Author: greenecodemocratcom
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Public Notices
The City of Boligee is applying to the Alabama Department of Transportation for a federal capital funding award under Section 5310 of the Federal Transit Act. This funding is for capital assistance to help meet the transportation needs of seniors and individuals with disabilities in Greene County, Alabama. A public hearing will be held on June 12th at noon in the cafeteria at the Boligee Town Center at 17404 Co Rd 20, Boligee, Alabama for public comments.
Contact Information: Mayor Hattie Samuels, City of Boligee, 205 336 8531, boligeemayor@yahoo.com
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GCEMS shares their story, and why it needs your help
Above: Loretta Wilson, EMS Administrators, and newest BLS provider Richard Cox
It is no secret that the Greene County Emergency Services (GCEMS) has been left destitute by the poor financial decisions of its previous administration. The IRS alone requests $10,000 per month for delinquent taxes. During the most recent EMS board meeting, current Operations Manager Brady Greene highlighted the importance of municipal intervention to prevent a state takeover of the services. Failure to rectify the past could ultimately result in the services becoming a state-centered institution instead of a community-oriented nonprofit.
As of now, the GCEMS can set its own standards of care and take into account the unique needs of the county’s citizens. “Anything we make goes back to the community,” Greene stated during his presentation. The current staff understands the population they serve, allowing them to host events that offer critical, life-saving education. A state takeover would prioritize operational costs and supersede any decisions of the local government. The state would hire without peer review and be given enhanced immunity. The citizens and local governments would have no bearing on the quality of service provided.
Earliest known records kept at the GCEMS headquarters tell a tale rooted in mismanagement and neglect. The previous administrators failed to provide adequate financial and patient records to comply with state regulations, leading the EMS into its current crisis.
For years, there were no operational budgets. There were no taxes paid. There were no retirement reimbursements paid. There were no vehicle maintenance schedules. There were no headquarters repairs.
Now, the GCEMS would need assistance of $150,996 per month, with estimated cost categories as follows: payroll and taxes $125,620 per month, fleet operations and maintenance $12,162 per month, and standard operational costs $13,214 per month.
While the 2026 EMS Reform Act will increase revenues starting October 1st, it is not feasible for the services to be fully funded by reimbursements alone. Patient billing reimbursements are sporadic and unpredictable, so GCEMS often waits months to receive them. Many counties subsidize their emergency services to offer more funding sources while protecting patients from unexpected costs. Here in Greene County, however, the GCEMS operates as an independent nonprofit institution, only receiving what municipalities, organizations, and citizens choose to donate. Commissioner Garria Spencer reminded meeting attendees that the commission assisted Greene County Hospital with $200,000 to aid its own tax delinquency. The EMS services have always “been on an island out there on their own,” said EMS Board Chairman Nat Winn.
The ambulance service is operating with 7 personnel: 1 EMR/driver, 2 BLS providers, 1 ALS provider in training, and 3 ALS providers who also serve in management positions. It is an understatement to say the company is stretched thin to serve Greene County’s 647 square miles and estimated population of 7,067. Yet, they still dutifully answer every call to the best of their abilities. Management often works up to 96-hour shifts just to ensure there is a capable workforce that meets state regulations. If GCEMS does not adhere to emergency service laws, it could result in suspension of services, revocation of licenses, and debilitating lawsuits.
Management team members have shelled out thousands of dollars to ensure compliance with the laws governing EMS services. EMS Vice Chair Loretta Wilson recently spent over $3,000 to rescue an ambulance, full of expensive medical equipment, from a mechanic lien in North Alabama. Admins have stocked the ambulance with IV equipment, bought uniforms, and even put gas in the tank, all of which are examples of how these men have contributed more than what is listed in their job descriptions. The men of GCEMS are committed to ensuring that the people of Greene County are protected and given high-quality, life-saving care. “Just because Greene County is rural does not mean the residents deserve less than the absolute best that is possible compared to any other county,” said Greene.
The very entity that has saved countless county lives now needs a savior. A united front from those that they serve is their only hope. “We may as well brace ourselves,” Winn began, “Billing is not going to cover costs. There’s going to be a continuous shortfall. The commission and municipalities are going to need to subsidize the ambulance service.”
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GCEMS Operational Breakdown
Take a look at Operations Manager Brady Greene’s presentation on how the EMS operates, the laws it must follow, and future budget plans.
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Stewart announces candidacy for Greene County Commissioner District 3
My name is Jacqueline Stewart, and I’m running for Greene County Commissioner, District 3. I’m running because I believe our community deserves strong leadership, responsible decisions and a clear vision for the future. This county is more than just where we live, it’s our home.
MOVING FORWARD WITH YOU IN MIND
Like many other counties, we are facing real challenges maintaining our roads, supporting public safety, and making sure our tax dollars are spent wisely.
If elected, my priorities are simple and focus on what matters most to you.
- Infrastructure – we all know the conditions of our roads and I will make sure that our roads and bridges are properly maintained.
- Public Safety – Our law enforcement, firefighters and EMS deserve our full support. I would make sure that they have the resources they need to keep our community safe and provide us with services.
- Economic Development – Work with the Industrial Board to attract good jobs while supporting our local businesses. Work alongside the hospital and school board to assist in any way possible.
- Transparency and accountability – I will always be open, accessible and willing to listen
I would like to continue the leadership and dedication of Commissioner Corey Cockrell. His commitment to serving this community, especially our senior citizens, our youth, and our county. He has laid a strong foundation and I’ m committed to that vision.
I’m not running to make promises I can’t keep. I’m running to work hard, listen carefully, and make decisions that put our community first.
Together we can move forward.
On May 19, 2026, I ask for your support, your vote, and your trust to elect me as Greene County Commissioner, District 3.
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Dollarhide Health Fair reminds us “Health is Wealth”
Above, Wille Esther Austin and Dollarhide Community Health Fair Presenters
by Maya Quinn, managing editor
On Saturday, April 18th, Dollarhide Community Center was full of vendors and city representatives who gathered to address a myriad of concerns in the community for their Annual Health Fair. The event was hosted by Pine Grove CME Church, Macedonia CME Church, and the Dollarhide Volunteer Fire Department. The invited presenters focused on the well-being and safety of its citizens as well as the need for higher community engagement from constituents.
Dollarhide’s community is upheld by its citizens’ dedication to one another, as many initiatives are operated on a volunteer basis. From storm relief to community resources, the citizens of Dollarhide and neighboring cities such as Boligee and Forkland strive to meet the needs of their community through benevolent commitments to one another. By working with organizations such as Greene County Community in Action Coalition, Greene County Sheriff’s Department, and the Rural Alabama Prevention Center, citizens collaborate to create programs that address concerns ranging from underage drinking to high blood pressure management. This health fair is only one of many events hosted within Greene County to better the everyday lives of all those who reside within.
Pine Grove CME and Macedonia CME church members at the event The event’s program was led by Mrs. Willie Esther Austin, a member of Dollarhide’s Volunteer Fire Department and Pine Grove CME Church. Mrs. Austin welcomed guests and gave a quick summary regarding the purpose of the fair, to supply the community with health and safety resources. The program listed presenters from local governments, health organizations, and the Red Cross disaster relief. Prayers and scripture were intertwined with the program, reminding attendees that physical fitness and spiritual maturity are worth more than gold. “We do this every year,” Mrs. Austin told The Democrat.
After a prayer for good health, the fire department began the presentations with a demonstration on how to properly use an extinguisher and the importance of smoke detectors in the home. Fire Chief Keith Young reminded attendees that home fires often begin in the kitchen, so having a fire extinguisher nearby could prevent the loss of life or a home. Attendees were given the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim the hose, Squeeze the trigger, Sweep the flames side to side.
Dollarhide Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief The fire safety demonstration was followed by the EMS Board Director and CEO of Hills Hospital, Mrs. Loretta Wilson, giving a call to action for community members to support the ambulance services. Due to the financial and operational negligence of the previous administration, the EMS services of Greene County are threatened with closure. Wilson explained that there is only one operational emergency vehicle that serves the entire 647 square miles of the county. “We all own the emergency services,” she stated before asking for community members to offer assistance in reaching out to their commissioners and mayors. The EMS services are a nonprofit organization, meaning all proceeds and donations go directly to operating its services.
Shawn Jackson, born and raised in Forkland, AL, gave a presentation on oncology, the branch of medicine that specializes in researching and treating cancer. Jackson graduated from UAB and has been working in radiation therapy for the last 25 years. “We used to equate cancer with death,” Jackson stated before explaining that medicine has advanced in such a way that early detection is a critical factor in treatment outcomes. “The most important thing is to get your screenings,” he explained. Jackson also encouraged attendees to support members of their communities with reminders for screenings and organizing carpools so appointments are not missed or delayed. “When you hear cancer, there is no need to be afraid…remember hope.”
Special guest US Marshall and Officer Jeremy Rancher encouraged community elders to be watchful of vaping paraphernalia, as it is often masked by sweet scents that target teens and children, and underage drinking. Officer Rancher implored citizens to use him as a resource in their schools and gatherings. “Invite us out,” he began, “You never know whose life you’re gonna save.” Rancher states that his team can provide demonstrations on the dangers of drunk driving by letting teens wear impaired vision goggles while riding in ATVs. Greene County’s Sheriff Department and the Greene County Children’s Policy Council echoed the sentiment of using them as a resource as well.
Transitioning to health and wellness, Mr. Nathaniel Jones gave a testimony on the horrors of addiction. Jones explained that he was a first-generation college graduate and had a loving family, with children who excelled in school, but addiction “cares nothing about demographics” and is mind-altering. “I was in a prison mentally,” he began, “You do not want to mess with this…” Jones is now 7 years clean and talks to the youth in his community about the dangers of addiction to illegal and prescription drugs, alcohol, and smoking. Jones received roaring applause for his stories and reminded attendees to seek help from God and the church.
Legendary Dollarhide Volunteer Fire Department member Ms. Quinnie and Mayor Jeff Quinnie (son) Dollarhide invites community members and friends to attend the community meeting every third Monday of the month at Dollarhide Community Center, located next to the fire department.
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Newswire: SCOTUS Callais Decision Delivers Major Blow To Black Voting Rights
Above, Janai Nelson, President and Director-Counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, speaking at a “Fight for Fair Maps” rally.
by Anoa Changa-Peck, NewsOne
For months, voting rights advocates have warned that the Supreme Court would use its decision in Louisiana v. Callais to strip away Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, further eroding freedom.
And they were right.
Decided along ideological lines, Wednesday’s 6-3 decision blocked a Black-majority congressional district in Louisiana just weeks before voters head to the polls. A second Black-majority congressional district was created after voters and organizers fought for fair representation after the 2020 Census.
As NewsOne previously reported, Wednesday’s decision comes after the Supreme Court gave an anti-voting rights group a second chance to make its case. Originally heard in March, 2025, the case was rescheduled for rehearing in October, giving opponents of fair maps more time to invent reasons to deny Black voter power.
The majority opinion attempts to narrowly tailor the case to Louisiana only. Instead, by many accounts, Callais aids the Republican plan to lock up power for the next generation.
Joel Payne, spokesperson for MoveOn Civic Action, said the Court’s decision gave Republicans the green light to continue Trump’s “desperate power grab.”
“Suppressing voters is another way for Trump and Republicans to rig the system so they can keep stacking the deck for billionaires and the Epstein class and avoid accountability for their failed leadership,” Payne said in a statement. “MoveOn members will fight this naked MAGA power play to hoard more power and wealth for themselves and the billionaires that fund their campaigns.”
Almost immediately after the Callais‘release, Florida House Republicans passed an even more extreme gerrymander than the state’s current congressional map. In many ways, Florida’s move is a replay of the aftermath of the 2023 decision Shelby County v. Holder, when Texas and North Carolina rushed to pass racially discriminatory laws previously blocked under the Voting Rights Act.
Pro-democracy advocates have consistently stressed the need for full voting rights and fair maps to ensure communities have a say in the issues impacting their lives. Affordable housing, healthcare access, the cost of living, gun safety, and fundamental fairness require leadership that listens to and considers people’s needs.
Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, highlighted the importance of educators being committed to basic values of fairness and equity as a part of teaching responsible citizenship.
“People died to protect and advance this right,” Pringle said in a statement. “The reason we have voting rights laws in America is to remedy discrimination against voters of color. If the Supreme Court does not recognize the need to continue upholding this basic value of one person, one vote, then Congress must stop stalling and pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.”
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Newswire: Identity Theft Protection is No Longer Optional for Any American
by BlackPressUsa
If you want your data to be secure in the digital age, identity theft protection should be a top concern. Some of the most effective methods to protect personal information include using a password manager, multi-factor authentication, and more.
Have you ever received a suspicious email asking for personal information? Do you find yourself constantly getting notices about data breaches for stores or companies you’ve frequented? Both of these are common gateways for identity theft, which is why it is more important than ever to proactively secure your information.
Identity Theft Statistics
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), there has been a significant uptick in scammers stealing millions of dollars from unsuspecting victims, primarily elderly individuals. The fraudsters impersonated government agents to obtain the information, a scenario that is unfortunately becoming more common.
The key to these attacks is emotional manipulation. Callers typically inform recipients that their information has been stolen or their bank account has been hacked, which ironically, prompts them to hand over the necessary information.
As technology progresses, identity theft cases are likely to become more common, and with more sophisticated attack methods, they may be harder to combat.
What Is the Very Best Identity Theft Protection?
Identity theft protection works best using a layered technique. Multiple methods will prevent incidents better than a single security measure. Here are some of the most effective ways that you can engage in online fraud prevention.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication
If you’ve ever logged into an app or a website and received a code or verification pop-up, then you have successfully used multi-factor authentication. Essentially, it is an additional roadblock that prevents users from logging into your accounts unless they have an additional code or link. The information is usually sent to a secure personal account that the scammer won’t be able to access.
Utilize a Password Manager
It may seem convenient to use the same password over and over again, but it is a recipe for disaster if you end up suffering from identity theft. Create strong, complex passwords for all of your accounts, and use a password manager to track them securely.
Most password managers require a master password and additional verification steps to access the information. They can also generate randomized, secure passwords for you to use.
Review Credit Reports
Rather than just checking your credit score, look at the details of your credit reports, especially if there is a significant drop with no explanation. Verify that all of the accounts on your credit report belong to you.
Check Bank and Credit Card Activity
Look through all of your credit card and bank transactions every month and confirm their accuracy. Double-check unfamiliar vendors to see if places you shopped go by different names. Contact companies if you see suspicious transactions.
Take Advantage of ID Verification
ID verification involves submitting a picture ID and other personal information to confirm your identity online. One of the best ID verification tips is to enable it when offered as an extra security measure, so scammers have a harder time accessing your personal information.
What Is the First Thing You Should Do If Your Identity Is Stolen?
While identity theft can be overwhelming, it is crucial to take action as soon as you find out that your information has been compromised. The first thing to do is get in touch with one of the three credit bureaus to notify them of a fraud alert.
Placing a fraud alert on your accounts will freeze your credit and prevent any damaging charges from affecting your score until the issue is resolved. Next, contact your banking and credit institutions to freeze those accounts, if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Artificial Intelligence Influencing Identity Theft?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is shaping the world in many different ways, and identity theft continues to evolve as a result. In the age of AI, according to the World Economic Forum, the technology can have both positive and negative impacts on keeping your data secure.
Companies may be able to use AI software to identify phishing attacks and fraud much more easily than existing solutions. They can then take proactive steps to prevent these types of intrusions in the future.
However, some troubling trends are emerging in the AI space concerning impersonation. As AI models become more sophisticated, they can easily replicate the tone and mannerisms of real people, which may tempt users to convey personal information.
Is It Possible to Protect Your Personal Information in a Data Breach?
While the initial data breach is often out of your control, there are steps you can take immediately after you learn about the incident. Start by changing your login information to the associated company or website.
Once you change your login information, enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication if it is available. Use an authentication app on your phone or set your account up to receive a code through email or text message. Hackers will face an additional roadblock when trying to access your accounts.
If you know that your bank accounts or credit cards may be vulnerable, contact the bank or credit card company and put a temporary freeze on your accounts. Use cash or a different card in the meantime to avoid unauthorized activity from outside parties.
Which Demographics Are Most Vulnerable to Identity Theft?
No individual is immune to identity theft, but certain demographics are more likely to fall for scams. Elderly individuals often fall prey to these types of crimes because they usually have a limited understanding of technology and don’t know the telltale signs of fraud.
Children are also more likely to expose personal information that leads to identity theft. Younger individuals may not understand the harm of entering sensitive data into unsecured websites, which can lead to troubling consequences down the road.
Protect Your Personal Information From Identity Theft
Identity theft protection isn’t just optional in 2026; it’s essential. With new threats emerging every day, it is important to stay on top of the latest scams and understand how you can best fortify your data against nefarious actors.
Would you like to learn more about how you can protect yourself in a digital environment? Take a look around our site for more security tips and tricks.
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Newswire: How To Care For The Environment Beyond Earth Day
black woman in agriculture
by Ahsan Washington, Black Enterprise
Annually, Earth Day brings significant awareness around environmental sustainability. However, specialists stress that true environmental change requires more than a yearly call to action, it calls for a shift in mindset and continuous daily practices.
Protecting the planet demands ongoing work from individual and community participation, and policy impact across various social levels. A great way to kickstart environmental change is understanding how environmental responsibility extends beyond one day.
Reduce Waste and Embrace Reusability
Adopt reusable practices and reduce waste to decrease your environmental footprint. Use reusable items consistently across your home, workplace, and shopping activities. Implement the “reduce, reuse, recycle” model to conserve natural resources and decrease landfill waste and pollution.
Cut Energy Consumption at Home and Work
Reducing environmental damage through energy conservation depends on homeowners, renters, and employees. Regular actions, such as disconnecting unused electronics and using energy-efficient appliances, are essential. Properly managing heating and cooling systems in both residential and professional settings also reduces unnecessary electricity consumption.
The primary objective is to decrease greenhouse gas emissions and reduce pressure on energy infrastructure to fight climate change. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, building energy efficiency improvements represent the quickest and most economical method to decrease emissions.
Rethink Transportation and The Impact on the Environment
The public must change travel habits by choosing public transit, biking, walking or carpooling instead of using single-occupancy vehicles for daily commutes. Transportation produces a large portion of greenhouse gas emissions, and vehicle emissions dominate urban and suburban areas. The U.S. Department of Transportation states that cutting vehicle miles traveled produces immediate benefits for air quality.
Support Sustainable Consumption and Local Economies
Environmental health depends on consumers supporting sustainability by choosing eco-friendly products and local goods with minimal packaging. These behaviors should be regular habits rather than seasonal choices. As demand for sustainable products grows, companies are pressured to transform production methods and decrease their environmental impact. The Natural Resources Defense Council states that intentional consumer behavior creates systemic transformations in manufacturing and supply chains.
Engage in Community and Environmental Education
Community members, educators, and local leaders are encouraged to participate in environmental education programs, including annual cleanups, workshops, and public discussions. These activities occur in neighborhood spaces, schools, and digital platforms to educate the public about pollution, climate change, and biodiversity loss. This engagement is vital because it expands individual contributions through shared responsibility and informed decision-making.
Advocate for Systemic and Policy Change
Voters, activists, and organizations are pushing for environmental policies that tackle major problems through emissions regulations, conservation programs, and corporate responsibility initiatives at all levels of government. Citizens can engage in advocacy during elections, legislative sessions, and public comment periods to affect policy decisions.
Build Long-Term Habits Beyond Earth Day
People and organizations should move beyond single-event participation in Earth Day activities. Instead, they should adopt permanent environmental habits, such as composting, water conservation, and food waste reduction. These behaviors must become part of regular routines in residential, workplace, and community settings. While single-day initiatives produce minimal results, ongoing actions produce tangible and permanent environmental benefits.
