Rockdale Connector #2 February 2015 Issue The Jazz Man is here. Meet our area's foremost jazz aficionado. Plus, our usual contributors with positive messages for our Rockdale community. Dig in and share! The Rockdale Connector is YOU!

1. Lorem Ipsum Dolor
“ROCKDALE’S JAZZ MAN”
Meet Gordon Vernick
of Conyers

2. Our lives are filled with
gateways 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 Power
In Toxic Environments Food For Thought from Dr Grey
Rockdale County’s Positive Magazine
404-477-8257
No
Excuses
(770) 679-9524
www.crossfitconyers.com

3. Help Laura French & Family
to find their dog Charlie…
The Jazz Man
Gordon Vernick
Surveillance from your cellphone
No Monthly Charge.
404-839-2916
My Recent
Walks into
Olde Town
Conyers

4. The Rockdale Connector Contributors
Our 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 info@rockdaleconnector.com
Relentless Felesha Sinclair Vance Maria
Rockdale’s Monthly
MultiMedia Magazine

5. 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.
info@rockdaleconnector.com
Charlie
$1000 REWARD for CHARLIE
Cavalier 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/?id=305161
770-841-8973
770-841-8975
lfrench@frenchlawgroup.com

6. 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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. Commerce & Community
in 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

12. Conyers’ Own
Nancy Gwinn Memorial Library
Read!
864 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012
(across from Olde Town Conyers and the Depot)
Visit & support your local
Public Library

13. Commerce & Community
in Conyers

14. Commerce & Community in Conyers
Authentic,
Unique, Historic,
Olde Town
The Rockdale County Courthouse

15. 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…

16. 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

17. 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

18. Commerce & Community in Conyers
The Hub
Having 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

19. 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.

20. Keba Matthews
Cakes & Desserts
Cafe
Clarence Callaway
Mentor, Educator,
Counselor
Taylor Marie
Country Music
Singer
Talents In Our Community
More of the Rockdale Connector at www.rockdaleconnector.com

21. Food For Thought
By 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 Thought
with 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

22. Food For Thought
with 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

23. 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!

24. Our Next Issue will feature our
interview with theAmazing Taylor Marie
Take a peek
at one of her
performances

25. More of our Ebooks - Free to download or view #progress

26. 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.

27. Reclaim Your Power In Toxic Environments
How 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

28. (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
M y S p i r i t F i t n e s s We l l n e s s M o m e n t
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

29. John Miles Chevy Supporting Community Events in Rockdale County for years & years.
Stop by our dealership and say hi!

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