Applause cover
Applause cover for May 25, 2006.

Applause cover

Art group's exhibition examines Godfather, the meaning of soul

Art group's exhibition examines Godfather, the meaning of soul
The newly minted, Augusta-based visual art organization the State of Art is announcing itself with a lot of soul.

Art galleries

Art galleries
GET LISTED: Send your gallery's exhibit schedule and other information to Steven Uhles, The Augusta Chronicle, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, GA 30903-1928. Send information by fax to (706) 722-7403. Send e-mail to steven.uhles@augusta chronicle.com. Include a contact name and phone number.

Sabathia completes dominance of Twins

Cavaliers hand Seminoles a defeat
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Sean Doolittle allowed one run over six innings, and Brandon Guyer drove in three runs with a homer and single to lead Virginia to a 6-2 win over Florida State on Wednesday in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.

Orioles' Lopez ends losing skid

'Pack proceed
CUMMING, Ga. - The telling image of Greenbrier's 10-0 win Wednesday in the deciding game of the Class AAAA quarterfinals wasn't another mercy conquest. It was the respect North Forsyth had for Wolfpack sophomore Nolan Belcher.

South Carolina stops Kentucky

Bonds has reason to cheer on Pujols
It's no secret Barry Bonds doesn't have a lot of friends in baseball. Ask him the names of his teammates on the San Francisco Giants, and he might be lucky to guess half of them.

Cavaliers hand Seminoles a defeat

Mets acquire veteran
NEW YORK - The pitching-thin Mets acquired Orlando Hernandez from Arizona on Wednesday, welcoming El Duque back to New York and hoping he can help them now - and maybe later, when even more is at stake.

'Pack proceed

Dodgers are suddenly the talk of baseball
LOS ANGELES - The Los Angeles Dodgers have been socked with injuries to significant players since the season began, including Eric Gagne, Normar Garciaparra and Kenny Lofton.

Astros can't steal victory

Orioles' Lopez ends losing skid
SEATTLE - A struggling Rodrigo Lopez allowed two hits in 7Q dominant innings of the Baltimore Orioles' 2-0 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday.

Dodgers are suddenly the talk of baseball

Astros can't steal victory
WASHINGTON - Tears of sadness streamed down both of Frank Robinson's cheeks, and his voice quivered, even in the aftermath of an 8-5 victory. The Washington Nationals manager had been cornered into a move rarely seen in baseball, the benching of a catcher in the middle of an inning.

Mets acquire veteran

Commodores shut down Gamecocks
HOOVER, Ala. - David Price hurled a complete game and Pedro Alvarez and Dominic de la Osa hit homers as Vanderbilt beat South Carolina 11-1 in the second round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament.

Commodores shut down Gamecocks

Rookie carries Cards
SAN FRANCISCO - Adam Wainwright homered in his first major league at-bat and pitched three innings of relief to earn the win in the St. Louis Cardinals' 10-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, when Barry Bonds took the day off.

Ruth's final power surge was grand

Ruth's final power surge was grand
PITTSBURGH - Babe Ruth was 40 years old, with a pot belly that couldn't be supported by his spindly legs and a fast-growing realization his career was over.

South Carolina stops Kentucky
HOOVER, Ala. - Pinch hitter Jon Willard hit a two-run, ninth-inning homer to help lead South Carolina to a 4-2 victory over Kentucky on Wednesday in the first round of the Southeastern Conference Tournament.

Bonds has reason to cheer on Pujols

Mets pick up pitcher

Seminoles give Tar Heels boot in second round
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Shane Robinson hit a bases-loaded single in the bottom of the ninth to give Florida State a 7-6 win over North Carolina on Thursday and eliminate the No. 2 seeded Tar Heels in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.

Rookie carries Cards

Mets pick up pitcher
NEW YORK - The New York Mets made another trade to help their injury-depleted pitching staff Thursday, acquiring Dave Williams from the Cincinnati Reds for a minor leaguer.

Seminoles give Tar Heels boot in second round
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Shane Robinson hit a bases-loaded single in the bottom of the ninth to give Florida State a 7-6 win over North Carolina on Thursday and eliminate the No. 2 seeded Tar Heels in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament.

Sabathia completes dominance of Twins
MINNEAPOLIS - C.C. Sabathia made it look easy on the mound with a six-hitter, Casey Blake homered twice and the Cleveland Indians frustrated the Minnesota Twins, winning 11-0 on Wednesday.

San Diego wins with two hits
SAN DIEGO - Petco Park might eventually drive the San Diego Padres batty.

San Diego wins with two hits

Braves' bats finally come alive in San Diego

Braves' bats finally come alive in San Diego
SAN DIEGO - One night after Chipper Jones lamented Atlanta's inability to score runs in San Diego, the Braves gave Petco Park and the Padres' pitching staff a good workout.

Shareholders blast CEO over paycheck

Regions Financial, AmSouth will merge
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Regions Financial Corp. is paying about $9.8 billion in stock to acquire hometown rival AmSouth Bancorporation in a deal announced Thursday that would create one of the nation's biggest bank holding companies.

April rise shows strength
WASHINGTON - Sales of new homes rose unexpectedly in April to the fastest pace this year as the housing sector showed resilience in the face of rising mortgage rates. But the price of homes sold last month edged up only slightly, and the level of unsold homes rose to a record high.

Lay, Skilling convicted in Enron collapse
HOUSTON - Former Enron Corp. chiefs Kenneth Lay and Jeffrey Skilling were convicted Thursday of conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud in one of the biggest business scandals in U.S. history.

Two hotels will rise in one's place

Treasury concedes telephone tax fight, promises refunds
WASHINGTON - The Treasury Department said Thursday it will eliminate a tax on long-distance telephone calls and refund about $13 billion collected from callers.

Yahoo, eBay to join forces

Two hotels will rise in one's place
The days and hotel stays at Augusta Inn & Conference Center are numbered.

Labor force in Augusta is applauded
Augusta's labor force can flex its muscles, thanks to some added credibility from Southern Business & Development magazine.

Regions Financial, AmSouth will merge
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Regions Financial Corp. is paying about $9.8 billion in stock to acquire hometown rival AmSouth Bancorporation in a deal announced Thursday that would create one of the nation's biggest bank holding companies.

Augustan returns as market's leader

Augustan returns as market's leader
An Augusta native will serve as Wachovia Bank's next Augusta-Aiken market president.

'Big box' vacancies not big deal for N. Augusta

Shareholders blast CEO over paycheck
ATLANTA - The Home Depot Inc.'s chief executive officer did little Thursday to quell the uproar among some shareholders over his hefty pay, stifling debate at the company's annual meeting as the board members who approved the compensation didn't show up to defend themselves.

Labor force in Augusta is applauded

Lay, Skilling biggest catch of all scandals

April rise shows strength

'Big box' vacancies not big deal for N. Augusta
NORTH AUGUSTA - Empty retail storefronts occupy shopping centers on nearly every main thoroughfare in the city.

Lay, Skilling convicted in Enron collapse
HOUSTON - Former Enron Corp. chiefs Kenneth Lay and Jeffrey Skilling were convicted Thursday of conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud in one of the biggest business scandals in U.S. history.

Yahoo, eBay to join forces
SAN FRANCISCO - Internet powerhouses Yahoo Inc. and eBay Inc. are joining forces in an alliance that further defines the battle lines in an online showdown with rivals Google Inc., Microsoft Corp. and AOL.

Lay, Skilling biggest catch of all scandals
HOUSTON - Enron was always the big fish.

Treasury concedes telephone tax fight, promises refunds
WASHINGTON - The Treasury Department said Thursday it will eliminate a tax on long-distance telephone calls and refund about $13 billion collected from callers.

Editorial Cartoon

Editorial Cartoon

Avondale's death throes
Sometimes it seems as though Graniteville is cursed.

An assault on privacy

The problem still remains
Local leaders should not fool themselves into thinking they've solved anything by accepting Larry Rogers' resignation as manager of the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center.

An assault on privacy
Not to worry - or at least not to worry too much. The thief probably doesn't know what he's got anyway, says U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs officials.

Iraq victory is near; let's not blow it

The problem still remains
Local leaders should not fool themselves into thinking they've solved anything by accepting Larry Rogers' resignation as manager of the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center.

Iraq victory is near; let's not blow it
With roadside bombs and surprise attacks, jihadists killed nearly 20 Iraqis and injured many more in and around Baghdad last weekend.

Avondale's death throes

Clerk: Lawyers say CBS, Howard Stern have settled dispute
NEW YORK - Lawyers on both sides of the CBS Corp. and Howard Stern breach of contract lawsuit said Wednesday they have settled.

Club calendar
Send your weekly entertainment 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.

Applause calendar
Send your group's schedule, pricing and other information to Steven Uhles, The Augusta Chronicle, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, GA 30903-1928. Send information by fax to (706) 722- 7403. Send e-mail to steven. uhles@augustachronicle.com. Include a contact name and phone number.

One-handed 'Katamari' for PSP is deeply flawed video game
If you're looking for something completely different, then Me and My Katamari for the PSP fits the bill.

Soul of America festival scheduled to open today
Ready or not, here it comes.

Video of Hong Kong man scolding fellow bus rider becomes Internet hit
HONG KONG - A six-minute film showing a grumpy man scolding a fellow Hong Kong bus rider for interrupting his phone call has become one of the most popular videos online.

Baby bobble earns Britney the sympathy vote
NEW YORK - Britney Spears. She's so easy to make fun of. Even her song titles conspire to mock her: "Oops, She Did It Again!" But the latest HEAD:s about America's most maligned mother are evoking a new sentiment from fellow moms.

Stuff to do
Too long absent from these shores, pirate-blues outfit The Hellblinki Sextet returns to its old stomping grounds, appearing Saturday at The Mission, 1157 Broad St., with The Juan Prophet Organization and video vanguard Projexorcism. For more information call (706) 722-1233.

Baby bobble earns Britney the sympathy vote
NEW YORK - Britney Spears. She's so easy to make fun of. Even her song titles conspire to mock her: "Oops, She Did It Again!" But the latest HEAD:s about America's most maligned mother are evoking a new sentiment from fellow moms.

Spotted
Melea Marler (left) and Heather Anderson enjoy A Night in Paris at Modjeska Lounge in downtown Augusta.

James Brown scheduled to perform
Augusta will get to celebrate the legacy of native son James Brown this weekend at the inaugural James Brown Soul of America Music Festival.

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.

Aging tends to cut into time spent on the lake
I'll never forget it. Forty years ago, I'd fish in all kinds of weather, starting at dawn and staying 'til dusk. Rain or shine, hot or cold - it didn't matter, as long as I was catching fish. I was 31.

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.

Aging tends to cut into time spent on the lake
I'll never forget it. Forty years ago, I'd fish in all kinds of weather, starting at dawn and staying 'til dusk. Rain or shine, hot or cold - it didn't matter, as long as I was catching fish. I was 31.

Peonies provide months of pleasure
Peonies are perhaps the longest lasting beauties of the flower garden. Not the flowers themselves, which are as short-lived as any other perennial flower. But the young spears that precede the flowers add a bit of reddish color to the early flower garden and the long lasting, dark green foliage remains a lush oasis even in the glare of midsummer sun.

Summer landscapes can be just as appealing as spring's
Augusta's spring landscapes are always saturated with flowering shrubs, but spring passes and it's summer. Where does all the color go?

Peonies provide months of pleasure

Summer landscapes can be just as appealing as spring's
Augusta's spring landscapes are always saturated with flowering shrubs, but spring passes and it's summer. Where does all the color go?

Trapani, Wood lift Jackets
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Mike Trapani hit an eighth inning home run well over the left field wall to lift Georgia Tech to a 2-1 win over Miami in the Atlantic Coast Conference Baseball Tournament.

Trapani, Wood lift Jackets

Hickory turns it around
For the first 20 innings of their home series against the Hickory Crawdads, it seemed the only thing the Augusta GreenJackets needed to do offensively was put the ball in play.

Hickory turns it around
For the first 20 innings of their home series against the Hickory Crawdads, it seemed the only thing the Augusta GreenJackets needed to do offensively was put the ball in play.

Augusta smokes Hickory
Lake Olmstead Stadium is treating the Augusta GreenJackets quite kindly of late.

Morgan leads Senior PGA

Morgan leads Senior PGA
EDMOND, Okla. - Playing on his home course, Gil Morgan shot 5-under-par 66 on Thursday to take a one-shot lead over playing partner Peter Jacobsen after the first round of the Senior PGA Championship at Oak Tree Golf Club.

Augusta smokes Hickory

Strom's line is full of holes
Strom Thurmond coach Lee Sawyer felt a bit different about his football team this spring. If you pressed him this time last year, he'd tell you his Rebels were good enough to win a region championship.

Strom's line is full of holes
Strom Thurmond coach Lee Sawyer felt a bit different about his football team this spring. If you pressed him this time last year, he'd tell you his Rebels were good enough to win a region championship.

Gretzky's wife might sue Jersey
TRENTON, N.J. - Wayne Gretzky's wife and a Phoenix assistant coach might sue New Jersey for $50 million each, contending their reputations were damaged after state officials leaked information from wiretaps in a case involving a multimillion-dollar sports betting ring.

Flu-ridden Oilers looking for sweep and much-needed rest

Flu-ridden Oilers looking for sweep and much-needed rest
EDMONTON, Alberta - The flu is giving the Edmonton Oilers a lot more trouble than the Anaheim Mighty Ducks in the Western Conference finals.

Gretzky's wife might sue Jersey

Get out there and send us some vacation mementos
A desk is a dangerous place from which to watch the world.

Get out there and send us some vacation mementos
A desk is a dangerous place from which to watch the world.

'I was prepared to tell the truth: I was not involved' in scheme

Population-shift articles are divisive

Remember those who served bravely

After Charles Larke - then what?
I have been following the on-going saga regarding Richmond County School Superintendent Larke's annual evaluation.Bill Field, Augusta

After Charles Larke - then what?

Paper bags for yard waste make sense
This year, I had the opportunity to work with 125 environmental science students. As we've learned about landfills and municipal solid waste, we've also learned about the biodegradability of different materials.Kathy Pearson, Augusta

'I was prepared to tell the truth: I was not involved' in scheme
When children are young and they dart out into the street, a parent instinctively escorts them back onto the sidewalk to get them to safety.Sue Burmeister

Paper bags for yard waste make sense

Remember those who served bravely
Freedom has a bittersweet taste for those who fought for it. As much can be, and must be, said for the families of those who paid the ultimate price.Richard A. Hood, Augusta

Population-shift articles are divisive
I am saddened - no, angered - by The Augusta Chronicle's attempt to polarize the good folks of Augusta and Columbia County. Your Sunday edition highlighted the rants by a few people who seem to hate others because of which side of the county line they live on. This only adds fuel to a fire destined to do one thing: divide our community. What is The Chronicle's motive by promoting hate among these two communities? Why would you want to divide the people within the community you serve?Bryan Mudrak, Evans

Porsche Cayman S is spirited, eager

Hasbro halts plans for dolls based on risque music group

Hasbro halts plans for dolls based on risque music group
PAWTUCKET, R.I. - Hasbro Inc. shelved plans Wednesday to release a line of dolls based on the Pussycat Dolls, an all-female music group known for risque lyrics and skimpy outfits.

Porsche Cayman S is spirited, eager
Porsche officials decided about six years ago to create the Cayman S, sort of a hardtop hatchback version of Porsche's least expensive car, the Boxster roadster.

Across Georgia
Fake Katrina aid filing gets man probation

Brown will play festival on Saturday
The Godfather of Soul will appear and perform at the James Brown Soul of America Music Festival this weekend.

Sex offender bill goes to House
COLUMBIA - A bill setting minimum sentencing guidelines and allowing lifelong electronic monitoring of sex offenders is headed to the House floor.

Funding for MOX program uncertain

Graduating with honor
AIKEN - Pamela Key often said she hoped her son Steven would be the first in the family to attend college.

Hoilday closings

Across the area
The recording industry is striking back by suing people suspected of illegally downloading music across the country, including Augusta.

Brown will play festival on Saturday

Kid of the Day
Hanna Grace Cartin, of Aiken, is today's kid of the day.

Project costs to increase

Larke's backers, critics turn out on Broad Street
Racially-charged language fed a crowd of more than 100 people who gathered outside the Richmond County school board's central offices in support of Superintendent Charles Larke on Wednesday.

Kitten caboodle cited

School reserve fund shrinks

News you can use
ART GALLERY EXHIBIT: Works by Ethan Brock, along with works by gallery artists in The Bin Show, will be on display through June 2 at the Mary Pauline Gallery, 982 Broad St. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (706) 724-9542.

Across the Southeast
TAMPA, FLA. - A grand jury indicted 26 Orlando-area residents on charges of making fraudulent claims for federal assistance after the two hurricanes that struck the Gulf Coast last year, prosecutors said Thursday.

Time to play
Grant Williams (left) plays with his friend Steve Burgess' dog, Beefcake, on Broad Street. Mr. Williams is the owner of the It's Gone Consignment store on Broad Street.

School reserve fund shrinks
The Richmond County school system's financial reserves are dwindling to the point that Controller Gene Spires admits he's not comfortable.

Man is given life in prison
A Harlem man was sentenced to life behind bars after being convicted Wednesday in the 2005 shooting death of his cousin.

Ex-substitute sentenced
Billy Fray Cleveland walked out of a Columbia County courtroom Thursday morning into a crowded lobby of family and friends waiting to hug and congratulate him.

Across the area
Richmond County sheriff's investigators are still seeking information about an Augusta woman's disappearance two months ago.

Report praises 3 local schools
When it comes to preparing students for college, three local high schools are among the best in the country, according to a report by Newsweek magazine.

School officials eye tax increase
Richmond County school board members are considering a budget that would raise property taxes, pushing the millage to the highest allowed by state law.

With helping hands, man will find soul within clay
British artist Donald Brown, also known as "The Renaissance Man," believes successful art should be more than aesthetically pleasing or fiscally profitable. He believes it should encourage others to reflect, respond and participate in the process.

Kitten caboodle cited
Columbia County authorities formally cited an Appling woman Wednesday with 81 counts of failure to care for and maintain animals after many cats and kittens were found in and around her residence.

Down below the tower
Jerome Bargeron (left) and Rock Summers prepare to move artist Richard Hunt's fountain sculpture, And They Went Down Both Into the Water, into Springfield Village Park.

Rants and raves
Comments from readers:

Golden games
Above, 60-year-old Pam Clark tosses a horseshoe while competing against other seniors in the Golden Olympics at Lake Olmstead Park.

Rants and raves
I'D LIKE TO make a big rave for T.W. Josey High School. I want to congratulate them for being on their best behavior at Carowinds theme park. I don't know the school, but I saw them getting on their bus in an orderly manner and taking care of business. So a rave for them on an awesome job well done.

Ruling could aid in water quality fight

Records on fatal accident released
A bent piece of equipment and a lack of supporting wires led to a tower collapse in which a Fort Gordon soldier was killed nearly two years ago, newly released Army records show.

Deal is offered in theft

Funding for MOX program uncertain
The future of the mixed oxide fuel program at Savannah River Site is unclear after a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on the energy appropriations bill.

Plan would raise sales tax to get property tax relief
COLUMBIA - A committee of senators and representatives agreed to a $500 million property tax relief plan late Thursday.

Future will be like past for criminal
A man who has spent the past 40 years in and out of prison is headed back, possibly for the last time.

Across South Carolina
CHARLESTON - A mother has been charged after her 2-year-old son appeared in a video laced with guns and profanity, police said.

Deal is offered in theft
A man who drove off in a stolen car with a toddler strapped in the back seat pleaded guilty Thursday to reduced charges.

Appeals Court opinion voids sentence change
The Georgia Court of Appeals announced an opinion Thursday stating that a change to a December sentencing involving a statutory rape conviction should not have occurred.

Hoilday closings
The following holiday schedules have been announced for Memorial Day:

Memorial Day closings
The following schedules have been announced for Memorial Day:

Travelers shrug off higher prices
The price of fuel may be driving airline ticket prices sky-high, but that won't deter Willie Blanchard and his wife, Hattie, this Memorial Day.

Project costs to increase
Labor unrest in copper mines in Chile and a booming Asian economy sucking up all the available steel and concrete means University Hospital will end up paying millions more for its major renovation, officials said Thursday.

Texas company, St. Joseph reach agreement
St. Joseph Hospital has signed a letter of intent to sell to a Texas-based hospital chain that will likely include local physicians as owners of part of the hospital, officials announced today.

Financing packages for projects in works
Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics could get a massive infusion of capital in the coming months to fuel building and renovation projects, officials said Wednesday.

Johnston police chief fired
AIKEN -- Johnston police Chief Butch Easler, who was suspended in September pending the outcome of a state investigation into wrongdoing, has been fired, according to the town's mayor.

Hybrids are on the rise
Bill Brown says the fuel efficiency of the hybrid Toyota Prius he bought in 2002 has more than lived up to his expectations.

Wachovia names area president
An Augusta native will serve as Wachovia Bank's next Augusta-Aiken market president, the company announced today.

Across South Carolina
SUMTER - A Clarendon County woman has been charged with unauthorized removal of a body after the remains of her newborn son were found in a plastic bag in her car's trunk three months ago.

Ruling could aid in water quality fight
A U.S. Supreme Court ruling could strengthen the authority of South Carolina and Georgia to issue water quality guidelines for the Savannah River shoals below Augusta's Diversion Dam, according to environmental groups.

Plant's air conditioner catches fire
No one was injured in an early morning fire at an Evans manufacturing plant.

Bauer could go home soon
GREENVILLE, S.C. - South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, who survived a fiery plane crash this week, was in good condition despite a "fever spike" and could go home as early as today, hospital officials said.

Burmeister 'duped,' chief says
Now that the federal corruption case involving associates of former state schools Superintendent Linda Schrenko is about to wrap up, there are a few loose ends still yet to be tied.

Rants and raves
Comments from readers:

Growth of jobs in area endures
ATLANTA - Augusta's job-creation machine continues to chug along at a modest pace, and a forecast released Wednesday suggests the tempo will continue next year.

Across the area

Jury convicts 1, clears another
ATLANTA - A federal jury gave a split decision Wednesday in the trial of two men accused of helping former state schools Superintendent Linda Schrenko steal more than $600,000 in public education funds.

Effort urges denial of nuclear cost plan

Across Georgia
FAIRBURN - A ninth-grader at a private school has been arrested on charges that he took an explosive device to school.

Ex-substitute sentenced

Election might be affected by crash
COLUMBIA - Injuries aside, Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer's plane crash Tuesday could be bad news for his re-election campaign, a political expert said Wednesday.

News you can use

Financing packages for projects in works

News you can use
When summer storms gather, is lightning safety one of your main concerns? If it's not, it should be. Lightning is one of the top three causes of weather-related fatalities, and it shouldn't be taken lightly.

News you can use

Hybrids are on the rise

Across South Carolina

5/26/2006 - The Augusta Chronicle
Richmond County police are investigating a stabbing at about 9 a.m. today in Goshen subdivision.

Man is given life in prison

House eliminates funds for MOX
The future of the mixed oxide fuel program at Savannah River Site is unclear after a vote in the U.S. House of Representatives on the energy appropriations bill.

Time to play

Former substitute teacher given probation
Billy Fray Cleveland, a former Columbia County substitute teacher charged in August with child molestation, pleaded guilty today to misdemeanor simple battery as part of a negotiated plea agreement with the district attorney's office.

Travelers shrug off higher prices

Report praises 3 local schools

Memorial Day closings

Golden games

Election might be affected by crash

Kid of the Day

Growth of jobs in area endures

Future will be like past for criminal

Across Georgia

With helping hands, man will find soul within clay

Appeals Court opinion voids sentence change

Sex offender bill goes to House

School officials eye tax increase

Records on fatal accident released

Down below the tower

Plan would raise sales tax to get property tax relief
COLUMBIA - A committee of senators and representatives agreed to a $500 million property tax relief plan late Thursday.

Burmeister 'duped,' chief says

Across the Southeast
TAMPA, FLA. - A grand jury indicted 26 Orlando-area residents on charges of making fraudulent claims for federal assistance after the two hurricanes that struck the Gulf Coast last year, prosecutors said Thursday.

Across South Carolina

Across Georgia
Fake Katrina aid filing gets man probation

Larke's backers, critics turn out on Broad Street

Bauer could go home soon
GREENVILLE, S.C. - South Carolina Lt. Gov. Andre Bauer, who survived a fiery plane crash this week, was in good condition despite a "fever spike" and could go home as early as today, hospital officials said.

Kid of the Day

Rants and raves
I'D LIKE TO make a big rave for T.W. Josey High School. I want to congratulate them for being on their best behavior at Carowinds theme park. I don't know the school, but I saw them getting on their bus in an orderly manner and taking care of business. So a rave for them on an awesome job well done.

Aiken County steps up policing of vehicle tags

Jury convicts 1, clears another

Graduating with honor

Effort urges denial of nuclear cost plan
ATLANTA - Environmental and community activists on Thursday urged state regulators to deny Georgia Power's request to charge customers about $51 million in planning and application costs for new nuclear reactors.

Across the area

Kid of the Day
Jayda Arianne Ellington, of Augusta, is today's kid of the day.

Aiken County steps up policing of vehicle tags
AIKEN - County officials recently announced plans to crack down on permanent residents who register their vehicles in other states.

Campbell knows well the pain of horse racing
Like the rest of us, Cot Campbell tuned his television to the Preakness Stakes and fixed his attention on the latest super-horse candidate.

Vatican newspaper reviews 'Da Vinci Code'

Mini reviews

Review: 'X-Men: The Last Stand'

New DVD releases
TRANSAMERICA (GENIUS, $28.95): Felicity Huffman delivers one of last year's best performances and one of the finest gender-bending turns ever as a man about to become a woman, whose final preparations for sex-change surgery are sidetracked when a previously unknown son appears on the scene.

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

Review: 'X-Men: The Last Stand'
The nuance and complexity of character that made the first two "X-Men" movies more compelling than the typically mindless summer blockbuster are gone in "X-Men: The Last Stand," the third and allegedly final installment in the comic-inspired franchise.

New DVD releases

Vatican newspaper reviews 'Da Vinci Code'
VATICAN CITY - "The Da Vinci Code" film was "much ado about nothing' and the fuss surrounding it was nothing more than a clever marketing strategy to increase sales at the box office, the Vatican newspaper wrote in a review published Tuesday.

Carey turns to 'American Idol' judge to help spice up summer tour

Carey turns to 'American Idol' judge to help spice up summer tour
NEW YORK - Mariah Carey is tapping a longtime friend - "American Idol" judge Randy Jackson - to help her mix things up a bit on her "Adventures of Mimi" tour, which kicks off in August.

Concert calendar
HOT SOUTHERN NIGHTS, WITH PAT GREEN AND JOSH TURNER: 7 tonight; Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center, 601 Seventh St.; table seats, $138; first three side and upper lower-half sections, $23 and the remaining seats, $17.50; (706) 722-3521 or ticketmaster.com.

Janet Jackson says she gained weight for a movie role
NEW YORK - Janet Jackson, newly svelte after losing 60 pounds, says she gained weight for a role in the upcoming movie "Tennessee," which she ultimately had to pass on because of her new album.

Take 5
Although the acts scheduled to play the James Brown Soul of America Music Festival run the gamut, ranging in style from rock to rap to country, the performers share one thing - they all know who James Brown is.

Artist's career is tribute to James Brown

New music
Here's a look at music releases for the week:

Take 5

Janet Jackson says she gained weight for a movie role
NEW YORK - Janet Jackson, newly svelte after losing 60 pounds, says she gained weight for a role in the upcoming movie "Tennessee," which she ultimately had to pass on because of her new album.

Concert calendar

New music

Artist's career is tribute to James Brown
James Brown tribute artist Tony Wilson has made a career of staying on the good foot.

Drivers are giving a test run to corn-based fuel

Johnson has way to go for history
CONCORD, N.C. - Jimmie Johnson will try to win the Coca-Cola 600 for a record fourth consecutive time this Sunday (5:30 p.m., Fox-Ch. 54). He's also trying to win his fifth consecutive race at Lowe's Motor Speedway.

Drivers are giving a test run to corn-based fuel
INDIANAPOLIS - Even race car drivers care about the ozone layer.

Johnson has way to go for history

Racing for ratings

Racing for ratings
TV fuels sport's big day on and off track

Pistons prove resilient again

Injury bug nags Mavericks, Suns
DALLAS - The Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks have overcome injuries all season. So it's no surprise they're both scrambling to change their lineups after losing starters in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals.

Pistons prove resilient again
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - The start, story line and result were different.

Phoenix rises late

Pistons have bounce
AUBURN HILLS, Mich. - The Detroit Pistons might be the most resilient team in the NBA.

Pistons have bounce

Injury bug nags Mavericks, Suns
DALLAS - The Phoenix Suns and Dallas Mavericks have overcome injuries all season. So it's no surprise they're both scrambling to change their lineups after losing starters in Game 1 of the Western Conference finals.

Phoenix rises late
DALLAS - The Dallas Mavericks still can't stop Phoenix's inside-and-outside playoff combination, even with Amare Stoudemire on the bench this year.

Charlotte Renas   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Entered into rest on Thursday, May 25, 2006, Mrs. Charlotte Louise Renas, 85, of North Augusta, SC. Born in Detroit, MI, a daughter of the late Stefan and Lydia Mielke Schiepke, she had been a resident of Pontiac, MI prior to coming to North Augusta May 1, 2006. She was a homemaker and had worked for Michigan Bell as an Operator prior to the birth of her children. Mrs. Renas was a member of Grosse Pointe Baptist Church, Grosse Pointe, MI and enjoyed furniture refinishing and needlepoint. Surviving are sons, Stephen Ernest Renas, (Banjong) North Augusta, SC and Richard William Renas, (Pikool) Waterford Twp., MI; sister, Carolyn Schiepke, Detroit, MI; brother, Ray Schiepke, St. Clair, MI; and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of forty-five years, Ernest W. Renas. A memorial service will be held in Grosse Pointe, MI at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of South Carolina, 726 C,Lowndes Hill Rd., Greenville, SC 29607 sc.wish.org Hatcher Funeral Home, U.S. Hwy. No. 1, Langley, SC. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mary L. Moss   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Mary L. Moss entered into rest on Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at Medical College of Georgia. Survivors includes her loving and devoted children, Oliver (Bobbie) Moss, Jr., John H. Moss, Mary Johnson, Aszenner Wright, Geneva Moss (Ervin) Jennings, Columbia, SC, LaShawn (Bernard) Middleton; brother, Arthur Lee (Vera) Taylor; eighteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces nephews other relatives and friends. Funeral services will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday, May 27, 2006 at First Baptist Church of Keysville, 3948 Deans Bridge, with Pastor Garry R. Kerr, officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Olive Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends tonight from 7 to 8 p.m. at Kinsey & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road. (706) 790-8858 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Katherine Sanders   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at University Hospital, Mrs. Katherine Sanders, 79, formerly of Florence Street. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Friends may call W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA (706) 722-6401.

Lillie Waters Powell   (SYLVANIA, Ga.)
SYLVANIA, Ga. - Lillie Waters Powell, age 96, died Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at Screven County Hospital in Sylvania. Visitation: Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at 7:00 until 9:00 PM at the funeral home. Graveside Services at 2:00 PM on Thursday, May 25, 2006, at the Sylvania City Cemetery. Thompson-Strickland-Waters Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.

Jim Fuller   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Jim David Fuller of Augusta died May 21, 2006 at the age of 72. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2 p.m. at New Hope CME Church, Sharon, Ga. McLendon Memorial Funeral Home in charge of service (706) 678-2656.

Christine J. Ellison   (SYLVANIA, Ga.)
SYLVANIA, Ga. - Christine J. Ellison, age 91, died Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at Screven County Hospital in Sylvania. Visitation: Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 3:00 until 4:00 PM. Funeral Services at 4:00 PM on Thursday, May 25, 2006, at the Thompson-Strickland-Waters Chapel. Interment at Screven County Memorial Cemetery. Thompson-Strickland-Waters Funeral Home in charge of all arrangements.

Ethel Marie Aube   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Mrs. Ethel Marie Aube, 73, beloved wife of Robert S. Aube, of Five Notch Road, entered into rest Tuesday, May 23, 2006, at her residence. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, May 27, 2006 in the chapel of Rowland Funeral Home with Rev. Todd Brown officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the memorial service until 4:00 p.m. Mrs. Aube was a born in Devil Fork WV and had lived in Myrtle Beach, SC prior to moving to North Augusta twenty-six years ago. She was a Christian woman of God and studied the Rosicrucian Order. Mrs. Aube was a homemaker. Additional survivors include two sons, Jim Aube of Atlanta and Rob Aube of Myrtle Beach; one sister, Edith Folden of North Augusta; two grandchildren, Rachel Aube of Columbia and Nicholas Aube of Atlanta. The family would like to express their sincere thanks and appreciation to the staff of United Hospice for the care and compassion that was given to Mrs. Aube. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2623 Washington Road, Augusta, GA 30904. Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Lucille Nelms   (CRAWFORD, Ga.)
CRAWFORD, Ga. - Lucille McKettrick Nelms, age 88, of Crawford, died Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at Athens Regional Medical Center. She was the daughter of the late Benjamin and Minnie Lee Tullis McKettrick and the wife of the late Thomas Eugene Nelms. Mrs. Nelms worked at St. Mary's Hospital until her retirement. She was a resident of Quiet Oaks Nursing Home in Crawford. She was a member of the Lighthouse Evangelical Methodist Church. She is survived by her children, Martha & Robert Huff, Glenda & Coile Stewart of Crawford,Tomi Nelms of Hartwell, Bill Nelms of Lexington, and Lucy Bridges of Carlton; twelve grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren and one great-greatgrandchild; a number of nieces and nephews. Funeral Services will be Friday, May 26, 2006 in the Chapel of Lord and Stevens - Crawford at 10:00 A.M. with the Rev. Wiley Carney and Rev. Dan Fernandez officiating. Burial will be at 2:00 p.m. at Bethany United Methodist Church Cemetery in Lincolnton. Visitation will be Thursday evening from 6-8 p.m. at Lord and Stephens - Crawford and Friday from 1-2 p.m. at Bethany United Methodist Church in Lincolnton. Lord and Stephens Funeral Home Oglethorpe Chapel is in charge of arrangements. www.lordandstephens.com 706-743-5030 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

John James Lynott   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - John James "Jack" Lynott, age 68, entered into rest Friday, May 19, 2006. A graveside service will be held at 11:00AM Friday, May 26, 2006 at Westview Cemetery with Rev. Michael Davenport officiating. Poteet Funeral Homes, West Chapel, 3686 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA (706) 860-0009.

Eugenia Williams   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at The Place at Augusta (Nursing Home), Mrs. Eugenia Williams, 84. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Friends may call W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA (706) 722-6401.

Annie Bell Atkins   (BRONX, N.Y.)
BRONX, N.Y. - Ms. Annie Bell Atkins died May 12 at her residence. Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 1:00 p.m. at Gordon Grove Baptist Church in Louisville, Ga. Family and friends may call at the residence of his brother, Roosevelt Atkins, 2993 Cooper Rd., Wadley, Ga. Garrer Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Oscar Bates   (JOHNSTON, S.C.)
JOHNSTON, S.C.- Oscar Bates, Sr. , 72, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, May 20, 2006 at his residence. Visitation will be held 6-7p.m. Thursday at Amos & Sons Funeral Home, Johnston, SC. Funeral Services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 26, 2006 at the Willow Spring Baptist Church with the Rev. Anthony Gordon, officiating. Burial will be in the Church Cemetery. Survivors include his wife, Mary L. Bates; three daughters, Sharon Young (Leroy), Sabrina Herrin (James), and Gwendolyn Herrin (George); three sons, Oscar Bates, Jr, Darrell Bates (Jacqueline) and Alfred Bates(Wendy); 7 grandchildren and, two sisters, Naomi B. Harris (Lorenzo) and Sophronia Chappelle (Harry). Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Helen M. Lunsford   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.- Funeral Services for Mrs. Helen M. Lunsford, 67, of Ambassador Drive, North Augusta, SC, who died May 22, 2006, will be conducted this Thursday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Stephen D. Posey Funeral Home. Chaplain Dexter Lambert officiating. Interment in Sunset Memory Gardens. Stephen D. Posey Funeral Home of North Augusta in charge of arrangements (803-278-1181). Visit the registry online at www.poseyfuneralhome.com .

Katherine Sanders   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at University Hospital, Mrs. Katherine Sanders, 79, formerly of Florence Street. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Friends may call W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA (706) 722-6401.

Eugenia Williams   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at The Place at Augusta (Nursing Home), Mrs. Eugenia Williams, 84. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Friends may call W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA (706) 722-6401.

Margaret Warner   (CLEARWATER, S.C.)
CLEARWATER, S.C. - Mrs. Margaret Ann Warner, 64, entered into rest May 23, 2006 at University Hospital. Memorial services will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, May 27, 2006 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses with Rick Culler officiating. Mrs. Warner, a native of Barnwell County, was a member of the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses, Clearwater. Survivors include a daughter, Rena W. Black, Beech Island; a son, Tony Wallace, Barnwell, S.C.; a brother, Charles Wallace, Freeport, N.Y.; aunt, Mazie Salley, Lithonia, Ga.; four grandchildren, a host of other relatives and friends. G.L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary, 614 West Avenue, North Augusta, S.C. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Alyce D. Leonard   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Mrs. Alyce D. Leonard, 96, of Alta Vista Ave., entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006, at University Hospital. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 27, 2006, in the chapel of Rowland Funeral Home with Chaplain Dexter Lambert officiating. Mrs. Leonard was a born in Ogdensburg, NY and had lived in Williston, SC twenty years prior to moving to North Augusta four years ago. She was a Catholic and was a member of Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary. Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Michael, Jr. and Brenda Leonard, of North Augusta; a daughter and son-in-law, Helen and Carl Alverson, of Lisbon, NY; eight grandchildren which include Ian Renee Leonard, and Michelle Addie, both of North Augusta, nine great-grandchildren. Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Leroy Peters   (MIFFLINBURG, Pa.)
MIFFLINBURG, Pa. - Mr. Leroy Peters, entered into rest Tuesday, May 23, 2006. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday May 27, 2006 at Pinecrest Mennonite Church, Family will receive friends from 7:00 - 9:00 Friday evening May 26, 2006 at Pinecrest Mennonite Church. James Funeral Home- Wrens, GA.

Donald P. Aaron   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Sunday, May 21, 2006 at University Hospital, Mr. Donald Patrick Aaron, 60, of Holley Street. Funeral services will be conducted today, Friday, May 26, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. from Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church with Reverend Alton R. Pegues. Interment will be in Southview Cemetery. The remains will lie in state at the church from 11:30 a.m. until the hour of service. The funeral procession will leave the residence at 1:15 p.m. FLORIST: 11:45 a.m. W.H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 722-6401.

Bruce M. Hewston   (CHARLESTON, S.C.)
CHARLESTON, S.C. - A memorial service for Bruce M. Hewston, Jr. will take place on Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 4 p.m. at George Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 211 Park Ave. SW Aiken, SC. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 3 p.m. until the time of the service. Mr. Hewston, 28 of Aiken, died Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at MUSC from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on Sunday. He was born in Aiken where he had lived his entire life before recently moving to Charleston. He served in the United States Army during 2000-2001, Bruce always had kind, loving and uplifting words for everyone; especially for his 'Memaw', grandmamma Hewston and his mother. Bruce enjoyed spending time with his family like his uncle Greg who was more like a brother than an Uncle. Bruce also had a special bond with his cousin Crystal. Friends remember him as outgoing and as someone who could never be ignored and never met a stranger. This isone reason he was successful in sales. Bruce was a very good listener and never revealed any confidences. Bruce was always a very positive, friendly, and confidant person with a big heart and a smile on his face. Bruce accepted Jesus as his Savior as a teenager at a Carman concert and openly expressed his love for the Lord with any opportunity. His brother Wes and sister Marsha, remember Bruce as a true guardian angle and protector. Bruce was always very courteous and respectful of others. Bruce and his father were friends as well as father & son. Though Bruce had no children of his own, he was truly a family man. Bruce is survived by his parents, Karen Engleman, Beech Island and Bruce M. Hewston, Sr., Aiken; his paternal grandparents, William B. & Elizabeth Hewston, Aiken; his maternal grandmother, Marie Rhoden, Aiken; his maternal grandfather, Art Loomis, Arizona; a brother, Wes Kirkland, Aiken and a sister, Marsha Cameron, North Augusta, SC. Bruce is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins and a nephew, Nathan Fromer.

Myrtis Washington   (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Entered into rest Tuesday May 23, 2006, at Thomson Manor Nursing Home. Miss Myrtis Washington, aged 85, was the beloved daughter of the late Pearl W. Beasley and sister of the late Roy B. Beasley. Funeral services will be 2 PM Saturday, May 27, 2006, at Silver Run Baptist Church with the Rev. John McMillan officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Survivors include her sister-in-law Joyce Beasley, of Dearing; two nieces, Nancy Beasley Merryman, of Dearing, and Donna Beasley; of Augusta; two nephews, David (Judy) Beasley, Sr., of Dearing, and Ralph ( Dionne) Beasley, of Marietta; one great nephew, David Beasley, Jr., of Augusta. Three great nieces, Brianna Beasley, of Dearing, Elyse Beasley, of Marietta, Amber Merryman, of Dearing; and one great-great nephew Brent Beasley, of Savannah; and numerous cousins. If so desired, memorials may be made to the Silver Run Baptist Building Fund, 5406 221 Highway SE, Harlem, Georgia 30814 Pallbearers will be Vernon Washington, Ronnie Washington, Ray Washington, Robert Wylds, Dwayne Wylds, and Seth Mason Honorary Pallbearers will be Billy Wells, Warren Wells, and David Holley The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com.

Ethel Marie Aube   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Mrs. Ethel Marie Aube, 73, beloved wife of Robert S. Aube, of Five Notch Road, entered into rest Tuesday, May 23, 2006, at her residence. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced. Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Margaret Warner   (CLEARWATER, S.C.)
CLEARWATER, S.C. - Memorial services for Mrs. Margaret Ann Warner will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, May 27, 2006 at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah Witnesses with Rick Culler officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home after 1 p.m. today. G.L. Brightharp & Sons Mortuary, 614 West Avenue, North Augusta, S.C.

Connor O'Bryan   (AIKEN, S.C.)
AIKEN, S.C. - Wyatt Connor O'Bryan infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Clifton L. and Allene Koone O'Bryan of Mayfield Rd. entered into rest Sunday, at the Medical College of Georgia. Graveside services will be held Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. in Westover Memorial Park. With Reverend George Booth and Reverend Philip Kenny officiating. Additional survivors include Paternal grandparents Clifton and Gail O'Bryan, Maternal grandparents, Troy and Elizabeth Koone, Maternal great-grandmother, Frances Koone all of Augusta, Paternal great-grandmothers Joyce Smith of Aiken and Grace Hatcher of Langley and many aunts, uncles and cousins. Wyatt was preceded in death by his great-grandparents James M. Koone, Denzil R. & Alice Beeson, Clifton L. O'Bryan, Sr. and Cleveland L. Hatcher. Hatcher, Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors 2502 Richmond Hill Road Augusta, Georgia 30906.

Edith Weaver   (ORLANDO, FL.)
ORLANDO, FL. - Memorial Services for Edith "Lois" Oliphant Weaver, 41, will be held 2:30pm Saturday, May 27,2006 at Amos & Sons Funeral Home. She was the granddaughter of the late Bennie Lee and Edith Dobbs and the late Charlie and Sophie Oliphant. Survivors include: her husband, Jessie Weaver; a daughter, Patricia "Peaches"Brunson; her father and step-mother, Charlie Oliphant (Joyce); a brother, Tony Oliphant; two sisters, Tasha Oliphant and Sabrina Howard. Friends and family should call the home of Patricia Dobbs, Addison Street, Johnston, SC. Amos & Sons Funeral Home. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Johnnie R. Davis   (APPLING, Ga.)
APPLING, Ga. - Mr. Johnnie R. Davis, Sr., 81, entered into rest May 22, 2006. Funeral services will be held Sunday May 28, 2006, at Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home, Ocean Springs, Mississippi. The family will receive friends Thursday evening from 7 to 9 PM at Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com.

Donald P. Aaron   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Sunday, May 21, 2006 at University Hospital, Mr. Donald Patrick Aaron, 60, of Holley Street. Funeral services will be conducted Friday, May 26, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. from Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church with Reverend Alton R. Pegues. Interment will be in Southview Cemetery. Mr. Aaron was a member of Mount Zion A.M.E. Zion Church and a proud graduate of Lucy C. Laney High School Class of 1963. He leaves to cherish his memories his wife, Elizabeth Jean Odoms-Lovett; three step children, Horace S. (Rolyndia) Lovett, III, Columbia, SC, Doris V. Lovett and Leonard (Cassandra) Lovett, both of Augusta, GA; four grandchildren, Horace. Lovett, Leslie E. Burroughs, Jr. Charlotte, NC, Jonathan Lovett, Columbia, SC and Nyla V. Lovett, one aunt, A. Philpot; two dear friends, Bouler Samuels and Michael Mackie; and a host of other relatives and sorrowing friends. Friends may call the residence or W.H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 722-6401.

Doris Batie Ray   (WILLISTON, S.C.)
WILLISTON, S.C. - Mrs. Doris B. Ray, 79, entered into eternal rest on May 19, 2006 at the Pepper Hill Nursing Center of Aiken, S.C. Funeral services will be on Friday, May 26, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Lees, S.C., with Reverend Sheldon Ray delivering the Eulogy. Interment will follow in Hope Memorial Cemetery, Barnwell, S.C. The family will receive friends tonight, Thursday, May 25, 2006 from 7 until 8 p.m. at Simmons Funeral Home. She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and devoted husband of 62 years, Mr. Washington Ray of Williston; two sons, Reverend Sheldon (Betty) Ray of Williston and Dr. Washington (Elizabeth S.) Ray, Jr. of Sumter; two sisters, Elouise Atkinson of Sumter, Alenzia Mason, Williston; seven grandchildren, Sharon Rena Ray of Williston, Carlos G. (Sabrina) Ray of Aiken, Dr. Adrian L. (Patrice) Ray, of Sumter, Dr. Dustine L. (Nicole) Ray, of Washington, D.C. and Geoffrey L. Ray of Washington, D.C.; six great-grandchildren, seven brothers-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews, family, and friends. Family and friends may call the residence of Mr. Washington Ray Sr., 124 Rays Rd., or the Simmons Funeral Home of Williston, 13188 Main Street, Williston, or 803-266-7808. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mary Bertha Benning   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Funeral service for Mrs. Mary Bertha Benning of Flemming Ave., who entered into rest on Sunday, May 21, 2006 in the University Hospital, will be held today, Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 12 noon from Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, with Rev. Dr. J. R. Hatney officiating. Funeral processional will assemble and leave Dent's Funeral Home at 11:30 a.m. Burial will be in Walker Memorial Park. The body will lie in state in the church from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of the service. The Historic Dent's Undertaking Establishment Serving the CSRA since the 1800's.

Crystal S. Jordan   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Crystal S. Jordan, age 59, of Augusta, entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006. Funeral arrangements will be announced by Poteet Funeral Homes West Chapel, 3686 Wheeler Road, Augusta, Ga. 30909 (706) 860-0009.

Nicole Bailey   (MARTINEZ, Ga.)
MARTINEZ, Ga. - Miss Ja'Lisa Nicole Bailey, 4, entered into rest Saturday, May 20, 2006 at the Medical College of Georgia. Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 am on Saturday, May 27, 2006 at West Acres Baptist Church with Pastor Larry Harmon officiating. Interment will follow in Goose Creek, S.C The family will receive friends on Saturday, May 27, 2006 from 9:30 am until 10:30 am in the church. Miss Bailey will be missed by a host of family members and friends. Platt's Funeral Home, 337 N. Belair Road, Evans, GA 30809 - (706) 860-6166. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Margaret S. Vinson   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Margaret Strickland Vinson , 49 entered into rest on Tuesday May 23, 2006 at Doctor's Hospital . A service of Remembrance will be held 11:00AM Friday May 26, 2006 at Elliott Sons Funeral Home , Columbia Road Chapel , 4255 Columbia Road , Martinez with Elder Dwayne Hooven officiating. Survivors include two daughters and sons-in-law, Rebekah & Joel Jr. Huffman and Emily & David , Jr. Katarski; father William R. Strickland; sister Anne Rhodes and two grandchildren, Adison Boone and Nathaniel Huffman . In lieu of flowers the family suggest The Medical College of Georgia , Children's Hospital . Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Joseph Griffin   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. Joseph Earnest Griffin of Travis Road entered into rest Friday, May 19, 2006 at the Medical College of Georgia. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at Second Antioch Baptist with Rev. William Bussey officiating. Burial will be at the church cemetery. Mr. Griffin, a native of Augusta, was a 1981 graduate of Hephzibah High School and was employed for 19 years as a meat chef at Villa Europa. He was a member of Second Antioch Baptist Church where he served as an usher. Survivors are his wife, Lisa Griffin, Augusta; four daughters, Jameka Griffin, Tamika Griffin, Kendra Griffin, Ashlee Griffin, all of Augusta; one granddaughter, Janiah Wilson; three sisters, Nancy Ellison, Augusta, Jacqueline (Orlando) Bradley, Hephzibah, Valerie Charles, Augusta; three brothers, Tracey (Linda) Griffin, Jessie Williams, Augusta, Budroe Bradshaw, Newark, N.J.; adopted sister, Terri Riddick, Okinawa, Japan; adopted brother, Eddie Brown, Miami, Fla.; mothers-in-law, Margaret (Joel) Walker, Augusta, Bessie Williams, Hephzibah; sisters-in-law, Vontressa Williams, Sable Williams, Hephzibah; brothers-in-law, Willie Williams, Jr., Hephzibah, Curtis Ellison, Augusta, Darryl Galloway, Iraq, Kalvin Williams, Savannah, Ga.; goddaughter, Chelsey Harmon and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Rd., Hephzibah, Ga. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mary L. Moss   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Mary L. Moss entered into rest on Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at Medical College of Georgia. Survivors includes her loving and devoted children, Oliver (Bobbie) Moss, Jr., John H. Moss, Aszenner Wright, Geneva Moss (Ervin) Jennings, Columbia, SC, LaShawn (Bernard) Middleton; brother, Arthur Lee (Vera) Taylor; eighteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and a host of nieces nephews other relatives and friends. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Kisney & Walton Funeral Home, 3618 Peach Orchard Road. (706) 790-8858

Robert L. 'Bobby' Snell   (GROVETOWN, Ga.)
GROVETOWN, Ga. - Entered into rest on Thursday, May 18, 2006, Mr. Robert Lorenzo "Bobby" Snell, beloved son of Robert D. Snell and Kathryn Powell Snell of Grovetown, GA. Mr. Snell was born and raised in Augusta, GA. He was a 1973 graduate of George P. Butler High School. Mr. Snell was an avid sports fan. His passions included football, baseball, NASCAR and classic cars. While traveling was one of his favorite hobbies, his most favorite part was dining out. Mr. Snell was a chemical operator here in Augusta for many years and was of the Methodist faith. Additional survivors include his sister; Kathy S. Evans and her husband, Bill of Grovetown and a niece, Katie Evans also of Grovetown. Chapel services will be conducted today, Friday, May 26 2006, 2PM, in the Chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son with Dr. Michael Ruffin officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be Wilson Folk, Mike Grady, Larry Knight, Tommy Snell, Brian Snell and Frank Williams. Interment will follow in Westover Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2623 Washington Rd., Suite F-104 Augusta, GA 30904. Friends may call at the residence of Bill and Kathy Evans. Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd. Augusta, GA 30907 (706)364-8484.

Martha McJunkin   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mrs. Martha Deas McJunkin, wife of the late Mr. Howard McJunkin, entered into rest on Tuesday, May 23, 2006, at Doctors Hospital. She lived her life in Augusta, Georgia, and Dallas, Texas. Graveside services will be held this Thursday, May 25, 2006 at 11:00 A.M. in the Gracewood Cemetery, Gracewood, GA, with the Reverend John Courson officiating. Family and friends should assemble at the graveside. Hatcher, Chance & Hydrick Funeral Directors 2502 Richmond Hill Road Augusta, Georgia 30906.

Minnie Lee Jones   (WAYNESBORO, Ga.)
WAYNESBORO, Ga. - The funeral service for Mrs. Minnie Lee Jones will be 1:00 p.m. Saturday at Allen Chapel Baptist Church with Rev. Byron Williams officiating. Interment will be in the church cemetery. Visitation today from noon to 9 p.m. A loving family will cherish her memories. Phinazee and Son Funeral Home, 706-554-5500.

Geneva D. Bailey   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Monday, May 22, 2006 at Forest Lake Nursing Home, Mrs. Geneva D. Bailey, 74, formerly of Summer Street. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. from Williams Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church with Rev. Dr. Paul W. Gardner, Sr., Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Mount Olive Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Bailey retired from Gracewood State School Hospital. Survivors are her husband, John Bailey; three daughters, Janice P. Quinn, Joan M. McNair and Sharon A. Swails; three sons, Carl M. Bailey, John F. (Jeanette) Bailey and Edward Quinn; two sisters, Catherine Archie and Ola Mae Wright; one brother, Willie Dennis; one aunt, Betsy Striggles; thirteen grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Friends may call 1630 Apple Valley Drive or W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706) 722-6401 Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

LeRoy G. Peters   (MIDDLEBURG, Pa.)
MIDDLEBURG, Pa. - Mr. LeRoy G. Peters, 91, entered into rest Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at the home of his daughter. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 A.M. Saturday May 27, 2006 at Pinecrest Mennonite Church, Stapleton Ga., with Ministers Randall Goossen, Ken Diller, and Brian Dyck officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Mr. Peters, a native of Clare County, Michigan, had lived in Jefferson County for 28 years. He then retired back in Michigan. He was a retired dairy farmer and mason and a member of Pinecrest Mennonite Church. Survivors include two daughters, Marcille (Lyle) Holdeman, Middleburg, PA. and Patricia (Marion) Holdeman, Stapleton, Ga.; three sons, Alden Peters, Stapleton, Ga., Ardis (Susie) Peters, Dawsonville, Ga., Glenn (Letha) Peters, Stapleton Ga.; two sisters, Lottie Unruh, Louisville, Ga., Myrtle Krick, Ithaca, Michigan; three brothers, Russell Peters, Ithaca, Michigan, Howard (Josephine) Peters, Ithaca, Michigan, Ivan (Joyce) Peters, Louisville, Ga. Pallbearers will be grandsons. Memorial may be made to the Pinecrest Mennonite Church. Family will receive friends from 6:00 - 8:00 Friday evening May 26, 2006 at Pinecrest Mennonite Church. James Funeral Home- Wrens, GA. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Alice W. Smart   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Sunday, May 21, 2006 at her residence, Mrs. Alice W. Smart, 95, of Grand Boulevard. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. from Moses Baptist Church with Reverend Willie Greene officiating. Interment will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery. Friends may call the residence or W.H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 722-6401.

Mary Lizzie Jones   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Ms. Mary Lizzie Jones, 69, of 135 Wesley Dr., North Augusta departed this life on Saturday, May 20, 2006 from the University Hospital, Augusta, Ga. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. from the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Beech Island, S.C. with the Rev. Henry Ingram, officiating. Burial will follow in the Hankerson Cemetery, Jackson, S.C. Survivors include two daughters, Patricia McElmurray, North Augusta and Evelyn (Allen) Sheppard, Jackson, S.C.; one son, Bobby Jones, North Augusta; one aunt, Lucille Washington, Beech Island; 10 grandchildren and23 great-grandchildren. Friends may call a the residence or at Jackson Brooks Funeral Home 3:00 P.M. Friday. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Myrtis Washington   (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Entered into rest Tuesday May 23, 2006, at Thomson Manor Nursing Home. Miss Myrtis Washington, aged 85, was the beloved daughter of the late Pearl W. Beasley and sister of the late Roy B. Beasley. Funeral services will be 2 PM Saturday, May 27, 2006, at Silver Run Baptist Church with the Rev. John McMillan officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Survivors include her sister-in-law Joyce Beasley, of Dearing; two nieces, Nancy Beasley Merryman, of Dearing, and Donna Beasley, of Augusta; two nephews, David (Judy) Beasley, Sr., of Dearing, and Ralph (Dionne) Beasley, of Marietta; one great nephew, David Beasley, Jr., of Augusta; three great nieces, Brianna Beasley, of Dearing, Elyse Beasley, of Marietta, Amber Merryman, of Dearing; and one great-great nephew Brent Beasley, of Savannah; and numerous cousins. If so desired, memorials may be made to the Silver Run Baptist Building Fund, 5406 221 Highway SE, Harlem, Georgia 30814 The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Jean Boyd   (CLEARWATER, S.C.)
CLEARWATER, S.C. - Jean Henderson Boyd, 72, beloved wife of fifty-five years to Robert H. Boyd, of Second Avenue, entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006, at her residence following an extended illness. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, May 28, 2006, in the chapel of Rowland Funeral Home. Interment will be in Jackson Memorial Park, Jackson, SC. Pallbearers will be Robert Hewitt Boyd, Michael Brandon Huls, Josh Stephens, Carleton Purks, Jim Boatwright, Joey Holley and Marion Smith. The family will receive friends at the funeral home Saturday, May 27, 2006 from 5 to 7 p.m. Mrs. Boyd was a life-long resident of Clearwater, SC and was the daughter of the late Tillman Henderson and Lessie Wooten Henderson. Mrs. Boyd was a member of Clearwater Baptist Church. The family would like to express their appreciation to Regency Hospice and to Dr. Miroslav Zotovic for their care and compassion. Mrs. Boyd was preceded in death by her brother, John El Henderson and one grandson, Cody Lee Stephens. Additional survivors include one son, Robert Hewitt Boyd of Warrenville; three daughters, Angie Boyd of North Augusta, Betsy Dale Boyd Stephens-Holley of Jackson, and Kimberly Boyd Purks of Fernandina Beach; one sister, Pat H. Sumerau of North Augusta; five grandchildren, Janelle, Bobby, April, Michael Brandon and Josh; four great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to the Cody Lee Stephens Memorial Scholarship Fund, 250 Church Road, Beech Island, SC 29842. Rowland Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Robert L. Snell   (GROVETOWN, Ga.)
GROVETOWN, Ga. - Entered into rest on Thursday, May 18, 2006, Mr. Robert Lorenzo "Bobby" Snell, beloved son of Robert D. Snell and Kathryn Powell Snell of Grovetown, GA. Mr. Snell was born and raised in Augusta, GA. He was a 1973 graduate of George P. Butler High School. Mr. Snell was an avid sports fan. His passions included football, baseball, NASCAR and classic cars. While traveling was one of his favorite hobbies, his most favorite part was dining out. Mr. Snell was a chemical operator here in Augusta for many years and was of the Methodist faith. Additional survivors include his sister; Kathy S. Evans and her husband Bill of Grovetown and a niece; Katie Evans also of Grovetown. Chapel services will be conducted Friday, May 26 2006, 2PM, in the Chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son with Dr. Michael Ruffin officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be Wilson Folk, Mike Grady, Larry Knight, Tommy Snell, Brian Snell and Frank Williams. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2623 Washington Rd., Suite F-104 Augusta, GA 30904. Friends may call at the residence of Bill and Kathy Evans. The family will receive friends on Thursday from 6PM until 8PM at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd. Augusta, GA 30907 (706)364-8484. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Mae Dorothy Perrin   (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mrs. Mae Dorothy Perrin of Knollcrest Drive entered into rest on Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at University Hospital. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Survivors are her husband, Horace E. Perrin, Sr.; three sons, Horace E. Perrin, Jr., Terrence (Kari) Perrin, Conyers, Ga., Marcus Perrin, Augusta; several nieces, nephews and other relatives. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, Ga.

Terence Lee Priest   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Mr. Terence Lee Priest, 46, entered into rest May 19, 2006. Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, GA Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com

Charlie Lee Ivey   (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Mr. Charlie Lee Ivey, 73, of Dearing, GA, passed Monday May 22, 2006. Funeral services will be Saturday May 27, 2006, 2:00 p.m. at United Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, Elam Church Rd., Norwood, GA. Rev. Dorothy Hart, officiating. The body will lie in state one hour prior to service. Burial will be at Society Cemetery in Mesena. Mr. Ivey leaves to cherish his memories many loving children, grandchildren other relatives and friends. Crawford Pinkston Roberts Funeral Home, 810 MLK Jr. Street. Thomson, GA. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Dorothy Mae Perrin   (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)
HEPHZIBAH, Ga. - Mrs. Dorothy Mae Perrin of Knollcrest Drive entered into rest on Tuesday, May 23, 2006 at University Hospital. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Survivors are her husband, Horace E. Perrin, Sr.; three sons, Horace E. Perrin, Jr., Terrence (Kari) Perrin, Conyers, Ga., Marcus Perrin, Augusta; several nieces, nephews and other relatives. Williams Funeral Home, 2945 Old Tobacco Road, Hephzibah, Ga.

Alice W. Smart   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Sunday, May 21, 2006 at her residence, Mrs. Alice W. Smart, 95, of Grand Boulevard. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. from Moses Baptist Church with Reverend Willie Greene officiating. Interment will be in Cedar Grove Cemetery. Survivors are two sons, David (Pat) Williams and Eddie Lee Foreman, both of Augusta, Georgia; four daughters, Mary (Rommie) Dunbar, Augusta, Georgia, Clara (Monnie) Downing, Plymouth, North Carolina, Bea Muldrow, Brooklyn, New York and Helen Whigham, Augusta, Georgia; two nephews, Ossie Thomas and Horace (Ruth) Thomas, both of Augusta, Georgia; twenty-five grandchildren; fifty great-grandchildren; twenty-five great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and special friends. Friends may call the residence or W.H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, GA 30901 (706) 722-6401.

John W. Johnson   (PLAQUEMINE, La.)
PLAQUEMINE, La. - Entered into rest Thursday, May 18, 2006, Mr. John W. Johnson, 75, of Plaquemine, LA. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 2:00 PM in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Graniteville, SC Hatcher Funeral Home & Cremation Service, U.S. Hwy. No. 1, Langley, SC.

Paul A. Fittery   (SHIPPENSBURG, Pa.)
SHIPPENSBURG, Pa. - Paul A. Fittery, 76, of Shippensburg, PA, died on Wednesday, May 24, 2006 in Chambersburg, PA. Born February 18, 1930, he was a son of the late Amon and Ethel Mellott Fittery. He is survived by his wife, Karen Peters Fittery; 6 children, Richard Fittery and Paula Anderson, both of South Carolina, Ralph Fittery of Furlong, PA, William Fittery of Buckingham, PA, Julia Froman of Dublin, PA, and Katrina Etter of Chambersburg; ten grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. Three brothers and one sister preceded him in death. Funeral Services will be conducted at 1PM Sunday May 28, 2006 in the Chapel of Thomas L. Geisel Funeral Home, 333 Falling Spring Road, Chambersburg. The Rev. Jan Bye will officiate. Viewing will be held from 6-8 PM Saturday in the funeral home. Memorial Contributions may be made to the Cumberland Valley Animal Shelter, Inc., 2325 Country Road, Chambersburg, PA 17201. Online condolences may be expressed at geiselfuneralhome.com.

Mary Lizzie Jones   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Ms. Mary Lizzie Jones, 69, of 135 Wesley Dr., North Augusta departed this life on Saturday, May 20, 2006 from the University Hospital, Augusta, Ga. Funeral service will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. from the Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Beech Island, S.C. with the Rev. Henry Ingram, officiating. Burial will follow in the Hankerson Cemetery, Jackson, S.C. Survivors include two daughters, Patricia McElmurray, North Augusta and Evelyn (Allen) Sheppard, Jackson, S.C.; one son, Bobby Jones, North Augusta; one aunt, Lucille Washington, Beech Island; 10 grandchildren and23 great-grandchildren. Friends may call a the residence or at Jackson Brooks Funeral Home 3:00 P.M. Friday. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Geneva D. Bailey   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Monday, May 22, 2006 at Forest Lake Nursing Home, Mrs. Geneva D. Bailey, 74, formerly of Summer Street. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. from Williams Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church with Rev. Dr. Paul W. Gardner, Sr., Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Mount Olive Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Bailey retired from Gracewood State School Hospital. Survivors are her husband, John Bailey; three daughters, Janice P. Quinn, Joan M. McNair and Sharon A. Swails; three sons, Carl M. Bailey, John F. (Jeanette) Bailey and Edward Quinn; two sisters, Catherine Archie and Ola Mae Wright; one brother, Willie Dennis; one aunt, Betsy Striggles; thirteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Friends may call 1630 Apple Valley Drive or W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706) 722-6401

Myrtis Washington   (DEARING, Ga.)
DEARING, Ga. - Entered into rest Tuesday May 23, 2006, at Thomson Manor Nursing Home. Miss Myrtis Washington, aged 85, was the beloved daughter of the late Pearl W. Beasley and sister of the late Roy B. Beasley. Funeral services will be 2 PM Saturday, May 27, 2006, at Silver Run Baptist Church with the Rev. John McMillan officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. Survivors include her sister-in-law Joyce Beasley, of Dearing; two nieces, Nancy Beasley Merryman, of Dearing, and Donna Beasley; of Augusta; two nephews, David (Judy) Beasley, Sr., of Dearing, and Ralph ( Dionne) Beasley, of Marietta; one great nephew, David Beasley, Jr., of Augusta. Three great nieces, Brianna Beasley, of Dearing, Elyse Beasley, of Marietta, Amber Merryman, of Dearing; and one great-great nephew Brent Beasley, of Savannah; and numerous cousins. If so desired, memorials may be made to the Silver Run Baptist Building Fund, 5406 221 Highway SE, Harlem, Georgia 30814 Pallbearers will be Vernon Washington, Ronnie Washington, Ray Washington, Robert Wylds, Dwayne Wylds, and Seth Mason Honorary Pallbearers will be Billy Wells, Warren Wells, and David Holley The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Starling Funeral Home, Hwy 78, Harlem, Ga. - Email condolence to the family at starling@familink.com.

Cleveland Stokes   (WAYNESBORO, Ga.)
WAYNESBORO, Ga. - Mr. Cleveland Stokes, Sr. entered into rest on Saturday, May 20, 2006. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at Blount's Chapel Baptist Church. Interment will be at Second Antioch Baptist Church. The family will receive friends from 6 to 7 p.m. on Friday at the funeral home. Carter's Mortuary, 885 Waters St., Waynesboro, Ga., 706-554-7842.

Geneva D. Bailey   (AUGUSTA, Ga.)
AUGUSTA, Ga. - Entered into rest Monday, May 22, 2006 at Forest Lake Nursing Home, Mrs. Geneva D. Bailey, 74, formerly of Summer Street. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. from Williams Memorial Christian Methodist Episcopal Church with Rev. Dr. Paul W. Gardner, Sr., Pastor, officiating. Interment will be in Mount Olive Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Bailey retired from Gracewood State School Hospital. Survivors are her husband, John Bailey; three daughters, Janice P. Quinn, Joan M. McNair and Sharon A. Swails; three sons, Carl M. Bailey, John F. (Jeanette) Bailey and Edward Quinn; two sisters, Catherine Archie and Ola Mae Wright; one brother, Willie Dennis; one aunt, Betsy Striggles; thirteen grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. Friends may call 1630 Apple Valley Drive or W. H. Mays Mortuary, 1221 James Brown Boulevard, Augusta, Georgia 30901 (706) 722-6401

Harold D. Lee   (NEW YORK, N.Y.)
NEW YORK, N.Y. - Mr. Harold D. Lee of New York, N.Y., entered into rest Thursday, May 18, 2006 in New York. A memorial services will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 11:00 a.m. at Williams Funeral Home Chapel. Mr. Lee was a native of Augusta and had lived in New York most of his life. Survivors are two sons, Corey Lee, Augusta; Shawn Lee, New York; two sisters, Barbara Lee, New York, Angela Lee, Augusta; two brothers, Raymond Lee, Alvin Lee, New York; three grandchildren, Amina Lee, ShaCorya Lee, Sheyanne Lee, Augusta and a host of nieces and nephews. Williams Funeral Home, 1765 Martin Luther King, Jr., Blvd. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Moses Kendrick   ()
THOMSON, Ga. Funeral service for Mr. Moses Kendrick, Jr. of Thomson will be held Saturday, May 27, 2006 at 2:00 P.M. at the Lithonia Baptist Church, Camak, Ga., Minister Tracy Reese, officiating, interment in Briscoe Cemetery. Survivors are one son, Troy (Lynette) Kendrick of Atlanta; two daughters, Brenda Kendrick of Thomson and Jocelyn Kendrick of Augusta; two sisters, Shirley Crawford of Augusta and Sarah Kendrick of Thomson; two brothers, William Kendrick of Thomson and Joseph Jackson of Augusta; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends. Thomson Funeral System, Thomson, Ga. in charge. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Margie Hinton   (MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga.)
MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. - Margie Parrish Hinton, age 83 died Monday May 22, 2006 at Oconee Regional Hospital in Milledgeville. Graveside services are scheduled for 11:00 AM Thursday May 25, 2006 at Savannah Valley Memorial Gardens in Thomson, with Dr. James M. Ramsey, pastor of Thomson First Baptist Church, officiating. You may sign the online guestbook at www.curtisfuneralhome.com The Hinton family will receive friends following the services at Thomson First Baptist Church. Arrangements by Curtis Funeral Home.

Margaret Graves Weeks   (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)
NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C. - Funeral Services for Mrs. Margaret Graves Weeks, 96, of North Hills Drive, North Augusta, SC, who died May 25, 2006, will be conducted Saturday morning at 11 o'clock from the Stephen D. Posey Funeral Home. Dr. Gary C. Redding officiating. Interment in Pineview Memorial Gardens. Mrs. Weeks was a native of Vienna, Georgia, a former resident of Aiken, South Carolina, having made North Augusta her home for the past 72 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church of North Augusta where she was a former Sunday School Teacher, former President of the WMU and a member of the Sheffield Club. Mrs. Weeks was a former President of the Camelia Garden, a member of the Palmetto Garden Club and was the first President of the North Augusta Garden Council. She was a charter member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Martintown Road Chapter, a member of the Search Committee for the location of the North Augusta Community Center, an avid bridge player and a graduate of the Georgia State Teacher's College, Athens, GA. Mrs. Weeks was the wife of the late Mr. Rudolph Toney Weeks. Survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Clara and Frank Stanton, Savannah, GA; two grandchildren, Stan Stanton and Claire Wells; four great grandchildren, Jennifer Sangston, Toney McCallum, Caroline Stanton and Tripp Stanton; two great great grandchildren, Chloe McCallum and Owen McCallum; several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends at the funeral home this Friday evening from 5 to 7. The family will be at the residence of Mrs. Claire Wells, 708 Indian Mound Drive, North Augusta, SC. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph's Hospice, 2260 Wrightsboro Road, Augusta, GA 30904 or First Baptist Church of North Augusta Building Fund, 602 Georgia Avenue, North Augusta, SC 29841. Stephen D. Posey Funeral Home of North Augusta in charge of arrangements (803-278-1181). Visit the registry online at www.poseyfuneralhome.com . Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Owen Ernest Swint   (COLORADO SPRINGS, Co.)
COLORADO SPRINGS, Co. - Owen Ernest Swint died May 23, 2006. He was an area resident from 2006 to 2006. He was a Civil Servant. Survivors include two sons, David Swint and Joseph Swint and a daughter, Marsha McGehee. Funeral services to be held in Oklahoma. Funeral home handling arrangements: Advantage Funeral and Cremation Service, 829 S. Hancock Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80903, 719-392-4432.

John W. Johnson   (PLAQUEMINE, La.)
PLAQUEMINE, La. - Entered into rest Thursday, May 18, 2006, Mr. John W. Johnson, 75, of Plaquemine, LA. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, May 30, 2006 at 2:00 PM in Sunset Memorial Gardens, Graniteville, SC Hatcher Funeral Home & Cremation Service, U.S. Hwy. No. 1, Langley, SC.

Van Swancy   (MARTINEZ, Ga.)
MARTINEZ, Ga. - Mr. Van Swancy, age 55, beloved husband of Theresa Swancy, entered into rest Wednesday, May 24, 2006 at the Medical College of Georgia. Mr. Swancy was born to Doris Redd Swancy and the late James Swancy. He was employed by Pepperidge Farm as a route salesman and was a lifelong resident of the Augusta area. Van had a special love for his family, golfing, and was an avid Gator fan. Van was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather and will be greatly missed. Graveside assemble services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 27, 2006 at Hillcrest Memorial Park. Additional family members include a son, Eric D. Swancy of Augusta; a daughter, Jennifer R. Meadows of Grovetown; a grandson, Tyler Odom and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends Friday, May 26, 2006 from 7:00 until 9:00 p.m. at Elliott Sons Funeral Home, 4255 Columbia Road, Martinez. Sign the guestbook at AugustaChronicle.com

Donald P. Aaron (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Christine J. Ellison (SYLVANIA, Ga.)

Owen Ernest Swint (COLORADO SPRINGS, Co.)

Terence Lee Priest (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Lillie Waters Powell (SYLVANIA, Ga.)

Charlotte Renas (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Charlie Lee Ivey (DEARING, Ga.)

Geneva D. Bailey (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Jean Boyd (CLEARWATER, S.C.)

Paul A. Fittery (SHIPPENSBURG, Pa.)

Mae Dorothy Perrin (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)

Eugenia Williams (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Myrtis Washington (DEARING, Ga.)

Donald P. Aaron (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Bruce M. Hewston (CHARLESTON, S.C.)

Nicole Bailey (MARTINEZ, Ga.)

Alice W. Smart (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Margaret S. Vinson (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Dorothy Mae Perrin (HEPHZIBAH, Ga.)

Harold D. Lee (NEW YORK, N.Y.)

Leroy Peters (MIFFLINBURG, Pa.)

Ethel Marie Aube (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Minnie Lee Jones (WAYNESBORO, Ga.)

Johnnie R. Davis (APPLING, Ga.)

Margaret Warner (CLEARWATER, S.C.)

Mary L. Moss (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Moses Kendrick ()

Alyce D. Leonard (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Margie Hinton (MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga.)

Crystal S. Jordan (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Van Swancy (MARTINEZ, Ga.)

Lucille Nelms (CRAWFORD, Ga.)

Eugenia Williams (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Robert L. 'Bobby' Snell (GROVETOWN, Ga.)

Katherine Sanders (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Katherine Sanders (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Alice W. Smart (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Jim Fuller (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Mary L. Moss (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Mary Bertha Benning (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Ethel Marie Aube (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Margaret Warner (CLEARWATER, S.C.)

Doris Batie Ray (WILLISTON, S.C.)

Edith Weaver (ORLANDO, FL.)

John James Lynott (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Connor O'Bryan (AIKEN, S.C.)

Joseph Griffin (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

Helen M. Lunsford (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Robert L. Snell (GROVETOWN, Ga.)

Margaret Graves Weeks (NORTH AUGUSTA, S.C.)

Annie Bell Atkins (BRONX, N.Y.)

Martha McJunkin (AUGUSTA, Ga.)

LeRoy G. Peters (MIDDLEBURG, Pa.)

Cleveland Stokes (WAYNESBORO, Ga.)

Oscar Bates (JOHNSTON, S.C.)

Overtime

Horse family's first clones will be tested in mule race

Overtime

Wheelchair sports keep Grovetown couple busy

Overtime
In Columbus, Ohio, Augusta State's Lauren Smith turned it around in the NCAA Division I Women's Championship.

Beckham has a lot to prove in the upcoming World Cup
LONDON - David Beckham is no longer England's main man.

Overtime
A year after a disappointing final round cost her the Greater Atlanta Women's Amateur championship, Augusta State golfer Garrett Phillips won the tournament in Alpharetta, Ga.

Beckham has a lot to prove in the upcoming World Cup
LONDON - David Beckham is no longer England's main man.

Wheelchair sports keep Grovetown couple busy
Journey, Bill Braun's mottled-grey hearing dog, jumped out of the hand-controlled van first and explored her surroundings while her owner maneuvered his electric wheelchair to the lift that would lower him out of the van and onto the concrete parking lot. Once Bill was safely on the ground, his wife, Jerry, followed suit.

Horse family's first clones will be tested in mule race
STOCKTON, Calif. - In a low-stakes mule race in a remote corner of the West, nature vs. nurture will be put to the test as two of the horse family's earliest clones challenge naturally bred runners in June in Nevada.

Headliners Green, Turner will fuel Hot Southern Night

Headliners Green, Turner will fuel Hot Southern Night
Texas country rocker Pat Green, who won over local fans on the WKXC-FM Guitar Pull last November, returns to Augusta for the 11th annual Hot Southern Night concert at 7 tonight at Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center, 605 Seventh St.

Now there are only four, but all contestants are winners
Finalists were narrowed from eight to four Friday in the 13- to 18-year-old category of The Augusta Chronicle Make Kids Count $10,000 scholarship competition.

For the record
Johnny James Williams Jr., 42, of the 1100 block of Twiggs Street, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute; one year in prison, followed by eight years' probation, and fined $1,850

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.

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

It takes a war to bring Augustans close
Though they lived in neighborhoods less than five minutes apart and had mutual friends in high school, it took a war to forge a friendship between Capt. Walt Green and Capt. Stephen Albright.

Augusta State University graduates
The following students have earned degrees from Augusta State University:

Can you find it?
This week's image, right, is a common place for families to gather. If you think you know where it is, call (706) 823-3708 by 2 p.m. Friday and leave your name, area code and telephone number, and how to spell your name.

Groups link up for art's sake
A civic organization has linked some children from the Boys and Girls Club with the arts community during the past six months.

Paine honors president who fought bigotry
After 50 years, Silas Norman has not forgotten how E. Clayton Calhoun traveled to Louisville, Ga., to speak against the racial hostility that a Paine College student choir faced while passing through town. At the time, Dr. Calhoun, a white man, was the president of the black school.

Director seeks talented teens
Steve Walpert wants to show off Augusta's talented teens to the community.

Around the block
Works by Ethan Brock and gallery artists in The Bin Show will be on display through June 2, at the Mary Pauline Gallery, 982 Broad St. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (706) 724-9542.

A mighty roar
Eleven-year-old Megan Anderson (left) pretends to be opening the mouth of a lion, played by RheaGine Valero, 11, in Windsor Spring Elementary School's annual Circus 4 Us Kids.

Calendar
STORYTIME IN THE QUAD: 10-10:45 a.m. today; Georgia Golf Hall of Fame Botanical Gardens, 1 11th St.; presented by Carolyn Fortson from East Central Georgia Regional Library; free; (706) 724-4443

Health and fitness calendar
The Health And Fitness Calendar is a listing of support groups, activities and lectures. Send information to Health Calendar, The Augusta Chronicle Newsroom, P.O. Box 1928, Augusta, GA 30903-1928. Send information by fax to (706) 722-7403 and send e-mail to ryan.wehmeyer@augusta chronicle.com. Please include a contact name and phone number.

Women of excellence honored
Women recognized for their contributions in the community at the May 17 Central Savannah River Girl Scout Council Women of Excellence luncheon ranged from a fine arts director to a business owner.

Archaeology Day is all about artifacts
Joe Vignati hoped to spark an interest in history in his two young grandsons Saturday.

Milestones
Donald Ritchie, of Augusta, has earned a bachelor of science degree in computer information systems from Saint Leo University in St. Leo, Fla.

Director seeks talented teens

Health and fitness calendar

It takes a war to bring Augustans close

Paine honors president who fought bigotry

Now there are only four, but all contestants are winners

Groups link up for art's sake

Milestones

Can you find it?

For the record

A mighty roar

Seniors calendar

Calendar

Women of excellence honored

Archaeology Day is all about artifacts

Augusta State University graduates

Restaurant ratings

Around the block

Campbell knows well the pain of horse racing

America's neighbor to the north gets its due in variety of movies

'Lost' finale leaves viewers a little less lost than before

'McPheever' fans say hometown girl's future is bright
LOS ANGELES - "McPheever" wasn't enough to carry hometown girl Katharine McPhee to victory on "American Idol," but fans predicted she would end up a winner in the music industry.

CBS, Fox on top as 2005-06 television season ends

'Lost' finale leaves viewers a little less lost than before
NEW YORK - As promised, "Lost" viewers were left with plenty to ponder but juicy answers to savor as well, thanks to Wednesday's season finale of the ABC mystical adventure series.

'American Idol' Hicks celebrates big win
LOS ANGELES - Fox's two-hour special that resulted in Alabama's Taylor Hicks being crowned the fifth "American Idol" was a big hit among viewers, drawing an audience of 35.4 million people, Nielsen Media Research said.

'McPheever' fans say hometown girl's future is bright

CBS, Fox on top as 2005-06 television season ends
NEW YORK - CBS and Fox reign supreme at the end of a television season marked by stability in Americans' viewing habits.

'American Idol' Hicks celebrates big win

Video of Hong Kong man scolding fellow bus rider becomes Internet hit

Soul of America festival scheduled to open today

James Brown scheduled to perform

One-handed 'Katamari' for PSP is deeply flawed video game

Applause calendar

Stuff to do

Club calendar

Spotted

Clerk: Lawyers say CBS, Howard Stern have settled dispute

Bulldogs come out swinging

Bulldogs come out swinging
HOOVER, Ala. - Those pesky Southeastern Conference Tournament jitters got the best of Jonathan Wyatt on Wednesday.

Movies will return to downtown
Not too long, perhaps 25 or 30 years ago, downtown Augusta was a movie mecca. A short stroll could find films screening at the massive Miller, slightly smaller Imperial and, if your cinematic tastes ran that way, the adult Capri.

America's neighbor to the north gets its due in variety of movies
Oh, Canada. Blame it on American arrogance or just not nearly enough of us venturing north of the border, but the popular perception of Canada is often that it's a lot like America, but with funny money and odd accents. Friends, let me tell you, Canada is a foreign country.

Movies will return to downtown
Not too long, perhaps 25 or 30 years ago, downtown Augusta was a movie mecca. A short stroll could find films screening at the massive Miller, slightly smaller Imperial and, if your cinematic tastes ran that way, the adult Capri.