The Weekly April 26, 2023S

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26

THURSDAY, APRIL 27

FRIDAY, APRIL 28

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

8 a.m., cowetafamilyconnection@gmail.com

SATURDAY

Senoia Farmers' Market 8:30 a.m. 40 Travis St. & The Heriage School's Grove Market 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. & Community Wellness Day at Ashley Park 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. _______ & _______

Young Artists of Newnan Coweta County Art Show 12 to 3 p.m., Harriet Alexander Art House, 31 Hospital Rd & Christian City’s Community Champion Awards at Georgia Aquarium christiancity.org/cca or call 770.703.2636.

SUNDAY

Art Show

MONDAY May 1st

Senoia Area Blood Drive at Senoia UMC (229 Bridge Street) 1 to 5 p.m. redcrossblood.org/give

THURSDAY the 4th

Community Prayer Breakfast sponsored by Newnan Kiwanis Club at Newnan's First Baptist on National Day of Prayer 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.

Can’t Never Could Fund Established at Piedmont; Hosts Philanthropic Event on May 1

Pictured from left to right: Christi Estes, Can’t Never Could; Martha Ann Parks, Can’t Never Could; Vicki Kaiser, COO Piedmont Newnan; and Susan West, Community Engagement Specialist, Piedmont Newnan.

A $50,000 donation was made by Can’t Never Could, Inc. (CNC) to establish the Can’t Never Could Fund at Piedmont, which helps provide financial support to oncology patients at Piedmont Newnan and brain tumor patients at Piedmont Atlanta.

Piedmont has partnered with the Can’t Never Could Board of Directors to recognize Brain Tumor Awareness Month and once again host the Meat the Need Fundraiser. The charcuterie box event will take place on Monday, May 1. By ordering a box that serves two individuals with sweet and savory treats, you are helping kick off fundraising for this program that celebrates Rob and Christi’s legacy. To register or sponsor this event, please visit give.piedmont.org/meattheneed

Southside Church Creates Donation Fund to Support Wound Center Patients at Piedmont Fayette and Newnan

Southside Church creates donation fund for uninsured or underinsured wound center patients at Piedmont Newnan and Fayette hospitals to assist in the healing process.

To learn more or to donate to the Piedmont Healthcare Foundation, visit piedmont.org

“We thank Southside Church for their support of our patients, many of whom do not have the resources and funds to receive the resources they need, and whose wounds would not heal without these resources,” said Melissa Johnson, director of Wound Care and Hyperbarics at Piedmont Fayette and Piedmont Newnan.

As a not-for-profit health system, Piedmont relies on the generosity of donors to offer many programs and services to the community.

To learn more or to donate to the Piedmont Healthcare Foundation, visit piedmont.org

Piedmont Newnan presented their First Friday Hero for April to Senoia Police Officer Alexis Callaway

Piedmont Newnan Hospital has named Officer Alexis Callaway with the Senoia Police Department the organization’s First Friday Hero for the month of April.

Officer Callaway sprang into action when a four-week-old baby suddenly began to choke. The officer arrived on the scene and rushed into the child’s home, knowing the 9-1-1 caller stated the baby was choking and wasn’t breathing. She saw the grandmother had the baby and immediately began to administer first aid. The officer has been CPR certified since she was 16 years old. She was calm and knew what to do. After performing first aid, which included repeatedly patting the baby’s back and turning him, bodycam footage showed the child successfully spit out the obstructing liquid and began to breathe normally. The life-saving technique is administered with the baby angled downward. It is designed to release anything that could be obstructing the airway.

“As medical professionals, we know CPR is much different on an infant or child than an adult and we are thankful for this family that Officer Callaway knew what to do,” said Vicki Kaiser, COO at Piedmont Newnan. “Because of her knowledge, calm demeanor and ability to quickly assess and take over, the baby is alive and well.”

“Their line of work is often a thankless job and we want to make the community aware of our local heroes and all they do to make our communities a better and safer place,” said Kaiser.

Officer Callaway’s act of bravery was rewarded with the Senoia Police Department’s Life Saving Award. Officer Callaway, who joined the department in 2020, is a school resource officer during the day, but patrols the streets of Senoia when school lets out.

“It was the first time I had to perform CPR on an infant, so I’m thankful I had the training and knew what to do,” said Officer Callaway. “I recently saw the family out at a restaurant and it was so nice to see them again and know that they are doing well.”

A ceremony with Officer Callaway, and hospital leadership, was held at the Senoia Police Department on April 14, 2023, where the officer was presented with a certificate, a photo frame, and a poster recognizing her as Piedmont Newnan’s First Friday Hero. Her story is also featured throughout the hospital on commemorative posters and Piedmont Newnan’s social media pages.

Piedmont Newnan created the First Friday Hero program in March of 2019 to recognize first responders each month who have gone above and beyond the call of duty.

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

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.

I’m getting older... and as they say “that’s better than the alternative.”

Getting older has many little daily surprises Weekly Kitchen with Angela

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 Manager

Everything 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.

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.

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.

… Magic 98.1 & Magic981.com

Weekly

Real Es tate The

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.

FRANK BARRON Associate Broker 770-231-9535

FrankB@LindseysRealtors.com

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. ■

JESS BARRON, GRI

Associate Broker 678-857-9350

JessB@LindseysRealtors.com

1948-2023

“Serving All of Newnan and Coweta County Since 1948” www.LindseysRealtors.com

14 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263 • 770-253-6990

MLS

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 All Your Real Estate Needs Since 1948.

1948 2023

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

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.

3 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

109

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.

Price and terms subject to prior sale and change without notice. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

LOTS/LAND

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

6.47

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.

UNDER CONTRACT

FOR LEASE – 3,200 s/f upstairs office space - $750 per month (Owner/Agent) Frank.

MLS #10073522

MLS #10021670

MLS #10110852

2 VACANT BUILDING LOTS IN WEST COWETA COUNTY with county water and electricity available. Country setting on East Coggin but easy access to Newnan, Franklin, and Carrollton. $60,000 per lot. Frank and Jess.

RESIDENTIAL LOTS IN MANCHESTER, GA! Manchester city water, sewer & electricity available. Schools nearby! Walk to downtown Manchester. $30,000 per lot. BULK SALE ONLY. Frank/Jess

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

MLS #10101800

MLS #10119008

#20005781

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.

of Fame

Shepard

Jess Barron Tom Barron Riese Carden Robert Hinely Carol Holden

Chris Bass Lynnie Candler Karen Nalewako Blake Oxenreider

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

Ask your County Agent

Stephanie R. Butcher County Coordinator Agricultural & Natural Resources Agent UGA Extension – Coweta County

Q. Ambrosia beetles attacked my fig tree. Can I save my tree?

The Veggie Patch

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.

Photo Credit: North Carolina Cooperative Extension

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.

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.

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

How Much Could You Earn?

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.

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 products are mainly used in food packaging and medical applications.”

H. Phan

“They really show their appreciation for you.”

V. Smith

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).

IT’S OUR NATURE TO PROTECT TM WINPAK Films Inc. 100 Wihuri Pkwy., Senoia, GA 30276 WFIjobs@winpak.com 678-633-8788 Winpak.com/WFIjobs

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

What We Produce in Senoia

Capabilities in our 300,000 square-foot Senoia plant encompass: Blown Film Extrusion — Barrier and non-barrier films for high performance MAP bags and sealant films Barrier Shrink Film Extrusion — PVdC and EVOH barrier films; Traditional, High Abuse, Bone Guard Converting Operations — Bag and pouch making; Shrink bag converting; Ten-color flexographic printing; Photo polymer plate making; In-house graphics.

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

M. Boswell

CFEMC Celebrates Lineman Appreciation Day 2023 Abby's Angels Rainbow Run

SPORTSMAN’s CORNER

PRO SPORTS

NBA – Atlanta Hawks (41-41)

April 7 – Philadelphia 76ers ... L, 131-136

April 9 – at Boston Celtics ... L, 114-120

Regular Season Ends

Play-In Game (Atlanta advanced)

April 11 – #at Miami Heat ... W, 116-105

Playoffs (Boston leads 3-1 in Best of Seven)

April 15 – at Boston Celtics, L, 99-112

April 18 – at Boston Celtics ... L, 106-119

April 21 – Boston Celtics ... W, 130-122

April 23 – Boston Celtics ... L, 121-129

April 25, Tues. – at Boston Celtics, 7:30 pm – TNT

April 27, Thurs. – Boston Celtics (if necessary)

April 29, Sat. – at Boston Celtics (if necessary)

MLS – Atlanta United (5-1-3)

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 – at Toronto FC ... T, 2-2

April 23 – Chicago Fire FC ... W, 2-1

April 26, Wed. – Memphis (KSU), 7:30 pm – US Open Cup

April 29, Sat. – at Nashville SC, 1:30 pm – FOX, Apple TV

May 6 – at Inter Miami, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

May 13 – Charlotte, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

May 17 – Colorado, 7:30 pm – Apple TV

MLB – Atlanta Braves (14-8)

April 14 – at Kansas City Royals ... W, 10-3

April 15 – at Kansas City Royals ... W, 9-3

April 16 – at Kansas City Royals ... W, 5-4

April 17 – at San Diego Padres ... W, 2-0

April 18 – at San Diego Padres ... W, 8-1

April 19 – at San Diego Padres ... L, 0-1

April 21 – Houston Astros ... L, 4-6

April 22 – Houston Astros ... L, 3-6

April 23 – Houston Astros ... L, 2-5

April 24, Mon. – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS

April 25, Tues. – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS

April 26, Wed. – Miami Marlins, 7:20 pm – BSS

April 27, Thurs. – Miami Marlins, 12:20 pm – BSS

April 28, Fri. – at New York Mets, 7:10 pm – BSS

April 29, Sat. – at New York Mets, 4:05 pm – FOX

April 30, Sun. – at New York Mets, 1:40 pm –BSS

May 1 – at New York Mets, 1:10 pm – BSS

May 2 – at Miami Marlins, 6:40 pm – BSS

May 3 – at Miami Marlins, 6:40 pm – BSS

May 4 – at Miami Marlins, 4:10 pm – BSS

May 5 – Baltimore Orioles, 7:20 pm – BSSE

May 6 – Baltimore Orioles, 7:15 pm – FOX

May 7 – Baltimore Orioles, 11:35 am – NBC Peacock

HUNTING SEASON DATES – COWETA

Turkey – April 8 to May 15 (2 gobblers per season)

Hunting & Fishing License Info: Call 1-800-366-2661 Visit https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes

LAKE LEVELS

Jackson Lake – April 23 ... 528.61 ft. (Full 528 ft.)

Lake Allatoona – April 23 ... 841.01 ft (Full 840 ft.)

Lake Harding – April 23 ... 519.05 ft. (Full 520 ft.)

Lake Lanier – April 23 ... 1,071.36 ft (Full 1,071 ft.)

Lake Martin, Ala. – April 23 ... 490.15 ft. (Full 491 ft.)

Lake Wedowee, Ala. – April 23 ... 790.46 ft. (Full 793.0 ft.)

West Point Lake – April 23... 632.48 ft. (Full 635 ft.)

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Wednesday, April 26 – Rise 6:55 am; Set 8:18 pm

Thursday, April 27 – Rise 6:54 am; Set 8:18 pm

Friday, April 28 – Rise 6:53 am; Set 8:19 pm

Saturday, April 29 – Rise 6:51 am; Set 8:20 pm

Sunday, April 30 – Rise 6:50 am; Set 8:21 pm

Monday, May 1 – Rise 6:49 am; Set 8:21 pm

Tuesday, May 2 – Rise 6:49 am; Set 8:22 pm

AUCTION

AUCTION – COMING SOON. SATURDAY, MAY 6 AT 9 A.M Lots of items including Golf Cart, Cast Iron Pots and Skillets, Antique Furniture, Knives, Guns, Ammo, Fishing & Camping Equipment, Hand Tools, Power Tools, Storage Cabinets, plus lots more. Info coming soon. Watch for information on Facebook. Scotty Hicks Auction Service. 770-301-6000.

OPEN HOUSE

COWETA COUNTY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY & LIBRARY JUNE 3 FROM 10 A.M. TO 4 P.M. 8 CARMICHAEL ST., NEWNAN

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

3 CHOICE LOTS IN ASHLEY WOODS, County water available. Just $29,900 each. Frank, Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors – 770.253.6990

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

SERVICES

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.

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.

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 – LKQ PICK YOUR PART in Fayetteville, GA is seeking to fill various positions. To apply, visit lkqpickyourpart.com and select ‘Careers.

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. 4.19

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

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

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

Soap Box Derby Benefits Area Youth Organizations

April 15th Soap Box Derby

From Special Reports

A large number of smiling young engineering and sporting enthusiasts were on the roads in downtown Newnan Saturday, April 15.

Each one got behind the wheel of his or her very own custom-made vehicle for an old-fashioned Soapbox Derby, a fundraiser to benefit the Coweta Community Foundation, Bridging the Gap, and local Boys & Girls Clubs.

The winners of the event include:

Youth Winners

1st: Cheetah Bowser: Cordell Jackson, Sasha Jackson, Jacob Crace - Yamaha, Drew Hood - Yamaha

2nd: Cheetah’s Always Win: Idriyelle Geter, Darin Yawn - Yamaha, Kyle Meyhofer - Yamaha

3rd: KMR: Kamryn Richardson, Kamora Richardson, Evan Kaminsky - Yamaha, David Norris - Yamaha, Jason Broshear - Yamaha, Ivan Chan - Yamaha

4th: Webb Designs: Hunter Webb, Fisher Webb, Grant Fain - Yamaha, Victoria Chee - Yamaha, Wendy Morris - Yamaha

Adult Soapbox Winners

1st: Tomco-Hammer Down: Tom Crymes, Jay Boland, Greg Anderson, Holden Harris, Jaimee Nosworthy

2nd: Bonnell Aluminum: Justin Thompson, Randy Johnson, Ron Garrett, Jimmy Johnson, Cesar Maltes

3rd: J&M Pools: Matt Moore, Matt Harris, Craig Scriber, Ben Marshall, Jacob Brandlehner

Fastest Over All

Cheetah Bowser car driven by Soapbox Design Guru Jacob Crace, support by Yamaha Development and Testing Engineers

Best In Show

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Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation, the title sponsor for the event, had a real hands-on role in the entire process. Their engineers and other design professionals brought in the contestants to their Newnan facility and walked them through the creation of their vehicles from start to finish. Once the racing machines were built, the young drivers were able to test them under the supervision of their Yamaha partners in advance of the actual race.

“When they showed up to actually build their cars, I could see the light in their eyes,” said Amelia Davis, regional director, Boys & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta. “It gave them such enthusiasm to know that they can build something from beginning to end.”

Yamaha employees spent several weeks off and on lending a hand to the racers.

“It’s been a really unique experience for us that are in the structured ‘day in, day out’ of corporate work to have this opportunity to take our skillset and our knowledge and relate that to an application that’s fun for the kids,” said Yamaha senior design engineer Evan Kaminsky.

The design workshops allowed the young people to give their input on the design and breathe life into the cars so that they would be unique to each child’s liking. For Kaminsky, hearing these kids say thank you and that the car turned out exactly as their young minds conceived it was especially gratifying. The educational part of the experience was not lost on the grownups, either.

“It’s been cool to have these kids actually turn a wrench and understand some of the mechanical properties and have a mechanical understanding of systems in general,” said Kaminsky.

Or, as development engineer Jake Crace put it: “When kids learn science, everybody wins.”

Even in the initial stages of the design, the young people expressed their excitement about the upcoming race as they began to see their visions come to life.

“I’m most excited about driving a car and meeting new people and winning the prize,” said Trevion. “I love riding my bike. I think it’ll be even cooler to be in the soapbox like that,” said Virginia.

Once the process moved from design to assembly and the actual cars began to take shape, the kids were even more in awe.

“It was crazy,” said Adonis. “I didn’t think it was going to look like we actually wanted it to look. I like it. This is one of the coolest things I’ve ever done.”

Coweta Community Foundation board chair Cynthia Bennett noted that probably the most remarkable thing she heard on the day the finished cars were revealed was when one young man looked at the engineers and said, “This has been the best hour of my life.”

While the cars were built by and for children, many of the adults were impressed enough that they would not have hesitated to get behind the wheel if given an opportunity.

“If I had the chance to race any of these cars, I would,” said Amelia Davis. “But I was so excited to stand on the sidelines and watch these kids live out their dream.”

But just standing back and watching has been its own reward, as CCF executive director Kristen Webb acknowledged.

“Seeing the smiles on these kids’ faces, and the smiles on the adults’ faces, has been a true highlight,” Webb said.

A Yamaha Special Delivery Provides Inclusion and Accessibility for Students at Bass Middle School

WELDERS NEEDED

STARTING AT $22+/HR PERM

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

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

Yamaha delivers a custom golf car to Blake Bass Middle. Pictured are Yamaha President Taka Imanishi, Yamaha VP Bob Brown, Principal Cindy Bennett, Yamaha VP Wayne Pierce, and Teacher Connor Cody along with Blake Bass students.