Notes from Perry Street
This is the time of year when many of our local non-profit groups hold their big fundraisers.
Some of them involve running. And not only running, but count as sanctioned races to prove you got up at some ungodly hour to get a cool t-shirt and then, well, run. I prefer those that include a “kid walk” or something like that.
I am simply one who does not care to run as a form of exercise, even if it is for charity, and especially if it is before breakfast.
Now, mention something involving a golf tournament and I am all in. Heck, I will even bring in people to make a foursome or two.
And for others, anything that involves dressing up to the nines? Well our all-in-one Paper Girl/Ambassador at large/marketing guru is your girl, er, woman. The Little Black Dress came out of the womb wearing high heels.
Local non-profits serve a wide mix of needs and were created for many reasons. Some were born of tragedy - a child lost to childhood cancer, or a car accident. Others have a passion to serve a specific need - helping families to adopt, or providing food on the weekend for students who may not have a meal other than at school.
Others raise funds to help with mentoring high schools students to stay in school, focus on after-school programs or provide medical care for the needy.
One of our missions here at Winters Media Publishing is to promote these non-profits not only by covering their events, but offering substantial advertising discounts. We believe great communities focus on those who need help, and Coweta County is a wonderful place to have a non-profit.
And so a big thank you to the organizers and volunteers who make these great events … great. And to all the sponsors, your generosity is appreciated more than ever.
I want to end with a letter from one of our local non-profits. It shows the need, but also how powerful even a small donation can be. And honestly, any leader of any non-profit would say something similar.
Dear Neighbor,
Today, I am reaching out to you not just as the Executive Director of Bridging the Gap (BTG) Community Outreach, but as someone deeply committed to ending hunger and offering hope to our community. We stand at a critical crossroads: the reality of escalating food insecurity, combined with dwindling resources from our vital retail partners, has placed enormous pressure on our ability to serve.
In 2024 alone, BTG Community Outreach made a profound difference by distributing over 2.3 million pounds of food, assisting 26,783 households, impacting the lives of 34,602 children, serving 23,417 hot meals, and directly supporting 75,396 individuals through our pantry services. The numbers tell a story of a community urgently in need—62% of those we serve are working, retired, or disabled, and nearly half are children under 18. Your generosity is their lifeline.
Remarkably, in 2024, 95 cents of every dollar donated to BTG went directly into our mission of compassion and service—to “Feed, Serve, and Restore.”
But now, the need is greater than ever.
Your financial contribution is crucial. Every one dollar given provides immediate and meaningful relief— delivering 12 pounds of food directly into the hands of those facing hunger. Your support keeps families nourished, strengthens the fabric of our community, and ensures no neighbor faces the painful uncertainty of an empty pantry alone.
Please consider making a generous donation today. With your help, we can ensure that no one in our community is left behind.
Together, let’s transform lives, one meal at a time.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Jamar Joiner Executive Director
BTG Community Outreach
The PAPER
John A. Winters, Publisher, Editor john@wintersmedia.net
Corby Carlin Winters, Ambassador At Large corby@wintersmedia.net
Joey Howard, Digital Editor / Sales 404.698.0734 joey@wintersmedia.net
Levi Winters, Social & Visual Media levi@wintersmedia.net
Ruth Harris Doyal, Composition 770.254.1421 info@wintersmedia.net
The PAPER office is located at 15 Perry Street, Newnan, GA 30263
Mailing address is: P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264
Office Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri. 9 - 4. 770-254-1421 e-mail: info@wintersmedia.net web: https://www.wintersmedia.net
The PAPER is published by Winters Media & Publishing, Inc., P. O. Box 757, Newnan, GA 30264
John A. Winters, President
Corby Carlin Winters, Vice President
The PAPER is distributed throughout Coweta County and surrounding areas. You can find it at restaurants, banks, tourist locations, hotels, convenience stores, libraries and other high visibility locations. For more information … info@wintersmedia.net
The LOCATIONS
around downtown
Main Street Newnan
6 First Avenue, Newnan, GA 30263
770.253.8283 mainstreetnewnan.com
Market Day • Saturday, June 7, July 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Over 55 unique spaces, with a variety of one-of-a-kind gift item including fresh locally grown produce, honey, jams & jellies, pottery, art, hand-woven baskets, leather products, etc.
Check their website frequently for fun things to do! explorenewnancoweta.com
local theatre
24 1st Ave, Newnan • 770-683-6282 newnantheatre.org
SHREK the Musical • May 8-11, 15-18, and 22-25, 2025
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, Shrek The Musical is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure. “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek....” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess who resists her rescue.
N.I.T.W.I.T.S. Mandatory Funny • May 30 and 31, 2025
Join us for Newnan Theatre Company’s second-ever night of original sketch comedy! Buckle up as your favorite local stooges take on pop culture and current events in a fashion totally befitting a bunch of N.I.T.W.I.T.S.
The Legacy TheaTre
The Legacy Theatre
1175 Senoia Rd., Suite C., Tyrone, GA., 30290 legacytheatre.com
The Play That Goes Wrong • May 9-11th
Friday & Saturday at 7 p.m., Saturday & Sunday at 2 p.m. From Mischief, Broadway masters of comedy, comes the smash hit farce. Welcome to opening night of the Cornley University Drama Society’s newest production, The Murder at Haversham Manor, where things are quickly going from bad to utterly disastrous. This 1920s whodunit has everything you never wanted in a show—an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines).
Southside Theatre Guild
20 W Campbellton St, Fairburn, GA 30213 • 770-969-0956
The Island of Dr. Libris • May 15-18, 22-25
“The Island of Dr. Libris” is an action-packed adventure that celebrates the power of imagination, revealing that sometimes the real story begins after you close the book. Young Billy is spending his summer at a lakeside cabin owned by the enigmatic Dr. Libris. He discovers something strange and magical: whenever he opens the classic books from Dr. Libris’ private bookcase, he can hear the sounds of battles, dialogues, and even feel the ground shake, as if the stories are coming to life on the island in the middle of the lake.
Check their website for the latest … stgplays.com/
McRitchie-Hollis Museum
74 Jackson St., Newnan • 770.251.0207 newnancowetahistory.com
WWI & WWII Cowetans Killed In Action • May 15 PorchFest • May 31
Tag Sale, Awards Ceremony, Architectural Program … NCHC has rescheduled some events
Tag Sale July 18 & 19 with member “sneak peek”on July 17. NCHC Awards Program • Thursday, July 17 at 6:00 p.m at the University of West Georgia. Awards for Preservation, Historian, Outstanding Member, Philanthropy, Community Partner, and Volunteerism. Please attend to honor / thank those being awarded!
Immediately on the heels of the awards program … Architectural Presentation • Thursday, July 17
A special presentation led by local design expert Loren Taylor on architect R. Kennon Perry followed by a self-guided driving tour. This informative session explains how Perry helped shape the face of historic Newnan. FREE event — $20 suggested donation not required for attendance.
Look for their ad for more info. Check out website for the latest.
The Carnegie Library
1 LaGrange Street, Newnan, 770.683.1347 newnancarnegie.com
Exercise Is Medicine, Gentle Yoga and Crochet, Book Club with Lola, Literary Circle Book Club, and more. The Newnan Carnegie Library Foundation presents The Edgar B Hollis Distinguished Author Series with Marie BostwickMay 15, 11:30 am. She’s discuss her book The Book Club for Troublesome Women. Visit eventbrite.com to register. Some events require reservations and space is limited. Visit newnancarnegie.com for more events and information.
Artz N Park Annual Festival • May 10, 1 to 7 p.m.
9th annual festival is a free, one-day event at Marimac Lakes Park in Senoia showcasing the vibrant tapestry of artistic expression in a beautiful outdoor setting. This family-friendly event promises a day of creativity, celebration, and community with food, live performances, readings and visual displays. It offers a platform for artists of all genres - Music, Dance, Theatre, Literary and Visual - to showcase their talents and share their stories. For more information and updates, visit www.artznpark.org
Check their website and Facebook page for more information on upcoming events and camps.
Centre for Performing & Visual Arts 1523 Lower Fayetteville Rd., Newnan, GA 30265 www.thenixoncentre.net 770.254.2787
Check Facebook and website for events!
Coweta County Senior Services
SPRING SENIOR HAPPENINGS
Get our latest updates by following Coweta County Senior Services on Social Media, which includes Special Events, Live Music Concerts, Educational Programs and much more. Free exercise classes like Ageless Grace Body and Brain Fitness, Zumba, Yoga, Whole Body Workout, Line Dancing are offered for Senior Community on daily basis. If you have any questions, give us a call at 770-683-8600.
Events Calendar
TOMMY THOMPSON SENIOR CENTER 29 Hospital Road, Newnan
Events Calendar
MAY JUNE
MAY JUNE Tuesdays – Line Dancing, 10-11:30 a.m., Gymnasium
Senior Center closed May 9,13,15, 26; June 19,24-25-26
WEEKLY EVENTS (May & June)
Lunch ($2) is served daily, Monday-Friday, 11:15 a.m.
Mondays – Body & Brain Fitness with Edith, 10 a.m.
Tuesdays – Whole Body Workout with Nick, 10 a.m.
Wednesdays – Chair Yoga, 10 a.m.
Thursdays – Zumba with Sunny, 10 a.m.
Fridays – BINGO, 10 a.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS
May 9, Friday – Three Rivers Picnic, 9 a.m.
May 15, Thurs. – Day Trip to The Varsity & Zoo Atlanta, 10 a.m.
May 28, Wednesday – Vet to Vet Cafe, 1p.m.
June 18, Wednesday – Vet to Vet Cafe, 1p.m.
ONGOING SERIES
n Tech Talk with Chet O. Beasley
Mondays at 10 a.m. – May 12, June 9, June 23
Learn more about smartphones, tablets, apps, emails, Internet and more. Free classes for all seniors 55+.
n Health & Wellness Series
May 19, Monday, 10:30 a.m. – Mental Health Awareness
June 16, Monday, 10:30 a.m. – Sun Safety
Presented by Olivia Handley, Coweta County Family and Consumer Sciences Agent. These classes are free.
n Senior Community Support Group
May 20, Tuesday, 1p.m. • June 2, Monday, 10:30 a.m.
June 17, Tuesday, 1 p.m.
This twice-a-month Support Group is led by Katrina Lynch, Th.M, M.Div, MA / Chaplain.
MAY JUNE
MADRAS PARK COMMUNITY CENTER & GYM 2355 Highway 29 North, Newnan
Events Calendar
LEROY H. JOHNSON COMMUNITY CENTER 6646 Highway 16 East, Senoia
WEEKLY EVENTS (May & June)
Tuesdays – All-levels Yoga Class, 10 a.m.
Wednesdays – Zumba with Sunny, 11:15 a.m.
Thursdays – Line Dancing Class, 10 a.m.
Fridays – All-levels Yoga Class, 10 a.m.
SPECIAL EVENTS
May 7, Wednesday – Three Rivers Nutrition Class, 10:15 a.m.
May 14, Wednesday – Tech Talks, 10:15 a.m.
May 21, Wed. – Mental Health Awareness w/Olivia, 10:15 a.m.
May 28, Wed. – Brunch with Chris (Edward Jones), 10 a.m.
May 28, Wednesday – BINGO, 10:15 a.m.
June 4, Wednesday – TRIVIA, 10:15 a.m.
June 11, Wed. – Get Organized w/ Beth (Home Helpers), 10:15 a.m.
June 18, Wed. – Sun Safety with Olivia, 10:15 a.m.
June 25, Wed. – Brunch with Chris (Edward Jones), 10 a.m.
June 25, Wednesday – BINGO, 10:15 a.m.
Coweta County Senior Services
for more information phone: 770-683-8600 website: cowetaparksandrec.com
@cowetacountyseniorservices
*NOTE: All events are subject to change.
GARAGE DOORS
In Theaters:
The Film Fix … Streaming Edition
with Jonathan W. Hickman
Thunderbolts* (now playing) – l Fix Rating 7/10 – There is an asterisk in the title of this MCU film for a strategic reason. But the reveal behind the use of that typographic symbol isn’t what makes the film so special. The most surprising superpower this motley crew of emotionally damaged heroes possesses is their extraordinarily warm hearts. They care, even if they loudly protest otherwise.
The film follows former Red Room assassin Yelena Belova (Florence Pugh), who carries out orders for the CIA director Valentina Allegra de Fontaine (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). Depressed by the loss of her sister (Black Widow) and bored by her murderous assignments, Yelena is considering giving it all up.
After visiting her goofy father Alexei Shostakov, aka the Red Guardian (David Harbour), Valentina gives her another mission, which brings her into conflict with John Walker, aka U.S. Agent (Wyatt Russell), Ava Starr, aka Ghost (Hannah John-Kamen), and the neurologically altered killer Taskmaster (Olga Kurylenko).
Reluctantly, these anti-heroes team up when they realize Valentina has been playing them for fools. And when they are imprisoned in a secret government bunker, they accidentally unlock a container housing the unassuming Bob (Lewis Pullman). Bob’s secret could be their salvation or the planet’s biggest threat. With the help of newly minted congressman Bucky Barnes aka the Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan), the Thunderbolts are formed.
Like other Marvel movies, there’s a fair amount of mindless destruction (a couple of skyscrapers are damaged) and untold numbers of innocents injured or worse. However, a light, playful, good-natured feeling floating about this film transcends the messy falseness that permeated the last MCU entry, “Captain America: Brave New World.”
The personal nature of this narrative is relatable as it focuses on mental health struggles and the effects of trauma. Director Jake Schreier (see “Paper Towns” and “Robot & Frank”) balances pathos with over-the-top superhero action sequences as well as almost any film in the Marvel franchise. It will leave you wanting to see more of these misfits as they save the world in the most gloriously awkward way possible.
The Surfer (now playing) – l Fix Rating 7/10 – No actor in cinematic history has been more abused on screen than Nicolas Cage. And with “The Surfer,” he plays yet another tortured guy who endures all manner of cruelty and violence. This low-budget Australian film has Cage, sans any Aussie accent, as the hapless title character, a man trying to buy his old family home while being besieged by local beach folk.
This trippy film directed by Lorcan Finnegan (see his 2022 feature “Nocebo”) can weigh on the viewer as Cage’s everyman devolves farther and farther down into a disturbing abyss. But after the story goes through a weird psychedelic sequence, Finnegan smartly allows us to see some of the full Cage we know and love. “The Surfer” is a minor entry for the actor but a worthy example of his twisted and masochistic talents.
Streaming Selects:
Fear Street: Prom Queen (May 23) – The continuing adaptation of R.L. Stine’s book series continues with “Prom Queen.” This ‘80s-themed “Fear Street” franchise entry follows the efforts of outcast Lori Granger (India Fowler) to capture the prom queen crown. But to rise to the top, she’s got to do battle with the in-crowd and face off with an ax-wielding killer. Katherine Waterston, Lili Taylor, and Chris Klein round out the cast of this comedy slasher.
Fountain of Youth (May 23) – Guy Ritchie, the hardest working director in the business, joins forces with John Krasinski and Natalie Portman for this family action adventure. Krasinski and Portman play siblings who go on a globe-trotting search for the mysterious Fountain of Youth. The all-star cast features Stanley Tucci, Eiza González, Domhnall Gleeson, and Carmen Ejogo. The trailers give off a definite “National Treasure” vibe mixed with “Indiana Jones” elements.
Duster (series premiere on May 15) – This 1970s set crime actioner is produced by JJ Abrams and LaToya Morgan. Abrams brings in his “Lost” series star Josh Holloway, who plays Jim, an expert getaway driver recruited by a resourceful FBI agent named Nina (Rachel Hilson). Together, they take on a criminal organization led by the ruthless Ezra (Keith David). This series promises Abrams zippy pacing and high production values with retro styling.
Poker Face (season 2, May 8) – The Rian Johnson-created hit series starring Natasha Lyonne returns with three episodes followed by weekly installments through July. Lyonne plays Charlie Cale, an uncanny human lie detector forced in season one to flee a casino owner hellbent on killing her. As she meanders the roads in her 1970 Plymouth Barracuda, Charlie’s unique talents get her in even more trouble as she solves all manner of dangerous mysteries. This throwback show features a single mystery in each episode and a cast of special guest stars.
Theatrical Teasers:
l Final Destination: Bloodlines (May 16) – The trailer for this sixth installment in the “Final Destination” franchise teases another unnerving series of accidental deaths. Once again, the film centers on a group of young souls who attempt to cheat death after receiving a disturbing premonition. The franchise is now 25 years old, but I do not doubt there are still some inventive kills to explore. Based on a famous scene from this film series, anyone caught behind a log truck on the highway will likely get chills. Late actor Tony Todd returns to the series for his last theatrical role.
l Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning (May 23) – Tom Cruise hopes that this eighth “Mission: Impossible” installment will help the franchise recover after 2023’s “Dead Reckoning” failed to reach box office expectations. This one picks up where the seventh film left off, with Ethan Hunt (Cruise) and his IMF team battling the AI known as the Entity. Cruise will stretch his legs into his famous running style while delivering action and amazing stunts, as this blockbuster should leave nothing on the table.
l Lilo & Stitch (May 23) – The Disney cash grab continues with this live-action remake of the animated hit of the same name from 2002. “Ted Lasso’s” Hannah Waddingham joins Tia Carrere, Billy Magnussen, Zach Galifianakis, and newcomer Maia Kealoha (as Lilo) in this new version of the story. When Lilo adopts a strange pet, an alien named Stitch, posing as a dog, her life changes in wonderful and dangerous ways.
l Karate Kid: Legends (May 30) – It’s been over 40 years since “The Karate Kid” kicked its way to the top of the box office and into our hearts. For “Legends,” Ralph Macchio reprises his role as Daniel LaRusso in this installment of the series, which found new life on Netflix with “Cobra Kai.” Jackie Chan also returns to play Mr. Han, a character introduced in 2010’s “The Karate Kid.” The story, this time, has Han enlisting Daniel’s help to train a new karate kid.
Whether you are a weekend warrior or a high school, college, or professional athlete and suffered an injury, you need to see a doctor with the highest level of training and experience in sports medicine. At Georgia Bone & Joint, our sports medicine doctors take a team approach in helping you return to your favorite sports and activities, working to keep you in the game! Our sports medicine doctors are specialty trained in the treatment and care of sports-related injuries and conditions, such as torn ligaments (ACL and MCL), torn cartilage (meniscus), sprains, fractures and more. We offer both non-operative and operative care options for our patients. At Georgia Bone and Joint, we offer very flexible treatment options including Telemedicine, best-in-class Physical Therapy on campus, as well as our own ambulatory surgical center to serve our patients. Georgia Bone & Joint is proud to be the Sports Medicine provider for our community schools as our doctors have been on the sidelines helping athletes since 1984.
Photos by Matt Evans.
The Bookmark with Coweta Public Library System’s Jimmy Bass
Summer Reading 2025 kicks off May 31st with registration for participants on May 27th at their favorite Coweta County Library.
The title gives it away, but the theme this year is Color Our World, and once again we will have tons of great programs and fun things to do while the kids take a school break.
This summer we invite readers PK-12 to play Bookopoly. Bookopoly will feature even more chances to earn prizes, read great books, and explore everything your Coweta Libraries offer. Registration is easy; go to coweta.beanstack.com or visit your library branch. Once you complete six spaces of the same color, log your activities onto Beanstack, and then visit the library to pick up your prize.
We’re ready to combat the summer slide and help all students read while having fun and earning prizes! Please visit our website, cowetapubliclibrary.org for program times and registration details.
As usual, we will have a Summer Reading Challenge kickoff on May 31st and the Reading Challenge Finale on July 19th. Here are some key program dates:
May 31st - Magician Arthur Atsma at the Central Library
May 31st - La Candela Flamenco - The Colors of Flamenco - at the Grantville Branch
June 3rd - Dave Holland - percussionists and storyteller at the Powell branch
June 17th - Mr. Puppet at the Powell and Senoia branches
June 19th - Babatunde at the Grantville Branch
June 25th - That Puppet Guy at the Central Library
July 7th - Magician Ken Scott at the Central and Powell libraries
July 16th - Georgia Untamed Zoo at the Central and Powell libraries
July 19th - the Summer Reading 2025 finale!
The finale will feature Grassroots Music - Bucket Drumming - at the SRC 2025 finale along with games, crafts, face painting, ballooning, food, bounce houses, and so much more!
We are ready to party and color outside the lines this Summer. Come and join us!
Jimmy Bass is director of the Coweta Public Library System. He also plays a mean guitar and sings at local venues.
The Coweta Ferst Readers’ mission is
under the age of five in Coweta County.
The Coweta Ferst Readers’
Baxley Swope, grandson to Marie and Steve Swope. He is looking at his first book that had arrived in the mail from Coweta Ferst Readers.
The Bookmark is sponsored by Coweta Public Library System
CCF’s Community Service Team awards 2025 scholarship to Northgate senior Sidney Brown
Northgate High School senior Sidney Brown has been named the recipient of the 2025 Community Service Team Scholarship from the Coweta Community Foundation. The award was presented on April 21 at the group’s endof-the-year celebration at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber offices in Newnan.
Sidney participated in the CST for all four years in high school, serving as secretary her tenth- and eleventh-grade years and as vice president this year. She plans to attend Clemson University and pursue a degree
Finance.
Originally launched in 2015, the Community Service Team began with ninth and tenth graders who learned about the nonprofits in Coweta County. Members of the Community Service Team operate as a board and form relationships with local nonprofits. The goal is for these young leaders to have the opportunity to sit on a local nonprofit board by the time they are juniors or seniors in high school.
“Being part of the Community Service Team gives students the chance to learn about various nonprofit organizations in Coweta County and beyond,” said CCF Board Member Tonya Whitlock. “It also allows them to support the community through hands-on service at several fundraising events and to bond with students from all of the area high schools.”
The Coweta Community Foundation’s mission is to enhance our community’s quality of life by encouraging philanthropic interaction in Coweta County.
For more information, please visit cowetafoundation.org.
Graduation Dates
H CEC May 14
H Trinity May 15
H Central
Christian May 17
H ECHS May 21
H NHS May 22
H NGHS May 23
H Heritage May 27
Seniors Alexis Wingenbach, at left, Sidney Brown, right, and Elyse Wiseley, not pictured, were among those honored at the Community Service Team’s recent end-of-the-year celebration. Also at the meeting, Sidney Brown was chosen as the recipient of this year’s CST scholarship.
in
The Interview with Ashley Collins
Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.
I’m Ashley Collins, and I have the incredible honor of serving as the President and CEO of Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity. At my core, I’m a servant leader — someone who believes that God placed me here to help build things that last: homes, hope and stronger communities. I’ve led transformational projects through community engagement, most recently at Ashley Park, and now I’m bringing that same energy and purpose to Habitat. Everything I do is grounded in my faith, my love for people, and the belief that I was created to do big things during the 100 years God gives me here. Outside of my career, I’m a proud mom to two amazing little girls, Palmer and Piper. Being their mom is one of the greatest joys of my life. I’m also married to my college sweetheart, Tim — we met at Georgia Southern and have been walking through life side by side ever since. My family is my foundation and my biggest inspiration.
Best piece of advice you’ve received.
“Do it scared, but do it anyway.” Faith doesn’t always mean having all the answers — it means trusting God enough to move forward when the vision is bigger than your fear.
If I had it to do over …
I would have stopped striving for perfection and started resting in God’s timing a lot sooner. Every detour, delay, and closed door had a purpose I couldn’t see at the time.
You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?
Albums:
“The Ultimate Michael Bolton” – Michael Bolton
“Hotel California” – The Eagles
“Hard Love” – Needtobreathe
Books:
The Bible — my anchor, always Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt
Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know. I collect vintage cookbooks from the South — not just for the recipes, but for the stories and traditions tucked between the pages. They remind me of a time when hospitality was an art form, not a task.
You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?
Robin Williams – His unique ability to blend humor and deep humanity has always inspired me. He was a master at showing us that laughter and vulnerability go hand in hand, and that’s something I’d love to learn more about over dinner.
Mr. Rogers – The epitome of kindness, humility, and the power of showing up for others. I’d invite him to remind us all how much our actions, no matter how small, can make the world a better place.
My grandmother, Shirley Corbitt – She was my idol — a true Southern lady with unmatched hospitality. Her love for the holidays and her ability to make everyone feel welcome and cherished is something I carry with me every day. I’d want her at the table to share her wisdom and warmth.
Walt Disney – The visionary who built an empire not just of entertainment, but of inspiration. His creativity, resilience, and ability to dream big have always fascinated me. I’d love to hear his thoughts on the intersection of imagination and impact.
Gordon Ramsay – Not only for his culinary brilliance, but because his “colorful” commentary would keep things lively. I’d love to see him judge my cooking and offer his unfiltered, entertaining take on the meal. His no-nonsense attitude and humor would definitely add some spice to the conversation, especially when it comes to perfection, leadership, and, of course, who’s made the worst dish!
Name an as yet unfulfilled dream.
One of my biggest dreams is to one day serve as a U.S. Senator — to use my voice and platform to shape policy that truly uplifts families and communities, especially those who have been overlooked for far too long. I want to be in the history books not for the title I held, but for the lives I helped change. I believe we were put on this earth to do big things — to fight for justice, to care boldly, and to leave this
world better than we found it. That dream drives me every day, and I pray I live long enough to see it through.
If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be …
A Disney princess — but not the kind who waits in a tower. I’d be the one out in the community, organizing, building, mentoring, and singing while I do it. I’ve always believed in the power of kindness, courage, and a little sparkle to change the world. Plus, I’m pretty sure every great leader needs a good anthem and a sidekick with fur.
Your go-to food.
Spicy shrimp and grits. Soulful, Southern, and satisfying — a dish that feels like home.
Favorite movie(s)
I have an eclectic list — each one speaks to a different part of who I am. Jurassic Park, Lord of the Rings, and Jaws feed my love of suspense and storytelling. Braveheart, Good Will Hunting, and Dead Poets Society stir something deeper — a call to live boldly and think differently. I adore the heart in Forrest Gump, The Notebook, and Steel Magnolias, and I’ll always have a soft spot for the magic of Hook, Ever After, and Mrs. Doubtfire. And when the holidays hit? It’s Home Alone, Christmas Vacation, and The Muppet Christmas Carol on repeat. Each film reminds me of the beauty, mess, and meaning of being human.
Dogs or cats?
Dogs — hands down. They love without conditions, and that’s something we all need more of. I also love working with Joey’s Friends, a local rescue organization whose mission is rooted in compassion and driven by a profound commitment to improving the lives of animals in need. They focus on rescuing dogs who have faced abuse, neglect, or the heartbreaking risk of euthanasia in
overcrowded shelters. Alongside my dear friend Millie, I support their efforts to help these animals find the loving homes they deserve. It’s a beautiful reminder that love — whether for people or pets — can be the first step toward healing and belonging.
Your favorite quote and why.
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss
This quote resonates with me because it distills the essence of responsibility and love into something so simple, yet so profound. It’s a quiet challenge — a reminder that change isn’t waiting on policy or permission, but on the courage of individuals to care deeply and act intentionally. To me, it’s about the quiet power of empathy — the belief that love, when translated into action, has the ability to reshape neighborhoods, restore dignity, and reimagine what’s possible for others. It starts with caring, but it doesn’t stop there. It moves, it builds, it uplifts. Every small interaction you have with others – matters.
Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished.
Leaning into the fact that I’m wired a little differently — and letting that be my superpower. My grandpa once told my dad, “Son, most people are wired 110, and you’re wired 220 — that’s a gift.” My dad passed that spark down to me, and I’m proud I’ve never tried to dim it.
What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own?
God’s timing is perfect. Trust that your gifts will make room for you, and never shrink to fit into spaces you were meant to transform. You are more than enough — not because of what you do, but because of who you are and whose you are.
The
Real Es tate PAPER
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Coweta County Real Estate Market Update
We are seeing a significant shift in the local real estate market in Coweta County. Listing supply is up and demand has decreased from the intense peak of just a few years ago. Prices are even cooling, some.
On the day that I am writing this article, there are 803 residential properties for sale in Coweta County per the Georgia Multiple Listing System (GAMLS). This is a significant increase from just a few years ago, when there were about 200 homes for sale on average. New listings have increased at least 27 percent, or more, each month in the first quarter of 2025 from the first quarter of 2024. Many homeowners are hoping to catch the hot sellers’ market of the last few years. Other sellers are tired of waiting for interest rates to cool down and are ready to list their property and purchase a new one. More on this later.
Pending sales and closed sales have decreased year over year in the first quarter of 2025. We are seeing less showings, traffic and activity with our listings. Properties are still selling but not as quickly, and with less demand, as they were the last few years. The average days on market, or time it takes a property to go under contract, is 58 days in 2025. The average days on market has increased 13% or more each month from the month of the previous year. Homes are taking longer to sell. The month’s supply of listings is 5.2 in 2025. This is much healthier than the sub-three-month supply of the last few years.
Despite all these market conditions, prices have remained relatively flat. The average sales price increased in January and February and then slightly decreased in March. With all the recent volatility in the economy and stock market, real estate values have stayed strong. We are seeing many buyers paying cash right now as investors are moving cash and assets into real estate from stocks. With mortgage rates at and around seven percent and prices staying flat, lower income and first-time buyers are having a difficult time purchasing real estate. Many economists are predicting mortgage rates to decrease, but how much?
We are seeing family members assist and co-sign with younger borrowers to help them buy. There is hope, however. I am seeing sellers concede on price and provide closing cost credits to buyers. Several builders in our market are offering up to $20,000 in closing cost credits to buyers. This will help buyers with their down payment.
This market shift will be very interesting to keep an eye on in 2025. I expect the market to continue to soften. Hang in there buyers!
Jess Barron is an Associate Broker with Lindsey’s Inc. Realtors and former President of the Newnan-Coweta Board of Realtors.
Jess Barron
