URBAN PRO WEEKLY
SEPTEMBER 19 - 30, 2024 VOL. 14 NO. 24
Director
DENISE TUCKER
Just in time to host the city’s largest urban arts festival, Denise Tucker is named new Exec. Director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council.
There is a systematic need for parents to be involved in the school system; however opposition can exist between families and school. Although parents want their children to thrive academically in a safe environment ,often school personnel are in mere survival mode due to excessive duties that range beyond the academic subjects. Is the reality that parents just don’t understand the forms of involvement or are schools just simply an institutionalized system that hasn’t built capacity for parents or staff personnel to partner?
Parents in the home were initially the first educator of their child and the first contributor to their child’s growth and development. As
time progressed, the school system began administering exams ranging from eye to psychology. Would this become the initial release of “parental responsibility” within the four walls of the school system? Families often view schools as the education experts. They know best, right?
What parents must understand is educators don’t know best. They know Math, English, Science and History. The school doesn’t know your child doesn’t perform well when your shift changes nor do they know you miss conferencing due to an undue work schedule. Communication is an effective start to involvement. A combination of both parents and school personnel
can maximize success.
Parent involvement can come in different forms in the school system. They can range from simple volunteering to participating on school council, monitoring grading through an online grading portal, supporting IEP 504 meetings, participating in extracurricular activities or simply attending the local school board meeting.
It’s crucial for school systems to begin to build capacity between both parents and educators. Often, parents can feel inferior to the school personnel and conversely school personnel are the same. Collective partnerships that mutually understand parent work schedules, cul-
tural perspectives, socioeconomic factors and offering the right opportunities for parents to volunteer is essential to effective parental involvement. Furthermore, this will empower parents and school personnel to optimize student learning and behavioral outcomes. I can recall past local PTAs focusing on capacity building between parents and schools. The approach ultimately led to improved parent participation and community engagement. Parents may not understand the various methods to be involved; however systems who create the bridge between parents and schools will leave it’s footprint for future generations.
The 2024 Land Development Conference is a must-attend event for start up investors, residential real estate developers, and real estate professionals interested in exploring housing development and real estate investor opportunities in Augusta, Georgia. Taking place from October 1st to October 3rd, this conference aims to bring together industry professionals to discuss and connect the dots between financing, infrastructure requirements, affordable
The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (NACA) has launched Economic Justice for All (EJ PAC), a political action committee focused on advancing affordable homeownership and economic justice. EJ PAC backs candidates committed to affordable education, environmental justice, well-paying jobs, and housing.
Key to its platform is support for NACA’s “Best in America Mortgage,” which offers no down payments, closing costs, fees, or mortgage insurance, and features a below-market fixed interest rate.
housing, retail development, and city planning. Attendees can look forward to engaging discussions, informative sessions, and networking opportunities to further their knowledge and expand their professional networks.
Growing Augusta: Arts, Agriculture, & Agency LLC
http://www.growingaugusta.co/UPW
+1 (706) 751-2537
MARKETING
http://www.growingaugusta.co/UPW
+1 (762) 233-5299
CONTRIBUTORS
• K.L. Gordon
• Vincent Hobbs
• Cassandra Loftlin
• F/Benjamin Sr.
Layout/Design : UrbanProMedia
The Greater Augusta Arts Council is very pleased to announce that Denise Tucker has been selected as the New Executive Director of the Arts Council. A call for applicants went out in July 2024 and over 50 applications were received from across the country. The GAAC Search Committee narrowed the applicants down to six semi-finalists who were each interviewed using a standardized questionnaire. Ms. Tucker emerged as the clear finalist and was approved by the Executive Board.
After accepting the position, Denise commented, “I am elated to be chosen as the next Executive Director of the Greater Augusta Arts Council during such a transitional and pivotal time. I plan to build upon the strong legacy established over the last 27 years by expanding our role in the community as not only a steward of public art but as the heartbeat of the arts community, the essential link between artists and the wider public. My vision is for the Arts Council to be recog-
Denise Tucker, Executive Director
Greater Augusta Arts Council nized as one of the driving forces that makes Augusta a place where art lives, works, and thrives, thereby amplifying our cultural and economic influence.”
Denise brings a wealth of experi-
COMMENTS FROM THE NEW DIRECTOR:
“Well the news is out.
Thirty years in the Augusta Arts Scene has been an incredible journey, filled with creativity, passion, and a deep connection to this community. As a lifelong artist and advocate, I’m beyond excited about the future and all that’s to come! To everyone who has reached out with congratulations and well wishes—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means the world to me.
But first, we’re in the final stretch at the Arts Council, diving deep into preparations for what promises to be the best ever.
After the festival, I plan to laugh, smile, and celebrate the amazing community we’ve built together.”
ence and has worked and served in the Augusta community for over 30 years. With a background in Human Resources, she has managed and collaborated with several arts organizations during her time in Augusta. Her work in both development and public art has significantly contributed to the growth and visibility of the Arts Council. With her at the helm, the Council is poised to embark on new initiatives and expand its impact on the vibrant arts scene in Augusta.
Retiring Executive Director
Brenda Durant said “Denise has been an integral member of the Arts Council Team since joining as our Economic Intern (AEP6) in January 2022. After AEP6, she transitioned into the role of Development Manager, and then took over as manager of Public Art. I am so pleased that the search committee chose Denise as the next Executive Director. She has a great vision for the future and completely understands our current programs and services with a love of Public Art.”
AUGUSTA
The Richmond County School System (RCSS) is committed to keeping families informed about important developments regarding Belair Middle School’s new facility, located at 150 Potential Way, Augusta, GA 30909.
District leaders and contractors announced a tentative date to transition to the new facility. The tentative date for the first day of school at the new Belair Middle School facility is Monday, October 21, 2024. We are making this announcement now to ensure families have ample time to prepare for any potential adjustments.
Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools, says, “I am grateful to Belair Middle School staff, students, and families for their patience and resilience during this transition. Thanks to their hard work, students settled seamlessly at the temporary Langford facility. Since the summer, our maintenance staff have worked diligently with our contractors to open the doors of our new, state-of-the-art building for the Belair Middle School community. We are excited to officially announce a move-in date soon.”
Belair Middle School administrators will
continue communicating with families to prepare their children to transition to the new building. Families will receive at least two weeks’ notice of an official move-in date with an opportunity to attend Open House at the new facility.
The Richmond County Board of Education will host a Called Building Committee WalkThrough of the new Belair Middle School facility on Wednesday, October 2, starting at 4 p.m.
For further updates and information, please contact our district office or visit rcboe.org/ bmsupdates.
AUGUSTA
The Richmond County School System (RCSS) made several gradelevel improvements and six schools made notable gains in certain subject areas on Georgia Milestones tests, according to data released recently by the Georgia Department of Education. More than 13,000 RCSS students completed the assessments during the 2023-2024 school year.
Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools, says, “In 2023, we made a goal to increase student content mastery in tested subject areas on the Georgia Milestones by 3%. I am proud to say that we exceeded that 3% goal in U.S. History on our End of Course tests for the district. We also surpassed that goal on End of Grade tests in language arts, physical science, and social studies for fifth, sixth, and eighth graders. Many of our schools also showed significant improvement on content areas as well.”
“These improvements are a collaborative effort between our educators, staff, and students, and I am grateful for their hard work. We will build on these efforts this upcoming school year as we focus on student achievement, post-high school readiness, and increasing the number of highly effective teachers and leaders in our system.”
Notable gains on 2023-2024 Georgia Milestones for RCSS include:
End of Course (EOC) improvements in the subjects of biology and U.S. History across the system.
Third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and eighth graders showed End of Grade (EOG) improvement in English Language Arts (ELA).
Eighth graders also showed EOG improvements in science and social studies.
Hephzibah Comprehensive High School and Richmond County Technical Career Magnet School (RCTCM) improved scores in biology.
RCTCM, the Academy of Richmond County (ARC), and Cross Creek Comprehensive High School significantly improved their scores in U.S. History.
George P. Butler Comprehensive High School and A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School improved scores in American literature.
Non-traditional educators in the Richmond County School System will have new opportunities to become certified teachers through a collaborative partnership with the Central Savannah River Area Regional Educational Services Agency and Augusta University. This initiative, supported by $180,000 in scholarships from the ANGC Community Impact Fund at the Community Foundation for the CSRA will provide tuition assistance to non-traditional, or “waiver,” teachers to pursue certification programs.
“We are excited about this partnership, which directly supports the professional development of educators who want to teach in our schools,” said Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools. “This endeavor strengthens our teacher workforce, ensuring our students receive the highest quality education. It also demonstrates how community collaboration can make a lasting impact on our schools.”
Through this partnership, Richmond County teachers can apply for $2,000 scholarships to enroll in CSRA RESA’s Georgia Teacher Academy for Preparation and Pedagogy (TAPP) or $5,000 scholarships to pursue a master’s degree at Augusta University’s College of Education. Both
tracks open up opportunities for increased compensation and professional development. Scholarship recipients are required to work in the school system for at least two years after earning their certification.
“Research consistently shows that teacher quality is one of the most important variables for student success, and that teachers with stronger qualifications produce higher student achievement,” said Dr. Debbie Alexander, executive director of CSRA RESA. The TAPP is a year-long program that offers non-traditional teachers with a bachelor’s degree or higher a pathway to full certification.
In addition to TAPP, non-traditional educators will also have access to financial aid to pursue an advanced degree at Augusta University. “It is critical that these new educators are well-equipped with the tools they need to effectively teach and lead in their pre-k through 12th grade classrooms,” said Dr. Judi Wilson, Dean of Augusta University’s College of Education and Human Development. “Augusta University is pleased to offer a Master of Arts degree to support these educators in becoming better at their craft. These scholarships will go a long way to supporting these new teachers in securing an advanced degree along with teacher certification.”
The following statement is attributed to Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent of Schools at the Richmond County School System (RCSS):
“We are aware of an increase in social media threats that have been circulating online about our school system, neighboring school districts, and other districts around the state in the wake of the tragedy that occurred at Appalachee High School last week. While none of these threats have been deemed credible, we take every precaution and fully investigate every claim. We partner with local law enforcement to ensure
the safety and security of our schools.
We appreciate our students, families, and community members who have stepped forward and reported safety concerns to local authorities or our safety tip line. We encourage our community not to repost social media threats that they see online, but to share their concerns directly with law enforcement. If you see a social media post with a threat against your school, take a screenshot and send it through our online portal at rcboe.info/safetytip.
I want to assure you that the safety of our
students is our highest priority, and we will always communicate directly with our parents and guardians through call, text, and email with changes to your child’s school day.
Events like this take a toll on communities, and our hearts and thoughts are with those impacted. Let’s continue to move forward together as a community to ensure our schools can remain focused on what is important: the growth and success of our students.”
The RCSS Safety Tip Line can be accessed over the phone at (706) 828-1077 or online at rcboe. info/safetytip.
families to prethe new least two date with House at the Education Committee WalkSchool facilat 4 p.m. information, please rcboe.org/
The Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival proudly announces the 10th anniversary of its Jazz/ Blues Stage, a cornerstone of the festival that has captivated audiences with soulful performances and unforgettable musical moments. This milestone will be celebrated September 20-22, 2024, marking a decade of jazz and blues excellence. Since its inception in 2014, the Jazz/Blues Stage has grown in popularity, showcasing a diverse range of talent and fostering a deep connection with the community. In 2020, the festival was paused due to the pandemic, but it made a trium-
phant return in 2021 with a unique twist. Jazz/ Blues Stage Coordinator Karen Gordon reflects, “In 2021, the (Greater Augusta) Arts Council presented a pared down version called the Arts City Festival. And because Jazz/Blues was the only other stage besides Global, we opened it to all genres and artforms, including dance. Now that we are celebrating our 10th year, we are going back to basics - classic jazz and blues. Georgia Muldrow, as a voice of the ancestors, is the perfect artist to give voice to the jazz of the past, present, and future.”
This year, the stage will honor its roots with an impressive lineup that pays homage to classic jazz and blues while embracing the future of these genres. Headlining the anniversary celebration is Georgia Muldrow, whose powerful and evocative performances embody the spirit of jazz across generations.
Join us in celebrating a decade of jazz and blues at the Arts in the Heart of Augusta Festival. Follow Garden City Jazz on social for more details and a series of exciting promotional activities leading up to the event.
Whether on papyrus or a digital screen, journaling continues to be a vital way for individuals to connect with their inner selves and the world around them.
By Cheryl Aaron Corbin
We are all familiar with the term journaling, and for many of us, it creates a certain mental connotation parallel to keeping a diary. However, journaling has evolved from a solitary writing exercise to a becoming part of self-care routines as well as a means for a creative outlet. The practice of journaling has grown from mere notebooks where we document our feelings and experiences, to becoming a way a life where we stop to annotate our day.
However, it is necessary to note the practice of journaling began with the earliest forms of writing. Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans kept records on papyrus scrolls and clay tablets. These early journals often contained a mix of personal reflections, religious texts, and administrative records. The “Diary of Merer,” an ancient Egyptian text dating back to 2500 BCE, is one of the oldest known journals, detailing the daily activities of workers building the Great Pyramid of Giza.
The evolution of journaling continued during the Medieval and Renaissance periods by taking on a personal tone. Monks and scholars kept detailed records of their lives and thoughts in illuminated manuscripts. These journals were often a blend of personal reflection, philosophical musings, and historical accounts. The
Renaissance brought a surge in personal diaries as literacy rates increased and the printing press made paper more accessible. Figures like Leonardo da Vinci used journals to document their inventions, artistic ideas, and daily observations.
The biggest development in notebook keeping transpired in the 19th and 20th Centuries where journaling evolved as a popular practice among the general population. The rise of affordable paper and the Romantic movement’s emphasis on individual expression spurred many to keep personal diaries. Famous journals from this era include those of Anne Frank and Virginia Woolf, whose introspective writings provide profound insights into their lives and times.
Whereas the Digital Revolution in the late 20th and early 21st centuries brought a seismic shift in journaling with digital technology. Blogs, vlogs, and social media platforms have transformed the way people journal. Digital journals offer the convenience of multimedia integration, allowing users to incorporate photos, videos, and hyperlinks into their entries. Apps like Evernote and Day One provide features such as searchability, cloud storage, and the ability to journal from multiple devices.
However, most people who journal prefer the simple notebook with a pen. People journal for a multitude of reasons. For some, it becomes a means to process emotions and experiences. For others, it serves as a creative outlet
or a method to document personal growth. Journaling can also be a tool for setting and tracking goals, reflecting on daily events, or simply unwinding after a long day. The act of putting thoughts into words can provide clarity and perspective, making it a powerful practice for mental well-being.
Five Benefits of Journaling Mental Clarity and Emotional Processing: Writing thoughts and feelings helps to clear the mind, making it easier to process complex emotions and situations.
Stress Reduction: Journaling can be a therapeutic activity, reducing stress by providing a safe space to express worries and anxieties.
Personal Growth: Regular journaling promotes self-reflection and awareness, fostering personal development and growth.
Enhanced Creativity: Journals offer a space for creative expression, whether through writing, drawing, or other forms of art, helping to boost creativity and innovation.
Goal Setting and Achievement: By setting goals and tracking progress in a journal, individuals can stay motivated and focused, making it easier to achieve their objectives.
As technology continues to advance, the future of journaling could involve even more sophisticated digital tools, such as AI-assisted journaling and virtual reality experiences. Despite these changes, the essence of journaling—self-reflection, documentation, and personal expression—will remain a timeless practice. Whether on papyrus or a digital screen, journaling continues to be a vital way for individuals to connect with their inner selves and the world around them. I prefer paper and a notebook. We are proud to partner with the Lucy Craft Laney Museum with a Tuesday Journaling Club. The first Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7:00 bring your notebook, pen and supplies to learn new journaling techniques, chat with other journaling junkies and have fun.
Destination Augusta and the Augusta Sports Council are pleased to announce that the 114,541 visitors attending meetings, reunions, events, and sporting events in Augusta’s River Region will generate at least $12,564,766 in total estimated economic impact (EEI) in September 2024.
A portion of the total number of events and meetings in Augusta’s River Region in August is listed in the chart below for more event detail. These are groups Destination Augusta, or the Augusta Sports Council have worked with at some point in the site selection and/or planning phase.
Both Destination Augusta and the Augusta Sports Council agree that recruiting and hosting these various activities play a critical role in sustaining the nearly 30,000 jobs that are part of the Leisure and Hospitality Industry, the fourth largest employment sector in the metro area.
Total EEI is calculated based on research commissioned by both Explore Georgia and Destinations International in conjunction with
globally recognized research vendors, the U.S. Travel Association and Tourism Economics. Tourism Economics, a partner company of
Oxford Economics, created the industry standard in event economic impact analysis using localized metrics that are updated annually.
AUGUSTA
The Jessye Norman School of the Arts is pleased to announce that on September 10th, 2024 at 3 p.m. the final painted piano as sponsored by the Porter Fleming Foundation will be placed in front of the Destination Augusta/ Augusta &Co. building located at 1010 Broad St. in beautiful downtown Augusta, Georgia, 30901.
The piano was created by artist
The Augusta-Richmond County Public Library System’s new Tech Hub, located on the second floor of the Augusta-Richmond County Public Library has been operating for over a month. The grand opening was earlier this year.
The public can access podcasting equipment, video editing equipment, production software, a button maker, and more with just your library.
The features of the Tech Hub include:
• 1 Glowforge 3D Laser Printer
• 2 Flash Forge Adventure
V3 Pro 3D Printers
• 1 Button Maker
• 4 PC’s with Adobe Creative Suites
• 1 Nikon D780 4K Photo Digital Camera for videography, still shots, and streaming
• 1 Green Screen
• 1 Desk Microphone
• 2 handheld microphones
• 2 DJ Headphones
• 1 MPK Mini Keyboard and BEATS Music Production Starter Kit
• 1 Sound Mixer
• 2 Sphero Bolt Robots to play and learn with advanced robotic devices
• VHS converter to digitize VHS videos
The grand opening is open to the public.
For any questions, please call 706-821-2600.
Tripp Gustin and commissioned by The Jessye Norman School of The Arts as a part of Project Forte, the Painted Piano Project. Tripp incorporated iconic Augusta landmarks and themes in his piano. He’s an accomplished artist and arts administrator employed with the Augusta Arts Council.
The Porter Fleming Foundation sponsored three new pianos for the community. The first by Francie Klopotic is at Washington Hall on
the AU Summerville Campus, the second by Adeana Berry is in the lobby of the Augusta Transit Authority Bus Terminal on Broad Street. This is the final piano of the series.
Some of the other painted pianos past and present include three at The Jessye Norman School of The Arts, The Miller Theater, Doctor’s Hospital, and more.
The Mission of the Jessye Norman School of the Arts is to develop students to become creative, caring,
visionary, responsible citizens through the transformative power of the arts. The Piano Project has become a vehicle for connecting businesses, non-profits, artists, and for providing students clear examples of how art happens and how it can impact the community in which they live.
If you would like further information please email Gary Dennis at execdir@jessyenormanschool.org or call (706) 814-0665.
RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION PROPOSAL NUM. B-21-007-4562 BOND ISSUE PROGRAM PROJECT NAME DAVIDSON BLACK BOX THEATER
Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the Davidson Black Box Theater project (B-21-007- 4562) by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time, October 10, 2024 , 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 at 9:00 a.m., September 9, 2024, local time at Hephzibah Comprehensive High School at the Hephzibah High School Theater, 4558 Brothersville Road, Hephzibah High School, Georgia 30815.
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 30901. Tel. (706) 481-1590
Bidding documents may be obtained at the Office of the Architect: Woodhurst Architects, LLC, 614 Scotts Way, Augusta, GA 30909, clint@woodhurstarchitects.com or by calling Clint Humphreys at 706910-8655. Applications for documents together with a refundable deposit of $ 450.00 per set should be filed promptly with the Architect. Bidding material will be forwarded (shipping charges collect) as soon as possible. Electronic documents are available upon request and upon receipt of the deposit. 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 the date of opening bids. All other deposits will be refunded with deductions approximating the cost of reproduction of documents upon return of same in good condition within 10 days after the date of the opening bid. ONLY REGISTERED PLAN HOLDERS REQUESTING THE DOCUMENTS FROM THE ARCHITECT WILL BE NOTIFIED OF THE PUBLISHED ADDENDA
The contract, if awarded, will be on a lump sum basis. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of 35 days after the 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 Subcontractors, Suppliers, and Vendors has been developed by the Program Manager, GMK Associates. Contact Jeanine Usry with GMK Associates at (706) 826-1127 for a location to review and obtain this database.
Bids shall be submitted and addressed to:
Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw
Richmond County School System
Administrative Office
864 Broad Street
Augusta, Georgia 30901
c/o: Mr. Bobby Smith, CFO, CPA
Newly added Resource Fair will bring together community partners offering essential services
The Salvation Army of Augusta, in partnership with The Kroc Center of Augusta and The Augusta Kroc Church, is thrilled to announce the return of Kroc Fest on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. This free community
event promises a day filled with family-friendly activities, including trunk or treat, touch a truck, food trucks, games, bounce houses, and special character appearances by Bluey and a Minion.
This year, Kroc Fest will feature a new addition—a Resource Fair aimed at providing vital support to those in the Harrisburg community. The Resource Fair will bring together community partners offering essential services, including food assistance, job training, healthcare resources, and more.
“We are excited to expand Kroc Fest this year with the introduction of the Resource Fair. Our goal is to not only provide a fun and safe environment for families but also to offer support to those in our community who need it most,” said Major Jonathan Raymer, Area Commander. “This event is a reflection of our mission to meet human need in Jesus’ name without discrimination, and we’re grateful to our partners and sponsors for making it possible.”
As we prepare for this impactful event, we are calling on community
members to volunteer. Volunteers are needed to help with various aspects of the event, including setting up, managing activities, and participating in the trunk or treat. Volunteering at Kroc Fest is a wonderful opportunity to give back and make a difference in the lives of others.
To sign up as a volunteer, please visit salvationarmyaugusta.org. For media inquiries, please contact Marketing and PR Manager, Janelys Villalta, at 706-421-3047.
Augusta Mini Theatre Arts & Life Skills School proudly presents 49th Birthday Celebration: The Reality of Dreams Coming True!
YOU ARE INVITED
• Drive-Thru Celebration: Saturday, October 5th from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Augusta Mini Theatre, 2548 Deans Bridge Road. Make a symbolic $49 donation!
• Sunshine’s Roast & Toast: Tuesday, October 8th at 7 PM at Church of the Good Shepherd (Parish Hall), 2230 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30904.
• Groundbreaking Ceremony: Thursday, October 10th at 11:00 AM at Augusta Mini Theatre, 2548 Deans Bridge Road.
For more information and ticketing, visit www.AugustaMiniTheatre. org or call 706-722-0598.
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The deadline to register to vote is October 7, 2024. If you need to register to vote, compoete a change of name/ address, view sample ballots, or confirm your registration please visit: www.mvp.sos.ga.gov or use the mobile app GA SOS
