINALES DE LOS ADOLESCENTES" "Giro Lopez" "CAPITOL" "GRUPO BACHATA URBANA" "ARNALDO EL MAS QUERIDO" "GLAMA DE PTY 507" "ORQ. MISERICORDIA" "PANAMANIAN MARCHING BAND OF ATLANTA" "ATLANTA SHOW BAND"

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Eco Latino Vol. 11

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

La voz de la comunidad hispana

Edición 37 Gratis

Jueves 1 de Septiembre 2016

Los Artistas Intérpretes del 4to Año del Tri-City Latino Festival

Miembros del Comité 4to Año del Tri-City Latino Festival Sábado, 17 de Septiembre, 2016 Columbus Civic Center

Pagina 2

Normita's Latin American Restaurante & Deli Abierto al Público

Pagina 6

Courier Eco Latino Group Supports Pagina 6

1968 North Avenue Columbus, Georgia 31901 706.225.0355