Newcomers Guide 2015

Newcomer s ’ GUIDE 2015

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE COVINGTON NEWS AND THE NEWS

2016

Delivering Our Future!

Barbar a Susin

e, Barlow Brenda SN CNM, M

, CNM,

Denise Cochran, CNM, MSN

MSN

orth, CNM

Natalie Whitw

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC

From left to right: Jessie L. Bender, DO… Barbara Susin, CNM… Kerry Dewberry, WHNP…Denise Cochran, CNM…Cathy T. Larrimore, MD

Growing To Serve You Better!!

Dr. Sherley Samuels has a special interest in High Risk Obstetrics; she completed her training at Rutgers University, one of our country’s most rigorous programs.

She is excited to join our community along with her husband and infant daughter. Her husband, Steven, is a Georgia native, and he recently completed his PhD at the Tuskegee Institute.

Dr. Michelle White, a Georgia native, completed her studies at Morehouse School of Medicine and trained in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Atlanta’s premier hospitals, Grady Memorial and Atlanta Medical Center. She looks forward to developing lasting relationships with her patients. Along with her husband and newborn son, Dr. White anxiously awaits joining our community.

Covington Women’s Health Specialists, LLC. 4181 Hospital Drive NE, Suites 100 and 104 Covington, GA 30014 770-385-8954 www.cwhs-larrimore.com

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38 46 48 50 52

from the Editor Welcome Letter A TALE OF TWO you're here and why you should stay CITIES Why FACTS OF NEWTON NEWTON PARKS KNOW YOUR NEWTON SCHOOLS NEWTON BOARD OF EDUCATION YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS City of 28 The Covington

City of 31 The Mansfield

City of 29 The Porterdale

City of 32 The Newborn

City of 30 The Oxford

33 Newton County

NEWTON VOTING GETTING UTILITIES HOLLYWOOD OF THE SOUTH THE ARTS FAMOUS FACES SEASONS OF NEWTON SPORTS FACILITIES ABOUT ROCKDALE 52 Cultural Intersection Your 56 Know Elected Officials

73

60 Rockdale’s Parks & Trails

66 Rockdale Medical

Center: When Seconds Count

71 Rockdale’s Growing Library

NEWTON DIRECTORY 73 Libraries

75 Emergency Services & Clubs

74 Recycling

78 Churches

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Diseases of the Skin, Hair & Nails Diseases Diseases of the of the Skin, Hair Hair &Family Nails & Nails Skin Care for theSkin, Entire SkinSkin Care Care forDiagnosis for thethe Entire Entire Family Skin Cancer &Family Surgery Skin Cancer Cancer Diagnosis Diagnosis & Surgery & Surgery Botox Skin ~ Chemical Peels ~ Leg Vein Treatment Botox Botox ~ Chemical ~ Chemical Peels Peels ~ Leg ~ Leg Vein Vein Treatment Treatment

 

1st Row; Left to Right: Sherry McGee, Medical Assistant; Christy Baugh, Medical Assistant; Tammy Speer, Medical Assistant; Row, Left to Right: Assistant; Eva Simon, Medical Assistant, Collantes, Medical Assistant; Ashley Heath, Physician Amy Stone, 1st Medical Row; Left 1stAssistant.

Row; to Right: Left2nd to Sherry Right: McGee, Sherry Medical McGee, Medical Assistant; Christy Baugh, Christy Medical Baugh,Rita Medical Assistant; Assistant; Tammy Tammy Speer, Medical Speer, Medical Assistant; Assistant;

Assistant; Frazier, Medical Secretary; Joe2nd Overton, Jr., to (M.D., Emory Graduate); Shiara Vassian, Assistant &Assistant; Holly Rohletter, Medical Secretary.

2nd Row, Left Row, to Right: Left Eva Right: Simon, EvaMedical Simon, Medical Assistant, Assistant, Rita Collantes, RitaPhysician Collantes, Medical Medical Assistant; Ashley Ashley Heath,Heath, Physician Physician Amy Judy Stone,Amy Medical Stone, Assistant.

Medical Assistant.

Assistant; Judy Assistant; Frazier, Judy Medical Frazier,Secretary; Medical Secretary; Joe Overton, Joe Overton, Jr., (M.D.,Jr., Emory (M.D.,Graduate); Emory Graduate); Shiara Vassian, Shiara Vassian, Physician Physician Assistant Assistant & Holly&Rohletter, Holly Rohletter, Medical Medical Secretary.

Secretary.

The Dermatology Center The Dermatology Dermatology Center Center ofThe Newton-Rockdale, P.C. of of Newton-Rockdale, Newton-Rockdale, P.C. P.C. The Summit at Covington Ridge 4155 Baker Street, Suite • Covington, The Summit The Summit at Covington at 100 Covington Ridge Ridge GA 41554155 Baker Baker Street, Street, SuiteSuite 100 100 • Covington, • Covington, GA GA 770-788-0620 ~ www.overtondermatology.com

770-788-0620 770-788-0620 www.overtondermatology.com ~ www.overtondermatology.com Proudly ~ Serving Newton-Rockdale Area for 13 Years!

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NEW COMER'S Guide 2015-16

BRYAN FAZIO Newton Editor

DEBBIE THOMPSON Comptroller

AMANDA ELLINGTON Circulation Supervisor

MICHELLE KIM Rockdale Editor EDITORIAL STAFF SHAKEEM HOLLOWAY

Sports Editor MERIS LUTZ

Reporter SANDRA BRANDS

Reporter MARTIN RAND, III

Reporter DARRELL EVERIDGE

Photographer

ADVERTISING CYNTHIA BLACKSHEAR-WARREN

Covington Sales Director ANNETTE GODWIN

Rockdale Sales Director SUSAN GRAJKO

Sales Representative

CIRCULATION BRANDI JOHNSON

WEBMASTER BRIAN WORTON

WELCOME! W

elcome to Newton County and Rockdale County. As the county’s voice that tells the “Story of Our Lives” let us say we are eager for you to see the community grow and for you to grow with us.

The county is at a pivotal place with growth continually on the horizon, including the arrival of Baxalta, set to open in 2016. Following the announcement of the pharmaceutical giant’s arrival, Newton County’s commercial side has been reinvigorated. New restaurants have opened, a new hotel is in the process of being built, The Georgia BioScience Training Center is being built and other industry is seeing this county as a destination.

One of the great things about the county is that, even with the focus on the future, yesterday has not been left behind.

Driving down Floyd Street, antebellum homes and architecture from a time gone by greets residents and visitors alike. The Covington Square, with its stores, restaurants and seasonal festivities, is a town center that has retained its charm and its Southern roots that reach deeper than that of its iconic magnolia trees.

Porterdale, one of Newton County’s five municipalities, brought its mill village back to life centered on the Yellow River as a focus of recreation and tourism. The Yellow River Water Trail is just one of the natural draws of Newton County.

Newcomers will discover, and long-time residents already know, how beautiful Newton can be, no matter the season.

In the summer, residents will be able to cool off in the Yellow River, enjoy the various blooming flowers and trees that give the region its natural beauty, and one of the area’s largest Fourth of July celebrations takes place in Covington with Oxford’s annual parade nearby. The

fall brings colorful foliage, events like the Taste of Newton, high school football and more. Winter sometimes blankets Newton’s famous sights and scenery in a white covering of snow. Christmas is a time of wonder in Newton County with the lighting of the Square and events throughout December.

Spring brings fresh produce, lunchtime concerts, cherry blossoms, dogwoods, azaleas and more.

Year round, seemingly, Newton and Rockdale counties are also abuzz with filming, as it has lived up to its trademarked moniker “Hollywood of the South.” Newton County has familiar locations to many who have seen shows such as “In the Heat of the Night” and “The Vampire Diaries,” as well as movies such as “Remember the Titans,” “Prisoners,” “Selma,” and the recently filmed “Vacation.”

The staff here at The Covington News has been busy preparing this magazine to familiarize everyone with what Newton and Rockdale are all about. Each city – Covington, Conyers, Porterdale, Oxford, Newborn and Mansfield – is featured here.

We are glad that you have chosen Newton County to move to or settle down in.

We hope this magazine is a way for you to navigate this place we love, your new home.

To keep up to date about all the local happenings throughout the year read The Covington News in print every Sunday, The Rockdale News every Saturday, our News and Advertiser every Wednesday, and every day at CovNews.com or RockdaleNews. com.

Sincerely, Bryan Fazio Editor, The Covington News

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RETAIL 4. CORNER MARKET 6. BERRY’S TREE FARM 13. FLETCHER’S JEWELRY 13. SPIRES INTERIORS AND GIFTS 16. CORK GROWLER AND CIGAR SHOPPE 29. PC AFTER DARK 37. COWAN ACE HARDWARE 38. FIELDSTONE JEWELRY & PAWN 58. WESTMORELAND’S 59. ESSENTIALLY YOURS 59. BEASLEY DRUG COMPANY 59. SALT OF THE EARTH 63. THE COMPANY STORE 69, 75 ELITE PAWN 77. THE MALL AT STONECREST MEDICAL 2. COVINGTON WOMEN’S HEALTH SPECIALISTS 3. ROCKDALE MEDICAL CENTER 5. DERMATOLOGY CENTER OF NEWTON-ROCKDALE 7. DERMATOLOGY CONSULTANTS 30. EAST ATLANTA GASTROENTEROLOGY 35. THE WOMEN’S CENTER 40, 82. NEWTON MEDICAL CENTER 45. EMORY NEWTON MEDICAL ASSOCIATES 49. GEORGIA DERMATOLOGY 53. ATLANTA HEART ASSOCIATES 55. ATLANTA GASTROENTEROLOGY 56. EARN NOSE AND THROAT SPECIALISTS RESTAURANTS 19 MILAZZO’S RISTORANTE 58. CLUB 908 58. AWAKE COFFEE 58. THE CELTIC TAVERN 59. SOUTHERN & SEAFOOD 59. WHISTLE POST TAVERN ATHLETICS 6. COVINGTON Y 9. ALCOVY FITNESS 10. ROCKDALE GYMNASTICS 43. YOUNG AMERICANS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 46. CHEROKEE RUN GOLF CLUB 63. RHYTHM ELEMENTS FUNERAL HOMES 8. CREMATION CARE OF GEORGIA 25. CALDWELL AND COWAN 42. J.C. HARWELL & SON 61. GREGORY B. LEVETT AND SONS REALTY 10, 23. CALDWELL BANKER 24, 39. REMAX 54. EAST METRO BOARD OF

REALTORS EDUCATION 11. LOGANVILLE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 20. NEWTON COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM 32. PEACHTREE ACADEMY 71. COVINGTON ACADEMY 72. PIEDMONT ACADEMY GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS 12, 15. MAIN STREET COVINGTON 22. OXFORD 32. KEEP COVINGTON/ NEWTON BEAUTIFUL 33. COVINGTON 39. CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT 51. NEWTON COUNTY SHERIFF OFFICE 64. PORTERDALE 74. NEWBORN HOME CARE AND DÉCOR 14. RAMSEY’S FURNITURE 18. RANDY’S CARPET PLUS 24. HARDY’S FLOOR COVERING 27. HAYES FURNITURE 62. CEDAR CREEK CONTRACTING 67. RIGHT AT HOME 81. HIGH PRIORITY PLUMBING AND SERVICES ART 17 SOUTHERN HEARTLAND 58 THE CONYERS SCHOOL OF BALLET INSURANCE 47. KNIGHT AND TABB INSURANCE 79. WILSON F. MATHEWS INSURANCE SERVICES RECREATION 65. SOUTH RIVER GUN CLUB 73. NEWTON COUNTY RECREATION COMMISSION SALON 15. CHARMED PETS 21. THE STOCK MARKET PEST CONTROL 18 BIZZY BEE UTILITIES 26. SNAPPING SHOALS CHURCHES 28. MONASTERY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ENTERTAINMENT 31. GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK PARKS 57. WALK OF HEROES APARTMENTS 34. FIELD CREST WALK AUTOMOTIVE 54. BULLDOG TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE

W

elcome to Newton County, if you’re new to the area, thinking about moving here or just curious for another take here’s a look through some of the county’s most pressing issues and greatest opportunities that will shape its future and maybe even that of the greater east Atlanta region.

A tale of

Photo by Darrell Everidge

Why you’re in Newton County and why you should think about staying

TWO COUNTIES

STAFF REPORTS

A bit of perspective Covington, the county seat, is a 35-mile car ride east of Atlanta along Interstate 20 is a mix of people stuck in both worlds.

Which makes sense, because the metro Atlanta region, which hasn’t historically included Newton County, is Georgia’s economic engine and cultural center and home to some 5.5 million people as well as one of the South’s most important metropolises.

And it’s Newton County’s proximity to Atlanta that both leaves the county overshadowed and provides it with some of its greatest opportunities to become a business and quality of life destination for the state.

Continued on page 10

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Newcomers Guide 2015

Continued from page 9

A bit of history A manufacturing boom in the 60s and 70s brought a number of big-time industries to the county, including Hercules (now Fibervisions), Mobil Chemical Company (an ancestor of Pactiv) and Bard Urological Division, now C.R. Bard. In the 1980s and 1990s, General Mills and SKC continued the trend and located new plants in Covington.

More recently, Newton has turned into a bedroom community of Atlanta.

Several factors collided in the late 90s and 2000s to turn Newton County into one of the 10 fastest growing counties (by percentage population growth) in the entire United States.

Atlanta was using the prestige of hosting the 1996 summer Olympics to spur job growth in the midst of an already booming U.S. economy, fueled by the dot-come and technology booms. The economic gains laid the foundation for huge population growth that continued even after the dot-com bust, when record-low interest rates and skyrocketing land and home values led to a home building surge all around metro Atlanta.

Newton County, one of Georgia’s biggest counties at 279 square miles, had land to spare and people flocked to the inexpensive

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housing being built in the area. The county’s population grew by 20,193 during the 1990s and another 34,018 from 2000 to 2007.

The dairy farms and forests of western Newton County were replaced with sprawling subdivisions, emulating development patterns that had occurred previously in DeKalb and Rockdale counties further west, and thousands more homes were scheduled to be built when the housing market collapsed in 2008.

In the aftermath of the U.S.’s worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, several thousand local construction workers found themselves out of jobs and parts of the Newton County were left scarred with the remnants of unfulfilled promise.

A tale of two counties The county was forever transformed, yet, many officials and longtime residents in Covington and eastern Newton County were relieved the collapse, as devastating as it was, prevented the county from being completely overrun by suburban sprawl.

Much of the county’s rural nature, including its greenspace, forests and farms were maintained -- in the eastern part of the county. The population swelled in the west-

ern side, with the addition of the county’s second Walmart, Publix grocery store and several neighborhoods.

Western Newton County is more densely developed, with subdivision after subdivision lining its major corridors and plenty of undeveloped and partially-built subdivisions waiting for a housing recovery.

The area’s residents tend to be more connected to cities further west than Covington for two reasons: many of them hold down professional level jobs in the metro area and they’re attracted to Conyers’ and Lithonia’s much more robust shopping scenes.

With the exception of Publix and Walmart, western Newton County lacks much retail punch, and it doesn’t have a whole lot of amenities, though the openings of the Porter Memorial Branch Library and Denny Dobbs Park have given the area some character.

Further east, the county ranges from fairly to very rural with pockets of subdivisions interspersed with large land lots, farms and undeveloped forest.

Many of those residents identify more closely with Covington, though they’d like to see more commercial development come to the east side.

The west side is more demographically

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Newcomers Guide 2015

diverse and leans Democratic; the east side is a Republican stronghold. The difference is starkly contrasted in the county’s two congressmen, who couldn’t be further away on the political spectrum. Democrat Hank Johnson is among the House’s most liberal members and Republican Paul Broun among its staunchest conservatives. Their districts’ dividing line splits Newton County down the middle.

Road to recovery Newton County was hit hard by the housing collapse, since its record growth had been driven almost entirely by housing construction. Construction workers and craftsman lost jobs. Those workers and others who had bought homes outside of their budget on risky mortgages lost their homes. The county’s tax base, which had been inflated by unsustainable home values, collapsed.

The aftermath was ugly, and Newton County is just now starting to see the signs of real recovery. Home prices continue to rise, residential construction is picking up, businesses are expanding and new ones are coming.

Isolated incidents of hope, like the Mystic

Grill restaurant, and other new ventures on the Square, along with Ross clothing store, Jimmy John’s sandwiches and more are beginning to string together to form some momentum.

Pharmaceutical manufacturer Baxter International’s April 2012 decision to locate a new $1 billion manufacturing campus on the Newton/Walton county border has a consistent source of hope and optimism for brighter days ahead.

The bioscience plant, which will make plasma-derived therapies, will eventually employ around 1,500 workers itself, a huge total even among big manufacturers, but the fact it was the first tenant to land in the 1,600acre Stanton Springs Industrial Park is equally significant.

Baxter’s arrival – now known as Baxalta - is used as leverage by community leaders in all sorts of efforts and has framed many conversations about the future. It helped lead to the building of a new hotel, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites.

However, the county still has a long way to go, as the number of unemployed and underemployed workers remains high and concerns remain about the number of residents who lack even two-year college or high school degrees.

COVNEWS.COM 11

A new community workforce development center, the New Leaf Workforce Center, and an under-construction Georgia BioScience Training Center in Stanton Springs provide some hope of progress to come, especially when combined with the Newton College and Career Academy, which is helping some local high school students get a head start on careers right out of school.

Landing another large industry or two would certainly spur the push for high-quality development, and that can’t come soon enough for residents who are tired of reading about the arrival of more dollar stores and fast food chains.

Small town charm, rural beauty Despite all the talk about growth and future opportunities, if you were to ask many residents where the county’s heart lies, they’d point you to Covington Square.

A true town square, the Covington Square is a true community gathering spot, whether its weekday lunch concerts, Saturday car or tractor shows or massive festivals, the Square remains the town’s calling card, accompanied by its Historic Courthouse, which continues to be a prominent fixture in TV shows and movies Continued on page 13

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DOWNTOWN

EVENTS

Covington Community Bike Ride First Sunday of each month Meet at the Square at 3:00

Co-Hosted by the Newton Trails, Main Street Covington and Covington-Newton County Visitors Center

July 4th Independence On The Square

A community event to celebrate the Nation’s Independence. Live music, food and fun; concluding with a fireworks extravaganza.

Hosted by Main Street Covington, City of Covington and Newton County Board of Commissioners

2nd Friday Summer Concert Series Concerts begin at 7pm and are held June, August and September in Square Park.

Co-hosted by Main Street Covington and The Arts Association of Newton County

Lunchtime Concert Series On The Square Held at noon each Thursday during May and September Co-hosted by Main Street Covington and the Arts Association of Newton County

Fuzz Run – Saturday, September 12th Hosted by the Covington Police Department

Events you don’t want to miss in Downtown Covington!

Lighting of the Square – Thursday, November 19th – 5:30pm

Join us for a celebration to kick off the Christmas season.

There will be Carriage rides, music, Christmas Open House with downtown shops and a visit from Santa

Late Night Shopping – Each Thursday night in December before Christmas

Join us December 3rd, 10th and 17th for Carriage Rides, candlelight shopping and carolers.

Hosted by Main Street Covington

Covington/Newton Christmas Parade Saturday, December 5th at 10:30am Hosted by Covington Lions Club

Christmas On The Square – Each Friday night in December from 6-9pm Friday, December 4th – ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ The Grinch will be here!

Friday, December 11th- ‘Winter Wonderland’ Friday, December 18th – ‘Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer’ Santa and his reindeer will be here!

Hosted by Main Street Covington

Hope Concert to Kick off Portraits of Hope and Breast Cancer Awareness Month Sunday, September 27th – Square Park

Co-Hosted by Piedmont-Newton Hospital Women’s Diagnostic Center and Main Street Covington

downtowncovington.org

THE ORIGINAL SINCE 1976 Continued from page 11

looking to capture the essence of small town America.

The Square has seen a slight uptick in nightlife with Mystic Grill, joining Amici’s, Treasure Thai and R.L.’s, along with a new restaurant slated to go where Church Street Antiques was.

The area has remained fairly vibrant, and the steady amount of filming for movies and TV shows helps it feel like a happening place, even the road closures and delays are an occasional pain in the neck. The fact Covington has trademarked the motto “Hollywood of the South” and can trace its movie lineage back to the 1955 film, “A Man Called Peter,” gives hope the area can remain in the limelight for years to come.

And that’s not to mention the charm of the county’s even smaller cities. Porterdale, just south of Covington, is doing all it can to turn itself in a little river village, using its location off the recreational Yellow River to reestablish its identity five decades after the death of its textile mill.

Oxford, the calm city founded by the Methodist Church, remains quaint and quiet, while Oxford College, a two-year college partner of Emory University, continues to grow quietly in size and stature.

Newborn and Mansfield remain the ideal of the American small town – a couple hundred residents mixed in with a few businesses with no need for stoplights. The town council meetings will even, every once a while, harken back to the days when council meetings used to be a true gathering of the community for the purpose of airing grievances and reaching a public consensus on the town’s business.

There’s some real character and plenty of real characters.

TROLLBEADS TROLLBEADS THE ORIGINAL SINCE 1976

THE ORIGINAL SINCE 1976

It’s all about people However, for many people who come to Atlanta or the east Atlanta Continued on page 14

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14 COVNEWS.COM

Continued from page 13

region from elsewhere, Newton County has a tough time differentiating itself. If you want a more urban experience, you’re better off in Decatur or one of Atlanta’s many established and up-and-coming neighborhoods.

If you want the true rural experience, sparsely populated Morgan County is just a little further east and offers true country living.

The modern suburban experience is being exemplified in Cobb County and areas of Gwinnett County. Lake living is found around Lake Oconee and Lake Lanier, though Jackson Lake on Newton County’s southern border holds some attraction.

Newton County is a hodgepodge, which isn’t such a bad thing. It’s got a little bit of a lot of things.

But if you’re buying Newton County – or choosing to reinvest in the place you’ve already called home – you’re probably buying it because of its potential and its people.

Other Georgia communities, and many in the South for that matter, have a similar characteristic, but the people in Newton County are downright welcoming. They’ll come over and introduce themselves – sometimes they’ll even bring a pie – they’ll invite you to church and they’ll offer to lend a helping hand if needed.

The county isn’t so big that you get swallowed up in it. You can call people up and they answer. You can offer to volunteer and get involved and they’ll accept your help. You can carve out a niche pretty quickly. CN

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Newcomers Guide 2015

NEWTON facts

Agriculture Newton County’s robust agricultural base generates more than $14.5 million in products a year, and farms across the county produce beef cattle, hay and poultry. Recently, organic farms have also begun to crop up around the county, while some city residents also have caught the urban agriculture bug and are reinventing the idea of the backyard garden.

The county is home to three major agriculture learning facilities. Established in 1937, the Georgia FFA-FCCLA Center is the state’s premier camp facility and conference center. For almost 50 years, Boy Scouts have camped and created cherished memories at Bert Adams Scout Reservation. The Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center offers youths the opportunity to experience the great outdoors through enjoyable educational programs.

Unprecedented growth Given its prime combination of natural resources and proximity to Atlanta, Newton County witnessed an unprecedented explosion of growth during the 1990s and 2000s. The county’s population grew from 62,000 in 2000 to an estimated 102,446 in 2013. Such growth made Newton the 11th-fastest growing county of the decade in the United States, according to the Census Bureau.

People Newton County’s population, which was 101,505 in 2012, is 30.2 percent male and 69.8 percent female, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, while the racial makeup is 52 percent white, 40.4 percent black, 4.6 percent Hispanic or Latino, 1.7 percent two or more races and .9 percent Asian.

The median age of a county resident is 34 years, and the average household size is 2 people.

or 96 years, Ramsey Furniture has been home to the Covington area’s largest selection of fine home furnishings.

We have over 30,000 square feet of furniture on display since restoring several large historic buildings across the street from our main store. Come see us at 1145 Clark Street near the Newton County Courthouse.

At Ramsey’s, your account is still a name and not a number. We offer a personal customer service experience when you are shopping for your home furnishing needs.

Our everyday low prices and next day delivery help save you time and money.

Ramsey Furniture Company is a family owned and operated business.

We look forward to serving you with quality furniture at savings like the Ramsey family has been famous for since 1919.

Sincerely, y,

SAM RAMSEY President

TONY RAMSEY Vice President

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Land, water and air Newton County is one of Georgia’s largest counties, at 276.4 square miles. The Alcovy, Yellow, and South rivers are primary waterways. Jackson Lake is used for recreation, while Lake Varner (also known as Cornish Creek Reservoir) is a water source, so gas engines are not permitted when boating there. The Covington Municipal Airport is north of the city and home to small aircraft and corporate jets.

Income Newton County’s 2013 median income was $54,107, according to an estimate by the Census Bureau, while 14.6 percent of eligible residents fell below the poverty line.

Of residents 25 years of age or older, 84.2 percent had at least a high school degree, and 19.1 percent had at least a bachelor’s degree.

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Education Newton County is home to four higher education institutions, including historic Oxford College, a leading two-year liberal arts school, Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Georgia Perimeter College and Troy University.

Employment As of May 2015, Newton had a civilian labor force (over the age of 16) of 48,304 and an unemployment rate of 6.8 percent, according to the Georgia Department of Labor. The average Newton County resident drives 31.5 minutes to work, according to a previous study, as many residents commute into Atlanta and surrounding counties. CN

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W

ith lakes on its northern and southern borders, rivers and streams running throughout, and landscape dotted with farms dozens of miles from the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, Newton County is an exemplification of natural beauty.

There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the county’s natural landscape. Here is a look at how and where to get out and enjoy Newton County.

Parks, Trails and Nature Conservancies

Hang out with fairies or hike the grounds of a long-gone historic mansion in Covington’s Chimney Park. Join bluegrass fiddlers at the Newborn Pickers Circle at the town park. Launch a kayak or walk the loop along Porterdale’s Yellow River Park.

&

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Enjoy Newton’s natural beauty

BY SANDRA BRANDS

City of Covington (2194 Emory Street, Covington; 770385-2000; http://www.cityofcovington.org/) Continued on page 18

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Chimney Park (7116 Floyd St NE, Covington; (678) 625-1235; http:// www.chimney-park.com/) Located behind Newton County’s main library branch on Floyd Street, Chimney Park gets its names from the remnants of the MartinPatterson Home, built between 1910 and 1918. Though the house burned to the ground in the 1980s, its granite foundation and one chimney remain. The 12-acre site is an urban woodland offering people a chance to reconnect with nature under the shelter of towering trees. Friends of Newton Park, a nonprofit organization, works with the Newton County Parks and Recreation Commission towards creating environments that meet the national goal of “No Child Left Inside.”

Two annual events, one in May and one in December, raise money for park projects, such as installing flooring over the old foundation

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of the Patterson home to make it more accessible. In December, trees are draped with thousands of lights for “Twilights at Chimney Park.” Santa, cider, carolers and storytellers delight children and adults alike. “Fairy Houses at Chimney Parks” is held the first Saturday in May and is a fanciful gathering winged creatures, young and old, and offers tours of fairy houses, crafts, refreshments, storytelling, exhibits and a Maypole.

Recently, a music fence was installed in the park through an educational grant from the Pilot Club of Covington. The “fence” is a series of hollow pipes encapsulated in a wood fence-like frame.

Town of Newborn (4224 Highway 142, Newborn; (770) 787-1660; http://www.newbornga.com/) Newborn City Park The park, located near the city hall on GA142, features swings, grills, picnic tables, benches, a large pavilion and more. During the summer months, the Newborn Pickers Circle gathers at the pavilion for an evening of bluegrass and fiddles.

City of Porterdale (2400 Main St., Porterdale; (770) 786-2217; http:// www.cityofporterdale.com/) Yellow River Park (2400 Main St., Porterdale) Once the site of thriving mills, Porterdale has experienced a renaissance in recent years. The Porterdale Mill was refashioned into Lofts; historic Broad Street and its environs were designated a part of the state’s Main Street Redevelopment Program; and the city repurposed its historic gym after a fire gutted it in 2005, creating an open air event

Newcomers Guide 2015

center within its original brick walls.

The city turned its attention to Yellow River, which flows through the small community.

The long neglected river is now clean and part of the Georgia Rivers Network. An extensive park is being created, based on a design

by The National Park Service, that will link the river side park to a major walking trail system.

The existing historic depot will serve as the trailhead, eventually housing restrooms. The city, county, the Newton County Trails/Path Foundation, chamber, Yellow River Conservation and Preservation Club and Lafarge Aggregate, and with the help of a grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Yellow River Park now offers kayakers a launch area, playgrounds for children, and a one-quarter mile concrete trail for walkers and bike riders. Plans are underway to install a disk golf course, and create a 27-acre outdoor festival area.

Porterdale Community Garden A collaboration of Newton County Cooperative Extension Service and Master Gardeners, Hands on Newton/NCCP, and the City of Porterdale, the Newton County Community Garden in Porterdale, located behind city hall, offers residents without access to a sunny gar-

den area or interested in sharing a hobby with fellow enthusiasts a place to plant vegetables and fruits. Managed by resident Candace Hassen, the garden has 56 beds, most four-foot-byeight-foot, all available to residents for a nominal deposit fence. Sunflowers, cared for by the garden community as a whole, are harvested, the seeds roasted and package and handed out during the city’s annual Christmas parade.

Porterdale Pocket Parks As part of its neighborhood revitalization, the City of Porterdale created three “pocket” parks, located on Hemlock, Pine and Elm streets. All have playground equipment installed on safety mulch, and feature roses, areas to rest and a kiosk housing free lending libraries.

Georgia Wildlife Federation Alcovy Conservation Center (11600 Hazelbrand Road, Covington; www.gwf.org) Headquartered in Covington at the Alcovy Conservation Center, the Georgia Wildlife Federation’s (GWF) mission is to encourage the protection and restoration of waters, wildlife, forest and field through advocacy, education and stewardship. Affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation, GWF offers

COVNEWS.COM 19

educational programs that use the swamps of Alcovy River as an interpretive backdrop. The Conservation Center is a 15,000-square-foot complex of offices, lecture halls, classrooms and library space, all surrounded by native plant gardens. Other facilities on 115-acres site along the Alcovy River include pavilions, an executive retreat house and a log cabin.

Hunter and angler heritage education programs are also offered.

The Center is opened, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. All visitors must check in with the front office upon arrival and departure.

Newton County Parks & Recreation (Turner Lake Park Complex, 6185 Turner Lake Road, Covington; (770) 786-4373; http://newtonrecreation.com/) Picnic near the shoals of Factory River, fish, go bird watching or just relax at one of the 14 recreational parks in Newton County’s Parks and Recreation arsenal.

Headquartered at Turner Lake, The Newton County Recreation Commission manages over 330 acres of facilities, including the award-winning Turner Lake Complex, Continued on page 20

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Newcomers Guide 2015

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and adjacent Miracle League baseball field, and Denny Dobbs Park.

Headquartered at Turner Lake, The Newton County Recreation Commission manages over 330 acres of facilities, including the awardwinning Turner Lake Complex, the City Pond Complex and adjacent Miracle League baseball field, and Denny Dobbs Park. The goal is to offer high quality facilities and programs meeting the physical, social and emotional interests of Newton County residents. For information, visit www.newtonrecreation.com or call (770) 786-4373.

Academy Springs Park (3120 Conyers Street, Covington) Bringing a touch of nature to the city, Academy Springs Park, sometimes referred to as Springs Park, boasts playground equipment originally installed by the Covington Lions Club, a pavilion with tables and chairs that can seat between 70 and 80 people, and areas for picnicking. The park is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Pavilion rental information and reservations can be made by calling (770) 843-5939, or by visiting www.covingtongalions.org.

Baker Field (1146 Conyers St.) Baker Field is located on Conyers Street next to the Conyers Street Gym. This is a small field that is used by youth baseball and softball teams for games and practices. Baker Field is a community field that is available to the public when activities are not scheduled. Baker Field is named after the late Buddy Baker, a pioneer of early baseball in Newton County.

Beaver Park (Highway 213, Mansfield) Beaver Park is used as a youth baseball and softball practice field. A walking track circles the park’s large open field and leads to the pavil-

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ion and tennis court. The large field is a great place to throw a football; or fly a kite. The open area also offers kids a place to run around and play games such as tag. The park also has a playground for the entertainment of young children.

Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center (563 Elliott Trail, Mansfield; www. gadnr.org) Charlie Elliott Wildlife Center features 6,400-acres managed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Offering a variety of activities and programs, this beautiful area is centrally located in the state in a beautiful wooded setting near Mansfield, Georgia, making it easily accessible from Atlanta, Athens and Macon.

City Pond Complex (13501 City Pond Road, Covington) City Pond Park is located just off of Interstate 20 on Old City Pond Road. A large pond encompasses much of the park’s land, with an open area nearby for playing catch or tossing Frisbees. The state of the art facilities at City Pond offer a wide variety of activities including a two mile trail the circles the pond for walkers and runners; a lighted football field; four lighted tennis courts; one picnic pavilion; three concession stands with a meeting room; restrooms; an umpire dressing facilities/scorekeeper building; five batting cages; and a tot-lot playground.

The six baseball fields for youth, 5 through 14, are considered some of the finest in the state, and were the site of the 1993, 1997, 2002 and 2008 Dixie Boys World Series.

Part of the park is The Miracle League Complex, a state-of-the-art facility that opened in April 2015, it accommodates players with physical or mental challenges. It includes a custom-designed field with a cushioned, rubberized surface, wheelchair accessible dugouts, and a completely flat surface to eliminate barriers. Accessible restrooms, a concession stand, and picnic pavilion will also be incorporated within this design.

The park is open daylight to dusk.

Conyers Street Gym (1146 Conyers St., Covington) Conyers Street Gym is located in Downtown Covington beside Baker Field. The Gym consists of one full sized basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court. The Gym can be rented on weekdays and weekends for group play at a cost of $50 for the first hour and $40 for each additional hour. A $50 key deposit is required.

Denny Dobbs Park (6244 Highway 212, Covington) Located in western Newton County’s Oak Hill District, Denny Dobbs Park is a state of the art regional park with amenities offering different recreational opportunities for residents. Named for Denny Dobbs, a former Georgia State Representative and lifelong resident of Newton County, the park’s amenities include two playgrounds for children 2- to 5-years old, and one for children, 5 to 12. There are two basketball courts and a ball field, trails and an interactive electronic gaming station called NEOS, which combines video game speed with aerobic activities. A Life Trail offers a series of handicapped accessible exercise stations designed to maintain and enhance flexibility, strength and endurance for adults 50 and older. The stations are connected by a paved walkway that circles the entrance to the park.

The picnic pavilion can accommodate up to 175 people is accessible with a number of wheelchair-friendly picnic tables.

Factory Shoals (450 Newton Factory Bridge Road, Covington) Now a nature park situated along the Alcovy River in the Southern portion of the county, Factory Shoals represents one of Georgia’s earliest experiences in water-powered industrialization in the U.S. Archaeological remains of five mills, ranging from large textile facto-

Newcomers Guide 2015

COVNEWS.COM 21

ries to small mills, exist within a one mile section of the river, some built as early as 1820. By 1860, there was a population of 600.

Sherman´s march to Newton County, 1864, the flood of 1881 and other economic forces fore-shortened the post-bellum prosperity of this development.

Today, the 450-acre park hosts picnickers, campers, rafters and hikers. Swimming is permitted, but can be treacherous. Park hours are from 8 a.m. until dark. Camping is available from March 1 through Dec. 1 on a first come first serve basis. Smoking and alcohol are not permitted. Pavilions can be reserved by calling 770 787-6670.

Mary Louise Fowler Park (Covington By-Pass, Covington) A two acre park located in the central part of the county, the Mary Louise Fowler Park consists of a walking trail, tennis court and basketball court.

RotaDyne Field (9150 Industrial Blvd, Covington) RotaDyne Field is a small field located on Industrial Blvd. and is used for practice and games for younger age children, ages 5 through 8.

Pactiv Field (7150 Alcovy Road, Covington) Pactiv Field is used for softball and football practice.

Old Cousins/Wolverine Field (8134 Geiger Street, Covington) Newton County Recreation Commission has started work on the Old Cousin site adding a new football stadium and renovating the basketball gym.

South Street Park (2201 Emory Street, Covington) South Street is just one of our traditional neighborhood parks. The park is designed for children under the age of 12. The park is fenced in for safety and consist of swings, a slide, merry-go-round, monkey bars and landscaped with cypress mulch and shade trees Spillers Park (9134 Jefferson Avenue, Covington) Another traditional neighborhood park, Spillers Park is designed for children under the age of 12. The park sits under a canopy of shade trees and consists of a large tot-lot, swings, a picnic area and a walking trail.

were developed to meet the needs and requirements of sanctioned softball tournaments. Year and daily passes for residents and nonresidents are available for the indoor walking path and basketball court.

Park hours are daylight to dusk. Indoor gym and walking track hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Continued on page 22

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Stone Road Complex (Four miles off I-20 exit 93 on Stone Road, Covington) A three-field adult softball complex on the outskirts of the Covington city limits, Stone Park Complex is 14.5 acres and known, locally, as Hamm Fields. A large tot-lot for children, ages 2 through 5, was recently installed. The playing fields are lighted and the park has a full concession stand and a scorekeepers booth. The park is handicapped accessible.

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Trail Blazer Park (3112 Clark Street, Covington) Trailblazer Park is a two-acre park located on the outskirts of downtown historic Covington. It includes playground for small children, a covered basketball court for older children and adults, and a picnic pavilion. For information on pavilion rental, contact the Newton County Parks and Recreation Commission.

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Turner Lake Complex (6185 Turner Lake Road, Covington) The Turner Lake Complex is situated on 158-acres and contains a 26-acre lake as well as a 34,000-square-foot building, which houses the commission offices, a gymnasium, a full service senior center and a 275+ meeting room. The facility is home to four state-of-the-art girls softball fields. Well lighted and easily accessible, these regulation fields

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Newcomers Guide 2015

Continued from page 21

and closed weekends. Administrative office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The indoor basketball courts close at 5:30 p.m. between November and February for Recreation League Play.

Covington/Newton County Trails (P.O. Box 2010, Covington; www.newtontrails.org) The Covington/Newton trail network serves as a recreational opportunity and an alternative transportation system that connects neighborhoods, schools, parks, commercial centers, and other local and regional destinations of interest. Whether a trail means to you a place to push a stroller, walk a dog, take a walk in the woods, or bike to Alabama, we all have a common interest to see our community build on the plans set in motion over a decade ago to pave a path to Newton’s future.

The Eastside Trail runs 2.5 miles from downtown Covington to Eastside High School.

A multi-use greenway, the 10-foot wide concrete path begins off Ramsey Drive., just west of the Newton County Public Library, and runs between pasture land and woods south to the high school.

The Lake Varner Trails, located just north of

Covington, feature a short, paved trail along the Newton County’s main reservoir, and an unpaved, primitive trail leading through the woods to a granite outcrop.

The Oxford Trail is a 1.2 mile, 8-foot-wide concrete trail that was developed in partnership with the City of Oxford and Oxford College. The wooded path runs behind the campus and along Turkey Creek, and features benches, a kiosk with information about native forest and meadow habitats, and a large deck under the trees behind Oxford’s historic Old Church on Wesley Road.

The Charlie Elliott Trail is a 4.7 mile, softsurface multi-use trail at the Wildlife Center, just south of the City of Mansfield.

The Yellow River Trail is a 1,480-foot concrete loop that follows a curve in the river.

Used for fitness workouts and accessing the Yellow River Water Trail, the loop will be linked to the Historic Train Depot trailhead at Broad Street and eventually, to Newton County’s planned Turkey Creek/Yellow River Greenway and Turner Lake Park.

Turner Lake Park’s Trails feature three miles of paved and unpaved walking trails around Turner Lake and ball fields, and pass by outdoor classrooms and the site of an old Newton County homestead.

Other Recreation Areas The Georgia FFA/FCCLA Center (720 FFA Road (Highway 36), Covington; (770) 786-6926; www.georgiaffacamp.org) The Georgia FFA-FCCLA Center is a nonprofit educational facility designed to provide Georgia’s youth with a site for leadership and career development.

Continued on page 24

Welcome The residents of Oxford, the Mayor and the City Council members would like to welcome you to Oxford.

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Started in 1937, the site is one of only two FFA-FCCLA Centers in Georgia, and has evolved into a premier camp facility and conference center for FFA and FCCLA Organizations, as well as other youth and adult organizations. Programs include wildlife camps, horse camps, parent and children adventure camp and a rope course program.

The center is available for rent by school, church, civic and youth organizations, and for men’s and women’s, and corporate retreats. Basic services for rental groups include lodging, meals, conference rooms, recreational activities and facilities, and a ropes course program.

Lake Varner/Cornish Creek Reservoir (11905 Alcovy Road, Covington; (770) 784-2049; http://www.co.newton.ga.us/departments/waterresources/lake-varner) The Cornish Creek Reservoir offers a natural setting to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Fish, picnic, read, enjoy nature and watch wildlife within minutes of downtown Covington. The reservoir is managed in coordination with the Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Division and is stocked with a wide variety of fish. Park facili-

ties include two covered picnic pavilions, picnic sites with charcoal grills and parking, public restrooms, children’s playground, dual launch boat ramp, paved and primitive nature trails, open field areas for recreation, swings and benches with great views of the water, accessible bank fishing areas and an ADA accessible fishing pier.

Newton and Walton County residents are not charged fees for use. There’s a $5 per boat and $5 per vehicle charge for all out of county residents. The hours are, April through October, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and November through March, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jackson Lake (180 Dam Rd., Jackson; (404) 954-4040; http://georgiapowerlakes.com/lakejackson/) One of the oldest reservoirs in Georgia, Jackson Lake is situated within parts of three counties—Jasper, Newton and Butts. Though relatively small—about 4,750 acres with 135 miles of shoreline—Jackson Lake is formed by the confluence of the Yellow, Alcovy and South rivers. Tussahaw Creek is a tributary, and below the Lloyd Shoals Dam, built in 1910

by Central Georgia Power, the lake’s outlet is the Ocmulgee River.

Jackson Lake still generates electricity

while providing a location for water sports, boating, skiing, wake boarding and fishing.

Gaither Plantation (270 Davis Ford Rd., Covington; (678) 625-1200; http://www.co.newton. ga.us/departments/parks-attractions/gaitherplantation) This 256-acre Gaither Plantation is one of the few remaining examples of mid19th to late 20th century farms and cotton plantations in Northeast Georgia. Built in 1850, the plantation house was the center of a rural Georgia farm community for over 100 years. The Gaither family lived in the home until the 1920s, and for the next 76 years, was a private residence owned by others. In 1986, Newton County purchased the property as part of the Bear Creek Reservoir project. In addition to the house, there is a 1830s log smokehouse, a pole hay bar, agricultural fields, two 19th century cemeteries, and other historic buildings relocated from elsewhere in Newton County. Groups of 10 or more have been able to tour the plantation on certain days, but reservations are required. The plantation is available for weddings, gatherings and other events. Contact (678) 283-1675 for more information. CN

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GET TO KNOW NEWTON EDUCATION OUTLETS Georgia Technology Student Conference

Alcovy High School 14567 Highway 36, Covington 770-784-4995 678-625-6117 (fax) Sandra Owens, principal Veronica Lawrence, assistant principal Philip Davidson, assistant principal Jennifer Mason, assistant principal Kristopher Williams, assistant principal 2013-2014 enrollment: 1,755 Distinctions: In the 2010-2011 school year, AHS was named a Georgia 2011 AP Honor School in the AP STEM Category; the girls basketball team made it to the second round of the state tournament; the boys basketball team made it to the first round of the state tournament; the boys track team won the region tournament; an AHS wrestler made it to the state tournament; AHS was selected as a High Five School by Fox Five News; AHS Technology Student Association won second place in the Manufacturing Prototype Competition at the

Eastside High School 10245 Eagle Drive, Covington 770-784-2920 770-784-2918 (fax) Jeff Cher, principal Bruce McColumn, assistant principal Gloria Griffith, assistant principal Bart Buff, assistant principal 2013-2014 enrollment: 1,231 Distinctions: Of the class of 2011, 2 students were AP Scholars with Distinction; 8 students were AP Scholars; 153 of 279 students were eligible for Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Newton High School 1 Ram Way, Covington 770-787-2250 770-784-2957 (fax) John Ellenberg, principal Tracey Curtis, assistant principal

Ryan Norman, assistant principal Chasha Colbert, assistant principal Nikkita Warfield, assistant principal Jonathan Page, assistant principal 2013-2014 enrollment: 1,941 Distinctions: 2006 2AAAAA region champs in softball, boys cross country; 2005 Governor’s Cup for SAT achievement; 2005 2AAAAA region champs in softball, girls cross country, wrestling and competition cheerleading; 2002 United States Senate Youth Delegate; 2002 Atlanta Journal-Constitution Honor Teacher Award Winner; 2004 state wrestling champion Newton College and Career Academy 144 Ram Drive, Covington 678-625-6769 678-625-6041 (fax) James Woodard, principal/CEO Douglas Blackwell, assistant principal Allison Chapman, assistant principal Continued on page 26

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26 COVNEWS.COM

Newcomers Guide 2015

Continued from page 26

The NCCA represents a strategic focus of the Newton County Board Oxford College of Emory University of Education and the Newton County School System to meet 110 Few Circle, Oxford the growing needs of the workforce of Newton and surrounding 770-784-8888 counties. Today’s workers needs a balance of academic and cawww.oxford.emory.edu reer pathway (technical) skills, which is one of NCCA’s goals. NCCA Stephen Bowen, dean partners with area businesses that have the resources and real world 2013-2014 enrollment: 947 expertise to make academic work real, rigorous and The first two years of Emory University’s liberal arts relevant. (Information taken from the NCCA Master curriculum may be pursued either at the main campus FOLLOW YOUR Plan 2013-2018) in Atlanta or at Oxford College, which was founded SCHOOL in 1836 as Emory’s original campus. Emory moved ON HIGHER EDUCATION to Atlanta in 1919, but students who wish to live and study in a smaller community can still choose Oxford.

Georgia BioScience Training Center A new $29 million science building is being constructed Alcovy High School: The state is building the $14 million center adjacent on the campus quad, facing the center of life the school @AlcovyHS to the new $1 billion Baxter International Inc. bioand is expected to be completed by January 2016.

Eastside High School: manufacturing plant being constructed in Covington. @EHS_Eagles The center will support training for Baxter employees Georgia State (Georgia Perimeter College Newton Newton High School: and for new companies in the life sciences industry Campus) @Newton_High that choose to locate in Georgia. It will be a signature 239 Cedar Lane, Covington Newton College and building that declares to a global audience that Georgia 770-278-1200 Career Academy: is committed to both research and knowledge and the www.gpc.edu @NCAA_Covington skilled, trained workforce that is critical to successful Keith Cobbs, dean of student services bioscience businesses.

Paulos Yohannes, dean of academic services “This training facility represents not only our comGeorgia Perimeter College opened its Newton campus mitment to supporting Baxter’s needs, but also our commitment to doors in 2007 to partner with Georgia State University by allowing stugrowing the life sciences industry in Georgia,” said Georgia Governor dents to earn a bachelor of business administration degree in marketNathan Deal. “It’s projects like these that have made, and will continue ing or managerial services while completing all four years of college on to make, Georgia the No. 1 state in the nation in which to do business.” the Newton campus. GPC is accredited to award associate degrees by (Information taken from Georgia.gov) the Southern Association of College and Schools Commissions on Colleges and offers on-site and distance learning opportunities.

Georgia Piedmont Technical College 16200 Alcovy Road, Covington 770-786-9522 www.gptc.edu Established in 1961, Georgia Piedmont Technical College is one of the oldest and most respected of the state’s 33 technical colleges. In 2010, the college served 24,590 students and conferred 1,118 awards to graduates across its two campuses and five centers. Graduates have a 99 percent job placement rate with 69 percent graduate placement in jobs in or related to their program or field of study or in further education. The GPTC adult education program is one of the largest such programs, as well as international literacy programs, in the state. GPTC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Colleges to award associate of applied science degrees, diplomas and technical certificates of credit.

Troy University 1160 Monticello Street, Covington 770-385-8315 770-385-8825 (fax) www.troy.edu The Troy University Covington Site originally began operations in 2002 as a teaching site attached to the Augusta Site but became an independent site after exponential growth. The Covington Site serves non-traditional students using both on-site, cohorts and online classes. Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commissions on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, education specialist and doctoral degrees. The Covington Site supports several bachelor and master’s degree programs. CN

WHO IS THE BOARD OF EDUCATION?

GET TO KNOW NEWTON COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM’S TRUSTEES

EDWARDS, DISTRICT 1 Stan Edwards began his first term on the board in January 2014 after living in what is now known as District 1 for 40 years. Mr. Edwards was appointed to and served parts of two terms on the Newton County Board of Elections beginning in 2006.

He was a member of and eventually became vice president, executive board for Project Renewal – a domestic violence shelter serving Rockdale, Newton, and Walton Counties. Mr. Edwards and his family are active members at Eastridge Community Church in Covington.

JOHNSON, DISTRICT 2 Eddie Johnson began serving his first term on the Board of Education in January 2009. He is a graduate of Albany Technical College in Albany and has a certificate in electricity.

Johnson completed a three-year tour in the United States Army and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Albany State University.

He has held several managerial positions with AT&T. Johnson and his family moved from Boston, Massachusetts to Newton County in 1991.

HENDERSONBAKER, CHAIR, DISTRICT 3 Shakila Henderson-Baker began her first term on the Board of Education in January 2011. She attended Fort Valley State University on local community scholarships and a partial

academic scholarship before earning a full scholarship by her junior year at Fort Valley. She graduated cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in political science from Fort Valley State University.

She works as a mental health clinician and behavioral specialist. She also serves as a case manager for a federal government grant program that works toward keeping at-risk/at-promise teens out of trouble.

TURNER, DISTRICT 4 Almond Turner is a 1968 graduate of the historic R.L. Cousins High School and attended Fort Valley State College, where he majored in music. He also attended DeKalb Community College, where he earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice. He received a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Troy University. He is a 1982 graduate of the FBI National Academy. He is a member of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police and the International Association of Chiefs of Police.

COGGIN, Vice-Chair, District 5 Abigail Coggin was selected in November 2010 to serve as District 5 representative of the Newton County School Board. She is a lifelong resident of Newton County and graduated from Newton County High School in 1992. She attended Oxford College and received a bachelor’s degree in political science from Emory University.

Throughout her college career, Coggin was employed as a staffer on many successful state-wide political campaigns and also served in the Georgia State Senate’s Public Information Office.

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28 COVNEWS.COM

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

CITY OF COVINGTON

Newcomers Guide 2015

The Covington City Council meets at Covington City Hall, 2194 Emory Street, on the first and third Monday of every month.

RONNIE JOHNSTON

MIKE WHATLEY

CHRIS SMITH

LEIGH ANNE KNIGHT

MAYOR

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

CITY MANAGER

OCIE FRANKLIN

KEITH DALTON

JANET GOODMAN

HAWNETHIA WILLIAMS

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

BE INSPIRED... at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. isitors are welcome year-round at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, the inspirational home of Georgia’s Trappist Monks. Nestled on 2,300 acres in Conyers, the Monastery offers a scenic and peaceful environment to explore.

Experience a day in the life of a monk, or learn about the Trappists in Georgia at the Historic Museum. See the beautiful Abbey Church. Browse through the Bonsai Garden, Bonsai Nursery and gift shop. Visit the Abbey Store for monk-made biscotti, fruitcake, fudge, free trade items and the largest selection of Christian books in the state.

Stay for the day – or experience our overnight retreats.

www.trappist.net For more Conyers information call 1.800.CONYERS

Newcomers Guide 2015

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

CITY OF PORTERDALE

COVNEWS.COM 29

Porterdale city council meets for regular meetings the first Monday of every month at 6:30 p.m., with work sessions on the second Tuesday and fourth Thursday, at City Hall, 2400 Main St., Porterdale, GA 30014.

ARLINE CHAPMAN

LINDA FINGER

ANITA RAINEY

MAYOR

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

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LOWELL CHAMBERS

MIKE HARPER

COUNCIL

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30 COVNEWS.COM

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

CITY OF OXFORD

Newcomers Guide 2015

The Oxford City Council meets the first Monday of every month and holds a work session every third Monday at City Hall at 110 West Clark Street.

JERRY ROSEBERRY

GEORGE HOLT

DAVID EADY

JIM WINDHAM

MAYOR

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

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SARAH DAVIS

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32 COVNEWS.COM

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

CITY OF MANSFIELD

Newcomers Guide 2015

City council meetings are held the second Monday of every month, with work sessions the first Thursday, at the Mansfield Community Center

CITY OF NEWBORN (no photos)

JEFFERSON RILEY

MATT CLARK

RAVE PICTURE

MAYOR

COUNCIL

COUNCIL

City council meetings are held the first Monday of every month at the Town Hall 4224 Highway 142 Gregg Ellwanger, Mayor Jene Downs Tom Krieger Ruth Sams Martha Ellwanger

CHRIS FULMER

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Newcomers Guide 2015

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

NEWTON COUNTY

COVNEWS.COM 33

Newton County local government consists of five district commissioners and a chair elected county-wide. The Board of Commissioners meets the first and third Tuesday of every month at the Historic Courthouse on the Covington Square.

KEITH ELLIS

JOHN DOUGLAS

LANIER SIMS

CHAIRMAN

DISTRICT 1

DISTRICT 2

NANCY SCHULZ

J.C. HENDERSON

LEVIE MADDOX

DISTRICT 3

DISTRICT 4

DISTRICT 5

34 COVNEWS.COM

VOTE: WHERE TO VOTE IN NEWTON COUNTY County Precincts and Polling Locations Alcovy Almon Beaverdam Brewers Brick Store Buck Creek Cedar Shoals City Pond Covington Mills Crowell Downs Fairview Gum Creek Hub Leguinn Livingston Mansfield Newborn Oxford Rocky Plains Stansells Town

04 03 13 06 07 19 08 01 05 24 10 23 12 25 14 09 15 16 17 18 20 02

Newton County Library, 7116 Floyd Street,NE, Covington, GA 30014 Almon Community Center, 65 Mount Tabor Road, Covington, GA 30016 Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Road, Covington, GA 30016 Red Oak Methodist Church, 15105 Highway 36, Covington, GA 30014 St. Augustine Catholic Church, 11524 Highway 278, E, Covington, GA 30014 Zion Baptist Church, 7037 Highway 212, N, Covington, GA 30016 Porterdale Baptist Church, 2 Palmetto Street, Porterdale, GA 30070 Central Community Church, 11157 City Pond Road, Covington, GA 30014 American Legion Post #32, 3132 Legion Drive, Covington, GA 30014 The Potter’s House, 1120 Crowell Road, N, Covington, GA 30014 Prospect United Methodist Church, 6752 Highway 212, Covington, GA 30016 Belmont Baptist Church, 3275 Iris Drive, SE, Conyers, GA 30013 Gum Creek Precinct Building, 325 Dial Mill Road, Oxford, GA 30054 Berean Baptist Church, 20 Old Social Circle Road, Social Circle, GA 30025 High Point Baptist Church, 12025 Highway 36, Covington, GA 30014 County Line Baptist Church, 3325 Highway 162, S, Covington, GA 30016 Mansfield Community House, 3158 Highway 11, Mansfield, GA 30055 Newborn United Methodist Church, 118 Church Street, Newborn, GA 30056 Oxford City Hall, 110 W Clark Street, Oxford, GA 30054 Harvest Baptist Church, 2075 Highway 212, Covington, GA 30016 Voice of Pentecost, 4648 Salem Road, Covington, GA 30016 Washington Street Community Center, 4138 School Street, Covington, GA 30014

Municipal Polling Locations Covington Mansfield Newborn Oxford Porterdale Social Circle

2 5 6 3 4 7

Newcomers Guide 2015

Covington City Hall, 2194 Emory Street, NW, Covington, GA 30014 Mansfield City Hall, 3146 Highway 11 (Main St), Mansfield, GA 30055 Newborn City Hall, 4224 Highway 142, E, Newborn, GA 30056 Oxford City Hall, 110 W Clark Street, Oxford, GA 30054 Porterdale Fire Station, 2 Main Street, Porterdale, GA 30070 Social Circle City Hall, Community Room, 138 E Hightower Trail, Social Circle, GA 30025

GETTING UTILITIES IN NEWTON COUNTY Water and septic lines Water and sewerage authority 11325 Brown Bridge Rd, Covington, GA 30016 (770) 787-1375 Electricity The City of Covington is the only municipality in the county that provides electricity. Contact (770) 385-2075 or long on to www. cityofcovington.org/electic.htm All others should contact Snapping Shoals EMC - (770) 7863484 or www.ssemc.com Georgia Power - (404) 329-4001 or www.southernco.com/gapower/ Solid Waste The cities of Covington and Porterdale provide curbside pickup.

(Covington City Hall at 770-3852000) (Oxford City Hall at 770-7867004.)

Newton County residents not residing in one of these municipalities may contract with one of the following private contractors operating in Newton County.

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• Full range of Contraception Options

• Myomectomy for Fibroid Tumors

• Menopausal Management - Traditional and Alternative

• In-office ESSURE Tubal Ligation

• Adolescent and Pediatric Gynecology • Infertility Workups Marcia Harmon, CNM

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (including pellets, injections and compounding cream)

• Hysteroscopic Surgery

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• Repair of Pelvic Prolaspe, Relaxation and Surgery for Bladder Leakage

• Accidental Bowel Leakage or Chronic Constipation Management • Pelvic Relaxation or Prolapse Management • Treatment for Fibroids, Endometriosis, Abnormal Bleeding, and Ovarian Cyst Maria Epling, CNP

• Laparoscopic Surgery for Ovarian Problems, Endometriosis, Tubal and Adhesive Diseases

• Osteoporosis Screening and Treatment • Screening for Sexually Transmitted Diseases

• Colposcopies for Abnormal Pap Smears and LEEP Procedures

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36 COVNEWS.COM

Newcomers Guide 2015

HOLLYWOOD

OF

THE

SOUTH

Television and film credits for Newton and Rockdale Counties as of June 2015

FILM CREDITS - Vacation (2015) - Alvin and the Chipmunks 4 (2015) - The Accountant (2015) - The Sunday Horse (2014) - Goosebumps (2014) - Bessie (2014) - Selma (2014) - Taken 3 (2014) - Prisoners (2012-2013) - Endless Love (2013) - I’ll be Homeless for Christmas (2012) - Devils Knot (2012) - Ten (2012) - Trouble with the Curve (2012) - Gamers (2012) - Firelight (2012) - Teen Wolf (2011-2012) - Identity Thief (2011) - American Reunion (2011) - Joyful Noise (2011) - Flight (2011) - Jayne Mansfield’s Car (2011) - Odd Life of Timothy Green (2010-11) - Fast and Furious 5 (2010) - Footloose (2010) - Halloween 2 (2009) - Zombieland (2009) - Ben 10: Alien Swarm (2009) - Fly By (short) (2009) - Get Low (2009) - Halloween II (2009) - Dangerous Calling (2008) - The Family That Preys (2008) - Boxed In (short) (2005) - False River (2005) - Madea’s Family Reunion (2005) - Bobby Jones: A Stroke of Genius (2003) - Autorequiem (short) (2002) - Sweet Home Alabama (2002) - The Fighting Temptations (2002) - Drumline (2001) - Sweet Home Alabama (2001) - The Accountant (2001) - Remember the Titians (2000) - Run Ronnie Run (2000) - False River (1999) - Wayward Son (1999) - The Initiate (1998) - Black Dog (1997)

- Fled (1996) - Door to Door (1993) - A Simple Twist of Fate (1993) - Consenting Adults (1992) - Kalifornia (1992) - My Cousin Vinny (1991) - Carolina Skeletons (1991) - Jason Lives: Friday the 13th, VI (1986) - Cannonball Run (1980) - Little Darlings (1980) - The Prizefighter (1979) - Scalpel (originally titled False Face) (1975) - A Man Called Peter (1954)

TV CREDITS - Sleepy Hollow (2015) - Lewis & Clark (2015) - The Originals (2013-present) - Halt and Catch Fire (2014) - Constantine (2014) - Resurrection (2014) - Honey Boo Boo (2013) - The Following (2012) - Rooms To Go national commercial with Cindy Crawford (2011) - The Vampire Diaries (2009-present) - Three Wishes (2005) - TV Road Trip (2002) - Boycott (2001) - Piece of a Broken Heart (1999) - Flash (1997) - Miss Evers’ Boys (1997) - Savannah (1996-97) - In the Heat of the Night (1988-94) - Past the Bleachers (1994) - Quest for Justice: The Hazel Brannon Smith Story (1993) - Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All (1993) - For Love and Glory (1992) - Stay the Night (1991) - Grass Roots (1991) - I’ll Fly Away (1991-1993) - White Lie (1991) - Sudie and Simpson (1990) - In the Heat of the Night (1988-1994) - A Father’s Homecoming (1988) - Resting Place (1986) - Coward of the County (1981) - Dukes of Hazzard (1978, 1979-1980)

®

Where You Find Quality Products and Friendly, Knowledgeable Service ®

Where You Find Quality Products and Friendly, Knowledgeable Service

1264 GreenStreet Street••(770) 770-483-8818 1264 Green 483-8818 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m.

- 5:00• (770) p.m. Sun. 1264 Green Street 483-8818 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun.

OPEN 7 days a week

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Find Quality Products and Friendly, Knowledgeable Service ®

Find Quality Products and Friendly, Knowledgeable Service Two Convenient Locations Locations Two Convenient Two Convenient Locations

1056 Honey Creek Rd. • (770) 760-0410 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00Creek a.m.

- 5:00 Sun. 1056 Road 770-760-0410 1056Honey Honey Creek Rd.p.m.

• •(770) 760-0410 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun.

1264 GreenStreet Street••(770) 770-483-8818 1264 Green 483-8818 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m.

- 5:00• (770) p.m. Sun. 1264 Green Street 483-8818 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun.

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Convenient Locations Locations owo Convenient 1264 GreenStreet Street••(770) 770-483-8818 1264 Green 483-8818 7:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m.

- 5:00• (770) p.m. Sun. 1264 Green Street 483-8818

o Convenient Locations

OPEN 7 days a wEEk

1056 Honey Creek Rd. • (770) 760-0410 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00Creek a.m.

- 5:00 Sun. 1056 Road 770-760-0410 1056Honey Honey Creek Rd.p.m.

• •(770) 760-0410 7:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Mon. thru Fri. 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sun.

2315 Iris Drive, Conyers, GA 30013 Off 1-20, Exit 84 (between Salem Rd. & Almon Rd.)

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CONYERS • 770-483-8248

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F

rom fine arts to pop culture, Newton County offers something for every taste.

Though none of the 1939 classic, Gone With The Wind, was filmed in Covington, a photograph of the home of Mr. and Mrs. S. Turner published in a newspaper caught the eye of author Margaret Mitchell. According to the book, David O. Selznick’s Hollywood, Mitchell scrawled, “I like this for Ashley’s home,” on the clipping and sent it off to Selznick. The house has since become a bed and breakfast, named— in honor of the movie and the clipping—“Twelve Oaks.”

Over 60 television shows and films have been shot, in part, in Newton County. That hasn’t been a bad thing for tourism, attracting revenue comparable to that generated by a small industry, to the county. Tourism Director Jenny McDonald says fans still come to town to see the settings, including the iconic Old Covington Courthouse, of older television series. “In the Heat of the Night,” and “The Dukes of Hazzard.”.

Capitalizing on that interest, a “Walk of Stars” traces the sites where various films were shot or memorializing the actors who came to town to work.

The locally filmed “The Vampire Diaries,” is the most recent project filmed, in part, in Covington. Main Street Covington, the Newton County tourism office and local merchants have staged spring and fall events around the premiere and finale of the series, attracting fans to Covington’s Downtown Square The event attracts fans to Covington’s Historic Downtown Square for a large-screen viewing of the shows. Merchants offer vampire-themed merchandize for sale and it’s not unusual for a cast member from the series or its spin-off “The Originals” to attend. Last year, Chas Coleman of The Originals presented a concert atop The Mystic Grille restaurant after the finale, and a fund-raiser raffled eating breakfast with the star at the Lion’s Club Pancake Breakfast the next morning was the raffle prize.

But the square is not just the setting for films, series and commercials. In late spring and into the summer, The Newton County Arts Association sponsors concerts on the

Newcomers Guide 2015

downtown Square every Thursday in May and September and evening concerts the second Friday of each month, June through September. The music ranges from gospel to Motown, bluegrass to classic rock, and more.

An active arts community enriches life in Newton County. Dance, music, theater and galleries are all part the cultural life of the area. Numerous art-related activities and camps are offered for children throughout the year, but especially during the summer months.

Popular culture, fine arts and small towns all come together to create an environment that builds on its traditions to create the arts of tomorrow, making creative expression accessible to all.

The Newton County Arts Association, 1106 Washington Street, Covington ; (770) 786-8188; http://www.newtoncountyarts.org/ A non-profit organization, the Newton County Arts Association offers something for everyone: art galleries that feature a variety of mediums and styles, along with local handmade jewelry and soaps; choirs for children and youth; art-themed camps for students; a regional ballet company; a community band, among other offerings.

The Arts Association also maintains a list of

COVNEWS.COM 39

Photo by Darrell Everidge

private music teachers and studios.

Covington Regional Ballet , 1114 College Ave SE, Covington; (678) 625-0042; http://covingtonregionalballet.com/ Founded in 2001, the Covington Regional Ballet (CRB) presents high quality dance programming that provide local dancers with pre-professional instruction and performance opportunities. Twice a year, the ballet offers spectacular productions—The Nutcracker and a contemporary piece in the fall, with another

production in the spring. The CRB strives to entertain, educate and inspire audiences of all ages, engaging the community in a celebration of the arts through a wide-variety of dance programming.

Newton County Community Band; communityband@newtoncountyarts.org Since 1993, the Newton County Community Band has presented community

“It is important to understand the past in order to interpret the present, and plan for the future.”

– Linda D. Hays

The Clerk of Superior CourT Newton County, Georgia

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Continued on page 42

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The Women’s Diagnostic Center The has recently Women’s been recognized Diagnostic as a Certified Center Quality has rec Breast Center in the National Breast Quality Measures Center for Breast in the Centers National Program™. This Quality M distinguished honor representsdistinguished a commitment to provide honor the highest represents level of quality a comm breast healthcare to patients inbreast the community. healthcare Women are to able patients to obtain advanced in the com diagnostic testing and health education diagnostic in one private testing and beautiful and health outpatient setting. education Nurse Navigator Wendy Hankins, Nurse RN, CN-BN, Navigator assists patients Wendy by answering Hankins, questions RN, and by working through the many andbarriers by working and fears one through may face during the cancer many care. barri Schedule your screening mammogram Schedule today, call your 770-385-7800. screening mammogram t

Wound Care & Hyperbaric Wound Center Care & Hyperbaric Cente

Do you have a non-healing wound?

Do Hyperbaric you have oxygen a non-healing therapy is a painless medical wound? Hy treatment where patients breathe treatment pure oxygen inwhere a pressurized patients chamber. This breathe pure “hyperbaric” (or high pressure)“hyperbaric” dose of oxygen offers(or distinct high therapeutic pressure) benefits dose of such as increased oxygen delivery such to theas wound, increased advanced wound oxygen healing,delivery improved to th infection control and greater blood infection vessel formation. control Hyperbaric andoxygen greater therapy blood ves can also increase the healing time can of also elective increase cosmetic surgeries, the such healing as facial time of el reconstructions or breast augmentations. reconstructions or breast augmentation Schedule a consultation today Schedule with one of ouraphysicians, consultation call 770-385-4325. today with one

The Interventional Pain Management The Interventional Center Pain Manage

Common pains such as arthritis, Common pinched nerves,pains or pain in such the neck, asback arthritis, or buttockspinch can be treated without the need can for major be treated surgery. Dalton without Hanowell, the MD serves need as for ma the medical director where histhe goal ismedical to give patients director a correct diagnosis where from his the goal is t start. Dr. Hanowell finds the source start. of the Dr. problem Hanowell through a physical findsexam theand source of imaging tests such as x-rays orimaging an MRI. He then tests creates such a tailored as treatment x-raysplan or that an MRI may include physical therapy, non-addictive may include medicines, physical interventional therapy, treatmentsnon-addi and minimally invasive procedures.minimally The goal is for patients invasive to return procedures. to the life they love.

The goa Schedule a consultation today Schedule with Dr. Hanowell, a consultation call 770-385-4337. today with Dr.

Interventional RadiologyInterventional Radiology

Interventional radiology is a rapidly Interventional growing area of medicine radiology with minimally is a rapidly gro invasive procedures that ofteninvasive replace open procedures surgical procedures.that Referred often to as replace o image guided medicine, the procedures imageare guided generally easier medicine, for the patient the because procedures they involve no large incisions,they less risk, involve less pain, shorter no large recoveryincisions, times and lowerless risk, costs. Board certified interventional costs. radiologists Board provide certified consultations interventional and numerous rad technologically advanced treatments technologically for common conditions advanced such as varicose treatments veins, for uterine fibroid tumors, enlarged uterine prostate (BPH) fibroid and male tumors, infertility due enlarged to varicocele.prostat Schedule a consultation todaySchedule with an interventional a consultation radiologist, call 770-385-4329. today with an in

To schedule an appointment, call 770.385.4436

BirthCare Center | Cardiac Rehabilitation BirthCare | CriticalCenter Care Unit ||Diabetes Cardiac Education Rehabilitation | Critical Care Unit | Diabe Emergency Department | Fitness Emergency Forum | Home Health Department | Imaging Center| | Interventional Fitness Forum | Home Health | Imaging C Pain Management | InterventionalPain Radiology Management | Knox Surgical Center | Interventional | Lactation Center Radiology | Knox Surgical Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit | Outpatient Neonatal Center Intensive | Physical Therapy Care | Sleep Unit Disorder | Outpatient Center | Physical Therapy Center | Speech Services | Women’s Center Diagnostic |Center Speech | Wound Services Care & Hyperbaric | Women’s Center Diagnostic Center | Wound Care

770.786.7053 770.786.7053

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MEET THE DOCTORS

With over 300 credentialed physicians and allied health professionals, our hospital is here for you to offer a wide variety of care and services conveniently located in the heart of Newton County.

Certified Quality Breast Center

Steven R. Whitworth, MD, FACS Dr. Steven Whitworth has over 30 years of experience in general surgery. With a focus on minimizing pain and risk associated with surgery, Dr. Whitworth is adept at breast cancer, thyroid and parathyroid surgeries, as well as laparoscopic procedures involving the intestines, stomach, liver, colon and bile ducts. As a certified surgeon by the American Board of Surgery and a fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Whitworth serves as the medical director of the Women’s Diagnostic Center.

General Surgery, 770-787-6957 B. Carter Rogers, MD, FACS During his 22 years in the US Army Reserves, Lt. Col. Rogers (Ret.) served three tours of active duty. He is certified by the American Board of Surgery and is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Rogers is well versed in general surgery and laparoscopic procedures, as well as carotid surgery, vascular access and thoracic surgery. Dr. Rogers serves as the medical director of the Wound Care & Hyperbaric Center and is available for consultations.

General, Vascular & Thoracic Surgery, 770-787-6957 Reneé S. Riley, MD, FAAOS Dr. Reneé Riley has extensive training in athletic and sports-related injuries in adults and children. As a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon, she has a particular expertise and interest in knee, shoulder and elbow injuries. Dr. Riley is also experienced in arthroscopic procedures, total joint replacements, and surgical and non-surgical procedures for broken bones. She offers extended office hours on Tuesday until 7:30 pm for patients unable to schedule appointments during the day due to work or school.

Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, 770-788-6534 Ryan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQ Dr. Ryan Tomlins specializes in general orthopedic care and the non-surgical treatment of athletic and sports-related injuries. He is certified in Tenex Health TX™ therapy which treats tendon pain such as tendonitis, runner’s knee and tennis elbow. As director of Newton County School System’s Concussion Program, Dr. Tomlins is experienced in managing the care and return-to-play protocol of an athlete injured in the game. He is also certified to treat golf injuries by the Titleist Performance Institute.

General Orthopedic Care & Sports Medicine, 770-788-6534

7 7 0 . 3 8 5 . 7 8 0 0

42 COVNEWS.COM

Newcomers Guide 2015

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performances, including Christmas and spring concerts, a concert with the 8th graders of Newton County School System; a Fourth of July concert at Covington’s Square; and an annual concert for Oxford College’s “Oxford Day.” The band is made up of volunteers. Those interested, show email communityband@newtoncountyarts.org.

Oxford Singing Children & Youth Singers, Candler Student Center, Oxford College, 80 Hamill St., Oxford.

Students in 4th through 7th grade audition for the Oxford Singing Children’s Choir, which provides them with basic music skills and performance experience, while building friendships and learning the benefit of teamwork.

Students in 8th through 12th grade can audition for the Oxford Youth Singers, which enhances musical skills and offers experience in musical theater and choral performance. Students also have the opportunity to learn about the technical and backstage components of performances.

The Oxford Singing Children and Oxford Youth Singers perform Christmas in Covington in December, and collaborate to present a musical in the spring.

Auditions for new members are in August of each year. Students who have taken part in OSC & OYS previously or who participated in Musical Theater Camp in July do not need to audition. Students auditioning should be prepared to sing scales, a song and clap rhythm patterns by repeating rhythmic patterns that are clapped for them.

Scholarships based on financial need are available.

Art-themed Summer Camps, Oxford College campus off Emory Street; (770) 786-8188

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Sponsored by Newton Federal Bank, the Newton County Arts Association offers a number of Creative Kids Camps during the summer on the campus of Oxford College off of Emory Street. Camps specialize in music, musical theater, dance and theater, all age-appropriate.

Tuition is charged and scholarships are available through the Arts Association office at (770) 786-8188 or acoggin@newtoncountyarts. org. All scholarship recipients are required to pay the non-refundable deposit. Registrations are done online. Campers will be accepted on a “first come, first served” basis – 25 campers per grade level.

Covington Regional Ballet offers a Pre-Professional Summer Intensive program.

True Colours Youth Art Exhibit Each March, the artistic talents of local art students are celebrated and exhibited at the Newton County Library. Art teachers from the Newton County School District select up to 10 pieces of artwork created by their students for display.

Youth Strings & Orchestra One of the Arts Association’s newest programs, the New County Youth Strings specializes in using the Suzuki method of teaching, Private 30-, 45- or 60-minutes lessons in violin, viola and cello begin at age 4. Group lessons, 30 and 45-minutes long, begin in the Spring semester.

Studio recitals are held once a semester, usually in November and March. Orchestra rehearsals are held once a week. For more information about fees and schedules, or to register a student, visit The Arts Association web site.

Heartscapes Art Gallery, 1132 Monticello St SW, Covington, GA 30014; 770-385-5834; http://www.heartscapesart.com/index.html Heartscapes Studio & Gallery is owned by Nick and Kathy Cuiffi.

Kathy continues to share her talents with the community and offers art classes at the studio. The gallery sells oil paints, mediums, canvas, and brushes. Whether you need a gift, mental/art therapy, a special piece of artwork to add that finishing touch to a newly decorated Continued on page 44

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44 COVNEWS.COM

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Continued from page 42

room, a frame for your child’s last art project, or just some me time, come join in the fun and let Kathy and Nick help you discover talents you never knew you had.

Southern Heartland Arts, 1132 Monticello St SW, Covington, GA 30014; 770-788-8799; www. southernheartlandart.com Southern Heartland Arts, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization supporting the visual arts in Newton County. Incorporated in 1988, SHA brought together Newton County artists, along with artists from Rockdale, Newton and Henry Counties and is one of the oldest visual art guilds east of Metro Atlanta.

Since opening the Southern Heartland Gallery, the guild has grown over 700 percent in membership and is a vital part of downtown Covington and its cultural growth. Membership dues, the Corporate Sponsorships of United Bank and ACS and multiple corporate and individual donations have helped SHA, Inc. to fulfill its mission to bring visual art to Newton County.

Newborn’s bluegrass pickin’ and down home playin’ On the second Saturday night of warm weather months, the Newborn Pickers Circle gathers for an evening of bluegrass pickin’ at Newborn’s Town Park near City Hall, 4221 GA Hwy 142. For more information about the Circle, visit the town’s web site at www.newbornga.com or Facebook page at www.facebook.com/pages/Town-of-Newborn/179065462157551 .

Presented by Rick Holder, The Front Porch acoustic series is held on the third Sunday of each month at the historic Old Schoolhouse, 4224 Highway 142, Newborn. The music, beginning at 6 p.m., might be Bluegrass, might be Irish, might be country. Concerts include local musicians, and has been branching out to include players from around the state.

BBQ is available. There’s no cover charge, but donations are encouraged. More information is available online at The Newborn Area Heritage Trust web site http://www.newbornschoolhouse.org/.

Oxford College at Emory University, Oxford (770) 784-8389; oxford.emory.edu The Artistic/Lyceum Events series at Oxford College brings experts and performers to campus for lectures, concerts and theatrical presentations. All events are free, unless otherwise noted, and open to the public, though seating is limited.

Porterdale’s Tuba Christmas concert It’s a holiday celebration featuring

Photo by Darrell Everidge

tuba players and their festively decorated instruments—tinsel, bows, flashing lights— and it happens every year in Porterdale, and more than 200 cities nationally and internationally. Open to all levels of players, musicians usually register at city hall on the day of the concert. That’s followed by an hour-long rehearsal, and then it’s a free public performance at the History Gym Amphitheater on Main Street. For more information, visit Main Street Porterdale’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ MainStreetPorterdaleGa. The Social Circle Theater, Main Theater, 650 Ashley Dr.; Theater Annex, 169 Thurman Baccus Rd.; (770) 464-2269; www.socialcircletheater.com Committed to providing the facilities and human resources for quality, affordable family entertainment, the Social Circle Theater is a non-profit organization founded in 2000.

Founders Bob and Mabel Standridge believed the theater could preserve the town’s history and unify the community through storytelling and folklore. The theater has entertained and shared the history of Social Circle ever since. Through storytelling and dramatic acting, the theater takes patrons back in time, showing them what life was like in years past.

Community productions feature as many as 75 local cast members.

Rising Stars The youngest troupe, ranging in ages from 4-years to 5-grade, meets weekly throughout the school year and focuses on singing, dancing and acting skills. Typically, the Rising Stars appear in two performances per season, one around Christmas and one in the spring.

The Well Diggers

A performance-based troupe for the young adults of Social Circle Theater, the Well Diggers meet weekly throughout the school year to focus on dancing, singing and acting skills.

The Well Diggers have won awards at the MTI Junior Theater Festival and Access Broadway.

They typically perform in two productions a year in the theater. They also take these shows to schools as field trips, to the local nursing homes and hospitals.

Other classes The Social Circle Theater offers classes in dance and art, and on Monday nights, adults gather for line dancing classes. The cost is low and several times a year, the group holds socials at the theater with a DJ and concession stand. For more information on the Line Dance classes and events, visit the class’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/linedancingatsctheater.

Rhythm Elements Dance Studio, 2124 Main St, Porterdale; (770) 787-4333; rhythmelements.com Offering a full performing arts program to children ages 2-and-a-half years through adult, Rhythm Elements Dance Studio has classes in creative movement, ballet/tap, ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, lyrical, contemporary, Hip-Hop, West African dance, tumbling, acting and ballroom. Sponsored by a nonprofit charity, the studio serves those who want to dance for fun, and those who are interested in training and performing professionally or competitively, as is the case for the dance team. Acting classes are also geared for those interested in a career. Free sample classes and opportunities to meet the staff and instructors are part of the studio’s annual open house. CN

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Medical Associates EmoryNewton Newton Emory

Emory Newton Emory Newton Emory Newton 6175 Newton Drive Medical Associates Medical Covington,Associates GA 30014 Associates Medical Medical Associates Medical Associates 770-787-6900 6175 Newton Drive 6175 6175 Newton Drive 6175Newton NewtonDrive Drive G. Timothy (Tim) Park, MD* Henry M. Patton, MD, FACP*

Kevin D. Lanclos, MD*

G. Timothy (Tim) Park, Henry M. Patton, FACP* Kevin Kevin D. Lanclos, MD* G.G.G.Timothy Timothy Timothy (Tim) (Tim) (Tim) Park, Park, Park, MD* MD* MD*MD*Henry Henry Henry M.M. M.Patton, Patton, Patton, MD, MD, MD,MD, FACP* FACP* FACP* Kevin Kevin D.D.D.Lanclos, Lanclos, Lanclos, MD* MD* MD* G. Kevin MD* G. Timothy ( G. Timothy Timothy (Tim) (Tim) Park, Park, MD* MD* Henry Henry M. M. Patton, Patton, MD, MD, FACP* FACP* Kevin D. D. Lanclos, Lanclos, MD* G. Timothy (Tim) Park, MD* Henry M. Patton, MD, FACP* Kevin D. Lanclos, MD*

6175 Newton DriveNewton Drive 6175 6175 Newton Drive Covington, GA 30014 Covington, Covington, GA GAGA 30014 30014 Covington, 30014 Covington, GA 30014 Christie Covington, GA Cady, MSN,30014 FNP-BC Jamie Thomas Burke, PA-C Covington, GA 30014 770-787-6900 770-787-6900 770-787-6900 770-787-6900 770-787-6900 770-787-6900 770-787-6900

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W. Norris Little, Jr, MD* Kwon Kwon S. Choe, Wendy Fuller, MSN, FNP-BC W. W. W.Norris Norris Norris Little, Little, Little, Jr, Jr, Jr,MD* MD* MD* Kwon Kwon S.S.S.Choe, Choe, Choe, MD* MD* MD*MD* Wendy Wendy Wendy Fuller, Fuller, Fuller, MSN, MSN, MSN, FNP-BC FNP-BC FNP-BC W. Kwon Wendy W. Norris Norris Little, Little, Jr, Jr, MD* MD* Kwon S. S. Choe, Choe, MD* MD* Wendy Fuller, Fuller, MSN, MSN, FNP-BC FNP-BC W. Norris Little, MD* Kwon S. Choe, Jr, MD* MD* Wendy Fuller, MSN, FNP-BC W.Jr, Norris Little, Kwon

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Primary Care Physicians Primary Care Physicians Primary Care Physicians Primary Care Physicians Primary Care Physicians Primary Care Physician Serving Newton Rockdale Serving Serving Serving Newton Newton Newton & & && Rockdale Rockdale Rockdale Serving Newton & Rockdale Serving Newton & Rockdale Serving Newton & Rockdale Serving Newton & Rockdale Counties since 1983!

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*Board Certified-American Board of Internal Medicine

46 COVNEWS.COM

TOP

DOGS Here are some quick facts about the athletes and sports-related pros you probably didn’t know started out their respective careers in the Newton/ Rockdale County areas.

BY SHAKEEM HOLLOWAY

Newcomers Guide 2015

P

robably much to your surprise Newton and Rockdale County have produced a plethora of athletes and sports related professionals that you might know simply by name. Most, if not all of these athletes have attended/graduated from one of the six high schools between the two counties: Newton High School (formerly known as Newton County High School, Rockdale High School, Salem High School, Alcovy High School, Heritage High School and/ or Eastside High School.

Shane Henry Henry is one of the most recent athletes to find success. He went from the Newton High School JV basketball team manager his sophomore year to starting varsity in his junior year After playing basketball for Newton, Henry went on to play two years at Georgia Perimeter College. Recently, Henry announced that he had accepted an offer to play basketball for Virginia Tech where he will begin playing in the fall. At GPC Henry was a double-double machine playing at power forward he averaged 13 points and 12 rebounds.

Jill Arrington Born in Conyers, Georgia and an alumna of Heritage High School, Jill Arrington is

currently a sportscaster for FOX where she hosts the ‘College Football Saturday Preview.’ She has worked at CBS, ESPN and now FOX. She has also been in nationally televised commercials as well as doing voice-overs for EA’s Madden. Arrington attended Miami University where she got her degree with a double major in political science and journalism. Jill Arrington’s father, Rick Arrington played quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles.

Clint Mathis Depending on how old you are and how big a fan of soccer you are, you might know this guy. Clint Mathis was a big contributor in the U.S.’s qualifying for the 2002 FIFA World Cup and he even scored a

Newcomers Guide 2015

goal in the U.S.’s 2002 World Cup draw versus South Korea. Mathis is a native of Conyers, Georgia where he graduated from Heritage High School. He was the sixth overall pick in the 1998 draft by the L.A. Galaxy. Mathis had a record-breaking season in 2000 with the MetroStars. He broke the individual goal-scoring record at the time with five goals against the Dallas Burn. Mathis recorded the second-most goals in the league that year. In June of 2001 he tore his ACL and never really returned to form after that. Currently he is an assistant with the Chicago Fire.

Willie “Jake” Reed From Covington to...Minnesota? Yeah you got it. Reed was an explosive wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings where he was drafted in the third round of the 1991 draft out of Grambling State University. Reed recorded four 1,000 yard seasons with the Vikings. He and Viking legend Chris Carter combined for 207 receptions in 1994 which was an NFL record at the time. Reed attended Newton County High School before moving on to Grambling.

Dale Carter Carter is actually Willie Reed’s brother.

After attending Newton High School, Carter

COVNEWS.COM 47

played football at the University of Tennessee. He was drafted as a cornerback with the 20th pick in the first round of the 1992 NFL Draft. Carter played six season with the Kansas City Chiefs before inking a deal that made him the highest paid cornerback in the NFL with the Denver Broncos. Off the field issues forced him to be a journeyman around the league after two seasons with Denver – one of which he was suspended for an entire season. After retiring from the NFL, Carter established the Olivia Carter foundation to help young men and women from making mistakes he made.

versity this past season.

HONORABLE MENTIONS

William Jennings “Billy” Buckner is a baseball pitcher for the San Diego Padres of Major League Baseball. He also attended Salem.

Kantrail Horton started all 66 games during his two years at Iowa State from 1999 to 2001.

Demetrius McCray, a graduate of Newton High School, was picked in the 7th round by the Jacksonville Jaguars last year.

Marquis Gilstrap, current assistant coach at Eastside High School averaged 14.9ppg in lone season at Iowa State.

Stephen Croone played basketball for Newton averaged 19.4 ppg for Furman Uni-

Kyle Burger, a Conyers native, is currently a television sports reporter and anchor.

Jamie Newton is the founder of Golf Turf Management, Incorporated. Owner and operator of golf courses worldwide. Newton allso appeared on one season of Survivor.

Torell Troup is a defensive tackle for the Oakland Raiders. Troup was drafted by the Bills in the second round of the 2010 NFL draft. He started out at Salem High School.

Timothy James Hyers is a former MLB first basemen who played for four seasons. He taught physical education at Victory Christian School in Conyers, Georgia prior to joining the Red Sox as minor league hitting coordinator. He attended Newton County High School before being drafted.

Deunte Raymon Heath is a professional baseball pitcher in the Chicago White Sox organization. He also attended Newton. CN

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Newcomers Guide 2015

THROUGH

the seasons

50 COVNEWS.COM

GOLF & facilities

There are many areas around Newton and Rockdale County for you to explore. Athletic facilities and recreational gyms are some highlights around the area. Below is a list of some of the places you can go for any sports-related activity, both outdoors and indoors.

BY SHAKEEM HOLLOWAY

CHEROKEE RUN GOLF CLUB A pearl located in the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay is the Cherokee Run Golf Club. The course is owned by the City of Conyers as of 2010 and it features a golf shop, restaurant and special event facility. Cherokee Run is an 18-hole championship course with a 143 slope spanning over 7,000 yards and a 75.1 rating. The course got its name because it used to be occupied by native Americans and dozens of arrowheads were found in the red clay during course construction.

Newcomers Guide 2015

CITY POND Spanning 80 acres on Old City Pond Road in Covington, Georgia you will find City Pond Complex. City Pond Complex includes six lighted baseball fields, five batting cages, one lighted football field, a playground, four lighted tennis courts and one picnic pavillion. Of course there’s also a large pond – hence the name City Pond Complex – with a twomile trail circling the pond. Everything is handicap accessible.

TURNER LAKE Located at 6185 Turner Lake Road in Covington, Georgia is the Turner Lake Complex covering 158 acres of land with the backdrop of a beautiful 26-acre lake in the background. Turner Lake Complex provides a gymnasium, recreation commission offices, full service senior center, four lighted softball fields, one playground, a three-mile walking trail, one picnic area, and two batting cages. Everything is handicap accessible. 770-786-4373.

ASHTON HILLS GOLF CLUB Ashton Hills Golf Club, formerly known as Indian Creek Golf Club, went through a renovation in 2012 when ownership changed.

That same year Georgia Golf News named the course Atlanta’s Best New Course. The course is located at 10400 Covington Bypass Road in Covington, Georgia. The 18-hole course is open year round with an open guest policy and bent greens. It also includes a driving range, rental clubs and rental carts. Tee times start at $15. 770-385-0064 THE OAKS COURSE Measuring 6,437 yards and located at 11240 Brown Bridge Rd. in Covington, Georgia. The course features four sets of tees, each tailored to players of different skill levels. The Oaks course is a semi-private course open year round with Bermuda fairways and greens. The course has a driving range, rental clubs and carts – carts are included in green fees. Tee times start at $15. 770-786-3801.

WINDY HILLS COURSE This nine-hole golf course was designed by Arnold Palmer and opened in 1999. The course is completely public with no driving range. Green fee prices are $20 on both weekdays and weekends. The Windy Hills Course featuring bent greens is located at 513 Kirkland Road in Covington, Georgia. 770-786-2820.

Newcomers Guide 2015

COVNEWS.COM 51

ATLANTA GRAN PRIX KARTING Open 12-8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1-6 p.m. on Sunday, anyone can have a good time racing go-karts. The go-karts race up to 40 mph on an 11-foot paved road course. For just $20 and a $10 insurance fee that covers you for the entire day you can have a 10-minute session that averages between about 16 or 19 laps. Eight cars are allowed on the track at one time. The course is located at 350 Old Oxford Road in Covington. For more information, call 678-961-8980.

JOHNSON PARK RECREATION CENTER The Johnson Park Recreation Center is located at 1781 Ebenezer Road in Conyers, Georgia. Open Monday — Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, contact the Johnson Park Recreation Center at 770-278-7529. Some of the features include: Four softball fields Weight room Gymnasium

Indoor pool Tennis courts Walking/jogging trails

NCWSA

Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority Providing important resources to the citizens of Newton County since 1970.

45 Years of Service

BLACK SHOALS PARK You can find Black Shoals Park & Randy Poynter Lake at 3001 Black Shoals Road in Conyers, Georgia. Amenities include: Boat ramp Fishing pier Boat storage

Covered pavilion with grill Available for rent

For more info, contact the administrative office at 770-278-7529.

11325 Brown Bridge Road • Covington, Georgia savewaternewton.com • www.ncwsa.us newtoncowaterauthority.com 770-787-1375

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52 COVNEWS.COM

Newcomers Guide 2015

ROCKDALE COUNTY

A CULTURAL INTERSECTION Rockdale County first inhabited by Cherokee Indians, interstate continues to bring in a variety of people

T

he history of Conyers and Rockdale County is diverse and dates back over ten thousand years. Early natives known as “The Mound Builders” were one of many groups who visited Rockdale’s gentle hills, lakes and streams.

Much later, the Creek and Cherokee Nations shared a common border, the “Great Indian Road,” now known as Hightower Trail in northern Rockdale. In the early 1800s, this trail was a main route for white settlers moving inland after the American Revolution.

This Indian Road provided an irresistible magnet for European immigration. State authorities officially opened up what is now Rockdale County to settlers in 1816 and 1821. One of several settlements grew up around Costley’s Mill on Big Haynes Creek. This settlement grew to include the first school, a gristmill, a sawmill, a planning mill, and eventually a cotton gin. A dozen or more mills appeared quickly but several were eventually burned down by Indians.

Continued on page 54

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Newcomers Guide 2015

Continued from page 13

The earliest settlement occurred in the extreme northern edge of the county. The southern end of the county was settled as Scots and Scotch-Irish began moving up along the rivers and streams from what is now Henry County. These early families founded numerous churches including Smyrna Presbyterian in 1827, the oldest Calvinist Campground in the United States.

The first known settler of Conyers was blacksmith John Holcomb, who built a log cabin where the County Courthouse now stands on Main Street. Holcomb protested against the coming of the railroad, but eventually sold his land for $700 to Dr. W.D. Conyers, a banker from nearby Covington. Dr. Conyers deeded right-of-way to the railroad and the village of Conyers Station was born.

By 1845, trains were running regularly between Marthasville (now Atlanta) and Augusta. In 1854, the village had grown to 400 residents and was incorporated as a town called “Conyers.”

Conyers has been destroyed, at least partially, by fire three times. However, during General Sherman’s March to the Sea in November 1864, at least one mill was left standing thanks to the cunning of its owner Aunt Winnie Pucket. Before the Union soldiers arrived at Costley’s Mill, Aunt Winnie sacked all the flour and hid the sacks in the millpond.

The wet flour caked and protected the rest.

Miraculously, Aunt Winnie’s pleas and threats convinced the soldiers to leave her mill alone.

In 1870, the Georgia legislature acknowledged Rockdale as a county. The name reflects the underlying granite strata, which runs beneath the surface of the land, creating rocky hills and dales.

During the 1870s, Conyers quickly grew to a population of 1,800 and boasted 12 saloons and five brothels. This wild town also had 40 stores, a fine hotel, good schools, one college, 12 lawyers, just as many doctors and a large carriage manufacturer.

Photo by Darrell Everidge

Conyers was home to the prosperous mill community known as Milstead. The Village of Milstead, located two miles north of Olde Town Conyers, was once home to Milstead Manufacturing Company, later known as Callaway Mills. In its day it was a bustling, closely-knit, industrial town located on the banks of the Yellow River. The mill employed some 700 workers and also provided exceptional amenities to its workers that included housing, churches, a public school, post office, hotel, railroad, company store, drug store and recreational facilities that featured a golf course and swimming pool. In 1960, Callaway Mills closed the Milstead operation. However the churches and bungalow-type houses of the village still stand today and are home to many residents who continue to enjoy this unique and historic area of Conyers.

Like many Georgia towns, Conyers takes pride in its “sidewalk churches.” Along Main Street today, Presbyterian and Methodist churches stand side-by-side. In 1878, First

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United Methodist began a legacy of joint action in a joint revival with its Presbyterian neighbors. The revival resulted in more than 100 new members and the closing of nine saloons in Conyers. These churches continue to have joint services throughout the year.

In 1944, a group of 20 Cistercian monks, or Trappists, from Kentucky arrived at the Depot to begin their monastic life in Georgia. On 2,000 acres that had once been a plantation, these men shared a massive, whitewashed, red brick barn with their herd of Jersey cows. By the end of that year, they had built a pine board monastery with asbestos shingles. They called this structure home for the next 16 years.

The building of a permanent monastery was postponed after the death of the founder, Dom Frederic Dunne, who had funded construction. Many citizens of Rockdale County — most of them Protestant — joined communities across the nation in helping the Trappists finish The Monastery of The Holy

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Spirit. It stands today southeast of Conyers off Georgia Highway 212. The Monks’ living quarters remain private. A public mass is held daily in the Abbey Church and a new visitors center and museum welcomes visitors, school children and retreat participants.

With the construction of Interstate 20 through Rockdale County in the 1960s, the community began to change again. Olde Town Conyers gave way slowly to development along West Avenue and the I-20 access roads, then south along Georgia Highway 20/138, creating a business district of bright signs and national chains. The original commercial center of Conyers is now Olde Town Conyers, populated by attorneys and specialty shops.

During the 1960s, the team of Gus Barksdale and Clarence Vaughn joined other influential citizens and the Chamber of Commerce in bringing numerous major businesses to Rockdale County. With industrial development booming, residential taxes remained low. Access to Atlanta became quick and easy.

Since Conyers developed as a train station, the Depot remains in Olde Town as the most historic site. It is used for meetings, weddings and other special events. In 2005, the Depot became the home of the Conyers Welcome Center.

A recent revitalization plan for Olde Town has turned the historic district into a showplace with streetscapes, a pavilion, a botanical garden and stream. Many homes and buildings in Olde Town are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Recent movie and television filming activity brought New Orleans’ style flourishes, such as ironlace grillwork, to Olde Town’s streets.

The county’s 138-bed acute-care hospital, Rockdale Medical Center, owned by LifePoint Hospitals, and continues to offer the latest technology and provides a full-range of inpatient and out-patient medical services to meet the needs of the community.

In 2008’s historic elections, Rockdale elected its first black Commission Chairman and CEO, Richard Oden. County Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson and Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, who was confirmed after two recounts, were also the first black officials for their respective elected positions. The election sweep continued in 2012 with the election of the county’s first black Sheriff, Magistrate Judge, Tax Commissioner, and Probate Judge. The county saw its first all-Democratic Board of Commissioners with the 2014 election of Commissioner Doreen Williams.

Conyers has now grown to more than 11,000 residents and Rockdale County to more than 85,000. It is a combination of small

COVNEWS.COM 55

town and big city, of rural scenes and urban shopping. The population now reflects many nationalities, races and religions.

Many would describe Rockdale as the type of family-friendly community that appeals to families who want a great, progressive environment to raise their children, as well as young singles or professionals looking to plant roots.

Rockdale has an abundance of positives including recreational opportunities through its more than 15 parks and recreation centers, miles of PATH walking/biking trails, helpful resources for senior citizens, strong public safety services and a wellness initiative for its more than 850 public employees.

For more, go to www.rockdalecounty.org or www.conyersga.com . CN

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Newcomers Guide 2015

GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

ROCKDALE COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY Richard Read 1/2/15 – 12/31/2018

RICHARD ODEN

CHAIRMAN/CEO

OZ NESBITT, SR.

DOREEN WILLIAMS

POST 1 COMMISSIONER POST 2 COMMISSIONER

Board of Commissioners meetings are held every Tuesday of each week at 10 a.m. at the Assembly Hall, located at 901 Main Street, Olde Town Conyers.

Commission Chairman Richard Oden, Chief of Staff Gerald Sanders, and County Clerk Jennifer Rutledge can be reached at (770) 278-7009.

The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners is the governing legislative body of the Rockdale County government and votes on various petitions.

Commission members are elected in partisan elections to serve at-large staggered terms of four years each.

MAGISTRATE COURT CHIEF JUDGE – Phinia Aten 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016 PROBATE COURT JUDGE – Charles K. Mays, Sr. 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016 SHERIFF – Eric J. Levett 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016

JUDGE - Nancy Bills 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016 CHIEF SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE – David B. Irwin 1/2/15 – 12/31/2018 SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE – Robert Mumford 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016 TAX COMMISSIONER – R.J. Hadley 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016 CLERK OF COURT Ruth A. Wilson 1/1/13 – 12/31/2016

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CITY OF CONYERS Become a Sustaining Member!

Local government The policy-making board of the city consists of Mayor Randal S. Mills (third from left) and five council members (left to right) Gerald Hinesley (District 3), Vince Evans (District 2, Post 2), Chris Bowen (District 2, Post 1), Dr. John Fountain (District 4) and Cleveland Stroud (District 1).

The day-to-day operations of the city are handled by City Manager Tony Lucas. The city clerk is Pat Smith and the city attorney is Michael Waldrop. The Conyers City Hall is located at 1184 Scott Street. For information call (770) 483-4411.

Meeting Place City council meetings are held the first and third Wednesday of every month and begin at 7 p.m. in the Conyers City Hall at 1184 Scott Street. For information, call (770) 385-2000.

ROCKDALE COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION

MANDY NORTH

BRAD SMITH

POST 1

POST 2

WALES BARKSDALE

SHARON PHARR

POST 4

POST 3

www.walkofheroes.org

This program allows any individual, veteran, organization or business to choose their level of annual support. Several levels of membership are available beginning at $50. You will receive a decorative decal to show your support of the Walk of Heroes Veterans War Memorial.

Membership renewals available each year. Call 770-786-2302 or go online!

Honor any veteran with a paver to preserve his/her service and sacrifice, including individuals currently serving (including Active Duty, Reserve or National Guard) or anyone who has ever served the United States Military, peace-time or war-time, from 1900-present time. Go to our website and use PayPal or call 770-786-2302 to request an order form.

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POST 5

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Board of Education members are non-partisan seats elected in staggered four-year terms. BOE meetings are held the second and third Thursdays monthly starting 7 p.m. at 954 N. Main Street. For information, call (770) 483-4713 or go to www.rockdale.k12.ga.us and click “About Us.”

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Newcomers Guide 2015

T

ROCKDALE-CONYERS

PARKS & TRAILS Hit the trails and discover Rockdale’s scenic beauty

he parks and trails around Rockdale County and Conyers have much to get you up and out of the house. Rockdale County already has more than 9.3 miles of paved walking/biking trails on five separate scenic routes by the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, through Olde Town Conyers and along the South River, with more miles being completed. Rockdale also features parks with playgrounds, baseball and softball fields, soccer and football fields, indoor pool, indoor meeting rooms and facilities, indoor gymnasiums, outdoor pavilions, the 650-acre lake Randy Poynter Reservoir for boating and fishing, and a variety of recreational programs.

Continued on page 54

62

ROCKDALE COUNTY PARKS/FACILITIES: PINE LOG PARK (1451 Pine Log Rd, 770-761-3058) (available for reser-

vations, 770-278-7529) - 13.77 acres, lighted tennis courts, one mile nature trail, fitness trail, covered picnic pavilion with restrooms, outdoor basketball courts, two playgrounds, picnic tables and grills SOUTH ROCKDALE COMMUNITY PARK (3909 East Fairview Rd,

770-278-7529) (available for reservations, 770-278-7529) - 176 acres, covered pavilion, restrooms, bike parking, picnic tables and grills, playground, adirondack camping shelters, and South River nature walking trail.

WHEELER PARK (1350 Parker Rd, 770-278-7529) (available for reser-

vations, 770-278-7529) - less than 1 acre, covered pavilion with picnic tables and grills, restrooms and playground, next to Rockdale Tennis Center and Olde Town Conyers PATH trail.

BLACK SHOALS PARK & RANDY POYNTER LAKE (also location of

Walk of Heroes Veterans Memorial) (3001 Black Shoals Rd, Gate House

770-761-1611) (available for reservations, Administration Office 770278-7529) - 650 acre lake, boat ramp, fishing pier, boat storage, covered pavilion with grill, and restrooms C. E. STEELE COMMUNITY CENTER (1040 Oakland Ave, 770-785-

5945, 2 - 5 p.m.) - banquet tables and chairs, restrooms, large banquet room and kitchen facilities; owned by Rockdale County and leased by the C.E. Steele Foundation, which oversees and manages the facility.

EARL O’NEAL SPORTS COMPLEX (Softball Complex: 2709 Old Cov-

ington Rd, Football Complex: 2711 Old Covington Rd, Soccer Practice Fields: 2730 Old Covington Rd; 770-278-7529) - 140 acres, eight softball fields, concession stand, storage, scorekeeper building, RGSA boardroom and RYFA boardroom, two football fields, restroom facilities, eight soccer practice fields, playground, and two pavilions with picnic tables.

FIRST SHADY GROVE PARK (2100 Old Covington Rd, 770-278-7529) -

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wooden bridge replaces a historic ford, which crossed Haralson Mill Road, formerly an unimproved dirt road in north Rockdale County.

The bridge is immediately north of the Haralson Mill Historic District, which is eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.

JOHNSON PARK RECREATION CENTER (1781 Ebenezer Rd, 770-

278-7529) - 53 acres, four softball fields, concession stand, offices and meeting room, restroom facilities and storage; a recreational complex with a weight room, gymnasium, meeting rooms for programs, administrative offices, and an indoor pool; tennis courts and walking/jogging trails.

J. P. CARR GYM (1080 Hardin St, 770-785-6838) (available for reserva-

tions, 770-278-7529) - Nine acres, covered gym,

Continued on page 64

A Good Way of Life for Everyone HISTORY TRAILS FUN FOOD & DINING

Porter Memorial

Gymnasium Ruins - venue available for rent

HOME BUYING INCENTIVE PROGRAM

ANNUAL EVENTS July 4th Celebration in the Village 6:00pm-9:00pm October 3 Yellow River Jam 9:00am till dark October 24 Annual Friends of Porterdale Reunion December 4 Annual Christmas Parade December 13 Tuba Christmas P.O. Box 667 2400 Main Street Porterdale, GA. 30070

(770) 786-2217 www.cityofporterdale.com

64 COVNEWS.COM

Newcomers Guide 2015

Continued from page 62

two outdoor basketball courts J. P. CARR SERVICES CENTER COMMUNITY ROOM (981 Taylor St, 770-278-7529)

- Meeting space, Audio visual equipment, Stage (wheelchair accessible/wheelchair lift), Warming Kitchen, 20 6-foot rectangular tables, 15 6-foot round tables, 120 chairs MILSTEAD PARK (1665 Main St NE) - A

splash pad water park opened in 2015, replacing the old Milstead Pool LEGION FIELDS (1249 S. Main St., 770-633-

5029) - Legion Field is a facility leased by Rockdale County, home of the Rockdale Youth Baseball Association (RYBA); 52 acres, home of Miracle Field for disabled, 11 baseball fields with lights, five baseball fields without lights, four concession stands, one boardroom, and four restroom facilities.

RICHARDSON PARK (3779 Union Church

Rd, 770-278-7529) - two lighted tennis courts, multi-practice field used for baseball, softball and soccer.

ROCKDALE COUNTY AUDITORIUM (903

Main St,770-278-7529) - wooden stage, with podium and sound and lights system; folding tables and chairs are available; seating for 600 in pew style room, a grand piano and pipe organ; restrooms and ticket booth available; a small reception area in foyer; No food, drinks or tobacco products are allowed in auditorium area.

ROCKDALE COUNTY GOVERNMENT ANNEX (1400 Parker Rd, 770-278-7529) - 45

acres, indoor meeting rooms, large parking lot available for events, walking trail and multi-purpose field.

ROCKDALE TENNIS CENTER (1370 Parker

Rd, 770-278-7251, www.rockdaletenniscenter. org) - public community tennis center, operates in partnership with Rockdale County Parks, two hard blue courts, lighting, Pro Shop Services/Products, bleachers, covered picnic tables, next to Wheeler Park.

SOUTH RIVER TRAIL - about 13 miles when

complete; trailheads at Monastery of the Holy Spirit, South Rockdale Community Park; greenway/multiuse trail in Rockdale County following the South River from the DeKalb County Line to the Monastery; will connect to an existing trail in Dekalb County; see www. rockdalecounty.org/docs/Master%20Plan%20 Phases%20A-F.pdf

WALK OF HEROES VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK (3001 Black Shoals Rd, 770-278-7529,

www.walkofheroes.org) - 12 Acres, amphitheater, restrooms, walking trail, Botanical Garden.

CITY OF CONYERS FACILITIES: GEORGIA INTERNATIONAL HORSE PARK

(1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, 770-8604190, www.georgiahorsepark.com) - 1,400 acres of event space, City owned/operated; equestrian events, biking, trail running, weddings, receptions, corporate picnics and meetings, fairs, festivals, car shows, horse shows; exclusive caterer Proof of the Pudding.

Veal Street Community Center (1160 Veal St, 770-602-2606) - 2,300 square foot community center, max capacity 72 people, adjacent to the Veal Street Park OLDE TOWN CONYERS PAVILION (949 S.

Main St,770-602-2606) - open-air pavilion, 6,400 square feet of event space in Olde Town Conyers, adjacent to the Lewis Vaughn Botanical Garden CHEROKEE RUN GOLF CLUB (1595 Centennial Olympic Parkway, 770-785-7904, www. cherokeerungolfclub.com) - located at Georgia International Horse Park; City owned/ operated; features 18-hole Arnold Palmerdesigned course and driving range, clubhouse, outdoor veranda, available for banquets, weddings and special events. CN

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66 COVNEWS.COM

WHEN SECONDS

COUNT Saving more lives at RMC with more treatments for heart attack patients

BY MARTIN RAND, III

Newcomers Guide 2015

Newcomers Guide 2015

COVNEWS.COM 67

T

his year, Rockdale Medical Center (RMC) – a 138-bed acutecare hospital in Conyers fully accredited by The Joint Commission – will start a game-changing new program that has the potential to save more lives of people suffering from heart disease related symptoms.

The Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) program, formerly called a cardiac angioplasty, will allow doctors at the medical facility to treat people suffering with a heart attack by opening blocked arties to get blood flowing to the heart muscle.

This type of procedure is a welcome addition to the hospital because patients will no longer have to go other nearby hospitals in downtown Atlanta, like Emory Healthcare, to receive treatment, says Becky Upchurch, director of cardiovascular services for the RMC. “What happens now instead of shipping (patients) downtown, all we have to do is move them the (catheterization) lab across from the emergency room,” she said.

Upchurch says that physicians have about 90 minutes to potentially fix a person’s heart and save some heart muscle from the time the heart attack begins. With all the distance and traffic headed to Atlanta, having this PCI program in will benefit many residents in Rockdale County as well the surrounding counties.

“The need really is time,” she said. The longer you’re having a heart attack, the higher the mortality rate. The faster you can get treatment, the more likely it is that you’ll survive.”

In 2014, RMC and emergency medical services transported at least 500 residents to the downtown Atlanta hospitals for cardiac care.

“The majority of these (patients) will soon be able to receive the same excellent care close to their homes,” said Upchurch. “It’s huge for the patients and it’s huge for the family because you don’t have to travel through traffic to be near your loved one.”

This PCI program has been on the hospital’s wish list for the last five years, ever since the state legislature passed a bill that allows hospitals to request permission to begin PCI without surgical backup programs.

Last year, RMC CEO Deborah Armstrong and other executives at the hospital decided it was time to really pursue the PCI because they have gone through a number of changes that put them in a better position to maintain the program.

“She worked with LifePoint to strengthen our infrastructure, to upgrade and replace old equipment with state of the art, to renovate patient areas, and to be able to offer competitive salaries so that the hospital could hire skilled and experienced staff,” said Upchurch.

Continued on page 69

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Newcomers Guide 2015

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Continued from page 67

LifePoint Hospitals, Inc. owns RMC. The company agreed to fund a second $2.56 million catheterization lab in September to house the PCI program. The one catheterization lab currently at RMC can only be used for diagnostic purposes but not treatment.

The new multi-million dollar lab will feature state-of-the-art equipment and will not only be a diagnostic center, but it will also be able to treat the blocked arteries with angioplasty, atherectomy and stenting. Implantation of permanent pacemakers and automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillators (AICD) could also be performed.

Construction on the new lab began in February and the hospital celebrated the grand opening July 16.

“People ask all the time when will (the RMC) be able to do these services in Rock-

dale,” said Upchurch. “Now, this year we will be.”

Rockdale Medical Center (RMC) has been providing quality comprehensive healthcare to Rockdale County and surrounding communities since 1954. RMC’s 138-bed acute-care hospital offers an extensive range of in-patient and out-patient services and leading-edge technology. Rockdale Medical Center is fully accredited by The Joint Commission, which evaluates hospital patient care for quality, safety and value.

RMC’s extensive range of services includes: The Birth Place (ante partum, labor and delivery, postpartum, and Level 2 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)), cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation, chemotherapy, Diabetes education, Diagnostic imaging services, Women’s diagnostic suite,

Emergency care, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), laboratory testing, rehabilitation services, sleep diagnostics, surgical services (emergency, inpatient and outpatient), Wound Healing Center.

The mission statement, “We treat every person like a member of our family,” is a reflection of the fact that their patients are neighbors, family members and colleagues.

Caring physicians, nurses and staff are dedicated to providing the highest quality medical care, using their expertise, experience and advanced technology to prevent, diagnose and treat medical issues in a safe, professional, family friendly environment.

To learn more about RMC, find a physician, or to find out about becoming an employee or volunteer, visit www.rockdalemedicalcenter.org or call 770-918-3000. CN

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2235 2235 Sigman Sigman Rd Rd SW SW Conyers Conyers •• (770) •• (770) 483-1649 483-1649 2235 2235 Sigman Sigman Rd Rd SW SW Conyers Conyers (770) (770) 483-1649 483-1649

Newcomers Guide 2015

GROWI N G LIBRARY

See how Rockdale’s library has grown since its $7 million expansion and renovation

COVNEWS.COM 71

72 COVNEWS.COM

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he Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, located at 864 Green Street in Old Town Conyers, opened in 1990 and houses more than 116,000 books, video cassettes, audio books and compact discs.

The current library is located on what used to be land owned by Sally Fanny Gleaton, a prominent suffragette of the area and reportedly one of the state’s first female pilots.

Starting in 2008, the library underwent an extensive $7 million expansion and renovation, adding a new youth services wing, new ventilation system and renovated roof. New landscaping plans were drawn up, designed to accommodate the Olde Town portion of the PATH walking/biking trail. Construction was completed in the spring of 2010.

Thanks to the additional space, the library was able to add over 50 desktop computers for the public in its downstairs area. Each computer can be used for up to three hours a day total per user, with a library card. A meeting room and event facility is also available for reservation by the public.

Governed by the Conyers-Rockdale Library System Board of Trustees, the library is open to the public Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Newcomers Guide 2015

For those wanting to access the Internet, terminals are available to patrons over the age of 18 or for children with a signed parental permission slip. For online research, the library offers GALILEO and Reference USA. The children’s services area boasts books for all ages including board books for infants and toddlers and books for beginning readers. Children can borrow recorded books, and musical CD’s.

Also, the library offers children e-books through its TumbleBook Library online.

TumbleBook Library allows children to view animated, talking picture books. The service allows includes National Geographic, videos and games. A paid, 12-month subscription is required.

Adults can delve in many of the same types of material in the adult services area. To help with research, trained library staff members offer assistance with the up-to-date reference collection. For those hard-to-find books and periodicals, the library can obtain specific material through the interlibrary loan service.

The Conyers-Rockdale Library System offers an extensive special collections area as well. Patrons can research all types of diverse information ranging from local and state history to looking up ancestry. The Rock-

dale Genealogical Society supports patrons researching their lineage and meets monthly to aid families in tracing their past.

For those interested in legal materials, the library offers legal materials including the Official Code of Georgia, Georgia Digests and Appeals and WESTLAW on the online legal source.

All library materials are loaned for 14 days with the exception of DVDs which can be borrowed for seven days at a time. Each patron can check out up to four DVDs at a time while overdue fees accumulate at the rate of 50 cents per day with a $5 cap. Through its axis360 service, books can be checked out from the library’s digital catalog and read as a e-book or pdf.

Library cards are available through the PINES (Public Information Network for Electronic Services) system and can be obtained by any Georgia resident with proof of a current address. Proof of identification in the form a government-issued photo identification card, such as a driver’s license or a passport, is required and anyone under the age of 18 must have a signed authorization form from a legal parent or guardian.

For more information call 770-388-5040 or go to www.conyersrockdalelibrary.org. CN

Covington Academy 396 Elks Club Road Covington GA 30014 678.625.9025

Discovering Talents, Challenging Minds, Cherishing Families...

Competitive Sports Extracurricular Clubs

K3-12th Grade Before & After School Care

We’re committed to fostering our students’ success both in and out of the classroom. In addition to a dynamic and challenging academic curriculum, we teach students the value of self-respect, social responsibility and lifelong learning. Our goal is to provide each of our students with a well-rounded education that will inspire achievement in school and in life.

Now Enrolling 2015-2016 School Year

NEWTON COUNTY

DIRECTORY “Planning Tomorrow-Today”

directory LIBRARIES

PIEDMONT ACADEMY Established 1970 Grades PK-12 126 Highway 212, West P.O. Box 231 Monticello, GA 31064 706-468-8818 www.piedmontacademy.com

NEWTON COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM Covington Branch Library 7116 Floyd Stree, Covington (770) 787-3231 Tuesday & Thursday 10am - 8pm Wednesday & Friday 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 2pm Newborn Library Service Outlet 4224 Ga. Highway 142, Newborn (770) 787-1126 Wednesday 11am - 2pm

* * * * *

College Preparatory School Safe Christian Environment After School Care Convenient Bus Service Academics, Athletics, and the Arts

Porter Memorial Branch Library 6191 Ga. Highway 212, Covington (678) 729-1388 Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 11am - 8pm Saturday & Sunday 1pm - 5pm UNCLE REMUS REGIONAL LIBRARY SYSTEM

Piedmont Academy, Inc. of Monticello, Georgia, admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial assistance program, athletic, or other schooladministered programs

W.H. Stanton Memorial Library 407 West Hightower Trail, Social Circle (770) 464-2444 Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10am - 6pm Tuesday & Thursday 10am - 8pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 2pm - 6pm

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Newcomers Guide 2015

directory RECYCLING CENTERS These centers are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am - 7pm; Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 7am - 7pm and Sunday from 1pm - 7pm.

DIAL MILL ROAD 325 Dial Mill Road, Oxford

PIPER ROAD/ HIGHWAY 36 10545 Ga. Highway 36, Covington

MCGIBONEY ROAD 518 McGiboney Road, Covington

BYPASS/ FLAT SHOALS 11575 Covington Bypass Road, Covington

OAK HILL ROAD 112 Oak Hill Road, Covington

STEWART VFD 14645 Ga. Highway 36, Covington

ADAMS CIRCLE 2010 Adams Circle, Covington

STONE ROAD 70 Stone Road, Oxford

This center is open Sunday through Friday from 1pm - 7pm. and Saturday from 7am - 7pm.

COOK ROAD 10 Cook Road, Oxford

HWY 212/ HWY162 2010 Highway 212, Covington

HAZELBRAND ROAD 11585 Hazelbrand Road, Covington

NewtoN CouNty ReCReatioN CommissioN 6185 Turner Lake Road Covington, GA 30014 www.newtonrecreation.com

770-786-4373

"It's your time, we help you spend it...at play!"

Gymnasium • Special Events Walking Trails • Community Room Youth & Adult Athletics Youth & Adult Instruction

Newcomers Guide 2015

directory Emergency Services

Covington Police Department 1143 Oak Street, Covington (770) 786-7605 www.covingtonpolice.com Covington Fire Department 2101 Pace Street, Covington (770) 385-2100 www.cityofcovington.org Covington-Newton County 911 Communications Center 8146 Carlton Trail, Covington (770) 786-2774, non-emergency number www.covington-newton911.com Newton Medical Center 5126 Hospital Drive, Covington (770) 786-7053 www.newtonmedical.com Newton County Sheriff’s Department 15151 Alcovy Road, Covington (678) 625 1400 www.newtonsheriffga.org Newton County Fire Department (678) 625-5010 www.newtoncountyfireservice.org Newton County DFCS 4117 Mill Street, Covington (770) 784-2490 www.dfcs.dhs.georgia.gov Newton County Mental Health Clinic 8201 Hazelbrand Road, Covington (770) 787-3977 www.newtonlibrary.org

COVNEWS.COM 75

directory Clubs

American Legion Post 32 Second Thursdays, 3132 Legion Drive, Covington. You can contact Commander Tarry Moore through mail at P.O. Box No. 310, Covington, GA 30015. You can also get more information about the organization at http://covingtonpost32.orf. If you are a war veteran living in Newton County and you need some assistance, please contact American Legion Post 32.

Benevolent Protective Order of Elks Lodge 1806 7:30 p.m. first and third Tuesdays, 135 Crowell Road Covington Covington Garden Club 10 a.m. on first Wednesdays, meet at various homes of members Covington Kiwanis Club 12:30 p.m. Thursday for lunch, Covington First United Methodist Church Covington Rotary Club Noon Tuesday for lunch Covington First United Methodist Church Covington Lions Club 7:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays,

Town of Newborn “A Town with P.O. Box 247, Newborn, GA 30056 770-787-1660 www.newbornga.com

Characters” Mayor: Gregg Ellwanger Mayor Pro Tem: Tom Krieger

Council Members: Gene Downs, Ruth Sams, Martha Ellwanger Clerk: Elisa Rowe Assistant Clerk: Heather Jackson Public Works Department: Keith Hunt & Donald Clement

“Home of the Horneyhead Fishing Tournament”

C N

GET THE LATEST NEWS

from Newton and Rockdale counties constantly,

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Newcomers Guide 2015

COVNEWS.COM 77

fourth Tuesdays, except second Tuesday only in December, 1104 Clark Street SW, Covington Oxford Lions Club 12 p.m. on first Thursdays, 7 p.m. on third Thursdays, Allen Memorial United Methodist Church, Oxford Pilot Club of Covington 7 p.m. on most first Thursdays, sometimes third Thursday, First Presbyterian Church of Covington Satsuki Garden Club 10:30 a.m. second Tuesdays, Newton County Public Library. Those interested should contact the library for the current program chairman’s information.

3120 Conyers St., Covington Covington Woman’s Club 9:30 a.m. second Tuesdays, Historic Woman’s Club building on College Street Golden Fleece Masonic Lodge No. 6 Dinner 6:30 p.m., meeting 7:30 p.m. second and

Southern Heartland Woman’s Club 4 p.m. on first Sundays, Southern Heartland Art Gallery on the Covington square

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Newcomers Guide 2015

directory CHURCHES APOSTOLIC

Apostolic Community Church of Covington 2094 Highway 81 South, Covington (770) 784-7768 AFRICAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL

Mount Zion AME Church 119 5th Avenue, Mansfield (770) 787-0358 Pleasant Hill AME Zion Church 1578 Alcovy Station Road, Covington (770) 464-2999

St. Paul AME Church 13108 Brown Bridge Road., Covington (770) 786-7785

Poplar Hill AME Church 623 Poplar Hill Road, Covington (770) 787-4954

Graves Chapel AME Church 1575 Alcovy Trestle Road, Social Circle (770) 787-2510

BAPTIST Almon Baptist Church Almon Road, Covington Bald Rock Baptist Church 2284 Old Covington Road N.E., Covington (770) 929-3421 Berean Baptist Church 20 Old Social Circle Road, Social Circle (678) 625-3551

Bethel Bara Baptist Church 11392 Jackson Highway, Covington (770) 787-0370

Bethel Grove Baptist Church 10728 Flat Shoals Road, Covington (770) 786-6630

Bethel Grove Baptist in Mansfield 520 Sewell Road, Mansfield (770) 786-3359

Bethlehem Baptist Church

2177 Usher Street, Covington (770) 786-8229

Calvary Baptist Church 4228 Mill Street N.E., Covington (770) 786-3216

Canaan Baptist Church 5581 Salem Road, Covington (770) 786-8885 Corinth Missionary Baptist Church 813 S. Cherokee Road, Social Circle (770) 464-2949

Cornish Mountain Baptist Church 1089 Cornish Mountain Church Road, Oxford (770) 787-7644 County Line Baptist Church 3325 Ga. Highway 162 S., Covington (770) 786-2637 Covington Bible Baptist Church 75 Marble Drive, Oxford (770) 784-6622 Crossroads Baptist Church 227 County Road 229, Social Circle (770) 786-2563

Early Hope Baptist Church 3162 Ga. Highway 162, Covington (770) 786-8318

East Newton Baptist Church 1129 Rocky Plains Road, Covington 770-786-6627

Fellowship Baptist Church 4297 Ga. Highway 81, Oxford (678) 342-9040

First Baptist Church of Covington 1139 Usher Street, Covington (770) 786-9031 1st Baptist Church of Social Circle 195 N. Cherokee Road, Social Circle (770) 464-3474

Gateway Community Church 11677 Brown Bridge Road, Covington (770) 787-1015 Grace Baptist Church 474 Crowell Road, Covington

(770) 786-5692

Greater Love Baptist Church 1780 Pickett Bridge Road, Covington (770) 788-1832

Harvest Baptist Church 2075 Ga. Highway 212, Covington (770) 787-7275 Harvest Baptist Church 2075 Ga. Highway 212, Covington (770) 787-7275

High Point Baptist Church 12025 Ga. Highway 36, Covington (770) 786-5985

Knox Chapel Baptist Church 679 Knox Chapel Road S.E., Social Circle (770) 464-2361

Mansfield Baptist Church 101 Woodlawn Road, Mansfield 770-787-0723 Mars Hill Baptist Church 387 W. Hightower Trail, Social Circle (770) 464-0000 Mt. Olive Baptist Church 355 Moores Road, Covington (770) 786-1617

Mt. Zion Baptist Church 657 Mt. Zion Road, Covington (770) 787-2421

New Hope Baptist Church 2207 Brown Street S.W., Covington (770) 786-1709

Newton Baptist Church 720 Jack Neely Road, Covington (770) 788-7868

Oxford Baptist Church 305 Emory Street, Oxford (770) 786-8132

Pleasantview Baptist Church 302 Fincher Road, Covington (770) 786-3394

Porterdale Baptist Church N. Broad Street @ Palmetto Street, Porterdale, (770) 786-2650

Featuring 120 specialty stores and restaurants that include American Eagle, Build-A-Bear Workshop, Forever 21, Kay Jewelers, Children’s Place, New York & Company, Fashion to Figure, Champs Sports, LensCrafters, Victoria’s Secret, House of Hoops, AMC Theatre featuring IMAX and many more.

1-20 & Turner Hill Road, Exit 75 Monday - Saturday 10 am - 9 pm • Sunday Noon - 6 pm • Shopping Line (678) 526-8955 /shopstonecrest /mallatstonecrest www.mallatstonecrest.com

80 COVNEWS.COM

Sims Chapel Baptist Church 61 Sims Chapel Road, Covington (770) 787-6865

Solid Rock Baptist Church 8111 Brown Bridge Road, Covington (770) 784-0982

Springfield Baptist Church 1877 Iris Drive, Conyers (770) 929-1111

Stewart Baptist Church 158 Stewart Church Road, Covington (770) 788-7177

The Baptist Tabernacle 10119 Access Road NW, Covington (770) 786-7775

Triumph COGIC 115 Bell Street, Covington (770) 786-4683

West End Baptist Church 455 S. Cherokee Road, Social Circle (770) 464-3965

Zion Baptist Church 7037 Ga. Highway 212 N., Covington (770) 786-6767

JEHOVAH’S WITNESS

Jehovah’s Witness 13075 Ga. Highway 36, Covington (770) 786-7632

CATHOLIC

St. Augustine Catholic Church 11524 U.S. Highway 278 E., Covington (770) 787-1064 CHRISTIAN METHODIST EPISCOPAL

The Church of the Good Shepherd 4140 Clark Street, SW, Covington (770) 786-3278 Murray Memorial CME Church 4100 West Street N.W., Covington (770) 786-5474 CHURCH OF CHRIST

Central Church of Christ 160 Ga. Highway 142, Covington (770) 787-3710

Covington Church of Christ 9441 Covington Bypass Road, Covington (770) 787-1119 CHARISMATIC

St. Andrews Charismatic Episcopal Church 375 Old Oxford Road, Covington (770) 784-5100 CHURCH OF GOD

EPISCOPAL

Church of Good Shepherd 4140 Clark Street S.W., Covington (770) 786-3278 FULL GOSPEL

Gospel Mission Church 755 Almon Road, Covington (770) 787-6507 Jersey Holiness Church 3439 Monroe Jersey Road, Jersey (770) 464-2301

East Conyers Jehovah’s Witness 2914 Fairview Road, Covington (770) 787-5087 LUTHERAN

Abiding Grace Lutheran Church 5510 Ga. Highway 212, Covington (770) 385-7691 METHODIST

Alcovy UMC 12521 Alcovy Road, Covington (770) 786-0610 Allen Memorial UMC 803 Whatcoat Street, Oxford (770) 786-7414

First United Methodist Church of Covington 1113 Conyers Street, Covington (770) 786-7305

Gaithers UMC 1375 Newton Factory Bridge Road, Covington (770) 786-6001 Grace UMC 3145 Washington Street, Covington (770) 787-0517 Jersey UMC 115 Jersey-Social Circle Road, Jersey (770) 464-1247

Newcomers Guide 2015

Lovejoy UMC 12835 Ga. Highway 36, Covington (770) 786-7907

Livingston Chapel CME 95 Bethany Road, Covington (678) 342-2115

Mansfield UMC 3031 Main St., Mansfield (770) 385-9800

Mt. Pleasant UMC 55 County Hwy 229, Social Circle (770) 786-6376 Newborn UMC 118 Church Street, Newborn (770)-786-3574

North Covington UMC 5138 Emory Street N.W., Covington (770) 787-3386

Porter Memorial UMC 3 Cotton Avenue, Porterdale (770) 786-6149

Prospect UMC 6752 Ga. Highway 212, Covington (770) 786-6303

Red Oak UMC 15105 Ga. Highway 36, Covington (770) 787-0404

Richards Chapel UMC 426 Richards Chapel Road, Covington (770) 787-1834

Salem UMC 3962 Salem Road, Covington (770) 786-6027 Shiloh UMC 10 Almon Church Road, Covington (770) 787-1087 Social Circle UMC 261 S. Cherokee Road, Social Circle (770) 464-3854

Springhill UMC 1228 Hwy. 162, Covington (770) 786-2170

Starrsville UMC 2786 Dixie Road, Covington (770) 786-4293

Trinity UMC 6154 Collins Street, Covington (770) 787-8780

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Union Grove UMC 757 Dixie Road, Covington (770) 786-0555 Church 213 Covington First Baptist Church Annex (temporary) 1675 County Road 213, Covington 770-385-6304 (permanent) MORMON

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints 10235 Eagle Drive, Covington (678) 342-0414 NAZARENE

LifePointe Nazarene Church 5133 Highway 36, Covington (770) 787-2220 NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Brown Bridge Christian Church 13108 Brown Bridge Road, Covington (770) 788-0755 Central Community Church 11157 City Pond Road, Covington (770) 385-3452 Church in the Now 13183 Harland Drive NE, Covington (770) 922-5334

Christian Life Center 10242 Flat Shoals Road, Covington (770) 784-8189

Covington Christian Church 141 E. Highway 142, Covington (770) 786-1021

Eastridge Community Church 863 Ga. Highway 142, Covington (770) 786-2048

Faith of Jesus Ministries 100 Usher Road, Covington (770) 787-1748

Gateway Community Church 11677 Brown Bridge Road, Covington (770) 787-1015 Jersey Community Church 110 Lower Jersey Road, Jersey (770) 464-2638 Journey Church 1150 Monticello Street, Covington

Newcomers Guide 2015

(770) 783-2220 Life Church 3130 Salem Road SE, Covington (770) 787-0486

New Beginning Full Gospel Ministries 453 Oxford Road, Covington (770) 787-6376

Oak Hill Church 195 Snapping Shoals Drive, Covington (770) 272-4429

Rainbow Covenant Ministries 9 Hemlock Street, Porterdale (770) 787-8519

Tabernacle of Praise 3024 Highway 11, Mansfield (770) 851-6817

The Avenue Church 1317 N. Cherokee Road, Social Circle (770) 464-2622 The Church at Covington 11975 Ga. Highway 142, Oxford (770) 786-7293

The Pointe/Crosspointe Church 252 Byrd Road, Oxford (770) 385-4968 United Praise Christian Center 12949 Highway 36, Covington (770) 385-0473 Word of Life Tabernacle 99 Ellis Trail, Covington (770) 385-9882 PENTECOSTAL

Atlanta Deliverance Tabernacle 3163 Corley Street, Covington (678) 712-9144

The Potter’s House 1120 Crowell Road, Covington (678) 212-0319

Voice of Pentecost 4648 Salem Road, Covington (678) 625-1700 PRESBYTERIAN

Bethany Presbyterian Church 1002 Bethany Road, Covington (770) 786-1629

First Presbyterian Church 1169 Clark Street S.W., Covington (770) 786-7321

Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church 2900 Salem Road, Covington (770) 786-0111 Gum Creek Presbyterian Church 2700 Gum Creek Road, Oxford (770) 786-8301

Luther Hays Presbyterian Church 90 Hayston Road, Mansfield (770) 744-5475 Porterdale Presbyterian Church P.O. Box 669, Porterdale (770) 786-7507 Providence Reformed Presbyterian Church 6752 Hwy. 212 N, Covington (678) 210-0272

Trinity Presbyterian Church 11171 U.S. Highway 278 E., Covington (770) 787-7493

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

First Seventh Day Adventist Church of Covington 7161 Monticello Street S.E., Covington (770) 787-6855

2424 HR HR Emergency Emergency Service

Service

15% off

Any Plumbing Service (up to $100 discount) Expires 6-30-2016

15% off

Licensed & Insured Family Owned & Operated

Any Plumbing Service

ce discount) open 7 days a week! • Emergency Service 24/7! (upOffi to $100

770-860-8110 Expires 6-30-2016

Licensed & Insured 1422 Business Center Drive, Conyers, GA 30094

Family Owned & Operated

www.highpriorityplumbing.com

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Office open 7 days a week! • Emergency Service 24/7!

Caring, Committing & Collaborating for our Community for Over 60 Years!

Our Women’s Diagnostic Center has recently been recognized as a Certified Quality Breast Center in the National Quality Measures for Breast Centers Program™. This distinguished honor represents a commitment to provide the highest level of quality breast healthcare to patients in the community.

Protect Your Life...

Get A Mammogram: Because early detection is the key to surviving breast cancer, the Women’s Diagnostic Center is pleased to offer you this special discount for a screening digital mammogram.

Only $125 with this ad (Regularly $365)

• Call for an appointment: 770.385.7800 • Bring this ad with you • $125 must be paid in full • The radiologist’s fee is included

Located in the Physicians’ Pavilion, Suite 301

Know Your Numbers: Knowing your numbers puts you in charge of taking care of your health.

Newton Medical Center is pleased to offer you a Lipid Profile for only $15.

• Walk in only - no appointments!

• Blood test includes: Cholesterol, HDL, LDL and Triglycerides • Please do not eat or drink 12 hours before the test (except for water or black coffee)

Bring this ad with you to the Outpatient Laboratory located in The Knox Surgical Center

BirthCare Center 770-385-4355 BirthCare Lactation Support 770-385-4182 BirthCare Tours & Prenatal Classes 770-385-4182 Critical Care Unit 770-385-4317 Diabetes Education 770-385-4185 Diagnostic Imaging Services 770-385-4329 East Atlanta Hematology & Oncology 770-786-0655 Victoria Afshani, MD East Atlanta Infectious Disease 770-787-4504 Suji Mathew, MD Emergency Department 770-385-4365 Fitness Forum Cardiac Rehabilitation 770-385-4430 Georgia Orthopedics & Sports Medicine 770-788-6534 Reneé S. Riley, MD, FAAOS Ryan J. Tomlins, MD, CAQ Health Information Management Medical Records 770-385-4233 Home Health 770-788-9403 Imaging Center 678-342-3051 Interventional Pain Center 770-385-4337 Interventional Radiology 770-385-4329 Knox Surgical Center 770-385-4124 Laboratory 770-385-4336 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit 770-385-4177 Newton Medical Family Practice 770-788-9970 Donna Groover, MD Kimberly Chitwood, FNP-C Outpatient Department 770-385-4252 Patient Accounts 770-385-4101 Patient Information 770-786-7053 Patient Scheduling 770-385-4436 Pavilion Surgical Associates 770-787-6957 B. Carter Rogers, MD, FACS Steven R. Whitworth, MD, FACS Physical Therapy 770-385-4305 Physician Referral Line 770-385-4243 Sleep Disorder Center 770-385-4159 Southeastern Neurology 770-787-8200 Sonal Hazariwala, MD Jennifer McDonald, APRN, NP-C Speech Therapy 770-385-7880 Volunteer Services 770-788-6553 Women's Diagnostic Center 770-385-7800 Wound & Hyperbaric Center 770-385-4325

5126 Hospital Drive NE | Covington, GA 30014 | 770.786.7053

Tell your physician you want your care at Newton Medical Center! www.newtonmedical.com

To schedule an appointment, call 770.385.4436