Carmona Named New Principal of Marietta Sixth Grade Academy

1. The recently named Gabriel Carmona as the new principal for the . Carmona, currently the principal at , replaces Dayton Hibbs, who was recently assistant superintendent for operations, technology and assessment for Marietta City Schools. Carmona will assume the post on July 1.

Superintendent Dr. Emily Lembeck said Carmona's effort in "leading our largest elementary school, his ability to work with teachers and students to improve academic achievement, and his middle school science and elementary math teaching experience, will ensure a smooth transition."

Carmona is an educator with seven years experience working in middle and elementary school settings in Alabama and Nevada, six years experience as an administrator in Nevada and four years experience in Georgia. He joined the Marietta City School system in 2007. Carmona earned his bachelor's degree in elementary education at the University of West Alabama and his master's degree in educational leadership at Nova Southeastern University.

2. The is sponsoring a "Cards For Troops" program from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. today in which children of all ages are invited to make Fourth of July cards for soldiers stationed stateside and overseas in Afghanistan, Kuwait and Iraq. No registration is required, and supplies will be provided.

3. Marietta will participate in the federally funded U.S. Department of Agriculture  and state-operated Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning 2011 Summer Food Service Program for Cobb County. This program serves as a summer replacement for national school lunch and breakfast programs for needy children.

For information about the program, contact Marietta's Division of Housing and Community Development Manager Mitch Bland at 770-794-5437.

4. Plenty of meetings today for your civic duty enjoyment. The has an agenda work session at 9 a.m. in the third floor board room of ., Marietta. The Transit Advisory Board will meet at 6:30 p.m. at Cobb County Transit, 463 Commerce Park Drive. The Marietta Board of Zoning Appeals will have a work session and meeting starting at 5 p.m. in the second floor conference room at .

5. Today is World Turtle Day. This day was created by American Tortoise Rescue to encourage respect and conservation efforts regarding turtles and tortoises. How can you celebrate? Well, maybe you can dress up as a turtle or, if you see one trying to make it across I-75 or North and South Marietta Parkway, attempt to save it!