rockdale connector 2 february:march edition
TRANSCRIPT
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“ROCKDALE’S JAZZ MAN”
Meet Gordon Vernick
of Conyers
Our lives are filled withgateways to growth.
Advertising in the Rockdale Connector is inexpensive. Be a part of our consistence and growth and resourcing here in Rockdale County. We are in Rockdale, for Rockdale & about Rockdale County.
Reclaim Your PowerIn Toxic Environments Food For Thought from Dr Grey
Rockdale County’s Positive Magazine 404-477-8257
NoExcuses
(770) 679-9524www.crossfitconyers.com
Help Laura French & Familyto find their dog Charlie…
The Jazz ManGordon Vernick
Surveillance from your cellphoneNo Monthly Charge.
404-839-2916
My Recent Walks intoOlde Town
Conyers
The Rockdale Connector ContributorsOur contributors believe in the growth and progress of Rockdale County. We live
in or nearby, we’re here most everyday, and we serve as not only concerned citizens, but connectors who are making things happen in our lives and in the lives
of others. We do it through our deeds. We do it through our words and images.
If you would like to be a contributor of positive stories that are relevant to residents in or nearby Rockdale County, Please contact
us at [email protected]
Relentless Felesha Sinclair Vance Maria
Rockdale’s Monthly
MultiMedia Magazine
Help To Find Charlie For Laura French & Family
“We are determined to find Charlie and bring him home safely. We hope that he is with someone who just doesn't yet know we are searching for him. Please spread the word to help us locate Charlie and reunite him with his family!”
PS - There's a reward. Surely someone can use $1,000
We are beginning a “DIRECTORY”, a free listing for all Rockdale businesses. Whether
on Main Street, or from your home. You should be included. Click for more info.
Charlie
$1000 REWARD for CHARLIECavalier King Charles Spaniel is still on the lam. Please help us bring him home soon. Medium length coat.Primarily Black and White, with Brown around his eyes and on his back legs. Microchipped.About 18 lbs. We miss him desperately and want him back home!Sighting last week in neighborhoods off of Flat Shoals Road near RYSA - White Oak/ Pine Forest/ Hunting Creek. Ranger was found on Ga. Hwy. 20S near Honey Creek Road. Please share and let people know we continue our efforts to bring him home. And there's a reward in case you missed it above!!http://www.helpinglostpets.com/petdetail/[email protected]
The Jazz Man - Gordon Vernick
You’d Be Amazed At The
Caliber of Talent We Have In Conyers, Ga.
…This was one of the “promotional cards” that I frequently drop from time to time in hopes someone will pick it up and engage… this engagement, however, was beyond my wildest dreams. Gordon called and explained briefly how he’d seen my card, how he was a musician and had a band, and he caught on with how I was promoting jazz shows here in Rockdale County. Accordingly, he was interested in knowing more and possibly performing at one of my shows. Gordon then gave me some information so that I could “vet” him, and I honestly wasn’t impressed… not until I saw him perform in person. Wow.
Feature Story
Gordon came across a card I left on the table as you»re coming or going thru the LA Fitness entranceº
The Jazz Man - Gordon Vernick
“At 12, 13 or 14 years old, I use to sing all the time. When I
was by myself I used to get my horn out and
play along with records…”
Gordon Vernick
We promoted the daylights out of the forthcoming event featuring “The Gordon Vernick Trio.” I even committed to paying him a little more than other artists because he’d earned that with a career of evidence I could research online… it was a global notoriety, but with such an authentic flavor that I felt that energy; its that feeling I get when I know I’m making history. With every seat occupied, I introduced Gordon and his group. You could’ve closed your eyes from that point on, and you’d swear Miles Davis had been re-incarnated. Watch more of my interview with the phenomenal Gordon Vernick.
Feature Story
CLICK HERE
Commerce & Community in Conyers
A Recent Stroll into Olde
Town Conyers
We’ve always known Olde Town Conyers to be one of Georgia’s best kept secrets. Its peaceful and at the same time healthy with various businesses and activities. We took a recent stroll down Main Street and here’s what we captured…
Olde Town Conyers; Main Street
Commerce & Community in Conyers
Did you know there’s delicious
Southern Cuisine in Conyers?
Eleanor Johnson, a 61-year-old chef, said that city officials were helpful to her as she set up her new restaurant, the Olde Town Bistro and Grill, in the historic downtown district. Today, she serves classic Southern cuisine — fried okra, baked chicken… she greets many of the customers by name. “The only thing I can tell you is Conyers has been great to me,” she said. - New York Times
Olde Town Bistro & Grill - 914 Commercial St
Restaurant is Here
Commerce & Community in Conyers
Something To Eat? Like To Skate? Wanna Watch The Goldfish?
We’ve always known Olde Town Conyers to be one of Georgia’s best kept secrets. Its peaceful and at the same time healthy with various businesses and activities. We took a recent stroll down Main Street and here’s what we captured…
Olde Town Conyers;Main Street
Commerce & Communityin Conyers
About Conyers, Ga
Conyers is the only city in Rockdale County, Georgia. It is 24 miles east of Atlanta.
Population:15,618 (2013) Area: 11.9 sq miles
Conyers’ OwnNancy Gwinn Memorial Library
Read!
864 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012(across from Olde Town Conyers and the Depot)
Visit & support your localPublic Library
Commerce & Communityin Conyers
Commerce & Community in Conyers
Authentic, Unique, Historic,
Olde Town
The Rockdale County Courthouse
The Skyline of Conyers
Conyers From The Sky
We’ve produced a couple of arial videos
to show you the eagle’s eye view of our
community. Here are the first 2 clips…
Commerce & Community in Conyers
Tennis Anyone?
The Rockdale Tennis Center is a public community tennis center serving the people of Rockdale County, GA and surrounding communities. The center opened in July 2009 and operates in partnership and within the guidelines of Rockdale County Parks and Maintenance Department. The goal of RTC is to provide you and your family with a positive and memorable experience. The facility is first class and staff is friendly and helpful. Make sure and visit!
The Rockdale Tennis Center
In & around Rockdale
Commerce & Community in Conyers
Hwy 138 Bigger Than
Life
There are major commercial thoroughfares in every big city where you find all the shops, the eateries, the dealerships and (of course) traffic. Arteries like this one are the universal evidence of commerce, prosperity and resources. Highway 138 is Rockdale County’s big commercial artery where the lintier of residents move to and from work.
Highway 138, Conyers, Ga
Commerce & Community in Conyers
The HubHaving traveled the world as an author, I’ve realized that most every community has a “hub” where networking & resourcing take place daily. No matter where you go in the world, Starbucks & Panera Bread are just 2 such places where you can get the atmosphere you’re looking for, be it seclusion (@Panera) or community (@Starbucks). We are fortunate to have both of those franchises are right here in Conyers, Georgia.
Highway 138; Starbucks, BofA, Taco Bell
Commerce & Community in Conyers
The Mall
Commerce in Conyers, Georgia
“Conyers Crossing” is one of a few “strip malls” that afford Rockdale Residents a wide array of shops; from mens clothing, to pizza, to cell phones, a Golden Crust Bakery, and of course a local dry cleaner.
Keba MatthewsCakes & Desserts
Cafe
Clarence CallawayMentor, Educator,
Counselor
Taylor MarieCountry Music
Singer
Talents In Our Community
More of the Rockdale Connector at www.rockdaleconnector.com
Food For ThoughtBy Dr. Sinclair Grey III
Harmony Through Forgiveness
Forgiving someone who hurt you is never easy. I don't care how holy you claim to be, to forgive someone is a process. That's right; it's a process that begins when you look within yourself to identify the hurt, how you feel, and how you plan to overcome the hurt. Because forgiveness is a process, once you learn to forgive and have forgiven, your healing takes on new meaning. Let me say it this way. Forgiving someone for what they did enables you to break free of any mental, emotional, and/or spiritual damage done to you.
The Power of Your Voice
All of us have the gift of using words to build up. Let me say it this way. Your voice can shine light on a person who is engulfed in darkness. The power of your words can make something impossible a possibility. Unfortunately, too many people fail to use words to uplift and therefore settle to tear down through words. The old adage, 'sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me' is incorrect. In fact, it's because of words spoken that people are either happy or sad.
Food For Thoughtwith Dr. Sinclair N. Grey iii
Challenging Our Younger Generation To Read, Write, and Think Critically
I have to admit that I like using social media. Whether it’s Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Instagram, I find myself using these platforms to encourage, inspire, and promote ideas and concepts. Without a doubt, social media has taken over the lives of many people. They can’t live without it. So many people are addicted to social media that it’s the first thing they check in the morning and the last thing done at night. Social media can be addictive, if one is unable to manage it properly.Instagram is one of the newest crazes because it allows users to post several pictures of themselves and other things they deem important in their lives. Users are so quick to post and look at pictures and comments that the concept of reading, writing, and thinking critically is slipping away, and those who find themselves lacking at these skills may struggle in society.No matter how fun or distracting social media can be, we must never forget the importance of reading and writing. Without having the skills to read, write, and think intelligently, an individual will face a harsh reality.
Getting Over Past Hurts and Disappointments
Are you still stuck in the past? Let me ask it this way. Are you holding on to grudges that happened years ago? Are you still blaming someone for messing up your goals and dreams? Are you still harboring mistakes made in the past? I want you to know that all of us have done something we shouldn't have done, but this is the time to get over it. Whoever robbed you of your goals and dreams needs to be freed through forgiveness. Today is the day you move on with your life. No more allowing the negativity of people and situations drag you down. Tell yourself you're bound for great things. That's right; the hell of your past didn't kill you, but made you stronger.
Dr. Sinclair N. Grey (r)with
Dr. Marty Finkelstein
Food For Thoughtwith Dr. Sinclair N. Grey iii
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
In this life, I want you to understand you will have your fair share of hurts and disappointments. Some of these hurts and disappointments will range from messed up relationships that have gone sour all the way to feeling as though you're not where you want to be at this point in your life. It's hard going through life facing the reality of hurt and disappointment, but it's even more painful allowing it to consume you. As my mentor tells me, 'don't let your past confine you and keep you away from your goals and dreams.' Here's the Sinclair remix. Make this the day you live with purpose. In other words, don't dwell on the past because you have too much to do in the present. In case you missed it, if you want a prosperous future, get busy working on your present.
You May Get Disappointed But Don't Get Discouraged
What do you do when disappointments happen in your life? Do you get down? Do you feel dejected? Do you throw your hands up and say forget it? No one likes to be disappointed and if you're not careful, you can allow your disappointments to hinder you from reaching your goals. Unfortunately, life isn't fair, but through it all, victory is possible. When life has you down, you don't have to stay down. Learn from what went wrong and make up your mind to improve what you're working on or working towards.In this life, I've discovered that all of us will experience some disappointments. Disappointments come to develop one's character. However, if you dwell too long on your disappointment, you'll miss what's in store for you. With every disappointment you face, you're one-step closer to where you need to go. I know it may be difficult to understand, but I assure you, if you stand strong in the midst of disappointment and uncertainty, God will give you double for your trouble
The Autumn Leaves Poem from Relentless
Measured by earth tones, reds and greens, life is but a mixture of Autumn leaves.
Sure they may die, or so it seems, but they return next season; would you believe?
And always, leaves come from that same strong tree, For a time they brave weather
for all to see.
I sometimes wonder if that leaf is like me, colorful, stubborn, yet wild and free.
Award Winner! Congrats Pedro Alvarado
awarded the KCACTF New Play Project Directing Award
Help Pedro’s Initiative!
Our Next Issue will feature ourinterview with the Amazing Taylor Marie
Take a peek at one of her performances
More of our Ebooks - Free to download or view #progress
Our lives are filled with gateways to growth. Gateways filled with pain, joy and memories litter our minds in the form of childhood, school years, and adulthood. College and career pathways are gateways to adulthood. Gateways to success and prosperity start the moment children leave their nest. College and career decisions are first steps, toward success. The destination for students is not just college or a career choice but the roads lead to success, in relationships, financially, socially and throughout their lives. Education is the first step but it must be followed by choosing the right college to attend or career to prepare for. The college and career gateway leads to finding a spouse, making lifelong friends, and the creation of impenetrable business connections.
Seniors Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Financial Student Aid) by visiting www.fafsa.edu.gov. Completing this form is the first step in analyzing a student’s financial aid profile. The answers to financial health begin with how students will carry the burden of the cost of their education. Families living at, below or above the federal poverty line should complete the form as it is the thermometer that schools and the government uses to measure the temperature of a student’s current financial position. Grade 6 – 11 Students should prepare a college portfolio to capture the specifics and the spirit of their educational experiences. Visit www.gacollege411.org with your child to enable them to visualize the steps that he or she must take in order to map out their personal road to success. Each road is individualized based on needs, learning styles, goals, ability, and desire. Visit the site and walk down the road to help your child understand the there are steps to take to succeed with in our state which must be followed closely. K-5 Visit colleges through virtual field trips, sporting events, concerts and the arts. Children should be given the opportunity to understand that where they spend their formative adult years will influence the kinds of people they are attracted to and the quality of their lives. Encourage students to read daily and keep a journal or diary to support writing and personal reflection. Visit www.studentaid.ed.gov/prepare-for-college/checklists/elementary-school. As a community, we must read the word child or student and respond in action and deed by helping not only the children within our circles but the members of our circle that have invisible ties to our world. Invisible ties are created by being neighbors, church members, extended family, troop mates or an adult reaching out to help a young person to go forward and grow. Warm Regards, Maria Brown
The Learning Corner, with Maria Brown
Bio Maria Brown’s professional history is one of Exceeding Expectations through Excellence. She is an accomplished senior manager with a solid track record in operational leadership, project management, and strategic planning for school improvement and academic growth. Ms. Brown has a keen ability to navigate through broad executive direction to structure financially justified programs and to build organizations and teams that deliver. She is certified to teach grades K-12 and has served as a facilitator of learning for both students and adults for almost twenty years. Her belief that using data-driven decision making will supplement internal resources including; parents, community members and, professional development, needs assessment, data analysis, and collaborative planning drives her commitment to bring out the best in everyone around her.
Reclaim Your Power In Toxic EnvironmentsHow many times have you heard people complain about the affect others have on the workplace environment? How many times have you, yourself felt hopelessness wash over you while secretly wishing for a magical solution?
Nothing will kill ambience faster than fear or a bad attitude. It doesn’t matter if you are seeking comfort in the privacy of your own home or at work; if the environment is filled with negative energy you can sense it. Several of my coaching clients complain that they are barely getting by on their jobs due to toxic work environments. I recognize these individuals as capable of brilliant contributions to their companies. However, they are missing opportunities to excel and have settled for a mentality to just hang on and go unnoticed.
Wait, before you judge. Many people choose passiveness as a way to coexist within environments where the fear of being misunderstood, unaccepted or devalued are prevalent. People shy away from unique self-expression and authenticity fearing the choice might cost them a job or relationship.
Fear is toxic and counterproductive. It stifles communication, productivity and creativity. The longer the discomfort exists the less tolerant individuals become. Irritation and discontent will spill over into work performance and company experience, especially for customer driven businesses. What if you, in fact, were to assume the responsibility of your environment? What if you were to take a brave leap to freedom and communicate your needs from a place of respect and love? If you were to open communication three things will happen.(Continued)
With Felesha Love
(Continued) From Felecia Love…
1. You will reclaim your power. When we internalize our power we become angry and depressed. However, learning to release the negativity in productive ways such as clear communication and exercise will in fact dispel toxicity and free you up to embrace a more positive attitude.
2. You will create space to create the experiences you wish to have. Gossip, anger, blame, fear and disappointment have an energetic charge that permeates the work/home environment. Think about how you feel when you pick up a strenuous load. The load restricts you. Now think how relieved you feel when you put down the weight. You will experience freedom of mobility from the creation of new space. You will feel lighter and see positive opportunities easily.
3. You will be free to be authentic. The freedom of fear allows you opportunity to create your legacy. Uninhibited by fear of being misunderstood, you will become authentic. Your authenticity is your legacy in life. This is how people will respond to you and remember you. Your legacy does not have to be perfect or grand, no one is. Simply represent your heart and sincere contribution and your environment will change. The effort will multiply in your favor and move you closer to more desired experiences. One note of warning, try not to dependent upon others to agree with you. They may not. If you desire to be liked and accepted at all cost you block authenticity.
Learn to become proactive about creating the environment that you desire by practicing interdependence. Social interdependence is pegged in both business and psychological circles as the “win, win” approach. Unfortunately, when we practice no interdependence someone gets lost and mistreated which perpetuates fear and discord.
The next time you feel as though you are “just getting by” let that be your clue to be more proactive and seek to support others as you hope to receive support. When you are free to be who you are magic happens. People will begin to see you for the first time and learn to value your greatness. The truth of the matter is that you are creating your legacy with every choice that you make. Why not create deliberately?
Felesha Love is a wellness scholar and sculptor of mind and body, empowering people to transcend to personal best. She is an Author, Corporate Wellness Coach, Host of MySpiritFitness TV and The MySp i r i t F i t ness We l l ness Moment syndicated radio show. Hay House Publishing released Felesha’s new book, A Brave Leap to Freedom: Integrating Mind, Body, and Spirit to Cultivate Healthy Relationships. In addition, she authored M y S p i r i t F i t n e s s S e l f P o r t r a i t , MySpiritFitness Forgiveness Journal and Yoga Philosophy: Secrets Worth Revealing as a part of her empowerment series to promote professional and personal sustainability through mind, body, spirit education. Now available on Amazon and at www.MySpiritFitness.com
C Davis & Friends
Comedy
John Miles Chevy Supporting Community Events in Rockdale County for years & years.Stop by our dealership and say hi!
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