Roswell. eMagazine #4 | June 17, 2020
eMAGAZINE
BLACK MAN TALKING
solidarity MARCH ON ROSWELL One of North Fulton’s best peace walks held June 13 at City Hall.
PEACE WALK Hundreds show up in Saddle Creek to support a mother and her four boys.
Photo by Tracy Hoexter
-1-
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
We have re-opened and would love to see you in the store as soon as you feel safe.
Over 140 dealers offering antiques, vintage clothing and furnishings, books, crystal, lighting, collectibles and original art.
Celebrate our 10th Anniversary us, EVENING IN THEwith CITY the whole May! JULY 30 -month 6:00 - of 9:00pm SHOP ONLINE! Search #cityantiquesroswell Facebook Marketplace! SHOP ONLINE! Facebook Marketplace on > #cityantiquesroswell
City Antiques and Interior Arts is the largest Antique Mall in Roswell. 23,000 THINK ROSWELL sq ft filled with antiques, collectibles and vintage items from over 140 sellers. 700 Holcomb Bridge Rd, Roswell GA 30076 - (770) 645-2525 | www.cityantiques.com
Mon-Sat 10-6p and Sun Noon-6p. | @cityantiquesandinteriorarts | #cityantiquesroswell
-2-
P h o t o gr a p h y by A nn a Sh ac k le ford
-3-
Compelling, connecting Event event Design design&&Production production Compelling, Experiential (770) 595-9115 • Corporate Events • Social Occasions
• Philanthropic • Luxury Weddings
www.eventsofalifetimeproductions.com WWW.EVENTSOFALIFETIME.COM
Outdoor spaces deserve outstanding service.
Like you, we’ve worked hard to get where we are. With over 20 years of unparalleled customer service, the only thing more important to us than our Landscape Design & Installation Hardscape Services Irrigation Design & Installation
REGISTERED LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT ON STAFF
reputation is bringing your vision to life. With help from Everglades Landscape Contractors, your favorite getaway can be as close as your backyard.
678.360.2784 | EvergladesLC.com |
-5-
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Roswell eMAGAZINE | June 2020 | Black Man Talking
HEARD.
INSIDE THE PUBLISHER’S BRAIN
Racial tensions around the nation
10am at City Hall. Friends and neighbors walked from Hill Street to Ramsey Street, then right on Sunbridge Place, right on Webb Street, right on Canton Street, through Heart of Roswell Park, and then back to City Hall.
reached a crescendo at the end of May, when a black man was murdered in Minneapolis by a white police officer, while in custody. Within hours, protests, rallies, riots and marches erupted in multiple cities around the country, including Atlanta. Before the riots spread outside of Minnesota, it felt like the whole country was in sync, demanding justice. It was a beautiful thing! In Roswell, we responded to the crisis peacefully - the key to peace was we already had well-established coalitions in place between our black and white communities, as well as open communication with our local law enforcement. Therefore, it didn’t take long at all to mobilize these coalitions, and quickly show the solidarity among residents in really remarkable ways. Peace rallies spontaneously sprouted up in several of our neighborhoods, offering many of us a needed outlet for pent up frustration and anger. The first we attended was an impromptu rally of Roswell High School students at the corner of Hwy 92 and King Road. Stanley Leary snapped some photos for us (p9, 20, 23) The two most impressive examples of these coalitions were on display consecutive Saturdays, June 13 & 20. On the 13th, the ‘March on Roswell,’ coordinated by Pastor Lee Jenkins of Eagles Nest Church, and community activitists’ Theo Keyserling, Natasha Cary, Tamara Stevens and Marla Cureton began at
Mayor Lori Henry was introduced by Pastor Sabin Strickland of Pleasant Hill MBC, who offered inspirational remarks to all of us in attendance. The Mayor addressed the group; and she promised Roswell’s full support in ensuring equality for our residents. The closing prayer was led by Dr. Rev. Robert James of Zion Missionary Baptist Church (read a note from Pastor James on p42.) On the 20th, Mayor Henry and Pastor Sabin promised to work harder and never stop pressing for progress in race relations here in Roswell. (learn more p20) Roswell’s Police Chief James Conroy shared remarks with the group, speaking candidly in an impromptu public conversation with Pastor Jenkins about the issue of police brutality against black individuals. The problem of race relations in America has never moved me as much as it has in the last few weeks. There was something unexplainably spiritual about it for me. The first thing I noticed was the ‘hope’ in the eyes of local African Americans, who must have seen the same ‘opportunity’ I was seeing to finally make some progress. Prior to this, my experience indicated to me African
-6-
Lauren Liz Photography
Americans didn’t like me very much - other than my friends and customers, of course, just until y’all got to know me! I assumed it was because I was too bubbly or weird or they were busy thinking about things and didn’t notice me trying to make eye contact to say hello. In most encounters with my black neighbors in my apartment complex, or when I’m out walking the dog, or at the grocery store, running errands in the course of normal daily activities - my black neighbors just never looked up. Heads down, keep walking, no acknowledging me. :-( In y’alls’ defense, I have an annoying habit of looking up when I pass by all people; smiling all cray, ready to say ‘hi!’ - when I’ve caught the eye. There are some cultures (not races, but ‘cultures’) that don’t like this ‘smiling at them’ thing - ie. when I was in New York City and in Paris, that behavior almost got me clobbered.
Y’all liked me! You were smiling at me, first! Looking up, relaxed, happy. That’s when it occurred to me that maybe African Americans normally automatically assumed since I am white that I had racial hangups? Or maybe I’m not as annoying as I used to be, lol. But, no joke; I’m loving it. My theory is you’re looking up maybe because y’all are discovering how much support you actually have among the majority of white people, evident in the media and social feeds all across the nation maybe you finally realized we think you’re awesome! And maybe you finally felt loved by a nation you assumed didn’t think your life mattered. Please keep looking up! Your faces are beautiful! Living and loving locally,
But I noticed that this past month this has changed!
-7-
Regina
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Roswell eMagazine | June 3, 2020 | Black Man Talking
If at first he came to scoff, let him remain to pray.
INSIDE p6 > Publisher’s Post. p10 > Stanely Leary’s photograph. p12 > Roswell PD - blue light love. p20 > Solidarity Rally at City Hall. p21 > City’s Resolution on Race. p22 > On Location with Tran.
BLACK MAN TALKING Michael Thomas, p28 Patrick Lee, p30 Nate Alexander, p34
p24 > Black man talking.
Rick Banks, p37
p51 > Peace rally in Saddle Creek.
Julian Amedee, p40 Dr. Rev. Robert James, p42
p58 > March on Roswell.
Louis King, p44
p73 > Frank Mack’s banner.
Robert Haddocks, p48
p75 > Feb 2021 - Roswell Roots! p76 > Ascension (poem).
Roswell at her best. Peaceful rallies, marches and protests took place all over our city in the month of June to support the black community in Roswell and in the whole nation.
-8-
STANELY LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY
“Tell me the truth of the matter. When I can’t understand, I will not judge or correct, instead simply listen harder. I’m here to recognize you, my fellow human being with a story.” SUN YUMG SHIN A Good Time for the Truth: Race in Minnesota
AURA HAIR & MAKEUP | 7070 ROSWELL ROAD, SANDY SPRINGS (770) 610-2882 | WWW.AURAHM.COM
-9-
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Stanley Leary www.stanleyleary.com Stanley Leary is a visual storyteller and brand
builder. He provides strategic and tactical support to organizations by helping them to implement more visual storytelling presence in their communications. Some of his clients include Newell-Rubbermaid, Coke, Georgia Tech, The Carter Center, and currently serves as a consultant in corporate communications for Chick-fil-A Corporation. He is also adjunct professor teaching photojournalism at The Grady College of Journalism & Mass Communications, University of Georgia. Leary’s work has taken him across the United States and beyond — to Peru, Burkina Faso, Canada, France, Ghana, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Portugal and Romania. The experiences of this award-winning
STANELY LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY
communications allow him to engage audiences with storytelling that builds organization’s brand. His U.S. clients find that ability translates into making their messages cross-culturally relevant with diverse American audiences and within the mainstream media. Prior to forming his own company, Leary worked on staff for The Hickory (N.C.) Daily Record and the COMMISSION magazine in Richmond, VA. For nine years he was on staff with PR team at GA Tech. Leary is adjunct professor of photojournalism at the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at The University of Georgia. He has taught storytelling and brand building at The University of the Nations, Kona, Hawaii; Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Georgia, Reinhardt College, Berry College, Portfolio Center, and Dallas (Texas) Baptist University. He also has been a guest lecturer at World Journalism Institute, Washington, D.C.; Southwestern Photojournalist Conference, Fort Worth, Texas; Art Institute of Atlanta, Ga.; American Society of Media Photographers. Atlanta (Ga.) Chapter; and the Southeastern Photographic Society, Atlanta Ga. Leary lives in Roswell, holds degrees in social work and communications, and is married to Dorie Griggs - the chaplain for Roswell Fire. They have three children.
- 10 -
Thanks, Stanley! Last Thursday, I called a local photographer to request permission to feature a photo of his we saw on the Roswell Police’ Facebook page. The image - a great shot of the Roswell High School students protesting at the corner of King Rd. and Hwy. 92. -- had actually been picked up by other media outlets, as well! (photo page ) Stanley Leary helped me understand racial concerns better and explained the origins of some of the terms used in the modern conversation.
- 11 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
roswell police department
blue light love RPD social post: “Good evening, Roswell! > Roswell Police Department was present for a peaceful protest organized by some of our incredible young citizens. Our goal was to protect protesters and the community as well as communicate with those gathered to address some of their concerns. We met many people from our community that we may have never met otherwise. It was about 85+ degrees outside today and we came prepared, handing out bottled water. We were also able to quickly render aid to a young citizen who fell ill due to the heat. The experience was uplifting. We appreciate the organization and positivity of the gathering.
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 12 -
ROSWELL POLICE “We plan to continue conversation with our great community here in Roswell. We plan to meet with various community leaders as well and open up better lines of communication, and brainstorming together on ways we can bring about change.”
First, as a whole, the Roswell Police Department condemns the actions of ANY police officer who acts with inappropriate and excessive force in ANY situation. This includes officers who fail to act when they observe another officer using excessive force.
#ROSWELLPD Our focus this past weekend has been on keeping our Roswell Community safe in light of the events occurring around us. We have also had some time to reflect on the situation and try to find the right words to start a conversation with our community. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” When members of our community hurt, we all hurt.
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 13 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
#roswellpd By Claire Murphy
Early this month, the Roswell Police Department publicly condemned any action of any police officer who would ever take advantage of his or her position or act without regard for the dignity of every individual citizen. The department is hyper alert to any hint of inappropriate or excessive force in all encounters with police. This includes, we’re told, officers who fail to act if they observe another officer using excessive force.
can’t be overstated. Plus, humans behave better when being recorded.
We asked about current events, and Police Chief James Third, every officer we encountered asked us to Conroy mentioned a few things please be sure we express we wanted to pass along to our De-escalation techniques include: their gratitude to all of you readers. > Slowing down an encounter by “backing off” who have reached out with from immediate intervention or action. support. First, he said police officers > Be compassionate but firm, in communicat-
train regularly in critical Fourth, the message we ing and “defusing” a tense situation before esde-escalation tactics. Some of calation by either an officer or citizen occurs. got from the men and these tactics involve psycholog> Use discretion to the officer’s advantage. Bewomen on the force is lieve it or not, there is no shame in coming back ical measures proven to reduce they know they’re not later or decreasing the enforcement action taken levels of intensity in everyday enperfect - nor will they ever to enforce the law. counters with citizens. Whether be - this wasn’t an excuse to Officers as a rule, always attempt to de-escalate they are issuing a traffic citation, avoid responsibility, rather every encounter but that’s not always possible, responding to a domestic call, instead to express a humility especially if alcohol or drugs are involved. chasing down a suspect, or han- and a willingness to listen dling an eviction, officers remain and improve. alert to unpredictable situations, which may arise in any Fifth, Chief Conroy explained how vital it is encounter with citizens. they continue real conversations with our AfSecond, Roswell PD supervisors review officers’ rican-American communities and churches. The BWC (body-worn cameras) footage to confirm citiprimary responsibility of the force is to protect life and zen encounters are handled appropriately. The cameras property; and for obvious and practical reasons, they will not capture all of the elements and angles of an simply can’t do their jobs without the trust and respect encounter, but the evidentiary benefits of wearing them of our black communities. #roswellpd #CM
- 14 -
Roswell High School students organized an impromptu rally one afternoon near the school at King Rd and Hwy 92. Stanley Leary captured some great photos - this one went a little viral!
STANELY LEARY PHOTOGRAPHY
local social vibe Thank you for all you are doing to protect us all and ensure a peaceful protest.
I have lived in Roswell for years and I thank the professional and responsive police force we have for respecting and protecting this group’s constitutional right to assemble. Thank you! So proud I live in a city fighting for social justice.
My fellow schoolmates and friends standing up for what they believe in, peacefully, and making a difference . Amazing. Powerful statement peacefully made by concerned and responsible young adults. Proud of them.
Young people planning event with powerful image gives us all hope for future!!!
Thank you for helping keep our children safe, as it is my understanding that this was initiated and organized by high school students.
Our businesses, our community, and our police force are all vital in their roles on how we create positive change in ourselves, the community, the state, and the country. Thank you for all you do! Omg. That image is beyond powerful!!!!! I could not be more proud of Roswell youth! I feel hopeful for the future of our kids/grandkids with these young leaders coming up! Good job, parents! Well done!! This is moving and inspiring and thought provoking.!
- 15 -
MORE >
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Now this speaks louder than any words ... louder than any protest I’ve ever seen! That was me! and some others! We are middle aged women in the suburbs. We have no interest in anything but a peaceful reminder of our beliefs. I’m glad they’re being taught to be advocates for justice. Americans of all ages, races, and backgrounds stand with them in vigorously opposing brutality. I attended and was grateful for the police presence. Your respect and smiles mean more than ever now. You can do both- support law enforcement and peaceful protestors. They aren’t mutually exclusive. Wow what a powerful image I’m completely moved to tears. Roswell PD is the best. Thank you RPD. We are ALL proud of our RPD and we want a better America for everyone. Thank you for looking out for the whole community. I’m a business in Roswell Crossing where the protest is right now. I’ve walked out 3x to take a look. The RPD is doing a fantastic job being pleasant and keeping the protesters safe. As far as protests are concerned, probably couldn’t have done a better job on all sides.
Way to represent Roswell! Everyone seems to be there for the right reasons and passers-by were cheering and honking. Thank you RPD for standing guard!! RPD- my hat is off to your officers. They were so calm & protective & providing safety for them. Very impressive & the group was incredibly positive. Our hometown kiddos really made me so proud today! They were peacefully exercising their rights and supporting one another! Go RHS!!! Thank you for the update. Praying for you guys and the protesters. God is in control. I saw them- they are just kids (Most likely Roswell High School Students) with homemade signs. Just standing peacefully on the side of the road. T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 16 -
- 17 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 18 -
- 19 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
On Saturday, June 20, at 2 p.m., Mayor Lori Henry and Dr. Sabin Strickland, Pastor of Pleasant Hill Church, led a peaceful rally to show solidarity against racial injustice and to come together in support of racial equity. The event was held in front of City Hall, 38 Hill Street, and included remarks from Pastor Strickland, Mayor Henry, Police Chief James Conroy, and others. The event also included the reading of a public pledge and resolution against racism.
- 20 -
The images on this page are from the March on Roswell on June 13, and were provided by Tracy Hoexter Photography.
"Mayor and City Council stand steadfast with all citizens against racism and reaffirm its commitment to fighting for racial justice and human and civil rights for all."
Mayor and City Council stand steadfast with all citizens against racism and the City of Roswell reaffirm its commitment to fighting for racial justice and human and civil rights for all,
Roswell’s
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
RESOLUTION.
During the June 22 city council meeting,
city council passed a resolution condemning racism. The resolution states the city acknowledges "the history of racial inequity and injustice in our country and community and will seek systemic changes to institutional racism." "These are just the first steps," Mayor Lori Henry said. "We will continue along this path until we see some positive change." "Mayor and City Council of the City of Roswell stand steadfast with all citizens against racism and reaffirm its commitment to fighting for racial justice and human and civil rights for all," the resolution reads. Henry spoke with Dr. Sabin Strickland of Pleasant Hill Church and other local faith leaders about the resolution, who helped make adjustments and edits. "I look forward to the journey we're all going to take with this," Henry said. "It's something that has been among us for my entire life, but it's something we are recognizing and moving forward to make the changes we need to make."
Henry also announced at the Solidarity Rally June 20 that she will be putting together a mayor's task force to combat racism. She said the task force and resolution will is just the beginning. While at Saturday's rally, Henry said the task force will be comprised of local black leaders as well as city leaders. Strickland, who has been a pastor for 30 years, is hopeful for the dialogue the T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY task force can produce. He added, "We are really going to open this thing up and deal with policy issues and those kind of things."
- 21 -
Find out more: On Location with Tran.
TRAN BUI is an Emmy award winning journalist with 15 years in television news. Her video production company, On Location With Tran and is a contributor for Roswell Magazine and Roswell SNOBS. Tran is also the founder of a family volunteer group called Little Helpers which has 20 locations across the country. PHOTO BY TAMMY MCGARITY PHOTOGRAPHY
- 22 -
Host and Emcee: Black Man Talking | June 8, 2020 > @roswellmagazine
TRAN BUI On Location with Tran
At a time when there's a lot of talking, typing, posting, commenting and yelling, I realize that we need to stop and truly listen. We go in with an open mind, open heart and closed mouth. We don't react quickly, we don't use harsh words, we don't get defensive. Just listen. I was born in Vietnam and escaped during the Fall of Saigon to start a new life in America. I know what it's like to be an outsider, to be judged by my skin color and to be dismissed. My circle is filled with people from all walks of life and different races. I see color as beautiful and necessary. So when some of my friends are hurting, I step up. By standing up for one, I am not saying I don't love the others. At this moment, our black friends need us. I had the honor of hosting a live Facebook discussion on Roswell Magazine with 6 local men. It was real and raw, even uncomfortable at times to hear their truth, but this conversation was needed. Put yourself in someone else's shoes, live their life, feel their pain. As angry, sad and hurt as we are right now, just listening felt good. What I also heard during this conversation was support from a community that says no to racism and wants to learn more. These men said this time felt different. They don't feel like they're in this alone anymore. When asked how they felt about the future. The response, hopeful.
- 23 -
Roswell Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
HEARD.
eMAGAZINE June 17, 2020
#blacklivestotallymatter
Everybody is listening right now.
BLACK MAN TALKING “We have a voice. We just needed a forum.”
- 24 -
Over 5,000 local views of this incredible video!
BLACK MAN TALKING
p40
p42
p30
Julian Amedee
Dr. Rev. James
Patrick Lee
p37
p34
p44
Rick Banks
Nate Alexander
Louis King
video below Tyler Washington
p48
p28
Robert Haddocks
Michael Thomas
LIVE ON FACEBOOK Black Man Talking Rewatch the panel with uncomfortable questions about race from local black men.
- 25 -
Click to watch video! Brought to you by Tran Bui On Location with Tran
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Can you hear me now?
- 26 -
- 27 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking: Michael W. Thomas owns a photography business in Roswell, and sometimes takes photos capturing black Americans. www.mwtphotography.com
MICHAEL W. THOMAS IHOW
I was taking a genealogy course
I can say that I was able to assemble it but cannot remember if I ever took a successful photo with it.
Shortly after, I had to run an errand to a part of Atlanta that is well hidden from the ever present Atlanta Skyline. Every city has these areas where the community has been overlooked, overrun and neglected from the growth boom most big cities experience but no doubt leverage the undesired part of town to contribute cheap labor to build and support businesses of the iconic skylines that hide and overlook the less fortunate.
Many years later the need to capture our kids in their school and sporting events put me behind the lens with the main objective to capture all aspects of family trips and kids’ events.
I pulled off in a parking lot where I walked around and observed abandoned schools, neighborhoods, pop up vendors selling their wares and more than normal down on their luck people walking around.
I’m not sure exactly what it was that planted in my head many years later that I wanted to get back into photography but the genealogy course did stir up my photography interest. So after class quick trip to Best Buy set me on my mid life crisis trek to photography.
I was ashamed, embarrassed, angry and brought to tears, the only thing I saw of significant worth was a MARTA (public transportation) Station conveniently place to transport people from the neighborhood to other places in the city to basically menial jobs.
I spent the first few months capturing nature on the Big Creek Greenway, the basics, birds, squirrels, anything that moved or slivered onto the path.
It was there that I reluctantly snapped my first “street” shot, an old man sitting outside of a package store and as covert as I tried to be he looked at me just as I
and the topic of seeking out family photo albums to use in telling the story of my family tree was discussed. It brought back fond memories of my dad as the family photographer and videographer. It reminded me that I at some time had interest in photography having the opportunity in my Humanities course in high school to check out a 35mm camera to complete a project. I remember my dad trying to teach me the different components of the camera when all I was interested in or capable of (numbers challenged) was to point and shoot. Well another trip to Radio Shack with my dad provided me with a build your own 35mm camera.
- 28 -
> Michael W. Thomas www.mwtphotography.com I pulled off in a parking lot where I walked around and observed abandoned schools, neighborhoods, pop up vendors selling their wares and more than normal down on their luck people walking around. I was ashamed, embarrassed, angry and brought to tears, the only thing I saw of significant worth was a MARTA (public transportation) Station conveniently place to transport people from the neighborhood to other places in the city to basically menial jobs. It was there that I reluctantly snapped my first “street” shot, an old man sitting outside of a package store and as covert as I tried to be he looked at me just as I pressed the shutter. I edited it in a vintage filter to make note that there is no time relevancy in the image. www.mwtphotography.com
pressed the shutter. I edited it in a vintage filter to make note that there is no time relevancy in the image. It was that moment that I knew I needed to tell stories, to reveal the unseen and help people understand that the tremors are still felt from vibrations of ugly stains set hundreds of years before.
In addition to my lecturing and teaching of African American History I had also found another voice from my heart, my soul and my eyes to help others know “The Why” and to understand the parts of American History that was left out by design. I also enjoy capturing positive, happy images to balance the scale of life, families enjoying themselves, people laughing and just about anything that will cause a smile. I invite you to subscribe to my photography, blog post and podcast. www.thestoriesofus.photography
- 29 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking
PATRICK LEE Patrick Lee moved to Roswell, Georgia with his wife (Hassina) and daughter (Leilani) in July 2016 from Northern California. He and his family selected Roswell as their place of residence due to the great schools in the area. Lee is originally from Pocola, Oklahoma. A former college athlete with both collegiate and professional athletics experiences, Patrick recently joined the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Atlanta-Galleria in April 2020 as the Director of Sales & Marketing bringing with him over 10 years of hospitality sales, marketing, and revenue management experience. Prior to working in the hospitality industry, Lee spent 13 years within the sport industry with stints as the Associate General Manager with Bulldog Sports Properties at
Fresno State University; Associate Athletic Director for External Affairs for the University of Alaska Fairbanks; Executive Director & Director of Sports Marketing for Florida A&M University Athletics; and many other great experiences. Lee was recently recognized as one of Best Self Atlanta Magazine’s Over 40 & Fabulous Top 40 awardees; and in 2007 as one of “Alaska’s Top Forty Under 40” professionals within the state of Alaska. He’s been awarded numerous marketing awards, such as the Central Collegiate Hockey Association's Most Outstanding Marketing Campaign of the Year Award in both 2007 and 2006; and 23 total Top 3 Marketing Awards by the National Association of Collegiate Marketing Administrators.
- 30 -
Lee also received the UAF Chancellor’s Diversity Award in 2007, and also a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, Pi Lambda Theta International Honor Society, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and Mt. Hermit Masonic Lodge #35. Lee recently completed the Cobb Chamber of Commerce’s Honorary Commanders Program, and also volunteered his time as a girl’s youth basketball coach for the Roswell Department of Recreation and the Roswell Jr. Hornets. He loves volunteering his time, having served on various non-profit boards over the years, as well public speaking opportunities to motivate and educate. Lee completed a Master’s Degree in Physical Education/Athletic Administration and a Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Communications from Idaho State University, along with an Associate’s Degree in Secondary Education from Carl Albert State College (CASC). He recently completed a Certificate in Hospitality & Tourism Management from Florida Atlantic University, and also completed some coursework toward a PhD in Sport Administration from Florida State University. Lee played junior college basketball from 1992-94 at CASC, earning All-Conference/All-Region/AllStar Team Honors; and won the 1994 Tri-State Junior College Slam Dunk Championship for Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma. He then competed in basketball for Idaho State University from 1994-96 and track from 1994-97. He ranks in the top 10 at ISU in three-point field goal percentage, earned All-Big Sky Conference Honors as a high jumper (and student-athlete) and was a member of the 1997 Big Sky Conference Indoor Track and Field Championship Team.
“Most people are thermometers that record or register the temperature of majority opinion, not thermostats that transform and regulate the temperature of society” MLK Jr.
- 31 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 32 -
“
“Our mistreatment was just not right, and I was tired of it.” ROSA PARKS
- 33 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 34 -
PROFILE
NATE ARMSTRONG Owner, Big Oak Tavern, Roswell, GA
At the tender age of 12, Nate Armstrong (a Native South Carolinian), realized that he had a passion and flare for the culinary arts that was second to none. This passion served as a driving force and foundation for him as he established his career path. Nate graduated from Johnson and Wales University where he majored in Culinary Arts. Immediately after graduation, he began working in the field and was able to quickly work his way up from line cook to General Manager of a restaurant before the age of 30. Despite the fact that Nate was flourishing as the GM of an upscale steakhouse in the Roswell area, he still wanted to do more. He wanted to be able to have a restaurant of his own, where he had the autonomy to create his own menu and the opportunity to serve as a pillar in the community. In November 2019, Nate stepped out on faith, left the stability of his job, and followed his dream of opening a restaurant: the Big Oak Tavern of Roswell. He hit the ground running, developing a chef inspired menu that quickly became the talk of the town and established the Big Oak Tavern as a staple in the community.
Nate made it his mission to partner with local businesses to ensure community engagement and really cultivate relationships locally that have proven to be invaluable. In January 2020, Nate’s efforts were recognized when The Big Oak Tavern was chosen as a featured restaurant on a local tv show called, Atlanta Eats. In March of 2020, the Pandemic hit which immediately brought the momentum that had been gained to a screeching halt. While the thought of this highly communicable and deadly virus, left Nate feeling fearful and filled with angst, he did not let it detour him from his path. In fact, he took this opportunity to pivot and leverage those relationships that he established within the community. He recognized the need for family style meals while Georgians were under Shelter in Place orders. Nate created Family Meal Deals that was able to feed families of 4 and truly spoke to the current needs of the community. In addition, Nate partnered with the Roswell School Meal Program, which focused on feeding children that have limited access to food while quarantined at home.
- 35 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking: Nate Armstrong
The Big Oak Tavern was responsible for feeding over 700 children of Roswell. His volunteerism and spirit of giving did not stop there, Nate wanted to be able to help those working front lines in the battle against this viscous virus. He was able to provide meals for nurses and clinical staff on 2 ICU COVID 19 floors in local hospitals. Most recently, Nate has played an integral part in planning a Roswell Blood Drive as there is an increased need. In conclusion, Nate hopes those that read this remember him as a man that realized his passion, followed his dreams, and tried to pay his blessings forward and help those in need. www.bigoaktavern.com, @bigoaktavern
“I wish that people on all
sides would locate their moral compass and lead with it!”
The recent events involving police stings because the reality is... it could have been me. The fear and angst associated with living life black and raising two black sons can sometimes be overwhelming. It is stomach wrenching to imagine that my baby boys could potentially face the same cruelties I have experienced because of the color of my skin. As I watch the protests and rallies each day, I see people who are frustrated and hurting, overcome with feelings of being unheard and overlooked. My heart aches to see how things have escalated to such a fever pitch and my prayer is that swift progress can come out of this chaos. My wife said something, as we discussed the recent events that truly resonated with me. She said, “I wish that people on all sides would locate their moral compass and lead with it!” My hope today is that all people of good will stop to listen to the perspectives of those that have been disenfranchised, understand that there are inequities in treatment and work together to dismantle the systems that continue to allow these atrocities to occur. I don’t have all the answers, but I pray that my black sons will one day live in a world where they are judged, as Martin Luther King preached so eloquently, ‘on the content of their character and not by the color of their skin.’
- 36 -
PROFILE: RICK BANKS Owner, SFX Fitness - Roswell | www.sfxfitness.com
Hello. Let me start out by saying thank you for the opportunity of introducing myself. I am the 2nd to the youngest of 9 siblings raised in the state of Illinois, and the son of a man with a 5th grade education, who raised us to live by faith, values and respect. My father also supported my mother to achieve her goals and dreams of becoming a very successful business owner and pillar in the community. My mother was a pioneer and instilled the values of hard work by pursuing dreams. She represented a great reflection of those principals which greatly impacted our community to became recognized throughout the U.S. for her work and determination.
With several years of fitness and business experience, I now enjoy helping others pursue and capture their dreams within the industry. I have a passion for starting a project, monitoring its growth and seeing it come to full fruition. I appreciate the simple things such as spending time with my family and friends, Kids and grandkids, and a roof over my head. At the end of the day I really appreciate a friendly smile or just a warm nod. People often say I’m sincere, witty, with a natural warmth, which inspires me to do more and continue to grow every day. Thank you,
Rick Banks
I come from a family of hard working, goal-oriented entrepreneurs. Out of 9 siblings, 7 of the 9 are self-made entrepreneurs ranging from Health & Fitness, Cosmetology, and Government consulting, which instilled a strong competitive and compassionate mindset in all of us.
LET’S MOVE ON TO ME HA HA! I was heavily involved in sports and after school activities which drove the sense of teamwork and dedication. This also helped me to develop a passion and insight to the Fitness and Business mindset. Through these life experiences, I was able to pursue and capture my dream of owning my own Fitness Facility, which I accomplished by staying true to my goals and dreams and achieving them.
- 37 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking
RICK BANKS Owner, SFX Fitness - Roswell Here we are in the 21st century and it is not hard to see that the illusion of freedom is still just that for African Americans, an illusion. With the 2012 shooting of the unarmed 17-year-old African American male, Treyvon Martin, and with his murderer still currently – 8 years later – roaming America freely, this country has shown time and time again that it, ironically, was not built for us, but only by us.
we are still faced with the same war for the same true freedom and equality that my ancestors’ enslavers and the descendants of their enslavers have always had.
Laws written to protect the civilians in the United States do not seem to hold the same weight when it comes to protecting blacks.
The type of freedom where one has the right to a truly fair and just trail and is not strangled and murdered by the hands of police officers over a counterfeit twenty-dollar bill.
It has shown us that where our oppressors are viewed as innocent until proven guilty, we are deemed as guilty until proven innocent – which many times we are not even given the pleasure of. The countless police shootings and police brutality cases accompanied by the lack of police arrests and convictions clearly demonstrates to us that we are not protected by the law at all. Instead, we are hunted by it. Now four centuries and one year after my ancestors’ unwilling first steps on this country’s soil and despite the four centuries worth of patience, countless lives lost, and heroic efforts of billions,
The type of freedom where one can exist freely without the fear of being killed by the same officers meant to protect us.
The type of freedom where it does not take the entire world to protest just for those exact same officers to receive a lackadaisical, late, and less than satisfactory charge of second-degree murder and less. We, united across the world, are fed up with the injustice that all people of color face in this country, and in many others. We will not stop fighting this war with the unjust, until justice is served and changes are made. There are many solutions to fixing this broken
- 38 -
... average Americans are viewed as innocent until proven guilty, but blacks are sometimes guilty until proven innocent. corrupt system, and they will all take courageous efforts, unity, and strength. For example, in support of our current battle with injustice, Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti announced that he is cutting $100 million to $150 million from Los Angeles Police Department’s budget and is reinvesting the money into communities of color. There are many ways that you too can stand with us and help contribute to our cause. Voting will play an important role in creating new Laws and guidelines and holding people with power to be held accountable for their illegal actions. Rest in Peace George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Beonna Taylor, and the seemingly endless number of others murdered at the hands of police. This battle is for you. IT’S TIME FOR CHANGE #RB
- 39 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking
JULIAN A. AMEDEE Director of Sports Performance | Precision Nutrition Coach | SFX Fitness Xtremes julian@sfxfitness.com | FB & TW @julianamedee | IG @julian2036
- 40 -
Black Man Talking
JULIAN A. AMEDEE It is hard to call what we are going through right now with the death of George Floyd, Ahmaud Abrey, Breanna Taylor and subsequent protests as something positive. But when this is all said and done, I am hopeful that there will be some positive changes in our country, in our world. These series of killings along with the outrageous display in Central Park sparked an outrage that has taken over the world. How can a life of another human being be taken so callously? How can the people that we are supposed to call upon to help us be at the center of a lot of it? Where do we turn as black people when we need help? Do not get me wrong I do not believe in one bit that all police are bad. I have friends that serve as police officers and I know their heart and believe that many police officers have that same heart for justice. But we as a people have been through this for years. How long can we sit and watch the same thing, or should I say similar thing happen over and over? I believe that we have arrived at that answer. Between all the protests, riots, commentaries, and social media posts I believe that African Americans have had enough. But this time something is different. This is not just an African American protest. This time every race, every nationality is involved. This time not only are the “regular” activists speaking out, but so are a lot of people that you do not normally hear from. “Black Lives Matter” is being yelled from all corners of the globe and that is a great thing to hear. Speaking to all the people who scream “All Lives Matter”, you are right. One hundred percent right, all lives do matter and last time I checked black lives are a part of all lives. The point I am trying to make is that it has never been said that ONLY black lives matter. We just want our black lives to be a part of all lives. What I am seeing in this current situation brings me hope. Hope that we will see positive change in our world. The younger generation that is leading a lot of this movement seemed to be determined to get that change and that is empowering. We must push through and see this to the end. The fate of our people is now at a pivoting point. How it shifts will depend on what we do moving forward. Let’s get something very positive out of this horrendous situation.
- 41 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 42 -
BLACK MAN TALKING
DR. REV. ROBERT JAMES Lead Pastor of Zion Church of Roswell
“Any religion that professes to be concerned with the souls of men and is not concerned with the slums that dam them, the economic conditions that strangle them, and the social conditions that cripple them is an as dry as dust religion.” Rev Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 1959 Address to Religious Leaders
This quote from Dr. King has shaped my narrative to address how I am feeling as a Black Man in this country. As a Black Man, I have experienced the look of others who wonder what I am doing here when I enter certain rooms and environments. I have experienced the tension of wondering if I would be pulled over today just for driving in certain areas of town. I have experienced the name callings and the blatant disrespect just because of the color of my skin. So when I see the uprisings in communities across this country, I know how they are feeling. I know how they feel to have been ignored for so long. I know how they feel to wonder when will generations older than them understand that change is needed. I know how they feel to wonder will we ever learn to love each other regardless of race, gender or social status.
- 43 -
So from the perspective of a leader in the faith community and a black man, I understand what they are going through. I want to reach out to all of them and help them navigate this anger, navigate this pain and grief. I want to connect them with the resources and training they need so their desire for change does not end when the uprisings are over. Like Dr. King, I’m not only concerned with the “souls” of this generation, I am also concerned about those conditions that strangle them. I am concerned about lack of health care, affordable housing, abuse of those in authority, systematic racism, and oppression. I am concerned that if we do not solve some of these issues now, we will have another uprising this same time next year. As a Black Man of Faith, I do have hope that healing can take place. I do have hope that some policies can be changed across our land that will hear the voices of the disenfranchised. I do have hope that a new generation will pick up the touch of our ancestors and learn to unite our hands in love.
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Black Man Talking
LOUIS R. KING, III Is from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where his great grandfather was a Principal and Administrator in Tulsa Public Schools. Mr. King graduated from Regis University where he was a member of the men’s basketball team. In 2008, he and his wife started a speech therapy practice in Denver, Colorado, “Therapies of the Rockies” in 2008 and has now branched into physical and occupational therapy. He lives in Roswell, with his wife and two children.
I was raised to appreciate and love everyone even knowing that there were people that existed that didn’t like me simply because of the way I look. I accepted that and still would be friendly to everyone I met. I was raised in the shadows of “Black Wall Street” in Tulsa, Oklahoma. (1921 Race Riot, Tulsa) I was able to attend a private catholic prep school before attending Regis University in Denver, Colorado, and lived in Denver 15 years before moving to Roswell. Both of my children were born in Denver and we frequently vacation out there as a family. #BETHECHANGE My plea to everyone that reads this is to go out and #BeTheChange that you claim you want to see. By that I mean when you see behavior that is unacceptable you put a stop to it immediately. The fact that I’m even pleading to people at all about being complicit and silent at all about racism and all of its ugly forms in 2020 burns my heart with the fire of 1000 suns. The other thing that I would add is when November gets here I challenge all of us to really take a long hard
look at who we (the people) truly want to lead us as a nation; if people truly want to see change in leadership, then they need to express that in November at the ballot box - and that especially goes for the local level here in Roswell. Speaking as a black man what I have seen these last few weeks has had travel the full gamut of the emotional spectrum. TAKEAWAY My takeaway, as I sit here this Monday, June 1, 2020 writing this, is we are as divided, as callous, as ambivalent, and as un-empathetic as ever. I turn 40 later this year and there’s a part of me that feels as if I’ve already let my kids down because we as a society are still dealing with the same atrocities and bigotry that we had in the 90’s. My children are not quite old enough to understand what is happening in the world right now; but that day is approaching quickly, and I find myself struggling to explain this country that we live in and claim is so great.
- 44 -
I’ve always taught my children that we include everyone. No matter who they are or what they look like. We are includers. How do I go back to my kids and tell them that there are people who who don’t like their mom and dad simply because of what we represent. (my kids are bi-racial) I watched a video that my cousin made w/ his teenage son about what to do to survive if the police put their knee on your neck. Read that again.
sation with their children, or make a video about it that goes viral on social media. I’ve watched peaceful protests evolve into looting, which no one condones. I know the pain that black people are feeling, I know the anguish and despair parents feel trying to explain this to their children who are still too young to grasp the concepts that are in play right now. I feel the hurt of loving a country that doesn’t love you back. #LRK
Very few fathers in Roswell have to have that conver-
- 45 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
“Never be limited by othe limited imaginations.”
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 46 -
er people’s > DR. MAE JAMISEN {first African-American female astronaut}
- 47 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
ROBERT HADDOCKS Robert Haddocks is a fitness trainer at SFX Fitness in Roswell, and graciously took time to participate in our Black Man Talking livestream and eMagazine.
Robert Haddocks is native of New Bedford, Massachusetts, once one of the world’s top whaling ports. He moved to Atlanta in 1997 and lives in Marietta. He still misses New England seafood and the ocean.
Journal Constitution.
Robert is a personal trainer at SFX in Roswell, where he has worked for the last several years. He's also worked at Lifetime Fitness in Woodstock and the YMCA in Marietta. He became a trainer after a debilitating back injury doctors said would require surgery. Through rigorous study and experimentation, he cured himself and soon started training part-time, while still employed as a reporter for the Atlanta
He worked at the AJC for nine years, primarily covering high school sports in Gwinnett County. Since becoming a trainer, Robert has obtained several certifications and works with clients of all levels, from teens to elderly to former NFL players. He specializes in general fitness, efficient movement and corrective exercise. Robert still enjoys writing and reading and loves to work out. Other hobbies include watching sports of all kinds, but especially football and basketball. He's a huge Dallas Cowboys fan and, once again, predicts their return to glory this year! Good food (and wine) with friends and family also
- 48 -
Black Man Talking: Robert Haddocks
DON’T LOOK AWAY. I wasn’t just angry after the murder of George Floyd. I was broken. Crushed after watching yet another black man killed, unjustly, by police. But seeing the reactions nationwide, the multicultural, youth-led movements - including marches and protests right here in Roswell - I’m starting to sense some hope.
ties - and corporations - are taking unprecedented stands. I’m encouraged by some of my white friends’ posts on social media over the last two weeks.
TALKING IS JUST THE FIRST STEP Groundbreaking conversations with clients, who have expressed support, asked Floyd’s death put a glarquestions, and sought undering spotlight on the disstanding. That dialogue is parate treatment of black the start. We can’t continue men by the police. We doing as we’ve done, ducking see the statistics, yet it’s Martin Luther King issues. We’re at a critical been an unheard cry for “Letter from Birmingham Jail” juncture and we need to decades, and a topic that change our course of (in)acmany white people didn’t tion. How we listen and respect want to discuss and chose to avoid or deny altogether. each other’s views. Race obviously plays a role in the discussion. Sadly, it remains the most divisive element NOW WHAT? in this country. But this is a humanity issue, and we We can’t do that any longer. We can’t look away. The must not look away. light is too bright. If the sickening footage of Floyd’s
“Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly,”
slow, agonizing death isn’t enough for you to question policing procedures and challenge previously held beliefs, we’re doomed. But this one does feel like it could be the catalyst for change.
Still, due to willful ignorance, some will avert their eyes. Societal change is hard, particularly in the pursuit of racial equality. History shows us that.
As such, the Floyd case has sparked the nation like no other since MLK and the Civil Rights struggle. To see a man suffer and beg for his life for eight minutes was painful. It was cruel and unusual punishment - regardless of race. None of us can afford to stay silent. We’re seeing a surge of peaceful protests. Individuals, communi-
From slavery, voting rights, school and neighborhood integration, affirmative action, interracial marriage (even to Black Lives Matter), there’s a faction that wants to self-righteously cling to the status quo. Comfortable in their suburban cocoon, they’re reluctant to acknowledge that racism even exists and will resist anything that could address it.
- 49 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
ICYMI:
Black Man Talking: Robert Haddocks | continued
But as a nation, we cannot “unsee” this blatant assault on our race/humanity. It’s why we’re experiencing the beautiful groundswell of movement that I believe will lead to change. It was too brutal to ignore. Pile that on top of recent deaths of Ahmaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor and you have a recipe for an uprising, which, historically, is necessary for change. MOST COPS ARE GOOD AND DECENT But I can’t overlook that if not for the leaking of a videotape, Arbery’s killers in Glynn County, GA would not only be free, they would be hailed as heroes. Maybe even invited to the White House. Remember, local police exonerated the two men. So yes, we do need to police the police. And we need to vote! We need to police our own thoughts, too. Challenge our perceptions and our prejudices. To have the conversations - not with those that look and think like us - but those that don’t. We need to get uncomfortable. “There is a type of constructive, nonviolent tension that is necessary for growth,” King wrote in his letter. “Injustice must be exposed, with all the tension its exposure creates to the light of human conscience and air of national opinion before it can be cured.”
PEACE WALK SADDLE CREEK Last week, Kimberly Weeks, who live in Saddle Creek invited neighbors to walk with them in solidarity, so her four sons (Justin, Cole, Marlon Jr., and Nathan) would know they’re safe and welcome in their neighborhood. The turnout was inspiring, and we caught one boy on camera looking around saying,
HOPE? I’m saddened that almost 60 years after King wrote those words, we’re still having the same conversation. So whatever we’ve done hasn’t worked. But with the spotlight beaming brighter than ever, we are presented with our greatest opportunity to address the injustice. To evaluate and to CHANGE. Don’t look away. Please don’t look away.#RH
AURA HAIR & MAKEUP | 7070 ROSWELL ROAD, SANDY SPRINGS (770) 610-2882 | WWW.AURAHM.COM
- 50 -
SADDLE CREEK
PEACE WALK Poolside Vigil with Candlelight S U N D A Y
J U N E
7 ,
2 0 2 0
7 : 3 0
P M
My children and I will walk from the West Side to the East Side with candles lit to the pool parking lot. Feel free to join us by lighting a candle on your front lawn or walk the crosswalk to the pool. We'll end the evening in prayer for our community. Make signs if you wish. Let love reign.
- 51 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 52 -
PEACE WALK
Saddle Creek > Roswell, GA w w w . w e e k s o g ra p h y . my p o r t f o l i o . c o m
- 53 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
www.weeksography.myportfolio.com
www.weeksography.myportfolio.com
- 54 -
Click to watch video! Peace March - in Saddle Creek
www.weeksography.myportfolio.com
- 55 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
PEACE WALK Saddle Creek > Roswell, GA
n with Tran Bui
CLICK TO WATCH VIDEO OF EVENT
- 56 -
www.weeksography.myportfolio.com
- 57 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
JUNE 13, 2020 | 10AM | ROSWELL CITY HALL
SOLIDARITY MARCH ON
Roswell
- 58 -
Solidarity March
on Roswell
led by PASTOR LEE JENKINS Eagle’s Nest Church and community activists’ Theo Keyserling Tamara Stevens Marla Cureton Natasha Cary
- 59 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
Scenes of Solidarity
- 60 -
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 61 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
- 62 -
- 63 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 64 -
“
“Centuries-old wounds are still raw because they never healed right in the first place. Here is the essential truth. We are better together than we are apart.” > MITCH LANDRIEU
- 65 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
Out of the mouths
of kids. Marlon D. | age 12 Bartlett, TN On June 14, 2020, I participated in a Unity Walk organized by University of Memphis athletics, specifically the football team. It was a great experience and I learned a lot about the history at the university and what the first black students had to go through. The demonstration was inspiring and eye-opening because it made me think about all the things I have and get to do compared to the opportunities people like my dad had when they were young.
Marlon
My favorite part about the Unity Walk was how everyone was united as one. The color of your skin didn’t matter. It was just so amazing when we were all chanting, “black lives matter” and “no justice, no peace.” I just felt special and that everyone was on an even playing field. My least favorite part of the walk was the fact that we were doing it in the first place. People should not judge one another and just except people for who they are, not the color of their skin. I like how we are trying to make a change, but the change should’ve been made years ago, dating back to slavery.
- 66 -
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
Cole G. | age 14 Milton, GA
Cole
My favorite part was marching with the people and having music and saying chants. The “Fight The Power� by Public Enemy was lit! My least favorite part was the segment on the police chief because the police officer had the same views as the people so no one changed their minds and there was no debate and differences in opinion. In order to improve the climate, there must be safety and freedom for dissenting views and a move toward common and shared goals. This is how we really change the atmosphere of hatred, fear and inequity.
- 67 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
Ben Ben D. | age 12 Bartlett, TN Being at a march and protest were both very powerful and cool experiences. It was amazing to see a lot of people come together to stand against injustice. It’s sad to see Black people killed by racism and brutality. However, it’s good to see that so many people care about this and want to help. We need to keep on praying, protesting and doing whatever we can until real change happens.
- 68 -
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
Teddy K. | age 16 Roswell, GA What really impressed me was the sheer number of people who were there from various ethnicities and the support everyone gave to each other. Everyone seemed pretty happy. I mean, it was a sad cause that we were all protesting but everyone seemed to be in a good mood. I am glad that events like this are able to take place in Roswell and that our community
Teddy K
- 69 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
“Defining myself, as opposed to being defined by others, is one of the most difficult challenges I face.� > CAROL MOSELEY BRAUN politician and lawyer - 70 -
- 71 -
CLICK TO WATCH VIDEO OF EVENTS
PEACE WALK Saddle Creek neighborhood (click to watch!)
DISCUSSIONS ABOUT RACE IN ROSWELL. Click to watch the video taped from the Facebook Live stream on June 7, 2020 - Tran asks uncomfortable questions of six black Roswell men.
BLACK MAN TALKING on Facebook Live, June 7
Black Man Talking (click to watch!)
Residents from all over the city gathered in support of our our black communities to ensure they know they MATTER. Find out more: On Location with Tran.
TAMMY MCGARIT Y PHOTOGRAPHY
T RACY HOEXT ER PHOTOGRAPHY
“If painting is a form of expression, then this is what I have to say.” Whats your event? Gathering, marches and protests, rallies. Frank Mack, Owner/Artist City Antiques & Interior Arts 700 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Roswell www.cityantiques.com Frank Mack painted this banner, which has been used in local marches. Its free to borrow for any good use. Takes 3-4 people to manage if its carried on foot. Or it’ll suspend from trees and such, easy peasy, with a tie or two.
- 73 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- 74 -
FEBRUARY 2021 The 19th Annual Festival of Black History and
Culture
Roswell Roots Roswell Roots: A Festival of Black History and Culture is one of the largest and most comprehensive celebrations of black history and culture in the Southeast. and offers over 25 events throughout the month of February, from music, art exhibitions, food and poetry, in recognition of National Black History Month. 2020 was Roswell Roots’ 19th year.
Be sure to help out for the 20th anniversary in 2021! 2020 Roswell Roots Committee Presented by the Cultural Services Division of the City of Roswell Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department. Roswell Roots committee members: Nancy Bishop Gail Bohannon, 2020 Roswell Roots Chair Theresia Carrington Donna Clayton (RCAC) Sharon Crumley Marie Epps Mike Harris Beckie Hawkins (RRPHCA) Jeffery Leatherman (RRPHCA) Mary Lucas Gerry McDonald Jeff Pruitt (RRPHCA) Corinne Sutherlin (RRPHCA)
2020 Community Sponsors Ann Jackson Gallery Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System Fulton County Schools Global Dance Studio & Theatre Groveway Community Group The King and Queens Chapter of the American Bridge Association The KT Collaborative North Fulton Area Section, National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (NCNW) Publix Super Markets Roswell Cultural Arts Center Roswell Historical Society Roswell Presbyterian Church Rubicon Studios Soul Food Cypher The Southern Trilogy of Homes Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau
- 75 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
- Ascension Cameron Means-Walker
Photographer, Paraprofessional, Poet Poetry of the Soul > This is designed to make us evaluate where we are emotionally and in general as a nation. The key is to learn and grow to truly bond with another. Perspective and points of view from a young man who has seen both sides of the equation... the racism and the power of love and not looking at color. No we don't live in a perfect world, but the same way we purse to improve technology, stocks, investments, schools etc we should put that same determination into understanding each other. Then turn understanding to forgiveness and forgiveness to compassion.
One faithful night in prayer, I got a word that I would change a nation. Heaven sent and fasting for, star struck at the Revelation.
Guess I gotta trust God for more patience in the isolation. What you witnessing just ain't over night.
I'm many decades in the making. All the way from my questioned birth, to too many answer choices congregating. Don't blink, it won't be by passion or my occupation. The higher power interviewing my thoughts, CTE not out of the conversation. So many shots to the head, felt throughout the generations.
Whether it be streets or fields, courtrooms or cultural appeal. You touching wounds you can never heal...ALONE.
It's like fixing plates for empty caskets in a funeral home. What's it going to take to show that we've been doing this wrong? Is it a simple sorry? Where every black person gets a Bugatti? Free passes to every party?
Where we do fair business with the Saudis?
Tell my momma you love her and you'll never be afraid to hug her. You'll treat your son and me like we AAU brothers.
- 76 -
I can't stand to see us suffer and surely won't sit and see us buffer.
Stuck on hating each other.
I t 's o n l y f o r s o l o n g y o u t e l l a s o l i d e r t o t a k e c o v e r. We t r i e d r u n n i n g a w a y, y e t w e w e re f o rc e d t o s t a y.
We tried adapting to service, yet we get pushed away.
We tried fighting for you, just to end up fighting for life every day.
Is it lust, lack of trust, or not enough revenue to quench the touch? 5 yards a carry, that can buy you drinks on us. Avg. 25 a game, put your family on shows w/us.
Then come the broken promises, handcuff to ground assist. You quick to glorify my hands yet even quicker to despise my fist. To be such a dark night my back and chest ain't so hard to miss. All whites ain't evil and all blacks ain't positive. If you stuck in middle you can imagine how I fathered this. It doesn't take a genius to get the urge to manipulate power, emotions, and politics. But before you give me a fix throw my hurts in the mix. Why I'm up 4 in morning hearing the shots hoping my brother didn't get hit. Another blemish to cover up another mother to kiss. Now my anger is supposed to comfort the kids?
More hoodies thrown up and sirens to silence the kid. But I keep rising, high fivin the bids. Bet on our pulse that we' ll keep surviving to live.
- 77 -
Roswell eMagazine | June 2020
Outdoor spaces deserve outstanding service.
Like you, we’ve worked hard to get where we are. With over 20 years of unparalleled customer service, the only thing more important to us than our Landscape Design & Installation Hardscape Services Irrigation Design & Installation
REGISTERED LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT ON STAFF
reputation is bringing your vision to life. With help from Everglades Landscape Contractors, your favorite getaway can be as close as your backyard.
678.360.2784 | EvergladesLC.com |
- 78 -