Born and raised in Augusta, Georgia, I love nothing more than the southern family vibe. It brings me pure joy watching families spend time together through exploration, discovery, creation and curiosity - it all equates to learning. The natural informality of educational experiences begins within the home and transcends the socially accepted norms for formal education.
At seven years old, I had all my dolls and teddy bears lined up against the wall ready to teach the many worksheets my teacher had given me. It was the end of the year and, of course, the worksheets were going in the trash, so I recycled them for my summer class. I can recall writing out a summer schedule for each core
subject, recess, and lunch. I learned from my second grade teacher - the first model of career exploration –that the key to a successful class was to be well organized. My apathetic sisters quickly figured out that “play” time during the summer equated to “school” time.
The same concept of my “summer schedule” would extend beyond my childhood and follow me through adulthood, both as a mom in the form of “summer learning” and “summer school” as an educator. My thought was the more practice, the higher the learner would achieve.
However, today’s little girl isn’t in a conventional setting, placing dolls and teddy bears in a line or giving mundane worksheet after worksheet;
nor writing a summer schedule. No more hallway lines, splintery desks, or a three hundred eighty-two page textbook that cannot meaningfully be completed in an academic school year.
Today, education is reimagined and has become more accessible for abstract and real-world learning opportunities. It has many unconventional components and models to experience learning. Furthermore, the increasing knowledge of school choice options in some instances provides a bridge in the gap of educational disparities that exist as barriers for some.
As your hometown educational columnist, my goal is not to only delve into information, but inspire,
City of Augusta officials joined co-developers Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. and Parallel Housing, Inc., to host a Ceremonial Groundbreaking on April 25 for The Lenox, a 64-unit, $17.5 million development. It is targeted to renters who earn 30% to 80% of the area median income or up to $54,880 for a two-person household.
AUGUSTA
City of Augusta officials joined co-developers Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. and Parallel Housing, Inc., to host a Ceremonial Groundbreaking on April 25 for The Lenox, a 64-unit, $17.5 million development. It is targeted to renters who
earn 30% to 80% of the area median income or up to $54,880 for a two-person household.
The Lenox is comprised of a 4story building with an elevator. It will provide 25 one-bedroom units and 39 two-bedroom units with several units containing modifications
for residents with physical or sight/ hearing disabilities. All units will feature floor plans with plenty of storage, and modern kitchens with ENERGY STAR appliances, including dishwashers. They will have beautiful, contemporary finishes, including quality cabinetry, and luxury
challenge, encourage and take you on a transformative journey of rapidly changing policies, pedagogical approaches, school choice and educational programs. Who wouldn’t want to travel through the exhilarating dynamics of what may be deformative or reformative practices? Additionally, is education ever-changing or never-changing? These are intriguing questions and intricate issues to be explored. Consequently, education impacts families, decisions, culture, jobs, justice systems - our hometown community. The lens of the sevenyear-old girl has now become the perspective of an enlightened, brown, innovative edupreneur with a passion for education.
vinyl tile flooring. Each apartment will have a washer/dryer hookup.
Community amenities include a multipurpose room with kitchenette to offer a place for social gatherings, a central laundry, computer room, fitness center, and rooftop terrace offering views of historic downtown Augusta. There will be an onsite leasing and management office. The ground level features a 4000-square foot commercial space that will be marketed for retail stores or professional business offices.
The Lenox, being co-developed by Woda Cooper Companies, Inc. and Parallel Housing, Inc., will help address Augusta’s need for more affordable housing for workforce families, seniors, those with disabilities, and others, while positively transforming a vacant property downtown Augusta. The neighborhood where The Lenox is being built has had a significant impact in Augusta’s Black history. The property is named after the former Lenox Theater, a beloved 1921 historic venue that was damaged by fire and eventually torn down in the late 1970s.
Over $12 million in equity financing for the $17.5 million property resulted from state and federal tax credits from GA DCA. Critical to the primary financing was local support including a commitment by the City of Augusta to provide a $640,000 HOME loan to the project, in addition to a longterm lease provided by the Augusta Georgia Land Bank Authority at a nominal cost.
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Step into the vibrant heart of our community as we unveil the stunning PILLARS OF THE GOLDEN BLOCKS SCULPTURE!
Join us, alongside esteemed City Officials, Augusta Housing and Community Development leaders, Lucy Craft Laney Museum and the Greater Augusta Arts Council, for an unforgettable moment at the Twiggs Circle Roundabout in Augusta.
Official Presentation and Ribbon
Cutting
Thursday, May 30th, at 10:00 a.m.
Prepare to be enchanted as we come together to celebrate this monumental addition to our cityscape. Mix and mingle during our meet & greet with the talented artist, family of honorees and cherished community members and valued stakeholder. Together, let’s embrace the spirit of creativity, unity, and progress that this awe-inspiring sculpture represents. Mark your calendars and be part of history in the making!
The resolution for the authorization of the issuance of $ 250 million in bonds for the construction of a new coliseum complex was approved. The bonds were sold on May 7, 2024, and the results of the sale were presented during the Commission meeting, which included information on the interest rate.
On November 7, 2023, Richmond County residents voted in favor of the imposition of the sales and use tax, which also constituted approval of the issuance of general obligation debt. The bond sale will provide the funding for constructing the new coliseum complex. The Augusta Commission has entered into an intergovernmental agreement with the Augusta Richmond County Coliseum Authority to manage the construction and operations of the new coliseum.
Additional funding totaling $30,000 will be allocated to support Augusta, Georgia’s Park and Recreation Department’s Senior Nutrition Sites, which provide cost-free recreational services to program participants.
With 200 registered participants, the Department will increase the budgets for the six senior nutrition sites by $5,000 each and establish a field trip policy for the senior programs so that those funds can be managed by each community center manager and utilized for cost-free educational and cultural field trips.
Ronic West President/ co-founder of the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce was inducted as President of the historic Georgia Coalition of Black Chambers of Commerce for the 2024 term.
Ronic West President/co-founder of the Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce was recently installed as President of the historic Georgia Coalition of Black Chambers of Commerce for the 2024 term.
On the occasion, West said, “I’m grateful and honored to work beside 11 leaders across the state of GA. These leaders are walking a road that is not easy to travel and many times not acknowledged or awarded. We will focus on our mission to provide collaborative leadership and advocacy that gives way to transformational access, economic growth, and opportunities for the advancement of Black businesses, social enterprises, and non-profit industry associations throughout the state of Georgia.”
The coalition includes the Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce, Northeast Georgia Black Chambers of Commerce, Central Georgia Coalition of Black Businesses, North Georgia Black Business Alliance, West Central Georgia Black Chamber, River Valley Black Chamber of Commerce, Southern Georgia Black Chambers, Heart of Georgia Economic Alliance, Northwest Georgia Economic Alliance, Atlanta Black Chambers, Greater Augusta Black Chamber of Commerce, and Albany Economic Counsel.
ATLANTA
The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) and Georgia Public Library Service (GPLS) are partnering to provide free self-service benefits kiosks at Georgia public libraries.
The kiosks provide convenient access for the public to access Georgia Gateway, the state’s integrated eligibility system, to review, change, or renew their benefits including Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids®, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS), and Women, Infants & Children (WIC).
“We are excited to offer these self-service kiosks to Georgians, allowing them more flexibility to manage their benefits. With weekend hours and internet access in rural parts of the state, public libraries offer our customers additional access points so they can complete a renewal or man-
age their cases easily,” said DHS Commissioner Candice Broce.
The self-service kiosks will reduce wait times and provide access at the point of need, helping benefits-eligible Georgians to maintain their own and their family’s coverage.
“Georgia Public Library Service is proud to partner with DHS and provide our expertise in scalable technology and tools to help Georgians update their social services benefits at many libraries across the state,” said Vice Chancellor for Archives and Libraries and State Librarian Julie Walker. “This partnership demonstrates that our libraries are a model of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Together, we are increasing access and efficiency for Georgia residents.”
The kiosks are supported by a Google Chrome environment and lightweight enough to be wheeled anywhere, capitalizing on familiar tech-
The 2023 Richmond County School System pathway completers graduation rate in Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE), Advanced Academic, World Language, and Fine Arts pathways have surpassed the state rate, according to data released last week. Richmond County CTAE students boasted a 97.99% graduation rate compared to the state-wide rate of 97.75%. The RCSS graduation rate for Advanced Academic Pathways completers was 99.65%, compared to the state’s rate of 99.43%. The graduation rate for World Language Pathway completers in RCSS schools was 100%, while the state rate was 99.17%. Fine Arts Pathway completers recorded a 97.89% graduation rate over the state rate of 97.35%.
Dr. Malinda Cobb, Associate Superintendent of Academic Services, says, “We celebrate the commitment our students and teachers have made to reach this milestone. Completing a pathway in high school helps students connect with their interests and form relationships with students and staff who share those interests. We are proud to see that our CTAE, Fine Arts, World Language, and Advanced Studies students are graduating on time with plans for a brighter future.”
Some highlights from the pathway graduation rates: G. P. Butler Comprehensive High School, Richmond County Technical Career Magnet (RCTCM), Glenn Hills Comprehensive High School, A.R. Johnson Health Science & Engineering Magnet School, and the Academy of Richmond County (ARC) achieved a perfect 100% CTAE graduation rate.
ARC, Butler, Davidson Fine Arts Magnet, Glenn Hills High, Hephzibah Comprehensive High School, A.R. Johnson Magnet, T.W. Josey Comprehensive High School, Lucy C. Laney Comprehensive High School, Westside Comprehensive High School and RCTCM boasted a 100% Advanced Academic pathway graduation rate.
ARC, Cross Creek Comprehensive High School, Davidson Fine Arts Magnet, Glenn Hills High, T.W. Josey, Laney, RCTCM, and Westside boasted a 100% World Language pathway graduation rate.
ARC, Cross Creek, Davidson Fine Arts Magnet, A.R. Johnson Magnet, and Laney boasted a 100% Fine Arts pathway graduation rate.
The CTAE graduation rate applies to students who complete a Career Pathway.
nology to help connect Georgians to the services they rely on. While library staff are not trained to answer benefits eligibility questions or handle sensitive data, they will be able to direct customers to the appropriate Division of Family & Children Services office for support.
“The benefits kiosks are one more way Georgia’s libraries are helping to bridge the digital divide and ensure that Georgians have access to the resources they need to make life easier,” said Walker.
In addition to multiplying the number of locations where benefits applications and renewals can be completed, DHS and GPLS hope kiosk users will learn about the other many free library services – like 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, laptops and internet hotspots for checkout, online job skills training, and more – that all Georgians can take advantage of with a free library card.
Initial funding for this program was provided
Richmond County Board of Education Member Walter Eubanks has been elected to a full term on the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) Board of Directors during their meeting on Tuesday, April 30.
Eubanks will serve as the GSBA District 10 Director representing school systems in Burke, Columbia, Glascock, Hancock, Jefferson, Jenkins, Lincoln, McDuffie, Richmond, Taliaferro, Warren, Washington and Wilkes. As a GSBA Director, Eubanks is responsible for setting association policies, advising staff on the association’s strategic plan, approving the annual budget and actively participating in financial reporting and oversight.
Eubanks has served as a Richmond County Board of Education Board Member since 2018.
Augusta continues on its quest to infuse the arts into as many urban pockets as feasible. The Greater Augusta Arts Council pulled of the highly anticipated 5th Street Mural Festival!
The Council engaged in a rigorous jurying process of narrowing down over 200 submissions select 37 talented individuals whose goal it was to convert Augusta’s 5th Street into a vibrant tapestry of creativity and expression. The 5th Street Mural Festival took place from April 20th to April 27th. A mural ribbon cutting was held on Saturday April 27th. The artists have been given the freedom to unleash their creativity, resulting in a diverse array of designs. Among the standout selections is local artist, Destinee Love, who installed a 40-foot-long mural celebrating Women in the Military—a powerful tribute to the brave women who have served our country.
Dr. Jackson Drumgoole II, a distinguished social entrepreneur, thought leader, and community change agent with a profound commitment to transforming lives. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Drumgoole has tirelessly impacted the lives of fathers through his extensive repertoire of articles, conferences, books, and coaching sessions.
A seasoned 29-year Army veteran, author, speaker, university professor, and life coach, Dr. Drumgoole’s remarkable journey has been marked by significant accolades. In 2013, he was honored with the prestigious GQ magazine Father of the Year award, standing alongside luminaries such as President Bill Clinton and former Macy’s CEO Terry J. Lundgren, bestowed by the National Father’s Day Committee for his exceptional work with military fathers during multiple deployments to Iraq.
Dr. Drumgoole’s seminal work, They Call Me Daddy: A Diary of a Dysfunctional Father, ignited a powerful community response, propelling him into the role of CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) for fathers seeking guidance. In this candid memoir, he candidly shared his own journey, from fatherly missteps to ultimate redemption as a fully engaged and devoted dad.
Certified by the National Fatherhood Initiative in Father Engagement, Effective Facilitation, and Recruitment and Retention of Fatherhood programming, Dr. Drumgoole is the visionary behind the acclaimed Fathering for Effect program. This transformative initiative empowers fathers to “Lead Where They Live,” guiding them towards a life of profound engagement and vitality within their families.
As the founder and executive director of the Bridge Builder Communities, Dr. Drumgoole spearheads Augusta’s pioneering venture into tiny home communities for youth aging out of foster care. Committed to providing safe, affordable housing, and essential life skills training, Bridge Builder Communities aims to facilitate a seamless transition into adulthood for its residents.
Beyond his impactful initiatives, Dr. Drumgoole currently holds the position of Director of Learning and Organizational Development at WellStar MCG. Alongside his beloved wife, ShDonna Flournoy of Sandersville, GA, Dr. Drumgoole is the proud father of five children, including natural triplets, and cherishes his role as a grandfather to three grandsons. He is
UPW: Tell us about the first 20 years of your life, including your upbringing, influences, and career choices.
DRUMGOOLE: I hail from Augusta, GA, growing up in the Belle Meade/Terrace Manor area in the early 70s as the fifth child in a family of six. My formative years were deeply influenced by the remarkable men of our community, including the first black mayor of our city, educators, professionals, and service members. Their presence provided a guiding light, setting me on a path of discovery. My career trajectory was far from linear; I initially delved into the construction industry after a year of college, then found my calling in the military. From a humble beginning as a private, I rose through the ranks to retire as a field-grade officer, all while pursuing education, culminating in a doctorate from the University of Southern California.
UPW: How did your military career shape your community-focused endeavors today?
DRUMGOOLE: My journey in the military was akin to a crucible, forging in me the virtues of collaboration, perseverance, and strategic thinking. While I harbored aspira-
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“Witnessing the struggles of loved ones navigating the foster care system propelled me to action. I vowed to provide support and stability to those aging out of care, driven by a sense of responsibility to uplift the next generation.”
tions for community involvement from a young age, I lacked the necessary discipline and maturity. The military instilled in me the resilience and adaptability required to navigate complex challenges, teaching me invaluable lessons in teamwork and conflict resolution. It laid the foundation upon which I could later realize my aspirations to serve my community.
UPW: What led to your recognition by GQ Magazine in 2013?
DRUMGOOLE: The honor bestowed upon me by GQ Magazine in 2013 stemmed from my advocacy for fathers during deployments. While stationed in Baghdad in 2009, I penned my first book, “They Call Me Daddy, A Diary of a Dysfunctional Father,” a heartfelt testament to my commitment to fatherhood despite the challenges of military service. This work resonated with the National Father’s Day Council, leading to my recognition for promoting paternal engagement.
UPW: How did Bridge Builder Communities Intl. Inc. originate?
DRUMGOOLE: Originally known as Drumgoole Family Initiatives, our nonprofit, now Bridge Builder Communities Intl. Inc., was conceived in response to the pressing needs of young adults aging out of foster care in Georgia. Amidst the pandemic’s upheaval, we sought to establish a collaborative platform to provide support and resources to this vulnerable demographic. Our aim was not merely to offer housing but to cultivate a nurturing environment where individuals could thrive and find a sense of belonging.
UPW: What is the Fathering For Effect program and how can people participate?
DRUMGOOLE: Fathering For Effect is a transformative program designed to empower fathers in nurturing meaningful relationships with their families. Through immersive experiences and ongo -
ing guidance, we equip men with the tools to lead fulfilling lives as engaged parents. Interested individuals can join our online program, recently endorsed by the National Fatherhood Initiative®, to embark on this journey of self-discovery and growth.
UPW: What motivated your involvement with youth aging out of foster care?
DRUMGOOLE: My upbringing in Augusta exposed me to the harsh realities faced by foster youth, igniting a resolve to effect positive change. Witnessing the struggles of loved ones navigating the foster care system propelled me to action. I vowed to provide support and stability to those aging out of care, driven by a sense of responsibility to uplift the next generation.
UPW: Has Bridge Builder Communities received support from local or state governments, and what are the plans for expansion?
DRUMGOOLE: We are grateful for the support of the city of Augusta, which has facilitated our initiatives thus far. With a gifted plot of land and recent zoning approvals, we are poised to commence construction on our tiny-homes community. While expansion remains a longterm goal, we prioritize responsible growth to ensure sustained impact and efficacy.
UPW: Can you share details about the upcoming Father’s Day Superhero 5K event?
DRUMGOOLE: Our annual Father’s Day Superhero 5K and Family Run, slated for June 15th, embodies our commitment to empowering families and communities. Set against the backdrop of the Mill Village Trailhead, the event promises fun for all ages while raising crucial funds for our programs. I encourage everyone to participate and support our mission of providing hope and opportunity to young adults in need. Registration is now open, so lace up your sneakers and join us in making a difference!
As we embark on Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s crucial to recognize the remarkable contributions of women who are leading the charge in Georgia and Hollywood. I, Warren J Bowman Jr, stand as a testament to long-term recovery in mental health, and I am honored to shed light on the inspiring journeys of these female pioneers.
First, let’s applaud Raye Thompson, the visionary Director of the Augusta Peer Recovery and Respite Center of Augusta - one of Georgia’s five peer-run respite homes and an arm of The Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network. Her unwavering dedication provides a beacon of hope for those seeking solace and support.
Next, let’s recognize Aisha Northington, whose
recent endeavor, Mission Minded Recovery, offers a sanctuary of healing in Stone Mountain, Georgia. Her commitment to peer-led mental health initiatives is commendable and serves as a testament to her compassionate spirit.
Finally, we pay homage to Dr. Onnie Poe, founder of The Release Movement, whose advocacy and respect for individuals in need set a profound example for us all. Their collective drive and empathy pave the way for a brighter future in mental health.
In the realm of Hollywood, we remember the iconic Carrie Fisher, known to many as Princess Leia from Star Wars. Carrie’s candid discussion of her own battle with Bipolar Disorder transcended screens, leaving an indelible mark on mental health advocacy worldwide. Though she left us in 2016, her legacy continues to inspire
change and acceptance.
In closing, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to these trailblazing women for their tireless efforts in shaping a more inclusive and compassionate society. If you wish to support their causes or lend a helping hand, please reach out to them directly. Remember, mental health matters every day, and if you or someone you know needs assistance, don’t hesitate to call 988 or 1-888-715-7225.
Thank you for joining me in honoring these extraordinary women pioneers in mental health. For more updates, follow me on Instagram at wareaga706 or connect with me on LinkedIn. You can also reach me at my business, Bowman Entertainment Staffing and Consulting LLC, via email at bowmanescllc@gmail.com.
On March 23, the 6th Annual Fashion Expo produced by
was held at the Pearl Event Center in Grovetown. Close to 80 fashionistas and fashionitos attended the event. The audience enjoyed designs from area boutiques and designers along with a guest appearance by NAACP Image Award Nominee, Choice Skinner.
Students from across the state of Georgia showed off their creativity and ingenuity during the 2nd Annual Georgia State-Wide Model Water Tower Competition on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The event was sponsored by the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP) and the Georgia Section of the American Water Works Association (GAWWA). These organizations strive to provide resources and advocacy for the water industry to protect public health.
The Augusta Utilities Department’s
first and second place winners from the regional competition held in March competed against over forty middle school student participants representing nine other regions from around the state. These talented students came together to show off their functioning model water towers and compete for cash prizes. The event was held at The Water Tower in Gwinnett County, a water innovation hub striving to create a thriving ecosystem of water innovation.
The middle school student com-
RICHMOND COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION
petitors were asked to build working water towers that met specific size and height requirements. Towers were tested and judged in three categories: hydraulic efficiency, structural efficiency, and design ingenuity. Using mostly recycled materials, the students made towers that showed off their creativity with everything from a tower of a solar system to a yellow submarine.
The objective of the competition is to raise awareness of the water industry, the importance of clean, reli-
able water, and to introduce students to engineering. Students won cash prizes of $500 for first place, $400 for second place, and $300 for third place. In addition, superlative awards were provided for Best Engineering Design, Most Artistic, Outstanding Presentation, and Most Imaginative “Outside the Box”. The schools of the winning students also took home a trophy for display.
Two teams from Augusta, comprised of four students under the guidance of Ms. Donita Legoas and Ms. Kristina
PROPOSAL NUM. B22-048-0000 PHASE VI Bond Issue Program MIDDLE SCHOOL FIELD UPGRADES
Sealed proposals from Contractors will be received for the Middle School Field Upgrades, Project B22- 048-0000 by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time, Thursday, June 6, 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 Monday, May 6, 2024 at 10:00 am local time in the ball field behind Hephzibah Middle School (2427 Mims Road, Hephzibah, GA 30815) From there, arrangements to visit Pine Hill Middle School (2147 Mc Elmurray Rd, Augusta, GA 30815) and Tutt Middle School (495 Boy Scout Rd, Augusta, GA 30909) will be discussed. All (3) sites can be visited on this day.
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, Georgia 30906
Bidding documents may be obtained at the Office of the Architect: Christopher Booker & Associates PC, 670 Broad Street, Second Floor, Augusta, GA 30901. Applications for documents together with refundable deposit of $ 150.00 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.
ELECTRONIC BIDDING DOCUMENTS MAY BE OBTAINED DIRECTLY FROM THE ARCHITECT. REQUESTS MAY BE MADE BY EMAIL BY CONTACTING BOTH MELISSA@CBARCHITECTSPC.COM and ED@CBARCHITECTSPC.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 THE PUBLISHED ADDENDA.
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 -1297 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
Istre, diligently prepared for this event. Their participation reflected their outstanding skills but also highlighted the commitment of the educational system in Richmond County to nurture and showcase the talent of Augusta’s students in STEM.
“We are immensely proud of the students for their hard work and dedication,” said Wes Byne, Director of Augusta Utilities. “Their participation is a testament to their talent and the quality of education they receive in Richmond County.”
Augusta is proud of one it’s teams, A’Deren Pollard and Trey Brown who won the Most Imaginative/ Outside the Box Award for their submission of The African Well. AUD and the Augusta community extends its heartfelt congratulations to all of the students who represented Augusta at the state level and wishes them the very best in their endeavors.
This year’s winners were: 1st Place – Beatles Tower by Andrew Mast from Cooper Middle in Cobb County.
2nd Place – The Water System Tower by Arrow Callahan, Ian McCracken, Ezra Irwin, and Brodie Cade from Clarke Middle in Clarke County.
3rd Place – Submarine Diver by Hunter Hamby and Sarah Vehar from Teasley Middle in Cherokee County.
Outstanding Presentation – MTM Tower by Jonah Toon, Mason Marshall, and Mason Malec from Clarke Middle in Clarke County.
Most Artistic – The Spring Tower by Tyahnna Mathers from Impact Academy in Henry County.
Outside the Box – African Well Tower by A’Deren Pollard and Trey Brown from A.R. Johnson Health Science & Engineering Magnet School in Augusta. Best Engineering Design – Team KB Tower by Prince
“Vote as if your rights, your future, and your very existence depend on it, because they do. Your voice is your power, and your vote is your weapon for change.”
Unwind and embrace the summer vibes with Candlelight Music, a concert series bringing live music to the heart of Augusta (almost) every Sunday!
Catch captivating performances by talented local and regional artists from 7:30pm to 10:00pm under the open sky. The Augusta Common’s charming atmosphere will be the perfect backdrop for a relaxing evening filled with music and good
company. Spread out a blanket, grab your friends and family, and enjoy a variety of musical styles throughout the summer. From soulful ballads to upbeat rhythms, there’s something for everyone at the Candlelight Music Series. Soak in the summer nights, discover new music, and create lasting memories at beautiful Downtown Augusta!
New in 2024: This year, Augusta offers you
Historical marker dedicated at Paine College Ceremony in honor of John Wesley Gilbert
The Georgia Historical Society will hold a dedication for a new historical marker: John Wesley Gilbert (c.1863 – 1923). The dedication will take place on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at Paine College in Augusta, Georgia. The event is open to the public.
Location details: The dedication will take place on the Paine College campus, in front of Gilbert-Lambuth Chapel (off Druid Park Avenue). Parking is available in the lot next to the chapel and HEAL Center Complex, or across the street on the main campus in the lot nearest the fence on Druid Park Avenue.
The marker reads:
John Wesley Gilbert (c.1863 – 1923)
John Wesley Gilbert is considered the first African-American archaeologist. Born enslaved near Hephzibah, he was educated in Augusta’s segregated public schools, at Paine Institute (now Paine College), and at Brown University, where he focused on ancient Greek. In 1888, he became Paine College’s first Black faculty member, teaching humanities there until 1919. From 1890-1891, Gilbert represented Brown University in Greece as one of the first 50 Americans and the first African American at the American School of Classical Studies at Athens (ASCSA). With the ASCSA, Gilbert and his colleague John Pickard conducted a pioneering archaeological and topographical survey of the ancient city of Eretria that set a standard for future professional research. Between 1911-1912, Gilbert helped establish a Methodist mission in the Belgian Congo. Gilbert died in 1923 and is buried in Augusta’s Cedar Grove Cemetery.
Erected by the Georgia Historical Society, the Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History, Paine College, and the American School of Classical Studies at Athens
an easy way to purchase admission tickets in advance through our online reservation system. No tickets will be sold at the gates - but you can always purchase a ticket on your phone with the QR codes provided at the entrance gates. Buy your tickets now: Candlelight Music. Until May 10, 2024 each ticket you purchase is only $8 instead of $10!
With a marketing and voting campaign led by Paine alumni Kristen Goodwin, Paine College won first place and have been awarded $150,000.00. With those funds Paine is planning to renovate and modernize the 2nd floors lounge in the Peters Campus Center and create green spaces, charging stations, and beautifully landscaped sitting areas. Paine College celebrates winning $150,000 Home Depot Campus Improvement Grant
In 2009, The Home Depot launched the Retool You School Campus Improvement Grant Program. Since then, Retool Your School has awarded 273 grants worth more than $9.2 million to America’s Historically Black College. These grants have helped HBCUs make crucial campus improvements.
Reservations are open for Summer Camp 2024! Two separate camps will be offered. Camp One will take place June 3-7. Camp Two will take place June 10-14. These Camps are offered for ages 1st through 5th grades. The cost for one week of camp is an affordable $15.
At Summer Camp, your child will enjoy a wide range of activities including journal writing, field trips, and arts and crafts. Also on offer are fantastic classes on financial literacy, etiquette, and sign language It will be a fun and educational week for your child, and we are excited!
To reserve a space for your child at Summer Camp, please call 706-7243576. For more information go to www.LucyCraftLaneyMuseum.com
April 23, the
