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URBAN PRO WEEKLY APRIL 14 - 20, 2016 VOL. 5 NO. 28

the blue LaVeda Wallace Page

series Olaundra Grace

Cassandra Walton

Nathan Rothwell

metamorphosis Photos by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

ANSLEY JONES, aka Jukeboxx, performs during ParTee on the Green, held at the Augusta Common as part of Masters’ Week festivities in the city. Jones, a native Augustan, has appeared on stage at “Showtime At The Apollo” and her extensive dance studies include Savannah State University, Florida State University and an internship at New York University. For more biography information on Jones, please visit http:// bgirlview.com/main/bio/ Photo by Vincent Hobbs

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NOURA GORDON, owner of Pyramid Music downtown, deejays during ParTee on the Green, held at the Augusta Common as part of Masters Week festivities. The event, featuring dance and music performances, was orchestrated by musician Karen Gordon. (April 6, 2016) Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

PARTEE on the GREEN

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

2016 Election

State Court Judge

STANDARD PRACTICES Photo by Ken Makin

Bo Hunter touts experience and expertise AUGUSTA Meticulousness and experience. Through 30 years of private practice and community service through law, State Court Judge candidate Bo Hunter has worked under these two ideals. It’s a standard he said will be employed if elected on Tuesday, May 24. “When I was elected as Solicitor General (in 1988), there were 5,000 cases. We got that number down to 250 in 18 months,” Hunter said. “I believe my life experiences and legal experiences have prepared me for this office.” Hunter is part of a three-person race that includes strong political surnames in Augusta – McIntyre and Walker. He acknowledged that the names he’s up against are “daunting,” but added that his name and years of service are respected in the community. “Many people know me and my reputation,” Hunter said. “I have worked (as an individual) to

be known as a fair person, and that’s what I’m depending on from the voters. …They know I am someone they can trust to be a judge.” Hunter, who was elected to public office as a Solicitor General from 1988 to 1996, has a threepart focus to his political platform. First, he wants to establish a Richmond County probation office to create a solution to private probation entities such as Sentinel Offender Services. He wants to “ensure that accountability and efficiency” are maintained in State Court, and the importance of compassion while “maintaining the balance of justice.” “I used to tell attorneys (when I worked as Solicitor General) that this is a great experience because you develop a more sophisticated view of law,” he said. “You’re not dealing with murder or armed robbery, crimes like those. …People are coming in that have made a simple mistake or may be heading down the wrong path. It’s not just about handling an offense. You have to figure out

where people are in their life.” Hunter’s views on private probation supplement his mindset of a need for fairness and representation for all citizens. “I have been calling to abolish Sentinel for years,” he said. “Any time you have a company more interested in fees than serving the community, that is a concern.” Hunter, 60, obtained his undergraduate degree in Economics from Davidson College. He managed two radio stations in his 20s, then went back to school to receive his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Georgia School of Law in December 1982. Hunter and his wife, Lisa, have a daughter, Mary Virginia, a son-in-law, John, and two grandchildren. For more information on Hunter’s campaign, visit www.electbohunter.com. — Ken Makin

State Court Judge

ASPIRING TO LEAD Photo by Ken Makin

Photo by Ken Makin

McIntyre relying on family tradition, community service AUGUSTA Some people might see Solicitor General Kellie Kenner McIntyre’s run for State Court Judge as a political risk. She sees it as an obligation and an opportunity to help people. “I’ve heard a lot of different suggestions about waiting. My response is, ‘If not now, when?’ It’s my desire to serve my community,” McIntyre said. “Any time you run (for public office), there’s a political risk. Period. …I have made the decision to run, and it has not come without a lot of prayer and consideration.” McIntyre is locked in a three-person political race, with election day slated for Tuesday, May 24. The race for State Court Judge has strong political surnames, including her own. She said her work as Solicitor General only adds to the responsibility that the McIntyre name carries. “The McIntyre family loves Augusta, and we want to see this community grow. That’s a part of community

service – wanting to see people prosper and do well,” she said. “It’s not just his [husband Marlow] dad (former Augusta mayor Ed McIntyre) who was involved politically, but also his uncle, aunt and grandmother. It has been ingrained in the family.” With that said, she doesn’t plan to rest on her laurels or name recognition. Her platform includes four priorities: advocating for special courts to address the needs of the community, support for alternative sentencing, working to change the private probation system and supporting judicial case assignment similar to Richmond County Superior Court and State Courts through Georgia. “It’s important to have alternative sentencing, because we have to realize that people make mistakes, and you don’t want those mistakes to follow you,” McIntyre said. “I say that to young people all the time. It’s important to keep in mind that what you do today can follow you tomorrow.” McIntyre has worked 23 years in the judicial system,

including seven years in State Court as Solicitor General and as assistant solicitor. It’s that level of experience and ascension that she hopes will translate into a victory on election day. “Prior to working as Solicitor General, I worked as an assistant solicitor, and you’re running the office from a different perspective,” she said. “As a Solicitor General, you learn more about how State Court works – the intricacies of the office. These are some of the lessons that I’ll take with me (if elected).” McIntyre, 47, is a native of Augusta and a graduate of Glenn Hills High School. She received a Bachelor of Arts from Emory University, a Masters of Social Work from the University of Georgia, and Juris Doctor degree from Georgia State University College of Law. She and her husband, Marlow, have two children, Myles, 12, and Elayna, 4. For more information on McIntyre’s campaign, visit www.kelliemcintyreforstatecourtjudge.com. — Ken Makin

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

2016 Election

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

2016 Election

State Court Judge

FOCUSING ON THE FUTURE

Monique Walker confident in faith & family AUGUSTA Her surname is one that still reverberates in Augusta politics. Monique Walker – the daughter of former State Senator Charles Walker – has thrust herself into the race for State Court Judge. Her goal? To continue a legacy of service. “I am very proud of my family and the contributions we have made to this community over the years,” Walker said. “More importantly, I am hopeful that voters will take the time to learn about Monique – the candidate, the lawyer, the leader and the advocate. “ Monique – the candidate – wants to inform voters about 20 years of experience in law practice, as well as the diversity of the cases she has seen. She has also worked as an Assistant District Attorney, a hearing officer for tribunals in the Richmond County School System and as a Staff Attorney for the University Health Care System. “As a practicing lawyer and the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of a regional organization, I know firsthand the impact of the

decisions that are made within in the judicial system,” Walker said. I see the plight of people as they struggle to find their place and provide for their families after an encounter with the judicial system. I continue to work as an advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves.” Walker and her family have dealt with those type of encounters on a profound basis. Over 10 years ago, she and her father were indicted on various criminal counts. She later pled guilty to filing a false tax return. She has a message for voters who may have questions about the past – it was a “sad time” in the past, and it is her “intent to leave it there.” “I feel confident that voters recognize that situation for what it was,” she said. “That experience taught me the lesson of perseverance and confirmed the power of prayer. It showed me the gift of family and friends and made clearer the impact of our justice system.” A victory for Walker – or her opponent, Kellie Kenner McIntyre – would be a milestone victory in terms of diversity. Walker highlighted

the importance of what it would mean to be an African-American woman serving as a judge. “The significance of having an African American woman serving as a State Court judge is the benefit of the diversity that would be brought to the bench,” Walker said. “Like many other cities, the Augusta judicial system will be enhanced by the experiences, understanding, perspective, compassion and hard work that can be brought by a woman who is prepared. But for me, it is more important to use those attributes to make a difference.” Walker, 44, was born and raised in Augusta. She graduated from Westside High School and attended the University of Georgia in 1993, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from the Terry College of Business in Management Information Systems. In 1996, she received her Juris Doctor degree from the University Of Georgia School Of Law. She is a mother of two. For more information on Walker’s campaign, visit www.electmoniquewalker.com. — Ken Makin

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Donna Martin, the director of Burke County’s school nutrition program, share an embrace. Photo by Ken Makin

MAKIN’ A DIFFERENCE COMMENTARY by Ken Makin

The First Lady’s trip to area was powerful in presence and practicality Last week, I had the chance to take pictures and experience First Lady Michelle Obama’s trip to Burke County Middle School. The First Lady’s journey to Waynesboro said a lot about the Obamas and Burke County itself. First, the Obamas. They are, without

question, the most accessible presidential pair ever. It’s amazing how the Obamas simultaneously present themselves as regal, yet down-toearth at the same time. They are very personable and likable, and despite the periodical negativity that comes their way, it doesn’t change how they

approach people – whether laymen or those in the political realm. Burke County contains a wealth of history and community pride. It is the quintessential rural county, complete with Southern charm and a presence of elected officials that is beginning to match its demographics.

I was fortunate enough to capture a single instance of Mrs. Obama’s trip – an instance of worlds colliding, if you will. I took a picture of a group of young, African-American middle-school girls hugged up against Continued on next page

9 UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

First Lady Michelle Obama arrives with famed weatherman Al Roker during their trip to Burke County Middle School last Thursday as part of the American Garden Tour. Photo by Ken Makin

Pictured from left: Burke County Middle School principal Dr. Mona Reynolds, District 126 State Rep. Gloria Frazier and Waynesboro Mayor Pauline Jenkins watch as First Lady Michelle Obama interacts with students last Thursday. Photo by Ken Makin

Garden Tour from page 8 the First Lady. The way she engaged them – and embraced them in motherly fashion – was amazing. I posted the picture to the Makin’ A Difference Facebook page, and to date, the picture has reached nearly 10,000 people. In my opinion, the picture represents the Obama presidency – the imagery, the hope, the presence. We are all caught up in Mrs. Obama’s appearance in Burke County, and understandably so. As much as we care about her presence, though, we should also salute her practicality. Allow me to explain. Through her “Let’s Move!” initiative and American Garden Tour, the First Lady continues to raise awareness about health and fitness. And by planting a garden, Mrs. Obama is promoting economics and self-sufficiency. In rural Burke County, there is a “Farm to School” program that provides farm fresh produces to students on a daily basis. As a result of offering local fresh fruits and vegetables, the Burke County school district found that students’ consumption of fruits and veggies doubled. In short, the First Lady’s program is

First Lady Michelle Obama interacts with Burke County Middle School students last Thursday as a part of her “Let’s Move” initiative and American Garden Tour. Photo by Ken Makin creating a destiny in young children, of all races, that encourages eating well and providing for oneself. The program also shows the diversity of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education. A recent Yahoo! story asked a question through an online commentary: “Why Aren’t Black Students Picking Majors That Lead To High-Paying Jobs?” I found this dialogue to be predictable and disappointing. Too often, we push and encourage our kids to be doctors or lawyers. That’s

not a bad thing – in context. We have lost that context because we are not teaching our children to monetize their abilities and talents, nor do we promote excellence within their environment. Education should not be a cookie-cutter practice. It should be an ideal that promotes critical thinking and practicality. Verily, Mrs. Obama’s program does just that – all in the name of STEM! All in all, Mrs. Obama has redefined the “green thumb.” She not only promotes growth through gardening,

but growth in the community. Now that’s what I call “change you can believe in.” Ken J. Makin is the host of “Makin’ A Difference,” an online radio program available on iTunes and Soundcloud (soundcloud.com/makinadifference). Updates on the show are available atfacebook.com/makinadifferenceshow. You can also reach Ken by email at makinadifferenceshow@gmail.com, or via Twitter @differencemakin.

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

10 BLUE BISTRO THEATRE PRESENTS

THE BLUE SERIES Metamorphosis

Cassandra Walton, in her directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “Growing Pains.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs “The reason that I decided to direct this particular play is because it gave me an opportunity to share some of my own experiences as a single parent. My kids are my biggest inspiration and greatest supporters. ‘Growing Pains’ tells the story of some of the difficulties single parents have with their children.”

Growing Pains Written and directed by Cassandra Walton. About Growing Pains - Once a star student, now the class clown, Nicholas Johnson has to face the consequences of his actions and they are not what he expects. The Cast Includes: Olivia Pontoo, Keelan Moore, Victor Corley and Cassandra Walton

Six new directors present 6 One-Act Plays • Growing Pains • Captive • • The Figment • Circuitous •

Olaundra Grace, in her directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “CAPTIVE.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs “It’s my desire that each play I write encourages the audience.”

Captive Written and directed by Olaundra Grace: Captive is about family secrets, lies, and public prestige. The Hewitt Family can no longer live behind the mask; their day of reckoning has arrived. The Cast Includes: Victoria Felder and Evangelist Camelia Lockhart

Summyr Sheppard, in her directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “The Figment.”

LaVeda Wallace Page, in her directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “Circuitous.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs

“I decided to direct this play because I felt it was a storyline that was relatable to many. It will ignite healing for anyone who may be going through a similar situation.”

“Directing this play gave me a release of emotional tension that I experienced following a series of poor decisions in my twenties. I felt I needed to share it to restore and refresh my spirit - and hopefully spare others this particular trauma.”

The Figment Written and directed by Summyr Sheppard. The Figment is a one-woman show that explores the relationship of a young woman and her estranged father. This personal, often abstract and sometimes poetic story, moves across a series of emotional milestones in a young woman’s journey of self-discovery. The Cast Includes: Summyr Sheppard

Circuitous Written and directed by Laveda Wallace-Page: Circuitous is about a woman, Angela, who finds herself in a difficult situation which proves to be painful to everyone involved but the worst is yet to come. The Cast Includes: Danielle Parks, Mary Sumpter, Demetrio Fray, Nakiska J and Darrius Courtney

ANTHONY R. PAGE / BLUE BISTRO THEATER PRESENTS • THE BLUE SERIES - METAMORPHISIS Showtimes and Ticket Information ‘The Series’ includes realm of professional The Black Box Theatre Space 6 live performances theater. 601 Broad Street, Downtown, Augusta from a collection of In addition to one-act plays written these 6 productions, Evening Performances Friday, April 15th & Saturday, April 16th Anthony R. Page will and directed by 6 at 7 pm, Admission: $20 actors, who are all present a special making their direcone-act performance Matinee Performances Saturday, April 16th & Sunday, April 17th torial debut in the of The Commitment. at 3 pm, Admission: $20

Laraybia Walters, in her directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “Take Me.” Photo courtesy of the artist

Nathan Rothwell, in his directorial debut in professional theater, presents the one-act play “It Aint Always Him.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs

“My play talks about some of the things I have seen and some of the people I met while I was in the foster care system. I really want more people to see what some of these people have gone through and some of the choices they have had to make.”

“I wrote this short piece from my novel that’s still in the making. It shows that all men can’t be put into a box of deadbeat husbands and fathers. A lot of men are brought up to take care of the family, providing a place to stay, food to eat, clothes and protection.”

Take Me Written and directed by Laraybia Walters: About Take Me - Coming from a household of neglect and devastating circumstances, An older sister makes an unbelievable choice to preserve the innocence of her younger sibling. The Cast Includes: Sa Jules, Nakiska J, Jalen Frasher and, Laraybia Walters

It Ain’t Always Him Written and directed by Nathan Rothwell: About It Ain’t Always Him: When divorce is on the table, a couple has to decide if their marriage can survive a now broken foundation. The Cast Includes: Sa Jules, Demetrio Fray, Olivia Pontoo, Shantelle Wheeler, and Tyeasha Vanburen

Director and playright Anthony Page presents the one-act play “The Commitment.” Photo by Vincent Hobbs “This play ranks amongst the best of my one-act plays. Since 2008, I have presented the original version in many different settings. As I grew in my experience of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, I decided to do a rewrite last year. It’s deeper and more insightful now.”

The Commitmnt The Commitment is a moving relationship drama that examines the complex nature of love between a husband and his wife. This production features actors: Victor Corley, Cierra Mitchell & Tyeasha Vanburen.

James Brown Family Birthday Bash reunites Band with Special Guests May 3 May 3rd is the birthday of The Godfather of Soul. Friends With Benefits, the same company that brought The Major Rager to town Tournament week, is working in conjunction with the City of Augusta and The James Brown Family Foundation for an unforgettable concert experience honoring the life, legacy and music of James Brown. The show will benefit the James Brown Academy of Musik Pupils (JAMP), whose mission is to further music education for Augusta’s youth through the music of James Brown. JAMP is run by James Brown’s daughter, Deanna Brown Thomas, and his music director / lead guitarist, Keith Jenkins. The talented youngsters from JAMP Masters will open the night on May 3rd followed

by Augusta’s favorite hometown musical act Funk You. Keith Jenkins has assembled the band for the James Brown Family Birthday Bash comprised of 13 former members of the James Brown Band. Sharon Jones, George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk), Ty Taylor (Vintage Trouble), Jennifer Hartswick (Trey Anastasio Band), Chris Rob (Nasty Delicious), Gavin Hamilton (Funk You) and Greg Hester are confirmed special guests. This event will be open to all ages. Children under 12 are free. Concessions will be served on site. No re-entry, no weapons, no pets, no outside food or drink. Blankets and chairs are permitted.

Keith Jenkins has assembled the ‘Birthday Bash’ band.

11 UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

This weekend: April 15, April 16 & April 17, 2016 • Take Me • • The Commitment • Photos and interviews by Vincent Hobbs • It Ain’t Always Him •

Augusta University and U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence to sign cyber agreement

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

AUGUSTA Augusta University and the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence will publicly sign a memorandum of understanding on Friday, April 15, to share resources and help develop a cybertrained workforce through education, innovation, research and outreach. “Collaborating with the military, the private sector and the community is essential for our success in cyberspace. We are looking forward to joining forces with the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence and using our resources to

help train the next generation of cyber warriors who can meet local, state and national demands in cybersecurity,” said Augusta University President Brooks A. Keel, Ph.D. “This agreement is a logical, necessary step toward developing a highly-trained workforce who can keep our community, our businesses and our country safe in cyberspace.” Upon signing the memorandum, the university is committed to facilitating the enrollment of service members in its cyber programs and increasing the

number of online courses to help them get high-quality cyber training. “We are honored to help our servicemen and servicewomen in any way we can to get the cyber training they need,” said Gretchen Caughman, executive vice president for academic affairs and provost. “As Augusta is getting ready to become the cyber hub in the United States, Augusta University is committed to investing in cyber education, research and curriculum development and creating a nationally-recognized cyber program.”

The U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence, in turn, will provide instructors for seminars and short courses, facilitate internships for Augusta University students and assist with the development of cyber curriculum. The public signing of the memorandum will take place at 10 a.m. Friday, April 15, at the Conference Room on the third floor of the Kelly Building. To attend, please RSVP at 706-830-9826 or at atakahashi@augusta.edu by 5 p.m. Thursday, April 14, if you plan on covering the event.

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Contributors VINCENT HOBBS Photography & New Media KEN MAKIN contributing columnist

Charles Anderson Jr. (second from left) and his wife stand with Lt. Col. Murrell and Command Sgt. Major Boyd in front of a enlarged mural of C. Alfred ‘Chief’ Anderson recently at the Army Reserve Training Center on Fort Gordon. Anderson Jr., who talked about the accomplishments of his father (the senior flight instructor for the Tuskegee Airmen), visited with the 2nd Battalion, 347th Regiment to raise the public’s awareness on the accomplishments of his father and the Tuskegee Airmen. Photo by Anthony Hooker

Finance Seminar gives community chance to meet with bankers The CSRA Business League, in conjunction with the Wells Fargo Bank, will sponsor a Finance Seminar on Tuesday, 19 April 2016 beginning at 5:30 pm at the Augusta Public Library at 823 Telfair Street. The workshop will feature presentations on Lending Programs and Financial Products offered by Wells Fargo. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak one on one with a Wells

Fargo Banking specialist. Refreshments will be served. There is no cost to attend. Please contact us at 706 722 - 0994 or by email at shirmaineivey@business-league.org for additional information. To register go to https://www. eventbrite.com/e/small-business-finance-seminar-tickets-24109452020 or call or email us to add your name to the event roster.

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UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

Honoring Chief Anderson of the Tuskegee Airmen

UrbanProWeekly - APRIL 14 - 20, 2016

SPORTS Paine vs Augusta U.

Paine College baseball pitcher Stephen Abernathy winds up for the pitch during a non-conference game against Augusta University at the Lions home field. The Jaguars crushed the Lions with a final score of 14-3, after 7 innings of play. (April 6, 2016 - Augusta, GA) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Paine Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jahziel Morel goes to bat during a non-conference game against Augusta University at the Lions home field. (April 6, 2016) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs (At Left) Paine Collegeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quentin Alsbrook makes a pitch during a non-conference game against Augusta University. (April 6, 2016) - Photo by Vincent Hobbs

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