Game Changers Magazine 2020 Fall Edition featuring Joyce Griggs

“

WHY WE MUST VOTE

OUR LIVES BEGIN TO END THE DAY WE BECOME SILENT ABOUT THINGS THAT MATTER. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

”

T H E M Y VO T E W I L L C O U N T I S S U E 2020 Fall Edition (Double Cover) EDI T OR IN CHIEF Andreal Mallard, Founder & Publisher Guest Edi t or s Joyce Griggs, Democr atic nominee for U.S. Congress in Georgia’s 1st District Reginald Scandrett, Political Candidate for Henry Count y Sheriff 2020 Design a nd L ayou t Anna Yang, Pierre Br anding Group, LLC Con tr ibu t or s Shay Lynn Dixon, Amanda Lynn Hudgins, Chris Scott, Candice Sawyer-Gould, Kevin Hayes, Himyo Green, Haneef Sabree, Michael Burns, Sarah Billups, Shawn Raleigh, Gale Lawrence, Kianna Porter-Simons Br a nd M a nagemen t Serv ices Ly di a P ier r e, Pierre Br anding Group, LLC w w w.pierrebr andinggroup.com Info@pierrebr andinggroup.com EDI T OR I A L OFF ICES Game Changers Magazine 1535 Pennsylvania Ave McDonough, GA 30253 404-201-8754 | gamechangerstvandradio@gmail.com

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I N S T A GR A M

BEHIND THIS ISSUE

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G A M E C H A N G E R S M AG A Z I N E I S P U B L I S H E D BY G A M E C H A N G E R S M E D I A N E T WO R K , L LC D I S C L A I M E R : T H E A R T I C L E S A N D T H O U G H T S I N T H I S P U B L I C AT I O N A R E T H E S O L E O P I N I O N O F T H E I N D I V I D UA L AU T H O R O R G R O U P T H AT E X P R E S S E S T H E M A N D D O N O T N E C E S S A R I LY R E F L E C T T H E V I E W S O F G A M E C H A N G E R S M E D I A N E T WO R K . B Y A L L M E A N S , W E W E LC O M E C O M M E N T S F R O M O U R R E A D E R S . T O S E N D M AT E R I A L T O B E I N C LU D E D I N T H I S P U B L I C AT I O N , E M A I L U S AT G A M E C H A N G E R S T VA N D R A D I O @ G M A I L . C O M . B E S U R E T O I N C LU D E A N A M E A N D A R E A O F R E S I D E N C E . P L E A S E N O T E , W E M A I N TA I N T H E R I G H T T O E D I T F O R B R E V I T Y A N D C L A R I T Y. A L L S U B M I T T E D A R T I C L E S B E C O M E P R O P E R T Y O F G A M E C H A N G E R S M AG A Z I N E A N D M AY B E U S E D AT A N Y T I M E A N D B Y A N Y O F O U R A F F I L I AT E S .

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE

Although the presidential race is quite significant, the November election requests your voice on several representative seats that directly impact those around you. Those around you include your children, neighbors, your local business owners and entrepreneurs that you love and have created bonds with.

Joyce recognizes the value of this through both her military and civilian service.

Joyce Griggs Guest Editor

WELCOME Let’s Look At Who’s Up Next...

Right Here in Georgia U.S. Army Lt. Colonel (Ret.) Joyce Griggs is the Democratic Nominee for Georgia’s 1st Congressional District.

There are warriors in your community that you need to know about. There are individuals whose passion is to be a help to others by addressing the needs of their community with service and the significance of this contribution is too often overlooked. In the background of the beautiful pictures are stories of preparation, planning, and execution, which make a final product possible.

When it comes to selecting the choice of effective representation, these are valuable things to consider and have the weight to impact the communities you love for years to come.

Joyce Marie Griggs, a well-known local Savannahian, has always been focused on getter the most out of every experience life has to offer. If you were to speak with her right now, she would challenge you to do the same, with tenacity and resilience. With this, Joyce plans to take that spirit to Washington to fight for the citizens of Georgia’s 1st Congressional District.

She’s fought for our country as a U.S. Army lieutenant colonel, honorably leading and receiving the highest commendations as an intelligence officer. Among her many decorations, medals, and badges are the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service, and Global War on Terrorism Service medals and the parachutist badge.

As a former dedicated Savannahbased attorney, Joyce represented the best interests of Georgians from an array of backgrounds. Her commitment to providing a substantial number of services free of charge earned her the Georgia Legal Services Pro Bono recognition and Chief Justice Robert Benham recognition for professional competence. Joyce graduated from North Carolina Central University with BA and MA degrees and John Marshall Law School with a JD in law.

Seasoned by listening to and working to supply the needs of others in communities at home and abroad, Joyce is well prepared to champion the struggles of everyday Georgians. Drawing on a wealth of experiences, from her own rural roots to her engagements in the global arena, she’s equipped to articulate district constituents’ needs at the highest levels. Griggs’ profound faith in God, that brought her over many tribulations, led her to yet another calling evangelism.

She considers her path a testament to the words of Romans 8:31: “If God be for us, who can be against us?”With your help, she can take her extraordinary fighting spirit all the way to Washington, for the people.

Although Joyce is proud of her political, educational, and personal achievements, she insists that her family is her motivation and a reminder of what is important when making decisions for a community she cares for dearly.

She will: 1. Value the integrity a Congressional office deserves 2. Operate with the transparency constituents need 3. Initiate measures to address the concerns in our area 4. Celebrate the strengths that distinguish our communities 5. Elevate interests that empower our people With Joyce as your voice in Washington, you will be heard, represented, and informed.

VOTE NOV. 3RD

griggsforcongress.com

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE

The 3,800-bed capacity jail houses an average 2,200 persons daily and processes more than 40,000 detainees each year. A career law enforcement officer, Former Chief Scandrett joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1990 as a Detention Officer and was promoted to positions of increasing responsibility over the past 25 years.

During his tenure with the agency, Former Chief Scandrett instituted a number of practices that remain integral to the agency’s operations today.

Among them are the annual multi-jurisdictional Operation Safe Streets Task Force (now known as Operation Safe DeKalb), and the Gang Task Force Unit.

Reginald B. Scandrett Guest Editor

WELCOME Tips for bridging gap between community and law enforcement As Chief Deputy of the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Reginald B. Scandrett was responsible for managing all of the agency’s law enforcement operations, which included the DeKalb County Jail Division, Field Division, Court Division, Training Division, and Reserves Division. He retired from the position in June 2019.

Prior to his promotion in August, 2014, Former Chief Deputy Scandrett was Jail Division Commander for four years, heading the state’s largest adult pre-trial detention facility.

With the relationships between police officers and many communities continuing to remain strained, Scandrett shares 3 tips to affect real change in the community: 1. Start building relationships from a grassroots perspective. We have lost that over the years. It is imperative that we return to neighborhoods with the sole purposes of developing fundamental relationships. Particularly when there aren’t any issues. This will calm waters and develop a support system if the deputies are deployed to individual communities in a official capacity.

2. Begin task specific training with the public to further develop relationships and deepen understanding.

3. Create a Community Development Division that specifically focuses on the relationships and issues between the community and law enforcement.

Reginald B. Scandrett Retired Chief DeputyDeKalb County

www.scandrett4sheriff.com

Digital Marketing Solutions GameChangersMediaNetwork.Online GameChangersMediaNetwork.online offers custom solutions through our strategic and creative advertising opportunities: Editorial Alignment Native Integration at Events Video, Digital and Social Executions Podcast Sponsorships Mobile App Experience For more information, please contact please contact Publisher Andreal Mallard at gamechangerstvandradio@gmail.com

GAME CHANGER: VISIONARY; SOMEONE WHO LOOKS BEYOND CONVENTIONAL METHODS; CONCEIVES NEW STRATEGIES; WORKS TO TRANSFORM THEIR INDUSTRY; URBAN DICTIONARY

Game changers magazine is a full color print and digital urban lifestyle magazine with focus in Entertainment, Politics, Education, and Community based initiatives as they relate to the urban audience. Targeting readers between the ages of 18 to 55, the readership is advantageous to advertisers.

After years of thorough research and contributing to the best selling Urban Entertainment Magazines, Game Changers has developed a foundation that embodies the best attributes.

Game changers differentiates itself from other entertainment related publications by covering the various facets of urban culture in a manner that is not only reader friendly but also well received equally by both male and female audiences. This is greatly due to our involvement in the community and our relationships which includes several of the most well respected community leaders offering a broad range of perspectives for our audiences reading pleasure. Our editorial staff not only writes about the urban lifestyle, we live it.

You can expect competitive content due to our relationships with several entertainment/politically related companies. We would like to offer you the opportunity to have your clients, products, or services featured in various sections of our magazine. We support many entrepreneurs, business owners, elected officials, community leaders and small businesses in the community and supporting the fastest growing Independent Urban media outlet.

GameChangers THE CONSCIOUS CULTURE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS GREAT READS 11

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

12

THE NEED FOR FINANCIAL LITERACY

14

5 FIRE ARM SAFETY TIPS

15

HOW TO BECOME A LIFE COACH DURING A PANDEMIC

18

UNDERSTANDING THE KING CONSCIOUS

20 5 FUN FALL ACTIVITIES

FOR THE FAMILY

HAROLD HARDNETT

Talks celebrating young adults and providing encouragement and financial support as they pursue their college education. / P38

COMMUNITY, NEWS AND UPDATES 21

WHY WE MUST VOTE IN NUMBERS ON NOV. 3, 2020

23

THIS IS THE ELECTION YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR

MEET JOYCE MARIE GRIGGS Fired Up & Ready to Go… Learn about the Retired U.S. Army Lt. Colonel now turned Democratic nominee for U.S. Congress in Georgia’s 1st District. / P33

24 COVID-19 & MENTAL HEALTH 28 SITTING DOWN WITH

PASTOR T.J. MCBRIDE 30 HOW THE COASTAL GEORGIA

MINORITY CHAMBER IS

MAKING WAVES!

FEATURES 33

FIRED UP & READY TO GO

36 RE-ENTRY ONLY PROVIDES

THE POTENTIAL FOR LIBERTY 38 AN INTERVIEW WITH

HAROLD HARDNETT 44 THE CLEAR CHOICE! 46 HOW SCANDRETT IS

CHANGING THE NARRATIVE

OBTAINING

FINANCIAL FREEDOM Learn about the need for financial literacy is important in having a solid foundation for success. / P12

THE CLEAR CHOICE! How Reginald Scandrett’s experience, commitment, and passion make him the clear choice for Henry County Sheriff. / P44

47 PORTER FARMS W W W. G A M EC H A N G ER S M ED I A N E T WO R K . O N L I N E

meet the team

I remember how the game changed for me. One day, I was sitting in a court room being judged and prosecuted by the district attorney, and then years later I’m in the DAs office planning how to reach our youth in a positive way. The Prosecutor that sentenced me didn’t know my background and probably didn’t even care, but through building relationships with future leaders before they took office, it put me in a position to be a game changer myself.

At the age of 25, I couldn’t tell you what a County Commissioner was, what a City Councilman did, or what role a Senator or State Representative played in making decisions in our lives, but I know now. And with that knowledge, I encourage everyone to exercise your right to vote. When you don’t vote you automatically give those that care nothing about you or your community the power to foster gentrification, police brutality, and target stereotypes of criminals based off plotted agendas.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE:

Changing the Game One Community at a time

V

oting is essential! Voting is a right! The freedom to vote is a choice! Some say our ancestors died for the right to vote while some disagree. However someone may feel, the right to exercise your vote gives you the ability to put leaders in place who look, think, and act like you. Whether you support Republicans or Democrats, or even Independent, you still have the option to take one of this country’s greatest gift and maximize it in our own unique way!

As a two-time felon, I lost my right to vote for over 12 years, my right to bear arms, and my right to serve as a public official. At the time, I didn’t realize the impact voting had directly on my life. The people who were in office put laws in place to keep those like me at bay and at the mercy of the legal system set in place by those in authority. In 2017, my right to vote was reinstated and ever since then, I have exercised that right to the fullest capacity.

To the people who say nothing has changed by voting, I can firmly stand and say that statement is a lie. I encourage you to educate yourself and gain a greater knowledge of what critical circumstances you allow that can affect your Children’s children, and Lord knows we don’t need a repeat of history.

If you can’t vote, get around people who can and speak your mind on what issues affect you so when they cast their vote they can be a voice for you until you can vote. Donate to campaigns, volunteer, participate. Everyone has a part to play. Our current leadership in this country has shown us it’s not for us, and perhaps the new administration may not be for us either. But if we stay active on a local, regional, and state level, we can begin the process of obtaining the lifestyle that values our beliefs, our ways our culture. This way we can Change The Game…One Community At a Time.

I’m Andreal “Mr. Country Fly” Mallard editor and chief of Game Changers Magazine and I thank each and every one of you for taking the time to read and share this edition 2020 Fall Edition #MyVoteWillCount #EEEsUp

Andreal Mallard

Editor in Chief / Founder / Publisher

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 11

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 12

THE

NEED FOR FINANCIAL LITERACY

BY HANEEF SABREE

H

ave you ever noticed something for the first time and then you begin to see it again and again?

Known as the BaaderMeinhof phenomenon, it is the best way to explain my relationship to seeing the need for financial literacy (DQYDJ, 2019). The first time I recognized the need for “financial literacy” was during my college years with an introduction to compound interest. Compound interest, a simple financial concept that can also be thought of as “interest on interest,” helped me better understand the extent of my credit card and student loan debt. Understanding that compound interest can just as easily create wealth was the beginning of my literacy. As Albert Einstein explained, “compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. Those who understand it, earn it. He who doesn’t, pays it.’ (DQYDJ, 2019) Financial literacy is important because it becomes THE significant component to our decision making with money. Literacy equips us with the knowledge and skills to manage our money efficiently.

How has our understanding of finances and wealth been shaped by culture and poor habits instead of learning and skilled planning?

“FINANCIAL FREEDOM MY ONLY HOPE. F*** LIVING RICH AND DYING BROKE.” – JAY-Z Money, a central theme in music, fashion and art, is echoed in billionaire Jay-Z’s poetic declaration, liberating himself financially, delivers a lyrical anthem in “The Story of O.J.” It also demonstrates the need for financial literacy.

More specifically, financial literacy is not a side-effect of wealth, wealth is a side-effect of financial literacy. Ironically, only 6 out of 50 states in America offer financial literacy courses in high school curriculum (Ranzetta, 2020). This

deficit perhaps sheds light in part as to why wealth in America is disproportionately distributed. The fact that 40 percent of Americans cannot afford an emergency expense (Youn, 2019) illustrates our need for better education and understanding of what financial literacy would mean for Americans, especially as we navigate the COVID pandemic.

Unfortunately, financial literacy and its importance to basic human survival has been overly ignored. During this time of extended isolation, I encourage families to include time and dialogue about financial literacy

to become a part of their personal “stimulus package.” The ability to maneuver your finances efficiently is a skill that can serve well beyond COVID-19.

As mentioned, I see the need for financial literacy now more than ever. As a personal, life goal I look to enrich and serve others to that end. Gandhi said “the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others”. To further the narrative and better engage others in this area, I obtained my first license during the COVID-19 shutdown and joined forces with a financial services firm.

“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” ­­–Gandhi GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 13

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 14

5

Fire Arm

SAFETY TIPS

BY GUS GREGORY

1 2 3

Always treat every gun as if it were loaded.

Always ensure you have a clean & lubricated weapon.

Be sure to store your weapon in a safe and secure location away from kids but easily accessible to the responsible adult.

4 5

Never point your weapon at anything you do not wish to destroy.

Keep your finger off of the trigger until you are ready to shoot.

ABOUT GUS GREGORY Gus Gregory grew up in Harlem, Florida and graduated from Clewiston High School in 2002. Gus Gregory then went to further his education at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Florida. Due to family medical circumstances Gus Gregory had to exit college prematurely In order to return to his home town to provide for his parents who were unable to work and provide for themselves for a period of time.

While back in his hometown Gus began his career in Law Enforcement at the Glades County Correctional Facility in Belle Glade, Florida. Once his family could return back to their normal working lives Gus relocated to Georgia where he continued his Law Enforcement Career working for the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Department as a certified Deputy II in Lawrenceville, Georgia.

As Gus’ family and responsibilities grew he decided to work closer to home so he began working for his local Police Department where he and his family currently reside. Gus has been employed at the Police Dept. for more than nine years.

During his tenure with the Police he has served on the SWAT team, and assisted multiple law enforcement agencies with criminal investigations. Outside of Law Enforcement Gus founded the private security firm named People First Security LLC, where they provide private and personal security for corporate events, or small venue parties plus much more.

How to Become a

Life

Coach

During a Pandemic

What Is a Life Coach?

A life coach is a professional who facilitates growth and transformation so people can live a happy, fulfilling life. By becoming a life coach, you can help your clients: Identify the obstacles standing in their way  Create strategies to overcome their obstacles  Develop awareness of self-sabotaging behavior  Acquire tools that can help them manage  self-limiting thoughts and behaviors

Embrace who they are and use their gifts to live  the life of their dreams

BY CHRIS SCOTT Environmental decline, health issues, a tense political climate, and extremism are just a few of the concerns we hear about daily.

They are also the reasons to champion positive psychology, where you look within yourself, to enhance your life experiences. It is an excellent time to become a life coach because people seek guidance to transform their lives.

Is a Life Coach and Therapist the Same?

Life coaching and therapeutic services are both callings of the heart. They are also both beneficial to the community; however, the roles are not the same.

A therapist focuses on healing and treating mental health issues, which include mental disorders, trauma, and unresolved issues from a patient’s past.

They must have a degree and must be licensed.

Mental health professionals must also adhere to ethical codes, privacy laws, and continuing education.

A life coach, on the other hand, does not have a regulatory board. You are not required to have any formal education or licensure to become a coach. It’s important to note that a coach cannot treat mental health conditions. While you do not have to get formal training, it is recommended that you do seek training.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 16

Here’s How You Can Become a Life Coach in 9 Simple Steps Life coaching is a divine call of duty. Most life coaches say that people have always come to them for advice, clarity, and guidance—chances are, you can relate to this role for the people in your life.

Here are the 9 steps to help you start your coaching business.

LI F E COACH I N G Your Spiritual Assignment

Understand and acquire the skills you need n

(such as active listening) to be an effective life coach professional.

Evaluate your talents, skills, and o accomplishments.

Brainstorm how you can serve others with p your gifts.

Acquire the skills you need through training q

and education to fill any gaps between your current abilities and the one you need as a coach.

Get a life coach or a mentor to help your r transition to coach.

Create your coaching package based on the s people you plan to serve.

Establish a business plan that outlines your t

Do You Feel Called To Be A Professional Certified Life Coach?

We Offer: -Transparency -Classroom Training -One Day Certification -Full 150 Page Curriculum

CALL (678) 674-4200 Professor Chris Scott Master Certified Life Coach

business.

Establish a digital presence to market your u business and connect with your potential clients.

Let your friends and loved ones know that you v are open for business.

The life coaching business is now a $2 billion industry, with $700 million coming from the US. Global Connections offers training and ongoing support to its life coaches. Our program is accredited through the Intercontinental Coaching Institute.

Call us at (678) 674-4200 or register for our next class at www.globalconnectionsacademy.org.

Go ahead and take the leap—the world needs you!

Chris Scott

Master Life Coach

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 18

UNDERSTANDING THE

BY HIMYO GREEN

K

KING CONSCIOUS

ing Conscious is what comes about when a Christian woman that walks hand in hand with the Lord links up with a Bodhisattva of the earth. Shellie Slack is an educator, mentor, author, and Christian young adult life coach, born and raised in Los Angeles, CA. She has a heart for serving the youth and especially the youth who are underrepresented and under-served. Himyo Green is a social worker who was born to inspire people to be the happiest they can be. He is also an empowerment and self-esteem Life Coach who was raised in Piscataway, NJ, and graduated from Clark Atlanta University.

Shellie had the vision to offer a robust platform that highlights black men in civic engagement and provides mentorship for young black males.

King Conscious was initially supposed to be a

Pictured above: Shellie Slack, founder of King Conscious

yearly transformational conference to influence change in the negative mindsets, behaviors, and self-perceptions of teenage black males to “kinglike-thinking.” What King Conscious has evolved into is a monthly initiative that unites black men, establishes brotherhood, and creates spaces for healing through “King Table Talk” a dialogue that takes place using the Healing Circle methodology.

Shellie knew that her assignment from God, to gather men, had been completed. She chose Himyo to be the President who would take the mustard seed that is King Conscious and plant it in the soil of the Black Community so that the roots of social-emotional healing would take hold of the hearts of Black male-identifying people.

The results that have been transpiring have been life-altering for the males involved. These are a few of the comments we are getting from those who have participated: “Peace to all you Kings so grateful for y’all presence.”

“Couldn’t have asked for a healthier and more productive space to align. So much respect for you Kings 100” “This has been speaking to my Soul. Grateful and honored. Let’s circle back and follow up” “Peace brothers! It’s been a gift to be with you all today. I look forward to connecting again”

King Conscious aims to close the fatherless gaps and help heal wounds through engaging discussions and compelling speaker presentations. Dr. Daisaku Ikeda, a Buddhist laureate who has over 350 honorary degrees from institutions of higher learning across the globe, writes, “ genuine dialogue is a ceaseless and profound spiritual exertion that seeks to affect a fundamental transformation in both ourselves and others. Dialogue challenges us to confront and transform the destructive impulses inherent in human life.[a]” (Ikeda, Aug. 2020 Living Buddhism pg. 16). The specific niche that King Conscious is providing the community is utilizing the tool of dialogue to address the repressed feelings and emotions that are unique to the Black male-identifying experience.

What we know is that those feelings and emotions are going to come out somehow. We have countless examples of the negative ways those unaddressed traumas manifest amongst the community. Drug addiction, sex addiction, abuse of self and others, unhealthy eating habits, and a myriad of other issues are a direct result of socialemotional ineptitude. The kind of mentoring King Conscious provides is one that allows men young and seasoned to pull up and have a seat at the table. We model positive self-expression.

We know that we have some medicine to provide our people. We believe that every man is a King of his domain, whether that domain is a house, apartment, room, or tent. How one manages their kingdom and extends their empire is directly attached to how they handle their feelings and emotions. Social-emotional healing creates space to receive the abundant opportunities available to us.

Life is cause and effect. The agreement made with God is we make the causes, and God handles the effects. We make causes through our thoughts, our words, and our actions. When we are as rap artist Lil Baby, puts it, “Emotionally Scarred” our thoughts, words, and actions reflect the pain, resulting in self-destructive behaviors.

King Conscious belief is: When we as Black people heal- the world will heal.

Learn more at KingConscious.org IG: _ KingConscious FB: http://bit.ly/kingconsciousFB

“AS A CHRISTIAN LIFE COACH, I AM CALLED TO HELP MY CLIENTS ALIGN MORE CLOSELY WITH GOD’S PLAN.” – COACH SHELLIE

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GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 20

fun

fall

ACTIVITIES FOR THE FAMILY

BY KIANNA PORTER-SIMONS

1. VISIT AN ORCHARD.

4. FOOTBALL FOR ALL.

Nothing beats the taste of a freshly picked apple.

Go apple picking this autumn and for an extra challenge, balance one on top of your head.

If there’s one sport synonymous with autumn, it’s football. Gather the family and go as fans to a local homecoming game or play your own Thanksgiving Classic in the backyard.

2. HIT THE TRAILS. Take time to appreciate the changing colours of the leaves that can transform a regular hike into a magical one. Make sure to check out our trail games before you begin.

3. PUMPKIN PATCH CHALLENGE. Pick a pumpkin that you can carry or roll. Laying the ground rules before visiting a patch saves Mom and Dad from hoisting a heavy one, and challenges kids to push, pull, or carry their pumpkin away.

5. FARM FUN. Visit a farm or festival for some good old fashioned fun. Tractor rides, pony rides, and hay bales are all worthy of becoming your new family tradition. Bonus: the kids will discover both the challenge and joy of climbing a farmer’s hay bale.

WHY WE MUST

VOTE IN NUMBERS ON NOV. 3, 2020

BY SARAH M. BILLUPS, MSW, LCSW, ACSW

A

mericans are presently living in unprecedented times. We are shell shocked by some of the occurrences which we have witnessed, along with the rest of the world, and we stare almost glass eyed in disbelief. We have seen what happens when a complicit Congress refuse to honor their oath of office, and follow blindly, and without the judgement necessary to competently run a sophisticated and complicated government.

As we have observed these things, and in some instances have been personally impacted by some of the choices they have made, we have repeatedly asked the question, “HOW did we GET here???”…WELL, one of the answers is clear… a LOT of people did not vote in 2016. When people stay home, and fail to participate in the elections, they are delegating their choices to empty space. A vote not made is a vote for the other side. There is one thing that we must acknowledge when looking at the revolution of the Civil Rights Era: Our people understood the importance of the vote. They marched, were brutalized, some even killed, but the numbers continued to increase, as Blacks registered and voted.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 22

For a long time, we had been lulled into a false sense of security, and the things which made our people take to the streets in droves no longer appeared to be relevant.

However, we have seen how fragile change can be. With a stroke of the pen, gains fought and died for can be erased. The VOTING RIGHTS ACT is a prime example of this. Representative John Lewis , and a multitude of people were brutalized on “Bloody Sunday” fighting for the right to vote. President Johnson signed it into Law. Congressman Lewis lived to see it pass, see the positive results of their work, and fifty years later, see it gutted by a backwards government with a biased outlook.

American citizens were brutalized in horrific ways, including being shot multiple times with rubber bullets, some which caused permanent damage such as blindness. Citizens were taken away in unmarked cars to unknown locations at night. These kinds of acts must be considered as you decide who to cast your vote for. BUT CAST IT!!!! Under no circumstances must you decide not to vote. This election is too critical.

Your VOTE is your VOICE. If you can see the direction which this present administration is moving the Country, and you have concerns. YOU MUST VOTE.

“There is one thing that we must acknowledge when looking at the revolution of the Civil Rights Era: Our people understood the importance of the vote.”

We are living through a Pandemic, with so many Americans dead and dying daily, our minds cannot completely absorb the depth of this tragedy. We have watched the Federal Government ignore its responsibility , and not provide national testing or tracking, work in opposition to the States, and not appear to have any empathy for the impacted families. Elections have consequences, and our VOTE is our personal national resource. Who we use it for speaks volumes for what we want to see happen in the Country, as well as our State and Local governments. and the quality of leadership is the key to a successful outcome. Guard your vote, and use it wisely, BUT USE IT!!!

Sitting around the kitchen table complaining about the things you don’t like will not help. You must take that passion, that anger, and take it to the POLLS!!! VOTE like your life depends on it. We need competent leaders with the ability to show compassion. To stand in times of crisis. To lead with Honor, Dignity, and Understanding. If there was ever a time when we must vote in numbers, this is it.

Not since George Wallace have we had such blatant racism, a conscious effort at dividing America along racial lines, and encouraging extreme groups to boldly display their negativity towards people who are different from them.

We are witnessing an American Revolution following the televised murder of a Black man, George Floyd, by a uniformed police officer who did not appear to have an ounce of humanity. His action has triggered an upheaval, not only in the Country , but internationally, as a backlash to this brutal act. The response to the prolonged and currently ongoing demonstrations by the current POTUS was to send in unidentified troops to control the crowd. Out of this control, peaceful

November 3, 2020 will be a day of decision for America. We are in perilous times which will impact our Democratic Republic if left unchecked. The ONLY way to check it is by voting. Do not sit this one out, expecting others to vote for you. NO ONE CAN… one person, one vote. Be in the number. It has never been more important than now. If we are to HONOR the Legacy left us by Congressman John Lewis, then we MUST VOTE!!!!!!

THIS IS THE ELECTION YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR

BY MICHAEL BURNS

It is 2020.

For the first time in the history of Henry County, Democrats can run the County.

We can control the Board of Commissioners; the Sheriff’s Office; District Attorney’s Office; the Tax Commissioner’s Office; The Clerk of Superior Court; and the Coroner’s Office. We can make sure when policies are made, and money is spent, it supports EVERYONE in Henry, not some of the people in Henry County. That when decisions are made on how policing will be done, we are at the policy making table, not just the interrogation table.

It is 2020.

We reelect on state senator; elect another; reelect four House Representatives and elect four new ones to make sure when they redistrict the state, we get the seats we deserve, and the money from Congress we deserve.

is in the room, not just on the street protesting.

It is 2020.

We can make history at the National, State, and County level for the first time ever. THIS IS THE ELECTION YOU HAVE BEEN WANTING FOR. If you are registered, go and vote, and vote like it matters because this time, IT DOES.

HONOR YOUR HISTORY; HONOR YOUR FAMILY.

VOTE.

It is 2020.

We can make sure that when the White House gets together to make national policy, somebody who looks like the majority of Henry County GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 23

COVID-19

& Mental Health

BY CANDICE GOULD, LCSW

COVID-19 has affected us, and the way that we see things, in many ways. Not only is it affecting our physical health but it is affecting our mental health, and our overall sense of well-being.

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well- being. It affects how we think, feel, and act as we attempt to cope with everyday life. It also determines how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. When our mental health is compromised, in some way, we may experience mood swings, increased anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and feelings of isolation. For purposes of this article I would like to define the following 2 well known mental health conditions which are on the increase, relative to COVID-19; Anxiety and Depression.

While anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, loss of interest/ pleasure in activities, sleep and appetite disturbances. It affects how you feel, think, and behave, and can lead to a variety of other emotional and physical problems.

Anxiety and depression share some of the same symptoms; fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, changes in appetite, anger and irritability , somatic complaints/physical pain, and difficulty concentrating, Anxiety also includes excessive worrying, feeling restless or on edge, and muscle tension .Symptoms specific to depression are; a persistent feeling of sadness, feelings of worthlessness, excessive guilt, withdrawing from family and friends, impulsive or reckless behaviors, fatigue, and last, one of the most serious symptoms, suicidal ideations.

The COVID-19 pandemic has made almost everyone feel more fragile. With the shelter in place, and social distancing, orders being in place for over 6 months we are all experiencing feelings of isolation, Since March we have been asked to shelter at home, and physically distance, in order to limit the spread of COVID-19.

While the shelter in place order was in full effect a noted increase in anxiety and depression was found, amongst both individuals and families. Responsible for this increase were: 1. Issues related to finances, including loss, or reduction in hours, of employment, and increased food, and utility bills 2. Proximity issues, related to family members not having breaks from each other due to everyone being at home or for single people, not having anyone nearby to interact with, and 3. Fear of the unknown as it relates to the symptoms, spread of, and outcomes related to COVID-19.

With many individuals working from home, and almost all students participating in virtual learning from home, difficulty separating work or school life from home life has also been reported as a stressor. Even those who consider themselves “homebodies” are reporting feeling confined because they no longer feel that they have the “option” of not going out, and are instead being told to stay home. For COVID survivors, like myself, there is a certain level of anxiety that develops. Anxiety regarding the fear of catching it again, or of being diagnosed with one of the many COVID associated illnesses, or some other life-threatening illness.

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By sharing our feelings about all of this we can identify what we need to do in order to get to the other side of these difficult times.

While staying at home, and keeping our distance from others, has helped to keep us safe, while we are attempting to flatten the curve, it comes with its own set of problems and stressors. The level of social isolation that people are feeling has become the center of many conversations between family, friends, and co-workers. These conversations however are extremely important. They are a way for us to normalize both our anxiety, and our fear of the unknown, while continuing to adhere to the CDC recommendations as they relate to sheltering in place. We need to feel comfortable talking about how unnatural this all feels. If we’re not okay, that’s okay, and we need to be able to acknowledge that too. By sharing our feelings about all of this we can identify what we need to do in order to get to the other side of these difficult times.

While many states have begun to lift some of the restrictions, cases are continuing to increase, the media continues to highlight the death toll, and unfortunately a return to normal, as we know it, is nowhere in sight. The good news however, is that there are ways for us to cope.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 25

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Ways to Improve/Maintain Mental Health During the COVID-19 Pandemic There is no question that things are feeling a little bleak right now.

If you are feeling any of the effects of the pandemic, remember that you are not alone, it is natural.

There are ways that you can improve/maintain your mental health, including:

Getting Help: If you have a

current mental health provider, continue to talk with them through tele-health if you can. Many of the insurance companies are waiving the co-pays for tele-health in order to ensure that people can get the help and support that they need during this pandemic without having to worry about having additional funds. If you are not in treatment and want to establish care, you absolutely still can.

For help finding a mental health provider in your area please go to Psychologytoday.com.

In the metro Atlanta area, CSG and Associates Counseling, 770-282-4990, would be pleased to provide services to you.

Get Connected: Connect with a family

member, friend, religious leader, therapist, or whomever; connect with someone you can talk to about your concerns. This is especially helpful if you are experiencing significant worry. Sometimes when we worry excessively, we can’t see our way out. Talking to a friend or counselor can help balance the anxiety that you are feeling with other thoughts while also providing you with needed support.

Establish/Maintain a Routine: It may not be the same routine as you had pre-pandemic, but it is still essential to build/maintain a routine.

Try to wake up and go to sleep around the same time, eat at similar times, and build in scheduled self-care (whether it is reading, taking a bath, or taking time to get ready for the day, even if there is nowhere to go). For maximum benefit, include three healthy meals, time outdoors, if possible, and physical activity. Make sure that you follow your hygiene routine and get dressed as if you are going somewhere, everyday!

Sleep: Sleep is essential to mental health. Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep every night. Go to bed and wake up at the same time whenever possible. Also, pay attention to bedtime habits that may be interfering with sleep. Watching or reading the news, going on social media, or increased alcohol intake prior to bed all can interrupt your night’s sleep.

Stay (a Little) Informed Constantly:

following the headlines can add to stress, so set a limit to your consumption of news. Keep in mind that reading news —instead of watching news — usually allows for more control over what and how much you consume.

Use Technology to Your Advantage:

Modern technology has great potential for helping out with social isolation. Use FaceTime, Zoom, or other social networking apps to connect with friends and family that you cannot physically be with. Though gyms are in uncertain stages of reopening, if you enjoy fitness classes try one of the many dance, exercise, or yoga/relaxation classes online.

Candice Gould, LCSW CSG and Associates Counseling

SITTING DOWN WITH

PASTOR T.J. MCBRIDE We had the pleasure of sitting down with T.J. McBride, the Senior Pastor of ​Tabernacle of Praise Church International, one of the fastest growing congregations located in McDonough and Jonesboro, Georgia. While he is well known in Henry County, for those that aren’t familiar, he is a community-centered trailblazer and internationally sought-after thought-leader, speaker, and author. Pastor McBride’s message and mantra are one of faith and his ministry is the manifestation and evidence of hope.

Leading through a pandemic, Pastor McBride has utilized his virtual platform to continuously teach the word and stay connected with his congregants by streaming services weekly, bible study, and a special service for the youth.

Pictured right: Pastor Timothy McBride and Shay Lynn Dixon for Game Changers Magazine

In June of 2020, Mr. McBride hosted a Justice and Peace March to bring awareness and hope. This peaceful protest conveyed the message that Black Lives Matter, and that we must fight for social justice, diversity and inclusion in our community.

In a recent interview, Pastor McBride sat down and answered questions regarding social justice and advocating from the pulpit.

Q: What are some of the things you plan on doing?

A: Pastor McBride:

We formed a Justice Ministry in our church, right now we are asking people if you want to be involved in our justice work to join that ministry, we want to get information out to people. One thing that I found out is that unfortunately, the bible says we perish because of lack of knowledge, a lot of times we don’t know what’s going on in our community.

Q&A Q: What are some of the things that Tabernacle of Praise is doing during this time?

A: Pastor McBride​: “...we did a Justice and Peace walk. We brought

all of the faith communities together. I wanted to show the world how we can have a peaceful protest; not tear up stuff and not vandalize stuff but at the same time, lift up the social justice issues that are going on in our community.

He stated that, “People want to disconnect God from what’s happening in our community” and that he feels it is a poor representation of faith.

Pastor McBride went on to say that, “his mission is to redefine what Jesus was saying and interpret it the right way.” As believers, Pastor feels it is important to understand that Jesus was always with people who were sick, those that were cast out and Jesus advocated to bring justice to those people. If Jesus were here, Pastor Mcbride believes he would certainly be marching with Black Lives Matter.

Q: What message do you have to people that are angry right now, that want change now and are in need of hope?

A: Pastor McBride: Your initial emotion is anger but what you have to do as a believer, we are taught, ... a phrase in the bible that says we have the fruit of the spirits, it’s called temperance, temperance is self control. All of us get angry at some times in our lives but we have to channel that anger because it’s emotion… If we take our emotion and say okay, I’m angry about this and what am I going to do about it? I’m going to vote, I’m going to get a group of young people together so I can educate them.

Connect with Pastor McBride and Tabernacle Of Praise Church Int’l on Social Media.

@tjmcbrideministries @topchurchlive @topciyouth GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 29

How the

Coastal Georgia Minority Chamber is

MAKING WAVES! What is the Coastal Georgia Minority Chamber?

In 2016, the Coastal Georgia Minority Chamber, a 501c3 organization, started as an information hub for economic development for disadvantaged minority businesses within the Coastal Georgia area. Since then, the CGMCC has grown so much that it has split like stock adding even more value for our members and the minority business community.

How does the chamber benefit small business owners?

We understand what’s needed to grow minority businesses, educational resources, proper marketing and branding, access to capital, opportunity gateways, and tons of information. The CGMCC mission is to meet these needs, and that is why we are constantly evolving because we are learning daily. After all, that’s how often the game of business change.

Pictured above: Sabrina Newby, founder of Coastal Georgia Minority Chamber

Who are some of the board members on the chamber, and what role do they play?

We have a great team that consists of Larry Holman, Dr. Jamal Toure, Pierre Ifill, Travis Stegall, Taquiesha McGiver, Dexter Newby, Maceo Mahoney, and Rufus Davis. Our board members all visionaries; they compliment my expertise with their own. Together, along with our community advisors that are community leaders, I think we make a dream team.

How do businesses join the chamber?

Now that we’ve evolved and launched our social media platform called “The Market,” we are becoming a premier economic development mobile.

We cover many of the issues that stagnate our communities. So we offer two ways to work with us. One way is to join “The Market” and pay a small monthly subscription for exclusive resources, content, and information. If interested, go to www. cgmccmarket.com and become a member.

maker that landed a contract with a major bigbox retailer. Once I experienced the difficulties of that and had friends who shared the same issues, I immediately started thinking about making the process better. “The CGMCC Market” is a Facebook/ Linkedin type of platform designed to assist minority entrepreneurs, wantrepreneurs, and contractors by providing them with and connecting them to exclusive content that will help them reach their goals all from the comforts of their homes.

What are some of the key components that help business owners benefit from this platform?

There are prominent entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and various agencies working with us to provide exclusive educational content to our members. Some of the content will be free, while others may cost a small fee to access.

There is currently nothing like this for minority businesses anywhere.

The second way includes the building up of our communities by investing in our community. Investing includes scheduling an appointment to see how we can best suit your needs. If interested, please go to www.coastalgeorgiamc.org.

And where can we find out more about you online?

There is a lot of information online about the CGMCC and myself. Or you can visit or websites www. coastalgeorgiamc.org or www.cgmccmarket.com, and you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, and Twitter.

You guys are launching a Market for business owners, creating a new wave to support business owners suffering the effects of COVID-19; what is that about, and how does it work?

“The Market’s” concept has been a brainchild of mine for the last four years. I am a natural product GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 31

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 32

Is “The Market” available to all business owners or just a certain group of business owners?

Are businesses broken down by demographics that cater to where they are, or is this a one size fits all type of deal?

entrepreneur, gardener, and published Quotist. I love to help improve my communities of color. I genuinely believe my purpose is to connect with people, create with people, and ignite the purpose in others. I like to think that’s what we all are supposed to do ultimately; I am merely doing what I love.

Enterprises are broken down in various ways to help us meet our member’s needs. This also helps us better understand what’s needed most in each dynamic from locality to industry.

What’s life like for you on a daily bases?

What challenges did the chamber have to overcome to get to this point to be able to support small business owners thru the Market?

What motivated you to start a chamber for minority business owners?

We focus on minority businesses as defined by the Federal Government, but we don’t discriminate. In this time of COVID, everyone needs a helping hand, and we are happy to be their resource of choice.

This question always makes me reflect because we’ve come a significant way in such a short time; however, it’s nearly not far enough. When we first launched, we had many challenges, just as our members did. Lack of resources, opportunities, you name it. However, we were determined. We interviewed minority owners to learn what they needed most, and what they thought was authentic representation and opportunity then became that over time. Minority businesses have a right to every resource currently being offered, and for some, it was just a matter of knowing these resources exist. Minority owners aren’t looking for a hand out they are looking for a hand up, and we were determined to provide that.

Mrs. Sabrina Newby, you are the founder of this organization with so much on your plate; tell us more about you, and how do you juggle it all?

I am originally from Louisiana, and I come from very humble beginnings. I currently live in Coastal Georgia. I am a wife, mother, grandmother,

A crazy adventure! Man, my day starts at 5 am, and sometimes I don’t go to bed until 5 am, but I love developing. It is what drives me.

It was needed. I am a business owner. I make a natural hair and body product line called “BouGie Natural” and a perfume called “Huny.” When I first started, no one could assist me with my business or its development.

My target audience was to women of color, so I had no resources to connect with as a businesswoman of color to help me cater to them. So, I traveled to other cities, found my tribe, and brought back everything that they taught me and taught others.

What need did you see that you knew this would play a crucial part in the Coastal area’s economic development?

The Coastal Georgia area is beautiful. I fell in love with it after the Army relocated us here. What I didn’t see was alot of business owners that looked like me.

I saw many salons, a few restaurants, and alot of churches, and I wondered where the other businesses and business owners of color were. That needed to change, and when I felt God was ordering my steps, I went into action to make it so.

FEATURE ARTICLE

ready to go

Fired up Georgia’s 1st Congressional District GameChangers Magazine sat down with US Army LT. Colonel (Retired) Joyce Marie Griggs to learn about her vision for U.S. Congress.

J

OYCE MARIE GRIGGS, the Democratic candidate for Georgia’s 1st Congressional District, is a proven leader with a track record of stellar service and uncompromising excellence. Having served her country and community with distinction in the face of daunting opposition, she has long been recognized as a force for goodness and truth. The story of her journey is indeed an inspiring one.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 33

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Born the sixth of ten children in Bethel, North Carolina, Griggs distinguished herself as someone special at an early age. Working with her sharecropping family in the fields gave her a strong spiritual grounding that served her well as a public school student. She graduated from high school in her native state, working her way through both a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology and a Master’s degree in counseling from North Carolina Central University. After graduate school, she was a head counselor and psychology instructor at Kittrell College, as well as a volunteer tutor for underprivileged children with learning disabilities. She raised two children of her own along the way, Torri and Laurie.

The next chapter of her life found her country calling; in her trademark manner, she answered fearlessly and with a flourish. Griggs received her direct commission to become a second lieutenant in 1975, and subsequently, earned the distinction of becoming one of the first women to complete airborne training at Fort Benning, Georgia. Upon admission to the Women’s Army Corps, she completed women’s officer training, basic and advanced military intelligence/tactical training, psychological operations training, civil military operations training, command

“

She ‘(doesn’t) need a license to serve the people.’ and general staff training, combined arms service training, and intelligence collection management training in rapid succession, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel.

She also served as a professor of military science in Honolulu, Hawaii. She became a decorated veteran, being deployed in arenas from the Middle East to the continent of Africa and uniformly receiving the highest commendations for meritorious service, including a parachutist badge, the Defense Meritorious Service medal, the Global War on Terrorism medal, and the Bronze Star.

After her illustrious military career, Griggs chose the path of law, earning her J.D. from the John Marshall Law School in Atlanta. She further strengthened her reputation as an uncompromising fighter—this time for the legal rights of all people. In her practice, she worked tirelessly for clients from all walks of life and often pro bono for those who were unable to afford legal representation. Consequently, many honors ensued, including the Pro Bono Award and the Chief Justice Award for Professionalism.

Her vast experience as a civil servant includes mentoring at Hubert Middle School and affiliations with the National Council of Negro Women, the NAACP, the Wounded Warrior Project, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Hungry Club Forum, the American Legion, the Coastal Georgia Minority Chamber of Commerce, the Black Empowerment Movement Association, the Southbridge Homeowners’ Association and Women’s Club, Citizens for Environmental Justice, the A. Philip Randolph Institute, and Healthy Savannah (HealthPowers). In addition to her civic engagement, Griggs is also a true citizen of the world, embarking on humanitarian missions to Haiti, Mexico and Uganda; she also

counseled Amerasian children of American GIs. In 2000, Griggs took the next logical step for someone with her passion and experience and ran for political office, winning the Democratic primary for Georgia’s 1st Congressional District seat in the United States Congress. In response, her opponents mounted a damaging campaign against her, accusing Griggs of a laundry list of unfounded allegations. This concerted effort resulted in Griggs not only losing that race, but in losing her law practice as well. However, as JOYCE MARIE GRIGGS has stated repeatedly, she “(doesn’t) need a license to serve the people.”

Her profound faith in God, that brought her over many a tribulation, led her to yet another calling—evangelism, through which she has ministered to countless souls. Her path is a testament to the words of Romans 8:31: “If God be for us, who can be against us?”

In 2020, in true phoenix-like fashion, Griggs again secured a resounding primary victory for Georgia’s 1st Congressional District seat.

With your help, she can take her extraordinary fighting spirit all the way to Washington for you—the people.

Re-Entry Only Provides the

Potential for Liberty

BY KEVIN HAYES

98% of all inmates return to their communities, right? So why has the system removed so many inmate programs? Statistics prove that inmates that don’t participate in programs have a higher chance of re-offending and returning to prison than those that do. This article explores how the criminal justice system is failing to prepare prisoners for successful re-entry by failing to provide them programming.

M

ost inmates anxiously anticipate the long road back to normalcy after a long period of incarceration. And most all return back to their homes and back to their families…but are they ready?

I know that the transition back won’t be easy. The label “ex-con” subjects you to stereotypes, bias, and discrimination. But until liberty is won, what’s next?

“I encourage anybody with any level of devotion to liberty to first strive hard to unfasten the handcuffs and shackles of the mind.”

Start with the realization that the Department of Corrections isn’t here to correct anyone. We must correct ourselves through services like the ones that specialize in postcards for prisoners. I encourage anybody with any level of devotion to liberty to first strive hard to unfasten the handcuffs and shackles of the mind. Because once a person becomes submissive to confinement and accepts the harsh terms and conditions that accompany incarceration, he or she is at risk for becoming “institutionalized”.

An institutionalized inmate comes back to the community with one thing on his mind…how to get-by before going back to prison. You would think that once a person understands the political aspect of incarceration and the financial game that is being played, the desire for liberty would become stronger. But, for an institutionalized inmate that is not how it works. It is bewildering to me how a man can exemplify the lack of persistence, faith, and knowledge of self, to become compliant to confinement and incarceration. Never get used to the conditions that accompany imprisonment.

Prison is a place that eliminates a lot of things that could be detrimental to a person’s strengthening. It’s easier to be suppressed and lose focus of what’s important when incarcerated. The prisoner that actually accepts the simplicity of the process and accepts responsibility for the path that they chose - is the one who will succeed. In addition, you have to possess an above average level of focus and devotion to overcome the constant uproars, anxiety, paranoia, and depression that surround the prison environment.

Furthermore, even though statistics shows that effective inmate programming can reduce recidivism by up to 20%, the “revolving door” syndrome is hard to overcome. Prison will either make you stronger or make you weaker. Everyone who is taken through this process is tested and it saddens me to know that so many will fail instead of properly preparing for the biggest test of all- liberty. So, in order for one to take advantage of a liberty one must first take on the task of fortifying self mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Fail to do so and liberty will be taken away.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 37

An Interview With

HAROLD HARDNETT

H

AROLD HARDNETT is a Native of southwest Atlanta born and raised, currently residing in the area where he is a hardworking business owner and community leader for change.

He is a dedicated husband, father, and businessman who cares about his community, cares about his city, and love what he does helping others. Harold is also the founder of Harold Hardnett Foundation and is dedicated to advocating while standing in the gap for his community.

Because of the impact mentors had on his life, Harold is reaching back to young men in a positive way in hopes of inspiring the next generation creating avenues for our future leaders in a positive way.

Harold has always had a passion to volunteer his time and serve his community in partnership with other local nonprofits such as Hosea Feed the Hungry while attending Morris Brown College, Boyscouts of America, 100 Black Men of Atlanta, which he is a member of, and serving in the village with his fraternity Kappa Alpha Psi in the areas of Campbellton and Cascade road to what some consider the heart of Atlanta.

Harold had a vision to be an entrepreneur at the age of 10, he always knew he wanted to be an entrepreneur and be his own boss. His inspiration came from a family member that owned his own grocery store that asked him “What does he want to be when he grow up?” and he replied “I want to be a policeman!” His cousin said “why you want to work for somebody when you can be your own man, call your own shots and be your own boss?” Which was the nugget he needed to get started! The 25 year journey hasn’t always been easy, over the past 1 5 years Harold has worked countless hours maintaining rental properties, vending service contracts, running a commercial janitorial cleaning services and balancing the scale of running a successful foundation. Speaking with Mr Hardnett, you can see he was taught how to work hard his entire life, even though he has worked for employers as a training ground for experience, that never stopped his from walking in his vision .. Mr Hardnett quotes “The journey can be tough but the Victory is very rewarding!”

Pictured above: Team Hardnett (From Left to Right) Misty Hardnett, Jaylon Hardnett, Zen Wright, Dee Wright, Mary Mitchell, Shea Wright

Harold’s community outreach for the Harold Hardnett Foundation started out by giving scholarships to inter city students then branched out throughout metro Atlanta, going statewide and now is disturbed across 13 other states. Mr Hardnett most recent impact on reaching the youth was his experience with the “Water Boys”, as we all know Atlanta Metro has young boys who go on the corner selling water and The Hardnett Family created avenues to teach entrepreneurship training to these young men showing them the correct way to be successful working along with Black Men of Valor in partnership with the Hey! Foundation.

His biggest hurdle as an entrepreneur was finding good quality employees, Harold says “finding good help is hard to find!” and for his business to grow he needed the right team to take his vision to the next level.

Mr. Hardnett is also the recipient of 2020 Minority Business CEO of the Year Award and with so many minority owned business in the metro Atlanta area, he is honored to to recognized amongst so many other great business owners. He says its not about the money he makes nor how big his business but the community service which all plays a role in the network of

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 39

Pictured right: Harold Hardnett receiving the CEO of the Year Award at the Georgia Minority Business Association.

Pictured below: Harold Hardnett has personally delivered over 1000 food boxes to seniors, and disabled citizens in Southwest Atlanta accomplishing the recognition. Harold’s advice to up and coming business owners is “Don’t sweat the small stuff, as a business owners sometimes its no days, no weekend to hang out, no real time to yourself but it has to get done so burn the midnight oil!”

It is no doubt Harold was taught how to work hard at a young age. His dad worked three jobs and mom worked two playing instrumental roles in his path to success of where he is today .. His most influential moment came while attending Morris Brown College when he meet Herman Russell who dropped a life long nugget on him to “build a legacy because once you die your network is zero!” Mr. Russell stated “I’m building a legacy and after I die my legacy will still be here!” which inspired Harold because he thought he would say something about money, and he said nothing about money at all, he said leave legacy for the people who will be here when your gone. Other influential figures include C. David Moody of Moody Construction, Thomas Dorch, and Sytem 5 Electronics CEO Maceo Brown. Mr. Hardnett says “these people never talked money they talked family customer service be the best you a can be .. if you good and handle your business the money will come.”

1

2 Pictured: 1. Kacey Vinings, (Hey! Foundation), Mark Boyd (Hey! Foundation), Asanti Hill (Black Men of Valor), pictured with the Atlanta Water Boys 2. Harold Hardnett pictured with the Men of Kappa Alpha Psi during the Suits & Solidarity Event 3. Harold Hardnett pictured with his son Jaylon Hardnett and his wife Misty Hardnett at the 1st Annual Harold Maurice Hardnett Foundation’s Senior Citizens Ball

3

For more information about Harold Hardnett and the Harold Hardnett Foundation visit online at www.HaroldHardnettFoundation.org and on social media.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 41

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Gale E Lawrence

and Medicaid Services (CMS) with the Social Security Administration (SSA) working with CMS by enrolling people in Medicare. The SSA determines the entitlement to Medicare benefits. Medicare is the nation’s largest health insurance program and provides coverage to almost 40 million Americans. Individuals can sign up for Medicare Part A, which is hospital insurance and Part B, medical insurance.

A premium is paid for Part B coverage, so only individuals still covered by insurance at work should temporarily not apply. Please contact us for clarity, because, if you decide to enroll in Part B at a later date, you may have to pay a late enrollment penalty of 10%.

We can insure from age 0-99.

Most people can apply and enroll in some type of health coverage.

The initial enrollment period begins three months before a person’s 65th birthday, including their birth month, and it ends three months after that birthday.

Some can get help paying their insurance premium. Just contact GEL Health Advisors, answer a few questions and get your answers.

There are many parts and pieces to this process and that is why we enjoy helping people navigate through it.

“Working with seniors is our passion.” We specialize in helping people find all the benefits they can get.” Part of that help sometimes means going beyond doing research and filling out forms.

We specialize in finding the plan that fit your needs and financial goals. G E L Health Advisors represent numerous health insurance companies, not just one. That way we can assist you in selecting the plan for you – from Health Insurance to Medicare.

Guidance is provided throughout the process from our licensed and certified agents at no cost or obligation to enroll.

MEDICARE This is the year I, Gale E Lawrence joins the ranks of clients I have advised for more than two decades. A McDonough native, who will celebrate my 65th birthday is getting ready to apply for Medicare – a topic I teach to other insurance agents and to people in the community who just want to know more about the pieces of Medicare.

Medicare is a health insurance program for people 65 years of age or older, as well as some disabled people under 65, and those with end-stage renal disease with permanent kidney failure treated with dialysis or a transplant, etc. Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare

HEALTH INSURANCE Open Enrollment Period (OEP) is Nov 1 – Dec 15. This is

the only time that we can enrollment most. Occasionally people will qualify for an exception, but don’t bank on that.

Enroll now while it is open to everyone.

You can contact us at our Virtual Office GELHealthAdvisors.com, texting your email address to (817) 381-1500 or stop by our physical office at 817 Pavilion Court, McDonough, GA 30253.

WEALTH Wealth without good health limits us. However, we do believe in offering services such as Life Insurance with Health Benefits, Legacy Plans to leave your family tax-free and more. We believe in Now Income, Tax-Free Income and Legacy Income. Our fuel for success is GAS – Gain knowledge, Apply Knowledge and Share Knowledge. 4/2019 GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 43

FEATURE ARTICLE

Rather than fabricating a reality that belongs inside a fairytale, Scandrett is first to say there is a problem and it must be solved.

REGINALD SCANDRETT 4 HENRY COUNTY SHERIFF

The Clear Choice!

H

BY AMANDA L HUDGINS umble beginnings has craft together the well poised man who stands before Henry County today in hopes of becoming your next Sheriff. A man that grew up on the west-side of town in Henry County and raised in a single mother household who has since used his own life experiences to overcome, and to empower those around him. Having never forgotten where he came from, Reginald Scandrett, can confidently be the voice for all who have, all that are, and all that will grow up just as he did here in Henry County.

Who is Reginald Scandrett?

Reginald Scandrett has shared a beautiful twenty-nine years of marriage with his high school sweetheart, Deidree’, and together they have four children. Prior to his running for office, Scandrett served over thirty years in law enforcement for DeKalb County.

During which he soared through a total of eleven promotions that ultimately landed him in the highest position, Chief Deputy.

As Chief Deputy, Reginald Scandrett, embraced a number of new responsibilities including oversight of the entire sheriff’s office with an initial budget of 82 million dollars. A budget that later increased by nine million dollars following a petition Scandrett proposed to the commissioner two years preceding his exit from the DeKalb County law enforcement. It is these experiences, each and every level, that Reginald Scandrett accredits his well-rounded knowledge of how to successfully run a Sheriff’s office.

Shouting his praises to God, and the steps his career has taken along the way, Scandrett feels better prepared for the season we are in today.

What is the Role of Sheriff?

What is your Vision and Mission as Sheriff?

As a candidate for Henry County Sheriff when asked what role the county sheriff holds Scandrett introduces two separate, yet insightful perspectives: the constitutional role and the fundamental role. Further explained, the constitutional role of the sheriff is oversight of the jail, court and field with strong emphasis in serving warrants.

However, in an area like Henry County who is not a full service county, there is a fundamental difference between the police and the sheriff which is this: the police handles the crime and the sheriff handles the person.

With such a fight going on in each community worldwide a distinct line has been drawn between law enforcement and people of the communities. Rather than fabricating a reality that belongs inside a fairytale, Scandrett is first to say there is a problem and it must be solved.

While preparing his vision and mission for our great community he has channeled reality and shares step one: be transparent, come to the table and act quickly. Through the acknowledgment that there are some officers who abuse their power, Scandrett, envisions a way we can bridge the gap between community and law enforcement as long as these problems are identified, and halted rapidly. Under his office once examples have been set forth for our community trust will arise and intolerant acts will cease. In each step taken to prevail, our community will move past the current season and advance to step two: building relationships.

Protecting “God’s Country” Growth and change undeniably go hand-inhand despite how unwanted it may be. Because of this, an ugly four-letter word has emerged and began to spread amongst the community – FEAR. Stereotypes linking crime with growth has fueled this fear and people want to know how will Scandrett protect what has unsurprisingly become known as “God’s Country”. The answer: preparation.

Preparation doesn’t have quite the appeal as refusal, yet under profound leadership there will be much more opportunity for success. Instead of tucking our tails and running from change, our community will learn to embrace change by adapting “big city thinking with a small town feel,” according to Reginald Scandrett. Aiming to fulfill a preplanned, well designed ninety day itinerary Scandrett has provided an excellent example of preparation. As for the citizens of Henry County all that’s left to do is take action alongside Scandrett and together prepare realistic goals that will ultimately calm the waters and create a safe place to live. After all, fear is a liar.

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 45

THOUGHTS FROM THE EDITOR’S CHAIR

How Scandrett is Changing the Narrative

BY ANDREAL MALLARD

For the past two months I had the pleasure of

working with Reginald Scandrett to get an in-depth look at the story, the life and platform of his run for sheriff. I must say I’m highly impressed by the quality this brother brings to the table as he plans to take position of sheriff in 2021.

One message about him that stood out to me was “Changing the Narrative”. I have learned that this is centric to his platform. To “Change the Narrative” means to induce a viable engagement between community and law enforcement. Part of this change involves all walks of the community.

As we know Dr. Shaquille O’Neal plan to run as sheriff of Henry County, however, humbly he saw that Mr. Scandrett was the best man for the job and that said a lot about Shaq’s character to understand the big picture... the need for change.

For so long the fight to bridge the gap between community and law enforcement has been like a roller coaster battle and Mr. Scandrett has a very unique plan of action to change that. With so many questions left unanswered and so many misconceptions on both sides, the mission to succeed has been little to none when we constantly see people of black and brown ethnic backgrounds experiencing police brutality. From George Floyd to Amaud Arbury and countless other families across the nation, have poured out cries left in misery over why these tragedies happen to their loved ones.

The plan is clear, if we start first in our own communities, by doing the right thing and focusing on voting in leaders that understand our position. We must stay actively engaged, on a local level and hopefully it inspires a worldwide addendum that breaks the cycle of the proverbial “bad apple”. Each one teach one! With Mr. Scandrett’s connections to influential leaders the door is wide open to change the game in Henry County.

For so many years those stereotyped by the law, still to this day, remain reserved about coming to or thru Henry County in fear of engagement with law

enforcement. Scandrett’s efforts are not to be biased toward one group or culture of individuals; but to make sure that the law is enforced fairly to everyone, all citizens and that is what we need moving forward in this present day.

Mr. Scandrett is currently connecting with local organizations and nonprofits to gain a higher perspective of what our community needs and ways to unit Henry County. He plans to serve with a pure and humble heart of experienced leadership. On November 3rd we encourage you to exercise your right to vote.

Stand with Scan! The clear choice.

Pictured: Albert and Raymond Porter

PORTER FARMS: Welcome To The Sandhill

BY SHAWN RALEIGH

F

or over four generations The Porter Family has built a legacy on farming and agriculture in southeast Georgia.

Though it’s rare, far in between to find prosperous black farmers in the area, Albert, William and Raymond showed us what it is like working the land everyday and what life is truly about maintaining a farm. From sharecropping to cattle breeding spread across over 30 acres of land, under the vision of great grandfather Harry Porter, to the mission of grandfather Rip Porter, to the leadership of Albert Porter this southern gem of a family has a unique way of remaining one of the Sandhill community most greatest assets of economic development and trade as a minority owned business.

Pictured: William Porter GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE | 47

GAME CHANGERS MAGAZINE  | 48

We interviewed Mr Albert Porter on how the farm was started and what the struggle was like for black farmers in Southeast Georgia and we are thankful and blessed to be in the presence of one of our most trusted elders to give our readers a glimpse of the what we experienced on Porter Farms. Back when Mr. Albert started farming it was rough, blacks weren’t able to own their own farms it was hard for black farmers to get any credit to sustain the farm and the women of the family served as educators to help support and keep the farm going financially. Mr Albert made sure he would give his sons the best experience, not forcing his sons William and Raymond to want to farm but letting the will fall on them to keep it going and over the past 2 years the Porter Brothers have done just that. Mr Albert is extremely proud of his heirs Raymond and Will and their drive to keep the family farm going, with the innovative mind of Raymond and the business savoy of Will, the Porter Boys are creating ways to simplify the process of production of their products to families enjoying it in their home.

Raymond Porter serves as the head of marketing, director of operations and investing for the farm. He actually grew up on the farm where it taught him how to work hard and value the legacy his family has built.

He says its always work to do when running a farm from feeding the cows to plowing the field for row cropping so keeping your boots laced up from almost sun up to sun down is a must because the work is on you to keep things going if you want to deliver the best products to the market.

William and Raymond work as equal partners to running the family business along with their uncle and a few other family members to keep up with day to day operations. Some of the challenges the Porters still face is getting funding from banks to support the farm but the Porters are continously finding ways to stay ahead of competition on a statewide level researching and learning new opportunities available

for black farmers. Since the pandemic of COVID-19, its been hard to get the cattle to the market with the new implemented rules placed on farming and trade in the agriculture industry, slowing down the process of how local farmers serve their products to the demand of the market however these brothers are adjusting to the new norm to make sure nothing halts the goal of running a successful farming business.

Thru word of mouth, billboards and social media, the word is getting out about Porter Farms and currently a documentary is being filmed with Game Changers Media Network and filmmaker Andreal Mallard to share the story of what life in the Sandhill is all about.

The Porters also open up their farm to visitors for tours, students for field trips and small groups to enjoy the scenery of life on the countryside allowing guest to ride horses and teaching the basic mechanics of horseback riding to those that may be beginners on up to experienced riders.

William & Raymond Porter, Owners/Operators Will: 912-271-0252 Ray: 912-433-8667 260 Rip Porter Loop NE Glanville, GA 30427 Ga.porterfarms@gmail.com For more information on Porter Farms follow on Facebook and Instagram @PorterFarms912