East Cobb Families & Youth

Eight youths graduate from Cobb diversionary court program

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Submitted information:East Cobb grandfather sentenced

Court officials and members of the Cobb County community gathered today [Dec. 15] in a packed Superior Court courtroom to celebrate eight graduates of Judge Kellie S. Hill’s Pinnacle-Cobb Diversionary Court for non-violent youthful offenders. Judge Hill, along with Attorney Jeanette van der Linden, proudly presented the graduates with their certificates of completion, and invited them to share insights about their transformative journeys through the program. The event was filled with a palpable sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the graduates’ next chapters.

“These eight young men have worked tremendously hard over the course of a year and have shown a true commitment to improving themselves with the resources they’ve received through this program,” said Judge Hill. “I could not be any prouder than I am today as a witness to the real changes each of them has made in their lives. They’ve gone from a mugshot to these handsome headshots on display in the courtroom today.”

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Tiffany Harris, who shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges and embracing freedom as a non-negotiable value. One graduate summed up the collective sentiment as he received his certificate, stating simply, “We made it.” Many expressed their gratitude to Judge Hill and Ms. van der Linden, with one participant saying, “This experience will stay with me forever.” Judge Hill emphasized her hope that the graduates seize this opportunity and ensure it does not go to waste.

Founded in 2022 by Judge Hill, Pinnacle-Cobb is a year-long program tailored for non-violent offenders aged 17 to 25. The program aims to reduce recidivism by fostering accountability and equipping participants with tools for personal growth and transformation. Participants are required to attend mandatory court appearances, complete reading and writing assignments, and engage in a supplemental online curriculum. Other program components include drug testing, community service, and public speaking opportunities. Graduates leave with enhanced life skills, a deeper sense of accountability, and the chance to move forward without a felony conviction—key elements for becoming productive and contributing members of society.

Judge Hill also announced an exciting update: Pinnacle-Cobb is rebranding as EXCEL Restorative Court. For more information about the program or to learn how to support it, please contact Attorney Jeanette van der Linden at (770) 359-8367. Judge Hill expressed her confidence that EXCEL Restorative Court will continue to provide young people with the resources and support they need to build successful futures, free from the stigma of a felony conviction.

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Children’s Healthcare to open family space at Truist Park

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Children's Healthcare to open family space at Truist Park

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The Atlanta Braves are reaffirming their dedication to the youngest fans in Braves Country with the new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Park opening ahead of the 2025 season. Located in the Left Field Plaza between Truist Park’s Left Field Gate and Third Base Gate, the 30,000 square foot family space will measure over two times the size of the existing Hope & Will’s Sandlot. The new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Park will be open on gamedays and accessible from The Battery Atlanta for non-gameday events and activities.

Features of the new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Park will include:

  • More than 30,000 square-feet of space dedicated to creating a safe and fun experience for kids of all ages.

  • Reimagined kids’ zone with fan-favorite rock-climbing tower and other interactive play experiences.

  • BLOOPER’s Clubhouse for fans to meet BLOOPER and take photos during the game.

  • Hope & Will’s Sandlot, a kid-sized ball field featuring a scaled model of Truist Park’s outfield wall for organized and pick-up games.

  • Great lawn with seating to play and relax.

  • Collapsible batting cages for fans of all ages to practice their swing.

  • A 480-square foot video board on the Delta Deck will allow families to play without missing any of the Braves action.

  • Dedicated concessions and kid-focused merchandise as well.

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GSO to hold sensory-friendly concert at Wheeler HS

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GSO to hold sensory-friendly concert at Wheeler HS

Submitted information and photo:

The Georgia Symphony Orchestra opens the concert hall to all through sensory-friendly and family concerts, continuing a tradition begun nine years ago. These specially tailored performances will take place November 9, 2024 at Wheeler High School in Marietta, GA.

GSO Music Director and Conductor Timothy Verville will lead the orchestra in a forty-five minute program as they perform music from some of the greatest heroes of cinema, including the epic sounds of Captain Jack Sparrow, the Dark Knight, the Man of Steel, and many more. Up to 30 minutes before or after each concert, children and families are invited to touch and experience a myriad of instruments first-hand as part of a musical petting zoo.

As a KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Certified organization, the GSO is proud to offer a sensory-friendly performance for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, where audience members can experience orchestra music without any of the constraints of a standard performance. Individuals are free to move about, dance, speak, sing, or vocalize, and have access to a quiet room for sensory breaks.

GSO patron Sarah Arrington shares, “As a mother of a child with special needs, the Sensory Friendly concerts really spoke to me. In that environment, [my son] can experience the music without limitations. To see the smile on his face when he gets to put his hands on the instruments in the Instrument Petting Zoo…where else can kids put their hands all over real instruments?! My son put his cheek on the cello to feel the vibrations. It was a magical experience for him.”

People of all ages and abilities will delight in the discovery of an orchestral experience that invites and welcomes all to the world of classical music.

Tickets are priced at just $10, and are now available through georgiasymphony.org/special-events.

 

 

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East Side ES Cub Scout Pack 744 celebrates 50th anniversary

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East Side ES Cub Scout Pack 744 celebrates 50th anniversary

Submitted information and photo:

On October 6th, Cub Scout Pack 744 of Marietta celebrated its 50th anniversary of their founding at McFarlane Park, marking five decades of building young leaders and fostering a sense of adventure. Chartered by Eastside Elementary since its inception, Pack 744 has been a cornerstone of the community, with hundreds of Scouts and families impacted over the years.

Cub Scouting is part of the Scouting program of Scouting America, formerly known as Boy Scouts of America, available to youth from kindergarten through fifth grade, 5 to 10 years of age, and their families. In Cub Scouts, youth are encouraged to make friends, be helpful to others, and do their very best no matter the outcome. With the help of powerful learning projects and exciting outdoor activities, we aim to teach children that doing their best can be a fun and rewarding experience—no matter the difficulty of the challenge.

The anniversary event welcomed eight former Cubmasters, including Mark Roberts (2022-2024), David Linsey (2020-2022), Chris Ray (2016-2019), Hilary Thornton (2014-2016), John LaVoy (2013-2014), Steve Kleinrichert (2009-2010), Scott Lovell (2008), and Zett Quinn (2005-2007), who shared memories of their time leading the Pack. Each Cubmaster reflected on the adventures, challenges, and camaraderie that shaped Pack 744 and guided it to success. Former Committee Chairs, Den Leaders, and scout alumni also attended. Cubmaster James Stovall, who is now coming through the Pack for a second time with his youngest son Luke, expressed his gratitude to these former leaders and shared his excitement for the Pack’s future.

The Pack’s vision—”We want to be the most fun and adventurous pack in Georgia, preparing our Scouts for both Scouting and life”—is evident in their activities. In the past year, Scouts have explored Cumberland Caverns spending overnight in a cave in Tennessee, rafted the Nantahala River in North Carolina, and are preparing for a mountain biking event at Blankets Creek in Cobb County. With over 100 participants registered for SpookyRee, an upcoming camping weekend at Bert Adams Scout Camp in Covington, the Pack is as adventurous as ever.

State Senator Kay Kirkpatrick, representing Georgia’s 32nd District, was also in attendance. A dedicated supporter of Scouting, Senator Kirkpatrick praised the Pack’s enduring commitment to service and community. She and her husband, both lonhg-time Scout supporters, recently hosted Scout Day at the Capitol, in which Pack 744 proudly participated.

The anniversary’s theme, “Scouting: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow,” captured the essence of Pack 744’s legacy. With 63 families, including 26 new families in the last six months, the Pack continues to grow and thrive. Much like other organizations, Pack 744 faced a dip in participation during the COVID era, but today, it is rebuilding with energy. The pack continues to recruit more youth than are graduating out each year, signaling a bright and adventurous future ahead.

A significant highlight of the celebration was the international food tasting, where each Scout family made a dish to represent their cultural heritage. This showcased the Pack’s rich diversity, with dishes such as Southern smoked barbecue sliders, japchae (a Korean favorite of sweet potato noodles with meat and vegetables), Chinese dumplings, Russian angel wings pastry, crepes with beef, French apple tart, Dutch oven apple cobbler, and much more. The food offered a flavorful glimpse into the Pack’s international makeup and symbolized the spirit of unity within diversity that Scouting fosters.

While much has changed since Pack 744’s founding in 1974 the values of Scouting remain constant. For 50 years, Pack 744 has instilled leadership, responsibility, and a love for adventure in young Scouts, preparing them for life and making a lasting impact on the community.

As the celebration concluded, it was evident that the Pack’s legacy is built on the dedication of its leaders, families, and Scouts. With a focus on adventure, service, and fun, Pack 744 is ready to continue its journey for another 50 years, growing stronger and carrying on the scouting legacy each step of the way.

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Cobb Diaper Day to be held virtually through Oct. 31

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Submitted info and photos:

The 16th Annual Cobb Diaper Day is being held virtually throughout October 2024. Through the efforts of the Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund – Cobb Diaper Day Committee, more than two million diapers have been donated to assist low-income families in Cobb County. The goal this year is to collect over 100,000 diapers.

Organizations, companies and individuals are encouraged to participate in various  ways:

  • Make a donation at www.cobbdiaperday.com.
  • Purchase diapers on Amazon through the Cobb Diaper Day Wish-list.
  • Declare a day to collect diapers from fellow employees, organization members, neighbors or friends.
  • Drop off donations on one of our community collection days at the Cobb EMC Solar Flower Garden in Marietta, GA: October 22 and October 24, 2024 from 2 PM to 6 PM.

Cobb Diaper Day was founded by the late Barbara Hickey in 2008 to help families in Cobb County. Barbara envisioned the community coming together to support local families in need and reminded us all that it is often the little things in our lives that make the biggest difference. Low-income families often have the daily stress of choosing between food and diapers. Prolonged wearing of a wet diaper causes diaper rash, and a crying baby leads to more stress in the home. Low-income families also face additional challenges:

  • Food stamps do not include hygiene products such as diapers.
  • On average, the cost to purchase diapers is approximately $100/month.
  • Daycare centers require parents to provide their own diapers.

To help ease some of the burdens of the thousands of families in critical need, diaper donations will be distributed to the community through the following community partners:

  • Cobb Douglas Public Health
  • Communities in Schools of Georgia in Marietta/Cobb County
  • LiveSafe Resources
  • MUST Ministries
  • Ser Familia
  • Simple Needs GA
  • Sweetwater Mission
  • The Center for Family Resources

For additional information, please visit www.cobbdiaperday.com or donate to the Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund to support the efforts. To arrange for a diaper pick-up or for any other questions, please email DiaperDayCobb@gmail.com.

Cobb Diaper Day to be held virtually through Oct. 31

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The Art Place’s Wizarding Academy celebrates 7th year

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The Art Place's Wizarding Academy celebrates 7th yearSubmitted information:

Join The Art Place’s Wizarding Academy as we celebrate Year 7 on Saturday, October 19th!

Wizarding students aged 6-12 will be welcomed into our magically transformed blackbox theater where they will attend classes led by witches and wizards, craft their own magical items, take pictures with their favorite characters, and more! We encourage all who attend to dress in their most magical attire.

There are two sessions, one from 11:00am-1:00pm and another at 2:30-4:30pm, each with three groups. Coordinate with your friends to sign up for the same session and group to ensure you share the adventure. Please sign up for one session only, projects will repeat. We want as many wizards and witches as possible to have the opportunity to experience the magic and mystery of Year 7.

Early bird price of $40.00 lasts through September 30th. The price will increase to $45.00 on October 1st. The Art Place is located at 3330 Sandy Plains Road Marietta, GA 30066. Please visit www.artplacemarietta.org or call (770) 509-2700 to register.

 

 

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Cobb Fall Break camps at Fullers Rec Center, The Art Place

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Cobb PARKS is offering two fall break camps in the East Cobb area from M0nday, Sept. 23 through Friday, Sept 27 at the following locations:The Art Place
Fullers Recreation Center Fall Break Camp:
Monday – Friday, Sept. 23 – 27, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
for ages 6 – 12 (Activity Code #41678).

The Art Place Fall Break Mixed Media Art Camp:
Monday – Friday, Sept 23 – 27, 1 – 4 p.m.
for ages 8 – 11 (Activity code #38756).The cost for each camp is $125 per child (Cobb residents) and $187 for non-residents.

Register for arts and rec camps here.

Find more activities in the PARK Fall 2024 Activity Guide.

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Cobb Youth Leadership announces 2024-25 class members

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Cobb Youth Leadership (CYL), a development program for high school juniors and sponsored by the Leadership Cobb Alumni Association and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, has announced the members of its 2024-2025 class.Cobb Chamber of Commerce

A total of 54 students have been selected, including the following from high schools in East Cobb:

  • Amol Balakrishnan, Lassiter High School
  • Arvind Balakrishnan, Wheeler High School
  • Anya Dhir, Walton High School
  • Lila Fraley, Wheeler High School
  • Marie Hable, Wheeler High School
  • Sophie Hortman, Lassiter High School
  • Thomas Linton, Pope High School
  • Madison Lockhart, Pope High School
  • Sameel Mistri, Wheeler High School
  • Brody Tanner, Johnson Ferry Christian Adcemy
  • Leo Waldron, Walton High School

Orientation begins on Monday, followed by a fall retreat in August and monthly program activities until graduation in April, 2025.

Here’s more from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, which oversees CYL, about the program:

Created in 1989, the program provides students a unique opportunity to learn about their community, develop leadership skills, as well as meet and interact with students from other high schools. Students attending public or private high schools or home-school students must complete and submit an application for CYL in the spring of their sophomore year. Students participate in the program during their junior year of high school.

Allan Bishop, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Julie Peck, Hub International, will be Co-Chairs for the 2024-2025 program year. Tripp Boyer, Boyer Ramey Wealth Management, and Luci Hogue, Scotland Wright Associates, will be the Vice Co-Chairs for the 2024-2025 program year. The 2024-2025 class theme is “Connected in Leadership.”

Thank you to Yearlong Presenting Sponsor, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and Youth Champion Sponsor, Six Flags Over Georgia.

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Shakespeare for young audience set for Sewell Mill Library

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Submitted information and graphic: Shakespeare for young audience set for Sewell Mill Library

Atlanta’s Shakespeare Academy presents Tempest, Junior!, a 45-minute version of the comedy appropriate for children ages 4-7, at Sewell Mill Library & Cultural Center, 2051 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta 30068, on Wednesday, July 10 at 7 p.m.

The free Theatre for the Very Young production in the Sewell Mill Black Box Theatre will feature much audience engagement while introducing Shakespeare language and characters to kids. The cast is four energetic professional actors and puppets.

For information on the Atlanta Shakespeare Co., visit shakespearetavern.com.

For information on programs and resources of Sewell Mill Library, visit cobbcat.org or call 770-509-2711.

 

 

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Walton HS student at Troop 565 earns Eagle Scout designation

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Walton HS student at Troop 565 earns Eagle Scout designation

Submitted information and photos:

Theodore Adams Thomas of East Cobb, a student at Walton High School, has earned the highest advancement award the Boy Scouts of America offers to Scouts, the Eagle Scout Award.

Thomas was recognized in ceremonies on Sunday, May 16, 5:00 pm at the Eastminster Presbyterian Church. A member of Troop 565 at Eastminster, Thomas is one of approximately 4 percent of all Scouts who attain the Eagle rank.

Each candidate must earn 21 merit badges and successfully complete a community, church, or synagogue-related service project to earn their Eagle; Thomas chose to improve the safety and quality of life of school children and neighbors in the Timber Ridge Elementary School zone by creating a path to school on Highway 120 frontage at the intersection of Highway 120 and Bishop Lake Road. Previously, the stretch of road was occupied by shrubbery behind a guardrail which prevented pedestrian traffic and forced anyone transiting the area to walk in the roadway on a very busy section of Highway 120/Roswell Road.

Thomas organized the removal of the shrubbery and laying a mulch path through coordination with the Georgia Department of Transportation, St. Anne’s Catholic Church, and 36 volunteers who assisted him in the labor. Thomas has served as Senior Patrol Leader, Chaplain’s Aid, and Scribe.

Honors he has received include Arrow of Light, Silver Explorer, 50-Miler, Gold Palm, and he holds the record for the mile swim at Camp Woodruff. Thomas joins other outstanding American citizens who have become Eagle Scouts, among them former President Gerald R. Ford, Jr., astronaut Neil A. Armstrong, cinematographer Steven Spielberg, and the head of the F.B.I., William Sessions.

Thomas is a member of Emerson Unitarian Universalist Congregation. He is Captain of Walton Swim and Dive, the defending 7A state champions, and active in the Engineering Honors Society, RPG Club, and E-Sports at Walton High School, where he is a Senior. He also swims with the Stingrays Swimming Club.

He is the son of Dominic and Elizabeth Thomas of Marietta and in interested in pursuing engineering and a career in military automotive technology.

Walton HS student at Troop 565 earns Eagle Scout designation

Walton HS student at Troop 565 earns Eagle Scout designation

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‘Widow Strong’ Mother’s Day event set for East Cobb Park

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The non-profit organization Widow Strong, a component of the East Cobb-based Life Transformed Christian Counseling, is holding a special Mother’s Day-related event Sunday at East Cobb Park for families without fathers.

It’s called “Pampering and Portraits,” and it’s for widows with their children, grandchildren and other family members from 2:30-5:30 p.m.

There will be lunch, a mini photography session and a pampering gift bag

You can go to the LTCC office at 3827 Roswell Road, Suite 104 for the portrait and gift bag, then go to the park (3322 Roswell Road) and look for the Widow Strong tent for grilling, games and a potluck meal.

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Rally on the Runway event includes East Cobb cancer patient

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Rally on the Runway event includes East Cobb cancer patient

Submitted information and photo:

At April’s Rally on the Runway fundraiser at the Georgia Aquarium, 10-year-old Nick from Roswell/East Cobb and Rally Kids from throughout Georgia who are fighting or surviving cancer, each took 47 steps down the runway as a reminder that everyday 47 children are diagnosed with cancer.

The evening’s host was longtime Rally supporter and Atlanta Falcons Defensive Tackle Grady Jarrett. Jarrett along with other NFL players walked with each model down the runway. Nick was joined on the runway by Atlanta Falcons Linebacker Donavan Mutin, where the two struck a pose to excited cheers from the crowd. That evening more than $780,000 was raised for pediatric cancer research. Joined by NFL players, the kids also got a chance to have a behind the scenes tour of the aquarium prior to the event. You can see Nick modeling at about the one-minute mark here.

Last summer, he was having fun when he suddenly became fatigued and tired all the time. His parents knew something was wrong and after a few hours at the hospital, it was confirmed that Nick had acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Nick immediately started treatment and has been fighting cancer ever since. Nick loves sports especially baseball. Within the first six months of his diagnosis, he and his family decided to raise money to help fight childhood cancer. Nick and his family have raised $50,000 and are going to be able to name a research grant in his honor.

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Model Atlanta Regional Commission seeking youth applicants

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Submitted information:ARC Cobb open house

Attention high school students interested in getting more involved in their community — The Atlanta Regional Commission offers an exciting opportunity just for you. The Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) is a youth leadership program designed to explore the planning challenges facing our region. Through engaging activities and discussions with peers who share your interests, you’ll delve into topics like transportation, sustainability, and community development.

MARC is open to rising 10th and 11th graders who live or go to school in the 11-county Atlanta region (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry, and Rockdale counties, as well as the city of Atlanta).

Apply now before the May 3 deadline. This program is completely free, but spots are limited, so don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity.

Click here to apply.

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Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra seeks young musicians

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Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra seeks young musicians

Auditions have begun for the Marietta-based Georgia Youth Symphony Orchestra, which is seeking young musicians for the fall 2024 season.

The program is one of the largest in the Southeast, serving students from 17 metro counties in elementary through high school. It includes five orchestras and seven instrumental chamber ensembles, including jazz and percussion.

Two students currently in the program are Antonia Patel, a member of GYSO’s Camerata orchestra, who joined GYSO three years ago, and her brother Aidan, a violinist in the philharmonic orchestra who first auditioned for GYSO five years ago.

“I love the challenge of playing harder and harder music and seeing my friends each week,” Antonia Patel said.

Here’s more from the GYSO about the program, plus information on auditions and scholarships:

What sets GYSO apart is its dedication to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for young musicians to develop their skills and perform at the highest level. Led by professionals in their fields, each ensemble works tirelessly to prepare for performances throughout the year, giving students a comprehensive music experience that fosters excellence on both an individual and collective level.

For more information about the GYSO program, audition process or need-based scholarships, visit georgiayouthsymphony.org.

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Boy Scout Troop 1011 holding 37th Annual Pine Straw Sale

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Boy Scout Troop 1011 of East Cobb is taking orders in for its 37th Annual Pine Straw Sale.Boy Scout Troop 1011 Pine Straw Sale

Online orders can be made at the troop’s website through Feb. 22, with delivery scheduled for March 1-2.

The troop is based at Mt. Bethel Church and is sponsored by the Rotary Club of East Cobb, and the pine straw is the long-needle variety collected in south Georgia.

Customers can order a classic bale ($6.50) or a roll, about 2.5 bales, for $15.50.

Those who order 10 bales or 5 rolls can get free delivery if they live within a 5-mile radius of Mt. Bethel Church.

For those paying by check, they should be made payable to BSA Troop 1011 and mailed or delivered with an order form to Mt. Bethel Church, 4385 Lower Roswell Road Marietta, GA 30068 by Feb. 22.

For questions and information e-mail pinestraw.troop1011@gmail.com.

 

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Wheeler HS student earns Eagle Scout rank with Troop 1818

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Amy Hurewitz, mother of Wheeler High School junior Ian Hurewitz, sends along new that her son has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.Wheeler HS student earns Eagle Scout rank

He’s a member of Troop 1818, of the Georgia Scouts BSA, and consists of Jewish members from the North Atlanta, Roswell, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, East Cobb, Sandy Springs, Decatur and Dunwoody areas.

His Eagle Scout project, she reports, consisted of building a shed in the back of his synagogue, Bongregation B’nai Torah of Sandy Springs, creating a rubber mulch path and planting gardenia bushes to beautify the area.

In his scouting career, Ian has earned 55 merit badges (only 21 are required), and enjoys helping other Scouts reach their rank requiremens.

In his non-scouting time, he leads youth religious services at his synagogue, plays the bassoon in a wind ensemble and creates 3D animations on his computer.

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Debbie Lynn Randall Memorial Butterfly Garden to be dedicated

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Last month the Cobb District Attorney’s Office said it had solved a 51-year-old murder case involving a Marietta girl, Debbie Lynn Randall, whose body was found in January 1972 off Powers Ferry Road, several weeks after she had gone missing.Debbie Lynn Randall Memorial Butterfly Garden dedication

The DA’s office used advanced technology to conclude that the man who abducted, raped and strangled her was William Rose, then 24, and who committed suicide two years later.

The advocacy group Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta, which was formed in the wake of that tragedy, will be dedicating a memorial butterfly garden on Thursday in honor of Randall at its Marietta headquarters.

The ribbon-cutting is Thursday at 10:30 a.m. at 461 Manget Street, and you’re asked to RSVP by e-mailing scade@girlsincatl.org if you wish to attend.

“In 1972, the tragic loss of Debbie Lynn Randall, shook our community to its core,” Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta CEO Tiffany Collie-Bailey said in a message that went out Monday. “We saw then firsthand the risks and devastation that exist wherever girls are left unprotected.

“This horrific story and many other stories like it are the reasons that Girls Inc of Greater Atlanta (GIGA) and 76 other affiliates across the nation exist. Three weeks ago, because people never forgot Debbie or the trauma of her family, her case was finally solved.”

What eventually became the Girls Inc. of Greater Atlanta was started in 1974 by Marietta residents Irma Glover and Joyce Dunaway Parker, who appealed to the Marietta City Council to provide a safe space for girls in the form of the Marietta-Cobb Girls Club.

Cobb commissioners helped the organized acquire land near Larry Bell Park to establish not only an “organization, but to an entire mission of providing a safe space for all girls.

“We as an organization, and our founder Ms. Dunaway-Parker are fortunate to be able to witness the solving of her tragic murder 51 years later, although bittersweet,” Collie-Bailey said.

“We would like to take time to honor this long-awaited occasion by not only remembering and mourning the life of Debbie Lynn Randall, but also by acknowledging the continued need to keep girls safe physically, mentally, and emotionally.”

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Johnson Ferry Conservatory for the Arts closes after 27 years

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Johnson Ferry Conservatory for the Arts closes
Conservatory students performing a recital in April. Photo: Johnson Ferry Conservatory for the Arts

A music school at Johnson Ferry Baptist Church that provided private one-to-one instruction to children closed earlier this month after 27 years.

The Johnson Ferry Conservatory for the Arts announced on a social media posting Monday that it was with “heavy hearts” that it was closing its doors.

The church website noted in a separata message that Johnson Ferry recently hired a consultant to conduct a child safety review across the organization.

“It has been determined that we can no longer allow one adult to be in a room alone with one child. Of course, this directly impacts our model for private music lessons. So, after much prayer and discussion, we have decided that we will be closing the doors of the Conservatory.”

The final day of operation was Aug. 5.

East Cobb News left a message with the church seeking further information. Communications director T.J. King sent a statement nearly identical to the conservatory message, adding that since its inception, the school’s objective has been to “give each student a first-class music lesson in a safe Christian environment.”

The conservatory had more than 20 teachers at the time of its closure, offering instruction in guitar, piano, bassoon, oboe, saxophone, clarinet, viola, violin and voice. The school also conducted recitals (see video below, from April) and other special events featuring the students.

The conservatory message ended by saying that “it has been a privilege to teach thousands of children in East Cobb, and watch them develop their God-given gifts. We pray God’s very best for all of them!”

King added that Johnson Ferry is continuing a children’s music program on Wednesday evening and has student choirs during the week.

“Our church and its many ministries are healthy and growing and we are excited about what the future holds,” King said.

 

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Cobb Library System’s ‘Vision to Learn’ partnership expanding

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The Vision To Learn on-site mobile clinics will return in June to Cobb County public libraries this summer to provide eye exams and glasses–free of charge–for children ages 5-18.Cobb Library Vision to Learn program

The program, which began in 2018, is expected to exceed last year’s record of almost 400 exams, with more than 250 receiving glasses.

Funding is being provided through the next four summers by the Cobb Board of Commissioners, using $264,000 of the county’s allocation of American Rescue Plan Act, as well as $247,000 for Vision To Learn programs with Marietta City Schools.

Registration is required to take part, and the form for June is can be found https://bit.ly/vtlcobblibrary.

One library branch in East Cobb will be the venue for the Vision To Learn visits. The Sewell Mill Library (2051 Lower Roswell Road) will be accepting appointments from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on two Wednesdays next month, June 7 and June 14.

The Vision To Learn visits are part of the Cobb County Public Library’s collaboration with Learn4Life, Metro Atlanta Regional Education Partnership for students’ success to make the region a more equitable and prosperous community.

For information, visit Cobb County Public Library at www.cobbcat.org and Vision To Learn at www.visiontolearn.org.

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East Cobb boy wins grand prize at Cobb Gem and Mineral Show

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East Cobb boy Cobb Gem Show grand prize winner

Carson Konopelski, age 5, recently was named a grand prize winner at the Cobb County Gem and Mineral Show.

He lives in East Cobb and his entry at the show was a carcharocles megalodon, or “big tooth” shark.

Reader Heather Webb-Singh tells us the extinct shark’s tooth is seven inches long, indicating that it was a megalodon mammal between 45 and 50 feet long.

Carson, the son of Bob and Cindy Konopelski, donated his big tooth to his school of choice, the STEM lab at Rocky Mount Elementary School, and presented it to principal Dr. Cheri Vaniman.

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