Saturday, July 22, 2006

2006---Georgia Inmates are dying for whatever reason! But who cares in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia?

DEATHS
IN OR SURROUNDING THE LOWNDES COUNTY
JAIL FOR WHATEVER REASONS

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George Boston Rhynes,
a concerned citizen and brother of humanity!


1-Willard McFarland, (BLACK), age 63, 01 April 1994 CAUSE OF DEATH: Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy.

2-Willie Lee Gaye, (BLACK), age 39, died 23 October 1995: CAUSE OF DEATH: Chronic Ethanolism

3-James N. Starling, (WHITE), age 63, died 1 May 1996: CAUSE OF DEATH: Coronary atherosclerotic disease

4-Willie James Williams, (BLACK), age 49, died 2 September 1998: CAUSE OF DEATH: Subdural Hemotoma

5-Ronzie Sonny Graham, (BLACK), age 48, died 13 July 2000: CAUSE OF DEATH: Uknown

6-Rosemary King, (NOT PROVIDED), Age 40, died 20 July 2001: CAUSE OF DEATH: High Blood Presure Hyper Tension

7-Richard William Oakley, (WHITE), age 27, died April 2002: CAUSE OF DEATH: Suicide/Hanging

8-Sandra J. Wallace, (BLACK), age 39, died 31 August 2002: CAUSE OF DEATH: Complications of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome

9-Lisa Sanders, (BLACK), age 38, died 2003: CAUSE OF DEATH: Natural Cause

10-John Henry Dejonghe, (WHITE), age 49, died 21 June 2004: CAUSE OF DEATH: Seizure disorder in a background of chronic ethanolism

11-Amaruy Quinones, (HISPANIC), age 34, died 2 September 2005: CAUSE OF DEATH: Self Induced Staravation

12-Esavious Wright, (BLACK), age 29, died, 16 February 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack

13-Bobby Stanford, (BLACK), age 55, died 23 March 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Aneurysm of Aorta

14-Clarence Fender, (WHITE), age 70, died 2 April 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack

15. George Hill Jr., age 21, (BLACK), died 23 June 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack

16.NAME NOT GIVEN: (But Available). Following the State of Georgia NAACP, Press Conference at the Lowndes County Jail on July 5, 2006 at 1:00pm by President Edward DuBose. Three family members and an associate of the family made another death known. This deceased inmate name is WITHHELD out of respect to the family. However, it is public record and has been verified.

What inmates said on May 5, 2005, is quickly becoming a reality. That more deaths had occurred in or surrounding the jail but not reported to the general public.

Moreover, it may be a good idea to check with the local News Media and verify the dates, and within what time frame these deaths identified by an (*) were reported to the public by the local media.


GEORGE BOSTON RHYNES
Retired Air Force Veteran (Active Duty)
A concerned citizen and brother of humanity


* Another Valdosta-Lowndes County Citizens (NAME) is being researched but NOT LISTED here. There appears to be atleast three other death that needs to be questioned by concerned citizens of our Republic!

We are awaiting information from outside agencies of the people who want for their neighbors the same things they want for themselves and their own children. Peace!



1 comment:

George Boston Rhynes said...

I read in the Valdosta Daily Times today wherein the Times Editor and publishing manager allowed a column, and a rant to be published speaking negative of Minister Floyd Rose and the work he has done in our beloved community.

A few days later another opinion column by Henry L. Howard was published. I had to respond because I am concerned about all citizens in our beloved community:

This is my response to the Valdosta Daily Times and to Mr. Henry L. Howard.

Thursday, August 03, 2006

Valdosta Daily Times Published Negative Opinion Columns, and Rave concerning Local Black Leaders

TO: Valdosta Daily Times Editor, Mr. Henry L. Howard, Message Boards, Blogs, and beyond. (This response includes excerpts from my presentation before the Valdosta City Mayor and Council members during A city council meetings concerning renaming Barber Park).


COMMENTS: The Valdosta Daily Times (VDT) published an Opinion Column by Henry L. Howard on July 25, 2006. He said; he was an African American who has lived in Valdosta for over 50 years. He asked, where are the Black Leaders, and don’t you find it interesting that Mr. Floyd Rose finds the Barber Park issue more important than any other issue?”


When Black kids are dropping out of school, no Black leaders to lend a helping hand, our communities have been taken over by young drug dealers and drug users, our youths have nowhere to live or food to eat, we have young single mothers living from day to day with no help. Black young men have no Black leaders to look up to.

Then on July 28, 2006 the (VDT) published a rave “praising Mr. Henry L. Howard and the VDT for publishing the Opinion Column.

Then on August 3, 2006, the (VDT), Editorial Board (J.H. Sanders, publisher, and Kay Harris Managing Editor) published another opinion column by Mr. Henry L. Howard. With headlines, “Actions better than speeches.” It seem that local media has a vested need to continue the Willie Lynch Theology within our community.

Mr. Howard’s final question in his 1st column was: "What history do our young Black minds get from this story?" Personally speaking! I hope our Young Black Minds get more than what HE published in his opinion columns. You see Mr. Howard, and Valdosta Times Editor, and Manager.

1. It was local Black Leaders who addressed not only the renaming of Barber Park from its shameful, outdated, and segregated past. Black Leaders have been addressing the ill conditions in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia for over two decades with little favorable help from the local media or governmental bodies.

2. Yes! Blacks and other concerned White Right People have been vigorously addressing many problems from A to Z in our community. They have helped children, adults, and visitors who tour our beloved city. Moreover, our help and support is not limited to the color of ones skin. We have gone to bat for many men, women, and children. I will list a few for the benefit of those who may not attend community meetings, and who are disconnected from their own community. Neither time nor space will allow me to highlight the problems and resolutions we have addressed on a weekly basis. However, I will attempt to remove the hood wink of ignorance.

3. Where was Mr. Howard when Blacks confronted the local media on fair and balanced reporting of news? Then we addressed local, state, and federal elected officials of government on issues that directly impact our community. We did this in order to bring our community into the 21st Century of inclusion, and equal justice under the law.

4. And when our local media ignored Gang activity in Valdosta for years, elderly citizens were afraid to come out of their homes because of gang violence, ignored inmates sending signed letters and notarized statements to governmental agencies including the District Attorney, and about the abuses, inhumane, unsanitary, and denial of inmates 1st, 6th, 8th, and 14th Amendments to the Constitution of the United States and of 42 U. S. C. Section. (1983); REF: CIVIL ACTION NO. 89-54-VAL in the Lowndes County Jail. Where was Mr. Howard, and what did our local media machine do?

5. When local media failed to report the many eye witnesses in the arrest of Willie James Williams on Lee Street or investigate why Ms Gilmore, who took the call from the hospital from Mr. Williams who told her that he was beaten and that she should see how they beat him but never interview by the media. Where was Mr. Howard?

6. When local Media failed to mention that the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners failed to provide even a courteous reply to jailed inmates who asked for an outside investigation to address their ill treatment in the jail. (Back-up material available upon request)

7. When Rev. Floyd Rose, ran for Chairman of the Lowndes County Board of Commissioners. He received racial slurs, and threats were made on his life at J.C. Shack Road Polling place with a White Man being arrested. However, local media NEVER reported that Rev. Rose was the SUBJECT of these threats. Not one elected Official in the City of Valdosta, or in Lowndes County government said anything about this most serious matter in Lowndes County Georgia. Where was Mr. Howard?

8. When local media had a forum with Project Change and their theme was “do we really want to talk about race.” When Charles Moore a reporter from the Lake Park Post weekly newspaper asked pointed questions. It was quickly proved that no one really wanted to talk about race in Lowndes County.

9. When there was a mock lynching of Black Dolls on a tree at Lowndes County High School in June 2003. There was little if any in-depth investigative reporting surrounding the incident and really no community closure.

10. With twenty-three Department Heads in the City and County. There are less than four positions held by Blacks. Even though the city is approximately fifty-four percent Black. Why did not, Mr. Howard address his column towards our local media, and other governmental bodies on exposing these realities?

11. When racial epithets were written on the tower at Valdosta High School there were no closure or in-depth reporting. Local media ignored a bus accident on Clay Road in front of Rev. White house and he witnessed the accident. Where was Mr. Howard?

12. When comments were brought up at the Jimmy Rainwater Conference Center on NOT hiring Blacks to management positions. A former applicant said that employees on staff had spoken to him of the unfair hiring practices and that one Black applicant application was never considered. (Name omitted but available upon request). This too, was omitted from the newspapers although they were present at the Lowndes County Conference Center Meeting.

13. The media said nothing when the disgraceful 1860 Valdosta City Charter was removed from City Hall, and the Valdosta Municipal Court Room Hallway because Black Leaders protested and insisted that it be removed. Because it was an insult to Blacks and all people of good will. It read in Article 100, Section XI, “THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL SHALL PASS ALL PROPER AND NECESSARY LAWS AND ORDINANCES FOR THE CONTROL OF SLAVES AND FREE PERSONS OF COLOR IN SAID TOWN AND SUPPRESS AND ABATE ALL NUISANCES ARRIVING FROM HOGS, DOGS, HORSES, OR OTHER STOCK STRAYING AT LARGE IN SAID TOWN, OR FROM OTHER CAUSES.” Where was Mr. Howard?

14. For years Blacks complained about bad railroad tracks and panhandlers on the South Side of town but only recently did the press say anything to the public. When citizens were required to travel 13 miles round trip during the last City Election in a Black Precinct. Nothing was published to inform the citizens of Valdosta. Nor did the State of Georgia respond to this most serious election problem.

15. Then on 21 June 2003, a 49-year-old White male inmate died in the Lowndes County Jail. However, it took local media 26 days to release his name after Civil Rights organizations told them that the public had a right to know. Therefore, the citizens of Valdosta-Lowndes County have no idea of how many inmates have died or how much money have been paid out through Civil Law Suits. Because no real investigative reporting have been done by either our elected officials or the local press. So where was Mr. Howard on these issues?

16. Even more importantly is that the media seem to have a vested interest in not reporting the news to local citizens. The Lake Park Post an independent weekly newspaper published on 15 April 2004, Vol. 17 NO. 2, that the following inmates died in the jail to mention a few that is known to have occurred in our surrounding the Lowndes County Jail. They were Rosemary King age 40, died, on 20 June 2001, Ronzie “Sonny” Graham, age 48, died, on 13 July 2000, Willie James Williams age 49, died, on 2 Sept 1998, Willie Lee Gay age 39, died, on 23 Oct 1995, Willie McFarland died years earlier, John Henry Dejonghe, 49 died on 21 June 2004. Where was Mr. Howard?

17. When Black Leaders addressed a Pattern of alleged Abuse in the Lowndes County Jail and then presented to all local governmental agencies. But nothing was done to correct these problems. At any given time, roughly 85% of the Lowndes County Jail population is Black.

18. It was Local Black Community Leaders who identified that there had been numerous cases of unfair treatment and racial discrimination. Two black jailers were demoted, 10 felt that they were forced to resign, 18 were fired, only three of them with cause, at least 12 persons filed racial discrimination complaints to the EEOC, under Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act. Of these, 10 were given right to sue letters from the EEOC.

19. Larry McDougal is one of these 10 who is black was fired for not participating in the beating of a shackled inmate Avery Woods. (See Video, A Chorus of Fear). A Black man whose head was rammed into a glass security door by at least two guards while his hands handcuffed behind his back. Larry McDougal, the Black guard fired for not participating in the event, contends that the guards had taunted him just prior to that by twisting his testicles. Again, (See Video a Chorus of Fear), a two hour documentary put together by Valdosta State University Professors.

20. It was Black Community Leaders who discovered through U.S. Court Records from the Middle District of Georgia Valdosta, Division (The Honorable Judge Hugh Lawson Civil Action 98-54-VAL), that there had been a documented record dating back to 1989 concerning the ill treatment, deaths, and allegations of beatings and Neglect at the Lowndes County Jail.

21. Local Black leaders determined nearly two decades ago that other deaths were likely to follow. Because people have yet to show the sheriff that the community will not stand for these kinds of actions in our beloved community.

22. And as of 1 August 2006, there have been approximately 16 known deaths that have occurred in or surrounding the jail since 1994 for whatever reason. Even though, some local family members do not wish that their love ones name be published. (But available upon request).

23. Then on May 5, 2005, inmates said that even more inmates have died but was sent home and not reported by the local news media network. So to the Valdosta Daily Times, and Mr. Howard I appreciate your words but I see water falling in your published opinion column concerning Minister Floyd Rose and other community Black Leaders.

24. Then on 5 May 2005, citizens were told, by inmates in their cell (13B) that Leisa Sanders also died in our surrounding the jail. And that even more deaths had occurred but not reported to the general public. Many inmates in cell 13B heard these words coming from inmates who seemed to know. Since there is no objective Local News Media in this area citizens do not know how many inmates have died in or surrounding the jail.

25. When Sheriffs Deputies were being terminated from their job in the 1990s. They came to the Valdosta Lowndes County Branch of the NAACP and filed EEOC Complaints but the media failed to report their cases to the public. I was one on the Executive Board who met in an apartment and listened to individual Lowndes County Deputies as they gave their complaints. We do know that several former deputies won their cases. Where was Mr. Howard?

26. On 5 May 2005, inmates said that Local Law Enforcement routinely search Black citizens vehicles, homes, and plant drugs at will in order to get a conviction or squeal on others. This is even truer when it relates to family members who are on probation. (Names withheld but available upon request). When it was brought before the Mayor and Council that a local Juvenile Court Judge seem to be unfair towards Blacks. This too went unpublished to local citizens from City Council Meetings.

27. When a Sheriffs Deputy called “Black Jesus” who received this name from the harsh treatment he administered to jail inmates. Where was Mr. Howard when Black Leaders sought to stop this mistreatment? (Letters were received from the jail on this individual and published in the Lake Park Post Weekly Newspaper)

28. When the Times editor was questioned as to the cause of John Henry Dejonghe death, a white 49 year old white male inmate who died in the Lowndes County Jail on 21 June 2003 she provided NO answer. They ignored discussions of interest at Valdosta City School Board of Education meetings. Where was Mr. Howard?

29. When Minister Rose was arrested the first, and second time along with fourteen others. It never made front-page coverage. It seem that front-page coverage is reserved for a cat trapped in a tree or for Blacks who rob a convenient store etc,

30. Moreover, when Tiger Woods won the Augusta National practically every newspaper across the country had Tiger Woods sporting that Highly Honored and respected Green Jacket on the front page. But NOT in Valdosta Georgia! Where was Mr. Howard?

31. Local media ignored peaceful protests against the War in Iraq held on the Courthouse steps. A protest at the Chamber of Commerce with about 300 citizens concerning the death of Willie James Williams and the eight to ten deaths of inmates who died in or surrounding the Lowndes County Jail dating back to 1988. This too was down played, by local media.

32. Perhaps, the best-kept secret is the media’s ability to ignore Civil Action #89-54-VAL, filed in U.S. District Courts of the Middle District of Georgia, Valdosta Division against the Jail. It was Judge Hugh Lawson, who identified 105 violations to be corrected in two years in 1997. However, current inmate letters indicate that these same violations remain. This is due in part because elected officials and a media that seem to be in the 1860-1965 time-period. So what have Mr. Howard been doing for the last 50 years as a Black Leader?

33. After sixteen or eighteen known deaths in or surrounding the Lowndes County Jail, Local Medical Facilities, and Local Governmental communities. It seems somewhat strange that no one seems to be concerned about these deceased American Citizens or their parents.

34. Nor have local, state, or federal elected officials taken serious action to stop these continual deaths for whatever reasons. Did Mr. Howard address these concerns in his opinion column? But Local Black Leaders are committed to seeking justice for all people in Lowndes County.

35. Moreover, the South Georgia Media Networks (SGMN), have never reported the names of the individuals who died in one article. And several have not been reported at all to the general public and when local media was question as to what date their names were released no response was provided. Nor have they stressed with great concern the ill conditions identified in Civil Action 89-54-VAL originally filed in 1989.

36. When Captain Yeager of the Sheriffs Department identified many discrepancies in the Valdosta Daily Times on two or three separate occasions (29 July 2003). Seemingly to justify building a new jail. But the media, never really addressed the human suffering of jailed citizens. Many of whom are American Veterans. So where was Mr. Howard?

37. When another inmate allegedly had a stroke in the Lowndes County Jail in June 2006, and was released to a local pastor who carried him home. Because an inmate had some concerns about his medical condition and called a Rev. Edwards for help. Then the inmate was taken to a hospital where he remained for about three weeks and died, (Name withheld but available upon request).

38. However, local news media [did not] report this alleged incident to the general public. When local media outlets were questioned about it no response was provided. The question is why, and do they have a responsibility to the community they are do business?

39. When the South Georgia Media whiteout machine was questioned on what dates they reported the death of James N. Starling, (WHITE), age 63, died 1 May 1996, of Coronary atherosclerotic disease, and Clarence Fender, (WHITE), age 70, died 2 April 2006: died of a Heart Attack. But they provided no answers so how would the public ever know how many inmates have died? And where was Mr. Howard?

40. When local Media practically ignored a National Museum on Wheels that came to Valdosta State University in 2004. It was the foremost collection of African American Historical Artifacts readily available in this country today called “SANKOFA.” Ms. Angela Jennings, was Curator/Director of Denmark, South Carolina who has traveled throughout the United States the U.S. Virgin Island, West Africa, and Europe to amass a collection of art, collectibles and memorabilia that rivals many traditional museums but local media gave little to no real exposure to this historical and international exhibit. (The only one of its Kind). Where was Mr. Howard?

41. The peak of the pyramid of this county was revealed on May 5th, 2005, about 6:37 PM, when Mayor John Fretti said something to the effects that “Somebody might want to talk about their stray dog, or cat.” (His statement was apparently left out of the City Council Minutes, and local news media coverage of the meeting). However, his words seem to reveal that the 1860 Valdosta City Charter Article 100, Section XI, was being followed. It may have also revealed the truth of the needle behind the haystack. Again, where was Mr. Howard?

42. When Captain Ken Cooper was assigned to the Lowndes County Jail and was later found not to be in possession of the educational credential that he had espoused to was found out by another state. Our local governmental agencies and the media failed to do any investigative reporting to clarify this matter to the tax paying citizens of Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia. This was a matter that some Black Leaders questioned. But not Mr. Howard.

43. Moreover, it seem that every local Media outlet is guilty of failing to report the comments from Ms. Leigh Touchton speaking in favor of renaming Barber Park. She is a National Hero, for being the 1st White Woman to be elected President of an NAACP Branch in this Country. However, her comments were a total WHITEOUT. But where was Mr. Howard?

44. When the Local media failed to mention that TWO of the seven Women arrested were white. And that Dr. Ari Santas a white professor from Valdosta State University who spoke eloquently is concerning the name change. He, was also instrumental in assembling a two-hour documentary video years ago entitled “A Chorus of Fear,” outlining the truth behind the Good Boy System in Lowndes County. Dr. Santa’s wife Pat who spoke before the Council with her son was also omitted from the article on renaming the park. Where was Mr. Howard?

45. When the local Media ignored, JESSE CLARK, a Retired Lowndes County Educator, Chairman of the Local NAACP Legal Redress Committee, and Vice President of the local NAACP who spoke of the benefits of renaming Barber Park after Ossie Davis.

46. The local media ignored Willie Head, Vice President of the Peoples Tribunal comments on renaming the park. Mr. Head has traveled to four foreign countries including Cuba on behalf of Black Farmers. He sat in the White House with former President Bill Clinton on behalf of Black Farmers. They ignored Queen Ann Robinson a nationally recognized Poet who said, to the Mayor and Council, “God is just, so you must be just. Justice is the foundation of civilization and if justice does not exist, civilization crumbles. If justice is not rendered, you will be removed.” Why did not Mr. Howard write an opinion column concerning these omissions?

47. When the local media failed to report that the 3-2 votes by the Council not to consider a committee to rename Barber Park was divided down Racial Lines.

48. When a committee was established to decide the fate of renaming Barber Park from its shameful and disgraceful history. That kept Blacks out by use of a wire fence. Not one person who researched and discovered the shameful, and disgraceful history of the park, or who were arrested and held in jail for twenty-four hours without bail. Not a single member of the Peoples Tribunal, or NAACP was placed on the committee. However, without their input the matter would not even be on the agenda. This should be a red flag and wake-up call that something is seriously wrong in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia community.

49. Moreover, after the times acknowledged their misinformation about the land being donated for Barber Park on 24 April 2005. Yet! Local media continued to publish Rants that the park was donated up until July 2006, and that there was a contractual agreement. Even a local former Firefighter and Deacon Tony Daniel’s from one of the most prestigious Black Churches in Lowndes County also spoke during this meeting but was ignored. Again, where was Mr. Howard?

50. How could all this be in the 21st Century of the Cosby Kids, and the Pepsi Generation. Especially since Valdosta is now a Metropolitan City. We probably could understand these omissions if Valdosta was in Iraq or in some other third world country. But we are now a Metropolitan City and there is no need for all these “WHITEOUTS” by the South Georgia News Media Network. But the times could publish Mr. Henry L. Howard comments about Floyd Rose. Why?

51. It is also strange that NO Television Network (WCTV, WALB, etc) was present at either of these meetings at Valdosta City Hall of community importance. However, Scott James a White local Conservative Talks Show Host did address some of the concerns from the City Council Meeting on his Talk Show. Mr. Howard should have asked if the media have a responsibility to inform the general public on the issues?

52. When dedication services were being conducted across the country honoring the legendary Rosa Parks. Local media failed to report a dedication service held in Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia at the Church at Pine Hill in 2006. This seems to be routine practice in Valdosta.

53. The South Georgia Media Whiteout Machine even ignored the arrest of the President of the local NAACP Branch. It must be noted that the NAACP is the oldest Civil Rights Organization in the Nation. Where was Mr. Howard?

54. When Georgia State NAACP, Conference President Edward DuBose held a press conference at the Lowndes County Jail on July 5, 2006. With three sets of family members attending who had relatives to die in the jail. Our only daily newspaper did not even cover the conference even though a press release was sent throughout the state of Georgia. Why did not Mr. Howard ask why didn’t they?

55. Therefore, we must ask why so many important omissions are being allowed in this South Georgia Area, and for what purpose? Lets take a second look at the 1860 Valdosta City Charter: of 1860, and see if an intellectual conclusion can be reached. “THAT THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL SHALL PASS ALL PROPER AND NECESSARY LAWS AND ORDINANCES FOR THE CONTROL OF SLAVES AND FREE PERSONS OF COLOR IN SAID TOWN AND SUPPRESS AND ABATE ALL NUISANCES ARRIVING FROM HOGS, DOGS, HORSES, OR OTHER STOCK STRAYING AT LARGE IN SAID TOWN, OR FROM OTHER CAUSES.” Is this also the purpose of the (SGMN), to keep people ignorant and unable to make intelligent decisions based on truth in order to maintain the Status Quo.

56. The Valdosta Daily Times omitted that two Police Vans were parked outside City Hall before the meeting began on 5 May 2005, and that extra Law Enforcement were also on the scene, and they were as ready as Freddi to abide by Article 100, Section XI, of an 1860 City Charter to “Control, Suppress, and Abate all Nuisances arriving from slaves, and free persons of color, Hogs, Dogs, Horses, or other stock straying at large in Valdosta Georgia. Where was Mr. Howard?

57. It’s somewhat strange that our Mayor referred to stray animals in the May 5th meeting when fifteen American citizens were arrested for addressing their elected officials.

58. Local media failed to mention that Rev. Floyd Rose was placed in Cell MP 103, for hard-core criminals away from those arrested with him. Inmates said “MP-103, was no place for a sixty-six year old man and that white folks were making an example out of you guys.”

59. The media did not interview the fifteen citizens who were arrested and held without bail for twenty-four hours for disrupting a public meeting. However, the Georgia Supreme Courts ruled that the arrest was unconstitutional. Is this not what the founding mothers and fathers of our Republic worked so hard to secure for all American citizens?

60. It has been reported that Representative Tyrone Brooks a Civil Rights Activist has been arrested nearly sixty-five times. However, he was never placed in solitary confinement as Minister Floyd Rose in the Lowndes County Jail on 5 May 2005. The seven other men were placed in Cell 13B. While the seven ladies two of which were White were all placed in Cell 5, 6, and 7. But the (SGMN), failed to interview them concerning their stay in the county jail. These type omissions seem to be routine practice in this South Georgia Area. Where was Mr. Howard?

61. Our only daily newspaper “The Valdosta Daily Times,” on their Worship Directory Page on Saturdays only lists religious symbols of the Christians, and Jews. They exclude the religious symbol of the local Muslim community in Valdosta without question.

62. Moreover, the Atlanta Journal, Augusta Chronicle, and Macon Observer used words like unruly minister and fourteen others were arrested. When they should have been praised and given medals as the best patriots or this Republic. And for following the path of Rev. Martin L. King Jr., and others who traveled that great line of patriotism and NON-VIOLENCE!

63. We must question who provided news sources with their information. Local media seem to be consistent with the Valdosta City Charter mentality of 1860. This may be why they have NEVER questioned the legality or possibility that the At-Large Voting System in Valdosta is an attempt to keep Blacks from ever becoming the majority on the Valdosta City Council as long as possible. This would be in keeping with the 1860 Valdosta City Charter to Suppress, abate, and Control People of Color.

64. When heritage is spoken of in South Georgia. It never addresses the week of terror in Brooks and Lowndes County in 1918 when eleven Blacks were lynched; some were soaked in gasoline, and motor oil, burned to a crisp, castrated, and their homes burned to the ground. For whatever reason, Sidney Johnson was castrated, his body parts were removed, thrown across the street, tied behind an automobile and dragged down South Patterson Street in broad day light in Valdosta Georgia while citizens looked on in glee, (Ref. The Crises in July 1918).

65. In addition, an eight-month old Black Fetus was cut from its mother’s abdomen (Mary Turner), and its head crushed by the heel of a certain White man boot. This history is also omitted from the South Georgia Media Network but has been documented and a White lady in Florida is now writing a book with the potential of becoming a movie about this South Georgia Area. What did Mr. Howard have to say about this?

66. A few months ago a Representative from the 144th Congressional District Ellis Black sponsored a bill to rename Negro Branch west of Quitman---to Pride Branch. This was the result of informed students attending Brooks County School system requesting the change from a segregated and shameful past. This is a great gesture by Congressman Black. However, the branch has never been called “Negro Branch.” I am from Brooks County and it has always been known until this very day as “NIGGER BRANCH.” No one in Brooks County knows of a “NEGRO” Branch. This proves that few Whites want to address the real issues of the day concerning heritage. Where was Mr. Howard, and what stand did he take for this South Georgia Area?

67. The local media seem to have ignored a monument erected on South Lee Street by the Peoples Tribunal, and members of the NAACP, marking the location where inmate Willie James Williams was arrested on a routine traffic stop. And within a few hours, he was found dead in his Lowndes County Jail cell lying in his own vomit. It was this death wherein the Honorable Floyd E. Rose galvanized over 2,000 Valdosta-Lowndes County Citizens to march on the Lowndes County Jail Seeking Justice. This is the same BLACK LEADER that Mr. Henry L. Howard spoke ill of in his opinion column in the Valdosta Daily Times.

68. Moreover, the names of the Valdosta Fifteen Freedom Fighters arrested by the orders of the City Mayor and Council never appeared in local newspapers or on television. Their names only appeared in the Valdosta-Lowndes County Crime Report on May 6, 2005, as hard-core criminals. When in truth, they should have been recognized as the great followers of the Nobel Peace Prize Winner the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., and others who contributed to our great nation.

69. It was Black Leaders from our community who said: Mr. Mayor and Council this is NOT just about Barber Park or Minister Floyd E. Rose as many have tried to make citizens believe. It is about leaving 1860-1965 and coming into the 21st Century of inclusion, love, justice, and truth. You all must understand that a squeaking wheel can only be stopped by applying grease to the problem. Again, where was Mr. Howard?

70. When the Mayor and Council were questioned! Do you not understand? That the conditions of the times brought into existence a Moses, David, Queen Ester, Ezekiel, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., Rev. Joseph Lowery, Tyrone Brooks, Nat Turner, Elijah Mohammed, John Brown, Malcolm X., Jesse L. Jackson, Louis Farrakhan, and others. In the same manner that the sick conditions here in Lowndes County demanded that Minister Floyd Rose and the fourteen others arrested be brought into existence. And there will be more to follow because the conditions of the times in Valdosta-Lowndes County demand that they come. Our God will always send agitators, liberators and sweet potatoes to meet the needs of his people as in the past. So we expect Black men like Mr. Howard, and the press to speak ill of our most respected ministers both male and female.

71. It was Black Leaders who said to the Mayor and Council that their actions had put the “Eyes of the Nation” on Valdosta and Lowndes County Georgia. And that that was something we could never have done without God working through you---Mr. Mayor and Council on our behalf. Therefore, I thank you for allowing God to use you in our quest for justice, equality and liberation.

72. It was Black Leaders who said to the Mayor and Council: Be it known! That “We the People” will not bury our head in the sand like the Legend concerning the ostrich and pretend that we are in heaven. Nor will we stay on our knees, sneeze, and refuse to stand up on our feet for what we know is right.

73. It was Black Leaders who said to the Mayor and Council: Renaming Barber Park is right, examining the At Large Voting System in Valdosta is right, Respecting jailed inmates Constitutional Rights is right, eliminating the after burner of an 1860 charter is right, and its just right to be right. Therefore, Barber Park’s name will be changed. There are signs and symbols all around this town paying tribute to Whites. Even though many of these signs and symbols had their beginning in Africa the homeland of ancient and modern man. But where was Mr. Howard?

74. Moreover, Black Leaders (men), said to the Mayor and Council: Every American must understand that before the Confederate Flag became the Confederate Flag. It was engraved in stone in Africa, and before the Cross of Saint Andrews there was the Cross of Osiris in Africa. Even the Great Seal of the United States of America was engraved in stone in Africa. This has been documented but suppressed, controlled, and kept away from the American People as the local media is attempting to do today concerning Barber Park.

75. Mr. Mayor and Council: There are Masonic signs and symbols on buildings in and out of the Courtrooms in Valdosta Georgia. Valdosta State University has the Jewish Star of David practically everywhere. Hate groups have their signs and symbols of pride down town on buildings. The only thing missing is their eyes to keep ordinary people ignorant.

76. When the address was made to the Mayor and Council. It was Local Black Leaders who said: That if you fail to do the right thing concerning Barber Park. Then others will come after you-----to straighten out what you have made crooked. Because Luke 4:18 cannot be ignored without paying a great cost. It is easier to embrace the 21st Century of change, fairness, and inclusion by standing on the side of TRUTH, JUSTICE, and EQUALITY. Because when truth comes FALSEHOOD must vanish, and FALSEHOOD is forever a vanishing thing. It vanished in Selma, Little Rock, Montgomery, Birmingham, in the heart of Governor George Wallace, Lester Maddox, and other cities across this nation. So today, it is only fitting and proper that Truth, Justice, and Equality come to South Georgia. The days of control suppression and abating is coming to an end. The only question is how costly it will be for those who reject change, fairness and inclusion. Where was Mr. Howard?

77. When comments were made to the Mayor, Council and especially to Councilman Sessions---don’t ask Blacks to forget their segregated, and painful historical past without first asking the Jews, and Native Americans to forget what happened to them. It has been reported that 6 million Jews were killed under Hitler. Blacks cannot begin their count under 100 Million. You can ignore our pain and tell yourself that it is all about renaming Barber Park and Minister Floyd Rose. But this issue is much larger than a Park and is growing everyday---that it is delayed. It is about treating your neighbor, as you yourself would want to be treated. Where was Mr. Howard?

78. It was Black men who told the Mayor and Council that the word is out among many National Civil Rights organizations because of the arrest of Valdosta Fifteen law-abiding citizens. That the matter is NOW completely in the hand of the God who delivered Daniel from the Lions Den, the Hebrews Boys from the fiery furnace, and Jonah from the belly of the beast. And He will surely deliver us from what seem to be an 1860 mentality that exists throughout local government. That seem to be in lockstep with the South Georgia Media Network, and the Status Quo that ignores the power of the human spirit housed in both Black and White Right People in Valdosta-Lowndes County. Where was Mr. Howard?

79. Here are a few more important events, meetings, rallies, and marches, that Local Black Leaders, and White Right, Christians, Muslims, Jews, Hindu, and others took part in to help all the people of our beloved community. Not just for Black Youths, Mr. Howard but for all American Citizens who live in and visit our beloved community.

· Sequence of Events

September 13, 1998


Rally: planning for the first march

September 14, 1998


Crime Lab rules Williams' death a homicide and that Coroner's Inquest is to be held

September 19, 1998


First March to the Jail

September 20, 1998


Rally: attorney Joe Wiley, working for Johnny Cochran Law firm, attends and pledges support

October 11, 1998


Rally: planning the second march

October 18, 1998


Second March to City Hall and the County Commissioner's Building
The movement names itself The People's Tribunal

October 22, 1998


Rev. Rose speaks to Valdosta City Council; Mayor Rainwater asks him to be patient

November 6, 1998


Rally: applying pressure to speed up Coroner's Inquest

December 2, 1998


Coroner's Inquest held: death ruled accidental; jury split 3-2 along racial lines

December 5, 1998


Third March to the Chamber of Commerce

December 17, 1998


Public Forum at Mathis City Auditorium with Joseph Lowery, President Emeritus of the SCLC

December 18, 1998


Grand Jury votes not to indict the arresting officer, Mr. Farmer

80. No local media, or elected official have vigorously sought an outside investigation into these many deaths in the Lowndes County Jail for whatever reason. They are: 1. Willard McFarland, age 63, 01 April 1994 CAUSE OF DEATH, Post-arrest hypoxi encephalopathy to cardiac dysrhythmia, due to cardiomegaly with left ventricular hypertrophy. 2. Willie Lee Gaye, age 39, died 23 October 1995: CAUSE OF DEATH: Chronic Ethanolism, 3. James N. Starling, age 63, died 1 May 1996: CAUSE OF DEATH: Coronary atherosclerotic disease, 4. Willie James Williams, age 49, died 2 September 1998: CAUSE OF DEATH: Subdural Hemotoma, 5. Ronzie Sonny Graham, age 48, died 13 July 2000: CAUSE OF DEATH: Uknown, 6. Rosemary King, Age 40, died 20 July 2001: CAUSE OF DEATH: High Blood Presure Hyper Tension, 7. Richard William Oakley, age 27, died April 2002: CAUSE OF DEATH: Suicide/Hanging, 8. Sandra J. Wallace, age 39, died 31 August 2002: CAUSE OF DEATH: Complications of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, 9. Lisa Sanders, age 38, died 2003: CAUSE OF DEATH: Natural Cause, 10. John Henry Dejonghe, age 49, died 21 June 2004: CAUSE OF DEATH: Seizure disorder in a background of chronic ethanolism, 11. Amaruy Quinones, age 34, died 2 September 2005: CAUSE OF DEATH: Self Induced Staravation, 12. Esavious Wright, age 29, died, 16 February 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack, 13. Bobby Stanford, age 55, died 23 March 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Aneurysm of Aorta, 14. Clarence Fender, age 70, died 2 April 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack , 15. George Hill Jr., age 21, died 23 June 2006: CAUSE OF DEATH: Heart Attack, 16. NAME NOT GIVEN: (But Available). Following the State of Georgia NAACP, Press Conference at the Lowndes County Jail on July 5, 2006 at 1:00pm by President Edward DuBose. Three family members and an associate of the family made another death known. This deceased inmate name is WITHHELD out of respect to the family. However, it is public record and has been verified.

81. These are a few of the facts that have become the peak of the pyramid and the capstone of this South Georgia Area Whiteout Machine. And what BLACK LEADERS, have been working to accomplish for the betterment of all people. But in the end truth will win and the outside world will know. As Paul Harvey would say and now you know the rest of the story?

82. Yes! Yes! Yes! It appears that Rev. Joseph Lowery of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, SCLC, an activist who marched with Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., was correct. “That Lowndes County would be the Selma, and Montgomery of the 21st Century for Civil and Human Rights because of its refusal to adequately address the ill conditions that have existed for too long in South Georgia.” He said, “that the Civil Rights Movement by-passed Lowndes County.” It appears that the stage is NOW being set for the fulfillment of this divine prophecy. This Valdosta-Lowndes County dilemma goes beyond a Black or White thing. It is a right thing, and though we have lost some battles in the past. Our just war is a certain VICTORY! Because we have cosmic companionship with the God of Righteousness!

83. In conclusion: On behalf of all concerned leaders of our beloved community. I appreciate every thing Mr. Henry L. Howard has done in our beloved community. Moreover, I praise him and encourage him to continue his work. Every little bit helps to build a better community, state, nation, and world. Even his opinion column, and the publishing of it in the Valdosta Daily Times generated this response for the betterment of our community.

So, on behalf of all the citizens of Valdosta-Lowndes County Georgia WE thank God for you all. Peace!



GEORGE RHYNES

Retired Air Force Veteran (Active Duty)
A concerned Citizen and brother of humanity!

PS The City Council Meeting (19 May 2005), following the arrest of Minister Rose and the fourteen others were conducted as usual. All comments by Blacks were totally ignored by the media as if they were not even present at the Valdosta City Council Meeting on 19 May 2005.

Again, this seem to be a routine practice in this South Georgia Town (See the 1860 City Charter Article 100, Section XI)

ALTHOUGH, BLACKS SPOKE AS FORECEFULLY AS THEY DID AT PREVIOUS MEETINGS OVER THE LAST FIVE MONTHS. The South Georgia Media “Whiteout Machine” did not publish one word concerning the issues Blacks brought before the council on 19 May 2005, concerning the purpose for which fifteen Citizens were arrested on 5 May 2005.

In addition: A local firefighter also had some concerns on another issue but his presentation was also omitted. This is the insensitivity, and arrogance of our Southern White Male dominated News Media Network system that goes unchecked, unreported, unchallenged, and unchanged apparently from the old Valdosta City Charter Days.

Therefore, local citizens in South Georgia have been ill informed for too long with no change in sight. I am convinced that nothing will change in this South Georgia Town without an independent outside investigation or the Federal Government from outside this area coming in and understanding Luke 4:18.

Inmates, call Valdosta a “Hell Hole” for blacks. (Extracted from Inmates signed letters and notarized statements dated July 2003). Available upon request because in the end only truth will set us free. Peace!

I gave verbal excerpts from this address to the Mayor and Valdosta City Council on 19 May 2005 during their Monthly meeting, and later to Georgia Lt Governor Mark Taylor. I also, thanked the Mayor and Council for my arrest on 5 May 2005 at 7:04 PM. I got to witness the ill conditions of the Lowndes County Jail 1st hand. I no longer had to depend on what I had received in writing from inmates since 1989. The world can bury their head in the sand like the legend concerning the ostrich. But the God of my ancestors always delivers on his truth Galatians 6:7. Peace!