Newcomer's Guide 2020-2021

NEWCOMER’S Guide to Newton County

2020-2021

Unwavering A community standing strong amidst crisis

A special publication by

Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority Our mission is to provide our customers with clean safe drinking water while reclaiming wastewater in an environmentally sound manner while focusing on cost efficiency and value oriented service.

Proudly Serving Our Customers for 50 Years.

Community Since 2012

770.787.1375 - NCWSA.US

The Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority - 50 years of quality service and crystal clean water! Since 1970, The Newton County Water and Sewage Authority has quietly and efficiently served the water and sewage needs of the residents, businesses, and industries throughout Newton County.

In the early 1970s it took going door to door, signing up customers to secure funding and loans, but the Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority always had a determination to accomplish its mission to provide a reliable supply of water and conserve this valuable resource that supports living and development. In 2020 we celebrate our organization that began with barely fifty customers and has grown to over 60 dedicated water professionals serving over twenty-five thousand water and eight thousand sewage customers. Newton County Water & Sewerage Authority strives to provide excellent customer service throughout the customer experience.

The Authority is also committed to supporting our community through sponsorship and involvement in community events, from conservation efforts to just good ole-fashion fun, building a sense of civic pride throughout our County.

A new direction.

A new purpose.

A new career.

Georgia Piedmont Technical College is your way forward!

Programs available for more than 15 career pathways right here in Newton County!

Plus, GEDÂŽ Test prep classes and the new Rockwell Automation Academy for industries

Two locations in Covington

16200 Alcovy Road & 8100 Bob Williams Parkway

770.786.9522, ext. 3100

gptc.edu

Equal opportunity institution.

Newcomer’s Guide | 3

table of contents Letter from the Publisher Contact Us Index of Advertisers

6 7 50

Letter from the Chamber Letter from the Superintendent

16 21

Newton County stands strong amidst crisis Southern Heartland celebrates 15 years

10 12

Schools Libraries Recreation Meet Your Elected Officials Public Safety Voting History Growth Film Industry Health Care Churches

18 22 24 26 36 38 40 42 43 46 48

On the Cover NEWCOMER’S Guide to NewtoN CouNty

2020-2021

Unwavering A community standing strong amidst crisis

A special publication by

4 | Newcomer’s Guide

The Newton County Courthouse, built in 1884. Inset photos, from left, were taken at Bread and Butter Bakery, Scoops Ice Cream shop and a local neighborhood where volunteers distributed clothes and other necessities for families in need.

PHOTOS BY Taylor Beck and Mason Wittner | The Covington News

Newcomer’s Guide to Newton County is published annually by The Covington News, of Newton Newspapers Inc. No portion of this issue may be copied, scanned or reproduced in any manner without prior written consent from the publisher.

Newcomer’s Guide to Newton County is available free to subscribers of The Covington News.

To subscribe, call 770-787-6397.

Where Health Meets Beauty

Rob Whiddon PA-C | | Michelle Juneau, M.D. | Emily de Golian, M.D. | Kate Kaufman, PA-C

Dermatology Consultants delivers excellent dermatological care for the entire family.

We utilize our state-of-the-art facility and cutting-edge technology to provide services for our patients in our Covington location.

We provide the BEST in medical, surgical & cosmetic dermatology. Our team is led by Board-certified dermatologists, fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgeons, certified physicians assistants, and laser licensed aestheticians.

•Skin cancer screening, treatment and maintenance •Diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases •MOHS Micrographic surgery for skin cancer Injectables & Fillers: Botox Cosmetic, Voluma, Juvéderm XC, Radiesse, Restylane Silk & Lyft,Refyne, Defyne, Vollure, Volbella, Kybella, Dysport, Sculptra Aesthetic, Belotro, Versa, Aqua Gold

Aesthetic Procedures & Services: Chemical Peels, Microdermabrasion, Fractional 1440/1540, IPL Photorejuvenation, P.R.P. for Hair Restoration, Laser Hair Removal, XTRAC® Psoriasis Laser, Isolaz Acne Therapy, Microcurrent, Infini, Vivace, Micro-needling, and a variety of skin care products!

Be Social With Us!

DermatologyConsultants.org

(770) 784-0343 Covington 4151 Hospital Drive Covington, GA 30014

Letter from the

I

Editor and Publisher

t’s said that a city, or community, is stronger when it stands united.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Covington and all of Newton County have proven this statement to be true.

The novel virus has triggered much negative impact across the globe and close to home. Schools were shut down; some have delayed their reopenings. Businesses, restaurants and industries were forced to close their doors for quite some time. People lost their jobs.

For a period of time, we were even made to stay at home.

But despite all of this, today our community’s stakeholders are still standing, back open and ready to serve.

How? Well, I’ve only been here just over a month, but I can tell you how: Because in a time of uncertainty — though there are many differences of opinions and beliefs — this community has stood together.

In this year’s magazine, you’ll become a bit more familiar with our local elected officials, our school system’s leaders and even the history of Newton County.

6 | Newcomer’s Guide

Whether you’re new to the area — like me— or have been a Newton County resident for decades, I hope you learn something about this special place I can’t wait to officially call home when you pick up this year’s Newcomers publication.

But I especially hope you’re able to see and feel that sense of togetherness — something you won’t find in many other places.

Welcome to Newton County — a community unwavering.

Taylor Beck Editor and Publisher The Covington News

Contact us Taylor Beck

Cynthia Blackshear-Warren

Editor and publisher tbeck@covnews.com

Advertising Director cbwarren@covnews.com

Tom Spigolon

Kaylyn Hopper

News Editor tspigolon@covnews.com

Advertising representative khopper@covnews.com

Mason Wittner

Amanda Ellington

Sports Editor mwittner@covnews.com

Circulation Director aellington@covnews.com

= Since 1893 <

Lee Ann Avery Legals Clerk lavery@covnews.com

J.C.Harwell & Son FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CHAPEL

DID YOU KNOW? A portion of every subscription to The Covington News goes to the Covington-Newton County United Way.

SUBSCRIBE AT WWW.COVNEWS.COM

A Traditional Funeral Home Offering: Traditional Funeral Services, Cremation and Pre-Need Arrangements 125 Years of Service to the Community We Call Home “Dependable friends in times of need.”

Tommy & Mary Evelyn Davis www.harwellfuneralhome.com

2157 East Street SE • Covington, GA 30014

770-786-2524

Newcomer’s Guide | 7

Abbey Hospiceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 13-bed inpatient unit is located in the heart of Walton County. We provide hospice services to surrounding areas up to a 50-mile radius, including Newton, Rockdale, Morgan, and Jasper counties.

215 Azalea Court Social Circle, GA 30025 770-464-5858 www.abbeyhospice.com GA License#: 107-151-H 8 | Newcomerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide

Medicare Provider#: 11-1530

We strive to work with families to make their visit to Lawnwood Memorial Park meaningful. We understand with you the life of your loved one in a way that is special to you and your family.

Lawnwood Memorial Park

burial, entombment, or ennichement of your loved one in a peaceful, idyllic, and park like surrounding and our newest cremation options insure a place of remembrance for your loved one forever.

1111 Access Road Covington, Georgia “the premier perpetual care cemetery east of Atlanta, proudly providing caring and professional service since 1954”

Phone: 770-787-8314 Website: www.lawnwoodmemorialpark.com Email: info@lawnwoodmemorialpark.com

BULLDOG TIRE & AUTOMOTIVE

Your Complete Car Care Center Since 1982!

Facebook: Facebook.com/Lawnwood

Serving Newton, Rockdale & surrounding counties for over 36 years!

We meet or beat any price you have in writing.

4108 N. Elm Street Covington, Georgia

770-787-6030

Monday – Friday 7:30am – 6:00pm Visit our website for coupons & specials

www.bulldogtire.net

12 Months Same as Cash Financing Available We specialize in Brand Names of: Carpet, Vinyl, Hardwood, Laminate, VCT, Luxury Vinyl Tile, Rugs, LVP Luxury Vinyl Plank Residential & Commercial

770-786-9245

hardysfloors.com • sales@hardyfloors.com 2227 Emory Street NW • Covington, GA

Newcomer’s Guide | 9

Newton County stands strong amidst crisis

A local resident makes a purchase at Bread and Butter Bakery in Covington. (Mason Wittner | The Covington News)

By TAYLOR BECK tbeck@covnews.com

Coronavirus.

It’s a word not many people knew existed in January. Many joked about its shared verbiage with a beer company, ignorant of the serious impact the illness would have around the world and right here in Newton County.

In a matter of weeks, schools were shut down for the remainder of the year, calling for teachers and students to finish their instruction online. Local businesses like Bread and Butter Bakery were forced to either adapt to the situation or close their doors altogether — leading to lost jobs.

“It made us look at ourselves,” said Zac Johnston, part owner of Bread and Butter Bakery — a business first established in 2013. “We had to figure out a way to serve our customers in a non-traditional way.”

Like most businesses, he and his mother, Kelley, had to get more creative than they ever imagined. This led to starting a popular curbside pickup option, as well as offering delivery, though Zac Johnston said they weren’t good at it to begin with.

Fortunately, the Johnstons were able to get by, but only thanks to the community’s 10 | Newcomer’s Guide

Residents hung a sign above the door of Scoops Ice Cream shop in Covington to lift the community’s spirit during the pandemic.

(Mason Wittner | The Covington News)

HOME OF THE PICK 5 FOR $24.99!

The Newton County Sheriff ’s Office, alongside other local organizations, partnered with the Newton County Boys & Girls Club to provide essentials to families in Covington. (Special to The News) support, which never wavered.

“We’ve been so humbled by [the community’s] support,” Zac Johnston said.

“Without them coming in to buy from us, we would be here through all of this.”

Businesses like the Johnstons’ have all witnessed community support through the pandemic. Some have even received financial support from the city and county’s leaders.

The city of Covington established a grant program originally through the Downtown Development Authority for small businesses across the city.

Thanks to a $175,000 gift from the Newton County Facebook Data Center, the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce was able to establish and award several grants from the One Newton Small Business Resiliency Fund.

During the pandemic, Chamber President Debbie Harper said her office’s role within the community had changed a bit, becoming the “informational hub” for all businesses needing guidance through the crisis.

“We’ve become everyone’s chamber,” she said. “But that’s what we’re here for … The only way we’ll get through this is together.”

Information about federal, statewide and local grant opportunities and business reopening guidelines can be found on the chamber’s website at gohcovington.com.

But businesses aren’t the only ones getting help.

Besides financial assistance through stimulus checks distributed by the federal government, families in Newton County that were struggling during the pandemic have received clothing, cleaning items, children’s toys and several other essential items from several local civic clubs and groups including the Covington Rotary Club, Newton County Boys & Girls Club and the Newton County Sheriff ’s Office.

“I considered it a blessing to be able to assist the families of Newton County,” Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown told The Covington News in a statement. “Basic necessities will go a long way in meeting household needs during these challenging times.”

HARDWARE • Husqvarna • Full Service Butcher • Craft Beer • Fresh Produce • Deli Favorites • National and Local Grocery Brands • Livestock Feed • Lawn and Garden 4420 Hwy. 213 Mansfield, GA 30055 770-786-3060 8:00am-9:00pm • 7 Days a Week Newcomer’s Guide | 11

Southern Heartland celebrates 15 years in Covington

Story and Photos by MASON WITTNER mwittner@covnews.com

COVINGTON, Ga. — Nestled into the corner of Washington Street and Monticello Street, the Southern Heartland Art Gallery has been a staple in the Newton County community for nearly 16 years.

Since opening its doors on the corner of Covington Square in 2004, the gallery has become renowned for its support of captivating visual arts with a local flair. The establishment operates as a co-op with 20 artists, as well as nearly 250 members in the Southern Heartland Arts Inc. guild.

The art center promotes education through various art classes and camps, in addition to its gift sales and free paint parties.

It’s a one-stop-shop for those of all ages in Newton County — as well as the surrounding area — who either have an interest in visual arts or would like to develop one.

The culture the gallery provides has become woven into the fabric of the community that much of its art reflects.

Questions arose about the future of Southern Heartland this spring after it closed its doors on March 14 in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the midst of the global pandemic. Nearly three months later, it resumed operations — albeit a fraction of its hours pre-coronavirus — in mid-June.

Many wondered if the lengthy hiatus would spell the end of Newton County’s visual art gallery. But the establishment put those risks aside and decided to instead put the health and safety of its customers at the forefront.

And now Southern Heartland is reaping the benefits.

12 | Newcomer’s Guide

Cindy Murphy, a member of the Southern Heartland coop and Social Circle resident.

“As far as the sales in the gallery since we re-opened, it’s been good. Pretty on par. We have a lot of people walking the square, which helps,” said Cindy Murphy, a member of the Southern Heartland co-op and Social Circle resident. “But another part of our business is classes and we’re not doing classes yet, so that’s really off. That’s been affected dramatically. I do think people are trying to get back out there and do things, though, and that’s helped tremendously.”

Murphy proudly stated that the art gallery is seeing financial stability not unlike what it saw prior to the shutdown. She credited this to the community and their willingness to stimulate to local economy following its darkest hour.

When speaking on the Southern Heartland’s longevity — they’ll be celebrating 16 years in Covington later this year — Murphy admitted that it’s not a result of the establishment “breaking the bank in making sales.”

“What pays our rent is the artists that want to display their things in here,” she said. We’re part of a nonprofit, and we have guild members, and we provide a bunch of functions for the guild members.”

Murphy added that it’s the local flavor that helps make Southern Heartland so unique. It’s an art center designed for local residents, by the local residents.

“Everybody in here is local artists,” she said. “There are very talented people that reside here. A lot of them are from Newton County, and some of the surrounding counties as well.”

Due to COVID-19, Southern Heartland has trimmed its days of operation down to Tuesday through Saturday, remaining open from noon until 4 p.m.

The members of the co-op are hopeful they can return to being open six days a week in August, but they’re continuing to proceed with caution while monitoring the coronavirus numbers.

Skrimp Shack app available for online orders

The Culture of Southern Heartland Art Gallery has become woven into the fabric of the community that much of its art represents.

5334 Highway 20 S Covington, GA 770-728-0132 theskrimpshack.com Skrimp Shack Covington Newcomer’s Guide | 13

Discover everything Downtown Covington has to offer! With annual events and great shopping and dining options, there’s something for everyone.

Breakfast Plates Lunch Plates 1145 Washington St SW • Covington, GA 30014 Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-4pm www.thetownhousecafe.net Like us on Facebook

1141 Hendricks Street • Covington, GA 30014

770-787-4151

Sherwood’s FLOWERS & GIFTS 1105 Floyd Street NE., Covington

770-786-7272

Follow us on Instagram

We’re Not Just Olive Oil...

EXOTIC SPICES • GOURMET MEATS & CHEESES ORGANIC & GLUTEN FREE PASTA • MANY VARIETIES OF HONEY BROAD SELECTION OF BALSAMIC VINEGARS • FUSED & INFUSED OLIVE OILS

1130 Church St. • Covington, GA Hours: Mon-Thurs 10-6, Fri & Sat 10-7, Closed Sun 770-728-1000 • www.TownSquareOliveOil.com

14 | Newcomer’s Guide

BE YOUR OWN KIND OF BEAUTIFUL

For over 100 years, Ramsey’s 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.

Quality Brands You Deserve!

Sincerely, • Vaughan-Bassett • Ashley • Liberty • La-Z-Boy • Simmons • Riverside SAM RAMSEY TONY RAMSEY President President • Temple & More Hours: Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri., Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. / Wed. 9 a.m.-12 noon / Closed Sunday

1145 Clark Street • Covington (Located near the Newton Co. Courthouse)

3rd & 4th generation of the Ramsey Family to serve you!

www.ramseyfurniturecompany.com Like us on

For the best and freshest flowers in Covington, Covington Flower Shop has exactly what you’re looking for!

1160 Church Street

770-786-1140

www.bradleysbbq.com Monday-Wednesday 11am-8pm Tuesday – Saturday 11am-9pm

FLETCHER’S JEWELRY, INC. ON THE SQUARE Diamonds • Watches Gold • Silver

Your Jewelers Since 1932

Covington FLOWER SHOP

1149 Washington St. Covington, GA 30014

770-786-7442

covingtonflowershop.com Services Available:

• Mens, Womens and Kids Cuts • Color • Foils • Balayage • Retail • Facial Waxing • Blowouts, Updos and Perms Ask for any of our stylists: Tabitha, Brittany, Molly, Tammy, Kerrie

1113 Washington Street Covington, GA 30014

1143 Monticello Street • Covington, GA 30014

facebook@fletchersjewelry www.fletchersonthesquare.com

Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 9-3 Follow us on Instagram and Facebook

770-786-2955

770-786-1179

Southern Heartland Visual Art Center & Gallery on the Square NONPROFIT PROGRAMS Scholarships Summer Art Camp Friday Paint Party Artful Harvest Judged Art Shows On-Going Art Instruction Tours Workshops Photography Club Art Guild

We are Newton’s Non-Profit Advocate for the Visual Arts

1132 Monticello St SW • 770-788-8799 www.southernheartlandart.com & on Facebook

UNIQUE GIFTS & ART Original Art in Pastel, Watercolor, Oil, Pen & Ink, Acrylic, Collage, Mixed Media Ready Made Frames Jewelry Photography Pottery & Clay Mosaics & Stained Glass Turned Wood Cards & Prints CUSTOM FRAMING

Newcomer’s Guide | 15

Letter from the

Chamber of Commerce W

Debbie Harper PRESIDENT OF THE COVINGTON-NEWTON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

LITTER CONTROL PROGRAM LITTER...IT COSTS YOU.

Adopt-aMile Any family, organization, business, club, or other group can adopt-a-mile!

Participating groups agree to clean up roadside litter along their adopted mile 4 times per year.

Signs are erected to advertise and acknowledge groups who participate.

16 | Newcomer’s Guide

Visit KNB’s website:

www.keepnewtonbeautiful.org or call to sign up or to get more information Keep Newton Beautiful 1113 Usher Street Covington, G 30014 Phone: 770-

-20 5

Email: newtonclean@co.newton.ga.us

elcome home!

Whether you are new, have called it home forever, visiting on vacation or business, we want you to feel like Newton County is home.

Our community offers businesses, residents & visitors easy access to big-city amenities in a diverse, affordable and safe small town environment. Downtown Covington is continuing to grow into a major destination in the east metro area. Mansfield, Newborn, Oxford, Porterdale and Social Circle are thriving too.

Still a best kept secret, Newton County offers homebuyers more “bang for their buck” than other Atlanta suburbs with diverse neighborhoods, attractive amenities and different values.

Top-notch local schools, charter and private schools offer great options for families including STEM based curriculums and endless extra-curricular activities.

The focus of the Chamber is to create quality, well-paying jobs to support an ever improving Quality of Life for each of you. Our diverse industry base including, advanced manufacturing, bio-pharma, technology, retail, film and television is ever expanding and attracting people just like you to fill these jobs and call Newton County HOME. Just a few industries that call Newton County home are General Mills, Bridgestone Golf, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, & Facebook Data Center. We are also known as “Hollywood of the South™” from our ongoing rich film history that has turned into one of our valued local industries. Some of these include “The Vampire Diaries,” “In Heat of the Night,” “Cannonball Run,” and most recently the Netflix series, “Sweet Magnolias” along with about another 120+ film and/or television series that all started with “A Man Called Peter” in 1953.

Not only is Newton County an excellent community in which to live, it is a great place to do business. As the Chamber of Commerce president, I want to encourage you to become active in your community and in our Chamber of Commerce.

Please check out our published calendars and our website, www.newtonchamber.com for opportunities where you can help make a positive difference in your community. Get connected and volunteer in Chamber activities and also participate in the many other community service organizations. We want to always encourage you to SHOP LOCAL which in turn not only helps your community but your neighbors. We will continue to pursue excellence in all that we do at the Chamber and for Newton County and our surrounding communities.

Debbie Harper President Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce

BULLSEYE ACCOUNTING SERVICES INC. “Where Accuracy Counts”

762.435.7002 | bullseyeacct@gmail.com | Monticello, Ga. Accounting | Payroll Services | Tax Preparation

Newcomer’s Guide | 17

Schools Newton County Schools East Newton Elementary School Principal: Melissa Daniell 2286 Dixie Road Phone: (770) 784-2973 Fax: (770) 784-2976 Fairview Elementary School Principal: LaMoyne Brunson 3325 Fairview Road Phone: (770) 786-2636 Fax: (770) 784-2938 Flint Hill Elementary School Principal: Lynne DiNardo 1300 Airport Road

Phone: (770) 784-2969 Fax: (770) 784-2994 Heard-Mixon Elementary School Principal: Marquita Wilkins 14110 Highway 36 Phone: ( 770) 784-2980 Fax: (770) 784-2984 Live Oak Elementary School Principal: Ericka Anderson 500 Kirkland Road Phone: (678) 625-6654 Fax: (678) 625-6021 Livingston Elementary School Principal: Yoli Curry

3657 Highway 81 South Phone: (770) 784-2930 Fax: (678) 625-6230 Mansfield Elementary School Principal: Chris Haymore 45 East Third Avenue Phone: (770) 784-2948 Fax: (770) 784-2995 Middle Ridge Elementary School Principal: Rhonda Battle 11649 South Covington By-Pass Road Phone: (770)-385-6463 Fax: (770) -385-6466

United Problem Solvers

Market swings making you uneasy? Let's talk.

Royce Baker Financial Advisor 5109 Hwy 278 N.E. Ste A Covington, GA 30014 770-788-9978

MKT-5894I-A-A1

edwardjones.com

18 | Newcomer’s Guide

Member SIPC

The UPS Store™

Locally Owned and Operated

Mark & Kathy Lord 770-876-3288 3142 Hwy. 278 NW Covington, GA 30014 store6787@theupsstore.com

Oak Hill Elementary School Principal: Brenda Gammans 6243 Highway 212 Phone: ( 770) 385-6906 Fax: (770) 385-6069 Porterdale Elementary School Principal: Clydia Newell 45 Ram Drive Phone: (770) 784-2928 Fax: (770) 784-2993 Rocky Plains Elementary School Principal: Ryan James 5300 Highway 162 South Phone: (770) 784-4987 Fax: (770) 784-4988 South Salem Elementary School Principal: Lenise Bostic 5355 Salem Road Phone: (678) 342-5907 Fax: (678) 342 -5908 West Newton Elementary School Principal: Leah Green 13387 Brown Bridge Road Phone: (770) 385-6472 Fax: (770) 385-6475 Clements Middle School

Principal: Fredrick Richard 66 Jack Neely Road Phone: (770) 784-2992 Fax: (770) 784-2992

14567 Highway 36 Phone: (770) 784-4995 Fax: (770) 784-4996 Eastside High School Principal: Jeff Cher 10245 Eagle Drive Phone: (770) 784-2920 Fax: (770) 784-2918

Cousins Middle School Principal: Atosha Logan 8187 Carlton Trail N.W. Phone: (770) 786-7311 Fax: (770) 784-2991 Indian Creek Middle School Principal: Marc Dastous 11051 South Covington By-Pass Road Phone: ( 770) 385-6453 Fax: (770) 385-6456 Liberty Middle School Principal: Keisa Vincent 5225 Salem Road Phone: (678) 625-6617 Fax: (678) 625-6200 Veterans Memorial Middle School Principal: Takila Curry 13357 Brown Bridge Road Phone: (770) 385-6893 Fax: (770) 385-6899 Alcovy High School Principal: Kristopher Williams

Newton High School Principal: Shannon Buff 1 Ram Way Phone: (770) 787-2250 Fax: ( 770) 784-2957 Newton County Theme School at Ficquett Principal: Ashante Everett 2207 Williams Street Phone: ( 770) 784-2959 Fax: (770) 784 -2963 Mainstay Academy 1110 N. Emory Street Phone: (770) 385-6878 Fax: (678) 625-6287 Newton College & Career Academy Principal: Chad Walker 144 Ram Drive

Take the Natural Path to Health & Wellness • Whole Food Vitamins & Minerals • Whole Body Cleansers & Detoxifiers • Natural Sweeteners • Personal Care Items • Herbal Teas • Essential Oils Professional & Knowledgeable Staff We are committed to providing the highest quality services and products available, including Nature’s Sunshine and Nature’s Plus for children.

N a t u r al P ath NUTRITION CENTER 3144 Hwy. 278 NW • Covington

2133 Hwy. 20 SE • Suite 250 Conyers

770-787-3400

770-760-0433

(Kroger Shopping Ctr)

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm

(Publix Plaza)

Mon-Wed 9am-6pm Thurs-Sat 9am-7pm

Family Owned & Operated Newcomer’s Guide | 19

Phone: 678-625 -6769 Fax: (678) -625-6041 RISE Academy Principal: Phalanda Perriman 10714 Bypass Road, Suite 3 Phone: (678) 625-6826 Fax: (678) 625-6370 ra.newtoncountyschools. org

Colleges Oxford College of Emory University 110 Few Circle Phone: (770) 784-8888 oxford.emory.edu/ Georgia State University Newton Campus 239 Cedar Lane

Phone: (770) 278-1200 p e r i m e t e r. g s u . e du / a b o u t - p e r i m e t e r- c o l l e g e / our-campuses/newton/ Georgia Piedmont Technical College Newton Campus 16200 Alcovy Road Phone: (404) 297-9522 gptc.edu/future-students/ locations/

Private Schools

Hester’s Package Store

Alpha Omega Preparatory Academy 3824 Salem Road Phone: (770) 788-7100 alphaomegaprep.com/

5148 Washington St SW Covington, GA 30014 770-786-0097

Covington Academy 396 Elks Club Road Phone: (678) 625-9025 covingtonacademy.com

Grace Christian Academy 1705 Access Rd Phone: (770) 385-7390 Montessori School of Covington 4108 Summers St. Phone: (770) 788-7779 montessori-covington.org Peachtree Academy 14101 Highway 278 E Phone: (770) 860-8900 peachtreeacademy.com Providence Classical Christian School 252 Byrd Road, Oxford Phone: (770) 788-6618 providenceclassicalchristian.org

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W G! O N LIN L SE

DESIGN FOR ALL Eastmore is a new, mixed-use community that celebrates the role of great design in daily life. Here, you’ll find a variety of beautifully crafted homes, shops, restaurants and office space designed within a walkable community in a pleasing natural setting.

Single-Family Homes

|

Multi-Family Homes & Townhomes

|

Retail & Office District

1785 Parker Road, Suite D-310, Conyers, Georgia 30094 | EastmoreGA.com Prices, amenities and availability are subject to change without notice.

20 | Newcomer’s Guide

Letter from the

Superintendent

W

elcome to Newton County and the Newton County School System, where our mission is to provide educational excellence for all students.

While the 2019-2020 school year did not end in the way in which we are accustomed, throughout the year, our students and staff were recognized for their many accomplishments.

Being selected for an appointment to a United States Military Academy is an extraordinary achievement, but to have three high school seniors selected for appointments is absolutely remarkable — one of the three had a choice between two of the Military Academies. Ultimately, two students are attending the United States Military Academy at West Point in New York, and one is attending the United States Air Force Preparatory Academy in Colorado.

For the second year in a row, the school system was designated by the Anti-Defamation League as a “No Place for Hate” system, one of three systems in the Southeast Region to have this designation; three students received top awards at the Georgia Regional Braille Challenge; two middle school students not only earned first place honors at the Georgia Regional Social Studies Fair, they also walked away with the “Best in Class II Economics” award and the “New Encyclopedia” Award; one of our Newton College and Career Academy educators, Scott Quinlan, was named the Georgia Association for Career and Technical Education’s New Teacher of the Year; South Salem Elementary School’s media specialist, Meghen Bassel was named 2020 South Metro District Library Media Specialist of the Year; two elementary students were state winners in the Georgia Fire Safety Calendar Poster contest; three schools’ math teams won their regional math competitions; all three of our high schools were named Advanced Place-

ment Honor Schools, and we broke ground on our new replacement high school.

It is my honor and privilege to serve as your school system’s superintendent. The 2020-2021 school year is my eighth year as superintendent and my 21st year serving our Newton County School System students, staff and families. While I expect this school year to be different than previous school years, I look forward to working together to achieve our vision that all students will be well-rounded and prepared for the future.

The health, safety and well-being of our students and staff is my number one priority.

I recognize that parents and families may struggle if schools are unable to open as we would under regular circumstances. Unfortunately, the global pandemic has impacted everyone, including families with schoolaged children. Today, we find ourselves in a situation where “school” will not be the same as we know it! As such, our school system team solicited feedback from students, parents, community members, medical professionals, teachers and staff members in the development of our “Recovery and Reopening Plan.” This document, which was reviewed by local medical professionals, articulates our health and safety protocols, instructional models and supports, student supports, and includes information regarding our human resources process. We lean heavily on the guidance and recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Georgia Department of Public Health, our local health department, and the Georgia Department of Education. The information we receive changes frequently as the medical and science community learn more about COVID-19, which requires the

Samantha Fuhrey NEWTON COUNTY SCHOOLS SUPERINTENDENT school system to be nimble in its response.

As your school superintendent, I want to assure you that I will keep you informed as changes occur, and we work to adapt to this new norm. At Newton County Schools, we pride ourselves in being transparent and forthcoming with our stakeholders, which will be most important during this upcoming school year as we educate our students during this time. We strive to provide important, two-way communication with parents, students, staff and the community.

As such, I encourage you to stay connected to our school system. You can do this by visiting our website, newtoncountyschools.org, following us on our numerous social media channels—Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube—and of course, if you are a parent, keeping your contact information up-to-date with your child’s school is critical.

Our stakeholders play an invaluable role in the success of our students, so we want you to stay fully informed.

Again, welcome to our community and school system! I look forward to an excellent school year, and thank you, in advance, for your support of our school system.

I encourage every student and parent to make the 2020-2021 school year the best school year ever!

Samantha Fuhrey Superintendent Newton County School System

Newcomer’s Guide | 21

Libraries Newton County Library System

Covington Branch Library The Covington Branch Library is a full-service public library and serves as the headquarters for the Newton County Library System in Covington.

7116 Floyd St. NE., Covington Phone: 770-787-3231 Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Jeanette Adams Zeigler Library The Jeanette Adams Zeigler Library located in Newborn City Hall offers limited services including borrowing books and movies, story times for children, computers for public use and internet access as well as answering general questions.

4224 Highway 142, Newborn Phone: 770-787-1126 Monday and Wednesday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Porter Memorial Branch

Library Porter Memorial Branch Library is a full-service branch of the Newton County Library System. The 18,000-squarefoot LEED building is named in honor of James Hyde Porter and features adult and children books, audio books, DVDs and music CDs, public computing with internet access, plus a teen room, quiet room, study rooms, meeting room and conference room.

6191 Highway 212, Covington Phone: 678-729-1388 Monday and Wednesday 11

a.m. - 7 p.m.

Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Tuesday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

NCLS Services Assistive Services NCLS offers an array of assistive services to accommodate every person who enters the facility. The library building was constructed within the Americans with Disabilities Act guidelines, and assistive equipment is available during normal business hours.

All tables within the facility are wheelchair accessible and

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there are even a few tables that will accommodate special wheelchairs.

The library offers one of the largest audiobook collections to help accommodate people with reading difficulties.

newtonlibrary.org. A request form, which can be downloaded through the library’s website, must be filled out before taking the exam. The fee is $25 per exam, plus any fees.

Voter Registration Mail-in voter registration forms can be picked up at the Check Out Desk within the library. The form can be used to register to vote or for a change of address.

Computer Services NCLS offers access to computers with high-speed Internet access.

There are computers in each section of the library — adults, teens and children — and are configured for each age group. Most USB drives, CDs and DVDs can be used on the computers.

Each computer is equipped with Microsoft Office; Word, Excel and Powerpoint are available to use. A print, copy and fax options are available, in black and white or colored, for a fee: Copies: 20 cents per page for black and white, $1 per page for colored Computer printing: 20 cents per page for black and white, $1 per page for colored Fax: $1 per page, outgoing only

W.H. Stanton Memorial Library 407 W. Hightower Trail, Social Circle Phone: 770-464-2444 Monday, Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.

GALILEO GALILEO is a virtual library that provides over 100 databases of periodicals, journals and newspapers.

The library also includes genealogy records, career resources, encyclopedias, business directors, government publications and much more.

URLS Services Family Fun Passes With a valid PINES library card, patrons are able to check-out free family fun passes. The passes can be used for State Parks, Carlos Museum, Go Fish Center, Center for Puppetry Arts and much more.

Genealogy Research Historical and genealogical information are located within the library’s heritage room. Census records and local newspapers dated from 1868 are included in the material available to the public. Also, rosters from the Soundex, Revolutionary War and Confederate veterans are included in the available materials.

GALILEO GALILEO is a virtual library that provides over 100 databases of periodicals, journals and newspapers.

The library also includes genealogy records, career resources, encyclopedias, business directors, government publications and much more.

Notary Services No appointment is necessary to visit a Notary Public on duty; however, the library advises to call beforehand to verify a Notary is available.

The fee is $2 per notarization. A picture ID is required for notarization.

Test Proctoring Test proctoring is available Monday through Friday with appointment. Appointments must be made at least one week in advance. Appointments can be made by phone, 770-787-3231, or email, library@

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world, one child and one community at a time.

uncle Remus Library System

Donation of books for Newton County Book Bus.

If making a positive impact in the lives of children and members of your community is something you have a calling for, we’d love to meet you.

Club members participating in community Great American Clean-Up.

The Kiwanis Club of Covington has been serving our community since 1927. We meet every Thursday at 12:30pm in the Fellowship Hall of the Covington First United Methodist Church.

Mango Languages Free access to over 70 languages through Mango, an online language learning resource.

SebcoBooks A digital platform that gives children an interactive learning experience through movement, audio and images. SebcoBooks can be viewed through a computer, phone or tablet.

[Editor’s Note: Hours of operation and services offered are subject to change due to the COVID-19 pandemic.]

Providing books and sponsoring reading space for local children through Book Nooks at local laundromats. Just one of the many ways Kiwanis Club of Covington is Serving the Children of the World

covingtonkiwanisclub@gmail.com www.covingtonkiwanis.org Kiwanis-Club-of-Covington-Georgia Newcomer’s Guide | 23

Recreation Newton County’s rich landscape is an often underrated feature. With a series of rivers and streams running throughout the county, as well as a plethora of grassy plains and farm land, it can be easy to lose yourself in nature and forget that you’re located less than an hour away from the bright lights of Atlanta.

Below is a list of some of the best parks where you can take in what Mother Nature has to offer when paying a visit to Newton County: Academy Springs Park (3120 Conyers St., 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 Satsuki Garden Club has restored a butterfly/pollinator garden and there are walking paths, most of which are handicapped accessible, through the park. 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 covingtongalions. org.

Baker Field (1146 Conyers St., Covington) 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 practic24 | Newcomer’s Guide

es. 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.

Chimney Park (7116 Floyd St. NE, Covington; 678-6251235) Located behind Newton County’s main library branch on Floyd Street, Chimney Park gets its names from the remnants of the Martin-Patterson 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.”

Legion Field Park (Covington) The site of the county fair, Legion Field has recently been refurbished. Lumber harvested from the Newton-Covington Land Application site was used to build the pavilion and framework for the new bandstand. All of the park facilities and areas are available for private rental as well as events open to the public and weekly matches on the cricket pitch.

Newborn City Park The park, located near the city hall on Highway 142, 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.

B.C. Crowell Park (Porterdale) Named in honor of longtime Porterdale resident, Billy Carl Crowell, B.C. Crowell Park sits adjacent to the Porterdale Police Department and City Hall. There is a pavilion for picnics, a little league baseball field, and a basketball court.

Cedar Shoals Park (Porterdale) A small park located on the banks of the Yellow River off of Riverfront Street, Cedar Shoals Park was named in honor of Porderdale’s original name: Cedar Shoals. There are picnic tables on the riverfront.

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 garden area or interested in sharing a hobby with fellow enthusiasts a place to plant vegetables and fruits. Managed by local volunteers, the

garden has 56 beds, all available to residents for a nominal deposit. Sunflowers, cared for by the garden community as a whole, are harvested, the seeds roasted and packaged 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.

Porterdale Memorial Gym When the gymnasium burned in 2005, the village made the decision to keep the standing brick walls and create an outdoor venue with seating for 500 for weddings, concerts, and other events.

There is a stage and a green room.

Veterans Memorial Park Situated on a triangle-shaped piece of land off South Broad Street, Veterans Memorial Park features a gazebo built by veterans from the area.

Yellow River Park (2400 Main St., Porterdale) 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.

Newton County Parks & Recreation Picnic near the shoals of Factory River, fish go bird watching or just relax at one of the 14 recreational parts in Newton County’s Parks and Recreation arsenal. Headquartered at Turner Lake, The Newton County Recreation Commission manages more than 330 acres of facilities.

The goal is to offer high-quality facilities and programs meeting all physical, social and emotional interests of Newton County residents. For information, visit newtonrecreation.com.

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 pavilion 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.

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 twomile trail that 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 stateof-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. 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.

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 St., 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 consists of swings, a slide, merry-go-round, monkey bars and landscaped with cypress mulch and shade trees.

Spillers Park (9134 Jefferson Ave., 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.

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. The playing fields are lighted and the park has a full concession stand and a scorekeepers booth.

Trail Blazer Park (3112 Clark St., Covington) Trailblazer Park is a twoacre 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.

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 meeting room.

The facility is home to four girls softball fields. 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., 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.

Newcomer’s Guide | 25

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Judge Eugene M. Benton WALTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT BUILDING 303 S. HAMMOND DRIVE, SUITE 221 MONROE, GEORGIA 30655

Chief Judge John M. Ott WALTON COUNTY GOVERNMENT BUILDING 303 S. HAMMOND DRIVE, SUITE 221 MONROE, GEORGIA 30655

Judge W. Kendall Wynne, Jr. JUDGE HORACE J. JOHNSON JR. JUDICIAL CENTER 1132 USHER STREET, ROOM 210 COVINGTON, GA 30014

Judge Layla H. Zon JUDGE HORACE J. JOHNSON JR. JUDICIAL CENTER 1132 USHER STREET, ROOM 208 COVINGTON, GA 30014

*Benton is retiring at the end of 2020; a runoff election Aug. 11 between Jeff Foster and Robert Stansfield will determine his successor. *Gov. Brian Kemp will choose a replacement for Judge Horace J. Johnson Jr., who died July 1.

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NEWTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

Marcello Banes CHAIRMAN

Stan Edwards COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 1

Demond Mason COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 2

Nancy Schulz COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 3

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. *Alana Sanders will replace Schulz in January 2021.

J.C. Henderson COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 4

Ronnie Cowan COMMISSIONER, DISTRICT 5

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CITY OF COVINGTON

Steve Horton MAYOR

Susie Keck COUNCILWOMAN, EAST WARD

Don Floyd COUNCILMAN, EAST WARD

Hawnethia Williams COUNCILWOMAN, WEST WARD

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

Kenneth Morgan COUNCILMAN, WEST WARD

Anthony Henderson COUNCILMAN, WEST WARD

Fleeta Baggett COUNCILWOMAN, EAST WARD

Connect. Explore. Discover.

Welcome to Covington. Connect with us and #DiscovCOV •Customer Ser vice: 770-385-2000 @cityofcovingtonga @discovercovington •Planning and Zoning: 770-385-2020 •Code Enforcement: 770-385-2020 •Electric Department: 770-385-2120 •Water/Sewer Department: 770-385-2025 •Covington-Newton 911 (EMERGENCY): 911 •Covington Fire (non-emergency): 770-385-2100 •Covington Police (non-emergency): 770-385-2053

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CITY OF MANSFIELD

GW Davis Jr. MAYOR

Helen Robertson COUNCILWOMAN

Blair H. Northen III COUNCILMAN

City council meetings are held the second Monday of every month, with work sessions the first Monday, at the Mansfield Community Center. *One council seat was vacant at the time of publication.

Bryan Hale COUNCILMAN

Austin Mitchell COUNCILMAN

G E O R G I A Mayor: GW Davis Jr Council Members: Helen Robertson • Blair Northen Austin Mitchell • Bryan Hale

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TOWN OF NEWBORN City council meetings are held the first Monday of every month at the town hall, 4224 Highway 142.

Gregg Ellwanger MAYOR

Tom Krieger COUNCILMAN

Robert Bratton COUNCILMAN

Town of Newborn

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

“A Town with Characters” Mayor: Gregg Ellwanger Mayor Pro Tem: Tom Krieger Council Members: Rob Bratton, Wayne Sams, Martha Ellwanger Clerk: Elisa Rowe Assistant Clerk: Leata Sears

Wayne Sams COUNCILMAN

Martha Ellwanger COUNCILWOMAN

Public Works Department: Donald Clement & Darren Mitchell

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CITY OF OXFORD

David Eady MAYOR

Lynn Bohanan COUNCILWOMAN, POST 1

George Holt COUNCILMAN, POST 2

Laura McCanless COUNCILMAN, POST 3

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

Avis Williams COUNCILMAN, POST 4

Jim Windham COUNCILMAN, POST 5

Jeff Wearing COUNCILMAN, POST 6

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

David S. Eady, Mayor Council Members: Lynn Bohanan, George Holt, Laura McCanless, Avis Williams, Jim Windham and Jeff Wearing 770-786-7004 32 | Newcomerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide

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CITY OF PORTERDALE

Arline Chapman MAYOR

Niki Westcott COUNCILWOMAN, POST 1

Linda Finger COUNCILWOMAN, POST 2

Tim Savage COUNCILMAN, POST 3

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.

Mike Harper COUNCILMAN, POST 4

Lowell Chambers COUNCILMAN, POST 5

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CITY OF SOCIAL CIRCLE

David Keener MAYOR

Traysa Price COUNCILWOMAN, DISTRICT 1

Tyson Jackson COUNCILMAN, DISTRICT 2

Steve Shelton COUNCILMAN, DISTRICT 4

The Social Circle Mayor and City Council meet on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Community Room at 138 E. Hightower Road in Social Circle. There is usually a work session immediately prior to the meeting at 5:30 p.m. *District 3 council seat was vacant at the time of publication.

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NEWTON COUNTY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION

Shakila Henderson-Baker CHAIRMAN, DISTRICT 3

Trey Bailey DISTRICT 1

Eddie Johnson DISTRICT 2

Abigail Coggin DISTRICT 5

Five members of the Newton County Board of Education serve as policy makers for the efficient management and operation of the school system. They are elected by districts to serve a four-year term.

The seat for the fourth school board district was vacant at the time of publication. An Aug. 11 runoff between Anderson Bailey and Jeffrey Johnson will determine who holds the District 4 seat. It was previously held by the late Almond Turner.

Newcomerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide | 35

Public Safety 911 CALL CENTER

Covington – Newton County 911 Center 8146 Carlton Trail, Covington Emergency: 9-1-1 Non-Emergency: 678-342-8790

FIRE & RESCUE SERVICES

Newton County Fire Service Mike Conner, Chief 4136 Highway 278 NE, #A, Covington 678-784-2116

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Covington Fire Department Jeremy Holmes, Chief 2101 Pace St., Covington 770-385-2100

Social Circle Fire Department Ken Zaydel, Chief 165 East Hightower Trail, Social Circle 770-464-0621

SHERIFF’S OFFICE Newton County Sheriff’s Office Ezell Brown, Sheriff 15151 Alcovy Road NE, Covington General Information: 678-625-1400 Jail Information: 678-625-1420

POLICE DEPARTMENTS

Covington Police Department Stacey Cotton, Chief 1143 Oak St. SE, Covington 770-786-7605

Porterdale Police Department Jason Cripps, Chief 2602 Main St., Porterdale 770-786-2226

Oxford Police Department Dave Harvey, Chief 110 W. Clark St., Oxford 770-788-1390

Social Circle Police Department Will Brinkley, Chief 138 E Hightower Trail, Social Circle 770-464-2366

NewtoN CouNty Sheriff’S offiCe

COMMITMENT. LOYALTY. SACRIFICE. DEDICATION.

Follow us on social media! @newtonsheriffga

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service, state certified and nationally accredited law enforcement agency dedicated and committed to enforcing the laws enacted for the protection of the lives, persons, property, health and morals of all citizens in Newton County, Georgia.

15151 Alcovy Road • Covington, Georgia 30014 678-625-1403 • www.newtonsheriffga.org

Ezell Brown, Sheriff Newcomer’s Guide | 37

Voting

By TOM SPIGOLON tspigolon@covnews.com

Elections scheduled for the remainder of this year in Newton County include a runoff election Aug. 11 for local offices and a judgeship; and the General Election, including the presidential election, on Nov. 3.

Newton County’s total registered voters as of June 1, 2020, were 79,858, according to the election office.

The deadline for registering to vote in the Nov. 3 election is Oct. 5. Advance voting for the election is set to begin Oct. 12.

Runoff elections, if needed, are set for Dec. 1 (state and local offices) and Jan. 5 (federal offices).

County precincts and polling locations include: • Alcovy 04, Newton County Library, 7116 Floyd St. NE, Covington • Almon 03, Almon Community Center, 65 Mount Tabor Road, Covington • Beaverdam 13, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Road, Covington • Brewers 06, Red Oak United Method-

ist Church, 15105 Highway 36, Covington • Brick Store 07, St. Augustine Catholic Church, 11524 Highway 278 E, Covington • Buck Creek 19, Zion Baptist Church, 7037 Highway 212 N, Covington • Cedar Shoals 08, Porterdale Baptist Church, 2 Palmetto St., Porterdale • City Pond 01, Central Community Church, 11157 City Pond Road, Covington • Covington Mills 05, LifePointe Church of the Nazarene, 5133 Jackson Highway,

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

— Linda D. Hays

Mrs. Linda D. Hays The Clerk of Courts It is my honor to serve the citizens of Newton County 38 | Newcomer’s Guide

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

Covington • Crowell 24, The Potter’s House, 1120 Crowell Road N, Covington • Downs 10, Prospect United Methodist Church, 6752 Highway 212, Covington • Fairview 23, Belmont Baptist Church, 3275 Iris Drive SE, Conyers • Gum Creek 12, Gum Creek Precinct Building, 325 Dial Mill Road, Oxford • Hub 25, Berean Baptist Church, 20 Old Social Circle Road, Social Circle • Leguinn 14, High Point Baptist Church, 12025 Highway 36, Covington • Livingston 09, County Line Baptist Church, 3325 Highway 162 S, Covington • Mansfield 15, Mansfield Community House, 3158 Highway 11, Mansfield • Newborn 16, Newborn United Methodist Church, 118 Church St., Newborn • Oxford 17, Oxford City Hall, 110 W. Clark St., Oxford • Rocky Plains 18, Higher Praise Tabernacle, 3915 Highway 162, Covington • Stansells 20, Voice of Pentecost, 4648 Salem Road, Covington • Town 02, Washington Street Community Center, 4138 School St., Covington Municipal Polling Locations: • City of Covington 2, Covington City Council & Courtroom Chambers, 2116 Stallings St., Covington • City of Mansfield 5, Mansfield City Hall, 3146 Highway 11 (Main Street), Mansfield • City of Newborn 6, Newborn City Hall, 4224 Highway 142 E., Newborn • City of Oxford 3, Oxford City Hall, 110 W Clark St., Oxford • City of Porterdale 4, Porterdale City Hall, 2800 Main St., Por-

terdale • City of Social Circle 7, Social Circle City Hall Community Room, 138 E. Hightower Trail, Social Circle.

The Newton County Board of Elections serves as the superintendent of elections for Newton County.

It is responsible for seeing that all voter registration and the conduct of elections comply with the laws, rules and regulations in the Georgia Election Code and the rules and regulations put into effect by the State Election Board, according to information on the county government website.

To register to vote in the state of Georgia, you must be: • A citizen of the United States; • At least 17-1/2 years of age to register and 18 years of age to vote; • A legal resident of Georgia and the county in which you wish to vote.

If you have a valid driver’s license or identification card issued by the Georgia Department of Driver Services, you may use the State of Georgia’s Online Voter Registration System by visiting: https://sos.ga.gov/index.php/ Elections/register_to_vote.

“Motor Voter” registration is available when you renew or apply for a Georgia driver’s license through the Georgia Department of Driver Services.

Voter registration applications are available at the county elections office, public libraries, city halls, public assistance offices and recruitment offices.

The completed application may be mailed to Newton County Board of Elections, P.O. Box 1274, Covington, GA 30015.

For more information, call 770-784-2055 or visit co.newton.ga.us/167/B o ard-of-E le c tions-Registration.

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Newcomer’s Guide | 39

History

By TOM SPIGOLON tspigolon@covnews.com

Newton County was named for Revolutionary War hero Sgt. John Newton, and was formed on Dec. 24, 1821, from parts of Henry, Jasper and Walton counties.

According to the online publication the New Georgia Encyclopedia, in 1821 the center of the area’s activity was a settlement called Winton at the Brick Store, a general store and stagecoach stop. The Brick Store still stands but U.S. Hwy. 278 now covers the stagecoach route.

“State law required that the seat of the new county be as close as possible to the geographical center so a site between the Ul-

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coufatchee (later Alcovy) and Yellow rivers was designated the county seat, and the surrounding lots were auctioned.

“The new town was named Newtonsboro, but eight months later, in December 1822, the name was changed to Covington in honor of Gen. Leonard Covington, a hero in the War of 1812.”

The county’s other incorporated towns date from throughout the 19th century, with Newborn settled around 1819 while still part of Jasper County; Porterdale settled in the 1820s to establish a foundry; and Mansfield flourished from about 1896, the publication stated.

Oxford was incorporated in 1839 to support Emory College, which was chartered in 1836 in the Newton County town.

In 1919, the college opened a second campus in DeKalb County near Atlanta and eventually moved its main campus there to become Emory University. The original campus is now called Oxford College of Emory University.

Some Newton County unincorporated communities today include Almon, Brick Store, Cornish Mountain, Dial Town, Gum Creek, Magnet, Rocky Plains, Salem and Starrsville and Stewart.

In 1864 Union Gen. William Sherman and his troops passed through Covington and Oxford on the way to Savannah.

Newton County has had a railroad since 1836, when planters, mill owners, and professional men organized a line from Madison, east of Covington, to the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta.

According to the Newton County government website, 13 places are listed on the National Register of Historic Places: — Brick Store on Highway 278 Old Social Circle Road in Covington

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— Burge Club near Georgia 142, Cook Road, Morehouse Road and Sewell Road in Newborn — Covington Historic District – Downtown Covington — Covington Mills and Mill Village Historic District at Wheat, Collins and Lott streets in Covington — Floyd Street Historic District on Floyd Street from Elm Street to west of Sockwell Street in Covington — Newborn Historic District in Newborn — Newton County Historic Courthouse on the Covington Square — North Covington Historic District on North Emory and Odum Streets in Covington — Orna Villa at 1008 Emory St. in Oxford — Oxford Historic District around Wesley Street in Oxford — Porterdale Historic District in Porterdale north of Elm Street — Salem Camp Ground at 3940 Salem Road in Covington — Starrsville Historic District at the junction of County Road 213, Old Starrsville and Dixie roads

November 3, 2020

Industrial Growth By the early 20th century, the county became a cloth manufacturing hub.

In 1899 the Bibb Manufacturing Co. built a twine mill on the Yellow River and named it Porterdale Mill after a founder of the community, Oliver Porter, according to information from the city of Porterdale.

“In the 1970s the mill closed and what followed was a deterioration due to the sale of homes, many to landlords who allowed the homes to fall into decay,” the city website stated.

“In 2006 the Porterdale Mill, in ruins, was purchased and turned into lofts overlooking the Yellow River.”

About a decade after the Porterdale Mill opened, Covington Mill opened and began operating north of the Covington Square, according to information from the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce.

Over the years, the mill closed but other manufacturers both local and national began operating in Newton County.

By the 21st century, thousands were employed at such companies as Takeda Pharmaceuticals, Becton Dickinson and Co., Pactiv Corp., General Mills, Nisshimbo Automotive and more.

Education After the consolidation of Newton County and city of Covington schools in 1947, Newton County High School was built in 1950 on Speedway Drive which is known as Newton Drive today, according to the Chamber.

Integration of Newton County public schools began in the 1950s but it was not until the 1960s that Newton County Schools were fully integrated.

Transportation In 1952 U.S. Hwy. 278 was built just south of the Georgia Railroad, according to information from the Chamber.

It stated that “though the route did not disrupt a great deal of significantly developed property, it did provide a much needed, and long lasting, change for Covington” that led to the development of new shopping centers and a faster route through the county.

The highway defined a border between the town on its south side and north side, including Covington Mill, according to the Chamber.

In 1977, state transportation officials declared Interstate 20 completed through Newton County and the entire state.

Newcomer’s Guide |41

Growth

By TOM SPIGOLON tspigolon@covnews.com

Newton County’s population growth was slow but steady for much of its history but began rapidly increasing in the late 20th and early 21st centuries before slowing in the past decade.

After dropping between 1920 and 1930, the county’s population grew steadily from 17,290 residents in 1930 to 21,000 in 1960, according to U.S. Census Bureau records.

Then, like many suburban Atlanta counties, Newton’s population began growing more rapidly beginning in the 1960s. By 1990, it had doubled in size to 41,808.

And also like other metro Atlanta counties, it grew even more quickly between 1990 and 2010 before slowing in the next decade.

Newton County saw its population grow by 59,000 between 1990 and 2010 to reach almost 100,000 residents.

According to the Census Bureau, the population increased from 62,001 in 2000 to 99,958 in 2010 — a 61% increase in 10 years.

Its growth then slowed in the following decade and had increased by only 12% to 111,744 by 2019, according to census estimates.

More Diversity The county’s population also has grown increasingly diverse in recent decades, with the Black population growing from 22% of the total population in 2000 to 48% in 2019; and the Hispanic population growing from 2% in 2000 to 6% in 2019.

Housing Units Increase The number of housing units increased from 15,494 in 1990 to 23,033 in 2000, 38,342 in 2010 and 40,262 by 2019.

Two-thirds of all housing units were owner-occupied in 2019, according to the Census Bureau.

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Film Industry

By TOM SPIGOLON tspigolon@covnews.com

C

O

PA

K

RE

Covington has become a mecca for the television and film industry.

The city and county are known as the “Hollywood of the South” — a nickname that was trademarked in 2012 by the Covington-Newton County Chamber of Commerce.

Covington currently is known as Serenity, South Carolina, for Netflix’s “Sweet Magnolias.” It also served as Mystic Falls, Virginia, for “The Vampire Diaries,” which ran from 2009 to 2017 on The CW network.

The city and county also have been home to classic TV series like “The Dukes of Hazzard,” and “In the Heat of the Night” and more than 60 film productions.

Films which used Newton County as locations include “My Cousin Vinny,” Disney’s “Flash,” “The Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All,” HBO’s “Miss Evers’ Boys,” “Remember

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Triple Horse Studios operates on Technology Drive in Covington. It includes sound stages, scenic operations, camera, lighting and grip equipment departments as well as a post-production division with screening rooms, editorial, sound, foley, visual effects, color grade and finishing, according to information on its website.

Cinelease Studios - Three Ring is under construction on 160 acres two miles north of I-20 in Covington, in a 700-acre area being developed as Covington Entertainment Media Campus of Georgia. It is targeted for opening in the fall.

It will have more than 130,000 square feet of sound stage space, 21,000 square feet of stage support space, 30,000 square feet of office space, 60,000 square feet of mill space and 24/7 secured access and 800 parking spaces, according to information from the company.

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Health Care NEWTON COUNTY HEALTH CENTER The Gwinnett, Newton and Rockdale County Health Departments operate the Newton County Health Center at 8203 Hazelbrand Road in Covington.

The center can be reached at 770-786-9086 or by fax at 770786-0715. Hours of operation are Monday and Thursday, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.; and Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

For services offered and more information, visit gnrhealth. com.

WILLING HELPERS MEDICAL CLINIC The clinic at 4186 Mill St. NW in Covington is an appointment-only, charitable medical clinic.

Those served must have a chronic illness, live in Newton County, and make an appointment to be seen.

They also must be age 18 or older, have no health insurance of any kind, and have household income within 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, according to the clinic’s website.

A household is defined as the patient, the patient’s legally married spouse and any children in the patient’s custody under 18.

The clinic does not perform dental care, does not prescribe narcotic medicines or pain management drugs, and does offer orthopedic or OB/GYN care.

Hours of operation are Tuesday, 8 a.m.-1 p.m.; Wednesday, 10 am.-6 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

For appointments and more information, call 678-625-8317 or visit willinghelpersclinic.com.

46 | Newcomer’s Guide

PIEDMONT NEWTON HOSPITAL Piedmont Newton Hospital has served Newton County for more than 60 years and joined the Piedmont Healthcare system in October 2015.

Located at 5126 Hospital Drive NE in Covington, Piedmont Newton is a 103-bed, acute-care, community hospital which offers 24-hour emergency services, women’s services, a six-bed special care nursery and general medical/surgical services.

It is a not-for-profit organization, which means hospital earnings go directly back into maintaining and improving services and facilities and to educational outreach, according to information from Piedmont.

In May 2019, Piedmont Newton completed a $10 million expansion and renovation of its Emergency Department. The project doubled the department’s capacity from 16 beds to 32 beds, created an additional nurses’ station, and a room for higher acuity trauma cases.

More than 690 employees, 310 physicians, 80 allied health professionals and 95 volunteers staff the hospital.

Between July 2018 and June 2019, a total of 721 babies were delivered, 3,800 surgeries performed and 5,257 patients were admitted for inpatient care, Piedmont Healthcare reported.

Piedmont Newton is part of an 11-hospital system based in Atlanta. It is part of Piedmont’s eastern hub along with Piedmont Athens Regional, Piedmont Rockdale, and Piedmont Walton hospitals.

DISTRIBUTION BY ZIP CODE NEWS

30054

Advertiser

30025

30014

NEWTON

30055

30016 30056

1166 Usher Street NW, Covington, GA 30014

770 787-6397 A Division of

Zone Breakdown COVINGTON NEWS

Covington Covington Social Circle Oxford Mansfield Newborn

SUNDAY

30014 30016 30025 30054 30055 30056

2124 01

ALL ZONES

3256 67

MAIL

NIE

113

NEWS & ADVERTISER Covington Covington Social Circle Oxford Mansfield Newborn

30014 30016 30025 30054 30055 30056

TUES 2745 2305 640 1000 0 810

GRAND TOTAL 7,500

WEDS 2900 2000 700 1200 400 300

7,500

GRAND TOTAL 4248 1166 Usher Street NW, Covington, GA 30014 • www.CovNews.com

Newcomer’s Guide | 47

Churches Allen Memorial United Methodist Church Address: 803 Whatcoat St, Oxford, GA 30054 Number: (770) 786-7414 Pastor: Rev. Natalie Wilson Faulkner Bethany Church Address: 1002 Bethany Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 786-1629 Pastor: N/A Bethabara Missionary Baptist Church Address: 11392 Highway 36 Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 787-0370 Pastor: Rev. Carl H. Jones Bethel Grove Baptist Church Address: 10728 Flat Shoals Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 786-6630 Pastor: Samuel A. Holmes, Sr. Bethel Grove Church Address: 520 Sewell Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055 Number: (770) 786-3359 Pastor: N/A Bethlehem Baptist Church Address: 2177 Usher Street NW, Covington , GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-8229 Pastor: Ronnie M. Thomas, Jr.

ington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-1021 Pastor: Jim Watson

GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-5985 Pastor: Rev. T.J. Bennett

Covington Mills United Methodist Church Address: 6154 Collins St NE Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 361-6828 Pastor: Norman Cox

Hopewell Presbyterian Church Address: 155 Hopewell Church Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 728-4308 Pastor: Brian McCollough

First Baptist Church of Covington Address: 1139 Usher St NW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-9031 Pastor: Cody McNutt First Presbyterian Church, Covington Address: 1169 Clark St SW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-7321 Pastor: Rev. Neeley Rentz Lane Covington First United Methodist Church Address: 1113 Conyers St SW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-7305 Pastor: Douglas Gilreath Good Hope Baptist Church Address: 1142 Highway 162, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 787-4928 Pastor: Rev. Eddie J. Tomlinson

Canaan Baptist Church Address: 5581 Salem Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 786-8885 Pastor: Billy Ingram

Grace United Methodist Church Address: 3145 Washington St SW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 787-0517 Pastor: Rev. Dr. Robert Lee Crawford, Sr.

Church of the Good Shepherd Address: 4140 Clark St SW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-3278 Pastor: Rev. M. Edwin Beckham

Graves Chapel Address: 1575 Alcovy Trestle Rd, Social Circle, GA 30025 Number: (770) 787-2510 Pastor: Rev. Charlie F. Stembridge

Covington Christian Church Address: 141 GA Highway 142, Cov-

High Point Baptist Church Address: 12025 Hwy 36, Covington,

48 | Newcomer’s Guide

Journey Baptist Church Address: 1160 Kinnett Rd., Covington, GA 30016 Number: (678) 283-3417 Pastor: Morris Mitchell Julia A. Porter United Methodist Church Address: 3 Cotton Ave, Porterdale, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-6149 Pastor: Tommy Ross Lovejoy United Methodist Church Address: 12835 GA Hwy 36, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 294-0397 Pastor: William Gainer Mansfield Baptist Church Address: 101 Woodlawn Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055 Number: 770-787-0723 Pastor: Jeff Perkins Mansfield United Methodist Church Address: 3031 N Main St, Mansfield, GA 30055 Number: (770) 385-6800 Pastor: Thomas Hilton Mount Olive Church Address: 355 Moores Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 786-1617 Pastor: N/A Mount Pleasant United Methodist Church Address: 12862 GA Hwy 278, Social

Circle, GA 30025 Number: (770) 787-6376 Pastor: Rev. Leah Cunningham Mount Zion Church Address: 657 Mt Zion Rd, Oxford, GA 30054 Number: (770) 787-2421 Pastor: N/A Murray Christian Methodist Episcopal Church Address: 4100 West St, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-5474 Pastor: Rev. Bobby J. Hall, Sr. New Hope Baptist Church Address: 2207 Brown St SW, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-1709 Pastor: Harold Miller, Jr. Newborn United Methodist Church Address: 118 Church Street, Newborn, GA 30056 Number: (770) 786-3574 Pastor: Thomas Hilton James Paschal Missionary Baptist Church

Address: 651 Highway 142, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 787-3024 Pastor: Rev. Dwayne A. Stephens Poplar Grove Church Address: 788 Gaithers Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055 Number: N/A Pastor: N/A Porterdale Baptist Church Address: 2 Ash St, Porterdale, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-2650 Pastor: N/A Richards Chapel United Methodist Church Covington Address: 426 Richards Chapel Rd, Covington, GA 30016 Number: (770) 787-1834 Pastor: Robert Melson Saint Augustines Catholic Church Address: 11524 US-278, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 787-1064 Salem United Methodist Church Address: 3962 Salem Road, Covington,

GA 30016 Number: (770) 786-6027 Pastor: Rev. Dan Dixon Shiloh United Methodist Church Address: 10 Almon Church Rd, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 787-1087 Pastor: James Wadley Shoal Creek Primitive Baptist Church Address: 65 Shoals Creek Church Rd, Mansfield, GA 30055 Number: N/A Pastor: N/A Starrsville United Methodist Church Address: 2786 Dixie Rd, Covington, GA 30014 Number: (770) 786-4293 Pastor: Michael Stephens Union Grove United Methodist Church Address: 757 Dixie Rd Covington, GA 30014 Number: (404) 357-2678 Pastor: Rev. Kenneth Norrington

Newcomer’s Guide | 49

Index of Advertisers 21 Package store - 43 908 Special Events - 44 Abbey Hospice - 8 Above All Tree Service - 51 Alcovy Fitness & Wellness - 42 Alexander Appraising - 42 Awake Coffee - 42 Beasley Drug Co. - 45 Berry’s Tree Farm - 40 Bizzy Bee Exterminators, Inc. - 49 Bradley’s Bar B Que -15 Bulldog Tire - 9 Bullseye Accounting Services, Inc. - 17 Caldwell & Cowan Funeral Home - 17 Cathy Dobbs - 39 City of Covington - 29 City of Mansfield - 30 City of Oxford - 32 Coldwell Banker/GMR Tami Moody - 33 Complete Automotive Tire Center - 26 Congressman Hank Johnson - 50 Corner Market Conyers - 27 Covington Family Chiropractic - 30

50 | Newcomer’s Guide

Covington Flower Shop - 15 Dermatology Consultants, PC - 5 Eastmore Development Co., LLC - 20 Edward Jones/Royce Baker - 18 Elect Ezell Brown Sheriff - 41 Fletchers Jewelry Co. - 15 Georgia Piedmont Technical College - 3 Hardy’s Floor Covering - 9 Linda Hays - 38 Hester’s Package - 20 Iron Skillet Southern Kitchen - 44 JC Harwell & Son Funeral Home - 7 Keep Newton Beautiful - 16 Kiwanis Club of Covington - 23 Las Flores - 44 Lawnwood Memorial Park - 9 Mansfield Market Place - 11 Natural Path Family Health Food Store - 19 Newton County Sheriff’s Office - 37 Newton County Water & Sewage - 2 Newton Federal Bank - 6 Ozburn Electric - 35

PC After Dark - 31 Ramsey’s Furniture - 14 Randy’s Carpet Plus - 22 Rest Easy Mattress - 22 Rotary Club of Covington - 40 Shear Bliss - 14 Sherwoods Flowers and Gfits - 14 Snapping Shoals EMC - 52 Southern Heartland Art Gallery - 15 Sun Crest Home Health - 28 The Pampered Puppy - 45 The Sandwich Factory - 45 The Skrimp Shack - 13 The UPS Store - 18 Tire South Inc. - 34 Town House Cafe - 14 Town of Newborn - 31 Town Square Olive Oil - 14 Trendsetters Hair Studio - 15 Westmoreland’s - 45 Wheeler Petuary - 36

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