UPW - Urban Pro Weekly

Page 8

UPW

URBAN PRO WEEKLY

April 24 - May 7, 2023

VOL. 11 NO. 17

PONCEREPRODUCTIONS

CHANGING LIVES THROUGH LAUGHTER

Photo by Vincent Hobbs Actress, comedian, talk-show host PONCERE

MAKIN’ A DIFFERENCE COMMENTARY by Ken Makin

Reactionary laws come at a painful cost

I’ll never forget how I felt when I saw Izzy Scott’s face on social media. I had to do a double take because he looked like my oldest son, and when I saw the accompanying news that Izzy had drowned during swimming lessons, my heart sunk. Upon further research, I found that Izzy was born only a few weeks before my boy.

Nearly a month ago, “Izzy’s Law” was passed by the Georgia House, and the intent of the bill was to provide a standard for the legislation and the legacy of Izzy, but it came at too high of a price.

I remember the life of Melquan Robinson in a similar fashion. Back in 2018, Robinson was electrocut-

ed as he climbed a fence at Fleming Park. It was later found during an inspection that the park didn’t have an equipment grounding conductor, which would have prevented the tragedy.

I often talk about how governmental responsibility is more important than personal responsibility, because where personal responsibility impacts an individual or family, government responsibility impacts entire communities and countries. Further, the resources poured into government are invested under the promise of redistribution – better lives for us all. In this case, I want to share why diligence should be a standard

for us all. We as adults are better able to equip ourselves for the uncertainties of life than our children. Further, if it “takes a village” to raise a child, as society declares, then it is up to us as a collective to be proactive in our efforts to support our kids.

This support happens in various ways – through anti-poverty initiatives and by investing in schools, among other options. If you’re reading this and you are responsible for a child in any way, make a checklist and do your due diligence in protecting the kids around you. Are you able to defend and protect your home? Are you

aware of your kids’ surroundings at school? Do you know how to swim? When we conduct ourselves in this manner, everything we do becomes an act of legacy on behalf of our children. When we don’t, we leave our children at the mercy of the world around us, and that mercy is harder to find every day.

Ken Makin is the host of Makin’ A Difference and a freelance writer for ESPN and The Christian Science Monitor, among other outlets. Look him up on Facebook at Makin’ A Difference, and you can also send him an email with your thoughts at makinadifferenceshow@gmail.com.

Highlights from the Augusta Commission meeting

AUGUSTA

In this week’s Wrap-Up of the Augusta Commission meeting held on April 18, 2023, city officials accepted an array of action items, including the contract with Central EMS for ambulance service. View a list of news briefs below for more details.

Augusta Commission approves Central EMS ambulance service contract

City officials approved a contract with Central EMS for ambulance service. As part of the fiveyear agreement, the City agrees to pay Central $2.65 million each year with an annual 3% increase over the length of the contract. Furthermore, the ambulance company has agreed to various stipulations, including meeting specific response times and providing regular operational updates.

Augusta Commission move forward with mutual aid agreement for fire services between Augusta Fire Department and USAG Fort Gordon

The Augusta Commission has approved the mutual aid agreement between Augusta, Georgia, and United States Army Garrison (USAG) Fort Gordon, which allows both entities to assist when disasters occur that necessitate the combined effort of both agencies.

Fighting blight with the construction of new homes on Miller Street

To aid in the fight against blight, the Augusta Commission approved the city’s Housing and Community Development (HCD) Department using HOME Partnership Investment Program Funding to contract with Laney Walker Development Corporation to develop new construction of five (5) single-family units on Miller Street. With this approval, HCD will use HOME funding totaling $375,000 to cover 50% of the total development cost and a developer’s fee of three units while allowing the Laney Walker Development Corporation to maintain the proceeds to construct the remaining two units.

Augusta, Georgia teams up with local organizations to relaunch community farmers’ markets

Augusta, Georgia’s Housing and Community Development Department is set to relaunch their monthly farmers’ markets in the Augusta area, with the help of several local organizations. HCD will team up with the American Health Association and Augusta Locally Grown to resume the farmers’ market in the Laney Walker-Bethlehem community. The Department will also continue partnering with Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency to offer a farm -

ers’ market in South Augusta. The purpose of the farmers’ markets is to provide fresh produce from local farmers and gardeners while creating a vibrant space for community engagement.

Augusta Commission make board appointments

Local real estate agent Porsha Beasley has been appointed to the ARC Transit Citizens Advisory Board, representing District 2. In addition, William Mills has been appointed to represent Super District 9 on the AugustaRichmond County Board of Tax Assessors, Sandra Kelly has been appointed to the Augusta-Richmond County Library Board of Trustees, and mental health advocate Dr. Onnie Poe has been appointed to serve on the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Council.

Celebrating Employee Years of Service

During the meeting, the Augusta Commission recognized the Augusta, Georgia employees who celebrated 25 to 50 years of service in March 2023. The employees include Guyton Shepherd, who has served 30 years in Engineering and Environmental Services Department, and Paul Johnson, who has served 35 years in the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office.

2 UrbanProWeeklyAPRIL 24MAY 7, 2023 Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency LLC http://www.growingaugusta.co/UPW +1 (706) 751-2537 UPW URBAN PRO WEEKLY SALES & MARKETING CONTRIBUTORS PUBLISHER http://www.growingaugusta.co/UPW +1 (762) 233-5299 • K.L. Gordon • Ken Makin • Vincent Hobbs
Menia L. Chester
F/Benjamin Sr. Layout/Design : UrbanProMedia

BUSINESS MATTERS

City of Augusta, the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce To Open

Entrepreneurship Training Program

AUGUSTA

This month, the City of Augusta and the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce, unveiled plans for their new CABE Fund (City of Augusta Business Equity), a Augusta $425,000 Guaranteed Loan/Grant Training Program, funded by the City of Augusta. This program will provide entrepreneurs and minority small business owners with the needed training and capital to be successful in an ever-changing business world. It is funded through Augusta’s allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act.

The CABE Fund Program will offer in the City of Augusta a comprehensive innovative approach to assist both new and existing entrepreneurs with the following:

Four weeks of training, and an additional six weeks of coaching and mentorship for new and existing minority owned business owners and entrepreneurs.

The additional six weeks of coaching and mentorship are a critical component of the program to ensure that participants stay engaged, are taking actionable next steps, and have the

support they need to succeed.

At the end of the program guaranteed grants/loans will be provided after all criteria are met within program guidelines.

Courses from subject matter experts from the southeast and the CSRA that are from a similar demographic.

Training components include:

Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Business Planning Basics, Business Structure 101, Bookkeeping & Recordkeeping, Business Insurance 101, Business Marketing/Branding 101, Growing Your Business and Obtaining Your First Customer, Credit Essentials, Reporting and Tracking cash flow, and Running a successful Business.

The initiative is part of the City of Augusta’s continued effort to support sustainable businesses and economic opportunity by focusing on small businesses training and providing a guaranteed economic opportunity. The hope is that these entrepreneurs can connect and collaborate bravely in the water of business and commerce. This program is unique in that it offers entrepreneurs both training in business fundamentals and access to capi-

tal upon program completion.

Formed in 2017, GABCC is a historically Black chamber of commerce in the CSRA that supports minority-owned, women-owned, disadvantaged, and black-owned businesses. The chamber has been dedicated to advocating for its members and the community, specifically targeting economic growth and sustainability via workshops, technical assistance, and networking opportunities.

Greater Augusta Black Chamber

of Commerce is an 501c6 organization and formed the GABCC Foundation in 2020, which is an official an 501c3 organization.

“The partnership with the City of Augusta will help to continue to carry out the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce’s mission to foster economic stability for businesses in the CSRA through advocacy, education, networking, discovery, and these strategic partnerships.” This program is based on similar GABBC-led programs in Aiken, SC and Augusta, GA.

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COMPONENTS INCLUDE:
INTRODUCTION
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
TRAINING
TO
• BUSINESS PLANNING BASICS
101
• BUSINESS STRUCTURE
• BOOKKEEPING & RECORDKEEPING
• BUSINESS INSURANCE 101
101
• BUSINESS MARKETING/BRANDING
CUSTOMER • CREDIT ESSENTIALS • REPORTING AND TRACKING CASH FLOW • RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS The Richmond County Democratic Party presents The Walt Williams Appreciation Brunch Saturday, April 29 • 9 AM The Shelly Jones Legacy Center 2872 Tobacco Road, Augusta, GA $50 in advance; $55 at the door RSVP Jessie Cunningham 706.496.6567 or mail check to: RCDP, PO Box 5267, Augusta, GA 30916
GROWING YOUR BUSINESS AND OBTAINING YOUR FIRST
This program will provide entrepreneurs and minority small business owners with the needed training and capital to be successful.

The Authentic Augusta Collection has begun 10 New Immersive Experiences offered by Destination Augusta and Partners

Destination Augusta and 10 unique Augusta attractions and experiences this week announced the launch of the new Authentic Augusta Experiences Collection. The official unveiling ncluded tableside presentations by partners, a program featuring the characters from several of the experiences, and more information on how the public can begin to experience these authentic offerings.

Authentic Augusta is a curated collection of the best sights and experiences our city has to offer. These new immersive experiences were designed over a year-long development process to be highly

engaging, offer a new V.I.P. level interaction, and create long lasting memories for visitors and locals alike.

“People want unique, one-of-a-kind experiences that engage them in something memorable. Authentic Augusta Experiences are specially designed to engage the 5 senses: taste, smell, sight, sound, and touch. When each of these senses is engaged, a memory is sure to be made,” said Jennifer Bowen, VP of Destination Development and Community Engagement.

Creating these new products gives each partner a new experience to market to locals, their members, and visitors. For Destination Augusta, having

IT’S TIME TO EXPERIENCE AUGUSTA IN A WHOLE NEW WAY.

Bartender for a Day – All Equal Parts – become a bartender for the day in a one-of-a-kind mixology experience.

Canal to Cloth – A Day at the Mill – go through orientation as a new hire as an 1800’s mill worker and be paid in company scrip at the Augusta Canal Discovery Center

Time Detectives – Augusta Museum of History – put on a badge and become a member of the Augusta Museum of History’s Detective Agency and protect the history of Augusta

Augusta’s Black Caddies – Men on the Bag – meet the black caddies and hear stories of their days on the greens at The Masters at Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History

Heart of Augusta Tour – Cycle the Soul City – ride the streets of downtown with Bike Bike Baby and stop for drinks or samples at the local distillery or select restaurants

Bringing up a President – Tea with Mrs. Wilson – be a guest in the Wilson home and have tea and pie with President Woodrow Wilson’s mother at the Boyhood Home of President Wilson

the Authentic Augusta Experiences Collection provides a new product to set Augusta apart.

“Destinations must continue to grow, develop, and refine to be competitive and attract visitors to the community. Authentic Augusta Experiences embrace the experiences of our City that are uniquely Augusta and gives us the opportunity to promote Augusta in a new way,” said Bennish Brown, President and CEO.

After the official launch, each Authentic Augusta Experience will be offered at least twice a month to the public and available to be scheduled by groups for custom times.

Mystery at the Morris – The Rest of the Story – hear the Rest of the Story as a rogue “journalist,” unveils the back story about the art at the Morris Museum of Art

Eco Explorers – Become a Citizen Scientist – put on your waders and step into the water as an Eco-Explorer and be a scientist for the day at Phinizy Center and Nature Park

Promenade & Paint – Augusta’s Public Art – after your walking tour of Augusta’s Public Art Sculpture Trail you’ll pick up your own paint brush and paint a mural of your own with the Greater Augusta Arts Council The Curated Palette – Inspiring Contemporary Art – you’ll be inspired by Westobou’s contemporary art and curate your own charcuterie board paired with wine

Authentic Augusta Experiences are perfect for groups such as civic, social, or churches. Each experience can also be used by corporations for team building or community support, and all are excellent options to entertain visiting friends and family.

To book experiences or learn more information about the Authentic Augusta Collection visit www.VisitAugusta.com/AuthenticAugusta.

in remembrance

Mrs. Juanita Beard McIntyre

In this life, she was a loving and faithful servant of God and others, who made the transition from labor to reward on April 12, 2023. Born on November 23, 1932, in Appling, Georgia to the late Levi Beard and the late Mary Frails Beard, she was the eleventh of thirteen children. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by eleven of her twelve siblings; and by her beloved husband, the Honorable Mr. Edward M. McIntyre, Sr., who passed away in 2004. Theirunion was blessed with three children: Wanda, E. Marlow, Jr. and Ashley.

Affectionately known as “NeNe” to close family and dear friends, she was educated in the Richmond County School System and was a 1953 graduate of Lucy Craft Laney High School. Following high school, Juanita continued her educationat Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina. In 1957, she completed her degree program and earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Science

with a Minor in History. Juanita returned home to Augusta to begin her career as an educator. During the summer of 1959, she completed graduate coursework in Special Education at Fort Valley State University. Throughout her career, she worked diligently for the betterment of the children in the community and taught at both T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School and at the Academy of Richmond County High School for the Richmond County School

System until her retirement. After retirement, she returned to Richmond County School System and worked parttime as a librarian at George P. Butler High SchoolComprehensive. She was passionate about continuing to servethe community nurturing, mentoring, helping, and caring for others.

At a very early age, she accepted Christ as her Savior and was a lifelong member of Good Shepherd Baptist Chu rch. There, Juanita was a faithful member who supported a number of church ministries and enjoyed worship, music and a good sermon.

One of her greatest pleasures was supporting her husband, the City of Augusta’s first Black elected mayor. As a trailblazing First Lady, her priorities at home and in the community were evident to all. Juanita was a charter member of the Augusta Alumnae Chapter of her beloved Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and a charter member of the Augusta Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. She was also a Platinum member of The Links, Incorporated. Juanita valued being connected to the community and giving back and by example taught her children to be the hands and feet of

Jesus to others. Though her immediate family shared her with many, Juanita made certain that their home overflowed with abundant love and often hosted her children’s friends, neighbors and civic leaders for dinner. Her legacy of love and commitment to her fellow man is etched in the hearts of thousands and continues to be felt today.

Known as an elegant and classy lady, some of Juanita’s favorite moments were enjoying her close family and friends in intimate settings. Her favorite hobbies were playing bridge, cooking, gardening and enjoying laughs and special times with her seven grandchildren. She dedicated her life to honoring God by showing others the abundance of His love and grace.

Viewing will be held Friday, April 21, 2023 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the mortuary.

Graveside services will be held Saturday, April 22, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Hillcrest Memorial Park, 2700 Deans Bridge Road, Augusta, Georgia 30904. Services will be live-streamed:maysmortuaryfacebook.com

W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901. (706)722-6401.

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Registration for the Inaugural PCX Game Design & Dev. Apprenticeship Program 2023 cohort is now open

The PCX Apprenticeship Program in game design is seeking applications.

Essentially, this is a 2-year program where students will be trained and placed into paid work opportunities in the gaming industry.

To be eligible to apply, candidates must be between the ages of 16-24. Candidates will then need to set up an appointment with PCX to hold a registration meetup (individual or group) to complete the following steps below:

1) STEP 1: Complete and sign the application grievance letter.

2) STEP 2: Upload application, letter, required identification documents to shared google folder. a valid passport, permanent resident alien card, or unexpired foreign passport OR BOTH valid driver’s license/state id/US military ID AND birth certificate/social security card/valid I-197/US citizen ID card/ certificate of birth abroad.

If you provide a US passport, you only need to provide the passport. If you’re not providing a passport, then you need to bring two documents under the list OR BOTH.

From here, we’ll verify your eligibility with the county, you’ll be able

Key facts from the Transit Rider Survey 2022 -2023

to select us as your training provider, and we’ll be off to the races.

For now, let’s focus on completing the initial two steps. Again, if you are interested please reach out to Erich Thomas via email (erich@pharaohsconclave.com) or phone (404219-6545) to set up an appointment for group and individual registration.

Best, Erich “Coach E” Thomas Co-Founder, Pharaoh’s Conclave (PCX) Executive Director, PCX GO! 501(c)(3) Professor of Esports, Morris Brown College erich@pharaohsconclave.com www.pharaohsconclave. com Direct: 404-219-6545

AU Days of Service 2023; introducing JAGPULSE

It’s that time of year again! May is right around the corner and that means it is time to begin creating and submitting your 2023 AU Days of Service projects. This year’s Days of Service will take place from November 1, 2023 thru November 21, 2023.

This year’s project submission and volunteer sign-up will be processed through Augusta University’s new online community engagement platform, JAGPULSE. Once your project submission is received and approved, an event will be created in the 2023

AU Days of Service subgroup page on JAGPULSE and you will be added as the “Event Manager” for your project. I will send you a link to your event page. This will give you immediate access to your volunteer roster as AU students, faculty, and staff register for projects. For those of you who are already affiliates on JAGPULSE, you do NOT need to post your Days of Service activities on your own page. ALL Days of Service events in November must be posted on the 2023 AU Days of Service page. We will host a virtual information ses-

sion on Thursday, May 25 @ 11AM to answer questions you may have about this year’s campaign. We would love to partner with your organization to increase student and employee engagement in your mission and to help you accomplish big things for your organization and our shared community. With that in mind, we hope you will submit your project(s) today. You can submit your project and get more information about Days of Service here: http://dayofservice. augusta.edu/community-partner/

Preliminary analysis of the Augusta Transit Rider and Nonrider/Choice Rider Survey reveals several interesting facts:

• 95% of nonriders/choice riders possess a driver’s license

• 50% of transit riders do not possess a driver’s license

• Augusta Regional Airport and Tobacco Rd are the top two (2) unserved destinations that should be served by transit

• Transit does not go where and when a nonrider/choice rider needs transportation is the primary reason for not using transit in Augusta

• 3 in 10 transit riders would walk if transit were not available

Augusta Transit gives a big thank you to the 900+ persons who participated in the survey. The results provide invaluable input guiding the strategic development of Augusta Transit.

Results also confirm the type of service improvements (electronic payment options) necessary to retain and attract riders.

Augusta Transit is committed in its role to enhance the quality of life for residents.

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PONCEREPRODUCTIONS CHANGING LIVES THROUGH LAUGHTER

PONCERE is a sought-after comedienne & actress. Her sophisticated yet frank comedic style leaves audiences laughing, thinking, learning and wanting more.

Poncere has opened for well-known artists to include Marvin Sapp, Bishop Paul Morton, George Wallace and J Anthony Brown. Poncere was also the winner of Season One of Columbia’s Got Talent at the Comedy House in Columbia, SC.

In 2009, Poncere started Poncere Productions where she specializes in providing clean comedic entertainment. Her ability to reach audiences of diverse backgrounds and age groups has garnered her engagements at women’s conferences, single’s events, comedy shows, teen programs, community programs, church events, and private celebrations. Her mission is to change lives one LAUGH at a time, and she is passionate about sharing her witty personality and comedic gifts with the world.

Poncere holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Paine College and a Master’s Degree from the University of South Carolina in Clinical Psychology. Poncere serves as a mentor in the community, and she is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over ten years of experience in the field of Mental Health delivering services to children, adolescents, and adults.

UPW: What do you find is the most common misconception that many people have about comedians?

PONCERE: A common misconception about

comedians is that they are extroverts; outgoing and always happy people. Interestingly, research has found that most comedians are introverts, and some of the most notable comedians have struggled with major depressive disorders.

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Comedian and actress Poncere
Q&A
Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UPW: What would you say was your biggest misconception about the field of comedic entertainment before you actually became an experienced performer?

PONCERE: My biggest misconception about the field of comedic entertainment is that you had to use profanity during your comedic set to be really funny. That is a MYTH!

UPW: When did you first realize that you enjoyed entertaining people and what led to your decision to present yourself professionally as a comedic performer?

PONCERE: I first realized that I enjoyed entertaining people while serving in the drama ministry at my church, Restoration Ministries International. While on stage at church, acting out various comedic skits, the stage felt like “home.” I can’t explain the feeling, but you light up inwardly when you’re in your element and you’re doing what you’re called to do.

UPW: You were the winner of Season One of Columbia’s Got Talent at the Comedy House. What was your thinking before entering the competition and what was the impact once you secured that victory?

PONCERE: I can’t recall what I was thinking in that moment, but I can assure you I was nervous. The venue was packed that night and the other contestants were great. What I do remember is that I was uninhibited and having fun. In all honesty, I was shocked when I won

because there were so many other amazing talents competing.

UPW: How does your training as a mental health professional impact the tone, direction or intent of your monologues?

PONCERE: I would say there are some parallels between comedians and mental health professionals in that both professions study the human behavior, observe and analyze experiences, and give their impressions about situations. As a comedian, I function very similarly. I talk about what I have observed or experienced and tell the audience what I think about the situations while highlighting the funny in it. It’s just that simple to me – truth in LAUGHTER!

UPW: Your storytelling is primarily from a woman’s point of view. Why is that important for men as well as women?

PONCERE: I believe to be a great comedian you have to be vulnerable about your experiences. When I tell a story from my perspective, it can give you a glimpse into how other women may think, process situations, or experience life –good, bad, or indifferent. Like others, I often say what you were thinking.

UPW: What, if any, life experiences informed your decision to provide clean comedic entertainment?

PONCERE: I believe that God has given me

the gift to make people laugh and that I can perform comedy in a way that aligns with faith, values, and convictions.

UPW: Tell us about everything that is offered under the umbrella of Poncere Productions.

PONCERE: I provide clean entertainment services to include stand-up comedy, event hosting, as well as acting. In addition, I launched The Poncere Talk Show in June 2022. I AM SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS PROJECT. The Poncere Talk Show merges arts and entertainment with transformative dialogue that promotes mental health, health and wellness, and empowerment. Since the launch of The Poncere Talk Show, our shows have SOLD OUT and received rave reviews. The next show is Sunday, June 11, 2023 at the Grover C. Maxwell Theatre, Augusta, Georgia. The special guests include singer Avery * Sunshine, Comedian Nikita B, and dynamic guest panel talking about “Betting on You!” You can purchase tickets on Eventbrite or visit www.theponcereshow.com

UPW: How can our readers contact you?

PONCERE: You can follow me on Facebook @ponceredaniels or @theponcereshow, and on Instagram @ponceredaniels. You can also visit my website www.poncere.biz to find out more information about upcoming events.

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Comedian and actress Poncere poses for a photo in downtown Augusta. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Latrell’s Easy Parsley and Romaine Salad

Live your best life! That is my motto. My name is Menia L. Chester, I am a chef and owner of Desserts by Latrell and Southern Jazz and Sweets. My goal is to teach you about food, finance, anything about the home, gardening, and healthy living.

Springtime in the south brings pollen, the insects we like and the ones that we can do without! I tell everyone that we need bugs. Everyone knows about honeybees and butterflies, but did you know that birds and ladybugs are also considered to be pollinators?

We need pollinators to help spread pollen for trees and flowers. Some of these flowers are located on fruit and vegetable plants. Okra has the one of the most beautiful flowers in the garden. Although some people are allergic to pollen, it is very important for reproduction in most plants.

The month of April is the time to plant warm-season crops. These include beans (snap, pole and lima), cantaloupe, cucumbers, eggplant, peppers, squash, tomatoes, and watermelon. There are also many herbs that will thrive in the shade in spring months and early summer.

This is a fun time to experiment with different recipes that use fresh herbs. I love to put mint in my salads and my tea. Have you every used parsley in a salad? It brings a freshness that simply delicious!

LATRELL’S EASY PARSLEY AND ROMAINE SALAD

½ cup chopped curly parsley leaves

4 cups romaine lettuce-roughly chopped

1 Roma tomato seeded and roughly chopped

¼ cup chopped candied pecans

½ cup garlic flavored croutons

1 tablespoon minced chives

¼ cup salad dressing of your choice

Diced chicken breast (optional)

DIRECTIONS

Add all ingredients to a salad bowl. Toss with salad dressing and add optional diced chicken before serving. Enjoy!

If you have questions, would like to see other recipes, or would like to learn about events by Latrell, please visit email www.southernjazzandsweets.com.

South Augusta Farmers Market begins new season

We are excited to announce the new location and hours of operation for the South Augusta Farmers Market. Our commitment to providing fresh, healthy food for the community remains as strong as ever, and we believe this move will enhance our ability to achieve that goal.

Starting in May 2023, the South Augusta Farmers Market will take place on the first Saturday of each month, from 8am until noon.

Our new location is at the busiest intersection in the area, the corner of Windsor Spring Road

and Tobacco Road. This prime location means increased visibility and sales for our farmers and local producers.

We are proud to continue our tradition of supporting local farmers by providing a platform for them to sell their fresh herbs and vegetables. By purchasing from our farmers, you are not only getting the freshest produce available, but you are also supporting the local economy.

At the South Augusta Farmers Market, we believe that everyone should have access to

fresh, healthy food. We look forward to seeing you at our new location and hope you will continue to support us as we strive to provide the community with the best in fresh, local food.

SOUTH AUGUSTA FARMERS MARKET

4102 Windsor Spring Road, Hephzibah GA 1st Saturdays* 8a-noon

Info: growingaugusta.co/markets

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ARC playoff action

The Academy of Richmond County girls varsity soccer team were defeated 2-0 in a recent home GHSA Class AAA state playoff game against Calvary Day (Savannah, GA). The Lady Musketeers finished the season with 8 wins, 2 losses in 3A Region 4, earning the team a second place standing for the region.

(April 11, 2023 - Augusta, GA)

- Photo by Vincent Hobbs

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Forum Open to the Public “Community Conversations on Policing: Know Your Rights”

AUGUSTA

The Ladies of Zeta Xi Omega, Zeta Eta, and Mu Zeta Chapters of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® in partnership with the Phi Chi Chapter of Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Incorporated®, and the Augusta Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated® present “Community Conversations on Policing: Knowing Your Rights,” a public policy forum.

The purpose of this forum is to facilitate an open, safe space to have a conversation about policing in America.

The targeted audiences are teens and young adults; however, this event is open to the public. The organizations seek to encourage honest dialogue about the applicable laws and recommended approaches to law enforcement encounters. The organizations are united in their hope that this honest dialogue will cement trust within our community, moreover, leave attendees feeling empowered by the information shared.

The panel will include representation from the

Arieonna Booker signs with Talladega College

Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia State Senate, a local civil rights attorney, the Augusta Judicial Circuit Office of the District Attorney, and a mental health specialist. The program is formatted as a panel discussion with a blend of pre-prepared and on-site questions from the public.

The forum is scheduled for 6:00 p.m., Thursday, April 20, 2023, at the Gilbert-Lambuth Memorial Chapel at Paine College, 1235 15th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901.

RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION PROPOSAL NUM. Bond Issue Program PROJECT NAME

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY INVITATION TO BID

Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the DFA Art Building Repair Along Augusta Canal Project by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time, May 11, 2023, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read. No extension of the bidding period will be made.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held April 26, 2023, 10:00 AM local time onsite, Davidson Fine Arts School, 615 12th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901

Drawings and project manual on this work may be examined at the Department of Maintenance and Facilities, Richmond County Board of Education, 2956 Mike Padgett Hwy, Augusta, Georgia 30906, Tel: (706) 737-7189

Bidding documents may be obtained via email from The Engineer: Cranston LLC, rsheridan@cranstonengineering.com. Applications for documents should be filed promptly with the Engineer. Bidding material will be emailed as soon as possible.

Contract, if awarded, will be on a lump sum basis. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of 35 days after time has been called on the date of opening.

Bid must be accompanied by a bid bond in an amount not less than 5% of the base bid. Personal checks, certified checks, letters of credit, etc., are not acceptable. The successful bidder will be required to furnish performance and payment bonds in an amount equal to 100% of the contract price.

The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive techni calities and informalities.

To promote local participation, a database of Sub-contractors, Suppliers, and Vendors has been developed by the Program Manager, GMK Associates. Contact Jeanine Usry with GMK Associates at (706) 826-1127 for location to review and obtain this database.

Bids shall be submitted and addressed to:

Richmond County Administrative Office

864 Broad Street Augusta, Georgia 30901

c/o: Mr. Bobby Smith, CPA, CFO

T.W. Josey Lady Eagles forward, Arieonna Booker recently signed to accept a full athletic and academic scholarship to Talladega College in Talladega, Alabama. Arieonna is the 19th signee to attend a college on a full athletic and/or academic scholarship from the Lady Eagles Basketball Program in the past 9 years. Arieonna played on the 2021 State Championship Basketball Team and this past season the Lady Eagles made it to the Final 4.

C.T. Walker Magnet School named National Magnet School of Distinction

C.T. Walker Magnet School has been named a 2023 National Magnet School of Distinction by Magnet Schools of America for its commitment to academic standards, curriculum innovation, diversity efforts, specialized teaching staff, and parent and community involvement.

Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, superintendent of Richmond County Schools, says “The students and staff of C.T. Walker Magnet Elementary are to be commended for their pursuit of excellence to promote a learning environment where students can grow into confident, lifelong learners and leaders. It is a privilege to work with an extraordinary staff who focus on student achievement and success.”

“I am so proud and excited to receive this award on behalf of our amazing students, staff, and parents,” says Emile Sharif, Principal of C.T. Walker Magnet Elementary. “We strive for excellence in every way here at C.T. Walker Magnet Elementary, so to be recognized by the prestigious institution of Magnet Schools of America for being the only Georgia school to receive the 2023 Magnet School of Distinction Award, reaffirms the hard work and dedication our faculty and staff display daily for the success of all of our students.”

To receive a national merit award, Magnet Schools of America members submit a detailed application scored by a panel of educators. Applicants are judged and scored on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school’s magnet theme.

10 UrbanProWeeklyAPRIL 24MAY 7, 2023
Forum

And They All Sang Hallelujah

And They All Sang Hallelujah opens at the Morris Museum of Art on Saturday, April 15, 2023. Drawn entirely from the museum’s permanent collection, the exhibition comprises twenty-three works of art in a variety of mediums—photographs, collages, paintings, and sculpture— by Mose Tolliver, Margaret Ramsey, Clementine Hunter, and Howard Finster, and many others, and addresses the central role played by religion in the culture of the South. It remains on display through July 2, 2023.

“We sought, through this particular body of work, to illustrate the important role that religion and its practice play in the region, but it serves another purpose as well by underscoring the extraordinary depth of the museum’s collection,” said Morris Museum of Art Director Kevin Grogan.

The cultural landscape of the American South is shaped and often identified by many things, religion among them. In the popular imagination, religion in the South is

distinguished not by its denominations—mainly Protestant, often Evangelical—but by its conservative fundamentalist orientation. The single largest denominational body is the Southern Baptist Convention, and the wide distribution of its many churches is often considered one of the salient characteristics of the region. Here, church attendance and church-associated activities play a significant role in the lives of communities and families.

From time immemorial, this important aspect of the life of the region has been explored by its visual artists, as demonstrated here by the work of William H. Clarke, Minnie Evans, Clementine Hunter, Mose Tolliver and others. Their work closely reflects Southern life, whose daily rituals include many that are specifically religious in nature—weddings, funerals, prayer meetings. (Religious imagery so suffuses life in the South that it should come as no surprise that Clementine Hunter’s first painting was of a baptism.) Clarke is an active, remarkably prolific chron -

icler of life in his native Nottaway County, Virginia. Minnie Evans’ work was generally untethered to a specific locality, though she lived the entirety of her long life in North Carolina. Clementine Hunter, perhaps the South’s best known folk artist, went one better, living at the same address, Melrose Plantation, from the time she was 15 until her death 87 years later. By contrast, Moses Tolliver (“Mose T,” as he signed his paintings—usually with a backward “s”), though, like the others, a child of the rural South, lived his adult life in Montgomery, Alabama. He turned to painting and religion after a crippling accident in the furniture factory where he worked.

This work—and its chronicle of the religious life of the region—is not altogether the province of the untutored and untrained. To demonstrate that we have also included examples of the work of some highly regarded photographers, including Kentuckian Shelby Lee Adams and Alabaman William Christenberry, who, thoroughly imbued with the

region’s customs and conventions, carried the generally accepted practices of their youths with them when they moved North—Adams for his education and Christenberry to exercise his. From there, they continued to examine specifically Southern sites and mores through their work. Christenberry who settled in Washington, D.C., returned to Hale County, Alabama every summer for more than fifty years— almost to the end of his life—to take photographs, and Adams, now 72, resides principally in Western Massachusetts but documents his native Appalachia to this day. Frequent home visits refreshed their work. E. O. Goldbeck, a highly trained and successful commercial photographer who specialized in panoramic photography, spent the entirety of his career in his native Texas, and Esther Bubley, who grew up in Wisconsin, traveled the South extensively, taking photographs for the Office of War Information that documented the home front during World War II, and later for Life magazine.

11 UrbanProWeeklyAPRIL 24MAY 7, 2023
ART&COMMUNITY
Now at the Morris Museum of Art
(Above) Howard Finster, Elvis -at-3 Is-a-Angel to Me, 1994. Oil paint and glitter on plywood. Morris Museum of Art, Augusta, Georgia.
THE MORRIS IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY, 10:00 A.M.–5:00 P.M., AND ON SUNDAY, NOON–5:00 P.M. FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE MORRIS MUSEUM OF ART, VISIT WWW.THEMORRIS.ORG OR CALL 706-724-7501.
(At left) Finster_Mytrant #19,006
12 UrbanProWeeklyAPRIL 24MAY 7, 2023 Get UPW delivered to your inbox OR your front door. Subscribe at growingaugusta.co/upw BACKPAGE UPW

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