News Archives for 5/5/2006 | chronicle.augusta.com

Applause cover
Applause cover for May 4, 2006.

Production gives farce American twist
Breaking from the British stranglehold on farce, Love, Sex and the IRS is all about love, American style.

Giants blank Brewers
MILWAUKEE - The best contact Barry Bonds made was with his forehead.

Greene hurt in collision at home
MILWAUKEE - San Francisco Giants catcher Todd Greene is day-to-day after getting knocked out of the game Thursday in a jarring home-plate collision with Prince Fielder in the first inning.

Nationals can now make some plans
WASHINGTON - From the half-dozen orange cranes, to the piles of rubble, to the shovels made from baseball bats, all the right props were present Thursday at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Washington Nationals' new ballpark.

Surge changes Reds' outlook
CINCINNATI - Adam Dunn glanced around the clubhouse and saw seven - SEVEN! - television cameras setting up for postgame interviews.

Nationals can now make some plans

Pacers dip into Greenbrier talent pool
AIKEN - It began with Bradley Key. And it hasn't stopped since.

Tigers reel off 6th win in a row

Giants blank Brewers

Swisher powers A's attack
OAKLAND, Calif. - Nick Swisher drove in three runs with two doubles, and Oakland scored five times in the first inning to beat Cleveland, 12-4, for a split of their two-game series.

Swisher powers A's attack

Glavine, Mets scuttle Pirates
NEW YORK - Tom Glavine baffled the young Pittsburgh Pirates with a variety of off-speed pitches, and Xavier Nady hit a three-run homer, leading the New York Mets to a 6-0 victory Thursday night.

Greene hurt in collision at home

Tigers reel off 6th win in a row
DETROIT - Alexis Gomez hit a tiebreaking single in the eighth inning, and Detroit beat slumping Los Angeles to extend its winning streak to six.

Armed and ready

Pacers dip into Greenbrier talent pool
AIKEN - It began with Bradley Key. And it hasn't stopped since.

Glavine, Mets scuttle Pirates

Surge changes Reds' outlook
CINCINNATI - Adam Dunn glanced around the clubhouse and saw seven - SEVEN! - television cameras setting up for postgame interviews.

MLB Notes

League approves Nationals owners
WASHINGTON - Major League Baseball at long last picked someone to buy the Washington Nationals, choosing a group that's led by real estate developer Theodore Lerner and includes former Atlanta Braves executive Stan Kasten.

League approves Nationals owners

Armed and ready
Greenbrier sophomore pitcher Nolan Belcher looks like a middle school player. He's 5 feet, 7 inches tall. He weighs 145 pounds.

MLB Notes
Barry Bonds was dazed after being hit by a ball during batting practice before San Francisco's game against Milwaukee at Miller Park. Bonds was leaning against the batting cage when a ball hit by Giants infielder Kevin Frandsen was caught by netting covering the batting cage, then struck Bonds in the forehead.

Kansas City: Land of the $4 soda, not the tumbleweed

Rally wasted after Phils homer in 8th
PHILADELPHIA - The thought of a four-game winning streak capped by a second consecutive come-from-behind victory was dancing around in the Braves' heads - for all of about five minutes.

McCann solid as starting catcher
PHILADELPHIA - Atlanta's Brian McCann said this past weekend that his goal in the majors is to become an "all-round catcher."

Braves, Thomson fade again
PHILADELPHIA - The Atlanta Braves arrived here Wednesday morning chasing one team in the National League East. After dropping a pair to Philadelphia in an abbreviated series, they leave in two clubs' rearview mirror.

McCann solid as starting catcher

Braves, Thomson fade again

Enthusiastic shoppers push retail sales higher

Project is shrinking but still in works

Looking to be a better leader? Try being a servant
As Ken Blanchard watched his book The One Minute Manager power through the business world in 1982, he knew it had more behind it than just his theories.

Hybrids designed with military needs in mind

Giant loses $1.2 billion in makeover

Kodak's loss might lead to business sale

Enthusiastic shoppers push retail sales higher
NEW YORK - Consumers seemingly unfazed by rising gasoline prices shopped enthusiastically during April, giving retailers their best performance in two years.

Sportswear buys Holloway
Augusta Sportswear Group has added another holding to its growing line of apparel companies.

Looking to be a better leader? Try being a servant

Project is shrinking but still in works
Grand plans for the National Hills shopping center may have fizzled, but developers still foresee a mixed-use space of condos and retail for the Washington Road complex.

Giant loses $1.2 billion in makeover
STAMFORD, Conn. - International Paper Co. on Thursday reported a first-quarter loss of $1.2 billion as the world's largest paper company took a charge for selling businesses as part of a transformation plan.

Sweet relief: Crude falls again, below $70

Sweet relief: Crude falls again, below $70
WASHINGTON - Oil prices sank more than $2 a barrel for the second straight day Thursday, falling below $70 as traders focused on U.S. government data that show gasoline supplies grew last week, reversing two months of declines.

Kodak's loss might lead to business sale
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - Eastman Kodak Co., undergoing a rough transition to digital photography, said Thursday it was considering the sale of its fabled health-imaging business after reporting a $298 million loss in the first quarter - its sixth straight quarterly loss.

Hybrids designed with military needs in mind
OSHKOSH, Wis. - At the top of a 10-foot-high mound of dirt, Gary Schmiedel takes in the silence. The military truck he's driving barely hums just before it careens down a steep incline into a muddy pool.

Editorial cartoon 050406 - The Augusta Chronicle

Editorial cartoon 050506 - The Augusta Chronicle

Richt's wife expected to make full recovery
SAVANNAH, Ga. - Georgia coach Mark Richt's wife, Katharyn, underwent a hysterectomy last week following her recent diagnosis for cervical cancer, Richt said.

Amid an economic boom
The reality is that, despite the war in Iraq, soaring gas prices and gloom-and-doom forecasts, the U.S. economy continues to roar ahead like a locomotive. A better-than-4 percent growth rate this past quarter, unemployment under 5 percent, the stock market inching back to pre-9-11 highs, consumer and construction spending up, factory activity expanding - wherever you look, the economy is doing great.

Juan's Law spreads beyond Georgia

The man behind Tiger

Pray now or pay later
Today is the 55th National Day of Prayer.

Pray now or pay later

OK, now spare us!

The man behind Tiger
Who wouldn't want a son like Tiger Woods?

Amid an economic boom

Juan's Law spreads beyond Georgia
It's heartening to see Jackie Boatwright's Juan's Law campaign making progress in other states besides Georgia.

OK, now spare us!
Zacarias Moussaoui used to be the poster child for the death penalty.

Applause calendar
Three veterans of the Grand Ole Opry - Jesse McReynolds, Jimmy C. Newman and Bobby Osborne - and 80-year-old bluegrass performer Mac Wiseman will join other entertainers at the 19th annual Lewis Family Homecoming and Bluegrass Festival.

People in the News
SYDNEY, Australia - Dame Edna Everage's alter ego, Barry Humphries, punched a photographer who pursued him outside a restaurant, his publicist said.

Stuff to do
Things to see this week.

Concert calendar
19TH ANNUAL LEWIS FAMILY HOMECOMING AND BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL: Noon to 11 p.m., today-Saturday; Elijah Clark State Park, U.S. Highway 378, 10 miles east of Lincolnton, Ga.; $30 per day or $20 after 6 p.m. for adults; $15 per day for ages 6-13; free for 5 or younger; $3 per vehicle; headliners include The Cherryholmes Family, The Lewis Family and Mac Wiseman, Jesse McReynolds, Bobby Osborne and Jimmy C. Newman; (706) 864-7203.

Chanticleer brings diversity in music, choral members
For Augusta native Joseph Jennings, the music director for the choral ensemble Chanticleer, hitting the road means coming home.

Nicole Richie acknowledges she's 'too thin'
NEW YORK - Nicole Richie, whose drastic weight loss spawned speculation that she has an eating disorder, acknowledges she is "too thin" and is getting treatment to add pounds, in an interview in Vanity Fair.

Club calendar
Send your nightclub's entertainment or drink special information to karen.roberson@augustachronicle.com, fax it to (706) 722-7403 or call (706) 823-3708. Listings must be received by 6 p.m. Mondays for publication in the current week:

George Lucas is now a 'Star Wars' action figure
LOS ANGELES - Not that long ago, in a nearby galaxy, George Lucas joined forces with the dark side. The "Star Wars" creator has become a Storm Trooper.

People in the News
ST. PAUL, Minn. - Hollywood came to Lake Wobegon as Meryl Streep, Lindsay Lohan and other stars gathered for the world premiere of "A Prairie Home Companion," the movie version of Garrison Keillor's folksy radio show.

Rates on 30-year continue to climb
WASHINGTON - Rates on 30-year mortgages climbed this week, hitting their highest point in nearly four years, a development that will be weighed by people thinking about buying a home or refinancing the one they own.

Rates on 30-year continue to climb

Top-water season for bass off to slow start

Fishing Tournaments
Sponsoring a bass, crappie, catfish or other fishing tournament? Mail or fax your flyer or information to Fishing Editor, The Augusta Chronicle, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, Ga. 30903-1928. Fax number: (706) 823-3408. Tournament reports must include first and last names of the participants, total numbers of fish and total weight of the catch.

Fish lose bite after early morning action

'Elite' fishing event begins
The bass are on the beds, hotels are packed with boat trailers and a 60-foot Jumbotron television screen has taken up a place on the pavement at Wildwood Park.

Fish lose bite after early morning action
With bright sunshine and minimal wind, the fish were elusive Thursday as anglers competed on the opening day of the Citgo Bassmasters Elite Series tournament.

Top-water season for bass off to slow start
The top-water season for largemouth bass opened this week despite cold fronts and high winds, but schooling hybrids and striped bass were nowhere to be found on Thurmond Lake.

Fishing Tournaments

Make your property a wildlife sanctuary
NEW MARKET, Va. - Steve Kress would like a few words with you if you're among the many property owners manicuring their yards to resemble putting greens on a golf course. The few words? "Stop doing it."

Make your property a wildlife sanctuary

Dolce Crme Brle, Key Lime Pie are hot heucheras

Dolce Crme Brle, Key Lime Pie are hot heucheras
If terms such as key lime pie or crme brle sound good enough to eat, just wait until you put them in the garden. You won't eat these but your shade garden will come alive with color.

Try insecticides, traps to rid garden, yard of mole invasion
My yard is being overrun by moles tunneling. They seem to be everywhere. What can you do to get rid of them?

Try insecticides, traps to rid garden, yard of mole invasion

Catfish silence Jackets' bats
The energy just wasn't there for the Augusta GreenJackets on Wednesday night. Neither was luck or their bats.

Earl Woods' plans for Tiger were evident to local golfers
CYPRESS, Calif. - Paul Traughber remembers the day a kid named Tiger Woods showed up to play in an 18-and-under golf tournament.

Cancer takes Woods' father
Earl Woods, who was more determined to raise a good son than a great golfer and became the architect and driving force behind Tiger Woods' phenomenal career, died Wednesday morning at his home in Cypress, Calif. He was 74.

Bill Haas tied for lead at 68
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - It was the kind of day Tiger Woods would have enjoyed. A round of golf on a traditional, tree-lined course that firmed up as the day went on, with conditions similar to a major championship.

Bill Haas tied for lead at 68

Earl Woods' plans for Tiger were evident to local golfers

Pacers extend streak at regionals
USC Aiken can officially begin thinking about a three-peat.

Pacers extend streak at regionals

Jackets make the wait worthwhile
In a game delayed more than an hour by rain Thursday night, the Augusta GreenJackets scored five runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to cap a wild comeback and beat the Columbus Catfish, 11-10 at Lake Olmstead Stadium.

Jackets make the wait worthwhile

Tough decisions await Detroit

Tough decisions await Detroit
DETROIT - The Detroit Red Wings can't throw money at their problems like they have done in the past.

Finalists named for yearly honors
NEW YORK - Jaromir Jagr and Joe Thornton are chasing each other again.

Finalists named for yearly honors

Kansas City: Land of the $4 soda, not the tumbleweed
Tourists don't know where they've been, travelers don't know where they're going.

Merchants, tell us your ZIP codes
Can someone tell me why so many businesses in the CSRA who advertise in newspapers, magazines, phone books, etc. leave out the ZIP code in their addresses?Philip Verduce, North Augusta, S.C.

Don't miss 'The Music Man' again
If you missed the first weekend of The Music Man at the Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center at the Columbia County Library, you missed one great evening. You have one more weekend to see it.Georgia B. Kozel, Evans

Congress is useless on immigration
In 1986, Congress gave amnesty to 3 million illegals, and promised to secure our borders. They failed miserably to do so, and now we have at least 12 milliion more illegal invaders.Thomas N. Dean, Aiken, S.C.

Pro-evolution letter filled with flaws

Merchants, tell us your ZIP codes

Pro-evolution letter filled with flaws
A very poor argument was printed under the title "On evolution, science trumps faith" (May 1).Zachary A. Martin, Martinez

Congress is useless on immigration

Mercury woos young with new Milan

Flu drug Tamiflu fares well in animal testing

Bird flu report: don't count on federal rescue

Living briefs

Margarita madness

Living briefs
This Mother's Day, The Augusta Chronicle wants to celebrate by asking all moms: When did you turn into your mother?

How long can you use that stamp? Forever
WASHINGTON - Not just diamonds are forever. Add stamps to the list. The post office is planning a "forever" stamp for letters, good no matter how many times postal rates increase.

Mercury woos young with new Milan
The 2006 Mercury Milan, Mercury's first new midsize sedan in more than a decade, sure is a fashionable go-getter.

Flu drug Tamiflu fares well in animal testing
SINGAPORE - The flu drug Tamiflu can prevent deaths in mammals infected with bird flu, suggests a new study that offers clues to the ideal dosage and duration needed for people, scientists said Wednesday.

Margarita madness
Tart but sweet and with a hint of salt, the margarita remains the best-loved and most-ordered cocktail in America.

Bird flu report: don't count on federal rescue
WASHINGTON - States, cities and businesses should not expect to be rescued by the federal government if a flu pandemic strikes, warns a draft of the latest national response plan, one already under fire from critics who say federal preparations are moving too slowly.

Police search for suspect in stabbing

Event's cars taken, damaged at hotels

Across the area
Freshman has gun at school

Pedestrian killed by train in Columbia County
A man has been killed after being struck by a train in the Berzelia community of Columbia County, authorities said.

Uranium program nears end
AIKEN - The preparation of weapons grade uranium at Savannah River Site for commercial nuclear power plants is six months ahead of schedule and should be complete next year, the federal Department of Energy announced Thursday.

Defense attacks credibility of Schrenko trial witness
ATLANTA -- A defense attorney assailed a government witness as the first week of former state schools Superintendent Linda Schrenko's corruption trial neared a close.

South Augusta man slain in shooting

Conroy eulogizes mentor, 'The Boo'
CHARLESTON, S.C. - With both good humor and sadness, novelist Pat Conroy said goodbye Wednesday to "The Boo," his mentor at The Citadel who helped inspire him to become a writer.

Areas prepare for base changes
ATLANTA - With a little more than five years to complete the latest round of the nation's military base closures or expansions, federal officials are getting the affected communities involved in the planning process.

Returning soldiers to get jobs help
ATLANTA - After three years in the National Guard and seven months in southeast Iraq, Michael Lambert was more than ready to plunge into civilian life. The problem was, he didn't know where to start. For a 35-year-old who had long since abandoned his contracting business, starting a new career was no simple task.

School officials flunk Perdue on education

Spanish skills crucial for job-seekers at fair
A local organization dedicated to providing services to the Hispanic community will hold a job fair Friday for Spanish-speakers.

Kid of the Day
Robert "Bobby" Gay, of Waynesboro, is today's kid of the day.

Authorities identify drowned 2-year-old
Authorities have released the identity of a 2-year-old who drowned Wednesday night in a south Richmond County pond.

Olin tests water for mercury
A Richmond County chemical maker is conducting its own tests of sediment in its drainage canal after a high school student found elevated mercury levels as part of a science fair project.

Ex-UGA official is charged in thefts
ATHENS, Ga. - University of Georgia police have accused a former State Botanical Garden of Georgia business manager with stealing more than $22,000 from the university's 313-acre nature preserve off South Milledge Avenue, UGA police said.

Mother's pleas fall on deaf ears in Legislature

Rants and raves
WHERE ARE THE FURYS Ferry Road men? They are out working on all the "other" road-widening projects that have been given to them. I mean, when you reward tardiness by waiving late fees AND giving them more business, why should we think they will ever finish Furys Ferry Road?

School choice, cigarette tax voted down in House
COLUMBIA - Proponents of a cigarette tax increase and school choice tax credit tried in a last-ditch effort Wednesday to add the proposals to an expansive tax bill.

Measure might speed MOX efforts in U.S.
AIKEN - The United States could move forward with its MOX plutonium conversion plant at Savannah River Site without Russia under an amendment approved by a U.S. House committee Wednesday.

Chairman pads party coffers

Richmond County's leader gets new post

The fresher the better

Ex-death row inmate paroled Spann wins parole

News you can use
Activities and entertainment events scheduled for today include:

Sugary drinks canned

End of school project blasted
AIKEN - The end of a successful after-school program at Schofield Middle School has stirred the ire of some community members and parents whose children benefited.

Payne to replace Johnson, report says
The Web site of the Atlanta Journal Constitution reported this morning that Billy Payne will replace William

Witness in Schrenko trial describes transactions
A former computer software executive continued today to describe how a South African businessman shoveled thousands of dollars into then-state school Superintendent Linda Schrenko's 2002 gubernatorial bid.

Return is small on loan program
The micro-loan program at Augusta's housing and economic development department to benefit potential entrepreneurs has had micro-success, a reality the program's citizens advisory committee has tried to remedy for months.

Teenager arrested in Hephizbah homicide
Richmond County sheriff's deputies arrested a Hephzibah teenager early this morning in connection with a homicide Wednesday night.

Asphalt costs pave way for changes in contract
Not only do higher oil prices make it more expensive to hit the road these days, they also make it cost more to pave one.

Billy Payne to replace Hootie Johnson as chairman of Augusta National Golf Club
Hootie Johnson, who weathered a controversial challenge to Augusta National Golf Club's all-male membership and oversaw sweeping changes to the course, announced that he is stepping down as chairman of the club and Masters Tournament on Friday.

Kickbacks ordered, executive testifies
ATLANTA - South African businessman Stephan Botes personally authorized officials at his company to funnel money from Georgia Department of Education contracts into then-Superintendent Linda Schrenko's 2002 bid for governor, a former executive in one of Mr. Botes' companies testified Wednesday.

Boy, 2, slips out of house, drowns

Georgia learns Katrina lessons
SAVANNAH, Ga. - Phillip Webber was in charge of deploying buses to transport more than 3,200 people fleeing the Savannah area when coastal Georgia evacuated before a near-miss with Hurricane Floyd in 1999.

The fresher the better
Fresh is fine, but fresher is the keyword for the Saturday Market on Broad, which kicks off its fourth season this weekend.

Kid of the Day
Alec Joshua Hadden, of Hephzibah, is today's kid of the day.

School officials flunk Perdue on education
When it comes to education, Gov. Sonny Perdue is more interested in what can be done for his political gain than what can be done to help schoolchildren, an area school superintendent said.

Candidates woo educators
Two of the state's gubernatorial candidates stopped in Augusta to tout their records and lay out their strategies for improving Georgia education Wednesday.

Training is key in mending program
Heavy doses of training are among pages of strategies that will be implemented to narrow the achievement gap between special education and regular education pupils in Richmond County, according to a report submitted to the Georgia Department of Education.

Police say girl made up attack
An Augusta girl was charged by Richmond County sheriff's deputies Wednesday after they found she lied about being the victim of an abduction attempt.

Event's cars taken, damaged at hotels
Carla Arnold and her husband, Lee, figured when they booked rooms at a hotel in west Augusta their expensively decorated cars would be in a safe place.

Across South Carolina
COLUMBIA - Richland County has been fined more than $800,000 by state regulators for failing to keep pollution out of lakes and creeks.

Sugary drinks canned
NEW YORK - School soda pop machines are about to lose their high-calorie fizz.

Richmond County's leader gets new post
The director of the Richmond County Department of Family and Children Services is taking over the DFCS office in Fulton County, the state's largest.

Kid of the Day

Asphalt costs pave way for changes in contract
Not only do higher oil prices make it more expensive to hit the road these days, they also make it cost more to pave one.

Walker files for charity status

Candidates woo educators
Two of the state's gubernatorial candidates stopped in Augusta to tout their records and lay out their strategies for improving Georgia education Wednesday.

Bond denied in racketeering case

Threatened species
Georgia Coastal Resources Division biologists lift a 500-pound loggerhead that was rescued Monday near Brunswick, Ga.

Across Georgia

Police say girl made up attack
An Augusta girl was charged by Richmond County sheriff's deputies Wednesday after they found she lied about being the victim of an abduction attempt.

Uranium program nears end

Across the area
Freshman has gun at school

Across the area
Man jailed for shooting wife

Parents fight rezoning

Teen is charged with murder
Richmond County sheriff's deputies arrested a Hephzibah teenager early Thursday in connection with a homicide Wednesday night.

Company employee describes cover-up

Boy, 2, slips out of house, drowns
A 2-year-old is dead after he wandered away from his south Augusta home and fell into a pond.

Spanish skills crucial for job-seekers at fair

News you can use

Company employee describes cover-up
ATLANTA - With state auditors breathing down their necks, executives at an Atlanta-area software firm scrambled to create backdated contracts to cover up illegal contributions of government money to former state schools Superintendent Linda Schrenko, a former employee testified Thursday.

Fishing field trip
As Angela Beverly, at left, mans the grill, Charles Coker prepares his fishing pole at Langley Pond.

Olin tests water for mercury

Simulator helps pilots stay sharp
THOMSON - Barreling down the runway in a Cessna single-jet aircraft, Ken Daniel lifts the throttle all the way and pulls up on the plane's yoke.

Simulator helps pilots stay sharp

Rants and raves
IT IS EXCITING ABOUT the new owners of the Augusta Lynx and you CAN get excited about this year's Augusta Lynx team.

Across the area

Rants and raves
IT IS EXCITING ABOUT the new owners of the Augusta Lynx and you CAN get excited about this year's Augusta Lynx team.

Across South Carolina
COLUMBIA - Richland County has been fined more than $800,000 by state regulators for failing to keep pollution out of lakes and creeks.

Mother's pleas fall on deaf ears in Legislature
COLUMBIA - Speaking before lawmakers Thursday, Karyn Grace said she had two angels by her side and God leading her on.

Kid of the Day
Alec Joshua Hadden, of Hephzibah, is today's kid of the day.

News you can use
Today is the National Day of Prayer, and a number of events have been planned to mark the event.

Corrections

Gas prices might raise cost of school lunches

Chairman pads party coffers
GREENVILLE, S.C. - Joe Erwin has made his fortune with a Greenville advertising company and is spending some of it paying for state Democratic Party technology and facility upgrades.

Threatened species

Across Georgia
BUFORD - Lightning sparked a fire at a storage building early Wednesday morning.

School choice, cigarette tax voted down in House

Training is key in mending program

Fishing field trip

Teen is charged with murder

Corrections
- An incorrect sample math question accompanied an April 25 news story about changes in education practices.

Walker files for charity status
Charles "Champ" Walker Jr. has applied to register his nonprofit foundation as a charitable organization with the state, officials said Thursday.

End of school project blasted

Parents fight rezoning
Parents say they fear the area around the Martha Lester School could grow worse with plans for a re-entry house for recently released felons.

Bond denied in racketeering case
An Augusta contractor facing trial on a racketeering charge lost his bid for release on bond Thursday.

Across South Carolina
FOREST ACRES - Gov. Mark Sanford faced a backlash Thursday after vetoing tougher penalties late Wednesday night for parents who don't strap their children into car seats.

Across Georgia
Police chief resigns after tape is released

Gas prices might raise cost of school lunches
Columbia County parents worried about paying more at the gas pump soon might have to factor in paying more for their children's school lunches, too.

Do taste buds hold cure for spinal injury? On the tip of the tongue
Most people - even most scientists - wouldn't think that taste has anything to do with spinal cord repair. But not Lynnette P. McCluskey.

News you can use

Ex-death row inmate paroled Spann wins parole
COLUMBIA - Former death row inmate Sterling Spann won parole Wednesday after the Probation, Parole and Pardon Services board voted 5-1 to release him.

Do taste buds hold cure for spinal injury? On the tip of the tongue

Across Georgia

Across South Carolina

Earl leaves his living treasure
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - It was the first golf tournament I ever covered, and the 64-year-old man holding court under the tree left an everlasting impression.

Tandem bound by same search
CHARLOTTE, N.C. - They stood roughly 50 feet apart, separated by only a couple of "peers" on the driving range at the Quail Hollow Club.

Mini reviews
Reviews without star ratings are from critics other than Roger Ebert. Listings are subject to change. Call theaters for times. A complete schedule for Evans theater was not available as of press time.

Randy Quaid drops 'Brokeback Mountain' lawsuit

Cruise controls strong early-summer film lineup
LOS ANGELES - The world's most famous movie star, his personal life settling down with the happily overhyped birth of his daughter, and the long-awaited third flick in his action franchise - it all sounds like a fine kickoff for Hollywood's summer season, which gets under way Friday with the debut of Tom Cruise's "Mission: Impossible III."

Randy Quaid drops 'Brokeback Mountain' lawsuit
LOS ANGELES - "Brokeback Mountain" co-star Randy Quaid has dropped a lawsuit over his compensation for the Academy Award-winning film.

'Family Stone' quietly surprises viewers

'Family Stone' quietly surprises viewers
Far more clever than it lets on, The Family Stone lulls its audience with comfortable familiarity before yanking the rug out from under expectations.

New on DVD

New on DVD
Here's a look at what's new this week in home video and DVD releases:

Blanchard remains in awe of mentor's ability

Danielle Howle demonstrates diversity of the South
Danielle Howle wants to take you on a tuneful tour of the South with her new CD, Thank You Mark.

Music industry to target CD pirates
WASHINGTON - After years of suing Internet users for downloading songs illegally, the music industry is targeting pirates in 12 cities who copy CDs and DVDs for sale at street corners, flea markets, family-run shops and even mainstream record stores.

Rapper Big Hawk shot to death
HOUSTON - Big Hawk, a rapper whose 2001 album reached No. 45 on Billboard's rap chart, was shot to death, police said Tuesday.

Blanchard remains in awe of mentor's ability
Four decades - and little else - separate Larry Jon Wilson and Patrick Blanchard.

Apple renews music deals, keeps 99 cents pricing

Sonic Spotlight

Danielle Howle demonstrates diversity of the South

Rolling Stone celebrates 1,000 issues
NEW YORK - Rolling Stone magazine celebrates its 1,000th issue this week with a burst of rock 'n' roll excess: a glitzy Manhattan party with the Strokes as house band and a 3-D cover that mimics the Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper" sleeve and cost nearly $1 million to produce.

Buckcherry is back in business, on road with new album

Sonic Spotlight
Kevin Boyd PLAYS: Pictured with his Schecter Oman-7 electric guitar

Rapper Big Hawk shot to death
HOUSTON - Big Hawk, a rapper whose 2001 album reached No. 45 on Billboard's rap chart, was shot to death, police said Tuesday.

Apple renews music deals, keeps 99 cents pricing
SAN JOSE, Calif. - Songs at Apple Computer Inc.'s iTunes Music Store will remain 99 cents per download after the company extended its distribution deals with major recording labels.

Music industry to target CD pirates

Rolling Stone celebrates 1,000 issues

Buckcherry is back in business, on road with new album
Buckcherry guitarist Keith Nelson will tell you that after four years apart, the Los Angeles riff-rock act has not reunited.

NASCAR Newsmaker: Michael Waltrip

NASCAR Newsmaker: Michael Waltrip
Michael Waltrip not only is driving Dodges and Chevrolets this year in the Nextel Cup Series, he also has a new race shop under construction and new Toyota Camrys on the drawing board for next year.

Jourdain ready to work his way up
ATLANTA - Car owner Jack Roush said Mexican racer Michel Jourdain will run nine races on the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series this year, starting with the race at Mansfield (Ohio) Motorsports Park.

Jourdain ready to work his way up

Tomorrow's stock car
ATLANTA - The next stop for NASCAR's Car of Tomorrow is the Lockheed wind tunnel in Marietta.

Nets finish off Pacers behind Jefferson's 30
INDIANAPOLIS - The New Jersey Nets overcame Anthony Johnson's 40-point effort to beat the Indiana Pacers, 96-90 on Thursday night, and advance to the Eastern Conference semifinals.

Nets finish off Pacers behind Jefferson's 30

Pistons make it look easy vs. Bucks
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - Richard Hamilton and the Detroit Pistons advanced without breaking a sweat.

Albert Benefield (AVERA, Ga.)
AVERA, Ga. - Funeral services for Mr. Albert Benefield, 90, of Avera, will be held on Friday, May 5, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at the Stone Springfield AME Church, Stapleton, Ga. with Rev. Carl Simmons officiating. Interment in the church cemetery. Survivors are a sister Louise (Perry) Ray, Thomson, Ga.; nephew, Thomas Benefield, Avera; brothers, Dwellie, Jr. and Jerry Benefield; cousins like sisters, Ora Gentry and Glennis Barnes; other relatives and friends. Viewing at Freeman Funeral Home, Wrens, after 12 noon Thursday. Thomson Funeral System, Thomson, Ga. in charge. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Ethel M. Hardy (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - A memorial service for Ethel M. Hardy, age 92, who entered into rest Wednesday, April 12, 2006, will be held at 10:30AM Saturday, May 6, 2006 at Hephzibah United Methodist Church with Rev. Gary E. McWhorter officiating. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Hephzibah United Methodist Church Scholarship Fund or Building Fund, P.O. Box 65, Hephzibah, Ga. 30815. Poteet Funeral Homes, 3465 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, Ga. 30906 (706)798-8886 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Richard A. Stephens (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mr. Richard A. Stephens of Woodlake Drive entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at his residence. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 1 p.m. at Noah's Ark Baptist Church with Rev. Karlton Howard officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Mr. Stephens, a native of Burke County, was a graduate of Boggs Academy and attended Savannah State University. He was a U.S. Army Vietnam Era veteran, a member of Noah's Ark Baptist Church and was employed as an insurance agent with Delta Life Insurance Company. Survivors are his wife, Lynette Stephens; daughter, Retrenda S. (John) Miniweather, Augusta; four grandchildren, Asya Trenae Stephens, Richard Aaron Stephens, Jonathan Miniweather, Jayden Miniweather; sister, Loretta S. (Samuel) Adderson, Lansing, Mich.; brothers, Eugene Stephens, Franklin (Thomasinsa) Stephens, Keysville, Ga., Robert A. (Ethel) Stephens, Augusta, Dwight D. (Diane) Stephens, Lilburn, Ga.; nieces, nephews and other relatives. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, Ga. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Darwin D. Kelley (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest on Monday, May 1, 2006, at Doctor's Hospital, Mr. Darwin D. Kelley, husband of 60 years to Jeanette M. Kelley of Augusta. Mr. Kelley was born in Osceola, Iowa in 1924. He farmed with his father until 1946 in Miles, Iowa. Mr. Kelley was a Mason and Past Master of Low Moor Endeavor #610 Lodge F.& A.M. in Low Moor, Iowa, Emeritus Member of the Fleming Lodge # 718 and the Alice Warren Chapter #483 Order of the Eastern Star. Additional survivors include his daughters; Lynn Marie Jones and Gayle Davidson and her husband Hugh all of Augusta, his son; Tom Kelley and his wife Bonnie of Jacksonville, FL, grandchildren; Todd Nielsen and his wife Lela, Nathan Jones, Patrick Kelley, Ryan Kelley and his wife Kathy, Karen Davidson and James Davidson, three great-grandchildren, four sisters and one brother. Funeral services will be today, Thursday, May 4, 2006, 11:00 A.M. in the Chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son with Rev. Bill Burch officiating. Pallbearers will be his five grandsons. Burial will follow at Westover Memorial Park. If so desired memorial contributions may be made to Burns Memorial United Methodist Church, 2372 Lumpkin Rd. Augusta, GA 30906. Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd. Augusta, GA 30907 (706)364-8484.

Bonnie Ray Maxwell (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Bonnie Ray Maxwell, 73, of Lokey Drive, Dearing, entered into rest May 03, 2006. She was the beloved wife of the late James L. Maxwell. Survivors include: daughters, Debra Jones, Tennessee; Joyce Frankenfield, Thomson, Ga.; brother, Ernest Kray, Largo, Fl.; grandchildren, Michael Maxwell, Susan and Ashley Frankenfield and Christopher Jones and great- grandchild, Amber Frankenfield. Mrs. Maxwell was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania and was the daughter of the late Helmuth Kray and Gladys Free Kray . She was retired as a Secretary and attended Second Baptist Church. Mrs. Maxwell was preceded in death by her son David Maxwell. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 06, 2006 at the Beggs Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Ron Drawdy officiating. Interment will follow in Savannah Valley Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends from 7 until 9 pm Friday at the funeral home . Beggs Funeral Home, 799 Cobbham Road, Thomson, Ga. 595-4100. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Hazel J. Moore (EVANS, Ga.)
EVANS, Ga. - Hazel J. Moore entered into rest Tuesday May 2, 2006 at her daughter's residence. Miss Moore was one of the first women from Georgia to serve her country in the Women's Army Corps. She also was the first women to be employed as a switchman with Southern Bell where she retired after 35 years of service. Miss Moore also served her community where she was a frequent donor at Shepeard Community Blood Center. She also was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America and also The Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church. The funeral liturgy outside mass will be held Friday afternoon at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, Columbia Road Chapel at 2 PM with Rev. Michael Lubinsky officiating. Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery. Miss Moore is survived by a daughter Rebecca Bold (her fianc Hayden Wright) of Evans; two grandchildren, Tara Elizabeth Bold and Brian Allen Hammond Bold, one great-granddaughter, Shaye Brianna Patterson, and Godchild Harry HolidayMoore III. Miss Moore was preceded in death by her parents Harry and Inez Moore, and brothers & sisters, Ethel McGahee, Evans Moore, Inman Moore, Alma Cashin, Inez Neal and Harry Moore. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Joseph's Hospice, 2260 Wrightsboro Road, Augusta, GA 30904. The vigil for the deceased will be held with Rev. Michael Lubinsky officiating at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, Lumpkin Road Chapel at 7:00 p.m. with visitation following until 9:00 p.m.

Senia Lamar (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Senia Sanders Lamar, 97, of 1640 Roosevelt St. entered into rest Sunday, April 30, 2006 at the Ridgeway Health and Rehabilitation Care Center, Ridgeway, S.C. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 3:30 p.m. at the Springfield Baptist Church with Rev. Dr. E.T. Martin officiating. Burial will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery. Mrs. Lamar was a native of Barnwell and she was a member of the Springfield Baptist Church where she served as Deaconess for many years. Survivors are one sister, Pearl Tillman, Augusta; godson, James Crouch, Augusta; six nieces, Mary Ida Gardner, Claremont, Calif., Ernestine Scott, Bertha Phillips, Senia Fooks and Ella Russell, Columbia, S.C, Joanne Riley, Augusta; nephew, James (Inez) Gardner, Augusta; special friends, Perry Williams, Hephzibah and Elijah Quillar, Jr.; a host of other relatives and friends. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd.

Jean H. Martin (WRENS, Ga.)
WRENS, Ga. - Mrs. Jean H. Martin, age 80, loving wife of the late Cliff Martin Sr. entered into eternal rest on May 2, 2006. at Gibson Health and Rehabilitation Center. Funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Thursday May 4, 2006, with Revs. Roy White, Griffin Thompson and Ed Chance officiating. Burial will follow at Wrens Memorial Cemetery. James Funeral Home- Wrens, GA.

Ruth Riley Staubes (AIKEN, S.C.)
AIKEN, S.C. - A graveside service for Mrs. Ruth Riley Staubes, beloved wife of J. Herman Staubes, Jr. of Aiken, will be conducted today, Friday, May 5, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. in the Graniteville Cemetery with Rev. Jim Kirk officiating. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the graveside by 1:45 p.m. Napier Funeral Home, 315 Main St., Graniteville, S.C. 29829.

Agnes Leola Strange (CHARLESTON, S.C.)
CHARLESTON, S.C. - Entered into eternal rest on May 2, 2006, Agnes Leola Strange. Residence, Charleston, S.C. Relatives and friends are invited to attend her funeral service in DeLoach-Kennedy Funeral Home, Sunday, May 7, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Interment, Magnolia Cemetery, Waynesboro, Ga. Friends may call at the funeral home from 12:00 p.m. until the time of service. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., West Ashley Chapel. Agnes was born in Burke County, Ga., January 3, 1914, the daughter of William Thomas Strange ad Eva Glisson Strange. She was a member of First United Methodist Church in Statesboro, Ga. Surviving are one brother, John William Strange of Loganville, Ga.; several nieces and nephews. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Leona Smith (HARLEM, Ga.)
HARLEM, Ga. - Leona Fullmore Smith, 78, entered into rest Tuesday May 2, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Friday May 5, 2006, at Starling Funeral Home, Harlem, Ga., with the Rev. Randall Whitaker officiating. Interment will be in the Powell Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Johnny Hayes, Donald Parker, Kirk Jones, Ronnie Smith, James C. Rozic, and Jason Stepp. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Thursday evening from 6 to 8 PM at Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com.

Richard A. Stephens (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mr. Richard A. Stephens of Woodlake Drive entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at his residence. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Survivors are his wife, Lynette Stephens; daughter, Retrenda S. (John) Miniweather, Augusta; four grandchildren, Asya Trenae Stephens, Richard Aaron Stephens, Jonathan Miniweather, Jayden Miniweather; sister, Loretta S. (Samuel) Anderson, Lansing, Mich.; brothers, Eugene Stephens, Franklin (Thomasinsa) Stephens, Keysville, Ga., Robert A. (Ethel) Stephens, Augusta, Dwight D. (Diane) Stephens, Lilburn, Ga.; nieces, nephews and other relatives. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, Ga.

Marie B. O'Bryant (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Marie B. O'Bryant of Magnolia Avenue entered into rest Friday, April 28, 2006 at the University Hospital. Funeral services will be held Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at the First Providence Baptist Church, North Augusta, with Rev. Alex Pope officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Olive Memorial Garden. Remains will lie in state at the church 10:00 a.m. until the hour of service. Family and friends will assemble at the residence at 10:15 a.m. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd.

Louise W. Corda (BEECH ISLAND, S.C.)
BEECH ISLAND, S.C. - Gravesides services for Mrs. Louise W. Corda, 84, who entered into rest on Tuesday, May 2, 2006 in Albuquerque, NM, will be conducted at 3PM Friday May 5, 2006 at Westover Memorial Park. Mrs. Corda was preceded in death by her husband James, her son Frank, and three of her brothers. Remaining family members include one daughter, Lynnette Kruse, Corrales,NM; two sons, John Corda, Beech Island and Charles Corda, Martinez, GA; six grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren, one sister, Mae Howard, Florida; and one brother, Ocie Wood, Beech Island. The family will gather at the graveside just prior to the service.

Yongsuk Pak Wenner (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Yongsuk Pak Wenner of Georgetown left this earth to be with Jesus, April 27 around 9:30 p.m. at MCG, surrounded by family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Mark D. Wenner; son, Jhin Pak, daughter-in-law, Ligia Pak; grandchildren, Christina Dustin, Julia Pak, Nathan Pak and Kevin Pak; brother, Yusaeng Pak and wife Hye Soon Pak; three sisters, Sue Copeland and husban Bob Copeland, Hyo Suk Nam and husban Ki tok Nam, and Tok Hyon Kang. Memorial services will be held May 6, 4:00 P.M. at Augusta Seventh-Day Adventist Church located at 4301 Wheeler Rd., Martinez, 30907, (706) 651-0412. As her wish, her body was donated to MCG Hospital.

Daniel Roye ( LINCOLNTON, Ga.)
LINCOLNTON, Ga. - Our beloved brother departed this life on Sunday April 30, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday May 4, 2006, at Starling Funeral Home, Harlem, Ga., with the Revs. Fred Heard and Randy Byrd officiating. Entombment will be in Westover Memorial Park Mausoleum, Augusta, Ga. Pallbearers will be Doug Robinson, Daniel Duncan, Donald Lowe, Grayson Goble, Dennis Smith, and Timothy Roye. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com

Neil A. Johnson (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest on Thursday, May 04, 2006, at St. Joseph Hospital, Mr. Neil A. Johnson, 77, husband of Mary H. Johnson. Mr. Johnson was a native of Minnesota but had resided in the Augusta area since 1953 when he came to work as a chemical engineer at E. I. DuPont where he was active with a task group which was involved in numerous engineering projects with the computer systems on site. He was instrumental in the founding of Augusta Swim League, Kingston Swim Team, and various other swimming events. He was a member of St. Mary On-The-Hill Catholic Church. Family members in addition to his wife include his sons, James Andrew Johnson and wife, Susan of Atlanta, David Neil Johnson of Augusta, Mark Randle Johnson and wife Lynn of Atlanta, Paul Erwin Johnson and wife, Pamela of Augusta; daughter, Suzanne Marie Talarek and husband, Ted of Canton, NY; sister, Darlene Helland of Austin, MN; brother, Eldon Johnson and wife, Dona of Raleigh, NC and eight grandchildren. The Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, May 6, 2006, at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary On-The-Hill Catholic Church with Rev. Gerald Ragan celebrant. Pallbearers will be members of Richmond County Sheriffs Department and Georgia State Patrol. Interment will follow in Westover Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Hospice, 2260 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta, GA 30904. The Vigil for the Deceased will be held Friday, May 5, 2006 at 7:00 P.M. and the family will receive friends until 9:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mabel Marshall (MARTINEZ, Ga.)
MARTINEZ, Ga. - Mrs. Mabel Lorane "May" Marshall entered into rest May, 2, 2006 at her home after an extended battled with cancer. Mrs. Mabel Lorane Marshall, daughter of the late James Willie Belk and Fulton Ella Belk was a loving daughter, wife, mother and grandmother and will be dearly missed by all. She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Booker F. Marshall; one son, Jeffery Wayne Marshall and his wife Jackquline Marshall; four daughters, Bonnie Roberson and her husband Barry Roberson of Martinez, Shannon Marshall of Martinez, Becky Crook and her husband Richard Crook of Trenton, S.C., Renee Agner and her husband Russell Agner of Stapleton, Ga.; 14 grandchildren; a sister, Barbara Kitchens and her husband Albert G. Kitchens of Union, S.C.; two brothers, Robert Lee Belk and his wife Andi Belk of Florence, Ore. and James Willie Belk, Jr. and his wife Judy Belk of Union, S.C. The family wishes to thank Dr. Mary Edgecomb, nurses and staff of the Oncology Department, Eisenhower Army Medical Center and United Hospice, for their love and care of Mabel. The family will receive friends at Thomas L. King Funeral Home, 124 Davis Rd., Martinez, Ga. on Friday, May 5, 2006 from 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be conducted Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. at Bellevue Memorial Gardens Chapel with Pastor Jerry Jones officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the New Height Community Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 204305, Martinez, Ga., 30917. Thomas L. King Funeral Home, 124 Davis Rd., Martinez, Ga., (706) 863-6747. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Robert Poole (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Funeral Services for Mr. Robert Raymond Poole, who entered into rest on April 27, 2006, will be conducted on Saturday May 6, 2006, at 6 p.m. at C.A. Reid Sr. Memorial Gibson Chapel with Reverend Clifford Devine officiating.

Leo Flournoy (SANDERSVILLE, Ga.)
SANDERSVILLE, Ga. - Mr. Leo Flournoy, Sr., Floyd Street, Sandersville, died on Saturday, April 29, 2006 at the Washington County Regional Medical Center, Sandersville. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. from Middle Hill Baptist Church with Reverend Forest Lester officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. M.C. Smith Funeral Home in charge.

Margaret Weaver (SWAINSBORO, Ga.)
SWAINSBORO, Ga. - Reno Tapley Mortuary announces the death of Ms. Margaret Weaver of Swainsboro, May 1, 2006 at the Memorial Medical Center in Savannah, Ga. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. at the Greater St. James Missionary Baptist Church in Swainsboro, Rev. Bennie Brinson presiding.

Juanita Patterson (ALLENDALE, S.C.)
ALLENDALE, S.C. - Ms. Juanita Patterson, 67, died Friday, April 28, 2006. Funeral services will be held 3:00 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2006 at Magdalene Christian Church. She is survived by her mother, one daughter, four sisters, four brothers and six grandchildren. Cave Funeral Service, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

Fannie Walton-Clark (TIGNALL, Ga.)
TIGNALL, Ga. - Mrs. Fannie Matt Walton-Clark, 79, died May 3, 2006. Funeral services will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 6, 2006 at New Ford Baptist Church, Tignall with Rev. James White, Pastor, officiating. Burial will follow in the church yard. Davenport-McLendon Mortuary, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

John Henry Booker (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. John Henry Booker of Essie McIntyre Blvd. entered into rest Sunday, April 30, 2006 at his residence. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 5, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at First New Canaan Church with Rev. Reather Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in Walker Memorial Park. Mr. Booker was a native of Richmond Co., Ga. and a painter. He was a member of the First McCan nan Baptist Church. Survivors are his wife, Dorothy Booker, Augusta; three daughters, Lakinia (Charles Mack) Brown, Tamara Wright, Johnell Booker, Augusta; two stepsons, Willie Brown, Darius Smiley, Augusta; mother, Lillie Martin, Augusta; five sisters, Elizabeth (Mitchell) Wright, Philadelphia, Betty Zellars, Lincolnton, Mary Lou Booker, Lexington, N.C., Lillie Mae (Roney) Patterson, Augusta, Parleen (John) Chandler, Kenosha, Wis.; four brothers, Johnny (Sharon) Dozier, Leonard (Nettie J.) Booker, Lonnie Booker, Willie (Diane) Booker, all of Augusta, Ga.; eight grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChroncile.com

Diane Sheley (SYLVANIA, Ga.)
SYLVANIA, Ga. - Kadence Diane Sheley, age 10 months, died Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at the Medical College of GA in Augusta. Visitation: Friday, May 5, 2006, 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 PM on Saturday, May 6, 2006, at Thompson-Strickland-Waters Funeral Home Chapel. Interment held at Screven County Memorial Cemetery, Sylvania. Thompson-Strickland-Waters Funeral Home in charge.

Mitchell Flanigan (LINCOLNTON, Ga.)
LINCOLNTON, Ga. - Mr. Mitchell Flanigan, husband of Ann Chafin Flanigan of Washington Hwy. Lincolnton died Tues., May 2 at his residence. He was 71. Graveside services will be held, Thurs., May 4, 2006 at 11 a.m. at Hephzibah Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Paul C. Reviere officiating. Mr. Flanigan, a lifelong resident of Lincolnton was the son of the late Walter Otto and Anna Goldman Flanigan. He was retired from the City of Lincolnton after 18 years as superintendent of the Waste Water Dept. Prior to his employment with the City of Lincolnton he had worked for Green's Fuel Gas Co. in Lincolnton. He had served as the City of Lincolnton Fire Chief for ten years and in the U.S. Army National Guard. Also, he was a member of Lincolnton Baptist Church and the American Legion #194. His brother, Robert L. "Bobby" Flanigan preceded him in death. Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Ann Chafin Flanigan; daughter, Melinda F. Cartledge and husband, Jeff, of Hartwell; grandchildren, Laura and Kristen Cartledge. Pallbearers will be, Richard Bentley, Stanley Parton, Buddy Marlow, Lee Moss, Kyle Reese, Rick Chafin, Bob Cunningham Beggs Funeral Home 200 May Ave Lincolnton, GA, 30817 (706) 359-4117 .

Ida Swan (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Ida Swan, 85, beloved wife of the late Rev. Charles Andrew Swan for 46 years, entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at Kentwood Home. Mrs. Swan was a member of Hill Baptist Church and retired as a teacher. She is survived by a sister, Agnes Dowda, Thomson, Ga., and a number of very special nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held 11:00 A.M. today, May 5, 2006 at Way's Baptist Church Cemetery, (Stellaville Community) Wrens, GA, with Dr. Mike Ruffin officiating, assisted by Rev. George Lauderdale Family will receive friends after the service at the Way's Baptist Church fellowship hall. Memorials may be made to the Hill Baptist Church, Augusta, GA, Ways Baptist Church (Stellaville Community) Wrens, GA, or to your choice of charity. James Funeral Home - Wrens, GA Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Jesse H. Heath (SFC, US Army HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
SFC, US Army HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Retired SFC Deacon Jesse H. Heath, Jr., entered into rest on Wednesday, April 26, 2006 at his residence. Mr. Heath was a member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon for 36 years. He served in the U.S. Army for 22 years, where he obtained the rank of SFC E7. A veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars and was decorated with many honors. He leaves cherished memories to his wife of 50 plus years, Mrs. Louise Hunter Heath; sons, Retired MSG USAF Norris I. (Virginia) Heath, Terrance H. Heath; daughter, Gail L. (Roy, Jr.) Peake; grandchildren, Audra L. Heath, Amanda V. Shedrick, Gregory A. Shedrick, Parker Heath, Sydney L. Peake, Kellen M. Peake; brother, Sammie L. (Betty) Heath; sister, Aggie M. Heath; sisters-in-law, Emma L. Hightower, Zenorbia Heath, Marilyn Heath, Betty Washington, Joanne Heath; brother-in-law, Willie J. Hunter, J.B. Blackshear; uncle, O.C. Pearman and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be 1:00 pm, Friday, May 5, 2006, at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, with Pastor K. B. Martin, officiating. Interment will be in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers please make donations to The American Cancer Society, 2623 Washington Road, F-104, Augusta, GA. 30904. The family will receive friends tonight from 6 to 8 pm at Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road. (706) 790-8858 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Jessie Simpkins (SWAINSBORO, Ga.)
SWAINSBORO, Ga. - Mr. Jessie Simpkins, Jr. died on Friday, April 28, 2006 in Swainsboro, GA. Funeral will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 a 2:00 p.m. at the Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church in Louisville, GA with the Rev. Alvin Simpkins, officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. His survivors are: his wife, Annie Simpkins, Swainsboro, GA; two daughters, Mary Frances Thorne, Wrens, GA and Lucinda Bryant, Ft. Lauderdale, FL; four step sons, Albert Lee Davis, Elijah Davis, Randolph Davis and Gary Davis, Swainsboro, GA; two sisters, Flora Williams, Ft. Lauderdale, FL and Betty Johnson, Louisville, GA; 19 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren, one son-in-law, four brothers-in-law, two sisters-in-law and a host of other relatives and friends. Hudson Mortuary, 144 Butts Street, Wadley, GA in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Percy Whitaker (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. Percy Edward Whitaker, 86, husband of Mrs. Martha Lillian Whitaker, entered into rest Thursday May 4, 2006, at the Saint Joseph Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, May 8, 2006, at Starling Funeral Home, Harlem, Ga. Interment will be in the Harlem Memorial Cemetery. Mr. Whitaker was born Columbia County, and was an Air Force retiree and was a previous employee of Sizemore Security. Survivors include his wife Martha Whitaker; one daughter and son-in-law, Mildred and Larry Stephens, Augusta; one sister, Wylene Holden, Florida; five grandchildren, Donna Ann Smith (Lawrence), Kenneth Walden (Tammy), Christopher Lawrence Stephens, Daniel Edward Stephens (Christina), and Devon Chancellor Stephens; and 10 great-grandchildren. If so desired, Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 246 Davis Road, Martinez, GA 30907. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Sunday evening from 7 to 9 p.m. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Lawson Calloway (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Funeral Services for Mr. Lawson Calloway Jr., who entered into rest on April 30, 2006, will be conducted Saturday May 6, 2006, at 2:30 PM at C.A. Reid Sr. Memorial Gibson Chapel with Reverend Dennis Dunbar officiating. Interment will be at Walker Cemetery.

Annie Rose Roberts (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Saturday, April 29, 2006 at Windermere Nursing Home, Mrs. Annie Rose Roberts (82) formerly of Madrid Drive. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 12:00 noon from Mount Zion A.M.E Zion Church with Rev. Alton R. Pegues, Pastor officiating. Interment will be in Mount Olive Memorial Gardens. Survivors are five sons, Herman (Luvenia) Roberts, Tampa, FL, Rev. Ernest (Gwen) Roberts, Bartlesville, OK, Michael (Annie Bell) Roberts, Sylvania, GA, Charles (Johnnie) Roberts, Chesapeake, VA and Al Roberts, Augusta, GA; five daughters, Etta Atwell, Augusta, GA, Sheila Turner, Smyrna, GA, Rubie (Johnny) Barnes, Augusta, GA, Shirley Roberts, Hephzibah, GA and Katie Roberts, Athens, GA; 26 grandchildren; 2 great great grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends including a special friend, Elizabeth Royal, Augusta, GA. Friends may call W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA (706)722-6401.

Everlene Samuels (THOMSON, Ga.)
THOMSON, Ga. - Funeral service for Mrs. Everlene Kendrick Samuels, 49, of Thomson, Ga., will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. at the Paynes Baptist Church, Mesena, Ga., Rev. Willie Norwood, Pastor, officiating, interment in the Society Cemetery, Mesena. Survivors are a daughter, Evangelita Willingham; mother, Rosie Landers Kendrick; three brothers, Wyman (Mozelle) Kendrick, James (Clara) Kendrick and Royal Kendrick; four sisters, Mildred (Roosevelt) Norman, Margree (Solomon) Wilson, Catherine (Reynolds) and Rosie (Michael) Dunn al of Thomson, Ga.; other relatives and friends. Thomson Funeral System, Thomson, Ga., in charge. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Leona Smith (HARLEM, Ga.)
HARLEM, Ga. - Leona Fullmore Smith, 78, entered into rest Tuesday May 2, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 PM Friday May 5, 2006, at Starling Funeral Home, Harlem, Ga., with the Rev. Randall Whitaker officiating. Interment will be in the Powell Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Johnny Hayes, Donald Parker, Kirk Jones, Ronnie Smith, James C. Rozic, and Jason Stepp. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com.

Mary Lou Parker (ALLENDALE, Ga.)
ALLENDALE, Ga. - Mrs. Mary Lou Givens Parker, 87, died April 28, 2006. Funeral services will be held 3:30 p.m. Sunday, May 7, 2006 at Macedonia CME Church. Burial will follow in St. Mark Baptist Church Cemetery. Survivors are five daughters, two sons, one brother, 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Cave Funeral Service, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.

Jack D. Middleton (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - On April 7, 1953, Jack David Middleton, Jr. was born to the late Dea. Jack Middleton and Louise R. Middleton. At an early age he found Christ and was baptized at Hosannah Missionary Baptist Church. On Monday, May 1, 2006, Jack made his eternal transition from life. He leaves to cherish his memories Brenda Copeland; daughter, Wychika (Mike) Ellis; son, Brodrick (Carla) Halls; mother, Louise Middleton; sisters, Maxine (James) Harmon, Yvonne Burley, Teresa Middleton, Jacqueline Middleton, Joyce (Christopher) Bailey, Juanita Middleton, Gladys (Lynwood) Boyd; brothers, Micheal (Josephine) Middleton, William (Kellie) Middleton and Jerod Middleton; four grandchildren, aunts,uncles, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Services will be Saturday, 1:00 p.m. May 6, 2006, at Hosannah Baptist Church with the Rev. Clerence Grier officiating. Interment will follow at Mt. Olive Memorial Gardens. Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road, 706) 790-8858. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Lee W. Williams (SARDIS, Ga.)
SARDIS, Ga. -The funeral service for Mr. Lee Wesley Williams will be 2:00 P.M., Saturday, at Roberson Grove Baptist Church with Rev. Alvin Lewis officiating. Interment will be in Pines Cemetery. A devoted and loving family will cherish his memories. Phinazee and Son Funeral Home (706) 654-5500.

Bonnie Kray Maxwell (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Bonnie Kray Maxwell, 73, of Lokey Drive, Dearing, entered into rest May 03, 2006. She was the beloved wife of the late James L. Maxwell. Survivors include: daughters, Debra Jones, Tennessee; Joyce Frankenfield, Thomson, Ga.; brother, Ernest Kray, Largo, Fl.; grandchildren, Michael Maxwell, Susan and Ashley Frankenfield and Christopher Jones and great- grandchild, Amber Frankenfield. Mrs. Maxwell was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania and was the daughter of the late Helmuth Kray and Gladys Feree Kray . She was retired as a Secretary and attended Second Baptist Church. Mrs. Maxwell was preceded in death by her son David Maxwell. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM, Saturday, May 06, 2006 at the Beggs Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Ron Drawdy officiating. Interment will follow in Savannah Valley Memorial Gardens. Pallbearers will be Jarrod Adkins, Brian Cody, David Cody, Terry Davis, David Johnson and Tim Lewis. The family will receive friends from 7 until 9 p.m. Friday at the funeral home . Beggs Funeral Home, 799 Cobbham Road, Thomson, Ga. 595-4100.

Pasadena D. Garnett (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Ms. Pasadena (Pat) D. Garnett entered into the arms of her savior on April 28, 2006, at Amara Health Care. A wake will be held Friday May 5, 2006, at C.A. Reid Sr. Memorial Gibson Chapel. Funeral Services will be held Saturday May 6, 2006, at 10 AM at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 8th and Telfair St. with Father Tim Donahue officiating. Survivors are a son, Charles Garnett; daughter, Carlethia Garnett; two grandchildren, Shakil and Rakil Williams; mother, Mrs. Charlene Scott; father, Percy Garnett Sr.; one brother, Percy Garnett Jr.; a devoted aunt, Ms. Betty Askew; a niece, Keydra Garnett, and a host of cousins and friends. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Col. Thomas Miller (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Lt. Col. Thomas Eugene Miller Sr., U.S. Army, Retired, entered into rest April 26, 2006 at his residence. Lt. Col. Miller, born in Chattanooga, TN, served during the Vietnam conflict and after retiring from the service was a counselor for University Health Systems. Memorial services will be held at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, Columbia Road Chapel, Friday, May 5, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. with Chaplain (Cpt.) Jeffrey Militti officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the ceremonial detachment of Ft. Gordon, Ga. Survivors include his sons, Thomas Anthony Miller, Augusta, Ga., Jeffrey Alan (Jennifer) Miller, Martinez, Ga. and Eric Brian (Telina) Miller of North Augusta, S.C. and their mother, Annmarie Licata Miller; grandchildren, Aedan Miller, Levi Miller and Benjamin Miller and sister, Jean (Frank) Scoggins. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Josephine McNeill (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mrs. Josephine McClean McNeill of Willis Foreman Road entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at Doctors Hospital. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Survivors are two sons, Anthony McNeill, Hephzibah, Willie Alonzo McNeill, Erwin, N.C.; two daughters, Cora Fay Lawton, Detroit, Mich., Leola Smith, Fayetteville, N.C.; devoted grandson, James Anthony McNeill, Augusta and a host of grandchildren in Detroit, great-grandchildren and other relatives. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, Ga.

Phillip Gerard Holley (DESTIN, Fla.)
DESTIN, Fla. - Mr. Phillip Gerard Holley, 49, beloved son, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many died Monday, May 1, 2006 at Destin Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center where he received much love and care. Mr. Holley was born in Athens, GA and was the son of the late Senator and Mrs. R. Eugene Holley of Augusta, GA. Mr. Holley attended The Academy of Richmond County. He began his professional career at Frank Christian Studios where he was responsible for the development and printing of black and white as well as color negatives for seventeen years. Because of his extensive knowledge of Frank Christian's Historic Golf Prints Collection, he transferred to Fort Walton Beach when the collection was sold to Edwin Watts Golf Shop in 1998. His vast amount of knowledge of the printing process, archives of film negatives, as well as the history of the Masters Golf Tournament proved to be invaluable to his employer where he was the only remaining original employee. The avid golfer had many passions in his life including the Georgia Bulldogs, the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons. He also loved to hunt, fish and photograph his friends and family. He loved both his Florida and Augusta homes where he had numerous family members and many friends. He will be dearly missed by those that knew him. Survivors include his son: Michael Ryan Holley of Augusta; a sister: Mrs. Anna Holley Avrett of Augusta; three brothers: Robert Holley, Stephen Holley and E. Norton Holley of Augusta; brother-in-law: David Avrett; nieces: Holley Avrett, Bailey Avrett; nephew: Alex Avrett; two grandchildren: Joshua and William and countless other friends and relatives. A Memorial Mass will be held Monday, May 8, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary On-The-Hill Catholic Church with Father Gerald Ragan celebrant. Family and friends will be received at the home of Mr. and Mrs. David Avrett, 2559 Walton Way, Augusta, following the Memorial Mass on Monday. If wished, please make memorials to Hospice of the Emerald Coast, 2529 South Ferdon Blvd., Crestview, FL 32536 (850) 689-0300. The family will receive friends Sunday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M. at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Road, Augusta, Georgia 30907 (706) 364-8484 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Chester L. Godwin (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Chester L. Godwin, 85, beloved husband of sixty-one years to Athalea M. Godwin, of St. Julian Place , entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at his residence. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 6, 2006 in the chapel of Rowland Funeral Home with Dr. John M. Newell, III and Rev. David Lee officiating. Interment will be at Pineview Memorial Park. Mr. Godwin was born in Greelyville, SC and had lived in North Augusta for the past fifty-three years. He was retired from E. I. Dupont/Savannah River Plant and was a member of Belvedere United Methodist Church. In addition to his wife, he is survived by five sons, Sonny Godwin and his wife, Betty Lynn, Danny Godwin and his wife, Paula, Roddy Godwin, Randy Godwin and his wife, Claire and Stan Godwin, all of North Augusta; his sister, Carolyn Phillips of Manning, SC; ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends at Rowland Funeral Homethis evening from 6 to 8 p.m. Memorials may be made to Belvedere United Methodist Church, 202 Rhomboid Place, Belvedere, SC 29841. Rowland Funeral Home in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

William Neal Johnson (EVANS, Ga.)
EVANS, Ga. - Beloved Husband, Daddy and Opa. William Neal Johnson age 62 departed from this earth on May 3, 2006 at his residence. Mr. Johnson retired from the U.S. Army, and was a veteran of the Vietnam War. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Ingrid Anna Johnson; one daughter, Stephanie Johnson of Evans; his two beautiful grandchildren, Nicole and Jakob; his sister and brother in law, Carmen and Willi Imbusch of Germany and one niece, Christiane Griffiths of Fayeteville, N.C. He will be dearly missed by all and will always live in our hearts forever. Just a note from his grandchildren: Dear Opa, we will truly miss your hugs and wet kisses and your silly jokes. You were and still are in our hearts the best ' Opa' ever. We love you !! And dad, this ones from your daughter, I love you and I will make you proud on May 12, 2006 when I march down the aisle to receive my degree. This one's for you Daddy !!! Ilove you dearly and will dearly miss you. There will not be any local services. The family will receive friends at the residence on today, Friday May 5, 2006, from 1:00 until 4:00 p.m. Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Rd., Evans, GA 30809, (706) 860-6166. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Caroline Bates (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Caroline Bates, 64, died Tuesday at Thompson Manor. Survivors are children, Thomas and Linda Thacker; siblings, David, Darvin, Ruth and Peggy Wilson, all of Augusta. Funeral services: Friday, 11:00 a.m. at Kennedy Funeral Home, Hooks Chapel in Metter. Visitation: 9 to 11 a.m. Friday.

Theresa Cliatt (HARLEM, Ga.)
HARLEM, Ga. - Mrs. Theresa M. Czado Cliatt, wife of the late Claude R. Cliatt entered into rest on Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at the residence. A memorial service will be on Friday, May 5, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. in the chapel of Hatcher, Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors with Dr. Michael Davenport officiating. Interment will be private. Survivors include her mother, Ruth Lesser Czado of Augusta; sister, Donna Roberts and her husband Ron of Grovetown; nephews, Ronnie Roberts and Dale Brown; niece Misty Roberts; great nephew Chance Roberts. Mrs. Cliatt was born in Bad Kreutznach Germany and was a secretary for T.J.'s Garage. She was of the Catholic faith. She was devoted to the care and well being of her beloved cats and dogs whom she considered her children. If so desired memorials can be made to the NSALA 25 Davis Ave., Port Washington, NY 11050 or to the Alzheimer Association 1899 Central Ave., Augusta, GA 30904. Hatcher, Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors 2502 Richmond Hill Road Augusta, Ga. 30906. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

John Henry Booker (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. John Henry Booker of Essie McIntyre Blvd. entered into rest Sunday, April 30, 2006 at his residence. Funeral services will be held Friday, May 5, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at First New Canaan Church with Rev. Reather Kennedy officiating. Burial will be in Walker Memorial Park. Survivors are his wife, Dorothy Booker, Augusta; three daughters, Lakinia (Charles Mack) Brown, Tamara Wright, Johnell Booker, Augusta; two stepsons, Willie Brown, Darius Smiley, Augusta; mother, Lillie Martin, Augusta; five sisters, Elizabeth (Mitchell) Wright, Philadelphia, Betty Zellars, Lincolnton, Mary Lou Harris, Lexington, N.C., Lillie Mae (Roney) Peterson, Augusta, Parleen (John) Chandler, Kenosha, Wis.; four brothers, Johnny (Sharon) Dozier, Leonard (Nettie J.) Booker, Lonnie Booker, Willie (Diane) Booker, all of Augusta, Ga.; eight grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephew, other relatives and friends. Family and friends will assemble at the residence at 10:15 a.m. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King Jr., Blvd.

Eleanor Asbell (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - The funeral service for Mrs. Eleanor Barfield Asbell of North Augusta will be conducted today, Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 3:30 P.M. in the Chapel of Napier Funeral Home with Rev. Joe Hulsey officiating. The interment will follow in the Graniteville Cemetery. Napier Funeral Home, 315 Main St., Graniteville, S.C. 29829.

Jack D. Middleton (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. Jack D. Middleton, Jr. entered into rest on Monday, May 1, 2006 at Doctors Hospital. Jack leaves loving memories to his family; Brenda Copeland, children Wychika (Michael) Ellis, Brobrick (Clara) Halls; mother, Mrs. Louise Middleton; sisters, Maxine (James) Harmon; Joyce (Christopher) Bailey, Gladys (Lynwood) Boyd, Teresa Middleton, Jacqueline Middleton, Juanita Middleton, Yvonne Middleton; brothers, Michael (Josephine) Middleton, William (Kelly) Middleton, Jerod Middleton; four grandchildren, aunts, uncles, nieces nephew other relatives and friends. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road. (706) 790-8858

Martha H. Armistead (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Mrs. Martha H. Armistead, 77, wife of the late James N. Armistead, of Hillwood Court, went home to be with her Lord on Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at University Hospital. Funeral services will be held today at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Rowland Funeral Home with Rev. Roger Bennett officiating. Interment will be at Pineview Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to Overcomers Outreach Center, 3850 Washington Road, 3B LaPetite Plaza, Martinez, GA 30907 or Hebron Colony Ministries, Inc., 356 Old Turnpike Road, Boone, NC 28607. Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Edward L. Hamilton (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Homegoing celebration for Deacon Edward L. Hamilton, 48, better know as Big Buddy, will be held Friday, May 5, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. at the United House of Prayer for All People, Dearing, Ga., St. Elder Jeffery Wilcher, officiating, interment in the church cemetery. Survivors are his mother, Sis. Rosa Hamilton of Trenton, N.J.; wife, Mrs. Patricia Hamilton and daughter, Kimberly N. Ivey, both of Warrenton, Ga.; two sons, Mr. Sir Mario Antwan (Patricia) Hamilton, Jr. of Dearing and Mr. Edward Hamilton, Jr. of Richmond, Va.; twin brother, Deacon Edwin Hamilton of Augusta, Ga.; three devoted cousins who grew up as brothers and sisters, Sis. Mary Roberts, St. Geanette Shelley and Elder John Wilkins all of Dearing; special cousin, Valarie Moment; godmother, St. Agnes Allen, Dearing; four grandchildren, nieces, nephews, family and friends. Repast at the church cafeteria following the interment. Thomson Funeral System, Thomson, Ga., in charge. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Ruth Riley Staubes (AIKEN, S.C.)
AIKEN, S.C. - Entered into rest Tuesday, May 2, 2006, Mrs. Ruth Riley Staubes of Aiken, beloved wife of J. Herman Staubes, Jr. for 58 years and daughter of the late William T. Riley and the late Ruby Bell Riley. In addition to her husband, she is survived by a son, Miachel S. Staubes and his wife, Amy Staubes of Aiken; a granddaughter, Elizabeth Kistler and her husband, Bernie Kistler of Alpharetta, Ga.; a sister-in-law, Bernice Riley of Aiken and a number of nieces and nephews. She was born in and was a lifelong residence of Aiken County. She retired from the Clerk of Court office of Aiken County after 20 years of dedicated service. She was a member of Memorial Baptist Church in Aiken. A graveside service will be conducted Friday, May 5, 2006 in the Graniteville Cemetery with Rev. Jim Kirk officiating. The family will receive friends tonight, Thursday, May 4th from 6 to 8 p.m. at Napier Funeral Home. Memorials may be made to Memorial Baptist Church,3100 Vaucluse Rd., Aiken, S.C. 29801. Family and friends are asked to assemble at the graveside by 1:45 p.m. on Friday, the day of service. Napier Funeral Home, 315 Main St., Graniteville, S.C. 29829. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Gary Simon Krepps (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mr. Gary Simon Krepps, 53, of Windsor Spring Road entered into rest at the residence. The family will receive friends Friday, May 5, 2006 from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at the funeral home. Mr. Krepps was a native of Augusta and the son of the late Burris Benjamin and Edna Eloise Howell Krepps. He had been a mechanic with Fuller's auto for 14 years and was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Post # 178. Survivors include, one son, Patrick Benjamin Krepps of St. Croix, Virgin Islands, one sister, Patricia K. Ballard of North Augusta. Memorial contributions may be made to the SAL c/o American Post # 178 3219 Richmond Hill Road, Augusta, Ga. 30906. Hatcher, Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors 2502 Richmond Hill Road Augusta, Georgia 30906. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Estelle Watson (EDGEFIELD, S.C.)
EDGEFIELD, S.C. - Estelle Wideman Watson, 84, died May 2, 2006. Surviving are a daughter, a sister, a brother and one grandson. A private service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Greenwood Memorial Gardens. The body is at Blyth Funeral Home where the family will receive friends from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday evening. Blyth Funeral Home & Cremation Services is in charge.

Evelyn Couch (TENNILLE, Ga.)
TENNILLE, Ga. - Ms. Evelyn Hurt Couch, age 81, died Tuesday, May 2, 2006. Graveside funeral services will be held Friday at 2 p.m. at the Zeta Cemetery in Tennille. Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 12 noon Friday at the May and Smith Funeral Directors, 1119 Riddleville Rd., Sandersville.

Caroline Bates (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Caroline Bates entered into rest Tuesday, May 2, 2006. Caroline is preceded in death by her parents, Mack Gordon, Annie Wilson and one son Michael Thacker. Survivors include one son, Thomas Thacker and one daughter, Linda Dubose; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Other survivors include two brothers, Walter David Wilson and Darvin Wilson; two sisters, Peggy Cowart and Ruth Collins. There were also many nieces and nephews. Caroline lived in Augusta most of her life and was a devoted homemaker who loved her family very much. The family will receive guests on Friday, May 5, 2006 between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the Kennedy Funeral Home in Metter, Ga. A graveside service will follow at the Lower Lots Cemetery in Statesboro, Ga.

Henry L. Brown (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Deacon Henry L. Brown, Sr., departed this life on May 1, 2006. He was born to the late Louis Brown, Sr. and Mrs. Annie Mae Brown. He leaves to carry on his legacy, his son Henry (Patricia) Lee Brown, Jr.; daughters, D'Quilla (Victor) Ross, Portia (Ellis) McDaniel, Bobbie Jean (Michael) Roberts, Twila (Antonio) Brown-Lovett and April (Edwin) McCoy; grandchildren include, Taura L. Mitchell, Ellis McDaniel III, Joshua McDaniel, Reggie McDaniel, Jobari Roberts, Michelle Roberts, Michael Roberts, Jr., Ryan Ross, Devin Lovett, Michael McCoy, K'Darius Wright and Hannah L. Brown; his great-grandchildren include, LaPortia C. Mitchell, Jasmine Mitchell and Jaura Toomer. He also leaves to mourn four brothers, Louis Brown Jr., Thomas Brown, Robert Brown, John Brown; three sisters, Johnnie M. Brown, Rosemary Roberts and Mary Brown. He also leaves to mourn a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives, and friends and a huge church family at T.I.Z., inc. His homegoing services will be held Saturday, May 6, 2006 at Trumpet in Zion, 725 Laney Walker Blvd. There will be a viewing at 11 a.m. The service will begin at 12 noon. Interment will be in Walker Memorial Cemetery. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Arlene S. Mosley (SPARTA, Ga.)
SPARTA, Ga. - Mrs. Arlene S. Mosley, 45, of Brown Chapel Road, Sparta, died Sunday, April 30, 2006 at her Sparta residence. Survivors include husband, Johnny L. Mosley of Sparta; mother, Olena Scott of Sparta; three sons, Craig and Cedric Scott of Milledgeville, Ga. and Kevin Scott of Sparta; one daughter, Tammy Scott of Tampa, Fla.; five sisters, Barbara and Brenda Scott of Tampa, Ruth Works and Lillie A. Davis of Atlanta and Brenda Adside of Sparta; four brothers, Wiley Scott, Jr. of Bradenton, Fla., Frank Scott of Tampa, James Scott of Sparta and Melvin Adside of Sparta. Services will be held Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at Hunt's Chapel AME in Sparta. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Marion L. Walker (AIKEN, S.C.)
AIKEN, S.C. - Funeral services for Mr. Marion L. 'Jim' Walker will be held Friday, May 5, 2006 at 2pm at George Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave. SW Aiken. Visitation will be from 1pm until the time of the service. Interment will follow at Sunset Memory Gardens. Mr. Walker, 95, of Aiken, died Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at his residence. Visit www.georgefuneralhomes.com to view the complete obituary and to sign the online condolence register.

Col. Thomas Miller (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Lt. Col. Thomas Eugene Miller Sr., U.S. Army, Retired, entered into rest April 26, 2006 at his residence. Lt. Col. Miller, born in Chattanooga, TN, served during the Vietnam conflict and after retiring from the service was a counselor for University Health Systems. Memorial services will be held at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, Columbia Road Chapel, Friday, May 5, 2006 at 4:00 p.m. with Chaplain Ken Wilson officiating. Military honors will be accorded by the ceremonial detachment of Ft. Gordon, Ga. Survivors include his sons, Thomas Anthony Miller, Augusta, Ga., Jeffrey Alan (Jennifer) Miller, Martinez, Ga. and Eric Brian (Telina) Miller of North Augusta, S.C. and their mother, Annmarie Licata Miller; grandchildren, Aedan Miller, Levi Miller and Benjamin Miller and sister, Jean (Frank) Scoggins.

Sylvia Irene Pate (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Sylvia Irene Pate, age 71, entered into rest Thursday, May 4, 2006 at Eisenhower Army Medical Center. Family members include her husband of 36 years Dwight L. Pate; son, Mark Carmichael of Augusta; brother, Paul Hinerman of Tampa, Fl., and several grandchildren and great grandchildren. Mrs. Pate was born in Moundsville, West Virginia, the daughter of the late Paul and Blanche Hinerman. She had resided in Augusta for the past 10 years. Private services will be held. Poteet Funeral Homes, 3465 Peach Orchard Road, Augusta, Ga. 30906, (706)798-8886 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mariah Colbert (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Mariah Evelyn Moore Colbert of Agnes Street entered into rest Wednesday, May 3, 2006 at her residence. Funeral services will be held Monday, May 8, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Greater St. John Baptist Church with Rev. Melvin Ivey officiating. Burial will be at Southview Cemetery. Survivors are her husband, Robert Willie Colbert, Sr., Augusta; six daughters, Wartina (Carl) Little, Lorinda Colbert, Almeta (Marion) Samuels, Augusta, Fannie (Frederick) Washington, Columbus, Ga., Jennie (Dennis) Kennedy, Hinesville, Ga., Sheldonia (William) Bessent, Gough, Ga.; two sons, Robert (Betty) Colbert, Jr., Crowley, Texas and Pierce (Rosetta) Colbert, North Augusta; one sister, Lindie Lou (Fred) Evans, Sacramento, Calif.; 15 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, two great-grandchildren; one God son, two sisters-in-law, niece, nephews, cousins and friends. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Lee Johnson (WRENS, Ga.)
WRENS, Ga. - Funeral services for Mr. Lee Edgar Johnson, Sr. of Wrens, Ga., will be held on Friday, May 5, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at the Thompson Springhill AME Church, Matthews, Ga. with Rev. Charlie C. Myrick, Eulogist. Interment in the Flat Rock Baptist Church Cemetery. Survivors are seven children and four step-children, Lee Edgar Johnson, Jr. (Patsy), Christine Jones and Gwendolyn Berry, Michael Johnson (Mary), Debra Wynn, Shedric Johnson and Byron Johnson, Carolyn Huntley, Kay Frances McCoy, Janis Evans and Loretta McCoy. Also surviving him are five sisters and a brother, Annie Lee Johnson, Mary White, Catherine Coleman, Lillie Brown, Julia Bussey (John) and Herbert Johnson, Sr. (Rebie); grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Freeman Funeral Home, Wrens, Ga. in charge. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Jace Cardenaz (EVANS, Ga.)
EVANS, Ga. - Mrs. Gena Jace Robertson Cardenaz, entered into rest on Tuesday May 2, 2006 at her residence. Funeral services will be held on Friday May 5, 2006 at Platt's Belair Rd. Chapel at 1:00 p.m. with Rev. Joe Hester and Dr. Jacob O. Malone officiating. Interment to follow in Damacus Baptist Church Cemetery. Jace was preceded in death by her father, Alvin Gene ' Bubber' Robertson. Survivors include: her son, Dalton Cardenaz and his father, Mike Cardenaz; her mother, Pam Price Robertson of Appling; one sister, Paige Gavalas and her husband, Mike of Appling; one brother, Robbie Robertson and his wife, Debbie of Appling, and a friend, Lane Green. Jace was a former Columbia County Sheriff's Department Deputy, she was a loving mother and a devoted mother to her son Dalton. Pallbearers will be: Nathan Robertson, Sean Prouty, Jeremey Roese, Jeff Hudson, Tony Temples, Doyle Robertson. Platts Funeral Home 337 N. Belair Rd. Evans, Ga. 706-860-6166

Helen Tate (MARTINEZ, Ga.)
MARTINEZ, Ga. - Entered into rest on May 4, 2006 in The Medical College of Georgia, Ms. Helen Tate of E. Wingate Drive, Martinez. She was a member of Gospel Waterbranch Baptist Church of which Rev. Robert Ramsey is pastor. Funeral details will be announced by Dent's Funeral Home. He is survived by her father, Rev. Joseph Tate; two sons, Joseph R. Tate and Murco Simpkins, Martinez; one brother, James (Marylene) Tate; four sisters, Minister Marie (Billy) Dent, Rev. Josephine Tate, Mrs. Louvenia (Gerald) Stokes, Mrs. Renee' (Jeffery) Rogers; nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. The Historic Dent's Undertaking Establishment Serving the CSRA Since the 1800's.

Robert Davis (LINCOLNTON, Ga.)
LINCOLNTON, Ga. - Deacon Robert Davis, age 82, of Lincolnton, GA passed away on May 2, 2006 at MCG Hospital. His funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2006 at 2:00 PM at Parks Grove FBH with Pastor Tonita Cody officiating. The burial will be in the Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends tonight at the funeral home from 7pm to 8pm. He was a member of Parks Grove Fire Baptize Holiness Church of Lincolnton, GA. His survivors includes his loving and devoted wife, Sarah Davis of the home; five daughters, Leila Mae Parks, Mozell Holloway, Idel Davis, Mattie Ware and Sarah Davis, all of Lincolnton, GA; three sons, Willie Jones, Alex Rogers Davis and Bill Davis all of Lincolnton, GA; a sister, Mozell Scott of Chattanooga, TN and 30 grandchildren and 33 great-grandchildren. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mary Friedman Bellino (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Mrs. Mary Muns Friedman Bellino, 62, beloved wife of the late Steven Edward Friedman and the late Joseph A Bellino, entered into rest May 1, 2006 at her residence. Graveside services will be held today, Thursday, May 4, 2006 at 11:00 am at Westover Memorial Park with Rabbi Robert Klensin officiating. Mrs. Mary Muns Friedman Bellino, a native of Jackson, SC was the daughter of Robert Lee & Fannie Bell Muns. She was an Augusta resident for many years after marrying Steve Friedman in 1961 and she served as President of St. Joseph Hospital Ladies Auxiliary from 1995-1997. Mrs. Friedman-Bellino was an active member of Congregation Children of Israel's Sisterhood and she and Mr. Friedman served as youth advisors of the Congregational Children of Israel for many years. She, together with Mr. Friedman, were avid supporters of the Augusta Green Jackets, the Augusta Boxing Club, and the Augusta Youth Center. After Steve Friedman's death in July 2001, she enjoyed being with her many friends of First Baptist Church of Augusta, as well as traveling on church sponsored trips with them. Several years after the death of Mr. Friedman, Mary married Joseph A. Bellino. They enjoyed living and traveling together until his death in March of 2005. She was a very caring, spiritual, and generous person to all those in need--the epitome of a true Southern lady. Nothing pleased Mary more than helping and giving to others. Survivors include her sister Barbara Neal and her husband Ralph from Mitchell, Georgia; her brother, Alton Muns and his wife Susan of Savannah Georgia, several nieces and nephews; Darryl, Dennis, Alisha, Carol, and Robin, her beloved Yorkshire Terrier Millenia, She will be missed by her many friends: Beverly Dunn (Tony) a devoted and loving friend of more than 30 years; three Godchildren, Meghan (Arturo) Fernandez, Augusta; Kristen "Cookie" Moyer, Augusta; Brentt Moyer, Augusta and two great Godchildren, Savannah"Sam" and Alexander "Xan" Fernandez, Danny and Pam Lucas, Jake and Delores Malone, Teesha (Michael) Stallings, whom she thought of as the daughter she never had, and her loving and compassionate caregivers from Southern Home Care: Ronda, Elaine, Miss Gennie, Martha, Mattie and Nancy. Pallbearers will be Brentt Moyer, David Alalof, Nathan Jolles, Michael Stallings, Danny Lucas and Ryan Gregory. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Congregation Children of Israel, 3005 Walton Way, Augusta, Georgia 30909 or First Baptist Church of Augusta, PO Box 14489, Augusta, GA 30919.

Gena Cardenaz (EVANS, Ga.)
EVANS, Ga. - Mrs. Gena Jace Robertson Cardenaz, entered into rest on Tuesday, May 2, 2006 at her residence. Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 5, 2006 at Platt's Belair Rd. Chapel at 1:00 p.m. Interment to follow in Damacus Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will be receiving friends this evening Thursday, May 4, 2006 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home. Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Rd., Evans, Ga. 706-860-6166. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Robert Davis (LINCOLNTON, Ga.)

Gena Cardenaz (EVANS, Ga.)

Juanita Patterson (ALLENDALE, S.C.)

Mabel Marshall (MARTINEZ, Ga.)

Arlene S. Mosley (SPARTA, Ga.)

Evelyn Couch (TENNILLE, Ga.)

Robert Poole (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Ruth Riley Staubes (AIKEN, S.C.)

Mariah Colbert (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Fannie Walton-Clark (TIGNALL, Ga.)

Senia Lamar (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Neil A. Johnson (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Henry L. Brown (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Daniel Roye ( LINCOLNTON, Ga.)

Richard A. Stephens (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)

Caroline Bates (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Lee W. Williams (SARDIS, Ga.)

Annie Rose Roberts (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Jace Cardenaz (EVANS, Ga.)

Jack D. Middleton (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Diane Sheley (SYLVANIA, Ga.)

Pasadena D. Garnett (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Mabel Marshall (MARTINEZ, Ga.)

Everlene Samuels (THOMSON, Ga.)

Mary Friedman Bellino (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Leo Flournoy (SANDERSVILLE, Ga.)

Eleanor Asbell (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

John Henry Booker (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Agnes Leola Strange (CHARLESTON, S.C.)

Marion L. Walker (AIKEN, S.C.)

Mary Lou Parker (ALLENDALE, Ga.)

Lee Johnson (WRENS, Ga.)

Martha H. Armistead (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Theresa Cliatt (HARLEM, Ga.)

Col. Thomas Miller (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Helen Tate (MARTINEZ, Ga.)

Caroline Bates (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

William Neal Johnson (EVANS, Ga.)

Ida Swan (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Lawson Calloway (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Sylvia Irene Pate (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Leona Smith (HARLEM, Ga.)

Chester L. Godwin (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Percy Whitaker (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Phillip Gerard Holley (DESTIN, Fla.)

Henry L. Brown (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Bonnie Kray Maxwell (DEARING, Ga.)

Ethel M. Hardy (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Jessie Simpkins (SWAINSBORO, Ga.)

American team bus gets flagged down

Mavericks put end to Thoroughbreds

Lakeside comes up short

Players of the Week

Other Georgia gymnasts can't hang with area boys

USOC takes new approach by scouting its own cities

Deal made for Lawyer Ron

Baffert finds a kindred spirit in Bode

Overtime

Overtime
In Warsaw, Poland, Venus Williams won her first match since being out nearly four months with an injury, beating Polish teenager Urszula Radwanska, 6-3, 6-3 in the opening round of the J&S Cup.

Baffert finds a kindred spirit in Bode
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - The guy everyone in thoroughbred racing thought couldn't get funnier just brought in a straight man.

Overtime
Indoor Football

Deal made for Lawyer Ron
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - Lawyer Ron was getting a sponge bath, the early morning sunlight glistening off his wet, chestnut coat. On the other side of the barn, the man he is named after was closing a deal to sell the colt, one of the Kentucky Derby favorites.

Favorite draws 18 post
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - His role as the Kentucky Derby favorite confirmed, Brother Derek now needs only to figure out how to win from the far, far outside.

American team bus gets flagged down
FRANKFURT, Germany - The official team bus to be used by the United States during the World Cup will not bear a flag for security reasons.

Other Georgia gymnasts can't hang with area boys
Four local gymnasts proved they are the best the state has to offer at the Georgia Men's Gymnastics Championship.

Mavericks put end to Thoroughbreds
AIKEN - South Aiken's defense of its state soccer championship ended on a soggy night and a penalty kick.

Favorite draws 18 post
LOUISVILLE, Ky. - His role as the Kentucky Derby favorite confirmed, Brother Derek now needs only to figure out how to win from the far, far outside.

Players of the Week
Elissa Botts, and Nolan Belcher are this week's players of the week.

Lakeside comes up short
A day after Woodward Academy's boys soccer team saw its season end in Columbia County with a loss at Greenbrier, the Woodward girls made the 21 hour trip to take on Lakeside.

USOC takes new approach by scouting its own cities
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - U.S. Olympic Committee representatives will visit Houston, Philadelphia, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco over the next two weeks to begin scouting out cities for a possible bid to play host to the 2016 Olympics.

Blake Shelton appreciates help he has from hometown residents

Blake Shelton appreciates help he has from hometown residents
Blake Shelton would love to have a rain-out for his Raindance benefit concert May 16 in his hometown of Ada, Okla., to help victims of drought and wildfires in Oklahoma.

Media will be honored at 100 Men's annual gala
The 100 Black Men of Augusta will honor outstanding media personnel at its ninth annual Black Tie Gala on Friday.

Strong bonds of friendship are woven
As Kat Haines spun threads of mohair, wool and silk, Kay Jordan knitted a deep-blue scarf in an upstairs area of the Augusta Museum of History.

Restaurant ratings
The following is a listing of restaurant ratings by the Richmond County Department of Environmental Health. Listed are the restaurant name, address, inspection date and the establishment's score (out of a perfect 100):

Around the block
Blues and Barbecue, a membership drive for the Augusta Museum of History, will be from 5-7:30 p.m. Friday at the Ezekiel Harris House, 1840 Broad St. Larry Jon Wilson and Patrick Blanchard will perform, and there will be pony rides, beer, ice cream and children's games.

Events
JARRELL PLANTATION STATE HISTORIC SITEHOURS: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, 2-5:30 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday; $4 adults, $3.50 ages 62 and older, $2.50 ages 6-18, free ages 5 and younger; group rates available

Georgia Farmers Market
This is a list of commodities available at the Georgia Farmers Market, 1150 Fifth St. Prices and availability of produce are subject to change.

Art school's festival showcases talent, draws alumni
Samantha Bass worked hard for Saturday's fine arts festival at John S. Davidson Fine Arts School.

Military milestones
- Army Reserve Pfc. Kenisha E. Neal, a 2005 graduate of Hephzibah High School and daughter of Theodore Carthen, of Mobile, Ala., and Marian Kennedy, of Hephzibah, has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia.

Volunteers are honored at Fort Gordon
Lynn Harshman won't go so far as to say programs and services at Fort Gordon wouldn't exist without volunteers, but she knows how vital they are.

School menu
School menu through May 12.

Pupils focus of fashion, talent show
Seventy-five pupils from pre-K to fifth grade will be modeling and showing off their talent at Windsor Spring Elementary School on Saturday.

Pet of the week
Scarlette, a 9-month-old female mixed breed, is available for adoption through Molly's Militia.

Post Happenings
Post Happenings lists events, programs and other community notices from Fort Gordon. Send information to Fort Gordon Calendar, attention Ryan Wehmeyer, The Augusta Chronicle, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, GA 30903-1928.

Augusta Restoration Shop will benefit from Derby fete
There will be plenty of red roses and mint juleps at Enterprise Mill on Saturday for the fifth annual Derby Day Kentucky Derby Party.

Seniors Calendar
The Seniors Calendar lists items of interest to senior citizens. Call the service agencies for information. To list your activity, write to Seniors Calendar, The Augusta Chronicle, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, GA 30903-1928. Send a fax to (706) 722-7403 or e-mail to feature@augustachronicle.com. Include the name and number of a contact person.

Can you find it?
This week's image, at right, is a bargain. If you think you know where it is, call (706) 823-3708 by 2 p.m.

Drawing cuts contestants for scholarship bond to 16
Before Saturday's drawing, the list had 32 names. Now, only 16 remain in contention for a $10,000 scholarship bond in The Augusta Chronicle's Make Kids Count scholarship drawing held at Daniel Field.

Dinner will be part of Colonial observance
A June 2 Colonial dinner will kick off that weekend's festivities for Under the Crown, which commemorates the 225th anniversary of the Siege of Fort Cornwallis.

Working with children keeps teacher vibrant
Career choices were limited for women in 1956, so when her mother told her about a job opening at Episcopal Day School, Martha Scroggs applied for it.

School menu
School menu through May 12.

Fort Discovery adds two new exhibits to its lineup
The science behind crime scene investigations and a house filled with technology originally created for the military are parts of two new exhibits at the National Science Center's Fort Discovery.

Health and fitness calendar
The health and fitness calendar is a listing of support groups, activities and lectures.

Pupils focus of fashion, talent show
Seventy-five pupils from pre-K to fifth grade will be modeling and showing off their talent at Windsor Spring Elementary School on Saturday.

Reunions
ACADEMY OF RICHMOND COUNTY 1956: Seeking classmates for a 50-year reunion Saturday; call Jean Brown, (706) 863-6056

Around town
DARK SHADOWS: 7 and 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Dupont Planetarium, 471 University Parkway; hands-on activities, photos, diagrams and video and Digistar segments; $4.50 adults, $3.50 seniors, $2.50 pupils; (803) 641-3769

Volunteers unite to spruce up agencies
It's a day Phylis Holliday looks forward to each year. "The first time I did this five years ago, we redid the kitchen floors. There was mildew underneath," he said.

Health and fitness calendar
The health and fitness calendar is a listing of support groups, activities and lectures.

Festival with a Latin beat
Spc. Arianne Smith was determined to fulfill her mission. Putting aside one of her crutches as she balanced on the other, she held the yellow ball and aimed at her target. Of the nine balls she purchased at the dunking tank, two hit their target, knocking 1st Sgt. Joseph Gardocki into the water.

Art school's festival showcases talent, draws alumni
Samantha Bass worked hard for Saturday's fine arts festival at John S. Davidson Fine Arts School.

For the record
Sentencings, indictments, paroles, marriage licenses and divorces.

Augusta Restoration Shop will benefit from Derby fete
There will be plenty of red roses and mint juleps at Enterprise Mill on Saturday for the fifth annual Derby Day Kentucky Derby Party.

Georgia Farmers Market
This is a list of commodities available at the Georgia Farmers Market, 1150 Fifth St. Prices and availability of produce are subject to change.

This week
FAMILY FITNESS 5K AND FUN RUN: 8 a.m. 5K run, 8:45 and 9 a.m. half-mile kid's run Saturday; Lake Olmstead, 2200 Broad St.; breakfast from Bagel Factory and T-shirt will be provided; prizes will include gift certificates; 5K: $13 through today; $15 after; kids' run: $10; online registration available at www.active.com; proceeds benefit Safe Kids of East Central Georgia; (706) 721-9442

For the record

Events

Can you find it?

Volunteers are honored at Fort Gordon

Volunteers unite to spruce up agencies

Festival with a Latin beat

Around the block

Reunions

Fort Discovery adds two new exhibits to its lineup

Strong bonds of friendship are woven

Working with children keeps teacher vibrant

Seniors Calendar

Around town

Media will be honored at 100 Men's annual gala

Tandem bound by same search

Earl leaves his living treasure

Birthday wishes to the Godfather of Soul

1990s was great decade for movies

Another 'Idol' contestant is out, leaving four
NEW YORK - Paris Bennett sang "Kiss" - and the pint-size soul singer and judge favorite kissed "American Idol" goodbye Wednesday, becoming the latest singer sacked in viewer voting.

TV host Louis Rukeyser dead at age 73
HARTFORD, Conn. - For more than three decades, Louis Rukeyser delivered pun-filled, commonsense commentary on complicated business and economic news as a best-selling author, columnist, lecturer and television host.

Dramatic turn of events on 'Lost'

Geena Davis gets award on same day show is shelved
NEW YORK - On the same day Geena Davis accepted an award for her portrayal of a female president, ABC shelved "Commander in Chief" for the crucial May ratings sweeps.

Chris Young is latest 'Nashville Star'
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Chris Young of Murfreesboro, Tenn., beat out two other finalists to win the fourth edition of the "Nashville Star" talent search series.

As Bush's popularity drops, comics are target him
NEW YORK - Perhaps sensing vulnerability, the late-night comics have been piling on President Bush.

CBS announces launch of a broadband channel

Dramatic turn of events on 'Lost'
LOS ANGELES - Sex, betrayal and bloodshed were the order of a fateful day for the lost souls of "Lost."

Geena Davis gets award on same day show is shelved

Ratings for cable networks
Rankings for the top 15 programs on cable networks as compiled by Nielsen Media Research for the week of April 24-30. Day and start time (EDT) are in parentheses.

'ER' puts Darfur tragedy in dramatic spotlight
LOS ANGELES - More often than not, television has looked away from the complex, searing reality of Darfur.

Another 'Idol' contestant is out, leaving four

CBS announces launch of a broadband channel
NEW YORK - CBS Corp. on Thursday launched a new broadband channel called "innertube," an ad-supported outlet that will include specially created Web series and some use of material that has already run on CBS.

Ratings for cable networks
Rankings for the top 15 programs on cable networks as compiled by Nielsen Media Research for the week of April 24-30. Day and start time (EDT) are in parentheses.

'ER' puts Darfur tragedy in dramatic spotlight
LOS ANGELES - More often than not, television has looked away from the complex, searing reality of Darfur.

Chris Young is latest 'Nashville Star'
NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Chris Young of Murfreesboro, Tenn., beat out two other finalists to win the fourth edition of the "Nashville Star" talent search series.

Chanticleer brings diversity in music, choral members

Nicole Richie acknowledges she's 'too thin'

Club calendar

People in the News

George Lucas is now a 'Star Wars' action figure

People in the News

Applause calendar

Stuff to do

1990s was great decade for movies
After we put some distance between ourselves and the 1990s, the decade will emerge as one of the more fruitful and artistically interesting periods in film history. The age of the indie, it found small features making a big splash and artists with an eye for the unusual being offered the opportunity to succeed - or fail - in a big way. As part of the Reel Releases review of the greatest films of the sound era, here are 10 favorites from the 1990s:

Birthday wishes to the Godfather of Soul
I cannot claim that I know James Brown. Sure, I see him a few times a year, and have spoken with him on several occasions, but we don't exchange Christmas cards, don't have each other's home numbers on speed dial and have never shared a quiet meal together.