story by stephanie johns
photos by jesse walker

Black History Parade “great”

Last Saturday’s annual Black History Parade, put on by the Morgan County Branch of the NAACP, was “great,” according to Branch President Laura Butler.
“We couldn’t ask for better weather,” she said. “We couldn’t ask for more.”
As for the turnout: the parade itself had more than 100 participants and parade/festival goers numbered 300-plus, she said: “It was well attended.”

Dextor Clinkscale served as grand marshal while former professional football players Joe Harris and Horace King rode in the parade as well.

Others present included Georgia Representative Tyrone Brooks, Civil Rights Attorney Ethel Munson, Morgan County Sheriff Robert Markley, Morgan County Commissioner Donald Harris, Madison Mayor Bruce Gilbert, Madison Councilmen Michael Naples and Fred Perriman.

Morgan County Charter School System Superintendent Dr. Ralph Bennett and Assistant Superintendents Sarah Burbach and Debra White were present, as were Morgan Memorial Hospital CEO Ralph Castillo and Morgan County Hospital Authority Chairman Terry Evans.

Entertainers included professional gospel recording groups: Athens-based Spiritual Disciples, Covington-based Christian Aires, and Madison Aires.

Bethlehem Baptist Church Spiritual Dancers from Covington and Conyers, Mount Zion T.E. Kindell Praise Team, and the Flat Rock Baptist Church Charlie’s Angels performed.

photos by jesse walker

Humane Society of Morgan County and Relay for Life partner for first-ever dog-themed fundraiser last Saturday at Heritage Park in Madison.

Printed in the March 14, 2013 edition