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

THE COURIER ECO LATINO’S 2018 POLITICAL ENDORSEMENTS

The Voice Of The Community: Inspirational-Informative-Empowering

Vol. 13 Edition 10 Free Thursday May 10, 2018

A View From A Pew

Page 4

Read This Weeks Commentary From Publisher Wane A. Hailes, “Our Vote Counts, But Only If We Vote” Page 3

A “Soul” ful Transition

Micheal Soul Moves From FOXIE 105 To K92.7 With The Michael Soul Show

Page 15

Courier Career Woman

Entrepreneur Mrs. Betty Boynton, Owner of “April’s Boutique” Page 17

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THURSDAY May 10, 2018

Has The Local Republican Party Taken Aim at One Of Their Own…Dr. Robert “Bob” Wright?

According to the street committee there is a question that appears on the local Republican ballot that has some voters wondering who it is trying to influence.

The question is: Should casinos be allowed in Muscogee County? The street committee wonders that because this question does not appear on the Democratic Ballot or the Nonpartisan ballot if this is an attempt by the local Republican Party to influence Republicans in North Columbus not to support a resort in Muscogee County? Is the local Republican Party saying that they don’t care about economic development in South Columbus that will create over

The Street Committee

1000 jobs? Or is this aimed at Dr. Robert Wright who has a long history with the Republican Party beginning with J. R. Allen and others who served in the first consolidated government? A word to the Republican Party: the street committee is “woke” and please know we are paying attention to what you are up to.

Now We Understand Why The NAACP Has No Credibility James Gallman, a national NAACP board member appointed by the national board to serve as an administrator of the local NAACP recently met with a diverse group of local leaders. The group shared with the administrator that the community has lost confidence in the local leadership and that until there is a change in leadership they could not and would not support the local branch. The group suggested that the only way credibility could be brought back to the local NAACP is that the branch be disbanded and start over with all new leadership.

Gallman stated that he would take the groups concerns back to the national board at their next meeting in May of this year. According to the street committee the group was surprised to read an article in the Ledger Enquirer less than two weeks later clearing the current president of any financial wrong doing. This, after admitting: “... We did not look at every piece of paper. ...

But those few items that we did look at, they all seemed to be in order.” The ultimate slap in the face, however was the statement he made about the group he met with: “From the people that I’ve met, there are just too many good people saying they don’t want to have anything to do with the branch, instead of saying, ‘The branch needs us and we can

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper

*Any editorial content are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of this newspaper, publisher or staff”

The Courier Eco Latino Newspaper 1300 Wynnton Rd Suite 104 Columbus, Georgia 31906 Email: couriereconews@gmail.com Phone: 706.225.0106 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5747 Columbus, Ga 31906 Visit Us Online At: www.couriernews.org

help straighten things out,’” he said.

“I’m hoping that I can get some people on board from the religious community, from the public sector, and people who are really wanting to get involved.”

Excuse me sir but those were the people you met with.

The same people you told you would not make a decision regarding the branch until you took your concerns back to the national office! Obviously the national office sent the wrong individual here to right a wrong.

Insurrection At St. James AME According to the street committee while

mayoral candidate spoke briefly during a Sunday service at St. James AME located at 1002 6th Ave. one of their long time female parishioners was seen vehemently shaking her head. When he finished speaking, the street committee was told this same parishioner allegedly stood and called him a liar stating that she knows that he doesn’t live here in Columbus. The effort to confirm this incident has been challenging because, as one of the leading churches in this community, their parishioners have no wish to be a part of the rumor mill. Initially the street committee was told it did not occur, however, after much research to find the truth the street committee can say it did. All we can say is “tell the truth and shame the devil” and that’s what you get when you let politicians in your pulpit.

Active Voters In Muscogee County By Race & Gender As Of 11/8/2016

American Indian/Alaskan Native Male 45 Female 56 Total: 100

Asian/Pacific Islander Male 579 Female 795Total: 1374

Black Male 19,490 Female 29,082 Total: 48,572 Hispanic Male 1011 Female 1258 Total: 2,269

White Male 19,052 Female 23,499 Total: 42,551 Unknown Male 2,532 Female 2,784 Total: 5,316

Total Registered Voters Male 43,234 Female 58,242 Total: 101,476

Voting Precinct Changes

Due to a petition, the Eddy and the National Infantry Museum voters will now vote at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 1953 Torch Hill Road.

Due to a graduation scheduled on May 22nd, Wynnton UMC voters will not vote in the big room, they will be directed to vote in a different part of the church.

A VIEW FROM A PEW

THURSDAY MAY 10, 2018

Our Vote Counts, But Only If We Vote We no longer have a reason to sit on the sidelines while others make decisions for us, about us, without us. It is long past time for us to suit up and get in the game.

The number of active Black voters in Muscogee County sends a message loud and clear that we are a demographic to be recognized and respected, and it is time to be treated as such.

Can you imagine what would happen if we were to exercise our right to vote and use them to elect the candidate of our choice in every citywide election? Candidates that looked like us and would have our best interest at heart? Can you imagine if we could come together for the benefit of our future and begin strategizing instead of always fraternizing?

It’s time to realize the game has changed. We are no longer junior varsity; we are the “first string”. We are the ones needed and called upon when they need to get the job done and get the game won. It is time we started acting like it. Read the numbers. Digest the numbers. Trust the numbers. The numbers do not lie. We are the difference.

The numbers are in our favor.

We have heard for years that our vote counts. Well in Muscogee County the numbers prove it. Our vote counts…only if we vote. There is no excuse

for not being fairly represented politically in our community. It is time that we, as a community come together and elect those individuals who will not be afraid to make deci-

sions with us in mind. We no longer have to be accused of using the race card. In Muscogee County our card of choice is our voter registration card.

Now, with that being said, I’m not talking about voting for a candidate just because he is Black. We need to support the right candidate regardless of their color. Just as we have a disinclination toward white candidates, who only show up to our churches during an election year seeking our vote, we should reserve that same disinclination toward Black candidates who only pop-up or do a drive-by every election cycle to run as well.

Let me be clear as a candi-

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date I don’t care about how many bankruptcies or tax liens you have on your credit report.

As a candidate I don’t care about your sex life or what you do behind closed doors. What I do care about as a candidate, is that you be transparent, honest and knowledgeable.

As a candidate, Black or White, I don’t need you to say things to me that you think I want to hear just because I am Black.

I don’t vote out of emotion but rather from discernment.

On the following pages we have provided our endorsements for the 2018 local election.

Our endorsements are based on the candid conversations we had with each of the candidates that chose to meet with us. Not all of the candidate did and as a representative of the Black Press and the majority demographic in Muscogee County the fact that they ignored us says a lot about how much they really care about the Black and Hispanic communities.

As we always state these are our choices and we are but one vote. We hope you have done your due diligence in attending forums and researching the candidates for yourself.

If not, and you choose to vote the slate we have selected, you can feel confident that we have done our homework and those we have chosen to endorse are those we believe will best represent this community. If for some reason they fail to do so, each of the candidates are aware that we taped all of the conversations and they will be used to hold them accountable.

They should also note that our cartoonist is on retainer.

Wane A. Hailes

2018 Courier Eco Latino Political Endorsements

THURSDAY April 26, 2018

PAGE 4

On the following pages we have provided our endorsements for the 2018 local election. Our endorsements are based on the candid conversations we had with each of the candidates that chose to meet with us. Not all of the candidate did and as a representative of the Black Press and the majority demographic in Muscogee County the fact that they ignored us says a lot about how much they really care about the Black and Hispanic communities. As we noted in our last publication these are our choices and we are but one vote. We hope you have done your due diligence in attending forums and researching the candidates for yourself. If not, and you choose to vote the slate we have selected, you can feel confident that we have done our homework and those we have chosen to endorse are those we believe will best represent this community. If for some reason they fail to do so, each of the candidates are aware that we taped all of the conversations and they will be used to hold them accountable. They should also note that our cartoonist is on retainer.

From our point of view, for a city that is said to be the second largest city in the state, we were ashamed of the caliber of mayoral candidates we had to choose from.

Sure, we tend to say congratulations to any individual who makes a decision to serve but maybe we shouldn’t. To Winfred Shipman and Charles Roberts, let me say on behalf of the city of Columbus we thank you for your contribution to its coffers. There is a saying about “finding one’s seat on the bus”, and the fact is your seat is not on the bus for mayor of Columbus.

Maybe another bus, but not this one.

We liked Danny Arencibia and his refreshing views about unity in the community but unfortunately this community is a few years away from sitting in a circle holding hands singing Peter, Paul & Mary’s Kumbya. We feel he would have had a better chance if he had found a seat on the bus for folks running for City Councilor. People want to discount Beth Harris as not knowing what she is talking about, but our conversation with her revealed that, although she may come off a little bit eccentric she’s not crazy! She does her research and her information regarding Zephaniah “Zeph” Baker was spot on.

As she noted in our conversation, having worked in two of his campaigns, she knows Zeph Baker. That is no doubt why Zeph tried so hard to discredit her and her findings allegedly claiming they were “racist” tactics. Which finally brings us to our dilemma. We have always promoted the need for a Black Mayor, especially given the fact that we are the majority demographic in Muscogee County and have been since 2009. But we have also always stated that we need the right Black person as our mayor. The age or gender of the right Black person is not important but their honesty, transparency and visible involvement in the community is. And that is why we cannot in good conscious place our support behind Zeph Baker. In not doing so we

asked ourselves, in comparing the candidates, if we were expecting more from him because he is black and our answer was no. Zeph, to his credit, came across as a very mature candidate during our conversation with him. Much more so than the last time he ran. But when we considered the man and his character we find him lacking. Regarding transparency; to date he has not filed his campaign disclosure form, which was due March 31st, and details who has donated to his campaign. According to the office of the state ethics commission he is the only local candidate who has not filed his disclosure form and now owes a fine of $375. The site also shows he owes $125 for not filing his forms in 2013. Despite the elections boards negligence in doing their due diligence in researching his residency, most Blacks in the community who know him will tell you that Zeph Baker does not live in Columbus but instead resides in Newnan, Georgia.

Finally it’s one thing to challenge a 21year incumbent but do so with actual facts and not “alternative facts” in an effort to elicit an emotional response from Black voters. So yes we have the numbers to elect a Black mayor unfortunately Zeph Baker the one. Now if Zeph somehow wins I’ll be disappointed but elated at the same time because that will mean the Black voters have been listening. Until then we will stick with, and endorse Barry “Skip” Henderson for Mayor, besides now that we have him on tape it will be easier to hold him accountable.

Prior to meeting the candidates for the District 9 At Large post we were

prepared to see the incumbant be replaced by her opponent Regina “Reggie” Liparoto, however, after our conversations we give

the nod to Judy Thomas. We appre-

ciated her honesty in answering our questions and as the result of additional research it was revealed there are somethings that she does in silence

that benefits the Black and Hispanic community. We do believe “Reggie” is sincere in her willingness to serve her community. Judy has stated that this will more than likely be her last term and if so we suggest that she run in the future.

For the at large District 10 seat our endorsement goes to the millenial, Amy Bryan. Between Amy and

John House, Amy was a breathe of fresh air and like she said, when she looked at her opponents she didn’t feel they represented her or her peers who are looking to make Columbus their home. She will bring an exuberance

that is needed on the council. We definately do not need “Tolliria” (Our name combination for Tollie and Gloria).

And make no mistake if you elect Tollie you will also be electing Gloria.

With their charts, and power point presentations of their 8 initiatives for change they will be as divisive as Frank Myers and John Thomas have been on the Muscogee County School Board.

See Page 5

THURSDAY May 10, 2018

2018 Political Endorsements

Showing up at Wal-Mart parking lots, shaking hands and proclaiming you are the hardest working councilor does not necessarily make it so. The question voters want to know is, what have you done for me lately? Over the years it appears “Pops” has fallen out of favor with everyone and it even appears in this election he really isn’t campaigning. His attitude is: “if he wins he wins if he doesn’t, oh well”. So we want to help him. For City Council District 1 we support a Blueprint for a better Columbus. We endorse Gregory Blue.

Our endorsement for City Council District 3 was made after five minutes into the interview with his opponent.

Forget a seat on the bus, someone needs to call a taxi. We endorse incumbent Bruce Huff.

There are a lot of single issue candidates running this political season and it was never more evident than in our conversations with the District 7 candidates. Contrary to what they may have said at forums our interviews revealed that Si Etemadi is only concerned about the Historic District and Jeremy Hobbs, who has run twice in a different district, is going to be fighting for the LGBTQ community. Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson, despite her detractors, has proven that she can get results and is still the best choice to represent District 7. She gets our endorsement.

As a Frank Myers recruit Sheryl Hobbs McCrane didn’t see fit to interview with us. The Muscogee County School Board District 2 seat to replace John Thomas is a toss up for us.

In our conversations with them, both men were open and forth-

right in answering our questions. Bart Steed receives our endorsement.

The fact that Toyia Tucker, another Frank Myers recruit, failed to interview with us proves to us, like Vanessa Jackson, she is going to be another of his “puppets” . Naomi Buckner has proven she has no problem thinking for herself when it comes to representing her constituents in MCSB District 4. Naomi Buckner receives our endorsement.

Our endorsement for MCSB District 6 is for Eddie Obleton. Frank Myers has Mark Cantrell so afraid of him he often doesn’t know which way is up. He also did not interview with us stating he never received our invitation otherwise he would have shown up. Let’s hope the District doesn’t vote along racial lines.

Needless to say Frank Myers did not respond to our offer to interview with us. We would have welcomed the opportunity to sit face to face with him and ask him questions. Regardless it wouldn’t have mattered. For Muscogee County School Board District 8 our endorsement goes to Dr. Philip Schley. No explanation needed.

I don’t recall at anytime over the past thirteen years of publishing when we have claimed vindication for our reporting but as the saying goes; “There is always the first time”.

Well, this is that time.

In our June 22, 2017 issue we published an article and cartoon that implied MCSD board member, Frank Myers was manipulating Kia Chambers. The caption that accompanied the cartoon said the following:

“Kia You’re Doing Great! No Need To

Worry About What They Say, You’re Part Of The Team Now! Keep Voting The Way I Tell You And Remember You’ll Be Chairman of The Board Come January. I Promise”.

On January 16, 2018 Kia Chambers was elected Chairman of the Muscogee County School Board. Those voting in her favor were: Frank Myers, John Thomas, Vanessa Jackson, Mark Cantrell and of course Kia Chambers.

Although we predicted she would, if you read our conversation with Kia Chambers you now know that she admitted that indeed there was a deal made with Frank Myers. From our interview it appears her decision to make the

PAGE 5

deal with Frank had a lot to do with her relationship or lack thereof with board member Pat Hugley Green. For us that shows a serious character flaw of immaturity that needs to be addressed. We sincerely hope she can work out her differences with Pat so she won’t need to make any more similar “deals.” Although our conversation with her was pleasant and we appreciated her honesty, the truth of the matter is if her opponent, Anthony McCool, wasn’t a Frank Myers recruit or if another qualified Black candidate had chosen to run against her our selection would be different. That not being the case, we have no other choice than to endorse Kia Chambers for the at large post with the MCSB.

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F RIENDSHIP B APTIST C HURCH

831 6 TH AVE C OLUMBUS , G A

May 10, 2018

E ARLY W ORSHIP 8 AM B REAKFAST 9 AM S UNDAY S CHOOL 9:30 AM M ORNING W ORSHIP 11 AM W EDNESDAY P RAYER M EETING /B IBLE S TUDY 7 PM T HURSDAY N OON B IBLE S TUDY 12 NOON S UNDAY C HILD D AY C ARE S ERVICES AVAILABLE F OR T HOSE ATTENDING O UR W ORSHIP WEBSITE : WWW. FRIENDSHIPMBC . ORG (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

First African Baptist Church 901 5th Avenue

Columbus, Georgia

Sunday Worship 8am Early Morning Worship Sunday School 9:30am Morning Worship 11am Transportation Provided

Call 706-323-3367 Sr. Pastor Roderick Green

St. James Missionary Baptist Church

“Put God First”

5214 St. James Street Columbus, Georgia

Church 706.687.6420 Residence 706.563.3256 Cell 706.315.5749 Dr. Ralph W. Huling Senior Pastor

www.stjamesmsybaptist.com hrwhuling@aol.com

Metropolitan Baptist Church 1635 5th Avenue . Columbus, Georgia

706.322.1488

Pastor Curtis Crocker, Jr.

Service Sunday School 9:30 A.M Monday Night Tuesday Bible Study

Schedule Sunday Worship 11:00 A.M Prayer 6:00 P.M 12:00 P.M & 5:30 P.M

Mission Statement A growing church for growing Christians attempting to grow the Kingdom, one soul at a time.

Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church Corner of 3rd Avenue and 5th Street Rev. Dr. J.H. Flakes Jr. Way Columbus, Georgia 31901 706.324.2055 Rev. J.H. Flakes, III -Pastor Rev. Dr. J.H. Flakes, Jr. - Pastor Emeritus

P ROGRESSIVE F UNERAL H OME Evergreen Covington, CEO

4236 St. Mary’s Road Columbus, Georgia

706.685.8023

evergreenfc@mediacombb.net

THURSDAY May 10, 2018

PAGE 8

Empowering Youth to Thrive: Tri-City Area Seniors Receive Over $40,000 in Academic Scholarships

By Kaye Flonnory and Maxine West Special To The Courier

Columbus, Georgia – Oprah Winfrey once said, “Education is the key to unlocking the world, a passport to freedom.” Through their annual and muchanticipated Senior Soiree, SISTERS Incorporated, and the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, continue to empower and provide Tri-City Area youth with the keys to further their higher learning.

At this year’s gala, held on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at the Green Island Hills Country Club in Columbus, Georgia, a record-setting $40,000 in scholarships were bestowed upon high school seniors graduating from schools in the TriCity Area.

As in previous years, the scholarships recognized top of the class scholars that have excelled academically throughout their high school years. The scholarships were funded from the proceeds raised at the 11th Annual Rosa Parks Women of Courage Breakfast – where this year’s theme was a salute to Women in the Military – held on March 5, 2018.

The evening’s program included dinner and music by Mrs. Karen Jakes accompanied by Mr. Brian Roberts. Mrs. Jakes’ sang an inspiring and passionate rendition of "Never Give Up" by gospel vocalist Yolanda Adams. Following dinner, Ms. Lindsay Neal, representing Columbus State University’s Eta Iota Chapter, gave an inspiring and motivational speech entitled, Reflections: A College Student's Perspective.

Her uplifting message was a perfect transition into the night’s main event – the scholarship presentations.

Reflecting on this success of this year’s Senior Soiree, Dr. Phyllis Jones, President of SISTERS, INC., said. “We are extremely proud of all of this year’s recipients. We want to thank the com-

munity and all the members of our organization who supported us and made it possible for us to give back to these deserving students. We look forward to all the wonderful things that this class of recipients will accomplish and continue to make us proud. You are awesome and the best is yet to come.”

Hargraves, $1,000; Alize’ Cook, $1,000; Kaylin Southall, $1,500; Gabrielle Soloman, $1,000 ( $500 Gwendolyn Wilkes Memorial Scholarship and $500 SISTERS, Inc); Selena Griffin-Summers, $1,000; Nyla Graham, $2,000; Chasity Murray, $1,000;

Eboni Green, $1,000; Ivori Martin, $1,000; Deora Johnson, $1,000 Not Pictured: Tyrian Jilles, $2,500; Sarah Ayoade, $1,500, and Destini Hudson, $1,000 ($500 Laverna Johnson Book Scholarship and $500 SISTERS, Inc.)

Mrs. Rochelle Jones, President of the Gamma Tau Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, is awed by the community’s generosity stating, “We are so grateful for the continued support that we receive from the community. It is our strongest desire to afford as many students as possible the opportunity to further their education. It warms our spirits to know that we have made a difference in the life of an individual. We are proud of all of the recipients and wish them well.”

Mrs. Sherry Ramsey and Mrs. Anita Smith served as the Co-Chairs of the 2018 Scholarship Committee.

Seated are: Mrs. Sherry Ramsey, Mrs. Juanita Booker, Ms. Betty Sullivan, Dr. Phyllis Jones, Mrs. Rochelle Jones, Mrs. Cynthia Saxton, and Mrs. Anita Smith.

Congratulations to all of the 2018 scholarship recipients who are pictured as follows:

First Row (Left to right): Janiyah Brown, $1,000; Regina Gardner, $1,000; Courtney Johnson, $1,000; Daniela Chavez, $1,000; LaVasia Norwood, $1,000; Ivor’re Mackey, $1,000; Emoni Smith, $1,000 Second Row (Left to right): Micayla Snodgrass, $1,000; I’yhania Thomas, $1,000; Alaura Cunningham, $3,000; Imani Woods, $1,000; Jameika Upshaw, $1,000; Angel Burks, $1,500 (Vanessa Booker Morgan Memorial Scholarship); Danielle Griffin, $1,000; Jim’Asia Austin, $1,000; Jasmine Grimes, $1,000; Kanadia Willis, $1,000

Third Row (Left to right): Elisabeth White, $3,000; Tiondra Grant, $2,000; Kae’Leah

“Skip’s dedication to the citizens of Columbus is clearly evident from his impressive 20 year tenure on City Council. From day one he’s been concerned with our local projects and issues and has proven he is the real deal by rolling up his sleeves and actually working alongside our community to get things accomplished.”

– Bennie Newroth, Community Leader “Skip is a great example of representative leadership.

He’s a listener and consensus builder. Under his administration Columbus will continue to grow and citizens will feel more connected and empowered than ever before.”

– Evelyn Turner Pugh, Columbus City Council District Four, Mayor Pro Tem “I’ve enjoyed working with Skip over the last 20 years and I deeply value his contributions and friendship. His efforts have been instrumental in revitalizing Columbus.”

– Robert Anderson, Former Division President, Citizens Trust Bank SKIPFORCOLUMBUS.COM

EARLY VOTING UNTIL MAY 18

MAY

Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson Always Working With The Community

Who’s Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson

Columbus City Councilor Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson has faithfully represented the Citizens of District 7 for the past 24 years. Councilor Woodson’s political experience has led to thousands of new jobs to Columbus, including the TSYS, AFLC and Columbus South expansions. Councilor Woodson’s years of knowledge has also helped make Columbus a better place to live with New Housing, Recreation Facilities, Uptown Columbus Development, and the new National Infantry Museum.

After serving in the United States Army for 15 years, Councilor Woodson is a military veteran who has also been a strong supporter of soldiers and military families. Councilor Woodson served 15 years in the United States Army and her son is currently serving in the United States. Councilor Woodson’s children attended Spencer High School and she has continued to be a strong supporter of education.

Councilor Woodson has also been an active member of twenty civic and/or community based organizations involved in making Columbus a better place to live for all of its citizens. Some of those organizations include C.A.D or Columbus Against Drugs, Red Cross, South Columbus Revitalization, Georgia Municipal Association, National League of Cities, Community Advancement and past president of HELO or Hispanic Elected Officials, a national organization.

Councilor Woodson has been recognized for her hard work and dedication during her years of public. She has received the Keep Columbus Beautiful “Litter Prevention Award”, PERTY Award Favorite City Leader, Ernestine Aurelia Mack Service to Mankind (AKA), and the Rainbow Push Coalition Woman on the Rise Award. Councilor Woodson enjoys empowering people and showing them that if they believe in God and themselves, anything is possible.

Re-Elect Evelyn “Mimi” Woodson Council Post 7

Effective Leadership

Committeed to Economic Development Bringing Jobs and Opportunities to District 7 Approval of Uptown and City Village Tax Allocation Districts

Completed Projects:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Brown Ave. bridge replacement National Infantry Museum Broadway Streetscape Oxbow Meadows Veterans Parkway Streetscape I-185 Interchange improvement & Victory Dr. Gateway I-185 Interchange improvement River Walk expansion Sixth Ave. Flood Abatement/Streetscape Cusseta Rd. pedestrian bridge Skateboard Park Ice skating rinks Old Camp Landfill Closure Follow Me Trail

• • • • • • • • • • •

Historic Westville-Relocation to South Columbus.

Ft. Benning Rd. streetscapes Ft. Benning/Brennan Rd. Realignment Follow Me Trail Bridge over Victory Drive South Lumpkin Road multi-use trail.

South Lumpkin Road improvements.

Talbotton Rd. widening.

Wynnton Rd. Streetscapes City Mills Riverwalk Bibb Mill Riverwalk MLK Jr. Trail

Current Projects

Future Projects

• Brown Ave/Cusseta Road/Andrews Rd Roundabout • 23rd Ave./Cusseta Road/N. Lumpkin Rd Roundabout • S. Lumpkin Rd. streetscapes

THURSDAY April 26, 2018

COVER STORY

PAGE 15

A “Soul”ful Transition...Michael Soul Moves to K92.7 crazy. That was November of 1993 and in March of 1994 I came on full time in the evening slot from 6-10pm and the rest is history.

By Wane A. Hailes The Courier

Michael Soul is as synonymous with FOXIE 105 as cake is to ice cream.

Recently he made a move to FOXIE’s sister station K92.7. We sat down with the local radio icon to talk about the move.

The Courier: First of all congratulations on your move. How long have you been in the radio business?

Michael Soul: I‘ve been in the business for almost 30 years and all of my experience has been right here in Columbus, Georgia.

The Courier: Are you from Columbus?

Michael Soul: No I was born in Dothan, Alabama. My family was military and we were stationed at Ft. Benning in the seventies. We were also stationed in Germany and then we moved to Kentucky where I went to high school and college. My parents retired and moved back here while I was still in college at Western Kentucky University.

After I graduated I came here and applied with WAGH Magic 98, which was a brand new station in the community. The on-air personalities at that time were; Darrel J, Ed Harbison and Edgar Champagne.

The Courier: How many years were you at Magic 98.3?

Michael Soul: I was there until 1993 when we got fired.

The Courier: Everybody?

Michael Soul: Everyone except Darrel J. I remember it was a Friday. I was doing middays and I saw this equipment coming in and I asked the owner, what’s going on? And he said, “Oh nothing, nothing, nothing. That next Monday morning we were all handed pink slips.

The Courier: So what did you do?

Michael Soul: Of course I was concerned financially but I was doing ok because at the same time I was on the air with Magic I was a DJ in the clubs and also hosting a video show on Channel 16, a local low powered TV station which I did for three years called the “Michael Soul Show”. We showed videos and went on location to different places. Fortunately, however, Davis Broadcasting had been trying to recruit me for the previous two years so I gave them a call, informed them of my availability and was hired by Phillip David March who was the Program director at the time.

The Courier: What was that transition like coming from another “Urban” station?

Michael Soul: Truthfully, when I first got here everyone was looking at me like, whose job is he going to take. I felt like the enemy anyway because I’m coming from a station where we were the competition. I literally went into the production room and started praying because everybody was looking at me

The Courier: So for the past twenty-five years you have been on FOXIE 105. Now that you’ve moved over to K92.7 what are your plans for the station?

Michael Soul: I have learned two things during the short time I’ve been over here. One is that people still want R&B music and two, there are a lot of people who don’t know about the station.

So my first major focus is to make us known. I want to let people know we exist and at the same time bring back R&B along with that southern soul, like Tucker, Pokey Bear and TK Soul.

One thing our listeners do not realize is that K92.7 is a much stronger signal than FOXIE 105. Our reach is 50,000 watts so you can hear us all the way down to the Florida line. With this move I have a whole new motivation for getting up in the morning. I have a goal of making this station a

household name just like FOXIE. The Courier: You host “The Michael Soul Show” middays from 10am-3pm what can the listener’s expect?

Michael Soul: Of course they can expect to hear the “Best R&B and Throwbacks. But we are also going to keep people informed regarding local issues. We have Cheryl Renee from WTVM providing us with the news everyday and we will have a “Health, Heart and Pocketbook” feature along with discussions regarding Finances, Housing and Politics.

The Courier: Any final words for our readers?

Michael Soul: Tune in check out the station. We’ve got some great talent here. In addition to Tom Joyner we have Michael Baisden in the afternoon, DJ Smoove in the evenings, Chubb Rock and Café Mocha on the weekends. One of the exciting parts of “The Michael Soul Show” is that I feature all female DJ’s providing mixes. These are professional ladies locally and from around the country who have mastered their craft. So please check us out.

THURSDAY May 10, 2018

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Columbus Technical College is Hiring!

We are looking for qualified candidates for the following positions:

Anatomy & Physiology Adjunct Instructor Art Appreciation Adjunct Instructor Automotive Collision Repair Instructional Aide Part-time Bookstore Cashier (Part-time) Chemistry Adjunct Instructor Culinary Arts Degree Program Adjunct Instructor Dental Assisting Adjunct Didactic Instructor Dental Assisting - Professional Laboratory Assistant PT Dental Hygiene Adjunct Clinical Didactic Instructor Esthetics Adjunct Instructor Instructional Aide – Carpentry (Part-time) Instructional Aide – Machine Tool Technology Program (Part-time) Instructional Aide (Part-time) - Cosmetology Program Instructional Aide (Part-time) – Culinary Arts Program Instructional Aide (Part-time) - Esthetics Program Interpreter (Part-time) Part Time Instructor (Adjunct) - Cosmetology Program Part-Time Technical Instructor– Barbering Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor/Program Director Practical Nursing Technical Instructor-Adjunct Pre-Engineering Part-time Instructor Psychology Adjunct Instructor Service Industry Academy (SIA) Part-time Instructor Student Navigator Retention Specialist (Part-Time) Welding & Joining Adjunct Instructor Part-time

For more details and to apply for these positions, please go to www.columbustech.edu and click “CTC Careers.” Columbus Technical College is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Request for Bids

RFB No. 18-0046 Agricultural Chemicals (Annual Contract) Due: May 9, 2018 – 2:30 PM Heather Scheuttig, Buyer

RFB No. 18-0050 River Road Roundabout Due: May 9, 2018 – 2:30 PM Della Lewis, Buyer Specialist Sealed responses must be received and time/date stamped by the respective due date shown above, by the Finance Department/Purchasing Division of Columbus Consolidated Government, 100 Tenth Street, Columbus, GA 31901.

To o b t a i n s p e c i f i c a t i o n s , v i s i t t h e C i t y ' s w e b s i t e a t https://www.columbusga.org/finance/purchasing/docs/opportunities/Bid_Opportunities. htm, notify the Buyer via email BidOpportunities@columbusga.org, fax 706.225.3033 or telephone 706.653.4105.

Andrea J. McCorvey Purchasing Manager

THURSDAY May 10, 2018

Courier Career Woman

Mrs. Betty Boynton, Owner April’s Boutique Mrs. Betty (Brown) Boynton is the owner of April’s Boutique. Boynton is a native of Columbus, Georgia the oldest of two siblings born to the late Rev. Eugene F. and Isabell Brown who were the owners of Brown’s Cleaners located here in Columbus, Georgia.

Mrs. Betty Boynton is a member of Holsey Chapel CME church where she is a member of the senior choir and the stewardess board and has served on various committees.

She has assisted with and served with various civil and social and community organizations with local and statewide fashion shows and events through the tenure of her business profession.

Betty was born in to a family of entrepreneurs, which started, with her grandfather who had his own produce business. Her father was also inspired to start his own business, Brown’s Cleaners, one of the first black owned dry cleaners in the area. The cleaner was initially located in the Beallwood area, eventually relocating to the Wynnton area of Columbus. He also sold men’s clothing.

Betty and her brother Otis l. Brown (deceased), known affectionately as “Bubba” grew up working in the fam-

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ilies businesses. It gave Betty aspirations of one day starting her own business. After graduation she married Matthew Boynton and to that union was born three children, Cassandra, Danny, and Matthew Jr. Betty continued to work in the family business and raising and devoting her time to her husband and her children.

Once the demand of family was not as great and they became of school age, Betty began her path of entrepreneurship beginning with selling Home décor items from her home and car during the school hours and at flea markets.

For the past 40 plus years Betty has owned April’s Boutique, which specializes in selling ladies apparel. Mrs. Boynton, along with her parents and grandparents have been an inspiration to her children and grandchildren who have become entrepreneurs as well.

It has been said that when you do what you love you, it is never considered work, so I must say that Mrs. Betty Boynton has never worked a day in her life!

Betty Boynton is truly a lady of fashion whether it is for the home or for the body!

A Week In Pictures

- A Week In Pictures - A Week In Pictures

- A Week In Pictures

Mel P. Long is a native of Phenix City, Al and a proud 1970 Graduate of South Girard High School the last graduating class. Mel's journey started when he went to work in a factory and discovered that it was not for him. His calling was cutting hair and talking. Going into business with his brother Abe was when the birth of Mel and Abe Barber Shop began. On the inside of this successful barbershop designs toward political advocacy was being created. Words leaked outside of the shop opening avenues in our communities letting Mel know there is work to be done. The Roast and Toast honoring the pillar of the Phenix City community, Mel Long, was a fundraiser to help in producing of a book on the history of South Girard High School involving the classes of 1945 - 1970. The leaders of the committee for this great event was Mr. Abraham Williams, Alumni Pres. Ethel Stephens, Chairperson James Sellers and financial secretary Pearl Smith. This book will be a great tribute of the rich history of South Girard High School and community. Alumni president Ethel Stephen, in her comments stated “this is where our memories of South Girard lies�.

A Week In Pictures

- A Week In Pictures - A Week In Pictures

- A Week In Pictures

The Law Offices of Forrest B. Johnson hosted their 2018 FBJ Family Fun Fest Sunday 29, 2018 at Frank D. Chester Recreation Center 1441 Benning Drive in Columbus!

Gubernatorial Candidate Stacey Abrams & Friends Made A Stop In Columbus

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LIFE INSURANCE

May 10, 2018

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