NCM July/Aug 2023

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Ask your neighbors about us!

2789 US-29, Moreland, GA 30259, just a 20 minute drive from Lake Redwine. www.morelandanimalhospital.com

2789 US-29, Moreland, GA 30259, just a 20 minute drive from Lake Redwine. www.morelandanimalhospital.com

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Publishers C. Clayton Neely

Elizabeth C. Neely

Editor Jackie Kennedy

Creative Directors Sandy Hiser, Sonya Studt

Graphic Designer Erin Scott

Contributing Writers Glenda Harris

Jennifer London

Gail McGlothin

Caroline Nicholson

Aaron Oglesbee

Photography

Debby Dye

April McGlothin-Eller

Sara Moore

Advertising Manager

Multimedia Sales Specialist

Misha Benson

Debby Dye

We announce this year’s reader-selected winners and applaud The Best of Coweta Bunch, whose members have won in their category each year since the 2019 inception of our contest.

By Jackie Kennedy, Sonya Studt

If you haven’t yet visited the nation’s 50th state, we have a few tips to share for when you do! By Glenda Harris

Oglesbee

Cover Photos by Misha Benson, Debby Dye and Sandy Hiser, see Behind the Shot, page 15, and our Cover Feature, page 50.

Celebrating the Best of Coweta

This year, Newnan-Coweta Magazine celebrates the fifth anniversary of our Best of Coweta Readers’ Choice Awards by applauding first, second and third place winners in 65 categories. Whether you’re searching for the best burger in Coweta County or the best financial advisor, we’ve got you covered.

A record-setting 6,547 ballots were cast in this year’s contest. In counting the votes, we realized there are nine business owners and individuals who’ve topped their category(ies) each year since we started the reader-voted contest in 2019. For this achievement, we heartily congratulate these repeat winners: Meat ’N’ Greet for Best Burger, Best Cocktail and Best Overall Restaurant; Christy’s Cafe for Best Breakfast; Goldens on the Square for Best Southern Food; Garlic Thai for Best Asian Food; The Oink Joint for Best Barbecue; Arthur Murphey Florist for Best Florist; The Alamo for Best Live Music Venue; Doug Kees for Best Musician; and David Boyd Jr. for Best Art Gallery. For a little ditty we penned in their honor – and for all Best of Coweta 2023 winners – see page 50.

In this issue, it’s all about the Best of Coweta as we dig deeper to familiarize readers with the winners they selected. In our Coweta Garden department, on page 42, we introduce you to the first, second and third place winners in our Plant Nursery and Greenhouse category. Several winners in our home improvement categories share tips and the latest trends in home improvement on page 20. And on page 34, read all about local artist Martin Pate, who landed at the top spot for Best Artist.

There’s not a category in Best of Coweta for Best Columnist, but if there was, we’re pretty sure our regular columnists – Toby Nix and Faith Farrell – would tie for top honors. Read “Getting Frank with Faith” on page 18 and “The Wrap-Up with Toby Nix” on page 98.

Over the past five years, our July-August/Best of Coweta edition has become our readers’ favorite issue as evidenced by the rate at which these magazines fly off the racks. By far, it’s the toughest issue to produce, but we appreciate the challenge, and we appreciate the advertisers who make this shoutout to local businesses possible each year. We feel that connecting local businesses and talented individuals with the community helps keep Coweta strong and vibrant.

We hope your summer includes the Best of Coweta, whether that’s hiking the LINC or shopping and dining at our award-winning stores and restaurants.

Our Best to you,

Jackie Kennedy, Editor magazine@newnan.com

Roll Call

Aaron Oglesbee is a retired Army foreign area officer and international business development manager. These days, he finds his greatest pleasure in savoring a cup of coffee on the back porch, basking in the company of his wife, and writing about the lives and labors of the people in his community.

Jennifer London lives in Newnan with her daughter. The two use their travels as inspiration for stories they create with Jennifer writing and her daughter illustrating. Jennifer believes that everyone has a story to tell, and she loves being a freelance writer and meeting new people.

Gail McGlothin is a nonprofit consultant and grant writer. When she’s not searching for starfish on the Oregon coast, kayaking, reading or playing board games with her grandchildren, She helps voters get government-issued picture IDs.

The Rev. April McGlothinEller is the director of Church and Community Engagement at Wellroot Family Services, a ministry of the United Methodist Church. In her free time, she fancies herself a musician, artist and photographer.

Sara Moore’s warm and welcoming nature influences her photography by putting her subjects at ease. She enjoys living the quiet country life while residing in Newnan with her husband, horses, dogs, chickens and ducks.

Caroline Nicholson loves disappearing behind a book and falling into fictional worlds. She’s working toward her Master of Arts in English at the University of West Georgia and plans to pursue a Ph.D. in creative writing to become a college English and creative writing professor. In time, she hopes to publish her own young adult novel.

Glenda Harris is a freelance writer, book reviewer and nature lover. In this issue, she writes about her first trip to Hawaii, which came about as a reunion with her son and his family stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii.

The Best of Coweta Bunch

Written by JACKIE KENNEDY

Photographed by MISHA BENSON, DEBBY DYE and SANDY HISER

Advertising Manager Misha Benson and I were scarfing down lunch at The Oink Joint in early June, throwing out ideas on how to best represent this year’s Best of Coweta winners on the cover of this, our annual July-August Best of Coweta Issue.

We were talking about our repeat winners, those businesses and individuals who have won in their category for each of the five years that we’ve held the contest. At some point, Misha threw out the idea: “If we had nine of those, we could do them in three rows of boxes, like The Brady Bunch.”

Oh my, what a great idea!

We got back to the office, did the math and, Voila! We have nine Best of Coweta winners who’ve earned their win each year since we started our Readers’ Choice Awards in 2019. It was meant to be.

We took multiple portraits of each fivetime winner so that our designer, Sandy

Hiser, could puzzle-piece them together in a way that would make Florence

Henderson/AKA Carol Brady most proud. We won’t talk about all the calls we made and emails we sent and blocks we walked downtown to herd the cats, I mean, our five-time Best of Coweta winners. Ahh, but it was worth the wrangling! We couldn’t ask for a nicer, more cooperative bunch – our Best of Coweta Bunch! NCM

David Boyd Jr. David Boyd Jr. Gallery • Studio Brett Murphy The Alamo

Christy Crosier Christy’s Cafe

Chingcsai Csoomuang Garlic Thai

Matt Crawford The Oink Joint

Hatch Murphey III Murphey’s Florist

Margaret Sanders Meat ’N’ Greet Doug Kees Musician - Musicology

Maridee Wise Goldens on the Square

‘Trouble the Water’ & ‘The Half Moon’

Reviewed by GLENDA HARRIS

T“rouble the Water” is a finely crafted debut historical fiction novel by Rebecca Dwight Bruff. Her book is inspired by the extraordinary true life and actions of a man born into slavery in the South Carolina Lowcountry in the years prior to the Civil War. The story carries the reader through the War years and Reconstruction era afterwards.

Young Robert Smalls grew up as the son of a house slave for the kind McKee family. He later worked as a field slave at a nearby plantation, eventually laboring at the busy docks of Beaufort, S.C. Much of his time as a boy was spent on the Lowcountry rivers, creeks and marshes with Mr. McKee.

Robert became a skilled boatman, navigator and fisherman. He loved his work and knew that he belonged on the water.

As Robert worked and eventually married, his thoughts were always focused on how he could break away from life as a slave and create a better life for his family. His thoughts eventually gave rise to an idea that resulted in an extraordinary act of courage and tenacity and helped advance the abolition of slavery.

There are no spoilers in this review, but do get this book and read it. It’s not only a captivating story but a solid investment in understanding this critical and extraordinary time in America’s history. Robert Smalls’ personal contribution to the fight for freedom is not well known outside of South Carolina. To change that, the author moved cross country to research and write this book.

Action-filled and truly inspirational, “Trouble the Water” garnered awards and excellent reviews. Cassandra Conroy King calls Rebecca Bruff “an exciting new voice in historical fiction.”

“Trouble the Water” was published by Koehler Books in 2019; 348 pages; 5 stars.

Written by Mary Beth Keane, “The Half Moon” is a contemporary fiction novel published in 2023 and is the fourth novel by this author.

Jess and Malcolm are a handsome couple in their early 40s. Jess is an attorney and Malcolm’s a bartender at the popular Half Moon Bar. When his boss/ owner retires, Malcolm buys the business even though it’s financially not easy for them. Jess likes her job and travels frequently, but with a hefty student loan to pay back and the usual expenses of home ownership – and now ownership of the bar – her paycheck falls short and their debt is increasing.

Life has not quite gone as they planned. After many years of trying to conceive a child, they finally let go of the dream of parenthood. Now with Malcolm spending most of his time at the bar and Jess at loose ends – feeling unsure about her marriage, her job, not becoming a mother and financial worries – they are stressed and have a lot to figure out.

The story starts off slowly, building the relationship issues and intersecting characters and plot lines. The drama begins to unfold when Malcolm learns a shocking truth about Jess, a days-long snowstorm shuts everything down, questions arise about an employee at the bar and a risky idea is proposed by Jess. None of this is easy or expected, but they figure it all out and the ending felt just right.

This is recommended for fans of contemporary fiction, relationship drama and stories about navigating and overcoming the difficulties of life’s many changes and surprises.

Other books from Mary Beth Keane include “Ask Again, Yes”, “Fever” and “The Walking People.”

“The Half Moon” was published by Scribner on May 2, 2023; 302 pages; 4.5 stars. ★★★★★

The Best Nest

The best show I’ve been binge watching is free, airs all day, and it’s all happening on my porch. This show puts “Shark Week” to shame.

I have a faded (borderline creepy), tiki-head planter that I emptied last fall. Several weeks ago, in a springtime cleaning frenzy, I looked at the tiki-head. Why did he suddenly have a bristled hairdo growing from the top? I sneaked a peek, and to my delight there was a nest with eggs inside it – safe from tiki-head tormentors.

To be frank, I became obsessed. I started consuming too much coffee while watching Momma B land on the tiki-head with a fat grub in her beak to fondly feed Tweety and Tweeler. I watched her scout the earth and rustle the leaves, chirping her calling card, urgent and important, echoing an off-pitched smoke alarm that’s low on batteries.

I have come to the conclusion (thanks to some sleuthing coworkers) that the bird is a Carolina wren who has become my new favorite. She is not skittish nor timid. I sometimes see her mate perching in the bush behind the planter. They seem to chatter back and forth, and he trusts her to do the things she needs to do.

I swear she somehow knows I’m vested in this nest and allows me to sit and watch. There is a mutual respect between Momma B and me since she realized, after that initial peek inside the tiki, that I would no longer go near nor peer inside as I don’t want to interrupt the cycle of the babies’ growth. I want them safe. Thus, I sip and watch, content to hear their chirping without actually seeing her little hatchlings. She perches on the edge, bowing her head to feed them. I close my eyes and imagine X-ray visions of them being fed.

There is magic in what you can’t see.

Momma B has taught me loads. She has shown me that nests are messy things made of discarded, found objects like sticks and twine and colorful bits of trash. Somehow, she hunted and gathered to weave a home strong enough to cradle eggs but delicate enough to be crushed. She showed me that you protect the ones you love. She has taught me that the best things in life are truly free and that a home is not a structure but who you surround yourself with, who you cheer on to grow, those for whom you would cheerfully feed grubs to.

In a twist of poetic injustice, I went outside this morning to finish writing this column, hoping to catch up on the latest episode of my obsession. I waited and listened and watched. Silence. Full of deflate and denial, my instinct nudged me to look.

They flew the coop without a wave goodbye. My feathered friends moved, forgoing a forwarding address, leaving our porch to search for new purpose.

I am both empty and full for having had front row seats to the best show in town. Leaning into their lessons, I shall follow suit. I shall hunt and gather and overfill my arms with discarded pieces of nothing, stacking and stocking them for the day I weave them together into a nest – my best nest, finally strong enough, encouraging me to fly. NCM

Minnesota made yet Newnan Strong, Faith Farrell is involved with Newnan Theatre Company and Backstreet Arts. Her artwork can be viewed at faithfarrellart.com.

Photo by Faith Farrell

Faith’s tiki-headed planter cradles a bird’s nest.

Making a House Your Own

Written by JACKIE KENNEDY

For inspiration and guidance on constructing or renovating a home, Cowetans need look no further than local builders, designers and service providers.

For updates on the latest trends – and for ageold wisdom when pursuing home projects – we sought input from first, second and third place winners in our Best of Coweta Readers’ Choice Awards contest.

At Lichty Brothers Homes, Daniel Lichty says kitchen remodels continue to be the most popular projects with exterior work like new decks, screened porches and covered patios following closely behind.

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock

“We continue to see homeowners wanting to create that open concept in the heart of their home and make their homes more functional for their lifestyle by modifying how spaces are utilized and maximizing thoughtful storage areas,” says Lichty, noting that other popular projects include free-standing garages, basement finishes and bath remodels.

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Choosing a well-reputed local business is key when entering a remodel project, according to Lichty.

“Don’t choose the pop-up contractor here because of the latest tornado or hailstorm – or the new guy just because he is the cheapest,” he said. “We have a lot of calls from people who have been scammed by contractors that took money and disappeared.”

A herringbone pattern updates this backsplash.

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock

To avoid scams, homeowners must do their homework, he adds: “Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured. Read reviews. If you’re considering a couple of different companies, ask for references. A good contractor would be happy to provide you with projects to walk through or prior customers to talk to. Make sure you’re getting a well-detailed quote that spells out the entirety of your project. Be prepared to make decisions and understand that the process isn’t going to go perfectly, so choose someone you think has the most experience and that you will be able to work with when things are going well – and when they aren’t.”

When it comes to decorating the interior of a home, Lori Duncan at Blue Fern Interior Design says the latest trend is choosing a cohesive color palette for the home and using it for each room, whether it’s neutral and/or bold colors, in wallpaper, fabrics, tile and more. To get the biggest bang for your remodeling buck, Duncan reminds homeowners to share their goals and preferences with their designer.

“Always give us an idea of what you like and don’t like, so we don’t have to guess at what you love,” she says. “We are there to help narrow down ideas and make it simpler for you to create amazing spaces. Our goal is to inspire and make the process fun and easy for you.”

Designer Lori Harris of Swoon Designs echoes the importance of sharing your individual taste and desire with your home decorator.

“Before hiring a designer, it’s essential to conduct some preliminary research,” says Harris. “Take the time to narrow down your preferred style and color palette. Gather inspiration photos that resonate with you, and explore your existing space to identify elements you love. By doing so, you’ll provide valuable guidance to your designer, enabling them to create a customized plan that aligns with your preferences and ensures a result you’re bound to adore.”

Current trends in home decor include warm, earthy color palettes and furniture with soft curved edges.

“Curves and color are back,” says Harris. “We are seeing shades such as terracotta, ochre, deep greens and rich browns.”

While the visual exterior and interior of any home are vastly important, the comfort provided by adequate heating and cooling can make or break the ambiance.

Samantha Brazie of Progressive Heating, Air and Plumbing advises homeowners to discuss ductwork, efficiency and dehumidification with their heating and air professional.

“That’s where you will get the best bang for your buck in Georgia,” says Brazie. “Homeowners lose a lot of money through attics and crawl spaces and spend a lot of money on electric bills because units constantly run due to being undersized, lots of humidity or because they just can’t keep up in general.”

Higher efficiency systems that pull humidity out of houses help address these issues, according to Brazie, who says, “Even though I’ve been in HVAC for 16 years, I truly didn’t understand the power of a system with dehumidification until I replaced my upstairs unit in early May. It has changed our entire house comfort, and we have even turned our thermostats up because of the lack of humidity. It’s a huge money saver and stress reliever.”

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock

The open concept is a favorite among homeowners looking for more storage space and natural light.

Best of Coweta Home Services Winners

For contact information on these Coweta businesses, see our Best of Coweta feature beginning on page 50.

Best Home Repair/Remodeling

1st Warrior Restoration

2nd Lichty Brothers Homes

3rd Owens Construction

Best HVAC Service

1st Progressive Heating, Air & Plumbing

2nd Scotty’s Heating & Air

3rd Headley Heating & Air

Best Interior Design Service

1st Blue Fern Design Studio

2nd Knox Powell Designs

3rd Swoon Designs

Tim Scott of Scotty’s Heating & AC says his company has seen more clients upgrading their HVAC systems to new 2023 Department of Energy-compliant equipment.

“With interest rates still remaining high, customers appear to prefer upgrading the homes they are in rather than building or purchasing in the new construction market,” says Scott. “With the cost of equipment today, it’s important for our customers to know that we have finance options available for them.”

These Best of Coweta winners all agree their businesses excel due to exceptional employees who work as a team to get the best job done.

“We have a very strong team of employees from the first point of contact at the front desk, to the designers and estimators who meet with our clients to discuss their projects, to our superintendents and trades,” says Lichty. “We strive to build good relationships within our company and with our customers.”

“We don’t take our customers and our community for granted,” says Brazie. “By doing business with Progressive Heating, Air and Plumbing, you are employing your neighbors, supporting nonprofits that help our neighbors, and keeping business in Coweta versus sending it to Atlanta.”

The winners agree also that building and keeping relationships with their clients is both central to their success – and one of the joys of doing business in Coweta.

“We pride ourselves in our service to a multitude of Coweta County friends and neighbors,” says Scott. “Serving this area since 1996, we have enjoyed so many great relationships with them.” NCM

Local HVAC providers encourage homeowners to discuss ductwork and unit efficiency with their A/C professionals.

Image courtesy of Adobe Stock

Georgia Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ministries

MORE THAN 1 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

Written by JENNIFER LONDON

BAPTIST CHILDREN’S HOME AND FAMILY MINISTRIES

The Georgia Baptist Children’s Home was founded in 1872 in Atlanta, providing care for orphaned and abandoned children throughout the state.

In 1899, the nonprofit charity found a permanent home in Hapeville after relocating several times over its first 27 years.

In the 1960s, air travel was becoming more popular, so the City of Atlanta purchased the 81-acre Hapeville Children’s Home campus in order to expand the operation of Hartsfield-Jackson Airport. In 1968, Georgia Baptist Children’s Home relocated to Palmetto where a new campus on 400 acres was opened with more than 200 children and staff members moving into brand new cottages.

As society changed, so did the needs of children and families, according to Vice President of Ministries Ada Cornwell, who says additional programs were added to help support and offer critical services to Georgia residents. By the 1970s, most of the children who were being helped by the organization were coming from the foster care system due to neglect, abandonment or abuse.

“Our ministry has certainly evolved over the past 150 years, in line with the needs of children and families in our state,” says Cornwell. “The children and families we serve today come to us with more complex issues than ever before.”

Those issues range from homelessness to abuse and neglect.

“The trauma that most of them have experienced prior to coming into our care is sometimes unimaginable, but through God’s grace and the dedication of our staff, we are able to help them find hope, healing and a path to a healthy and meaningful future,” says Cornwell.

Photos Courtesy of GEORGIA

The Georgia Baptist Children’s Home archway was moved from its former location in Hapeville to its current home in Palmetto.

“The children and families we serve today come to us with more complex issues than ever before.”

– Ada Cornwell

“Our children have had all types of walls and barriers put in front of them during their lives, and our mission at the Children’s Home is to tear all those barriers down and build each of them back up on the foundation of Jesus Christ,” says President/CEO Brian J. Hawkins.

In 2023, approximately 14,000 children are in the legal custody of the State of Georgia while an average of 240 incidents of confirmed child abuse are reported daily, according to Chris Hobbs, vice president of Communications and Development at Georgia Baptist Children’s Home and Family Ministries.

“Each year, we serve hundreds of kids through our statewide programs,” he says.

Georgia Baptist Children’s Home programs for children, youth and families have expanded with three residential campuses located in Palmetto, Meansville and Baxley. These homes provide various levels of residential care, counseling, educational services and weekend respite care for special needs children.

Says Hobbs: “The majority of our kids go to school on campus, and the reason for that is a lot of times when they get to us, they’ve probably been out of school for a while. They have fallen behind so far that to put them in a public school setting would be almost like setting them up for failure. In our campus school, they work at their own pace with our teachers.”

Camp Hawkins summer camp program serves children and young adults with developmental disabilities at the North and South Georgia campuses, according to Hobbs.

“At first they’re really anxious about it, but when Mom and Dad come to pick them up five days later, they don’t want to go home because they had such a great time,” says Hobbs. “They see that there are kids just like them, coping with the same types of things, and here, they can just enjoy life.”

Another Georgia Baptist Children’s Home ministry is Good Shepherd Center in Warm Springs. The center offers a residential farm-based program for boys and an outpatient equestrian riding therapy program for children and adults coping with various developmental disabilities.

Georgia Baptist also partners with Angel’s House, in Newnan, which provides residential care for teen girls. “We’ve worked with that board as a partner ever since it opened,” says Hobbs. “It’s a great relationship.”

Georgia Baptist’s Family Care program helps mothers and their children forced to leave their homes due to domestic violence and abuse. Families usually stay in the residential program for 9 to 12 months and are provided a place to live, food, clothing, counseling and spiritual guidance while working to rebuild their lives, according to Hobbs.

Georgia Baptist Children’s Home opened in 1872 and has served thousands of children since then.

Mothers and children are served through the nonprofit's Family Care program, which allows them a place to live while rebuilding their lives.

“They come to us with basically just whatever they have on their back, but we work with them and help them,” he says.

The nonprofit’s Family Foster Care ministry works to place foster children in individual homes throughout metro Atlanta and surrounding counties. With a shortage of available foster families, they work to recruit families via statewide church connections.

According to Hobbs, people often ask how they can

help children served by Georgia Baptist Children’s Home.

“I always ask people, first and foremost, to pray for our kids and our staff,” he says. “Especially during the pandemic, those were tough times, and we’re still trying to get staff levels back up so we can serve more kids.”

Hobbs encourages church, social or civic groups to visit the campus in Palmetto to see firsthand how children and families are helped there.

“They see that there are kids just like them, coping with the same types of things, and here, they can just enjoy life.”

Children of all ages are served at Georgia Baptist Children's Home where the Family Care program provides lodging, food, clothing and counseling.

– Chris Hobbs

LEFT and BELOW

Volunteers serve the Children's Home by stocking shelves at the food pantry and by washing and painting fences on the 400-acre grounds.

“When you put your boots on the ground, that’s when you really realize more about what it is that we do.”

– Chris Hobbs

“When you put your boots on the ground, that’s when you really realize more about what it is that we do,” Hobbs says.

With more than 400 acres, the campus is almost always in need of volunteers to assist with landscaping, grass mowing, interior and exterior painting projects, food room organization, and light construction projects.

Hobbs says many smaller churches that are unable to afford out-of-state or international mission trips will make the trip to their Palmetto campus to volunteer.

As for donations, Hobbs says that Walmart gift cards are like gold.

“If I have a child come in today with nothing but the clothes on their back, we can take them to Walmart and most of the time, they want to pick out their own stuff,” he says. “Those are things we can do to help make things a little more normal.”

To contribute or for volunteer information, visit georgiachildren.org/donate or call 770.363.3800. NCM

Jena Turi, LPN Connor Cox, MA Mark E. McClinton, MD

Meet Dr. Kimberly W. Chubb Dedicated to Providing You with Amazing Dental Care

Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry

3229 Hwy 34 East, #101, Newnan, GA 30265 770.304.0034

Have you been looking for an amazing dentist who cares about you and listens? Dr. Kimberly W. Chubb is just that dentist. Dr. Chubb has a great professional demeanor and genuinely cares about every patient. She takes the time to hear her patient’s needs. Good communication is her mantra, which ensures her patients understand their treatment and have a positive dental experience.

Dr. Chubb’s talents are the culmination of decades of training. She attained her doctorate from Temple University School of Dentistry. Dr. Chubb provided eight years of service in the Navy, rising to the high-ranking position of Lieutenant Commander. This unique pathway has afforded Dr. Chubb with a tremendous skillset to perform quality dentistry, provide great leadership and treat patients with extraordinary care.

Patients find Dr. Chubb and her staff at Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry to be the genuine article. They have provided hundreds of 5-star reviews and praise their names. Here are just a few comments from patients: “Knowledgeable.” “Considerate.”

“Amazing, gentle and thorough.” “Very professional.”

“Considerate of patient concerns.” And the list goes on. Compassionate and caring summarizes the spirit seen and felt by Dr. Chubb and staff. Their warmth combined with professional skills provide patients with a dream come true when looking for a dental office.

Dr. Chubb opened her private practice in Newnan, Georgia, which is named Amazing Smiles Family

Dentistry. “Amazing” in the practice name is befitting for what patients experience every day. Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry provides general care including cleanings, treatment of periodontal disease, cosmetic and restorative care. Compassionate and caring summarizes the spirit seen and felt by Dr. Chubb and staff. Painless injections are the norm. Dr. Chubb maintains her connection to the military by working with the VA to treat veterans.

Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry is very accommodating with insurance and payment plan options that include easy third-party payments. The office works closely with patients to help them coordinate convenient dental appointments. The office manager, Kesha, is one of the best in the profession. She provides personalized care and attention to detail that is outstanding. Kesha provides patients with the perfect blend of organizing dental treatment, discussing insurance, and making accurate business arrangements. She is the backbone of Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry and patients love her for the time and effort she spends to always go the extra mile.

The question asked earlier – have you been looking for an amazing dentist? – is a genuine question. You will find a welcoming and exceptional experience awaiting you at Amazing Smiles Family Dentistry with Dr. Kimberly W. Chubb. Don’t hesitate to call their office and make an appointment today. You will be AMAZED indeed!

Martin Pate

MARTIN PATE: Coweta’s Favorite Artist

Written by AARON OGLESBEE | Photographed by SARA MOORE

If there were a category for hospitality, Martin Pate, voted Best of Coweta’s best local artist for 2023, surely would have taken that honor, too.

The popular Newnan artist is true to his Southern upbringing. Visitors to his home and studio will likely catch sight of him coming out to the porch to welcome them almost as soon as they pull into his driveway. With a warm smile and a handshake, he’ll usher them into a beautiful, early 20th century home that he and his wife, Rhonda, have painstakingly restored to its original style and feel.

That Martin has a powerfully developed sense of the aesthetics of architecture is no surprise to those who have enjoyed his paintings. In fact, as

ABOVE

graduated from Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Fla.

a young man considering his future, he had originally thought to pursue a career as an architect. But when his brother was accepted into Sarasota’s Ringling College of Art and Design, Martin, who also had a love and talent for painting, took notice.

“When I saw what my brother was doing, I knew that was what I wanted to do,” Martin recalls.

After graduating with honors from Ringling, Martin and Rhonda, his high school sweetheart, married in 1981 and moved to Atlanta where he had accepted a position as an illustrator.

“I’ve always loved illustrations,” he says. “My heroes [such as N.C. Wyeth] were illustrators.”

Recalling that time in his life, the artist smiles,

saying, “I graduated, got married, got a job, and moved to Atlanta – all in a month. It was insane, but it was really exciting.”

In 1984, the family relocated to Newnan where, having left his position in Atlanta, Martin began to focus more on portraiture and figurative painting.

Over the years, much of his work was featured

regionally and nationally at various exhibitions and galleries. A few years ago, several of his pieces were exhibited at the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art under the collective title of “Within: Looking Beyond the Surface.”

That title could describe the overall artistic perspective behind so much of his work. One of those paintings,

Newnan Morning, 27x54, by Martin Pate

“Within,” is of a lovely ballerina kneeling on the floor, her body resting on the back of her legs, her hands on her knees, and her head bowed in introspection and contemplation.

The painting is the quintessence of Martin Pate’s focus on that which is just beyond the surface of the obvious or apparent.

In the early 1990s, Martin began to work extensively in interpretive art in what became an extended relationship with the National Park Service. His paintings of historical and archaeological sites across the country have assisted the Park Service in educating the public and enhancing public consciousness of the significance of these important sites.

In a related endeavor resulting from a collaborative effort between the National Park Service’s Southeast Archaeological Center and Fort Moore (formerly, Fort Benning), Martin produced a series of well-received paintings depicting different historical eras on the military reservation, ranging from Native American presence to the early 20th century period of the Army base in Columbus.

Throughout his professional career, Martin has enjoyed and nurtured relationships with his fellow artists, both in Newnan and across the country.

Locally, he has long been active in the art community, and over the years he has noted and appreciated the growth of that community. Some of that can be attributed, as he sees it, to young artists developing in local schools. Martin notes, “I’ve judged a lot of high school art shows, and I think the quality of high school art in Coweta County is very good. It’s a lot higher here

Portrait of Rhonda, 26x32, a painting of his wife, by Martin Pate

Six Tulips, 20x24, by Martin Pate

. . . he had originally thought to pursue a career as an architect.

than when I was in high school. I see a lot of potential.”

In recounting his own time as a student in art school, some of Martin’s most powerful recollections are of the comradery among his peers – but also the competition between them.

“I was very much inspired by my fellow students,” he recalls. “We just pushed each other. We all aimed for that badge of honor.”

That badge: the distinction of having their works displayed in the school’s hallways if instructors deemed them to have risen to a level of excellence.

That appreciation for his contemporaries has not diminished. True to his gracious nature, when asked about his selection as the county’s favorite artist, Martin Pate humbly redirects attention to his peers in the community and asserts: “This county is filled with talented artists.” NCM

Making Marks, 24x30, a painting of his granddaughter, by Martin Pate

Martin and Rhonda Pate enjoy an aesthetic life in Newnan.

Bringing togreenCoweta the

OUR TOP 3 PLANT NURSERIES/GREENHOUSES AS VOTED BY

NEWNAN-COWETA MAGAZINE READERS

Written by CAROLINE NICHOLSON | Photographed by DEBBY DYE

When driving throughout Coweta County, it’s easy to spot houses and businesses accented with picturesque landscaping. The beauty of these landscapes is often lost within the monotony of everyday life, so much so that we no longer stop to appreciate the hard work and effort behind these lawns.

In reality, a partnership between property owners and local plant nurseries and greenhouses creates and nurtures these beautiful spaces throughout the county.

In honor of the businesses that help curate these lawns and landscapes, the Best of Coweta Readers’ Choice Awards has a category specifically for plant nurseries and/or greenhouses. Here’s a look at the 2023 Best Plant Nursery/ Greenhouse winners as voted on by Newnan-Coweta Magazine readers.

First Place

Coweta Greenhouses/ Morgan’s Market

81 Oaklawn Circle, Newnan »

In 1972, Coweta Greenhouses was founded as a family-owned business with the purpose of growing and producing foliage and flowers for wholesale to large retailers, something they successfully did for almost five decades.

As the years went by, it became increasingly evident that the public wanted the opportunity to purchase plants directly from Coweta Greenhouses. In response to this growing community interest, the owners of Coweta Greenhouses opened Morgan’s Market in the summer of 2019 as a way to sell their products directly to the community.

Owner of Coweta Greenhouses and Morgan’s Market, Tommy Morgan attributes this success to the company’s focus on customer service.

“We differentiate ourselves from the larger, modern retail outlets by having great customer service and personal interaction,” says Morgan, who adds how important it is – and how fortunate he is – to have employees who are knowledgeable about the plants they sell and treat customers the way he would want to be treated.

LEFT

Hanging baskets overflowing with fragrant pink petunias greet customers inside of Coweta Greenhouses.

Large specimens of coleus in shades of red and pink pop against a neon green sweet potato vine at Coweta Greenhouses.

Second Place Southern Roots Nursery and Gardens

726 North Highway 29, Newnan

Nick Lott, along with his family, started Southern Roots Nursery and Gardens in 2013; Nick and his wife took charge of the nursery in 2019 and have been running it ever since.

Southern Roots offers a variety of goods including potting soil, mulch, fertilizer, vegetables and trees, to name a few. However, as Lott would tell it, the biggest highlight of their business is the service they provide. As a certified landscape designer and nursery owner, Lott is in a unique position to not only design landscapes for customers but to also bring those designs to life.

When asked about his philosophy on an attractive home landscape, Lott says that landscapes shouldn’t be the focal point.

“We try to do work that complements the house,” he says. “People pay a lot more money for the house than the landscaping, so we want to do work that accents the house and doesn’t take away from it.”

In addition to landscape expertise, Lott has a background as a chef, which allows him the ability to provide specific advice to his customers about the vegetables and herbs for sale, how you can incorporate them into delicious meals, and the particular care each plant needs to thrive. Southern Roots also does foodscaping for customers, mixing flowers and shrubs with herbs and vegetables to create a beautiful but practical landscape.

A lovely selection of roses can be found at Southern Roots Nursery just beyond the archway of Carolina Jessamine, which is covered with aromatic yellow blooms in the spring.

The shade section of Southern Roots bursts with colorful options for the less-than-sunny yards.

Third Place Breaking Ground Farm and Nursery

2150 Standing Rock Road, Senoia

Kevin Martin, general manager of Breaking Ground Farm and Nursery in Senoia, has been in the nursery business his whole life.

Opened in 2010, Breaking Ground originally was located in Newnan and moved to Senoia in 2019.

“Breaking Ground has one of the largest selections in Coweta County,” says Martin, noting that this wide variety not only benefits the community but also the local landscapers and developers who he sells to for use in their projects. The selection at Breaking Ground includes shrubs, flowers, vegetables and trees as well as seasonal specials.

In the winter, Breaking Ground transforms into a Christmas tree farm where customers can go to prepare for filling their homes with cheer for the holiday season.

Throughout his time in the business, Martin has learned the importance of hard work and perseverance – traits that he and the nursery staff display as they grow perennials from cuttings. NCM

A vast shrubyard offers shoppers a wide variety of colors, textures and sizes at Breaking Ground in Senoia.

Seasonal specialties showcase a combination of textures and unique pops of color at Breaking Ground in Senoia.

Dr. Craddock and Southern Vein Care: Coweta Committed

It’s one thing to have a medical practice in Coweta County. It’s another thing entirely to have roots in the community that go beyond the walls of a practice.

For over 30 years, Dr. Garnet Craddock has made a positive reputation for himself and his practice by treating conditions affecting the circulatory system including veins, arteries and blood vessels.

Originally practicing at the historic PAPP Clinic, he performed mainly vascular surgery at the clinic for many years. Craddock’s practice was the first vein care center in Newnan and Peachtree City.

He opened Southern Vein Care in 2008 under the PAPP umbrella, then merged with Piedmont in 2011 before becoming a fully independent provider in 2020.

Craddock trained at Wake Forest University medical center as a general surgeon with an emphasis on vascular. He arrived in Coweta County, joining five other general surgeons, in 1990.

“I joined the PAPP Clinic because I was already recognized as a vascular guy because of my training,” Craddock said.

For the next 20 years, Craddock estimated 80 percent of his practice was focused on vascular conditions. When the pandemic hit, Craddock shifted Southern Vein Care to a freestanding practice, a move that has allowed more flexibility.

The clinic performs exclusively vein procedures, and Craddock has a special interest in the treatment of venous reflux disease. He performs both VNUS Closure and EVLT procedures in his office and offers ultrasound-directed sclerotherapy and many other advanced vein treatment techniques, including “glue” treatments.

“When patients come to see us, their leg issues are indeterminate,” he said. “It is important for us to listen to the patient’s symptoms and medical history to determine the correct care plan.”

With his background in general surgery, Craddock said it’s given him insight into what’s happening in people's legs in terms of longevity and life, “which is hard to come by without experience."

“We are vein specialists, and sometimes patients come in with issues that are not vein related,” he said. “That is why it is important for us to continue to have the working relationships that we do with other physicians in our community to get the patients the correct care.”

“The main difference between something like a gallbladder attack and vein practice is that an attack is an isolated incident, while your veins affect you on a daily basis,” he said. “When you can feel better every day, people remember you for improving their quality of life.”

And as a longtime Coweta County resident, he often gets the opportunity to run into those patients he’s helped along the way.

Craddock is a member of Central Baptist Church and raised his children in the Coweta County School System. He's remained heavily involved on a civic level for decades.

The clinic offers scholarships to local students, hosts wellness events and sponsors high school activities. He’s also involved in the Patrons of the Nixon Centre, Hearts of Teal, Angels House and Coweta Samaritan Clinic.

Craddock credits the ongoing success of the clinic to a strong emphasis on teamwork inside the office.

“We’re like a family and we treat people that way. We care about how people end up so we always go the extra mile,” he said. “For us, it’s about making your outcome as good as it can be. We can’t make you 18 again, but we can make a big difference."

With offices in Newnan and Peachtree City, Dr. Craddock and the team at SVC look forward to meeting new patients and invite you to book a consultation today. Contact them at 770-683-8346 or visit https://southernveincare.com.

Celebrating winners of NCM’s

Fifth Annual BEST OF COWETA READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS

Compiled and written by SONYA STUDT and JACKIE KENNEDY

Newnan-Coweta Magazine readers set a new record this year, casting almost 6,600 ballots in our fifth annual Best of Coweta Readers’ Choice Awards. That’s up from just under 5,000 ballots last year, proving that the Best of Coweta contest keeps growing.

We have several repeat winners this year, including nine local businesses/individuals who have won first place in their category(ies) each year since the contest began in 2019. We have featured these dynamic individuals on our cover as our own Best of Coweta Bunch! We are honored to share their success with our readers.

Throughout Coweta County, Best of Coweta decals are proudly displayed at businesses of all our first place winners. The competition grows stronger each year in a friendly, positive, community kind of way. Along with our advertisers, who make the Best of Coweta issue possible, we heartily thank our annual Best of Coweta sponsor, Coweta-Fayette EMC, who works with us each year to support community and economic development via this annual shoutout to local businesses. First, second and third place winners are presented on the following pages.

We will announce the winners of our 2023 Best of Coweta gift card drawing in our September/October issue.

Photographed by MISHA BENSON and DEBBY DYE

The Best of Coweta Bunch

Written by JACKIE KENNEDY

Here’s the story of Newnan-Coweta Magazine

And a contest we started years ago

To promote local business in Coweta

Through our readers’ votes.

Best of Coweta began in 2019

At the office, we call it the “Best of.”

We’ve lost count of how many we’ve honored But it has been a bunch!

Since this reader voting contest started

We’ve had nine businesses to win each year

We think they are pretty special, So we applaud them here:

Here’s the story of a lovely restaurant

Meat ’N’ Greet won for five years in a row. In three categories: Burger and Cocktail, And for Best Overall.

Here’s the story of a man named Boyd

David Jr. runs the Best Art Gallery

And his pal, a guitarist and teacher Best Musician: Doug Kees.

Here’s a story of the Best Southern Cooking At Golden’s with Maridee on point. And just down the street there’s the Best Barbecue, At Newnan’s own Oink Joint.

Here’s the story of who’s voted the Best Florist Murphey’s has been around for years.

And for Best Asian Food, it’s Garlic Thai They get lots of cheers.

Here’s the story of Best Live Music Venue

It’s the Alamo, a super hot night spot.

And in the morning, you’ll enjoy eating at Christy’s For Best Breakfast, it’s tops.

Our readers voted these businesses your favorites, And now you probably have a hunch...

Of how this group all came together And became the Best of Coweta Bunch!

The “Best of” Bunch

The “Best of” Bunch

This is how they became the “Best of” Bunch!

David Boyd Jr

David Boyd Jr. Gallery–Studio

Margaret Sanders

Meat ’N’ Greet

Matt Crawford The Oink Joint

Doug Kees Musician – Musicology

Maridee Wise Goldens on the Square

Christy Crosier Christy’s Cafe

Hutch Murphey III

Arthur Murphey Florist

Chingcsai Csoomuang Garlic Thai

Brett Murphy The Alamo

Best Breakfast/Brunch Christy’s Cafe

27 Jackson Street, Newnan • 770.683.7512 facebook.com/christy.baucom27

Ready to wake up Cowetans and visitors with a hearty breakfast are, from left, Steffie Marchman, Lisa DeVane and Christy’s Cafe owner Christy Crosier.

Second Town & Country Restaurant, Newnan

Third Redneck Gourmet, Newnan

Best Southern Food Goldens on the Square

9 East Court Square, Newnan 770.251.4300 • goldensonthesquare.com

Serving up Southern food that inspires are, from left, Goldens on the Square’s Marilyn Brown, Maridee Wise and Marceil Ousley.

Second Shirley’s Country Kitchen, Newnan

Third Fried Tomato Buffet, Newnan

Best Pizza Karvelas Pizza Co.

7 LaGrange Street, Newnan 678.633.5620 • karvelaspizzaco.com

Serving Coweta’s premium pizza are, from left, front: Maria Campbell and Mikayla Carroll. Back: Glenn Pendell, Christina Garcia and Chandler Wilkerson.

Second Fabiano’s, Newnan

Third Partners II Pizza, Newnan

Best Burger Meat ’N’ Greet

11 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770.683.4664 • meatngreetnewnan.com

Among the tasty burgers at Meat ’N’ Greet is its Double Double Burger, served up here by, from left, Chef Joel Rolon and kitchen managers Katya Lewis and Heidi Vrable.

Second Redneck Gourmet, Newnan

Third Nic & Norman’s, Senoia

Best Steak

Grayson’s Steak & Seafood

91 Millard Farmer Industrial Boulevard, Newnan 770.252.2237 • graysonsnewnan.com

Winners of the Best Steak category are, from left, Jacob Harrison, Grayson’s owner Leonard Guillaume, Tavia Dillon, Juliet Turlington and Calee Beard.

Second Knife and Stone, Newnan Third The Cellar, Newnan

Best BBQ The Oink Joint

9 East Washington Street, Newnan 770.755.7999 • theoinkjointnewnan.com

Helping build The Oink Joint’s reputation for Coweta’s best barbecue are Katarina Daniel, left, and Rebekah Daniel.

Second Dunc’s BBQ, Newnan Third Sprayberry’s, Newnan

Best Italian Food Il Porto di Venezia

8080 Wells Street, Senoia 470.579.6673 • ilportodivenezia.com

Leading the success at Il Porto di Venezia in Senoia are, from left, front: co-owner Maria Echeverria; Back: Roberto Jr. Torrez, Karina Alvarez, co-owner Maria Addison and Brian Lau.

Second Frank’s Family Restaurant, Palmetto Third Positano Pizza Napoletana, Newnan

Best Mexican Food Los Abuelos Mexican Grill

125 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan 770.683.1334 • losabuelosmexgrill.com

Voted the best for Mexican dining in Coweta County are, from left, front: Mayra Martinez and Katherine Bedolla. Back: Cindy Mahe, Andrea Aguilar, Patty Bedolla and Mariana Escalante.

Second Chylacas, Newnan

Third Señor Taco, Senoia

Best Asian Food Garlic Thai

16 North Court Square, Newnan • 770.683.7515 facebook.com/garlic-thai-and-sushi-bar

The staff at Garlic Thai look forward to serving Coweta’s top-rated Asian Food, from left, Patha Inthamart, Wanpiseth Autcharawat, Paula Choomuang, Malatee Maethalong and Rudy Hermansyah.

Second Dynasty, Newnan

Third Tokyo Japanese Steakhouse, Newnan

Best Sushi Garlic Thai

16 North Court Square, Newnan • 770.683.7515 facebook.com/garlic-thai-and-sushi-bar

Along with its winning Asian Food, Garlic Thai is also known for its smashing sushi.

Second Tomo Japanese Restaurant, Newnan

Third Go Juu Sushi & Hibachi Asian Fusion Restaurant, Newnan

Best Sweets & Treats Heirloom Bakeshop

12 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770.727.3593 • heirloommarketco.com

Serving up tasty treats for Cowetans, Heirloom Bakeshop is represented by, from left, owners Laura and Justin Gibson, James Norris and Casey Anderson.

Second Rock Salt Milk Bar, Newnan Third Cakes by Debbie, Newnan

Best Cocktail Meat ’N’ Greet

11 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770.683.4664 • meatngreetnewnan.com

Known for its stellar cocktails, Meat ’N’ Greet celebrates bar manager Brandon Young who features the restaurant’s signature cocktail, The Botanist, and their classic cocktail, Manhattan.

Second The Cellar, Newnan

Third Knife and Stone, Newnan

Best Bar/Pub The Alamo

19 West Court Square, Newnan 770.683.2526 • thealamonewnan.com

Voted Coweta’s Best Bar or Pub is The Alamo. Ready to serve are, from left, Anya Seeton, Brett Murphy, Brittney McElwaney, Cody Kelly and Eli McElwaney.

Second RPM Full Service, Newnan

Third Meat ’N’ Greet, Newnan

Third The Cellar, Newnan

Best Catering Service Life of the South Catering

6 Lee Street, Newnan • 770.683.5623 lifeofthesouthcatering.com

Celebrating their win as Coweta’s favorite catering service are, from left, Life of the South’s Levi Jarrell, Ashley Luke and owner Nathan Metts.

Second Contemporary Catering, Newnan

Third Elegant Expressions, Newnan

Best Food Truck Me Lumpia Long Time

Moreland • 850.384.2314 facebook.com/melumpialongtime/

Coweta’s most popular food truck specializes in Philippine cuisine. Leading the way are, from left, Candace Teague, Isla Teague, Rob Teague, Kendall Lowery and Ashlynn Lowery.

Second The Mad Mexican, Newnan

Third Jalapeño Express BBQ, Newnan

Best Overall Restaurant Meat ’N’ Greet

11 Jefferson Street, Newnan 770.683.4664 • meatngreetnewnan.com

Voted Coweta’s best restaurant for the fifth year in a row is Meat ’N’ Greet. Contributing to its great success are, from left, owners Amy Murphy, Elisa Sanders and Margaret Sanders; general manager Jessica Connelly and assistant manager Tommy Greene.

Second The Cellar, Newnan

Third Knife and Stone, Newnan

Best Antique/Vintage Store Rockin’ B Antiques

2025 Sharpsburg McCullum Road, Newnan 770.253.8730 • rockinbantiques.com

Celebrating Rockin’ B Antique’s first place win are, from left, front: Kathy Grant and owner Lorraine Beckman. Back: Nikki Griffin Olive, James Tucker and Valorie Stitt.

Second Treasures Lost & Found, Newnan

Third Red Letter Merchant, Newnan

Best Jewelry Store Morgan Jewelers/ Downtown

14 North Court Square, Newnan 770.253.2720 • morganjewelersnewnan.com

Eager to fill all your jewelry needs at Morgan Jewelers in downtown Newnan are, from left, Amy Harrelson, Mari Settle, Bridget Kee, Jeff Morgan, Traci Neely and Taylor Collins.

Second Hubbell Proctor Design, Newnan

Third Morgan’s at White Oak, Newnan

Best Apparel Shop Ellie Mack Boutique

15 North Court Square, Newnan 678.857.3999 • ellie-mack.myshopify.com/

Celebrating their win for Best Apparel Shop are Ellie Mack Boutique representatives Kristie Chandler, left, and owner Katie Capshaw.

Second Blue Moon Boutique, Newnan

Second Finley’s Boutique, Newnan Third JB Joyce Boutique, Newnan

Best Gift Boutique Gillyweeds

21 West Court Square, Newnan 770.683.9200 • shopgillyweeds.com

Owner Valerie Dumas invites patrons to shop the vast assortment of unique gift items and art at Gillyweeds.

Second Newnan Mercantile, Newnan

Third Ellie Mack Boutique, Newnan

SHOPPING / ENTERTAINMENT

Best Furniture Store Knox Home Furnishings

75 Greenville Street, Newnan 770.253.4040 • knoxfurn.com

From left, Jeff Peek, Mark Knox and Sara Knox Rund are eager to serve your furnishing needs at their family owned and operated business.

Second Newnan Mercantile, Newnan

Third Blue Fern Merchant, Newnan

Best Plant Nursery/Greenhouse Coweta Greenhouses/ Morgan’s Market

81 Oaklawn Circle, Newnan • 770.251.3040

cowetagreenhouses.com • morgansmarket.com

Helping serve the nursery/greenhouse needs for numerous Coweta residents are, from left, Loretta Cash, Lori Strange, Joel Harris, Samantha Smith, Mark Taylor and Rosemary Bryan.

Second Southern Roots Nursery, Newnan

Third Breaking Ground Nursery, Newnan

Best Local Band/Musician Doug Kees

48 Spring Street, Newnan • 770.252.7900 musicologynewnan.com • dougkees.com

A local performer and music teacher whose musical influence spreads far past county lines, Doug Kees remains Coweta’s favorite local musician for the fifth year in a row.

Second Steven Moore, Newnan

Third Kris Youmans Band, Newnan

Best Live Music Venue The Alamo

19 West Court Square, Newnan 770.683.2526 • thealamonewnan.com

For the area’s best in live music, visit The Alamo on the square in downtown Newnan.

Second The Cellar, Newnan

Third The Bays at The Cellar, Newnan

Best Art Gallery/Studio

David Boyd Jr. GalleryStudio

14 East Washington Street, Newnan 678.361.8909 • theboydgallery.com

David Boyd Jr. shares his own art – as well as that of others –at David Boyd Jr. Gallery-Studio in downtown Newnan.

Second Corner Arts Gallery, Newnan

Third Fine Lines Art & Framing, Newnan

Best Local Artist Martin Pate

Newnan • pateart60@gmail.com • martinpate.com

Martin Pate’s artwork has been admired by Cowetans for years.

Second Jessica Holt, Newnan

Third Sara Starnes Arnall, Newnan

Best Local Author Steve Quesinberry

Newnan • 404.667.2850 • bettermencoweta.com

Steve Quesinberry’s most recent book, “Better Men,” chronicles the lives of 23 Coweta men killed in action during the Vietnam War.

Second Pat McKee, Newnan Third Skip Johnson, Newnan

Best Special Event/Wedding Venue Lillian Gardens

3 Greenville Street, Newnan 770.251.1206 • lilliangardens.com

Owner Ashley Keeley-Bercich welcomes guests to Lillian Gardens for special occasions, from bridal showers and weddings to family reunions.

Second The Venue at Murphy Lane, Newnan

Third Historic Train Depot, Newnan

Best Family Entertainment Junction Lanes

141 Newnan Station Drive, Newnan 770.683.2695 • junctionlanes.com

Along with bowling, Junction Lanes offers bumper cars, arcade games, climbing walls and more.

Second Black Bear Axe Throwing, Newnan Third Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan

Best Outdoor Recreation The LINC Trail

Newnan • friendsoflinc.org

Whether you’re on foot or cycling, the LINC linear park offers retreat into nature as it winds through Newnan.

Second Carl Miller Park, Newnan Third Chattahoochee Bend, Newnan

Best Spa Emily’s Skin Care & Spa

35 Jackson Street, Newnan 770.262.6233 • emilysskincarespa.com

Owner and esthetician Emily Mitchell, center, celebrates the win for Best Spa with, from left, Jessie Duncan, Ava Taylor, Lauren Wertz and Alexis Reuter.

Second Plumyumi Day Spa, Senoia Third W. Daly Salon Spa, Newnan

Best Massage Therapist Ute Anonsen True Balance Center

48 East Washington Street, Newnan 678.857.3484 • truebalanceofnewnan.com

Celebrating Ute Anonsen’s win as Coweta’s favorite massage therapist are, from left, Susie Cuebas, Ute Anonsen, Christina Revelle, Bailey Oliveira and Rebecca Helfers.

Second France Campbell at Nature & Nurture, Newnan

Third Maggie Hudler at Emily’s Skin Care & Spa, Newnan

Best Hair Salon Twinology Salon & Spa

41 D Newnan Station Drive, Newnan

678.850.0929 • facebook.com/Twinologysalon

Coweta’s Best Hair Salon, as voted by readers of Newnan-Coweta Magazine, is Twinology Salon & Spa, represented here by owners Stormy Owens, left, and Stasha Smith.

Second W. Daly Salon Spa, Newnan

Third The Opal Room, Newnan

Best Nail Salon Cozy Nails & Spa

300 Bullsboro Drive, Newnan 770.683.2878 • cozynailsandspa.com

Mimi Pham welcomes all to Cozy Nails & Spa for superior service.

Second Glamorous Nails & Spa, Newnan

Third Waterscape Nails & Spa, Sharpsburg

Best Barber Shop The Barber’s House of Handsome (HOH)

285 Temple Avenue, Suite D, Newnan 678.552.9111 • facebook.com/teamhoh

Newnan-Coweta Magazine readers ranked Barber’s House of Handsome tops in its category.

Second Barbers on the Boulevard, Newnan

Third The Barber Shop of Newnan, Newnan

Best Home Repair/Remodeling Warrior Restoration

3054 GA-154, Newnan 770.683.5555 • waterdamagenewnanga.com

Representing Warrior Restoration in its win as Coweta’s best for home repair and remodeling are, from left, Ashley Foster, Kelly Kelley and Dwayne Barber.

Second Lichty Brothers Homes, Newnan

Third Owens Construction, Sharpsburg

Best HVAC Service

Progressive Heating, Air & Plumbing

9 Tower Place, Newnan • 770.253.2665 • progressiveac.com

From left, Mike Kessler, owner Greg Wallace, Samantha Brazie and Delaney Janes work to keep you cool in summer and warm in winter.

Second Scotty’s Heating & Air, Turin

Third Headley Heating & Air, Newnan

Best Interior Design Service Blue Fern Merchant and Design Studio

167 Greenville Street S, Newnan 678.633.0080 • bluefernmerchant.com

Best of Coweta winner and interior designer Lori Duncan works with clients to create unique living spaces.

Second Knox Powell Designs, Newnan

Third Swoon Designs, Newnan

Best Roofing Service Hero Roofing

751 Corinth Road, Newnan • 833.761.0642 • yourroofhero.com

Meeting your roofing needs in Coweta are Hero Roofing representatives, from left, Todd Branon, Alicia Mullins, owner Nick Branon and Arin Willitts.

Second Eagle Watch Roofing, Newnan

Third Right Angle Roofing & Renovations, Newnan Third RoofTech Consulting & Construction, Newnan

Best Real Estate Agent

Joy Brown Barnes

BHHS GA Properties

1201 Lower Fayetteville Road, Suite 100, Newnan 770.254.8333 • joybarnesbhhsgeorgia.com

Representing Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, Coweta County native Joy Barnes knows real estate.

Second Hector Tirado - Dwelli, Newnan

Third Jess Barron - Lindsey’s Realtors, Newnan

Best Auto Repair Buck’s Tire

160 Temple Avenue, Newnan 770.683.8473 • buckstires.net

Longtime Best Tire Shop winner Buck’s Tire took the top spot for Auto Repair this year, too.

Second Litz Tire & Automotive, Newnan

Third Duncan Automotive, Newnan

Best Tire Shop Buck’s Tire

160 Temple Avenue, Newnan 770.683.8473 • buckstires.net

Customer service is the key to success at Buck’s Tire where owner Buck Floyd leads the team.

Second Binion Tire Pros, Newnan

Third Litz Tire & Auto, Newnan

Third Westside Tire, Newnan

Best Auto Body Shop Bypass Body Shop

366 Millard Farmer Industrial Blvd., Newnan 770.251.2022 • bypassbodyshop.net

Representing Bypass Body Shop are, from left, Megan Miller, Donna Hart, owners Jeff and Laurel Duncan, and Teri King.

Second Brian’s Paint & Body, Sharpsburg

Third B&B Body Shop, Newnan

Best Attorney J. Ryan Brown

60 Salbide Avenue, Newnan

470.635.1725 • jryanbrownlaw.com

Celebrating J. Ryan Brown’s win as Best Attorney are, from left, Hunter Rodgers, Ryan Brown and Sterling Dixon.

Second Walter W. Arnall, Newnan

Third Clif Sandlin - Lawson, Beck & Sandlin, Newnan

Best Child Care Newnan Presbyterian Preschool

38 Greenville Street, Newnan • 770.253.5018 • newnanps.org

Voted tops for child care are, from left, Renita Swenson, Jill Green, director Barbara Kookogey and assistant director Karen Geeter at Newnan Presbyterian Preschool.

Second All Stars Academy, Newnan

Third Cokes Chapel Childcare Center, Sharpsburg

Best Children’s Dance Studio Steppin’ Out

Arts Georgia

36 Madison Street, Newnan 770.683.1163 • steppinoutpaga.com

For children’s dance, Steppin’ Out takes first place.

Second Kyle Khan Studios, Newnan

Third Southern Arc Dance Center, Newnan

Best Pet Groomer Doggy Style Grooming

184 Greenville Street S, Newnan • 678.629.2534 facebook.com/doggystylegroomingsalon/

Leading the way at Doggy Style Grooming are, from left, front: Maggie Kingston, owner Danielle Sivell and Clair Addison. Back: Manager Amber Cooper and Kaylee Sivell.

Second The Grooming Cottage, Newnan Third U Dirty Dog, Newnan

Best Pet Boarding Georgia Canine

10620 Forrest Road, Grantville 678.633.2259 • gacanine.com

Georgia Canine owner Mark Storey holds Eisenhower while his daughter Chasity Meadows is pictured with Vulcan.

Second Kayla Brooke’s Bark ‘N Board, Moreland

Third Pet’s Paradise Grooming Salon & Spa, Newnan

Best Veterinary Hospital/Clinic Moreland Animal Hospital

2789 Highway 29 South, Moreland 770.755.6633 • morelandanimalhospital.com

Dr. Nicole Andrews-Kees welcomes pets – and their people – to Moreland Animal Hospital.

Second Sweetwater Animal Hospital, Palmetto

Third Dogwood Veterinary Hospital, Newnan

Best Internal Medicine/General Practitioner Dr. Stan Smith

Piedmont Healthcare

2401 Newnan Crossing Boulevard E, Suite 200, Newnan 770.400.7700 • doctors.piedmont.org

Congratulating Dr. Stan Smith, center, on his repeat win are, from left, Cynthia Ross-Finney and Lashunda McCullough.

Second Dr. Sean Miles - Miles Family Medicine, Newnan

Third Marlo Smith, NP - Lee-Goodrum Health, Newnan

Best Pediatrician Dr. J. Edwyn Carter

Piedmont Healthcare

189 Jefferson Parkway, Newnan • 770.304.2220 • doctors.piedmont.org

For the third year in a row, Newnan-Coweta Magazine readers voted Dr. J. Edwyn Carter as Coweta’s best pediatrician.

Second Dr. Jamison Roberts - Piedmont, Newnan

Third Dr. Jasmina Rice - Piedmont, Newnan

Best Women’s Health

Dr. Kristie Dyson

Southern Crescent Women’s HealthCare

775 Poplar Road, Suite 210, Newnan 770.991.2200 • scwhobgyn.com

Dr. Kristie Dyson has earned a reputation for exceptional service while providing care at Southern Crescent Women’s HealthCare.

Second Dr. Heide Moeling - Piedmont, Newnan

Third Dr. Heather Turner - Southern Crescent, Newnan

Best General Dentistry Coweta Dentistry

56 Jefferson Street, 15 Ruth Drive and 203 Millard Farmer Industrial Boulevard, Newnan 770.253.2802 • cowetadentistry.com

Dental hygienists who have served clients at Coweta Dentistry for more than 20 years each are, from left, Teresa Mapp, Natalie Boswell, Patti Cassell, Mia Allen and Abby White.

Second Yancey Dental, Newnan

Third Moynahan & Stamps, Newnan

Best Eye Care Carr Eye Care

1065 Sullivan Road, Suite C, Newnan 770.254.9997 • carreyecare.com

The staff at Carr Eye Care invite clients to a warm, comfortable atmosphere when entrusting your vision needs to them.

Second Newnan Family Eye Care, Newnan

Third Coweta Eye Care, Newnan

Best Dermatology Services Dr. Mark Ling Avail/Epiphany

710 Newnan Crossing Bypass, Newnan 770.251.5111 • availdermatology.com

For an array of dermatology services, visit Dr. Mark Ling and the staff at Avail Dermatology.

Second Dr. David Harvey - Dermatology Institute, Newnan

Third Neely Almand - Avail/Epiphany Dermatology, Newnan

Best Chiropractic Services

29 Millard Farmer Industrial Blvd #A3, Newnan 678.552.9140 • gatheringwellnesscollab.com

Celebrating their win for Best Chiropractic Services are, from left, Jennifer Rawlings, Dr. Stacy Milburn, owner Dr. Kelly Barnette with daughter Annalise Barnette, Anne Marie Baker and Sydnie Rawlings.

Second Dynamic Spine Center, Newnan

Third Elliott Chiropractic Clinic, Newnan

Best Pharmacy

Lee-Goodrum Pharmacy

40 Hospital Road, Newnan 770.253.1121 • leegoodrum.com

Owners Casey and Alison Tarpley look forward to filling all your prescription needs at their hometown pharmacy.

Second Thompson’s Pharmacy, Newnan

Third Lee-King Pharmacy, Newnan

Best Med Spa

Emily’s Skin Care & Spa

35 Jackson Street, Newnan

770.262.6233 • emilysskincarespa.com

Emily’s Skin Care & Spa took the most reader votes for Best Med Spa, making them double winners this year, as they also took the top spot for Best Spa.

Second Thérapie, Newnan

Third Simply Sweet Skin Aesthetic Wellness, Sharpsburg

Best Personal Trainer Katelyn Synoground

Onelife Fitness

19 Millard Farmer Industrial Blvd., Suite A, Newnan 770.251.9950 • onelifefitness.com

Best of Coweta winner and personal trainer Katelyn Synoground, left, celebrates her win with fitness director Mario Render.

Second Joshua Ortiz - Stabil FIT Life, Newnan

Second Karen Nuno - Burn Boot Camp, Newnan

Third Jennifer Dreyer - Fitness For You, Newnan

Third Lori Lovett - Piedmont Newnan Hospital/Exercise is Medicine, Newnan

Best Assisted Living Facility

Wesley Woods of Newnan

2280 Highway 29 North, Newnan

770.683.6833 • wesleywoods.org

Wesley Woods offers a full array of services for Coweta’s senior set.

Second Monarch House, Newnan

Third Magnolia Senior Living, Sharpsburg

TO THE BEST…AGAIN!

We have been voted the top choice of Newnan-Coweta Magazine readers for Assisted Living not once, not twice, but three times now Thank you. Thank you. And, from our heart, thank you again.

We are proud of our sterling reputation as the region’s only Life Plan community – offering topquality independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing under one roof. All of which our residents will tell you rank as “the best.”

Wesley Woods is the only Life Plan Community in the Newnan area – offering independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing.

Two personalities of the Aloha State

Written

GLENDA

HARRIS

Our long-awaited trip to Hawaii was first planned for the spring of 2020 and finally accomplished in September 2022.

Most visitors to the Aloha State choose Waikiki Beach as their destination. And why not? With approximately two miles of shoreline along the Pacific Ocean and views of Diamond Head rising against the sky, it is the iconic Hawaiian expectation.

If the island’s center of tourism is not your cup of Mai

Tai, keep reading. This article offers two perspectives with recommendations for both Waikiki Beach and the lesser traveled North Shore.

Hosting us for our first visit to Hawaii was our son and his family who moved to the island in 2019. An adventurous bunch, they quickly discovered the best beaches, bays, trails and views. When you visit, consider a windshield tour as the entire island is so profuse with natural beauty, one need only pay attention.

by

HARRIS | Photos by MIKE

The beauty of Hawaii is evident at the leeward coast of Oahu looking north from Makapu’u onto the Ko’olau Range.

The tourist side of Honolulu

To get the full tourist experience, we began by staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, a high-rise oceanfront resort. The village offers it all: panoramic views, restaurants, cafes and shopping, all surrounded by lush gardens.

Near the village is the Moana Surfrider, a historic hotel close to the International Market Place and Waikiki Beach Walk. Onsite are restaurants, a spa and a large lanai for people watching and resting.

Just up the road is the Outrigger Reef Resort, a contemporary oceanfront hotel with excellent reviews. Note: Sea turtles are often seen from the elevated walkway behind the oceanfront hotels. Other options include properties available through VRBO and Airbnb.

The historic sites of Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona can be visited by looking through recreation. gov. After a one-and-a-half hour tour, browse on your own to learn more about the important World War II history here.

For dining, Tropics Café is highly recommended for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their Vanilla Cream Caramel French Toast is a must-try. In the same area is Bali Oceanfront, offering premier dining and views, while a casual eatery adjacent to the pool is convenient for lunch, snacks and beverages.

There’s no shortage of shopping in Waikiki. Just steps from the village is Honolulu Cookie Company, famous for their butter cookies. Try the Waikiki Shopping Plaza with three levels of retail heaven. Take a short walk up Kalakaua Avenue to Luxury Row, a mecca of luxury brands and trending styles.

Get in some exercise while enjoying the view by hiking the beach heading towards Diamond Head until you reach Fort DeRussy Beach Park. This public beach is on the grounds of a former military base. Lush landscaping and monkeypod trees provide restful shade. On site is the U.S. Military Museum, free to the public. For ambitious hikers, hike the steep .8-mile trail to the top of Diamond Head.

No

matter what direction you look, the views in Hawaii are stunning.

Below dark clouds, the sun sets on calm waters of Ke’ehi Lagoon, a protected area next to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.

“...The entire island is so profuse with natural beauty, one need only pay attention.”

– Glenda Harris

The North Shore

From Waikiki Beach, the North Shore is about a 45-minute drive. Here you’ll find no high-rise hotels blocking the views. With small towns and roads that hug the shoreline, the North Shore is all about the ocean, waves and sunsets. Winter months are the busiest, primarily November and December, when the world’s elite surfers congregate to ride enormous waves that reach up to 50 feet. The record, set in 2016, is 70 feet.

Turtle Bay is the only full resort on the North Shore and it is pricey; one can, however, spend the day on the property without staying there. Stroll the lush, manicured grounds; visit the lobby cafe; rest a few minutes in their reading room; and take a self-guided tour of Hawaiian history. Adjacent to the resort, there’s a secluded beach, Kulima Cove, that’s great for snorkeling and spotting sea turtles.

Other places to stay include a Courtyard by Marriott, which is across the street from the beach, as well as several 4-star hotels on or near the beach.

For fun in the water, check out Shark’s Cove, a popular spot for snorkeling and sea turtles. (Despite

the name, we saw no sharks!) The Cove is a collection of tide pools and part of Pupukea Beach Park, free and open to the public.

Laniakea Beach, nearby, is also known for sea turtles. Watch for them to drift in on the clear-water surf.

Matsumoto’s Shaved Ice in the Haleiwa area is worth a stop to try this cool treat boasting many flavors. Café Haleiwa features a breakfast, burgers and sandwiches. For dinner, enjoy casual surroundings and colorful

Sunset at the shoreline in Oahu is a thing of beauty.

At Kaneohe Bay in Oahu, a paddler practices for outrigger ocean canoe racing, the official state team sport in Hawaii. A huge part of Hawaiian history and culture, the sport serves as a reminder to know and respect the ocean.

cocktails at the Haleiwa Beach House, complete with a sunset view. While in the northern part of Oahu, pay a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center, a living museum in Laie with art, exhibits and fascinating information on Hawaiian/Pacific Island culture.

Saving the best for last, why are Hawaiian sunsets considered the best?

The combination of westward drifting volcanic dust from Kilauea and the year-round humid climate creates colors that are more intense. Plus, the remote location surrounded by water means there’s nothing to break up the line of the horizon. Continue looking 10 minutes after sunset because the colors continue to change. With amazing angles, rich colors and extended viewing time, watching the sunset in Hawaii is truly an unforgettable experience. NCM

Thank You for Voting Us #1!

We honestly have no words. Thank you! We have felt every prayer, cherished every kind word, adored every encouraging note, and clung to the amazing support our community has shown us. Y’all have loved us through some of our darkest times as a business. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

“…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.”

ISAIAH 61:3

Photos by Fitzography

W e a r e O p e n !

-Tired,

-Swelling

-Itching,

-Skin

-Heaviness

The Best of BOGO

Written by GAIL MCGLOTHIN | Photographed by APRIL MCGLOTHIN-ELLER

Knowing what BOGO means was a rite of passage for me. I grew up looking at the FBI’s 10 Most Wanted posters on my small town post office wall and learned what AKA meant. Reading detective novels enlightened me on BOLO. And then the acronyms for texting – LOL, BTW, TBH – surfaced, but I still didn’t know what BOGO meant. My grocery list was the hint. After a big BOGO sale, I noticed several items were 50% off. Hence, Buy One Get One.

Many things in our world are suited to two: Peanut butter and jelly. Fall and college football. A manicure is a treat, but a mani-pedi is luxury itself. One child is great, but twins – someone to wash and someone to dry! And of course, the left Twix is just a shadow unless the right Twix is in the package.

Along with BOGO at the grocery store, another treat for busy cooks, gourmet cooks or “don’t like to cook” cooks is to cook once and get two meals out of it. In other words: Cook Once Eat Twice (COET).

I’ve gotten good at cooking just enough food for our family of five. Sometimes leftovers for one or two lunches may be stowed away in the refrigerator. But for a special occasion, a busy week, or the family just wants two entrees: COET.

Time savers are especially helpful when you are in the COET mood. When chopping onions and garlic for your main dish, chop extra for the other meal components. If you’re baking potatoes and plan to have them tonight and later in the week, bake enough for both meals. Extra boiled eggs in the refrigerator is a convenient snack food.

On COET nights, since you’re cooking extra for another meal, write amounts for each ingredient on the recipe(s) for future reference.

Strawberry Cream Rolls, see recipe on page 82.

COWETA COOKS

40 Cloves of Garlic Chicken

“This recipe started out as 20 cloves of garlic and worked its way up to 40 cloves, so we have enough garlic for an appetizer or sandwich spread. Mashing half of the garlic cloves to stir back into the sauce gives it a creamy texture without the fat and calories of cream.”

4 heads garlic

6-8 chicken thighs

Salt and pepper

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 sprigs fresh thyme

1 bay leaf

1½ cups chicken stock

1 tablespoon cornstarch

Fill saucepan with 2 cups water; bring to a boil. Separate 40 garlic cloves, but do not peel. Add to water and cook 1 minute. Drain, cool and peel.

With paper towels, dry chicken and season with salt and pepper. Heat a large deep pan or skillet over medium high heat. Add butter and oil. Brown chicken, skin side down, and cook 5 minutes; flip and cook 3 minutes on the other side. You will need to cook in batches.

Plate the first batch and repeat with the second batch. Return all thighs to pan. Scatter peeled garlic cloves around. Add thyme, bay leaf and 1 cup chicken stock. Cover and cook over medium low heat for 30 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through. Transfer chicken and garlic to a platter and cover to keep warm.

Mash half of cloves to a paste and put back into pot, stirring well. Discard the bay leaf. Turn heat to high and boil until liquid is reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Whisk cornstarch into the remaining ½ cup chicken stock. Stir into the pan and cook until stock is slightly thickened. Pour sauce over chicken and serve. This works well over rice, pasta or potatoes.

Pasta with Chicken, Spinach and Tomatoes

“This recipe gives a good opportunity to try fun pasta shapes and sizes.”

½ pound pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1½ teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1½ teaspoons balsamic vinegar

¼ teaspoon dried crushed red pepper

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary

1 teaspoon chopped garlic

2-3 cups chopped chicken thighs (preferably leftovers from 40 Cloves of Garlic Chicken)

3 cups chopped fresh spinach

1 cup chopped tomatoes

½ cup chicken broth

½ cup grated parmesan cheese

Follow directions on pasta container to start cooking pasta. Drain when done. Combine 2 tablespoons oil, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, crushed red pepper, rosemary, and 1 teaspoon garlic in large bowl. Set aside.

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet. Sauté garlic for one minute; add chicken and sauté until the chicken is warm. Add spinach and chopped tomatoes. Stir until spinach has wilted. Add pasta, Worcestershire mixture and chicken broth. Cook over medium heat until stock is slightly absorbed. Stir in parmesan cheese and serve. Serves 4 generously.

Refrigerator Rolls

“Summer time is a good time to make yeast raised rolls, savory and sweet. Once the dough is in the refrigerator, the rolls are easy enough to get onto the table for dinner or breakfast.”

1 package yeast

½ cup warm water

¼ cup sugar

1 cup soft butter

2 teaspoons salt

1 cup mashed potatoes (unseasoned and a little dry)

1 cup hot potato water

1 large egg, beaten

6 cups all-purpose flour

Dissolve yeast in warm water with 1 teaspoon of the sugar. Let sit until bubbly. Stir together butter, remaining sugar, salt and mashed potatoes; add hot potato water. When cool, stir in yeast and beaten egg. Add enough flour, one cup at a time, to make a stiff dough. Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and knead well. Put into oiled bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap then a dish towel, and place in refrigerator for up to a week. Punch the dough down as it rises in refrigerator.

When ready to use, remove half of the dough from refrigerator and bring to room temperature. Shape into rolls as simple or as elegant as you please; place on parchment paper. Cover and let rise until doubled. Bake about 20 minutes at 375 degrees until brown and done. (Use remaining half of dough to make Strawberry Cream Rolls.)

Strawberry Cream Rolls

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/3 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/3 cup strawberry jelly or your favorite jelly

Refrigerator Rolls (½ dough from previous recipe)

1½ cups confectioner’s sugar

2 to 3 tablespoons milk

Beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until smooth. Put jelly in a microwave safe bowl. Microwave 10 to 20 seconds until jelly is thin. Set both aside.

Grease 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or shortening. Punch down dough and turn out onto a floured surface. Because the dough is soft, it is better, but harder, to work with if cold. Roll dough into a rectangle

12 inches wide and 7 to 8 inches long. Spread cream cheese mixture to 1 inch of each side. Dot thinned jelly evenly across the cream cheese mixture. Roll from long edge, ending with seam on the bottom. With a sharp knife, cut into 1-inch slices and place cut edge down in dish.

Cover and let rise until doubled. Bake at 375 degrees until brown and done, about 20 minutes. After removing from oven, mix confectioner’s sugar with milk. Drizzle over rolls.

Kelly’s Kick-Butt Butt

7-8 pound Boston butt

Garlic powder

Tony Chachere’s Cajun Seasoning

1 bottle A-1 Steak Sauce

At least 3 hours before grilling, rinse the butt and pat dry with paper towel. Lay a double layer of wide and heavy aluminum foil on a counter. Center the butt on the foil. Sprinkle garlic powder on all surfaces of the meat, followed by a generous sprinkling of Tony’s seasoning. Massage into the butt, adding more garlic or Tony’s as needed. Pour a medium bottle of A-1 Steak Sauce over the top. Tightly wrap and seal the meat. Place in refrigerator overnight or at least 3 hours before grilling.

Preheat gas grill to 400 degrees. Place butt in center of grill, turning off the flames below the butt and leaving both sides on. Close the lid to the grill and let it cool down to 350 degrees, keeping the grill at 350. Using a meat thermometer, check the temperature of the butt. Remove from grill when the internal temperature is 145 to 150 degrees. Let rest for at least 15 minutes; slice and serve.

Cuban Sandwich

“Mashing the sandwich is key to this crunchy lunch. Mashing it down with cast iron and filling the cast iron skillet with heavy cans is the best way to get them flat. Cuban sandwiches are thin and crispy so a panini grill is handy but a griddle, spatula and cast iron pan works just as well.”

For one sandwich:

1 crusty hoagie roll

Yellow mustard

Hamburger dill pickle

Roast pork slices (from Kelly’s Kick-Butt Butt)

Ham slices

Swiss or Provolone cheese slices

Butter

Spread inside of each half of roll with yellow mustard. Lay 3 to 4 hamburger dills on mustard. Layer roast pork, ham and cheese on top of pickles. Cover with top of bun. Heat griddle, panini cooker or sauce pan. Spread bottom and top of sandwich with butter. Grill on medium heat, mashing the sandwich as thin as possible. NCM

Photos by: Brent Scheepers

#1 THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

PIZZA

Karvelas Pizza Co. is more than just a family-owned restaurant, it's a community staple. The love and support we have received from the people of Coweta County has been overwhelming and we are honored to announce that we have won the Best of Coweta award for the third year in a row.

We are humbled by the trust and support that you have placed in us and we promise to continue delivering the same high-quality pizza and customer service that has earned us this recognition.

Once again, we want to thank the community of Coweta County for their unwavering support and for honoring us with this prestigious award. It is our pleasure to serve you and we look forward to seeing you soon at Karvelas Pizza Co.

The Lovely White Beach

A place…………. a place I need to be. It’s peaceful, peaceful by the sea. My thoughts wander. And my dreams seem to float -On the winds and waves

Tossed like a tiny sailboat.

Time is slowed at this place so dear. The beach, the waves, the sky so very clear

The salty air cleans my spirit, And slows down the race of life.

Gazing at an evening sunset

The sky on fire as it ushers in the night.

Soon I will join you

Oh, place of peace.

Soon I will see…

The lovely white beach.

Are

Poetry and Photography by KARL McMICHAEL

Karl McMichael is a lifelong resident of Newnan and a writer who has published four books.

Bake Your Best Christmas Cookies

Newnan-Coweta Magazine announces its sixth annual Bake Your Best Christmas Cookie Contest with judging set for Sept. 22.

Three Categories: Traditional Cookies

Decorated Cookies

Cookies by Kids (for kids 12 and under)

First, second and third place prizes will be awarded in each category with one first place winner named Grand Prize Champion. Winners and their recipes will be featured in our November/ December Holiday issue!

Entrants must submit six to 12 cookies with the recipe and the entrant’s name, phone number and email address, plus the category they are entering: Traditional, Decorated or Cookies by Kids.

All entries must be brought to Newnan-Coweta Magazine offices at 16 Jefferson Street in Newnan on Thursday, Sept. 21, between 2 and 5 p.m. or on Friday, Sept. 22, between 9 a.m. and 12 noon. An independent panel of judges will make their decisions based on cookie taste and appearance on the afternoon of Sept. 22. Winners will be contacted the following week and awarded a holiday gift basket packed with prizes from our generous local business sponsors.

WE REPRESENT THE ORIGINAL CONCEPT OF FINE DINING. WE PRIDE OURSELVES ON SERVING USDA PRIME AGED, CORN-FED BEEF, THAT IS BUTCHERED IN HOUSE.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO COWETA

Photo by Ron Schuck

This red-shouldered hawk looks over his shoulder near Art & Jake’s Sports Bar at Newnan Crossing ByPass.

Photo by Chance Mirabile

Photo by Ledy Esquenazi

Red, white and blue were

display at the Senoia History Museum when it observed Memorial Day in May.

Photo by Gary Wilson

The morning brings multiple shades of green at Margarita Trail.

Beautiful flowers and patriotic colors set the tone for Fourth of July in Moreland.

2 023 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SPRING

March 4 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

March 24 - Spring Art Walk, 5-9pm

April 1 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

April 16-22 - Downtown Newnan Restaurant Week

May 6 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

SUMMER

June 3 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

June 8 - Summer NewnaNights, 6-9pm

June 16 - Summer Wined Up, 5-9pm

July 1 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

July 4 - July 4th Parade, 9am

July 13 - Summer NewnaNights, 6-9pm

Aug 5 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

Aug 10 - Summer NewnaNights, 6-9pm

Sept 1-4 - Labor Day Sidewalk Sale

Sept 2 - S unrise on the Square 5k, 8am

Sept 2 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

Sept 22 - Fall Art Walk, 5-9pm

Oct 6 - Oktoberfest, 5-10pm

Oct 7 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

Oct 21 - Spirits & Spice Festival, 2-7pm

Oct 31 - Munchkin Masquerade, 10am-12pm

AUTUMN WINTER

Nov 4 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

Nov 17 - Holiday Sip & See, 5-9pm

Nov 24 - Plaid Friday

Nov 24 - Santa on the Square, 6-8pm

Nov 25 - Small Business Saturday

Dec 2 - Market Day, 10am-2pm

Photo by Harry Dunn Sunset at SummerGrove is a feast for the eyes.

Photo by Ron Schuck

An eastern bluebird ponders spring in Newnan.

The Little Middle Man

I eat steel cut oatmeal with peanut butter for breakfast Monday through Thursday and bring my lunch to work. On Fridays, I splurge.

And by splurging, I mean I stop by Doba, just off the town square, and get a croissant and a doughnut. Then for lunch, the work buddies meet out somewhere for good food and good company.

This issue of Newnan-Coweta Magazine is aimed to congratulate those local businesses voted “Best of Coweta” for the year. And as long as my friends at Lee-Goodrum Pharmacy win, I will accept the results and assume it was an honest election.

I was talking with some friends recently about how happy we are to see locally owned businesses doing well. Those are the people who invest back into the community.

I remember when I got roped into coaching my son’s T-ball team many moons ago. I went into Alamo Jacks, as it was called at the time, and asked the owner to sponsor my T-ball team. She said “yes” before asking how much it would cost her.

The “Best of Coweta” is all around us. We are fortunate in that. Anyone who can start a mom-andpop business in 2023 is the “Best of” something.

I’m not knocking the national stores that have a local presence. I deal with them quite a bit for work purposes, and they are some of our biggest supporters.

But this issue of this magazine is about celebrating the mom-and-pops.

I was talking not so long ago with a friend who owns a local business. In his shop, he sells some shirts I’ve made. I’m not a good businessman, which is evidenced by the fact that I don’t have to refill my shirt shelf very often. But I was trying to cut him a friend discount because that’s what I thought I should do.

He told me: “Your enemies aren’t going to buy your stuff. You have to charge your friends or you’ll never make anything.”

He was right. But I’ve seen with my own eyes what he puts back into the community. I’ve seen how he supports me and my profession. Giving him money is kind of like giving money to the people in our town who need it – and just using him as the middle man.

We are a little community in a big world, but I like it here. I think we’re doing something right.

Mark Twain said: “If voting made any difference, they wouldn’t let us do it.”

I agree with him on a larger scale. But on the local scale, we vote every time we shop.

The “Best of” is everyone who’s open for business today. Go give to your community, by way of the middle man –because the middle man is way out front when it comes to supporting the local community. NCM

Southern-born and Southern-bred, Toby Nix is a local writer who works in law enforcement.

Then. Now. Always YOUR POWERFUL PARTNER

For 75 years, CFEMC does more than keep the lights on. We give you the power to plug into your family, friends and neighbors. That’s the CFEMC difference.