The PAPER February 2023

PAPER PAPER

you get to thinkin’ you’re a person of some influence, try orderin’ somebody else’s dog around.

… Old Hillbilly Wisdom

Cynthia Bennett named Citizen of the Year

Long-time retired educator Cynthia Bennett was named the 2023 Citizen of the Year (COTY) by the Kiwanis Clubs. The award honors an individual showing outstanding leadership and citizenship within the community, someone who has demonstrated exemplary vision, civic pride, and a strong commitment to a better Coweta. A total of 10 individuals were nominated this year and the nominee is selected by previous COTY winners. The 2022 winner was Norma Haynes.

Bennett was a former Teacher of the Year; current president of the board for Meals on Wheels; chair of the board for the Coweta Community Foundation; and former vice president of talent development for the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce.

The Kiwanis Clubs also recognized brother and sister John and Jennifer Hanna of Contemporary Catering for their longtime service to the community. They are retiring after 30 years.

The COTY award ceremony was held January 26 at the Newnan Centre. Look for more photos at wintersmedia.net n

The Board of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County invite you to their 16th annual Oscar Gala

Date: Saturday, February 25

Location: The Newnan Centre, 1515 Lower Fayetteville Rd, Newnan

Time: 7 to 10:30 p.m. • Attire: Black Tie

Theme: This year’s theme - MISSION POSSIBLEfocuses on the board’s mission, which is: To ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens by creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments.

For sponsorship opportunities, to purchase tickets and to fill your Oscar Gala Swag Bag with silent auction items,

visit https://e.givesmart.com/events/uiE/ Help make their mission possible!

Since 1948”

If

2023 Citizen of the Year Cynthia Bennett and Garnet Reynolds 2020 Citizen of the Year

February Backyard Association (BYA) presentation is Feb. 14th “Pruning Tips for Homeowners.” Come learn and ask questions of our MGEV pruning gurus, Dan Gentry, Allen Summerlin, and CR Phillips. Presentations are free to attend, but you must register by calling or emailing beforehand for a chance to win door prizes. Call the Coweta County Extension office 770.254.2620 or email coweta.extension@uga.edu for information.

255 Pine Road, Newnan ugaextension.org/coweta

The Journey

with Samantha Brazie

What I Learned from Not Winning Citizen of the Year

Happy February, Paper readers! This year I had the honor of being nominated for Citizen of the Year. The Kiwanis Clubs do such an outstanding job of putting this event together every year, it’s always a treat to attend and learn more about what Cowetans are doing to make our community a better place. My experience this year, as a nominee, was similar but hit a couple of different chords.

When we moved to Coweta, I was jobless and homeless. I looked for a job for quite some time and ended up applying at the company I’m with now with no job openings and Greg created one for me. While we were still in a recession.

Even though I have always wanted to help the community and did my best to be a servant leader - I never had that behavior modeled for me. It wasn’t until I started working in Coweta County, that I felt at home for the first time since I moved away from Wisconsin in high school.

Because of the leadership, generosity and kindness shown to me and around me, I was able to do things I’d never thought possible. Stabilize our family life, watch my kids grow up in a wonderful environment where they thrived as my husband and I proved to ourselves that generational cycles of poverty and domestic violence can indeed be broken.

I’ve always known how special Coweta is, but listening to all of the nominees, reaffirmed the diversity that a community needs to assure all sorts of human rights and skills and that we have people here with kind and open hearts that put themselves out there every single day to make our community a better place. And I am grateful beyond measure for every single person that does what they can to make a difference.

Sometimes it tests our tenacity, discipline and determination. It can break our hearts into a million pieces and it can be one of the best feelings in the whole world. But at the end of the day, it’s all about the Journey.

“It’s easier to take than to give. It’s nobler to give than to take. The thrill of taking lasts a day. The thrill of giving lasts a lifetime.” - Joan Marques

Questions? Comments? Email me at balanced.brazie@gmail.com n

KNB to host Tire Amnesty Day on February 25

KNB to host Tire Amnesty Day on February 25

Are you a Coweta County resident with old tires in a garage, workshop or backyard that needs disposing of? Then, Keep Newnan Beautiful has the answer for you.

… includes 6 pours, a glass of wine, & charcuterie board pairings. Must RSVP and pay in advance. Reserve your spot! 770.301.8444

Reservations made only when reservation is paid in full. Look for us Fat Tuesday (Feb. 21) at the Senoia Pub Crawl.

Are you a Coweta County resident with old tires in a garage, workshop or backyard that needs disposing of? Then, Keep Newnan Beautiful has the answer for you.

Keep Newnan Beautiful is hosting its annual Tire Amnesty Day on Saturday, February 25. This event is for Coweta County residents ONLY who have old tires they need rid of. It will take place at the Hunter Recreational Complex, located at 2970 Highway 16 East in Sharpsburg, from 8 a.m. to Noon. This will be the only Tire Amnesty Event of 2023.

Keep Newnan Beautiful is hosting its annual Tire Amnesty Day on Saturday, February 25. This event is for Coweta County residents ONLY who have old tires they need rid of. It will take place at the Hunter Recreational Complex, located at 2970 Highway 16 East in Sharpsburg, from 8 a.m. to Noon. This will be the only Tire Amnesty Event of 2023.

Car and Truck tires are free for disposal for Coweta County residents.

Car and Truck tires are free for disposal for Coweta County residents.

Fees do apply with larger tires or tires with rims.

Passenger tires with rims will cost $5 each.

Fees do apply with larger tires or tires with rims.

Large Equipment tires will cost $25 each for disposal.

Passenger tires with rims will cost $5 each.

Tractor Trailer tires with rims will cost $15 each.

Large Equipment tires will cost $25 each for disposal.

Tractor Trailer tires with rims will cost $15 each.

There is a limit for the number of tires a Coweta County resident can drop off. For car/truck tires, the limit is 50 tires. For Tractor Trailer tires, the limit is 10 tires.

There is a limit for the number of tires a Coweta County resident can drop off. For car/truck tires, the limit is 50 tires. For Tractor Trailer tires, the limit is 10 tires.

Any questions just call 678-673-5505 or email knb@ newnanga.gov.

Any questions just call 678-673-5505 or email knb@ newnanga.gov.

Notes from Perry Street

I am writing this on Jan. 29, which also happens to be our anniversary. Not some work anniversary, but 29 years ago The Little Black Dress and I said “I do” in front of a lot of people. I mean a lot.

Corby’s gown was pink. Because, well, she had worn it during Miss Oklahoma pageant competitions. It meant a lot to her. She and her mom added a lot to The Dress (the gown, not the LBD), like a 325-foot trail and 6,000 beads or so. And everyone, myself included, went “wow” when she entered.

Today also marks the fourth day without hi-speed Internet … how was that for a transition?

Take pause and think about what not having hi-speed Internet really means, because I can assure you we have. No television, no Netflix and other streaming services, no streaming video games, no working from home (at least in our world), no searching on Google to win an argument; no being able to find out how to do Project X on YouTube … no, no, no.

Let’s get some things out of the way before we delve deeper into the hell that has become our lives. I mean, is there a better First World Problem than no Internet? Yes we have cell service. That’s like saying would you like a DVD or an 8-track?

One. Yes, we have rebooted the modem countless times. And when I say countless, I literally mean I can’t remember how many times we have done that.

Two. We have unplugged the modem from the power source. We have waited 10 seconds, 30 seconds, one minute and an hour.

Three. We followed the nice guidelines from the AT&T voice robot who 1. told us to do all the above and then 2. sent some magic dust through the Internet lines to fix the problem.

Ever talk with a robot?

“Did that solve your problem?”

“No.”

“Thank you for using AT&T.”

We finally got a human, AJ was his name. He and I did not have an easy time communicating with each other. Somehow, he also did the magic dust thingy and asked if the modem was working.

“No. We still have two blinking green lights and two blinking red lights where it says ‘broadband’ on the modem.”

“I am not showing any outages in your area.”

Flash back to the movie Cool Hand Luke - “What we have here is a failure to communicate.”

We point out that, based on our neighborhood Facebook page, there are some other AT&T clients reporting similar issues. Did I slip up and say “AT&T?” Sorry about that AT&T. My bad.

Anyway, AJ with AT&T again utters “I am not showing any outages in your area.”

So, we will have a technician coming out to save us. Said technician won’t be out to fix our wretched lives until Monday, Jan. 30. My conversation with AJ was on Thursday, Jan. 26.

Of course all of you want to know how we are surviving. The days aren’t so bad, I can go to an Internet-capable office, play golf, go for a walk, etc. But it is the nights when you feel the walls closing in.

We have resorted to talking to each other. We are reading next to a roaring fire. By reading, I mean books. We have talked about playing board games or even cards. I can’t count (meaning I have no idea, but it’s a lot) how many times I have reached for the remote to see what is on the television or opened up my laptop to do some laptopneeded thing.

And so we wait. And look to the East.

John A. Winters, Publisher, Editor john@wintersmedia.net

Corby Carlin Winters, Marketing/Public Relations corby@wintersmedia.net

Joey Howard, Digital Editor / Sales 404.698.0734 joey@wintersmedia.net

Levi Winters, Social & Visual Media levi@wintersmedia.net

Seth Winters, Ad Design sethswinters@gmail.com

Ruth Harris Doyal, Composition 770.254.1421 info@wintersmedia.net

The PAPER office is located at 15 Perry Street, Newnan, GA 30263

Mailing address is: P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264

Office Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 9 - 4. 770-254-1421

e-mail: info@wintersmedia.net web: https://www.wintersmedia.net

The PAPER is published by Winters Media & Publishing, Inc., P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264

John A. Winters, President Corby Carlin Winters, Vice President

The PAPER is distributed throughout Coweta County and surrounding areas. You can find it at restaurants, banks, tourist locations, hotels, convenience stores, libraries and other high visibility locations. For more information … info@wintersmedia.net

“Look to my coming at first light on the fifth day. At dawn, look to the east,” Gandalf speaking to Aragorn, telling him when he will help to fight at Helm’s Deep. The Two Towers.

with Susan Crutchfield

The Bookmark Some Romance Reads

It is the season of love! I think the people (Hallmark according to some) who decided Valentine’s Day would be in February were attempting to have something good happen in a very dreary month. There is nothing I like better than curling up under my heated blanket with a good romance and a hot cup of tea. This month I thought I would share my favorite romances with you.

So, what exactly constitutes a romance book? There are books with romances in them and then there are romance books. In order to be considered a romance it must have a happily ever after ending. There is something warm and familiar about picking up a book knowing that no matter what conflicts occur, they will end up together at the end. There are also different types of romance within the genre: historical, contemporary, fantasy, young adult, etc. There are even differences in “spice” levels, aka sexy times. The following books I would highly recommend if you are interested in picking up a delightful romance book or series.

Book Lovers by Emily Henry: I highly recommend any of Henry’s books but this is my favorite. Our heroine Nora’s whole life is books and she is a literary agent. Truly there is nothing better than a book about books! Nora and her sister, Libby, travel to a small town for an extended sisters’ trip and there Nora keeps running into brooding editor, Charlie. So, I loved this book for several reasons beyond it being a love letter to a love of books. The relationship between the sisters was absolutely love. I also really enjoyed the small town, cozy atmosphere of this book.

Get a Life, Chloe Brown by Talia Hibbert: This is the first in the Brown Sisters trilogy. And oh, how I loved this book. Our heroine, Chloe, is chronically ill and she decided it’s time to accomplish some bucket list items. And she finds a handsome handy man, Red, to help her check these items off. I loved watching Chloe and Red have adventures all over town. This book deals with some serious subjects but is also really funny. This book is one of those spicy ones I warned you about above! So, if that’s not your jam skip this. I love all the books in this series.

The Roughest Draft by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka: This delightful romance book was written by a husband/wife writing team. It is about Katrina and Nathan, a one-time writing duo who are now estranged. However, they still owe one book to their publisher so they have to lock themselves away in a house and write. I enjoyed this one because we spent time in both their points of view. I enjoy books written in multiple POV because we get a more rounded look at the characters and the story.

Before I Let Go by Kennedy Ryan: This is a book about a second chance romance. Yasmen and Josiah are divorced but co-parenting and running a business together. As the story slowly unfolds through flashbacks and current day narrative, we go deep inside their marriage, break-up & divorce and their coming back together. The writing in this book took my breath away and the story tugged at my heartstrings.

If you are interested in more romance picks drop by the Carnegie and ask. We love doing reader recommendations!

Did You Know?

• 61% of low-income families do not have a single piece of age-appropriate reading material in their home?

• 1/3rd of Georgia’s children start school unprepared to learn?

• 75% of Georgia’s students who are poor readers in the third grade will remain poor readers in high school?

How Do Books Help?

The more words a child hears, the larger the child’s vocabulary and the larger the child’s vocabulary, the more likely the child will be a proficient reader. However, in order to read with a child, books must be in the home.

The Bookmark is sponsored by Coweta Public Library System

Susan Crutchfield is the director of the Carnegie Library in Historic Downtown Newnan. She also is a professional photographer and enjoys volunteering with the Newnan ArtRez and the Newnan Theatre Company.

Real Es tate PAPER 2023 Real Estate Forecast

You may have noticed that the real estate market has changed dramatically recently. We saw the strong seller’s market peak earlier in the year. Homes were selling at all-time high prices with record demand from buyers. We were regularly seeing multiple offers over list price with cash buyers typically winning these competitive bidding wars. I received 23 offers on one listing and 21 on another. This has all changed.

With mortgage rates up from three percent and four percent to seven and eight percent, the market has really changed. The number of homes available for sale, which was a huge problem earlier in the year, is slowly increasing but demand has cooled off. Many buyers have decided to wait to purchase until interest rates go down. These two developments, along with a historic inflation increase, have slowed down the real estate market considerably. Listings are taking much longer to sell, weeks and months instead of days. The number of showings has decreased considerably as there are just not as many buyers in the market. Now is a better time to buy than it was earlier in 2022.

We are seeing a buyer’s market take shape. While the real estate market is cooling, prices have decreased some but not significantly. They are still holding close to where they have been earlier in the year. I do see 2023 as a good time to be a buyer, as I expect prices and mortgage rates to decrease.

Lawrence Yun, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) chief economist, expects home sales to decline by seven percent in 2023, while the national median home price will increase by only one percent. In 2024, Yun projects a strong rebound for the housing market, with a 10 percent jump in home sales and a five percent increase in the national median home price. According to Yun, 2023 would be a better time to purchase a home than waiting to 2024.

If mortgage rates can drop from seven percent, that would be the optimal time to buy. According to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), mortgage rates should be close to 5.4% by the end of 2023. If you are trying to “time your home purchase” this might be the time frame to aim for from what I am seeing and hearing in our marketplace.

Jess Barron is an Associate Broker with Lindseys, Inc. Realtors and former President of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors n

with Jess Barron

“Serving All of Newnan and Coweta County Since 1948”

www.LindseysRealtors.com

MLS #10094129

MLS #20005781

24+/- ACRES ON POPLAR ROAD AT YEAGER ROAD INTERSECTION. Already zoned C-6 with water and sewer. Ideal for multiuse development. $7,000,000 for all or will consider subdividing front 5 acres for $500,000 per acre and back 19+/- acres for $250,000 per acre. Frank / Chip.

12 CHOICE BUILDING LOTS IN GRANTVILLE. BULK SALE ONLY. Easy access to I-85, Atlanta, Newnan, LaGrange and Columbus. Seller will only sell as a bundle, not individual lots. $420,000. Frank/Jess.

LOTS/LAND

3 VACANT LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS. Subject to Covenants & Restrictions of record. Nicely wooded lots. No HOA. Possible bsmt lots. Lots 15, 16 & 17 are available for $29,900 each. Frank.

HURRY ON THIS 14.41+/- WOODED ACRE TRACT ON US HWY 29 approximately 5 miles north of Newnan! 819.25’ Road frontage. Small pond. Ideal for development, church, school, estate size lot or possible subdivision. $599,900. Frank / Chip.

UNDER CONTRACT

UNDER CONTRACT

MLS #10110540

NEW CONSTRUCTION IN NEWNAN! 4BR/3BA CRAFTSMAN style ranch on 1.57+/- Ac w/easy access to downtown Newnan & I-85. Open floor plan in quiet rural setting. Bldr is offering $2,000 in closing costs & an interest rate buy down w/preferred lender. Estimated completion – March 2023. $420,000. Jess.

RECENTLY RENOVATED! New flooring, new tile, new LVP, new carpet, new lighting, new toilet in master bath, new kitchen cabinets, new vanity, all new interior paint throughout and new doors. Nice deck on back of house. LR w/stone surround fireplace. Dining area. Bonus room with separate entrance is ideal for home office. 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Laundry room. Move in Ready! New price $249,900 Make Offer! Frank/Chip.

SITE OF PROPOSED NEW INTERCHANGE ON I-85 NORTH OF NEWNAN 255 Acres on I- 85 North of Newnan. Between 2 Industrial parks, 27-acre Lake. All utilities available $70,000 per acre Frank owner/agent.

MLS #10101800

& electricity available. Schools nearby! Walk to downtown Manchester. $30,000 per lot. BULK SALE ONLY. Frank/Jess.

LOTS/LAND

2 WOODED VACANT LOTS in West Coweta on East Coggins Road. Easy access to Newnan, Franklin or Carrollton. $60,000 per lot. Frank/Jess.

6.47 ACRES ZONED GENERAL COMMERCIAL! Convenient to Hwy 34 Bypass & downtown Newnan. Great opportunity for many potential uses. New Price $499,000. Frank and Chip.

LOTS/LAND

12 CHOICE BUILDING LOTS in Grantville. Easy access to I-85, Atlanta, Newnan, LaGrange and Columbus. Sold ‘as is’. $420,000 Bulk Sale Only. Frank/Jess.

VACANT LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS SUBDIVISION. Subject to Covenants and Restrictions of record. Nicely wooded lots. Possible basement lot. Lots 15, 16 & 17 are listed and priced individually at $29,900 each. Frank.

MLS #10119008

GREAT OPPORTUNITY IN HISTORIC NEWNAN! Level Residential Lot within walking distance to Atkinson Elementary and Newnan High School. Build your dream home! $85,000. Jess.

COMMERCIAL

NEW POPLAR ROAD COMMERCIAL LISTING. 24+/- ACRES zoned C-6 (multiple uses) commercial. Water and sewer already in place. $7,000,000. Will subdivide. Frank/Chip.

SOLD! SOLD!

RESIDENTIAL LOT ON BERRY AVENUE IN TOWN. All utilities available. $29,900 Frank.

AMLAJACK 255.5+/- ACRES WITH HALF MILE FRONTAGE ON I-85 between 2 industrial parks. $17,890,600. Frank.

770.253.6990

www.LindseysRealtors.com

MLS #10078262

MLS #10054454

MLS #10120310

Mr. Personality

Newnan’s Goodwill Ambassador

February, the month for Abraham Lincoln’s birthday and St. Valentine’s Day.

Murphey Florist and Let Them

Eat Toffee are indeed two excellent places to fulfill your Valentine’s Day gift shopping in true Valentine Day style. Both are right here on the Courthouse Square. Tell them Mr. Personality sent you.

This new year of 2023 is off to a good start for me. I have been blessed with the opportunity to have cataract eye surgery through the V.A. and Thomas Eye Group on Jan. 20th and 24th. Another example of Divine Spirit’s many blessings.

My amazing daily experiences in this spirit-filled town keeps me in a constant state of euphoria twenty-four seven as love and joy permeates the very air in all directions every day.

You must experience the amazing changes at Gilleyweeds, right next to Leaf and Bean. Valerie has truly outdone herself in rearranging her amazing shop. Go see for yourself.

Tony Caro at Red Letter Merchant has truly loaded down his unique boutique with awesome buys in t-shirts and other amazing items.

If you have not visited “Junk Starlet,” at 13 West Washington Street yet, you do not know what you are missing. Be sure to wear your sunglasses for all the dazzling items that sparkle everywhere you look.

John Winters and company have moved back to 15 Perry Street. Probably to avoid the temptation of being so close to Christy’s Cafe.

To re-visit last month’s Book of the Month titled “The Right To Be Wrong” by Kevin Seamus Hasson is that the whole point is that we are to follow our inner light from within and not the opinion of other human beings.

This brings me to my favorite part of my column, the Book of the Month. Divine Spirit places such books in my path. I refer to them as books of wisdom and I share them with you, the readers.

This month’s book is titled “The Stoic Challenge, A Philosopher’s Guide To Becoming Tougher, Calmer And More Resilient,” written by William B. Irvine.

I truly loved this book. It is an excellent guide for learning to deal with life’s many frustrations and difficult people. This is the philosophy of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca and Epictetus, George Washington and many of our founding fathers who were indeed stoics. The practice of stoicism is an ancient philosophy that we can apply to today’s challenges and not lose our inner joy.

Until next time

Peace, love and respect

Mr. Personality n

Please consider early registration and invite a friend or 2.

Proceeds from our 5K go to support our Art Box Supply program for elementary schools, Food for Families Program for the Ronald McDonald House, and our Family Emergency Fund.

In short, YOUR registration helps Keris Kares continue to do karing work.

Consider signing up today!

Meet Wilma Blunt, an ‘Exceptional Caregiver’

Prior to being a CNA, for 13 years I was a daycare provider. I absolutely loved caring for young children because they give unconditional love.

I received most of my training working in nursing homes. I thought all seniors were sweet like my grandmother. Oh, was I wrong! As time passed, I learned how to navigate the good, the bad and the ugliness of the business.

Now I’m employed with what I consider to be one of Newnan’s finest agencies – Home Helpers. I’ve been given the opportunity to choose when and where I work. While employed with this amazing company, I have learned a great deal concerning seniors. I’ve learned that the same unconditional love I received from the children, I also receive from the seniors.

I am truly grateful for the training and recognition I have received from Home Helpers. I would like to thank them once again for this opportunity and to continue to serve those in need.

Wilma Blunt

The MUSIC … Local &Live

Newnan‘s Kris Youmans Band has a unique rootsy, country sound with a bit of Western swing that makes them a perfect edition to GPB’s Georgia’s Country Connection series at GPB.org/Country. We are fortunate she writes The Music column for us at The Paper.

… by Kris Youmans

“Music gives a soul to the Universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” …Plato

*Check out the music calendar for Mad Mexican - consistently good music and great food.

*The Cellar/Bays always has a music calendar that offers a variety of bands & genres.

Some of our Local Musicians …

Aaron Walker - guitarist and singer -you’ll find Aaron playing in local venues with a band and solo. He’s a young artist to watch. Follow Aaron on Facebook & Instagram.

Mary Martin - playing at a venue near you from Fayette to Newnan to LaGrange and everywhere in between. Check out her website for the shows she’s planned for 2023.

Local & Live Venues …

Call ahead to check on Live music dates and times!

THE CELLAR / THE BAYS

20 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770.683.6328

Live Jazz on Wednesdays

Acoustic on Thursdays in the Bays

Live Music Friday and Saturday nights

2/02 … The Third Up Band

2/03 … Exiles of the Nation

2/04 … Chuck & Nick

2/08 … Chuck Wilcox

2/09 … Mary Martin

2/10 … DJ Brass Kings

2/11 … The Band One

2/15 … Midnite Cruzor

2/16 … Wendy Fulbright

2/17 … The Deuces

2/17 … Jeanine Duke in dining room

2/18 … Max Reggae Band

2/22 … John Hensley

2/23 … Christofer Sanchez

2/24 … John Carey & Friends

2/25 … Pete & Pete

THE MAD MEXICAN

2 East Court Square, Newnan 770.683.9545

Come for great food and Live local music.

2/01 … Lerogie

2/03 … Aaron Watkins

2/08 … Joey Troup

2/10 … Aaron Watkins

2/15 … Sara McAteer

2/17 … Ricky Lee

2/22 … Ellis Lowery

2/24 … John Hensley & Kevin Walker

2/25 … Larry Mills

MAKE MORE MUSIC FESTIVAL… March 18!

FOUNDATION 6 PERRY ST Mark your calendar, get your tickets!

Help us celebrate the first birthday of More Music Foundation!

Join us for the inaugural Make More Music Festival featuring local bands.

Free parking and food trucks onsite. Merchandise and auction items for sale. Shaping Student’s Lives Through the Power of Music because Music Matters! Get Tickets Here! moremusicfoundation.org go.rallyup.com/makemoremusicfestival

FOOD TRUCKS, MERCHANDISE & AUCTION ITEMS

HALF SHELL OYSTER BAR & HOTDOG SHOP

1690 Hwy 34 East, Newnan 770.502.9911

Mark Your Calendars For This Event; Tuesday, February 14 … The Wyatt Group will perform a Special Fundraising Event sponsored by Half Shell to raise money for a beloved employee who is battling cancer. There will be drink and seafood specials all evening, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

THE GRAND HOTEL

303 E. Main St., Hogansville 678.590.7412

2/11 … Valentine’s Celebration, 7 to 10 p.m. Piano Performance by Rob Hardie in the 1890 Room

THE BRICKS ON CHURCH STREET Grantville, GA 678.877.6571

The Bricks on Church Street in Grantville features local and live music events and is a good choice for your own special events.

OLDE COURTHOUSE TAVERN on the Square, Fayetteville Marvelous Marvin presents Saturday Night Blues on the Southside - 8:30 p.m. You’ll hear the best local and regional blues!

WILD WINGS CAFE Opelika, AL

2/4 … Twice Shy 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Central Time

Kris Youmans is originally from Savannah, GA where she was part of the River Street music scene early on and is greatly influenced by music of the southern culture. Kris’ interests are focused on local music, organizing music fundraisers, her three grown children, life on Pierce Chapel & Hank the Dog (who also has an ear for music!) Contact Kris with questions, comments, suggestions or just to say you like her column krisyoumansband@gmail.com.

SUMMERGROVE GOLF CLUB

335 SummerGrove Parkway, Newnan | 770.251.1800

Friday Night Dinner and Music

2/03 … Pete & Pete

2/10 … The Dreamers

2/17 … Wyatt Band

2/24 … Southside Band

3/03 … Jeanine Duke

HOLLONVILLE OPRY AT TURIN UMC

20 Longstreet Ave., Turin UMC

Music every 1st and 3rd

Saturdays of each month starting at 6:30 p.m.

Gospel, Bluegrass and Country. Good Music, Good Fellowship!

2/04 … Pine Grove 5

Frank Brannon & My Way

Kirkland & Friends

ABIDE BREWING CO. 110 Werz Industrial Blvd., Newnan

2/10 … Mary Martin

3/10 … Mary Martin

Go out, have fun, enjoy good music and support your local musicians!

LINE CREEK BREWING CO.

150 Huddleston Rd., PTC 678.993.0086

2/03 … Mary Martin 6 p.m.

2/04 … Brian Rivers 9 p.m.

2/10 … Rylee Banks 4 p.m.

2/11 … Jason Bowen 6 p.m.

2/17 …Savannah Bassett 6 p.m.

2/18 …Southside Band 6 p.m.

2/25 … Threadbare Skivvies 6 p.m.

LINE CREEK BUS BARN

300 City Center Parkway, Fayetteville 770.731.1641

Most shows 6-9 p.m.

2/03 … Jason Bowen 6 p.m.

2/04 … Pete Fodero 6 p.m.

2/10 … Cagle & Pitts 6 p.m.

2/11 … Butch Watson 6 p.m.

2/12 … Mary Martin 1 p.m.

2/1 …Brian Rivers 6 p.m.

* 2/18 …Mardi Gras Party 12-10 p.m.

2/18 … Carmello Saxxx 2 p.m.

2/18 … Dixon 6 p.m.

2 /25 … Savannah Bassett 12:30 p.m.

2/25 … Jukebox Disciples 6 p.m.

Kris Youmans Band

John Hensley/ Kevin Walker Mad Mexican Feb. 24

BIG SHOTS KITCHEN and BAR

102 B Guthrie Way, PTC 770.629.5591

Jeanine Duke

Every Sunday 12:30-3 p.m.

HUNTER’S

MEXICAN CANTINA

1875 E. Main St., Hogansville 706.637.9444

Family oriented Mexican cantina and grill with friendly atmosphere and live music. Call ahead for music line up.

3/01 … Daniel Toole

PURE LIFE HOUSE OF MUSIC

206 Clark St., LaGrange 706.443.4838

A true listening room featuring hidden treasures and legendary singer/songwriters in an intimate setting.

2/04 … Chris Edmonds

2/11 … Eliot Bronson

2/25 …John Cowan’s New Grass All Stars

3/04 … Jess Jocoy

CRUST AND CRAFT

3150 Hwy 34 E, Sharpsburg

2/03 … Lerogie

2/17 … Daniel Toole

2/24 … Jeanine Duke

GRAZING HERE

2850 Hwy. 54, Peachtree City 770.486.2696

All Shows Start at 8 p.m.

2/04 … Second Time Around

2/10 … THEM

2/11 … 2 Broke Kings

2/17 … Playlist

2/18 … FUZE

2/24 … Sean Carter Band

2/25 … Block Party

NEWNAN PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 38 Greenville St., Newnan

2/26 … John McCutcheon @ 5 p.m.

John is a master instrumentalist, folk music renaissance man, storyteller. Proceeds from concert go to the UKRAINIAN REFUGEE RELIEF

RPM FULL SERVICE

15 Jackson Street, Newnan 770.683.1414

Live music and restaurant venue. pet friendly patiocall ahead for music lineup.

*Every Sunday music on the Patio *Karaoke every weekend

Open Mic Wednesdays 8:30 p.m.

THE ALAMO

19 W. Court Square, Newnan 770.683.2526

Call ahead for events, dates and times.

Open Mic Night

Every Sunday, 6 to 9 p.m. Come out to see local talent and sign up to play!

De Shawn Parker is your Host.

Sara McAteer Mad Mexican Feb. 15

Sara is our Guest Chef. Check out her Shrimps ‘n Grits recipe on page 18.

SUTTON’S AMERICAN GRILL

477 Rome St, Carrollton 678.664.2082

2/25 … Andrew Allums 7 p.m.

BEACON BREWERY

700 Lincoln St., LaGrange 706.298.6500

2/05 … Daniel Toole

BRICKHOUSE LAGRANGE

141 Main St., LaGrange, GA 706.298.5485

Live Music every Friday and Saturday Night!

Food and Drink specials all week

Thursday is Karaoke night.

NUTWOOD WINERY

1339 Upper Big Springs Road, LaGrange, GA 706.882.5296

Family owned winery and cafe … beautiful winery with tasting room and vineyard.

Every Friday and Saturday the Winery features a local performer in the Tasting Room. Starting around 6 p.m. on Fridays and 2 p.m. on Saturdays until close at 10 p.m. Call to get up-to-date lineup for music.

2/03 … Daniel Toole

2/11 … Mary Martin

2/18 … Mary Martin

Larry Mills Mad Mexican Feb. 25

The LOCATIONS

Check Out www.explorecoweta.com for Calendar of Events

40 Greenway Court, Suite D, Newnan www.southernarcdance.org • 770.683.3724

Midsummer Night’s Dream date TBA

A new work directed by Dale Lyles and choreographed by Paulo Manso de Sousa. Place and times TBA

Artz’n Park May 13 & Flower Festival June 3

Look for more information on these events in future issues.

Centre for Performing & Visual Arts

1523 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, GA 30265 www.thenixoncentre.net 770.254.2787

Good Shot Judy •Thursday, March 2 at 7 p.m.

From the swingin’ sounds of Sinatra, Basie, and contemporaries like Michael Buble, and Harry Connick Jr., to the beautiful ballads of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and back to the high energy Latin Dance big band sound, Good Shot Judy has got you covered!

Now... Let it Swing Baby!

LocaL TheaTre

24 1st Ave, Newnan • 770-683-6282

http://newnantheatre.org

They Came from Mars and Landed Outside the Farndale Avenue Church Hall in Time for the Townswomen’s Guild’s Coffee Morning

February 9-12 & 16-19

The Legacy TheaTre

The Legacy Theatre

1175 Senoia Rd., Suite C., Tyrone, GA., 30290 http://www.thelegacytheatre.org/

Sister Act through Feb. 26

The wait is over! Sister Act is the feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet!

around downTown

Main Street Newnan

6 First Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263 770.253.8283 mainstreetnewnan.com

Look for Market Day and Spring Art Walk in March

Movies

Regal Cinemas

Georgian 14 Ashley Park

237 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan 844.462.7342

www.regmovies.com

senoia

http://www.enjoysenoia.net

The Carnegie Library

1 LaGrange Street, Newnan • 770.683.1347 newnancarnegie.com

Exercise Is Medicine, Gentle Yoga and Crochet, Book Club with Lola, Chef Carlin for Kids Feb. 16, Literary Circle Book Club, and more. Visit newnancarnegie.com and eventbrite.com for information. Some events require reservations and space is limited.

NCG Cinemas at Fischer Crossings 55 Fischer Crossings Blvd., Sharpsburg 678-326-4460 www.ncgmovies.com

Senoia Alive After 5 Returns March 17, 5 p.m.

Senoia Shopping, Dining, Music and More

Senoia Farmers Market Returns March 25, Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 40 Travis St., Senoia / senoiafarmersmarket on Facebook. Fresh local produce, vendors and artisans.

Senoia Area Historical Society History Museum

McRitchie-Hollis Museum

74 Jackson St., Newnan • 770.251.0207 newnancowetahistoricalsociety.com

Coweta County Genealogical Society

8 Carmichael St., Newnan Wed. - Fri., 10 am to 4 pm Check Facebook for more info

6 Couch St, Senoia, GA 30276

Open every Friday and Saturday 1 to 4 p.m. Check out their Facebook and Instagram. senoiaareahistoricalsociety.org

And the lady wore … Vinage Exhibit opens Thursday, February 9 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Aside from Opening Night, the exhibit runs through February 25 Fridays/Saturdays 1 to 4 p.m.

Southside Theatre Guild

20 W Campbellton St, Fairburn, GA 30213 770-969-0956 • http://www.stgplays.com/

Charlotte’s Web (2023) Feb. 23 - March 5

Adapted by Joseph Robinette. Based on the book by E.B. White.

Live Music

OutdOOrs

Chattahoochee Bend State Park

P rofessiona L s P or T s

MLS Soccer

Look

for Kris Youman’s Local and Live Music column in this issue

301 Lafayette Ave., Fayetteville, GA 30214 770.719.4173 southerngroundamp.com

Fox Theatre 660 Peachtree St NE (at Ponce de Leon Ave NE), Atlanta 404.881.2100

Tickets on sale for upcoming shows. Check website … http://foxtheatre.org

Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater 201 McIntosh Trail, PTC 770.631.0630

Check website! amphitheater.org/ at Boyd Park 110 Smith Street, LaGrange, GA 30240 706.298.5434 sweetland.events/

Chastain Park 140 W Wieuca Rd NW, Atlanta 404.233.2227 State Farm Arena 1 Philips Dr NW (at Centennial Olympic Park Dr), Atlanta, GA 404.878.3000

Tickets on sale for upcoming shows. Check website … statefarmarena.com

425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA 30263 www.gastateparks.org/ChattahoocheeBend

Call and ask about reservations: 770.254.7271

Nature Hike - Riverside Trail to the Tower Sun., Feb. 5 1-2:30 p.m.

Enjoy a beautiful walk alongside the Chattahoochee river, an easy 2.2 mile hike (round trip). Join our naturalist and learn a little bit about the Chattahoochee river. All skill levels welcome! Meet at the Day-Use Area. $5 per person. 20 person limit. $5 parking.

Meet the Turtle • Sat., Feb. 11, noon - 1 p.m. Join our park naturalist to learn more about Stumpy the box turtle at the visitor center. Get an up-close look at our turtle and watch Stumpy’s feeding time! Free. Meet at visitor center porch. 10 person limit. $5 parking.

Glow Bracelets and Night Hike • Sat., Feb. 18, 6-7: p.m Meet the park naturalist at the Day Use Area to make glow in the dark bracelets and necklaces and go on a night hike along the river trail.

Campfire and S’Mores • Sat., Feb. 25, 7-8 p.m. Roast marshmallows and swap stories or simply come and enjoy the warmth of the fire on campfire and s’mores night. Recommend bringing blankets and chairs. Pre-register and pay in advance by calling the park office. $3 per person. 10 person limit. $5 parking.

Make sure to contact them before you go!

BIKECOWETA (info@bikecoweta.com)

Visit their website - bikecoweta.com

Check out their Facebook page

NBA Basketball ATLANTA HAWKS

ATLANTA UNITED

Feb. 1, Wed., at Phoenix

Suns, 10 pm – ESPN/BSSE

Feb. 3, Fri., at Utah Jazz, 9 p.m. – BSSE

Feb. 4, Sat., at Denver

Nuggets, 9 p.m. – BSSE

Feb. 7, Tues., at New Orleans Pelicans, 7:30 p.m. – TNT

Feb. 9, Thurs., Phoenix Suns, 7:30 pm – BSSE

Feb. 11, Sat., San Antonio

Spurs, 7:30 pm – BSSE

Feb. 13, Mon., Charlotte

Hornets, 7 pm – BSSE

Feb. 15, Wed., New York

Knicks, 7:30 pm – BSSE

Feb. 24, Fri., Cleveland

Cavaliers, 7:30 pm – BSSE

Feb. 26, Sun., Brooklyn

Nets, 3 pm – BSSE

Feb. 28, Tues., Washington

Wizards, 7:30 pm – TNT

March 3, Fri., Portland

Trailblazers, 7:30 pm – BSSE

March 4, Sat., at Miami

Heat, 8 pm – BSSE

All Home Games played at State Farm Arena

BSSE – Bally Sports Southeast TNT – Turner Network Television

Jan. 28, Sat., at Chattanooga FC, 3 pm (Friendly)

Feb. 15, Wed., Toluca FC, 7:30 pm (AFI Cup)

Feb. 25, Sat., San Jose Earthquakes, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

March 4, Sat, Toronto FC, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

March 11, Sat., at Charlotte FC, Noon – Apple TV/FOX

All Home Games played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

MLB Baseball

ATLANTA BRAVES

Feb. 25*, Sat., Boston Red Sox,1:05 pm

Feb. 26*, Sun., at New York Yankees (Tampa), 1:05 pm

Feb. 27*, Mon., Toronto Blue Jays, 1:05 pm

Feb. 28*, Tues., at Minnesota Twins (Fort Myers), 1:05 pm

March 1*, Wed., Tampa Bay Rays, 1:05 pm

March 2*, Thurs., at New York Mets (Port St. Lucie), 1:10 pm

March 3*, Fri., at Houston Astros (West Palm Beach), 1:05 pm

* denotes Spring Training Game

All Home Spring Training Games played at Cool Today Park

Coweta Sheriff’s Office Receives Yamaha Wolverine To Enhance Search-And-Rescue Operations

Sometimes law enforcement officers need to do their jobs in places that a standard police car cannot go.

Thanks to a partnership with Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation, the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office has an extra vehicle for some difficult and even life-or-death situations. The department recently took delivery of a brand-new custom Yamaha Wolverine ® X4 1000 side-by-side off-road vehicle, a most unique addition to its fleet that can help officers who need to get off the beaten track.

“This gives us a tool to get out into the woods quicker than a dog or a human,” said Toby Nix, public information officer for the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office. “That’s an immediate benefit for those calls.”

To what calls would he be referring?

First of all, there can be a handful of missing persons cases which are active at any given time. Occasionally the department gets a call about an elderly dementia patient who has simply walked away from home or a care facility without any warning, and that person can easily end up lost in the woods. The same goes for a missing child. In an area like Coweta County – with a population of just over 150,000 but still with some rural aspects to it – there are plenty of places that cannot be reached by a squad car and would take hours to navigate on foot.

Another crucial time to have this vehicle in operation would be during a severe weather event or its aftermath. As Nix pointed out, officers can be out for hours on foot after a tornado going door to door through damaged areas checking on residents and looking for survivors.

“And then in the weeks that follow with us going in and clearing out neighborhoods, a lot of the roads are blocked for a long time,” he said. “So it’s great to have something like that not only on the night of or in the hot moments, but in the recovery efforts as well.”

According to Nix, Bob Brown of YMMC approached the sheriff’s office expressing his company’s desire to strengthen its relationship with the community through several initiatives, such as the department’s annual bike build event in which officers assemble new bicycles for children who otherwise would not have one.

“I feel like their whole company stance is to be good stewards for your community,” Nix said about Yamaha, one of the largest private employers in Coweta County.

As for the four-seat vehicle itself, “they personalized it for us and it gave it decals and all that stuff to look like a patrol vehicle just for aesthetics,” said Nix. “Because it looks really cool.”

But it’s the actual performance of the vehicle that is most important, especially when the search is on for someone and time is of the essence.

“It works for both a search-and-rescue and a manhunt-type situation,” said Brown, Yamaha’s vice president of finance and operational support. “You can maneuver through many places where you couldn’t if you were in another kind of vehicle, like a four-wheel drive, SUV or pickup. It’s much, much more agile, maneuverable and narrower.”

In addition to getting the Wolverine at a government discount, the sheriff’s office was the beneficiary of a number of optional extras that were donated by Yamaha. The company covered the cost of custom white body panels to match the department’s patrol cars, as well as specialized graphics, a light bar with strobes and siren, and several Yamaha accessories like a folding windshield, front and rear brush guards, a cargo box and a winch. These features are worth several thousand dollars to the typical customer, and Yamaha provided them at no additional cost.

According to Brown, it was important to forge a relationship with the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office since the Yamaha facility is in its jurisdiction.

“It just came from a mutual desire to partner together,” Brown said of the company providing the Wolverine. “They support us from a law enforcement perspective. Fifty-five percent of our over 2,000 employees live in Coweta County, so we have a lot in common.”

Going forward, it will be a key tool for a department whose primary charge is to protect and care for the most vulnerable in the community.

“We have a helicopter that takes a certain amount of time to get in the air. We have drones that take a certain amount of time. We have canines,” said Nix. “But if you can add another tool to your toolbox that might save one life, you’ve got to do it. We owe it to the community.” 

With a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), you can use the equity you’ve built in your home for major purchases, repairs and renovations, debt consolidation or other unexpected expenses. Whatever your needs may be, we are here to help you take the next step forward.

This is banking at its best. This is Banking Forward.

Yamaha Team members who worked on providing this custom vehicle include: Jason Broshear Division Manager, Corporate Planning and Sustainability; Bob Brown Vice President, Finance and Operations Support; Mitchell Dockery Manufacturing Engineer; Telisha Endicott Lab Coordinator; Chris Gervais Division Manager, Mechanical Engineering and Maintenance; with Sheriff Lenn Wood, Toshi Shigeta Vice President, Product Development; Richard Jones Vice President, Operations; Taka Imanishi President.

Laundry Service

Don’t waste precious family time doing chores! We can help. Using high-quality, fragrance and dye-free detergents, we’ll sort, launder, dry, and fold your laundry. Then we’ll pack it ready to be opened and put away. It’s as simple as 1-2-3.

We’ll schedule prompt pickup and speedy delivery of your laundry.

The CHEF …

The Chefs column highlights our local culinary masters. They share a recipe that has a lot of meaning to them and thankfully, how to make it. (Well at least most of it, sometimes secrets must remain that.) This month’s chef is …

Sara Greer McAteer

My name is Sara McAteer. If you are into the local music scene, you may know me by my maiden name, Sara Greer. But that’s not why we’re here today! We’re here to talk cooking - and more specifically, how to cook the best Shrimp ’N Grits you ever did have! This is my own personal recipe that I have perfected over the last two years or so. When I first moved in with my now-husband, Stone, I made it a point to get better at cooking. Not because I believe in gender roles or any of that mess (laugh with me!), but because it had always been something I enjoyed but never really took the effort to get better at. It was through this that I realized what a big role food plays in my love language. Coming up with a recipe from scratch really is a lot like writing or producing a song; it is often the most intricate subtleties that make the biggest difference in the overall flavor. I suppose that it was upon this realization that I decided to start cooking for friends and family more often as well. This particular dish is one that I have made on multiple occasions, and it’s a hit every time!

Shrimp ’N Grits

Serves 6-8 People

A few notes, before you start:

This recipe yielded around 6-8 generous servings. So get out your calculator and adjust if you need to, or invite some friends and family over to enjoy it with!

You will likely notice a lack of some specified measurements. This is intentional, and for two reasons; one being that I seldom measure out anything when I cook. I only do so when necessary. The other reason is to allow just enough room for the imagination, as well as for personal preference.

If you intend to follow this verbatim, I use Bob’s Red Mill Stone Ground Polenta. The ratio on the back of that bag is what I am using. However, I’m sure whatever grits you have on hand are fine, so long as they aren’t quick grits! Just make sure you double check

Windy Hill Family Farms

the ratio on the back beforehand to make sure it evens out. Adjust if needed, keeping in mind to use chicken stock in place of water (though this will not affect the amount needed).

Don’t skip anything! Should go without saying, but each ingredient here plays its own important role in the overall flavor.

DAIRY FREE: I recommend subbing butter for around 1/2 cup of Earth Balance vegan butter (if you are making a large amount like I did, obviously adjust that if you’re making a smaller or even larger quantity). Add nutritional yeast to taste for a cheesy flavor.

YOU WILL NEED:

 7 cups chicken stock

 2 1/3 cups stone ground grits

 10-12 pieces thick cut hickory smoked bacon, chopped

 2 lbs shrimp: tails off, deveined, and peeled (the biggest ones you can find!) They have the best flavor when you do this yourself, but if you don’t have time to do so then buying them already prepped is perfectly fine. If you buy frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed beforehand!!

 3 large bell peppers: 2 green, 1 red, chopped

 1/2 vidalia onion or yellow onion, diced

 6 large garlic cloves, minced

 1 small bundle (4-7) green onions, chopped; separate whites from greens

 1 small lime, quartered (don’t use a lemon! It won’t ruin it, but it certainly isn’t the same)

 1 stick salted butter, chopped into smaller bits

 Half and half cream

 Shredded cheddar cheese (for the best melt, buy a block and grate it by hand)

 Shredded colby jack cheese (you can buy this pre-shredded and it makes no difference)

 Shredded Parmesan cheese (please get a small block and grate around half of it by hand. It just isn’t the same if you don’t)

 Old Bay Seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme. Fresh herbs are best for flavor, but dried herbs work too! If you are using dried herbs, the more the merrier. Either way, add to taste. I always use a generous amount of both, with slightly

more thyme than rosemary. It is essential that you add them in before the grits start to cook for maximum flavor.

DIRECTIONS:

Add the bacon to a large and deep cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add a small splash of water to prevent excess grease, then cook on high heat until bacon is brown and crispy. Once finished, turn off the heat and remove from burner. Set the bacon bits aside, wrapped in paper towels.

While the bacon is cooking, combine your grits and chicken stock in a medium-sized pot before turning on the heat. Over mediumlow heat add salt, black pepper, and herbs to taste. Cook over medium-heat, whisking frequently.

Return skillet to burner over medium-low heat. To the remaining bacon grease, first add the vidalia onion. Mix it in with the grease really well. Once fragrant (a couple minutes), add the peppers. Stir again, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add another small splash of water and cover for 2-3 minutes; then, add in the garlic and green onion whites. Squeeze 1/4 of the lime over top, stir, then let it continue to cook uncovered for a few more minutes. At this point, your grits should be starting to thicken. Once you notice this, add in all of the butter. Whisk until melted, then add a splash of half and half cream. Probably around a couple tablespoons. Whisk until combined. Reduce heat to medium-low. Give the veggies another good stir before adding in the shrimp. Dump them on top of the veggies, and season GENEROUSLY with Old Bay. If you ain’t sneezin’ it ain’t seasoned! Cover for about 5 minutes or until the shrimp has just turned pink. Stir well, add a little more Old Bay and squeeze the other 3 lime pieces over top, mix once more, then remove from heat and cover.

Once the grits are just shy of being done, add all of your cheeses in one at a time. If you add them all at once, it will become quite difficult to stir. Stir after you add each one to maintain a smooth consistency. I like to add slightly less parmesan than the other two because we will sprinkle more on top when we plate it. Use a ladle to serve to minimize mess! First add your grits, then shrimp/veggie mixture, then bacon bits. Top with a sprinkle of that same parmesan and the greens from the green onions. And most importantly… indulge and enjoy! n

Stone and Sara

Sara’s Shrimp ‘n Grits Sara and Stone

The JOINTS

Everyone has their “go-to” place to eat. It might be with linen tablecloths and waiters in ties, or where you throw peanuts on the floor and carve your initials in the wooden tables. Whatever and wherever, it’s your “joint.”

There are lots of these places around here, and we’re out to find them all in The Joints column. And yes, all are White Monkey approved.

Japaneck Frank Hibachi Cuisine

Food Truck … Facebook: Japaneck Frank for times and locations. 678.633.0528 or 678.756.1906

This joint is all about something different. Different foods, different cooking styles, different locations … different. Think flat tops, shrimp, steak, salmon, grilled veggies, ginger sauce, the perfect fried rice and trailers and personal chefs and ...

JR’s BBQ 404.391.3846 • 191 Pine Road, Newnan

He’s located on the side of the road in a little trailer. The smoker is outside. Just go ahead and stop for a BBQ sandwich and you will be hooked.

Lisa Créperies … 48 Main Street downtown Senoia Cafe: 770.727.9566 www.lisascreperie.com

Lisa’s Créperie has some amazing dessert crépes. But you’d be missing out if you didn’t try their breakfast and lunch “sandwich crépes.” Let’s just say their simple ham and cheese creépe would put your mama’s to shame and make her cry. And the “Lisa’s Crépe,” which is basically a ham crépe on steroids, is awesome. Heck, everything is. Come support this veteran-owned joint right in the middle of downtown Senoia.

The Mad Mexican … 770.683.9545 • 2 East Court Square

Southern BBQ meets Mexican tacos. A unique take on Mexican dishes - burritos, quesadillas, nachos - with that Southern flair. Now serving margaritas … and awesomeness.

Matt’s Small Town Pizza … 770.599.1226, 53E Main St, Senoia. There is nothing “smalltown” about their pizza, or wings or anything else. Very casual atmosphere with beer, wine and even gluten free pizza if you prefer.

Mimmo’s Gourmet Pizza … 770.486.8000, 1014 Senoia Rd, Tyrone

The pizza is dead-on with every topping you would want. Their cheesesteak is top-notch. And they have “build your own” pasta specialties where you choose the pasta, the sauce and the protein. Strombolis, Calzones and Chicken Parmesan and wings also on menu.

There’s more Joints and Chefs on our website!

Modern Thai 678-834-5403 • modernthaiga.com, 54 Carriage Oaks Drive, Tyrone. A few offerings … Panang Beef … sliced beef tenderloin sautéed in panang curry topped with minced kaffir lime leaf and bell pepper served with jasmine blue rice. Or Spaghetti Keo Mao: stir fried spaghetti, shrimp, scallop, calamari, sweet onion, bell peppers, green beans with fresh chili, garlic & Holy basil. And Deep fried calamari rings with tentacles in salt and pepper batter served with pineapple chili sauce.

The Red Door Cafe 770-599-6838 • 86 Georgia Hwy. 85, Haralson, GA

If you are ever in Haralson, Georgia, make sure and stop at Williams Grocery for some of the best sausage in the country. And you can try it right next door at the Red Door Cafe. You can have breakfast or lunch. On weekdays, they usually have two meat specials with plenty of vegetables. Or order off the blackboards.

Commit to your health this year and Arden’s Garden will commit to your journey! With specialty smoothies like the PB&J and the Summer Island, you’re guaranteed to find options that will satisfy your tastebuds. Cold-pressed juices made from fresh fruits and vegetables – with no additives – cater to both the seasoned health enthusiast and the juicing novice. Yoga 1, Oops!, and TLC are just a few of the selections you can find when you enter the store.

Located around the corner from Downtown Newnan, stop in for highquality, healthy options that support optimal nutrition at an affordable price. Arden’s Garden offers wellness shots, hearty soups, seasonal salads with fresh ingredients, and delicious plant-based snacks that aren’t intimidating.

CEO Leslie Zinn has remained dedicated to the mission of good health for all that started with her mother, Arden, and the first store in Atlanta in 1995. The Newnan location opened in 2019 and features outdoor seating, a convenient drive-thru retail experience, and a friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to help you on your healthy food journey.

www.ardensgarden.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ardensgardenatl/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ardensgardenatl/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ardensgardenatl

Store

CEO Leslie Zinn

The Film Fix … Streaming Edition

with Jonathan W. Hickman

Capsule Reviews … New Rating System - A “Fix" is recommended with a rating between 6 and 10! a “No Fix” with ratings of 1 to 5 isn’t. http://dailyfilmfix.com/

In Theaters:

had a limited theatrical run, the Academy did nominate cinematographer Roger Deakins for his camera work.

: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever (February 1) – Fix Rating 7/10

Infinity Pool (Now Playing) – l Fix Rating 7/10 – Writer/ director Brandon Cronenberg, son of the filmmaking auteur David Cronenberg, continues to mine his father’s twisted subgenre of body horror with “Infinity Pool.” While there will be a time when Brandon will be talked about without mention of his famous dad, if he continues to make movies like this one, the son will forever be in the shadow of his father. Needless to say, “Infinity Pool” is another Cronenbergian tale that effectively blends horror, science fiction and satire.

The story is about a failed writer named James Foster (Alexander Skaregård in another terrific performance) and his wealthy wife, Em (Cleopatra Coleman), on vacation at a posh ocean-side resort. When they meet Gabi (“X” and “Pearl” star Mia Goth) and her husband, the Fosters join them for a getaway outside the resort grounds. On the drive home, James accidentally runs over a farmer, killing him instantly.

Soon, James and Em discover that the penalty for the crime is death. But they’re in luck; the tiny nation can construct a replica of James, who will be executed in his place. But the repercussions associated with this other-worldly experience will be impossible to forget.

“Infinity Pool” is a gruesome and decadent carnival of the flesh as James goes down the rabbit hole. Just what all the bloodletting and depravity that follows really means might take multiple viewings. But like all good yarns spun by a Cronenberg, it is an experience of the flesh, exploring the inherent weaknesses of the protagonist, who is caught in a surreal web.

Streaming Selects:

The Last of Us (new episodes each week) – After watching the first two episodes of this high-end video game adaptation, I’m torn as to whether I’ll continue to tune in. It’s a handsomely made series with solid performances led by “The Mandalorian” star Pedro Pascal. But it is bleak and unforgiving and often terribly unpleasant.

The familiar storyline takes place after a fungal pandemic has ravaged the globe leaving those infected as blood-thirsty zombies. While the difference here is that an interconnected fungus drives the infection, “The Last of Us” is just another post-apocalyptic tale ala “The Walking Dead.” “Game of Thrones” actress Bella Ramsey plays a 14-year-old girl who may hold within her a cure or some sort of resistance to the fungus, which will likely offer a distinguishing twist.

Empire of Light (February 7) – This may be of interest because of the top-tier cast, including Olivia Coleman and Colin Firth. It comes from the pen of Sam Mendes (“1917,” “American Beauty,” “Skyfall”), who also directs. The story takes place in 1980s England and centers on Hilary Small (Coleman), the manager of a movie theater, the Empire. While “Empire of Light” wasn’t a hit with critics when it

You (season 4, part 1, February 9) – Joe Goldberg (Pen Badgley) returns, relocating to London, where his obsessive abilities are put to use investigating a set of murders. This social media stalker-inspired series continues to expand with a new location each season, along with another crop of attractive and self-obsessed characters. For some viewers, “You” is a guilty pleasure, while others want nothing to do with its surface thrills.

Your Place or Mine (February 10) – Reese Witherspoon and Ashton Kutcher play Debbie and Peter, long-distance best friends who exchange their residences for a colorful change of venue. As playboy Peter bonds with Debbie’s son, Debbie goes out on the town looking for companionship. But when she finds excitement with the handsome Theo (Jesse Williams), Peter starts to wonder if he’s made a big mistake. This “Sleepless in Seattle” type rom-com might seem too derivative to work, but the leads are irresistible and might have more simmering chemistry while they’re apart than if they together occupied every frame.

– On the heels of five Oscar nominations, including best supporting actress for Angela Bassett, the sequel to the massively successful “Black Panther” hits the streaming service. Director Ryan Coogler returns to deliver a tearful tribute to “Panther” star Chadwick Boseman, who passed away in 2020 of colon cancer. For most viewers, this will be an opportunity for a second (or third) viewing as Wakanda rebounds from the loss of its King and confronts a new threat from another holder of the power of vibranium.

Hello Tomorrow! (February 17) – I’ve only seen the first three episodes of this show, so I’m not ready to make a “fix” or “no fix” decision. But I will say that “Hello Tomorrow!” is an odd series that reflects Apple’s big swing mentality on their streaming service. “Hello Tomorrow!” takes place in an alternate reality driven by 1950s-style science fiction technology. We get floating robots that service the needs of the planet’s inhabitants, rocket packs that take folks to work, and video calls displayed on cathode ray tube-style televisions.

But despite the amazing conveniences, folks aren’t happy. And a salesman named Jack (Billy Crudup) aims to give people a lift by suggesting that they relocate to the moon. His company sells houses in a domed community on the moon’s bright side. As I said, it’s a weird one, but even though the nostalgic technology is all around them, and the possibility of a blast off to outer space looms in the background, this tale of salesman skirts its action/thriller impulses and embraces quirky drama.

Shrinking (now streaming)

- l Fix Rating 7/10 –

While we wait for season three of “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking” is Apple’s mainstream series, and it is solid light entertainment. The story has a therapist named Jimmy (Jason Segel) changing his philosophy after the death of his wife. His partner and mentor, Paul (a terrific Harrison Ford), offers Jimmy support and some much-needed sage advice while also coping with his own demons.

The Consultant (February 24) – Christoph Waltz plays Regus Patoff, a consultant brought in to save a struggling computer company. His unusual style and methods raise concerns as Patoff begins to take control of the operation. Trailers have given little away but watching multiple Oscar winner Waltz flex is enough for me to give “The Consultant” a shot.

Theatrical Teasers:

Knock at the Cabin (February 3) – Director M. Night Shyamalan gives us another twisty horror mystery about a family taken hostage by armed strangers who demand that they make a deadly choice to avoid the end of the world. Dave Bautista leads this gripping-looking thriller.

Magic Mike’s Last Dance (February 10) – Channing Tatum returns to the iconic role of stripper Mike Lane in the third film in the “Magic Mike” series. This time, Mike connects with a musical theater producer played by Salma Hayek to produce a stage show in London.

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (February 17) – Paul Rudd is back as Scott Lang, aka Ant-Man, and Evangeline Lilly joins him as Hope Van Dyne, aka The Wasp, in the third film in the series. This time, Scott and Hope battle Kang the Conqueror (Jonathan Majors) in the Quantum Realm. Michelle Pfeiffer and Michael Douglas are back, along with series newcomer Bill Murray.

Cocaine Bear (February 24) – I couldn’t avoid mentioning “Cocaine Bear” because it has the potential to be this year’s “Snakes on a Plane” meets “Jaws.” The film has a bear consuming a massive amount of, you guessed it, cocaine and then going on a murderous rampage. But instead of playing it totally serious, director Elizabeth Banks goes for trippy, subversive laughs, as the film’s trailers point out. In addition to a terrific cast, which includes Keri Russell, “Cocaine Bear” features one of the last performances by the late Ray Liotta.

Jonathan W. Hickman is an entertainment attorney, filmmaker, college professor, and novelist. More about Jonathan can be found by visiting http://filmproductionlaw.com/

Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …

Notes from here, there and the Internet …

Thanks to a partnership with Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation, the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office recently took delivery of a brand-new custom Yamaha Wolverine ® X4 1000 side-by-side off-road vehicle. “This gives us a tool to get out into the woods quicker than a dog or a human,” said Toby Nix, public information officer for the sheriff’s office. “That’s an immediate benefit for those calls.”

Retirement isn’t an age, it’s a financial status.

The Newnan Fire Department announced the promotion of Lieutenant Victor Kline to Fire Captain. Captain Kline, who owns a degree in criminal justice, began his service with the Newnan Fire Department in 1998.

The Georgia House of Representatives’ Committee on Assignments named State Representative Lynn Smith (R-Newnan) as the Chairman of the House Natural Resources & Environment Committee. “I am honored to continue serving as Chairman of the Natural Resources & Environment Committee,” said Rep. Smith. “Since beginning my chairmanship in 2005, I have sought to find the balance between the environmental and economic needs of the state to ensure quality of life for all Georgians.”

Master of Science sounds way more impressive than PhD.

West Georgia Technical College has received a $50,000 donation from Kia Georgia to expand upon the College’s existing Precision Manufacturing and Maintenance lab located at its Coweta County campus in Newnan. “We are extremely grateful for our partnership with Kia and their continued investment in our students,” said WGTC Foundation Executive Director Brittney Henderson.

GeorgiaForward recently selected Abigail Strickland as one of the 45 promising professionals to serve the organization’s 2023 Young Gamechangers (YG) program.Gamechangers brings professionals from across the state to work on the persistent challenges of one Georgia community. Abigail Strickland has been employed by the City of Newnan since 2017. Abigail was first hired as the Special Event Coordinator, but now serves as the Main Street Manager.

Cowboys go “yee haw,” ninjas go “hee yaw.”

Check it out - three flag football teams in the Coweta County Recreation League were recently invited to play in the Red Zone Games at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The Steelers, led by Head Coach Ron Troxler; the Falcons, led by Head Coach Michael Leech; and the Vikings, led by Head Coach Joey Johnson, all got to play exhibition games on the field that is home to the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United.

In other political news, Sen. Matt Brass, R-Newnan, was named chairman of the Georgia Senate Rules Committee. He has served on the committee, as well as chairing the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee previously.

We’d save a lot of room burying people perpendicular to the ground above rather than parallel.

WINPAK FILMS INC. IS HIRING

Much More Than a Place to Work

Winpak Films Inc. is growing to meet the demand for food packaging and other flexible film products around the world. As we expand our capacity, we are dedicated to much more than hiring machine operators, logistics pros, maintenance, and lab technicians to support our production growth. Importantly, we are committed to supporting your growth and advancing your career.

For starters, we’ve created a supportive, clean and safe work environment that has made many of our employees stay with us for decades and even inspire their children to come to work for us. Then we reward their loyalty with exceptional working conditions and a great employment package, plus the opportunity to live in and raise families with the small-town advantages of Senoia and nearby Peachtree City, Ga.

Overall, we’re known for nurturing an environment that’s better than 95 percent of workplaces around the world.

How Much Could You Earn?

What Can Winpak Offer You?

Our commitment to a wellrounded benefits program goes beyond medical insurance to include dental, vision, telemedicine, a flexible spending account, and life and disability benefits. If you work at Winpak 30+ hours a week on a continuous basis, you’re eligible for benefits. Your eligibility begins the first of the month following 60 days of hire with the company. Employees can expect:

Contributing to a Sustainable Future

At Winpak, sustainability is more than just a buzzword, it’s engrained in how we work and manage our resources. We provide opportunities for active employee engagement in various initiatives which align with our sustainability pillars. This enables us, as an organization, to work together to become a better corporate citizen and contributor to a better planet.

“They really show their appreciation for you.” V. Smith

About Winpak Ltd. Winpak designs and supplies innovative packaging to some of the world’s largest brands.

As an employee of Winpak Films, you are part of Winpak Ltd., an $853 million company with 12 manufacturing facilities in North America encompassing locations in Illinois, New Jersey, California, Canada and Mexico.

Our facilities’ total floor space would cover 40 football fields and we employ more than 2,500 people. We started operations in 1978, and our corporate headquarters is in Winnipeg, MB, Canada. Winpak is listed on the TSX (WPK).

 Outstanding medical and supplemental insurance

• Outstanding medical & supplemental insurance

 $3,000 referral bonus

• Retirement Programs / 401K

 $2,000 signing / retention bonus

• Paid vacation & sick leave

 Retirement programs / 401K

• Career advancementoperators today could be managers tomorrow

 Paid vacation and sick leave

 Career advancementoperators today could be managers today

 Company-paid training

• Friendly, helpful production teams & managers

 Monthly performance awards

• Company-paid training

 Creative work schedules

• Creative work schedules

Extrusion Operators can earn up to $23.50 per hour, depending on skill level. For entry level employees our stepped-up wage scale starts at $17 per hour with the opportunity for higher earnings every 3 months in just the first year. On the first anniversary of hire you could be earning $19 to $20 per hour, depending on your job title and performance. Night shift positions earn an extra $1.50 per hour. Jobs include Machine Operators, QA Lab Technicians, Logistics Operators, Storeroom Attendants, Plate Mounters, and Apprentice Press Operators.

Our stepped-up wage scale starts at $16 per hour for entry level employees with the opportunity for higher earnings every 3 months in just the first year, On the first anniversary of hire you could be earning $18 to $20 per hour, depending on your job title and performance. Jobs include Machine Operators, QA Lab Technicians, Logistics Operators, Storeroom Attendants, Plate Mounters, and Apprentice Press Operators. Extrusion Operators can earn up to $21.59 per hour, depending on skill level.

Find

More and Grow with

Everything we do reflects how much Winpak cares for our employees and wants to keep them and help them succeed. We’re eager to tell you more about our available jobs, our exceptional products, and a workplace that feels like more than just work. Contact:

WFIjobs@winpak.com or call 678-633-8788

“I appreciate how my co-workers train me in a way I can understand.”

M. Boswell

We've Got Your Back

At Georgia Bone and Joint Spine Center, Dr. Chad Kessler and Dr. David Love are passionate about restoring their patients’ function through an individualized approach. From start to finish, The Spine Center offers a continuum of care with fellowship trained orthopedic surgeons specializing in spine surgery, spine specific physical therapists, x-ray, MRI, and staff dedicated to our patients’ care.

Dr. Chad Kessler

Renowned spine specialist with over 20 years of experience

“Because everything is in one place, we can get X-rays scheduled the same day, and the images are back almost immediately. If a patient needs physical therapy or targeted pain injections, I can get them in with someone I trust within a week. The best thing about the Spine Center is being able to find all-inclusive, state-ofthe-art care without having to travel into Atlanta.”

Dr. David Love

Fellowship trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in spine surgery

“Most people have one or two episodes of back pain, and 90% of them never need surgery. The goal of treatment is to give them many more good days than bad days without invasive treatment.”

1755 Hwy. 34 E, Suite 2200, Newnan 125 Grand Oak Drive, Fayetteville Call 770-502-2175 to schedule or book an appointment online at www.GeorgiaBoneandJoint.org

Shop Local Buy LOcal

BLOOD DRIVE

February 6

Senoia area Blood Drive

February 6 • 1 to 5 p.m.

Senoia United Methodist Church • 229 Bridge Street in historic Senoia (at the intersection of Seavy and Bridge Streets)

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. Give Blood.™

Potential donors are encouraged to either sign up online at www.redcrossblood.org/give 1.800.RED CROSS (1.800.733.2767).

Women’s Heart Programs Scheduled for American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month and the goal is to raise awareness about everyone’s risk for heart disease and the steps to take for prevention. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States, which is why The Dottie Fuqua Women’s Heart Support Network offers a holistic wellness program that aims to prevent the onset and support those with cardiovascular disease through high-caliber education and wellness coaching. The free program is supported by philanthropic support to promote equity and access for all women.

Piedmont Heart Institute seeks to educate women regarding their heart disease risks and to empower them to take control of their heart health. Lifestyle changes can reduce risk by up to 80 percent. The program is offered at Piedmont Atlanta, Piedmont Fayette and Piedmont Newnan. The Women’s Heart Support Network has many free events and ongoing classes available to help educate women about their risks of heart disease and empower them to do what they can to prevent it.

Workshops in February include:

• Nuts ‘N Berries Store Tour with Dr. Neacsu will take place Wednesday, Feb. 1 at 10 a.m. at 4272 Peachtree Rd NE in Brookhaven.

• Smoothie Bowl Bonanza with Catt Jordan will take place on Saturday, Feb. 11 at 11 a.m at Trillith Studios, 200 Trillith Pkwy in Fayetteville.

• SMART Mindfulness Training is an eight-week course facilitated by Dr. Rollings that will start on Feb. 23 at 9 a.m. and is hosted virtually via Zoom.

• 21-Day Accountability Challenge will start on Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 12 p.m. Maureen Sweatman, Chief Joy Officer of Joyful Living Coaching, will lead a 21-Day Challenge that focuses on getting the accountability you need to create new habits and meet your 2023 goals.

There are also several recurring online classes offered each week. Strength and Power Fitness is a 45-minute class offered Tuesdays at 9 a.m. Guided Meditation is offered Tuesdays at 5 p.m. and on Fridays at 11 a.m. Pilates is offered on Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. Yoga is offered on Mondays at 11 a.m. and on Thursdays at 5 p.m. No prior experience is required for any of the classes. Learn more about The Women’s Heart Support Network and these free programs, as well as register, at www.piedmont.org/womensheartsupport

New CT Scanner at Piedmont Newnan Produces Advanced Images

A breakthrough in computed tomography (CT) technology is enabling physicians at Piedmont Newnan Hospital to obtain high accuracy, low dose, and stunning, high-resolution, information-rich images. The hospital is now able to offer advanced cardiac imaging on the new Somatom FORCE, a dual-source CT scanner that produces advanced imaging in a short amount of time and with a much lower dose of radiation.

“The images produced, and the speed and relative ease of the procedure, makes this a very valuable piece of technology for our physicians, our imaging department, and the patients they care for,” said Vicki Kaiser, COO of Piedmont Newnan. “I was fortunate enough to try the new dual source CT and was very impressed with the incredible image it was able to create.”

The dual source CT enables the user to perform an entire adult chest, abdomen, and pelvis study in only one second, so patients do not need to hold their breath. This is especially helpful for patients who present with shortness of breath or those being evaluated for pulmonary embolism. The physician and radiologist can now make faster, more confident decisions and deliver timely intervention. In cardiac imaging, the dual source CT can obtain an entire study within a single heartbeat, capturing even the fastest-moving anatomy such as the right coronary artery.

“My scan showed blockage in one of my arteries due to my genetics, despite being physically fit and eating right,” said Kaiser. “My dad died of heart disease in his fifties, along with other members of my extended family, but with this new technology available, I’m confident he could have lived a much longer life.”

Piedmont Heart Institute Newnan Added Three New Cardiologists in Second Half of 2022

Piedmont Heart Institute, Piedmont Healthcare’s nationally recognized heart and vascular program, welcomed three new cardiologists to Newnan in 2022 as part of its commitment to expand access to these critical sub-specialties.

“By adding these talented physicians, we are able to provide greater access to heart and vascular care for Piedmont patients throughout the state of Georgia,” said Charles L. Brown III, M.D., CEO of Piedmont’s Physician Enterprise. “Because of the generous philanthropic gifts we have received and as a result of our commitment to be a national leader in this area, we are able to expand our cardiovascular services and make a positive difference in the lives we touch.”

The following physicians have joined Piedmont Heart in Newnan since July of 2022:

• Ajay Kaja, M.D. – (general cardiology) joined Piedmont Heart Institute in Fayetteville and Newnan on July 24. Dr. Kaja earned his medical degree at NTR University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada Osmania Medical College, completed his residency at Creighton University Medical Center and his fellowship in cardiology at the University of Kansas Medical Center. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease, and is also certified by the National Board of Echocardiography Inc.

The SOMATOM Force Dual Source CT produces faster, more advanced images.

For anyone that is experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath, or for those with a strong family history of heart disease, it is recommended that they see a cardiologist.

“With advanced imaging the new CT provides, we are able to obtain high resolution images of the arteries supplying blood to the heart,” said Sujith Kuruvilla, M.D., cardiologist who specializes in hypertension, heart failure, and cardiovascular imaging. “The absence of cholesterol build-up in the arteries on the test effectively rules out the likelihood that symptoms are from blocked arteries, while if blockages are present, the scan can detect the type of cholesterol build-up and any further testing needed. The scan can also help us recommend treatment options, including the use of cholesterol lowering medications, which slow down the progression of cholesterol build-up in the arteries and reduce the risk of death from future heart attacks.”

Piedmont Newnan has consistently earned the MI Registry’s Platinum Performance Achievement Award since 2019, which recognizes Piedmont Newnan’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care for heart attack patients and signifies that Piedmont Newnan has reached an aggressive goal of treating these patients to standard levels of care as outlined by the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association clinical guidelines and recommendations.

“These recognitions demonstrate our staff and physicians’ consistent commitment to safety and high quality, patient-centered care,” said Kaiser. “Advanced technology like the dual source CT helps them deliver that care and continue to make a positive difference in every life they touch.”

To learn more about radiology and imaging services at Piedmont Newnan, visit piedmont.org/Newnan

• Bashar Al-Turk, D.O. - (general cardiology) joined Piedmont Heart Institute in Fayetteville, Newnan and Sharpsburg on July 25. Dr. Al-Turk specializes in cardiovascular disease, echocardiology and nuclear medicine and received his medical degree from Lake Eri College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his internship and residency in internal medicine at the University of Florida College of Medicine, where he also completed his fellowship in cardiovascular disease. His clinical interests include the treatment of heart failure and coronary artery disease with an emphasis on prevention and lifestyle medicine. He is board certified in Internal Medicine.

• Ahmadreza (Reza) Karimianpour, D.O. – (cardiology, electrophysiology) joined the Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiology at Piedmont Heart Institute in Buckhead, Fayetteville, and Newnan on Aug. 8. He received his medical degree from Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, completed his residency at Cleveland Clinic and his fellowships in cardiovascular disease and cardiac electrophysiology at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Karimianpour’s clinical interests include catheter ablation of complex arrhythmias as well as cardiac device implantation and management, with a special interest in treatment of ventricular tachycardia and sudden cardiac death. He is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease.

About Piedmont Heart

Piedmont Heart Institute is ranked top in Georgia for cardiology and heart surgery by U.S. News and World Report, ranks in the top 5 percent in the country among cardiovascular organizations and is the only program in Atlanta consistently recognized with the Cardiac Care Excellence Award – a mark of quality it has earned for more than 10 years. Piedmont is an international leader in cardiovascular research, enabling patient access to innovative therapies not available elsewhere. For more information, visit piedmont.org/heart

AARP Tax-Aide offers FREE Tax Help at Libraries

Coweta County Public Library System and Volunteers from the AARP Foundation have partnered once again to prepare federal and state tax returns for FREE.

Tax preparation and free electronic filing is scheduled for every Thursday, February 2nd through April 13th from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the A. Mitchell Powell, Jr. Public Library, 25 Hospital Road, Newnan, GA, 770.253.3625.

The FREE help is also offered every Wednesday, February 1st, through April 12th from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.at the Central Library, 85 Literary Lane, 770.683.2052.

A special free filing day will be held

ONE day only Tuesday, March 7th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Heard County Public Library, 564 Main Street, Franklin, GA, 706.675.6501.

Those wishing to take advantage of the free filing are STRONGLY encouraged to stop by the library and pick up an interview sheet to be completed before you come to have your taxes prepared. When you come to have your taxes prepared you should bring a copy of last year’s (2022) income tax return, W-2 forms from all employers, unemployment compensation statements, SSA-1099 form if you were paid Social Security benefits, all 1099 forms showing interest and/or dividends and documents showing original purchase price of any sold assets/stocks, 1099-misc. showing any miscellaneous income, 1099-R form if you received a pension or annuity, all forms indicating federal income tax paid; dependent care provider information (name, employer ID, Social Security number); all receipts and canceled checks if itemizing deductions; Social Security cards or other official documentation for yourself and all dependents. Appointments will NOT be used this year.

It is not necessary to be an AARP member and ALL ages are welcome.

2023 Applications are now being accepted for six $1,000 scholarships. New this year, we are excited to announce the 6th scholarship will be awarded to a high school senior who will be attending a trade or technical school. The initial five will be awarded to a senior from East Coweta HS, Newnan HS and Northgate HS. The fourth to a senior from a school outside of Coweta County and the 5th to a senior graduating from a private/parochial school. Primary requirement is the student has completed the Teen Vehicle Operations Course (TVOC). All information can be found at www.abbysangelsfoundation.org or from the school’s guidance office or by emailing 3sisters@abbysangelsfoundaiton.org

Some upcoming events … Hank & My Honky Tonk Heroes Feb. 2 thenixoncentre.net

• NJSL’s Casino Night Fundraiser Feb. 3 becasino.givesmart.com Run for Angels & Chicken Q Feb. 4 theangelshouse.org

• NTC’s Farndale Ladies Feb. 9-12, 16-19 newnantheatre.org

BYA Meeting Feb. 14 ugaextension.org/coweta

• ELEVATE Coweta Students Feb. 12 https://bemine2023.givesmart.com

• Free Movie Night & Popcorn Feb. 17 Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at the Wadsworth Auditorium, 7:30 p.m. NTC’s Drop Dead Elegant Feb. 24 & 25 Interactive Murder Mystery & Dinner newnantheatre.org

• KNB’s Tire Amnesty Feb. 25 knb@newnangeorgia.gov

• 16h Annual Oscar Gala Feb. 25 https://e.givesmart.com/events/uiE/ Look in future issues for more information on these events and others.

1515 Lower Fayetteville Rd. v Newnan, GA 30265 v 678.673.5486 v newnancentre.com