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APRIL 15 - 28, 2021

Keto, Paleo, Vegan What’s UP and What’s Best? VOL. 9 NO. 16

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Golden Blocks PROJECT

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APRIL 29 - MAY 12, 2021 VOL. 9 NO. 17

ROBERT FLASH GORDON REMEMBERED

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

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Vegan keto butter cauliflower

PHASE TWO

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JAMES BROWN BLOCK PARTY

ARTISTS are Essential workers

Downtown Augusta celebrates the birthday of the Godfather of Soul

COMMENTARY BY NIKI HARIS

April is JAZZ Appreciation Month

MAY 13 - 26, 2021 VOL. 9 NO. 18

GOLDEN BLOCKS CREATORS Travis Wright (top L), Xavier Jones (bottom L) and Hasani Sahlehe (R). Wright and Jones photos by V. Hobbs.

51 Years Later The 1970 Augusta Riots Revisited

UPW

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

“The Committee of Ten” by Grady Abrams

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

URBAN PRO WEEKLY

2021 The Year in Review UPW UPW UPW

Black Music Month Feature: The INTERNATIONAL SWEETHEARTS OF RHYTHM

INSIDE

KRISTIEJOHNSON KARLTONCLAY

URBAN PRO WEEKLY

JUNE 10 - 23, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 20

BLACK MUSIC MONTH FEATURE

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INTRODUCING NEW CARTOON FEATURE

JIMI HENDRIX & the R&B HALL OF FAME The AUGUSTA Connection by Corey Washington

Lines, Lies, and Betrayal

MAY 27 - JUNE 9, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 19

Redistricting in the midst of GOP Voter Suppression 2011 Augusta Redistricting Committee

America’s ‘Sweethearts’: An All-Girl Band That Broke Racial Boundaries

Trumpeter Clora Bryant “Gal With A Horn”

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

IN 2011, MEMBERS OF THE AUGUSTA REDISTRICTING COMMITTEE were snubbed by G.O.P. operatives at home and in Atlanta. Above (L-R): Comm. Alvin Mason, School Board member Marion Barnes and Comm. Bill Lockett helped to devise a local redistricting plan that was fair and balanced. Ultimately, the federal courts drew the map that eventually led to the area’s greatest political gains for African Americans.

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

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MACHERE T

JUNE 24 - JULY 7, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 21

RE FLE CTI ON SO N

JUN ETE ENT H Downtown Mural on 11th Street • See p. 10 for details • Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

PHOTO BY VINCENT HOBBS

DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 9

COMMUNITYWATCH

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

Augusta Library Awarded 55,000 in Grant Funding from Communities for Immunity The Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System is among 50 Museums, Libraries, and Tribal Organizations Receiving Funding from Communities for Immunity Augusta, GA -- The AugustaRichmond County Public Library System is among 50 museums, libraries, and tribal organizations to be awarded funding as part of the Communities for Immunity initiative led by the Association of Science and Technology Centers and the American Alliance of Museums. With support from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Communities for Immunity supports museums and libraries working to increase vaccine confidence

Behold The Star On Sunday, Dec. 19th, at 6:00 p.m., Creative Impressions will perform its annual Christmas show “Behold the Star” virtually. Behold the Star will be streamed on Facebook, YouTube, and the organization’s website. The show will highlight music from the group’s repertoire of gospel, traditional, and Christmas songs with special arrangements from the group’s Artistic Director, Trey McLaughlin. In lieu of selling tickets this year, Creative Impressions is running a $25 for 25 (years) fundraising campaign to ensure that current and future students of the organization can obtain scholarship opportunities and continue to broaden their horizons through the organization’s annual College and Cultural Expansion Tour.

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among vaccine-hesitant communities. ARCPLS looks forward to advancing vaccine confidence in Richmond County by strategically working to create a safe space in the community for all patrons while leveraging our status as a trusted institution. We plan to work with our local partners, iHeartMedia, Tabernacle

Baptist Church, Richmond County Health Department, Medical Associates Plus, and the Greater Augusta’s Interfaith Coalition to target all geographic regions of Richmond County. The benefit of the Communities for Immunity program would help educate about misinformation and increase vaccine

Umoja Village News The Black Historical Committee of Aiken will hold its 22nd Annual Black History Parade on Saturday, Feb. 19, 2 p.m. This year’s theme will be: Excellence In Community Service: Honoring Betty Gyles. Entry fee is only $20.00. Pick up applications at the Smith Hazel Recreation Center, 400 Kershaw Street in Aiken; or Brothers & Sisters of Aiken, 132 York

Mental Health Summit VIII Please mark your calendars and join us on Thursday, January 20, 2022 from 9:00AM to 1:00PM for the Mental Health Summit VIII. This is the museum’s 8th year in partnership with Augusta Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and Augusta University, to provide this free mental health summit for the community. The event is free to attend. Deadline to register is January 14, 2022. Registered attendees will be provided a lunch. We hope to see you there!

Street in Aiken. Together, let’s make this parade the best year ever and truly demonstrate unity. Attention all churches, youth groups, praise dancers, families, organizations, and businesses! For more information, call The Black Historical Committee of Aiken, 803-642-7634. Attention all churches, organizations, and businesses, please use the Umoja Village Community Calendar as a planning tool and

a marketing tool. This calendar is paid for by the Umoja Village organization and exists to help us work together so that our events and activities can be as effective as possible and to help alleviate dividing our intended audience due to multiple events planned on the same dates. You can use this calendar, on www.umojavillage. com, so others can learn what’s happening within our communities. UMOJA=UNITY

Will Avery Basketball Camps Augusta Parks & Recreation is partnering with former NBA player Will Avery to offer a free Basketball skills camp to children in grades 1 through 8 at the May Park Community Center this year. The camp will be from December 20 to December 22, between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM. Early drop-offs and late pick-ups can be arranged. Participants receive a free camp T-shirt, and daily lunch and snacks. We are excited to offer this free opportunity to your kids! In-person registration is currently open and will be held at the May Park Community Center, 622 4th Street. Registration is on a first-come, first-serve basis and is open to the first 60 kids. See you at the camp! Augusta Parks & Recreation Department 2027 Lumpkin Road Augusta, GA 30906

PUBLISHER Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency LLC http://www.growingaugusta.co +1 (706) 751-2537 SALES & MARKETING http://www.growingaugusta.co/upw +1 (762) 233-5299

uptake to help protect the citizens of Richmond County. Read more about Communities for Immunity and all awardees at https://community.astc. org/communitiesforimmunity/roundtwo-announcement. For more information contact Leah Holloway, Public Relations Assistant at hollowayl@ arcpls.org or 706-821-2605.

CONTRIBUTORS K.L. Gordon Menia L. Chester Frederick Benjamin Sr. Layout/Design : UrbanProMedia

Publisher’s Desk . . . To say that 2021 has been interesting is an understatement. It has been a year of new beginnings - a time to figure out, or to create, the new normal. Whether that’s a new business, new families, new ways of communicating, fresh eyes and ears to process the world in which we live, and a renewed zeal to build the future that lives in our dreams - all while honoring the people, places, and things of our shared past. Here, in this issue, we reflect upon the year 2021. The good, the bad, and the other. Going forward, let’s continue to birth new ideas and concepts. How will you shape the future in 2022? — KG

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Each year for the prog ram will awar next five years, the town s (those withd up to 100 smal l 50,00 0 or fewe residents) up to $50,0 00 in fund r for revit alization ing projects. The fund can potential ly s be gy updates or infra spent on technolofor local libra ries, struc ture upgr ades park s, or other commun ity spaces. Civic leaders and commun ity members are proposals via T-Mo invited to subm it bile’s website.

18 - 30

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T-Mobile Hometow n Grants Seek to Help Rural Co mmunities Thrive

t initiative has comm itted helping rura l comm $25 million to unities thriv e all acro ss America. The nicat ions network wireless commuhas partnered with the non- prof it orga nizat ions Main Stree t Ame rica and Smar t Grow Ame rica to deve th whic h aims “to lop the prog ram, help build stron more prospero us smal l town ger, s and rura l communiti es.”

VEMBER

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fourth quarter In January of 2021 , Clay received the ACCOMPLISHED MOST AWAR D from the Bavarelee Bernstein Onlin e Awards, and he was BREA KTHROUG H CREATOR by the named the 2021 Awards in Washingto Capital City Web n, D.C. To view all of the and films, visit thevpVictory Productions Network show s ntv.com. For more informatio n, conta ct: Karlt ton@thevpntv.co m ~ www.thevpntv. on T. Clay - karlcom

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UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

2021 The Year in Review

Golden Blocks PROJ ECT PH

avier O. Jo nes, W. Travis “Brotha Tr av” Wrig ht, and Hasan i Sahlehe

XAVIER O. JONES

“My crea collection tive Idea is a Mur al of a of sum of Black Ed ucators wh Augusta’s many o laid the working gr foundatio ns of som ound most histo e of the rical chan and now ges for th as well be ei crucial co ing a thriv r era mponent ing and of the Gold Lucy C. La en ney, C.T. Floyd. Ac Walker, an Blocks. company d Silas X. ing them historical will be ot figures an her d sites in with thes connectio e n Blocks as three influenced the Gold well as th en e U.S. in on e form or another.” — Xavier O. Jones

2021

ASE T WO The Lucy Craft Lane y Museum Augusta Ar of Black Hi ts Council story, Gre , and City of Commun ater ity Develop Augusta Ho ment are using and two artistic proud to an concepts no unce the that will be se lec tion of funded fo r the next Golden Bl Phase of ocks Proje the ct. THE SELE CTED AR TISTS AR E X

SportsVIEW

UrbanProW eekly - AP RIL 15 - 28,

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

2021 Community Sports & Arts participation . . .

Visual art ist Xavie r O. Jones and poet W. Travis “B rotha Tra v” Wright are teaming up to create a mural, titled “Ember of HOPE ” and a poetry manuscrip t with spok en word that will be pla ced in the digital wa lking tou r to accompan y the mu ral.

W. TRAV IS WRIGH T

Photos by Vincent Ho bbs

“

a varsity track meet held at Laney stadium. Alexandria oto by Vincent Hobbs

SPORTSVIEW

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 18 - 31, 2021

Continu ed on ne xt page

A Westside

Track athletes from Richmond County high schools compete in the the All-County Cross Country Meet, held at Diamond Lakes Park. (October 13, 2021 shot-putter Augusta, throwsGA) the metal ball during - Photo by Vincent Hobbs a track meet

All-County Cross Country Meet

held at Laney stadium. (March 3, 2021 - Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly • MARCH 1 - 15, 2020

2021 Vibrant Community Interaction . . . 7 UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 4 -17, 2021

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 4 - 17, 2021

DOWNTOWN

Mister Wildcat (L) and Miss Laney (R) walk down the Laney field during halftime at homecoming. The Wildcats defeated the Glenn Hills Spartans 42-0 in the final score. The afternoon game featured tail-gating, the crowning of the homecoming king and queen, and other school festivities. (Sept. 18, 2021 Augusta, GA) Photo by Vincent Hobbs/ Sports Journal

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

SPORTSVIEW

Broadway actor and singer Russell Joel Brown performs at the Augusta Arts City Festival. (September 17, 2021 - Augusta, GA) Photo by Vincent Hobbs

A Mini Arts Festival

The J Soul band horn section accompanies Broadway actor and singer Russell Joel Brown at the Augusta Arts City Festival. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

GROUND GAIN for the Laney HS Wildcats. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Maliyah Taylor (L) and Neimen Sullivan (R) celibrate after being named Homecoming Queen and King. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

October 16, 2021 (Augusta, GA) - Naliayah Brooks (R) smiles after being crowned Miss Homecoming during half-time. T.W. Josey students and alumni celebrated their homecoming with events throughout the week, including an alumni basketball game, the coronation of Miss Josey and Mr. Eagle and a parade. The Eagles were defeated 37-22 in a homecoming loss to the Oglethorpe County Patriots. (October 16, 2021 Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

T.W. Josey students and alumni celebrated their homecoming with events throughout the week, including an alumni basketball game, the coronation of Miss Josey and Mr. Eagle and a parade. The Eagles were defeated 37-22 in a homecoming loss to the Oglethorpe County Patriots. (October 16, 2021 Augusta, GA) - Photos by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

7 UrbanProWeekly - NOVMBR 1 - 14, 2021

Don’t miss the next one. Text WHITEDINNERAUGUSTA to (762) 233-5299

UrbanProWeekly - SEPTELBER 6 - 19, 2021

WHITE DINNER - AUGUSTA WHITE DINNER - AUGUSTA

Don’t miss the next one. Text WHITEDINNERAUGUSTA to (762) 233-5299

SPORTSVIEW

UPW 2021 Year In Review PAGE ONE UPW

Remembering Junior Mance & John “Sonny” Pickett

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TITLETOWN

AUGUSTA

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JOSEY GIRLS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2021 VOL. 9 NO. 14

MARCH 1 - 15, 2021 VOL. 9 NO. 13

CROSS CREEK BOYS & GIRLS

2021 GHSA CHAMPS

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Red, Black & Greens Food Fight For Your Life ......

Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili

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APRIL 1-15, 2021

VOL. 9 NO. 15

CR E AD ATIVE A S PT TO THE ING N NO RM EW AL Local artists talk about challenges to their ability to Create and Inspire during the Covid shutdown

“THE SPIRIT OF FUNK”, by artist Cole Phail, is an artistic salute to the “Godfather of Soul”, located on 9th Street near Broad in downtown Augusta. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Women’s History Month Notable: Christine Miller-Betts

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Vegan keto butter cauliflower

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APRIL 15 - 28, 2021

Keto, Paleo, Vegan What’s UP and What’s Best? VOL. 9 NO. 16

The Girls Basketball Team at Cross Creek High School won the Class 3A Championship Game recently over Greater Atlanta Christian at the Macon Centreplex. The Cross Creek Boys also won their Championship. The T.W. Josey HS Girls also won the 2A Championship.

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Golden Blocks

Nefertiti

APRIL 29 - MAY 12, 2021 Eddie VOL. 9 NO. 17 Bussey

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AE The Cool

Trey McLaughlin

UPW UPW UPW Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

ROBERT FLASH GORDON REMEMBERED

Art ‘the Artist’ Abdon

Baruti Tucker

Eddie Bussey

706-772-9800 MAY 13 - 26, 2021 VOL. 9 NO. 18 URBAN PRO WEEKLY

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

PROJECT

PHASE TWO

JAMES BROWN BLOCK PARTY

ARTISTS are Essential workers

Downtown Augusta celebrates the birthday of the Godfather of Soul

COMMENTARY BY NIKI HARIS

April is JAZZ Appreciation Month

GOLDEN BLOCKS CREATORS Travis Wright (top L), Xavier Jones (bottom L) and Hasani Sahlehe (R). Wright and Jones photos by V. Hobbs.

Eddie Bussey

Black Music Month Feature: The INTERNATIONAL SWEETHEARTS OF RHYTHM 706-772-9800

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JUNE 10 - 23, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 20

BLACK MUSIC MONTH FEATURE

MAY 27 - JUNE 9, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 19

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

INTRODUCING NEW CARTOON FEATURE

JIMI HENDRIX & the R&B HALL OF FAME The AUGUSTA Connection by Corey Washington

Lines, Lies, and Betrayal

Redistricting in the midst of GOP Voter Suppression 2011 Augusta Redistricting Committee

America’s ‘Sweethearts’: An All-Girl Band That Broke Racial Boundaries

Trumpeter Clora Bryant “Gal With A Horn”

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51 Years Later The 1970 Augusta Riots Revisited

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“The Committee of Ten” by Grady Abrams

Eddie Bussey INSIDE 706-772-9800

KRISTIEJOHNSON KARLTONCLAY

MACHERE T

JUNE 24 - JULY 7, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 21

REF LEC TIO NS ON

JUN ETE ENT H Downtown Mural on 11th Street • See p. 10 for details • Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

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JULY 8 - 21, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 21

BOYSWithAFuture

BLASIANBOBBI GEORGIASOUL

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INSIDE TRUEZ AUG HIP•HOP industry

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GEORGEEDWARDBUGGS Y iSPYWATERMELONGU

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JULY 22 - AUG. 4, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 22

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AUG. 5 - 18, 2021 • VOL. 9 NO. 23

Hopefuls crowd into 2022 mayoral race

ways you can create a FOOD OASIS

Steven Kendrick Marion Williams Dennis Williams Charlie Hannah Brian Marcus Robert Ingham Albert Newson

Can You Match The Names to the Faces?

BLACK

AUGUSTA RESTAURANT WEEK

See answers Inside

cuisine • culture • community

JULY 20 - 25, 2021 GEORGIA

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DOWNTOWN MURAL: This mural by artist JAY JACOBS is located on 11th Street between Broad and Reynolds. Photo by Vince Hobbs

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INSIDE JAREDWILLIAMS • BACK TO SCHOOL MESSAGE Eddie Bussey

706-772-9800 RICKEYJONES • DOWNTOWN REVERIE

ANDREMOUNTAIN • SUPPORTING OUR TEACHERS

AUGUST 19 - 31, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 1

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Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

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SEPTEMBER 6 -19, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 2

Sha’Carri and Naomi: Unlikely sisterhood?

UPW Mason gets District 4 nod

WHITE DINNER - AUGUSTA CHER BEST

The Brothas: What do they think

Once again, “the process” is slammed – but should anyone really be surprised?

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Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

OPINION IMMIGRATION POLICY TOO HEARTLESS? COUNTY CROSS COUNTRY MEET PHOTOS

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Vegan keto butter cauliflower

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APRIL 15 - 28, 2021

Keto, Paleo, Vegan What’s UP and What’s Best? VOL. 9 NO. 16

Golden Blocks PROJECT

PHASE TWO

ARTISTS are Essential workers COMMENTARY BY NIKI HARIS

April is JAZZ Appreciation Month

GOLDEN BLOCKS CREATORS Travis Wright (top L), Xavier Jones (bottom L) and Hasani Sahlehe (R). Wright and Jones photos by V. Hobbs.

Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

OCTOBER 18 - 31, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 5

A quieter, gentler

a quiter

John Coltrane local artists

See p.3

about love, health, friendship, success, inspiration

OLIVIA GAINES BE A BETTER TRAVEL WRITER

Sept. 17-19

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SEPT. 20 -OCT. 5, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 3

This Labor Day Weekend, check for

no longer a secret . . . but still a mystery

Complete

Eddie Bussey Guide 706-772-9800 INSIDE

explore the Master’s ballad offerings Performance info on p.10

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OCTOBER 4 - 17, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 4

NOVEMBER 1 - 14, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 6

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GARNETT JOHNSON ENTERS EddieMAYOR’S BusseyRACE

TRAINING GRANT BLACK CHAMBER / BoA BIZ706-772-9800

MAURICE JOHNSON STARRING ON AMAZON FILMS

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INSIDE TWO CLASSES OF 1968 CITY ARTS FEST HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH CELEBRATIONS

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LANEY HOMECOMING GAME 2021 Photo by Vincent Hobbs

FIESTA LATINA Music and dance performances took place throughout the day during Fiesta Latina de la Familia, held at the Augusta Common. Centro Cristiano Oasis de Bendicion, a local church, sponsored the free event. (October 9, 2021 - Augusta, GA) Photo by Vince2022 Hobbs ELECTION

NOVEMBER NOVEM BER 18 - 30, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 7

UPW

LANEY WALKER BETHLEHEM HERITAGE FESTIVAL ‘21

” where Augusta’s Black Community had its beginnings

THE YOUNG LADIES OF HAINES INSTITUTE, ca. 1925

Junk dealer on the streets in the heart of “The Territory”, ca. 1925.

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Eddie Bussey 706-772-9800

Stacey Abrams to lead Dems in 2022 midterms

DECEMBER 6 - 19, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 8

Karlton Clay’s 20-year challenge lands in our living rooms Local independent filmmaker inks deal with streaming giant, Peacock

PHOTO BY VINCENT HOBBS

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NOVEMBER 18 - 30, 2021 • VOL. 10 NO. 7

JOSEY HOMECOMING

T.W. JOSEY STUDENTS AND ALUMNI celebrated their homecoming with events recently, including an alumni basketball game, the coronation of Miss Josey and Mr. Eagle and a parade. The Eagles were defeated 37-22 by the Oglethorpe County Patriots. More photos on page 7. (October 16, 2021 Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

PAGE DESIGN urbanpromedia STAFF PHOTOGRAPHY vincent hobbs

7 UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

UPW

INSIDE

THE PRINCIPAL’S GAMBIT: Reopening schools is CHESS NOT CHECKERS

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

Julian “Junior” Mance 1928–2021

Respected pianist and educator stayed true to the blues By Michael J. West JazzTimes

JULIAN “JUNIOR” MANCE: His career as a leader commenced in the late 1950s, when he formed his first trio and made his opening entries in a catalog that eventually extended to over 60 albums.

unior Mance, a pianist, composer, and educator known for his earthy, bluesy style, died January 17 at his home in New York City. He was 92. His death was announced by his wife of 22 years, the former Gloria Clayborne, in a January 17 Facebook post. Cause of death was not disclosed; however, for several years Mance had been afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease. A representative of the Chicago school of jazz, Mance began his career in the Windy City, working at 18 years old with saxophonist Gene Ammons. He soon moved on to play with Lester Young, Cannonball Adderley, Dinah Washington, and Dizzy Gillespie. His career as a leader commenced in the late 1950s, when he formed his first trio and made his opening entries in a catalog that eventually extended to over 60 albums. He was also a member of the 10-pianist ensemble 100 Golden Fingers, an outfit that had its primary success in Japan during the 1990s. Mance’s foremost musical love is best expressed in the title of his 1967 book, How to Play Blues Piano. However, his reputation was that of a wide-ranging and confident stylist who was thoroughly versed in bebop and the standard repertoire; indeed, his major professional break came when he replaced Bud Powell in Lester Young’s band in 1949. Even in such contexts, however, Mance tended to insert generous shares of blues and soul into his playing, such that even postwar pop tunes like “By

the Time I Get to Phoenix” (on his 1976 album Holy Mama) sounded like dyed-in-the-wool African-American vernacular music in his hands. In addition to writing a piano instruction book, Mance was a noted educator, teaching for 23 years at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York. “He was sincere and generous with his knowledge,” said pianist and club owner Spike Wilner, a student of Mance’s in the late 1980s. “He was a legendary pianist and a wonderful and warm person.” Julian Clifford Mance, Jr. was born October 10, 1928 in Evanston, Illinois, to Julian Sr., a dry cleaner, and Marie McCollum, a homemaker. From childhood, the younger Mance was known as “Junior” to distinguish him from his father. The elder Mance was an avocational piano player, keeping an upright in the family house. He taught his fiveyear-old son to play stride and boogie-woogie. Junior was an avid pupil

with, as he told interviewer Marc Myers in 2011, “a hunger for music.” When he was 10, he took his first paying gig in a Chicago club. Enrolling at 18 in Chicago’s Roosevelt College, Mance quietly ignored his mother’s entreaties to take pre-med classes and registered for music classes. Even these, however, lasted less than a full year, both because jazz was forbidden on campus (a professor who found him playing stride in a practice room suspended him for a week) and because Mance found work accompanying Gene Ammons (with whom he made his first records). In 1949, Lester Young heard Mance playing with Ammons in Chicago and invited him to join Young’s band; the pianist went with the saxophonist to New York, where he remained for several months and recorded with Young on a Savoy session before returning to Chicago in the fall. Mance was drafted into the Army in 1951 and had orders to go to Korea after

“Sonny” Pickett: in his own words In a recent article written by Tim Cox which discussed the city’s rich musical landscape, John “Sonny” Pickett, a veteran jazz musician offered his “vintage view” of local entertainment. Pickett died earlier this week.

Augusta as a Fort Gordon Army soldier. “I was an avid follower of the music scene – and in walked Sonny at one of these clubs. I knocked him off his feet,” she laughed. “Those were

“ . . . . I remember when most of Augusta’s clubs featured six nights of live entertainment. That was the norm,” said Pickett, a retired Richmond County educator. Pickett, 81, did regular upright-bass gigs with pianoman “Doctor” Lasker Watson, guitarist/vocalist Will Noble and drummer Tommy Purcell. Pickett excitedly recalls weeklong stints at the Cellar Lounge, then located in the basement of the old Bonair Hotel, across the street from the Partridge Inn on Walton Way. Partridge Inn has remained resilient as a relevant live-music venue, along with Shannon’s Food & Spirits near Washington Road. Pickett’s wife of 58 years, Betty Clinton Pickett of Augusta, said she met “Sonny” when he settled in

Mr. John P. “Sonny” Pickett III entered into rest on Sunday, February 28, 2021. Graveside service was held on Friday, March 5 at Cedar Grove Cemetery with Rev. Augusta Hall officiating. Survivors are his wife of sixty years, Betty C. Pickett; four daughters, Chantelle Pickett, Chandra Pickett, Crystal Pickett Frontin (Kenny Frontin MD), Carole Pickett; grandchildren, Kenny Frontin Jr., Camille Frontin; sisters, Betty P. Spencer, Carole P. (Lloyd) Williams, Evelyn P. Monroe; special cousins, Elmer L. “Hank” John P. Pickett III died on Feb. 28 Pickett, Charlton Judson Pickett MD; and a host of nieces, nephews and on Thursday, March 4 at Williams other relatives. Mr. Pickett was viewed Funeral Home.

definitely the good ol’ days, when there was so much to do in Augusta,” she reflects. Mrs. Pickett is also a professional musician – and serves as organist/pianist at Bethel AME Church on Crawford Avenue.”

John “Sonny” Pickett III

basic training at Fort Knox. However, while in training he met a fellow recruit, saxophonist Julian “Cannonball” Adderley, who helped him get a job as the company clerk so he could join Adderley’s company band. Discharged in 1953, he returned to Chicago and became the house pianist at the Bee Hive club on the South Side, where he played behind Charlie Parker for four weeks. By 1954, Mance had saved enough money to move to New York, where he soon got a job in Dinah Washington’s band. After two years, he left Washington to join Adderley; two years after that, when the Adderley band broke up, Mance was hired by Dizzy Gillespie. Mance considered his time in Gillespie’s quintet, during which he toured Europe and accompanied the bebop pioneer in a television appearance with Louis Armstrong, to be among the highlights of his career. While still with Gillespie in 1959, Mance recorded his first solo album—a trio date with bassist Ray Brown and drummer Lex Humphries—released by producer Norman Granz on the Verve label as Junior. However, it wasn’t until 1961, after Gillespie and a short stint with the Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis/Johnny Griffin ensemble, that Mance formed a working trio with Bob Cranshaw and Mickey Roker. It was at that point that he became a full-time leader, working with the trio both on its own and in accompaniment to stars like Joe Williams and Ben Webster. He quickly became a prolific and in-demand attraction in concert and on record. The trio’s personnel evolved frequently, with Mance the only constant; however, beginning in 1970, the pianist enjoyed a long and fruitful collaboration with bassist Martin Rivera, who became a frequent duo partner as well as a regular presence in Mance’s trios. In 1988, Mance joined the faculty of the New School, where he remained until retirement in 2011. In addition to classes and private lessons in piano, he taught classes in blues and blues ensembles, solidifying his association with that sound and style. In 1990, he joined 100 Golden Fingers, the 10-piece piano ensemble that also included Kenny Barron, Ray Bryant, Tommy Flanagan, Hank Jones, Duke Jordan, Roger Kellaway, John Lewis, Dave McKenna, and Marian McPartland (with many others joining in subsequent tours), along with Mance’s onetime triomate Bob Cranshaw on bass and Grady Tate on drums, touring Japan every two years to considerable acclaim and success. Relatively stationary after the final 100 Golden Fingers tour in 2001 (albeit with occasional trips to Canada, England, and Japan), Mance settled into a weekly Sunday-night residency at Greenwich Village’s Café Loup, which he held from 2007 to his retirement from performing in 2016 due to his worsening Alzheimer’s.

9 UrbanProWeekly • MARCH 1 - 15, 2020

IN REMEMBRANCE

IN TRIBUTE Robert “Flash” Gordon died in March. Gordon was a legendary broadcasting personality, iconic business owner and former manager of the James Brown Arena. The following is excerpted from the 4/12/2012 edition of UPW. Robert “Flash” Gordon,

a Lucy Laney H.S. and Paine College alum, began his career in the music industry in December 1964. After graduating from the New York School of Announcing and Speech. After returning to Augusta he was employed as an announcer at radio station WAUG. After working there he worked at WJBE in Knoxville, Tennessee. He later became National Program Director for WJBE in Knoxville, WRDW, here in Augusta and WEBB in Baltimore, Maryland. The Godfather of soul James Brown owned all these stations. After many years at this job he returned to announcing and worked at WOIC in Columbia, South Carolina, and WTHB in North Augusta. While working at WTHB, he decided to open his first record store, “Flash’s Big G”. This was in August 1971. In 1972 he was named Southeast Regional Promotions manager for Mercury Records, in Chicago Illinois where he promoted and worked various recording artists. Including Jerry Butler and the Ohio Players. After 2 years then he decided to devote his attentions full time to his own business. In August 1976, Flash wife Jephery, opened Pyramid Music & Video, at 826 Broad Street, and Pyramid II in October 1987.

2021 scholarship winners . . . UrbanProWeekly - AUGUST 5 -18, 2021

Mariah McKie Butler Memorial College Book Scholarship Presentation

Mariah McKie Butler Memorial College Book Scholarships

SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS (L-R) Mahoghanye Smith, Tederell “Deuce” Johnson, Tyriana Jackson, Leonard Walton, Devyn Jolly, Savannah Bauer Brown, and Daja Hollie.

(L-R) Mahoghanye Smith, Tederell “Deuce” Johnson, Tyriana Jackson, n Friday, July 23 Augusta Mini Theatre Arts & Georgia State University, Devyn Jolly (student AMT and Jill of America (Augusta Chapter), The family Leonard Devyn Jolly,8th-12th) Savannah Brown, and Daja(inHollie. Life SkillsWalton, School presented its Mariah McKie attending Howard University, Cross Creek memory) of Thomas Henry and Mariah McKie

Butler Memorial College Book Scholarship to its seven 2021 high school graduates. The scholarship, since 1984, has been given to students enrolled in Augusta Mini Theatre for four or more, consecutive, years at graduation of high school. The seven 2021 graduates of Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, Mahoganye Smith (student AMT 2nd-12th)

High School, Daja Hollie (student AMT 6th-12th) attending North Carolina Agricultural Technical State University and Academy of Richmond County High School, Savannah Bauer Brown (student AMT 9th-12th) attending Augusta University. Funds for scholarships are usually raised from the Mini Theatre’s annual Sunshine’s Roast and Toast.

3 UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 29 - MAY 12, 2021

2021 Recognized in passing . . .

Butler family and Mini Theatre supporters raised the $2,900.00 needed to give the scholarships. Two students, Mahoghanye Smith and Daja Hollie, also received the first annual “Robert Leverett College Book Scholarship”, which was sponsored and presented by Ms. Leslie Bing in memory of her father, Robert.

Robert “Flash” Gordon at his South Augusta Pyramid Music location in 2012. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

FLASH GORDON At the top of the Pyramid UPW: Pyramid Music is a local and regional institution. Why do you think you have been able to survive for so long at two locations? FLASH: Pyramid Music has been able to stay in business over 40 years because we cater to the African-American consumer. We specialize in Afrocentric products and music that are not found in big box stores and so-called mainstream markets. UPW: So much of your personal history has been interwoven with that of the late James Brown. When and where did that unique relationship begin? FLASH: Mal Cook, who gave me my first job in radio, introduced me to James Brown. Mal was a promoter for James Brown’s shows in Augusta and he hired me to work at WAUG in December, 1965. I first met Mr. Brown in 1966. I also worked at WOIC in Columbia, S.C. In 1968, Mr. Brown sent me to work at his Radio station WJBE in Knoxville, Tennessee. Soon after, he made me National Program Director for his stations, WEBB in Baltimore, Md. and WRDW here in Augusta. UPW: The arc of experience in your

pop/gospel/r&b experience has been quite extraordinary. You have done radio, TV, event planning and promotion and merchandising. Did you plan any of this or have things just happened? FLASH: While attending school in New York, we were trained to do other things relating to Broadcasting, including emceeing live shows and hosting dance parties (or record hops) as they were known in that era. I did many record hops in the CSRA and soon produced a live television dance show called “The Soul Express.” From my connections as Program Director, I met many recording artists and formed relationships with many record companies. This led to my work as a concert promoter. UPW: How many years have you been on The Parade of Quartets and how has that experience affected your sales and marketing strategy for Pyramid Music? FLASH: I have been on the Parade of Quartets for over 20 years. It is the longest running gospel show in the CSRA and possibly the nation. The show has so

many loyal fans and it helps us to reach customers who don’t have a music or video store in the area that carries what we sell. UPW: Pyramid Music has a lot of family involvement. Has it always been that way? FLASH: Pyramid grew from “The Big G Platter Shop” ion 1971. They called records “platters” back in the day. My wife Jephrey opened the first Pyramid in 1976 on Broad Street. All three of my girls have worked there. Noura, the baby girl, now runs the Broad Street Store; Camille and Mona work part time at both stores. Pyramid No. 2 opened October 10 1987. UPW: Are you a creative artist or performer in any fashion? FLASH: I have always love music and wanted to be a recording artist when I was younger. During my twenties, I sang with two groups – the Four Roses and The Pearls. We sang doo-wop songs in Atlantic City for a short time. I now sing in the choir and male chorus at Tabernacle Baptist Church. I have samples of two of my songs in the movies Dodgeball and Big Bully.

9 UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

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UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

Latrell’s Jambalaya Live your best life! That is my motto. My name is Menia L. Chester, I am a chef, owner of Desserts by Latrell and Southern Jazz and Sweets. We are half-way through the holiday season! Many of us set goals in January of each year that include weight loss and eating healthier. You can start now! You don’t have to go to the gym to walk more. When you drive your car to the mall or grocery store, park at the far end of theparking lot (in a safe area) so that you can walk more steps. The goal is 10,000 steps a day but that can be difficult for people that work from home or that health challenges that prevent them from walking far. Start small and do what works for you. During this holiday season, continue to count your calories, eat smaller portions and start moving more! One of my favorite holiday dishes is Jambalaya. Here is my lightened-up version. Enjoy!

Latrell’s Healthy Jambalaya Ingredients 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 2 skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces Creole seasoning to taste 1 cup chopped smoked turkey sausage(about 4 ounces) 1 cup chopped onion ½ cup chopped green bell pepper ½ cup chopped celery 1 garlicclove, minced 1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice 2¾ cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth 2 teaspoons paprika ½ teaspoon dried thyme

¼ teaspoon grounded pepper 1 (14.5-ounce)can diced tomatoes, undrained ¼ pound large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped ¼ cup thinly sliced green onions Note: Add more chicken if shrimp is not an option for you.

Directions Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with creole seasoning. Add chicken and sausage to pan and cook 5 minutes or until lightly browned. Add 1 cup onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic; cover, reduce heat to low, and cook 12 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally. Add broth,rice,paprika,thyme,and red pepper; bring to a boil. Cover,reduce heat, and simmer 15 minutes. Add tomatoes; cook, uncovered, 10 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Stir in shrimp; cover and cook 5 minutes or until shrimp are done. Remove

11 UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021

Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce Pitch Competition, Congratulations!

UrbanProWeekly - DECEMBER 20 - 31, 2021