A Day of Wellness, Joy, and Community Connection
The Free Women’s Health and Wellness Fair, hosted by Penelope’s Pearls of Wisdom, was an inspiring and impactful gathering held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia, Georgia. From 10 AM to 4 PM, the space was filled with energy, purpose, and community as women and families came together…
Inspire Author Series Featured Author: Quatillia Latae Byrd
Author of Tell Your Story to Give God the GloryAuthor | Speaker | Journal Creator About the Author Quatillia Latae Byrd is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur whose work encourages reflection, personal growth, and living with intention. Her journey as a writer began through journaling, which became a consistent practice that helped her process life experiences…
Inspire Author Series Featured Author: Kelly Sain Singleton
Author of The True Friendship Bench: Become A True FriendCounselor | Speaker | Children’s Author About the Author Kelly Sain Singleton is a counselor, speaker, and licensed minister whose work centers on helping individuals—especially children—develop emotional awareness, confidence, and meaningful connections. With a background in business, education, and counseling, she brings a well-rounded perspective to her…
Listening to Living History: Truth Telling with Elder Rubye Neal at Hooper Renwick
A powerful gathering at Hooper Renwick Library reminded the community that the voices of our elders are living history—stories that must be heard, preserved, and carried forward. On Sunday, March 8, the historic Hooper Renwick Library in Lawrenceville became a space for reflection and storytelling as my granddaughter and I joined community members for Truth Telling…
Lighting the Way: Honoring Legacy at The Family Gwinnett Black History Program
An evening of community, remembrance, and celebration highlighting the legendary Ms. Rubye Neal. The room slowly dimmed as small lights began to glow throughout the crowd. One by one, attendees lifted the small lights they had been given during the Emerging Light Ceremony, creating a quiet but powerful moment of reflection. In that soft glow,…
INSPIRE AUTHOR SERIES SPOTLIGHT: Author: Dr. Sharon J. Willis
Featured Author: Dr. Sharon J. WillisAuthor of Vine City Blues Composer | Conductor | Lecturer | Soprano | Pianist | Author About the Author Dr. Sharon J. Willis is a distinguished composer, author, and educator whose career spans music, literature, and cultural preservation. She served as Chair of the Music Department at Clark Atlanta University…
INSPIRE AUTHOR SERIES SPOTLIGHT: Author Thomas E. Brown
Featured Author: Thomas E. Brown Author of Crossing BridgesPublic Servant | Leader | Legacy Builder About the Author Thomas E. Brown began his public service career in Atlanta as a firefighter before becoming the first African American Fire Chief of DeKalb County. His leadership journey expanded in 1989 when he was appointed Public Safety Director of DeKalb…
Among Giants:
Among Giants: Councilwoman Marlene Taylor-Crawford and Councilman Austin E. Thompson Jr Councilwoman Marlene Taylor-Crawford and Councilman Austin E. Thompson Jr. led the City of Lawrenceville with clarity, honesty, and a genuine commitment to the people they served. Their leadership is not measured merely by policy or procedure, but by presence, integrity, and compassion in action.…
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 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…
INSPIRE AUTHOR SERIES: THE VERSATILE AND DYNAMIC AUTHOR ANDREW SNORTON
We were thrilled to welcome Author Andrew Snorton back for the second time at the Inspire Author Series, presented by Dedra Walker and hosted by Winder Public Library. Andrew, a versatile and dynamic author from the Metro-Atlanta area, captivated our audience with his unique blend of storytelling and personal reflection. During his presentation, he shared…
A Weekend of Elegance and Impact: Highlights from #AlphaDerbyWeekend 2024
Step into a world where sophistication meets philanthropy with #AlphaDerbyWeekend, hosted by the Alphas of Atlanta. From May 2nd to May 5th, 2024, this event promised—and delivered—an unforgettable blend of elegance and festivity. Imagine starting your weekend with the Alphas of Atlanta Open Golf Tournament on Friday. The greens were alive with camaraderie and friendly…
A Night with the Gwinnett Stripers at Coolray Field.
I often find myself in the midst of the action, and there’s no better action than a Friday night game under the lights. On April 19th, I had the pleasure of capturing the Gwinnett Stripers as they battled it out against the Memphis Redbirds at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville, GA. Despite the Stripers taking a…
Engaging Dialogue at Gwinnett Young Democrats’ Event
On April 8, 2024, I had the opportunity to attend a thought-provoking Meet and Greet Event, organized by the Gwinnett Young Democrats and graciously hosted at Cold Pressed Gwinnett Juice Bar (11 Buford Village Way, Suite 153 Buford, Ga). The event aimed to foster an informed electorate by providing a platform for GCPS Board of…
The Industry Professional Illustrator and Creative Character Creator, Marcus Williams.
Lights dimmed, and excitement and anticipation filled the air as the Winder Public Library welcomed a full house to the latest installment of the Inspire Author Series. Presented by Dedra Walker, this event promised an unforgettable encounter with industry professional illustrator and creative force, Marcus Williams. And yes, did Marcus deliver! If you’re an enthusiast…
Discover the Creative Genius of Demario Dailey: A Recap of His Inspire Author Series Appearance
If you weren’t able to catch Demario Dailey’s captivating presence at the Inspire Author Series, let us transport you into the world of creativity and inspiration that he embodies. Presented by Dedra Walker and graciously hosted by the Winder Public Library, this event was a testament to Demario’s mission at RBY Branding House. As the…
An Unforgettable Fusion of Elegance and Festivity. #AlphaDerbyWeekend (May 2nd-May 5th)
Step into the world of sophistication and philanthropy with #AlphaDerbyWeekend, brought to you by the Alphas of Atlanta. The first weekend in May (May 2nd-5th, 2024), this event promises an unforgettable fusion of elegance and festivity. Embark on a journey through four remarkable experiences, each curated to delight and inspire. It all begins with the…
Atlanta Gladiators vs. Florida Everblades
Wednesday, January 3rd, the Atlanta Gladiators vs. Florida Everblades. Score 3-5. Here are a few photos from the game. 🏒 @emoryrosephotography #emoryrosephotography @atlgladiators @fl_everblades @asnortonccs @gwinnett_sports#gogladiators #hockey #highschoolhockey #bestofgwinnett #lovegwinnett #brenauuniversityalumni #femalephotographer #gwinnettphotographer #monroega #daculaga #gwinnettarena #sports #norcrosshockey #atlantagladiators #echl #sportsphotography #statusnetwork #press #media #gwinnett #canon #echl100 #icehockey #icehockeygame #blackfemalephotographer #femalesportsphotographer #goalie #atlantagladiators #iamyourphotographer #drawyoursword…
Gwinnett Stripers vs. Worcester Red Sox Photo Highlights from Coolray Field
Wednesday evening, September 6th, the Worcester Red Sox wins 3-2 against the Gwinnett Stripers. Check out our photos from the game. Photo Credit: EmoryRose Photography Website: www.emoryrosephotography.com Email: emoryrosephotography@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emoryrosephotography TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emoryrosephotography Clubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/@emoryrosephotog? Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/emoryrosepics Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/emoryrosepics/_saved/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwk6f7B5gCkkBTnZ1abAPWQ flickr: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAHkRa Head Journalist: Andrew Snorton/Creative Community Solutions: https://www.asnortonccs.com Photojournalist: Dedra Walker/EmoryRose Photography and Chasing Rose Petals
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A Day of Wellness, Joy, and Community Connection
The Free Women’s Health and Wellness Fair, hosted by Penelope’s Pearls of Wisdom, was an inspiring and impactful gathering held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia, Georgia. From 10 AM to 4 PM, the space was filled with energy, purpose, and community as women and families came together…
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Inspire Author Series Featured Author: Quatillia Latae Byrd
Author of Tell Your Story to Give God the GloryAuthor | Speaker | Journal Creator About the Author Quatillia Latae Byrd is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur whose work encourages reflection, personal growth, and living with intention. Her journey as a writer began through journaling, which became a consistent practice that helped her process life experiences…
Inspire Author Series: Andrew Snorton
Meet Author Andrew Snorton, a multi-talented artist hailing from Illinois but raised in New Jersey. He proudly holds an Alma Mater status from Wake Forest University. Currently residing in the Metro-Atlanta area, Andrew has made a remarkable mark on the literary scene since his debut in February 2017. In the span of just a few…
Author talk with Author Andrew Snorton
We had the pleasure of capturing some recent behind the scenes footage of Author Andrew Snorton at Smoke Break in Conyers, Ga. Please join us and come out to Author talk with Author Andrew Snorton. Date: August 5, 2023 Time: 3-5pm Location: Smoke Break (Conyers) located at 2020 Eastside Dr SE in Conyers, GA Author…
Gwinnett Stripers vs. Norfolk Tides Photo Highlights from Coolray Field
Wednesday afternoon, July 19th, the Gwinnett Stripers took a 11 -10 win over the Norfolk Tides. Hoy Parks delivers the game winning single to give the Stripers an 11-10 win! Such an amazing game!
Dedra Walker 