Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …
Notes from here, there and the Internet …
State Representative Lynn Smith (R-Newnan), chair of the House Natural Resources & Environment Committee, along with Senate Rules Chairman Matt Brass (R-Newnan), said Governor Brian Kemp signed House Bill 311 into law. The bill creates an optional temporary tax relief mechanism for buildings damaged by a natural disaster that may be utilized by local governments. An assessment of the damaged property would be required before being eligible for temporary tax relief. [ [ [
Coweta County is ranked 11th in Georgia when it comes to healthiest counties in the state, according to data from the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. Forsyth County is ranked No. 1, followed by Oconee, Cherokee, Cobb, Fayette, Gwinnett, Columbia, Towns, Paulding and Harris. The least healthy county is Hancock. [ [ [
An honest enemy is better than a deceitful friend. [ [ [
Although no firm date has been set, Whataburger is set to open in Newnan. For those who don’t know, the chain has some of the best hamburgers in the country. Not that we are biased or anything about the Southwestern-focused restaurant.
No one has ever discovered an animal with the perfect camouflage.
Sheriff Lenn Wood, along with Linette and Graylin Ward, were honored at the 2023 Golden Eagle Dinner. The fundraiser raised more than $55,000 and was sponsored by the Flint River Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Coweta County is part of the Flint council.
Newnan-based Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation has donated a refurbished six-seater golf cart to Bass Middle School. The vehicle will be used to transport special needs students throughout the sprawling campus.
Moving the contents of an entire house to another typically either costs pizza and beer, or thousands of dollars. [ [ [
Coweta County at Shenandoah is officially open. It is located in the former AMC Theater located at 87 Newnan Station Drive, and will house the Tax Commissioner’s Office, which includes the Property Tax and Tag Office, and the Elections & Voter Registration Office. Two state agencies, including the Department of Driver Services (DDS) and the Department of Veterans Service, will also relocate to this facility by summer 2023.
The city of Newnan Fire Department has announced the recent promotion of four firefighters to the rank of lieutenant. Newly promoted lieutenants include Justin Cunningham, Clinton Gilley, Richie Hughes, and Cory Scott.
The Beatles started their careers playing in a basement and ended them playing on the roof.
The Coweta Sports Hall of Fame is set to grow by three new inductees at its 20th Annual Banquet. The 2023 Coweta Sports Hall of Fame Class will include Matt Donahue, Vernon Strickland and James Warner. Each were standout athletes at Newnan High School.
The 2023 Teachers of the Year for each of Coweta County’s public schools have been chosen by their fellow teachers. These teachers are selected by their fellow certified teachers at each school in recognition of exemplary teaching, and serve as ambassadors of their profession. This year’s honorees represent grade levels from Kindergarten through 12th grade, and a range of educational disciplines including English/Language Arts, math, music, sciences and STEM education, special education and media specialists. For the full list, please visit our at website: https://www.wintersmedia.net/coweta-school-2023-teachers-ofthe-year-announced/
We really take it for granted that we don’t have to worry about predators.
The Boys and Girls Clubs of Coweta County announced that more than $100,000 was raised from their Oscar Gala. Their Beer, Bourbon and Wine event is set for August 19 at the Historic Train Depot.
Imitation crab is seafood hotdogs.
Doug Hand has joined Lindsey’s, Inc.
Realtors
Doug Hand was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and is a second generation realtor. He graduated from Presbyterian College with a BS in Business. With over 13 years of experience as a licensed Realtor, Doug’s experience spans all aspects of residential, land and commercial real estate. Doug is a big sports fan and enjoys playing golf, going to concerts and spending time with family. Please reach out to Doug with any real estate needs or questions. He would be glad to help!
The FIRST Senoia Alive After Five of 2023 is April 21!
April's theme is "Spring Flowers" so expect some floral themed vendors, specialty spring themed drinks, desserts and more! There will be a fun flower pot painting station for kids! Let the kids go by and paint a pot during Alive After Five, this is a free activity!
5 to 9 p.m. in downtown Senoia. See you there! enjoysenoia.com
The annual Taste of Senoia, started in 2010 and hosted by the Senoia Optimist Club, is scheduled for Sunday, April 23rd, from 1 to 4 p.m. in downtown Senoia. This major event will again feature delicious food “tastes” at most of the local restaurants. Restaurants located in the downtown area will typically serve from their facility while representatives from Senoia area restaurants and food services that do NOT have a presence in downtown Senoia will be located at the Senoia Farmers Market. The businesses will set the number of tickets required for a “taste” - generally from 1-4.
The Taste of Senoia will also offer a large number of wonderful items that will be available through raffles and silent auctions that will be held at the Senoia Masonic Lodge.
Tickets for food “tastes” will again be $1 each, and they will be sold the day of the event at the Senoia Masonic Lodge (19 Main Street) and the Senoia Farmers Market (40 Travis Street). It is also planned that tickets will be sold that day outside of City Hall. and look for
Senoia Area Historical Society's Hot Rods for History Car Show May 6 Senoia City Park Marimac Lakes
Senoia Area Historical Society's Barn Dance May 20
and Senoia's Memorial Day Celebration May 27
Piedmont NEWNAN
Piedmont Newnan Recruiting New Hospital Volunteers
Hospital volunteers help in almost every area of a healthcare facility like Piedmont Newnan Hospital. From inpatient services to the Thomas F. Chapman Cancer Wellness Center, these volunteers share their time with the hospital and give back to their local community.
“Our hospital volunteers play a significant role in caring for our patients, visitors and guests, as well as assisting the staff members, nurses and physicians at the hospital,” said Jeannie Johns, Volunteer Services Specialist at Piedmont Newnan. “The work they do every day makes the high-quality, patient-centered care that Piedmont Newnan delivers possible.”
Currently, volunteers are needed in many different departments, and shifts are available every day of the week. There is, however, a specific need for volunteers in the following areas – Breast Health Center, greeters at the Medical Plazas, Infusion Center, Surgical Services, and Cardiac Rehab. At the Breast Health Center, located inside the Medical Plaza adjacent to the hospital, volunteers provide support and comfort to women being seen. The surgical services team provides support for families of our patients in surgery. They provide directions as well as ensure that loved ones in the waiting room are updated accordingly and comfortable while they wait. Greeters, and those at the Infusion Center and Cardiac Rehab, provide a warm welcome for our patients and provide directions to offices and assist patients in getting to the right place.
“Our purpose at Piedmont is to make a positive difference in every life we touch,” said Johns. “The dedication of our excellent volunteers, and the work they do every day, helps make achieving that purpose possible.”
Volunteer services is open to adults, ages 18 and older, and as a way to say thank you, they receive a free meal in the Bistro cafeteria each shift. Over the years, the volunteers have contributed to various hospital needs including scholarships for dependents of staff members and the star atop the hospital that is lit every November and December as part of the hospital’s annual Starry Night event.
“Our volunteers are so selfless, giving, kind and funny,” said Johns. “They come from all walks of life – some are pickleball players, lead singers in a band, golfers, quilters, world travelers and Sunday school teachers. Some have retired from the military, the school system, government roles, and the airlines. One thing they all have in common is that they will help wherever there is a need and want to ensure our patients have a positive experience from the moment they enter our parking lot.”
Applicants interested in volunteering at Piedmont Newnan should have a genuine interest in giving back to the community. Those with an interest or a background in the health care industry make for ideal candidates, but it is not a requirement.
“People who have retired, or work from home, or those whose children are now in school or out of the house, may find themselves having more time and a need to make personal connections and help those in need,” said Johns. “Being a hospital volunteer is the perfect way to give back your time.”
If you are interested in joining Volunteer Services at Piedmont Newnan, call 770.400.2382 or visit piedmont.org/volunteers for more information.
Volunteer Appreciation Week is April 16-22, and Piedmont Newnan would like to spotlight a few of our hospital volunteers. We thank all of our volunteers for all they do to make a positive difference in every life they touch, especially the lives of our employees, physicians, patients and visitors.
CRAIG SHANNON
Courtesy Cart/ PMP 2
Main Entrance
Started volunteering in 2022
Being new to Newnan, Craig Shannon was looking for a way to serve his community when he discovered the volunteer opportunities at Piedmont Newnan Hospital. A retired Army drill sergeant, Shannon is married to a nurse and both of his children are serving in the military. He has been volunteering twice a week for almost a year, one day a week as a Courtesy Cart driver in our parking lots and the other day as a greeter in our Medical Plaza assisting patients however needed. “I enjoy interacting with people, helping people and being a servant,” said Shannon.
RUSTY KNORR Hospital Front Desk
Started volunteering in 2014
Rusty Knorr has been a volunteer at the main hospital front desk at Piedmont Newnan for nine years, assisting patients, visitors, and staff. Prior to retiring, he served as a teacher, principal, Director of Operations, Central Office Administrator and Assistant Superintendent in public K-12 education for 43 years (33 in Alabama and 10 in Georgia). He grew up in Montgomery, Alabama, and has lived in Troy, AL, Opelika, AL, Eufaula, AL and Newnan, GA.
His latest obsession is pickleball. “My favorite part about being a hospital volunteer is meeting people and giving back to the community and our hospital,” said Knorr.
“Our hospital volunteers play a significant role in caring for our patients, visitors and guests, as well as assisting the staff members, nurses and physicians at the hospital,” said Jeannie Johns, Volunteer Services Specialist at Piedmont Newnan.
“The work they do every day makes the high-quality, patient-centered care that Piedmont Newnan delivers possible.”
CAROLYN MARTIN
Summit Outpatient Clinic
Started volunteering in 2015
Carolyn Martin has volunteered at Piedmont Newnan’s Summit Outpatient Clinic for eight years, and volunteers there two days a week. When she is not volunteering, she loves to travel. She has two sons who both live outside of the United States, and is fortunate enough to be able to visit both of them often and has loved each and every experience she’s had abroad. “It is a joy to assist patients as they come in for their appointments,” said Martin.
OLIVER, Pet Therapy Dog
Started Volunteering in 2022
Oliver was born 2019 in Waterford, Ireland and is a pure-bred Golden Retriever. Dave and Pam Thomas adopted him when he was eight weeks old in Jefferson, GA. Oliver is certified as a Therapy Dog through Alliance of Therapy Dogs. Additionally, he has many certificates including HOPE Animal Assisted Crisis Response Dog and First Responders Therapy Dog.
Oliver and his handlers enjoy visiting the Piedmont Newnan Hospital staff. Oliver also visits Coweta County 911 call center, Coweta County Fire/ Rescue, Pathways, Nursing homes, Coweta County Powell Library, Encompass Rehabilitation and Juvenile Court. He has the best job in the world.
Oliver typically visits Piedmont Newnan Hospital once a week, rotating between day and night shifts, and providing comfort to the staff. “Tuesdays are exciting for me because I know Oliver is coming,” said Kayla, who works in the ICU. “Oliver is just what I need to boost me up. When I get a few minutes of snuggle time with Oliver, it just makes me smile. He is the best!”
Notes from Perry Street Digging In The Dirt Is Good For The Soul
Spring is here and Easter has come and gone. The beauty of nature is bursting forth all around us, which for most of us brings joy and hope. It can on the downside too - bringing lots of allergies. For me, I love digging in the dirt. It is one of the best things I can do for myself. There are times I just have to let the laundry, mopping and the stuff of life go and put on a good old pair of garden gloves and start digging.
We need to dig, dig, and dig in the dirt to our heart’s content. It feels good, really good. I do it when I need to think. I need to pray. I need to be alone. When I need to work something out in my heart and soul, I often dig in the dirt and it allows me to dig into my soul. The truth is that sometimes stepping into purpose and following our dreams requires us to dig deep in our soul.
There were two women in my life that pretty much taught me everything I know about gardening. My mom and Winters’ mom. And since then I have been determined to have a beautiful garden. Talent can only take you so far and then dedication, persistence and determination must make up the rest. The same can be said for gardening, our occupation and almost anything in life.
You can learn a lot in your garden while digging in the dirt.
One thing I have found very important is you must have the right tools. It will make gardening easier and the same goes for life. The right tools make life much easier. The wrong tools make your life much more difficult. You could probably cut a branch down with a pocket knife, but it will take a long, long time and lots of frustration. Or, you could use a chainsaw and knock it out in seconds. You also have to know the do’s and don’ts in a garden if you wish for the plants to last and to flourish and thrive. A great gardening book is also invaluable and full of tips you will need.
The same goes with life. You can get by using the wrong tools, but the right tools make everyday life so much easier. A must have is a great bible that you actually open and read like a Life Application Bible. And if you can’t apply it, you can’t live it. You also need to fill your life with prayer warriors and women that you can count on to pray with you when you need it and even when you don’t. Learn to forgive and forgive often. Watch out for weeds, the things that can choke the joy out of your life. Trust that the Lord will order your steps. And seek peace and pursue it.
Surround yourself with the right women, the ones I call the “Sacred Few,” the circle of friends that are there for you anytime, anywhere, anyplace. Ask God to help you find them and be one yourself.
Make sure you have plenty of fruit in your life. In fact, ask yourself, “am I fruity.” Plant the right fruit in your life and make sure it stays strong and is not choked out by weeds. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, steadfastness and self-control. Galatians 5:22-23.
And best of all, at the end of the day I pray you can say, “I was able to say, I got my hands dirty and that I allowed my life to be transformed by the hands of the master gardener and used by HIM to help the world be a better place for others.”
Happy Spring!
John A. Winters, Publisher, Editor john@wintersmedia.net
Corby Carlin Winters, Ambassador at Large corby@wintersmedia.net
Levi Winters, Social & Visual Media levi@wintersmedia.net
Joey Howard, Digital Editor/Business Development 404.698.0734 • joey@wintersmedia.net
Ruth Harris Doyal, Pagination 770.254.1421 • info@wintersmedia.net
The Weekly is published by Winters Media & Publishing, Inc., P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264
John A. Winters, President Corby Carlin Winters, Vice President
The Weekly is our new publication, which replaces The Shopper. From 1989, the Shopper successfully served the area. The Weekly will not only continue that tradition but expand its focus on consumer-related articles for our readers and our commitment to help promote local businesses and nonprofits.
Our office is located at 15 Perry Street, Newnan, GA 30263
Mailing address is: P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264
Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday - Friday 9 - 4
The Weekly reserves the right to accept or reject any advertising as we feel is in the best interest of our publication.
770.254.1421 info@wintersmedia.net wintersmedia.net
April Daily Menu
SUNDAY: German Chocolate, Praline
MONDAY: Carrot, Fruit Tartlet
TUESDAY: Key Lime, Brownie Red Velvet, GLUTEN FREE
WEDNESDAY: Humm-Bird, Kitchen Sink
THURSDAY: Strawberry, Heavenly Heath, Baker’s Choice, VEGAN
FRIDAY: Strawberries N Creme, Strawberry Daiquiri, Baker’s Choice, GLUTEN FREE
SATURDAY: Strawberry Cheesecake, Chai Tea Latte, Baker’s Choice
113
www.smallcakesnewnan.com
Weekly Kitchen The with Angela
Enjoying some old-fashioned refrigerator cookies
Recently, I had the pleasure of attending a tea where all the ladies brought a food to share. We enjoyed hot tea, finger sandwiches, and sweet treats, and I noticed that the cookies were a big hit. Some were chewy and had a crackled appearance, and others were decorated with pastel M&M’s to mimic the design of flower petals.
Cookies are so simple to make, and I’ve heard it said that if you’re aiming for portion control, cookies are good to have on hand because they’re already in small portions. (This assumes, of course, that you don’t eat a whole plateful of them.)
Those tea party cookies made me want to try a new cookie recipe, and I knew just the one. It was an old handwritten recipe from one of my vintage recipe boxes from the antique mall. The recipe was for a classic refrigerator cookie, and I’ve always liked to make those since they come out so perfectly.
What’s a refrigerator cookie? It’s simply one in which the dough is rolled into a log and then refrigerated overnight so that it can easily be sliced before baking. Some food historians say refrigerator cookies date to the 1920s, when refrigerators became more common, and new recipes were developed because of these newfangled devices.
A refrigerator is no longer a novelty, and thank goodness for that! I’m so happy to be able to roll up that refrigerator cookie dough and plop it inside overnight. Because this dough is sliced and not scooped up one cookie at a time, the actual baking doesn’t take very long at all. A little slicing, a little baking, and these delicious cookies are ready in a flash. Since they bake for just 5 minutes, you won’t be hanging out in the kitchen all day or killing time between 20-minute baking sessions.
It’s also nice that the recipe’s author called these “nut” cookies, which means the baker is free to use whatever nuts they have on hand. I had just shelled some pecans, and I highly recommend them in these tasty, easy cookies.
Recipe Vanilla Nut Cookies
o 2 cups all-purpose flour
o 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
o 1/8 teaspoon salt
o 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
o 1/4 cup brown sugar
o 1 cup granulated sugar
o 1 egg, well beaten
o 1/2 cup chopped nuts (I used pecans)
o 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla
Using a large bowl, sift flour once, add baking powder and salt, sift again, and set aside. In separate bowl, cream butter thoroughly. Gradually add sugars and beat until mixture is light and fluffy. Add egg, nuts, and vanilla. Slowly add flour mixture to the wet ingredients, incorporating just a portion at a time. Blend well. Shape into logs 1-1/2 inches in diameter and roll in wax paper. Chill in refrigerator overnight or until firm enough to slice. Once the logs have chilled, cut them into 1/8-inch slices and bake on ungreased cookie sheets at 425 degrees for 5 minutes. Yields 5 dozen cookies.
Jim,
but
The Classic Market would not be what it is without your example at Table Talk here in Senoia.
I am grateful to you every day for all you did for me. I will miss you forever and always. Rest well, my forever friend.
ChrissyMeet Hanna Barnett of Home Helpers, an ‘Exceptional Caregiver’
Home Helpers Home Care is pleased to introduce its third ‘Exceptional Caregiver’ of this year – Hanna Barnett. Hanna explains that helping others has always played an important role in her life.
“Since a very young age, I’ve always loved to help people and knew that I wanted a job in healthcare when old enough. Lucky for me, the opportunity arrived early and in high school, I was able to obtain an aide license.”
“Fast forward over eight years later, I’m still doing what I love. Healthcare, in general, has taught me a range of life skills, but seeing seniors’ flourish is what brings me the most joy. Home Helpers has allowed me to see clients in their homes where they smile brighter and I can help them with their care needs.”
For the 10th consecutive year, Home Helpers of Georgia and Alabama, based here in Newnan, has earned the recognition as a 2023 Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice Award winner. The Best of Home Care – Provider of Choice Award is based on client satisfaction ratings collected from telephone interviews performed by HCP. The home care providers who earn this award consistently exceed the industry standards for quality in-home care.
Real Es tate
with Jess Barron
Local Real Estate Market Update
2023 is off to an interesting start. While national headlines and media outlets report and forecast doom and gloom, the Coweta County real estate market is holding strong. Residential real estate prices are practically unchanged, while listing inventory and the number of transactions decreased significantly.
According to the Georgia Multiple Listing Service (GAMLS), the number of homes for sale was down 15% in January and 20% in February year-over-year. Pending sales (properties under contract) were down 28% in both January and February. Closings were down 48% in January and 34% in February.
All of this sounds bad but there are several positives. Realtors are seeing a healthier market in 2023. While it is still a seller’s market, we are seeing less multiple-offer situations and buyers have a greater
chance of securing a home. Active listings (homes for sale) were up 36% in January and 33% in February. Buyers have a much better selection of properties to choose from than they did a year ago.
Despite a large supply of homes to choose from and decreased demand, home prices are holding strong. The average sales price in Coweta County was up two percent in January and only down two percent in February. Homes are taking longer to sell: The average days on market was up to 59 days in January and 54 days in February. These are 31% and 86% increases year-over-year.
In March, I have seen a dramatic increase in both buyer and seller activity. As of March 27th, there are 408 homes for sale in Coweta County. We were well under 200 homes for sale during the peak of a seller’s market the last two years. I have had many different types of buyers put properties under contract in the last few weeks; millennial first-time buyers, cash buyers from the baby boomer generation, builders, investors and commercial developers.
From my perspective the market is healthy. I only expect conditions to improve as we enter the spring and the summer, the busiest times of the year in real estate. Inflation, interest rates, the stock market and the Federal Reserve’s decision making are all things to keep an eye on. All these factors will influence our real estate market in 2023.
Jess Barron is an Associate Broker with Lindseys, Inc. Realtors and former President of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors. ■
FRANK BARRON Associate Broker 770-231-9535 FrankB@LindseysRealtors.com
1948-2023
“Serving All of Newnan and Coweta County Since 1948” www.LindseysRealtors.com
JESS BARRON, GRI Associate Broker 678-857-9350
JessB@LindseysRealtors.com
14 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263 • 770-253-6990
MLS #20005781
24+/- ACRES ON POPLAR ROAD AT YEAGER ROAD INTERSECTION. Already zoned C-6 with water and sewer. Ideal for multiuse development. $7,000,000 for all or will consider subdividing front 5 acres for $500,000 per acre and back 19+/- acres for $250,000 per acre. Frank / Chip.
MLS #10120310
HURRY ON THIS 14.41+/- WOODED ACRE TRACT ON US HWY 29 approximately 5 miles north of Newnan! 819.25’ Road frontage. Small pond. Ideal for development, church, school, estate size lot or possible subdivision. $599,900. Frank / Chip.
MLS #10136808
BEAUTIFUL 7.42+/- ACRES IN NEWNAN with open fields, pecan trees, hardwoods and pines, big 50x31 barn with horse stalls. Large rustic farmhouse sold ‘as is’. House recently rented for $950/month. Several great home sites on this property. Build your dream home and have your own private farm with easy access to Newnan and Franklin. $217,000 Jess/Tom.
Serving
1948 2023
MLS #10119008
GREAT OPPORTUNITY IN HISTORIC NEWNAN! Level Residential Lot within walking distance to Atkinson Elementary and Newnan High School. Build your dream home! $85,000. Jess.
VACANT LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS SUBDIVISION. Subject to Covenants and Restrictions of record. Nicely wooded lots. Possible basement lot. Lots 15, 16 & 17 are listed and priced individually at $29,900 each. Frank.
Serving
LOTS/LAND
3 VACANT LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS. Subject to Covenants & Restrictions of record. Nicely wooded lots. No HOA. Possible bsmt lots. Lots 15, 16 & 17 are available for $29,900 each. Frank.
LOTS/LAND
2 WOODED VACANT LOTS in West Coweta on East Coggins Road. Easy access to Newnan, Franklin or Carrollton. $60,000 per lot. Frank/Jess.
LOTS/LAND
12 CHOICE BUILDING LOTS in Grantville. Easy access to I-85, Atlanta, Newnan, LaGrange and Columbus. Sold ‘as is’. $420,000 Bulk Sale Only. Frank/Jess.
CHOICE 10.13 ACRES ZONED COMMERCIAL (C-2) ON HWY 74 (SENOIA ROAD). Adjoins Georgia World of Beverages. 579’ frontage on Hwy 74 and additional frontage on Landrum Road (385’+/-). $3,500,000. Frank
COMMERCIAL
NEW POPLAR ROAD COMMERCIAL LISTING. 24+/- ACRES zoned C-6 (multiple uses) commercial. Water and sewer already in place. $7,000,000. Will subdivide. Frank/Chip. COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE
SOLD! SOLD!
RESIDENTIAL LOT ON BERRY AVENUE IN TOWN. All utilities available. $29,900 Frank.
AMLAJACK 255.5+/- ACRES WITH HALF MILE FRONTAGE ON I-85 between 2 industrial parks. $17,890,600. Frank.
FOR LEASE – 3,200 s/f upstairs office space - $750 per month (Owner/Agent) Frank.
A Yamaha Special Delivery Provides Inclusion and Accessibility for Students at Bass Middle School
A large public school campus can be intimidating, especially for those young people who have issues with mobility due to an injury or a permanent disability. For a special group of students at Blake Bass Middle School, inclusion and accessibility to all parts of the campus was proving difficult due to walking distances.
But with help from Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation, Bass Middle School in Newnan now has a way to meet the needs of students who need a hand getting around campus.
Dr. Cindy Bennett, the school’s principal, remembered how Yamaha helped her former school and others in the Coweta County school district. With that in mind, she reached out in the spring of 2022 to the company to request the donation of a gas-powered golf car.
“Our school would greatly benefit from this donation as we have multiple students who experience difficulty in walking long distances. The use of a golf car would allow our staff to transport these students to various areas around our school such as the bus circle, the football field, the track, and to the other side of our campus where we are planning to add an outdoor classroom,” she wrote in her petition to Yamaha.
“In addition, our special needs class, which consists of six students, is committed to keeping the area around our school marquee free of debris and trash. The marquee is not within walking distance for these students, so the golf car would allow the teacher to transport the students to the marquee to complete a ‘job’ that they love to do for our school.”
Yamaha heard her and has been able to fulfill her wish. A vehicle recently became available through Yamaha’s Golf Cars division and Yamaha negotiated special funding at the school district level so that it did not impact the Bass’ limited budget. A refurbished golf car with six seats was delivered, with a few additional items thrown in to help the students. Some of the enhancements that were made include a better sunroof, windshield, upgraded seats, and custom graphic package.
“Yamaha is just so responsive and really wants to go out of their way to help students to find out what the needs are and to do what they can to the best of their ability to ensure that students have what they need,” Bennett said. “We want a school of innovation that produces well-rounded students who truly know that we don’t want to see any type of limits. We want students to reach for the stars and fulfill, whatever it is, their destiny here at Blake Bass Middle School.”
“We are so thankful to be able to have these partnerships within the community and to know that there are companies out there, specifically Yamaha, who will work with us and help us meet those needs no matter what the circumstances are.”
Bob Brown, VP of Finance and Operations Support at Yamaha agrees. “We are proud to support the schools in our community. Over 55% of our team members live in Coweta County and many of us have students in Coweta County schools. Today’s students are our future community leaders, Yamaha customers, and Yamaha team members and it is so important to support our schools in developing our children to be prepared for success. We hope that by supplying this golf car, students can continue to reach for their stars without limitation.”
Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America designs and assembles WaveRunners, ATVs, Side by Sides, and Golf Cars at the Newnan plant. One of Coweta County’s largest private employers, Yamaha is currently expanding the team, hiring additional contract and direct hire employees. Most jobs with Yamaha start Contract at $18 per hour and are eligible to be full hires in 30 days. Details are at yamahajobs.com
WELDERS NEEDED STARTING AT $22+/HR PERM
Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America is hiring welders for our facility in Newnan, Georgia, due to our continued growth. We are looking for hardworking dedicated people! Benefits include insurance, 401k, profit sharing, tuition reimbursement, and more.
“Working at Yamaha has given me an awesome career trajectory. My job has given me financial stability, which has enabled me to have two kids in college right now.”
– Antoine H. Welding Supervisor•
•
•
• 401K
• Local Discounts
Susan Gore Gardner named "Artist of the Month"
The Newnan-Coweta Art Association has selected Susan Gore Gardner as its featured “Artist of the Month” for April 2023.
Mrs. Gardner’s art will be featured in the entry way to Newnan City Hall, located at 25 LaGrange Street, until April 28.
Susan Gore Gardner grew up hearing Country, Bluegrass, Blues, Jazz, and Rock & Roll. A lifelong love of drawing became a profession upon graduation from Kennesaw State University in 1980 as Susan embarked on a career as a wildlife artist. Fast forward to 1990 when the artist encountered the medium of pastels and began creating color-filled landscapes and still lifes.
During a personally challenging chapter in her life, the artist found the blessing of comfort, encouragement and creative inspiration in music. A visual fascination with the musicians and their instruments bloomed and Susan found her life’s work: capturing on paper the essence of the musicians, that moment they are “in the groove,” illuminated by the striking colors of stage lights.
Susan’s devotion to portraying the instruments with affection and accuracy is appreciated by players and listeners alike. She frequents guitar shops including Gruhn Guitars in Nashville and music-themed museums as she researches the instruments for future portraits. A connection has been made with an entire new group of people who relate to Susan’s artwork because of the musical subjects. Her portraits have provoked many smiles, initiated wonderful music-oriented conversations and garnered numerous awards.
She photographed her first live concert in 1993 and since then has produced an ongoing series of portraits based on her own concert experiences. These portraits have been featured in several solo art shows in Georgia, including “40 Years of Art” at the Rockmart Art Association in Dallas, ‘Blues to Bluegrass’ at the Harris Art Center in Calhoun, and ‘From Rock to Bluegrass: Musician Portraits’ at the Carrollton Cultural Art Center in Carrollton.
Awards at Juried Shows include:
• “Tony Sims” Best in Show, Paulding Fine Art Association’s Juried Fall Art Competition
• “John Lee Hooker” 1st Place, South Cobb Arts Alliance Art Festival
• “Radney Foster” 1st Place, Dallas Art Guild Juried Competition
• “Marty Stuart” 3rd Place, Southeastern Pastel Society Juried Members Exhibition
• “Bruce Jeansonne” Honorable Mention, Booth Art Guild Exhibition
Susan Gore Gardner is a member of Newnan-Coweta Art Association. The Art Association’s general meetings are held the third Monday of each month (from August through May) at the Harriet Alexander Art Center on Hospital Road at 7 p.m. An art demonstration is presented each month. Visitors and new members are always welcome.
Coweta County Youth Fishing Rodeo
Saturday, April 29, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Gates open at 8 a.m. (Do not arrive early!) Youth Only: Pre-K through 5th grade may fish.
Adult Supervision Required
Welcome Farms, 334 Welcome to Sargent Road, Newnan 30263
Participants must be able to hold a fishing pole; adults may assist in baiting hook and casting. Bring your own fishing equipment and bait; no minnows or shiners. Suggested baits are chicken livers, hotdogs, blood baits, cheese or dough balls. Pond is stocked with catfish for the rodeo. You must keep what you catch.
Weigh-in at noon and WINNERS announced at 12:30 p.m. Participants must be present to win. Categories: • Total Pounds
• Heaviest Fish • Longest Fish. Concessions and restrooms available on premises. Call 770.254.2620 for more information.
• No license required
• 10 fish limit
• 3 pole limit per person
Sponsored by Coweta County Extension/4-H , Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Welcome Farms, Newnan-Coweta Jaycees
What's Your Love Language?
It took me a while, but in my 60th year or so I may have figured something out. That lightbulb went off and it’s sure saved me a bit of head scratching.
It’s this: our definition of what we expect from someone we love doesn’t mean they should, or will, live up to it.
Raising children may be the exception. Most of us provide very clear lines and boundaries that are rules for the kids to follow. Preteen and teens will often step over those lines, but we rule-setters have an eye on the situation and an ear to the ground. I was a helicopter mom and would like to think I was tuned in to the circumstances long before they had a chance to think they “got away” with whatever it was.
With that exception out of the way let’s take marriage, for example. A bride and groom look lovingly into one another’s eyes as they speak their vows. Then we fast forward to a bit of dissention among the ranks. She may start thinking he doesn’t love her while he is thinking about car repair, fishing, hunting or a movie he is eager to enjoy. His demonstration of love for her might be fixing the part of the car to keep her safe on the road or bringing home some fresh caught trout. These things may be a huge give on his behalf.
Maybe he isn’t acting within the parameters of her definition of love. She may not even realize she has set parameters of expectation.
Her definition may be vastly different. She may expect him to pick a good movie to watch together. She
may even go to the lengths of suggesting a few while he is thinking it would be fun to watch the Die Hard series. He may cook a meal but not think of her preference for organic, or low carb, or whatever the latest “skinny” recipes call for. He’s showing her love just by cooking. He might leave a mess, but the Die Hard series is waiting. She sees a plate heaped with French fries and a piece of trout and a messy kitchen left behind while Die Hard is cueing up in the living room.
He cooked, he chose a movie. Her car is repaired and that fresh caught trout sure was good. He’s all about the movie now and would she mind making some popcorn?
She shoots daggers from her eyes, but he is looking for the remote. She might slam the cabinets and rattle the dirty dishes while he turns up the volume. She may feel unloved, misunderstood, ignored and taken advantage of. He might just be showing his love by doing the things he has done for her.
I’m speaking from the woman’s standpoint because, well, I’m a woman. And it took me a long time to realize the man I married 46 years ago adores me, in his own way.
He is retired and I’m still freelance writing. He takes out the trash, loads the dishwasher, does laundry, cooks and if I ask, he will whip up a dinner of vegetables. We’ve grown a lot and I love how he expresses love for me now. I’m glad I waited.
We gave our marriage to God on our wedding day. He has been our guide and our shelter in our storms. Check out 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 for more.
Kathy Bohannon is a freelance writer, Christian humorist and inspirational speaker. Kathy lives with her husband of 46 years, with two dogs and a messy kitchen.
classifieds
YARD SALE
LAKE REDWINE COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Saturday, April 22, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Typical participation is over 20 homes with furniture, toys, household goods, tools, etc. Rain or shine. Address for GPS: 10 Redwine Plantation Drive, Newnan, GA 30263. Directional signage provided.
WE BUY
“WE BUY HOUSES” Any condition. Cash. Quick closing. Mike 678.409.8600
WE BUY: scrap metal, junk cars, old appliances, stoves, refrigerators, washers, dryers, dish washers & batteries. Gentry Recycling 770.253.5770
WE BUY CARS – LKQ PICK YOUR PART buys cars . 7 days a week. For info, call 1.800.962.2277 or visit: www.lkqpickyourpart.com
WE PAY TOP DOLLAR for aluminum, copper, brass. Gentry Recycling 770.253.5770
VEHICLES
T PLATINUM AUTO SALES LLC Very Nice Vehicles for Sale … $10,000, $5,000 and under. * Financing Available * Mike 678.409.8600
LAND / LOTS
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY
24+/- ACRES ON POPLAR ROAD AT YEAGER ROAD INTERSECTION. Already zoned C-6 with water and sewer. Ideal for multiuse development. $7,000,000 for all or will consider subdividing front 5 acres for $500,000 per acre and back 19+/- acres for $250,000 per acre Frank/ Chip, Lindseys, Inc. Realtors, 770.253.6990
SERVICES
ARNOLD’S UPHOLSTERY home furniture, auto interior. Call 770.304.4643
4.26
SEPTIC – Residential, commercial or install or cleaning. Call Mitchell Septic Service at 678-673-4910. No. 1 in the No. 2 Business. $425 for 1,000 gallons; $525 for 1,500 gallons. 24-Hour Emergency Service available. 3/22
SHINGLE ROOFS – Metal Roofs, Decks, Siding, Patio Roofs, Barns, Windows and More. Angie’s List 2020 Super Service Award. Call today for a free estimate. Discounts for Military, First Responders, Healthcare, Seniors and Cash. Southern Signature Solutions, 678-850-0431.
HUD HOMES FOR SALE
For more information call: Angie Hogsed 678-472-8384
SERVICES
HOME IMPROVEMENT We proudly do painting, remodeling, decks, doors, basements, gutters, windows, roofing, columns, flooring, plumbing, kitchens, wood repair, electrical. ALL types of handyman jobs. NO job too small. Successfully over 30 years in business. 770.252.5458 Very reasonable rates.
NOW HIRING
SPRING JOB FAIR AT FUMC PARISH HALL APRIL 20, 4 TO 6PM goodwillsr.org
NOW HIRING – Smallcakes Cupcakery in Newnan is seeking to hire a Parttime Baker with decorating experience. Immediate opening. Stop by and grab an application today at 113 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan. 4.12
NOW HIRING – Headley Construction is now seeking Construction Superintendents. Previous experience in new construction or renovation is preferred but will train highly-motivated candidates. Great pay, 401K, paid holidays & PTO, home every night. Apply in-person at 44 East Washington St. in Newnan or email resume to: cgilliam@headleyconstruction.com 3/22
NOW HIRING – LKQ PICK YOUR PART in Fayetteville, GA is seeking to fill various positions. To apply, visit lkqpickyourpart.com and select ‘Careers. WE NEED HELP! Knowledgeable technicians with own tools. Pay based on experience up to $35 flat rate. Monday thru Friday 8-5. Contact us at Jamie’s Automotive, LaGrange. 706.242.4927
CAREGIVERS – Home Helpers of GA & AL seeking qualified Caregivers. Available shifts – days, evenings, overnight and/or weekends. Competitive wages, extensive training, supportive work environment and paid time off. Apply online at ApplyToBeACNA.com or call 678.876.5118
PETS
Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors
Georgia Baptist Childrens Home,
14 Jackson Street, Newnan, Ga. 30263 770-253-6990
www.hudhomestore.com
3 CHOICE LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS, County water available. Just $29,900 each. Frank, Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors – 770.253.6990 email
NEWNAN COWETA HUMANE SOCIETY Check website for list of animals at local animal control facility and foster care animals. Call 770.253.4694 www.nchsrescue.org
www.lindseysrealtors.com
WINPAK FILMS INC. IS HIRING
Much More Than a Place to Work
Winpak Films Inc. is growing to meet the demand for food packaging and other flexible film products around the world. As we expand our capacity, we are dedicated to much more than hiring machine operators, logistics pros, maintenance, and lab technicians to support our production growth. Importantly, we are committed to supporting your growth and advancing your career.
For starters, we’ve created a supportive, clean and safe work environment that has made many of our employees stay with us for decades and even inspire their children to come to work for us. Then we reward their loyalty with exceptional working conditions and a great employment package, plus the opportunity to live in and raise families with the small-town advantages of Senoia and nearby Peachtree City, Ga.
Overall, we’re known for nurturing an environment that’s better than 95 percent of workplaces around the world.
How Much Could You Earn?
Choose
a Career that makes
What Can Winpak Offer You?
Our commitment to a wellrounded benefits program goes beyond medical insurance to include dental, vision, telemedicine, a flexible spending account, and life and disability benefits. If you work at Winpak 30+ hours a week on a continuous basis, you’re eligible for benefits. Your eligibility begins the first of the month following 60 days of hire with the company. Employees can expect:
• Outstanding medical & supplemental insurance
• Retirement Programs / 401K
• Paid vacation & sick leave
• Career advancementoperators today could be managers tomorrow
• Friendly, helpful production teams & managers
• Company-paid training
• Creative work schedules
Contributing to a Sustainable Future
At Winpak, sustainability is more than just a buzzword, it’s engrained in how we work and manage our resources. We provide opportunities for active employee engagement in various initiatives which align with our sustainability pillars. This enables us, as an organization, to work together to become a better corporate citizen and contributor to a better planet.
“They really show their appreciation for you.”
Smith
V.About Winpak Ltd. Winpak designs and supplies innovative packaging to some of the world’s largest brands. As an employee of Winpak Films, you are part of Winpak Ltd., an $853 million company with 12 manufacturing facilities in North America encompassing locations in Illinois, New Jersey, California, Canada and Mexico. Our facilities’ total floor space would cover 40 football fields and we employ more than 2,500 people. We started operations in 1978, and our corporate headquarters is in Winnipeg, MB, Canada. Winpak is listed on the TSX (WPK).
Our stepped-up wage scale starts at $16 per hour for entry level employees with the opportunity for higher earnings every 3 months in just the first year, On the first anniversary of hire you could be earning $18 to $20 per hour, depending on your job title and performance. Jobs include Machine Operators, QA Lab Technicians, Logistics Operators, Storeroom Attendants, Plate Mounters, and Apprentice Press Operators. Extrusion Operators can earn up to $21.59 per hour, depending on skill level.
Extrusion Operators can earn up to $23.50 per hour, depending on skill level. For entry level employees our stepped-up wage scale starts at $17 per hour with the opportunity for higher earnings every 3 months in just the first year. On the first anniversary of hire you could be earning $19 to $20 per hour, depending on your job title and performance. Night shift positions earn an extra $1.50 per hour. Jobs include Machine Operators, QA Lab Technicians, Logistics Operators, Storeroom Attendants, Plate Mounters, and Apprentice Press Operators.
Find Out More and Grow with Us
Everything we do reflects how much Winpak cares for our employees and wants to keep them and help them succeed. We’re eager to tell you more about our available jobs, our exceptional products, and a workplace that feels like more than just work. Contact:
WFIjobs@winpak.com or call 678-633-8788
“I appreciate how my co-workers train me in a way I can understand.”
M. Boswell
Ask your County Agent
Stephanie R. Butcher County Coordinator Agricultural & Natural Resources Agent UGA Extension – Coweta CountyQ. Ambrosia beetles attacked my fig tree. Can I save my tree?
A. Granulated ambrosia beetles are a serious invasive pest of trees and shrubs in Georgia. Whether or not your tree can survive an attack depends on the extent of the damage. As the female beetles dig tunnels to lay eggs, they create toothpicklike structures that come out of the trunk or stem. This is a sure sign that you have ambrosia beetle damage. Sometimes wind and rain can cause the fragile “toothpicks” to fall, so look for them at the base of the tree and inspect the trunk and branches for tiny holes too.
If your tree is vigorous enough, the beetles may be drowned or forced out by heavy sap flow. However, if the tree is weak or not producing large amounts of sap, then the attack could be successful.
Ambrosia beetles commonly attack weak or dying plants, such as fig trees that were damaged by freezing temperatures or waterlogged soils. Environmental conditions this year may have weakened some trees and made them more susceptible to beetle activity.
Adults and larvae bore into twigs, branches, or small trunks of woody host plants, excavate a system of tunnels in the wood or pith, and introduce a symbiotic ambrosial fungus. The beetles are highly specialized and feed on fungi they cultivate on the walls of the galleries. Both the adults and larvae feed on the fungus. This fungus and tunneling will damage and clog the plant’s tissue that transports water, called xylem. This ultimately kills all or part of the plant.
The beetles are active during warm periods of the year, but you will not usually see the adults. Most of the time, they are inside the tree and the damage is done by the time you see evidence that they are present. They breed in stems that are 2 to 30 cm in diameter. Smaller branches are usually attacked first. When female beetles mature, they leave infested plants and fly to new host plants. And they don’t just attack fig trees. Ambrosia beetles are known to attack pecan, peach, plum, cherry, persimmon, oak, elm, sweet gum, magnolia, buckeye, crape myrtle, maple, and dogwood too.
Controlling ambrosia beetles is difficult. Heavily infested plants or plant stems should be pruned out and burned. Insecticide sprays do not work when applied to an already infected plant.
To help reduce the spread of infection to other susceptible trees and shrubs in your landscape, you can apply a preventative insecticide spray (permethrin or bifenthrin), but it must be applied to healthy plants before adult beetles emerge from their host plant and move on to attack the new plant.
Using proper horticultural practices to keep plants healthy will help prevent future attacks. This includes maintaining the soil pH and properly fertilizing based on a soil test.
For more information about growing figs or pest control in landscape plants, contact the Coweta County Extension office at 770-254-2620 or coweta.extension@uga.edu and ask for the publications, “Home Garden Figs” or “Control of Common Pests of Landscape Plants”.
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences is an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization.
UPCOMING Events
April 13, THURSDAY
■ Newnan Kiwanis Club Golf Tournament at Newnan Country Club. Registration begins at 9 a.m. with a 10 a.m. shotgun start. For more information contact Chip Barron 770.301.6843, ChipB@LindseysRealtors.com
April 14, FRIDAY
■ Blood Drive at Great South HOGPen 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., behind Great South Harley-Davidson, 185 SR-16, Newnan. Visit redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code greatsouth
■ Glow Golf at the Wesley Street Gym
The City of Newnan Leisure Services presents: Glow Golf!
A glow in the dark putt-putt golf game between 6 and 9 p.m. 77 Wesley Street, Newnan, GA 30263. $3 registration to participate. To register 678.673.5506 or newnanga.gov
April 15, SATURDAY
■ Senoia Farmers’ Market 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. 40 Travis St. Locally sourced market. EVERY Saturday.
■ 3rd Annual Tour of Coweta Century Ride starts at 8 a.m. from the historic Newnan Train Depot in downtown Newnan as part of the Rock & Road Festival. There are 25 / 47 / 63 / 100 mile routes available. Commemorative t-shirt, swag bag, and downtown after party. 100% of the proceeds go towards Rotary’s annual non-profit grants, 4th of July Fireworks celebration, Rotary Cup Scholarships and hands on service projects. Info www.tourofcoweta.com bikecoweta.com
■ MGEV 2023 Spring Plant Sale 8:30 a.m. to noon. All plants are propagated/grown by our MGEV team and proceeds support our gardening education and scholarship programs. Coweta County Fairgrounds AG Building, 275 Pine Road, Questions? 770.254.2620
■ Coweta Sports Hall of Fame 20th Annual Banquet at the Coweta County Fairgrounds and Conference Center.
The 2023 Coweta Sports Hall of Fame Class will include Matt Donahue, Vernon Strickland and James Warner. Each were standout athletes at Newnan High School. Tickets are now on sale for the Banquet which begins with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the ceremony will follow at 7 p.m. The tickets are $45 each and can be purchased by mail. Mail ticket request with payment to: Coweta Sports Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 2627, Newnan GA 30263. Make checks payable to the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame. For additional information, contact Cheryl Roberts at 706.672.2311 or by email at croberts2258@hotmail.com
■ Midsummer Night’s Dream with Southern Dance Arc. Directed by Dale Lyles, performed at the McRitchie-Hollis Museum at 7 p.m.Limited seating. www.southernarcdance.org 770-.683-3724. Jackson St., Newnan
April 15 & 16, SATURDAY & SUNDAY
■ Rockin in a Squirrel World MTB Races Brown’s Mill Coweta County Parks & Recreation bikecoweta.com
April 16-22, SUNDAY - SATURDAY
■ Downtown Newnan Restaurant Week
From April 16th-22nd, downtown restaurants will be showcasing their talents to both new and returning customers and will be offering specials and tasting exclusives to participants. #DineInDTNNWN and take a week to enjoy numerous unique culinary experiences and support the businesses that bring our dining scene to life. Hosted by Main Street, Newnan.
April 19, WEDNESDAYS*
■ Adaptive Soccer at Wesley Street Park
The City of Newnan Leisure Services department and Hoping Forward will hold an Adaptive Sports: Soccer event at Wesley Street Park where folks with special needs go to learn the ins and outs of soccer. More soccer events May 3 and May 17.
■ Democratic Neighbors Meet & Eat
Join your Democratic Neighbors for a MEET & EAT: 4.19.23 @ 6:30, Los Abuelos, Mexican Grill, 125 Newnan Crossing Bypass.
April 20-22, THURSDAY-SATURDAY
■ Northgate’s Viking Theatre’s Beauty & the Beast at The Nixon Centre. Tickets northgatebsp.booktix.com 1525 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, thenixoncentre.net
April 20, THURSDAY
■ Job Fair
First United Methodist Church partnering with Newnan-Coweta Goodwill and Chamber of Commerce hosts a job fair from 4 to 6 p.m. targeting all job seekers for full-time or part-time. Also, May 11. Parish Hall, 33 Greenville St., Newnan goodwillsr.org
■ Carnegie Cinema: Elvis
Join the Newnan Carnegie Library from 1 to 4:30 p.m. for watching the 2022 movie based on the life of one of rock and roll’s biggest stars. Free popcorn will be served! The film is rated [PG-13] for substance abuse, strong language, smoking, and suggestive material. Registration is required via Eventbrite. com. For more info on the movie call the Carnegie or visit our website at newnancarnegie.com. 1 LaGrange St., Newnan.
April 21, FRIDAY
■ Ready - Set - LINC Block Party AND Battle of the Bands at Newnan Centre A great afternoon filled with activities for the whole family. Vendors. Battle of the Bands. Free and open to the public 4 to 8 p.m., 1515 Lower Fayetteville Road.
■ Spring Market & Jazz in the Park in Tyrone hosted by The Town of Tyrone and Sandy Creek High School Band. Start at 5:30 p.m. Live music, delicious food and vendors. Shamrock Park, 960 Senoia Road, Tyrone
■ Senoia Alive After 5 Shopping, Dining, Music, Activities, 5 to 9 p.m. in downtown Senoia
April 22, SATURDAY
■ Lake Redwine Community Yard Sale
Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Typical participation is over 20 homes with furniture, toys, household goods, tools, etc. Address for GPS: 10 Redwine Plantation Drive, Newnan, GA 30263. Directional signage provided. Rain or shine.
■ DEA Drug Take Back keepnewnanbeautiful.org
■ Keep Newnan Earth Day Extravaganza
8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Join KNB for their BIGGEST LITTER CLEANUP
EVER for EARTH DAY! Clean up 4 locations around the City of Newnan! Meet behind City Hall to sign in and pick up your cleanup materials. Depart to your assigned pick-up location. continued on page 17
When your pick-up is complete - come back to return your materials and retrieve your bagged lunch. * PRE-REGISTER by 4/19/23 and get a FREE Tshirt and FREE bagged Lunch.* **Register keepnewnanbeautiful.org/get_involved or by calling 678.673.5505. keepnewnanbeautiful.org
■ Abby’s Angels Rainbow Run & Family Fun Day
The most COLORFUL day of the year is back and at the Coweta County Fairgrounds, Pine Road. For sponsor or volunteer info please email 3sisters@abbysangelsfoundation.org abbysangelsfoundation.org
■ Spring Market & Car Show
Craft Vendors and car enthusiasts wanted for Resurrection Lutheran Church’s event 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 1250 Lora Smith Rd.
■ “Fashion Faux Paw” -- Fashion Show & Brunch and a Silent Auction - a Newnan Coweta Humane Society Fundraiser at the McRitchie-Hollis Museum, 10:30 a.m. to noon. $30 at museum or Eventbrite.com. 74 Jackson St., Newnan
■ Tree I.D. Hike at Chattahoochee Bend
Join us on a hike down the River Trail (1.8 miles) and learn to identify trees that grow along the river, trees that are native to the area and invasive species. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle. Meet at the Visitor Center. 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. $5 plus $5 parking. Please call for time and ask about reservations. 770.254.7271. 425 Bob White Way, Newnan, GA 302635228. https://gastateparks.org/ChattahoocheeBend
The
■ Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo / Chris Trapper at PTC’s The Fred amphitheater.org
April 23, SUNDAY …
April 29, SATURDAY
■ Coweta County Youth Fishing Rodeo
8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Welcome Farms, 334 Welcome to Sargent Road, Newnan. Look on page 12 for more information.
■ Christian City’s Community Champion Awards Celebrate community leaders at Georgia Aquarium. Funds raised help provide life-changing hope for children, youth and families at Christian City. Learn more christiancity.org/cca or call 770.703.2636.
April 30, SUNDAY
■ Spring Fling with The Masterworks Community Chorale at the Nixon Centre at 2:30 p.m. Masterworks’ 22/23 season finale performed in The Centre’s Black Box Theatre. 1525 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, thenixoncentre.net masterworkscommunitychorale.com
Look for more events in upcoming issues of The Weekly and The Paper
Where to find
PAPER & The
■ Taste of Senoia 1 to 4 p.m. downtown. Delicious food prepared by local restaurants. Food, Raffles, Fun. More info on page 2.
April 25, TUESDAY …
■ Running Injury Prevention Workshop in PTC Jessalyn Ford, PT DPT NCPT, a lifelong runner, will facilitate a Running Injury Preventive Workshop at 7 p.m. at Peachtree City's ProHealth Physical Therapy and Pilates Studio. Class size for the workshop is limited. There is a $50 admission fee but attendance is free with the purchase of a Pilates package. 1777 Georgian Park in Peachtree City. Sign up at 770.487.1931 or drop by the studio to register. Participants will have an opportunity to have their running form reviewed.
April 26, WEDNESDAY …
■ Coweta County Special Olympics at East Coweta High School. We are having our annual spring games track meet on April 26th at ECHS. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Over 400 athletes and 500 volunteers. This is a great event for our athletes and the community every year. Athletes will compete in track and field events such as 100 meter dash, long jump, and shot put. 400 Sharpsburg-McCollum Road, Sharpsburg. Questions: charles.ray@cowetaschools.net
April 27, THURSDAY
■ Suicide Awareness 5K Run at ECHS East Coweta Hight School and Chick-fil-A Leader Academy’s 5K run at East Coweta High School to promote Suicide Awareness, 8 a.m. For more information on sponsorships, contact Karen Stacy at 678.953.2494 or cowetafamilyconnection@gmail.com
April 27-29, THURSDAY-SATURDAY
■ ECHS Echostage’s Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The Nixon Centre. Tickets echostage.info 1525 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, thenixoncentre.net
April 28, FRIDAY
■ Legends of the League NJSL Charity Golf Tournament
Sign up to participate or be a sponsor! Proceeds go to grant recipient, @moremusicfoundationnewnan and the NJSL Scholarship Fund. 10 a.m. at White Oak Golf Club, http://njslserves.org
■ The Fore Our Community Charity Golf Classic benefits the Healing Bridge Clinic and Midwest Food Bank, Georgia. A great day of golfing ends with a chance to win raffle prizes like a Braves ticket package and a $500 Amazon gift card! Plus, we will be auctioning off a one-week stay at a beautiful beachside condo in Destin, Fla. 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Braelinn Golf Club: 500 Clubview Dr Peachtree City, GA 30269. You can register now at www.healingbridgeclinic.org/events
■ Lunch and Learn at Newnan Carnegie with Mike Brown Visit the Carnegie Library from noon to 1 p.m. for Lunch and Learn with “Mike Brown, local author”. Sponsored by: Carnegie Foundation. Carnegie Library: 1 LaGrange St., Newnan 678.683.1347, newnancarnegie.com
Look for our Racks at these locations:
n Central Library 85 Literary Lane, Sharpsburg
n Chick-fil-A
505 Bullsboro Drive, Newnan
n Crook’s Cost Plus Market
249 Temple Avenue, Newnan
n Leaf & Bean
22 West Court Square, Newnan
n Little Giant Farmers Market
487 Jackson Street, Newnan
n Little Giant Farmers Market
2005 Highway 16, Sargent
n Newnan Post Office
18 Greenville Street, Newnan
n Piedmont Newnan Hospital 745 Poplar Road, Newnan
n Senoia Post Office 68 Broad Street, Senoia
n Sharpsburg Post Office 6545 Highway 54, Sharpsburg
n Summit Family YMCA 1765 Highway 34 East, Newnan
n Town & Country Restaurant
8 Franklin Road, Newnan
Winters Media & Publishing, Inc.
PRO SPORTS
NBA – Atlanta Hawks (41-41)
March 25 – Indiana Pacers ... W, 143-140
March 26 – Memphis Grizzlies ... L, 119-123
March 28 – Cleveland Cavaliers ... W, 120-118
March 31 – at Brooklyn Nets ... L, 107-124
April 2 – Dallas Mavericks ... W, 132-130
April 4 – at Chicago Bulls ... W, 123-105
April 5 – Washington Wizards ... W, 134-116
April 7 – Philadelphia 76ers ... L, 131-136
April 9 – at Boston Celtics ... L, 114-120
End of Regular Season
April 11, Tues. – #at Miami Heat, 7:30 pm – TNT
#No. 7 vs. No. 8 Play-in Game
– If Hawks win vs. Boston Celtics, Best of 7 on April 15
– If Hawks lose vs. winner of Toronto-Chicago on April 14
MLS – Atlanta United (4-1-2)
Feb. 25 – San Jose Earthquakes ... W, 2-1
March 4 – Toronto FC ... T, 1-1
March 11 – at Charlotte FC ... W, 3-0
March 18 – Portland Timbers ... W, 5-1
Sat., March 25 – at Columbus Crew ... L, 1-6
April 1 – New York Red Bulls ... W, 1-0
April 8 – at New York City FC ... T, 1-1
April 15, Sat. – at Toronto FC, 7:30 pm – Apple TV
April 23 – Chicago Fire FC, 4:30 pm – FS1, Apple TV
April 29 – at Nashville SC, 1:30 pm – FOX, Apple TV
May 6 – at Inter Miami, 7:30 pm – Apple TV
MLB – Atlanta Braves (6-4)
April 3 – at St. Louis Cardinals ... W, 8-4
April 4 – at St. Louis Cardinals ... W, 4-1
April 5 – at St. Louis Cardinals ... W, 5-2
April 6 – San Diego Padres ... W, 7-6
April 7 – San Diego Padres ... L, 4-5
April 8 – San Diego Padres ... L, 1-4
April 9 – San Diego Padres ... L, 2-10
April 10, Mon. – Cincinnati Reds, 7:20 pm – BSSE
April 11, Tues. – Cincinnati Reds, 7:20 pm – BSSE
April 12, Wed. – Cincinnati Reds, 7:20 pm – BSSE
April 14, Fri. – at Kansas City Royals, 8:10 pm – BSSE
April 15, Sat. – at Kansas City Royals, 4:10 pm – BSS
April 16, Sun. – at Kansas City Royals, 2:10 pm – BSS
April 17 – at San Diego Padres, 9:40 pm – BSS
April 18 – at San Diego Padres, 9:40 pm – BSS
April 19 – at San Diego Padres, 4:10 pm – BSS
April 21 – Houston Astros, 7:20 pm – BSS
April 22 – Houston Astros, 7:20 pm – BSS
April 23 – Houston Astros, 1:30 pm – BSS
April 24 – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS
April 25 – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS
April 26 – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS
April 27 – Miami Marlins, 12:20 pm – BSS
HUNTING SEASON DATES – COWETA
No Seasons Open.
Hunting & Fishing License Info: Call 1-800-366-2661 Visit https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes
LAKE LEVELS
Jackson Lake – April 10 ... 528.38 ft. (Full 528 ft.)
Lake Allatoona – April 10 ... 840.36 ft (Full 840 ft.)
Lake Harding – April 10 ... 520.04 ft. (Full 520 ft.)
Lake Lanier – April 10 ... 1,071.96 ft (Full 1,071 ft.)
Lake Martin, Ala. – April 10 ... 489.74 ft. (Full 491 ft.)
Lake Wedowee, Ala. – April 10 ... 787.21 ft. (Full 793.0 ft.)
West Point Lake – April 10... 633.56 ft. (Full 635 ft.)
SUNRISE / SUNSET
Wednesday, April 12 – Rise 7:11 am; Set 8:07 pm
Thursday, April 13 – Rise 7:10 am; Set 8:08 pm
Friday, April 14 – Rise 7:08 am; Set 8:09 pm
Saturday, April 15 – Rise 7:07 am; Set 8:09 pm
Sunday, April 16 – Rise 7:06 am; Set 8:10 pm
Monday, April 17 – Rise 7:05 am; Set 8:11 pm
Tuesday, April 18 – Rise 7:04 am; Set 8:12 pm
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W eekly W eekly PAPER & The
W eekly W eekly
Mortgage Rate Basics for Homebuyers and Homeowners
Mortgage rates, along with other interest rates, have been on an upward climb for months due to inflation and other economic factors. It’s important to know the basics about mortgage rates and to seek the help of professionals so you can find a deal and save money in the long run.
Skin Edge, a loan originator at Fairway Independent Mortgage in Newnan, shares his expertise with homebuyers and homeowners on how to navigate the current real estate market and find the best mortgage rates in the below Q&A. With 10 years of experience, Edge mostly works on the financial side of real estate, helping homebuyers to get prequalified for home loans and determining how much they can afford.
Q: Will mortgage rates go down this year?
A: They’re trending lower. Mortgage rates are always going to follow inflation. We all know inflation has gotten a little out of hand in the last 18 months, but with the Fed raising their rates, it’s slowly, but surely trending downward. As we speak right now, rates are as low as they’ve been in 2 months. I’ve seen prognostications that by summer,
Newnan Coweta Board of Realtors
Million Dollar Club
or the end of the year, that rates will be low fives, and I hope that’s correct.
Q: What causes mortgage rates to increase?
A: It goes back to inflation. Mortgage rates really move with two factors. One is the 10-year treasury bond, which right now sits at about 3.4. As the 10-year treasury moves up and down, historically mortgage rates do as well. As inflation moves up and down, historically mortgage rates always follow that. When inflation increased to about 9%, that’s when you saw rates in November as high as they’ve been in a long time. But now, as inflation is slowly moving in the right direction, you see mortgage rates follow suit.
Q: Will mortgage rates ever return to lower preinflation levels?
A: I would say doubtful. You had a large number of homeowners in 2020 and 2021 that either bought or refinanced in the twos and threes. Much of that had to do with COVID. I think getting back somewhere in the fours would be a huge win, but I highly doubt the twos and threes is something that we’ll ever see again.
Q: How can homebuyers and current homeowners find out current mortgage rates?
A: They can call me. I have a large number of people pre-qualified now that I update with the rates almost on a daily basis. If you’re not in my industry and don’t do this every day, you should rely on a professional like myself to tell you what the mortgage rates are doing and what the trend is at any given time. Everyone’s situation is different. Monitoring it yourself can be a mistake because with the rate, much of it is what you pay for it. I can get to a 4% rate today, but it’s going to come with a substantial cost that does not make financial sense. Talking to a mortgage professional versus just looking online is in my opinion highly recommended.
Q: Is there anything that you’d like to add?
A: Mortgage rates are always moving, and they are going to be based off economic factors. Each time the Fed releases their report, each time you have employment numbers, you see not only the stock market respond, but you also see mortgage rates respond to that, either favorably or unfavorably.
Q: Should homebuyers wait until mortgage rates drop before trying to purchase and finance a home?
A: The answer is do not wait, and here is why. There is a misconception out there mainly due to the media, that there is going to be a big drop in housing prices, but that’s not going to happen. There’s a ton of demand and very little supply right now. That is the very opposite of 2008. In 2008, there was no demand and a ton of supply, which brought housing prices down. So you’re still going to see housing prices increase slowly as they have historically. If you like the house, it fits your needs, and you can stomach the payment, when rates do come down there is always going to be a refinance opportunity. In 2020 and 2021, I did over 100 refinances. We use the phrase, “Date the rate, marry the house.” The rate likely, especially in this market, is going to be temporary.
Q: How can homebuyers get the best mortgage rate?
A: I would always recommend somebody looking at an option or two, but once again, it’s not just about the rate. I’ve seen it so many times in my career, and I’ve been doing this a long time, where a buyer will say a lender offered me a quarter point less than you. I’ll ask to see the estimate, and I’ll tell the buyer that I will be the first one to tell you if I’m beat and they have a better deal. But many times, they have substantial closing costs associated with that lower rate, which to me many times can be unethical. I
don’t discourage people from getting multiple options, but just be careful not to be consumed by the rate. Every rate has its cost.
Q: Do mortgage rates affect how much a person can afford to pay for a home?
A: Absolutely. Take 2020-2021 versus today, a 2 or 3% rate versus a 5 or 6% rate, it will have a large effect depending on the deal. The rate affects your monthly payment, the monthly payment affects the debt to income ratio, and the debt to income ratio affects how much you can afford.
Q: With higher mortgage rates, are homebuyers now paying much more for a home?
A: The answer is yes. It’s not just mortgage rates, but it’s appreciation of homes over the past two years. In that time period, homes have appreciated 15-25% depending on the area. So not only are first-time homebuyers getting hit with higher rates, they’re getting hit with higher purchase prices. It is a double whammy.
Q: Should homebuyers get preapproved for a home loan?
A: You want to know what you can afford. The realtor wants to know they are not wasting their time. The last thing you want is to go look at a house, it’s $350,000, fall in love with it, and realize that you can’t qualify for it. Before you go look at anything, get prequalified for a mortgage and understand your price point/buying power.
Q: Do you have any additional advice for homebuyers?
A: Don’t sit on the sidelines. Don’t listen to the news media. It seems to be all gloom and doom out there, but buying a home is the biggest driver of wealth in this country, always has been and always will be. We’ve been spoiled by interest rates. The average rate in the last 50 years is 8%. That’s important to know. So getting in that house with the opportunity to build equity, locking a rate below historical average, and having a chance to refinance that rate to an even lower number is much more important and much more valuable financially than paying rent. Rent is 100% interest. Don’t sit on the sidelines and think that it is a bad market because that is fiction.
Q: Is this a good time for homeowners to refinance their home to get a lower mortgage rate or should they wait for a while?
A: I would wait. It depends on the borrower, but I’ve done two refinances in the past year because they had life events. Overall, it is not a robust refinance market.
Q: What are the pros and cons of refinancing your home?
A: The pros are a cheaper rate and a cheaper monthly payment. There is also a product called a cash-out refinance that a borrower can utilize if they need to do a renovation or pay for kids’ college or consolidate debt. Those were very prevalent in 2020-2021. Say you have a balance of $200,000, and the house is worth $500,000. You could pull out $100,000, have a new mortgage payment, and then take care of those things. The cons are there are closing costs associated with the refinance. The good news is that’s rolled into the loan amount, not just out of pocket.
Q: When is refinancing your home worth it? How much should your rate drop?
A: Typically, on a 30-year mortgage, you want to see the rate drop at least 0.75% to 1%. What I also take into account is life events. For instance, how long are you going to be there or are you planning on having children and outgrowing the house. Every situation is unique. If you are going to be there four or five years and the rate drops 0.75% to 1%, that’s when my spider sense goes off that it’s time to refinance. I am proactive in reaching out to my clients to start that process.
COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Lake Redwine Community Yard Sale
Saturday, April 22, 2023
8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Typical participation is over 20 homes with furniture, toys, household goods, tools, etc. Directional signage provided.
Address for GPS:
10 Redwine Plantation Drive, Newnan, GA 30263
Rain or Shine
Coweta
Sports Hall of Fame to induct 3
The Coweta Sports Hall of Fame is set to grow by three new inductees at its 20th Annual Banquet on Saturday, April 15, at the Coweta County Fairgrounds and Conference Center.
The 2023 Coweta Sports Hall of Fame Class will include Matt Donahue, Vernon Strickland and James Warner. Each were standout athletes at Newnan High School.
Tickets are now on sale for the Banquet which begins with dinner at 6:30 p.m. and the ceremony will follow at 7 p.m. The tickets are $45 each and can be purchased by mail. The Hall of Fame says to mail the ticket request with payment to: Coweta Sports Hall of Fame, P.O. Box 2627, Newnan GA 30263. Make checks payable to the Coweta Sports Hall of Fame. For additional information, contact Cheryl Roberts at 706-672-2311 or by email at croberts2258@hotmail.com.
Donahue was a standout pitcher for the Newnan Cougars in the mid 1980’s who went on to play baseball at the junior college level, then starred in the Atlantic Coast Conference at North Carolina State before being drafted by the Florida Marlins.
Strickland played football at Newnan High School for legendary coach Max Bass from 1988-1990, graduating in 1991, before walking on at Georgia Tech and later earning spots on rosters with various NFL teams.
Warner played football and basketball at Newnan High School before going on to Athens to become a 4-year letterman in football for the Georgia Bulldogs.
Visit wintersmedia.net for more biographical background info on the above inductees.
Restaurant Week set for April 16-22
Want to take a bite out of Newnan? Then do so during the Downtown Newnan Restaurant Week scheduled for mid-April.
This inaugural Main Street Newnan event will take place from Sunday, April 16 and run through Saturday, April 22. During the week, downtown restaurants will be showcasing their respective culinary talents to both new and returning customers as well as offering specials and tasting exclusives to their customers.
Follow the hashtag #DineInDTNNEWN on social media platforms or visit mainstreetnewnan.com for more information.
Moreland to host 2 events to honor authors
Two exciting events are coming to Coweta County this year which honor local authors. This pair of events are the Lewis Grizzard Games and the Hunt for the Lost Treasure of Coweta.
The Lewis Gizzard Games, a series of athletic competitions and celebrations, will take place June 22-24. Lewis Grizzard, the internationally known humorist, columnist and entertainer, began his career as a sports journalist. From his youth as a high school letterman athlete throughout his adult life, Lewis loved and played many sports. He is remembered as an avid tennis player and golfer. The Lewis Gizzard Games, honoring the athletic author, will give participants a chance to compete for prizes in these games as well as showcase his writing. Loyal fans can reminisce and new ones can discover his wit and wisdom.
Later in the fall, the Hunt for the Lost Treasure of Coweta will honor the work of two local authors, Edward and Helen Wolak, in a month-long event. Beginning September 1, treasure hunters will search for lost relics and ruins throughout Coweta County. Clues will be released weekly, and treasure hunters will scour the county for its trove of historic jewels. On September 30, in a finale celebration, the first to complete the hunt will be rewarded with the Grand Prize: one troy ounce of gold (valued 2/28/2023 $1823). Other valuable and fantastic prizes will be awarded as well.
The Moreland Cultural Arts Alliance, Inc. (MCAA) is the sponsor of both the Lewis Grizzard Games and Hunt for the Lost Treasure of Coweta. For more details and updates visit morelandadventure.com or call 678-492-3161.
Getting older has many little daily surprises
I’m getting older... and as they say “that’s better than the alternative.”
But I have a little beef with all of those who aged before me. There are a few things that you failed to tell me about that would have been very helpful. Now I knew some things were coming.
I saw my grandmamma’s breasts taking up her lap space when she sat down. I saw old men walking around with their mustaches growing down from their nostrils and their ear hair growing out and joining their sideburns. But, there is oh so much more.
I sigh now. I sigh. For no apparent reason. I’ll be sitting there and say, “Oh Lordy.” I do this more than once or twice a day – like when I sit ... when I stand ... when I am just contemplating my day. It just comes out. What does that even mean?? I can remember my grandmamma doing the same thing.
Am I now channeling her aged spirit?
I can’t remember the last time I slept through the night without having to go to the bathroom. Two and three times a night is no longer unusual. At least I can still hit the toilet. What is it about older men and losing their aim?!?! I swear, there are times I walk in there after him and I am not sure anything actually went in.
And oh my goodness ... don’t dare sneeze or cough with a full bladder. I haven’t wet myself since I was 2. Nope, can’t say that anymore! Depends are beginning to look like an excellent wardrobe choice. They come in purple now, you know.
My teeth are beginning to crack or fall out. It’s not just me. When I get together with friends my same age, having to go to the dentist stories are only second to the weekly doctor appointments for everything!
Senior Living Advice
with BETH DOW, Geriatric Care ManagerEverything hurts, or aches or burns and when you ask your doctor about it – what does he say? “Well, you know you are getting older?”
I strained my back and couldn’t hardly move for a week, putting on my bra!!! Come on!
And where did my eyebrows go? They used to be there. I used to have to pluck (and yes we plucked) those suckers. One nicely formed unibrow. But no more. Now, I have to pencil those babies in. I can remember dropping something on the floor and picking it up immediately. Not anymore. Now if I drop something, I sit and look at it and ponder if at a later time there will be something else on the floor that will also have to be picked up. Or, if it is actually hurting anything by being on the floor. Some things just aren’t worth the effort. And everything I eat makes me burp! What is that about? Tums has become one of my major food groups. I could go on and on, but I think I need a nap. I nap now also. Oh Lordy!
Beth Dow is a Dementia and Alzheimer’s Educator, CAEd and Geriatric Care Manager. She is also the owner of Home Helpers of GA & AL in Newnan. Readers can contact her by email at bdow@ homehelpershomecare.com.