The Weekly March 20, 2024

From PIEDMONT NEWNAN HOSPITAL Press Release

Joseph Morris, III, M.D. and William Chad Statton, M.D., general surgeons at Piedmont Newnan Hospital (PNH), recently marked significant career milestones by each successfully completing their 1,000th robotic surgery. Specializing in various surgical procedures, Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton both utilize the state-of-the-art da Vinci Xi robot at Piedmont Newnan, and were recently honored by hospital leaders for their achievement.

“Reaching a milestone like this is very special,” said Dr. Statton. “It speaks volumes about the teamwork and collaboration of the wonderful surgical services team at Piedmont Newnan, and it means that we have made a positive impact on thousands of lives in this community.”

Piedmont Newnan introduced the da Vinci Xi Surgical Robotic System in in January 2020, solidifying its position as a pioneer in advanced medical technology. The program grew with the addition of a second da Vinci Xi machine in March 2022. The da Vinci Xi, a cutting-edge robotic tool embraced by surgeons nationwide, empowers them to perform a diverse range of procedures with unparalleled precision. The technology facilitates surgeries through a few very small incisions, promoting quicker healing and recovery

From Coweta County Schools Press Release

Teachers of the Year 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 2024 honorees represent teachers in each of the Coweta County School System’s 33 schools working in Kindergarten through 12th grade, and a range of educational disciplines including English/Language Arts, math, music, science, social sciences, career education, special education, coaching and media.

This year’s TOTY honorees include:

Brittany Hand, K-5th Grade Special Education (Arbor Springs Elementary)

Rebecca Gore, Media Specialist (Arnco-Sargent Elementary)

Heather Dailey, Kindergarten (Atkinson Elementary)

Abby Grace Townsend, 1st Grade (Brooks Elementary)

Whitney Self, 5th Grade (Canongate Elementary)

Mackenzie Sibley, 3rd Grade (Eastside Elementary)

for the patient and minimizing scarring.

Additionally, the robot enhances the surgeon’s visual acuity and provides a clearer image of the surgical site using a high-

Coweta School System 2024 Teachers of the Year

Rebecca Craver, 4th Grade (Elm Street Elementary)

Jennifer Pineda, 5th and 6th English/Language Arts and Social Studies (Empower)

Jessica Anderson, Kindergarten (Glanton Elementary)

Felecia Dunson, Special Education/BRIDGE (Jefferson Parkway Elementary)

Diana Ewing, Music (Moreland Elementary)

Brittany Hajzak, 3rd Grade (Newnan Crossing Elementary)

Courtney Gordon, 3rd Grade (Northside Elementary)

Abby Loftin, 1st Grade (Poplar Road Elementary)

Stephanie Landrum, Media Specialist (Ruth Hill Elementary)

Renee Rich, Media Specialist (Thomas Crossroads Elementary)

Jasmine Jones, 4th Grade (Welch Elementary)

Mandy Prophett, Early Intervention Program (Western Elementary)

Jennifer Dunn, English for Speakers of Other Languages (White Oak Elementary)

Lea Davenport, 1st Grade (Willis Road Elementary)

Ashley Prince, Media Specialist (Arnall Middle)

Stephanie Humphrey, 8th Grade Math (Blake Bass Middle)

Marissa Delaney, 6th Grade Social Studies (East Coweta Middle)

Brian Self, 7th Grade English/Language Arts (Evans Middle)

Story continued on page 3

Pictured are Piedmont Newnan Hospital general surgeons Dr. William Chad Statton (left) and Dr. Joseph Morris, III.

Morning Glory, a Backyard Association Meeting, is Tuesday, March 26 with Director of Agriculture at Historic Oakland Foundation and author of Conquer the Soil Abra Lee She'll discuss Garden Glory - exploring stories of Black Horticulture history - spotlighting Folk Gardens and lady legends who forged a path to economic and social freedom, inspirating plant lovers today. 10 a.m. to noon at UGA Extension Coweta County office. Free to attend, but you must register to be entered for drawing for door prizes. Call 770.254.2620, mail coweta.extension@uga.edu for info. 255 Pine Road, Newnan ugaextension.org/coweta

Coweta Master Gardeners' Plant Sale April 13

We hear the same story often. It starts like this: everything was fine until ... and then it just seemed like one thing after another – the downward spiral began.

As we age, we all know someone that was doing just fine the last time we saw them, but now due to one event and a sequence of following events, their lives have changed drastically. But is there a way to stop a downward spiral? While we can’t prevent many events that happen in our lives, there are steps we can take to prevent a downward spiral.

Preventing the dreaded downward spiral Senior Living Advice

The most common event that begins a downward spiral is a fall. Thirty percent of people over the age of 65 and 50 percent of people over the age of 80 will fall once during the next year. More women than men fall, but only by about 3 percent. Women are most likely to fall due to a shift in body weight, while men fall as a result of loss of support from an external object – such as standing on that ladder their wife told them not to stand on.

While there may not be a way to prevent a fall once the downward motion begins, there are things you can do to prevent the fall in the first place.

The number one step you can take to prevent a future fall is to exercise and build up your core. Your balance is strengthened by a strong core. Especially for women, strengthening your core can help you safely recover from a trip or being off balance.

You also need to wear sensible shoes and really need to ditch the flip flops. Flat shoes with backs are much safer and can prevent falling. Check your medications to ensure they do not cause dizziness, remove hazards around the home such as cords and rugs. And light up dark routes of travel at night, like your route to the bathroom.

The second-most common event is hospitalization. One third of patients over 70 years of age and more than 50 percent of patients over the age of 85 leave the hospital more disabled than when they arrived. And 60-65 percent leave with a poorer nutritional status than when they were healthy.

People are most likely to be readmitted if they have been hospitalized more than 5 days; are discharged on a Friday; are non-compliant; and have inadequate transitional care once they return home.

To prevent a downward spiral after a hospital stay,

you need to realize that getting out of the hospital is not the finish line. It is just the first step in a multi-leg relay. Studies have shown that the No. 1 factor in hospital readmission is what happens once the person comes home. Do they understand their medications? Are they doing what they need to do nutritionally to build up their strength? Are they compliant with follow-up doctor visits and recommended therapies? Are they testing for a UTI which are very common after hospital discharge? And do they have one-on-one care and support, at least for the first week after discharge?

The third cause of the downward spiral is the widowhood effect. One study showed that men were 70 percent more likely to die within a year of their spouse, while 27 percent of women are more likely to die within a year after the death of their spouse.

There are many reasons for this: the physical and mental toll being a caregiver places on a body, the impact of grief (lack of sleep, weight loss, withdrawal); the loss of social support, etc.

After the death of a spouse, it is important to get a complete physical. Be sure that health issues that may have been put on the back burner are front and center. Second, exercise and third, get around people. Social engagement is key to learning to enjoy life without your spouse.

A major event does not have to be the beginning of a downward spiral. Preparing ahead of time and vigilance after can stop the spiral from happening.

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.

Oliver Gentry

Focus on Breathing Techniques to Improve Your Health

Breathing is essential to life, but how we breathe can also affect our health. Breathing techniques, known as breathwork, can help to calm the body and mind, relieve stress and move us out of fight-or-flight mode, according to experts at Cleveland Clinic.

An unhealthy, unbalanced lifestyle will begin to show up in the body as high blood pressure, digestive issues, muscle tension, headaches, anxiety and more, said Ute Anonsen, a massage therapist and breathwork facilitator and the owner of True Balance Center for Breath and Bodywork in Newnan.

Breathing has become an increasingly popular solution for anxiety and depression, relaxation, better sleep and even overcoming past or recent traumas because “breathing is one of our essential forms of energy intake, next to water and food,” Anonsen explained.

“Although ancient civilizations recognized the importance of the breath and proper breathing techniques many millennia ago, only recently have modern scientists examined the benefits of breathing and the effects on our health,” Anonsen said. “Now we learn that the way we breathe is directly linked to the chemical processes in our cells by influencing the blood pH. Some scientists are raising the question if the way we breathe contributes to illnesses like depression, diabetes, low immune response, obesity and more.”

More research is needed to “better understand how breathing can tip the scale from illness to wellness and vice versa, but most

of us can experience a significant improvement just by applying a few simple daily breathing exercises,” Anonsen said.

Many of the benefits of regular breathing exercises are felt on an emotional and mental level, and deep breathing techniques can lessen anxiety and reduce the volatility of anger, she added.

Fight or Flight

It’s important to understand the relationship between breathing and the nervous system. A very primal response of our body to stressful situations is to hold our breath or to breathe in a very shallow and fast manner. Our heart rate increases, energy resources are delivered to our peripheral muscle groups and simultaneously, the digestive system is put on hold, Anonsen explained.

This is a healthy response of our nervous system called “fight or flight response” and should only last a short period of time, she said.

Running from a predator, like our ancestors

in the past, or dealing with deadlines, traffic, child care or relationship trouble is all the same to our nervous system and the response is the same. Sadly, many people have forgotten how to relax and trigger our parasympathetic nervous system, the other branch of our autonomic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” response. Fortunately, there’s an antidote, Anonsen said.

“Spending time in nature, mindful exercises, meditation and spending time with friends can trigger a completely different response: you’re exhaling instead of holding your breath, your breathing is deep and slow as opposed to fast and shallow, your pupils widen, your heart rate slows down and your digestion is active,” Anonsen said. “No matter what level of stress you are experiencing, how old or young you are, or if your lifestyle is more sedentary or very active, learning how to breathe in a healthy manner is the first step to better health, physically, emotionally and mentally.”

Breathwork Techniques

There’s a variety of breathwork techniques that people can try, according to Cleveland Clinic. Here are a few:

Diaphragmatic breathing: This type of breathing, also known as abdominal breathing or belly breathing, engages the diaphragm, a powerful muscle at the base of your lungs. This technique “has been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, and it’s especially beneficial for people with lung conditions,”

Cleveland Clinic reports.

This is a good technique for people new to breathwork, and it’s an effective way to relax and relieve stress, according to Cleveland Clinic.

Box breathing: This is one of the “simplest and most common forms of yogic deep breathing,” Cleveland Clinic explains. This technique has four steps: “Four counts of breathing in, four counts of holding your breath, four counts of exhaling and four more counts of holding after your exhale. Box breathing can be practiced anytime,” said Cleveland Clinic experts.

4-7-8 breathing: This breathing technique can be done while sitting or lying down. “The numbers refer to how long you inhale (four counts), hold (seven counts) and exhale (eight counts),” according to Cleveland Clinic. It’s been shown to help someone “get a good night’s sleep by calming the mind, reducing anxiety and decreasing heart rate and blood pressure,” Cleveland Clinic experts explain.

About True Balance Center

True Balance Center for Breath and Bodywork at 48 East Washington St. in Newnan offers massage therapy, acupuncture, biomagnetic pair therapy, ionic foot detox, lymphatic drainage, integrative breathwork and breath coaching, energy healing, yoga, movement, and meditation. Learn more at https://www.truebalanceofnewnan.com or by giving them a call at 678-857-3484.

Teacher of the Year Honorees continued from page 1

Kristin Davis, 8th Grade Math (Lee Middle)

Dwight McDaniel, 6th-8th Grade English/Language Arts (Maggie Brown Middle)

Mallory Berry, 7th and 8th Grade Gifted Science (Madras Middle)

Gillian Phillips, 8th Grade English/Language Arts (Smokey Road Middle)

Dave Whittington, Aerospace and Aviation (Central Educational Center)

Jennifer Sandlin, History (East Coweta High)

Marc Gilmore, Special Education/Collab (Newnan High)

Ellen Ratliff, 10th Grade Literature (Northgate High)

Bruce Dukes, Physical Education (Winston Dowdell Academy)

TOTYs are exceptionally dedicated, knowledgeable, and skilled classroom teachers who are selected by their peers in each Coweta County School System school. Finalists for county teacher of the year – who serve as the system’s nominee for Georgia Teacher of the Year – are chosen by previous Teachers of the Year and independent judges based on the quality of their teaching, professional development, teaching philosophy and methods, community involvement, contributions to education, and their ability to inspire students of all backgrounds and abilities to learn.

They will be honored at the Coweta County Teacher of the Year Program on May 1, held at the Nixon Centre for Performing and Visual Arts. The Coweta County Board of Education presents the program annually with the Newnan Pilot Club. The 2024 Coweta County Teacher of the Year – who is also chosen by current and former Coweta educators – will be announced at that program. ◗

Notes from Perry Street

Getting Lost On the Way to Being Renewed

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

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

It is when you’re flat-out “spent.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I love that.

I think it can be so true, often we have a plan. We think we know what we want and we head out on the journey, dreams packed, prepared, and ready. We have great plans. However, along the way you find an even better one. New passions, new purposes, and new opportunities may pop up right in front of us and we must be open and willing to see the new dream God may have for us.

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

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

You are not alone.

The Weekly Staff

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

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Piedmont

Hypertension: Know Your Numbers

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital

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

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

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

Understanding your blood pressure reading

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

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

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

“Those numbers are very important,” he says.

What happens when you have hypertension

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

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

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

Why blood pressure can fluctuate

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

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

High blood pressure risk factors

Risk factors for high blood pressure include:

• Being overweight or obese

• Smoking

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

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

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

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

Potential Health Issues for Black Americans to be mindful of

From Piedmont Newnan Hospital

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Serum creatinine to estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR)

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

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

Loida Elena Bonney, MD Internal Medicine

Kathy Bohannon’s Front Porch Stories

Late August of 1984, we (my husband and three-year old daughter) had a house fire in the middle of the night. We lost everything, including the dog, who was found on our child’s bed. He died trying to wake her up.

The next day found us trying to acquire toiletries and some familiar toys and books for our child. As far as population goes, Moreland was possibly half the size it is now, and we knew pretty much everyone and they knew us. News traveled fast, and many friends showed up the morning after the fire with arm loads of items because they knew our home was a total loss. My friend Sally Estes brought boxes of toys and books for our daughter, and because we all shopped in local stores, most everything was a replica of what she had lost. My husband’s employer showed up with the company checkbook, asking what we needed. We didn’t know. He wrote a check for a few thousand dollars with no agenda for paying it back.

In the days that followed, we realized we both had singed hair from the actual fire. We had tag-teamed the rescue of our child with fire all around us. Eyebrows, hair, even his mustache were all singed. I soon developed a lifelong habit of locating exit doors

PNH

Surgeons

continued from page 1

definition 3D camera. This camera allows the surgeon to zoom in and magnify tiny nerves and blood vessels, offering greater visualization of the patient’s anatomy. The robot also provides greater dexterity and comfort for the surgeon.

“We are so proud of Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton for both achieving this extraordinary milestone,” said Robert Miller, M.D., CMO at Piedmont Newnan. “Their unwavering dedication to our patients and commitment to excellence in healthcare truly sets them apart.”

Piedmont Newnan currently uses the da Vinci Xi for urology, gynecology, general surgery (including bariatric surgery, hernia repairs, gall bladder and appendix removal). Over 4,000 procedures have been done on the da Vinci Xi at Piedmont Newnan, with 3,000 of those being general surgery cases.

“I would like to thank our incredible team at Piedmont Newnan Surgical Specialists and at Piedmont Newnan Hospital,” said Dr. Morris. “We have great leadership who invested in bringing this robotic system to our facility and offering minimally-invasive surgical options close to home for our patients, an extremely supportive community, and an awesome team of talented and dedicated nurses, anesthesia providers, and surgical staff who are the reason I was able to reach this milestone. This wouldn’t have been possible without them.”

Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton both practice with Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists in Newnan and are board-certified General Surgeons by the American Board of Surgery. They perform all types of general surgery procedures. Dr. Morris is fellowship trained in advanced minimally invasive surgery. Both specialize in robotic hernia repairs, laparoscopic gall bladder surgery, anti-reflux surgery, colon surgery, and minimally invasive abdominal surgery.

“With exceptional surgeons on our staff, Piedmont Newnan stands as a beacon of excellence in healthcare,” said Miller. “Dr. Morris and Dr. Statton’s incredible expertise, coupled with the innovative capabilities of the da Vinci Xi, ensures that our patients receive the best possible care right here at home.”

Overall, Piedmont currently has the largest fleet of robots and uses robotic-assisted surgery more than any healthcare system in Georgia, with locations across Georgia and over 175 robotically trained physicians.

For more information on Piedmont Newnan, visit piedmont.org/ newnan. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Statton, call 678423-7860 or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Morris, call 770502-2150. ◗

wherever we go and even today, I still drill my grandlittles on getting out and gathering outside at one designated place should there be a fire.

Back then, there was a jewelry store on the courthouse square called Avery Banta and Lazenby Jewelers. I enjoyed perusing their windows on my trips “to town.” I never bought anything because financially, we just weren’t the jewelry store kind of folks.

About a week or so after the fire, I took my daughter to check out the sidewalk sales on the square in Newnan on Labor Day. It was a picture-perfect day and the weather was just right for such an adventure. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular, just glad to be off task of fire recovery.

The jewelers were having a sidewalk sale and some stoneware dishes caught my eye. I quickly realized I wanted dishes that had been chipped or mismatched cast offs. It would be comforting to have some items in our lives that were not brand new, as our clothing, shoes and even toothbrushes were. I carried the small stack of orphaned dishes to the clerk. “These have chips in them, and they don’t match,” she cautioned. I told her that’s why I wanted them. I explained about the fire and how, for the exception of some toys and books, everything in our lives was brand new. I needed things that had the appearance that they had been lived with, like our old stuff. Most of our household goods had been well used.

I brought the stack of dishes back to my in-law’s house and placed them in a corner of the bedroom. They were the first things we unpacked after building our new home, almost a year later.

Last week I was in a thrift store and saw the exact pattern of those old dishes that I cherished from that Labor Day sidewalk sale. I lingered for a moment, then noticed none of the pieces were chipped. I set them back on the shelf and walked away. It was a bittersweet memory, but that Labor Day back in 1984 was the first step toward rebuilding our lives. Today I’m thankful for that time.

Kathy Bohannon is a freelance writer and Christian humorist. kathybohan@yahoo.com. ◗

Gentle / All-Levels Yoga Class Yoga Tuesdays & Thursdays at 9 a.m. respectively

Chair Yoga Tuesdays at 10:15 a.m.

4 Seasons Awareness Retreat Series ~ A series of 4 Workshops – April 6, June 29, Sept. 28 & Jan. 4 – with one in every season. Each Workshop is 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Included is a specially curated vegetarian lunch and snacks, plus every attendee will also receive a goodie bag, filled with treats experienced during the retreat. To register, visit https://www.truebalanceofnewnan.com/

Song + Sound Journey: My Body is a Living Temple for Breath and Bodywork April 13, 6 p.m.

48 East Washington St., Newnan • 678-857-3484

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

Ask your County Agent

Olivia

AQFamily

. Can I use the water bath method to can my green beans?

. Great question and a very important topic in food processing safety – which foods can be water bathed and which foods need to be pressure canned? The quick answer to the question is, No. You cannot water bath process green beans, and it doesn’t matter how long your recipe calls for, they’re not going to be safe to eat. Let’s look at the reasons why.

Certain foods are perfectly fine using the water bath method of canning. This method is putting food into jars and then the jars into a large pot of water until they are covered by at least one inch over the tops of the jars and the water is brought to a hard boil for a set time. A rack is needed on the bottom of the pot to prevent breakage as the jars are boiled. During this water bath, the food inside the jar is heated to a temperature of 212°F. Then the jars are removed and allowed to cool at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours before the seals are tested. This process creates a vacuum seal that keeps moisture in and contaminants out. This method of canning is acceptable for jams, jellies, and preserves which have a high sugar content. The sugar content helps to preserve the food and inhibits bacterial growth. It is also acceptable for acidified foods such as pickles or salsas which have an added acid (5% vinegar, bottled lemon juice, or citric acid) which can lower the acidity to a level that inhibits bacterial growth. Acid foods, like most fruits, can also be canned in a water bath. The acidity of tomatoes is borderline, and the addition of acid allows them to be safely canned using a water bath canner.

All other low-acid foods need to be pressure canned. This includes vegetables, meats and seafoods. Pressure canning involves a different type of canner which can be sealed up to increase the internal temperature above the boiling point of water. Pressure canners can be dial gauges or weighted gauges. The jars are added to the canner, and it is sealed up. Once the canner is under pressure to a certain level, the timing of the recipe starts. The internal temperature of a pressure canner can reach 240° -250°F (10-15 pounds of pressure at sea level). This is the only way that foods are heated to a high enough temperature to destroy harmful bacteria.

Therefore, given that green beans are a low-acid food, they must be pressure canned. No matter how long they are in a water bath canner, the temperature will never get above 212°F. The exception to water bath canning green beans would be to pickle the beans, therefore making them an acidified food. And then they could be processed in a water bath canner.

Beware of online recipes from sources that are not research-based. The last thing you would want is to get sick from a bad recipe or even simply lose the food because it spoiled, and you had to throw it out. Make sure you are using tested and approved recipes from reputable sources. The National Center for Home Food Preservation is a great resource for all the home preservation methods and recipes. Happy canning and eat safe!!

For more information on canning or home food preservation, visit https://nchfp.uga.edu or contact the Coweta County Extension office at 770-254-2620.

MONDAY: Carrot, Blueberry Lemon

TUESDAY: Key Lime, Thin Mint, GLUTEN FREE

WEDNESDAY: Banana Cream Pie, Fruit Tartlet

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

FRIDAY: Strawberries N Creme, Mallow Charm, GLUTEN FREE

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

Yamaha presents the 2nd annual Coweta Grand Prix on April 20

The thrill of racing will return to downtown Newnan on April 20, 2024, when the second annual Coweta Grand Prix is presented by Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America. With proceeds to benefit the Coweta Community Foundation, this exhilarating event will support local students through the Yamaha Downhill Dreams Academy, where youth will have the opportunity to build and race their own cars.

According to the Foundation, this event is one “where passion meets STEM education, instilling leadership values and fostering teamwork, creating champions on and off the track!” The event is not just for youth, as there is an adult division as well.

Formerly known as the Soap Box Derby, the Coweta Grand Prix is being held in conjunction with the Rock & Road Festival that day, which will include the Rock & Road Criterium, Tour of Coweta, a Rock & Road Car Show, and other fun family-friendly events.

Kristin Webb, CEO of the Coweta Community Foundation, said, “We had so much fun last year as kids throughout the community partnered with Yamaha’s product design engineers to design custom racing cars, and we know this year’s race will be even bigger and better.”

“There’s nothing like the look on a young person’s face when their design heads down the hill in the race,” said Bob Brown, Vice President of Finance and Operations Support at Yamaha. “It’s the same kind of Yamaha joy our people feel when assembling our products and the people who take them out into the wild get. It’s that rush. STEM activities for young people with the Yamaha Downhill Dreams Academy make engineering meet fun.”

For more details on race rules, and to view the video from last year's race, visit cowetagp.com

For more information, please visit cowetafoundation.org ◗

Get a 6 PACK $20 With Coupon. 1 Coupon per visit. Cannot be combined with other offers. Excludes Gluten-Free and Vegan Cakes. Expires 3/31/24 for only The Veggie

Patch

Zen Monkey’s News and Musings …

Notes from here, there and the Internet …

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

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

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

New principals at two Coweta County schools:

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

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

You are one Google search away from changing your life.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alcohol ads never show drunk people.

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

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

ENGINEERS NEEDED

For someone with the right skill set and a passion for fast-moving vehicles, a career at Yamaha can take off like – well, like a WaveRunner. Ben Clark knows this firsthand. He has been a manufacturing engineer for the company’s water vehicle assembly line for more than seven years.

“At Yamaha the sky’s the limit,” he said. “There are so many different departments and a wide spectrum of engineering, so the ability to expand my knowledge as an engineer in different aspects has been just awesome.” Clark loves the chance to work in different areas, with no two days being alike and plenty of opportunities for advancement. He also likes the employee benefits that include discounts on the purchase of fun Yamaha-made vehicles. It’s been such a great experience for his family that his wife also works for the company.

“The people here are amazing. It’s like a second home,” said Clark. “We’ve met a lot of great friends working at Yamaha, networking, and overall it’s been an amazing journey.”

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 for both contract and professional team members. Full-time direct hires, such as welders and engineers enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including insurance, 401k, profit sharing, and more.

Ben Clark

Real Es tate Weekly

The Preparing Your Home for Spring Selling Season

By Jess Barron, Lindsey’s Inc. Realtors

The spring time is the best time to sell your home. More

are

fall than any other time of the year (per GAMLS).

Real estate correlates with both the weather and school

at homes when the weather is nice. Families prefer to move their families once the school year is over. Children are already

FRANK

Broker 770-231-9535 FrankB@LindseysRealtors.com

out of school then and do not have to change schools mid-year. The last day of school for Coweta County in 2024 is May 24th. When considering the average market time to sell, a 30-60 day closing process, it’s best to list in the spring to accomplish a late spring or summer move.

The first day of spring officially begins on March 19th. As a Realtor, we have seen activity pick up the last couple of weeks in preparation for the spring selling season. Home owners have begun to prepare their homes for this busy time and contact real estate agents for assistance in pricing and marketing. The next part of this article will provide some helpful tips from Realtor.com, for selling your home.

Tip No. 1: Get realistic about how much your home is worth

It is natural to think your home is priceless, or hope it is worth at least more than when you bought it. Many sellers make the mistake of placing a pie-in-the-sky price on their home with the hopes that some buyer will bite. But the reality is overpriced homes tend to sit and sit on the market. Potential buyers begin to think that something is “wrong” with a house when it sits on the market and become apprehensive to pursue the property. You want to be able to make a great first impression when the home hits the market. A correct price can often result in multiple offers and a contract price well-above list price.

Tip No. 2: Keep clutter from creeping in Clutter can make a spacious home feel claustrophobic. It is crucial that you toss, donate, gift, or recycle anything you do not love or use. This is also true for those hidden areas like your closets and cabinets. Buyers will poke their heads in these areas. You must also be able to de-personalize your property. Buyers Real Estate column continued on page 11

JESS BARRON, GRI Associate Broker 678-857-9350 JessB@LindseysRealtors.com 14 Jackson Street, Newnan, GA 30263 •

MLS #10259145

ATTENTION HUNTERS, CATTLE OR HORSE FARMERS OR INVESTORS! 261.61+/- Open and wooded acres in Carroll Co., GA. Planted dove fields, food plots and additional open land. Large wooded barn for equipment storage. 3914' paved frontage on Bethesda Church Rd. & additional 284' frontage on Baxter Rd. Great location in area of large estates & cattle farms. Long frontage on Indian Creek. This property is currently in a CUVA for tax purposes. If CUVA is breached by Buyer, then Buyer must assume all penalties and costs for any breach of said CUVA. This property has a restriction that does not allow chicken farms or chicken houses. $1,556,580. Frank/Jess.

MLS #10248309

BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED MID-CENTURY MODERN 4BR/ 3BA HOME IN CHOICE DOWNTOWN NEWNAN LOCATION that is walking distance to Elm St Elementary. Spectacular 2-story foyer w/stone floor, angled wall of glass, gold sputnik light fixture & rectangular centered brass balusters entrenched between round wooden posts. LargeLR w/original hardwood floors & big windows. Fantastic kitchen w/large granite island, custom cabinets, and S.S. appliances. Breakfast area or den off kitchen w/fireplace & porch access. 3BRs & 2BAs on main level, including the primary BR w/gorgeous renovated bath w/walkin tiled shower. Lower level perfect for in-law or teen suite w/ kitchen, living area, BR, BA, laundry room & private entrance. Fenced backyard, circle driveway, 2 patios, double carport with kitchen-level entry. $475,000 Jess.

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

ZONED GENERAL INDUSTRIAL IN LAGRANGE! 6912+/- sq. ft. of office/warehouse space w/3 roll up doors. Front and rear parking. Multiple tenant/businesses possible with approval. Additional 30x40 building w/power, roll up door. RV charging pads. Railroad frontage. Large 1.91+/- acre lot.

ATTENTION BUILDERS! FOUR 5 ACRE LOTS IN NORTH COWETA COUNTY! Choice 20.27+/- acres on corner of Walt Carmichael & Rex Hyde Roads in northwest Coweta County. Ideal for subdivide into 4 lots each over 5 acres. Copy of plan by Neal Spradlin already in file. Will not sell individual lots. Must buy all 20.27+/- acres. $299,900. Frank

/ Highway 54. Many potential uses are possible! Less than one mile from I-85 access! Two miles from downtown Hogansville. $35,000 Jess.

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

with beautiful natural light, opens to back brick patio and large backyard. Covered carport w/utility closet/laundry. Easy access to downtown and newly remodeled NHS. $285,000. Jess.

LOTS/LAND

AMLAJACK 255.5+/- ACRES WITH HALF MILE FRONTAGE ON I-85 between 2 industrial parks. $17,890,600. Frank.

COMMERCIAL FOR LEASE FOR LEASE – 3,200 s/f upstairs office space

to I-85, Ashley Park, & Peachtree City. White Oak Golf Course, Pool, Tennis, Pickleball & Club House are part of the Invited Golf Clubs network (membership required). White Oak Subdivision is zoned for Northgate High School. $795,000. Jess.

MLS

MLS #10258647

MLS #10229283

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The Recipe

Weekly Kitchen with Angela

Dining like the Eisenhowers

Let’s talk politics!

Just kidding. You’re probably thinking, “Let’s not,” but I do have a recipe with a political connection to share with you, and it’s this beef stew that was said to be President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s favorite.

I found this recipe in a 1962 cookbook called Look Who’s Cookin’ at Carson’s! The book was compiled and published by the Women’s Club of the Carson Pirie Scott department store in Illinois, and while it includes lots of dessert recipes, it did include a few heartier recipes, including this one that seemed perfect for what I suspect are the last truly cool days we’ll have for a while.

Now, this recipe was submitted by a Fran Bloch of Peoria, Illinois, but she noted that Mamie Eisenhower herself had sent this recipe “upon request from the Cow Belles of Dunn Center, North Dakota.” What on earth?

Consulting Google, I quickly learned the “Cow Belles” were the female members of the North Dakota Stockman’s Association. And that made sense. Kind of like the Georgia Beef Board, the North Dakota group exists to promote the beef cattle industry. (The Georgia group is welcome to send me any 1960s-era recipes they may have tucked away.)

I did take a few educated guesses with this recipe. It called for an unnamed quantity of “Bouquet Spices” of bay leaves, thyme, and garlic in a cloth bag. Although I’ve used such bags before for steeping tea, I didn’t have one at the moment I made the stew, so I guessed about the amounts of thyme and garlic and plopped in two bay leaves, which worked beautifully—but don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before eating the stew!

Also, I knew from past experience that flour or another starch is sometimes used to thicken soups and stews, and adding a flour-and-water concoction known as a “slurry” keeps the stew from ending up with lumps of flour.

This stew was easy to make, and I’m grateful to Mamie Eisenhower for sharing such a tasty recipe. It was fun to think I was dining like a president, and I liked Ike’s stew!

President Eisenhower’s Favorite Beef Stew

o 2 pounds stew beef, sliced into 3/4-inch chunks

o 1 pound small Irish potatoes (or any white potatoes), chopped into 1-inch chunks

o 1 bunch carrots (about six), sliced

o 3/4 pound small onions, chopped

o 2 fresh or 1 (14.5-ounce) can tomatoes

o 2 bay leaves

o 1 teaspoon dried thyme

o 1 teaspoon chopped garlic

o 2-1/2 pints beef stock

o 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

o Salt and pepper to taste

Using a Dutch oven or other large pot, cook stew beef until tender. (I cooked mine in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for 10 minutes.) Add vegetables, spices, and beef stock and bring to a boil, then let simmer for about 20-30 minutes. Once vegetables are tender, make a slurry by mixing the 4 tablespoons of flour with 4 tablespoons of water and whisking until completely blended. Add to stew and cook for 15 minutes more. Remove bay leaves before serving. Season as desired. Yields 6-8 servings.

with The Producers

SPORTS CALENDAR

PRO SPORTS

NBA – ATLANTA HAWKS (30-37)

March 6 – Cleveland Cavaliers … W, 112-101

March 8 – at Memphis Grizzlies … W, 99-92

March 10 – New Orleans Pelicans … L, 103-116

March 13 – at Portland Trail Blazers ... L, 102-106

March 15 – at Utah Jazz ... L, 122-124

March 17 – at Los Angeles Clippers ... W, 110-93

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

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

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

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

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

MLS – ATLANTA UNITED (2-1)

Feb. 24 – at Columbus Crew … L, 0-1

March 9 – New England Revolution ... W, 4-1

March 17 – Orlando City ... W, 2-0

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

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

MLB – ATLANTA BRAVES (9-12 Spring Tr.)

March 20, Wed. – Toronto Blue Jays, 1:05 pm – Bally

March 21, Thurs. – New York Yankees, 1:05 pm – Bally

March 22, Fri. – at Minnesota Twins, 1:05 pm – Bally

March 23, Sat. – Tampa Bay Rays, 1:05 pm – Bally

March 24, Sun. – at Boston Red Sox, 1:05 pm – No TV

March 25, Mon. – Minnesota Twins, 1:05 pm – Bally

March 26, Tues. – at Minnesota Twins, 1:05 pm – No TV

End of Spring Training

NASCAR CUP SERIES

March 3 – Pennzoil 400 (Kyle Larson)

March 10 – Shriners Children’s 500 (Christopher Bell)

March 17– Food City 500 at Bristol (Denny Hamlin)

March 24, Sun. – EchoPark Grand Prix at Austin, 3:30 pm – FOX

March 31, Sun. – Toyota Owners 400 at Richmond, 7 pm – FOX

PGA TOUR

March 7-10 – Arnold Palmer Invitational (Scotty Scheffler)

March 14-17 – The Players Championship (Scotty Scheffler)

March 21-24 – Valspar Champ. at Palm Harbor – NBC / Golf Ch.

March 28-31 – Houston Open – NBC / Golf Channel

MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL

GEORGIA (17-16, 6-12 SEC)

March 2 – Texas A&M ... L, 56-70

March 5 – Ole Miss ... W, 69-66

March 9 – at Auburn ... L, 78-92

SEC Tournament – Nashville

March 13 – Missouri ... W, 64-59

March 14 – Florida ... L, 80-85

National Invitational Tournament (NIT)

March 19, Tues. – Xavier, 7 pm – ESPN

GEORGIA TECH (14-18, 7-13 ACC)

March 2 – Florida State ... W, 85-76

March 5 – at Wake Forest … W, 70-69

March 9 – at Virginia … L, 57-72

ACC Tournament – Washington, DC

March 12 – Notre Dame ... L, 80-84

AUBURN (27-7, 13-5 SEC)

March 2 – Mississippi State ... W, 78-63

March 5 – at Missouri … W, 101-74

March 9 – Georgia … W, 92-78

SEC Tournament – Nashville

March 15 – South Carolina ... W, 86-55

March 16 – Mississippi State ... W, 73-66

March 17 – Florida ... W, 86-67 (Championship)

NCAA Tournament / East Region 1st Round

March 22, Fri. – Yale (Spokane, WA), 4:30 pm – TBS

March 24, Sun. – San Diego St.-UAB winner, TBD **

** if Auburn wins on Friday.

CLEAN WHEAT STRAW AND MULCH HAY. $3.50 per bale. Frank Barron 770.231.9535.

BUY-SELL-TRADE – We buy Coins, Gold, Silver, Jewelry, Currency and Coin Collections. Free In-Store Appraisals! Township Coins, 3500 Hwy. 34 East, Sharpsburg, 770.254.2727

“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. WE PAY TOP DOLLAR for aluminum, copper, brass. Gentry Recycling 770.253.5770

WE BUY CARS – Pick Your Part buys cars 7 days a week. For info, call 1.800.962.2277 or visit pyp.com

T PLATINUM AUTO SALES LLC Very Nice Vehicles for Sale … $10,000, $5,000 and under. * Financing Available * Mike 678.409.8600

TREE SERVICE ... 24/7 Emergency Tree Service available, plus Pruning & Trimming, Stump Grinding. Commercial or Residential. Misael's Tree Service,

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

NOW HIRING – CUTS AND COMICS seeking licensed Hair Stylist/Barber, Braider, Beauty and Lash Tech for our unique new business for $100 weekly booth rental. Call 470.414.1213 or email cutsandcomics@gmail.com

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

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