Hi all, For those that do not know me, my name is Karenda, aka "Roo on the Move." Growing up in the Hollywood of the South has been the most epic experience, to say the least.
"In the Heat of the Night" was an iconic piece of my childhood, and one of my very first opportunities to experience the art of filmmaking.
Over the years that the series filmed in Covington/Conyers, it was normal to see Carrol O'Conner and Alan Autry out and about in town. I talked with Carrol and Hugh often when they stopped into the grocery store where I worked as a teenager. These cast members quickly became an integral part of our community.
I will admit that there were several times that I skipped school to watch filming (this sounds like a perfectly valid excused absence, right?) Looking back, I know it was these moments that built the foundation for my love and appreciation for the film industry, and of course, a really good story. Watching scenes on screen that I saw created live, in-person, was truly a full circle moment, and I became eager to experience this more.
In my early twenties, while visiting Atlanta, I was presented with the opportunity to be a part of the cast and production crew of the film "Fled," starring Lawrence Fishburn. It was my first experience on set, and I was fascinated.
Fast forward to early 2009. A production called The Vampire Diaries was moving into Covington and the locals were captivated. In the evenings after work, I would head to the Square where much of the action was taking place. Base camp was set up nearby, and the cast would often take the time to stop and talk or take photos with fans, on their way back to camp. It didn't take long before we all started recognizing and remembering each other.
As the wrap of Season 1 grew closer, a casting call was released for the finale episode. I jumped all over it. Myself, and several other friends and family members, were chosen to be a part. For three full days, we stood out on the Square until the late hours of the night, watching parade floats go by, and Ian Somerhalder eating sherbet. (It is a memory that will live in infamy.)
If you know you know! I didn't realize it then, but Season 1 wouldn't be the only time I worked as an extra on set of The Vampire Diaries. I had the opportunity to do so several other times, and each one was just as magical as the first.
These experiences gave me the ability to develop lifelong friendships , and to meet producers, directors, creators, actors, and some AMAZING behind the scenes team members who helped bring it all to life. Watching them and learning of the "Behind the Scenes" magic changed my view of how shows/movies are made.
I have truly been blessed to meet people from all over the world. Seeing your eyes light up and taking in the magic that is my home! So, becoming a tour guide was my dream job.
I had a passion to share my stories and I wanted to bring you all along on this journey.
I love Covington! I love the history that has brought us to this point in time. And now I want to share it with you!