The Weekly January 25, 2023

Staying Healthy, Finding Meds During Country’s Tripledemic

During the perfect storm of illness this winter, staying healthy is going to require some additional effort.

The circulation of three different respiratory viruses – influenza, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – has become known as a “tripledemic.” Millions of people nationwide have become ill, hospitals are overwhelmed and there’s a shortage of children’s cold and flu medications and antibiotics.

Mindy Leech, owner and pharmacist at Lee-King Pharmacy in Newnan, offers some tips on how to stay healthy this winter and navigate the medication shortage.

Q: How can adults and children protect themselves from illness during the tripledemic of RSV, flu and COVID-19? Are certain populations at particular risk?

A: The best way to protect yourself is to vaccinate yourself against flu and COVID, practice good hand washing, and stay home if you feel sick. Even though wearing a mask isn’t fun, it also proved useful in preventing transmission of these illnesses. Older adults, young babies and people with suppressed immune systems are at the biggest risk for severe illness from these respiratory illnesses.

Q: Can adults and children still get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines to help protect them this winter (or is it too late)?

A: It is not too late to stay up-to-date with flu and COVID vaccines. You can receive them both at the same time.

Q: What is your advice for someone who becomes ill? Should they immediately

take a COVID-19 test? Are over-the-counter flu tests available or does a person need to seek medical attention for flu testing? How does someone know when to seek medical help versus taking over-thecounter medication?

A: If you have symptoms, it is a good idea to first take an over-the-counter COVID test. They are now widely available and inexpensive. Flu tests have to be performed at an urgent care or doctor’s office. Many doctors will not see you, however, until you get a negative COVID test – which we can perform at our pharmacy. If you are a high-risk person or are

feeling very sick with either illness, it’s a good idea to let your doctor know because they may want to prescribe you an antiviral for flu or COVID. Other than that, it is best to treat your symptoms with over-the-counter medications and vitamins. If at any time you have severe shortness of breath or your oxygen saturation is dropping, you should go to the emergency room.

Q: Do certain medications that help with COVID-19 and flu, such as Tamiflu or Paxlovid, need to be taken in a certain number of days of experiencing symptoms?

A: Yes, both should be started in the first 48 hours of symptoms for best results.

Q: Why is there a shortage of cold and flu medications and antibiotics? Do you think this shortage will end soon? What should people do if they can’t find the meds that they need?

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County Seek Support at 16th Annual Oscar Gala

https://e.givesmart.com/events/uiE/

Proceeds from the Annual Oscar Gala benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County and are critical in fulfilling our mission to ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens by creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments. In fulfilling our mission, we hope to realize our vision of thousands of young leaders thriving in life and strengthening the futures of their communities and the world.

Scott Berta, Board Chair of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County, said, “the Annual Oscar Gala is our most important fundraiser and has the most impact on the success and development of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County.” Berta went on to say that “Over the past 15 years of Oscar Galas, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County have had the benefit of dedicated Board members to put on the Annual Oscar Gala, as well as great partners and friends who make such a strong show of support in annual sponsorships and attendance. We look forward to another fun and successful Oscar Gala for 2023 and sincerely appreciate the support of our community.”

A: There have been ongoing shortages of different medications since COVID started, which is frustrating to patients, doctors and pharmacists. Talk to your pharmacist if you can’t find a medication you need. We can often contact your doctor and find an alternative antibiotic. As for cold and flu medications, you may not be able to find the exact medication you are used to getting, but there are enough varieties out there so we can still cover your symptoms. It just takes patience and a little flexibility.

Q: If parents can’t find children’s cold and flu medication on the shelves, is it safe for parents to give smaller doses of adult medications to children?

A: No, make sure you speak with a pharmacist or doctor before giving children any adult medications.

Lee-King Pharmacy is at 18 Cavender St. in Newnan. For more information, visit www.leekingpharmacy.com.

20 Bullsboro Dr., Newnan 770-252-6821

3154 Hwy. 34 East, Newnan 770-502-0122

Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. www.chylacas.com

Notes from Perry Street

As we start a new year, we want to thank our advertisers and readers for their support. Our goal is, and always will be, to help you grow, market and promote what you do. And maybe find a great new local joint or band along the way.

We are excited about the future of print media and our company’s growth. Despite all the naysayers, niche publications, like what we publish, continue to grow. As an example, we started The Paper five years ago with a circulation of 1,500. It is now 10,000.

Looking back over the past year, whether professionally or personally, is never a bad idea. However, a word of caution: a quick glance is best. Staying focused on the past and thinking of all the should ofs, could ofs or would ofs … can leave you bitter. And a life lived in regret is a life half-lived. It’s like looking out the rear view mirror and never looking for what’s in front of you. At some point, you are bound to have a wreck.

Winters Media & Publishing started back when we bought The Coweta Shopper from Joe Williams on Thanksgiving Eve 2016.

We eventually shortened that to “The Shopper” and at the beginning of 2022, we changed the publication’s name to The Weekly. We also changed how it looked - primarily by quarter folding it twice. It opened up some new advertising spots, but confused some readers because it was not the easiest design to figure out which way to open.

So, we have decided to go back to the old tabloid style like it was before. We think it will work out better for readers and advertisers alike.

We started The Paper from scratch. It was Winters’ vision and dream to create what we now call “the ultimate what to do, see and eat” publication. Or as Winters likes to joke, the “Give Me Something To Do” paper. Our columnists cover our favorite joints, the local music scene, what is trending in our area, recipes, chefs, book clubs and others’ perspective on living life.

It is now direct-mailed to more than 4,000 homes and we distribute an additional 6,000 at more than 125 locations throughout Coweta County and the surrounding areas. We have a strong social presence with Winters Media as well, including our website (wintersmedia.net), Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (all @wintersmediapublishing) as well. All these are just other cogs in our media wheel to reach readers and expand our clients’ reach.

The Paper goes out the first week of the month. We now have The Weekly direct mailed in weeks two, three and four. In each of those three weeks, The Weekly goes to a different zip code area.

A year ago this month, we started The Taku Group. If you are wondering, “Taku” is a glacier that runs down from the mountains to Juneau, Alaska. It is also the name of a company that specialized in Alaskan seafood and whose owners are friends of ours. And, it’s also why Winters’ dog, is called, well, Taku.

“Taku” owns two high-end glossy magazines. One is called Stroll Lake Redwine and goes out each month to the approximately 625 residences in the Lake Redwine subdivision.

The other is BeLocal Coweta/PTC. This publication targets the roughly 500 families moving into the area each month. It too is direct-mailed and covers all of Coweta County and into Peachtree City and west Fayette County.

So now we have four publications, and multiple social media platforms, each targeting a very different demographic. In other words, we have something that will fit your needs. And we are looking at some additional opportunities as we enter the new year.

As we enter this new year, we pray for blessing and peace in your lives. We are committed to continue to help you grow and strengthen your businesses.

On behalf of our family and our incredible team, we want to wish you a prosperous new year where you truly find your life and work purpose.

The Weekly Staff

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

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

Joey Howard, Digital Editor/Business Development 404.698.0734 • joey@wintersmedia.net

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

Seth Winters, Ad Design sethswinters@gmail.com

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

Real Es tate Weekly Tips for Buyers In The New Real Estate Market

You may have noticed that mortgage rates are on the rise. We have seen rates increase from three percent to four percent earlier this year, up to nearly eight percent now. Rising inflation is mostly responsible for this. The Federal Reserve, which is responsible for setting the interest rates that directly affect the mortgage rates, has been very clear on their stance with the housing market.

Jerome Powell, who is The Federal Reserve Chair, has said the Federal Reserve is trying to “reset” the housing market after prices skyrocketed up to all-time highs in 2022. United States Home prices increased nearly 40 percent in only two years.

We are now in a totally different housing market. The market has softened and the market is more buyer friendly. The only problem is that mortgage rates are the highest they have been in nearly fifteen years. What can buyers do to combat this high cost of borrowing?

You can “buy down” your interest rate as a borrower. A buydown is a way for a borrower to obtain a lower interest rate by paying discount points at closing. A lower interest rate will make your monthly payment lower. A general rule of thumb on buydowns is that it costs about 1% of your loan amount. So, if you are borrowing $200,000, buying one point down will cost you about $2,000. If you have extra cash on hand, this can be a good idea. If you are light on cash, you probably want to stick to the interest rate your lender gives you.

Another big change in the real estate market has been seller and builder paid closing costs. After sellers did not pay any closing costs for buyers during the big boom of the real estate market, we are seeing sellers pay thousands in buyer closing costs.

I had a closing last month where a builder and lender provided $17,000 in closing costs for my buyers. That amount covered nearly all the lender closing costs for the buyers. That was a significant reason my buyers chose this home and neighborhood. This is a great way for a buyer to save money up front in this market. If you are looking for a home, make sure you or your Realtor try to negotiate closing costs to save you money upfront in a home purchase.

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

The with Angela

Weekly Kitchen

The Mystery Woman’s Minestrone

I ended 2022 with four boxes of old handwritten recipes I had acquired at antique stores, and I much prefer browsing them than reading recipes on the internet. But as with my own files, the women who collected these recipes included far more sweets than main dishes and entrees. Still, I just knew there had to be a recipe for what I wanted to make—a soup—hiding in there somewhere between all the cake, cookie, and pie recipes.

“Minestrone,” said one of them. That’s the whole title. Not even a few descriptive words like “Mabel’s Magic Minestrone,” so I was left to imagine which mystery woman once concocted this particular soup.

So what’s the history of minestrone? I wondered. When I typed the word on my computer, I realized I’d accidentally spelled it “ministrone,” sort of a mash-up between “ministry” and “minestrone.” It turns out that my slip-up wasn’t too far off the mark, etymologically speaking.

As a word lover, I can totally geek out on word meanings. When I looked up “minestrone,” I was intrigued to discover that it may be a derivative of the Italian term meaning “that which is served,” which comes from the word “ministrare,” meaning “to serve.” I suppose that’s why the ministers I’ve admired most in life have all had a servant’s heart.

But what is minestrone? It’s basically a heartier version of vegetable soup, often made with beans and pasta or rice. This recipe, I noted, called for lots of vegetables, and I liked the fact that once I finished preparing it, I had plenty of cabbage, celery, and carrots left. We love veggies at my house and will enjoy eating those foods.

Soup is one of my favorite dishes to make in the wintertime, mostly because I enjoy having the leftovers, and this vegetable-packed soup made for an excellent, filling meal. The mystery woman didn’t say to garnish with Parmesan, but there aren’t many foods that can’t be improved by a little cheese. Now I don’t know whether Newnan will see any more of those Arctic temperatures that surprised us the week of Christmas, but if we do, here’s a great minestrone recipe that you’ll be happy to have.

Recipe

Minestrone

o 1 pound stew beef, cut into small pieces o 2 quarts water o 2 cans (10-1/2 ounces) beef bouillon (or broth) o 1 tablespoon salt o 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce o 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained o 1 (16-ounce) can tomatoes o 1 (10-ounce) package frozen green beans o 1 medium onion, chopped o 1 cup diced carrots o 1/2 cup diced celery o 1/2 teaspoon oregano o 1/4 teaspoon pepper o 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder o 1 small zucchini, diced o 1/4 head of cabbage, chopped o 1/2 cup uncooked macaroni o Optional: Parmesan cheese for garnish

Combine beef, water, bouillon, salt, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer on low heat for 2-1/2 hours. Add kidney beans, tomatoes, green beans, onion, carrots, celery, oregano, pepper, and garlic powder and simmer for 25 minutes more. Add zucchini, cabbage, and macaroni and cook on medium-high heat for 15 minutes. Yields 10-12 servings.

www.abbysangelsfoundation.org

3sisters@abbysangelsfoundaiton.org

Angela McRae is a freelance writer and editor from Newnan, and you can find out more about her work at angelamcrae.com. Email questions and comments to her at angelamcrae@charter.net

with Jess Barron

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

or from the school’s guidance office or by emailing

Mark

January 26, THURSDAY

n Coweta Public Library info/registration cowetapubliclibrary.org

• Kid Krafts @ Powell Branch 11 a.m.

• Toddler Dance Party @ Central Library 11 a.m.

• TEENS: Weekend is Booked @ Powell 3:30 p.m.

• Let’s Learn Spanish @ Central 4:15 p.m.

n Newnan Kiwanis Club

Citizen of the Year Banquet 6 to 10 p.m. at the Newnan Centre, 1515 Lower Fayetteville Rd., January 27-28, FRIDAY & SATURDAY

n 7th Annual Newnan Burns Weekend Tickets on sale eventbrite.com or at the museum. Visit Newnan Coweta Historical Society’s Facebook page for more information.

January 27, FRIDAY

n Coweta Public Library info/registration cowetapubliclibrary.org

• Intro to American Sign Language Class @ Central Library 4 p.m. Visit website for info

January 28, SATURDAY

n N.I.T.W.I.T.’s New Year’s Resolutions: Dropping the Ball Bring us your most challenging New Year’s resolutions and let us play them out for you, showing you each pitfall, each alternate path, and each possible success in the most personal improv show of the year! 24 1st Ave., newnantheatre.org

n Coweta Public Library info/registration cowetapubliclibrary.org

• Cross-Stitch & READ @ Central 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• 3-D Print Club @ Powell Branch 10:30 a.m.

January 29 & 30, SUNDAY & MONDAY

n Auditions: Spamalot Newnan Theatre Co. Auditions for Monty Python’s Spamalot with book and lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez. Auditions will be Sunday and Monday, January 29 and 30, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Newnan Theatre Company, 24 First Avenue, Newnan. www.newnantheatre.org

January 30, MONDAY

n Coweta Public Library info/registration cowetapubliclibrary.org

• Baby Time @ Powell Branch 10 a.m.

• Babies & Books @ Central Library 10:30 a.m.

• Lap Time @ Powell Branch 10:30 a.m.

January 31, TUESDAY

n Coweta Public Library info/registration cowetapubliclibrary.org

• Book Bugs Story Time @ Central 10:30 a.m.

• Lap Time @ Powell Branch 10:30 a.m.

• Toddler Story Time @ Grantville 10:30 a.m.

• Story Time @ Powell Branch 11 a.m.

• Sketchbook Art Club @ Central 4:30 p.m.

n Blood Drive at Tyrone Public Library

January 31st at 11 a.m. - Red Cross Blood Drive @ The Library (Ends at 4 p.m.)

n The Other Night School: Life after Coal at UWG-Newnan. Life after Coal with Dr. Hannes Gerhardt, UWG Professor of Geography 6 p.m. reception, 6:30 p.m. talk. Join Dr. Gerhardt on a journey into possible worlds to come, where energy is abundant, affordable, and carbonneutral. Free and open to public. Please register for door prizes. Tickets via Eventbrite.com. 80 Jackson St., Newnan.

RAMPS for Wheelchairs, Scooters & Walkers. 600 lbs. Capacity. 2ft, 3ft, & 4ft

Senoia Area Blood Drive on February 6th

An urgent blood drive is scheduled for Monday, February 6th at the Senoia United Methodist Church from 1 to 5 p.m. This blood drive is co-sponsored by the local church and the Optimist Club of Senoia. If you are unable to give, you are encouraged to notify others who may be able to donate. One blood donation can help save up to three lives.

At our previous blood drive in November, we reintroduced our “famous” grilled cheese sandwiches that were previously eliminated due to concerns regarding COVID-19. We are planning to serve the delicious sandwiches again at the upcoming blood drive in February.

The American Red Cross has made some changes that should bring in more donors. The organization announced an eligibility change that results in allowing some people to give blood who previously could not do so. In alignment with new FDA guidelines, the American Red Cross has updated its donor eligibility for variant

LEE-GOODRUM PHARMACY

Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (vCJD) related to mad cow disease.

• The Red Cross has eliminated the deferral of donors who spent time in the UK, Ireland or France from 1980 to 2001, who were previously considered to have geographic risk of possible exposure to vCJD.

• The Red Cross has also eliminated the deferral for individuals who received a blood transfusion from certain European countries from 1980 to present.

Those who have questions about their donor record can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1.866.236.3276.

You are encouraged to make an appointment for the upcoming blood drive either by signing up online (http://www.redcrossblood. org/give) or by calling 1.800.RED CROSS (1.800.733.2767).

NOTE: If the appointment schedule is full, walk-ins may not be able to donate.

Kathy Bohannon’s Front Porch Stories

Eat that elephant

Mama always said, “Eat that elephant one bite at a time.”

The first time I heard her say this, I was probably six years old and all I could imagine was my mom sitting on the Serengeti somewhere, gnawing on an elephant. It just didn’t make sense; mom loved all animals and besides, she never traveled outside of her trek from our house in Georgia to grandma’s house in North Carolina.

I’d hear mom share her elephant analogy time and time again as I grew older. At some point I realized she meant that I should just take things one step at a time. Don’t get overwhelmed, don’t despair over the task. Just take it piece by piece.

Though mom left this world in 2008, I still hear her advice at times I need it most.

We moved recently and I planned it well; or so I thought. I had a foolproof plan of packing, but that fell apart in the first week. Moving day was an absolute nightmare. What should have taken four hours turned into an exhausting eight.

After the move, Ninja Man and I sat in our new home with boxes all around us as we took time to recover from the past several weeks. It took longer than I expected, but we are in our sixties and apparently, we have to chew a bit longer on our elephants than we used to.

We have now been in our new home about two and a half months. We have unpacked a lot, but there are still boxes in the garage. Boxes that can “wait”. Boxes that are holding the stuff we keep looking for, but there’s that elephant thing, so those boxes just have to sit a while longer.

One thing I discovered in my empty nest years is that I cannot cope with what I call “visual chaos”. Clutter, even if it is intentional like decorative items filling a shelf, makes me anxious. I am far from being a “neat freak” or a minimalist, but there’s a limit on how much stuff I can look at day to day.

I’ve had literally two full days since our move that I was either not in pain, not sick or not on deadline with my work that I was able to dedicate to getting my house “together”. It’s been a hot flaming mess. But mom’s elephant has given me a bit of patience with myself, and I’ve been slowly picking through the priorities.

The desk I’m working from right now overlooks my back yard. I have a battery-operated snow globe with a winter scene that is in calm, yet constant motion just to the right of my laptop. I absolutely love it.

The Senoia United Methodist Church is in the historic district of Senoia and is located at 229 Bridge Street. It is at the intersection of Seavy and Bridge Streets. For those not familiar with the area, you can turn east at the downtown intersection of Main Street and Seavy Street, and go past Matt’s Smalltown Pizza and the Veranda Bed & Breakfast towards the Seavy Street City Park or State Highway 85. The church is on the right - only about 2 blocks east of Main Street.

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

These blood drives are held on the first Monday of every three months. The next one is planned for May 1, 2023. Please mark your calendar. n

Until yesterday, this desk was piled high with all the elements of a cluttered life; receipts, mail, notes, piles of things to shred or burn. I could hardly see my little snow globe. At some point yesterday when I felt well, was not on deadline and not overwhelmed with the clutter, I began organizing and making this a better space.

I was able to take that motivation from the desk to all other places in the main area of the house. As a result, this morning I awoke to a neatly organized space and it gave me so much peace.

One day I’ll see mom again, and I hope she will be proud that I took her advice and could finally eat that elephant one bite at a time. Thanks, mom.

Kathy Bohannon is a freelance writer and Christian speaker.

She can be reached at kathybohan@yahoo.com n

Brenda Wood has been a long-term donor at the blood drives held at the Senoia United Methodist Church. You, too, can make a difference in the lives of others by donating at the February 6th drive at the local church.

The Senoia United Methodist Church

Mark

Hank and My Honky Tonk Heroes • Feb. 2 thenixoncentre.net

NJSL’s Casino Night Fundraiser • Feb. 3 becasino.givesmart.com

Run for Angels & Chicken Q • Feb. 4 theangelshouse.org

NTC’s Farndale Ladies • Feb. 9-12, 16-19 They Came From Mars and Landed Outside the Farndale Avenue Church Hall In Time For the Townswomen’s Guild’s Coffee Morning newnantheatre.org

ELEVATE Coweta Students • Feb. 12 Have you made plans for Valentine’s Day yet? How about a romantic dinner for two at home? No reservations, no crowded restaurants, no fuss! https://bemine2023.givesmart.com

BYA Meeting • Feb. 14 ugaextension.org/coweta

Free Movie Night & Popcorn • Feb. 17 Black Panther: Wakanda Forever at the Wadsworth Auditorium, 7:30 p.m.

NTC’s Drop Dead Elegant • Feb. 24 & 25 Interactive Murder Mystery & Dinner newnantheatre.org

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

16h Annual Oscar Gala • Feb. 25 https://e.givesmart.com/events/uiE/

Look in future issues for more information on these events and others.

by

January is National Get Organized Month.

Getting organized for a single person or a couple in their 70s is different from how a younger person or someone with a family at home gets organized. Not only should you be looking at organization, but you should look at how to organize with safety in mind. Now that all the decorations are up, take a few minutes to get organized for a safer new year.

The first tip to getting organized while creating a safer home is to be sure to clear all clutter from steps and walking paths and insure both are well lit. One of my favorite finds is an outlet cover with a night light. They are easy to install, inexpensive and will light the way of any hall or walkway at night.

Place a hanging storage basket on the wall near the top and the bottom of the stairs.  You can place items here to remember to take them up or down the stairs. Placing a shelf with hooks next to your exit door is also a great spot to leave your keys, dog leash and sunglasses.

Next, look at what you are having to bend down to pick up or reach high to bring down. Items used often should be no lower than the upper thigh and no higher than you can reach without standing on your toes. Too much bending can hurt your back and if you have balance issues, bending down or stretching to reach up high, may create a fall risk.

Things like laundry baskets can be placed on a stool or floor shelf. Items in lower cabinets that are used often, should be moved up to the counter. Items you have to reach up for should also be moved to counter-level. Your most commonly-used items should all be easily retrievable without bending or stretching.

Work on getting all your essential documents in one place.  Items such as passports, life insurance, will, power of attorney, social security cards, and account statements, etc., are best kept in a small fireproof safe. Just be sure family knows where the

with BETH DOW, Geriatric Care Manager

safe and the key are kept.

Another good idea is to keep a recent medication list on your phone and posted on your refrigerator.  (You can use a sheet protector to help keep your refrigerator list from getting dirty.)  Your list should include the name of the drug, the dose, how often used and the name and phone number of the doctor who prescribed it. Emergency personnel can easily retrieve the list from your refrigerator and when going to the doctor, having the list on your phone is convenient.

How many times have you had to open a storage box or bin to see what was inside? This is a great time to go through and label each bin and box.  And while you are looking inside to see what it is, decide if you really need it. If it has been boxed up for years and all you ever do is open it to see what it is, you probably need to get rid of it. And if you are thinking, “One day my children will want this”, I can pretty much guarantee you … they won’t.

January often brings harsh weather days. Use those days to get better organized and make a safer environment. For more tips on how to organize there are many organizational websites to help.

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.

Ask your County Agent

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

A. There is certainly going to be some damage to our landscape plants, small fruits and fruit trees. Temperatures during our last freeze got down to the single digits in some areas, which is extremely difficult on our Coweta County plants. The full extent of the damage will not be clear until later in the winter or even early spring, so right now this is a “wait and see” situation.

Time and patience are your best treatment option.

Pansies and violas planted in beds have a good chance of recovering, but other seasonal color plants, including perennials like heuchera and dusty miller, may not prove as hardy. Plants in containers and raised beds may not recover either, as the roots were more exposed to freezing than those of plants in the ground.

Turfgrasses are also likely to recover. Look for green tissue for evidence of recovery, and do not apply fertilizer until plants begin active growth later in the spring and after all danger of frost has passed. If you remember, we had an extremely harsh freeze in late April last year. Keep an eye on the forecast and consider waiting until early May to fertilize turfgrasses.

Perennial shrubs and trees were also affected, especially on young twigs at the edges of the canopy. I have seen significant freeze damage to distyliums, but they are tough plants and should bounce back with more normal temperatures. Wait to prune out dead or damaged plant tissue until closer to spring. Freeze damaged twigs can actually provide some protection to the rest of the plant if there is another freeze this winter or spring.

For our small fruit growers, this freeze was a double-edged sword. Perennial fruits need cold temperatures, called chill hours, to prepare them to break dormancy for fruiting. The number of chill hours varies by type of fruit and cultivar within those species.

Additionally, freezing temperatures helps control some pests like fungi and nematodes. While cold temperatures are not all bad, too much of a good thing…well you know how it goes.

So while you are pruning out freeze damage later this spring on your landscape plants, say a prayer for our farmers. Strawberry growers are likely to see significant freeze damage to their crops this year if they were not able to apply row covers before the freeze hit. Blueberry and peach growers may also have some damaged crops.

Let’s hope we don’t see single digits like that for another several years.

For more information about protecting plants from cold injury, contact the Coweta County Extension office at 770.254.2620 or coweta.extension@uga.edu.

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences is an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization. Special thanks to Georgia DNR for contributions to this article.

Photo Credit: UGA Center for Urban Agriculture

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

255 Pine Road, Newnan ugaextension.org/coweta

Q. What kind of plant damage can I expect from the freezing temperatures that we had a few weeks ago?

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County welcome New Coweta Leadership for 2023

New Coweta club staff was welcomed in 2022, including Andrea Maxwell, the new Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Coweta County. Andrea attended Clark Atlanta University and received her MSW while coaching track and field for the Panthers. Upon graduation, she worked with youth with severe behavior disorders before joining the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. With BGCMA, Andrea served as a Program Director with the Lawrenceville Club, then promoted to Manager of Training and Staff Development. She went on to a National Training Associate position with the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, facilitating training for Boys and Girls Clubs staff across the USA.

Keshuna Rhodes is the new Program Director at the Wesley Street Boys & Girls Club. Keshuna is a Newnan native who holds a bachelors degree in Business Administration with a minor in Public Administration. She has been part of the Boys & Girls Club movement for the past eight years, participating in groups such as College Bound, Keystone, and Oratorical, and has twice been awarded Youth of the Year for Coweta County. In high school, Keshuna served on the junior staff and as a membership clerk of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Coweta County. While in college, she became a Healthy Lifestyles Director and Unit Director for the Boys and Girls Club of Chattahoochee Valley.

Kyle Hunt is the new Program Director at the Howard Warner Boys & Girls Club. Kyle has a Bachelor of Science in human services and has been committed to the Boys & Girls Clubs movement for over five years. He has a passion for youth development and extensive experience in youth development. His previous position with the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County was the Director of SEL Mental health. Kyle has worked in case management, mental health, grant reporting, and fundraising initiatives to create effective programs and partnerships for the communities being served and our youth.

According to Keisha Lacy, MPA, Sr. Director, Regional Development for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta, “We have a great leadership team in Coweta County. We are fortunate to have Andrea Maxwell as our new Executive Director. She has great hands-on experience with youth development as well as leading training programs on a national level.” Lacy also said, “Keshuna Rhodes grew up locally in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County and provided a great inspiration and example for our local kids and teens” And then Lacy added, “Kyle brings great experience and passion to our Coweta County clubs. We think his success with community programs and partnerships will be a strong asset.”

Our priorities in fulfilling this mission are:

• Serve More Kids, More Often

• Achieve Greater Impact with Kids

• Realize a Strong Financial Position

• Build Diverse & Effective Leaders

• Promote a Culture of Equity & Inclusion

Much More Than a Place to Work

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.

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 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.

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.

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

in life and strengthening the futures of their communities and the world. n

In fulfilling our mission, we hope to realize our vision of thousands of young leaders

Andrea Maxwell, the new Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Coweta County

Keshuna Rhodes is the new Program Director at the Wesley Street Boys & Girls Club

Kyle Hunt is the new Program Director at the Howard Warner Boys & Girls Club.

Coweta County Advisory Board – Mission Driven: The mission of the Boys & Girls Club of Coweta County is to ignite the unlimited potential of kids and teens by creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments.

thriving

MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL

SEC – Georgia Bulldogs (13-6, 3-3)

Jan. 17 – at Kentucky ... L, 71-85

Jan. 21 – Vanderbilt ... L, 82-85

Wed., Jan. 25 – at Tennessee, 7 pm – SEC Network Sat., Jan. 28 – South Carolina, 6 pm – SEC Network

ACC – Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (8-11, 1-8)

Jan. 17 – North Carolina State ... L, 66-78

Jan. 21 – Syracuse ... L, 63-80

Tues., Jan. 24 – at Clemson, 9 pm – ACC Network Sat., Jan. 28 – Duke, 3 pm – ACC Network

PRO SPORTS

NBA – Atlanta Hawks (24-23)

Jan. 16 – Miami Heat ... W, 121-113

Jan. 18 – at Dallas Mavericks ... W, 130-122

Jan. 20 – New York Knicks ... W, 139-124

Jan. 21 – Charlotte Hornets ... L, 118-122

Mon., Jan. 23 – at Chicago Bulls, 8 pm – BSSE/NBATV

Wed., Jan. 25 – at Oklahoma City Thunder, 8 pm – BSSE

Sat., Jan. 28 – Los Angeles Clippers, 7:30 pm – BSSE

Jan. 30 – at Portland Trailblazers, 10 pm – BSSE/NBATV

Feb. 1 – at Phoenix Suns, 10 pm – BSSE/ESPN

MLS – Atlanta United (0-0)

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

Feb. 15 – Toluca FC, TBD (American Family Ins. Cup)

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

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

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

MLB – Atlanta Braves (0-0 Spring Training)

Feb. 25* – Boston Red Sox (Cool Today Park) ,1:05 pm

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

Feb. 27* – Toronto Blue Jays (Cool Today Park), 1:05 pm

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

March 1* – Tampa Bay Rays (Cool Today Park), 1:05 pm

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

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

March 4* – #Minnesota Twins (Cool Today Park), 1:05 pm

March 4* – #at Baltimore Orioles (Sarasota), 1:05 pm

* denotes Spring Training Game

# denotes Split Squad

HUNTING SEASON DATES – COWETA

Aug. 15 – Feb. 28 ... Squirrel, Opossum, Raccoon

Aug. 15 – March 15 ... Falconry (Squirrel)

Oct. 1 – March 15 ... Falconry (Rabbit, Quail, Grouse)

Oct. 15 – Feb. 28 ... Grouse

Nov. 5 – Feb. 28 ... Crows

Nov. 12 – Feb. 28 ... Quail / Rabbit

Nov. 15 – Feb. 28 ... Snipe

Dec. 1 – Feb. 28 ... Fox, Bobcat

Dec. 10 – Jan. 29 ... Canada Goose, Coots, Ducks, Falconry, Gallinules, Mergansers, Sea Ducks, Snow & White Fronted Geese

Dec. 19 – Jan. 31 ... Mourning Dove

Hunting & Fishing License Info: Call 1-800-366-2661

Visit https://georgiawildlife.com/licenses-permits-passes

LAKE LEVELS

Jackson Lake – Jan. 22 ... 528.34 ft. (Full 528 ft.)

Lake Allatoona – Jan. 22 ... 829.42 ft (Full 840 ft.)

Lake Harding – Jan. 22 ... 520.24 ft. (Full 520 ft.)

Lake Lanier – Jan. 22 ... 1,070.08 ft (Full 1,071 ft.)

Lake Martin, Ala. – Jan. 22 ... 484.04 ft. (Full 491 ft.)

Lake Wedowee, Ala. – Jan. 22 ... 784.86 ft. (Full 793.0 ft.)

West Point Lake – Jan. 22 ... 627.61 ft. (Full 635 ft.)

SUNRISE / SUNSET

Wednesday, Jan. 25 – Rise 7:38 am; Set 6:04 pm

Thursday, Jan. 26 – Rise 7:37 am; Set 6:05 pm

Friday, Jan. 27 – Rise 7:37 am; Set 6:06 pm

Saturday, Jan. 28 – Rise 7:36 am; Set 6:07 pm

Sunday, Jan. 29 – Rise 7:36 am; Set 6:08 pm

Monday, Jan. 30 – Rise 7:35 am; Set 6:09 pm

Tuesday, Jan. 31 – Rise 7:34 am; Set 6:10 pm

Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …

Notes from here, there and the Internet …

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Governor Brian P. Kemp named the Honorable Erica L. Tisinger to the Superior Court of the Coweta Judicial Circuit. She will fill the vacancy created by the appointment of the Honorable Bill Hamrick to the Georgia State-wide Business Court earlier this year. The Coweta Judicial Circuit comprises Coweta, Carroll, Heard, Meriwether, and Troup counties.

The confetti in Times Square has thousands of people’s wishes written on them. In 2015 “wishfetti” became a part of the tradition. People write their wishes for the new year and submit them to the Wish Wall in Times Square (or online) and those wishes are turned into the confetti that falls over the crowd at midnight.

[ [ [

The non-profit Can’t Never Could, which was formed after the death of Rob Estes from brain cancer, has decided to dissolve. The board of directors, along with the Estes’ family, has created the Can’t Never Could Fund through The Piedmont Healthcare Foundation. CNC was created to help individuals and groups facing adversity and personal battles. Remaining funds were dispersed in keeping with the goals of CNC.

The Coweta Community Foundation (CCF) announced recipients of their 2022 Traditional Grants received a record $117,472 distribution of funds and an additional $1,500 of in-kind donations through its Mentorship Program. Awards were given to 31 nonprofit organizations that represent small to medium organizations and some larger organizations serving Coweta residents. The grants range in amounts from $500 to $5,000 each, representing a broad range of services, according to Kristen Webb, executive director. [ [ [

Kiribati, also known as Christmas Island, is located in the Central Pacific, and is one of the first countries to celebrate the New Year. American Samoa is one of the last. [ [ [

Mayor Brady has issued a proclamation declaring Newnan Fire Department Radio #1264 as Firefighter Damien Sorrells’ radio number. Henceforth it will no longer be used by the City of Newnan Fire Department. Sorrells, 44, passed on October 11, 2022. The proclamation from Mayor Brady was presented to Sorrells’ wife, Tiffany Sorrells. [ [ [

Nominees for the Kiwanis Clubs’ Citizen of the Year are: Samantha Brazie, Cynthia Bennett, Chris Doane, Jimmy Ellison, Dean Jackson, Dr. Pamela Johnson, Pastor Terri Lemons, Maureen Schuyler, Kristen Timoteo, Michael E. Winslett. More information to come. [ [ [

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The first New Year’s celebration dates back 4,000 years. Julius Caesar, the emperor of Rome, was the first to declare Jan. 1 a national holiday. He named the month after Janus, the Roman god of doors and gates. Janus had two faces, one looking forward and one looking back. Caesar felt that a month named after this god would be fitting.

[ [ [

From the Newnan Junior Service League: We have been busy this month!! We were proud to present a check to the Coweta Community Food Bank for a record breaking $68,770.22 from Can-A-Thon! That’s over 200,000 cans for @oneroofoutreachnewnanga!! Additionally, Canongate Elementary won the competition for most food/funds collected from county schools and were presented with a $500 prize to go towards a school project or program. We are thankful for a supportive community that generously gives to those in need!

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A dog named Patron helped Ukrainian emergency services find 200 unexploded bombs. President Zelenskyy awarded Patron the Order of Courage.

[ [ [

West Georgia Technical College has received a $40,000 grant from the Gene Haas Foundation to be used for student scholarships and student competition teams. Of the amount donated, up to $2,500 of the grant will be used towards the sponsorship of a competition that highlights the CNC/ Manufacturing program such as Skills USA.

[ [ [

A father who wanted to spend Christmas with his daughter bought tickets for all six flights she worked as a flight attendant so they could be together on the 24th and 25th of December while flying around the country.

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Every year, The Heritage School raises funds for the Newnan Junior Service League’s (NJSL) annual Can-A-Thon. This year, Heritage Hawks raised over $26,000 — a record-breaking amount for the school’s yearly fundraiser. The effort, led by Key Club Sponsor and Heritage faculty Gina Watkiss and the Key Club members, make significant contributions to the Can-A-Thon every year.

[ [ [

A garbage collector in Bogotá, Colombia, has collected over 25,000 books people had thrown out and this year he opened a public library for poor children on the ground floor of his house.

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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

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.

10% OFF ANY TREE SERVICE for senior citizens and veterans from Arbor Tech Tree Service when you mention this ad. Experts in tree removal, trimming/pruning, and stump grinding. Emergency service. Free Estimates. Certified ISA Arborist on staff. Call 678.633.2986

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.

TREE REMOVAL – 24/7 Emergency Service, Tree-Shrub Pruning and Trimming, Commercial and Residential, Licensed/Insured. Want It Your Way, Call Us Right Away. Misael’s Tree Service & Stump Grinding. Call 678.301.0153

NOW HIRING

Georgia Baptist Childrens Homes, WinPak and YAMAHA

are now hiring. Check out their ad in this issue.

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

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

SMALLCAKES IS HIRING – Want to work someplace fun with flexible scheduling? Smallcakes Cupcakery Newnan is hiring for part-time closing cashiers! Shifts are 2-4 days per week, with opening weekend shifts also available. Apply in the store today!! 113 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan 30265. For info, call 770.252.1400.

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

AARP Tax-Aide offers FREE Tax Help

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

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

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

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

Those wishing to take advantage of the free filing are STRONGLY encouraged to stop by the library and pick up an interview sheet to be completed before you come to have your taxes prepared. When you come to have your taxes prepared you should bring a copy of last year’s (2022) income tax return, W-2 forms from all employers, unemployment compensation statements, SSA-1099 form if you

were paid Social Security benefits, all 1099 forms showing interest and/or dividends and documents showing original purchase price of any sold assets/stocks, 1099-misc. showing any miscellaneous income, 1099-R form if you received a pension or annuity, all forms indicating federal income tax paid; dependent care provider information (name, employer ID, Social Security number); all receipts and canceled checks if itemizing deductions; Social Security cards or other official documentation for yourself and all dependents.

Appointments will NOT be used this year.

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

Ed Ball joins Lindsey’s, Inc. Realtors!

Ed Ball was born and raised on the Southern California coast. He moved to the Atlanta area in 1976 finally settling in Newnan with his wife and son. Ed really loves Coweta County and the surrounding areas.

Ed has been a licensed Realtor since 2014 and is very familiar with the real estate market in this area. He takes pride in making transactions fun and exciting while paying attention to details! He is also licensed in Alabama. Ed Ball looks forward to assisting you with your real estate needs. n

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. 770.253.6990 www.LindseysRealtors.com