Urban Pro Weekly

UPW URBAN PRO WEEKLY

October 23 - 31, 2014 VOL. 4 NO. 8

Paine posts first gridiron victory

Paine College cheerleaders perform during their Homecoming football game against Edward

Waters College

recently. The

Lions defeated

the Tigers

38-14, marking Paine’s

first win of the season.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

2

Inga N. Hicks, PC

Specializing In Colon Hydrotherapy

Attorney At Law Uncompromised Representation and Unmatched Results Criminal Defense Personal Injury Family Law Wills

706-814-5998 4137 Columbia Rd., Suite C, Martinez, GA 30907

First Colon Cleansing Center In Augusta Removal of Toxins and Impurities for Optimal Health Shanta Johnson

706-733-5000

Conditions Responding To Colon Hydrotherapy Cited by Rheumatologist, Arthur E. Brawer, M.D.

Enhances Weight Loss • Allergies • Acne • Constipation • Irritable Bowel • Gas/Bloating • Asthma • Chronic Fatigue • Spastic Colon Potbelly • Body Odor • Headaches • Improves Sexual Health

2045 Central Avenue, Augusta, Ga 30904 EssentialCleansingCenter.com

Apartments starting at $449

Providence Place 706-793-2180

2205 Southgate Dr. • Augusta,GA 30906 $200.00 OFF FIRST FOUR MONTH’S RENT * SELECTED UNITS 1 bedroom/1 bath starting at $449 2 bedroom/1 bath starting at $475 energy efficient

2 bedroom/ 1 1/2 bath Townhome starting at $550 * Certain restrictions may apply Call office for details

•Fully equipped kitchens •Mini-blinds • Pool • Laundry facilities •Total electric central heat and air •Washer/dryer connections in some •On-site courtesy officer

•Near Ft. Gordon •Gas heat/hot water heaters •Playground •Picnic area/grills

DIRECTIONS

Road. Property is on the left.

Take I-520 to Deans Bridge Road North. Turn right on Richmond Hll

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Fri 9-5:30; 1st Sat of month 10-3

SELECTED UNITS

“One-Stop Construction & Yard Maintenance Services” Our Office Provides: Architectural Drafting & Construction • Custom Church Builder • Custom Home Builder • Yard Maintenance • Metal Buildings Larry L. McCord Can Provide All Your Design and Construction Needs All Under One Roof

FOCUS

CBS Sports to televise GRU basketball game CBS Sports Network will televise the Georgia Regents University men’s basketball game against Lander University at noon Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015 from GRU’s Christenberry Fieldhouse.

“We are grateful to CBS Sports Network for allowing us to be a part of their television schedule this year,” said GRU Athletic Director Clint Bryant. “We have great student athletes and this televised event will give national exposure to our program, athletic department, and university.”

Bryant says this game is also a part of GRU’s Military Appreciation Day in which the university honors members of the United States Armed Forces for their service to our country. He is expecting hundreds of active and retired military personnel to attend.

The National Collegiate Athletic Association will live stream the game on NCAA.com and the NCAA Sports mobile app.

GRU men’s basketball will be televised on Feb. 21, 2015.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

ASK

FOR THE

LUCY CRAFT LANEY MUSEUM 3 ANNUAL QUILT EXHIBITION October 1 - Dec. 31 Exhibition Opening: Oct. 5, 3:00-5:30 pm The museum will feature quilts created by Atlanta’s Brown Sugar Stitchers, a guild comprised of African American quilters from the metro-Atlanta area.

Sunday Voting in Augusta on October 26 After church services, voters in Richmond County can head to the polls. A single location will be available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, October 26. The general election will be on November 4.

TEST

YOU REFUSED AN HIV TEST TODAY . . .

• You are missing an opportunity to take care of your health and the health of others • Georgia recommends yearly HIV tests to help keep you healthy • By not taking the HIV test, you may have a medical condition that you and your doctor don’t know about • People who know their HIV status can make sure they don’t give HIV to other people • As many as 50% of people do not know their HIV Status

Ask your doctor if you have questions about taking the test You can always change your mind and get tested FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT HIV VISIT WWW.ECPHD.COM OR CALL 706/667-4342 TO SCHEDULE YOUR HIV TEST

UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

COMMUNITY

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

4

IMAGES

ON THE RECORD

Bobbie Lee (L) listens to a discussion during a public forum held at Tabernacle Baptist Church Family Life Center to discuss sexual harassment and abuse in schools by educators on Friday, Oct. 17, 2014. Lee is a child advocate and facilitator for Darkness to Light, a child sexual abuse prevention organization. The I Breathe I Rise Foundation sponsored the panel discussion.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

COMMUNITY FORUM FOCUSES ON SEXUAL ABUSE Ebony Harvey (center) talks to the audience during a public forum held at Tabernacle Baptist Church Family Life Center to discuss sexual harassment and abuse in schools by educators. Harvey has made allegations of sexual harassment against former T.W. Josey band director Dr. Charles Smith. The I Breathe I Rise Foundation sponsored the panel discussion.

Also pictured - (L) educator Mayreather Willis and Rev. Linda Martin (R).

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

AUGUSTA Georgia Regents Universit y announced this week that President Ricardo Azziz is in the running to fill the presidency at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas. In an unusual news release circulated this week, GRU detailed Dr. Azziz’ participation in UNLV’s efforts.

Here’s the text: “The successes of the ongoing transformation of Georgia Regents University into the next great American University have drawn nationwide attention from others who are looking for ways to re-imagine their own institutions. In leading this effort, Dr. Ricardo Azziz has become a prominent voice in the broader national conversation around the future of

higher education as he has shared the challenges and opportunities of the GRU experiences. Universities and health care organizations looking for transformational leadership have approached Azziz on a number of occasions, suggesting that he consider bringing his experience to leadership positions in their organizations.

“Today the University of Nevada at Las Vegas named Azziz as one of three finalists in their search for the next University of Nevada at Las Vegas president. He will be visiting the UNLV campus during the week of November 10 to participate in a number of campus and community forums and meetings with the search committee.

“UNLV is an urban research

Early Voting Schedule THURSDAY - FRIDAY October 23 - 24 8:30 AM – 5PM Main Office, Board of Election Municipal Building, 530 Greene St

SUNDAY October 26 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM Main Office, Board of Elections Municipal Building, 530 Greene St

SATURDAY October 25 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Main Office, Board of Elections Diamond Lakes Community Center Warren Road Community Center Henry Brigham Community Center

MONDAY - FRIDAY October 27 - 31 8:30 AM – 6 PM Main Office, Board of Elections Diamond Lakes Community Center Warren Road Community Center Henry Brigham Community Center

NOVEMBER 4, 2014 ELECTION DAY

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

university in the midst of implementing a strategic vision that includes achieving the Carnegie Foundation’s classification as a Research Universities with very high research activity and the top tier of American universities. A key part of that strategy is the accelerated growth of research, improved student success, and the creation of a medical school.

“Both GRU and UNLV are commit-

ted to improving access to educational opportunities and enhancing the research agenda of higher education, particularly in the health sciences. It is this commonality of purpose that has given rise to the current opportunity at UNLV. As he engages in a dialogue with a sister institution about their future direction, Azziz remains fully committed to the ongoing vision and rich future of GRU.”

Medicare Open Enrollment Period Oct. 15 - Dec. 7, 2014 If you have Medicare and full Medicaid switch to a health plan that offers you

$0 copay for Dentures

You’ll have a low copay for an office visit that may also include: n1 Oral exam and 1 cleaning each year n1 Dental X-ray every year nDenture adjustments nScaling and restorations

Eloise Meardith Independent Agent (706) 771-9522 www.hisbyeloise.com

You don’t have You don’t have to live with to live with BACK PAIN or any other kind BACK PAIN of discomfort, including headaches,

or any other kind of discomfort, neck stiffness, shoulder pain, muscle including headaches, neck stiffness, tension, shoulder pain, muscle tension, sleep sleep difficulty or hand difficulty or Brice hand numbness/weakness. numbness/weakness.

Dr. Cal 706-736-5551

Drug Testing Now Available!

Most Insurance Accepted Executive Managing Editor FREDERICK BENJAMIN SR. 1132 Druid Park Ave, Augusta, GA 30904 706-306-4647 2 Locations: 1125 Druid Park Ave. • 2583 Tobacco Road Augusta, GA 30904 Hephzibah, GA 30815 editor@urbanproweekly.com

Sales & Marketing 706-394-9411

MEDICAL VILLA PHARMACY WE TAKE

• Georgia medicaid • Insurance plans • Charge cards • WIC vouchers

Contributors VINCENT HOBBS Photography & New Media View Urbanproweekly on Facebook

Marshall Curtis, Pharmacist/Owner Baron Curtis, Pharmacist

FREE DELIVERY SERVICE

706-722-7355

5 UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

GRU’s Azziz is finalist in UNLV presidential search

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

6

AJC study: Minority voters on the rise

By Kristina Torres Atlanta Journal Constitution A rising tide of African-Americans and other minorities has swelled voting rolls, shrinking whites’ share of Georgia’s electorate to historic lows.

The question now is whether they will show up at the polls, as Democrats challenge the state’s dominant Republicans in tight races for governor and the U.S. Senate.

Black voters in Georgia now make up more than 30 percent of the more than 5.1 million active voters in Georgia, according to a new analysis of the state’s registration database by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. That’s almost 67,000 more black voters than were on the active rolls for the state’s previous midterm election in 2010, when voter interest historically dips because it is a nonpresidential election year.

It also comes as the number of Georgia voters overall has also increased from four years ago, when only half of the state’s active black voters cast ballots.

White voters, meanwhile, continued to decline to less than 58 percent —

down from 61.6 percent in 2010. The percentage of active white voters in Georgia slipped under 60 percent for the first time in state history two years ago.

The new numbers add tension to an increasingly fraught campaign season in Georgia, where race is often a reliable predictor of political affiliation.

Racial minorities in the state have traditionally voted Democratic. Whites, in turn, have solidly supported the state’s Republicans — Gov. Nathan Deal won four years ago with 77 percent of the white vote.

The key question now is how many of these voters will turn out this year to cast a ballot.

Alan Abramowitz, Emory University political scientist who studies American political demographics, said Democrats in Georgia generally get support from more than 90 percent of black voters who go to the polls. If the same holds true this year and the number of voters increases in correlation to their growing share of the electorate, Abramowitz said Democratic candidate for governor Jason Carter and the party’s U.S. Senate hopeful, Michelle Nunn, have a shot at

victory — if they also meet their goal of winning about 30 percent of white voters.

That, however, could be an uphill battle.

It would mark a significant improvement from 2010, when Democratic gubernatorial candidate Roy Barnes won about 23 percent of the white vote.

Additionally, a number of surveys reflect considerably more enthusiasm for the election nationally among GOP supporters, although some show that trend line may be tempered in states with competitive races such as in Georgia.

The tight contests shown in polling offer blacks and other nonwhite voters the opportunity to tip the balance.

But there’s some debate over the polling done here: Some analysts think recent polls, including those done for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, may be underestimating black voters in Georgia. Pollsters typically base such estimates on historical data, but they also may factor in enthusiasm they see among respondents. But analysts question whether enough consideration has been given to the thin margins between

candidates and the high number of new voters who registered this year, which the Secretary of State’s Office pegged at more than 183,000.

Among the new voters, one-third were white. More than one-third were black.

Worth noting is that the biggest difference in active voters in Georgia came from a growing pool of voters who declined to identify themselves by race or ethnicity or instead chose The percentage of voters identified that way rose to more than 8.7 percent and continue a steady rise over the past four years, according the latest data available from the Secretary of State’s Office. In November 2010, those voters came under 6.2 percent. Four years earlier, it was 3.6 percent.

Georgia’s voter registration period ended Oct. 6. The analysis is based on totals as of Oct. 17.

The state’s shifting electorate mirrors the demographic growth experienced

by Georgia over the past decade. The state is now home to more than 9.9 million people, according to the latest estimates through mid-2013 — many of them people of color.

Democrat Valarie Wilson: Opportunity for Every Child

Val has worked to give every child a chance. On the Decatur School Board she led her district in saving education programs, without firing teachers or shortening the school year, and established the College Heights Early Childhood Center. She’ll do the same as Superintendent.

 Vote November 4

 

www.valforeducation.com



State School Superintendent

Fight for full funding of education to bring equality to schools.

Support President Obama’s Common Core standards.

Give communities local control to take their schools back.

Oppose any attempt to sell schools to private interests.

GRU launches online store

TBA Trowell Builders & Associates Designers • Builders Planners

Sanctuary Multi-Purpose Buildings Renovations P.O. Box 211886 Augusta, Ga 30917 1.800.546.2685 Fax 706.738.6328 email: tbamakedreams@aol.com

Tomesha Saunders is a 33-year-old single mother of two who was diagnosed with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) in 2006.

“Recently I was notified by Emory University that they have a heart for me and the operation can take place in October of 2014. The doctor explained to me that the surgery will be cover under my insurance however, my insurance will only cover 50% of the medications needed after the surgery. This is why I am asking for your help. The medications needed after the surgery are very expensive. For example, one of the main medications needed is called Valcyte.

The cost of this medication alone is $2,000.00. The total cost of my medications is $10,000. I am asking for your help in raising $5,000.00 for medications. The Georgia Transplant Foundation has offered to donate $5,000.00 towards my medications on the bases that I pay the first $5,000.00. The deadline to turn in this money is October 2014. If I an unable to pay the $5,000.00 for my medications before the surgery my window of opportunity closes and

my time with my love ones is limited.”

Tomesha’s mother Mrs. Denise Berry Saunders is pleading with the public to assist her with raising funds to help pay for her post-surgery medications.

Commissioners Bill Fennoy and Ben Hasan have opened an account at Wells Fargo Bank to assist Tomesha.

It is called the Tomesha Saunders Health Heart Fund.

For more information about Tomesha’s fund raising efforts, visit her website Healthy Hearts at www. youcaring.com/medical-fundraiser/ healthy-hearts/189292.

Spring Semester starts January 5, 2015!

APPLY NOW! For one of over 100 programs of study!

EDUCATION THAT WORKS! www.augustatech.edu A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia Equal Opportunity Institution

7 UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

AUGUSTA Fans of Georgia Regents University can now purchase merchandise with the click of a mouse instead of a trip to the bookstore following the launch of a new e-commerce website operated by GRU’s JagStore.

The site, www.GeorgiaRegentsGear. com, features more than 1,200 branded items, including gifts, tailgate supplies, and apparel from sports clothing manufacturers Adidas and Under Armour.

“This online presence is an extension of our on-campus stores and their diverse offerings,” said Michelle Neely, Retail Operations Manager for the JagStore. “The site allows us to serve our community of athletics fans and alumni, who can now order GRU and Jaguar merchandise from anywhere in the world, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.”

The online JagStore was created in partnership with Advanced Online, a premier online provider of collegiate apparel and merchandise, and a portion of every sale will support scholarships for university athletes.

For more information, or to purchase merchandise, visit www.

GeorgiaRegentsGear.com.

Tomesha Saunders still needs your help

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

8

SPORTS

Game Day

Paine College wide receiver Don Quarles, Jr. is tackled by Edward Waters College quarterback Eric Vickers during Paine’s homecoming game at Laney stadium on Saturday, Oct. 18. The Lions defeated the Tigers 38-14, marking Paine’s first win of the season. The win also heralded Paine’s first homecoming football victory since 1962.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Paine College battles to first Homecoming Victory in over 50 years (Opposite page) The Paine College dance team, Mahogany Essence, performs for the crowd during their Homecoming football game against Edward Waters College at Laney stadium. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Paine College cheerleaders motivate the crowd. Vincent Hobbs

The Edward Waters College Triple Threat Marching Band.

9

A member of the Edward Waters College Purple Thunder Dance Squad, composed of all plus-size ladies, performs during halftime. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

IMAGES THE HOMECOMING

Mister and Miss Paine College, Nicolas Pettye and Breynna Stanton, wave to the crowd during halftime at the homecoming football game. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

10

General Election Nov. 4, 2014 Richmond County Candidates U.S. SENATE David Perdue - Republican Michelle Nunn - Democrat Amanda C. Swafford - Libertarian GOVERNOR Nathan Deal - Republican (I) Jason J. Carter - Democrat Andrew T. Hunt - Libertarian LT. GOVERNOR L.S. “Casey” Cagle - Republican (I) Connie J. Stokes - Democrat SECRETARY OF STATE Brian P. Kemp - Republican (I) Doreen Carter - Democrat ATTORNEY GENERAL Samuel S. Olens - Republican (I) Gregory K. “Greg” Hecht - Democrat COMMISSIONER OF AGRICULTURE Gary W. Black - Republican (I) Christopher James Irvin COMMISSIONER OF INSURANCE Ralph T. Hudgens - Republican (I) Elizabeth N. “Liz” Johnson - Democrat Edward T. “Ted” Metz - Libertarian STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT Richard L. Woods - Republican Valarie D. Wilson - Democrat COMMISSIONER OF LABOR J. Mark Butler - Republican (I) Robbin K. Shipp PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER Herman D. “Doug” Everett - Republican John H. Monds PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSIONER Lauren W. “Bubba” McDonald - Republican (I) Daniel “A. Blackman - Democrat Robin Aaron Gilmer - Libertarian

U.S. CONGRESS DISTRICT 10 R.W. “Rick” Allen - Republican John J. Barrow - Democrat (I) STATE SENATOR DIST. 22 Harold V. Jones II STATE SENATOR DIST. 23 Jesse Collins Stone - Republican (I) Diane Brack Evans - Democrat STATE SENATOR DIST. 24 William S. Jackson-R* Brenda J. Jordan-D

Readers show support for Earnest Smith The lack of professional decorum in the mean-spirited campaign ads that we have been subjected to this election season should be disappointing and disheartening to all. It is rewarding to know that there is one incumbent official running for reelection that has not succumbed to this madness.

That official is Earnest Smith, our District 125 Representative.

Representative Smith has focused his re-election efforts on informing us of what he has accomplished and what he intends to accomplish with a return to Atlanta. I have had a great deal of interaction with Representative Smith. I’ve found him to be industrious, honest, and an attentive listener. His manner and spirit are always congenial. His outlook for the future of District 125 and Augusta is always seen through positive possibilities. I am voting to re-elect Representative Smith so that he may continue his efforts to work on our behalf. I encourage you to return a man that has proven his sincerity and his integrity to Atlanta.

— Juanita Burney Earnest Smith is the incumbent representative for House District 125. Representative Smith has been a model representative. He works hard for his district and all of Augusta.

He listens carefully when speaking with his district’s citizens and takes their concerns seriously. As my representative, I am very pleased with Earnest Smith. I am voting to re-elect Mr. Smith and encourage all concerned voters to do the same.

Representative Smith has earned our support and we should return him to Atlanta.

— ­Leon Maben

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 125 Earnest Smith - Democrat (I) W. P. “Pat” Garrett - Republican

The right to vote should be taken seriously by every Richmond County resident. As has been said before, if we don’t vote we should not complain when an election outcome is not what we would have wanted. We encourage all residents of District 125 to vote and to cast that vote for our incumbent representative, Earnest Smith. Representative Smith demonstrates his concern for his district through responsiveness and with sincerity. He takes the time to appear at district activities and to mingle with his constituents. Please join us in voting to re-elect Earnest Smith as our District 125 representative.

— McDonald & Thelma Williams

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT. 126 Gloria J. Frazier

Valarie Wilson for Georgia’s children

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 127 Brian L. Prince - Democrat (I)

Valarie Wilson, the Democratic Candidate for State School Superintendent has always been a fighter for children and a supporter of providing opportunity for every child. She is a native of Swainsboro, Georgia and a graduate of Clark College in Atlanta, Georgia. Valarie Wilson also completed graduate studies in public administration at Troy Sate University. She now resides in Decatur, Georgia.

Wilson has worked in the trenches and served as the Chairman of the Decatur School Board for six years and has president of the Georgia School Boards Association in 20122013. She understands the issues facing school boards as they try to provide a quality education for their children in a time of drastic cuts in funding.

Valarie Wilson promises to fight for full funding of education to bring equality to schools. She supports the Common Core standards. Wilson supports giving communities local control to take their schools back and she will oppose any attempt to sell schools to private interests.

Vote Democratic on November 4, 2014. Vote for Valarie Wilson for State School Superintendent.

— Marion Chapman

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 123 Barbara Sims - Representative (I) STATE REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 124 Henry D. “Wayne” Howard - Democrat (I)

RICHMOND COUNTY BD. OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 2 Franklyn V. Beckles Jr. Charlie Hannah DISTRICT 3 Alex Howard DISTRICT 6 Jack Padgett Jr. DISTRICT 7 Frank Dolan DISTRICT 9 Venus D. Cain James Swanagan Jr.

Westside volleyball player Megan Flanagan takes the blocker position during a Class AAA second round state playoff game against Blessed Trinity at the Westside gym. The Lady Patriots fell to the Titans with a final score of 3-0. Photo by Vincent Hobbs

Westside volleyball player Callie Huggins takes control of the ball in a Class 3AAA second round state playoff game against Blessed Trinity.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs Westside volleyball player Megan Flanagan takes control of the ball in a Class AAA second round state playoff game against Blessed Trinity at the Westside gym, as Remy Smith (L) attempts to block the ball.

Photo by Vincent Hobbs

UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

IMAGES VOLLEYBALL

11

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

12

UPW FORUM

Cities criminalizing sharing food with homeless

By Nadia Prupis Common Dreams As the number of U.S. cities criminalizing sharing food with the homeless continues to rise as a result of burdensome requirements on food pantries and individuals, rights groups are condemning the cities for their focus on punishment over solutions.

A report released Monday by the National Coalition for the Homeless (NCH) found that ordinances which have been adopted in 21 cities target food pantries, individuals, and homeless populations alike by perpetuating harmful myths about the effects of food-sharing and restricting the ways communities can do it.

“One of the most narrow-minded ideas when it comes to homelessness and food-sharing is that sharing food with people in need enables them to remain homeless,” states the NCH report, Share No More: The Criminalization of Efforts to Feed People In Need (pdf).

“There is the myth that sharing food with low income people enables someone to stay homeless,” Michael Stoops, NCH director of community organizing, told Common Dreams. “Another myth is that these food-sharing programs are not necessary as hunger or food insecurity is not a problem in the U.S. There is a ‘food fight’ going on in downtown America between the interests of economic development [and] tourism, versus people experiencing homelessness and the agencies that help them.”

In Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the city council is poised to pass an ordinance that would forbid food-sharing nonprofits from setting up shop within 500 feet of residential properties, while any groups that do find a space to operate will not be issued more than one food service license for the same address in the same quarter.

Proposed legislation in Sacramento, California, would require organizations and individuals who wish to use public spaces like parks and picnic areas for food-sharing to buy permits— ranging from $100 to $1,250—several times a year to host those events.

According to the NCH, these ordinances are examples of a three-fold legislative process: restricting the use of public property, imposing food-safety regulations, and community actions targeting homeless rights groups. Other similar restrictions have already passed

in cities with large homeless populations in Texas, California, Washington, and Oregon, among others.

“It seems harmless on the surface, but they’re part of a series of laws that criminalizes activities homeless people need to perform in order to stay alive,” Nathan Pim, a volunteer with a food-sharing nonprofit in Fort Lauderdale, states in the NCH report.

In 2008, a federal judge struck down a homeless feeding ban in Orlando, Florida, which he said had “no rational basis” and violates the First Amendment.

“Rather than address the problem of homelessness in these downtown neighborhoods directly, the City has instead decided to limit the expressive activity which attracts the homeless to these neighborhoods,” Judge Gregory A. Presnell wrote in his decision.

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Florida had argued against the legislation. “Freedom of religion and freedom of speech are the cornerstones of the First Amendment and this ordinance flew in the face of the most basic constitutional rights of people using the parks to share food with the homeless,” ACLU senior attorney Glenn Katon said after the ban was struck down.

But despite the landmark ruling, ordinances against food-sharing—and other activities associated with homelessness, such as lying on benches— have spread.

“These punitive measures involve gross human and civil rights violations,” says homeless rights organization Western Regional Advocacy Project (WRAP).

Stoops added that “the motivation behind such laws is to push people experiencing homelessness out of sight, out of mind.”

The push against food-sharing organizations comes not only from city councils but from local businesses and residents, NCH says, who often “join together to put pressure on local government or directly on individuals and organizations that share food with people experiencing homelessness.”

“These groups are harassed and in result feel compelled to relocate their food-sharing efforts or cut the program [altogether],” NCH says.

WRAP director Paul Boden told Al Jazeera, “Regardless of income and housing status, people are going to perform these activities (like sharing and eating food), but only a homeless

person is going to see the inside of a jail cell for performing these activities,” adding that city councils and other local governments are adopting laws that they know people will break.

NCH also noted that many of the individuals seeking help from food-sharing groups are not always homeless—but are on the cusp. Dani Skrzypek, a volunteer at the Unitarian Universalist Church of St. Petersburg, Florida, states in the report, “When you’re feeding

LETTERS

up to 150, that means there is a huge need... many are working people who are paid minimum wage that are trying to pay rent and feed a family. Money is so tight for them; to come and get a meal once a week is a huge help.”

In September, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) published a report that found that in 2013, despite the so-called “economic recovery,” nearly 50 million Americans continued to struggle with food insecurity.

Teacher abuse cited

I am an employee at Sue Reynolds Elementary School in Augusta, Georgia. I would like to inform you of a disturbing situation at the school. There is an African-American male teacher who has been verbally and physically abused by a fifth grade white male student. On a daily basis the teacher is repeatedly called a ni**er, hit on, spit on, and threatened to be killed. The teacher has even videoed the student writing a threat to kill ni**ers on the chalk board. In addition, as a teacher’s aide video recorded a class teaching session, the white male student walked up to the teacher and repeatedly hit the teacher for several minutes while spewing profanities such as ni**er in the presence of other students.

What is even worse, the teacher has repeatedly informed the school principal verbally and by email about this situation. The principal has even viewed the video. Nevertheless, the principle has never suspended the student for verbally and physically assaulting the teacher. Obviously, the principal, being white, is insensitive, biased and does not believe being called a ni**er or being threatened

with death because you are AfricanAmerican is a problem. Recently, the student was attacking the teacher with an object and in defense the teacher grabbed the student’s arm to prevent from being struck by the object. Consequently, the student’s arm was slightly bruised.

The incident was reported to the school office and now the teacher finds himself being investigated for bruising the student’s arm.

Now, the teacher is being threatened with some type of administrative discipline by the Richmond County Board of Education.

The school principal’s egregious failure to act when informed of this abusive student contributed to the teacher’s unfortunate situation.

This hate-filled student will continue to create a hostile environment for African-American students and teachers. Also, the student’s willingness to inflict bodily harm jeopardizes the physical safety of students and teachers. As an African-American I feel insulted and expected more support from the school principal.

—Kevin Palmer, Martinez, GA

13

WORSHIP

The Beulah Grove Baptist Church Veterans Service Outreach Ministry Presents The 2nd Annual Veterans Workshop On Saturday, November 8, 2014 10 am – 1 pm Guest speakers include Dr. W.J. Hillson, Rev. Dr. Clarence Brown, Mr. Kerry Elders, Ms. Linda Singletary, Mr. Reuben Wanjala, Mr. Willie Williams, Sr. and Rev. Dr. Paul Kelly Information on the following services will be available: Augusta Warrior Project, Wounded Warriors, Navy Federal Credit Union, Claims/Compensation & Pension, Employment & Labor Force, Entrepreneurship & Franchise

Opportunities, My Healthy Vet, Holistic Wellness, Homeless to Homeownership, Homes for Heroes, Medical Advisor, Spiritual Advisor, Medical & Service Records, New Education and Women’s Benefits The event will take place in the Beulah Grove Baptist Church Building of Opportunity located at 1434 Poplar Street, Augusta, GA 30901 706-724-1086 or khunter@beulahgrove.org for information

RUNS MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH INVITES YOU TO THE ANNUAL FAMILY & FRIENDS WEEKEND which starts on Saturday Oct. 25, 2014 through Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014. On Saturday, Oct. 25th, our cookout is from 11:30am-5pm. Children’s activities is from 12pm-3pm. The Flea Market will be from 8am-3pm, space available for a donation of $5.00 per table space, and everyone bring your own table & chair for Flea Market. On Sunday, Oct. 26th, it climax with regular service at 8am. Pastor Stevie Berry is will deliver the message. Join us on a fun filled weekend celebration! Lots of fellowship and fun. Contact Gwen Greenwood at (706) 306-6760 or Sara Davis (803) 652-8993 for info concerning the flea market. Contact Dea. Al Young at (706) 877-5484 for info. Runs Missionary Baptist Church, 717 Williston Rd., Beech Island, SC

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.

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

UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

CHURCH

14 UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION OF RICHMOND COUNTY

INVITATION TO BID

Sealed proposals from contractors will be received for the T. Harry Garrett Elementary School Additions and Renovations Project B-14-039-1054 by the County Board of Education of Richmond County at the address below until 3:00 p.m. local time, on Thursday, November 13, 2014, 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 on Thursday, October 30, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. local time in the Media Center, Garrett Elementary School, 1100 Eisenhower Drive, Augusta, Georgia, 30904.

Drawings and project manual on this work may be examined at the Department of Maintenance and Facilities, Richmond County Board of Education, 1781 15th Street, Augusta, Georgia 30901.

Bidding documents may be obtained through the office of the architect: Studio 3 Design Group, 1617 Walton Way, Augusta, GA 30904. In order to obtain plans and specifications, contractors and sub-contractors MUST first contact Studio 3 Design Group, P.C., Attn: Jennifer Powell (706) 667-9784 or jpowell@s3dg.com; with the following information: Company Name, Contact, Mailing Address, Phone and Fax Numbers and Email Address. This information is required in order for plans and specifications to be purchased. Upon receiving the above information, plans may then be purchased from ARC AUGUSTA, 1281 Broad Street, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 821-0405. Any shipping will be at the purchasers cost or by use of a mailing account.

CSRA EOA, INC

McDuffie, Richmond, Burke and Jefferson County

Contractors note that this project will be awarded based on bid plus Owner selected additive alternates referenced in the contract documents for Alternates.

HEADSTART

Contract, if awarded, will be on a lump sum basis. No bid may be withdrawn for a period of thirty-five (35) days after time has been called on the date of opening.

Works directly with the children using various techniques and experiences to help each child develop socially, intellectually, physically and emotionally. Makes a complete assessment of each Child’s individual needs. Must have BA degree in Early Childhood Education and three years experience.

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.

Richmond and Burke County HEAD START

The Richmond County Board of Education (Owner) reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive technicalities and informalities.

TEACHER

TEACHER ASSISTANT Plans daily activities with the teacher. Responsible for the physical arrangement of the classroom and mealtime preparations. Works with the teacher to implement daily activities and supervises outdoor activities. Supervises loading and unloading of the buses, makes the required home visits, conducts the individual child assessment, and performs other duties as assigned. Must have a high school diploma with vocational training in Early Childhood Education plus three years experience working with pre-school children. CDA Certificates will be required within first year.

QUALIFIED persons must send a resume to the Personnel Office no later than November 3, 2014. Detailed job descriptions are available in the Personnel Office, 1261 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901. Fax 706 722-8565 “AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER” Stay connected so you know of available job opportunities.

Visit our website at www.csraeoa.org Click on the employment link to review available positions. Applications are now accepted online!

BID LIST: The Richmond County Board of Education maintains a bid list for many categories that are let for bid each year. Contact Amy Bauman in the Business Office (706) 826-1298 or at baumaam@boe.richmond.k12.ga.us for additional information concerning the bid list.

To promote local participation, a database of sub-contractors, suppliers, and vendors has been developed by the Program Manager, GMK Associates.

Contact Jeanine Usry with GMK Associates at (706) 826-1127 for location to review and obtain this database Bids shall be submitted and addressed to: Dr. Angela D. Pringle, Superintendent Richmond County School System 864 Broad Street Augusta, Georgia 30901 Attention: Mr. C. Gene Spires, Controller

Stress Physical Inactivity Family History of Cardiovascular disease Obesity Diabetes High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol Cigarette Smoking HEART ATTACK • BRAIN ATTACK • PREVENT ATTACK East Central Health District Hypertension Management Outreach Program

Richmond County 706.721.5800

UrbanProWeekly • OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

ARE YOU AT RISK?

15

UrbanProWeekly - OCTOBER 23 - 31, 2014

16

THE LAW OFFICE OF

Frails & Wilson

ATTORNEYS AT LAW

Experienced Representation

Randolph Frails

Real Estate Transactions Personal Injury Wrongful Death Business Litigation Probate • Domestic Medical Malpractice Fire & Burn Injuries Kelli J. Spencer Aimee Pickett Sanders Edwin Wilson To u g h P r o b l e m s N e e d To u g h L a w y e r s

211 Pleasant Home Road • Suite A1 • Augusta, GA • 706-855-6715 • www.frailswilsonlaw.com

IRS or State Tax Problems?

Don’t be taken by some of the companies you see on TV. Many will take upfront fees before they even know the extent of your tax problems.

And, more often than not, they will do very little to resolve your case.

Make the smart choice with Tax Wize Financial for all of your income tax needs.

(706) 305-1412 “Admitted to practice before the Internal Revenue Service”

At Tax Wize Financial, as a part of our initial free consultation, we will conduct an in depth analysis of your account with the IRS or State agency to determine the extent of your tax problems. After we have determined what courses of action should be taken to resolve your problems we will outline the services for you and provide you with an estimated cost for those services.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Preparation and filing of federal current and past years tax returns, including all necessary states.

• Negotiating the release of wage garnishments, levies, liens and other intrusive IRS actions.

• Installment Agreements • Offer-In-Compromise • IRS audit examination preparation and representation.

Just to name a few!