🌱 FedEx Driver Speaks Out + New Exhibit At Cultural Arts Center

Hello, all. I'm back with today's edition of the Douglasville Daily. Here's what's happening in town these days, including:

• FedEx driver shares his experience after Douglasville man yells racial slurs at him
• Douglas County Fire & EMS officials serve on a statewide task force team
• Wedding expo at the conference center next month

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Here are the top five stories in Douglasville today:

1. As an update to yesterday's story, the FedEx driver who was on the receiving end of racial slurs from a Douglasville man spoke about his experience. Driver Michael Rush said his route had recently changed to include Rand Drive, where the incident took place. "As I pulled up to [the man's] house, I waved at him and everything to let him know I was there," said Rand. "He started yelling out, saying 'I hate black people.'" (WSB-TV)
2. In honor of Black History Month, the Cultural Arts Council of Douglasville/Douglas County invites the community to the opening reception of the "Descendants Ascending" exhibit at the Cultural Arts Center. From 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 28, patrons can meet the artists behind the work and hear their stories. If you can't make Saturday's event but still want to view the exhibit, it is scheduled to run through Feb. 17 on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Douglasville Patch)
3. Members of the Douglas County Fire & EMS Department were called to serve on a Georgia Search and Rescue Task Force Team. On Tuesday, Jan. 17, at least 10 members of the department set up a "large tent operation with generators and power provided," according to a press release from the county. The operation involved multiple jurisdictions, including the FBI, Homeland Security, the Governor's Office, and area fire and police departments. (Douglasville Patch)
4. The Douglasville Parks and Recreation Department will be hosting its Sweetheart Dance for individuals with disabilities and their families or caregivers. Everyone is welcome to come to the Ike Owings Community Center at Hunter Park on Friday, Feb. 3 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Participants can enjoy music, Valentine's treats, themed activities, and more. Admission is free; however, registration is required by Thursday, Feb. 2. (DouglasvilleCalendar)
5. Newly-engaged couples: Are you still trying to plan your wedding? Head over to the Douglasville Conference Center on Feb. 19 for the "Behind the Veil" bridal showcase. From 2:00-4:30 p.m., various local vendors will present tastings, decor trends, a live fashion show, and more. As of Friday evening, this free event is still accepting reservations online. (Douglasville Calendar)

Today in Douglasville:

• Great Start Farm Tour With Alpacas At L&R Alpaca Haven Farm (9:00 AM)
• Winter's Harvest Moon Forest At Painting With A Twist (3:00 PM)
• STARR Night Out At STARR Food Lounge (4:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Want to keep up to date with the topics that impact our community? The Douglasville Police Department invites all residents to come to the next Community Enrichment Meeting, scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 26 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. (DouglasvilleCalendar)
• Fowler Field Park is undergoing renovations to become an ADA-accessible playground, allowing children of all abilities to enjoy its offerings. Construction is expected to be completed mid-to-late February. (Douglasville Patch)
• In case you missed it: New Manchester High School's own Zaki Roshell has published a book! The senior's "Becoming a CEO of Self-Confidence" aims to empower teens and help them navigate the high school years. (Douglas County Georgia Schools via Facebook)

That's all for today. Have a great weekend and see you around!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.

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