Report: Russell leaving in 2014
U W
Brian Prince rides ‘low turnout’ to District 127 Runoff victory
rban Pro NEWS • COMMENTARY
ARTS
eekly
The CSRA’s FREE WEEKLY NEWSPAPER VOL.3 NO.13
ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
Photo by Vkncent Hobbs
A word with Darlene Price Darlene Price, Director East Central Georgia Regional Library System
To be successful in politics one must have the ability to communicate with others and understand the art of compromise to achieve one’s goals and objectives.
Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
2
Creative Calendar
Kwanzaa Celebration Humanitree House will host the City-Wide Kwanzaa Community Celebration and Marketplace on Sunday, December 8, 2013 from 2:007:00 p.m. at the Warren Road Community Center. This free community event will be celebrated through varied dance and music performances, a tribute to community elders, a marketplace for shopping, activities for
children and families, and a ceremony honoring members of the community. This community collective will be one-stop pre-holiday shopping spot featuring handcrafted jewelry, clothes, toys, books, art, and beauty products. Interested vendors and performers should contact Denise Tucker for information at 706-394-0190 or visit www. humanitreehouse.com.
ELEMENTZ
The Ultimate Hip-Hop Experience Thursday, December 12, 2013 at 9 p.m. at Sky City at downtown’s Broad Street in Augusta, GA.
Behold The Star Saturday, December 21, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The performance will take place at the Maxwell Performing Arts Theater at Georgia Regents University.
Annual Concert of Holiday
Augusta Collegium Musicum in the Annual Concert of Holiday Music featuring seasonal music from five centuries on Monday, December 16, 2013 at7:30 pm in the Museum’s Rotunda. Tickets are only $10 for Augusta Museum of History and Collegium members, or $15 for non-members. Light refreshments will be served.
CUTNO DANCERS: First row (right to left): Savanna Harrison, Nyel Lawrence, Tatum Minter and Alese Brown. Second row (younger children standing, right to left): Kennedi Brantley, Benton McMahon and Gabrielle Johnson. Third Row (children sitting on the ground or kneeling, right to left): Naday Booker, Kennedi Johnson and Samira Furse
Nutcracker in the South On Sunday, Dec. 8, 2013 at 5 p.m., the Cutno Dance Center will present their rendition of the classic ballet “The Nutcracker.” Creative Director Ferneasa Cutno has put together a lively contemporary version titled “Nutcracker in the South” using the clas-
sic score by Tchaikovsky and the score by Duke Ellington. Ellington recorded “The Nutcracker Suite”, after meeting Tchaikovsky in Las Vegas, for the Columbia Label in 1960. This album features jazz interpretations of “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsy. This lively con-
temporary version has reimagined scenes using everything from urban hip hop to classic ballet. Tickets can be purchased through https://21397. recitalticketing.com/21397/. Please contact Cutno Dance Center for more info at 706364-3442
Now enjoy our
BUFFET Limited Time Only
1 Brand 3 Locations 45 Years in Business Maryland Fried Chicken 12 Broad Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 706-722-2051
4465 Washington Rd Evans, Georgia 30809 (706) 496-8632
6001 Clarks Hill Rd Appling, Georgia 30802 (706) 309-9674
mfcofaugusta@yahoo.com
“One-Stop Construction & Yard Maintenance Services” Our Office Provides: Architectural Drafting & Construction • Custom Church Builder • Custom Home Builder • Yard Maintenance • Metal Buildings Larry L. McCord Can Provide All Your Design and Construction Needs All Under One Roof
3
Providence Place
First Colon Cleansing Center In Augusta
2205 Southgate Dr. • Augusta,GA 30906
Removal of Toxins and Impurities for Optimal Health Shanta Johnson
706-733-5000
706-793-2664
$150.00 OFF FIRST MONTH’S RENT * SELECTED UNITS 1 bedroom/1 bath starting at $425 2 bedroom/1 bath starting at $475 2 bedroom/1 bath starting at $475 energy efficient
Conditions Responding To Colon Hydrotherapy Cited by Rheumatologist, Arthur E. Brawer, M.D. Enhances Weight Loss • Allergies • Acne • Constipation • Irritable Bowel • Gas/Bloating • Asthma • Chronic Fatigue • Spastic Colon • Potbelly • Body Odor • Headaches • Improves Sexual Health
2045 Central Avenue, Augusta, Ga 30904 EssentialCleansingCenter.com
DIRECTIONS Take I-520 to Deans Bridge Road North. Turn right on Richmond Hll Road. Property is on the left. OFFICE HOURS Mon-Fri 9-5:30; 1st Sat of month 10-3
2 bedroom/ 1 1/2 bath Townhome starting at $550 * Certain restrictions may apply Call office for details
•Fully equipped kitchens •Mini-blinds •Pool •Laundry facilities •Total electric central heat and air •Washer and dryer connections in some •On-site courtesy officer •Near Ft. Gordon •Gas heat/hot water heaters •Playground •Picnic area/grills •Prices are subject to change
Marian T. Ebron, M.D. Internal Medicine and Esthetic Medicine Board Certified internal MediCine Certified in Botox & derMal fillers
Specializing in: Hypercholesterolemia Hypertension Diabetes Connective Tissue Disorder Thyroid Diseases Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder
alSo Specializing in: Esthetic Medical Procedures Beauty and Wellness Enhancement Anti-Aging and Youth Regeneration Skin/Dermal/Rejuvenation Non-Surgical Face Lift Botox & Dermal Fillers
You are beautiful ~ Show the world Call For Free Esthetic Consultation Office Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. – 9 AM - 5 PM 2047 Central Avenue • Augusta, GA 30904
706-738-7557
New Patients Are Welcome
Participating Provider For most Insurance Companies
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
Specializing In Colon Hydrotherapy
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
4
The City
State Representative-elect Brian Prince shares a laugh with Georgia State Senator Hardie Davis (R) during an election night reception at the Holdiay Inn West. Prince defeated challenger Diane Evans in a runoff for the District 127 seat. Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Prince: I plan to listen and learn
Evans upbeat in loss, has not ruled out another run By Frederick Benjamin Sr. Urban Pro Weekly Staff Writer
AUGUSTA About 700 fewer souls ventured to the polls in the House District 127 race on Tuesday and the votes that were counted favored Augustan Brian Prince over Diane B. Evans of Avera. The Nov. 5 Special election drew 3261 voters to the polls. On Tuesday (Dec. 3), only 2574 people took the trouble to vote. 1443 voted for Prince vs 1111 votes for Evans. On the heels of Thanksgiving, the Black Friday feeding frenzy, and in cold dreary wet weather, only a few voters could be drawn into the electoral process. Although the race evolved into an
U W rban Pro
eekly
UrbanProWeekly LLC Mailing Address: 3529 Monte Carlo Drive Augusta, Georgia 30906
interesting tug-of-war for the support of local pastors – each side would tout their religious backers – well over 93 percent of Richmond County voters and some 84 percent of Jefferson County voters would not bother to cast a vote. It is unclear how much impact outside endorsements made as neither candidate exceeded their previous totals of the Nov. 5 Special Election. Asked about his plan of action for the January 2014 Legislative session, Prince said, “I plan to listen and learn.” On Tuesday night, Prince thanked his supporters for their time, votes and financial support. Evans was upbeat about the campaign and the outcome. She did not rule out, running again for the seat in 2014.
Publisher Ben Hasan 706-394-9411 Managing Editor Frederick Benjamin Sr. 706-836-2018
“We didn’t do what we needed to get the win,” Evans said a day after the election. “I’m going to talk to my family and if we feel that we can do what is needed, we’ll go for it.” Prince will serve out the late Quincy Murphy’s term and then must qualify in the spring of 2014 if he plans to seek another term. Prince down played the 11th hour endorsement made by a group of local pastors on behalf of Evans. “I don’t take it personally. That’ their right. I spent 21 years in the military defending their right. The people have a larger voice than those few pastors,” Prince said. “My actions and the results that we Diane B. Evans bring will speak for themselves.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Sales & Marketing Phone: 706-394-9411 Photography and Social Media Courtesy of Vincent Hobbs
email: Ben Hasan bzhasan54@yahoo.com Frederick Benjamin Sr. editor@urbanproweekly.com Vincent Hobbs coolveestudio@gmail.com
Jackson leaks Russell departure bid POLITICAL ANALYSIS
By putting himself in the lead of the Fred Russell departure story, is Joe Jackson hoping to “boost” his own political standing? By Frederick Benjamin UrbanProWeekly Staff Writer AUGUSTA On Wednesday, Augusta’s evening News12 broadcast lead with the story that City Administrator Fred Russell “could be announcing his retirement as soon as next month.” The piece highlighted Commissioner Joe Jackson posturing in front of the cameras as if he was leading the “Dump Fred” movement.
In fact, the news of Russell’s imminent departure was not news to the other nine commissioners who had been privy to “closed-door” (legal) discussions where Russell discussed his desire to retire, but on favorable terms. Sources within the city commission told UrbanProWeekly that Russell had said that he would be prepared to make a public announcement as early as January 2014 that he would be winding down his tenure as city administrator.
At least one city commissioner is disappointed that Joe Jackson jumped the gun. Commissioner Bill Lockett, who has long advocated for the replacement of Russell, said that he was “disappointed” in the Jackson disclosure, but “not surprised.” Still others have speculated that Jackson, who is said to be seriously considering a run for mayor in 2014, is getting out in front of the issue to boost his own political profile. Jackson’s other comments made in the news report add credence to that view. “We are at the end of the road. It’s time for some new
blood and new ideas,” said Commissioner Joe Jackson. All of this from a term-limited commissioner who, himself, is on the way out the door. Another commissioner quoted in the report was Marion Williams. Williams’ dissatisfaction with Russell’s management style is well known. “Mr. Russell needs to go. We talked about him leaving maybe next year,” Williams said. As for Russell himself, he did not deny the report. “You know there’s always a parachute plan. Sometimes it’s your parachute and sometimes it’s just getting pushed out the plane,” Russell said. But there was no further elab-
Augusta passes ‘voodoo’ budget plan for 2014 By Frederick Benjamin UrbanProWeekly Staff Writer
Steven Kendrick (L) shares an election voting results update with Lori Prince (R), wife of candidate Brian Prince, at an election night reception at the Holdiay Inn West. Prince defeated challenger Diane Evans in a runoff for the District 127 seat in the final vote tally. Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Dec. 3 Runoff Election District 127 RICHMOND CTY DIANE B. EVANS (D)
237
oration. Jackson’s comments about “life after Russell” continued by his making disparaging remarks about one of Russell’s top managers, Tamika Allen. Deputy Administrator Allen is an obvious candidate to succeed Russell, should he leave. The city’s Information Technology Department, lead by Allen, has recently won national awards. While Jackson, hinted that he didn’t think Allen was ‘up to the job’, Commissioner Lockett suggested that she would be an excellent candidate for administrator or even mayor. One thing is certain, Augusta’s political future will look vastly different a year from now.
17.21%
JEFFERSON CTY 874
TOTAL
74.26%
1111
44.0%
BRIAN PRINCE (D) 1140 82.79% 303 25.79% 1443 56.0%
2574 votes cast
Nov. 5 Special Election District 127 RICHMOND CTY
JEFFERSON CTY
TOTAL
DIANE B. EVANS (D)
146
6.88%
827
70%
973
29.5%
DIANNE MURPHY (D)
739
34.83%
111
9.4%
850
25.8%
BRIAN PRINCE (D) 1226 57.78% 242 20.5% 1468 44.6%
3261 votes cast
AUGUSTA We’ve grown to expect the absurd when monitoring how the city administration and lawmakers go about their duties of providing services for the citizens of Richmond County. This week’s budget activity (which was at the state-mandated deadline for the presentation of a balanced budget), was no different. A marathon session to “balance the budget” on Tuesday led to the passage of a “sort of balanced” budget. In other words, what we have is a legal document disguised as a “balanced budget.” Remember this is a government with a penchant for promoting “intellectual dishonesty” and leans heavily on “legal” verbiage to secure its ends. Evidence of that is too voluminous to expand on in this brief article, but all one has to do is to review the most recent absurd episodes which include phantom “slum” designations, massive building projects without clearly defined funding sources and the inability pick from competing golf-management offers. So, to think that these 10 commissioners would be
POLITICAL ANALYSIS able to go behind closed doors and come out with a workable plan was too much like wishful thinking. The “budget” document that the city ratified this week was “lite” on detail. The “hard choices” that were discussed so stoically in the previous regular council meeting were abandoned in favor of a budget that everyone could “digest” with little trouble. It is not surprising, with so many declared and potential 2014 political candidates on the commission, that there would be no appetite for raising taxes on homeowners or the local businesses. So the city workers get “screwed” again and the citizens can only just wait and see what new fees they will be asked to pay for services that are sure to be cut. The budget impasse speaks volumes on the failure of Augusta to produce a crop of political leaders capable working efficiently and effectively. There was hope that with the departure of Jerry Brigham, Matt Aitkin and Joe Bowles that the commission could climb from out of the muck they had fostered. Sadly, that hasn’t happened.
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
The City
5
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
6
SPORTS COLLEGE BASKETBALL Photos by Vincent Hobbs
GRU Lady Jaguar Marissa Mandeldove (#20), guarded by Paine College’s Ashley Watts (R), looks to pass the ball during a game against the Paine College Lady Lions at Christenberry Fieldhouse. The rival game between the two schools, known as the Crosstown Classic, saw GRU triumph over Paine 75-66 in the final score. Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Paine vs Georgia Regents Lady Jaguars roll against Lady Lions 76-66.
T
he Paine College women’s basketball team lost a heartbreaker at Christenberry Fieldhouse against the Jaguars from Georgia Regents University Nov. 30. The Jaguars defeated the Lady Lions 75-66. After the Lady Lions got off to a slow start on both sides of the ball, Ashley Watts’ fearless shooting helped pull the Purple and White together and keep them in the game. In electrifying fashion, Watts hit a big 3-pointer in the first half and was fouled on the shot. The junior guard then missed her free throw, pulled down her own rebound and followed it up with another 3-pointer to send Paine fans to their feet all throughout the stands. Watts was responsible for 27 of the team’s 31 points after twenty minutes of play. During the tough non-conference game, the Lady Lions stepped their play up after halftime and scoring picked up across the board for the Lady Lions. Watts picked up 11 more points for a final 38 points on the game, two points shy of a career high. Ariel Brown racked up 10 rebounds and collected another 10 points for her second double-double of the season. The senior guard was 5-of-14 from the field and also had five rebounds, one block and four steals. Watts also had four assists, two steals and three rebounds. Paine shot 43 percent from the field sinking 26-of60 shots. The Lady Lions shot 30 percent from behind the arc and 55 percent at the line. GRU’s Jemimah Ashby led the Jaguars in scoring with 15 points. Whitney Rohrbach had 13 rebounds for Georgia Regents.
GRU Lady Jaguar Booke McCants (#5) looks to pass the ball during a game against the Paine College Lady Lions at Christenberry Fieldhouse. The rival game between the two schools, known as the Crosstown Classic, saw GRU triumph over Paine 75-66 in the final score. Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Stress Physical Inactivity Family History of Cardiovascular disease Obesity Diabetes High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol Cigarette Smoking HEART ATTACK • BRAIN ATTACK • PREVENT ATTACK East Central Health District Hypertension Management Outreach Program
Richmond County 706.721.5800
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
ARE YOU AT RISK?
7
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
8
urban professional
Darlene Price, Director of the East Central Georgia Regional Library System, poses for a photo at the Headquarters Library on Telfair Street. Photo by Vincent Hobbs
Darlene Price INTERVIEW BY VINCENT HOBBS
UPW: Tell us about your background. Are you a native Augustan and did you attend school here? Darlene PRICE: I grew up in Rayle (Wilkes County) Georgia which is about 90 minutes from Augusta— heading toward Athens on Hwy 78. I completed my undergraduate and graduate studies in North Carolina— and had fun doing so. My career as a librarian afforded me the opportunity to travel extensively across the U.S. and parts of Europe. Right now, I’m glad to be back in the state of Georgia again. UPW: At what point in your life did you envision a career in Library and Information Science? Darlene PRICE: After graduating from Johnson C. Smith University with a dual degree in English and Communication Arts, I didn’t truly have an affinity for teaching English or for a career in mass media. For the most part, I was tired of writing! Since I had worked in libraries in high school and college, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in that area of study. Strangely enough, I was visiting the public library in Athens-Clarke County one day and one of the librarians directed my attention to North Carolina Central University School of Library Science. I applied for admission. That was a good decision! The school offered me a full fellowship and stipend. Bottom line: My tuition,
Darlene Price is the East Central Georgia Regional Library Director. Ms. Price oversees the Headquarters Library, as well as nine library branches in Richmond and Burke counties.
on-campus housing, and meals were paid in full. And, I received $250 per month to pay for books and other school requirements. So, my master’s degree was obtained at no financial cost to my parents or me. UPW: This has to be an exciting time to be an Information Professional. What are some of the challenges faced by the AugustaRichmond County Public Library? Darlene PRICE: We are experiencing a few challenges, all of which are common to public libraries in urban areas. Challenge #1: E-books are speedily becoming more popular, yet print books haven’t given up the “throne”. Therefore, we have to find the right balance between the two (purchasing-wise) so that the library can continue to be a viable resource to the community. Literacy and learning will never become extinct and libraries have to move along with the changing times. Challenge #2: There are some under served groups in the community—mostly teens, senior adults, and those who can’t access the library resources due to the lack of transportation and/or electronic devices. So, even in the midst of a budget stalemate (there have been no substantial budget cuts to Richmond County public libraries in the past 5-6 years), we still must find innovative ways to reach the under served community. We are excited about our alliances
with the Richmond County School System, St. John Towers, Walton Oaks (mixed-income family housing), Sand Hills Community Center, and other partnerships are budding. Also, within the past months we organized a Teen Advisory Group (TAG) and created a teen area in the Headquarters Library downtown. TAG brainstorms and gives us ideas for programming and also helped to select the furnishing and wall décor for the teen area. We are facing the challenges and making positive progress regarding them. UPW: How has the role of libraries changed in the digital age and what might we expect from our local libraries today that we could not have dreamed of 20 years ago? Darlene PRICE: Libraries today must embrace more and more technology. We can’t afford not to do so. If we want to be useful, we must expand the ways in which we offer services and resources to the public. Today, customers love electronic gadgets (cell phones, tablets, book readers—such as Nook, and computers in general). Everyone wants everything—right now. That’s not a problem for libraries in Richmond County. Our six libraries average over 2,200 customers per day, and approximately 1/3 of those customers use library computers with internet access. Additionally, approximately 3,000 customers per month use the library’s
WiFi. We purchased databases for research and leisure pursuits—for all ages. We have been careful to purchase only those resources that are highly rated by users across the U.S. So, whether you’re in the library, at home, at your office, in the park or at the mall—library resources (both educational and fun) are readily available. We recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement with Richmond County School System. We want to work side-by-side with the school system to help stimulate a love for reading and learning, and to help raise the high school graduation rate. With the help of RCSS, we are promoting our online resources. We developed an “ ezAccess Library Card” so that students can have access to the databases even if their parent’s traditional library card is inactive. UPW: You’ve worked hard to make this brand new facility a central meeting place for the exchange of ideas and cultural activities. Do you feel that the library has a vital role in shaping the intellectual/social environment in the community? Darlene PRICE: Yes, we market ourselves as a social meeting place and a place for cultural enlightenment. From book talks, GED classes, Spanish classes, computer classes, yoga, art exhibits, children’s proContinued on next page
PRICE from p.8
9 UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
gramming, scavenger hunts, quilts on display, Georgia history/heritage exhibits, and more…our goal is to reach out to the community-- regardless of their social, educational, and economic status. UPW: How are libraries adapting to meet the needs of its youngest customers? Darlene PRICE: Libraries would be remiss in their mission if we did not invest in high-quality early learning. In 2014, public libraries in Richmond County plan to start an early literacy campaign called, “1,000 Books before Kindergarten”. It is a state-recommended program and we believe in its purpose. “Tabula rassa” is Latin for blank slate. It basically infers that when a child is born, his mind is blank or empty before receiving outside impressions. No one in the community has more books than libraries, therefore, we should be among the first to encourage reading. A learned society is so important, libraries must play a role in shaping the minds of our youth. UPW: How have the recent cutbacks in funding from the federal and state governments impacted the library systems’ ability to enhance its product? Darlene PRICE: Reduced funding forces us to find alternative means to meet our mission and vision. We are engaging in more partnerships, cooperatives, and seeking more volunteerism. Additionally, we are developing innovative ways to continue meeting the needs
Darlene Price (L), Director of the East Central Georgia Regional Library System, talks with Kenneth Benson (R) at the Headquarters Library on Telfair Street. Benson is a Librarian Assistant in the Children’s Department. Photo by Vincent Hobbs of the community. We are evaluating our current practices, and streamlining work processes. If programs are not well-attended or products are under utilized, we are discontinuing them. We constantly review the professional library journals and other libraries’ websites to get ideas on programming and how to survive during lean years of funding.
UPW: What impact do you think e-books and other interactive digital information/entertainment products have on the future of the paper bound book and periodical and how might that change the mission of libraries in the next 20 years? Darlene PRICE: Technology has changed so much about our life style.
The speed and depth in which we can obtain information is phenomenal. We are digitizing so much of our print resources and today—a lot of publications are only available in digital format. From time-to-time we will look back (on the way we use to do things), but we will never go back. If libraries don’t embrace technology, we will find ourselves on the wrong side of history.
“Making Your Feet Feel Like Your First Steps”
Fyne Foot Care Center
“Do your feet hurt? Do your legs hurt? Do you have what you consider ugly toenails? Do you have painful corns & calluses? What about bunions? Do your heels hurt? Do you have Diabetes? Do you have an ulcer or sore on your leg or foot? If you answered yes to any of the above, WE CAN HELP YOU! Dr. Latanya P. Fyne, Podiatrist CALL US RIGHT AWAY!!!
Now dispensing Diabetic Shoes (FREE with certain insurances) We also offer testing for PAD (poor circulation)
706-373-4402 NEW LOCATION
1710 Central Avenue Augusta, GA 30904
fynefootcare@yahoo.com
1 blk from Family Dollar 2 blks from Druid Park Fax: (706) 364-8628
FORUM
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
10
Food for Thought
by Kristie Robin Johnson
The darkest part of Black Friday
O
ne of the great traditions of our modern capitalist economy is the marking of the beginning of the Holiday Shopping Season that starts on the day after Thanksgiving. The day is commonly known as Black Friday, named for the expected profit margin gains that will likely take a company that is in the “red” into the “black”. Black Friday used to mean getting up unnecessarily early after a day of eating, fellowshipping, and watching football to be the first in line to get great deals from large national retailers. But since the recent downturn in the economy and subsequent recession, Black Friday has taken on a much deeper symbolism in this consumption-driven society. As the middle class slowly thins into oblivion, with the gap between rich and poor transforming into an impassable canyon, Black Friday has become something of a twisted sport in which those seated comfortably at the top of the food chain are the spectators and the competitors are the folks left at the bottom of the caste. This has been particularly evident in the past few years as retailers have pushed up their store opening hours from 5:00 AM on the Friday after Thanksgiving to 12:00 AM on Friday to the most recent 8:00 PM on Thanksgiving Day. Essentially, the richest amongst us have managed to impede upon our holiday forcing thousands of already underpaid employees to work on the holiday and baiting millions of cash-strapped
Livin’ OutLoud
Whether you found yourself working, shopping, or just enjoying your day off with family and friends, in the future we should each be acutely aware of the sacrifices that rampant consumerism demands and thoughtfully choose our course of action.
Americans with “bargains” that they simply cannot pass up. Out of necessity (and under the threat of possible unemployment) workers begrudgingly show up on Thanksgiving to literally fight the crowds as the owners of the company enjoy the day with their families. Shoppers leave their dinner tables to line up in often frigid weather to spend money on things that they want (not need) most of the time because they simply can’t afford not to take advantage of the deals. More fortunate consumers who have the means have the luxury of choosing to enjoy their holiday or take part in the shopping frenzy.
On last Thursday (Thanksgiving Day), some Wal-Mart stores had two lines forming as they opened their doors. Obviously there was the expected line of shoppers, but some stores were witness to picket lines made up of Wal-Mart employees, labor union members, and their supporters to demand a living wage. The small but courageous group used the backdrop of Black Friday to highlight the stark socioeconomic inequalities that threaten to undermine the so-called “American Dream” if we allow them to continue unnoticed and unchecked. Whether you found yourself working, shopping, or just enjoying your day off with family and friends, in the future we should each be acutely
aware of the sacrifices that rampant consumerism demands and thoughtfully choose our course of action. Next year when you are mapping out your Black Friday plan of attack, take a moment to remember the soul behind the register who probably doesn’t make enough to shop in the very store in which they work. Consider the Wal-Mart employees who willingly give up their holiday and a day’s wages to bring attention to the plight of millions of employees of the world’s largest private employer. After all, isn’t the holiday season supposed to be about selflessness and generosity, not making the massively wealthy wealthier? Food for thought…
Artistic Commentary by LadyVee DaPoet
Artists! Pay attention to your seasons Farmers, to attain a bountiful and successful crop, go through phases in order to accomplish that goal. When moving to a new area, the farmer has to access and research the type of soil that he or she will be planting in. That way the farmer can decide what will grow best in that particular farmland. Next, the farmer has to decide what tools will work best to plant what crops will be the most fruitful. Then the farmer plans the timing of the crops to make sure they are planted before the frost of the year. While planting, thought is given to spacing the plants out correctly and making sure they’re given the right amount of water and fertilizer to grow. If everything goes according to plan, a harvest can be made and the soil is broken up and prepared for the next crops to be planted. Similarly, there are distinct phases and/or seasons that a true artistic pro-
fessional must go through to perfect their craft. These seasons are true of singers, public speakers, musicians, visual artists, spoken word artists, and artistic event promoters. Let’s say you’re an artist who is ready to showcase your art to the public. It would be wise to research the audiences in a particular area to know what they’re used to when it comes to the art in that town. If you know what the audience is used to seeing already, you can be a few steps ahead of your competition by taking a step outside the box and doing something uniquely different. As a spoken word artist just starting out, I attended open mics in different venues each month to study the styles of several spoken word entertainers. Not only did new inspiration come from that experience, I was given the research I needed to form my own variety show and bring my art to the forefront in a way that
hadn’t been seen before. The next season of an artist would be to gather your ‹tools› together. Maybe it›s time for new art supplies or brand new notebooks and fresh pens to write with. As an event promoter, having flyers, business cards and an updated email list with targeted contacts would be beneficial. An event host is received well when he or she dresses the part of an exciting show host and not just like everyone else in the audience. A few new outfits to host shows or workshops gives you a confidence that definitely gives you an edge. If you are a published author or poet, having inventory of your books or cds is great for potential customers that might want to purchase your art after shows or at book signings. Some artists get frustrated when they aren›t producing a new piece every week or every month. Don›t stress out and worry! Perfect timing
is essential when it comes to making a masterpiece to be proud of. If you are in a phase of gathering inspiration, don›t give up on your art! Be still and let new ideas come to you naturally. If you allow yourself a time to reflect and observe, your art will be better after your «planting season» of ideas. Lastly, an artist that wants to make their mark in the community must «harvest» their craft--they should perform the spoken word that they have rehearsed, present the artwork that they have sculpted, carry out the event with every detail thought out and planned to be entertaining for everyone. When that experience is over, lessons are learned on how the next piece or event can be done better. The cycle continues and your seasons of growth make you a well rounded and mature artist that people will support and give respect. “To everything there is a season....”
Community Corner
AUGUSTA Children’s Hospital of Georgia will provide free asthma screenings and education from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7, at the Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. The event is funded by a grant from the Kohl’s Cares® program. “Asthma affects more than 225,000 children in Georgia, and we want to do everything we can to provide education for patients and families,” said Jennifer Anderson, Director of Respiratory Care Services at Children’s Hospital of Georgia. “Our goal is to help patients manage their asthma and prevent adverse events.” Asthma is a lifelong disease that targets the lungs, causing wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness and coughing. Asthma triggers include smoke, mold, pet dander and air pollution. Although there is no cure, most people can control symptoms and prevent asthma attacks by avoiding triggers and correctly using prescribed medicine. For more information, contact Anderson at 706-721-3225 or janderson@gru.edu, or visit grhealth.org/ kohlscares.
Davidson students excel at national math competition
The Rocket City Math League competition, sponsored by Mu Alpha Theta, is a national math competi-
The Angel Hearts Support Group will be decorating a Christmas Tree at the Sheriff’s Office in honor of lost loved ones. The decorating ceremony will take place at 5:30pm on Thursday, December 5, 2013 and the media is invited to attend. The death of a loved one is never easy however the death of your child is extremely difficult to deal with. When a child is murdered, the anger, frustration, pain and grief are intensified by the realization that another person intentionally took the life of your child. The family’s trauma is worsened by many of the necessary intrusions into their grief in order to obtain the necessary evidence and testimony by the Police and judicial system. The media will often focus upon the victim without consent from the family. When a suspect is apprehended, preliminary hearings, postponements, trials and sentencing all force grieving families to face what may seem to be a lack of justice. In situations where the murder is unsolved or justice is otherwise compromised, there is even greater pain and confusion as there is no closure. When the aforementioned takes place in the CSRA, this is where the newly formed Angel Hearts Support Group steps in to help. Holidays can be an especially troubling time; this event will allow loved ones to honor those they have lost to violent incidents. This will be held at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, 400 Walton Way, Augusta, Georgia. For additional information, please contact Von Daniels at 706-261-0439 or ydaniels@augustaga.gov
competition and placed 15th in the United States. This team was coached by William Brown.
V ERONICA H ARRI S R EALT Y.LLC “Opening The Door To Homeownership” 211 Pleasant Home Rd (A25), Augusta, GA 30907 Office 706.863.2212 • Cell 706.495.2304 Fax 706.863.2209 Veronica.Harris43@comcast.net http://veronicaharrisrealty.net
Veronica “Roni” Harris Broker/Owner • Licensed in GA & SC Sales, Listings, Rental Management, Short Sales and Homebuyer Education
A 1
SANITATION SERVICE
706-793-0806
3452-B Peach Orchard Road Augusta, GA 30906 (706) 793-8623 Fax
The Mini Roll-Off
Smith-Peoples Funeral Home
Ideal for Home Builders and Contractors Yard Waste • Carpet Installation Rental Property Clean-Up Home Improvements * Home & Office Clean-Up • Roofing
Rick Smith
Locally Owned and Operated
Sales
Angel Heart support group sponsors Christmas Tree decoration ceremony
tion. Davidson students Jiseok Choi, Sam Dong, and Hannah Huang competed in the Junior Inter-School
Kendrick Clearing & Hauling, Inc. Demolition - Lot & Land Clearing Hauling • Roll-off Box Rental
706-722-4409 Fax 706-722-1602 kendrickchi@yahoo.com Cedrick T. Kendrick & Bridgett D. Kendrick, Owners
“We Do The Job Right”
Col. Albert L. Smith (USA Ret.) Funeral Director
•Affordable Prices •Traditional Services •Direct Burials •Cremations •Domestic & International Shipping •Pre-planning •Grief Counseling •Notary Public
“Serving with Dignity and Integrity”
706-724-1885 723 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30901
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
Children’s Hospital to offer free asthma screenings Saturday, December 8
11
12 UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
U W rban Pro
eekly
HOOPS Richmond County Varsity Basketball • 2013 -2014 Season Nov. 29-30 (Fri.-Sat.)
Cross Creek @ Jefferson Co. (Fri.) ARC, Butler, Glenn Hills, Laney, Josey @ 100 Black Men Classic @ ARC (Sat.)
Nov. 30 (Sat.)
Butler @ Rockdale Co.
Dec. 3 (Tue.)
Laney @ Glenn Hills Greenbrier @ Hephzibah
Dec. 6 (Fri.)
Jefferson Co. @ Cross Creek Westside @ Lakeside Josey @ Savannah High Laney @ Beach High Hephzibah @ Grovetown ARC @ Evans Tournament
Dec. 7 (Sat.)
ARC @ Evans Tournament GAC @ Butler Laney @ Savannah High Josey @ Beach High Lincoln Co. @ Westside Dec. 10 (Tue.) Grovetown @ARC Athens Academy @ Glenn Hills Lakeside @ Westside
VOTE
Harold V. Jones II State Senate District 22 Working Together to Move Augusta Forward
Dec. 13 (Fri.) Cross Creek @ N. Augusta Jefferson Co. @ Westside Josey @ Butler Swainsboro @ Laney Grovetown @ Hephzibah Glenn Hills @ Aquinas
Dec. 14 (Sat.)
Rockdale Co. @ Butler Glenn Hills @ Aquinas Hephzibah @ Geenbrier Laney @ East Laurens Westside @ Denmark/Olar Cross Creek @ Thomson
Dec. 20-23 (Fri.-Mon.)
Westside @ WACO Tourney
Dec. 26-28 (Thu.-Sat.)
ARC, Hephzibah, Josey, Butler, Cross Creek @ Evans Tourney Westside@Baldwin Classic Laney@Colquitt Classic Butler @ Columbia Classic Glenn HIlls @ Nike Int. Westside @ Lake Marion
2014
Jan. 3 (Fri.)
Dec. 17 (Tue.)
Westside @ Hephzibah
Cross Creek @ Burke Co. Josey @ Dublin Hephzibah@ Glenn HIlls Glenn Hills @ Laney
Dec. 19-21 (Thu.-Sat.)
Jan. 4 (Sat.)
ARC boys and girls, Hephzibah boys and girls Glenn Hills girls and boys Josey girls and boys Cross Creek girls and boys Aiken girls, Midland Valley girls, Meadowcreek girls and boys, Calhoun Co. boys, Orangeburg/W. boys @Holiday Round Ball Classic at Paine College
Hardie
DAVIS for Mayor
NE Augusta
Glenn Hills @ Josey Laney @ Butler Thomson @ Westside North Augusta @ Cross Creek
Jan. 7 (Tue.)
Cross Creek @ ARC Butler @ Hephzibah Screven Co. @ Westide Laney @ Harlem Burke Co. @ Glenn Hills
13
Wilkinson Co. @ Josey Laney @ Screven Co. Harlem @ Westside Butler @ Cross Creek Glenn Hills @ ARC Hephzibah @ Burke County
Jan. 11 (Sat.)
ARC @ Westside Butler @ Josey Laney @ Swainsboro
Jan. 14 (Tue.)
Jan. 20 (Mon.)
Glenn Hills @ MLK Invitational Laney boys @ MLK Invitational Laney girls @ Copeland Classic
Jan. 21 (Tue.)
Jan. 17 (Fri.)
Jan. 25 (Sat.)
Cross Creek @ Hephzibah ARC @ Burke Co. Glenn Hills @ Butler Laney @ Westside Josey @ East Laurens
Jan. 18 (Sat.)
Josey @ MLK Invitational Laney @ Butler Glenn Hills @ Will Avery Classic
Hephzibah @Westside Dublin @ Josey
Feb. 4 (Tue.)
Hephzibah @ Cross Creek Burke Co. @ ARC Butler @ Glenn Hills
Jan. 24 (Fri.)
Laney @ Josey Glenn Hills @ Cross Creek Burke Co. @ Butler ARC @ Hephzibah
Westside @ Laney Cross Creek @ Glenn Hills Butler @ Burke Co. Hephzibah@ ARC
Feb. 1 (Sat.)
Harlem @ Laney Westside @ Screven Burke Co. @ Cross Creek Glenn Hills @ Hephzibah Butler @ ARC ARC @ Cross Creek Hephzibah @ Butler Glenn Hills @ Burke Co. Westside @ Harlem Screven Co @ Laney
Jan. 31 (Fri.)
Feb. 7 (Fri.)
Glenn Hills @ Butler Westside @ Thomson Josey @ Aquinas
Josey @ Laney Greenbrier @ Westside Glenn Hills @ Athens Christian Academy
Feb. 8 (Sat.)
Dublin @ Laney East Laurens @ Josey
Jan. 28 (Tue.)
Cross Creek @ Butler ARC @ Glenn Hills Burke Co. @ Hephzibah
Major Local Tournaments 100 Black Women Classic, Nov. 25-28 100 Black Men Classic, Nov. 30 Holiday Round Ball Classic, Dec. 19 -21
COREY J , . VOTE
ohnson sr
GA Senate District 22
A Greater Vision For A Greater Augusta
www.augustatech.edu
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
Jan. 10 (Fri.)
UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
14
A-Tech Self Storage
The Computer Guy
3114 Augusta Tech Drive
Computers Done Right, Free Diagnostic Check
(706) 796-1986
Clarence PC TECH
HOLIDAY SPECIAL
$1 Move In $1 Second Month with this ad
2658 C Barton Chapel Rd. Augusta, GA
Expires 3/31/14
5x5 10x10 5x10 10x15 nsurance rofessionals 5x15 10x20 Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial 5x20 20x20
P I nsura ip I nsurance Professionals i p d Insurance? Need Insura Tender Care Training Center I
706.814.7188 computerguyaugusta@live.com
Auto Home
Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial
e Can Help!
We Can He
Accredited and State Approved
Need Insurance?
Train to become a Certified Nurse’s Assistant We(CNA) Can Phlebotomy Technician 06.560.9997 fax or Pharmacy Technician
.560.9990
706.560.9
Help!
Harold V. Jones706.560.9997 II
706.560.9990
New Location JyNelle Handy, Agent 1755 Gordon Hwy, Suite E INFO@INS-PROS.COM Augusta, GA 30904 706.560.9997
636-C Tobacco Rd phzibah, GA 30815
For Enrollment Information,
fax
ATTORNEY AT LAW
Phone 706-339-1424
Call (706)736-9225 2636-C Tobacco Rd Fax: (706) 736-0995
I nsurance Professionals
Hephzibah, GA 30815
Visit www.tendercareschool.comcastbiz.net
Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial
I
P
d Insurance? Bank America sponsors a nsurance rofessionals Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial We Can Help!Holiday Celebration
ip
I
JyNelle Handy, Agent
ip
407 Sixth Street Augusta, GA, 30901
I nsurance Professiona
INFO@INS-PROS.COM
Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercia
I nsura i p We Can Help!
Need Insurance?
At Bank America we recognize that culturd.560.9990 Insurance? al resources are a part of the foundation nsurance in
e Can Help!
2636-C Tobacco Hephzibah, GA 3
Criminal Law • Divorce • Personal Injury • Employment Law
Auto Home
Need Insura 706.560.9990 P rofessionals nsurance P We Can He I rofessionals
06.560.9997 fax 706.560.9997 Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial fax which healthy communities are built. We are proud to support the arts for the vital role the 2636-C Tobacco Rd JyNelle Handy, Agent 2636-C Tobacco Rd JyNelle H in enriching ourINFO@INS-PROS.COM communities, educating ephzibah,play GA 30815 Hephzibah, GA 30815 INFO@IN the past and inspiring the future; therefore we are proud to present the Museum Holiday 06.560.9997 fax on Saturday, December 7, 10a.m.706.560.9997 Open House 5 p.m. 636-C Tobacco Rd JyNelle Handy, Agent 2636-C Tobacco In partnership with Jack and Jill, Inc, the Annual phzibah, GA 30815 Hephzibah, GA 3 Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History will INFO@INS-PROS.COM present a brunch and photographs with Santa Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercial Auto Home Life Health Bonds Commercia from 10 am 12:00pm for children.706.560.9997 They may also fax participate in making ornaments for trimming the Christmas tree, caroling, storytelling, a bookTobacco sign2636-C Rd JyNelle Handy, Agent – The Tooth Tickler by Kandyce Mack, a local We CaningHelp! We Can Help! Hephzibah, GA 30815 INFO@INS-PROS.COM author. Free tours will also be available for the entire day at the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, of Art, the Augusta Auto Home LifeMorris HealthMuseum Bonds Commercial Auto Home 06.560.9997 fax the 706.560.9997 fax Museum of History, the Woodrow Wilson Boyhood 2636-C Tobacco JyNelle Handy, Agent of North 2636-C Tobacco Rd JyNelle H Home,Rd and the Arts and Heritage Center ephzibah,Augusta. GA 30815 Hephzibah, GA 30815 INFO@INS-PROS.COM INFO@IN Many thanks to Bank America for making this INFO@INS-PROS.COM event possible!
Need Insurance? 706.560.9 We Can Help!
.560.9990
706.560.9990 i I nsurance Professionals I nsurance Professiona p
d Insurance?
I
.560.9990 nsurance
Need Insurance?
Professionals
d Insurance?
e Can Help!
i
ip
706.560.9990
I nsurance Professionals
I nsura
Need Insura
We Can He
Good Shepherd Baptist Church
Rev. Clarence Moore, Pastor 1714 Olive Road / P. O. Box 141 (mailing address) Augusta, GA 30903 706/733-341- Telephone/706/667-0205 – Fax E-mail address: admin@goodshepherdaugusta.org Web address: goodshepherdaugusta.org Rev. Clarence Moore Church Service: 7:45 & 11:00 a.m. Church School: 9:45 a.m. / Prayer Service: 11:00 a.m. – Wednesday Bible Study: 9:00 a.m. - Saturday / 7:00 p.m. - Wednesday
2323 Barton Chapel Road • Augusta,GA 30906 706.790.8185 / 706.922.8186 (fax) Visit Us @ www.broadwaybaptistaug.org • Join us on facebook Dr. C. William Joyner, Jr. Senior Pastor
Start your calling today! Mount Olivet Certified Academic Institution 706.793.0091 • 706.793.0335 • www.mocai-aug.org
Everfaithful Missionary Baptist Church 314 Sand Bar Ferry Road Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706) 722- 0553 Church School Sunday 9:25am Morning Worship Sunday 11am Evening Worship 6pm (1st & 3rd Sunday) Midday Prayer 12pm Wednesday Intercessory Prayer/Bible Study 6pm Wednesday
Bishop Rosa L. Williams, Pastor
Radio Broadcast: Sundays • WKZK 103.7 FM at 7:30 a.m.
Sunday Morning Services 10 am Wednesday Services 7 pm 2070 Brown Road, Hephzibah, GA 30815 (706) 592-9221 | www.alwc.net
Come under the protective wings of the
Are your dental costs taking a bite out of your budget?
dove, because when you start to take flight you want to be cared for in life!
COMPETITIVE INSURANCE COMPANY CREATIONS
If you have Medicare and full Medicaid switch to a health plan that offers you
$0 copay for Dentures
Life Health Home Auto Supplementary Insurance
Free Quotes • Reasonable Rates Uninsured Motorist • Discount Car Insurance Medicare • Free Dental • Vision
Cynthia Boatwright, Agent 3350 Peach Orchard Road • Suite 805 (In Public Storage Complex) Augusta, GA 30906 • 706 869-4322 FAX: 706 814-9170 Email: competitiveinsurancecreations@gmail.com • Website: Cicga.com
You don’t have to live with BACK PAIN
You’ll have a low copay for an office visit that may also include: n1 Oral exam and 1 cleaning each year n1 Dental X-ray every year nDenture adjustments nScaling and restorations
MEDICAL VILLA PHARMACY WE TAKE: •Georgia medicaid •Insurance plans •Charge cards •WIC vouchers
or any other kind of discomfort, including headaches, neck stiffness, shoulder pain, muscle tension, sleep ������������������������������������ 706-736-5551
2 Locations: 1125Available! Druid Park Ave.•�� Road ACCEPTED M2583 OSTTobacco INSURANCE Drug Testing Now Augusta, GA 30904 Hephzibah, GA 30815 1132 Druid Park Ave, Augusta, GA
Eloise Meardith Independent Agent (706) 771-9522 www.hisbyeloise.com
Marshall Curtis, Pharmacist/Owner Baron Curtis, Pharmacist
FREE DELIVERY SERVICE
706-722-7355
15 UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5- 11, 2013
Sunday School 8:30 am Morning Worship Services: 9:45 am Evening Worship Services 6 pm (4th Sunday) Bible Study: 6pm (Mondays) Midday Bible Study: 12pm (Tuesdays) Prayer Services: 6pm (Wednesdays) Celebrate Recovery: 6pm (Fridays) and 12pm (Mondays)
16 UrbanProWeekly • DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2013
THE LAW OFFICE OF
Frails & Wilson ATTORNEYS AT LAW
Experienced Representation
Real Estate Transactions Personal Injury Bankruptcy Social Security Disability Probate • Domestic Randolph Frails
Kelli J. Spencer
Aimee Sanders
Edwin Wilson
706-855-6715
Criminal Defenses
211 Pleasant Home Road • Suite A1 • Augusta, GA
Inga N. Hicks, PC Attorney At Law Uncompromised Representation and Unmatched Results
Criminal Defense Personal Injury Family Law Wills
706-814-5998 4137 Columbia Rd., Suite C, Martinez, GA 30907