Newswire Rep. Sewell releases new report detailing the affordability crisis facing Alabama’s 7th District By Alabama Political Reporter
Terri Sewell speaking before the U.S. House U.S. Representative Terri Sewell, D-Alabama, released a new report Sunday examining the affordability challenges facing families in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District. The report argues that President Donald Trump’s economic policies and congressional Republicans’ legislative agenda have increased the cost of everyday essentials and threatened thousands of Alabamians’ access to health care and food assistance. See Rep. Terri Sewell, p. 6
Alabama's Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy receives $1.15 million grant to preserve Civil Rights landmark and expand cultural programming By Jasimine Phillips Jones, Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy ALBERTA, Ala. (July 27, 2026) — Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy (FQBL) is pleased to announce it has received a $1.15 million grant from the Mellon Foundation to preserve and strengthen the historic home of the Freedom Quilting Bee while expanding the organization's long-term capacity to steward this nationally significant cultural landmark.
Black Belt Folk Roots Festival -August 22 & 23, 2026 Board confirms mold has been eradicated and schools are “almost ready” for scholars The Greene County Board of Education met for a regular session on Thursday, July 23rd at 4:30 p.m. All board members and the attorney were present, but the chief financial officer Mrs. Marquita Lennon was absent. Minutes from the July 15th session were approved, with no old business being addressed. Superintendent Dr. Thurman presented the board’s financial standings before his own report. The board's combined ending funding was balance $9,025,592.12. Local revenue from the month was $116,436.70: $97,478.00 from sales tax, $11,789.64 from property tax, and $7,168.85 from the other category. All accounts were reconciled and no fraudulent activity was reported. Dr. Thurman then reported that school buildings were almost ready for scholars to return, and the mold issue in Greene County High School has been completely eradicated. He also reported that the district’s CTE partners met this week for the workforce academy with everyone “being committed to
moving forward with great ideas.” On August 3rd, the board of education building will host a welcome orientation for new employees at 9:00 a.m. On August 5th, an employee institute will be hosted at the high school at 7:30 a.m. Dr. Thurman stated that these sessions will ensure that staff is ready to “climb higher together” and support this year’s district motto: “Greene County to the top.” Attendees were also informed of new security measures including a device called Open Gate. The lightweight, portable detection technology can be proto detect grammed everything from cell to weaponry phones through an administrator’s phone application. School
safety officers will also be instructed to patrol more frequently during transitions to deter unwanted behavior. The following action items were approved as a blanket: Housing the Greene County Schools In-School Suspension (ISS) at Peter J. Kirksey facility Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and West Central Officials Association for football officials for the 2026 – 2027 school year at GCHS and RBMS Extension of two summer workers to assist the maintenance department until July 31, 2026 Payment of all bills, claims, and payroll Bank reconciliations as submitted by Mrs. Mar-
quita Lennon, CSFO Contract between the Greene County Board of Education and West Central Volleyball Officials Association for volleyball officials for the 2026 – 2027 school year at GCHS Agreement between the Greene County Board of Education and Greene County Ambulance Service to provide ambulance services during home football games for the 2026 2027 season The following personnel agenda items were approved: Voluntary Transfer Keisha Williams from 3rd grade teacher at EPS to Collaborative Teacher at EPS Reassignment Lashonna Thurman from Second grade teacher at EPS to Third grade teacher at EPS Vanessa Bryant from 4th grade teacher at RBMS to Intervention Teacher at RMBS Kavalyn Bryant from 1st grade teacher at EPS to 4th grade teacher at RBMS Resignation Shamyra Jones, JAG Specialist – GCCC
Greene County
The Democrat Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Vol. 135, No. 30
75¢ Serving West Alabama Like No Other Community Newspaper City council discusses ordinances and announces streaming on Facebook
See Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy, p. 6
Tuskegee University bans bonnets and du-rags on campus. Let’s talk about it By Zack Linly, NewsOne
Tuskegee's new dress code policy is part of a larger policy that, to its credit, does have practical applications as well. Black people, especially here in the U.S., have a complicated relationship with presentability. Historically, we’ve been looked down upon as a collective, no matter what we’re wearing. A lot of Black people will note that Martin Luther King Jr. was wearing a suit when a rabid white man assassinated him. See Banned Bonnets and Du-rags, p. 6
OP-ED: Why LeBron James and Jaylen Brown will make the Philadelphia 76ers bigger than basketball By A.R. Shaw, BlackPressUSA
LeBron James’ decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers instantly made his new team title contenders on the court. But with Jaylen Brown as his teammate, it will be a win for Black initiatives off the court. After several weeks of contemplating his new destination, James bypassed the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, and Cleveland Cavs to finish his illustrious career in Philly, a city with a significant Black community and culture. See Philadelphia 76ers, p. 2
This past Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the city council held a regular meeting at 5:00 pm in Eutaw City Hall featuring a new screen presenting the session’s agenda. The screen also informed attendees to regularly check the City of Eutaw Facebook page for important information and to stream meetings from the comfort of their homes. All council members, the mayor, and administrators were present. Previous minutes from the July 14th session were approved, and the agenda's 8th item was amended to address additional city ordinances. There was no old business to report. After a thirty-minute executive session, in which
no decisions were reached and no votes were cast, Mayor Cockrell opened the floor to discuss new business items. The following new business items were discussed, tabled, or approved: Approved Resolution 2026-16-ALDOT-Project Number CRPNU0013(643) for Roundabout and Sidewalk Improvements; Councilmembers Woodruff and Hunter Opposed Approved Letter of Recommendation to Award Project to Capstone Contractors, LLC, pending ADEM approval Approved Resolution 2026-17-To Award Project, pending ADEM approval. Approved 2026 Mileage
Reimbursement Rate from $0.56 to $0.76 per mile Approve registration, travel, and per diem for Mayor Corey Cockrell to attend NLC City Summit in Nashville, TN, November 19-22, 2026 Approved room fees for Councilwoman Carrie Logan to attend ALM/CMO Workshop in Montgomery, AL, July 30, 2026 Discussed E-911 Allocation for Dispatch Services for $30,000 per year; payments are factored into the council's budget Discussed Ordinances on Regulating Grass and Weed Nuisances, Accumulation of Rubbish, Abandoned and Inoperable Vehicles, Abandoned/Di-
lapidated Structures, Noise, and Other Nuisances; fines will not exceed $500.00 and can be reissued more than once Tabled the approval of Work Schedule/Hours for Chief Kendrick Howell; Councilman Woodruff Opposed Tabled the Disciplinary Action of Employee; Councilman Woodruff Opposed Approved for Chief Howell, Police Officers, and other Departmental Employees to sign in at the Front Office Approved Time Clock with ADP for employees Approved Payment of Bills See City Council, p. 7
Close and Personal Connections with Carolyn McGruder: A Roots Festival Interview The Democrat is covering a series of interviews on the Black Belt Folk Roots Festival leading up to the event. This week, we interviewed a new vendor, Carolyn McGruder, about her journey to Greene County and her interest in the festival. For her, it is more than an opportunity for sales, it is a chance to share a faith-driven story. Carolyn McGruder has curated custom scents for her brand, Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays, for the past six years. Her creations feature luxury candles, room sprays, colognes, and more. She learned about the festival through word of mouth, particularly from friends and other vendors who spoke highly of the event. She is eager to make new connections and share her passions with those attending the festival. “Each scent tells a story, and it’s been a blessing to turn my passion into a business that allows me to share those
experiences with others,” McGruder stated. “I started Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays because I wanted to turn my passion for fragrance into a business that brings warmth, relaxation, and happiness into people’s homes while creating a lasting legacy.” Although McGruder is excited to build her legacy as a citizen of Greene County, her journey here was brought on by the passing of her father-inlaw. “My husband and I
made the decision to take over the family farm and continue the legacy he worked so hard to build,” McGruder explained. “While it was a difficult time for our family, it also became the beginning of a new chapter in our lives. Living in Greene/Hale County has allowed me to become part of this wonderful community, grow my business, and connect with so many amazing people. I’m grateful to call Greene/Hale County home.”
McGruder’s inspiration arose from a desire to create something that reflected her creativity, passion, and faith. The challenges she faced along the way merely fueled her determination to succeed, each trial growing her wisdom and strength. “Like many entrepreneurs, I’ve faced challenges along the way. Building a business from the ground up meant learning everything—from creating quality products and managing costs to marketing my brand and finding customers. There were moments of doubt, slow sales, and times when I questioned whether I should keep going. But every obstacle taught me something valuable. Instead of giving up, I chose to grow, adapt, and keep believing in my vision.” She hopes her passion and drive will encourage others to pursue their dreams. See Festival, p. 2
Community Calendar
Page 2, The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Carol’s Notes Producing A Festival I felt like I was moving faster than the speed of sound moving from one task to the other imagining my brain waves entangled trying to keep up. Planning an annual community festival is no piece of cake when all the help you have and wish you had are volunteers with more heart than time. There are artists to commit vendors to engage and technicians to convince that at this time in their lives this festival is the greatest event on earth. I must arrange for rentals publish materials and market the events ever mindful that all this great production has a price tag and a budget. So as I try to produce a festival I continue to move seemingly faster than the speed of sound, assuming that I’m all right as long as I don’t match the speed of light. Carol Prejean Zippert
Festival Her motivation stems from the belief that Close and Personal is part of God’s purpose for her life. Her actions are steeped in vision and not passing whims. For those wishing to pursue their own dreams, McGruder offers these words of encouragement, “Your vision is your power. Don’t wait for permission to build the life you imagine. Every challenge you overcome is preparing you for greater success. Stay focused, stay faithful, and never let fear silence your purpose. Your business is more than a source of income—it’s your legacy, your impact, and your gift to the world. Keep showing up, keep believing, and keep building. Someone is waiting for what only you can create.” Many thanks from McGruder are extended to her daughter, Catrina, who introduced me to the candle
business. She also attributed her success to the ongoing support of my family, amazing customers, and to Main Street Grill for opening their doors to her. “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the owners, Terrell, Shayla, Dee, and other staff members of Main Street Grill for graciously sharing their platform with me and allowing me to introduce Close and Personal Luxury Candles & Room Sprays and also my Notary services. Your support of small businesses and local entrepreneurs means more than you know. Thank you for believing in community and creating opportunities for businesses like mine to grow. And thank you to The Democrat for allowing me to share my story. God bless!!” Close and Personal is a brand built on faith, pas-
sion, quality, and creating meaningful experiences. It was started to create an experience, inspire others to chase their dreams, and prove that it’s never too late to build something of your own. “Every product I make is created with love and the hope that it brings joy, comfort, and peace to every customer. Every candle and room spray is handcrafted with care using thoughtfully curated scents designed to bring warmth, comfort, relaxation, and a touch of luxury into everyday life. ” Mark your calendars for August 22nd-23rd to join Greene County’s community for its annual celebration of the people who call it home.
Missionary Gospel singers 20th Anniversary Celebration, Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. From the Southside Church of God in Christ, Tuscaloosa, AL, Elder Ben Jackson Jr Pastor. Climaxing: Sunday, August 9, 2026. Mt. Zoar Missionary Baptist Church, Boligee, Alabama Location: Boligee Highway 11 South/ County Road 138 Rev. Robert Johnson, interim pastor and speaker. The public is invited.
August 9- Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church will host their Annual Choir Day 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Pastor Anthony Moore of Greater New Destiny Baptist Church Greensboro is the guest speaker Rev. KeAundra Hutton is church pastor. The public is invited. August 16- Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church Boligee, AL will host their Pastor Rev. Jeffery and 1st Lady Kelly 5th Annual
Pastoral Appreciation at 1:30 p.m. Pastor Jimmie Cockrell from Pine Hill Baptist Church Columbus, MS is the guest speaker, for 11:00 a.m. morning worship and at 1:30 p.m. speaker Pastor Pastor Robert Chandler Second Baptist Church Brooksville, MS. This is also a time for those who have been a part of our church body to "come home" and join us to celebrate their time as a part of our congregation.
Philadelphia 76ers James, 41, will join a 76ers team that features former MVP Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, VJ Edgecomb, and Brown, who made his way to Philly one month ago via a trade from the Boston Celtics. If Embiid can minimize his days missed due to injuries, the 76ers will be in prime position to challenge for an NBA championship. Beyond the basketball court, James and Brown have both embraced leadership roles. In an era when many athletes are encouraged to “shut up and dribble” rather than speak out against injustice or invest in their communities, James and Brown have taken the opposite path, dedicating themselves to empowering the communities they represent. To this generation, James and Brown are what Muhammad Ali and Kareem AbdulJabbar were to theirs. Since 2004, James and the LeBron James Foundation have created tangible initiatives that continue to serve the community. The I Promise school, located in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, provides education and mentorship for over 1,200 students. James also opened a Starbucks Community Store blocks away from the I Promise school, where workers earned a salary and job-training certificates for the hospitality industry. And in 2017, the NAACP awarded James with the Jackie Robinson Sports Award for his “contributions in the pursuit of social justice, civil rights and community involvement.” Through his 7uice Foundation, Brown launched The Bridge Program, an initiative that equips young people with skills in science, technology, and innovation. Hosted at MIT’s Media Lab, the week-long program immerses students in hands-on learning focused on robotics, artificial intelligence, climate change, food insecurity, and data visualization. “There’s fascinating research in early childhood development showing that exposing children to new sounds and experiences helps strengthen brain development,” Brown shared during a recent keynote speech at The Gathering Spot in Atlanta. “Those new experiences stimulate neuroplasticity, strengthen neural pathways, and support cognitive development during the years when the brain is growing most rapidly…For me, that’s community. It’s investing in the next generation.” During his keynote address, Brown also discussed the importance of integrity and revealed why so many prominent figures are incapable of speaking out against injustices. “I’ve turned down opportunities worth millions of dollars—not because I don’t like money or don’t need it, but because I understood what came attached to those deals,” Brown shared. “A lot of people only look at the number; I look at the fine print. Many contracts with major corporations don’t just pay you. They also dictate what you can say, how you use your platform, and what opinions you’re allowed to express. Sometimes there’s language that says if you say something considered controversial—or something that could affect the company’s image—they can terminate the agreement. That’s why so many public figures stay silent. It’s not always because they don’t care. Sometimes it’s because speaking honestly could cost them their career, their endorsements, or their income.” Brown and James have remained vocal on social issues, disregarding any pushback that may follow. In an effort to mobilize Black voters and fight voter suppression, James helped to establish “More Than Vote” and was a staunch supporter of President Barack Obama. He also took a stand following the deaths of Eric Garner and Trayvon Martin, leading teammates to wear “I can’t breathe” shirts in honor of Garner and hoodies for Martin. During the 2020 protests following the murder of George Floyd, Brown drove 15 hours from Boston to his hometown Atlanta to participate in a march. “I drove 15 hours to get to Georgia, my community,” Brown shared during a live stream at the march. “This is a peaceful protest. Being a celebrity, being an NBA player don’t exclude me from no conversations at all. First and foremost I’m a black man and I’m a member of this community… We’re raising awareness for some of the injustices that we’ve been seeing. It’s not OK.” Brown has also spoken out against environmental justice. While speaking at MIT, Brown said, “We’re here to talk about something that affects us all, climate change. Today marks a very pivotal moment in time. The decisions that we make now will have an impact on future generations. Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue. It’s a social justice issue. It’s an economic issue, and it’s also a moral imperative. As someone who prides himself on influence and responsibility, what an honor it is to talk about this topic.” James and Brown will put in hours of work on the court in an effort to lead the 76ers to an NBA championship. But once they get an opportunity to sit down together, share resources, and implement plans to improve Black communities, their impact will be immense. “No matter where my career goes, my integrity has to walk through the door before I do,” Brown shared during his recent keynote in Atlanta. “So when opportunities come along, I ask one question: ‘Will this allow me to remain authentic?’ If the answer is no, then I respectfully walk away. Because I’d rather keep my voice than sell it.”
For information on this year’s festival, visit: Black Best Folks Root Festival on Facebook
Carol Zippert’s Poetry Books Available Signed copies of Carol P. Zippert’s second book of poetry are available through the Greene County Democrat Meeting Myself ‘Round The Corner published by New South Books, Montgomery, AL
-WantedSaint Paul Missionary Baptist Church of Boligee, Alabama is prayerfully seeking a full-time pastor to lead and grow our membership through preaching, teaching, shepherding and providing overall spiritual leadership. It is required that the chosen male pastor is Holy Ghost-filled and is married to a female wife. Please send resumes and inquiries to: Saint Paul Missionary Baptist Church, PO Box 158, Boligee, AL 35443. (Placing this ad is Deacon Detrick Hodges. My phone number is 205-496-9523.)
Carol’s first book, I Don’t Want To Be Rich, Just Able is also available through the Democrat Poetry Book Order Form
Please Send ______ Copies of poetry book, Meeting Myself ‘Round The Corner, at $20; plus $5.00 shipping & handling to: ______ Copies of poetry book, I Don’t Want To Be Rich, Just Able at $20; plus $5.00 shipping & handling to:
Renaissance Theater Multiplex Center-Eutaw (205) 496-0908 eutawrenaissance.theatre@gmail.com
Friday, July 31, 2026 Movie this weekend:
Name________________________________________ Address______________________________________ _______________________________________ Mail to Carol P. Zippert, P.O. Box 82; Eutaw, Alabama 35462
Free Admission at 6:00 p.m.
The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026 Page 3
PARA Summer Enrichment Program inspires the next generation
From June 1 through July 15, 2026 the Greene County Park and Recreation Authority (PARA) proudly hosted its Summer Enrichment Program, providing local youth with a summer filled with learning, creativity, leadership, and fun. Through hands-on experiences in arts and crafts, STEM, agriculture, health and wellness, leadership, and financial literacy, our children were encouraged to grow in confidence, character, and purpose while building friendships and lifelong memories.
Attorney John Stamps III donates fans Note of Thanks to John Attorney Thomas Stamps III and The Black Belt Law Group, LLC for helping to keep us all cool while we got our praise on at St. John Baptist Church and church throughout the Black Belt. Don't forget all intitial consulations are free and they offer home visits if need.
Shown above Rev. / Dr. Michael Lavender, Pastor of St. John Baptist Church with Sis. Clara M. Pearce of the Black Belt Law Group LLC.
Call them today 1-866-585-2966, website: www.blackbeltjustice.com or email: john@johnstampslaw.com
EJI Mobile Grocery deliver fresh and afford groceries
This program was made possible through the incredible support of our community. PARA extends heartfelt appreciation to our Parents, Boss Ties; West Alabama Action Group, Leah Banks and the Alabama Power team; Attorneys John Stamps and Joshua Swords; Kelli Wolfe, Field Representative for Senator Katie Britt; Shaniqua Mayes of FOGCE; Desiree Cemore of Legacy Medical Training Center; The Greene County Housing Authority team; LeeAndria Calvin of the Alabama Department of Public Health; City Carrie Councilwoman
Logan; Kelvin Scott of Rooted Farms, Constable DeAngelo Hall, Theo Ratliff Center, and Jr Food Mart for investing their time, knowledge, hearts, and donations into our youth. At PARA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, dream, and discover their potential. As another successful summer comes to a close, we celebrate the remarkable young people who remind us that the future of Greene County is bright—and already rising.
Help invest in education and empower a young man’s future
Alex Lipsey is a ten year old who resides in Union, Alabama. He is enrolled at the Home Life AcademyCommon Sense Learning School in Greene County, Alabama. He the son of Mrs. Belinda Lipsey. Mrs. Loydleetta J. Wab-
bington, a teacher and his mentor, is asking the community to allow this story to serve as a formal request, requesting your consideration as needed in assisting him financially to raise $6,000 six thousand dollars to travel to Paris, France this fall. He can read and speak three (3) foreign languages fluently: Spanish, French and Chinese. Recently, He used his foreign language skills to greet the Greene County Education Retirees at their Annual Luncheon and the Greene County District Women at their Convention in Eutaw, AL in all three (3)
Languages. Because of his outstanding academic achievements in French, he has been selected along with other students by their French tutor Mrs. Aline Ledermin to travel to to experience France French culture. Your financial support is extremely needed and will be incredibly appreciated! Contributions can be mailed to Belinda Lipsey at 8481 CR 191 Eutaw, AL 35462. For more information call Mrs. Wabbington at 205-372-3704.
51st Annual Black Belt Folk Roots
Festival Celebrating Community The Next Chapter
Music / Dance/ Craft/ Food/ Play
EJI Mobile Grocery event, which brought high-quality grocery items—including fresh meats, fruits, and vegetables—to the community at prices 50% to 70% lower than typical grocery stores. The event took place on July 26, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at New Generation Church, located at 119 Louis Barnett Street, Eutaw, Alabama 35462. This initiative is part of EJI’s hunger relief program, which has provided food support to more than 5,000 Alabama families struggling with food insecurity. To ensure all families could be served, the following guidelines were in place: - Items were limited per family. - A $75 purchase limit was enforced to help reach more people. - Families currently enrolled in the EJI Anti-Hunger program were given the opportunity to shop first. - Accepted payment methods included cash, credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.
Saturday- August 22, 2026 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday- August 23, 2026 2 p.m. - 7 p.m. Old Courthouse Square Eutaw, Al Produced by The Society of Folk Arts & Culture P.O. Box 566 Eutaw, Al 35462 For more information contact: Barbara Hunter or Teresa Atkins@ 205-372-0525 or email: blackbeltfest@ gmail.com
Page 4, The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Greene County The Democrat
The 'Fellow Travelers' are back
The Greene County Democrat newspaper is published each Wednesday by the Greene County Democrat Newspaper Company, Inc., 206 Prairie Avenue, Eutaw, Alabama (USSR 700680). Subscription rate in county is $25 per year; elsewhere in Alabama, $30; and out of state, $35. Publishers: John and Carol Zippert Editor: Maya Quinn Office Manager: Barbara Hunter The Greene County Democrat 206 Prairie Avenue P.O. Box 598 Eutaw, AL 35462 Phone: 205-372-3373 Fax: 205-372-2243 Website:greenecodemocrat.com & facebook
By Julianne Malveaux
Whitewashing Complete!
White Voters in Poverty need the Congressional Black Caucus
By Marc Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League (TriceEdneyWire.com) The spirit behind the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was to firmly free the nation of systemic racial discrimination by ensuring that a citizen’s vote actually mattered—a concept known as meaningful representation. Meaningful representation means people are not just allowed to vote, but they have a fair opportunity to elect candidates who will genuinely respond to the needs of their community. At one time, Congress and the courts recognized that letting Black citizens vote was meaningless if lines were drawn to dilute their collective voice. We can’t forget that the strategies behind voter suppression and vote dilution are not the same. While they both harm democratic representation, they do so at different stages of the process. Voter suppression places barriers that make it harder to vote or prevent voting altogether. Vote dilution weakens the power of votes. It happens when an election system, district map, or policy lets people cast ballots but denies a group an equal opportunity to elect the type of candidate that would be supportive of their true concerns and needs. The vote is counted, but it has less practical impact because the system spreads, packs, or otherwise weakens the community’s political power. In other words, voter suppression targets whether you can vote, while vote dilution targets how much your vote matters once you do vote. A suppressed voter may never get to the ballot box; a diluted voter gets there, but their community still may not have fair electoral power. In a newly released framework, U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock is calling for Congress to investigate whether states that redrew congressional districts after
the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision illegally discriminated against Black voters. Warnock argues the decision has opened the door for lawmakers in several Southern states to redraw congressional maps in ways that weaken the political influence of Black communities. “Across the Deep South, partisan actors have manipulated their maps to silence the voices of Black voters,” Warnock said in a statement announcing the proposal. “Even this Supreme Court has made it clear that intentional racial discrimination remains illegal. We owe it to voters to root out whether any illegal actions or discrimination occurred.” The senator tied the health of American democracy to broader economic concerns, arguing that issues such as affordability and wealth inequality cannot be fully addressed without stronger protections for voting rights. I believe that those who are elected to represent majority-Black districts are more likely to be defenders for the poor and oppressed not only in Black communities, but all communities regardless of race. Democratic U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, representing the 6th congressional district, has been a longtime fixture in Louisiana politics. Rep. Fields served two stints in Congress: one from 1993 to 1997, and another since 2025. It was Rep. Fields’ district that was the center of the U.S. Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais ruling. The Supreme Court ruled that a previous state map with two majority-Black districts was an “unconstitutional racial gerrymander.” As a result, Fields’s majority-Black congressional district was redrawn by the state legislature to favor Republicans in November’s midterm elections. Rep. Fields announced he will retire and not seek reelection to his redrawn congressional district. While the Supreme Court’s decision and the subsequent loss of a majorityBlack district may be perceived as a victory for Republicans in their attempt to maintain control of the House, Rep. Fields’ retirement is a major loss for Trump’s MAGA supporters in Louisiana. See Marc Morial, p. 6
(TriceEdneyWire.com) “Fellow traveler” is a phrase dragged from the rhetorical graveyard of the 1950s, when accusation substituted for evidence and dissent became disloyalty. Its appearance in a new State Department report should alarm anyone who values free speech, political association and the right to challenge government policy. State DepartThe ment’s Cuba: The Capital of 21st Century Communism is not merely a critique of Cuba. A section titled “Front Groups and Fellow Travelers” revives the language and logic of the Red Scare, while the report places American orelected ganizations, officials, journalists and activists inside a sweeping narrative of foreign subversion. In this political climate, that is no laughing matter. The report reads less like serious foreign-policy analysis than a document Secretary of State Marco Rubio has waited his entire political life to publish. For Rubio, Cuba is more than a foreign-policy challenge. It is a family grievance, a Florida political inheritance and, increasingly, a personal crusade conducted with the power of the State Department. Rubio grew up in Miami’s anti-Castro culture and has recalled boast-
ing that he would lead an exile army against Fidel Castro. Yet his parents left Cuba in 1956, during the Batista dictatorship, more than two years before Castro took power. His grandfather later fled Castro’s Cuba. Now Rubio presents Cuba as the command center of a worldwide communist conspiracy—one that supposedly infiltrated American government, commandeered Western protest movements and backed an “unprecedented wave of left-wing terrorism” on American soil. Having returned from Cuba less than three months ago, I scarcely recognize the country described in Rubio’s report. I visited in May with an all-Black delegation organized by the Institute of the Black World and led by Dr. Ron Daniels. What I saw was neither a socialist paradise nor a sinister command center. I saw shortages, uncertainty and exhaustion. A 31-year-old former teacher, who traveled three hours partly by walking and hitchhiking, told us she could not afford children. A ten-year-old said he attended school only two days a week. At Cuba’s Latin American School of Medicine, a physician broke down when I asked about mental health. But I also saw generosity, dignity and achievethat Rubio’s ment caricature cannot accommodate. People who had little offered us coffee or water. Cubans spoke candidly about their frustrations. They did not resemble puppets in either Washington’s or Havana’s propaganda. government Cuba’s bears responsibility for economic mismanagement, political repression and
racial inequality. The American blockade also bears responsibility. Both truths fit inside the same sentence. Economics is not theory. People live inside both. Cuba has engaged in espionage. Ana Belén Montes, who spied for Cuba while working for the Defense Intelligence Agency, is an undeniable example. Cuba has also harbored American fugitives and imprisoned dissenters. But facts do not become more persuasive when piled beside half-truths and guilt by association. The report reaches back more than half a century to Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s youthful participation in the Venceremos Brigade. Her old activism is recycled as evidence of Cuba’s continuing infiltration of American politics, although she was never charged with espionage, terrorism or any crime. Representative Maxine Waters appears through a 1998 letter urging Fidel Castro not to extradite Assata Shakur. One may disagree with Waters or condemn Shakur’s actions. A nearly 30-year-old letter, however, does not prove that Cuba commands American subversives. The report also ignores why Cuba has long attracted some Black Americans. That affinity was not implanted by Cuban intelligence. It grew from our experience of American racism and our search for international allies. Cuba aligned itself with African liberation movements and sent troops to Angola, helping weaken apartheid South Africa’s regional power. It welcomed Black American activists whom their own government persecuted, offered scholarships to stu-
dents from developing nations and dispatched physicians throughout the Black world. Fidel Castro stayed at Harlem’s Hotel Theresa in 1960 and met Malcolm X while white America treated both men as dangerous. Cuba’s record on race is hardly spotless. AfroCubans have experienced discrimination, inequality and repression. Still, many Black Americans saw a small nation confronting the same United States government that tolerated segregation at home while preaching freedom abroad. Their interest reflected racial solidarity, political judgment and sometimes romanticism—but not necessarily foreign control. The report targets Chris Smalls, Amy Goodman, Zohran Mamdani, CODEPINK and the Democratic Socialists of America. Some have visited Cuba or opposed the embargo. None of that proves Havana controls their politics. Democratic socialists are not communists. They participate in elections and seek change through democratic institutions. One can oppose Cuban repression without supporting collective punishment. One can condemn espionage without criminalizing dissent. Influence is not control, solidarity is not subversion, and democratic socialism is not communism. The State Department has retrieved “fellow traveler” from the rhetorical garbage can of the 1950s. We know what happened the last time our government spoke this language. We should not wait to relearn the lesson.
Virginia schools $267 million in one year. Illinois lawmakers let a similar bill die without a vote. Neither list sorts cleanly by party. Before you file this as a new problem, meet my great-great-grandfather. Edward David Bland was born into slavery in Dinwiddie County, Virginia, in 1848. Thirtyone years later, he was helping write that state’s laws. He served three terms in the House of Delegates and sat on the Committee on Schools and Colleges. That was not a coincidence. That was the point. Virginia was fighting over debt borrowed before the Civil War for canals and railroads. With interest, it had passed $45 million. One side said pay every penny, whatever it took. They were called the Funders. Here is what it was taking. Virginia was starving its public schools to pay bondholders. The bondholders lived in New York and London. The children lived in Petersburg and Danville. The other side said the debt would be paid, but not out of the schoolhouse. They were the Readjusters. Black and white together. Farmers, freedmen and a former Confederate general named William Mahone. A man born into slavery and a man who wore gray were counting the same votes on one floor. They ran Virginia for four years. In 1882, they cut the state’s share of the debt by
roughly a third and refinanced the rest over 50 years. Then they spent the difference. They put money back into public schools. They funded schools with Black teachers. They repealed the poll tax. They tore down the whipping post. The Readjusters knew something we forgot. Whoever profits should not get to send the bill to whoever cannot say no. I am not against data centers. This country cannot afford to fall behind in artificial intelligence, and the reasons are not all about money. I am against making working families subsidize the world’s richest companies. It does not always take a governor. A small town in Illinois capped a data center’s water use, with penalties if it went over. A town council did that. Now let me tell you how the Readjusters lost. That is the part we forget. They were not beaten on the debt. They won that argument. In October 1883, their opponents warned that Black residents of Danville had gained too much power. On November 3, market day, a street fight became a shooting. Five men died. Four were Black. For three days, armed white men walked the streets and kept Black Virginians from the polls. The election came that week. Democrats took both houses. They never took the schools back. The new leg-
islature left the school money alone. It left the whipping post gone. It left the debt settled. They did not undo the policy. They undid the voters. In 1902, a new state constitution stripped most Black Virginians of the ballot for more than 60 years. They were not defeated by a better plan. They were defeated by a campaign that made white farmers fear Black farmers more than the men taking money from both. It is the cheapest trick in American politics, and it has never once been out of stock. The people paying for these deals live in Loudoun County and Memphis, in white towns in Iowa and Black neighborhoods in Atlanta, in union halls and farmhouses. They are already paying the same bill. They just have not been asked to fight it together. Somebody will work hard to make sure they never do. My great-great-grandfather learned his letters at a night school for freedmen after the war. He was 17. Then he sat on the committee that funded schools so other children would not wait. He knew exactly what a school was worth. Go find out what your state did. Then find out who let it happen.
Dr. Julianne Malveaux is a DC based economist and author.
You are already paying for the AI boom
By Ben Jealous (TriceEdneyWire.com) - Some states made data centers pay their own way. Others handed the bill to you. Virginia settled this question in 1882. Pull up your electric bill. Somewhere in that number, you are paying for a building you will never enter. Data centers are going up everywhere. They need enormous amounts of electricity. Somebody must pay to connect them and build the plants and lines they need. In state after state, that somebody is you. Not everywhere. Texas requires the largest new power users to pay more of their connection costs and cut demand when the grid is strained. The data centers came anyway. Ohio now makes large new customers pay for much of the electricity they reserve, whether they use it or not. Projections for new demand then fell sharply. Much of the emergency was companies holding space they might never fill. Virginia chose differently. It gives data centers a tax break on their equipment. Good Jobs First estimates that subsidy cost
Ben Jealous is a professor of practice at the University of Pennsylvania and former president and CEO of the NAACP.
Support Our Advertisers
Predatory auto lending exploits Black consumers
Black woman deciding on a car. PHOTO CREDIT: Center for Responsible Lending
By Charlene Crowell (TriceEdneyWire.com) Nearly 92 percent of American households rely on a personal vehicle to manage their daily lives. Consumers shopping for a vehicle in May learned that the average cost of a new car was $49,307, and that used cars averaged $25,918, according to Cox Automotive. But the high price of vehicles is not the only financial challenge confronting Black and other consumers of color. Discriminatory and p redatory practices in the sale and financing of cars have pushed millions of buyers into longer and higher priced loans. A study by the National Fair Housing Alliance found that nonwhite test shoppers were given more expensive financing 62.5 percent of the time compared to white testers with equivalent or w o r s e credit. Similarly, another r ecent independent study by the Century Foundation concluded that Black, Hispanic, and American Indian borrowers are given higher interest rates on auto loans across all credit tiers. Research published by the Federal Reserve found Black borrowers disproportionately pay the highest interest rate mark-up, resulting in more than $3,000 in additional interest over the life of the loan. Now a new report released by the Center for R e s p o n s i b l e Lending (CRL) found that the terms of predatory loans as well as dealers and lenders conniving to drive up costs - not the consumers’ willingness to pay – made delinquency and default more likely. These tactics limit alternatives borrowers can pursue to lower their payments. This conclusion came through a series of consumer focus groups with subprime credit scores, most of whom are Black, reeling from the effects of predatory car loans. High-pressure tactics, misleading claims about vehicle features or conditions, and aggressive upselling of overpriced add-ons and services together obscured the true cost of the vehicle and prevented consumers from ma king informed decisions. Beyond auto sale, dealer financing exposes consumers to interest rate markups, hidden fees, and unaffordable loan terms. Nicole, a Black woman in her early 50s who lives in Minneapolis, Minnesota shared her personal story of urgently needing a vehicle as she went
through a separation in which her former spouse kept their car. A full-time employee at a nonprofit organization focused on ending homelessness, she earns less than $50,000 a year. She took out a loan for $19,000 with an interest rate of 24 percent and a 48month term. In addition to the inflated sales price of the vehicle, the dealer included a $2,000 warranty and the lender rolled over a previous loan for a repossessed vehicle that significantly increased the total financing for Nicole. Shortly after the sale, Nicole discovered the car lacked heat and had a failed engine, fuel pump, and water pump — all undisclosed problems requiring costly repairs that were not fully covered by the warranty. She now owes more on her car than it’s worth but still needs a way to get to work. Making payments has been a struggle and on a few occasions, the car has been taken away due to late payments. “You pay that and nothnothing ever ing, changes,” Nicole shared. “ And even when it reports on the credit bureau, it says that I’m still past due, like, 31 payments, and they’ve come, they’ve taken the truck. I pay when I’m past due, and they give it back to me. So, it’s a vicious cycle.” A portion of CRL’s report explains the costly and limited options lenders provide borrowers who fall behind on payments: “A deferment lets a borrower skip a payment, but the skipped amount is added to the end of the loan along with additional interest. Lenders often describe deferments as just moving a payment to the end and does not disclose the true costs of doing so. However, the accumulating interest means borrowers end up paying more than the deferred payment and may become even more underwater as the car depreciates while the loan balance grows.” “Isabelle,” a journalist in Florida using a pseudonym, related her experience with deferment: “The problem with that is like they charge a daily interest, and you never catch up. Because I did that a couple of times, I was paying my car and then the payoff amount would not change at all, because the interest is so high, plus all those daily fees and everything. So, I didn’t have a choice. I had to do it. I do not recommend [it] if you can stretch and maybe borrow some money from family, friends, or whatever, because it’s better than to do that.” Many auto lenders have also turned to technology that remotely disables vehicles if a borrower falls behind on payments. These “kill switches” can put drivers in physical as well as financial risk. Monica, another borrower, told of the lender disabling her car wh ile she was driving: See Charlene Crowell, p. 7
The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Page 5
Senate Sketches #2040.....by Hank Sanders
Building Common Ground
Building Common Ground. I was in a meeting with Selma Non Violence Interns on Thursday of this week. We were talking about Organization Building, Institution Building and Community Building. One of the questions concerned my Senate service, specifically my service as Chair of the Senate Education Budget Committee. They wanted to know how I was able to work with Republicans and Conservative Democrats. The thrust of the question was about my working across dividing lines with White Republican Senators and White Conservative Democrats. The inherent assumption was that working with Black Democratic Senators was a given without challenge. (That assumption is not based in reality). Building Common Ground. The question really made me think back, way back, starting in 1994 and continuing through 2010. This working relationship started thirty some years ago. Working across lines of differences was extremely challenging because the Senate was closely divided, not between Republicans and Democrats but between the majority group who organized the Senate and the minority group who attempted to organize the Senate but did not succeed. There were no Republicans on our side, but there were Democrats on the other side. Some of the Democrats on our side were more conservative than some of the Republicans. There was not a majority Republican Alabama State Senate until November 2010. There were divides in all kinds of ways. Building Common Ground. I was initially perceived as not too “smart.” Some of the Senators later told me that they thought I would fall on my face because there was no way I could handle the big complex job posed by the multi-billion-dollar Education Budget Chair. Their conclusions were based in part on my being African American but also on my being a dark African American, as well as overweight. Some said later I was “one of the smartest persons they have known.” Some even referred to me as “wise.” Building Common Ground. When I became Chair of the Senate Finance and Taxation Education Committee, there were 15 members. I approached the very knowledgeable and able Director of the Joint Fiscal Office who had worked with the Education Budget Committee and general fund budget committee on fiscal matters for years. I told her that I was going to call each member of the committee, all 15 senators, and discuss the proposed budget with each. She advised me that would be a mistake. She said that many members would likely have requests so great that I could not possibly meet them. She said that I should get a majority by one and push the budget through. I seriously considered her advice, but did not follow it. Building Common Ground. I called each Committee member and the budget sailed through. Every subsequent time there was a major issue before the Education Budget Committee, I called each member. This included Senators that I knew would more than likely be against the positions I would be taking. I understood that calling them and seeking their input changed the dynamics. I served as Chair of the
Education Budget Committee, handling the largest budget for the State of Alabama, for 16 consecutive years. In that time, I only lost one committee vote. Building Common Ground. I also made certain that every member of the Senate got something they desired for their Senate district. It was not always equal in amount among the Districts, but everyone got something that was meaningful for them. I did not make them ask me but reached out to them. They were used to having to ask (and sometimes beg) Budget Chairs for funding of particular projects for their district. Building Common Ground. I always tried not to do too much for the Senate Districts I represented. I understood the power of greed. Greed builds chasms rather than common ground. Building Common Ground. I never approached any member about what I had helped do for them and their districts to get a vote for another piece of legislation. I actually had Senators tell me how much they appreciated not having to beg or even ask for help in their districts. It meant so much to them not having assistance thrown up in their faces. Building Common Ground. I made certain that I kept my word. If I made a commitment, I kept that commitment. If circumstances changed, I went to them personally, explained the situation and tried to find alternate means to help. I felt strongly that keeping one’s word helped build common ground. Building Common Ground. Sometimes lobbyists approached me for help on particular projects. I usually did not make commitments. I would simply say, “I’ll see what I can do.” Initially, they assumed that was a nice way of saying “NO.” But I would try to fulfill the promise to “see what I can do.” They would be very surprised when I helped since they assumed I had already said “No” in a nice way. Building Common Ground. In the Black community, we sometimes express disdain over how some Black persons would be “bowing and scraping” in front of White people. Well a few of the lobbyists would “bow and scrape.” Initially I tried to stop them from such activities but to no avail. I eventually realized that I could not stop them. However, every time a lobbyist or other person came in trying to, as the Old Folks would say, “butter me up,” I followed a special routine. When they left, I would go through my special routine saying to myself (1) “Hank, they are not acting that way because of your intelligence. You are no more intelligent now than you were before you became Chair of this Budget Committee;” (2) “Hank, it’s not because of your moral character because you have the same moral character as before you became Chair;” (3) “Hank, this is not about you but about the position you hold. Don’t let this ‘scraping and bowing’ go to your head.” Power or even the appearance of power can go to our heads and divide rather than bind. Building Common Ground. In organizing the Alabama Senate every four years where the majority determines who holds official positions of power, various promises were often made. Sometimes some of the Senators would come to me and say that they would organize with us if I guaranteed the
commitments that were made would be kept. I would guarantee not only commitments I made but commitments others made including the Governor. On one occasion, one Black Senate Democrat said he would organize with the “other side” if he did not get the chair position of the Finance and Taxation Committee. We needed his one vote to organize. I gave up the position to him so we could organize. I decided not to take any Committee Chair for the next four years. After we organized so many Senators went to him saying that what he did was wrong that he gave the chairmanship back. Without our pulling together we would not have organized the Senate in 1994, 1998, 2002 and 2006. Building Common Ground. One Senator from North Alabama “could not stand me.” I could see it in his face and body every time he was around me. I ended up recommending him for Pro Tem because I felt he would keep some of the conservatives in the Majority Caucus. He grew to trust and appreciate me and I grew to trust and appreciate him. We became real friends and worked closely together to keep the Majority Caucus together from 1994 through 2010. There was a powerful political backlash in 2010 in Alabama and across the South in response to the election of President Barack Obama, the first President who was African American. This backlash resulted in Republicans sweeping the Alabama House and Senate Districts. Republicans did not include any Democrats in their organizing the Majority. Building Common Ground. I also helped keep our group together by listening to every complaint raised by Caucus members. I realized that just listening was a powerful tool in building common ground. In meetings, I made sure that I did not speak until after others had every opportunity to speak. Giving others the chance to speak first is a gift that keeps on giving. Building Common Ground. By building common ground, we accomplished some good things for Alabama, and we stopped a lot of bad things. Common ground is a powerful ground to stand on for it enables us to see farther and reach higher. Building Common Ground. Now on to the Daily Diary. Saturday, July 18, 2026 – I handled many matters and worked into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Faya Rose Toure of the Bridge Crossing Jubilee; Junior Oliver and Renee Duncan of Selma; Earlene Vaugh Arnold of Wilcox County; and Greene County Commissioner Garria Spencer. Sunday – I hosted the Sunday School Lesson with Dr. Margaret Hardy on Facebook Live and Z105.3 FM 50,000-Watt Radio Station and worked into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Sharon Wheeler of the Selma to Montgomery Foundation; Law Professor Kindaka Sanders; and Khadijah Ishaq and Lametrius Dillard of Selma. Monday – I walked, handled many matters, participated in an international Zoom meeting on the plight of Cuba and worked
into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Oli Egliuna of Washington, D.C.: Josephine Curtis, Marilyn Cosby and Karen Jackson of Selma; Dr. Carol P. Zippert of Lake Charles, Louisiana; Phillis Belchen of Greene County; and Youlanda Curtis of Mobile/Washington Counties. Tuesday – I handled many matters and worked into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Azali Fortier of Atlanta, Georgia; Greene County Health System CEO Rodgerick Williams; Lonetta Gaines of Sarasota, Florida; Bishop Johnny Chambers of Wilcox County; Twanya Dixon of the Bridge Crossing Jubilee; and Dr. Ernest Okeke and Yoland Howard of Selma. Wednesday – I chaired a 7:30 a.m. Zoom meeting concerning the Martin and Coretta King Unity Breakfast, traveled to Montgomery, handled a matter and returned to Selma and worked into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Retired College President and Current Chair of the Craig Field Airport and Industrial Authority James Mitchell and wife Priscilla Mitchell; President of the Wallace Community College President Donitha Griffin; B. Marie Jones of the University of Southern Mississippi; Liz Rutledge of the City of Selma; Pernila Stimley of Jackson, Mississippi; SCLC Resident Emerita Charles Steele who is recovering from a serious illness; and Geraldine Wofford and Lametrius Dillard of Selma. Thursday – I walked, handled many matters, made a presentation to Interns for the Selma Nonviolence Center from Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Texas and. I participated in the SOS Conference call, traveled to Greene County, and returned to Selma. Among others, I communicated with the following: Jonathan Raulston of Jefferson County; Greene County School Board Members Leo Branch, Sr., Robert Davis, Jr., Carrie Dancy, Veronica Richardson and Brandon Merriweather; and School Superintendent Dr. Timothy Thurman. Friday – I handled various matters, attended the funeral of Johnny Moss, Jr. and worked into the night. Among others, I communicated with the following: Ella Sanders of McDonald, Georgia; Woodie Dinning, Jr. of Marengo County; Brenda Myles of Selma/Birmingham; and Dorothy Hulett of Lowndes County. Epilogue – Common ground is strong ground. Common ground is high ground. Common ground is lifting ground. Common ground is fertile ground that produces strong families, strong organizations, strong institutions, and strong communities. Common ground is good ground. Building Common Ground.
Page 6, The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29 2026
EarthTalk From the Editors of E The Environmental Magazine Dear EarthTalk: Have we already begun to see a significant sea level rise as a result of climate change? -- Martin Smith, Detroit, MI According to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), sea levels have been relatively well-documented throughout the course of
Many farmers are working hard to move away from hazardous fertilizers and pesticides. Credit: Pexels.com. human history, making the recent sea level rise particularly noticeable. Since 1880, the global average sea level has risen by around eight to nine inches. According to the NOAA, sea level rise may be caused by factors such as “ground settling, upstream flood con-
trol, erosion [and] regional ocean currents” on a more regional level. On a world-wide scale, global warming due to extensive human emissions of greenhouse gases has led to the atmosphere increasingly trapping heat, and warming
the ocean. As seawater gets warmer, it expands, increasing the sea level. Similarly, per SeaLevelRise.org. glaciers and ice sheets melt rapidly when faced by warmer seawater, which intensifies the rate of sea level rise. In a CNN interview, Benjamin Hamlington, a scientist in the Sea Level & Ice Group at NASA stated, “It’s like we’re putting our foot on the gas pedal,” regarding the rate of sea level rise due to global warming. While natural climate cycles contribute to sea level rise, it is exacerbated by human action. However, sea level has consistently fluctuated with the Earth’s climate cycles, rising during warm periods and sinking during cool ones. With the definitive global increase in sea level, and the accelerated rate at
which it is occurring, its clear that climate change and its human-driven exacerbation are at least partially responsible for sea level rise. Greenland’s and the Antarctic ice sheets are particularly concerning with regard to the animals there. Polar bears rely on sea ice for hunting, mating and resting. The glacial loss that contributes to sea level rise has resounding impacts for biodiversity across Earth. Further, it is likely that the global sea level will continue to rise in the coming decades, with scientific assessments projecting roughly another six to seven inches in growth of the global average sea level by 2050. This rapid sea level rise would likely lead to more high-tide flooding, storm surges, and pressure on coastal ecosystems.
Yet, sea level rise is not yet a catastrophe. Collective action can still significantly limit long-term damage. By cutting emissions through a rapid transition to clean energy, increased efficiency, and protecting valuable ecosystems, we can slow warming and its impacts. In this time coastal communities can expand their resources and infrastructure, planning for the slow sea level rise coinciding with the Earth’s natural climate cycles. To help support these efforts, advocate for reduced emissions in your own community, and coastal communities near you. Supporting communities already impacted by sea level rise can help ameliorate the impacts of the rapidly changing climate, reducing their burden.
Marc Morial A typical MAGA supporter in Louisiana is most likely white, older, Christian, and without a four-year college degree. They tend to live in rural or small-town areas rather than metropolitan areas. The truth of the matter is that a large number of MAGA supporters living in Louisiana are poor because Louisiana itself has one of the highest poverty rates in the nation. Many MAGA residents live in distressed areas where economic decline has left many white families with low wages, unstable work, and having to rely on Medicaid, SNAP, housing aid, and other public support to make ends meet. Despite their personal poverty and the poverty of their families, they support Republican lawmakers who have anti-poverty agendas. They applaud the ruling of the Supreme Court. They applaud the elimination of Louisiana’s second majority-Black district. They applaud the retirement of Cleo Fields and the fact that the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has one less member. For many of these MAGA residents and voters, poverty is a form of social oppression that they have succumbed to. Racism is a form of social oppression they continue to perpetuate and promote. Rep. Cleo Fields, like other men and women of the CBC, represents communities where degrees of urban and rural poverty exist. Poverty is not limited by race or geography. Where members of the CBC have taken stands to defend the economically oppressed in Black communities, by default they are also fighting for the poverty-stricken residents in white areas.
Rep. Terri Sewell The report came as House Democrats unveiled their “Fighting for an Affordable America Agenda.” According to Sewell’s news release, the agenda focuses on lowering the cost of groceries, gasoline and housing; providing affordable health care; and fighting corruption. The report says Alabama families are paying an average of $2,700 more for basic living expenses and families in the 7th District now spend an average of $1,110 a month on groceries. It projects that about 70,000 district residents will face higher health insurance costs because enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits expired. The report also says the average Alabama household has paid $686 more for gasoline since Trump began the war in Iran and that more than 81,800 Alabamians have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits under Republicans’ budget law. “One hundred days before Election Day, Alabama families deserve to know the truth about who is driving up their costs,” Sewell said. “President Trump promised to lower prices on Day One. Instead, families across Alabama’s 7th District are paying more for groceries, housing, electricity, gas, and healthcare while Republicans in Congress have chosen to cut Medicaid and food assistance to help pay for tax breaks for billionaires.” “It doesn’t have to be this way,” Sewell said. “House Democrats are fighting for an Affordable America by lowering the cost of groceries, gas, and housing, making healthcare more affordable, and holding corporations accountable when they exploit consumers and drive up prices. Alabama families deserve an economy that works for them—not just the wealthy and well-connected.” The report highlights several economic challenges facing Alabama families: •Alabama families are paying an average of $2,700 more for basic living expenses under Trump and congressional Republicans. •Families in the 7th District paid an average of $233 more for electricity in 2025. •The average monthly grocery bill in the district has reached $1,110. •The average Alabama household has paid $686 more for gasoline since the war in Iran began. •The average annual cost of child care for two children in Alabama has climbed to $16,640. •About 24,353 people in the 7th District are projected to lose health coverage because of Republican cuts to Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act. •More than 81,800 Alabamians have lost Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. •More than 20,000 individuals and families in Alabama filed for bankruptcy in 2025, a 6.7 percent increase from the previous year. The full report, “The Affordability Crisis in Alabama’s 7th Congressional District: How President Trump and Congressional Republicans Are Driving Up Costs for Alabama Families,” is available online.
MAGA supporters throughout Louisiana benefited when Rep. Fields supported antipoverty programs. Despite Rep. Fields being Black and a Democrat, he gave white MAGA supporters “meaningful representation” as he responded to the needs of impoverished individuals and families living in all districts in Louisiana. His retirement means there is one less voice and one less moral vote supporting white struggling communities. David W. Marshall is the founder of the faith-based organization, TRB: The Reconciled Body, and author of the book God Bless Our Divided America.
Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy The three-year grant, which runs July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, represents a transformative investment in both the preservation of the historic Freedom Quilting Bee headquarters and the future sustainability of the organization that carries its legacy forward. Founded in 1966, the Freedom Quilting Bee became a nationally recognized quilting cooperative that created economic opportunity for Black women in rural Alabama. Through their extraordinary artistry, entrepreneurship, and partnerships with national retailers, the women of the Freedom Quilting Bee generated income for their families while preserving a rich artistic tradition and advancing economic justice during the Civil Rights Movement. "This investment from the Mellon Foundation is a powerful affirmation of the national significance of the Freedom Quilting Bee story," said Kim V. Kelly, Executive Director of Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy. "It enables us to preserve this historic place while building the organizational capacity needed to ensure these stories continue to educate and inspire generations to come." Through the Humanities in Place grant, Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy will undertake critical work to upgrade the historic structure, ensuring that it can continue to serve as a center for exhibitions, educational programming, research, and community engagement. Planned improvements include modernization of essential building systems, accessibility enhancements, and rehabilitation that preserves the building's historic character while preparing it for long-term public use. In addition to investing in the historic building, the grant will strengthen the organization's capacity by supporting the recruitment and hiring of a Development Director. This new leadership position will expand Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy's fundraising and donor engagement efforts, broaden philanthropic support, and help secure the organization's long-term financial sustainability. "The Mellon Foundation recognizes that preserving historic places also requires investing in the organizations that care for them," Kelly said. "By strengthening our development capacity, we will be better positioned to cultivate new partnerships and resources that will sustain this important work well beyond the grant period." The award builds upon several years of investment by public and private partners in the Adaptive Reuse Project. Previous support from the Alabama State Council on the Arts, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama, and the Educational Foundation of America enabled significant improvements to the property, including renovation of the Rev. Lonnie Brown Jr. Learning Center, expansion of the site's infrastructure, and completion of architectural plans for restoration of the building's original roof design. Souls Grown Deep Foundation was an early funder whose support helped launch Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy. Today, that partnership continues through their contribution of original photographic documentation of the community and their curation of the exhibition currently on display. By the conclusion of the grant period in 2029, Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy will have advanced the preservation of one of Alabama's most important Civil Rights and folk art landmarks while establishing stronger organizational systems to support expanded exhibitions, educational initiatives, artist residencies, public humanities programming, and community partnerships. About Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy preserves, interprets, and advances the history and enduring impact of the Freedom Quilting Bee. Through historic preservation, exhibitions, educational programming, and community partnerships, the organization celebrates the women whose artistry and entrepreneurship transformed their community and left an indelible mark on American history. To learn more about the Freedom Quilting Bee Legacy, visit www.fqblegacy.org.
Banned Bonnet and Du-rags I’m not sure I like that reasoning since King was killed because of the work he was doing and the systemic racism he led a fight against — not because someone mistook him for a thug due to baggy clothing or a head scarf — but the point still stands that adhering to a largely white and Western standard for how one should dress in public certainly won’t save us from the prejudice that also comes with that standard. I’m not even sure if there’s a societal frame of reference for respectability politics as it relates to white people and other racial groups, but for Black people, it’s a 400-year plague that has infected many of us with deeply colonized mentalities. But whatever, Black people can think what they want; the problem arises when they start making policy around it in Black institutions. So, let’s talk about this new dress code banning bonnets and du-rags in classrooms and the cafeteria at Tuskegee University. So, first, it should be noted that, according to AL.com, Tuskegee’s updated dress code also prohibits students from wearing house shoes and “revealing clothing” and mandates that students attending professional events or business meetings must wear business suits and appropriate footwear. Tuskegee President Dr. Mark A. Brown said the changes aim to give students a “solid foundation for the workforce they will enter once they leave Tuskegee” rather than limit their college experience. But do they actually do the former and not the latter? I wonder if Brown, the other administrators at Tuskegee, or any of the Black people on social media who agree with the new policy — and there are many of them — have actually witnessed or even heard about a college graduate showing up to a job interview or business meeting in a bonnet or du-rag and slippers. Certainly, this must be a real, nondelusional concern of theirs due to a totally-non-fictional phenomenon that is reflected in reality — otherwise, we’re just talking about students going to class and to lunch dressed comfortably, and one might get the impression that these blushing negroes just don’t like seeing certain aspects of Black existence being on display where everyone else can see us. Remember when the killing of Trayvon Martin by racist neighborhood watchman George Zimmerman started off as a discussion about systemic racism, racial profiling, and the inherent white supremacy of “stand your ground” laws, until it devolved into a
debate around whether Trayvon should’ve been wearing a hoodie in the first place? That might have been a discussion that began in the Caucasian world of justifying violent Black death at the hands of bigoted vigilantes, but it’s one that also included white-gaze-fearing Black people warning other Black people about the dangers of hooded casual wear and how we should abstain from it even when we’re doing something as mundane as walking home from the corner store. The implication there is that Trayvon might still be alive if the sweater he was wearing was hoodless, and the Black people who were subjecting their own to such warnings purported to be looking out for our collective best interest then, too. But were they merely looking out for their own in the interest of our collective safety, or was Trayvon’s story simply the excuse they needed to reinforce their own disgust with Black people not adhering to their conservative views on how we should assimilate, mirroring that of our white counterparts? But you know what, let’s stick to the subject at hand, which, by the way, is far from unique to Tuskegee, as respectability politics are an issue at HBCUs across the country, unfortunately, regardless of how often the richness and fullness of Black culture is on display at these institutions. Again, Tuskegee’s new dress code policy is part of a larger policy that, to its credit, does have practical applications as well. For example, the new policy holds that students must keep cellphones turned off during class unless professors give specific permission to use them, and it requires the university to monitor attendance more closely, “viewing regular class participation as essential to academic success, according to the updated policy,” as AL.com reported. Now, see, these policies might actually help with the fact that at Tuskegee University, only 29% – 31% of students finish on time within four years, only 57% – 61% of students complete their bachelor’s degrees within six years, and the fact that roughly 20% to nearly 30% of 73% – 81% of first-year students fail to return for their sophomore year, according to the U.S. News and World Report. But, no, no — I’m sure student retention and performance will improve greatly now that administrators are telling them they need to be in a button-down shirt and slacks when they go to class, and to leave their protective head coverings in their dorms. Good luck with all that.
Legal Notice STATE OF ALABAMA NOTICE OF MORTGAGE COUNTY OF GREENE FORECLOSURE SALE Default having been made under the terms of that certain mortgage executed by Marc Ethridge, an unmarried man, William Steve Ethridge, a married man, and Norma Renee Ethridge, an unmarried woman, on the 29th day of October, 2019 to Sweet Water State Bank which said mortgage is recorded in the Probate Office of Greene County, Alabama, in Mortgage Book 0086, at Page 640, and by reason of such default, having declared all of the indebtedness secured by said mortgage due and payable, and such default continuing, notice is hereby given that, acting under the power of sale contained in said mortgage, Sweet Water State Bank will sell at public outcry, for cash, to the highest bidder, before the main entrance of the Courthouse in the City of Eutaw, Greene County, Alabama, at noon or otherwise during the legal hours of sale on August 18, 2026 the following described real estate situated in Greene County, Alabama, to-wit: A tract or parcel of land situated in Section 31, Township 20 North, Range 2 East, and Section 36, Township 20 North, Range 2 East, Greene County, Alabama being more particularly described as follows: The West ½ of the West ½ of Section 31, Township 20 North, Range 3 East, Green County, Alabama, LESS AND EXCEPT a strip of land 400 feet in width (North – South) lying South and adjacent to Greene County Highway 41 running from the West boundary of Section 31 to the East boundary of the West ½ of the West ½ of Section 31. Township 20 North, Range 3 East, Greene County, Alabama. This being Greene County Tax Parcel #29-09-31-0000-005 Deed Reference: Deed Book 6-0 at page
507. The East ½ of the East ½ of Section 36, Township 20 North, Range 2 East, LESS AND EXCEPT a strip of land 400 feet in width (North – South) lying South and adjacent to Greene County Highway 41 running from the East boundary of Section 36 to the West boundary of the East ½ of the East ½ of Section 36, all in Township 20 North, Range 2 East, Greene County, Alabama. This being Greene County Tax Parcel # 27-07-36-0000-001. Deed Reference: Deed Book 65 at page 162. LESS AND EXCEPT: A parcel of property located in the Southwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 31, Township 20 North, Range 3 East and in the Southwest Quarter of the Northeast Quarter of Section 36, Township 20 North, Range 2 East all in Greene County, Alabama and being more particularly described as follows: As a STARTING POINT, begin at the Southeast corner of the Northwest Quarter of the Southwest Quarter of said Section 31, said point being a ½” rebar found near a fence corner; thence run N 00°10’39” E for a distance of 1,733.42 feet to a ½” rebar found; thence run N 00°08’59” E for a distance of 51.21 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the parcel herein described, said point being a 5/8” capped rebar set; thence run N 89°50’40” W for a distance of 1,500.00 feet to a 5/8” capped rebar thence run N set; 04°04’27” W for a distance of 545.28 feet to a 5/8” capped rebar set on the curving South Right-ofWay of Lloyd Chapel Road, an 80-foot Right-ofWay, said curve having a delta angle of 01°13’27” and a radius of 5,769.58 feet; thence run along said curving Right-of-Way with a run a chord bearing of S 83°16’12” E for a chord distance of 123.28 feet (arc distance of 123.28 feet) to a point; thence run S 83°52’56” E along said Right-of-Way for a distance 1,053.66 feet to a concrete monument found
Notice of Election Greene County , Alabama Public Notice is hereby given that the Republican Special Primary Election will be held on the date listed below at all regular polling places in Greene County from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Republican Special Primary Election Greene County , Alabama August 11, 2026 the following office will be on the ballot to be voted on: United States Representative, 7th Congresional District Rolonda M. Wedgeworth Probate Judge and Chief Election Official
Charlene Crowell “I forgot that they have the GPS thing installed. My car is jerking and I'm on the side of the road. And so when I called roadside, they were like, we can't help you. It's this [start interrupter device] I'm like, you couldn't send me an email? Like, you see my payment history. What if I was on the freeway, and not only just a regular street?”CRL urges the Federal Trade Commission, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, and states to establish several consumer protections, including limits on how much lenders can charge. “This report shows how the advantages auto dealers and lenders have over consumers result in exploitation,” noted Lucia Constantine, report co-author and a CRL senior researcher. “Our government must establish guardrails to protect consumers — like it did in the mortgage market.” Charlene Crowell is a senior fellow with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org"
on a curve having a delta angle of 00°16’16” and a radius of 28,607.89 foot, thence run with a chord bearing of S 84°23’27” E for a chord distance of 135.35 feet (arc distance of 135.35 feet) to a 5/8” capped rebar set on an old fence line; thence run S 38°05’45” E along said old fence line for a distance of 232.36 feet to a 5/8” capped rebar set, thence run S 30°13’25” E along said old fence line for a distance of 91.23 feet to a 5/8” capped rebar set, thence run S 80°42’10” E along said old fence line for a distance of 45.62 feet to 5/8” capped rebar set; thence run S 00°08’59” W for a distance of 138.94 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING of the parcel herein described. Said parcel containing 15.35 acres, more or less. For informational purposes only the street address for the above referenced property is believed to be: 3466 County Road 41, Forkland, Alabama 36740, which is not a part of the legal description and in the event of any discrepancy the legal description described in this notice shall control. Together with the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging and all fixtures now attached to and used in connection with the premises herein described. Said sale will be subject to the right of way easements and restrictions of record in the Probate Office of Greene County, Alabama, and will be subject to outstanding property taxes, and existing special assessments, if any, which might adversely affect the title to subject property. Said property will be sold on an “As Is, Where Is” basis without warranty or recourse, express or implied as to title, use and/or enjoyment. Neither the mortgagee, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of the mortgagee make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental,
health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition, including those suggested by Code of Ala. (1975) §35-4-271, are expressly disclaimed. Alabama law gives some persons who have an interest in property the right to redeem the property under certain circumstances. Programs may also exist that help persons avoid or delay the foreclosure process. An attorney should be consulted to help you understand these rights and programs as a part of the foreclosure process. Said sale will be made for the purpose of paying the indebtedness secured by the above described mortgage, and the proceeds thereof will be applied as provided by the terms of said mortgage. The successful bidder must tender a non-refundable deposit in certified funds made payable to Reynolds, Reynolds & Little, LLC at the time and place of the sale. The balance of the purchase price must be paid in certified funds or by wire transfer by 5:00 p.m. the next business day at the Law Office of Reynolds, Reynolds & Little, LLC at the address indicated below unless prior to said sale Reynolds, Reynolds & Little, LLC has agreed to a later date or closing location. The Mortgagee reserves the right to bid for and purchase the real estate and to credit its purchase price against the expenses of sale and the indebtedness secured by the real estate. The failure of any high bidder to pay the purchase price and close this sale shall, at the option of Mortgagee, be cause for rejection of the bid, and if the bid is rejected, Mortgagee shall have the option of making the sale to the next highest bidder who is able, capable and willing to comply with the terms thereof. This sale is sub-
The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Page 7
ject to postponement or cancellation. Sweet Water State Bank Mortgagee Justin B. Little R E Y N O L D S , REYNOLDS & LITTLE, LLC Attorneys for Mortgagee 2115 Maxie Thomas Way Post Office Box 2863 Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35403-2863 Telephone: 205-3910073 File No. 1398.0004 Publication Dates: July 29 August 5,12, 2026 Legal Notices A D V E RT I S E M E N T FOR BIDS Sealed bids will be received by Community Service Programs of West Alabama, Inc., at 601 Wears Way, Black Tuscaloosa, AL, 35401, Friday, August 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM local time for property located at 5951 Highway 51, Aliceville, AL, at which time they will be opened and read. Submissions may be sent via USPS or mailing service but must be received by August 14, 2026 at 9:00 AM local time and marked to the attention of Heather Siavelis. All bids received in person or by mail by the required time will be opened on August 14, 2026 at 10:15 AM. Bids are being accepted for property located at 5951 Highway 51, Aliceville, AL, containing 1.92 acres, more or less. The minimum bid required is $35,000.00. The buyer shall be solely responsible for all closing costs associated with the purchase of the property. The property includes two parcels: Parcel No. 1: Begin at the Northwest Corner of Section 30, Township 22, Range 15 West in Pickens County, AL, and run East along the Section line as now established 1057.5 feet to the West border of the Right of Way of the Eutaw-Aliceville Highway; thence Southerly along said West border of said Right of Way 1405 feet to the point of beginning of the property herein and hereby conveyed; thence continuing
Southerly along said West border of said Eutaw-Aliceville Highway Right of Way 200 feet; thence West parallel to the aforesaid Section line 200 feet; thence Northerly parallel to said border of said Highway 200 feet; thence East parallel to said section line 200 feet to the point of beginning. Said real estate lying and being situated in the South Half (S ½) of Northwest Quarter (NW ¼) Section 30, Township 22, Range 15 West, in Pickens County, Alabama. Parcel No 2: Begin at the Northwest corner of Section 30, Township 22 South, Range 15 West, and run East along the North boundary of said Section a distance of 1057.5 feet to the West boundary of the AlicevilleEutaw Highway (Alabama Highway #14); thence run in a southeasterly direction along the said West boundary of said highway a distance of 1405 feet to a point; thence run in a westerly direction parallel to the North boundary of said Section 30, a distance of 200 feet to the point of beginning of the parcel herein described and conveyed; thence from said point of beginning run in a westerly direction parallel to said North line of said Section 30, a distance of 200 feet to a point; thence run in a southeasterly direction parallel to the West boundary of said Highway #14 a distance of 250 feet to a point; thence run in an easterly direction parallel to the North boundary of said Section 30 a distance of 400 feet to a point on the West boundary of said Highway #14 thence run northwesterly along said West right of way boundary of said highway a distance of 50 feet to a point; thence run westerly parallel to the North boundary of said Section 30, a distance of 200 feet to a point; thence run northeasterly parallel to the West boundary of said Highway 14 a distance of 200 feet to the point of beginning. LESS AND EXCEPT on-half (1/2) interest in all oil, gas and minerals. 2tcg 7/ 29 8/5
NOTICE
The Greene County Highway Department is seeking:
HEAVY EQUIPMENT MECHANIC •Drivers License Required •Repairs Automotive & Heavy Equipment •Performs Maintenance on Automotive & Heavy Equipment
TEMPORARY WORKERS FOR HIGHWAY DEPARTMENT •Driver License is required •Semi-Skilled Work •Operates Light to Heavy Equipment Apply at Greene County Highway Department 521 Prairie Avenue Eutaw, Alabama 35462 (205) 372-3302 Hours of Operation: 7:00 am-3:00 pm Monday –Friday Timeline to Apply: Ongoing Greene County Highway Department Is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Page 8, The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Housing Aurhority of Greene County Summer Enrichment Program 2026
Mrs. Anita Lewis, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of Greene County initiated a six week summer enrichment program for the youth of King Village, Branch Heights and the entire Greene County Community. This program was an essential need for our youth because of limited resources and available activities for engagement, growth and participation during the summer months. Special thanks to Mrs. Sharketra Armour, Attorney John T. Stamps, Mr. Ben Singh, Mr. Jerry Collins, Mrs. Joyce Cotton, Mr. & Mrs. Lataursa Jones, Mrs.
Phyllis Belcher, Ms. Stanleshia Pasture, Ms. Tammy Holley, Ms. Juanita Pasture, Ms. Dorothy Bonner, Ms. Eula Lanier, Ms. Connie Tyree, Ms. Tyeshia Weeks (PARA), Ms. Jacqueline Jolly, Liberty Baptist Church, Mr. Savion Richardson (Bouncey Mr. Jermaine Houses), Stewart and Mr. Justin Pearson, Mr. TyJouan Rice, Youth helpers: China Washington and Kendrick Conner. Both the office staff and the maintenance crew were very diligent and dedicated making sure that the daily needs of our youth were met with a clean,
healthy, safe environment to aide our children’s development, learning and growing. A delightful, heart filled breakfast, lunch and a healthy snack were prepared daily by Mrs. DeCharo Rice and Ms. Maria Smith that the youth truly enjoyed. The Summer Enrichment Program provided academic, drug awareness, social, emotional growth, physical as well as mental stability, healthy eating habits, and coping skills daily for the 67 participation's that enrolled in the Program from June 8-July 16, 2026. Our daily atten-
dance ranged from 25-37 youth Monday-Thursday from 8:30 A. M. 3:00 P. M. We were very fortunate to have other agencies to come and provide skills, games and activities for our youth engagement and participation. Those agencies included : Tuskegee Extension Services (Ms. Shenell Edwards/ Summer Youth Workers); Free Dental Screenings( Dr. Kurry Wyatt); NAPS; SCORE International ( Hyattsville Baptist Church Group-Lancaster, Kentucky );Sowing and Growing (Ms. Shelia Daniels); READY of Tuscaloosa, Alabama (Mrs.
Latasha Taylor & Group); West Alabama Cardiac Care (Ms. Tiffany Gray & WAHC Group); University of Alabama Nutrition Class; Breaking Point (Liberty Baptist Church—St. Petersburg, Florida); and Alabama Power Company (Mrs. Leah Banks & Bucket Truck Driver). Our sincere thanks to all that came out to assist and will continue to come to be a light to our youth. Our youth were provided opportunities to develop some lasting relationships with other peers, mentors, and adults as well. They were diligent with their at-
parameters of these fines. The fines and ordinance policies will be enforced 30 days after this information is released. Mayor Cockrell stated that building inspectors and officers will write tickets. Following the agenda items, Mayor Cockrell gave a report on the progress of city maintenance, grants, and community outreach projects. Cockrell informed citizens that it is time for city workers to clean gutters, and the street sweeper will be repaired next week. He is also working with
county officials to remove tree limbs overhanging the streets, as they have the equipment needed to do so. He explained that the council is still pushing for approval on CDBG and Rebuild Alabama grants for the city. The council is also pursuing a grant with the National Guard; more details to come on this later. The Robert Young Community Center roof is alcomplete, with most facilities scheduled to be open until 9:00 p.m. Cockrell encourages those who need to walk for physical
therapy or general wellness to use the center. On Sunday, August 9, the council will be holding a Book Bag Giveaway in the center at 5:00 p.m. Cockrell stated that these projects and infrastructure improvements will be "a plus for the whole community." Councilmembers had little to report during the session aside from thanking the citizens and city workers for their commitment to the City of Eutaw. Citizens were reminded to report any water leaks and damaged/illegible street signs ASAP.
Councilman French wanted to ensure that the work on school buildings was near completion, to which Mayor Cockrell confirmed that any hazards were removed. Councilwoman Watkins thanked the city workers for patching the holes on Harris Avenue, but said that there was grass in the same area that needed to be cut. During public comments, citizens also raised concerns about land that may belong to the state that needed maintenance. John Cashin came to invite attendees to
tendance as well as willingness to participate in games and activities. Behaviors showed significant improvement with a level of respect for self and others. The youth and everyone involved with our Summer Enrichment Program 2026 had an amazing summer, packed with a filed trip to the farm, participation in Marcus Campbell Basketball Camp (2 days), games, crafts, academics, social skills, communication and positive interactive activities with peers and adult leaders from all areas of life. WE HAD A BLAST!!!
City Council During the discussion of agenda item 8, the City Attorney explained that fines ranging up to $500.00 could be issued for the listed violations. Each day the violations are not corrected, a new fine can be issued, leading to compounded fines that must be paid before the court. Vehicles in violation of ordinances cannot be confiscated, but buildings deemed unsafe by the city's inspectors can be foreclosed and torn down. The city council will state in more detail on social media and in the newspaper the
Greene County Student Trained in Economic and Community Development
Montgomery, AL – Da’Miyah Watkins, a rising senior at Greene County High School, was one of twenty-three high school students representing seventeen Alabama Chambers of Commerce to attend the seventh Huntingdon College Economic and Community Development Scholars Program. Da’Miyah represented the Eutaw Area Chamber of Commerce. The three-day, two-night event was hosted by Huntingdon College in partnership with the Huntingdon College Presidential Scholars Program and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama. The annual program introduces students to the importance of economic and
community development across Alabama on a state and local level. Participants were selected by their local Chamber of Commerce and the Huntingdon College Presidential Scholars Program. During the program, the students had the opportunity to meet and learn about the facets of economic development from Dr. Anthony Leigh, President of Huntingdon College, Mrs. Paige Hutto, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama, Mr. Jess Skaggs, Chief of Staff for the President Pro Tem of the Alabama Senate, Mr. Nick Hadley, Economic Development Project Manager at the Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Mrs. Bria Rochelle-Stephens, Vice President for Strategic Academic Initiatives and Director for the Huntingdon College Presidential Scholars Program. To receive first-hand experience in economic and community development, the students were divided into teams and assigned a city in Alabama to represent. The students were tasked with assuming pub-
lic office identities and using their knowledge of their hometown to vie for a corporation to make their headquarters in the city. After completing assignments in the project, including creating a town highlight tour, the teams gave their final pitch to President Leigh and guests. The winning team was highlighted in a groundbreaking ceremony and ribbon cutting ceremony after the final presentations on Friday. President Anthony Leigh shared high praise for the students stating, “Each year, this program brings together some of the most promising young leaders from high schools across Alabama, and this year’s cohort is no exception. These students are motivated, thoughtful, community-minded, and eager to make a positive impact. They represent the very best of their schools and hometowns, and it is clear that their local Chambers of Commerce recognized outstanding potential in each of them. Their creativity, curiosity, leadership, and genuine commitment to service set them apart. As ambassa-
dors for their communities and as emerging leaders for our state, these students remind us that Alabama’s future is in capable and inspiring hands.” Mrs. Rochelle-Stephens commented, “These students are incredible representations of their communities and their Chambers of Commerce. The dedication and participation these students have shown during the program give me high hopes for the future of community leadership in Alabama. I am excited to see how they apply the knowledge they learned at Huntingdon, combined with their talent and ambition, for futures in economic development. This program is a true catalyst for opportunity and growth in community advancement across our state. For questions on participation in the Economic and Community Development Scholars Program or in the Huntingdon College Presidential Scholars Program, contact Mrs. Bria RochelleStephens at hc.brochelle@hawks.huntingdon.edu.
Support Our Advertisers
the Airport Authority Board meeting on the 3rd Thursday at noon in the airport lobby. Sandra Walker reminded everyone that the Renaissance Theater has free admission for a movie every Friday. The next City Council meeting is set for August 11th at 5:00 p.m. City council meetings are held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. City council work sessions are held every 3rd Tuesday of the month.
The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026, Page 9
Carolyn’s Tid Bits...by Carolyn Young As I prepare to meet the day Let the dawn fall softly on my shoulders, Lord, As I prepare to meet the day, Let the sunshine wrap it’s warmth ‘round me, As I go along the way. Let me feel your presence near me,
As the gentle breezes play. Through blades of grass, and in the trees, Causing leaves to sway. Let me show some kindness to each person that I meet, Let me see Your Image in each person that I greet.
Happy birthday to Marqua’eous Williams, Minia S. Walker Waymond Bryant, Ifiok Udoh, Genetta Bishop, Dr. Emma Louie, JaQuez Wesley, Draylon Davis, Derrick Allen, Talitha Wilcher, Corey Allen, Amber Quinnie, Valerie Cheatham, Anika Jones, Morgan N. Smith, William Carter,
Norman Atkins, Jr., Taliyah Janelle Atkins, Tommy Johnson, Donesha White, TyShawn Robinson, Robert Archibald, Midred Jean N. Thomas Jade Thorton, Ayron Wilkins, Ruthie Montgomery, De Andrea Higgins, Asia Sermon, Jessica Pelt, Felica Bloxon Martin, Amari Sullivan, Marzell Goodwin, Adrian Dixon,
Brittany Crawford, Louisa Knox. Happy anniversary to Melvin Laennec & Rose Mary Hodges and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur & Lakesha Sermon. “Common sense is the knack of seeing things as they are and doing things as the ought to be done.’
Greene County Special Primary Election August 11, 2026 Election Poll Worker List District 1: Machine 1 (William McKinley Branch Courthouse) Inspector /Provisional Officer: Anastashia Rice Inspector/ Provisional Officer: Julia Carter Registration Clerk:Jonathan Woodruff Ballot Counter Clerk: Earnestine Saxton District 1: Machine 2 (Mantua Fire Department) Inspector/ Provisional Officer: Norman L. Cotton Inspector/ Provisional Officer: Lucy Spann Registration Clerk: Kathy Morrow Ballot Counter Clerk: Veola Talley District 1: Machine 3 (Jena Fire Station) Inspector/Provisional Officer: Natasha Ward Inspector/Provisional Officer: Devin Underwood Registration Clerk: D’Eric Dixon Ballot Counter Clerk: Antoinette S. Ward District 1: Machine 4 (Union Fire Station) Inspector / Provisional Officer: Helen Sanford Inspector /Provisional Officer: Rosa Carpenter Davis Registration Clerk: Gene Colvin Ballot Counter Clerk: Betty Turman District 1: Machine 5 (Knoxville Fire Department) Inspector/ Provisional Officer : Sabrina Davis Inspector /Provisional Officer: John Earl Smith Registration Clerk: Fayrene C. Smith Ballot Counter Clerk: Elaine Perry District 2: Machine 1 (National Guard Armory) Table # 1 Inspector/Provisional Officer: Pinnia Hines Inspector/Provisional Officer: Kimberly Tyree Registration Clerk: Stephanie Kiel Registration Clerk: Mary Joyce Hann Ballot Counter Clerk: Clara Woods Table # 2 Registration Clerk: Gabrielle Crawford Registration Clerk: Marilyn Cork Ballot Counter Clerk: Willie M. Davis District 2: Machine 2 (Bama Bingo) Inspector /Provisional Officer: Felicia Smith Inspector/Provisional Officer: Mollie Gaines Registration Clerk: Ernest Coleman Ballot Counter Clerk: Hattie Sanford
Forkland City Hall Table #1 Inspector/Provisional Officer: Ridgeway Gaines Inspector /Provisional Officer: LaMeka Woods Bryant Registration Clerk: Lula McClore Registration Clerk: Priscilla Turner Ballot Counter Clerk: Daisy Gilbert Table #2 Registration Clerk: Lillie R. Thomas Registration Clerk: Breneesha Turner Ballot Counter Clerk: Dorothy Vasser District 4: Machine 2 (Tishabee Community Center) Inspector/Provisional Officer: Debra Waiters Inspector/Provisional Officer: Bettye Jo Blake Registration Clerk : Maketia Bevelle Ballot Counter Clerk: Nicole Henley District 5: Machine 1 (Boligee Fire Station) Table # 1 Inspector/ Provisional Officer: Jacqueline Archibald Inspector /Provisional Officer: Valerie Walton Registration Clerk: Teresa B. Constantine Registration Clerk: Sharlene French Ballot Counter Clerk: Maggie Oliver Table #2 Registration Clerk: Jennifer Watkins Registation Clerk: Carrie Merritt Ballot Counter Clerk: Ida Bonner District 5: Machine 2 (West Greene Fire Department) Inspector /Provisional Officer: Merjean Little Inspector /Provisional Officer: Rose Stewart Davis Registration Clerk: Peggy Craig Ballot Counter Clerk: Willie Cheatem District 5: Machine 3 (The Spot) Inspector/ Provisional Officer:Daisy Hutton Inspector/ Provisional Officer:Grace Summerville Registration Clerk: Sara Simpson Ballot Counter Clerk: Marstine Rice ABSENTEE (City Hall) Inspector/Provisional Officers: Ezra Kenneth Aycock and Edna James Clerks:Vivian Jordan and Murcury Lee Counting Center: (W.M. Branch Courthouse) Inspectors/ Provisional Officers: Mia Jordan and Melinda Oates Clerks: Alexis Jordan and Emma Jackson
District 3: Machine 1 (Eutaw Activity Center) Inspector/ Provisional Officer: Veronica Jordan Inspector/Provisional Officer: Cynthia Crawford Registration Clerk: Marnesha Brooks Ballot Counter Clerk: Jessie W. Underwood
This certifies that the names listed herewith have been appointed to serve as POLLING OFFICIALS for the August 11, 2026 Democratic and Republican Primary and Constitutional Amendment Election. Note: If any reason one named cannot serve, Please contact the Election Manager Immediately at: (205) 372- 6945.
District 3: Machine 2 (Brown- Morrow Center - Branch Height) Inspector /Provisional Officer: Jacqueline Allen Inspector /Provisional Officer: Joe L. Powell Registration Clerk: Martha Brooks Ballot Counter Clerk: Elzora Fluker
The Appointing Board: Chief Election Official/ Probate Judge Rolonda M. Wedgeworth Circuit Clerk/ Absentee Manager: Veronica Morton Jones Sheriff Appointee: Teresa Carpenter
District 4: Machine 1
Page 10, The Greene County Democrat, Wednesday, July 29, 2026
The Democrat
“Serving West Alabama like no other Community Newspaper”
SUBSCRIPTION Name____________________________________ RATES $25 Greene Address__________________________________ County Residents City________ State______________ Zip________ email_________________________Phone_____________
$30 Alabama Residents
PHONE : 205-372-3373
FAX: 205-372-2243
Mail to: The Greene County Democrat P.O. Box 598 Eutaw, AL 35462
$35 Out-of-State Residents
For Rent: Building in town Great for parties, meetings, etc. For more information call 205-496-0096
Law Office of
Glen McCord, Esq Licensed Engineer Licensed Land Surveyor 311 North Street Livingston, Al 35470
(205) 718-4047 gmccord@glenmccordlaw.com
Ala-Scan Ala-SCAN Central SERVICES WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP & RESTORATION: A small amount of water can lead to major damage in your home. Our trusted professionals dry out the wet area and do repairs to protect your family and your home's value! If you have water in your home that needs to be dried, Call 24/7: 1-833879-1371 Have zip code of service location ready when you call!
Prompt local service available for appliance repair. Washer/Dryer, DishRefrigerator, washer, Stove/Oven and all major appliances. Certified, Insured techs. Satisfaction guaranteed. Call to schedule your appointment now! 1-877-441-0132 BEAUTIFUL BATH UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Superior quality bath and shower systems at AFFORDABLE PRICES! Lifetime warranty & professional inCall Now! stalls. 1-877-583-6484
APPLIANCE REPAIR:
SELLING a RV, Tractor or Golf Cart? ADVERTISE STATEWIDE or by region in over 100 Newspapers, reaching over 1 million readers each week! Run your ad in our Classified Network for just $210 per week! Make one call to this newspaper (participating Ala-SCAN newspaper) or call 1-800-264-7043 to find out how easy it is to advertise statewide! We Buy Houses for Cash AS IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy three step process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Get your fair cash offer today by calling Liz Buys Houses: 1-877-385-7131 Consumer Cellular - the same reliable, nationwide coverage as the largest carriers. No long-term contract, no hidden fees and activation is free. All plans feature unlimited talk and text, starting at just $20/month. For more information, call 1-844-3585270 HEALTH/BEAUTY OXYATTENTION GEN THERAPY USERS! Discover Oxygen Therapy That Moves with You with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. FREE information kit. Call 1-833650-7885 Attention: VIAGRA and USERS! A CIALIS cheaper alternative to high drugstore prices! 50 Pill Special - Only $99! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW: 1-877-651-8016 FOR SALE SunSetter. America’s Number One Awning! Instant shade at the touch of a button. Transform your deck or patio into an outdoor oasis. Up to 10-year limited warranty. Call now and SAVE $350 today! 1877-930-3506 DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400 plus
BOLIGEE ELECTRICAL OVER 16 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE “CALL US FOR ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS”
Store Hours Huge sale on light 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Monday - Friday bulbs! Lights bulbs .50 RESIDENTIAL * COMMERCIAL * INDUSTRIAL 215 Boligee Street Eutaw, AL 35462 Appliances: CELL: 205-496-6019 Washers, Dryers, Email : BoligeeElectric@bellsouth.net Refrigerators, Reginald Cheatem Proprietor Stoves..etc
JOSHUA J. SWORDS Attorney at Law Tuscaloosa County Office 600 Lurleen B. Wallace Blvd S. Courthouse Plaza, Suite 120 Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Greene County Office Oliver Scott House 329 Prairie Ave Eutaw, Al 35462
JSwords@Swordslaw. com Phone: 205-409-0673 Facsimile: 205-409-0672 Tuscaloosa, Al 35401
procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-8778 1 7 - 4 6 9 7 www.dental50plus.com/alabama #6258 AFFORDABLE TV & INTERNET. If you are overpaying for your service, call now for a free quote and see how much you can save! 1-877-5415677 NEED NEW FLOORING? Call today to schedule a FREE in-home estimate on Carpeting & Flooring. Call Today! 1877-403-4821 No more cleaning out gutters. Guaranteed! LeafFilter is the most advanced gutter protection for your home, backed by a no-clog guarantee and lifetime transferrable warranty. Call today 1-833-683-2005 to schedule a FREE inspection and no obligation estimate. Plus get 20% off! Seniors and military save an additional 10%. Restrictions apply, see representative for warranty and offer details AUTOMOTIVE Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877724-3049 today! GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? DONATE IT TO PATRIOTIC HEARTS. Fast free pick up. Patriotic Hearts’ programs help veterans find work or start their own business. Call 24/7: 1-833-426-0193
Disclaimer These recoveries and testimonials are not an indication of future results. Every case is different regardless of what friends, family or other individuals say about what a case is worth. Each case must be evaluated on its own facts and circumstances as they apply to the law. The valuation of a case depends on the facts, the injuries, the jurisdiction, the venue, the witnesses, the parties and the testimony among other factors. Furthermore, No representation that the quality of legal services to be performed are greater than the services performed by other lawyers.
EUTAW ACCENT TIRE & Flower Shop 205-372-5444 207 Boligee Street- Eutaw, Al You can always depend on your complete Tires and Floral Services
Hours:
Mon, Tues- 7 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Wednesday (Closed) Thur. 7 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Fri. 7a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
************ New & Used TiresBatteries, Tire Repairs, Tire Balance /Rotation Daily Floral- Deliveries FTD
ACCIDENTS & INJURIES AUTO & TRUCK ACCIDENTS, WRONGFUL DEATH, SLIP & FALL Office-205-933-7533 Cell – 205-901-6129 “I like Big Bucks and I cannot lie” 24 HOUR SERVICE – FREE CONSULTATION OVER 100 YEARS COMBINED EXPERIENCE FRANK S. BUCK P.C. ATTORNEY 2160 14TH Ave South BIRMINGHAM, AL 35255 NO REPRESENTATION IS MADE THAT THE QUALITY OF THE LEGAL SERVICES TO BE PERFORMED IS GREATER THAN THE QUALITY OF LEGAL SERVICES PERFORMED BY OTHER LAWYERS