The PAPER January 2025 by Ruth Doyal

PAPER PAPER

“When you ain’t got nothing, you got nothing to lose.” … Bob Dylan

Citizen of the Year Nominees Announced

Eleven Coweta County residents from various walks of life were nominated for the 2025 Citizen of the Year.

The award honors an individual showing outstanding leadership and citizenship within the

pride, and a strong commitment to a better Coweta.

The ceremony and announcement of the winner will be held on January 20, at the Newnan Centre. The Kiwanis Clubs of Coweta County sponsor the annual event. The Newnan Centre is located at 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan.

Those nominated are: April Anderson, Jess Barron, Tricia Bethel-Sookhoo; Scott Berta; Scott Chahalis; Scott Cortner, Janet Marie Gunnels, Abigail Kimbell, Dr. Bob Heaberlin, Clay Neely, and Rodney Riggs. Each has selected a local non-profit organization, and a donation will be made in honor of the winner and their charity.

April, along with her husband, Brent, own and operate The Mess Hall on Main in downtown Senoia, which includes several international food vendors, as well as the site for their coffee shop, Senoia Coffee. She is the founder of Backpack Buddies, which provides food for needy school students on the weekends. Her charity is Backpack Buddies.

Citizens of the Year Nominees continued on page 2

at Chattahoochee

p.m. redcrossblood.org Tea Tasting at the Newnan Carnegie Library  Jan. 14 1 to 2:30 p.m. A variety of delicious teas to taste! There will be refreshments. Dress up or wear a fancy hat if you’d like! Take home tea samples while supplies last. Registration is required: eventbrite.com/e/1109410559849 or newnancarnegie.com 1 LaGrange St., Newnan, 770.683. 1347. City of Hope Gynecologic Cancer Screenings  Jan. 14 Pap Smear test, HPV Vaccines. 2 to 5:30 p.m. Registration required. Call 770.400.6677 for info, appointment time.

Backyard Association Meeting  Jan. 14 Cliff Brock will be discussing “Slips, Seeds, and Starts. Recreating a horticultural pass along culture.” 7 p.m. Free to attend, but call or email to register for door prizes. 770.254.2620 or coweta.extension@uga.edu, 255 Pine Road, Newnan. Rhinestone Cowgirls: Legendary Ladies of Country Music at The Nixon Centre  Jan. 16 Three powerhouse singers perform fresh arrangements of classic and contemporary country hits. 7 p.m. For more info thenixoncentre.net

Martin Luther King Jr Celebration  Jan. 17 36th Annual Commemorative Celebration Service 7 p.m. at City of Hope, 600 Celebrate Freedom Pkwy. Coweta Beekeepers One Day Course  Jan. 18

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Info and registration go to website: January Beekeeping Class https://www.cowetabeekeepers.org/ Look inside for their ad

Martin Luther King Jr Parade  Jan.18 starting at 55 Savannah St. at Noon. Call 770.312.6345 for more information.

Citizen of the Year Ceremony  Jan. 20 Keep Newnan Beautiful Paper Shredding  Jan. 25 Look inside for their ad

Landmark Christian’s Open House  Jan. 25 Look inside for their ad

Newnan Cultural Arts Councils Songwriters Festival  Jan. 31 and Feb. 1

April Anderson Jess Barron Scott Berta

Scott Chahalis Scott Cortner

Janet Marie Gunnels

Dr. Bob Heaberlin Abigail Kimbell

Rodney Riggs

Clay Neely

Tricia Bethel-Sookhoo

April Anderson

Citizen of the Year Nominees Announced

continued from front page

Jess Barron

Jess is a vice president and associate broker with Lindsey’s Realtors, which is owned by the Barrons. He has served on many committees, including the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce, The Heritage School, Coweta Forward, Coweta Community Foundation, and past president of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors. His charity is the Newnan-Coweta Humane Society in memory of Vicki W. Barron.

Scott Berta

Scott is a consultant forester for private landowners with Georgia Forestry Consulting. He was a project manager with the Coweta County Development Authority and is the industrial development manager for Electric Cities of Georgia. He is a past chairman of the Newnan-Coweta Boys and Girls Clubs and co-chaired the 2022 Leadership Coweta Class. His charity is the Coweta Grand Prix.

Tricia Bethel-Sookhoo

Tricia is with Modern Woodmen of America, where she works with families, individuals, and businesses to create financial plans. She also held several sales positions in the hospitality industry. She is a long-time supporter of the Boy Scouts of America and is the scoutmaster for BSA Troop 219, the first all-female troop in Coweta County. She has received several BSA awards and has served in many leadership positions. Her charity is the BSA.

Scott Chahalis

Scott is with Blickle USA, which located its headquarters to Newnan in 2016. The company is considered the global leader in casters and wheels. He is on the board of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and works closely with the Coweta County Development Authority, especially with international companies, to promote the county as a great place to do business. His charity is the LINC multiuse path system.

Scott Cortner

Scott is a wealth advisor and branch manager at Morgan Stanley. He retired from the U.S. Army as a major with the infantry. He and his wife created a foundation to help local charitable causes. Scott has served many years as the chairman of the Kiwanis Coweta County Fair, which distributes more than $200,000 annually to local non-profits. His charity is the Newnan Kiwanis Club.

Janet Marie Gunnels

Janet has a public relations firm with clients including the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and the Newnan First United Methodist Church. She is a long-time volunteer with the Newnan Theater Company, and also dedicates her time with Kate’s Club, Bridging the Gap, and the Newnan Junior Service League.

Dr. Bob Heaberlin

Bob is a long-time educator, serving as assistant principal at East Coweta Middle School, and principal at Newnan Crossing Elementary and East Coweta Middle School. He also led the opening of Lee Middle School. After retiring, he joined the University of West Georgia as chief administrative officer at UWG Newnan. He also is chairman of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and serves on the Boys and Girls Clubs of Newnan. His charity is the local Boys and Girls Clubs.

Abigail Kimbell

Abigail is the Client Engagement Director at Pathways Center, where she works to make Coweta more inclusive and welcoming to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She is also involved in the Inclusive Project, where she teaches local law enforcement and public safety personnel on how best to handle mental health-related calls. Abigail was heavily involved in the annual No One Walks Alone event, a family-friendly gathering to educate the public on strategies addressing mental health challenges. Her charity is Another Way Foundation.

Clay Neely

Clay is the co-publisher and managing editor of The Newnan Times-Herald. He currently serves as president of The Rotary Club of Newnan, board member of the Coweta Community Foundation and is treasurer of Bike Coweta. He has also served as a board member of the Newnan-Coweta Boys and Girls Clubs and Friends of the LINC. His charity is Meals on Wheels.

Rodney Riggs

Rodney was a long-time Marine who served in Operation Desert Storm with an anti-aircraft missile unit. He retired from the Marine Reserves as a Sergeant Major after 23 years of service. Rodney spent 41 years with the Newnan Police Department, retiring as deputy chief. He is heavily involved in local Marine Corps League Chapter 1325 and was named Marine of the Year. He spearheads the Patriot Day flag giveaway and is active with the Toys for Tots campaign. His charity is Toys for Tots.

Guidelines for selecting the nominee include:

• The nominee should live in Coweta County, and his/her activities should be centered in Coweta County and the surrounding area.

• Consideration will be given to those who demonstrate leadership and performance in multiple areas of community service over a period of years.

• The nominee may be an individual from any walk of life, and there are no requirements or restrictions relating to gender, age, race, religion or ethnic background.

HAWKS

Jan. 9, Thurs. – at Phoenix Suns, 9 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 11, Sat. – Houston Rockets, 3 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 14, Tues. – Phoenix Suns, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 15, Wed. – at Chicago Bulls, 8 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 18, Sat. – at Boston Celtics, 7 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 20, Mon. – at N.Y. Knicks, 3 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 22, Wed. – Detroit Pistons, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 23, Thurs. – Toronto Raptors, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 25, Sat. – Toronto Raptors, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 27, Mon. – at Minnesota Timberwolves, 8 pm – Fanduel

Jan. 30, Thurs. – at Cleveland Cavaliers, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Feb. 1, Sat. – at Indiana Pacers, 5 pm – Fanduel

Feb. 3, Mon. – at Detroit Pistons, 7 pm – Fanduel

Feb. 5, Wed. – San Antonio Spurs, 7:30 pm – ESPN / Fanduel

Feb. 7, Fri. – Milwaukee Bucks, 7:30 pm – Fanduel

Feb. 8, Sat. – at Washington Wizards, 7 pm – Fanduel

Go Team!

Notes from Perry Street

It was a Saturday and Youngest SON of Thunder was home from college over Christmas break.

“How about some brunch,” I asked. “Sure,” he said.

So off we go to one of our Joints, this time it was Town and Country, where the food is always good, the waitresses are wonderful and always greet you with a smile. They know what I drink, and can usually guess what I’m in the mood for. And if I am really good, I might get a “sugar” or “darlin” from them as well.

A quick aside. Check out “The Joints” on our website, www.wintersmedia.net, for the best locally-owned food establishments.. Another quick aside. Town and Country advertises with us, and we always like to support our clients.Back to the column. So I order “brunch.” Two fried eggs, yolks runny, whites cooked, hashbrowns, country fried steak with some damn good white pepper gravy and sourdough toast. Yes, you can ask for sourdough, which is also damn good.

Youngest orders chicken tenders, broccoli and sourdough toast.

I kind of look at him. “What are you, five?” I ask.

“They have good chicken tenders,” he replies. Okay, they are also another damn good item.

“Broccoli? What college student likes broccoli.” And he responds that he does, especially with cheese and …

I point out I invited him to “brunch,” not “lunch.” Youngest just shrugs it off. I try one last time, pointing out that the only vegetables one eats at breakfast are in an omelet.

He takes the kidding in stride. We have way more important issues to discuss. Like, what if?

That “what if” being if our phones could listen to us.

I say that tongue-in-cheek because anyone who doesn’t KNOW our phones listen to us doesn’t believe we landed on the moon or does believe the earth is flat. Bless their hearts.

This whole phone listening issue started off as a sort of joke, “oh, isn’t that a coincident” when whatever you were talking about somehow shows up with your next search. Now? Now it is just freaking scary.

So Youngest and I are discussing this very topic and I glance down at my phone. I had just texted the Little Black Dress to see if she wanted us to bring her anything … and the phone is literally transcribing our conversation on the text app. I mean literally.

I hold it up to Youngest, who gives me the raised eyebrow that translate to “that is freaking scary.”

And now we have “memories.” Every couple of days my phone decides to look through my photos and “share” some similar photos. Like this: Amanda at Jack of all Fades is my barber, and yes, she is a licensed barber. She’s not taking new clients, sorry.

Anyhoo, I have an appointment for a Spa Day. That’s just what I call a haircut and hot lather/soaped up razor blade shave. I always take photos and send them to my golf buddies simply to make them jealous. Jealous of me getting a shave and getting it from Amanda.

I wake up one morning, which is going to be a Spa Day, to a new “memory.” It’s a collection of photos I’ve taken with Amanda. “Wow” when she saw the photos I sent.

But our phones can’t listen to us.

Finally, a new administration will be taking over this January. Regardless of your political leaning, let’s all be civil to each other. Happy New Year.

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

Corby Carlin Winters, Ambassador At Large corby@wintersmedia.net

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

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

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

The Featured Joint with Samantha

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.” This month’s featured joint is …

Imagine going to a restaurant that specializes in not one, but two of your favorite styles of food.

What would be your combo?

For me, I’d go with Italian and Cajun/Creole. I know, a weird match but those are two food groups I love. Now, if there was only a place that …

Well, Newnan has that exact restaurant and it’s called Del Porto For you linguists out there, that roughly translate to “of the port” or “from the port.” And for a little background, it’s where the old Joe’s Bar and Grill used to be. Same owners. Just completely different. I’ve spent 40 years in the newspaper business, so I’m fairly handy with words. But kudos to the webmaster/wordsmith because I’m just going to let them tell you their story:

“We are a family-owned Italian Creole restaurant located in Newnan, GA. Our talented chefs prepare fresh signature dishes daily, including Cioppino seafood stew, veal or chicken piccata, shrimp or chicken alfredo, and more.

“At Del Porto’s we expertly combine traditional Italian recipes with bold creole flavors to create an exceptional dining experience. From juicy Delmonico ribeye steaks to tender lamb chops with mint sauce - there’s something for everyone on our menu. Don’t miss out on trying our chef’s compilation of Louisiana favorites like fried seafood platter or fish almandine/crawfish Atchafalaya or Gumbo!”

For this foodie adventure, I was joined by Samantha Brazie, a dear friend, former columnist for The Paper and the general manager of Progressive Heating, Air & Plumbing. I love that last part because she is one of a select few women who run “trade” businesses. She’s also been president of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce and worked with a host of other non-profits. She is married to Keith and they have four children and four grandkids.

So, we’re asking her a few “foodie” questions.

If you could plan your very last meal, what would it be?

Pan seared salmon finished in the oven with mixed veggies, roasted potatoes.

Favorite comfort food?

Magnum ice cream bar.

We don’t use the word “hate” but what are foods you abhor/detest?

Asparagus, can’t stand it. Liver.

Favorite fast food? Taco Bell.

Favorite ethnic food?

Japanese.

Favorite snack/munchie.

Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning with Stacy’s Pita chips.

Three local favorite Joints not including here?

Mama Lucia, Knife and Stone, Meat N Greet.

1329 Bullsboro Drive, Newnan • 504-250-9088

Website: • Email: mydelporto59@gmail.com

Monday - Thursday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. • Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. • Sunday - CLOSED

Lunch starts at 11 a.m. and ends at 2:30 p.m. Dinner services will start at 2:30 p.m. and run till close.

Windy Hill Family Farms

MONDAY:

TUESDAY:

WEDNESDAY:

THURSDAY:

For the Love of Wine and Chocolate

Experience the elevated flavors of wine and chocolate pairings with us this February. Taste 6 wines each paired with chocolates from white to dark. Learn more about these incredible wines we are featuring and how to pair them with different types of chocolate treats. Sat., Feb. 8, Fri., Feb 14, Sat., Feb. 15, Fri., Feb. 21, Sat., Feb. 22 or Wed., Feb. 26. All events start at 6:30 p.m.

Real Es tate PAPER

Real estate transactions vary by location in Coweta County. After all, the old mantra in real estate is “location, location, location.”

Have you ever thought about what this looks like in our area? Many people here know that the eastern, central and northern parts of our county are more heavily populated and developed. This leaves the western and southern areas of the county more rural and less developed.

The “heat map” to the right shows where all the active residential properties listed for sale in the last year in the Georgia Multiple Listing Service (GAMLS) are located.

As you can see, Newnan and the central part of the county are heavily populated with listings as is Senoia and the eastern area. The Thomas Crossroads and “Canongate” areas are popular as well. The popularity of these areas is reflected in the pricing as well. Home prices in these popular areas bring higher values and higher prices per square foot than the more rural locations.

These parts of the county are more densely populated partly because of zoning and local regulations as well as sewer and water access. Planning and zoning departments in cities like Newnan and Senoia allow for more dense development than a rural area of Coweta County. Having access to public water and sewer, as well as an appropriate road system, makes development more feasible than it would be out in the country.

Proximity to amenities, like healthcare, employers, and shopping, as well easy access to I-85, are other factors in how densely populated an area is.

Living in a rural area is a desirable and peaceful choice for many people. The rustic and natural parts of our county are beautiful. There are still ample choices in where and how you wish to live in Coweta County, though our home is growing quickly.

Jess Barron

Jess Barron is an Associate Broker with Lindsey’s Inc. Realtors and former President of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors. 

with Jimmy Bass

Just Read

“Our

life is March weather, savage and serene in one hour.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

We all know those folks … the ones who have to buy the best of everything just so they can tell you all about it and show how good they are. Snobs, elitists, but whatever the term, they just have to tell you why their choices are the best and why you should be like them.

In the world of reading, snobbery is alive and well with critics, pedants, publishers, social media (yikes), and others telling us who the hot author is or what new trend or movement we should all be chasing like dogs after the mailman. I choose not to bark just because the others do while I chase my interests so this month I am saying to you - Just Read Isn’t the quote above so appropriate for today, right now, in this fragile world where we are all trying to find our balance? I love books of quotations, and I always have. Sometimes, I feel like it’s cheating when I read quotes by Emerson instead of books by Emerson. But, I LIKE reading them and it makes me happy. Short, succinct biographical passages are also in my wheelhouse. A gentleman named Paul Johnson has written several tomes, which I actually read thoroughly several times that featured smaller portion-sized life stories. Smaller portions or bigger portions… just get to the table.

As a child, my father took me to a professional wrestling match. My dad knew the promoter and we got to go backstage before the matches to meet the wrestlers. It was really cool, but one thing I did not get was that the guys who were fighting in the main event were actually sitting together in the back talking like they were friends. Both were physically imposing men who could not have been nicer to a young boy of six years old. Guess what I got for Christmas that year?? I began receiving wrestling magazines in the mail every month and I devoured them. The writing was actually pretty good and I learned some cool words. One of the other wrestlers was reading a book of vocabulary words in the back; he told my dad that

he was a heel (bad guy) and learning new words to better insult the fans. It made me want to be a heel!

I eventually stopped getting wrestling magazines and moved into comic books. Now, these guys could write and tell a story! I never could draw, but I loved using my imagination and the world of superheroes opened my mind to characterization, plotlines, foreshadowing, and all those nifty terms you pay a university creative writing teacher the big bucks to learn. I believe comic books made me the fiction and history reader I am today. Throw in the hero versus the villain storytelling from wrestling, and you will see the formation of my reading foundation. Just Read. So…. Are you getting my message yet? It does not matter what you read as long as you like it. There is truly something for everyone out there in significant or smaller portions. I am just as likely to read an internet article or a 1,000 page book; it does not matter because I…. Just Read. Jimmy Bass is director of the Coweta Public Library System. He also plays a mean guitar and sings at local venues. ◗

The Coweta Ferst Readers’ mission

five in Coweta County.

Baxley Swope, grandson to Marie and Steve Swope. He is looking at his first book that had arrived in the mail from Coweta Ferst Readers.

In Theaters:

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/

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

A Complete Unknown (now playing) – l Fix Rating 6/10 – By failing to demystify its mercurial superstar subject, Bob Dylan, “A Complete Unknown” is true to its title.

The movie chronicles the legendary folk musician’s arrival in New York City, his meteoric rise, and the dustup when he took the stage at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, his band armed with electric instruments.

Timothée Chalamet does a remarkable impression of Dylan, even singing and playing guitar. It’s more than just mimicry, but the likeness is so spot-on that it’s hard to see Chalamet’s performance as little more than a studied portrait instead of a living breathing characterization.

The main problem here is that the music constantly informs us of the emotions we are expected to feel. It’s a musical dilemma that prevents Mangold’s movie from standing apart emotionally from the rich, classic pathos evoked by Dylan’s tunes. Maybe the music is so powerful that crafting a story that compares is impossible.

Still, Edward Norton is great as folk icon Pete Seeger and an emotive Scoot McNairy fully embodies a disabled Woody Guthrie bedbound in a hospital. The tension here is that Dylan represents everything that Seeger and Guthrie have worked to achieve, but the brilliant youngster wants to shape his own identity.

The story of the tortured artist litters the cinematic landscape. Mangold’s 2005 Oscar-winning Johnny Cash biopic “Walk the Line” is a rare example of finding a story that works in tandem with the music. But in this Mangold effort, his subject comes off as a bit selfish, unlikeable, not entirely tortured by greatness or talent, but a guy whose persona is more important to him than anyone around him.

The Seed of the Sacred Fig – l Fix Rating 8/10 – The risky process of making “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” should be its own film.

“The Seed of the Sacred Fig” was shot secretly by Iranian writer/ director Mohammad Rasoulof, who escaped persecution in his country. In Iran, he was arrested several times, resulting in criminal convictions for filming without a permit and crimes of propaganda and collusion against national security. He fled to Germany after being sentenced to prison time, crossing the border on foot.

The footage was amazingly smuggled out of Iran to Germany, where post-production was completed. Hence, this Iranian film becomes Germany’s selection as their Best International Feature Film submission for the 2025 Oscar.

“Sacred Fig” tells the story of a lawyer named Iman (Missagh Zareh), who is elevated to the position of investigating judge, requiring him to sign indictments without investigating. Some of the crimes carry death sentences. While this morally fraught promotion offers his family the opportunity to move into a bigger apartment, it also holds all sorts of other dangerous drawbacks, especially given the youth protests and general unrest in the country.

Iman’s eldest daughter, Rezvan (Mahsa Rostami), is in college, and one of her friends, Sadaf (Niousha Akhshi), is injured in a demonstration. While the girl’s devout mother, Najmeh (Soheila Golestani), offers the friend first aid, she makes her daughters agree not to share any of this with their father. And when Iman’s government-issued handgun comes up missing, he embarks on an investigation into his family that threatens to tear them apart.

The harrowing “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” is a fine film for the Iranian auteur, who is now free of the repressive Iranian regime to make films without artificial constraint.

Streaming Selects:

Back in Action (January 17) – Cameron Diaz returns with her first feature film since 2014’s “Annie.” And like that film, she’s working alongside Jamie Foxx. “Back in Action” follows a familiar “Mr. & Mrs. Smith” style playbook. Diaz and Foxx play former CIA spies who are called out of their suburban family bliss when their secret identities are compromised. Based on the trailers, this action comedy will include the requisite amount of car chases and fist fights as the couple finds their groove after languishing in middleaged malaise. Seth Gordon directs this one (see 2017’s awful “Baywatch” and the funny “Horrible Bosses”).

Mythic Quest (January 29) – After a two-year hiatus, the fun series that chronicles the shenanigans behind a video game company returns, promising more goofy comedy combined with endearing characters. The show, co-created by “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” alums Charlie Day and Rob McElhenney, follows egotistical game creator Ian Grimm (McElhenney) as he attempts to assemble and hold together a talented team to bring his Mythic Quest games to customers. Of course, the personalities clash led by the ambitious genius Poppy Li (Charlotte Nicdao), who struggles to find what’s been referred to as a “work work” balance. This series is addictive light-weight entertainment that may have peaked with a few pandemic episodes that pushed it from situational comedy to something deeper and more meaningful.

The Pitt (January 9) – “ER” star Noah Wyle returns to the hospital (well, this time, he’s based in Pittsburgh instead of Chicago) with this familiar but possibly unique spin on the trauma healthcare narrative. The trailers tease 15 intense episodes taking place over one 15-hour work shift. Wyle plays Dr. Michael Robinavitch, who must cope with the emotions of his young staff while also dealing with his unresolved personal feelings on the anniversary of the COVID-related death of a valued colleague.

Paradise (Hulu series premiere January 28) – Sterling K. Brown (see him in the wonderful “Biosphere” and others) is a secret service agent involved in an investigation surrounding a former president (played by “Sonic the Hedgehog’s” James Marsden). The cryptic trailers reveal that the president has been killed and that the tough agent may be drawn into a conspiracy. Yep, it looks like some “deep state” nonsense may be afoot in this handsomelooking show with a talented cast, including Julianne Nicholson.

Theatrical Teasers:

Den of Thieves 2: Pantera (January 10) — Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson, Jr., return to the roles they inhabited in 2018’s unlikely hit “Den of Thieves.” The action gets bigger with this sequel to the Atlanta-based production with a story set in Los Angeles. This time, the production moves to Spain and Europe as Big Nick (Butler) continues pursuing high-end thieves but with slightly different motivations. The latest trailers artfully convey a more complex and jet-set heist with Butler and Jackson working together on a big job.

The Last Showgirl (January 10) — Pamela Anderson has gotten raved reviews for this small drama about a career Las Vegas showgirl faced with the close of her 30-year run. Gia Coppola (see 2020’s “Mainstream”) directs with Dave Bautista co-starring.

Wolf Man (January 17) — This Blumhouse horror entry hopes to continue the studio’s fantastic run of macabre, broadly popular chillers that account for a sizable chunk of the yearly theatrical box office. In “Wolf Man,” Christopher Abbott (see “Possessor”) and Julia Garner (who was a guilty pleasure in Netflix’s “Ozark”) play Blake and Charlotte, a couple holed up in a farmhouse after being attacked by a strange animal. Things go from bad to worse when Blake begins to transform into a dangerous creature.

September 5 (January 17) – l Fix Rating 8/10 – One of 2024’s best films gets a wider release this month. “September 5” is about the events that unfolded during the 1972 Olympic games in Munich, Germany. When Israeli athletes are taken hostage by terrorists, an American sports broadcasting team must shift their coverage from the games to the terror as it occurs. This real-life story is a fascinating look at the inner workings of what has evolved into the 24-hour live news cycle.

Flight Risk (January 24) — Mel Gibson directs, and Mark Wahlberg stars in this contained thriller that takes place almost entirely in the cockpit of a small airplane. When an Air Marshal (Michelle Dockery) and her prisoner (Topher Grace) board a plane set to cross the Alaskan wilderness, the pilot (Wahlberg, sporting a middle-aged horseshoe haircut) begins to look suspicious. As a fight erupts, the Air Marshal is forced to subdue the pilot and land the plane despite having no flight training.

Presence (January 24) — This horror film from director Steven Soderbergh (see the “Oceans” franchise and many other fine films) was a big hit at last year’s Sundance Film Festival. The story involves a family who suspects they are not alone in their new home. The trailers look creepy and unsettling, with some viewers walking out of festival screenings claiming that the tension was too much. Lucy Liu and Julia Fox lead the cast.

Dog Man (January 31) — With an all-star voice cast including Pete Davidson and Ricky Gervais, this animated entry has a policeman and his loyal dog badly injured in an explosion. For some ridiculous reason, doctors sew the dog’s head on the policeman’s body, and Dog Man is born. Of course, this newly minted hero must do battle with and thwart the evil plans of a humanoid cat villain.

New Year

New Opportunities

Karers, With Your Help We Can



 Provide Meal Cards to families staying long-term.

 Distribute Art Boxes to all Coweta County elementary schools and provide additional Art Grants to teachers.

 #fightlikeakid

and Foot

The MUSIC … Local&Live

… by Kris Youmans

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.

Music Notes …

+ Thank you Winters Media & Publishing for supporting Local & Live music and the musicians who present quality entertainment for our community.

+ Catch Jeanine Duke in January … @ Pascal’s Jan. 6, 6-9 p.m. @ Mama Lucia’s Jan. 22, 6-9 p.m. @ The Cellar Bays Jan. 23, 7-10 p.m. @ Pascal’s with Guy Jan. 25 @ The Georgia Shrimp Co. Jan. 26 1-4 p.m.

+ Hear Darryl Gay - Georgia Sundown Duo on January 31st @ Bank Street Cafe- Griffin

+ Abide Thursdays have gotten so crowded that they’re going to start opening an extra day to split Cornhole and open mic.

Starting January 8th it will be on Wednesdays! Yes, you read that right. Wednesday nights will be Open Mic. Then get ready because ABIDE IDOL will be joining open mic starting Jan. 15. Save these dates and make sure you come out to see our great local talent.

+ Send me your band info and what you’re up to and I’ll post it! krisyoumansband@gmail.com

Local & Live Venues …

Call ahead to check on Live music dates and times!

ABIDE BREWERY COMPANY

110 Werz Industrial Boulevard, Newnan Live music, jams and specials. Wednesdays … Jan 15, 22, 29 … Open Mic Nights with Russ Gordon **Abide Idol starts on the 15th as well - Wednesdays for the first hour of open mic*

1/10 … Tyler Lowman will be playing for Friday Veterans Night

1/11 … Mary Martin 6 p.m.

1/17 … Spencer Jackson & Jasin McDaniels will be playing for Friday Veterans Night

1/24 … John Hensley will be playing for Friday Veterans Night

1/25 … Tyler Lowman will be playing the Throttle Junkies Chili Cookoff! 1/31 … Tyler Lowman will be playing for Friday Veterans Night

THE ALAMO

19 W. Court Square, Newnan 770-683-2526

Open Mic Sundays 6 - 9 p.m.

Come out to see local talent & sign up to play!

Jerry Schutjer is your Host

ANTHONY’S PIZZERIA

107 Stonewall, Fayetteville 770-746-6944

1/4 … Tim McGee & The Boys 8 p.m.

1/8 … Quincy Chapman on the Sax 6-9 p.m.

1/11 … Venus Kings 8 p.m.

1/15 … Mike Manocchi 6 p.m.

1/18 … Coleman

Benefit Concert 8 p.m.

1/22 … Ladies Night

Live Music 6 p.m.

1/25 … Cowboy Noyz 8 p.m.

1/29 … Sip & Paint 6 p.m.

BEACON BREWERY

700 Lincoln Street, LaGrange 706-298-6500

Live music Sundays 1-4 p.m.

* Live Music before every Sweetland concert

BELOW THE NECK!

Below the Redneck Gourmet

11 North Court Square, Newnan • 770-251-0092

Follow BTN on Instagram for updates and music

@Belowtheneck_rg

1/9 … Jack Christopher

1/10 … Steven Moore

1/11 … Rachel Forehand

1/16 … Marty Weathersby

1/17 … Jon Lorentz

1/18 … Russ Gordon

1/23 … Ken Hembree

1/24 … Mary Martin

1/25 … Butch Watson

1/30 … Lerogie Sims

1/31 … Steven Moore

THE BISTRO

26 Carriage Oaks Drive, Tyrone • 678-593-5393

Live music on Wednesdays 7-9 p.m.; Saturdays 8-10 p.m.; Sundays 4-7 p.m.

R&B, Blues, Jazz & Oldies

THE CELLAR / THE BAYS

20 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770-683-6328

Acoustic on Thursdays in The BAYS 7 to 10 p.m.

Live Music Friday and Saturday nights 8 to 11 p.m.

1.9 … John Cox

1.109 … Pete & Pete

1.11 … Hardy Boyd Band

1.16 … John Hensley

1.17 … The Band One

1.18 … Duncan Brothers

1.23 … JK Duke

1.24 … 6 Ft Back

1.25 … Whiskey Moon

1.30 … Kevin Wallace

1.31 … Butch Watson

GEORGIA SHRIMP COMPANY

100 N Peachtree Parkway Peachtree City 770-631-9114

Live Jazz, Soul, & Motown

GRAZING HERE

2850 Highway 54, Peachtree City • 770-486-2696

1/10 … Steven Moore Band

1/11 … Jimmy Cav Project 1/18 … Mostly 80s

1/24 … Dirty Truth Band

1/31 … Dueling Pianos

GREENVILLE STREET PARK

51 Greenville St., Newnan Saturdays

Local’s Market at 10 a.m. Free entry, food trucks, vendors, Live Music! Night Market 5 p.m. Free entry, vendors, Live Music!

Kris Youmans-Hall 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, enjoying life on Pierce Chapel with husband Warren Barefoot ‘Slim’, Hank the Dog (who also has an ear for music) and Marcy who is all ears when it comes to Live music.

Contact Kris with questions, comments, suggestions or just to say you like her column krisyoumansband@gmail.com

HOLLONVILLE OPRY AT TURIN UMC

20 Longstreet Avenue, Turin

Every 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month starts at 6:30 pm. Gospel, Bluegrass & Country Good Music, Good Fellowship 1/18 … Straight from the Heart Maloy Brothers Roustabouts

HUNTER’S MEXICAN CANTINA

1875 East Main Street, Hogansville • 706-637-9444

Family oriented Mexican cantina & grill with friendly atmosphere & live music. Call ahead for lineup.

Karaoke nights every Friday and Saturday

LINE CREEK BREWING COMPANY

150 Huddleston Road, PTC 678-545-6024

1/18 … Ward Abel 6 p.m.

1/25 … John Hensley 6 p.m.

LINE CREEK BUS BARN

300 City Center Parkway, Fayetteville • 770-731-1641

1/25 … Ward Abel 6 p.m.

LINE CREEK THE RESERVE 18 Savannah Street, Newnan 770-755-6734

1/11 … Ward Abel 6 p.m.

THE MAD MEXICAN 2 East Court Square, Newnan 770-683-9545

Great food, live local music. Call & check schedule!

NUTWOOD WINERY

1339 Upper Big Springs Rd., LaGrange 706-882-5295

Family-owned winery & cafe. Every Friday & Saturday - a local performer in the Tasting Room. Starting around 6 p.m. on Fridays and 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Call for line up.

OLDE COURTHOUSE

TAVERN On The Square

105 Glynn Street South, Fayetteville GA 30214 678-489-3888

Marvelous Marvin presents Saturdays in January 1/11 … Skyler Saufley 1/18 … Alec James & Blues Caravan 1.25 … Tripp & the Breakers

PIKE BILLIARDS

622 Thomaston St., Zebulon 678-568-8058

will be joining Wednesday Open Mic Night starting Jan. 15.

Come out to see and support our great local talent.

HANK MARCY

ABIDE IDOL

PURE LIFE HOUSE OF MUSIC

206 Clark St., LaGrange 706-443-4838

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

Shows at 7:30 p.m.

1/18 … 10th year

Anniversary Celebration

An evening of BBQ & Music

Celebrating great listening with favorite local artists, Barry Waldrep, Nick Mayfield, Henry Jacobs, Callie Hammond with special guests Anna Mayfield, Liam McDonald & more!

RPM FULL SERVICE

15 Jackson Street, Newnan

770-683-1414

A neighborhood pub recycled from a 1960s service station. A full kitchen, great food, bar, huge outdoor patio & Live music. A landmark chill zone!

SENOIA BEER COMPANY

1 Main St. • 770-727-9579

Senoia’s 1st Craft brewery! Bring the kids, dogs, and your favorite takeout food.

Thursday at 6 p.m.; Friday & Saturday music at 7 p.m.; Sunday 3 p.m.

Open Mic Night 7:30 p.m.

SKINNY’S

1065 Sullivan Road, Suite F, Newnan 770-683- 5147

Bingo, Trivia, Drink Specials. Call for full music lineup. Fridays … Karaoke Saturdays … Karaoke and Live Music

SOUTHERN ROOTS

15 Griffin St., McDonough 678-759-0302

1/10 … Hot Flash

80s Dance Rock band

1/11 … The Rick Stone Band country & southern rock

1/17 … Strait Country tribute to George Strait

1/23 … Hendrix Mannyrod Experience

1/24 … The Garrett Collins Project

1/25 … Fire Lake

1/30 … 2 Broke Kings acoustic

STUDIO CAFE

461 Sandy Creek Rd., Fayetteville 678.695.6278

Hbstudioocafe.com

Sunday Brunch with Live music 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

SUMMERGROVE GOLF CLUB

335 SummerGrove Parkway, Newnan • 770-251-1800

Friday Night Dinner & Music.

1/24 … Cotton Cruz

SUTTON’S AMERICAN GRILL

477 Rome St, Carrollton 678-664-2082

Open Mic Wednesdays!

Live Music Friday & Saturday Nights.

TIPSY DAISY

132 South Hill St., Griffin 770-450-0856

Live music every Friday & Saturday nights!

TOWERHOUSE FARM BREWERY

18736 Hwy. 85, Gay 470-620-7892

Live Music Friday 6-9 p.m.

THE TROPIKAL BIRD

167 Banks Rd @ Banks Station, Fayetteville. 770-837-7067

SAE Live FRIDAYS

1 to 3 p.m. and 8 to 10 p.m. RSVP & info 770-837-7067

WHIMZICAL CAFE

33 E Broad St., Newnan 770-755-7709

Here’s more great shows! 1/11 … Anna Shinholster w/ Patrick Thompson opening 7 p.m.

¯

One-Day Introduction to Beekeeping Course

Our one-day beekeeping course is for new beekeepers. Bobby Torbush, Master Beekeeper, will take you through your first year of beekeeping, from preparing for the arrival of your colonies to preparing them to survive winter. This course is also an excellent refresher for beekeepers to gain more confidence in working with their bees. During the day, you will have the opportunity to meet members of the Coweta Beekeeper Association, and there will be plenty of time for questions.

January 18, 2025 8:00 am - approximately 4:00 pm

The UGA Coweta County Fairgrounds and Conference Center 275 Pine Rd Newnan, GA 30263

Course Fee Includes:

• 2025 annual membership to Coweta Beekeepers

• The book First Lessons in Beekeeping

• One club T -shirt per family membership (additional t-shirts available for an additional cost)

• Breakfast, lunch and snacks

• Prizes throughout the day!

• Early Registration is $60 per person

• $15 for each additional family member

• Registration on day of class $65

Visa/MC, AMEX, Cash, Check or Zelle/Venmo

For more information and registration go to website:

January Beekeeping Class :: https:// www.cowetabeekeepers.org/

Look for Whiskey Moon at The Cellar

Look for Anna Schinholster at Whimzical Cafe

for Stephen Moore at Below the Neck

Newnan Songwriters Festival Announces Line Up and Ticket Info

From Special Reports

The Newnan Cultural Arts Commission will present its first Newnan Songwriters Festival on Friday, Jan. 31 and Saturday, Feb. 1.

The Newnan Songwriters Festival will be a family-friendly, two-day event featuring national and local songwriters with the headlining event a concert in Wadsworth Auditorium on Friday. The Songwriters in the Round concert will feature David Ryan Harris, Angie Aparo, Alex Guthrie, and Davin McCoy. It starts at 7:30 p.m.

The second day of the Festival will have local songwriters at various businesses around downtown Newnan starting at 5 p.m. A venue and lineup drop to come soon!

Wristbands are available to purchase through the City of Newnan’s Leisure Services PAGE under the Activities tab. Wristbands cost $30 and include entry into Friday’s concert at Wadsworth. Wristbands are not required for entry to any associated businesses on Saturday but will earn festival participants specials at each location.

Saturday, March 22, 6:30 p.m.

Newnan Centre Amphitheatre

Piedmont Newnan Hospital, a non-profit healthcare provider, will host its inaugural benefit concert, Piedmont Rocks!, on March 22, 2025 at the Newnan Centre Amphitheatre, the first of its kind. This new philanthropic event will replace the Piedmont Newnan Soiree held in previous years.

“We are very excited about offering an event that the entire community can come to and enjoy,” said Mike Robertson, CEO of Piedmont Newnan. “We are dedicated to providing outstanding healthcare close to home, but we also love the opportunity to engage with the community outside of the hospital.”

The inaugural event will feature Yacht Rock Schooner as the headliner. The 7-man Schooner is one of the longest running soft rock tributes and plays tunes from the late ‘70s and early 80s, including songs by Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald and more.

Newnan’s First Baby of 2025! Welcome to the world!

Drayden Fletcher was born at Piedmont Newnan at 1:11 a.m. on New Year’s Day, Drayden weighed 7 lbs 5.8 oz and measured 19 inches long. Proud parents CJ and Angela Fletcher are overjoyed to celebrate the arrival of their second child—a perfect way to start 2025! Join us in congratulating this beautiful family!

The annual benefit concert will support Piedmont Newnan Hospital with this year’s ticket sale proceeds directed toward oncology services at Piedmont Newnan, including the support of direct patient care programs, capital needs associated with our oncology programs, and program support for the Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness Center.

“Many people don’t realize we are a not-for-profit hospital and that many of our programs and services would not be possible without the generous support of our community and donors,” said Robertson. “This annual event allows us to celebrate Piedmont Newnan’s accomplishments and the community that has supported us while raising money for those affected by cancer.”

This is an outdoor concert, and individual tickets and sponsorship opportunities will be available at piedmont.org/piedmontrocks.

In addition to a night of dancing and singing along to soft rock hits, attendees can purchase dinner from food trucks offering a variety of menu options, and a cash bar will be onsite offering an array of beverages for purchase.

Grab your captains’ hats and get ready for a fun night of dancing at Piedmont Rocks! on March 22, 2025.

The Newnan Centre Amphitheatre is located at 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan.

Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …

Notes from here, there and the Internet …

The Newnan Fire Department recently received a grant from the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The grant was used by the Newnan Fire Department to add a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV) to the fleet, which will be used for natural disasters, events, and emergency calls on the LINC.

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It actually makes more sense for lower economy passengers to board the plane first as they are located further down the plane.

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The Newnan Fire Department recently held their annual awards breakfast to celebrate their firefighters and their hard work. The four recipients of this year’s Life Save Award were Firefighter Hector Tirado, Lt. Daniell Albertson, Firefighter Trent Harper, and Lt. Buddy Hamby.

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Belated birthday greetings just extend your birthday happiness.

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The Kiwanis Club of Newnan recently distributed more than $200,000 to 50 area non-profits. The proceeds are from revenue raised from the annual Kiwanis Coweta County Fair.

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Over the past decade, Yamaha employees have brought joy to more than 1,000 children through Coweta County’s local Angel Tree program. This year, Yamaha adopted 120 foster children across Coweta County, providing each child with multiple gifts through the Department of Family and Children Services.

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Your dog thinks “Fetch” is a game that you two made up, and he loves you for that.

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Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Annual Newnan Christmas Parade, as chosen by the Newnan Youth Council: Most Creative: Foundation Church; Best Use of Theme: SonRise Baptist Church; The Elfin Award: Joyful Praise Homeschool Choir. Receiving 77% of the total votes, Foundation Church also won the Popular Choice Award.

[ [ [

The Coweta Community Foundation (CCF) announced recipients of their 2024 Coweta Together Fund grants during a live stream on Facebook recently in a $73,350 distribution of funds. The full list of recipients can be found here: https://www.wintersmedia. net/ccf-announces-2024-coweta-together-fund-grants/

[ [ [

The last 10 percent of a tube of toothpaste lasts about as long as the first 90 percent.

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From the Red Cross: Thank you Newnan and Coweta County for helping us exceed our Red Kettle goal. You gave $78,591.80. Special thanks to our #1 bell ringer Don Simmons of the White Oak Golden K Kiwanis club who rang for 101 hours and raised $8,975.18. Not surprising, our 2nd and 3rd top earners are also Golden K members. Matt Thompson raised $5,409.35 and Terry Schroeder raised $3,875.68. Other top ringers raising over $2,000 each are Bill Querry, Harold Joyner, and Donald Sprayberry. Because of your gifts of time and treasure, we will be able to serve our neighbors in need all year.

[ [ [

Light bulbs were such a good idea that they actually became the symbol of a good idea.

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Piedmont Newnan Hospital welcomed the first baby born at the hospital in 2025 at 1:11 a.m. on Jan. 1. Parents CJ and Angela Fletcher, from Sharpsburg, welcomed their baby boy Drayden, who weighed 7 lbs., 5.8 ounces and measured 19 inches long. This is their second child.

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And speaking of babies, go check out our top stories for 2024 on page 27, where the first baby of the year was the most read.

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If you are alone and you crack open a peanut shell to eat the peanut inside, you are the only person in the world to have ever seen that peanut.

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hen a professional in any field finds a home at a

and

align with his or her own, it’s a perfect match.

Belize Ellison, a senior sustainability engineer at Yamaha, has found such a match. Her role involves reducing Yamaha’s carbon footprint to enhance its business model.

“I want to help us be the best Yamaha we can today without compromising future Yamaha’s ability to continue to be the best,” she said. “That is my job.”

Ellison is thrilled to work for a company which values the same things she is personally passionate about when it comes to sustainability. As a relatively young engineer less than a decade into her career, she also appreciates being part of a brand recognized around the world for excellence – “the best of the best,” as she put it.

Bob Brown assumes role as President at Yamaha

From Special Reports

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Company (YMMC) has announced that Robert (Bob) Brown has been appointed President, effective December 30, 2024.

Bob succeeds Takahiro (Taka) Imanishi, who has returned to Japan to assume a new position after serving as President of YMMC since 2020. Bob’s extensive background in manufacturing, his strong relationships within Yamaha, both globally and within the U.S., and his focus on community engagement make him an exceptional leader for the company.

Bob began his career at YMMC in May 2019 as Vice President of Finance & Operations Support. He helped guide the company through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. He was later promoted to Vice President of Manufacturing, where he helped develop the strategic plan for the company which will optimize Yamaha’s manufacturing footprint in North America. His leadership has been instrumental in driving YMMC’s success in the ATV, Side-by-Side, Water Vehicle, and Golf Car businesses.

For nearly five years, Bob has been a key figure at YMMC’s largest U.S.-based manufacturing facility in Newnan, Georgia. His work has been pivotal in achieving significant milestones and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Bob’s impact extends beyond the factory; he has served as Chair of the Coweta Grand Prix, a soapbox derby fundraiser promoting STEM education through hands-on learning and collaboration. Additionally, he has been an active member of the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the Coweta Community Foundation Board of Directors.

Bob also led YMMC’s Corporate Social Responsibility Committee, identifying engaging and impactful projects for employees to give back to the surrounding communities. His deep connection to Newnan, GA, where he lives and plays, underscores his commitment to local development and his role as an American president of YMMC.

“I am honored to step into the role of President at YMMC. Our team has shown incredible resilience and dedication, and I look forward to leading us into a new era of growth and innovation,” said Bob Brown. “ At YMMC, we embrace the concept of ‘Kando’ – creating experiences that deeply resonate, inspire joy, and inspire the heart and spirit. By bringing Kando to our employees and community partners, we aim to cultivate an enduring positive impact and build a stronger, more engaged community.”

Bob holds a degree in Accounting from Eastern Michigan University and completed the Global Executive Program facilitated by Hitotsubashi University, School of International Corporate Strategy. He is married and has two children. In his spare time, Bob enjoys spending time with his family and cheering on Yamaha’s racing.

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Company (YMMC) employs more than 2,000 metro Atlanta residents to design and build recreational vehicles at its Newnan manufacturing facilities. All of the world’s Yamaha golf cars, Side-by-Sides, as well as most of its WaveRunners and ATVs are manufactured at the facility in Coweta County, Georgia.

Belize Ellison

Keep Newnan Beautiful sets 2025 Recycling Calendar

From Staff Reports

Keep Newnan Beautiful has announced its 2025 Recycling Calendar with 11 events planned over the course of the upcoming year.

Saturday, February 8. The second will be held later in the fall on Saturday, October 4.

One Electronics Recycling day is set for 2025 and will take place on Saturday, March 1.

Personalized Care for Aging Veterans

A Guide to Veterans Benefits for Home Care

As the population of aging veterans continues to grow across the nation, many families face challenges in finding personalized care solutions. Financial considerations can often be a significant hurdle in securing the support their loved ones need.

Four Paper Shredding Events are scheduled with the first on Saturday, January 25. Other dates include May 3, September 13 and November 8. On May 3, the Paper Shredding will also feature a tag-along event – Textile Recycling. All four Shredding Events as well as other recycling days will be from 8 a.m. to Noon in the Newnan City Hall Parking Lot. Newnan City Hall is located at 25 LaGrange Street.

The second event of 2025 is the first of two Paint Recycling days and will take place on

Some fees may apply at various events. There is no Tire Amnesty Day scheduled for the 2025 calendar year.

Other scheduled events include MLK Service Day on January 20, Earth Day Litter Pickup on April 19 and two DEA Drug Take Back Days – April 26 and Oct. 25. The Drug Take Back Days will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and held at the Newnan Police Department, which is located at 1 Joseph Hannah Boulevard in Newnan.

For more information on these events, call the Keep Newnan Beautiful office at 678-673-5505, email knb@newnanga.gov, visit keepnewnanbeautiful.org or follow KNB on Facebook.

Many veterans of the U.S. military—including those who served in the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, or Coast Guard—may not realize they could qualify for in-home care benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Who is Eligible for VA Home Care Benefits?

Your loved one may qualify for financial assistance to cover in-home personal care if they meet certain requirements:

• They served in active duty in the military, naval, or air service and were discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.

• Members of the Reserves or National Guard may also qualify if they were called to active duty by a federal order (not for training purposes) and completed the full term of their service.

Understanding VA Programs for Home Care Benefits

Veterans may be eligible for benefits under the VA’s Community Care Network (CCN) program or the Aid and Attendance program.

Community Care Network (CCN) Benefits

Through the CCN program, veterans may receive coverage for home-health care services. This service can provide a variety of personal care needs, such as bathing and dressing, in addition to home maker needs, like cooking and housekeeping. A service care coordinator is assigned to assess the veteran’s care needs and determine the number of hours of care required each week. They will then contact a VA authorized agency, like Home Helpers, who will provide you with qualified caregivers. Payments for CCN services are made directly from the VA to the authorized care provider.

Aid and Attendance Benefits

This program is available to veterans receiving a VA pension who require assistance with daily living activities. Eligibility criteria include:

• Needing help with tasks like dressing, bathing, or eating.

• Being confined to bed due to illness or injury.

• Residing in a nursing home.

• Having limited vision.

• Requiring supervision due to dementia or other cognitive diseases.

For veterans unable to leave their homes because of a permanent disability, the VA may provide additional “Housebound” benefits. These funds are typically added to the veteran’s monthly pension.

Steps to Apply for VA Home Care Benefits

Families can apply for these benefits by completing VA Form 10-10EZ and submitting it to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Additional steps include:

• Visiting a local VA center to speak with a service coordinator, case manager, or social worker.

• Gathering documentation, including proof of military service, identification, financial records, and medical information, as required.

A VA service representative can guide you through the process and provide details on the documents needed.

When to Apply

It’s advisable to begin the application process as soon as possible—even before in-home care is required. Processing times can be lengthy, and early application can help avoid out-of-pocket expenses while waiting for approval.

How Our Care Services Support Veterans

Home Helpers is proud to assist veterans who wish to age in place by offering professional in-home care services. Our caregivers provide support with:

• Personal care tasks, such as bathing, grooming, and dressing.

• Household chores, including light cleaning, laundry and meal preparation.

• Assistance with mobility and toileting needs.

Get Started with a Free Consultation

We’re here to help you navigate your loved one’s care options, including determining eligibility for VA benefits. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how our personalized care services can support your family and the veteran in your life.

Dr. Melynda Stephenson Practice Owner

Dr. Sara Collins Powell Practice Owner From left to right:

Melynda Stephenson, Dr. Rachel Gladfelter, Dr. Sara Powell, Dr. Jackie Adam Dr. Jonathan Schiavone

The LOCATIONS

around downtown

Main Street Newnan 6 First Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263

770.253.8283 mainstreetnewnan.com

36th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration & Parade Newnan Chapter No. 483 O.E.S. Commemorative Celebration Jan. 17, 7 p.m. at City of Hope Parade Jan. 18, noon starting at 55 Savannah Street. Check their calendar for their 2025 events!

The Carnegie Library

1 LaGrange Street, Newnan, 770.683.1347 newnancarnegie.com

Exercise Is Medicine, Gentle Yoga and Crochet, Book Club with Lola, Literary Circle Book Club, and more. Author Jennifer Coburn at the Carnegie Feb. 4 at 6 p.m. to discuss her upcoming novel, The Girls of the Gimmer Factory Registration required eventbrite.com/e/1003216255827 This program is a part of the Edgar B. Hollis Distinguished Author series. Some events require reservations and space is limited. Visit newnancarnegie.com for more events and information.

local theatre

24 1st Ave, Newnan • 770-683-6282 newnantheatre.org

N.I.T.W.I.T.S.: Roulette • Jan. 10-11

Come help us build a night of laughs by choosing what games our players will perform for you. That’s right, we won’t even know what games we are going to play! You, the audience, will choose what type of game and we will find out together! Guessing games? Maybe! Musical games? It could happen! One liners? If that’s what y’all want!

Southside Theatre Guild

20 W Campbellton St, Fairburn, GA 30213 • 770-969-0956

Check their website for the latest … stgplays.com/

The Legacy TheaTre

The Legacy Theatre

1175 Senoia Rd., Suite C., Tyrone, GA., 30290 legacytheatre.com

Jersey Boys • Jan. 24 - Feb. 23

With phenomenal music, memorable characters, and great storytelling, JERSEY BOYS follows the fascinating evolution of four blue-collar kids who became one of the greatest successes in pop-music history. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards® and Olivier Awards®, JERSEY BOYS takes you behind the music of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons to discover the secret of a 40-year friendship as the foursome work their way from the streets of New Jersey to the heights of stardom.

McRitchie-Hollis Museum

74 Jackson St., Newnan • 770.251.0207 newnancowetahistory.com

Newnan Cultural Arts Commission

Upcoming events

…

Newnan Songwriter’ Festival • Jan. 31 & Feb. 1, 2025 featuring national and local professional songwriters at some of downtown Newnan’s best venues. Wristbands for the festival $30. Friday, January 31st - Songwriter’s in the Round at Wadsworth Auditorium at 7:30 p.m. David Ryan Harris, Angie Aparo, Alex Guthrie, and Davin McCoy! Wristband required. Saturday, February 1st- Music in the Community Businesses around downtown Newnan will feature local songwriters starting at 5 p.m. Venue and lineup drop to come. Wristband not required for Saturday shows. BUT wear your wristband out for specials at each location. Visit the Newnan Cultural Arts Commission’s Facebook page or call 678.673.5522. @newnancac

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

Check their website and Facebook page for more information on upcoming events and camps.

Centre for Performing & Visual Arts 1523 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, GA 30265

The Rhinestone Cowgirls Thursday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m.

Pay homage to the iconic female vocalists of yesterday and today with RHINESTONE COWGIRLS: Legendary Ladies of Country Music! Three powerhouse singers perform fresh arrangements of classic and contemporary country hits in this elegant and authentic journey celebrating the evolution of country music’s humble beginnings to the giants of today’s music industry.

A1A: The Official and Original Jimmy Buffet Tribute Band Saturday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m.

Since winning a Jimmy Buffett sound-alike contest for Margaritaville Records in 1992, Jeff Pike and A1A have proudly stood as The Official and Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show. It is the sole Jimmy Buffett tribute show authorized by the late Jimmy Buffett and holds the record for being the longest-running Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show to date.

Uptown: A Celebration of Motown and Soul Sunday, Feb. 2, 3 p.m.

Fusing Bruno-Mars-caliber stage presence with top-tier vocals and wall-to-wall choreography, the men of UPTOWN combine the smooth stylings of R&B with the fresh hits of today in a unique and modern show that gets every crowd on their feet!

Fire and Rain • Thursday, Feb. 6, 7 p.m.

AJ Swearingen and Jayne Kelli have been performing and writing music together since 2010. This Nashville based duo is on a mission to share iconic and self-penned music to new audiences around the country. This show features the authentic and powerful vocals of Swearingen and Kelli and a beautifully orchestrated collection of classics by James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot, Joni Mitchell, Cat Stevens, America, Jim Croce, Carole King, Fleetwood Mac, and Neil Young.

Join their mailing list!

Check Facebook and their website for updates on these and other upcoming events!

live Music

Look for Kris Youman-Hall’s Local and Live Music column in this issue.

301 Lafayette Ave., Fayetteville, GA 30214

770.719.4173

www.TheVilleAmp.com/

Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater

201 McIntosh Trail, PTC

770.631.0630

Check website and Facebook for 2024 Concert Series coming soon. amphitheater.org/

at Boyd Park, 110 Smith St., LaGrange, GA 30240

706.298.5434 sweetland.events/

OutdOOrs

atlanta

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

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

Check their website frequently for fun things to do! explorenewnancoweta.com

Chattahoochee Bend State Park

Coweta County African American Heritage Museum 92 Farmer St., Newnan info@ccaahm.org 470.414.1647

Look for info on Facebook.

Serenbe

9110 Selborne Lane, Suite 210, Chattahoochee Hills serenbefarms.com

Check website and Facebook for their latest events.

425 Bobwhite Way, Newnan, GA 30263 770.254.7271 www.gastateparks.org/ChattahoocheeBend

Saturday Morning Hike • Every Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon

Join us weekly for our Saturday Morning Hike as we view Nature in the Winter at the Park. Dress appropriately for the weather. Please call for reservations. Limited to 20 Morning Hikers who enjoy nature and want the exercise. $5 plus $5 parking.

All About Bats • Saturday, Jan. 11, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Come and explore the exciting world of Bats. How many species do we have in Georgia? What is the smallest and the largest one? Meet at the Visitor center for this exploration into their world. $7 plus $5 parking.

All About Snakes • Saturday, Jan. 18, 1-3 p.m.

Do you like to learn about Nature? Join us as we celebrate the World of Snakes. Let’s discuss the snakes of the Piedmont and in our park. This is the best time to discover their world and habitat since it is Wintertime. Learn how to tell the difference from the good ones and the bad ones. The ones you want in your yard or garden. $7 plus $5 parking.

Campfire Chronicles • Saturday, Jan. 25, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Meet with us for an evening of laughter and fun. Come and make lasting memories while enjoying the campfire as we sing songs and participate in skits. Come listen to the stories of Bigfoot sightings in Georgia. Enjoy the smores that we provide for you as well as hot chocolate. Listen to the night sounds and stargaze in the night sky. $7 plus $5 parking.

All About Turtles • Feb. 1, 12-2 p.m.

Learn interesting facts about the turtles in our park. Come and meet Stumpy our resident Eastern Box Turtle. Find out about the different types of turtles that we have in the Chattahoochee. What is the smallest and largest turtle? How long do they live and what do they like to eat? $7 plus $5 parking. Check website and Facebook page for updates on events! Call with questions or to register 770.254.7271. Email chattbend.naturalist@gmail.com

Coweta County Genealogical Society & Library 8 Carmichael St., Newnan

Wed. - Fri., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check Facebook for info

Senoia Farmers Market Is back in April … Every Saturday, 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. @senoiafarmersmarket on Facebook 40 Travis Street, Senoia, GA 30276 historic downtown

Check Town of Tyrone website and Facebook for events

960 Senoia Road, Tyrone tyronega.gov/calendar

Look for more events / updates on our Facebook page, our sister publication The Coweta Shopper and upcoming issues of The Paper wintersmedia.net thecowetashopper.com

6 Couch St, Senoia, GA 30276 Facebook and Instagram. senoiaareahistory.com

Check Facebook page for info on this and other events!

KEEP NEWNAN BEAUTIFUL 2025 EVENTS

Senoia Area Historical Society History Museum

KNB Paper Shredding

From Staff Reports

The first of four Paper Shredding Events in 2025 will take place on Saturday, January 25 behind City Hall in downtown Newnan.

The event – sponsored by Keep Newnan Beautiful – will be from 8 a.m. to Noon in the parking lot behind Newnan’s City Hall at 25 LaGrange Street.

The first 3 bags or boxes are free for Coweta

Featured Joint

on page 6

770-251-2366 • dandgdoors.com

info@dandgdoors.com

7 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday

Veteran owned and operated. Local company based in Moreland.

GARAGE DOORS

• Install New Construction and Replacement CHI Garage Doors

• Garage Door Repairs

• Springs Replacement

• Install Liftmaster Garage Door Openers and Accessories with MyQ Technology

• Free Estimates

• Service and Sales Coverage is South of l-20, West of I-75

to the

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. Here’s a few. Look website for more wintersmedia.net

Alo Farms … 678.489.4423 • 629 Hwy 74 South, PTC

Red and Green Oakleaf, Sweet Crisp, Red and Green Butter and Muir Lettuce. Microgreen broccoli, basil, cucumbers, spinach, scallion and more. alofarmsga.us

Apollo 2 Steaks … 770.667.4811, 33 1/2 Broad St., Newnan apollossteaks.com

Authentic Philly cheesesteaks, cheesecake and more!

Cafe 1485 470.627.3043, 1485 GA 34 East, Newnan

Serving breakfast and lunch, this chef-driven restaurant reminds one of a diner … offering omelets, French toast, corned beef, biscuits & gravy, shrimp & grits. Shrimp Po-Boys, Cubanos, Hamburgers & more.

CC’s Wings … 770.252.2755 • 23 Franklin Road, Newnan

Do a pretty big take-out business. Usual flavors with fish and burgers on the menu as well.

Christy’s Cafe … 770-683-7512 • 27 Jackson St., Newnan

One of the more popular breakfast joints in town. Regulars know the secret menu. Also open for lunch. The front porch is popular, especially with dog owners. Down home grub.

Chylaca’s Mexican Restaurant & Grill … 770.252.6821

20 Bullsboro Dr., Newnan • 3154 E. Hwy. 34, Newnan …

Two locations serving up some of the best dishes around. People rave about their salsa and rice. We are also partial to the Tacos Carne Asada and the El Cabo.

Circa Coffee 770-683-7991 • 865 Senoia Rd, Tyrone facebook.com/coffeehousetyrone/

Tasty chicken salad sandwich, ham and cheese croissant, caprese salad on sourdough bread & more. Their banana bread is off the charts. And they’ve got some big cookies!

Coweta Country Junction … 770.253.5999, 1502 Hwy. 29 North, Newnan

Arguably the best wings in the county. Big and juicy.

The Cozy Bistro 678-633-5031 thecozybistro.com

300 Bullsboro Dr A, Newnan - a new Vietnamese restaurant serving Pho, the ultimate Vietnamese meat and rice noodle soup, crispy egg rolls, Spicy Lemongrass Chicken Rice, Chicken Curry.

Dunc’s BBQ Kitchen 678-673-6644, 98 Jackson St., Newnan

Great joint that includes beef brisket, all-you-can-eat catfish and shrimp, smoked chicken and pulled pork. Killer banana pudding and their white sauce is The Bomb.

El Taquito 770.252.2777, 1389 Highway 29 South, Newnan

It’s located inside a gas station. Their Coke is from Mexico and has sugar. This is the real deal. They have photos up above the counter and you can just point and salivate at the same time.

Fabiano’s Pizzeria … 770.683.2683, 19 North Court Square, Newnan

Very popular pizza joint. It’s their other items that really make a hitsoups, sandwiches, garlic knots and bowls of tater tots.

Garlic Thai … 770.683.7515 • 16 North Court Square, Newnan garlicthai.com

For those who love Asian food, as in Thai cuisine, sushi and noodles, Garlic has to be on the top of anyone’s list. Seafood, lamb, beef, chicken, all the proteins are there in some amazing sauces including several curry spices.

Goldens on the Square 770.251.4300, 9 East Court Square, Newnan, GA 30263 The menu changes daily but there are always several meat/fish offerings, vegetables, salads and desserts. If you are looking for some good ol’ Southern comfort food, you would be hard pressed to beat Golden’s.

Look for more at wintersmedia.net

2024: Top 20 Most Viewed Stories, Posts at Winters Media & Publishing

From Staff Reports

Pictured above is the family of Coweta’s First Baby of 2024 – Lily Abigail Harmon. In the photo are mom, Cara Harmon; dad, Blake Harmon; big sister, Layla Harmon; and baby girl Lily Abigail Harmon. The story had 111,183 views on Winters Media & Publishing digital platforms.

Everybody loves a baby.

And that consensus was indeed confirmed when looking at the Most Viewed Stories on the Winters Media & Publishing digital platforms in 2024. The Coweta’s First Baby of 2024 born at Piedmont Newnan Hospital story was published on January 4 and eventually totaled 111,183 views on websites – wintersmedia.net and thecowetashopper.com – plus Winters Media Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter) pages. It was the most viewed story and/or post of the year at Winters Media.

The baby – Lily Abigail Harmon – is the daughter of Grantville residents Blake and Cara Harmon. Lily Abigail measured in at 7 lbs., 3 oz., and 20 inches long, was born at 9:39 p.m. on January 1.

The runner-up story was a Facebook-only post titled

“A typical day in downtown Newnan.” The post had a photo of a white modified and lifted pickup truck and garnered 102,372 views.

After the top 2 stories, there was a significant drop in total views with third place consisting of 48,655 looks for “Hunt for Lost Treasure of Coweta County” which published on August 22.

Stories on Coweta Schools announcing new administrative positions or academic calendars grabbed places No. 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9. The Weekend Guide had a year-high performance the first weekend in May with its story landing in the No. 7 spot at 13,054 views.

Two sports stories came in at No. 10 (Coweta Sports Hall of Fame to induct 4) with 7,417 views and at No. 16 (Katie Mitchell named head coach at Wingate) with 2,125.

To the right and above is the entire Top 20 Most Viewed Digital Posts for 2024 for Winters Media & Publishing. It has the ranking, views, story name and date.