The PAPER March 2024

“When I was younger, I was too busy. Now that I’m older, I’m too tired”

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 Katie Anderson’s Out and About column features Senoia’s Doc Farm Family of Distillers.

 Abby’s Angels Rainbow Run and Family Fun Day is April 20. Registration is open!

 The Classic Market has a lot of Wine Days!

 Newnan Theatre Co.’s March play is Moon Over Buffalo.

 Masterworks Chorale Concert is March 10 at The Nixon Centre.

 Make More Music Benefit Concert is March 23. Make plans.

 ChildrenConnect Museum offers a Spring Break Camp in April.

 Merle girl Mary Ellen Hutchesen is retiring. Read more inside. Look for info on these stories, events, columns, and more inside!

OSCAR GALA

The Barbie Edition

took place February 24 at the Newnan Centre. Here’s some photos of pretty in pink Newnanites having fun at fundraiser for the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Loook

Lots

LEE-GOODRUM PHARMACY

We have been providing fast, friendly, and accurate service with a hometown feel since 1984!

• Full Service Pharmacy • Home Delivery

• Immunizations • Vaccinations

• Home Health Care Products

• Cards and Gifts

Monday - Friday 8 a.m.

8 a.m

P rofessional s P orts

NBA Basketball ATLANTA HAWKS

Feb. 29, Thurs. – at Brooklyn Nets, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 2, Sat. – at Brooklyn Nets, 3 pm – Bally

March 5, Tues. – at New York Knicks, 7:30 pm – TNT

March 6, Wed. – Cleveland Cavaliers, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 8, Fri. – at Memphis Grizzlies, 7:30 pm – ESPN / Bally

March 10, Sun. – New Orleans Pelicans, 6 pm – Peachtree TV

March 13, Wed. – at Portland Trail Blazers, 10 pm – Bally

March 15, Fri. – at Utah Jazz, 9:30 pm – Peachtree TV

March 17, Sun. – at Los Angeles Clippers, 9:30 pm – Bally

March 18, Mon. – at Los Angeles Lakers, 10:30 pm – Bally

March 21, Thurs. – at Phoenix Suns, 10:30 pm – Bally

March 23, Sat. – Charlotte Hornets, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 25, Mon. – Boston Celtics, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 27, Wed. – Portland Trail Blazers, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 28, Thurs. – Boston Celtics, 7:30 pm – Bally

March 30, Sat. – Milwaukee Bucks, 7:30 pm – Bally

April 1, Mon. – at Chicago Bulls, 8 pm – Bally

April 3, Wed. – Detroit Pistons, 7:30 pm – Bally

April 4, Thurs. – at Dallas Mavericks, 8:30 pm – Peachtree TV

All Home Games played at State Farm Arena

MLB Baseball

ATLANTA BRAVES

March 28, Thurs. – at Philadelphia

Phillies, 3:05 pm – TBD

March 30, Sat. – at Philadelphia Phillies, 4:05 pm – TBD

March 31, Sun. – at Philadelphia Phillies, 1:35 pm – TBD

April 1, Mon. – at Chicago White Sox, 2:10 pm – TBD

April 2, Tues. – at Chicago White Sox, 7:40 pm – TBD

April 3, Wed. – at Chicago White Sox, 2:10 pm – TBD

April 5, Fri. – Arizona Diamondbacks, 7:20 pm – TBD

MLS Soccer

All Home Games played at Truist Park

ATLANTA UNITED

March 9, Sat. – New England Revolution, 7:30 pm – AppleTV

March 17, Sun. – Orlando City, 7 pm – Apple TV

March 23, Sat. – at Toronto FC, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

March 31, Sun. – Chicago Fire FC, 3:30 pm – FOX, Apple TV

April 6, Sat. – at New York City FC, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

All Home Games played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Mr. Personality

Newnan’s Goodwill Ambassador

March: the highlights for this month are Palm Sunday and Easter, as well as Daylight Saving Time. Palm Sunday and Easter are celebrated in churches and temples all over the world, and hold intense meaning and much symbolism to believers everywhere.

Kathy of Baker Bag Company (Phone 215-582-3432) has relocated to 8 LaGrange Street, one door down from Murphey Florist. A must-see for serious shoppers seeking savings and uniques gifts for friends and family. Margie Conway, a life coach, has an office within Kathy’s store. Plus, you can hear her on WQEE 99.1 FM, live Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. Holly Rees, founder of Warrior Defenders, has her own dojo to teach women self-defense in Baker Bag Company as well. Go see for yourselves this unique duet (Phone 770-8458526).

My new essay is titled “Living Life to the Fullest”. There are three things in abundance in Newnan. One: Delta airline pilots, Two: real estate agents, and Three: life coaches. Now I am none of these; what I am is a life encourager. I encourage people to embrace life to the fullest. I do this through conversations, texts, and through my Spiritual Love Letters Ministry. I share my joy, hopes, love, and encouragement with all walks of life. My God-given purpose. I am truly amazed at how well received I am by the readers and people of this sweet town of Newnan.

The Book of the Month is titled “An Autobiography of G.I. Joe” by Harry C. Walker. This is the author’s own story of his two and a half years in the military during World War ll, in which he helped build the Burma Road in the Huck-Cong Valley. This is indeed an old-school experience of the World War ll era and the many letters that had been sent home during that time. This heart-felt story of a school teacher drafted in World War ll is indeed an adventure in and of itself. I encourage you, the reader, to see for yourself.

I want to, at this time, thank you the reader for your many kind words I receive most often in person as we meet on the Courthouse Square. I thank John Winters for this opportunity to express myself through his free Paper, and his wife Corby Winters for her help in putting me in print. I owe a great deal of gratitude to Kay Metcalf, a very skillful and talented young lady that turns my raw material into proper print due to her preparation of my written words. I am truly blessed to be living in this town of Newnan.

Peace, Love, and Much Respect

Until next time, Mr. Personality ◗

Operation Round-Up awarded a grant to the organization to assist with providing basic clothing and other necessities to over 500 local foster children through The Bloom Closet (pictured right).

ur Youth is a nationally-recognized and accredited nonprofit located in Fayetteville, GA Their mission ower Georgia’s families and communities to m the lives of children impacted by foster care. nect the community to evidence-based, -driven programs that support and strengthen the vulnerable children and their families

cipating in Operation Round Up, you will te an average of 50¢ per month… a small to make a big difference in our local

Notes from Jackson Street

Getting Lost On the Way to Being Renewed

At the Winters House, Casa, Villa, Retreat or Wild and Wacky World, we call it “hitting your wall.”

You may call it something else at your house, but we call “it,” that. The thing you feel when you know you can’t take one more step, one more move, one more broken “whatever.”

It is when you’re flat-out “spent.”

To be honest friends, I have felt that way more than once in the last several years. Starting over in life is not easy. Losing my parents, who were such strong Godly pillars in my life, and simply having to make so many decisions about our life and life’s work has been flat-out exhausting at times.

We have faced a series of “First World Problems” lately. The dishwasher won’t drain the water; the stove/oven died the day before our 30th anniversary; and Winters was reading in his favorite chair when a slow drip of water started hitting him on his forehead … apparently from the upstairs bathroom area.

So, on this day, I am grateful for the friends who stand beside us and face our future, or “giants” as Winters calls them. I am thankful for those friends who say, ”How can I help?,” and “What can I do?,” or simply words of encouragement such as, “I love your latest post or Winters’ interview.”

In his book, Everyone Needs A Sam, Winters writes that many will go to the mountaintop with you on your climb to success. But when trials and failures hit, and you start tumbling down that mountain, many will disappear.

Winters writes about those faithful few who will join you in your lowest and darkest valley. While you are looking for the light switch, they have brought flashlights.

This past week was a week of reflection. That can be a good thing, but only if you come out the other side with more perspective and understanding. And so I did, have more insight and perspective that is. I wish some of the events of the past could have been different, but they weren’t and if they were different I would probably not be sitting here typing this post. So again, I have a deeper appreciation for the here and now.

I recently read a phrase on an artist friend’s business card the other day, it simply read: “Sometimes on the way to the dream you get lost and find a better one”

I love that.

I think it can be so true, often we have a plan. We think we know what we want and we head out on the journey, dreams packed, prepared, and ready. We have great plans. However, along the way you find an even better one.

New passions, new purpose, and new opportunities may pop up right in front of us and we must be open and willing to see the new dream God may have for us.

In the Bible, it says “He (God) will give you the desires of your heart.” The way I see it, he will give you the desires of your heart now, or change your heart’s desires. I really do think it is that simple.

So if you have “hit your wall,” you have lost your “whatever,” you feel completely spent and your dream is just out of reach, ask God for eyes to see and just wait, any moment your friends will start turning on their flashlights.

You are not alone.

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

5

Have

a lender quotes you a mortgage rate of 6.5% and the home that you are interested in has an assumable mortgage of 4.125% then you need to explore this option. This means major savings on your monthly mortgage payment. For example, if you are purchasing a $500,000 house with a ten percent down payment at a 6.5% interest rate, you can expect your monthly payment to be around $3,200. Change that interest rate to 4.125 percent, everything else being the same, you are looking at a $2,600 payment. This is a savings of $600 a month!

The costs to assume a mortgage varies with the lender. You need to be sure to have an open dialogue with the mortgage holder of the home that you are interested in. The fees associated with a loan assumption are typically a percentage of the remaining unpaid balance of the current mortgage. Another positive of a loan assumption is that an appraisal is not required. This saves the buyer around $500-$600.

In today’s market with interest rates in the sixes, it is worth you or your Realtor checking with the homeowners to see if their loan is assumable. There are many homeowners out there today with their mortgage rates between two and six percent. If you are considering selling a home, check with your mortgage holder and see if your loan is assumable. What a great marketing tool your assumable mortgage could be when you go to list and sell your home!

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

MLS

ATTENTION HUNTERS, CATTLE OR HORSE FARMERS OR INVESTORS! 261.61+/- Open and wooded acres in Carroll Co., GA. Planted dove fields, food plots and additional open land. Large wooded barn for equipment storage. 3914' paved frontage on Bethesda Church

LOCATION that is walking distance to Elm St Elementary. Spectacular 2-story foyer w/stone floor, angled wall of glass, gold sputnik light fixture & rectangular centered brass balusters entrenched between round wooden posts. LargeLR w/original hardwood floors & big windows. Fantastic kitchen w/large granite island, custom cabinets, and S.S. appliances. Breakfast area or den off kitchen w/fireplace & porch access. 3BRs & 2BAs on main level, including the primary BR w/gorgeous renovated bath w/walkin tiled shower. Lower level perfect for in-law or teen suite w/ kitchen, living area, BR, BA, laundry room & private entrance. Fenced backyard, circle driveway, 2 patios, double carport with kitchen-level entry. $475,000 Jess.

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ATTENTION BUILDERS! FOUR 5 ACRE LOTS IN

CORRIDOR / MIXED USE (CR / MX) LOT FOR SALE In the Hogansville city limits. Frontage on E Main Street / Highway 54. Many potential uses are possible! Less than one mile from I-85 access! Two miles from downtown Hogansville. $35,000 Jess.

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4BR, 3 BA Craftsman style ranch on 3.26+/- w/ easy access to I-85 & Hartsfield Jackson International Airport. Total electric home. Open floor plan w/ foyer entrance, engineered hardwood floors, brick fireplace in living room, separate DR, granite counters in kitchen and bathrooms, tiled floors in bathroom & laundry room. Primary bathroom has large walk-in tiled shower and garden tub, plus walk-in closet. Covered back porch. Arbor Springs Elementary, Madras Middle School, Northgate High School. $449,900. Jess.

ATTENTION INVESTORS! INCOME-PRODUCING PROPERTY UNDER $200,000. Single building with two tenants. Priced at recent appraisal. Rent roll, copy of appraisal and more information available upon request. Neighboring property also available for purchase. New Price! $159,900. Jess.

BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED HOME ON GOLF COURSE IN WHITE OAK SUBDIVISION. Lg office w/ stone fireplace. Large LR w/ tremendous stone fireplace & Bose sound system. Gorgeous kitchen w/ granite counters, breakfast bar, Wolf gas cooktop & vent hood. Convection oven & microwave,

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The Bookmark

How reading affects children

Early childhood is a critical time for personal development. During this period, many intellectual, physical and emotional changes are taking place in a child’s body at a rapid pace. Parents want to give their children the best opportunities for success in life, and encouraging children to read is one of the ways they can help youngsters develop intellectual and emotional maturity.

Data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development project, an American national cohort study with more than 10,000 participants across different ethnicities and varying socioeconomic statuses, found that reading for pleasure in early childhood was linked with better scores on comprehension cognition assessments and better educational attainment in young adolescence. It also correlated to fewer mental health problems and less time spent on electronic devices.

Reading is a learned activity, and reading early on with a child is a bonding activity between caregiver and child. The Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children says reading has the potential to increase academic achievement by improving vocabulary and learning comprehension. Interactive reading also helps increase mental imagery and language processing.

It’s important to note that reading can positively affect the body physically as well. Children may experience less stress by reading, as reading is thought to be even more calming than listening to music or even taking a walk.

In a study published in the journal Psychological Medicine, researchers in the UK and China found that 12 hours of reading a week was the optimal time linked to improved brain structure and good brain health. When researchers examined brain scans from those who had been reading from an early age, the scans showed moderately larger total brain areas and volumes, including in regions of the brain responsible for roles in critical cognitive functions.

“It’s widely accepted that reading inspires creativity, increases empathy and reduces stress,” says professor Barbara Sahakian from the University of Cambridge.

Reading is a skill that children should begin to enjoy at an early age. Parents can introduce reading to their children by reading to them, and then supporting children’s efforts at independent reading.

All the Coweta Library branches offer Babies and Books, Story Times for various ages and many more events that encourage reading. Visit their website for their calendar of events cowetapubliclibrary.org

Did You Know?

• 61% of low-income families do not have a single piece of ageappropriate 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.

Reading at least 15 minutes daily with your child can drastically improve their language and academics.

P.O. Box 336, Newnan, GA 30264 cowetaferst.org/

by Precision Tune Auto Care in support of our Give BIG campaign.

The Coweta County Ferst Foundation mission is to provide a free monthly age-appropriate book for every child under the age of five in Coweta County. Visit our website for more information: cowetaferst.org

This ad generously donated

The Bookmark is sponsored by Coweta Public Library System

Putting the Pieces Together: Timing is Everything in Senior Living • Thursday, March 14

Please join us and Sydney DeLong from Serving Seniors, 2:30 to 4 p.m., as we discuss important factors such as long term care insurance, advance directives, veteran benefits, touring communities, the cost of senior living in the area, and more. Serving Seniors is a cost-free concierge service to help find the best solutions for Senior Living. Register on the Carnegie Library Eventbrite! eventbrite.com

1 LaGrange St., Newnan. 770.683.1347 newnancarnegie.com

Piedmont Sixty Plus Services Dementia Caregiver Support Group meets every 1st Tuesday of each month at Tommy Thompson Center 10 to 11:30 a.m. This monthly meeting offers emotional support and practical information to family and friends caring for those with memory loss. Open to nonprofessional caregivers. Call 404.693.7387 or email maggie.mcdonald@piedmont.org to register. 29 Hospital Road, Newnan

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meets the 2nd Tuesday of the month 3 to 4 p.m. They offer a led group for caregivers, individuals living with Alzheimer’s and others dealing with the disease. 285 Summerlin Blvd., Newnan. 770.637.2207

AARP Tax-Aide Free Tax Prep at Libraries at Heard County Library March 12, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and March 13 at Powell Branch Library. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. First Come, First Served. Info cowetapubliclibrary.org

Newnan Senior Center March Events …

■ Pete Fodero will be playing at Leroy H. Johnson Center, March 6, 10 a.m. 6646 Hwy 16 E, Senoia, GA 30276. Free event

■ St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at Tommy Thompson Senior Center, March 15, 10 a.m.

BINGO + Raffle + Trivia + Lunch. $3 per person. Groups of 3 and larger please RSVP by March 13th, 770.683.8600

■ Spring Luncheon and Health Fair at Fairgrounds, March 27 and 28, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m Please select one day to attend event. It is free for all Coweta County Seniors. RSVP required starting March 11th - 22nd. 770.683.8600

AARP Smart Driver Course at Peachtree City Library March 22

The AARP Smart Driver course teaches valuable defensive driving strategies and provides a refresher of the rules of the road. Learn research-based tips to adapt your driving to compensate for physical and cognitive changes that may occur with aging. Plus, you may qualify for a multi-year automobile insurance discount by completing the course (check with your auto insurance agent for details). Seating is limited. Registration required. Registration open.

Cost: $20 for AARP members; $25 for Non-Members Cash or check accepted on day of class.

Bruce Resnak, resnakb@yahoo.com

201 Willowbend Road, Peachtree City ◗

Never forget the difference you make! Congratulations

Dawn Perez on being named our March Caregiver of the Month

Dawn has been with Home Helpers as our On-Call /Backup Relief Professional Caregiver.  She stands ready to fill any shift at the last minute, allowing us to cover clients when their regular caregiver is unable to make their shift. We can truly say that Dawn has been a go-getter; adjusting within minutes to go serve a client. Whether it is a short 4-hour shift or a long 12-hour shift, she cheerfully goes and gives outstanding service. We are so thankful Dawn has chosen Home Helpers as her work home.

We’re HIRING! We are looking for exceptional caregivers! Caregivers, CNAs and PCAs.

Our Ankle and Foot Experts - Keeping you on your feet!

At Georgia Bone & Joint, we understand that foot and ankle pain can have a signi cant impact on your daily life, and we will work with you to develop a treatment plan speci c to your needs. Our ankle and foot surgeon has completed additional training speci cally in the foot and ankle to assess, diagnose, and treat your foot injury or condition individually to your needs.

Painful bunions? There's a new, patented treatment option!

There’s a new, patented treatment for bunion correction –Lapiplasty® 3D Bunion Correction. Dr. David Heinsch is o ering this exciting, new treatment option which does more than simply remove “the bump”; it addresses your bunion in three dimensions to correct the root of the problem.

Don’t forget to follow us:

Appointments: 770.502.2175or at www.GeorgiaBoneandJoint.org

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.

HANK MARCY

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

Music News:

Aaron Watkins is playing The Bowery in Myrtle Beach on May 19. The band Alabama was the house band there back in the 70s.

Also, he’ll be at 3/23 Flanagan’s in Athens March 23 and at Cowboy Town in Warm Springs March 30. (check the local venues listed here)

John Hensley’s new music has played on 94.9 Backyard Country radio 2 weeks in a row!

Look for our interview elsewhere in this issue of the Paper.

Sara Greer has new music out that she wrote, produced, recorded & engineered herself. Find her on all music platforms.

Look for our interview elsewhere in this issue of the Paper.

Visit the Cellar/Bays & Mad Mexican for great Live Music.

Just talked to Tim Shepard … Sweet Grass Sally has some new additions and great plans ahead. Keep listening and watchingfollow their Facebook page.

Check out Below the Neck in downtown Newnan!

Very cool lounge setting serving food from upstairs at The Redneck Gourmet, and you never know who you’ll run into or who might be playing some great music at Below the Neck.

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

Performances at 8 p.m. in The BAYS.

Call for reservations for

The CELLAR dining room.

3/01 … Rylee Banks

3/02 … 6 Feet Back

3/06 … Jeanine Duke

3/07 … Webster’s Wheel

3/08 … The Band One

3/09 … Doze Guys

3/13 … Jon Lorent

3/14 … John Hensley

3/15 … SAE

3/16 … Hardy Boyd Band

3/20 … SAE

3/21 … Butch Watson

3/22 … Sweet Grass Sally

3/23 … Aaron Watkins

3/27 … SAE

3/28 … Jack Anthony Christopher

3/29 … Chuck & Nick

3/30 … Pete & Pete

THE MAD MEXICAN

2 East Court Square, Newnan 770.683.9545

Come for great food and live local music.

3/01 … Barry Arnell

3/02 … Joey Troup

3/06 … Aaron Watkins

3/08 … Kevin Wallace

3/09 … John Hensley & Kevin Walker

3/13 … Ellis Lowery

3/15 … Tyler Lowman

3/16 … Lucas Smith

3/20 … Barry Arnell

3/22 … 3 Guys Pickin

3/23 … Larry Mills

3/27 … LEROGIE

3/29 … Hunter Flanagan

3/30 … Trevor Meadows

FRIEND’S TABLE (former Highland Bakery & Kitchen)

238 City Circle,PTC 678.369.7820

Live music every weekend

TOWERHOUSE FARM BREWERY

18736 Hwy. 85, Gay 470.620.7892

3/17 … Mary Martin

3/23 … Ellis Lowery

THE TROPIKAL BIRD

167 Banks Rd @ Banks Station, Fayetteville. For more info, call 770.837.7067

SAE LIVE FRIDAYS

1 to 3p.m. and 8 to 10 p.m. RSVP & info 770.837.7067

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!

SUTTON’S AMERICAN GRILL

477 Rome St, Carrollton 678.664.2082

Open Mic Wednesdays!

Live Music Friday & Saturday Nights

GREENVILLE STREET PARK LOCALS MARKET

51 Greenville St. Park, Food Trucks, Live Music, Vendors, Free Entry March 15

REDNECK GOURMET’S

BELOW THE NECK! Follow BTN on Instagram for updates and music at Belowtheneck_ng Music starts at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise listed here.

3/01 … John Hensley

3/02 … Duncan Bros.

3/07 … Coach 6 p.m

3/08 … Aaron Watkins

3/09 … Lerogie

3/14 … Cotton Cruze 6 p.m.

3/15 … Ray & Rebecca Shavers

3/16 … Trevor Meadows

3/22 … John Hensley

3/28 … Coach 6 p.m.

3/29 … Ellis Lowery

3/30 … Cotton Cruz

SENOIA MAIN STREET

ST PATRICK’S WEEKEND PARTY

3/16 … Shenanigans!

Kris Youmans Band & friends 1 to 4 p.m. including C.E.C. high school band led by David Puett) & other special guests.

Brian Rivers & Chris Brunelle all afternoon.

SUMMERGROVE

GOLF CLUB

335 SummerGrove Parkway, Newnan | 770.251.1800

Friday Night Dinner & Music

3/01 Cotton Cruz

3/08 Daniel Toole

3/15 The Duncan Bros

3/22 … Kris Youmans & Her Mighty Fine Band

3/29 … Lerogie

GEORGIA SHRIMP CO.

Peachtree City

3/03 Jeanine Duke

3/30 Jeanine Duke

THE BISTRO

26 Carriage Oaks Dr., Tyrone Live music on Wednesdays 7 to 9 p.m.

Saturdays 8 to 10 p.m.

Sundays 4 to 7p.m.

R&B, Blues, Jazz & Oldies

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.

Great Music, Good Friends!

3/02 Glory Quartet

Kirkland & Friends

Double Clutching

3/16 Silver Valley Boys

Trinity Gospel Trio

God’s Grace Country Band

LINE CREEK BUS BARN

300 City Center Parkway, Fayetteville 770.731.1641

3/02 Turpin Brothers

3/08 Mary Martin

3/15 … Open Mic Night 6 p.m.

3/16 Kraken’s Release

Kavanagh Porter Irish Dancers

3/22 Jimmy G & Tommy T

3/23 Savanna Bassett

3/30 Ryan Slice

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) 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

LINE CREEK BREWING

150 Huddleston Rd., PTC 770.731.1641

3/02 … Hunter Callahan

3/08 … Ryan Slice

3/09 … Mary Martin

3/16 … Kraken’s Release

Kavanagh Porter Irish Dancers

Turpin Brothers

3/22 … Savanna Bassett

3/23 … Brian Rivers

3/30 … Jill & Ed

LINE CREEK THE RESERVE

18 Savannah St., Newnan

3/02 Mary Martin

3/09 Turpin Brothers

3/15 Hunter Callahan

3/16 St. Paddy’s Weekend: Vinyl Birds 3-6 p.m.

Kris Youmans Band 7-10 p.m.

3/17 Duncan Brothers Band 3-6pm

3/22 Open Mic Night

3/29 Ward Abel

THE VENUE

AT MURPHY LANE

525 Murphy Rd, Newnan 770.262.8241

3/22 … Venus Kings 5-9 pm

Jalapeño Express, specialty drinks, beautiful venue

WINGS & THINGS

SUMMERGROVE

31 Market Square, Newnan

3/15 … Aaron Watkins

ABIDE BREWERY

110 Werz Industrial Blvd., Newnan

Live Music, Jams & Specials.

Open Mic Night Every

Thursday with Matt Duncan

3/02 … Dueling Pianos

3/09 … Joiner Bros

3/15 … Mary Martin

3/16 … St Pawtrick’s Event

Cowboy Noyz 2p.m.

Holy Smokes 3 p.m.

Duncan Bros 7 p.m.

3/23 … Duncan Bros

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.

Shows at 7:30 p.m.

3/02 … Clay Parker & Jodi James w/ Dalton McSwain opening

3/09 … Abigail Dowd w/ Mae McKay opening

3/15 … John Cowan w/ Barry Waldrep & Allen Shadd

3/16 … Eliot Bronson

3/23 … Mojo Parker with guest Grady Clark

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.

3/16 … Aaron Watkins

1890 ROOM IN THE GRAND HOTEL

Hogansville

Valentine’S Room

Live Jazz craft cocktails, delicious food 7 p.m.

3/22 … Seth Cagle 7 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.

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 & 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 for up-to-date lineup for music.

3/17 … Daniel Toole

3/24 … Daniel Toole

3/30 …Mary Martin

SENOIA BEER COMPANY

1 Main St., Senoia

Senoia’s 1st Craft brewery! Bring the kids, dogs, and your favorite takeout food. All music starts at 7 p.m.

Open Mic Night 7:30 p.m.

Every Thursday is Open Mic!

BEACON BREWERY

700 Lincoln St., LaGrange 706.298.6500

Every Sunday Music at 4 p.m.

3/03 … Daniel Toole

3/10 … JT Horne

3/17 … Kitty & Charlie Key

4:30-7:30 St Patty’s Day Set

3/24 … Andy Johnson

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.

Karaoke nights

every Friday & Saturday.

GRAZING HERE

2850 Hwy. 54, Peachtree City 770.486.2696

All Shows Start at 8 p.m.

3/02… Venus Kings

3/08 … The Band 85 South

3/09 … Aaron Watkins

3/15 … 6 Feet Back

3/22 … Steven Moore

3/30 … Dueling Pianos

4/05 … Eley Road

PICKIN ON THE SQUARE AT MARKET DAY

The 1st Saturday of every month! (Around the Newnan Courthouse)

Pickin On The Square starts around 10 a.m. and goes until 2 p.m.

It’s for all ages and levels of play. Join in the fun by singing along or bring your acoustic instrument.

Lots of networking for musicians going on during the performances.

Check our website wintersmedia.net for the latest updates on upcoming Local and Live Music events.

Look for Cotton Cruz at SummerGrove Golf Club and Below the Neck

Look for Hardy Boyd Band at The Cellar

Look for Trinity Southern Gospel Trio at Hollonville Opry

Kris Youmans interviews local musician John Hensley

John Hensley, now at the ripe old age of 35, has had more life experiences than some twice his age.

He enlisted in the US Army when he was 17, and left for basic training six days after finishing high school. He ended up in Iraq, where he worked in airfield operations. It was 12 hours a day, every day, moving people into helicopters and through dangerous areas. After returning from Iraq, John went to college at the University of West Georgia, and that’s where he met his future wife Sarah. He didn’t feel that college was where he wanted to be so he left and took a job with the Gwinnett County Police Department and worked in the DUI task force for five years.

When John and Sarah had their first child, they moved back to Coweta County and John joined the Peachtree City Police Department. With a young growing family, they decided that a regular job was in order, one that wouldn’t keep him out all night. John started working at the Coweta County Solicitor’s Office, which gave him more time to devote to family, and his lifelong love of music.

He points that although he was drawn to playing music as a young person, he didn’t really have the opportunities to learn an instrument and progress further. Someone at his church had given him a guitar before he went to Iraq, so he taught himself to play. After returning home, he was able to play so much more, and the church band was a source of inspiration.

A friend of John’s told him about Warrior Song, a program for veterans at Camp Southern Ground in Fayetteville. Warrior Song is a master class in songwriting, music, business strategy, and vocal range coaching for unsigned veterans. They wanted him to submit some original material, and he had a couple of songs that he was working on. He sent the videos out, and soon after, he was accepted into their program at Southern Ground.

He was one of only 19 people in the entire country chosen for this program. And it gave him the opportunity to make so many important contacts, play and write, and share personal stories with other veteran artists.

Since then, John and his Liberty Road Band have recorded originals at Rome Street Sound in Whitesburg with Brian Mack engineering. Joe West, a producer out of Nashville, listened and worked on getting these songs ready for radio. John’s song Billy Boudreaux has recently been played on 94.9 The Bull Backyard Country for two weeks in a row.

He is playing venues and private parties throughout Coweta county. Look for him in March at The Cellar, Mad Mexican and Below the Neck. He’ll be a part of The Blues Plate Special in May.

I got together with John to get his thoughts on the music he’s creating.

Kris … John, do you feel more inspired by the melodies or lyrics in songs?

John … I think, as far as my music goes, I focus on the lyrics, because mainly to me good storytellers have always been something I was compelled to listen to. Like listening to Willie Nelson or Johnny Cash telling a story - it’s just a cool experience and I think it’s why they are still popular after so long.

KY … Who would you most like to collaborate with?

John …If I could collaborate with one person, I think it would be Chris Stapleton. He’s written so many great songs, and I love his music. It’s a blend of country, rock, blues, and rhythm and blues, and I think good music is good no matter the genre. He’s the kind of guy with such a powerful voice that he can cross those lines with ease.

KY … How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music industry?

John …I grew up at a time where the Internet really took off. I remember being able to download music for the first time instead of buying a CD or a cassette. I think it’s made the music industry more accessible in so many ways, but also more competitive in other ways. Online presence can make a career in this day and age but to me, I think there are many very talented people that get overlooked because they do not have a strong presence online. I think often times the ‘popular’ are not always the best musicians, and they are just known.

Kris … you have a lovely family! I would think their support would be super important in your music, creation and promotion.

John …My family is so supportive of my music. My wife consistently steps up at home and supports me chasing this big dream. She’s my number one fan and I appreciate her so much. My oldest daughter has always loved my songs and she was the one who really encouraged me to play them for other people

Kris … What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

John …The best advice I have ever gotten is when I was serving in Iraq. An older veteran, who was contracting with us, told me that when I get frustrated with our situation remember that I could not control the circumstances, but I could control how I reacted. I heard someone wise also say that life is 10% of what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. This advice has served me well.

Kris … Tell us where we can find your music and how to keep updated?

John …You can find our music on all of the major platforms. I’m on Facebook, Instagram, and now, TikTok. ◗

Abby’s Angels Foundation Rainbow Run / Family Fun Day ❤ April 20, 2024 ❤

It’s time to REGISTER for the most COLORFUL

Your participation and support make so much possible!

❤ School supplies and smiles provided through 55 Abby’s Closets

❤ Fear This 4 Life, Inc. (monthly accident avoidance driving course for teen drivers)

❤ Kate’s Club (free monthly grief services for children/teens)

❤ 6 $1,000 College Scholarships awarded annually

❤ Organ Donation Awareness

Please join us in remembering and honoring Abby’s life and legacy.

To Register for the Rainbow Run

The LOCATIONS

around downtown

Main Street Newnan

6 First Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263

770.253.8283

mainstreetnewnan.com

Market Day • March 2 & April 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Over 55 unique spaces, with a variety of one-of-a-kind gift items. Favorites include: fresh locally grown produce, honey, jams & jellies, pottery, art, hand-woven baskets, leather products, etc.

Spring Art Walk • March 22, 5-9 p.m.

The Art Walk Event is our celebration of local art, and is hosted twice a year in Downtown Newnan! Visitors can expect to stroll through over 25 locations and see the work of at least 40 artists, and you will find a wide variety of art styles and mediums.

Newnan Cultural Arts Commission

Step Afrika!

at the Wadsworth Auditorium

March 2, 7:30 p.m.

25 Jefferson Street, downtown Newnan

Step Afrika! takes the best of African-American fraternities and sororities’ percussive dance styles, traditional African dancers, and various contemporary dance and art forms and combines them into one awe-inspiring performance.

Look on Facebook for more info @newnancac

local theatre

24 1st Ave, Newnan • 770-683-6282

http://newnantheatre.org

Moon Over Buffalo • March 7-10, 14-17

Moon Over Buffalo centers on George and Charlotte Hay, fading stars of the 1950s. At the moment, they’re playing Private Lives and Cyrano De Bergerac in rep in Buffalo, New York with five actors. On the brink of a disastrous split-up caused by George’s dalliance with a young ingénue, they receive word that they might just have one last shot at stardom.

Based

The Legacy

The Legacy Theatre

1175 Senoia Rd., Suite C., Tyrone, GA., 30290 http://www.thelegacytheatre.org/ Rock of Ages, Teen Version • March 14-17 Honk! Jr. • March 21-24

Centre for Performing & Visual Arts

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

The Letterman • March 7, 7 p.m.

The Lettermen have over 75 albums- numerous certified goldand a myriad of hits including “When I Fall In Love” “Come Back Silly Girl, “Theme From A Summer Place,” “Goin’ Out Of My Head/ Can’t Take My Eves off or You,” “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” “Hurt So Bad,” and “Shangri-La.” Even though there have been personnel changes over the years, the one thing that remained constant is the vision that Tony Butala first dreamed of - that unique three-part harmony.

The Everly Set • March 21, 7 p.m.

The Everly Set: Sean Altman & Jack Skuller Celebrate The Everly Brothers, featuring Bye Bye Love, Wake Up Little Susie, Cathy’s Clown, All I Have To Do Is Dream, When Will I Be Loved, Crying In The Rain, Love Hurts, Bird Dog, Claudette, Walk Right Back, and more hits and rarities in concert.

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

McRitchie-Hollis Museum 74 Jackson St., Newnan • 770.251.0207 newnancowetahistoricalsociety.com

Egg Hunt with The Easter Bunny at McRitchie-Hollis Museum • March 23, 10:30 a.m. to Noon

Bring the kids for an egg hunt and meet the Easter Bunny for photos! We have a few treats up our sleeves too! For more information call 770-251-02027.

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. Some events require reservations and space is limited.

Putting the Pieces Together: Timing is Everything in Senior Living • March 14, 3:30 to 4 p.m., Sydney DeLong from Serving Seniors will discuss long term care insurance, advance directives, veteran benefits, touring communities, the cost of senior living in the area, and more. eventbrite.com

Katherine Reay: Edgar B. Hollis Distinguished Author Series • March 21, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Please join the Newnan Carnegie Library Foundation as we welcome bestselling author Katherine Reay. Inspired by the true women serving in the CIA’s Venona Project - Katherine Reay’s The Berlin Letters takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the Cold War era. Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for meet & greet, coffee, and book signing! Register at eventbrite.com/e/832133251957

Lunch & Learn: Cooperation and ConflictGeorgia’s Native American • March 22, Noon to 1 p.m.

Dr. Hendry Miller, the Collections Manager at the Georgia Archives in Morrow, will examine some of Georgia’s history with Native peoples with a multi-media presentation. He will also introduce attendees to the records available at the Georgia Archives. Bring a lunch. Doors open 11:30 a.m. Program 12 noon sharp. Register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/824380001777

Visit newnancarnegie.com for information.

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

Aeolus • March 22, 7 p.m.

Work in progress showing at Newnan Art Walk. Check their website and Facebook page for more information.

Steel Magnolias & School House of RocK Live in April

live Music

Look for Kris Youman’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. amphitheater.org/

at Boyd Park, 110 Smith St., LaGrange, GA 30240 706.298.5434 sweetland.events/

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

Serenbe

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

Serenbe Farms Tours

Check website for latest.

Friday Farm Stand Pick up your weekly Serenbe Farms veggies at the corner of Gainey & Serenbe Lanes on Grange Green. 4-6:30 p.m.

senoia

Senoia Shenanigans

March 16 & 17 … a family-friendly event with a kids play zone, adult games, cornhole, and more! Dress in your best green attire for a weekend filled with laughter, activities, live music, and Irish hospitality!

Famers Market and Alive After 5 back in Aprilk

Taste of Senoia • April 28, 1 to 4 p.m.

a variety of food from various local restaurants and food trucks. Proceeds benefit Senoia Optimist Club. For more information, go to enjoysenoia.com

6 Couch St, Senoia, GA 30276

Facebook and Instagram. senoiaareahistory.com

Community Yard Sale • April 27, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. begin taking donations March 22. Check Facebook for info

HotRods for History Car Show • May 4th at Marimac Lakes. Fundraiser. Tix Check Facebook for info on these events!

Sharpsburg Market … Registration is OPEN

The 2024 season will kick off in April

Markets are 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the 3rd Saturday of the month April thru November and the 2nd Saturday of the month December

The Market is a Team Hungry student run initiative led by Monica Tschantz. Please contact Monica with questions. Email: sharpsburgmarket@gmail.com Cell: 440-724-6774

Team Hungry is a non-profit organization made up of high school age young adults. Their mission is to Help every student become all they were created to be. http://teamhungry.org/about-2

Look for Town of Sharpsburg’s Facebook Page for their calendar of events

OutdOOrs

Chattahoochee Bend State Park

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

Hike and Yoga • April 6, 9:30 a.m. Please contact park before you go. Check website and Facebook page for upcoming events!

Senoia Area Historical Society History Museum

Kris Youmans interviews local musician Sara Greer

age 10 and has been performing professionally around the Southeast since the age of 13.

Today, Sara not only continues to play live music, but she also works as an audio engineer from both her home studio and various local studios around metro Atlanta. She hopes to be a voice for other women to shamelessly broaden their creative abilities. She has released new music that is entirely produced and funded by herself.

Sara explains what inspired her to create Paper Town:

“Paper Town is a song I wrote back in 2020 during COVID about feeling really stuck in my own mind and knowing that I had to get out of my own way. I’m sure anyone who feels lost in their pursuit of happiness will find meaning in these lyrics.

“The paper is symbolic of things other people have said about me; as I am seen crumbling it up and burning it to indicate that I am no longer letting what other people think affect my pursuit of happiness, or get in the way of chasing my dream. The negativity of others no longer has a stranglehold on me.”

Kris … Sara, can you tell us about the type of music that you like to create?

Sara … I normally lean towards Pop or R&B music, but I’ve also worked on country, rock, and rap projects.

Kris … If you could collaborate with one artist, who would you choose?

Sara … If I could collaborate with anyone, at this point in time, it would probably be Iniko. They are one of my favorite Indie artists right now.

Kris … What is the best advice you’ve been given that you draw from, from time to time?

Sara … The best advice that I’ve been given is that there is always going to be someone better than you out there and therefore there is no sense in comparing yourself to other people. Comparison kills creativity, so only compare yourself to previous versions of yourself rather than other people in your field.

Kris … How do you feel that the Internet has impacted the music business?

Sara … I feel that up until this point, the internet has been an excellent tool for independent artists like myself because it allows us to freely advertise our craft. I will say that I am worried about AI and the impacts it will have on quality control in music.

Kris … What project are you most proud of overall?

Sara … Currently I’m most proud of my song Paper Town because I wrote, produced, recorded and engineered it myself.

Kris … Is recording and producing music for others as rewarding as creating your own?

Sara … Absolutely! I thoroughly enjoy helping people achieve their dream sound. Seeing someone else’s positive reaction to my work is always validating to say the least.

Kris … Where can we all find and follow your music?

Sara … On all digital streaming platforms! Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, SoundCloud,etc. ◗

NYC Carnegie Hall Preview The Music of Elaine Kagenberg

Sunday,

March 10, 7 p.m.

All Performances will be hosted at the Blackbox Theatre, Donald W. Nixon Centre for Performing Arts 1525 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan GA 30265

Blues Plate Special: A Music Benefit May 14 at The Reserve

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of blues, food, and support for More Music Foundation on May 11th at 12 p.m. at the Reserve in Newnan! Hosted by the Kris Youmans Band. Steve Mapel will be Emcee extraordinaire. Josh Smith will provide excellent sound.

This incredible event, Blues Plate Special, is not just about the soulful tunes of some of the best local and regional blues artists—it’s also a chance for you to make a difference in the lives of kids in our community. All proceeds from Blues Plate Special will go directly to More Music Foundation.

Highlights of the Event:

• Live Blues Music: Enjoy the electrifying performances by talented local and regional blues artists: The Kris Youmans Band, Eric Culberson Band, HeyDreamer, The Venus Kings, Frankies Blues Mission, John Hensley, Tavis Lance Mapp, Leonard Washington, Aaron Watkins, Sweet Grass Sally and more!

• Food Trucks: Delight your taste buds with a variety of delicious offerings from our featured food trucks.

• Enjoy games with family and friends.

• Door Prizes: Get a chance to win exciting door prizes throughout the event!

Tickets can be purchased at the door. Every ticket purchase contributes to the well-being of the community.

Let’s come together as a community, enjoy fantastic blues music, savor delicious food, and make a positive impact on the lives of our kids. Your presence and support at Blues Plate Special will truly make a difference!

Look out for our announcement on T-Shirt sales!

Follow us on @krisyoumansband, The Blues Plate Special and @moremusicfoundationnewnan for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses leading up to the event.

Thank you for joining us in this meaningful cause. See you at Blues Plate Special! ◗

A Newnan native, Sara Greer started her musical journey at the age of three singing in various church functions. By age eight, she was playing piano and learning how to write songs (taking after her father, Tim Greer). She picked up a guitar at

Keep Newnan Beautiful receives Governor's Circle recognition

From Special Reports

Keep Newnan Beautiful recently received a 2023 Governor’s Circle Award for its outstanding achievements in community beautification and environmental sustainability.

The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation (KGBF) presented the award to Keep Newnan Beautiful Director Page Beckwith in recognition of exemplary performance in litter reduction, waste minimization, and community greening.

“We are proud of the excellent services Page provides our community as she leads the Keep Newnan Beautiful program,” said Newnan Mayor Keith Brady. “The work she does greatly impacts the quality of life we enjoy here in the city and will help keep our community a wonderful place for generations to come. From litter clean up in local streams, to hosting paper shredding and electronic recycling events, Keep Newnan Beautiful is leading the way in caring for our local environment.”

To qualify for the Governor’s Circle Award, affiliates must be certified and in good standing with Keep America Beautiful (KAB), the national nonprofit that oversees state and local programming. Additionally, the affiliate must be an active member of the KGBF network. Certified KAB affiliates are required to effect mean-

ingful, positive, and lasting change by directly addressing community needs in the areas of litter prevention, recycling, waste reduction, and beautification.

Keep Newnan Beautiful’s mission is to educate, motivate and empower the citizens of Newnan to take responsibility for improving the local community environment through litter prevention, beautification and waste reduction. Ms. Beckwith’s work includes speaking to many community groups including elementary school students, Scouts, neighborhood HOA’s, church groups and local realtors.

“We believe everyone deserves to live in a clean, green, and beautiful environment,” said Natalie Johnston-Russell, executive director of the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation. “The recipients of this award have made a tremendous effort to achieve that vision, and we’re thrilled to recognize their achievements.”

Learn more by following Keep Newnan Beautiful on Facebook and Instagram: @keepnewnanbeautiful ◗

Pictured above is Keep Newnan Beautiful Director Page Beckwith (left) with the Hon. Lynn Smith (Ga. State Capitol).

In Theaters:

The Film Fix

with Jonathan W. Hickman

Dune: Part Two (March 1) – l Fix Rating 9/10 – The second part of filmmaker Denis Villeneuve’s stunning adaptation of Frank Herbert’s groundbreaking science fiction bestseller is grander, more thrilling, and better than 2021’s part one. But I suggest that part one suffered because it was incomplete, and these two halves should be viewed as one five-and-a-half-hour epic movie.

The somber, some may say dull aspects of the first installment are all but eliminated in this one, as contextual humor creeps in to alleviate some of the dreck associated with the heavy story elements. Villeneuve and his co-writer Jon Spaihts preserve the core Herbert narrative while subtly improving on the shape of the classic while capably adjusting some of the gender politics that were reflective of the time in which the novel was written.

Timothée Chalamet is terrific as the older, more mature, and battle-hardened Paul Atreides, who takes refuge with the desert people known as the Fremen. At his side is Chani (a convincing and fierce Zendaya). Paul’s given the Fremen name of Muad’Dib, and as he helps the Fremen violently push back against the Harkonnen occupiers, Paul’s mother, Jessica (Rebecca Ferguson), becomes the Fremen’s reverend mother.

The film’s religious aspects give it added weight, as the Fremen wage an internal struggle with the fundamentalists among them. Villeneuve smartly saddles right up to the familiar political connections to our real-world struggles with radical elements while remaining true to Herbert’s vision.

In the Land of Saints and Sinners (March 29) – l Fix Rating 7/10 – The overly familiar story of an aging hitman gets an earthy lift from a grizzled performance by Liam Neeson sporting his native Irish accent in a story set in his home country. This 1970s narrative has Neeson playing Finbar Murphy, an unassuming and amiable chap who just happens to be a contract killer.

When a group of terrorists led by the ruthless Doirean (Kerry Condon) hole up in his quiet little town, Finbar must decide whether to do something good with his particular set of skills. While viewers will see the inevitable showdown coming, the unique pairing of Neeson and Condon as vicious adversaries proves to be an entertaining combination.

Supporting performance by Colm Meaney, as Finbar’s longtime employer/handler, Ciarán Hinds, as a police officer and Finbar’s pal, and Jack Gleeson, as the new hotshot hitman on the scene, are also strong in this above-average Neeson outing.

Streaming Selects:

Little Wing (March 13) – Based on a New Yorker article by Susan Orlean, “Little Wing” follows a teen named Kaitlyn (Brooklynn Prince) whose parents are divorcing and likely losing their home. When she and her best friend try to steal a valuable bird, Kaitlyn bonds with the bird’s owner (“Succession” star Brian Cox). “Yellowstone’s” Kelly Reilly is also in the cast.

Apples Never Fall (series premiere March 14) – This adaptation of Liane Moriarty’s bestseller has a tremendous cast headlined by Annette Bening and Sam Neill. The limited series has Bening and Neil playing Stan and Joy Delaney. They are forced to reassess their family history when Joy strangely disappears. Jake Lacy (“The White Lotus”) and Alison Brie (“GLOW”) play the Delaney children in this seven-episode dramatic mystery.

Damsel (March 8) – “Stranger Things” star Millie Bobby Brown plays Elodie, a damsel who agrees to marry a handsome prince only to find that his family intends to sacrifice her to pay an ancient debt. Naturally, this arrangement doesn’t go over well, and Elodie survives to exact revenge. Robin Wright, Angela Bassett, and Ray Winstone are in supporting roles in this fantasy adventure.

Invincible (season 2, part 2, March 14) – Mark Grayson, the half-human hero known as Invincible, returns in the second half of season two. With the devastating cliffhanger ending to season two, part one, we will now learn Mark’s fate as he struggles to reconcile his human side with that of his vicious Viltrumite identity.

Road House (March 21) – Despite publicly lamenting the decision to premiere this “Road House” remake exclusively on Prime Video, word is that this release plan was always baked in, as contract negotiations provided for a larger budget so long as the film went straight to the platform. In the movie, a muscled-up Jake Gyllenhaal steps into the role that Patrick Swayze inhabited in the 1989 original. In this new version, the action moves to the Florida Keys, where ex-UFC fighter Dalton (Gyllenhaal) takes a job as a bouncer in a roadhouse. MMA star Conor McGregor is also in the cast.

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor’s Version) (March 15) – On a reported budget of less than $20 million, the theatrical release of “The Eras Tour” movie minted north of $261 million in box office receipts.

This considerable number made it the highest-grossing concert film of all time. Disney scored a coup by landing the streaming rights to the updated “Taylor’s Version,” which is the concert film in its entirety and includes the song “Cardigan” and four additional acoustic songs.

Napoleon (March 1) – l Fix Rating 7/10 – -- Director Ridley Scott hacks history with “Napoleon,” his interpretation of the life of the early 19th century French Emperor. The film is highlighted by grandly staged and shot battle sequences and a gonzo performance by Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix. Viewers will find the visuals thrilling but may be frustrated by the uneven melodrama.

Theatrical Teasers::

Imaginary (March 8) – In this Blumhouse horror entry, director Jeff Wadlow (see “Truth or Dare”) brings us the story of a little girl and her “imaginary” best friend. Of course, the girl’s cuddly make-belief pal is anything but part of her imagination.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (March 8) – Jack Black again voices Po, a panda with kung fu talents. In this installment, Po is elevated to the position of spiritual leader. While training a new Dragon Warrior, he comes in conflict with a sorceress with the goal of bringing back the villains that Po vanquished.

https://collider.com

Love Lies Bleeding (March 8) –This sexy-looking crime actioner starring Kristen Stewart was a hit at Sundance. The story has Stewart playing Lou, a woman whose father, Lou Sr. (Ed Harris), is involved in some criminal wrongdoing. When Lou becomes entangled with a new girlfriend, the muscle-bound Jackie (Katy O’Brian), Lou’s family’s operation may be threatened. This one comes from director Rose Glass (see “Saint Maud”).

Arthur the King (March 15) – Mark Wahlberg stars in this family-friendly adventure about a man who adopts a stray dog who joins him in a grueling endurance race.

image from https://theplaylist.net

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (March 22) – The 5th film in the “Ghostbusters” franchise (counting the 2016 attempted reboot) picks up where 2021’s “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” left off. This time, the action returns to the city, where an evil force threatens to start a new ice age.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (March 29) – This one shouldn’t be confused with last year’s terrific “Godzilla Minus One,” which showed audiences how a Godzilla movie can rise above campy elements and be about something real. In the oddly named “Godzilla x Kong,” the two titans must work together to combat a new monster threat to humanity. Things go boom! ◗

ChildrenConnect Museum to host Safety City Camp in April

From Special Reports

Photo Credit: Tori Hansen

ChildrenConnect Newnan

Children’s Museum is reintroducing Safety City to downtown Newnan, a Spring Break Camp in partnership with Newnan Fire Department, Newnan Police Department, Newnan Utilities, the city of Newnan, and Mayor Keith Brady.

Children in kindergarten to fifth grade have the opportunity to learn safety and emergency readiness through a fun, engaging and immersive experience! They can anticipate an exciting lineup of fire safety demonstrations, interactive activities, guided tours of emergency vehicles, and health and safety displays by EMTs. Plus, campers will learn water, energy, and electricity safety.

This four day drop-off camp session will take place during Spring Break, April 2nd – 5th, 9 a.m. to Noon each day. It will be held at the ChildrenConnect Museum, located on the corner of Temple Avenue and College Street.

Here is what themes and activities you can expect:

• Day 1 – Fire Safety – Learn fundamental fire safety practices, gain awareness of fire hazards, and become comfortable responding safely in emergency situations.

• Day 2 – Police Interaction – Develop a positive connection with law enforcement, learn the role of policing in our community and importance of safety awareness, while also becoming familiar with how to respond to different road signs through life-size simulations on tricycle bikes.

• Day 3 – EMT and Emergency Preparedness – Enhance understanding of emergency medical services, learn basic first aid skills, and overall emergency preparedness for children to be empowered to respond confidently in medical emergencies.

• Day 4 – Visit with Newnan Utilities and Graduation Ceremony with Mayor Brady – Explore the world of Newnan Utilities as they showcase their electric trucks and provide water, energy, and electricity safety tips. Conclude the camp with a special graduation ceremony presented by Mayor Keith Brady. Learn more about Safety City – Spring Break Camp and register by March 17 at ChildrenConnectMuseum.com ◗

Ma one of a kind Merle Girl, is retiring after 19 years. She is truly going to “get off her feet and into the seat.” Her last official day is Thursday, February 29.

Mary Ellen Hutcheson has owned and operated the Merle Norman Cosmetics store here in Newnan for the last 19 years.

Mary Ellen has epitomized being a great wife, mother, business owner, steward of the Merle Norman Brand, community mentor and leader of women and now “SUGAR”.

I love you and look forward to our next chapter in our life together. – Michael

The Veggie Patch

Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …

Notes from here, there and the Internet …

West Georgia Technical College (WGTC) has announced its partnership with Kudzu Money (Kudzu) as a financial resource and literacy advocate to students. Kudzu is a customer-first online financial solution that offers transparent services and customized training for those eager to get on the right path, and it will now be available to all WGTC students. The partnership was finalized last November, and Kudzu was introduced to students during orientation and Weeks of Welcome events.

We think dogs speak a universal “dog” language, but in reality they may not because they come from different countries and may not understand each other.

Keep Newnan Beautiful recently received a 2023 Governor’s Circle Award for its outstanding achievements in community beautification and environmental sustainability. The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation (KGBF) presented the award to Keep Newnan Beautiful Director Page Beckwith in recognition of exemplary performance in litter reduction, waste minimization, and community greening.

New principals at two Coweta County schools:

• Chad Kollert has been named as the new principal of East Coweta Middle School, to replace current principal Jeanette Hallam. Kollert is currently an assistant principal at East Coweta High School.

• Stephanie Easterwood has been named as the new principal of Arnall Middle School next year, to replace Patrick Sullivan as school principal upon his retirement later this year. Easterwood is currently an assistant principal at East Coweta High School.

You are one Google search away from changing your life.

And a new high school football coach: Kevin Whitley has been named the new head football coach of the Northgate High School Vikings, to replace long-time Valhalla head coach Mike McDonald upon his retirement later this year. Whitley comes from Georgia Southern University, where he has served as interim head coach and assistant head coach, as well as head coaching positions at Stockbridge and Creekside High Schools.

The only actual 2D thing in the universe is a shadow.

Employees at the Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation in Newnan have incorporated a unique volunteer opportunity into their daily routines. Yamaha spokesman Jason Broshear said the company identified Midwest Food Bank as a potential CSR (corporate social responsibility) opportunity. With that in mind, a system was set up to allow Yamaha employees to take in deliveries from the food bank and help process them on-site for further distribution.

We’re more afraid of losing our job than we are of dying.

The city of Newnan has announced that the Arbor Day Foundation has named Newnan a 2023 Tree City USA. This important designation was met by the City adhering to the program’s four requirements: maintaining a tree board or department, having a tree care ordinance, dedicating an annual community forestry budget of at least $2 per capita, and hosting an Arbor Day observance and proclamation.

The Coweta County Sheriff’s Office is accepting applications for School Resource Officers.

Alcohol ads never show drunk people.

The Stilettos on Steel Female Riding Group – Newnan City of Homes Chapter will be holding a ride to honor the 17th annual International Female Ride Day on Saturday, May 4th, 2024. Female motorcycle riders will have the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow female riders. You can expect a day filled with motorcycles (two and three-wheels welcome!) music, food, and fun! This event will be hosted at the City of Hope – Atlanta Campus located at 600 Celebrate Life Parkway, Newnan. For more information, please contact Ginger at stilettosnewnan@gmail.com.

Millions of people worry about germs everyday, and then drink directly from a can without knowing where it’s been.

PROFESSIONALS NEEDED

Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America is hiring new professional team members at our facility in Newnan, Georgia, due to our continued growth.

We are looking for fresh faces with a broad range of expertise to expand our amazing leadership team!

Direct Hire jobs in salaried positions are on our website. Engineers, Welders, and Supervisors who understand the manufacturing process are urged to apply. On the website, choose “Direct Hire” to review job information.

Full-time benefits include:

• Health Insurance, Dental and Vision

• 401K

• Profit Sharing

• Tuition Reimbursement

• Local Discounts

“Considering

Out & About with Katie Anderson

It all started with a magazine on a beach.

Amy Brown, Paige Dockweiler, and Amy’s son Daniel Williams had just bought their Senoia farm. They were sitting on a beach at 30A, reading a Garden and Gun article about an heirloom grain, Jimmy Red Corn.

They decided to give growing the corn a try. Initially, they distilled two barrels of bourbon to share with family and friends. It was so good that they started Doc Brown Farm and Distillers in 2019. Fast forward to October 1, 2023, and their first bourbons were released: Effie Jewel and Uncle Bogue (now sold out.) They also created four flavors of bourbon creams: Butter Pecan, Salted Caramel, Coffee, and Peppermint Mocha.

The founders all come from farming families. Brown has a background in banking and now manages the farm full-time. Dockweiler and Williams have other jobs in healthcare and aviation respectively, but cherish their time spent playing in the dirt.

The farm operates from three foundation blocks – faith, family, and fortitude. Their love of family transferred to their labels, as well. Uncle Bogue was a great, great uncle, and Effie Jewel was a great aunt. Both stood out as examples of their family’s fortitude and tenacity. Effie Jewel Bourbon is dedicated to all women in the distilling industry. “Our desire and hope is that Effie Jewel inspires women to act on their dreams and find courage to sit at tables that maybe have been off limits in the past.

“I will say that we’ve had nothing but kindness and support from men and women alike and even though we are small and just a dot on the map of the bourbon world, we are thankful for those who have helped us get this far,” said Brown.

Their land has proven to be a good match with Jimmy Red Corn. It is non-gmo, produced without chemicals of any kind. This special variety of corn is making a comeback after almost becoming extinct, and is known for its sweet, rich, buttery flavor.

To control pests, the Doc Brown team built houses to attract bats, which help fight the ear worm and other damaging insects. They’ve

Faith, Family, and Fortitude: Senoia’s Doc Brown Farm and Distillers

also brought in bees, which made a difference in their yield and ear size. The farmers use old style methods like cover crops and rotation to take care of their soil.

This approach has brought them full circle with Garden and Gun magazine, by winning a 2023 Garden and Gun Made in the South Award for their Butter Pecan Bourbon Cream.

“We have subscribed to Garden and Gun now for years and the inspiration for growing the Jimmy Red Corn came from an article published in G&G, so our goal was to ‘make it into G&G’ one day.

“When it was time to enter

the ‘Best of the South’ we had the amazing support of Heather Daniel, who recommended us so off we go submitting the 1st round of paperwork … and then we waited…and waited…then another email came in that stated we ‘made it into Best of the South’ but we had to keep our mouths closed – that was the longest month of my life sitting on a dream that had come true,” Brown stated.

“We are so grateful for everyone’s support and kindness. Our goal is always to produce products that everyone can enjoy knowing that good old fashioned farming techniques were used and that it’s made with a lot of love for this golden land we all share,” said Brown.

To purchase the award-winning, local bourbon, visit their website at docbrownfarm.com to order, or to find locations where their products are sold. ◗

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.

Here’s a partial list. Visit our website for more!

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.

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 hit - soups, 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.

H.J. Wings & Things 770.755.6192, 485 Hwy 16 W, Newnan

Great wings, excellent hamburgers and top of the line cheesesteaks - and you know how serious we are about our cheesesteaks. But other “things” to consider are their shrimp, fish, massive salads, sandwiches, wraps, and … okay, wings again.

March

MONDAY:

TUESDAY:

WEDNESDAY: Banana Cream Pie, Fruit Tartlet

THURSDAY: Strawberry, Chocolate Coconut, Baker’s Choice, VEGAN

FRIDAY: Strawberries N Creme, Mallow Charm, GLUTEN FREE

SATURDAY: Strawberry Cheesecake, Marble Cheesecake, Baker’s Choice

SUNDAY: German Chocolate, Spring Zoo Cookie

The Interview with

You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why.

Paulo Manso de Sousa

Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did. I am an artist who uses the medium of movement and choreography as my language of creativity. I had a very rewarding career as a Classical Ballet Dancer traveling and performing all over the world, my two favorite places were Japan and Israel. I loved visiting Massada and I felt I had been there in a past life. The most exciting place I lived was NYC in the 90s, so much art, so much education, so much excitement. I was part of the last guests at Studio 54.

Best piece of advice you’ve received. The best advice I was given is to just be myself on stage, and compete with yourself.

If I had it to do over …

I would trust myself a lot more, and I would still take the same roads, maybe just a tighter seat belt.

You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?

Books: Sigmund Freud’s The Interpretation of Dreams, Be Here Be Now by Dr Richard Alpert. These two books would keep me busy, LOL. Music: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s Great Mass in C Minor, Antonio Vivaldi’s 4 Seasons by Max Richter, Cafe Del Mar Ibiza radio.

Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know. I think I am very lazy, a procrastinator and not very original.

My guests would be Leonardo da Vinci, Maya Angelou, Carl Jung, Paul Wallis, and Malcolm Gladwell. We could talk about the possibility of evolution, human and spiritual psychology, art and how they all relate to each other. You can’t have one without the others.

Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.

Time and money to do more traveling. The world is so vast and so much to see and experience.

If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be ...

I can’t imagine doing anything else, it’s what I have always done. Dance is my life. I need to be creative so maybe I would be painting or sculpting.

Your go-to food.

A good fresh sourdough bread toasted with a good rich Irish butter.

Favorite movies(s)?

History, Epic, Fantasy.

Dogs or cats?

Dogs.

Your favorite quote and why.

Be Beautiful, cute is belittling, pretty is fake. Beautiful is honest and real. Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.

I am extremely proud of Southern Arc Dance. It’s what I have dreamed - a dance education identity should be inclusive, collaborative, and integrity in pedagogy.

What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?

Trust it, have fun, and don’t be afraid. It all goes by too fast so enjoy every ride, every curve, and every bump. ◗

Newnan’s Female Ride Day Saturday, May 4th

The Stilettos on Steel Female Riding Group – Newnan City of Homes Chapter will be holding a ride to honor the 17th annual International Female Ride Day on Saturday, May 4th, 2024! At this event, female motorcycle riders will have the opportunity to meet and connect with fellow female riders. You can expect a day filled with motorcycles (two and three-wheels welcome!), music, food, and fun! This event will be hosted at the City of Hope – Atlanta Campus located at 600 Celebrate Life Parkway, Newnan, GA.

Mark your calendars and get ready to ride! Ride registration is 8 to 9:30 a.m., with safety briefing at 9:45 a.m. and KSU for the ride is 10 a.m. Breakfast will be served before the ride. Make sure to arrive with a full tank of gas! We will ride for approximately 1 ½ hours and then come back for lunch, music, fun, vendors and door prizes! Buy your tickets, grab your friends, rev your engines, and join us for International Female Ride Day. It’s going to be a ride you won’t want to miss! This is a “Rain or Shine” event!

Tickets on sale March 1st through May 1, 2024, on Active.com

Tickets: Rider and Passenger $30 which includes a commemorative patch, breakfast and lunch.

No Refunds or Transfers. Net proceeds will be donated to City of Hope – Atlanta – Patient Assistance Fund.

Stilettos On Steel – Newnan City of Homes Chapter is a chapter of Stilettos On Steel – Female Riding Group. www.stilettosonsteel.com

Please contact Ginger at stilettosnewnan@gmail.com for more information. ◗

Hypertension: Know Your Numbers

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital

High blood pressure: Just another symptom or secret, silent killer? You could be walking around with a silent, deadly health condition that affects the brain, kidneys and heart – and not even know it.

“Many people don’t realize how serious high blood pressure is because most people who have high blood pressure do not have symptoms,” says Matthew Roberts, D.O., a Piedmont primary care physician at Piedmont Physicians at White Oak in Newnan.

Dr. Roberts says research has shown people with high blood pressure (also known as hypertension) are four times more likely to have a stroke and three times more likely to have coronary artery disease.

Understanding your blood pressure reading

When you go to the doctor, someone will usually check your blood pressure and give you two numbers:

• The top number = systolic pressure, which is your blood pressure when your heart is beating.

• The bottom number = diastolic pressure, which is your blood pressure when your heart is resting between beats.

“Those numbers are very important,” he says.

What happens when you have hypertension

High blood pressure puts a strain not only on your blood vessels, but also your organs – particularly the brain and the heart.

• Your heart: If you live for years with uncontrolled high blood pressure, your heart can become enlarged and eventually go into heart failure.

• Your brain: Uncontrolled hypertension can also lead to stroke.

Why blood pressure can fluctuate

“It’s very normal for your blood pressure to fluctuate during the day in response to anxiety and stress, but as long as it comes back down to normal, that is the most important thing,” says Dr. Roberts.

If your blood pressure consistently remains high, you are at risk for health problems.

High blood pressure risk factors

Risk factors for high blood pressure include:

• Being overweight or obese

• Smoking

• A family history of hypertension (particularly if one or both of your parents had high blood pressure)

Fortunately, if you do have risk factors for high blood pressure or currently have hypertension, there is hope.

“I’ve had patients who have made lifestyle changes, who have lost weight and whose blood pressure came back to normal,” Dr. Roberts says. “Losing weight, eating healthy and making healthy choices day to day can reduce your risk and also possibly stop some blood pressure medications.”

A yearly physical can help you stay on top of your blood pressure numbers and take steps to reduce your risk factors. To schedule an appointment or learn more on the topic of hypertension, visit piedmont.org/annualphysical

Potential Health Issues for Black Americans to be mindful of

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 56.8 percent of Black or AfricanAmerican non-Hispanic men age 20 and older have hypertension. Among women, that percentage is even higher: 57.6 percent.

Loida Bonney, M.D., an internal medicine physician and a primary care regional medical director for Piedmont Primary Care, said diseases stemming from uncontrolled blood pressure, also known as hypertension, impact Black Americans in disproportionate numbers. Hypertension can lead to heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.

“Hypertension is a silent killer,” Dr. Bonney said. “Lifestyle modification can significantly lower risk for heart disease and stroke. Getting regular exercise and shifting to a plant-based diet can help to improve overall health and reduce these risks.”

A yearly physical can help you stay on top of your blood pressure numbers and take steps to reduce your risk factors.

Uncontrolled hypertension is a leading cause of Chronic Kidney Disease. End Stage chronic kidney disease is treated with a form of life support called hemodialysis that requires prolonged clinic visits as many as three times per week and can be associated with other risks and complications.

Screening for chronic kidney disease can be performed with two simple tests, according to the National Kidney Foundation:

Spot urine for albumin-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) to detect albuminuria

Serum creatinine to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

If you have questions about how to receive screening for these tests or any of the above, you may consult your primary care physician.

Dr. Matthew Roberts, primary care physician at Piedmont Physicians at White Oak in Newnan.

Loida Elena Bonney, MD Internal Medicine