April 25, 2015 Volume 7, Issue 2
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VISIONS The progress of Rockdale County
Serving Rockdale County and Conyers
rockdalenews.com
Election 2016
Husband, wife look at bid for Probate Judge and Clerk of Courts By Michelle Kim
mkim@rockdalenews.com
HANDS ACROSS ROCKDALE Volunteers rolled up their sleeves and pulled on their rainboots as they got to work on 12 projects across the county for the fourth annual Hands Across Rockdale community service event Saturday, April 18, aided by Leadership Rockdale Class of 2015 and the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce. Projects included community beautification, school garden installation and assistance, playground improvements, painting/upgrades to senior homes, garden beds and more at Family Promise of Newrock, Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families, Rockdale County High, Conyers Middle, Refuge Pregnancy Center, Mercy Heart, Community Alliance United to Support Equality, Rockdale Career Academy, Rockdale Head Start and Rockdale County Animal Care and Control. Here are a few scenes. For more information, go to www.handsacrossrockdale.org
Janice and Tolbert Morris have been serving the community in some capacity since they came to Rockdale County 15 years ago, whether it’s starting a free health clinic or serving in law enforcement. Now, they’re looking at serving in a new way. The husband and wife team announced they are forming exploratory committees for two 2016 elected positions – Probate Judge for Tolbert and Clerk of State and Superior Courts for Janice. Tolbert Morris, a Rockdale County Sheriff ’s Office courthouse deputy and former school board member, said, “We’re running because we see [positions] we know we will be good at. We’re running because we think we can move that position forward, create new programs that are going to benefit
Continued MORRIS PAGE 15
Election 2016
Sosby running for school board, focus on budget By Martin Rand III
mrand@rockdalenews.com
Rockdale County resident Ben Sosby is fixated on the money. Specifically, Sosby is concentrating on the Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) finances and how it spends its funds. This desire to have some input in the RCPS budget demands led Sosby to officially announce his intent to run for the Rockdale County Board of Education (BOE). “I just want to give the voters an opportunity on the ballot to have different people,” he said. “I’m very passionate about Rockdale County.”
Continued SOSBY PAGE 15
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The News
2 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
Taste of Conyers returns May 2
the NEWS 1009 Milstead Ave., Ste 200, Conyers, 30012 www.rockdalenews.com Office 770-787-6397 FAX 678-253-5988 News Tips: 770-728-1437, news@rockdalenews.com Advertising: 770-728-1436 Circulation: 770-728-1414 The News is published weekly on Saturday, for $32.00 a year (plus tax) for home delivery, or $33.92 by mail per year by Covington Newspaper Company, Inc. 1166 Usher Street, Covington, Ga. 30014. Periodicals postage pending at Covington, Ga. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The News, P. O. Box 1249, Covington, Ga. 30015
Meeting Place
BOC voting session Tues., April 28, 10 a.m., 901 Main St
By Staff Reports
news@rockdalenews.com
Love to eat and try new restaurants? Come down to Conyers Main Street’s annual Taste of Conyers festival and Conyers Car Show by Redline Events in Olde Town Conyers Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Taste of Conyers features local restaurants offering small samples of their specialties. One-dollar tickets will be available for purchase, with samples ranging from $1 to $4 per sample. Restaurants scheduled to participate include: Beasley Drug Company, Cakes and Desserts, Celtic Tavern, Sugar Bakers, Rio’s Italian Ice, Gigi’s Place, House of Fine Foods, Atlanta Pizza and Gyro, Olde Town Bistro and Grill, Creamberry’s, Amici, The Chocolate Box, Sweet Row Cakes, Whistle Post Tavern, Mellow Mushroom, Frontera Mex-Mex Grill, Papa John’s, Dairy Queen, Awake Coffee Community, Milk and Brookies, Café Milano, Just Loaf ’N Poboys and My Life Style Smoothies. Live entertainment includes Robby Parker, Karin Johnson, Don Cole, The Woodys Unplugged and the band ArenA. Admission is free. For more information, 770602-2606 or www.conyersmainstreet.com.
Salem Prom Royalty Salem High School celebrated its 2015 Prom on April 18, 2015 at the Ventanas event venue with a breathtaking view in downtown Atlanta. SHS crowned Kayla Demercado as Prom Queen and Austin Samuel as Prom King. For more photos, go to ezellsstudios.com
Photos courtesy of Gary Ezell
GET THE ADVANTAGE
Rockdale Homeowners & Civic Associations Coalition, Tues., April 28, 6 p.m., JP Carr Center, 981 Taylor St
East Metro Board of REALTORS® Pounding for Paws 5k Run/Walk
Water and Sewerage Authority Watershed Subcommittee Wed., April 29, 8:30 a.m., 3001 Black Shoals Road GA DOT Open House Wed., April 29, 5 p.m., at Davis Middle School, 3375 East Fairview Rd, Stockbridge; regarding roundabout on Ga Hwy 138 & Fairview Rd
Most Viewed rockdalenews.com April 17-24
1 2
Armed robbery at CVS, suspect escapes
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Time: 8am Fun Run, 8:30am 5K/WalK Location: Conyers Olde Town Pavilion 949 South Main St ~ Conyers, GA $25 Per Person until June 19, 2015, $35 afterward and race day Bring a bag of kitty litter or dog food and get $10 off race day registration. Medals for all under 14. Medals for top 3 Male & Female in age groups (15-19,20-24,25-29, etc.) For more information email EMBORCSC@EMBOR.com or 770.787.3763 Proceeds will Benefit Rockdale & Newton Animal Control
There will be pets up for adoption at the event!
Make check payable to: EMBOR Box 1143 Covington,GA 30015
Pets brought must be well behaved, vaccinated and on a leash. Please clean up after your pet.
Participants Name___________________________________________ Address_____________________ City ______________State_____ Zip________ Gender______ Date of Birth____________ Age _______ Phone _______________ Email__________________________ T- shirt size: S M L XL XXL
Heart of a Champion: Michael Mills achieves wheelchair SUV pull for world record
Sponsorship Opportunity a Terrier Level $50 Name on Back of Race Shirt WAIVER RELEASE
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Signature___________________________________________ Date___________ If under 18, Parent or Guardian Signature
New principals of Memorial Middle, Hightower Trail Elementary named
I hereby certify the following: I am physically fit and have received medical clearance to participate in the Pounding for Paws 5K Run/Walk, Saturday, June 27, 2015. If I do participate, I, on behalf of myself, my heirs and assigns, and my estate, hereby waive and forever discharge the sponsors, organizers, affiliates, as well as their agents and employees, from any and all claims that may occur as a result of my participation.
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The News
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 3
Pay raises for all RCPS employees priority in budget By Michelle Kim
mkim@rockdalenews.com
With more money coming in from the state and growing student enrollment, Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) is looking at adding more teachers and reinstating resources that were cut during the recession years for next year’s budget. About $10.9 million more will be coming from the state. About $2.8 million of that is due to reduced austerity cuts, which means the state is paying more of what is supposed to be allotted to the school system. About $4 million is from growing projected enrollment and equalization formulas. RCPS is projecting 251 more students will enroll next year, which means about 23 more regular education positions to be hired for the 20152016 school year. And, after frozen salaries for the last three years, RCPS is aiming to give a salary increase of 3 percent for all employees across the board. During a school board bud-
get committee meeting Thursday, RCPS Finance Director Lee Davis expressed how glad he was to have good news to report after years of cuts. The budget committee had started with five priorities – bring pay raises; restart RCPS contributions to the Alternative Retirement plan, which RCPS participates in instead of Social Security; reinstate information technology positions in schools or “intel support”; reduce class size; bring back flex points for teacher and employee allotments. There will be 13.5 intel support positions added, which is critical for rolling out one-toone technology to all students effectively and on schedule, Superintendent Rich Autry has said in the past. After a hiccup with the school system’s learning management software, My Big Campus, the school system is back on track to rolling out laptops to all RCPS high school students for the 20152016 school year. The software will be supported for at least one more year before the soft-
ware maker pulls the plug, giv- Davis. He and city and couning time for RCPS to find an ty officials plan to meet next alternative. In the meantime, week to get a better look at local digest proRCPS will jections. continue with Part time the scheduled The school board c l assified rollout of lapbudget committee e mp l oy e e s , tops and tabwill be meeting May 7, who work lets. 5:30 p.m. to discuss less than 30 Class size the budget proposal hours a week, average will were origigo down to in more detail in the nally going 22.2, about conference room, to lose their 1.3 students before their regular health insurdown from work session at 7 p.m. ance coverage the 23.5 averfrom the state. age in 2013. Now, instead, What will not be reinstated this year are they can keep the health inRCPS matching contributions surance coverage but the cost to the Alternative Retirement for RCPS will go up by $150 plan. The committee “had a per part-time employee per long discussion as to what is month, which will cost a tomore important – a pay raise tal of about $900,000 for the or retirement. That depends school system. The school board budget on how close to retirement committee will be meeting you are,” said Davis. But, “of the five priorities, May 7, 5:30 p.m. to discuss we feel pretty good that we the budget proposal in more were able to get four of those detail in the conference room, before their regular work and substantially do those.” The millage rate is not an- session at 7 p.m. in the main ticipated to need to increase, meeting room, both at 954 even with these changes, said North Main Street.
PEACHTREE ACADEMY INVITES YOU TO A
Briefs Grey-haired robber hits CVS Conyers Police are investigating an armed robbery at the CVS Pharmacy at 1541 Ga. Highway 20, Conyers. Police recieved a call around 9:20 a.m. Thursday about a white male, described as being in his 50s, who walked in, handed the cashier a note implying he had a gun in his black and gray Volcom brand backpack and that he was robbing the store, says CPD Cpt. Jack Dunn. The cashier gave the suspect the till from the register; the man took off on foot. No one was injured. The gray-haired man was seen wearing a yellow T-shirt, West Va. hat, blue jeans, glasses; video at rockdalenews.com. Anyone with information on the suspect is asked to notify CPD Detective Buck Vaughn at 770-929-4233 or buck.vaughn@conyersga.gov Conyers names new tourism director The City of Conyers is bringing aboard Terri Haler, former Porterdale Main Street director, as Conyers’ new tourism director starting Monday. Haler has headed Porterdale Main Street since 2013, after working with Newton County’s tourism department and volunteering with Covington’s Main Street program. Haler is replacing former Conyers tourism director Harriet Gattis, who retired in January after nearly 20 years with the city.
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The News
4 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
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Opinion the
NEWS
Publisher T. Pat Cavanaugh
Editor Michelle Kim
pcavanaugh@rockdalenews.com
mkim@rockdalenews.com
Design Editor Sabastian Wee
Sales Director Annette Godwin
swee@rockdalenews.com
agodwin@rockdalenews.com
Circulation Dir. Amanda Ellington
Comptroller Debbie Thompson
aellington@covnews.com
dthompson@covnews.com
Our Thoughts Prom Season This is the time of year that our precious children get a chance to celebrate life in and a special way that they will remember it for the rest of their lives. Many of our children will be going to their first prom or special dance with their special someone. Since many young people aren’t reading these words we are directing these comments to parents and grandparents. Remember how your prom was? If you were like many teens in those great days, we are sure there was some kind of booze consumed; if not, thanks for being so pure. Our point is, have the talk, whether you think your child is the perfect angel or not. Tell your child that, if by chance they were having too much fun and are looking at having to drive home in a less than safe state, you will be glad to pick them up anywhere – no questions asked. Tell them that if they might end up with someone or a group that chooses to break the law, to call you. We want our Rockdale children to have fond memories of their prom, not tragic ones or ones that end up in the court system. Make sure they understand that you were young once and you want to make sure that they have the same conversation with their children when the time comes. Send pictures of your children dressed up for the ball to news@rockdalenews.com and we will be glad to run them in our digital Wednesday paper.
Saturday, April 25, 2015 RockdaleNews.com/opinion Page 5
THOUGHTS OF A BABY BOOMER
Bringing history to justice Note: With the recent resignation of Georgia Association of Black Elected Officials leader and former Ga. House Rep. Tyrone Brooks, I looked up one of my older columns. I wrote this seven years ago when I was at that time the General Manager of the Covington News, I thought you might enjoy reading it.
portant Civil Rights bills of our time. I grew up in southern Maryland in sort of a sheltered environment. So I did not see the inhumanity and atrocities that were happening T. Pat around our country. As Cavanaugh a teenager, I can remember watching news covPublisher erage of the Birmingham march on a black and white television. Its picture tube was so bad you had to squint to Recently we were notified that see the action that was squeezed the Covington News was to be into the middle of the screen. I saw the dogs and the water honored by the GABEO (Georgia Association of Black Elected Of- cannons. I saw people like Dr. ficials) at a conference to be held Fred go down and get right back at Savannah State University for up, and I saw police with batons our coverage of the murders at beating men, women and chilthe Moore’s Ford Bridge in Mon- dren indiscriminately. After that, roe, between Walton and Oconee I did nothing but go back and live in my own sheltered, protected counties. Our award-winning reporter life. Since that time, I have had the Rachel Oswald wrote a piece in the July 29, 2007 edition of the chance to see with my own eyes paper describing, in great detail, – and to have personally experienced – some of this inhumanity. these gruesome murders. Molly and I attended the lun- But nothing like the Moore’s Ford cheon banquet on Saturday. Since Bridge massacre. That is why Saturday, as I liswe didn’t know anybody, we were a little apprehensive. By the time tened to stories of the intense hawe left the luncheon, we were not tred by some human beings, I was only in awe of the folks we were filled with humility. These stories with but had tears in our eyes came from the people who lived after hearing story after story of through the dark times. People courage and determination from who were treated unjustly only a group of people, who were not because of the color of their skin. As I watched Dr. Fred, who has only a part of history but made had a brain tumor and a stroke, sit history. We also had the honor of sitting in his wheel chair smiling at each with a living civil rights legend, person who came up to touch him or to hug him and share a quick the Rev. Dr. Fred Shuttlesworth. Dr. Shuttlesworth led the Bir- story, I didn’t see the little figure mingham, Ala. civil rights march that I saw so many years ago on in 1963. It was he who invited Dr. the television. I was now looking Martin Luther King Jr. and Dr. at and sitting close to a giant of a Ralph David Abernathy, among human being. I felt strength, courage and others, to help him and his fellow residents of Birmingham, Ala. to character surge through that take a walk with him – a walk so room as person after person spoke special that it changed history and of their own experiences and their brought about the two most im- positive vision of the future.
HAVE YOUR SAY
I feel in my heart that a major- GABEO, who himself spent a couity of people in this county did ple of weeks in the Covington jail not condone the inhumanities protesting in the 1970’s, told the that were poured upon African assembled group Saturday that Dr. Americans for more than 200 Martin Luther King promised that he would come years, but we to Walton and did encourage I saw the dogs and Oconee counsuch behavior ties to seek by doing noththe water cannons. justice for the ing. By doing I saw people like Dr. murders. Dr. so we allowed King’s promise hate-filled peoFred go down and was made beple – like the get right back up, fore he took his ones who bruand I saw police with infamous trip tally murdered to Memphis four people and batons beating men, to be a part of one unborn women and children a sanitation child on that workers rally – hot summer indiscriminately. After it was a trip Dr. day more than that, I did nothing King did not 60 years ago – but go back and live return from. to commit one The good of the most heiin my own sheltered, news is that nous crimes in protected life. this case is Georgia history now reopened. without fear of There is a punishment. I just can’t imagine, and I pray $35,000 reward being offered for you can’t either, the hate that information leading to the arrest drove these ignorant people to of the perpetrators of this bloody crime. commit such an atrocity. There is a belief that at least two There was no question that one of the Moore’s Ford Bridge 4, Rog- of the hate-filled mob may still be er Malcolm, stabbed a prominent alive. Personally, I don’t care how old white resident. He was out on bail and needed to be tried by the jus- they are or how loving to their tice system – not by an angry mob families they may be now, they should still be punished. of hatemongers. If you know something about The worst part is that after the murders, the mob could boldly this crime, please have the courage and decency to come forth. It and proudly resume their lives. I have no doubt that people is not too late nor is the crime too who can show such cowardice old for justice to be done. If you have any information, were and are the first ones in the door at their local churches every contact the FBI the GBI or local week. Even worse are their neigh- law enforcement officials in Walbors and families who know that ton or Oconee counties. This is a case in our history that their family members did this terrible act but were and are afraid to deserves to be brought to justice and a proper close. come forth with information. For 60 plus years, no one has T. Pat Cavanaugh is the publishbeen brought to justice for the er of The News. You can reach him murders. Georgia House Representa- at 770-787-6397 or pcavanaugh@ tive Tyrone Brooks, the head of rockdalenews.com.
“
We welcome letters to the editor. Letters must be 350 words or less. They should be limited to issues of public interest and may be edited for content, grammar, spelling and length. • Mail: Editor, The News, 1009 Milstead Ave., Suite 200, Conyers, GA 30012 • Email: news@rockdalenews.com
The News
RELIGION
6 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
“The Bunco Babes,” a local Bunco team, are hosting a fundraiser for
May 2nd - 2 PM St. Pius X Catholic Church, 2621 Highway 20 SE, Conyers, GA 30013
25 per Player or Bring a Friend and Play for $20!
Submitted/The Rockdale News (ABOVE) George Hamelin pours a slow pour coffee with Sam Lund watching. (TOP RIGHT) The community coffee shop, a mission-based ministry, opened on April 21.
$
Silent Auction! • 50/50 Raffle and Other Prizes!
Awake opens coffee “Take The Step” community in Conyers All proceeds to benefit homeless families and children in Newton and Rockdale County For more information contact Jackie Sprague at jsprague396@gmail.com or visit www.familypromiseofnewrock.org
By Sandra Brands
news@rockdalenews.com
It’s more than a coffee shop. It’s a coffee community. The new store, which opened in Olde Town Conyers this week, is a nonprofit mission ministry of Awake Coffee Community International, said co-owner Noelle Cosby. “We decided to create an organization to support the local com-
munity, an outreach with a heart for loving people,” she said. “We’re an organization of people who believe in Jesus and want to bring light and life to the community.” Before the shop opened in Olde Town, Cosby said, her partners and she spent two-and-a-half years building relationships with the community. That included becoming a Rockdale County schools work-based approved learning site as well as partnering
with the home school community. The efforts to connect with others in Rockdale County paid off. Over 70 people attended the opening on April 21, Cosby said. “It’s been a wild ride,” she said. “[The people of] Rockdale County [have] truly invested in this project and it belongs to them.” The coffee house is a mission-based ministry, Cosby said.
CONTEST!!!
MOMS OF DISTINCTION What makes your mother the greatest?
sponsored by Conyers Jewelers
Antioch AME Church
Continued on PAGE 7
from s t f i a g weler n i W Je s r e y Con
Send us a picture of you and your mom with a 200 word letter telling us why she should win. email to news@rockdalenews.com, subject “Mother’s Day Contest” Winner will have picture and letter in the News on May 2nd. Deadline for entries April 29th.
to
1790 Ebenezer Road, Conyers, GA
770-761-0006 Sunday School 8:45 am Sunday Worship 10:00 am Rev. Dr. Stafford J.N. Wicker, Sr. Pastor
The News
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 7
AWAKE From PAGE 6
“Jason [her husband] and I strongly believe in Christ, but found that traditional church ministry didn’t work for us. We love the church, but there are many people in this and other communities who wouldn’t walk into a church, but who would come here.” And while she says they do not force their spiritual beliefs on others, they are there to listen. That’s one of the reasons Awake Coffee Community serves coffee made in a French Press or a Full Immersion Pour Over. “It takes time to craft coffee, so the staff has time to build relationships with customers and with the community,” Cosby said. “The volunteer staff is trained to serve people. Our faith is there, but it’s more important to serve the community.” Staff also take time to explain what type of coffee is being created. The coffee is purchased through Safe House Coffee Roasters, a nonprofit organization in Griffin, GA. They, in turn,
are supplied by Thrive Farmers, which buys directly from farmers primarily in Central and South America. The coffee itself is ordered, roasted within a two week period. Awake Coffee Community also sells coffee beans, loose-leaf tea and baked goods. The organization is also committed to helping local artists and performers by providing gallery space on the wall, displaying crafted items
and offering live music and open mike nights. “We’re looking for local artists and musicians,” Cosby said. “If anyone’s interested in performing or displaying art, they should contact me.” Cosby partners with her husband, Jason, who works as a digital developer for the Rockdale and Covington newspapers; Nat and Kara Hogg; Alec and Sarah Smith; Sam Lund, and Angel Henry.
“There’s such an issue in our communities with loneliness,” said Jordan Kelecheck, 17, a home school student volunteering at the coffee shop. “This is a great, safe place for people to come build relationships.” Cosby said they hope the
success of the coffee house will inspire others in small towns around the country to open similar venues. Currently, she said, she is talking with the pastor of an Oxford, Ga., church who is interested in creating a similar coffee house in his community.
Lucy Cherry Same Great Service New Location
So You Think You Can Dance?!?!? As seen at The Fox Theater, Rockdale news channels and various newspapers!
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Give her a call, she’s well qualified to put you in a new or used vehicle. She has put hundreds in cars, and backed up by a company that has been in business for over 90 years.
Our 4th annual recital will be held at Conyers Middle School in Rockdale County Saturday, May 16th, 2015 at 6PM! We will showcase routines that include Ballet, Jazz, Tap, African and Hip Hop Dance.
We are better than all the rest! Challenging Credit, O.K, B.K and Good Credit. We have a program for everyone. With over 26 years of experience! Give her a call at 404-960-4121
Registration for the JDE 2015-2016 school year begins online 5/16/15. Visit www.jenaesdanceexperience.com for more details!!!
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The News
8 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
Event Calendar SATURDAY, APRIL 25 Astronomy Paddle 8:30-10 p.m.; Hard Labor Creek State Park, Rutledge; paddle and view the sunset, night sky, constellations; Registration required; $15 and $5 parking; 706-557-3001. Salem UMC BBQ Chicken Dinner 10 a.m-4 p.m., Salem UMC, 3962 Salem Rd., Covington; free car wash with BBQ Chicken Dinnner of1/2 baked chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, chips and bread served from 11:30 a:m-2 p.m for $8 per plate. Desserts additional; 770-786-6027. Peachtree Academy Open House 10 a.m. - noon; Conyers Campus at 1801 Ellington Road, Conyers, Early Childhood Education and Pre-K-5th; Covington Campus at 14101 Hwy 278, Covington, Pre-K-12th Atl. Deliverance Tabernacle Luncheon 2 p.m.; at Putter’s Restaurant at the Oaks Course at 11240 Brown Bridge Road, Covington; Atlanta Deliverance Tabernacle will host a luncheon SHS ‘High School Musical’ 7 p.m. April 23-25, 3 p.m. April 25-26; at Salem High School; Salem Thespians stages Disney’s “High School Musical” as its spring musical; tickets $7 adults, $5 students/senior citizens; 770-929-0176x34242 or theatresalem.info@gmail.com NDP Play “Sugar Bean Sisters” 8 p.m., April 23-25; 3 p.m. April 26; directed Cathe Hall, at 910 Center St; 678-374-3224, www.thenewdepotplayers.com TUESDAY, APRIL 29 Rockdale Retired Educators Association 11:30 a.m.; at Rockdale Baptist Church, 1295 Smyrna Road; Heritage High School Jazz Band will perform; Reservations required for lunch; Helen 770-483-6808 THURSDAY, APRIL 30 Mobile Food Pantry Noon - 4 p.m.; 1400 Parker Rd; Resource Center for Community Action; free food for anyone in need; 678-2885433 x101
Red Carpet Review
NDP’s Sugar Bean Sisters a sweet time By Sandra Brands
news@rockdalenews.com
Wacky and weird, “The Sugar Bean Sisters,” The New Depot Players’ latest production opens this week at the Paula Vaughn Black Box Theater on Center Street in Conyers. It’s a wild comedy written by Nathan Sanders, combining combines swamps, snakes, sisters and spacemen. The convoluted plot starts with the Nettle sisters, Faye (Judith L. Beasley) and Willie Mae (Cyndi Evans), returning to their home in Sugar Bean, Fla., after a trip to Disney World. One sister, the mannish Faye, is preparing for the return of the “spacemen,” and dreams of being abducted. The other, the girlish Willie Mae, longs to travel to Salt Lake City to find a good Mormon husband. The arrival of Videllia Sparks (Nancy Powell), a feather-bedecked lounge singer from New Orleans, propels the story forward and it soon becomes apparent that she is after Willie Mae’s “grapefruit fortune.” The Reptile Woman (Angie Short), who serves as something of a Greek chorus, and Bishop Crumley (Scott Mills) round out the cast. Comedy plays against the emotional drama of sisters
struggling to escape one another for something better. While the story might have been absurd, the actors created believable characters, at once funny and sad. The set was exquisite, capturing the atmosphere of a spooky swamp at night, reminiscent of the opening leg of “The Pirates of the Caribbean” ride at Disneyland and Disney World, complete with phosphorescent stars twinkling against a night sky backdrop and the chirping of crickets in the background. Directed by Cathe Hall-Payne, “The Sugar Bean Sisters,” runs Thursday through Saturday, April 23 through 25 and April 30 through May 2 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 26 and May 3 at 3 p.m. It is one of five productions being presented during The New Depot Players’ 39th season. Tickets are $20 for adults; $16 for seniors, 65 and older. Auditions for the Players’ next production, The Greater Tuna, will be held Sunday and Monday, April 26 and 27, at the Paula Vaughn Black Box Theater, 910 Center St., Conyers, at 7 p.m. The play is scheduled to run July 16 through 26. Upcoming productions scheduled for the 2015 season include “Nuncrackers,” and “The
Karen Wink/The Rockdale News
Last Night of Ballyhoo.” Audition and performance information is available on the New Depot Players’ web site, http://thenewdepotplayers.com
Saturday, May 9th 10am-2pm rain or shine GA DNR staff will assist kids with archery, fishing, fly casting, shooting sports & mini boat rides. We’ll also have LIVE animals, solar viewing, outdoor exhibitors, wildlife demonstrations, face painting, prize drawings & more!!! FREE hot dog lunch Special sale prices in the gift shop From I-20 take Exit 98 (Hwy 11 South) 3 miles South of Mansfield, GA Turn Left onto Marben Farm Rd. Follow the Festival signs. To learn more Call 770-784-3059 Or go to charlieelliott.org “Like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ charlieelliottwildlifecenter
The News
ADVERTORIAL
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 9 (Top) The Lowders ended up buying most of the items of the Anglins’ and Greens’ store in North Carolina. (Bottom) The Shack Out Back takes up most of the back half of the warehouse at Floor Creations on Sigman Road. (Photos by Darrell Everidge, Submitted)
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By Lisa Hetzel Rob and Staci Lowder invite the public to the opening of their vintage antique shop, The Shack Out Back. Located in the back of Floor Creations, the store beckons you to take a closer look. Rustic tin roofing lines the walls, neon signs light corners and antique signs surround the eclectic array of pristine furniture, toys, and vintage car parts. Staci said,” It’s a little bit man cave, a mix of Americana and a chance to sample local crafts.” After almost 20 years of marriage, the high school sweethearts consider themselves “avid antiquers.” Their farm in Monticello has been a haven for all of their vintage finds. However, they have always dreamed of opening an antique shop in Rockdale County. Rob has owned and run Floor Creations on Sigman Road for the past seven years. The couple brainstormed ways to convert the rest of the building into an antique shop. In January, they decided to make their dream come true. Staci, a former mammography technologist at Rockdale Medical Center, devoted herself full-time to working on the store. Estate sales and auction treasures began to build their inventory. The couple grew excited as the space was gradually transformed. A chance encounter in North Carolina changed everything. Staci said, “We were visiting our relatives in Clayton and saw an antique store right across the Georgia state line. Every time that we went by, it was closed.” A second trip increased their curiosity when they saw “Going Out of Business.” Staci wanted to see more. A closer look revealed a small handwritten note that said, “For deliveries, call Bryan.” After calling, she found out that Bryan owned the North Carolina family business with his father-in-law, Steve Anglin. Steve had been ready to retire and his wife, Lisa, had been eager to travel. So, of course, Staci and Rob got a private tour of the shop. After a while, Rob looked
at Steve and asked, “How much do you want for everything in the store?” The question took all of them by surprise. The Anglins’ store had been a lifelong love. It was very important to Steve and Bryan to decide on a fair price. A deal was soon made and the rest, you could say, was history. The families became close as they moved the entire collection of antiques to the Lowder’s store in Conyers. Bryan went above and beyond offering his time, extensive knowledge, and muscle power to get the merchandise carefully loaded. Staci said, “Without all of their help, we would not have been ready. We really want to pay tribute to each of them.” The feeling seems mutual. On The Shack Out Back’s Facebook review page, Lisa Anglin wrote, “Staci and Rob have become our forever friends. I hope that you give their business a shot. Our family wishes them the best of luck and great success. Go see them. You won’t be disappointed. Best wishes, Steven and Lisa Anglin, Bryan and Kelli Green.”. The Anglins and the Greens spent lots of time teaching Rob and Staci the many mysteries and marvels of their personal collection. One of Staci’s goals is to showcase local artists. For instance, Kathy Cuiffi, who owns Heartscapes Studio Gallery in Covington, displays her beautiful paintings. Debbie Hilty designs repurposed treasures with the art of metal tooling. Eileen Lowder Murray restores furniture and gives it new life with lots of character. Rob and Staci are both very excited for the opportunity to build and craft as well, focusing on pallet art and black pipe artwork. The result is a charming store, filled with a little bit for everyone. The store promises to be a real hit. Visit their Facebook page, website, or better yet, their store. Bring your friends. Bring your neighbors, and help get the word out about the one of a kind, Shack Out Back.
Shack Out Back Address: 2085 Sigman Rd, Conyers (Behind Floor Creations) Phone: 770-530-6429 Website: www.theshakoutbak.com Hours of Operation: Tues-Sat, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The News
10 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
A Veteran’s Story
Never stop searching By Pete Mecca
news@rockdalenews.com
November 28, 1972 - Udorn AFB, Thailand: The F-4 Phantom jet lifts off with Captain Jack Harvey at the controls. Flight surgeon Major Bobby Jones rides in the backseat. Major Jones is on the non-combat ‘hop’ to Da Nang, Vietnam, for one reason, to log the needed hours to maintain his flight surgeon status. The flight is uneventful until about 18 miles out from Da Nang. Something has gone horribly wrong in the vicinity of cloud-covered Bach Ma Mountain. The F-4 suddenly disappears from the radar screen at Da Nang. Emergency signals are heard in the area but rescue efforts are thwarted by heavy monsoon rains and enemy activity. Three days pass before search teams comb the rugged mountain terrain. They can find no signs of the two airmen; Jack Harvey and Bobby Jones are never heard from
again. Now begins a vexing and heartbreaking journey, a journey experienced by the families and loved ones of military personnel declared MIA: ‘Missing in Action’. Bobby Jones’ sister, Jo Anne Shirley, lives with a broken heart yet continues a frustrating journey in search of the truth from an uncaring bureaucracy, red tape, and indifferent politicians. This is her story… and her brother’s. Jo Anne recalls, “I was a 25 year old teacher at the time and my husband was in medical school in Augusta. My class was on the playground when my husband showed up at the class door. I knew something was wrong. He said two military men showed up at my mother’s door in Macon but she had refused to let them speak until dad got home. Dad rushed home, and that’s when my parents were informed that Bobby was flying backseat in an F-4 when it disappeared and was now listed as missing in action.” Bobby Jones did his internship
at Salem Hospital in Dallas. His low draft number and fear of being pulled out of residency by Uncle Sam influenced a decision to join the Air Force as a Flight Surgeon. Jo Anne continued, “My husband and I were in Dallas before Bobby reported for deployment. Our family spent July together and we had a great time. Bobby left in September. I received a couple of letters from Bobby and I sent a package of goodies. That package came back unopened. I still keep that unopened package in a special room for my brother. Bobby had been in Southeast Asia for two months.” The long ordeal had just begun. “We tried to stay positive, praying he would at least be accounted for; that he would come home one way or the other. After a year we learned about the National League of POW-MIA families organized in 1970. The government didn’t tell us about it, they didn’t want us to know, didn’t want the families to be organized and put-
Part 1 of 2
ting pressure on the government. Mom and Dad attended their next meeting. When they returned, Dad said, ‘We will never miss a meeting. Those people understand what we’re going through.’ So I told my husband, ‘start saving your money, we’re going too.’ I’ve been to every meeting since.” Jo Anne’s mother stopped attending the meetings two years ago; she is now 98 years old. Her dad passed in 1994. Jo Anne continued, “We moved back to Georgia and got very active in the League. I ran for the board of directors and served for 18 years, 15 of those years as chairman.” The government will pay to fly two family members to Washington, D.C. each year. The families pay for their own rooms and personal expenses. Jo Anne describes the trip, “At least 14 congressional offices hear me pounding on their doors. About 50 percent of them care; the others refuse to meet with me. I still visit their offices and talk to support per-
sonnel, anyone there whose ear I can bend. My best supporter was Nathan Deal when he was a congressman. He always met with me. Even today if I need his support, Nathan is there. General Westmoreland came to meetings and Newt Gingrich never missed one. I also met with Congressman Paul Broun. I introduced myself. He said, ‘You’re Bobby Jones’ sister, aren’t you?’ I asked how he knew. He replied, ‘Bobby and I attended medical school together. We were golfing buddies, good friends. Let’s sit down so you can tell me how to help you.’ A handful of politicians have been incredibly kind, productive; they are the real stand-up type of representative.” Next week: Jo Anne’s journey takes her around the globe. Pete Mecca is a Vietnam veteran, columnist and freelance writer. You can reach him at aveteransstory@gmail.com or aveteransstory.us
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The News
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 11
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Saturday, April 25, 2015 Page 12 rockdalenews.com
Sports
Brown signs with Northern Oklahoma Northern Oklahoma College coach Donnie Jackson saw Rockdale’s Dwayne Brown play at an unsigned senior showcase and knew he had to have the young talent. Jackson expressed his interest in Brown and eventually made an offer which Brown accepted and made official on Wednesday by signing his letter of intent to become a Tonkawa Maverick. Brown was named Co-MVP of the NewRock All-Star game just hours later after he was the second leading scorer on the team with 20 points. Brown is a Division-l talent playing varsity for the first time in high school career due to a back injury that sidelined him for his sophomore and junior years. Jackson has sent a lot of his players to play Division-l and Brown will likely follow in their footsteps.
Salem athletes win 2015 Vincent Dooley Award
Rockdale owns festivities at NewRock All-Star game Rockdale County edged Newton out in three of the five All-Star events on Wednesday evening, as the Rockdale girl All-Stars won their game while representatives of Salem (Shay Tarver) and Heritage (Rashad Jones) won the girls and boys three-point contests respectively. Eastside’s own Timothy Haynes won the dunk contest with a high-flying slam over two Alcovy players and the NewRock boys All-Star game ended in a tie after overtime. Ayanna Mitchell was named MVP of the girls All-Star game where she totaled 18 points. Rockdale’s Dwayne Brown and Newton’s Malik Wilson were named Co-MVPs of the boys All-Star game. Brown finished with 20 points (17 in the first half) while Wilson led Newton with 21 points, making five threes. From left to right: Dwayne Brown, Ayanna Mitchell, Shay Tarver, Rashad Jones, Timothy Haynes and Malik Wilson.
Salem High School’s Rocky Mauriello (baseball) received the 2015 Vincent J. Dooley Award for the male Student Athlete of the Year and softball player Peyton Mitchell received the female Student Athlete of the Year Award. The Dooley Awards are named in honor of Vince Dooley, a man who embodies all of the characteristics of an athlete and role model of excellence. The Dooley Awards are presented to one boy and one girl in every high school for their character and leadership both on and off the field and for their contributions to sports and society. The Vincent J. Dooley Award and Scholarship is presented annually by Athletes for a Better World and the Georgia High School Association. Each year, every high school in Georgia is invited to select one male and one female senior athlete to receive the Dooley Award. The award recipients are chosen for their distinguished individual character, outstanding teamwork, and citizenship. Peyton Mitchell could not attend the ceremony.
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The News
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 13
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The News
14 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
Yard Sales Yard & Estate Sales COVINGTON PLACE NEIGHBORHOOD YARD SALE this Saturday April 25th 8am-4pm. Look for balloons on participating mailboxes. Neighborhood located across from Eastside High.
Items for Sale Cemetery Lots Cemetery lot for sale at Lawnwood Memorial Park. Grave Space: Section D, Lot 426, Space 1. $1500. 678634-2813
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The News
MORRIS
From FRONT PAGE the people… We’re going to help Rockdale County be successful in every way we can. We’ve done that in the past and we’re going to continue to do that,” said Tolbert. “Let the people know that… we’re serving their interest, not our own self-interest.” Janice, currently the outreach service coordinator for Oakhurst’s Conyers clinic for the uninsured, said “It’s time. We have been doing this for years. We are to the point where, why not. We can do the job. Anytime someone wanted something from the courthouse, hospitals, who do they call? Janice and Tolbert. We reach all of Conyers-Rockdale.” Tolbert said his background in law enforcement, working in the courthouse and previously serving as a bailiff for Superior Court Judge David Irwin has given him a good background in working with people and resolving problems – one of the tasks of the Probate Judge. “I want to see that office become respectful again,” he said. Janice said she has had experience in administration and team building for most of her working life. She was a supervisor for eight out of the 11 years she worked for Cigna, she said. “Project management is my background and healthcare record keeping… I’m a visionary. I get the job done. I’m hands on. I keep my records straight.” She also pointed out the incumbent Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson and other predecessors did not have a legal background when they took office. Tolbert previously served in elected office as a member of the Rockdale County school board from 2005-2009 when he ran unopposed for Post 1 in 2004. During that time, the school board hired Rockdale’s first black Superintendent, saw the opening of Rock-
Saturday, April 25, 2015 • 15
dale Career Academy and made Adequate Yearly Progress under the former No Child Left Behind federal mandate. He also gave up working as a deputy during that time, despite the strain on the family’s finances, in order to serve on the school board when he learned he could not serve under two oaths in the same county. In 2012, he had also announced a bid to run for Sheriff but withdrew that bid. The Morrises are co-founders of the Helping Hands free health clinic and afterschool program located in Lakeview Estates. They estimate they’ve given away more than 1,000 computers through the technology effort of the nonprofit. Although it may seem early to announce for 2016, they said they wanted to be first out the gate in order for Rockdale residents to have time to get to know them and to make sure they have support and commitment in the community. Residents had asked them to run for various seats before, they said, but they felt for themselves that this was the right time to run. “When you see a need, you don’t sit back,” said Tolbert. “When you have the desire to move on something, you don’t sit back and wait to move.”
a lifelong resident of Rockdale County and graduated from Heritage High School. “EvenFrom FRONT PAGE tually throughout the year, I’m going to go around and (ask The school board has five civilians) what you need for the seats that are up for grabs in school system because I want to 2016, including Post 1 Mandy hear from them. I want to get North, Post 2 Bradley Smith, out and see what the citizens Post 3 Wales Barksdale, Post 4 want for the school system.” He added that he is running Sharon Parr and Post 5 Tony in case Dowdy doesn’t run. “I Dowdy. The 27-year-old Sosby plans want to keep the leadership that to occupy Dowdy’s chair. He says we have here, to keep it going.” Sosby has never held a public that his main focus, if elected to the board, will be raising the sal- office and currently works at a aries of teachers and making any Kroger in Covington as a cashier. He says he’s been working on necessary cuts to the budget to political campaigns since 2012, improve efficiency. However, he also plans to lis- and last year, he assisted on ten intently to the needs Discount. of the three separate campaigns. He community and do his best to has aspirations to one day be a Discount. Georgia senator. satisfy their request. Discount. Sosby can be contacted at “I’ll be an advocate for Rockdale County,” said Sosby, who is 678-634-7719.
SOSBY
“What we want to do now, we want to continue to serve Rockdale County. We decided to run together so that we could double our efforts,” said Tolbert. Their working slogan is, “Doubling our efforts to help Rockdale County succeed.” However, the couple was quick to point out the campaigns would be separate and if elected each office and role would be separate. “Husbands and wives will discuss, but I have my position and she has her position,” he said. Janice and Tolbert said they have been in contact with former officials who have served in those positions, and Tolbert said he had a conversation with the current Probate Judge Charles Mays Sr. about this bid. Though they both work in the county courthouse, the relationship remains cordial, Discount. he said. WallyWally Taylor, Agent Taylor, Agent Get them all with Discount. Get them all with 885 Honey Creek Road 885 Honey Creek Road “I know everyone there. We’ve Discount Double Check. Discount Double Check. Conyers, GA 30094 Conyers, GA 30094 Bus: 770-483-4134 Bus: 770-483-4134 Discount. been cordial. They know me. That’s It’s a quick and easy It’ s away quick and easy way wally@wallytaylor.com wally@wallytaylor.com to make sureto you’re saving sure you’re saving make not going to change. Who I am now all you can. And free. can. And it’s free. allit’syou Like a good Like neighbor, is who I am going to be then.” a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Farm is there. State The Morrises attend Springfield CALL ME TODAY. CALL ME TODAY. Wally Taylor, Agent Get them all with Baptist Church and have four adult 885 Honey Creek Road Discount Double Check. Wally Taylor, Agent Conyers, 30094 Get them allGA with children and three grandchildren Bus: 770-483-4134 885 Honey Creek Road It’s a quick and easy way wally@wallytaylor.com Discount Double Check. Conyers, GA 30094 to make sure you’re saving who live out of the county. They Bus: 770-483-4134 all you can. And it’s free. can be reached at tmorrisconIt’s a quick and easy way Like a good neighbor, wally@wallytaylor.com State is there. cept@gmail.com or trenise@peoto make sure you’re saving CALL Farm ME TODAY. Wally Taylor, Agent Get them all with all you can. And it’s free. plepc.com 885 Honey Creek Road 0901116 State Farm, Bloomington, IL
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The News
16 • Saturday, April 25, 2015
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