The Cumming City Council approved a measure allowing the sheriff’s office, fire department and other first responders to hold an event called “Ghost Out” in the arena at the county fairgrounds. The decision came after the council approved waiving rental fees for the public event. The organizers had asked for a reduction or outright waiver.

The event simulates a car wreck caused by drunken and distracted driving and is presented to high school students in the spring to encourage sober and attentive behavior behind the wheel. It used to be held individually at East High School, but was switched to just one spot a few years ago due to the growth of the school system.

It’s the first action the council’s taken regarding the fairgrounds since dissolving the Cumming Fair Authority last month. The authority was created in 2010 to oversee the grounds.

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Yemaya Lyles (right) wipes away tears during a news conference in front of the Rockdale County Public Schools administration building on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. Lyles' son, Antonio, was assaulted by a paraprofessional, who has since been fired and charged with battery. Lyles says her case against the school district has dragged on since then. (Miguel Martinez/AJC 2023)

Credit: Miguel Martinez