Lumberton Informer

The following article was taken from the Hattiesburg American. There is so much talk about the lack of revenue for the City of Lumberton. When will this city follow suit like other small municipalities in the State of Mississippi, and pass an ordinance for the sale of beer. IT CAME AS SOMETHING of a mild surprise that voters in Ellisville this week approved the legal sale of beer, going from a dry city to a wet city. It was the first time the town of almost 4,000 had supported a referendum to allow beer sales. A similar referendum in 1988 was rejected. Supporters believe allowing restaurants to sell beer will attract more name-brand restaurants to the town that's home to Jones County Junior College. That will mean more sales tax revenue for the city, they claim. Opponents say it will destroy Ellisville's small-town atmosphere and bring other alcohol-related problems. Starkville voters last month approved the sale of wine and liquor on Sundays. Tupelo recently approved the Su...

In these dry times, every drop counts. The issue of water bills, water leaks, and the cost of leaks are always an issue with the City of Lumberton. Last night, there was concern about the loss of revenue from the water leaks at Frank Lee Homes. The previous adminsitration felt that the installation of water meters would help increase the revenue for the city, and justify their pay increase. When the issue of the water meters came before the board,there was oppositon to this measure, but those that were elected to represent the concerns of the residents of Frank Lee Homes did not consider our stance on the issue. We told the board that once the meters were installed, MRHA would not be culpable for the leaks,and the burden would fall on the tenants. Our concerns have been realized, and now the board is scrambling to find a way to address the issue. I informed the board of this possible issue, and I submitted a letter to the Lamar Times regarding this problem, but the measure to inst...

It has been 50 years since the slaying of Mack Charles Parker in Poplarville, Mississippi. With the election President Barack Obamba, we thought that America was ready for change. Unfortnately, the City of Poplarville is not ready to engage in the change that is sweeping the rest of the country. They are still bogged down in the swamp of racism. In spite of hundreds of pages of FBI files where the men involved are clearly identified, and their meetings documented, and admissions of complicity verified, no one was ever charged, no one was ever indicted, no one ever was convicted of Parker’s murder. July 19, 2009, Randy Prince was allegedly shot and killed by Virgil Matthews. Matthews spent less than 24 hours in jail before the judge released him for lack of sufficient evidence. This decision echos the sentiment that was expressed 5o years ago in the murder of Mack Charles Parker; that the life of a black man does not matter. It it time for Poplarville to stop being known for these...

Beloveds, now we know that we know nothing, now that our bright and shining star can slip away from our fingertips like a puff of summer wind. Without notice, our dear love can escape our doting embrace. Sing our songs among the stars and walk our dances across the face of the moon. In the instant that Michael is gone, we know nothing. No clocks can tell time. No oceans can rush our tides with the abrupt absence of our treasure. Though we are many, each of us is achingly alone, piercingly alone. Only when we confess our confusion can we remember that he was a gift to us and we did have him. He came to us from the Creator, trailing creativity in abundance. Despite the anguish, his life was sheathed in mother love, family love, and survived and did more than that. He thrived with passion and compassion, humor and style. We had him whether we know who he was or did not know, he was ours and we were his. We had him, beautiful, delighting our eyes. His hat, aslant over his brow, and took a ...

Today will be the first meeting of the newly elected Mayor and Board of Alderpersons. Mayor Miriam Holder hosted an Inagural Event on Friday, July 3, 2009 at the 5th Avenue School. The event was based on faith, family, friends, fellowship and food. Now the official business of the City of Lumberton will take place. Seemingly, it has been a long campaign, and we have eagerly waited a new administration. There have been many promises made during the campaign, but now we will see who and what the candiates are really supporting. Those we elected to serve will speak through their votes. Hopefully the winners of the election will perform the responsibilities of their office with diligence, wisdom, foresight, and the best interest of the citizens of Lumberton in mind. Soon, we will see where they stand.

Mayor Elect-Miriam R. Holder and the Board of Alderpersons will take their oath of office on July 3, 2009 at 5:00 p.m. The ceremony will take place at the 5th Avenue School, and will be follwed by a reception and performances by the Lumberton Strings. Typically, the inauguration of the Mayor is a small and private affair but Mayor Elect Miriam Holder wanted to make this one different. She wanted to make it about community. She wanted to make it about all the residents of Lumberton. This is the start of a new day. The day when the word “change” ceases be a campaign slogan and starts to become a reality. Change is an easy word to say. But it’s a difficult word to enact. Together, the newly elected mayor and board of alderpersons can bring about the change that this city and its citizens so rightfully deserve.

Article written By Kara Kimbrough, LL-C Correspondent Use caution during extreme heat conditions Summer officially begins this Sunday, ushering in a multitude of opportunities for outdoor fun. But along with the longer days and warmer temperatures comes the risk of numerous summer health hazards, ranging from sunburn to heatstroke, insect bites to rashes. The most serious heat-related disorder is heat stroke, which can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given. • Limit sun exposure — Moffett said everyone should limit their time outdoors during the hottest days, particularly today and this weekend as temperature rise sharply for the first time this season. This safeguard is especially important for the elderly and those with certain medical conditions like diabetes. If possible, avoid being out in the sun during its peak hours between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must go outside for more than a few minutes, use sunscreen and lip balm of at least 30 SPF. Wear...

On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Bishop Robert Louis Burns and Lady Joyce R. Burns will be celebrating 34 years of ministry. There will be a celebration program held at Rehoboth Word of Life Fellowship, 1000 West Main Avenue, Lumberton, MS at 3:00 p.m. The guest speaker for the occassion will be Rev. Dennis Holder, Pastor of Zion Hill Baptist Church. You are invited to attend this blessed occassion. For information about ordering books written by Dr. Robert Louis Burns, DVD's, copies of his minsitry lessons, or to schedule a speaking engagement, please call 601-796-2909.

“You may write me down in history With your bitter, twisted lies, You may trod me in the very dirt But still, like dust, I'll rise.”—Maya Angelou The official certification of the votes will not be conducted until 1:00 p.m. today, but I am trusting that Miriam Holder will be certified as the Mayor of Lumberton. Miriam has always risen, much to the dismay of her adversaries and the delight of her friends. Miriam Holder will not give up on you and all she asks of you is that you do not give up on her. There is a world of difference between being a woman and being an old female. If you're born a girl, grow up, and live long enough, you can become an old female. But, to become a woman is a serious matter. A woman takes responsibility for the time she takes up and the space she occupies. Miriam Holder is a woman. She has been there and done that and has still risen. She is on this course for the long haul. She intends to make a difference in the City of Lumberton.

The meeting with Chief Adrian Fortenberry revealed a lot about what is going on in the community. As I was listening to the complaints, I couldn't believe that the encounters these people had with the police offiers were not documented. So many in our communities have adopted the No Snitching Rule as their mantra, and this is pure foolishness. We have adopted a culture that encourages black people not to "snitch" to the police when they see a crime. That's a dangerous, self-destructive philosophy for our community to adopt. If you see a crime being committed, you should report it. There is no dignity in allowing crime in your community. We're sending a message to young people that glorifies and protects the criminal element in the community that is preying on our children and our neighborhoods. What kind of people are we that we would let crime take place and do nothing about it? I appreciate Chief Fortenberry coming out to address the crowd, and I think he is ac...

I attended the meeting last night for the residents of Ward 3, and I couldn't believe some of the informtion that was being revealed. I was also shocked that I was the only person that felt that the police was not partolling enough in Ward 3. I kept hearing about lack of respect, and that the police officers are not respectful towards our youth. As this was being stated, I began to have flashes of my encounters with the youth that are always hanging out on the corners of Myrick Avenue and North 10th Street. At no point have these individuals been respectful. Now, if they are not respectful towards the people that live in the area, I am certain they are not respectful when they are approaced by law enforcement. There was also a series of quesitons about the amount of patrol on Myrick Avenue, and the lack of patrol when it comes to the crowds loitering around the Shell Station. Well, I am not concerned about the people hanging out at the Shell Station, I am concerned about the ...

Quincy Rogers, Alderman of Ward 3, hosted a Ward meeting for the residents of Ward 3. Chief Adrian Fortenberry was on hand to address the concerns of the residents of Ward 3. Alderman Rogers stated that he was receiving so many calls about the police department and he felt that the person that was best suited to answer questions about the police department would be Chief Fortenberry. There were questions about the harassment of the youth in the city, curfew ordinances, road-blocks, and lack of respect from the officers patrolling this city. Chief Fortenberry addressed the questions that were presented, and many felt that he was willing to do what was necessary to help ease the tension that many feel regarding the Lumberton Police Department. Chief Fortenberry stated that he will bring videos to the next meeting and encouraged the parents to bring their children to the next event so that they could see how police and citizens should interact with one another.

Tomorrow is election day. As you all know, I whole-heartedly support Miriam Holder for Mayor of Lumberton. She understand the issues we face and the needs our city has to bring about positive change for all of the residents of Lumberton. Life takes you down many roads until you find the road God has prepared for you. Miriam Holder is embarking on the road for mayor out of a great need for leadership that will work with the people and for the people. My choice for Alderman at Large is Bobby Gibson. I had some reservations about supporting Bobby Gibson, but after speaking with him and getting his views on what needs to be done to bring about change to this city, I feel that he is the best candidate for the position. I believe that Bobby Gibson will be a hardworking, honest and accessible representative. I think Ward 2 need to elect Rebecca Hale as their new representative. Stanley Rayborn has served for a very long time, and I think he is set in his way of thinking. I know Stanley an...

The next Mayor of the City of Lumberton will inherit a set of conditions that are both unique and daunting for any city. Saddled with limited powers, the next mayor must respond to residents's demands for improvements in economic development, municipal services and public safety; foster social cohesion in a demographically changing city; and work with the Lumberton City Council to keep the city on a responsible financial course. That tall order calls for a SMART chief executive with a commitment to all parts of the city, an appreciation of the inner workings of the city and the enery to work full time on behalf of its people for the next four years. I believe that Miriam Holder can be that kind of mayor. Establishment of advisory boards cannot mask an unhealthy estrangement of large segments of the community from the city's leadership. There is turmoil among the youth that curfews won't cure. Miriam Holder understands all that. There is more to Miriam Holder th...

The board meeting was filled with informative information that many of the citizens of Lumberton need to know. Stephanie C. Mullings addressed the board about the notices that were sent to local businesses regarding their expired privilege license. We were told that it was a political move, but it was discovered that it was a personal issue regarding Larry Strahan and his son. Apparently, Strahan, Jr. wants to continue paying $20 for his license, but Stephanie stated that since his business was considered a transient business (meaning it operates for 6 months or less per year) his license would cost $250. So, this was upsetting to the current mayor, and he felt that our Deputy Clerk did not have the authority to send out the notices. Stephanie Mullins reported that 12 of the business owners had come into City Hall to pay for their privilege license. Ronnie Lloyd addressed the board about purchasing the Lumberton Hospital. He stated that he wanted to use the building as a site f...

A candle-light vigil will be held Sunday, May 31, 2009 in the memory of Kewaii Rogers. The event will begin at 5:00 p.m. at the Lumberton High School Gym, and will continue through Main Street and end at Wood Hinton Park. Oh Kewaii, you're now an advocate you did not die in vain. Your message is so loud and clear to stop violence again. Kewaii, as we remember you in our memory, And as you fly on eagle's wings you are now truly free.

Miriam R. Holder wants to be the next mayor for the City of Lumberton. When she addressed the crowd, she stated that "This is where I grew up, where I was married, where I taught for over 30 years and where my grandchildren attend public school today. This is where I have lived my life and followed my family's tradition of community-based public service. I know what this city is, I know what it has been, and I know what it can still become. " Miriam stated that we are in this together. Because no matter who we were, who we are, or who we want to become, we’ve got one thing in common – and that’s the future of Lumberton. Because I believe that the power that unites us is stronger than the issues that might divide us.

The pastor of Trinity Baptist Church, Pastor Al Young, wants to be the next mayor for the City of Lumberton. He stated that he felt it was ridiculous to think that a pastor couldn't serve as Mayor. He stated that he has the accouting background necessary to help review the city's financial situation. Al Young stated that he want to get the matters of the city under control, that he has the ability to offer a new kind of leadership, and that he is willing to work with those willing to work with the him. He stated that he is for the advancements throughout the city, and he is a big proponent of the airport, and would like to see the expansion of the airport to bring more economic growth to the city.

Larry Strahan wants to serve as Mayor of Lumberton. He thanked the pastor of Gateway Baptist Church, Rev. Buddy Peters, for his support and advice during the last city election. Larry Stahan stated that he has served well as mayor, and that he has done a wonderful job. He stated that he has enjoyed working at City Hall, and that there have been so much bickering among the board members, and that is the reason why we don't have a city clerk. Larry Strahan stated that he has corrected the problems in the police department,the city clerk's office and that he is the best candidate to serve as Mayor of Lumberton. He stated that he is proud of the work that is being done by One Lumberton, and that we need to realize the importance regarding seperation of state and church.

Cora Rogers was, by far, the most impressive candidate for the position of Alderman at Large. She gave a rousing speech on her views for the City of Lumberton. She outlined her experience as a business woman, and how she would use that experience to serve the City of Lumberton. She stated that we need representatives on the board that would serve the citizens with dignity and respect. Cora Rogers want to return Lumberton's government to the people of Lumberton. She want to use her 11 years of grant experience to help create jobs and build Lumberton's economy. She has personally stimulated the ecomony of the City of Lumberton by employing 40 people through her childcare business. Also, Cora Rogers want to create a new leadership of trust in Lumberton. In my opinion, a great leader does three things: They Grow, they show, and they know; I could't think of a better way to describe Cora Rogers. She will use her education, talents, professional skills, and life experie...

Hank Vann stated his speech by displaying his voter registration card. He stated that he is "lgegally" a resident of the City of Lumberton. He also stated that he also owns a home on Little Black Creek, and that it is up for sale. He stated that if the house sales, he would move back into the city limits full time. So, once again, he stated that he is "legally" a resident of Lumberton. He stated that he has known Bobby Gibson for a long time and that he is running because he feels that he is the best qualified for the position.

Bobby Gibson is seeking election as the next Alderman at Large. He stated that the City of Lumberton is like a sore on a person with diabetes; it takes a long time to heal. Bobby Gibson stated that he reqret not running for office a long time ago, and that he would not let this opportunity pass him by. Bobby Gibson has been active in city government for a long time. He has been a part of the Lumberton Planning and Zoning Commission and he regularly attends the board meetings. Bobby Gibson believe that this city can become a gem if city officials would set aside personal agenda, and do what is right for the city to grow.

Timothy Johnson wants to be the next alderman of Ward 4. He stated that he is committed, concerned and qualified. He has been a resident of Lumberton for 10 years. He is married to the Stephanie Winston-Johnson. He is the father of four daughters and one son. He is a member of Sweet Beulah Baptist Church, where he serves as a Youth Minister, Sunday School Teacher and Deacon. He stated that he adopted the mantra that was taught at Piney Woods School: "Educate the head, the heart, and the hands." Timothy Johnson proclaimed that this is where he lives, and this is where he want to serve.

Beverly Burnette is one of the candidates seeking election as Alderperson of Ward 4. She stated that she is concerned about the community and the lack of attention that has been given to the area of the city. She stated that the playground area is dilapidated, and that many of the roads are filled with potholes and inadequate lighting. She is for economic development and she want something done to ensure that this city can become the source of pride for every resident of Lumberton. Beverly's biggest advantage is that she was born and raised in Lumberton. She stated that "she will wisely consider decisions before giving her vote." She stated that her vote will not only affect her and her family but the familes of people she has known all of her life. Beverly Burnette stated that she has lived in Ward 4 for over 20 years, and that is her home and she is there becasue she want to be a voice for the citizens of Ward 4.

There are two candidates seeking election as Alderman of Ward 3, but Alderman Rogers was the only candidate for Ward 3 present for the debate. The forum was an opportunity for the citizens to get to know those seeking election but there was still moments when there was some mud-slinging taking place. I was thoroughly impressed how Alderman Rogers handled many of the questions directed towards him by the One Lumberton moderator. Quincy stated that "this election will begin a new era of accoutability for the City of Lumberton. An era where we no long judge ourselves by the times of the past, but against what we want our future to look like." Alderman Rogers stated that there is promise in Lumberton, and that he is willing to work with anyone, that is for the advancement of the City of Lumberton. He also stated that he attend the regularly called board meeting, but since his job requires him to travel to remote areas of Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, and South Carolina, h...

Rebecca Hale is seeking to serve as Alderwoman of Ward 2. She returned to the City of Lumberton over 6 years ago. She stated that she is saddened about the direction the city is taking. She think the city is in need of a face lift. She feels that the city needs to make an effort to be more attractive to the residents and visitors. "Many people coming to this city are not encouraged to stay." Rebecca Hale stated that she is running for office because she wants to serve her community. She is ready to pursue revitalization throughout the entire city. She stated that we need to clean and promote every corner of this city, not just certain areas.

Stanley is currently serving as Alderman of Ward 2. He stated that he has served for 10 years. When he addressed the audience, he told about the condition of the city when he first became an alderman. He also stated that the reason many small towns are struggling financially is becasue of the Wal-Mart syndrome. "So many of the mom and pop stores have not been able to stay open becasue people think that everything is cheaper at Wal-Mart." Stanley also addressed the opportunities that is being brought into the city through Gold Cost Skydivers. The majority of his speech was dealing with the airport and the need to get more funding to the airport. Stanley stated that if he did not feel good about something he voted for, he would apologize to the citizens and try to correct his mistake.

Kent Crider is the only candidate running for the post of Alderman of Ward 1, so he will be the person replacing E.Nell Busby when the new board is sworn in in June.

On Saturday, May 16, 2009, the citizens of Lumberton had the opportunity to meet the candidates that are seeking election on June 2, 2009. The candidates were given the opportunity to give their platforms, and address the public on how they would govern, if elected. The main theme of the event was unity. Everyone stated that they would be willing to work with other elected officials in order to move the city forward. In my opinion, the event was a success. I got the opportunity to hear directly from each candidate, and formulate an idea on who would best serve as an advocate for the city.