Author: Dedra Walker

  • Dedication Ceremony Honors the Legacy of Mary Ford Sims

    On November 13th, the Winder Public Library dedicated its newly named Young Adult section to honor the life and legacy of Mary Louise Ford Sims, an influential educator, mentor, and community leader in Barrow County. The ceremony held special meaning for me. I worked at the Winder Public Library in high school, and when I…

  • Opening Night: Energy on the Ice

    The Atlanta Gladiators took to the ice on Saturday, October 18th at Gas South Arena, facing off against the Utah Grizzlies to open the 2025–26 season. Puck dropped at 7:10 PM EDT, and from the stands, the energy was immediate and electric. We love capturing not just the plays, but the atmosphere — the sharp edges of the blades, the sound of…

  • Brrr… it’s that time of year again!

    The Atlanta Gladiators are gearing up to return to the ice, kicking off a brand-new season on Saturday, October 18th at Gas South Arena. Puck drops at 7:10 PM EDT, when the Glads face off against the Utah Grizzlies — and it’s shaping up to be an exciting start to the season. We had the opportunity to attend training camp media…

  • Words That Build Bridges

    Words That Build Bridges — A Conversation with Andrew SnortonPresented by Dedra Walker and hosted by the Winder Public LibraryThursday, October 23, 2025 | 5:30–6:30 PM | Winder, GAA celebration of stories that inspire connection and community. Inspire Author Series: Words That Build Bridges — A Conversation with Andrew Snorton At the Inspire Author Series,…

  • Finding Purpose Through Preparation

    Finding Purpose Through Preparation — A Conversation with Valisha JPresented by Dedra Walker and hosted by the Winder Public LibraryThursday, October 23, 2025 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM | Winder, GA A celebration of stories that inspire connection and community. Inspire Author Series: Finding Purpose Through Preparation — A Conversation with Valisha J At…

  • Community Comes Together at the Superheroes for Seniors 5K

    Community Comes Together at the Superheroes for Seniors 5K

    Community Comes Together at the Superheroes for Seniors 5K The Superheroes for Seniors 5K Walk/Run, hosted by Mending the Gap, was a beautiful reminder of what community looks like when people come together with purpose. More than 150 participants, along with sponsors and volunteers, filled the day with energy, generosity, and compassion. The weather couldn’t have…

  • Gladiators Take Down Bison 3-1 on Women in Business Night

    DULUTH, GA – The Atlanta Gladiators delivered a strong performance on Women in Business Night, earning a 3-1 victory over the Bloomington Bison. The first period was full of energy as both teams came out fast, but neither could find the back of the net. The goaltenders made key saves to keep the game scoreless heading…

  • ⚔️🏒 Recap: Jan. 18th FINAL SCORE: Gladiators 2, Swamp Rabbits 3

    What a game! Ryan Cranford lit the lamp early to give the Gladiators a 1-0 lead, but the Swamp Rabbits answered back to take a 2-1 advantage by the second period. Cody Sylvester delivered in the clutch, tying the game in the third to force overtime. Goaltender Drew DeRidder was spectacular between the pipes, making…

  • LENS 2 PENS PODCAST: LOOKING BACK, LOOKING FORWARD

    Welcome to the first Lens 2 Pens episode of 2025! As we kick off the new year, we’re taking a moment to reflect on where we’ve been and where we’re heading. In this episode, we revisit the highlights of our journey so far, hint at the exciting horizons ahead, and invite YOU to join us in creating…

  • A Journey of Discovery and Connection

    The Inspire Author Series, presented by Dedra Walker and hosted by the Winder Public Library, was graced by the presence of the phenomenal Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan. Her words, knowledge, and stories resonated deeply with everyone in the audience, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and emotions that left a lasting impact. Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan’s multifaceted…