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MAKIN A DIFFERENCE • Ken Makin Commentary

Who is really charge of the Richmond County Schools?

The answer may surprise you

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Photo by Vincent Hobbs

OCT. 23 - NOV. 5, 2023 VOL. 12 NO. 6

Timothy Thomas, owner of Nutritious Alternatives restaurant.

Nutritious Alternatives REVISITED

THIS RESTAURANT IS DEDICATED TO MAKING YOUR DAY BETTER AND BETTER

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 9 - 22, 2023

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MAKIN’ A DIFFERENCE COMMENTARY by Ken Makin

Who is really in charge of the Richmond County School System?

T wo months ago, I wrote a column in this publication which called the school system here in Augusta-Richmond County “reactionary.”

“Here in RCSS, the only thing that will bring parents to a school board meeting is the threat of violence!” I wrote. “Big brawl, school shooting, that should do it! As if violence is the only issue facing our schools.” I remember the last four words of the column and held myself accountable as well – “Let’s get to work.”

It warmed my heart last weekend when a f lier was sent to my phone with a bold question at its top – “Who’s really in charge of the Richmond County School System?”

It was a question proposed by arguably Richmond County’s most

recognizable board member – District 4’s Wayne Frazier, who built his reputation off of his success at Glenn Hills High School almost a decade ago. He has been celebrated by some and called unorthodox by others, which is what tends to happen when you take a non-traditional approach to things.

The answer was even more compelling than the question – “You are!”

Had this flier been sent my way five years ago, I would have argued the importance of togetherness between the community and the government. I’ve seen too much to argue for that at this point.

I’ve watched supremacist groups such as Moms For Liberty wage war on Black superintendents in South

Carolina and abroad. I’ve watched ineffective leadership concede tax dollars that should go to education and instead dump buckets of money on policing. I’ve watched parents struggle with sending their kids to decent public schools in a system that wants to prioritize the private school dynamic – and use taxpayer dollars to do it.

Jared Williams and Georgia State Representative Lynn Gladney. There will also be parent advocates on hand.

of Israel Synagogue, the oldest standing synagogue in Georgia, and re-purpose it as a Museum and Center for Education. The adjacent historic Court of Ordinary which is an early fireproof building in Georgia, once preserved Richmond County’s records. As part of the new Augusta Jewish Museum, it will collect, preserve and interpret the rich evidence of the Jewish experience in Augusta, GA, Aiken, SC and the rest of

the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) and will educate, challenge and inspire audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

The Augusta Jewish Museum is located at 525 Telfair Street in Augusta, Georgia. To contact Museum staff to schedule a tour, call (706)426-1542 or email info@augustajewishmuseum.org. To learn more about The Augusta Jewish Museum please visit AugustaJewishMuseum.org.

Our schools deserve better. This is an opportunity to be proactive in education – a chance to discuss how we can have a positive impact on kids’ and parents’ lives. If it were a town hall meeting after a school We have the power to be in tragedy, the building would be full. charge of the Richmond County Let’s keep that same energy and fulSchool System. We don’t have to fill our potential as a community. wait every two or four years to Ken Makin is the host of Makin’ hold elected officials to account.

I look forward to attending the A Difference and a freelance writer forum on Saturday, October 21 for ESPN and The Christian Science from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Broadway Monitor, among other outlets. Look Baptist Church, located on 2323 him up on Facebook at Makin’ A Barton Chapel Road. Some of your Difference, and you can also send favorite and newer politicians will him an email with your thoughts at be there, such as District Attorney makinadifferenceshow@gmail.com.

Augusta Jewish Museum Presents “Velvet Voices: Then and Now” The Augusta Jewish Museum (AJM) will hold its 2nd Annual Fundraiser on November 12, 2023 at 3:00pm at the Adas Yeshurun Synagogue, located at 935 Johns Rd, Augusta, GA 30904. The concert honors the memory of Civic Leader Susan Steinberg, who was a strong local advocate for AJM. “Velvet Voices: Then and Now” features popular Broadway star Russell Joel Brown celebrating the music of Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Luther Vandross, Gregory Porter and more.

Special guest musicians include The Brownstown Gritty.

Tickets for the concert are $50 per person or $100 for VIP, which includes admission to a special VIP reception after the concert. Tickets will be available soon at AugustaJewishMuseum. org. An Augusta native, Russell Joel Brown is best known locally for his sold-out “From Mozart to Motown” concerts, as well as his over a decadelong tour with The Lion King. A veteran actor, singer, and dancer Russell has performed on Broadway in “Smokey Joe’s Café”, “The Scarlet Pimpernel”, “Big River” and “Ain’t Misbehavin’”.

He also sang as a featured guest at

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the funerals of Thurgood Marshall, Arthur Ashe, Cab Calloway, and Dizzy Gillespie.

Support of the concert will assist the Augusta Jewish Museum in raising funds to save and restore the historic Court of Ordinary as the AJM Education Center and the historic Synagogue Building, the future AJM Cultural Center. Phase One of the Augusta Jewish Museum has been completed, thanks to the support of the Community and local supporters. The renovation of the Court of Ordinary has been completed and the installation of historic displays are in process. Phase One preview and the proclamation were in late July 2021 and AJM’s Phase One Opening Celebration is proposed for early 2024. The funding effort continues as Phase Two, which will include a beautiful event venue, collection management area, community room, and additional display space. Donations can be made online at the Museum’s website.

The mission of the Augusta Jewish Museum is to reclaim and restore the original Congregation Children

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

CONTRIBUTORS • K.L. Gordon • Ken Makin • Vincent Hobbs • Menia L. Chester • F/Benjamin Sr. Layout/Design : UrbanProMedia

BUSINESS MATTERS

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The City of Augusta and the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce, completed their first co-hort of the CABE Fund (City of Augusta Business Equity), a $425,000 guaranteed Loan/Grant Training Program, funded by the City of Augusta.

The grant portion of program closed out on Monday, October 9th and loan(subject to approval) portion will open in fourth quarter of 2023. This program provides entrepreneurs and minority small business owners with the needed training and with access to capital to be successful in an ever-changing business world. It is funded through Augusta’s allocation from the American Rescue Plan Act. Formed in 2017, GABCC is a historically Black chamber of commerce in the CSRA that supports minority-owned, womenowned, disadvantaged, and black-owned businesses. The chamber has been dedicated to advocating for its members and the community, specifically targeting economic growth and sustainability via workshops, technical assistance, and networking opportunities. Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce is a 501c6 organization and formed the GABCC Foundation in 2020, which is an official an 501c3 organization.

The CABE Fund Program offered in the City of Augusta was a comprehensive innovative approach to assist existing entrepreneurs and business owners with the following: • Four weeks of training, and an additional six weeks of coaching and mentorship for new and existing minority owned business owners and entrepreneurs.

• The additional six weeks of coaching and mentorship are a critical component of

Congrats to the Grant Recipients for being awarded grants between ($2500 to $5000) totaling $174,500 Golden Goddess Beauty LLC The Brunch House of Augusta Pole 4 UR Soul LLC Transportation On Time LLC Brandi Renae Company Legal Weight Studios J and K Blue Box CF Jackson Enterprise LLC Service Station LLC Cliffisms Sports and Spirits ANEW Group Services LLC Jake’s Automotive LLC Hey Mama Said LLC Atomic Auto and Tire Jay’s Place Barber Shop Klassy Cleaning Touch LLC SweetSituationz Cakes by Connie Latrella Ardis Salon Studio At Ease Personal Home Care, Inc. Unlimited and Infinite Business Solutions A Model Image LLC Beauti Within Studio DeKel mPact Services Neal Property Preservation Grace4Taste Charcuterie To Go Better Auto Brokers LLC Glam Factory Boutique Davis Tax and Consulting and Financial Services Speak Up Sis, LLC

the program to ensure that participants stay engaged, are taking actionable next steps, and have the support they need to succeed.

• Training components include Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Business Planning Basics, Business Structure 101, Bookkeeping & Recordkeeping, Business Insurance 101, Business Marketing/Branding 101, Growing Your Business and Obtaining Your First Customer, Credit Essentials,

Reporting and Tracking cash flow, and Running a Successful Business.

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

This program is unique in

Elephant in the Room Counseling Services LLC Raquel’s Treasures T C Hill Enterprises LLC Bike Bike Baby LLC QuickPrint LLC Bradley Floorings Of Augusta Lil Mama’s Sweets and Treats LLC Destined Medical Billing and More Agape Printing and More: Your Business Concierge Restoring Harmony Counseling and Consulting Polished Nail and Hair Salon LLC Newton Creative Consulting Wholistic Counseling Services LLC Light of Grace Candle Co Bennie’s Mobile Tire & Roadside Service Canvas Nail Boutique Revive Renovation ToGodbeetheGlory Shirts and More Limo King Exquisite Creations and More Amandla IT Security Group (AITSG) Homes Made Better LLC Great Day II JDM Hair Studio Dolton Touch LLC Downtown Augusta Lounge Artari Graphics LLC Hattie Bee’s Catering LLC Sisters Irresistible Sweets

that it offers entrepreneurs both training in business fundamentals and access to capital upon program completion.

“The partnership with the City of Augusta will help to continue to carry out the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce’s mission to foster economic stability for businesses in the CSRA through advocacy, education, networking, discovery, and these strategic partnerships.”

Additional examples

of GABCC programming include business educational workshops, an annual pitch competition, providing technical assistance to business owners and much more.

Since GABCC inception, it has held over 600 workshops, meetings, and events.

GABCC efforts grew during the pandemic as it quickly transitioned all events online and began to become one of the leading advocates to obtain capital to assist entrepreneurs and business owners with programs

DHS announces approval to replace stolen SNAP benefits ATLANTA This week, the Georgia Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) announced that it received federal approval to replace electronically stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for recipients who are victims of card skimming, card cloning, and other similar fraud.

“Our team worked quickly to develop and implement a SNAP benefit replacement process to provide much needed relief to Georgians who have been defrauded by bad actors,” said DHS Commissioner Candice Broce. “As we begin to receive and review benefit

replacement requests, we will continue to educate our clients on best practices to protect their SNAP benefits, such as shielding the PIN pad, changing their PIN numbers frequently, and checking their EBT accounts regularly.”

SNAP recipients who believe they are victims of fraud should request a new EBT card and PIN by calling 1-888-421-3281. To request replacement benefits, SNAP recipients must complete and return the Request for Replacement of Stolen Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits. Individuals can complete and submit the form on the DFCS website, or they can visit a local DFCS office to

obtain a printed copy. If individuals are unable to print at home or visit a local office, they can call 1-877-423-4746 or their local DFCS office and have the form mailed to them. In all cases, the recipient should submit their signed affidavit on the DFCS website, drop it off at their local DFCS office, or mail it to their local DFCS office. Office hours and locations are available at dfcs.georgia.gov/locations.

SNAP recipients can receive replacement of stolen benefits twice in each federal fiscal year, up until September 30, 2024. Any Georgian who believes their SNAP benefits were stolen between October 1, 2022, and

October 18, 2023, has until November 18, 2023, to request a benefit replacement. Starting October 18, 2023, SNAP recipients must report stolen benefits within 30 days of discovering the suspected fraud to potentially receive a benefit replacement. Please note, the replacement amount will not exceed the amount of the stolen benefits or the amount equal to two months of the household’s SNAP benefits, whichever is less.

Anyone who suspects fraud involving any of their public benefits should report it to the DHS Office of Inspector General at inspectorgeneralhotline@ dhs.ga.gov or 1-844-694-2347, option 4.

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Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce Completes 5th Entrepreneurship Training Program

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ARTS& &COMMUNITY

Augusta’s Arts Day Luncheon Learn the impact of the Arts on the local economy The Greater Augusta Arts Council will host the Annual Arts Day Luncheon on November 9, 2023 from 11:30am - 1:00pm at Sacred Heart Cultural Center, located at 1301 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901.

The luncheon topic will be the “Arts & Economic Prosperity (AEP) 6 Survey: Learn about the Economic Impact of the Arts in Augusta” with special Guest Speakers: Dr. Genna Styles-Lyas, AEP6 Community Engagement & Equity Director, and Margaret Woodard, Executive Director Downtown Development Authority. Admission includes Lunch. Cost is $30 for Arts Council members & $35 for not yet members.

Advance RSVP required for Lunch.

Register at https://augustaarts.info/ ArtsDay2023 or visit AugustaArts. com for RSVP link.

Arts & Economic Prosperity (AEP) 6 was built upon its predecessors from 1994, 2002, 2007, 2012, and 2017 by quantifying the impact of the arts on jobs, government revenues, and tourism. AEP is the largest study of its kind and results have shown that the arts are more than just a formidable economic presence. The arts are economic catalysts that actually accelerate economic recovery. A growth in arts employment causes a growth in all employment. With

new and current data, AEP6 will continue to be the potent advocacy tool needed to keep the arts and arts education funded.

The Greater Augusta Arts Council began conducting AEP6 surveys in Augusta in 2022 and concluded our collection in Summer 2023. Results of those surveys will be shared at the Arts Day Luncheon.

The previous Arts & Economic Prosperity 5 study provided evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a significant industry in the Greater Augusta Area— one that generates $44.2 million in total economic activity. This spending—$17.5 million by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and an additional $26.6 million in event-related spending by their audiences—supports 1,616 full-time equivalent jobs, generates $29.3 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $3.9 million in local and state government revenue.

These types of economic impact studies send a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life, but we also invest in the Greater Augusta Area’s economic well-being.

For more information about Arts programming in the Augusta Region visit AUGUSTAARTS.COM.

Unity Weekend Is Here!

Local nonprofit, Umoja Village, is hosting a weekend of events to unite the community for three exciting days of music, food, history, and golf all for a worthy cause -- Saturday, Oct. 21st through Monday, Oct. 23rd, 2023.

DAY ONE begins with the 15th Annual Shoutfest on Saturday, October 21st, 11AM-5PM, at the Beverly D. Clyburn Generations Park, 700 Mack Henry Holland Drive in Aiken, South Carolina.

Shoutfest is the largest, free outdoor Gospel festival in the Central Savannah River Area and features performances from nearly 20 Gospel artists; over 40 food, service, and merchandise vendors; and a fun-packed Kidszone. Attendees are encouraged to bring their blankets or lawn chairs, money to support the vendors, and a positive attitude.

ON DAY two, Umoja Village has partnered with the University of South Carolina Aiken Etherredge Center to host a film screening of the documentary Descended from the Promised Land: The Legacy of Black Wall Street. The film is about the impact of the Tulsa Race Massacre in which Tulsa, Oklahoma’s Greenwood District, the most prosperous Black community in America, was intentionally destroyed in 1921.

The event will be held on Sunday, October 22nd, 2:30 p.m., at the Etherredge Center, located at 340 Scholar Loop, Aiken, SC. A social reception with refreshments will precede the viewing of the film.

A post-screening panel discussion will highlight key themes from the film, mobilize the community towards generational wealth creation initiatives, and answer questions from the audience.

Mrs. Donna Moore Wesby, will serve as facilitator.

Tickets are on sale now at EtherredgeCenter. universityTickets.com.

DAY THREE closes out Unity Weekend with the first Umoja Village Unity Golf Tournament held Monday, October 23rd, 9:30 a.m. shotgun start at the beautiful Houndslake Country Club, 901 Houndslake Drive, Aiken, SC. The tournament features a $10,000 Hole-N-One Contest in addition to a silent auction and other event contests. Individuals and team registrations are still being accepted on umojavillage.com/golf. Proceeds to benefit the Umoja Village Resource Center and youth mentorship initiatives and adult second chance job training programs supported

by Umoja Village and outlined in its Crime Prevention Plan.

BLOOM

Film by Shandrea Evans celebrates the sacredness of Black girlhood Join us as The Laney Museum presents the screening of the short film, Bloom, written and directed by Augusta native Shandrea Evans. She is a proud alumna of The Augusta Mini Theater, Davidson Fine Arts, and The University of Georgia.

This screening showcases the talents of Evans and the local youthled cast. The goal of the film is to celebrate the sacredness of Black

girlhood, self-acceptance, and growing up in Augusta. Screenings have intentionally been made accessible and set in spaces that support Black girls and women. This event is an opportunity to watch Evans’ film while also engaging directly with the cast following the screening. Doors will open at 3:00PM with the screening starting at 3:30 PM on Sunday, October 29th. Please RSVP HERE.

AU Trailblazers Recognized The AU Guard House Museum hosted a Jaguar Trailblazers Exhibition reception and unveiling on Thursday, Oct. 19, 4-6 p.m.

The trailblazers being highlighted are listed below. They will try to work on highlighting other trailblazers and their stories as the year goes on.

These are the people that fit into particular story panels, as listed.

Education l-Trailblazers: DR. LILLIE BUTLER EUNICE ROBERTA LOTT MCGDr. Loree Florence Dr. Margaret Wong Mola

AthleticsROSCOE WILLIAMS LENNY CARLSON MARVIN VANOVER CLINT BRYANT

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ARTS& &COMMUNITY

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The Nutritious Alternatives Team poses outside of their building.

Nutritious

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

THIS RESTAURANT IS DEDICATED TO MAKING YOUR DAY BETTER AND BETTER

ALTERNATIVES HAS YOUR BACK

By Frederick Benjamin Sr. UPW Staff Writer AUGUSTA There is a veritable wellness oasis in the quiet Bethlehem neighborhood at the intersection of MLK Blvd and Mill Street. The bright colors of the buiding that houses Nutritious Alternatives invites your inspection. Even when closed, you get the feeling that there is an upbeat vibration emanating from the building itself.

You can’t miss the bold signage: NUTRITIOUS ALTERNATIVES: Alkaline Water • Juice Bar • Yogurts • Smoothies • Organic Products • Vegetarian Foods • Essential Oils & much more . . .

It’s the “much more” that really makes the difference between Nutritious Alternatives and other establishments.

More than just a place to dine, there is a community of wellness that you join as soon as you walk through the doors.

I have rarely been there when the proprietor, Timothy Thomas, was not at his station doing several things at once and smiling throughout. Same with the staff – these folks have discovered a secret. And when you leave there, you share it.

Nutritious Alternatives opened its doors in February 2016, but the journey began much earlier than that.

“It seems as if I’ve been in the restaurant business all my life because my mother, Gloria Thomas Scott, has been cooking superb soul food for the public for about 38 years,” Thomas explains. “She had a restaurant in New York called Gloria’s that she ran for 14 years, but closed after the untimely death of my brother. Two years later, she moved back to Augusta and opened Hallelujah, the current location of Nutritious Alternatives, which stayed in business for over 12 years. I assisted with cooking, bookkeeping, and whatever she needed at both restaurants,” he said.

Thomas does his best to create a wellness community and a welcoming posture.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs Thomas continued, “During the time I assisted my mom at Hallelujah, I would have a hard time finding food that I liked – then came the birth of a dream I called Nutritious Alternatives.”

Gloria Scott Thomas is still a team member. It

would be no surprise to see her on the premises on any given day helping out with recipes.

From the beginning Thomas was on a mission. He knew that there were no healthy food alternatives within a five-mile radius of his location and he had a keen understanding that diet

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A. Hawaiian Chicken w/ Lima Beans & Cabbage, mashed potatoes and cornbread B. Cube steak w/ yellow rice and gravy, blackeye peas, mac&cheese, collard greens & cornbread C. Stew Chicken, rice & gravy, w/ black beans, mac & cabbage, corn muffin D. House Salad options 1.Potato Salad w/cherry tomatoes, broccoli and beet leaves 2. Vegi-Pasta Salad w/ cantelope & beet leaves 3. Garden Salad w/ Tuna from our create your salad menu.

Gloria Thomas, the matriarch of Nutritious Alternatives, LLC dropped in during the visit.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs was central to all the illness and health problems that plagued most Americans.

“Without a healthier option, how can people know that what they’re eating is bad for them? Within a five-mile radius, you have choices of fried fish, pork barbeque sandwiches, fried chicken and burgers anything you can think of that’s just not good for human consumption.

“My crew and I realized that we were in the perfect area to plant the seeds of life and watch them flourish,” Thomas said.

Thomas has built Nutritious Alternatives into a one-stop shop. He provides an array of hard-to-

C find organic products like alkaline water and essential oils.

“We cater to all people whether they’re vegan, vegetarian, or pescatarian. Customers can select from a variety of options. We have over 38 flavors of juices and smoothies, salads (tuna, chicken, pasta, and create-your-own), vegetarian dinners, and our daily menu entrees of chicken, beef, or turkey with delicious sides. The panda bowl and the pineapple bowl are two of our most popular items.”

And it is all made fresh daily.

However, a lot of the problem is that people are challenged to break old habits.

Thomas explains. “A lot of the problem people have with their health is that they have a hard time letting go of the foods that are causing the problems.”

But if they are willing to try, there can be positive results.

“If a customer asks for advice, I have them write down what they are eating. If they actually do that, I can tell them how what they are eating may be harming their bodies. If they smoke (and tell me what brands they are smoking), I can tell them and show them what is happening to their lungs. It is up to them to make the decision to change.”

And Thomas never charges a fee for information about food and nutrition. “If someone has a mild case of hypertension, celery juice is the solution. If they go to the doctor, they will receive pharmaceuticals. My research reveals

that 78.6 million Americans are on some sort of pharmaceuticals. It is very much by design.”

Since he opened nearly seven years ago, Thomas notes that not much has changed in his target area as far as increasing the number of healthy alternatives.

“Humanitree House downtown has been there since before we opened up. And since I have been open, a few other places have popped up offering smoothies.”

Thomas credits his customers for his ever expanding menu offerings.

“My menu has changed dramatically since we first opened in 2017.

My customers tell me what they want.”

One big change has been in his meatless burgers.

“We are now using genuine veggie burgers. We have stopped using the Beyond Meat or Morning Star brands. Our own recipe is much better. It utilizes mostly portobello mushrooms, zucchini, squash, diced celery and corn meal.”

And Thomas emphasizes that he remains the key distributor of Alkaline Water in the area. “There is no need to go across town to get the alkaline water that is so important to your health.”

And there have been other significant changes. The restaurant now boasts an outdoor dining pavilion.

Thomas explains, “Covid led to the construction of the outdoor pavilion. We couldn’t socially distance inside the restaurant, so

D outside under the pavilion there was more room to dine at safer distances.”

But beyond the pandemic, customers gravitated to the outdoor space. “We can accommodate about 75 people. We have been using it for community meetings, board meetings and the like.”

And more improvements are in the works.

Nutritious Alternatives is very proud of its consistent excellent reports from the health department. They have received four straight 100 scores. That’s perfection.

And Thomas continues, “We have been voted to be among the top three restaurants in Augusta.”

And in keeping with his expansion mindset, Thomas is proud to offer authentic Caribbean Cuisine which is situated next to the outdoor pavilion. On a recent visit, I swooned over the jerk salmon that was being prepared outdoors.

And inside, old and new customers will be happy to learn that the best salmon croquets in town are still being served daily.

NUTRITIOUS ALTERNATIVES 1795 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.

Hours: Sunday: 10 am-6 pm Monday – Friday: 9 am-6 pm Closed on Saturdays 706-849-2111 www.nutritiousalternative.com

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Photos by Vincent Hobbs

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The Magic of Mushrooms

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n the heart of the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), you’ll find the remarkable world of the ‘Mycophilic Magician’ Cameron Day. An Army veteran, a martial arts enthusiast, and a devoted mushroom farmer and forager of SomeDay Farms. Cameron is committed to ensuring everyone in our community has equal access to the many health benefits of mushrooms and mushroom-related products. Recently, he achieved a significant milestone by earning his Wild Mushroom Certification, which allows him to offer local, wild-harvested mushrooms to the public. For every mushroom he offers, he meticulously oversees the inspection and identification process, adhering to the highest standards of safety and quality.

Cameron’s genuine passion for mushrooms shines through the diverse range of offerings he provides, including oysters, lion’s mane, shiitake, and more. His unwavering commitment to quality and freshness ensures that the mushrooms he offers are not just exceptional but also free of any unwanted impurities, thanks to his meticulously controlled grow room. To explore the extraordinary flavors and culinary potential of mushrooms, there’s no need to look further than Cameron’s own venture, SomeDay Farms.

Order Your Mushrooms from SomeDay Farms: For a taste of Cameron’s exceptional

mushrooms, simply visit his website at https:// www.somedayfarms.net. There, you can place your order directly. Alternatively, you can check his event calendar on the website to find out where Cameron will be at various farmer’s markets throughout the CSRA. About Shiitake Mushrooms: Shiitakes possess an almost magical quality in the kitchen. Brimming with rich umami flavor, these mushrooms have the power to elevate even the most ordinary dish. Their substantial, meaty texture makes them a sought-after ingredient as the star in vegetarian creations or as a compliment in a meat-centered dish.

When it comes to cleaning shiitake mushrooms, a gentle touch is essential. Brush off any visible dirt or debris, or use a damp cloth, kitchen sponge, or a specialized mushroom brush to delicately wipe clean each cap, ensuring you attend to both sides and remove any dirt or debris hiding under or around the gills. While the stems are technically edible, their fibrous and woody texture makes them better suited for use in creating meat-based or vegetable stock.

Beyond their culinary appeal, shiitake mushrooms offer a wealth of health benefits.

They are rich in B vitamins, serve as a source of vitamin D, and are often linked to improved energy levels, enhanced brain function, reduced inflammation, and a bolstered immune system.

Recipe: SomeDay Farms Smoky Shiitake Melts Active Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes

2. Preheat the grill to high, clean and oil the grates, and create two cooking zones by leaving the primary burner on high and lowering the other burner(s) to medium-low heat.

INGREDIENTS: Grill the mushrooms, covered, on the cooler side of the 2 Tbsp. olive oil grill until the caps and stems become tender, a process taking 1 Tbsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce about 20 to 25 minutes. Flip the mushrooms, then transfer 1/2 tsp. garlic powder them to the hot side of the grill and cook until they exhibit 1/2 tsp. black pepper those delightful grill marks, typically around 1 minute. Flip 4 (6”-wide) shiitake mushrooms, stems removed them once more and crown each mushroom with a slice of 4 slices smoked gouda Monterey Jack cheese. Place the ciabatta rolls on the grill, cut 4 ciabatta rolls, split side down, and cook, covered, until the cheese has melted, 1/4 cup sriracha flavored mayonnaise and the rolls have warmed through, approximately 2 more 1 cup French fried onions minutes.

Tomato and red onion, sliced and lettuce leaves for serving 3. Spread the chipotle mayo on the rolls, then layer with the grilled mushrooms and fried onions. Serve alongside crisp INSTRUCTIONS: lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, and red onion.

1. In a large resealable bag, combine olive oil, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently score the mushroom Fire up the grill one last time before winter sets in and caps with a paring knife, then add them to the bag. Seal the try these mushroom melts for a savory treat. Enjoy the bag and toss gently until the mushrooms are well coated. delightful flavors and culinary adventures these SomeDay Allow them to sit for 10 minutes.

Farm’s mushrooms bring to your plate!

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(L) Santasia Nunnally (with ball) and (R) Destiny Whitehead, Josey. Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

First ever HS girls flag football debuts in Augusta

The Westside girls flag football team hosted T.W. Josey in a varsity game held at the Patriots stadium. Westside defeated the Eagles 12-6 in overtime play. It was the first game for the newly-formed Lady Eagles flag football team.

(Below) Ava Babcock quarterbacked the Westside Patriots on the game-winning drive. Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

(Above) Ivalise Harper of Westside (with ball) tries to evade “tackle.”

Photo by Vincent Hobbs/Sports Journal

WESTSIDE VS JOSEY 10.17.23

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RCSS Class of 2023 Graduation Rate Up 6 percent

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 9 - 22, 2023

AUGUSTA Richmond County School System Class of 2023 graduation rates show a 6.34 percent increase to 78% from 71.66% last year. The new system rate is one of the highest in the past 20 years and the first increase since 2020.

“This is excellent news and the result of dedication and commitment from our school-based leaders, our curriculum and instruction staff,

parents and students. Everyone played a vital role in achieving the goal I set for our overall school system graduation rate last year,” said Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools.

While we are proud of this accomplishment, we have much work to do so more of our students are graduating and equipped for life after high school.”

A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering

Magnet School, John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, and Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School continue to maintain a 100% graduation rate. The graduation rate for the Academy of Richmond County was 85.6%, also above the state’s rate of 84.1%.

Glenn Hills Comprehensive High School saw the most significant improvement with a 10.7% increase compared to 2022.

Garrett Elementary School to unveil memorial garden during Red Ribbon Week AUGUSTA Garrett Elementary School students will plant the first seeds of a new garden and

Davidson student chosen to serve on 2023-24 State Superintendent Student Advisory Council

learning space funded by a Georgia Power STEM grant at a ceremony during their Red Ribbon Week celebration. The Alston and Young Memorial

STEM Garden is named in honor of two Garrett staff members who passed away and will be an outdoor extension of the classroom where students will

RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Bond Issue Program

grow fruits and vegetables. Garrett’s Red Ribbon Week theme is “We are planting seeds to live drug-free.”

PROPOSAL NUM. B-21-021-2054 PROJECT NAME: Glenn Hills Elementary HVAC

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY INVITATION TO BID Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the Glenn Hills Elementary School HVAC Project by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time, November 2nd, 2023, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read. No extension of the bidding period will be made.

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held October 12th, 2023 @ 10:00 a.m. local time a t G l e n n H i l l s E l e m e n t a r y S c h o o l , 2838 Glenn Hills Drive, Augusta, Ga 30906.

Denzel Howard John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School junior Denzel Howard has been selected to serve on State Superintendent Richard Woods’ 2023-24 Student Advisory Council.

“As a student advisory council member, Denzel is one of four representatives from the CSRA who will share his voice on educational policies that directly affect him and his peers,” said Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools.

“We are proud to have Denzel be an ambassador for our school system as he participates in discussions and service projects.”

Howard joins 69 students from across Georgia who will meet with Superintendent Woods four times throughout the school year to provide feedback on the impact of state policies in the classroom. During his time on the council, Howard plans to develop a community service project for the Augusta community and wants to focus on issues affecting his peers.

“One issue that I would like to tackle is mental health-based,” said Howard, “I think once we get to the bottom of why so many students are feeling depressed

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

Bidding documents may be obtained at the Office of the Engineer: ING Consulting, 550 11th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901. Applications for documents together with refundable deposit of $100 per set should be filed promptly with the Architect. Bidding material will be forwarded (shipping charges collect) as soon as possible. The full amount of deposit for one set will be refunded to each prime contractor who submits a bona fide bid upon return of such set-in good condition within 10 days after date of opening bids. All other deposits will be refunded with deductions approximating cost of reproduction of documents upon return of same in good condition within 10 days after date of opening bid.

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

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

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

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

Bids shall be submitted and addressed to: Dr.Kenneth Bradshaw County Board of Education of Richmond County Administrative Office 864 Broad Street Augusta,Georgia 30901 c/o: Mr.Bobby Smith, CPA

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