UPW - Urban Pro Weekly

BRINSON

Shyann Brinson shares how a high school experience sparked a lifelong passion for photography. It is now her life’s work.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs.

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From Preps to Pros: The Reality of High School Sports

Iwas pleased to hear that the Georgia High School Association passed new guidelines for name, image and likeness earlier this week. Much like their counterparts in college, high school players will now be allowed to “capitalize on performance by receiving money or gifts with monetary value.”

Some people believe that the decision will be bad for high school athletes – that it will create divisions between players. My take on the NIL initiative is that it doesn’t go far enough.

Like college athletics, it’s not enough to allow players to basically become walking billboards or capitalistic fodder. There should be a mechanism in place to pay athlete-students (not student-athletes!) out of the money they make for their schools. Yes, that includes

high schools. I can hear the complaints now. Every football team doesn’t make the same amount of money. Every school won’t be able to turn a profit.

There’s a lesson in all of this, of course. Capitalism is fine as long as it ignores the labor that actually makes the system work. With respect to the coaches, whose salaries are generally covered by the school district (and taxpayer dollars), that same burden of responsibility is not required when it comes to paying the players.

We can do better. First, there should be a recommitment to education that goes beyond the playing field. We can and should divert more taxpayers’ funds to education and the enrichment that comes with school-based extracurricular activities. Our failure

to properly prioritize education is why, once again, we trivialize the labor involved. Teachers are doubly disrespected because not only are they underpaid, they foot the bill for students who might need school supplies.

Back to sports. Because we don’t fully liberate players in terms of pay, the powers-that-be can still restrict opportunities as they see fit. Via Sports Illustrated:

Similar to many of the other states that have approved NIL deals, the GHSA will impose some restrictions with the new bylaw. Athletes will not be allowed to link their NIL deals to specific achievements or performances and they will not be allowed to use their school’s name, logos, uniforms or any

other intellectual property.

Why can’t a young person who scores four touchdowns be able to partner with a local Wendy’s on a 4 for $4 deal? Because that’s too much like doing the right thing.

It’s good to see that semi-pro leagues – high school and college – are starting to scratch the surface of paying the players. From the perspective of progress in a football game, they have barely moved the chains. Pun intended.

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.

Training / Jobs RoundUP

EMERGE AND SUN JOB TRAINING PROGRAM

New initiative to provide training and jobs in the thriving renewable energy industry

AIKEN

Local nonprofits in collaborative partnership, The Imani Group and Umoja Village, announce a collaboration with Solar United National (SUN), LLC., to present a first-ofits-kind program in South Carolina -- the EMERGE and SUN Job Training Program.

In response to the nation’s growing attraction to renewable energy, this collaborative partnership will offer up to 20 successful applicants the opportunity to attain employability skills training and, up to 10 of those applicants, will move on to phase two to learn solar panel installation and electric vehicle charging station installation and maintenance training. The phase two applicants will also receive OSHA 10 training, go through a graduation ceremony, and will be interviewed by instal-

lation companies looking to hire. Furthermore, candidates will receive $15/hour compensation (with perfect attendance) during the training to begin Thursday, Nov. 2-8, 2023 (phase one); and continuing Nov. 9-17, 2023, for those accepted into phase two. Stipends will be funded by two Department of Energy grants and Umoja Village. The training will be held at Second Baptist Church, 1151 York Street, NE, in Aiken.

Males and females interested in applying must be at least 18 years of age or older, be deemed coachable, and have a desire to work. The application process includes a pre-assessment interview, a low-level physical fitness workout, and evaluations by a cross-section of Imani Group, Umoja Village, and SUN staff. To apply, scan the QR code on the attached flyer or go to the homepage on www.umo -

Richmond County School System hosts Transportation Job Fair

AUGUSTA

The Richmond County School System is hosting a transportation job fair for persons interested in bus driver, bus attendant or mechanic positions on Friday, October 6, at the Transportation Department, at 2950 Mike Padgett

Highway, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The school system provides extensive Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training for qualified bus driver candidates. No experience is necessary.

Apply online at rcboe.info/ BusJobs.

Augusta Fire Department/EMA to host Public Safety Family Day

AUGUSTA

Augusta Fire/EMA is excited to announce its upcoming event, Public Safety Family Day, scheduled for October 21, 2023, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the Boys and Girls Club located at 624 Chafee Ave, Augusta, GA 30905.

In partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Augusta, this event aims to promote community preparedness, resiliency, and mitigation through engaging and interactive educational activities. The mission statement for the event: To enhance preparedness, resiliency, and mitigation through education. The Public Safety Family Day is designed to provide valuable information on public safety in a fun and family-friendly environment.

Attendees will have the opportunity to explore Fire and Emergency Management vehicles,

participate in fire prevention education and demonstrations, and enjoy a children’s bounce house. In addition to educational activities, food and drinks will be provided for all participants, thanks to our generous sponsors.

This event offers citizens a unique chance to learn from experts in community preparedness and resilience, promoting safety awareness within the community. We invite local agencies, organizations, and the community to join us in this important initiative. Your participation is essential to the success of this event.

EVENT DETAILS:

What: Public Safety Family Day

When: October 21, 2023

Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Where: Boys and Girls Club, 624 Chafee Ave, Augusta, GA 30905

javillage.com to access the flyer.

“The Imani Group and Umoja Village have been cultivating this initiative for nearly two years. We are beyond excited to unite with an employment partner, in Solar United National, who is willing to provide our area’s citizens with the opportunity to learn skills in a thriving field,” says Pastor Brendolyn JenkinsBoseman, founder/executive director of The Imani Group.

“Umoja Village promotes unity and inclusivity such that when we meet people where they are and provide them the tools needed to thrive and not just survive, ultimately we all win. Some adults will view this job training as a second chance to improve their lives and establish a life-long career in spite of what happened in their past. To me, this initiative exemplifies love in action, “ says

Donna Moore Wesby, CEO/cofounder

of Umoja Village.

Solar United National Representative Grant Scheffer says, “The EMERGE and SUN Job Training Program is a model that is already postured to be replicated across South Carolina. Solar United National looks forward to equipping South Carolinians with transferable skills to help residents become productive citizens while making strides in the world of renewable energy.”

To learn more about The Imani Group, visit www.theimanigroup. org. To learn more about Umoja Village, visit www.umojavillage.com. Solar United National, LLC., www. solarunitednational.com, develops solar, storage, and electric vehicle charging locations that provides governments, businesses, and communities reduced expenses and income.

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3 RCSS students named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

AUGUSTA

A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School senior Rafael Geraldo and John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School seniors Hannah Zhou and Katelyn Scoggins have been named semifinalists in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

“We are proud of our students for being named semifinalists in the 69th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. These students’ commitment to academic success is evident in their high test scores on the PSAT and the advanced courses they excel in. We wish them the very best as they advance to the finalist stage of the competition,” says Charlie Tudor III, advanced studies program

administrator.

This prestigious program awards academically talented students across the U.S. with nearly $28 million worth of academic scholarships. Geraldo,

Zhou, and Scoggins join more than 16,000 semifinalists in the next stage of the competition to be named a National Merit Finalist. Semifinalists are identified in their junior year of

high school based on Preliminary SAT/ National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT®) scores and represent the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

Semifinalists will submit an essay and letters of recommendation to be considered for the finalist stage of the competition. Finalists are judged based on their essay, recommendations, grade point average, SAT scores, and the advanced classes completed.

Our most recent National Merit Scholar finalist was Song Ting Tang. Tang graduated from Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School and now attends Princeton University studying molecular biology.

Finalists will be announced in April 2024.

RCSS schools recognized as Distinguished and Reward Schools for significant academic achievement, improvement

Three Richmond County School System schools were named on the Georgia Department of Education 2022-2023 Distinguished and Reward Schools lists released on Monday, October 2.

“These schools continue to make significant progress in advancing student achievement every year,” said Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools. “We commend the efforts of our teachers, administrators, and

staff who collaborate to support our students as they strive for excellence the classroom.”

The Distinguished Schools designation recognizes the highest-performing Title I schools in the state, while the Reward Schools designation recognizes Title I schools making the most significant improvements. Designations are based on two Title I programs: Schoolwide Programs, designed to upgrade educational pro -

grams in Title I schools, and Targeted Assistance Programs, which support the needs of student populations that require special services.

Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School (RCTCM), C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School, and A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School were named Distinguished Schools. They are among the highest-performing 5% of Schoolwide and Targeted

Assistance schools based on the combined English Language Arts (ELA) and math content mastery scores from statewide assessments taken during the 2022-23 school year.

RCTCM was also named a Reward School for being among the greatest-improving 5% of Title I Schoolwide and Title I Targeted Assistance schools based on content mastery scores from state assessments in the last two years.

Cross Country Track at Diamond Lakes Park

Hannah Zhou Katelyn Scoggins Rafael Geraldo

Cross country runners compete in a meet held at Diamond Lakes Park. Several high schools attended the event.

(September 20, 2023 - Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs

ARTS & COMMUNITY

Destination Augusta unveils captivating new videos for Authentic Augusta Experiences

Destination Augusta in collaboration with 10 unique Augusta attractions and experiences has unveiled a series of captivating videos to complement their immersive Authentic Augusta Experiences. Authentic Augusta is a curated collection of the best sights and experiences our city has to offer.

These immersive experiences, which officially launched in April, were designed to be highly engaging, offer a new V.I.P. level interaction, as well as create long lasting memories for visitors and locals alike. The Destination Augusta team and partners wanted to showcase the experiences beyond a description and embarked on a journey to create a video series with the help of a dedicated group of local Augusta volunteers and Tranter Grey Media.

“We’re so excited to share these visually stunning videos, said Lindsay Fruchtl, VP of Marketing and Communications. “Each video has been expertly crafted to vividly portray the essence of each unique experience, taking viewers on an unforgettable journey through Augusta.”

Creating the Authentic Augusta Experiences gives each partner a new product to market to locals, their members, and visitors. Now, adding in these new video assets provides a new tool for partners and Destination Augusta to use to promote these exceptional,

immersive experiences.

“People want unique, one-of-akind 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.

For Destination Augusta, having the Authentic Augusta Experiences Collection provides a new product to set Augusta apart. These new visual aids really help illustrate Augusta’s offerings. “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.

Each Authentic Augusta Experience is offered at least twice a month to the public and available to be scheduled by groups for custom times. To book experiences or learn more information about the Authentic Augusta Collection visit www.VisitAugusta.com/ AuthenticAugusta.

It’s time to experience Augusta in a whole new way. Watch each video at the links below.

AUTHENTIC AUGUSTA EXPERIENCES - ALL EXPERIENCES VIDEO

https://youtu.be/Mne1c4O2Sbw?si=dZkDDvQA5A314kyU

Augusta’s Black Caddies - Men on the Bag | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/mDt39lqgu_Y?si=8zQUigu46gltxIf2

Bringing up a President - Tea with Mrs. Wilson | Authentic Augusta

Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/y40ne4rewpI?si=yhuwz5WJf-2kghxa

Promenade & Paint - Augusta’s Public Art | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/r20atLAoedw?si=Impxh8jB9s2RU1-q

The Curated Palette - Inspiring Contemporary Art | Authentic Augusta

Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/QbR0EcHf4kk?si=UROehyinoKFo013f

Canal to Cloth - A Day at the Mill | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/mzwo03cu_dY?si=pLxD-HmuA0v0y5uS

Bartender for a Day - All Equal Parts | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/8vekz3uzna8?si=QJt1Voht39sipp_7

Mystery at the Morris - The Rest of the Story | Authentic Augusta

Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/YSjv_zl51Ec?si=CcyJdssPwMgsMIpn

Heart of Augusta Tour - Cycle the Soul City | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/DQOPd7f2VEM?si=QNeWgZlz0BMyqTXW

Time Detectives - Augusta Museum of History | Authentic Augusta

Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/C7FKPRAcTJE?si=0WyRWJdJGM2HtFuEco Explorers - Become a Citizen Scientist | Authentic Augusta Experience

Video Link: https://youtu.be/2GN5em0A4kk?si=lBYgut50C-JD1bHe

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.

WATCH EACH VIDEO AT THE LINKS BELOW

Q&A Shyann Brinson

SHYANN BRINSON PHOTOGRAPHY

UPW: How many years have you been practicing photography and what initially sparked your passion for it?

SHYANN: I’ve been practicing photography for eight years, with five years of professional experience and one year of full-time dedication. My passion was sparked during my senior year in high school when I joined the yearbook club.

UPW: Over the years, how has your personal approach to photography evolved? Are there specific moments or experiences that have been particularly transformative?

SHYANN: I began my photography journey with just my camera and primarily working with natural lighting. As the years have passed, I’ve expanded my

equipment, started working with strobe lights and got into more studio work. I’ve gone from standard portrait shoots to events and weddings. Attending multiple editing and lighting courses have really helped me evolve as photographer.

UPW: Can you share any past roles or jobs where photography was an integral part of your responsibilities? How did those experiences shape your current perspective and skills?

SHYANN: While I haven’t had a job focused solely on photography, I am actively preparing for such opportunities. I’ve enrolled in photography courses, engaged in personal proj-

ects, and developed technical skills. These experiences have shaped my perspective, enhancing my appreciation for the creative process and the power of visual storytelling. I look forward to applying these skills in a professional setting to contribute meaningfully to content creation.

UPW: Can you briefly describe the history and inception of Shyann Brinson Photography?

SHYANN: I started taking pictures in my freshman year of college, initially for fun and with people I knew. As my interest in photography grew, I officially established Shyann Brinson Photography in 2018.

UPW: What range of photography services does Shyann Brinson Photography offer to its clientele?

SHYANN: Shyann Brinson Photography provides a diverse range of services, including maternity, family portraits, birthdays, professional/e-commerce, and wedding sessions.

UPW: What sets Shyann Brinson Photography apart from the competition?

SHYANN: What distinguishes Shyann Brinson Photography is a commitment to top-notch customer service and ensuring a personalized experience for each client. I take pride in meticulous attention to detail and deliver high-quality, unique photos. Every business encounters hurdles.

UPW: Every business encounters hurdles. Can you share one or two major obstacles

Shyann Brinson transformed a passion for photography into a full-time dedication when she started her studio in 2018.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

“Meeting over 100 new creators in the city has not only expanded our space but also enriched the offerings for those utilizing the studio.”

Shyann Brinson Photography faced and how you overcame them?

SHYANN: In the course of my business, I’ve encountered the challenge of not being able to please everyone. I’ve always come to understand that that is okay and also nearly impossible. Any situation dealing with unsatisfied clients, I prioritize professionalism and respect, adhering to my policies to address issues to the best of my ability.

UPW: How would you describe your connection with the Augusta commu-

nity, and how have they played a role in your studio’s success?

SHYANN: My connection with the Augusta community has grown significantly since opening my studio. Meeting over 100 new creators in the city has not only expanded our space but also enriched the offerings for those utilizing the studio.

UPW: Throughout your career, have there been any specific events or shoots that stand out as particularly memorable or defining for you as a photographer?

SHYANN: Recently, I’ve received inquiries for shoots outside my usual scope, like real estate and corporate headshots. Working with a local university has been a particularly memorable and defining experience for me.

UPW: Given your journey and experience in the photography industry, what advice would you offer to budding photographers looking to establish themselves?

SHYANN: For aspiring photographers looking to establish themselves, my advice is to persistently hone your craft. Avoid discouragement and comparisons; stay true to your originality, and do what’s best for your unique journey.

(At Left, and directly below) A sampling Shyann’s work

“I take pride in meticulous attention to detail and deliver high-quality, unique photos. Every business encounters hurdles.”

Shyann Brinson examines a shot with a client at her S. Augusta studio.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Elderberry Syrup Glazed Chicken Thighs

A Culinary and Medicinal Treasure

DIP INGREDIENTS:

4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 cup elderberry syrup

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)

DRESSING INGREDIENTS

4 tablespoons fresh lime juice

1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

2 cloves garlic, grated

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt or to taste

¼ teaspoon ground black pepper or to taste

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Sprinkle with salt and pepper on both sides.

2. Heat the olive oil in large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add the

chicken thighs, skin-side down. Sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, until skin is browned and crispy. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic, cook for 30 seconds. Add elderberry syrup, vinegar, mustard, and rosemary. Stir scraping up browned bits. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.

4. Return chicken to skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, cook 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is cooked and glaze has thickened.

Spoon additional glaze over the top. Garnish with fresh rosemary or drizzle of elderberry syrup.

Elderberry syrup, a key ingredient in this delightful dish, can be found at the South Augusta Farmers Market this Saturday, October 7th from 8 a.m. to Noon. It’s an excellent opportunity to explore the culinary and medicinal potential of elderberries during Chef Lashawndra Robinson’s demonstration at 10 a.m. Be sure to visit the market to stock up on this culinary treasure and embark on your own elderberry-inspired culinary journey.

In the realm of culinary and holistic wellness, elderberries have taken center stage, cherished for their delicious flavors and potential health benefits.

& MORE

CityServe Augusta promoting RESILIENCE in 2023

The 2023 theme for CityServe Augusta is RESILIENCE. It is defined as the capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness, or the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape; elasticity.

We’ll take both of those, as team Growing Augusta prepares to wind down our retail component (farmers market) and focus on strengthening partnerships for our work in South Augusta next year.

We are excited that one component of CityServe Augusta this year is planting 100 fruit/nut trees and berry bushes throughout the commu-

Augusta Transit pays tribute to Rev. Terence Dicks

The late Rev. Terence Alton Dicks was Augusta Transit’s greatest advocate and supporter. Chair of the Transit Citizens Advisory Committee (TCAC) Rev. Dicks lived, breathed and rode transit. In honor of his unwavering support of transit in Richmond County, Augusta Transit renamed its training room at its Operations and Maintenance HQ to the ‘Terence Alton Dicks’ training room.

An unveiling ceremony will took place on Friday, September 29, 2023, at Augusta Transit’s HQ, 2844 Regency Blvd, Augusta, GA 30904 @ 4pm.

Richmond County Board of Elections Voting Information

November 7, 2023 Municipal General and Special Election

On November 7, 2023, voters in Richmond County, City of Blythe and the City of Hephzibah will head to the polls to cast a vote in a Municipal General and Special Election.

The Voter Registration deadline is Tuesday, October 10, 2023. All persons casting a ballot in the Municipal General and Special Election must make changes or updates to their registration by that date to be eligible to vote in the Election. You can check your registration or register online at https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/. Voters have many options for casting their ballot, including:

Voting by Mail will begin being mailed on October 16, 2023. Applications are being accepted now. Interested persons must apply by submitting an absentee ballot request form located on our website at www.augustaga.gov/ vote. Applications can be mailed to our office at 535 Telfair Street, Suite 500, Augusta, Georgia, 30901, by fax at 706821-2814 or by email at richmondelections@augustaga.gov. Voters can also apply for a ballot by visiting the online absentee portal at securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov/s/.

The last day to request a ballot is Friday, October 27, 2023. Voters who cast an absentee ballot by mail do not have to provide a reason for voting by mail. In order to be counted, voted mail-in absentee ballots must be received by the Board of Elections Office no later than 7:00 PM on November 7, 2023.

Advance Voting will be held beginning, October 16, 2023 in the Linda W. Beazley Community Room in the

nity. We are grateful for Savannah Riverkeeper and Augusta Woman’s Club for taking on this task. Opportunities to serve are plentiful. Tap in.

Edible landscaping will be planted at the following sites:

Magnolia Court (201 E. Telfair Street, Augusta, GA)

Masters Table (702 Fenwick St, Augusta, GA 30901)

Black Farm Street Inc (1650 Olive Road)

Taylor Street (community garden)

AUGUSTA

Municipal Building located at 535 Telfair Street only.

Voting hours will be weekdays from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM daily through Friday, October 27, 2023 and from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM on Saturday, October 21, 2022.

Beginning Saturday, October 28, 2023, voting will be available in the Linda W. Beazley Community Room in the Municipal Building, the Charles Evans Community Center, the Robert Howard Community Center at Diamond Lakes, and the Warren Road Recreation Center from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM and the following week Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 6:00 PM daily.

All voters voting in person during Advance Voting must provide one of the six acceptable forms of photo identification. Voting is not permitted on the Monday prior to the Election.

Election Day Voting will be available from 7:00 AM until 7:00 PM on November 7, 2023 and all polling locations in Richmond County will be open. Voters must report to their assigned precinct in order to vote on Election Day.

All voters voting in person on Election Day must provide one of the six acceptable forms of photo identification prior to casting a ballot.

Sample ballots will be available at voting sites or can be viewed at the Board of Elections Website at www.augustaga.gov/vote or the My Voter Page at www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/. For more information, please contact the Board of Elections Office at 706-821-2340

The Salvation Army’s Center of Hope in Augusta is urgently seeking support from local restaurants, businesses, and community partners to address a critical shortage of kitchen staff and an increase in demand for meals. This unforeseen situation has resulted in an unprecedented demand for ready-toserve meals to ensure that no one in need goes hungry.

Due to the increased demand for community meals and the shortage of kitchen staff, The Center of Hope is reaching out to the Augusta community for assistance. Currently, the Center’s soup kitchen serves approximately 140 meals daily, primarily to shelter clients, in addition to providing around 40-50 community meals each day.

Since October of last year, The Salvation Army of Augusta has provided over 60,000 meals to those facing hardship, and they are committed to continuing their mission to serve the community effectively. To help meet this rising demand, local restaurants, businesses, and community groups are invited to contribute ready-to-serve meals to support their efforts.

Olga Gonzalez, Director of Social Services at The Salvation Army of Augusta, emphasized the urgency of the situation, “The demand for food has increased dramatically recently.

With the help of the community, we will be able to continue to meet the demand head-on so that no one who comes to The Center of Hope goes hungry.”

Community groups interested in contributing meals to serve shelter clients and community residents can coordinate their efforts by emailing Olga Gonzalez at olga.gonzalez@uss. salvationarmy.org. This collaborative approach will ensure that essential meals are available to those in need.

In addition to ready-to-serve meals, The Salvation Army of Augusta welcomes monetary donations to support its mission. A contribution of just $5 can provide two meals at The Center of Hope. To make a monetary donation, please visit salvationarmyaugusta.org or contact Derek Dugan, Director of Development at derek.dugan@ uss.salvationarmy.org.

During this critical time, The Salvation Army of Augusta is also accepting donations of non-perishable food items throughout the month. As the cost of food continues to rise, the organization is experiencing a 55% increase in food expenses. The community’s generosity, whether through monetary support or non-perishable food donations, is crucial in ensuring that community members receive the nourishment and care they need during these challenging circumstances.

Salvation Army Fall Festival 2023

Date: Saturday, October 28th, 2023

Time: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Location: Kroc Center of Augusta, 1833 Broad St

The Salvation Army of Augusta asks for community support in meeting increased meal demand

SPORTSVIEW

High School

Varsity Volleyball

Laney • A.R. Johnson • Butler

Varsity girls volleyball teams from Laney, A.R. Johnson and Butler competed in a tri-match held at the Wildcats gym.

(September 28, 2023 - Augusta, GA)

Photos by Vincent Hobbs

Art Exhibit in Sacred Heart Art Hall: September 8 - October 27, Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm 1301 Greene Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901 706-826-4700

Alex Foltz is a contemporary realist artist living in Augusta, Georgia. Foltz’s initial focus was on light and how it interacts with the world: how different light can convey a different mood. This shows in his conceptual work, which often depicts melancholy subjects with a more lighthearted tone. June Klement was born

in Knoxville, Tennessee and now calls Augusta, Georgia her home. Her work focuses on translating the emotions that she feels when exploring urban and natural environments into paint. Her impressionistic style of lively, vibrant, and bold brushstrokes highlights the ephemerality of color and light through textures on canvas.

Alex Foltz & June Klement