UPW Urban Pro Weekly

UPW URBAN PRO WEEKLY

Finally

...

U.S., Cuba to restore embassies

JULY 2 - 8, 2015 VOL. 4 NO. 41

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

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UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

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1,600,000 increases 88,600 Marshal's office salary increases cilitiesOrganizational and other depts. assessment - Recreation, 100,000 Parks and Facilit 100,000 Organizational Compensation Study Reduce transfer to 911 to 2014 Level (250,000) 300,000 Compensation Adjustments non-sworn personnel Storm Water Fees effective 7-1-15 (1,250,000) Office of Compliance / ADA Coordination125,000 Benefit increases for 1945 plan retirees 55,800 420,400 Personnel - Exhibit B1 Funded 1/1/15 157,300 RCCI upgrades Funded 7/1/15 ns 4,600 Board of Elections - upgrades to 4 positions 44,300 - 2 new positions Clerk of Commission 76,400 Human resources - 3 new positions rtifications Tax Assessor -28,500 salary upgrades for DOR certific State Court - 240,600 RSCO Deputies for 911 operations 68,700 - 4 new call takers for 9 Emergency Telephone 415,000 Program Enhancements - Exibit B2 THE Sheriff's CITY office salary

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By Frederick Benjamin Sr. UrbanProWeekly Political Analyst

AUGUSTA Today, the city begins robbing Peter to pay Paul. The $1.25 million revenue stream from the Storm Water Fees which was supposed to kick in on July 1 has not materialized.

The folks from the city’s Finance Department, however, are not in scramble mode. In fact, they’re downright nonchalant about the matter.

According to City Finance Director Donna Williams, that very issue will be the topic of discussion at an upcoming July 14 committee meeting.

But what about the budget? As of July 1, it’s no longer in balance. And if that’s not a big deal, what’s the point of having a budget.

City Administrator Janet Jackson Allen, also was in no mood to panic.

“The budget is a dynamic document,” Allen said. “We deal with these types of issues on a routine basis. Since the stormwater fee revenue only accounts for about one percent of our budget, I’m sure that we will have some recommendations for the commissioners when we meet about it.”

The commissioners have known since late 2013 that the storm water fee (or some other revenue stream that served the same purpose) was needed to stay in compliance with federal guidelines.

The government says, you will pay for storm water issues now or you will pay for them later — ­ but you will pay.

But the commission has not acted. A year ago, this would have been an easier pill to swallow for the commissioners. Then, they had the will, but not the

way. Today, the narrative has changed — they have the way, but not the will.

And it’s not going to get any easier.

At the present time, resistance to paying an extra tax or fee (call it what you will) is very strong. You’ve got former commissioners up in arms, former mayors up in arms, current commissioners trying to change the subject and the public just hoping for the best.

The reality, however, is that this train is too far out of the station to be turned around.

In 2013, the commission authorized $484,000 to pay consultant AMEC Inc. to develop a stormwater management plan. AMEC was to complete an inventory of all stormwater structures and eventually help the city to determine who to charge and how much.

At the time, Engineering Director Abie Ladson, a huge proponent of the fee, said that the fee would generate up to $10 million in annual revenue.

The money was to be used to fund maintenance of aging and insufficient stormwater infrastructure that causes areas around the city to flood during heavy rains.

Implementation of the fee would cost homeowners a few extra dollars each month, but the cost to businesses and nonprofits that have buildings would be more substantial.

Lately, there has been a lot of talk about wrapping up all the stormwater projects into the next special local option sales tax (SPLOST) package.

That is risky as well as being off base. The public is in a fighting mood.

SPLOST 7 has to be carefully crafted and then skillfully promoted to a skeptical public. Even if a SPLOST package

Augusta Georgia 2015 Budget Administrators Recommendation - December 2, 2014

101/273 General Fund / Law Enforcement Revenue Enhancements Payment in Lieu of Franchise Fees Total Revenue Enhancements

Cost adjustments Sheriff's office salary increases Marshal's office salary increases Organizational assessment - Recreation, Parks and Facilities and other depts.

Organizational Compensation Study Reduce transfer to 911 to 2014 Level Compensation Adjustments non-sworn personnel Storm Water Fees effective 7-1-15 Office of Compliance / ADA Coordination Benefit increases for 1945 plan retirees Personnel - Exhibit B1 Funded 1/1/15 RCCI upgrades Funded 7/1/15 Board of Elections - upgrades to 4 positions Clerk of Commission - 2 new positions Human resources - 3 new positions Tax Assessor - salary upgrades for DOR certifications State Court - 2 RSCO Deputies Emergency Telephone - 4 new call takers for 911 operations Program Enhancements - Exibit B2 Animal Control - Disaster preparedness Engineering - Maintenance/ Mowing/ Cleanup Traffic Engineering - Guardrail Maintenance Trees - maintenance and replacement Recreation - Security Services Special Events Total Cost Adjustments Funds Available

215/216

Emergency Telephone Service - 911 Projected Revenue Adjustment

$ 1,809,000

$ 1,809,000

1,600,000 88,600 100,000 100,000 (250,000) 300,000 (1,250,000) 125,000 55,800 420,400

157,300 4,600 44,300 76,400 28,500 40,600 68,700

415,000

5,000 150,000 50,000 150,000 60,000

1,704,800

$

104,200

$

250,000

The above is part of a presentaion made by the city administrator in Dec. 2014. Most of the provisions of the above were approved by the commissioners for the 2015 budget. The highlighted portion refers to the Storm Water revenue which the commission has yet to vote on despite the fact that it was supposed to be implemented on July 1, 2015.

B is successful, it can’t be usedExhibit law and decides to “subvert the for stormwater infrastructure usage of the SPLOST” for mainmaintenance. SPLOST revenue tenance operations, the revenue is reserved primarily for capital stream wouldn’t begin to flow improvements. in time to salvage the 2015 budBut, let’s say that the commis- get. That money couldn’t come sion ignores the letter of the online until sometime in 2016.

UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

Storm-fee inaction stresses city budget

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

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‘MAKIN’ A DIFFERENCE’ COMMENTARY

A fresh BREEze of civil disobedience

by Ken J. Makin Special to UrbanProWeekly

A conversation overhead at the South Carolina State Capitol on Saturday: “Look, it’s a bird!

No, it’s a plane!

No, it’s REVOLUTION!” Imagine how people felt when they saw Bree Newsome as she climbed up the flagpole and yanked down that hated (or beloved, depending on your limited perspective) confederate* flag!

I know how I felt – it’s about time!

“For far too long, white supremacy has dominated the politics of America resulting in the creation of racist laws and cultural practices designed to subjugate non-whites.

And the emblem of the confederacy, the stars and bars, in all its manifestations, has long been the most recognizable banner of this political ideology,” Newsome said in an exclusive interview with Blue Nation Review.

You feel that? Yeah, I feel it, too.

It’s a new wave, a fresh breeze of civil disobedience.

It is expected that people compare the 30-year-old Newsome to Ms. Rosa Parks. After all, Ms. Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on the bus is one of the most familiar incidents of civil disobedience that this country and the black community identify with and acknowledge.

UPW

URBANPROWEEKLY.COM

Published by

Urban Pro Weekly LLC 3529 Monte Carlo Drive Augusta, GA 30906 Executive Publisher BEN HASAN 706-394-9411 bzhasan54@yahoo.com

Here is the new challenge, though – how do we capitalize as a community on Newsome’s actions?

When Ms. Parks was thrown in jail for her actions, it led to arguably the most successful boycott in this country’s history. It generate an economic outburst that forced this country to pass legislation.

A few hours after Newsome took down the flag, a new one was raised in its place.

It was the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King who asked this question in one of his literary works: “Where Do We Go From Here, Chaos Or Community?”

I say, “community.”

The Ku Klux Klan, that antiquated, financially-sapped hate group, is trying to salvage its remnants of relevance by holding a “rally” at the South Carolina State Capitol on July 18. Truth be told, our war isn’t with them. They have already been defeated by the likes of the Southern Poverty Law Center. In the 21st Century, they’re still going door-to-door and handing out flyers, for goodness sakes.

No, our battle is with the individuals who hold political and local office that perpetuate and allow this foolishness.

“Brian” Gaines, the Policy and Public Affairs Director, was referenced in a recent story about the KKK’s rally. He provided details for the times of the scheduled rally on July 18. His office should be bombarded with calls about our collec-

Executive Managing Editor FREDERICK BENJAMIN SR. 706-306-4647 editor@urbanproweekly.com Sales & Marketing 706-394-9411 Contributors VINCENT HOBBS Photography & New Media View Urbanproweekly on Facebook

Bree Newsome is arrested after taking down the Confederate flag on the South Carolina statehouse grounds. REUTERS/Adam Anderson tive disapproval of this outrageous event. His number is (803) 7349260. While you’re at it, call South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley’s office at (803) 734-2100.

Our civil disobedience and and outrage must adapt with the times. If not, we will continue to live and breathe in a South that clings to its racist past and exerts its supremacy upon us. *You may be wondering why I refuse to capitalize the word “confederate” in regard to the racist banner that hangs over the State house: I despise the symbolism and ideals

of the confederate flag just that much. One of the definitions of the word denotes a “person one works with, especially in something secret or illegal; an accomplice.” Now add that notion to its other definition, an “alliance.” If that doesn’t explain what’s going on in the South, I don’t know what does.

Ken J. Makin is the host of “Makin’ A Difference,” a radio program that airs weekdays from 1 to 3 p.m. on WKZK, 1600 AM. You can also reach Ken by email at makinadifferenceshow@gmail.com.

Ronnie Spry Roast & Toast Augusta Mini Theatre Community Arts and Life Skills School is announces its 6th Annual Sunshine’s Roast and Toast roasting Coach Ronnie Spry, Thursday, July 16, 7:00 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church Family Life Center at 1230 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA To purchase tickets, table or an ad, call 706-7220598 or visit www.augustaminitheatre.com.

Former Augusta mayor will compete in the GOP primary 123 seat.

In her retirement message, Sims said, “Serving the citizens of Augusta/ Richmond and Columbia counties has been an honor. I will continue to keep their best interests at heart as I conclude my time in the House. I am proud of what we have accomplished

By Frederick Benjamin Sr. UrbanProWeekly Staff Writer AUGUSTA Through newspaper columns, social media posts and email messages, former Augusta mayor Bob Young has kept engaged in local politics since leaving his government post during the Bush administration.

The former broadcaster and current novelist announced this week that he is “putting his money where is mouth is.”

Young, through a Facebook post, announced recently that he is seeking the House District 123 post currently held by Barbara Sims.

Sims, who has held the seat since 2007, announced this week that she will retire at the end of her current term in January 2017.

Sims is currently the Chairman of the State Properties Committee and Secretary of the Economic Development and Tourism Committee, while also serving on the on the Appropriations, Rules, Transportation, Health and Human Services and Science and Technology Committees.

Young gave a shot out to Sims in his announcement message.

“I also take this opportunity to

in continuing to make Georgia a better place for our children and grandchildren.”

In an email sent out after Sims announced her retirement, McLeod said, “I’m in! This morning Barbara Sims announced she is not running.

The race begins now!”

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Bob Young: Former mayor wants to get back into politics. congratulate Rep. Barbara Sims on her many years of service on the City Commission and in the state house.

She was a joy to work with and carried herself with dignity and high integrity,” Young said.

Young will compete in the 2016 Republican primary next May. Young will not go unopposed.

Wright McLeod, former Republican candidate for U.S. Congress from GA_12 announced this week that he will also be running for the District

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In ‘historic step,’ Obama announces full diplomatic relations with Cuba Among the major issues still to be dealt with are the embargo, compensation for properties taken from U.S. citizens after the revolution, the U.S. base at Guantanamo, migration policy and the return of U.S. criminals who have been given safe harbor in Cuba.

The Cuban people have long expressed their love for all things American. Americans will find it easier now to visit and enjoy all things Cuban.

by Mimi Whitfield mwhitefield@MiamiHerald.com MIAMI Casting aside more than a half century of hostilities, President Barack Obama announced Wednesday (July 1) that the United States and Cuba would restore full diplomatic relations and open respective embassies on July 20.

Speaking in the White House Rose Garden, he called the rapprochement “a historic step forward in our efforts to normalize relations with the Cuban government and people, and begin a new chapter with our neighbors in the Americas.” The president said Secretary of State John Kerry would

soon travel to Havana to “proudly raise the U.S. flag over our embassy.”

The United States and Cuba held four rounds of talks — two in Havana and two in Washington — to reach agreement on the terms for opening embassies and renewing diplomatic ties after Obama and Cuban leader Raúl Castro jointly announced on Dec. 17 that the two countries planned to work toward normalization.

Obama said that since then he was seen “enormous enthusiasm for this new approach.”

There was no immediate reaction from the Cuban government, but Jeffrey DeLaurentis, chief of the U.S. Interests Section in Havana, met with acting Foreign Minister Marcelino

Medina Wednesday morning to deliver a letter from Obama about the opening of the embassies and resumption of diplomatic ties.

Among the final sticking points had been the United States’ desire for its diplomats to travel freely throughout Cuba to talk with a wide variety of Cubans. The Cuban government agreed to allow such travel but said that U.S. diplomats must inform the Ministry of Foreign Relations (Minrex) 24 hours in advance of such travel.

The United States broke off relations with Cuba on Jan. 3, 1961 after the relationship between the two countries had steadily deteriorated since the 1959 Cuban revolution. The day before, Cuban Foreign Minister Raúl Roa, speaking before the U.N. Security Council, said the United States was planning to invade Cuba and was engaging in espionage from its embassy in Havana.

The invasion didn’t actually come until April of that year when the CIAsponsored Brigade 2506 failed in its attempt to invade Cuba and topple the Castro government. In 1960, the United States began phasing in the trade embargo against Cuba.

Noting that the U.S. shuttered its embassy at the height of the Cold War, Obama said, “I don’t think anyone expected it would be more than a half a century before it reopened.”

Opening the embassies and renewing diplomatic ties are just the beginning steps in a long process of normalization that includes issues both big and small that separate the two countries that are only 90 miles apart.

Among the major issues still to be dealt with are the embargo, compensation for properties taken from U.S. citizens after the revolution, the U.S. base at Guantanamo, migration policy and the return of U.S. criminals who have been given safe harbor in

Cuba.

“While there are still many issues to be resolved in the full normalization of relations between the two countries and its peoples, today’s announcement gives us another reason to be optimistic,” the Cuba Study Group, which supports engagement with Cuba, said in a statement. “It is further evidence that engagement rather than isolation is the best way to advance U.S. interests and the interests of the Cuban people.”

In Havana, retired Cuban diplomat Carlos Alzugaray said there are so many issues between the two countries that “you need a very tall building, a 50-story building’’ to house them all.

“But we have to construct that building on very shaky ground — so the foundations have to be very strong.”

Alzugaray, who wrote his first paper advocating normalization of relations with the United States in 1999, said that he didn’t think a U.S. flag flying above an American Embassy in Havana was anything that he would see in his lifetime.

Now his hope is for “a civilized relationship where both countries respect each other.”

Dany Hernandez, 39, a former baseball player who now runs two bedand-breakfast properties in Havana, said he started learning Russian when he was in elementary school and was taught the United States was the enemy. “That’s crazy. From my point of view, it’s not true,” he said. “I think people are very content with the opening. I’m an optimist.”

On her Twitter account, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, now a Democratic presidential hopeful, wrote: “New US Embassy in Havana helps us engage Cuban people & build on efforts to support positive change. Good step for US & Cuban people.”’

UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

THE WORLD

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

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Director/producer Anthony Page poses for a photo on Sixth Street in downtown Augusta. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Lights, Camera, Action!

Interview by Vincent Hobbs The rehearsal room is hot and stuffy and several cast members are fanning themselves in a futile attempt to cool off. “Hot flashes!” one cast member exclaims.

The AC has yet to fully kick in. Regardless, there is work to do and local director/producer Anthony Page takes control of the room and sets the scene for the actors appearing in the stage play “The Password”. The actors take their marks and the rehearsal begins. Page begins a continuous pace as he walks back and forth, watching the actors deliver their lines. He calls for a scene to be rehearsed again, explaining the nuances of character delivery to the actors. Page’s gaze is intense, scrutinizing body language and vocal delivery. The actors follow his directions religiously. They know that they are in good hands.

UPW caught up with Page to get the update on his latest endeavors.

What’s your biggest challenge as a director?

People. Everyone on the set, including the cast and the crew, speak a different language based on their personalities, backgrounds and individual preferences. As a director, you have to learn how to effectively communicate with each one of them to move a production towards a successful outcome.

For actors, it’s even more of a challenge, because you have to maneuver through an obstacle course of understanding to discern how that person works creatively. Once you understand them, then you can guide them to their best performance. Overall, I try to tap into the creative epicenter of everyone on set, because you never know where that break through moment is going to come, so you cultivate across the entire spectrum.

What is the inspiration behind your new TV series “Cycles”?

“Cycles” TV series is based on a book by Dr. Marion Myers out of Columbia, South Carolina. She is a woman of faith, an evangelist, and she received a prophecy that indicated that she would bring her first novel to the screen. Through a series of conversations with various people, she found me and I was immediately interested.

The story is inspired by Ecclesiastes, chapter 3, where it states that for everything, there is a season. As I have matured and been through many seasons in my life, it was something that definitely appealed to me. My team and I jumped on board to help bring her vision to life. We are currently in production and I am Continued on next page

Page from page 8

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You are also producing/directing a new music reality TV show, currently in development, called “Sounds of the Underground”.

How did the idea come about for this project?

I consume a lot of art and I have been involved in TV, film, theater, dance, visual arts and literature.

Across my career I have come to know many creative professionals, every now and again you see one that has that “X-factor” — they have something about who they are and what they do, that is so well-defined.

That became attractive to me. As I was exploring some new music, I had a brainstorm of bringing it together in a show. “Sounds of the Underground” was born. The show will focus on the awakening of an artist, the series of moments where an artist moves out of the shadows into the light. We hope the world will get to see these talents grow from their current stations in life. Right now, we are in the process of pitching the show to some Director/producer Anthony Page directs a rehearsal for the play “The Password” at the 601 Broad Street Building. Pictured are Caché Perez (far left) and Nathan Rothwell. Photo by Vincent Hobbs interested parties.

Tell us about the new play “The Password” and how you became involved in this project as the director.

Password is a play from Executive Producer Dennis J. West. It’s a story about the wealthy Davenport family and their relationship to each other. I love this project because the characters are very complex.

For a period, projects within African-American independent theater were somewhat simplified, and centered on the same character archetypes. Dennis has brought forth a production that shows more of the richness and diversity within Black people in America.

West had heard about the work I have done and reached out to me. I knew much of his cast, which is led by Nathan Rothwell and Sharon Abrams (aka Cache Perez), so I jumped at the opportunity to work with them.

Overall, this is a very strong cast, which also includes the talents of Shatareia Stokes, Ashley Black and Hellena Shearin but expect a truly break-out performance from Sharon Abrams. Her character will definitely make the audience “feel some type of way.” Nathan Rothwell is also very

good in this, a very strong leading man.

Is it easy to find acting talent in the CSRA? Yes and no. Many people are talented — but to function at the level that I am aiming for — it’s difficult.

Many people in this community act as a hobby, so they enjoy it, it’s fun for them — but I have learned that they are not going to make the kind of sacrifice, put in the kind of work and commitment needed to take a show to the next level and bring out the absolute best in a production.

Acting is just lesser of a priority for them. The people who are willing to do that and are aiming to make this a career, usually do not stick around the area long. They build up some momentum and almost immediately look towards greener pastures, such as Atlanta and sometimes NYC or LA. Whatever happened to your popular live-stage comedy ensemble, “The Augusta Comedy Hour”?

Will there be a reunion at some point in the future? That period ranked among my best theatrical

experiences to date, it was a lot of fun to work with that group and we knew it was a great experience for the audiences as well. My partner and I, Kenneth “KB” Brown, are making moves now to revive that series.

It’s going to come back under the moniker of “The American Comedy Experience”.

What’s next on your agenda to accomplish?

Primarily, to show my kids how to take the talents that GOD gave them and build a business around that. I hope this will be my legacy — that my kids will know how to take what they are good at and find a way to make money from it, essentially moving us from being employees to business owners, forever changing the conversation for my family’s generations to come.

On the immediate horizon, I have several plays I have been asked to direct in Atlanta for the balance of the year, so as soon as I complete “The Password”, I move into the next three productions.

I am also working on a documentary film centered on the American

Dream. It’s a three-year project — we are now moving into year two.

My wife has a live show based on her experience living with sickle cell anemia. The demand for her to make appearances, to participate on panels and speak across the country was so great, we had to slow down a bit to allow her to catch up. At some point, we will move on that effort once again.

Our commitment to this cause will be a life-long journey, so advocacy in this arena, will always be something we will do as a family.

In the past 20-plus years, I have been a part of more than 35 productions. The people I have met and the stories that I can share will make your ears wiggle. I am developing a play about those experiences.

It’s funny, shocking and at times heart-breaking. By the end of the year and going into 2016, we should be ready to get that production The stage play, “The Password”, will be performed at the Jabez Performing Arts Center in Evans on July 19th with two shows at 4pm and 7pm.

UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

co-producing and directing. We are expecting to air this fall on the Preach the Word Worldwide network, along with their partnering entities.

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

10

City to host solar and green energy workshop The City of Augusta is hosting a community workshop on solar energy and other green energy alternatives on Thursday, July 9, 2015, from 8:30 a.m. to Noon at the Main Library, 823 Telfair Street, Augusta. At the workshop, Georgia Power will present updates on current energy alternatives, the market, and the types of initiatives going on around Georgia. Information on current and potential new City, business, economic development and other projects to pursue green energy alternatives will be discussed, with the objective of identifying public-private partnerships for environmen-

tally conscientious and cost-saving ideas for Augusta. Individuals interested in participating should contact Tammie Herring,

Environmental Services Department, at 706-592-3218, for further information.

Turn Back The Block Presents the 4th Annual Harrisburg Clean

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Saturday, June 27th, 2015 Headquartered at the old Martha Lester School 1688 Broad Street

Admiral Michael Rogers, Commander at U.S. Cyber Command, Director of the National Security Agency, and Chief at the Central Security Service, answered questions and discussed the importance of building the next generation of cybersecurity experts during a visit on Thursday, June 25 to Georgia Regents University’s Cyber Sciences Summer Academy.

“We must begin to train the next gen-

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eration of cybersecurity experts now,” Adm. Rogers said. “Our nation’s security and prosperity depends on it. GenCyber camps lay the foundation for rewarding cybersecurity careers in public and private industry.”

GRU was a recipient of a GenCyber grant, funded by a partnership between the National Security Agency and the National Science Foundation.

MUSIC

UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

” y r g -

11

f a l e

Candlelight Jazz Sundays (Above)Bassman David Heath of the David Heath Project performs during the 96.3 KISS FM 2015 Candlelight Jazz Concert Series at the Augusta Common.

(Far Left) Leonard Maxey plays the flugelhorn with the David Heath Project.

(Left) Saxophonist Wayne Preston (foreground) gets things cooking.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

12

UPW FORUM COMMENTARY

Affordable housing, racial isolation A Supreme Court ruling last week forcefully reminded state and local governments that the Fair Housing Act of 1968 forbids them from spending federal housing money in ways that perpetuate segregation.

Communities across the country have been doing exactly that for decades.

Instead of building subsidized housing in racially integrated areas that offer minority citizens access to jobs and good schools, local governments have often deepened racial isolation by placing such housing in existing ghettos.

Justice Anthony Kennedy delivered this timely message in the majority opinion, ruling that the law allows plaintiffs to challenge housing policies that have a discriminatory effect — without having to prove that discrimination was intentional.

He traces the problem of racial isolation back to the mid-20th century, when restrictive covenants, redlining and government-sponsored mortgage discrimination undercut black wealth creation, accelerated ghetto-ization and walled off black families in the urban communities that exploded in the riots of the 1960s.

The ruling comes at a time of grow-

ing tension between civil rights lawyers and affordable housing developers over where low-income housing should be built and whether locations (often the path of least resistance) perpetuate segregation.

Congress hoped to end historic patterns of segregation by passing the Fair Housing Act, which required governments getting federal money to “affirmatively further” fair housing goals.

But for decades, federal, state and local officials declined to enforce the law, leaving the fight to civil rights groups, who often filed lawsuits on behalf of discrimination victims.

The current case, Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs v.

Inclusive Communities Project, concerns a federal tax credit program used by states and local governments to build affordable housing. The plaintiff, a nonprofit group, sued Texas, arguing that the state had violated the Fair Housing Act and perpetuated segregation by allocating too many tax credits to projects in predominantly black inner city areas and too few in predominantly white suburban areas.

The Supreme Court ruled that a discrimination charge could be based on the fact that a policy had a “disparate

impact” on black citizens and sent the case back to the lower court for further proceedings.

Earlier this year, a study from the Institute on Metropolitan Opportunity at the University of Minnesota Law School found that the Twin Cities region had become more segregated, as compared to demographically similar regions like Portland or Seattle, because too large a share of affordable housing has been in impoverished black areas.

The developers have rationalized the building in those places by calling it economic redevelopment, the authors said, but the evidence suggests that the building merely intensified segregation and the concentration of poverty.

A similar dispute between fair housing advocates and a nonprofit housing developer erupted recently in Connecticut, when the legislature took up but failed to pass a bill that would have required that most housing units supported by tax credits be built in high opportunity areas, where poverty is low and schools thrive. An analysis based on state data showed that nearly three-quarters of tax credit units have been located in high poverty, minority areas that make up less than 11 percent of the land in one of the most affluent

states in the country.

The advocacy group, Open Communities Alliance, argued that the current way of using tax credits reinforces inequality by denying minority citizens access to areas of the state that have better schools and employment opportunities.

For their part, the developers argue that there are too few resources to meet housing needs in poor neighborhoods.

While that’s also true, it is a misrepresentation to describe new housing alone as “revitalization” in the absence of things like good schools and job opportunities that make for vibrant, economically healthy communities.

As Justice Kennedy wrote, the Fair Housing Act has an important role to play in the country’s struggle against racial isolation and avoiding the grim prophecy that President Lyndon Johnson’s Kerner Commission enunciated five decades ago, when it said that the United States was “moving toward two societies, one black, one white — separate and unequal.” It’s the duty of the federal and state governments to ensure that affordable housing policies do not make racial isolation worse. ­— New York Times Editorial Board

The U.S. Supreme Court: liberalism or morality?

by Thurman K. Brown Speaking out as a hard-working, middle-class, African-American, heterosexual male, the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision to allow samesex marriages nationwide, shows a

total disregard for respect, responsibility, and righteousness. Their ruling adds salt to a morally decayed country.

I grew up believing that accepting, endorsing, or recognizing anything

LETTERS

More wicked change has come June 26, 2015, a date that will live in infamy for Americans who believe God sanctioned marriage between a man and woman. On that day the United States Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage nationwide. Not only that, the Supreme Court did more than legalize samesex marriage. The court marginalized Christianity and strengthened Iran’s claim that America is the great Satan.

Thanks to Barack Obama more wicked change has come to America.

Because of the change, America the

beautiful has a different meaning.

Solomon said, “A beautiful woman who lacks discretion is like a gold ring in a pig’s snout”. America has become the beautiful woman who lacks discretion. For this reason, the song America the Beautiful must be revised to reflect the new reality.

America! America! God shed his contempt on thee. Have corrupted thy good, by legalizing every sin it could.

From sea to shining sea.

Kevin Palmer, Martinez, GA

that is wrong, compromises morality and integrity. Those virtues rarely exist anymore. My beliefs are those of a spiritual and sacred realm. God created human beings in his image.

(Genesis 1:27).

What happened to the “true” meaning of a marriage, which is the union of one man and one woman? Society has twisted one of civilization’s oldest institutions. Even President Obama changed his view on this issue 3 years ago; how disappointing. If you’re going to stand up for something that is right, then do so; no matter what others may think.

You may have to stand by yourself, but that’s okay. That shows some righteous indignation. Unfortunately, we live in a world where our principles can be bought. This issue is not one about civil rights, discrimination, or tolerance. It’s one about a chosen lifestyle that pleads for acceptance. How

can anyone accept anything that they don’t believe in?

The U.S. Supreme Court›s statutes are man-made, and are not godly ones. Just because a law deems to be a legal one, doesn’t mean that it’s right. Our government has no business legislating morality, and that’s perhaps the problem. Is our country living under an authoritarian/dictatorship regime? For the people, of the people, by the people? Yeah, right.

Isn’t it our responsibility to govern ourselves? The highest court in the land has outrightly changed the definition of marriage, and has placed shame on American Democracy. What a disgrace! What happened to the Constitution Of The United States?

Here is my message to those Justices: stick to the legal issues concerning the courts, and stop officiating social fanfare and rhetoric.

WORSHIP

UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

CHURCH

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Restoration Church Vacation Bible School Sunday, July 22-24, 2015, 6:30 pm. Restoration invites you to its annual VBS. This year’s theme is “Conquering Life’s Challenges with God’s Power”. All ages are invited and adult life classes will be taught each night. Light refreshments will be served. For more information call 706-796-1400.

Sunday School 8:30 am Morning Worship Services: 9:45 am Evening Worship Services 6 pm (4th Sunday) Bible Study: 6pm (Mondays) Midday Bible Study: 12pm (Tuesdays) Prayer Services: 6pm (Wednesdays) Celebrate Recovery: 6pm (Fridays) and 12pm (Mondays) 2323 Barton Chapel Road • Augusta,GA 30906 706.790.8185 / 706.922.8186 (fax) Visit Us @ www.broadwaybaptistaug.org • Join us on facebook Dr. C. William Joyner, Jr. Senior Pastor

Good Shepherd Baptist Church

Rev. Clarence Moore, Pastor 1714 Olive Road / P. O. Box 141 (mailing address) Augusta, GA 30903 706/733-0341- Telephone/706/667-0205 – Fax E-mail address: admin@goodshepherdaugusta.org Web address: goodshepherdaugusta.org Rev. Clarence Moore Church Service: 7:45 & 11:00 a.m.

Church School: 9:45 a.m. / Prayer Service: 11:00 a.m. – Wednesday Bible Study: 9:00 a.m. - Saturday / 7:00 p.m. - Wednesday

Everfaithful Missionary Baptist Church

314 Sand Bar Ferry Road Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706) 722- 0553 Church School Sunday 9:25am Morning Worship Sunday 11am Evening Worship 6pm (1st & 3rd Sunday) Midday Prayer 12pm Wednesday Intercessory Prayer/Bible Study 6pm Wednesday

Bishop Rosa L. Williams, Pastor

Radio Broadcast: Sundays • WKZK 103.7 FM at 7:30 a.m.

Start your calling today! Mount Olivet Certified Academic Institution 706.793.0091 • 706.793.0335 • www.mocai-aug.org

The CSRA Clergy Board of Directors

Board of Coalition Pastors P.O. Box 16013 Augusta, GA. 30919-2013 Bishop L.A. Green, Sr., Chairman

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

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DANCE

MISTY COPELAND made her debut in the starring role of American Ballet Theatre’s production of “Swan Lake” — the first African-American dancer to do so. Now, she has been promoted to the highest rank of the American Ballet Theatre — the principal dancer.

Misty Copeland is first black principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre

By Emanuella Grinberg, CNN American ballerina Misty Copeland, a cultural phenomenon outside the dance world, has been promoted to the highest rank of the American Ballet Theatre, becoming the first African-American female principal dancer in the company’s 75-year history.

The American Ballet Theatre announced the news Tuesday in a slew of promotions at one of the country’s top ballet companies. Stella Abrera, a 19-year veteran of the company, was promoted from soloist to the rank of principal dancer.

Copeland, 32, joined the company in April 2001 and was appointed a soloist in August 2007. She has been outspoken about her desire to become the first black woman to be named a principal dancer at the company.

“My fears are that it could be another two decades before another black woman is in the position that I hold with an elite ballet company,” she wrote in her memoir, “Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina,” published in 2014. “That if I don’t rise to principal, people will feel I have

failed them.”

Copeland’s 14-year career at the American Ballet Theatre has been a series of milestones drawing attention outside the rarefied world of ballet. She has appeared in a Diet Dr Pepper commercial and danced atop a piano in Prince’s 2010 tour. When she became the first ballet dancer to appear in an Under Armour ad in 2014, the spot racked up more than four million views on YouTube within a week.

Born in Kansas City, Missouri, and raised in San Pedro, California, Copeland began her ballet studies at 13, a late start for a dancer of her caliber. Her rise from modest beginnings to ballet crossover star has been the subject of numerous magazine articles, TV segments, a “60 Minutes” episode and the forthcoming documentary “A Ballerina’s Tale.”

Copeland was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2015 and was featured on one of five covers for the issue. Olympic gold medal gymnast Nadia Comaneci wrote in Time that Copeland’s story was one “of someone who followed her dreams and refused to give up.”

“In that way, she is a model for all young girls,” Comaneci wrote. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from. If you have the passion like Misty, you can be the best at what you do.”

As the New York Times noted, whenever Copeland danced leading roles with the company, “her performances became events, drawing large, diverse, enthusiastic crowds to cheer her on.”

In a time when ballet companies across the country are looking for new audiences, crowds of young autograph-seekers swarmed the stage door after Copeland made her debut in the starring role of American Ballet Theatre’s production of “Swan Lake” — the first African-American dancer to do so.

She has more than 500,000 followers on Instagram, who welcomed the news when she posted images showing the moment of the announcement.

Like most of Copeland’s accomplishments, the announcement drew cheers well beyond the dance world from Mia Farrow, Katie Couric and Ben Carson. Under Armour also congratulated their spokeswoman.

Augusta Recreation, Parks & Facilities Department to Kick Off National Park and Recreation Month at the Augusta Common on July 4th Independence Day Celebration – 4:00p.m. – 9:00p.m. Fireworks Show 9:30p.m. Our Theme - Motivate, Recreate, Celebrate!

Many activities and events have been planned for the month of July. Attached is a schedule of Free events for the community to Celebrate Park and Recreation Month For more information, please contact the Augusta Recreation, Parks and Facilities Dept. at (706) 706-796-5025 – Joanie Smith.

Each July since 1985, America has celebrated Park and Recreation Month. A program of the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), the goal is to raise awareness of the vital impact parks, recreation and conservation have on communities. Parks are the cornerstone of nearly every community, serving millions of people as places anyone can go to be active, live healthier, connect with nature and gather together. Parks and recreation make our lives and communities better. This mission will continue to intensify into the future. For more information, go to www.nrpa.org/july.

Classic Knots Haberdashery Affordable Men’s Clothing

Suits • Slacks • Shirts • Ties Sam Hickson (706) 589-7491

Tender Care Training Center Accredited and State Approved

Train to become a Certified Nurse’s Assistant (CNA) Phlebotomy Technician or Pharmacy Technician 1755 Gordon Hwy, Suite E • Augusta, GA 30904 For Enrollment Information,

Call (706)736-9225

Fax: (706) 736-0995

Visit www.tendercareschool.comcastbiz.net

facebook.com/

Since 1969

EBT Wayne Lanier

Independence Day Celebration The annual Independence Day Celebration will be on Saturday, July 4, 2015 at the Augusta Common. The festivities will begin at 4:00p.m - 10:00 PM. Free Admission.

The event is sponsored by Augusta Recreation, Parks & Facilities, City Of Augusta, News 12, Augusta Chronicle, and i Heart Media.

There will be Live enter-

tainment , Children Fun Zone, Vendors, and Fun for the entire family. The evening will culminate with a fireworks display over the Savannah River from the 5th Street bridge, Fireworks display will begin at 9:30 PM. For more information, please contact the City of Augusta Special Events Office at (706) 821-1754.

15 UrbanProWeekly • JULY 2 - 8, 2015

July is Park & Recreation Month

UrbanProWeekly - JULY 2 - 8, 2015

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