Faces of Newton 2023

AUSTIN HARRIS TRACY JACKSON

Meet 20 of the Community’s Best in

SHEILA HAYS MASSEY

WENDY RODRIGUEZ

CINDY MASK

C H A D WA L K E R

KEN MALCOM

O T I S W E AT H E R F O R D

S O N YA W O O D R U F F

ROBERT FOXWORTH

MIKE WORLEY

JULIE ADAMS DARRELL ALLEN CHUCK BERRY MAURICE CARTER PRISCILLA FAULKNER

ELIZABETH MOBLEY

R YA N N O R TO N

S H E R R I PA R T E E

L AU R E N P OY N T E R

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FACES OF NEWTON!

Newton County Sheriff’s Office COMMITMENT. LOYALTY. SACRIFICE. DEDICATION.

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dedicated and committed to enforcing the laws enacted for the protection of the lives, persons, property, health and morals of all citizens in Newton County, Georgia.

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Congratulations Sheila Hays Massey Faces of Newton Honoree! l

Our business has been family owned and operated in Newton County since 1951. We enjoy working with our neighbors and look forward to many more years serving the community.

Hays Tractor & Equipment, Inc. 545 Highway 11 South • Social Circle, GA 30025

770-786-3334 www.haystractor.com

Table of Contents Julie Adams Darrell Allen Chuck Berry Maurice Carter Priscilla Faulkner Robert Foxworth Tracy Jackson Austin Harris Ken Malcom Sheila Hays Massey

4 5 6 7 7 8 8 9 10 10

Cindy Mask Elizabeth Mobley Ryan Norton Sherri Partee Lauren Poynter Wendy Rodriguez Chad Walker Otis Weatherford Sonya Woodruff Mike Worley

11 12 12 13 14 16 17 17 18 18

Helping new faces find their ‘dream home’

Index of Advertisers Alcovy CASA Alcovy Fitness Austin Harris (Edward Jones)

Berry’s Tree Farm City of Covington Covington Rental Fieldstone Center Hays Tractor

19 Linda Hays 16 NCSS 9 NCSO Newton Farm Bureau 6 Piedmont Insurance 2 Printability 13 Rotary Club 15 Town of Newborn 3 Town Square Olive Oil

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2023 Faces of Newton

Julie Adams

20 13 2 6 5 16 14 5 11

By Phillip B. Hubbard

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any new businesses and industries have moved into the Newton County area in recent years, bringing an influx of people coming to live locally.

One of the real estate agents helping those individuals find a home is Julie Adams, who takes great pride in what she does.

For Adams, it is about assisting people in locating their “dream home.”

“I love being able to help others find their dream home, sometimes that is current residents upgrading their home and others it’s helping new families relocate,” Adams said. “For new families relocating to Covington/Newton County, I enjoy being able to share what makes our town so great.”

Adams has been a realtor now for the past five years. The idea started when one of her childhood best friends became a real estate agent, so Adams gave it a try.

She was working a full-time job at the time of her start, but that quickly changed.

“I loved it so much that I decided to resign from my full-time job and become a full-time realtor,” Adams said. “There are good days and bad days with real estate just like with every other job, but I wouldn’t trade what I do.”

Adams has resided in Newton County for the past 27 years. She and her husband, Robert, have three children — Caden, Mason and Tucker.

Her family enjoys going to the Farmers Market almost every weekend in Covington as well as all of the other events hosted on the Covington Square throughout the year.

“We all enjoyed ‘Glow on the Square, and playing putt putt this spring,” Adams said. “My 6 year old son enjoys getting his face painted with face painting fairies every chance he gets. We are very appreciative of the literary club handing out books at the movies on the Square at the end of each month. We are regulars at Social Goat, Lucky Day Tacos, Amici, Your Pie and our trips to the Square are never complete without a visit to Scoops.”

That is why Adams is driven to showcase the local area to people who are looking to move to Newton County.

She desires to see the town she loves continue to grow and prosper for years to come.

“I want others to see the good in our city and county that I have grown to love,” Adams said. “I want the area to continue to improve for the future generations of our city and county.”

THE COVINGTON NEWS

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Darrell Allen Building a church community from scratch

By Garrett Pitts

“We decided early on that we were going to be a church that would love God, love people and do our best to do everything with excellence.”

arrell Allen has been a pastor for Central Church since 2004 and has played a pivotal role in the advancement and development of the church over the last 19 years.

Allen has been part of the United Methodist Church (UMC) for almost 20 years, where he was ordained and licensed. Even with being a part of UMC, Allen and his wife, Donna, always had the same goal in mind.

“I was ordained and licensed through the UMC, but our hearts have always been to start a church here in Covington that was non-denominational, contemporary and spirit-filled,” Allen said.

“We were not sure how to go about that, but we knew God had placed this idea and dream in our hearts.”

In 2004, Allen broke ground on the idea.

“Once we located the building here on City Pond Road, the owners agreed to allow us to stay here while we went through the process of being approved by the city to start a church in this area, which at the time, wasn’t zoned for a church,” Allen said. “After a monthlong process of meeting with the city council, they agreed to allow us to start a church in our area. So, on July 18, 2004 Central Church was born.”

From 2004 to present, Central Church has continued to grow and expand.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Allen broke ground on their new 700-seat sanctuary. The new sanc-

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tuary allowed for the previous one to be renovated into Central Church’s children facility.

Allen helped build Central Church’s second Newton campus in 2022.

“In 2022 we launched our second campus on Hwy 81, known as Central Church South Campus,” Allen said.

“We took the existing buildings that were on that 10 acres of land and completely renovated them. As of today, both campuses are thriving and completely full every weekend.”

Central Church’s expansion goes much further than the United States.

“Last month, we launched our third campus located on the other side of the world in Cambodia,” Allen said. “Some of my leadership and I f lew there and spent 12 days doing ministry and training leaders. While there, we dedicated the church and committed it to the service of the Lord. The church on that Sunday morning was completely full.”

Along with the campus in Cambodia, Central Church has missionaries in Thailand, Uganda, Brazil, Mexico and Peru.

Throughout the change and expansion over the last 19 years, the mission for Allen and Central Church has always stood strong.

“We decided early on that we were going to be a church that would love God, love people and do our best to do everything with excellence,” Allen said.

Congratulations to the Faces of Newton Honorees!

Town of Newborn

P.O. Box 247, Newborn, GA 30056 770-787-1660 www.newbornga.com

“A Town with Characters” Mayor: Gregg Ellwanger

Mayor Pro Tem: Tom Krieger Council Members: Rob Bratton, Denise Spitler,Cain Williamson Clerk: Elisa Rowe Assistant Clerks: Leata Sears, Jaye Henderson Public Works Department: Donald Clement, Ernest Horton, Darren Mitchell

Home of the Hornyhead Fishing Tournament Jeanette Adams Zeigler Public Library ~ Come Read With Us! 2023 Faces of Newton

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Chuck Berry Spreading Christmas cheer for nearly five decades

By Emily Rose Hamby

he ‘most wonderful time of year’ means more than just a festive season for Covington native, Chuck Berry. Instead, Christmas is “A way of life” at Berry’s Tree Farm, a choose and cut Christmas tree operation that has spanned generations since 1977.

The tree farm, which Berry took over from his father and grandfather in 2007, offers nine different varieties of Christmas trees, including cypress, cedar, pine and Fraser Fir. Additionally, Berry’s Tree Farm offers train rides, a petting zoo, fresh wreaths, concession stand and pictures with Santa each year – an aspect of the business that Berry cherishes.

“My favorite part is seeing all of the smiling faces as they choose their perfect, real Christmas tree during the best holiday season ever,” Berry said. “We strive to provide a fun and exciting environment to not only get a Christmas tree but to make memories and create family traditions.”

Though the Berry family established the tree farm in the late ‘70s, the land has been in the family since 1894 and originally operated as a dairy farm and row-crop farm.

Over the years, Berry’s Tree Farm has reached great strides, including participating in the Trees For Troops program as a pickup point for the past nine years. The farm has also been featured in numerous films, has adorned the Georgia State Capitol and Governor’s Mansion and been involved in the Christmas display at Stone Mountain Park.

Additionally, in 2021, Berry’s Tree Farm presented a Georgia-grown Christmas tree to Vice President Kamala

Harris after being chosen as the reserve grand champion at the National Christmas Tree Association (NCTA) contest in North Carolina.

Berry currently serves as the president-elect of the Georgia Christmas Tree Association and the Georgia Director for the NCTA. He is one of three board members from the Eastern region on the National Real Christmas Tree Board, a position appointed by the US Secretary of Agriculture for three-year terms.

Aside from his tree farming duties, Berry has worked as a safety and facilities supervisor at Clarion for the past 21 years. He was elected president of the Newton County Farm Bureau in 2021.

Berry’s family includes his wife, Lori, his son, Chase, their cats and their pygmy goat, Bullhead. He enjoys spending quality time with family in his free time.

“We work for fun,” Berry said. “Christmas tree farming takes all of your spare time. We enjoy traveling and spending time in the North Carolina mountains. Family-time and community involvement is very important.”

Despite living in Newton County for over 50 years, Berry’s adoration for the place he calls home never ceases.

“I was born here and have never considered leaving,” Berry said. “The close-knit community is my favorite.

Lots of things have changed in my lifetime, but also lots of things have stayed the same. There are so many dedicated organizations in our community that work hard to keep Covington [and] Newton County the special place that it is.”

Congratulations Chuck Berry

Opening November 18 770-786-5833

www.berrystreefarm.com 6

2023 Faces of Newton

THE COVINGTON NEWS

T Maurice Carter

Fueling sustainability through nonprofits

By Emily Rose Hamby

hroughout Maurice Carter’s ties to Covington, one thing has remained steadfast – his passion for sustainability and the environment. Carter, who has been mindful of his impact on the planet “for as long as [he] can remember,” has been involved with Newton Trails since 2009 and Sustainable Newton, which he co-founded in 2018.

Carter has long considered himself an advocate for walking, bicycling, recycling, composting and energy efficiency. Growing up with an environmentalist lens in the 1970s, his sustainable habits progressed over the years, something he is passionate about sharing with others.

“I wish people could understand how small things add up to a big difference,” Carter said. “What those things are can be different for every individual. But, on a planet of eight billion people little changes matter.

Just find one thing, incorporate that into your routine, and then find a next thing. It could be something as big as solar panels or an electric vehicle, but

S Priscilla Faulkner

Aiding the community through psychology practice, family farm

By Emily Rose Hamby THE COVINGTON NEWS

it could also just be wasting less food that ends up in the landfill or walking to the store instead of driving.”

Carter’s involvement with Newton Trails began in 2009, 12 years after its establishment in 1997, as a result of the development of what is known today as the Cricket Frog Trail. He went on to serve as chairman of the Newton Trails board until 2013.

In 2018, Carter co-founded Sustainable Newton, a nonprofit organization that “drive[s] solution-oriented local responses to the global issues of climate change and sustainability.”

He served as Sustainable Newton’s first president for three years due to term limits, but remains active as its current website and social media manager.

Carter served on the Washington Street Community Center’s board from 2009-2013 and continues to support the center’s work. He is currently a part of the board of directors for the statewide nonprofit, Georgia Bikes, which promotes biking and other modes of active transportation.

Carter and his wife, Kim, have

erving the community through her psychology practice, an animal assisted therapy program at her family farm and being involved with the Division of Family and Child Services (DCFS), are just a few ways in which Priscilla Faulkner exercises her passion for people.

Located at 3155 Mill Street in Covington, Faulkner began her practice, Southeastern Psychological Associates, Inc. in 2011. Despite initially expecting to work primarily with children, she discovered her calling elsewhere in the field.

“I have always been interested in people and why people do what they do,” Faulkner said. “I thought that I would work with children, but have found my work with the accountability courts to be my favorite part of my work right now. I really enjoy seeing people who have struggled with mental illness and substance abuse and been involved with the criminal justice system find new hope, repair relationships and become valued members of their community.”

Faulkner’s introduction to DFCS began at an early age when her parents began fostering children. An internship emphasizing forensic services allowed Faulkner to refamiliarize herself with the court system, where she became comfortable with testifying and grew to enjoy it for the sake of strengthening safe and nurturing family dynamics.

Through DFCS, Faulkner conducts assessments of parents in order to evaluate “parenting competence,” potential risks for children in their care and issues that could impact parenting. She also consults on cases, assesses parent and child bonding, testifies on hearings re-

been married for 41 years. Though the Carters never had children, their Boston terrier, Princess, has kept their hands and hearts full for the past 14 years.

Outside of work, Carter’s hobbies include volunteering wherever he feels he can contribute and make a difference. He also enjoys self-supported bicycle touring. Some of his tours include biking from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, Birmingham to Atlanta, Key West to Port St. Lucie and Buffalo to Albany.

Despite living in Newton County for over 40 years, Carter still finds charm in the place he calls home.

“Covington has been a great place to get involved and to be connected with so many people… At the same time, though, as Covington has grown, I like that too,” Carter said.

“We enjoy having dinner at the bar in City Pharmacy where we see lots of familiar faces, but also newcomers and visitors we get to meet and converse with. It’s fascinating to learn what brings people here and what they like about our community.”

lated to child abuse or neglect and testifies on factors in early attachment.

Additionally, Faulkner works with Newton County’s Family Treatment Court in cases where DFCS is also involved with a parent due to substance abuse.

At Falconwood Farms, owned by her family, Faulkner breeds dairy goats as well as offers riding lessons, vaulting and boarding. Faulkner’s nonprofit, Horse Time, Inc. – which she started with her friend, Maureen Vidrine, also operates on the farm as an animal assisted therapy program.

Faulkner explained how animal assisted therapy serves as an outlet outside of regular therapy for children to learn and understand things in a different light.

“I think for some kids, it’s a nonjudgmental, kind of co-therapist,” Faulkner said. “For others, watching the animals and interacting with the animals lets them learn things about themselves.”

Faulkner and her husband, Ray have been married for 21 years. When they married, Ray was already a father of three, whom she considered “so nice that they tricked [her] into thinking parenting was easy.” Together, they had three more children and are now grandparents to six.

Work aside, Faulkner enjoys thrift shopping, working outside on the farm and spending time with her children.

As a native who ventured back to Covington after going off to college and living elsewhere for several years, she remains enthralled by her hometown.

“I love the history,” Faulkner said. “I grew up in an old home and have always been fascinated with the history of Covington and all the changes it has gone through.”

2023 Faces of Newton

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Robert Foxworth Providing a spark to local festivities

By Garrett Pitts

hether it is the city council, fireworks or derby racing, Robert Foxworth is well involved in many different aspects of Newton County.

Foxworth is a former member of the Porterdale City Council, the Lions Club, the Shriners, two masons clubs and he helps the Covington Police Department (CPD) Explorers program.

When discussing his time in the city council, Foxworth explained why it meant a lot to him to be a part of it.

“It is satisfying to be able to vote for something and to be able to put it in place and to watch it develop,” Foxworth said. “It is a big accomplishment to be a part of a government agency like that, and to make decisions that affect more than just you.”

Foxworth also runs a tree cutting business that he has been a part of for 39 years, in which he has offered his services for free. Foxworth has also been a contractor for EMC Snapping Shoals for 16 years.

In his work with the CPD Explorers, Foxworth assisted in training courses for the young men and women.

One of the major joys of working in Covington for Foxworth is the annual Fourth of July fireworks show. Foxworth has been helping run the show for 11 years and has seen growth almost every year.

“The fireworks [show] is my baby, I really enjoy that. It has been 11 years. Steve Horton asked me to help Covington with the fireworks, and all it

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Tracy Jackson Sharing a passion for helping others

By Phillip B. Hubbard

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2023 Faces of Newton

racy Jackson has lived in Newton County her entire life. From becoming a Newton High School class of 1989 graduate to serving as an officer with the Covington Police Department (CPD), Jackson remains actively involved in the community.

Throughout all of Jackson’s participation in the area, her biggest motivation is her “passion for helping others.”

“I like to teach, lead, motivate and guide others to success. I might not have all the answers, but I am willing to get them from who has them,” Jackson said. “I am a relatable woman, a compassionate woman and a woman that loves to pour into others. Any way that I can make a difference in this world, I will do it.”

One of the main ways Jackson helps her hometown is through an organization she and daughter, Lauren Sawyer, started called, “JTyler’s Keeper.”

The organization is named after Jackson’s son, Justin Tyler Sawyer, who was kidnapped and murdered in December 2020 after offering a ride to a group of people in Tennessee.

Justin’s compassion for others inspired Jackson and Lauren to start the organization.

“My son was selfless. He would help anyone that needed help. From teaching his friends how to read as kids, to showing them how to change flat tires as adults, he helped others and did it with a smile. Justin was a gift from God,” Jackson said. “My son was murdered [while] helping someone. It was just in his nature. I know he would want us to keep those acts of service and commitment to change going in his honor. Lauren and I will

took for me to do it was to be asked,” Foxworth said. “The first year, I raised $8,000, and each year we have been growing and growing, and so has the show. It has been five years [ago] now that we have formed a non-profit called Friend of Covington Fireworks.”

Along with the Covington show, Foxworth has helped with the Porterdale Fourth of July fireworks show. Most notably, Foxworth raised money to ensure there would be a show during the Great Recession of 2008.

When he is not doing work within the county, Foxworth enjoys derby racing. Foxworth owns his own car and enjoys taking it out to the track almost every week.

“I have been doing that [derby racing] for three or four years. I got my own car, it is a 354 Coupe, my car is a tribute car to Richie Evans,” Foxworth said. “I have my car down in Macon now. I have been going down there every evening and coming back home.”

No matter what industry Foxworth finds himself helping in, he has the same goal in mind.

“I like to do something to make a difference,” Foxworth said. “Making a difference and deciding factors to impact people in a positive way; that is why I wanted to do it. To promote the city and to make a difference.”

keep it going as long as we’re breathing.”

At present, Jackson said JTyler’s Keeper is “still going strong.”

It helps give back Newton County families by service, volunteer work and adopting families for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Around the holidays, the organization will buy clothes, food, toys and more.

According to Jackson, the organization has “knowingly” helped over 50 people while receiving messages and feedback of helping more individuals “unknowingly.”

The next steps for Jackson and Lauren is to expand their outreach with hosting and attending speaking engagements as well as offering scholarships for students in Newton County and Clarkesville, Tennessee.

“The goal of our organization is to keep growing every year and changing lives in memory of Justin,” Jackson said. “Although it’s a fairly new organization, we are committed to expanding the way we reach our local and aspire to take it national.”

In her interview with The Covington News, Jackson shared a message to readers, too.

“To anyone navigating the loss of a loved one or dealing with grief, hold on and keep going. Take a deep breath and take it one second at a time,” Jackson said. “Losing my son has by far been the most difficult thing I’ve ever had to deal with. But I know he wants me to live. He fulfilled his purpose and I have to fulfill mine while helping others fulfill theirs. I encourage anyone feeling helpless or weary to live and turn their pain into power.”

THE COVINGTON NEWS

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Austin Harris Utilizing financial knowledge to serve others

By Emily Rose Hamby

efore becoming acquainted and well versed within the world of finance, Austin Harris was a child fascinated with the inner workings of the economy despite seeing his mother struggle. Now a financial advisor with Edward Jones, Harris strives to provide financial literacy resources for other families to combat the financial struggle he once experienced.

Growing up in Birmingham, Alabama, Harris was raised by his single mother, who worked several jobs to “make ends meet.” Their financial struggles were something Harris could not turn a blind eye to despite being a child.

“Financially, we struggled big time and that is what drives me today,” Harris said. “There were many resources there for families like mine to help us put food on the table, clothes on our back and have presents to open at Christmastime. I wouldn’t trade the struggles in my childhood for anything because that is what motivates me day in and day out.”

Having endured financial struggles as a child, Harris felt drawn to the world of finance with a fascination with the ins and outs of the economy.

As he attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Harris continued his interests into his studies – earning his bachelor’s degree in business.

Harris then went on to attend graduate school, where he obtained his master’s degree in financial planning.

In addition to his educational merits, Harris has earned several accolades and certifications, such as Certified Financial Planner, CFP certification, the

CRPC, CRPS and AAMS designations.

Harris began working for Edward Jones in 2015 after being introduced to the company by his fatherin-law, who has been a financial advisor with them since 1984. He most enjoys working directly with families to help them accomplish their financial goals.

Working for Edward Jones fulfills what Harris is most passionate about: helping others. When it comes to money, Harris’ mentality is that money is more than currency for consumption and has the ability to “bridge” work with personal priorities.

“What I enjoy most is getting to work with families and help them accomplish what is most important to them,” Harris said. “I work night and day to help my clients have the most optimal financial outcomes possible.”

In a time where the economy is not optimal and cost of living is high, Harris considers financial literacy to be something beneficial for everyone.

“I dedicate a lot of my research and work to improving financial literacy among families,” Harris said. “Financial Literacy is the single most important thing we need to be working towards as a country. Too many families make poor financial decisions simply because they do not know better.”

Work aside, Harris resides in Covington with his wife, two children and dog. His hobbies include CrossFit and attending church at Eastridge.

Though his resume is extensive, Harris still remains eager to continue his knowledge in his financial planning – researching and writing in his additional free time.

Award-Winning Service Serving Our Community

2023 Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors Voted 2023 Best Financial Advisor Austin Harris | Local, Certified Financial Planner™ 10193 Dearing St SE Covington, GA 30014 770-788-6181

Austin Harris | CFP® AAMS® CRPC® THE COVINGTON NEWS

2023 Faces of Newton

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Ken Malcom Helping to create a sense of community

By Phillip B. Hubbard

s the city of Covington’s community development director, Ken Malcom bears many responsibilities. From overseeing the city’s tourism to helping organize city sponsored events, Malcom is involved with a lot.

Of those duties, seeing people flood the streets of Covington is among Malcom’s favorite aspects of his role.

“Personally, I love seeing people enjoying the downtown. I love seeing people enjoying the events we’re involved with from the concerts to the Fourth of July. I love the diversity that we see at our events that people from all walks of life are coming to them and enjoying them in a wonderful way,” Malcom said. “I feel like we’re hitting the mark on an area that we’re responsible for in the strategic plan is helping create a sense of community for everyone. I feel like we’re on the right track and we’re doing very well in that area.”

Malcom shared a few statistics with The Covington News concerning tourism and other facets of the community.

Approximately 700,000 different people have come to the Covington Square area in the last year along with around 108,000 people who have visited the Covington Visitors Center.

Those numbers just add to Malcom’s enthusiasm.

“Our tourism is at an all-time high with the number of people who have visited Covington, Georgia,” Malcom said. “That excites me a lot. To know that many people are enjoying our community and the impact that has on our merchants and our local economy. The visitors spending in our community is over $100 million countywide. That’s something exciting.”

Though Malcom is only a year and four months into this role, he was no stranger to working with Covington.

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Sheila Hays Massey Keeping a family legacy alive

By Emily Rose Hamby 10

2023 Faces of Newton

ehind the namesake of Hays Tractor and Equipment is Sheila Hays Massey, a Newton County native who acquired the family business with her husband in 2011. Since becoming its sole owner, Massey has kept the business alive despite facing adversity – making a name for herself after following in the footsteps of her father.

“The absolute favorite thing about owning an equipment dealership is that we get to help make other people’s dreams become realities,” Massey said. “ Whether it is their livelihood or just a weekend hobby, it is great to see someone find what they need and turn it into something they enjoy.

Being able to do this as a female owned business in a male dominated environment makes the success even sweeter.”

Since 1951, Hays Tractor and Equipment has operated as a family owned business, selling “farm tractors, implements, utility vehicles and turf equipment.”

Growing up watching her father operate Hays Tractor and Equipment, Massey aspired to someday become a business owner, herself.

After graduating from Newton County High School in 1988, Massey worked at a local bank. Following the birth of her first son, Massey worked from home as a bookkeeper, but eventually flocked to her family’s business.

“I had always said I could not work for my daddy because we were so much alike – a stubborn streak a mile wide,” Massey said. “However, those were the best years of my life working with him and learning the business and it was then that I knew I wanted to carry on the heritage and bring my

Malcom was previously a captain with the Covington Police Department (CPD).

During his last 11 years with the CPD, Malcom was the community outreach coordinator for Covington and Newton County.

In his spare time, Malcom enjoys spending time with his five grandchildren and cheering for the Georgia Bulldogs. In fact, Malcom said he tries to attend as many home and away games as possible during the football season.

But there is a hobby of Malcom’s that ranks at the top of his list.

“Traveling with wife Lynn. We have been very blessed at times to be able to travel the country and really around the world, because of opportunities to enjoy this type of travel,” Malcom said. “I love seeing places with her for the first time. That’s my most favorite thing to do.”

Malcom fosters many relationships with the city and other entities in the area such as the YMCA, Newton County Arts Association, the Newton County Minister’s Union and more.

That helps Malcom work with many individuals in Newton County. And, according to Malcom, it’s those individuals who help make the overall county a success.

“It’s obviously the people — Covington, Newton County. It’s having these long standing partnerships with so many different people and groups that have allowed us to achieve some mighty things,” Malcom said. “That’s what I enjoy about serving our community. We’ve done great things and we’ll continue to do great things together. I’m glad to be a part of it.”

sons up the same way.”

Massey’s hardwork and success since owning the business over a decade ago has not come without a cost.

In February 2017, the executive team of Kubota visited Massey and told her that the business’ location in Mansfield was not meeting their vision.

One month later, Massey received the “dreaded letter” informing her that she had 60 days to make a decision to relocate up to standards set by Kubota.

Massey turned to prayer – a method she considers as “the right way to make decisions.”

On April 3, 2017, Massey’s prayers were answered in the “form of a storm that destroyed the existing building” with no injuries or damage to equipment.

Six years after relocating five miles up the road to Social Circle, Hays Tractor and Equipment is “doing great,” bringing more achievements to the over 70-year-old business.

Massey was nominated by regional Kubota dealers to serve on the Dealer Advisory Board for the southeast division for a three year term. Now, she serves as president of the board.

Throughout the unforeseen hardships and challenges, Massey’s ties to her community have strengthened.

“Going back to the damage we had in 2017, I realized that there is still a love of community as we saw in the outpouring of love and caring that our friends and neighbors gave to us,” Massey said. “I do my best to return the favor to those in need in our community as well.”

THE COVINGTON NEWS

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Cindy Mask Bringing new levels of excitement to cooking

By Emily Rose Hamby

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or lifelong local Cindy Mask, retirement has brought forth a different work opportunity – becoming a business owner.

After retiring from her career in corporate healthcare as a reimbursement professional for medical device and oncology startup companies, Mask opened Town Square Olive Oil in May 2015 on the Covington Square.

Mask, who has lived in Newton County for “virtually” all of her life, studied medical technology and laboratory sciences before entering the corporate world. However, opening Town Square Olive Oil ignited a personal hobby and passion of hers.

“Healthy cooking was and is a passion and I wanted to bring sustainable, healthy choices to our town,” Mask said. “I choose the products based on taste, packaging and of course, health benefits.”

Though its storefront opened in May 2015, Mask and her husband established their company as unincorporated in December 2014.

For the past eight years, Town Square Olive Oil has offered a variety of olive oils, balsamic vinegars, spices, teas, honey, jams & jellies, pasta, treats, stuffed olives, wine, beer, gift boxes, accessories and various charcuterie items to customers.

Located at 1130 Church Street, shoppers can taste nearly 65 different olive oils and balsamic vinegars from “around the world,” from Italy, Spain, Greece, Chile, Australia and more at Town Square Olive Oil. In addition to trying olive oils and balsamic vinegars, customers can find recipes that incorporate the various oils and vinegars sold at Town Square Olive Oil on its website, https://townsquareoliveoil.com/.

Aside from running her small business, Mask is an active member of the community.

She is a member of the Newton County Chamber of Commerce and regularly attends business roundtable meetings each month. Mask shared that after receiving an invitation to participate as part of the Downtown Development Authority, she will begin “soon.”

Masked is married to her “soulmate,” Anthony Mask, a retiree from AT&T. She has three stepsons, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Additionally, Mask has a dog with a name that reflects her store.

“My little shadow is my rescue Pekingese/Shitzu named – you guessed it, “Olive Oyl,” Mask said.

Living on Lake Varner in Covington, Mask enjoys fishing in her free time.

What she loves most about being a resident in Newton County is the connection and camaraderie she feels in her community.

“The charm, the people, the sense of community,” Mask said. “I am so proud to be a part of ‘The Hollywood of the South.’”

2023 Faces of Newton

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Elizabeth Mobley Helping people grow personally and professionally

By Garrett Pitts

lizabeth Mobley’s love for helping people grow personally and professionally has been one of the driving forces in her career.

Mobley is the manager of Express Employment Professionals, where they work to the benefit of job seekers and employers.

“Our mission here is to provide job seekers career opportunities that make a positive impact for employers in our community,” Mobley said.

Mobley began working for Express Athens in March 2011, and the business has grown every year since.

“As I learned the business, my owner and I quickly realized how crucial it would be to have a brick-and-mortar location in Covington,” Mobley said. “We worked hand in hand to open that office in late 2011 on a part time basis and grew from there. As of 2023, we have partnered with hundreds of clients to place candidates in manufacturing and administrative employment opportunities here at home.”

The biggest factor for Mobley is the effect her business has on the people they work with.

Mobley referenced how seeing the end result of her work is one of the best parts of her job.

“One of my favorite ‘wins’ through the years is having one of our local associates be nominated for Express Employment Employee of the

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Ryan Norton Capturing life’s most important moments

By Garrett Pitts 12

2023 Faces of Newton

fter growing up, going to school, starting a family and beginning his business in Covington, Ryan Norton is thankful for everything the community has to offer.

Norton is an owner of Bowler Hat Films, a videography service that focuses on creating wedding films, corporate commercials and providing photo booth services. Norton also does work with Covington Rentals and Norton Storage.

Through videography, Norton has had the opportunity to work in Covington in city events and celebrations. Norton has played big roles in capturing videos for the annual Covington Fuzz Run and the Newton County Special Olympics.

“Through my work with Covington Rental, Norton Storage, and Bowler Hat Films, I have the opportunity to work with many amazing clients,” Norton said. “I am extremely thankful for all that I have gained growing up in this community.”

Norton earned his associate’s degree at Oxford College of Emory University before earning his bachelor’s degree in business from Clay-

Year through our corporate office; this is a global award and our associate made it to the finalist round with four other individuals,” Mobley said.

“Even though he didn’t win, I will never forget him hugging and thanking me for the opportunity. Listening to him cry once he found out he would get a monetary prize that could help him purchase a vehicle filled my cup in a way I could have never predicted.”

Mobley and Express Employment Professionals have won five “Best of Newton” awards for “Best Temp Agency.”

For Mobley, the award symbolized that the community recognized the hard work her and coworkers have done.

As she continues to help the people in Covington with career opportunities, Mobley’s favorite part is being able to serve the community she has lived in.

“My favorite part about working for Covington and Newton [County] is knowing that our hard work has a direct impact on our home,” Mobley said. “My team and I live, learn, work and play in this community so anytime we can have a positive impact for local employers and our fellow citizens is a dream come true. We are cheerleaders for this town, for our local clients and for our associates.”

ton State University. Norton’s wife, Amanda, also grew up in Covington and is a teacher at Newton County STEAM Academy.

Norton’s passion for videography and media began during his time working with the youth ministry at Julia A. Porter United Methodist Church in Porterdale.

Through working with the media, Norton saw an opportunity to help people capture some of their lives’ most important moments.

“I developed a passion for working with media and creating videos to assist in teaching students. This passion quickly developed into an opportunity for me to provide videography services to others,” Norton said.

“Through my work of assisting brides with wedding rentals, I noticed the need to have their special day captured on video.”

For Norton, Covington seemed like the right place for him and his family to stay and continue their careers and lives.

“After earning my bachelor’s degree in business management I married my wife, Amanda,” Norton said. “We built a house in THE COVINGTON NEWS

W

Sherri Partee NCSS’ ‘head cheerleader’

By Phillip B. Hubbard

hile Sherri Partee’s official job title with the Newton County School System (NCSS) is director of public relations, she views her role as being the system’s “head cheerleader.”

Whether it is students winning awards, earning millions of dollars in scholarship money or taking college courses while in high school, Partee enjoys highlighting students’ accomplishments the most among her duties.

“I’m a reporter by nature, so to have the incredible opportunity to work with our students and promote the great things they are accomplishing each and every day is amazing,” Partee said. “The students in our schools are just so talented and have incredible potential. It’s absolutely amazing to be around them every day. To have the honor to tell their story means the world to me.”

Partee has served the NCSS in this capacity for the past 23 years.

In addition to highlighting student and staff achievements, Partee also runs the district website and social media channels. She plans events like teacher of the year, employee retirement dinners and partners in education program.

People may even see Partee a few Friday nights at Sharp Stadium in the fall taking photos during high school football games.

Plus, she sends out messages from the district to the parents concerning important updates such as inclement weather or fall break holiday coming up.

Partee does not overlook the value of making such calls either.

“I take that role seriously because the parents are

Covington and decided that Covington was the place we wanted to live, work and raise our family.”

Norton’s daughter, Abby, is a student at the University of Georgia while his son, Will, is a student at Eastside High School.

Being one of the “Faces of Newton” meant a lot to Norton, who could not be happier for the community he lives and works in.

“I am grateful to be nominated as one of the faces of Newton,” Norton said. “I was born and raised in Covington and I am thankful to have grown up in such a great community.”

Congratulations Ryan Norton Faces of Newton Honoree!

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depending on me and are often waiting on me to provide that important information as soon as possible,” Partee said. “When I’ve met people out and about, I often get, ‘Oh, you’re the lady who calls my house.’ What’s cute is they can repeat my call intros word-for-word because I’ve been making them for 23 years now.”

Away from the NCSS, Partee is involved with her church, Covington First United Methodist. She and her husband Vic enjoy spending time with their families. Partee likes to go to the beach whenever possible as well.

Her hobbies include watching football, tennis and baseball. In fact, Partee said she’s a “big baseball fan,” with Cal Ripken Jr. being her favorite player.

Originally from Maryland, Partee graduated from Salisbury State University in 1994. A fellow graduate from the class of 1994 was Dan Quinn, the former Atlanta Falcons head coach.

Partee said that graduating with Quinn was her “celebrity story,” though they did not know each other.

Now being a long standing member of Newton County, Partee is grateful for all the area has to offer. That is why she doesn’t foresee moving anytime soon.

“It’s something about Newton County. When I retire, I see myself staying here. I had the chance to move back home to Maryland a few years back and I was just, ‘Newton County is home now. I’ve made lifelong friends here now. My family is here.’

“It’s just a special place to be…it really is.”

Newton County School System Congratulates Sherri Partee and Chad Walker and other Faces of Newton for their outstanding service to our schools and community!

Newton County School System 2109 Newton Drive NE Covington 770-787-1330 www.newtoncountyschools.org

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2023 Faces of Newton

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Lauren Poynter Representing generations of family business

By Garrett Pitts

hrough her work in her family business and through the Rotary Club, Lauren Poynter stays committed to service and community betterment.

Poynter is the president of the Rotary Club and is a third generation family business owner. Her family started Fieldstone Center.

Representing the third generation to work at Fieldstone Center, Poynter has seen the company continue to grow as Covington has also expanded.

“Our business has grown tremendously in this community beyond what my grandfather imagined,” Poynter said. “With all of the new companies moving to the area, our state and community, in particular, will continue to be a sought-after location for families looking for a place to call home.”

Fieldstone Center was founded in 1971. Located at old Atl. hwy, they work to service architects, contractors, landscapers, masons and homeowners. According to Poynter, they always live up to the motto of “everything in building with stone.”

The company helps contractors all over the country, but one of the biggest joys for Poynter is being able to work with those who live in Covington.

Poynter had seen business growth in Covington over the years, but feels the future is bright for businesses such as her own.

“The mass migration to the Atlanta area — specifically the eastside of Atlanta — in the last decade has benefited our business and hundreds of small businesses around us,” Poynter said. “Although

our community is changing rapidly, we will continue to embrace responsible and sustainable growth and all the benefits it can bring to the community when planned and executed correctly.”

Along with her work in her family business, Poynter is the president of the Rotary Club for the City of Covington — a spot she assumed on June 27, 2023.

“Becoming the president of the Rotary Club has been a dynamic and exciting transition. It’s an honor to lead such a dedicated group of individuals committed to service and community betterment,” Poynter said.

Poynter works with fellow Rotary Club members to create lasting change within the city of Covington through a wide variety of events, meetings and fundraisers.

“The future of our Rotary Club is bright,” Poynter said. “Filled with a deep commitment to service, innovation, collaboration, and a passion for making our community and the world a better place.”

When she is not spending time in the Rotary Club and at the Fieldstone Center, Poynter delights in her time with family and in sports.

“I enjoy spending time with my daughter and traveling with my family,” Poynter said.

“I make a considerable effort to workout five days a week and I recently started learning to play golf, one of the most challenging sports I’ve ever attempted to learn; however, I enjoy playing.”

Congratulations to Rotary Club member Lauren Poynter White and all other Faces of Newton for their service and commitment to our community!

Club of Covington

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2023 Faces of Newton

THE COVINGTON NEWS

You exemplify great leadership and inspire those around you.

Love, your Fieldstone family

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Wendy Rodriguez Using photography to highlight ‘growing diverse community’

By Phillip B. Hubbard

eople find delight in various ways. For Wendy Rodriguez, the place that she finds most enjoyable is behind a camera.

That is why Rodriguez started her own photography business, W. Rodriguez Photography. It is something that gives Rodriguez much exhilaration, too.

“I feel inspired and joyful when creatively capturing special moments for others,” Rodriguez said. “Many of us are so busy looking toward our future that we miss out on really sitting and enjoying our present day. So we often use photography as a means to look back on still frames in our past that evokes some of those nostalgic memories that we didn’t get to fully enjoy.”

Operating her own photog10100 Alcovy Road Covington, GA 770-385-8550 Visit our Website AlcovyFitness.com

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raphy business isn’t the only thing Rodriguez is involved with.

Rodriguez recently volunteered with the Newton Arts Association by photographing the Live at Legion Concert Series. She helped organize the inaugural Mercado Agrícola at the Covington Farmers Market in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month on Sept. 30.

Being a part of such an event was special for Rodriguez.

“Photographing the growing diversity in our city and county has been overwhelmingly fulfilling. I have truly enjoyed the commitment from active leaders who continue to find ways to unify our growing diverse community,” Rodriguez said. “Aside from documenting through photography, I enjoy giving back to the community that poured into me. I’m excited to be able to embrace my Latinx identity and share it with our community. It feels so great to have contributed to this year’s celebration.”

Additionally, Rodriguez is the president of marketing and communications for the Atlanta Young alumni, a volunteer with Emory at Oxford College and helps with service projects through Emory Cares.

Rodriguez’s main mission is

to be a “resource for current students and alumni whenever they need guidance.”

Rodriguez’s parents found their “dream home” in Covington after moving from Miami, Florida in 2003. Rodriguez is a first generation Colombian-American.

She then graduated from Eastside High School with honors, graduated from Emory University and graduated cum laude with her master’s degree from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Accomplishing so much would not be possible without the help of so many people.

“Through the dedicated mentorship and emotional support from many exceptional individuals in Newton County throughout my formative years, I was able to break through a lot of barriers…,” Rodriguez said.

At present, Rodriguez hopes to pay it forward for the people coming behind her.

“My biggest motivation is to embody the role of being an ‘exceptional individual’ in Newton County that someone once was for me,” Rodriguez said.

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2023 Faces of Newton

THE COVINGTON NEWS

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Chad Walker Giving ‘directions to the future’

By Phillip B. Hubbard

or the majority of its existence, the Newton College and Career Academy (NCCA) has been led

by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and principal Chad Walker.

NCCA’s motto is, “Giving direction to the future.”

Walker’s primary responsibility in helping accomplish that is forming partnerships with local industries.

But interacting with the students ranks as Walker’s favorite thing about his job.

“It’s seeing the kids make the connection of why they are doing something,” Walker said. “Then, they come back later in life or after graduation saying, ‘You were right. I am using this and now I see why I had to do this.’

That’s the coolest part.”

Walker grew up in Rockdale County since he was in the third grade. He graduated from Heritage High School and was a student-teacher at Salem High School, where he also first taught full-time.

Walker became Rockdale Career Academy’s assistant principal before he was hired into his current capacity in August 2014.

Twenty two years ago, Walker married his wife — they met at a trivia night at Mellow Mushroom in Conyers — and moved to Oxford. At that point, Walker said all he did outside of Newton was work.

Walker is grateful for being a full member of the local community for almost a decade now.

“It’s a small town feel with everything you need at your fingertips,” Walker said. “You know everybody, but it’s big enough where you can do anything that you need to do.”

Outside of being an educator, Walker enjoys supporting his four kids in their endeavors. He also likes to golf

O Otis Weatherford Cutting hair for the community since 1963

tis Weatherford has been a familiar face around the city of Covington for almost 60 years.

Currently at Alexandria’s Hair Design on Pace Street, Weatherford has been cutting hair for multiple generations of Covington residents.

In his early years, the choice to join the barber profession was an easy one for Weatherford.

“At 16 years old, I quit school and I had to do something to make a living,” Weatherford said. “It is warm in the winter, cool in the summer and I was not working outside. That is what sold me on it.”

Weatherford recalls a time when he ran a produce stand while simultaneously running his barber shop.

“I got out of that [produce stand], but I had a produce stand for 11 years,” Weatherford said. “I would leave [the barber shop] and go do that. But now I am here at the barbershop full-time.”

when he has the chance and travel, especially to Disney as he was once a Disney travel agent.

Walker is also an active member of the Covington First United Methodist Church.

In 1998, Walker graduated with a bachelor of science degree in mathematics from the University of Georgia (UGA), in a city Walker deemed, “God’s country.” He has a master’s and educational specialist in curriculum and instruction from Piedmont College as well as an add on in leadership from UGA. Walker is certified to teach math, health and physical education and vocational subjects, too.

Serving as NCCA’s principal for a near decade is a role Walker takes seriously.

“The career academy can’t be a stand alone building.

Kids need to see their future,” Walker said. “Whether it’s a field trip to Meta or Holder Construction, we have all of those people coming in and out of our building as guest speakers. We try to give them as much exposure to the workforce and we bring those folks in.”

NCCA was recently recognized by the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). In early October, TCSG awarded NCCA 2023 College and Career Academy of the Year honors.

Though Walker is at the helm, he credited much of NCCA’s triumphs — past and present — to NCCA’s “secret sauce.”

“The success of the Newton College and Career Academy is the people. I’m just blessed to work with amazing staff,” Walker said. “They are what makes Newton College and Career Academy an amazing place. They are the secret sauce.”

Weatherford has been a barber in Covington for almost 60 years and has cut hair for many popular names in the city. Notably, Weatherford has cut hair for mayor Steve Horton.

“I have a few that I started cutting in [1967] when I came to Covington,” Weatherford said. “I started cutting in [1963] around Atlanta, and I came to Covington in February of [1967].”

One of the things Weatherford enjoys the most about cutting hair in Covington is being able to see many recurring customers over decades while meeting and getting to know new customers. “[The thing I enjoy the most] is seeing the people I know and being able to meet a lot of people,” Weatherford said.

“[The thing I enjoy the most] is seeing the people I know and being able to meet a lot of people.”

By Garrett Pitts THE COVINGTON NEWS

2023 Faces of Newton

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O Sonya Woodruff

Supporting children through childcare center

By Emily Rose Hamby

ver the years, Sonya Woodruff has made her passion for children evident through her efforts in fostering nearly 40 children in her own home through the Newton County Foster Care Program and opening ABC Childcare and Learning Center in 2006.

The mother of four shared what she loves most about working directly with children in the community and what inspired her to open her childcare center.

“I love watching them discover new things and learn about the world around them. At the time of opening the daycare, I had three children. What better job to have than one where you can be with your children?” Woodruff said.

“My dad was getting ready to retire and I told him, ‘Daddy, I found a daycare for sale. If you buy it, I’ll run it.’ And so he did.”

Woodruff enjoys building relationships with the families that ABC Childcare and Learning Center services, but noted that the children are her favorite part.

“If I’m having a bad day, I’ll just go into a classroom, sit [on] the f loor and all the children come to me and give me hugs and tell me they love me,” Woodruff said. “It’s the best.”

Additionally, Woodruff, who grew up in Covington, was highly involved with Newton County Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) after a friend who worked there

A

Mike Worley Working to preserve natural resources

By Phillip B. Hubbard

18

2023 Faces of Newton

t an early age, Mike Worley was drawn to the outdoors. He remembers hunting squirrels and fishing with his father, grandfather, brother and cousins.

Now, Worley channels that passion through his role as the president and CEO of Georgia Wildlife Federation (GWF) — a position he’s had for the past eight years.

Worley’s continued aim is to help carry out GWF’s mission statement it formed in 1936 when it was founded.

“We were founded by hunters and anglers and, though our tent has grown considerably larger, hunting and fishing are still at our core,” Worley said. “As advocates for ecological services and ecological systems, GWF has long been a leading voice in Georgia’s efforts to protect and enhance our natural systems and to protect the rights and heritage of our state’s hunters and anglers. We partner with, and sometimes challenge, our state’s wildlife agency in our advocacy work and in our services.”

Worley was born in LaGrange and grew up in Douglasville along with “a few stops around the rest of the US southland.” Currently, Worley resides in the Mansfield area.

Prior to becoming GWF’s CEO, Worley worked for 33 years with Georgia Power. He earned a degree in biology from the University of West Georgia with the intention of working in the wildlife field.

Through his vast experiences, Worley has always seen the value of preserving natural resources. In fact, when

encouraged her to teach classes with her.

After undergoing the proper training and certification, Woodruff taught classes as part of DFCS’ IMPACT program – a series of classes to aid aspiring foster and adoptive parents in making informed decisions. The classes also teach skills necessary to parent a foster child.

Woodruff previously served as the president of the Newton County Foster Association for eight years. She also served as a foster parent for approximately 12 years where her family fostered 40 children.

For Woodruff, she credits her reasoning behind becoming a foster parent to God. “God showed me the path he wanted me to take to build our family,” Woodruff said.

Though she does not foster children anymore, Woodruff yearns to remain an active figure in the lives of foster children by working with the county’s own Alcovy CASA nonprofit organization one day.

Since fostering, Woodruff now lives “happily” with her husband of almost 31 years, four children, one grandchild and two cats.

Along with shopping and visiting antique stores, Woodruff enjoys spending time with her family and friends at the lake in the community she loves.

“It’s always been home, and it’s where all my people are,” Woodruff said.

asked of the importance, Worley was “stumped.”

“I can hardly imagine why anyone wouldn’t think preservation of our natural resources is important,” Worley said.

His reasoning of importance was three fold.

First, from a global outlook, Worley cited the “Overview Effect.” According to Worley, astronauts described it as “one is almost universally changed by seeing the small, but all encompassing ball of life that is our Earth surrounded by this great universe of non-life.”

The second reason for Worley — coming from a “granular scale” — is that the natural world can help people who are “willing to benefit from it.”

Lastly, Worley used a “Judeo/Christian ethic.”

“Humans were given dominion over the natural world,” Worley said. “We sometimes, however, forget that ‘dominion over’ nature entails responsibility. That responsibility must lead us to our stewardship of the plants, animals and resources.”

Worley is glad to now be a part of GWF in his current role and to live in Newton County. Worley stated living here was a “perfect fit.”

“We are able to live in and celebrate a more rural lifestyle while at the same time having a vibrant small town feel around the Square,” Worley said. “People are friendly and the county is a far more beautiful landscape than I realized before moving here.”

THE COVINGTON NEWS

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WHY

Newton County Superior Court Clerk’s office in conjunction with the Georgia Superior Court Clerks Cooperative Authority (GSCCCA) is pleased to offer two new services to the citizens of Newton County.

• Filing Activity Notification System (FANS) provides Georgia citizens with tools to monitor activity regarding their property and records • eCertification services provides users the ability to electronically request certified Court and Real Estate Records 24 hours a day, 365 days a year The Clerk of Superior Court is also honored to offer an invaluable service to our veterans by recording and preserving military discharge records, free of charge. Please visit our website, www.alcovycircuit.com, for more information.

Mrs. Linda D. Hays The Clerk of Courts It is my honor to serve the citizens of Newton County

NEWTON COUNTY CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT 1132 USHER STREET, SUITE 338 COVINGTON 770-784-2035 • ALCOVY CIRCUIT.COM