UPW - Urban Pro Weekly by UPW - Urban Pro Weekly

UPW URBAN PRO WEEKLY

JAN. 22 - FEB. 4, 2024 • VOL. 14 NO. 12

CRUISIN’FORKING KING

On Saturday, Jan. 13, The Buffalo Soldiers motorcycle club celebrated MLK’s birthday during the parade in Augusta that began on James Brown Blvd. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to honor the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Making the OLD NEW again: King Mill Renovations underway

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Construction workers continue renovations at the historic John P. King Mill, a former textile mill that sits next to the Augusta Canal. The master mixed-use development plan of King Mill and the adjacent Sibley Mill includes luxury residential units, affordable residential units, a business incubator, retail establishments and restaurants. The King Mill renovations are scheduled to be completed near the end of 2024. (January 17, 2024 Augusta, GA) Photo by Vincent Hobbs

New windows fill the spaces that were once covered with brick. The master mixeduse development plan of King Mill and the adjacent Sibley Mill includes luxury residential units, affordable residential units, a business incubator, retail establishments and restaurants. The King Mill renovations are scheduled to be completed near the end of 2024. (January 17, 2024 Augusta, GA) Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UPW URBAN PRO WEEKLY

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 • Vincent Hobbs • Cassandra Loftlin • F/Benjamin Sr. Layout/Design : UrbanProMedia

Either Takiyah Douse or Tameka Allen is likely to be next city administrator — here’s why By Frederick Benjamin Sr. UPW Staff Writer AUGUSTA Augusta is no closer today to selecting a permanent city administrator than they were 18 months ago. Despite the efforts of a “headhunting” firm which scoured the region for likely candidates, the commissioners are not far from where they would have been had they conducted their own in-house search. The two names that continually surface, were available months and months ago, but only one of them made the mayor’s short list of three finalists — Tameka Allen; the other most talked about candidate is current administrator (interim), Takiyah Douse. About 10 days ago, Mayor Garnett Johnson announced his three finalists for the position. His short list included Allen, Richard D. Chess, and Robert J. Sivick. Sivick has since withdrawn himself from consideration. And not many people have even mentioned Chess’ name ahead of Allen. The biggest question now is, whether or not the commissioners vote to start from scratch or have the mayor replace Sivick with one of the remaining candidates from among the original 7 finalists. It is no stretch to suggest that the person most likely to be considered would be Takiya Douse, Douse has been the interim administrator for well over a year and many had expected her to be among the

original top three finalists. Douse and Allen’s co-candidacy is not surprising. Both have spent time as interim city administrators. Allen, a 30-year city employee, was deputy administrator during the Fred Russell’s term as city administrator. Most political observers would agree that Takiyah Douse would not have lasted as interim administrator if she was considered to be a political liability. One ascends to the “interim” position precisely because one is not seen as a political risk. That being said, Douse has loud and persistent detractors who are not shy about dumping all of the city’s perceived ills on her shoulders, because she is at the helm. This fact, feeds a lot of “theories” swirling about the community that often revolve around Douse or Allen as favorites of competing power groups. To grossly oversimplify matters, we can characterize Mayor Johnson and his supporters as being in one camp and the majority of the commissioners occupying the other camp. As the theory goes, Johnson favors Allen. His supporters, want to see anyone in the position not named Douse. The fact that Johnson left Douse off of this short list, feeds that narrative. But the narrative gets more weird. Some folks have suggested that, Johnson would like to bring in former city administrator Fred Russell to be Allen’s deputy administrator. So the theory, goes on to suggest that Douse, is the choice of the major-

Takiyah Douse photo by W. Williams

Tameka Allen

ity of the commissioners and that they just have to find a way to get her in a position to be voted in. Now, there are those, who don’t support any particular city hall power group, who think that either Douse or Allen would be great in the job. Indeed, both have shown that they are dedicated public servants and would keep the city moving in a progressive direction. Takiyah Douse was the face of the city in a recent Georgia Trend feature about the city’s oft praised pedestrian bridge. Allen, seems to, year after year, be cited for the excellence the city’s IT Department which she has headed for some 20 years. Neither of these two candidates

seem remotely interested in the swirling “theories” about this or that political game – they being all about the job. But whether they choose to acknowledge it or not, the politicians that run the county’s affairs are not blind to the fact that the decision to fill the administrator position, the most powerful non-elected job in the city is as much a political decision as a purely administrative of governance decision. The fact that the position has gone vacant for so long and the city has not tanked significantly in any appreciable manner, suggests that either the city is being tolerably managed or that intolerable management is not a huge problem.

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Takiyah, Tameka, & some guy

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UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

CHEFCASSANDRA

Dan Scott’s Vision:

Cultivating food security through urban agriculture and digital innovation AUGUSTA In the heart of Richmond County, where access to healthy food remains a constant struggle, a local activist and former vegetable farmer, Dan Scott, has shifted gears to address food security through innovative approaches. Scott’s journey from active vegetable farming to his current endeavors reflects a passionate commitment to transforming urban landscapes and fostering the well-being of vulnerable communities. Pioneering Urban Agriculture for Food Security Scott’s journey began in 2016 when he was introduced to agriculture through the Atlanta-based organization, Helping Africa by Establishing Schools at Home and Abroad (HABESHA). Inspired by their focus on organic agriculture and sustainable living, Scott transported their practices and philosophies to Richmond County. As an urban farmer and agricultural activist, Scott believes that urban agriculture is the key to combating food deserts. His focus is on implementing regional programs to increase urban agriculture, supporting historically underserved producers, and bringing more voices into conversations about state funds’ usage in planning. Challenging the Notion of Food Deserts Scott challenges the conventional notion of “food deserts’’ by advocating for a shift in perspective. In his view, there are no food deserts; instead, he asserts, “there are only fool’s deserts.” His innovative idea involves using Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, the original digital currency, to purchase seeds and fruit-bearing plants. This approach aims to empower communities to start their own gardens, eliminating the dependence on retail grocers. From Community Gardens to Digital Innovation In 2019, Scott initiated a pilot project to transform a vacant lot into a community garden. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, he successfully secured financing and SNAP authorization for the project. Scott’s vision goes beyond physical gardens; he is now working on creating social media channels that support digital monetization efforts for historically underserved producers and socially disadvantaged farmers. Regenerative Urban Agriculture as a Solution Scott’s strategy revolves around regenerative urban agriculture—a holistic land-management practice

Dan Scott at one of his projects in 2022.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

that improves soil health, crop yields, water resilience, and nutrient density. His goal is to implement these practices in areas that need it the most, ensuring sustainable food security for marginalized communities.

initiatives, advocating for bold leadership that challenges the power brokers in Richmond County.

Election Challenges and Continued Advocacy While Scott’s bid for a supervisor position in the election didn’t secure victory, it paved the way for a new role as Chair of the Urban Conservation Committee for Brier Creek’s Soil and Water Conservation District. Undeterred, Scott continues to lead and oversee urban

Dan Scott’s journey exemplifies a dedication to cultivating positive change. By prioritizing regenerative urban agriculture and leveraging digital innovation, he is actively shaping a future where all communities have access to healthy, locally grown food, and where voices are heard in the planning of statefunded conservation resources.

Introducing the Ginger-Kissed Massaged Kale Salad—a tribute to the resilient spirit of urban growth championed by Dan Scott. In this recipe, kale e, harmonizing with the invigorating touch of crystalized ginger. As you relish this delightful medley, envision the possibilities of growing your own kale in the winter months. Frost makes them taste sweeter, and plants are cold-hardy at least to the low 20s. Embrace the flavors and the community spirit, inspired by Dan’s commitment to cultivating wholesome, locally sourced food year-round.

Ginger-Kissed Massaged Kale Salad INGREDIENTS: 2 bunches Lacinto (Dinosaur) kale, washed stems removed and leaves thinly sliced 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup ¼ cup dried cranberries ¼ cup Sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped pecans INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Place kale, olive oil,crystallized ginger, and pinch of salt in a large bowl. Vigorously massage kale with clean hands for 5-7 minutes until tender. 2. Add cranberries and nuts or seeds. 3. In a small bowl, whisk together, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and honey 4. . Pour the dressing over the massaged kale and toss until the kale is evenly coated. 5. Allow the salad to chill in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes, Serve Meet Chef Cassandra, your guide to a culinary journey where local produce transforms into seasonal masterpieces. With a passion for harnessing the vibrant flavors of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Chef Cassandra crafts recipes that not only tantalize the taste buds but also enhance nutrition. Join her in savoring the seasons and unlocking the full potential of each ingredient on your plate. IG: @chef.cassandra, FB: Goodness Gracious Grocery-Augusta

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Ginger-Kissed Massaged Kale Salad

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree waves to the crowd as the city of Augusta celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr’s holiday with a parade that began on James Brown Blvd. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to honor the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

MKK Holiday Parade Augusta, GA • Jan. 13, 2024

Flag girls with the Academy of Richmond County marching band entertain the crowd as the city of Augusta celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr’s holiday with a parade that began on James Brown Blvd. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to honor the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

7 UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024 Richmond County Chief State Court Judge Kellie Kenner McIntyre (L) waves to parade-goers as her daughter (R) takes in the scene. The city of Augusta celebrated Martin Luther King, Jr’s holiday with a parade. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to celebrate the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

The T.W. Josey “Sonic Boom of the South” marching band entertains parade-goers during the city of Augusta’s parade celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr’s holiday. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to honor the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

MKK Holiday Parade

8 UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Augusta, GA • Jan. 13, 2024

Stolkin Temple No. 22 members make some dance moves in the street during the city of Augusta’s parade celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr’s holiday. People crowded the sidewalks along the route to honor the birthday of the civil rights leader. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Waynesboro, GA • Jan. 13, 2024

TEAM GEORGIA DEFEATED TEAM SOUTH CAROLINA in the annual Border Bowl game held at Burke County High School Football Stadium. The final score was 21 – 0. Photo by Richard Dunn

Team Georgia’s offense was on full display as it defeated Team South Carolina in the annual Border Bowl game held at Burke County High School Football Stadium. The final score was 21 – 0. Photo by Richard Dunn

9 UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Border Bowl 2024

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

FORUM VOICES Shades of Purple:

Black Manhood and a Beloved Film O

n New Year’s Eve, I had the pleasure of taking my mother to witness the captivating performance of The Color Purple musical, featuring Fantasia Burrino as Celie and Taraji P. Henson as Shug. This adaptation of the renowned book and stage play provides a fresh perspective compared to the popular film that catapulted Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, and Whoopi Goldberg into the limelight. The Color Purple remains an iconic film that resonates deeply within the African American community, emphasizing themes of resilience, unity, and unbreakable family bonds. While celebrating the film’s impact, it is crucial to delve deeper and contemplate a lessexplored aspect – the portrayal of Black manhood. Having worked in elementary schools for the past two decades, I’ve observed a scarcity of positive male role models in the lives of children aged 5 to 10, both within the educational setting and beyond. This absence contributes significantly to the shaping of perceptions about manhood, often limited to influences from sports and entertainment. On New Year’s Day, my mother and I engaged in a meaningful discussion, comparing the new film with the original. Reflecting on scenes from the first movie, we chuckled about what Celie could have done during the shaving scene or while preparing a glass of water for Mister’s father. The heartwarming reunion of Celie with her sister and children brought solace to our hearts, yet the void in positive male figures in the film raised lingering questions. Examining the characters of Mr. (aka Albert), Harpo, Alphonso (Pa), and Grady, I pondered the character traits they demonstrated. dysfunction in our community and Does the film inadvertently normalize contribute to the breakdown of the

LETTERS

in equally beloved films? Similar questions arise when watching Tyler Perry’s films that address themes of overcoming abuse, raising children, and perseverance. As we embrace these compelling narratives, my hope is for the film industry to introduce a balance by shedding light on depictions of Black fathers who are supportive of their wives and children, intelligent, and morally grounded. This addition to the cinematic landscape can complement the tales of adversity, providing a more comprehensive representation of the diverse experiences within the African American community. André Benito Mountain, an Augusta native, is the principal of Marbut Traditional Theme School, the founder of DEF-ED LLC, publisher of DEF-ED Magazine, and the author of “Principals Don’t Walk on Water”, “Virtually Lost”, “The Mountain Principals”, and “The Brilliance Beneath.”

Actors Halley Bailey, left, who plays Young Nettie, and Phylicia Pearl Mpasi, who plays young Celie relax before shooting their first scene together in “The Color Purple.” Photo courtesy of Phylicia Pearl Mpasi African American family? Are there redeeming models of Black manhood

Reader applauds 12 Americans who exemplify “It”

It’s a beautiful and wonderful thing when God anoints people at birth to be brilliant, awesome, fascinating, super-talented, euphoric, electric, exciting, and positive human beings to do what is right, pleasing, and just in elevating America as being a nation that doesn’t equal, but always excels. In essence, these individuals have the “It factor” effect. Of course, they possibly may be imitated, but never duplicated because they’re it. When these individuals walk

into a crowded room of people, immediately all human activities stop. Therefore, their God-given presence and persona allow them to walk the walk and talk the talk. This means they are blessed to be as bad as they want to be. This God-given stature is something that many of us can only wish for. It truly amazes me that people with the “It factor” label are super exceptional because they represent the ultimate pleasure principles, productive knowledge, and

wisdom of life that allow mankind to be enhanced, enlightened, and enriched for all of us to become better human beings. Does this make sense? I must recognize twelve Americans whom I’ve surmised as being “It factor” icons. Six of these individuals are living and six are deceased. The six living are Michelle Obama, John Grisham, Bill Clinton, Madonna, Janet Jackson, and Earvin “Magic” Johnson. The six deceased are Muhammad Ali, Prince, Lena Horne,

Michael Jackson, Malcolm X and Dorothy Dandridge. What’s overwhelming true, unique, and astounding about these individuals is the fact that they have been blessed with the attributes of metamorphism, charisma, eloquence, authenticity, surrealism, phenomenalism, mesmerism, giftedness, inspiration, classiness, and healing Ness Therefore, all of these individuals have been and will continue to be all of that and more is truly divine.

AUGUSTA The Salvation Army of Augusta is thrilled to announce it has been awarded a grant from the Vinea Foundation, aimed at furthering the impact of its Job Skills Training Program. The Salvation Army of Augusta’s Job Skills Training Program is a dynamic 4-week initiative designed to help participants discover their full

potential. This tuition-free program equips individuals with the practical skills necessary for effective career planning and life enrichment. The curriculum includes a diverse range of seminars and lab experiences, covering topics such as financial literacy, resume development, job search strategies, mock interviews, and more. Expressing gratitude for the generous grant, Major

Jonathan Raymer, Area Commander of The Salvation Army of Augusta, stated, “We are immensely grateful to the Vinea Foundation for their support. This grant will make a lasting impact on the lives of individuals striving for self-sufficiency through our Job Skills Training Program. With this contribution, we can further empower our participants to achieve their career goals and foster positive change in our community.

RCSS seeks input for 2025-26

RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Bond Issue Program

CENTRAL OFFICE ROOF AND BUILDING ENVELOPE PROJECT PROJECT NUMBER: B-21-027-0422.2

academic calendar During the Richmond County Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, January 16, senior leaders of the Richmond County School System (RCSS) presented two options for the 2025-2026 academic calendar. Now, students, parents, employees, and community members are asked to provide feedback through an online survey. “Community feedback is incredibly important in the process of adopting an academic calendar for our school system,” said Dr. Malinda Cobb, Associate Superintendent of Academic Services. “Both of our options include periodic breaks, professional learning days and graduation after Memorial Day. Each calendar supports student learning in different ways.” Calendar Option 1 offers PowerUp Asynchronous Learning Days, four digital learning days, where students complete assignments at home on their school-issued devices. These days are an opportunity for parents and guardians to meet with school staff. The school year starts on August 4 and 5, 2025, and ends on May 22, 2026. Summer break would be 10 weeks. Calendar Option 2 is a year-round calendar with two week-long intercessions for intervention and enrichment in both semesters. The Calendar Option 2 school year starts on July 24, 2025, and ends on May 29, 2026. The summer break would be 7.5 weeks. The calendars and feedback survey are posted at rcboe. info/25-26RCSSCalendar, and the deadline to provide feedback is February 15, 2024. A recommendation on the 2025-2026 academic calendar will be made during the March Board of Education meeting.

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY INVITATION TO BID Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the Central Office Roof and Building Envelope Project by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time on W e d n e s d a y , February 7, 2024. This will be a public bid opening, read aloud in the Richmond County Board of Education Conference Room located at 1st Floor, 864 Broad Street, Augusta, Ga. 30901. No extension of the bidding period will be made. A Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held Wednesday, January 17, 2024 @2:00P.M. local time at the Richmond County Board of Education Conference Room, 1st Floor, 864 BroadStreet, Augusta, Ga. 30901. 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. ELECTRONIC BIDDING DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED DIRECTLY FROM THE ARCHITECT. REQUESTS MAY BE MADE BY PHONE OR EMAIL BY CONTACTING JACKIE PARISH AT 706-722-7488 OR JPARISH@DICKINSONARCHITECTS.COM. A LINK WILL BE PROVIDED FOR IMMEDIATE DOWNLOAD OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS. ONLY REGISTERED PLAN HOLDERS REQUESTING THE DOCUMENTS FROM THE ARCHITECT WILL BE NOTIFIED OF PUBLISHED ADDENDA. Bidding documents may be obtained at the Office of the Architect: Dickinson Architects, 771 Broad Street, Ste. 200, Augusta, GA 30901. Applications for documents together with refundable deposit of $100.00 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. In accordance with the Davis-Bacon Act, and the General Wage Determination's available from the DOL for Richmond County (www.wdol.gov), t h e Contractor will be required to comply with the wage and labor requirements and to pay minimum wages in accordance with the schedule of wage rates established by the United States Department of Labor. The highest rate between the two (Federal and State) for each job classification shall be considered the prevailing wage. 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 at (706) 826 -1297 for location to review and obtain this database. Bids shall be submitted and addressed to: Dr. Kenneth Bradshaw, Superintendent Richmond County Board of Education Administrative Office 864 Broad Street, Augusta. Georgia 30901 c/o: Mr. Bobby Smith. CPA, CFO

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

The Salvation Army of Augusta receives generous grant 11 from Vinea Foundation to enhance Job Skills program

UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

Umoja Village selects Warriors For Change

Second Annual Wall Calendar Series

The Umoja Village 501(c)3 organization proudly presents its 2nd Annual wall calendar series entitled “Umoja Village Celebrates Black Excellence,” which is a 12-month wall calendar that features Blacks and African Americans making positive contributions within primarily Aiken County and surrounding towns.

Each year, Umoja Village’s board of directors selects a new theme in an effort to display unity and to promote awareness of the positive work happening in our communities. The 2024 calendar acknowledges the Umoja Village “Warriors For Change.” These individuals have spent most of their lives fighting for others by way

of human, civil, or voting rights. The individuals highlighted within this calendar in no way covers all of the persons primarily in Aiken County who are Warriors For Change. Umoja Village will conduct a banquet in their honor as part of the organization’s third annual Black History Month Community Celebration on

Sunday, Feb. 4, 2023, 3 p.m., at the Lessie B. Price Senior & Youth Center, 841 Edgefield Avenue, NW, Aiken, SC. Tickets are $15.00 and can be purchased online or at the center.

Calendars, which are collectible items, are $15 each and are available to purchase at the Richard Johnson Jr. Umoja Village Resource Center during normal business hours, Tuesdays through Thursdays, 12-5 p.m., at 831 Hayne Avenue, SW, in Aiken RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION PROPOSAL NUM. B-21-003-0210 or by appointment other Bond Issue Program PROJECT NAME HORNSBY ADDITIONS, HVAC & ROOFING days and times. Calendars are also available for purchase from the organization’s website, www.umojavillage. com. Calendars also can be shipped from online orders. COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY Proceeds from annual calenINVITATION TO BID dar sales will help support the Resource Center and the organization’s overall misSealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the B - 21- 003- 0210, Hornsby Additions, HVAC & sion. Roofing Project by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00

p.m. local time February 8, 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 10:30 a.m., January 25, 2024 local time in the Hornsby K-5 Media Center, 310 Kentucky Avenue, Augusta, Georgia 30901. 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 Highway, Augusta, Ga 30906. 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 706-910-8655. Applications for documents together with refundable deposit of $ 250 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 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 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 at (706) 826-1127 for 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

The 2024 Honorees are: Cover/January: Richard Johnson, Jr. February: Mack Henry Holland March: Leroy Myrick April: Velice R. Cummings May: Rev. Brendolyn Jenkins Boseman June: Ronald J. Brown July: James Gallman, Sr. August: Cynthia D. Holland September: William A. “Tony” Price October: Lessie B. Price November: Rev. Lester A. Smalls December:

Richmond County School System hosts Transportation Job Fair The Richmond County School System is hosting a transportation job fair for persons interested in bus driver or mechanic positions on Tuesday, January 23, at the Transportation Department, at 2950 Mike Padgett Highway, from 10 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

13 UrbanProWeekly - JANUARY 22 - FEB. 4, 2024

A Celebration of Rosa Parks Join us for Breakfast and Conversation Ride the bus after the event Bus Fare 1.25

Hudson Memorial 2, Taylor St. Augusta, Ga Saturday, February 3 9 AM RSVP