Coweta Women in
Music
Music Off the Beaten Path
Southern Arc Dance
Publishers C. Clayton Neely
Elizabeth C. Neely
Editor Jackie Kennedy
Creative Director Sonya Studt
Graphic Designers
Emily Hernandez
Erin Scott
Contributing Writers Joan Doggrell
Melissa Jackson
Frances Kidd
Jennifer London
Beth Neely
Caroline Nicholson
Christina Potts
Chan Suto
Contributing Photographers Jackie Kennedy
Sara Moore
Cidney Zamora
Advertising Manager Misha Benson
Media Sales Representative Pamela Little
Digital Marketing Specialist Sarah Reeves
Carlie P. BS, Mass Communications/ Media Studies
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➤ Cover Photo of Rylee Banks by Jen Bibby. See cover story on page 39.
Requiem for a Gallbladder
Back in mid-February, I left the office thinking, “Yes, what a good place to be in. We just sent the March-April issue to press and we’re ahead of schedule for MayJune. Maybe I’ll relax for a minute!”
I went on to spend most of the next two months homebound and in bed, but I wouldn’t call it relaxing.
I spent weeks tending what I thought was a cold. After one misdiagnosis and a wonky ultrasound, an ER doctor finally delivered the verdict: I had a remarkably inflamed gallbladder.
My sister-in-law reminded me the other day, we’re not spring chickens anymore. No kidding.
This thing walloped me hard. And one of the most frustrating things about it was not being able to do my job.
We had a Music Issue to put out, and my gallbladder officially kicked things off with a dirge.
Time to call in the reinforcements. Your guest editor for this issue is Beth Neely, co-publisher of The Newnan Times-Herald. She is a woman of many talents: publisher, editor, gallbladder diagnostician and amateur taxidermist. Hopefully she won’t need that last skill too soon.
This Music Issue introduces you to Coweta’s top female vocalists (page 39), a youth orchestra conductor (page 31) and a youth choir (page 19). We feature a local dance studio as our nonprofit spotlight (page 14), and we give you the skinny on a brand new music festival, Newnan PorchFest, set to debut here on May 31 (See page 26). It’s truly something to get excited about.
We’re also featuring a suburban oasis full of pollinators (page 53) and recipes that could be made from your own veggie garden (page 63).
I’ll be back in full force in no time. Meanwhile, I’ll be paying my respects to the little piece of me that had the unmitigated gall to go out on a sour note.
Jackie Kennedy, Editor magazine@newnan.com
Photo by Rachel Kennedy
Jackie and her pooch Poppy convalesce at home.
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Caroline Nicholson loves disappearing behind a good book and falling into fictional worlds. She has a Master of Arts in English from the University of West Georgia. In time, she hopes to publish her own young-adult novel.
Chan Suto is the current president of the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra in Peachtree City, a 501(c) nonprofit.
Joan Doggrell is retired from two professions: college English instructor and technical writer. She lives in Newnan with her husband and two hairy dogs.
Jennifer London lives in Newnan with her daughter. The two use their travels as inspiration for stories they create with Jennifer writing and her daughter illustrating. Jennifer believes that everyone has a story to tell, and she loves being a freelance writer and meeting new people.
Frances Kidd is a Newnan native who spent most of her adult years working as a nonprofit and marketing consultant. Although she’s an avid traveler, she never lost her Southern accent. If she’s not in Georgia, you can find her out in the country in Italy.
Beth Neely is a Coweta native and co-publisher of The Newnan Times-Herald. When she’s not working, she can usually be found up to her elbows in a garden or catching critters with her kids. She lives in Newnan with her family.
Christina Potts is a local Master Gardener, native plant enthusiast, and passionate naturalist. She enjoys sharing her knowledge about conscientious landscape planning and sustainable gardening practices that support local wildlife.
Melissa Jackson teaches writing and literature at University of West GeorgiaNewnan. Her poetry collections include "Cameo," "Sweet Aegis" and "Paper Birds."
Sara Moore’s warm and welcoming nature influences her photography. She lives the quiet country life in Newnan on a farm with horses, dogs, chickens and ducks.
Correction
In the March/April edition of Newnan-Coweta Magazine, five photos in the "What's IN in Interior Design?" feature were incorrectly attributed or missing attribution. All of the photos for Knox Powell Designs were photographed by Michelle Cannon Smith. We regret this error.
Marching to the beat of your own drum
I’m all ears when it comes to listening to music and I try to be all heart when it comes to playing music. But to play music while marching in step and frantically listening for the beat of the drum? I’m all thumbs.
In high school I played clarinet while in marching band and it was the musical version of rubbing your stomach in circular formation while patting the top of your head. Coordination chaos.
The first marching band I was in was very serious and official, full of pomp. We wore white and green uniforms with excessive trim, mysterious gold roping accenting places that didn’t make sense, perhaps hiding invisible pocket watches in nonexistent secrets. The jacket element was bedazzled in gold buttons that didn’t fasten. The logistics of it all was confusing. These “costumes” hinted at a version of some flashy, misfitted army preparing for battle from ancient times. Our heavy hats towered over a foot – but behold the glory of the giant plumage soaring to the sky, confusing all birds flying by!
It was a triple threat trifecta: making music and marching plus balancing stovepipes on our heads, all while sweating in polyester trappings spun of nightmares.
To be frank, I don’t recall the song we were playing when the horror occurred; I believe the body erases memory during trauma. I can tell you it occurred on the field during a home football game, where the gridiron’s muddy field gave the La Brea Tar Pits a run for its money.
After performing our halftime extravaganza, we got in formation to footslog off the field; suddenly my white boot got sucked up in a muddy vortex of such intense gravity-defying forces that my foot slid out with a goopy plop. The mud held my boot hostage. There was no stopping lest I get trampled by the row of oncoming marchers behind me. Perhaps it was a life lesson in choosing self-sacrifice for the good of the group. Thankfully, I was costumed for battle.
Stomping to the beat of the drum, I plundered forth, hoping that the mud would disguise my sock as a muddy boot despite the fact I was now limp-marching.
Returning to the bleachers, an announcement blared over the loudspeaker. The game could not continue. The culprit? A lone boot stuck on the field. Would the owner please come and claim. I feigned innocence as the crowd looked around. Who, me??? There was another announcement proclaiming the boot had been freed from the wreckage and could be retrieved on the sidelines. My socked foot was freezing so I finally hobbled down the bleachers, clarinet masking my face, indebted to the matching uniforms that hopefully hid my identity.
Luckily, our team’s last-minute victory found the crowd ecstatic, erasing my personal halftime shame from their collective brains.
We moved the following year, and I was informed my new marching band didn’t have the budget for marching uniforms. Instead, we were to wear blue jeans and white T-shirts, sans torture hats. I cheered on this change, excited to experience comfort while battling two things at once. It was finally time to make some music.
Life is sometimes stinky – full of wet socks, old shoes and sweaty outfits. But the secret to stanch the stench is to just march on, beating your tired drum with abandon. NCM
Minnesota made yet Newnan Strong, Faith Farrell is involved with Newnan Theatre Company and Backstreet Arts. Her artwork can be viewed at faithfarrellart.com.
‘My Magnolia Summer’
Reviewed by GLENDA HARRIS
“My Magnolia Summer” is a fresh and delightful novel that fans of women’s contemporary fiction, Southern fiction, romance and family drama will be drawn into from the start, feeling the pull of this story until the last page.
Maggie (Magnolia) is a 30-something young woman born and raised in the Lowcountry, specifically Sullivan’s Island, with the dream of becoming a chef. After Culinary school, she heads to New York City to work with the best. Her mind, however, continually drifts off to Sullivan’s Island and all that she misses back home in the Lowcountry.
When she learns that her grandmother (Gran) and her mother have been in an auto accident and Gran is in the hospital, she and roommate/best friend Jim immediately fly to South Carolina. In Charleston, however, before she even gets to the hospital, she rear ends a pick-up truck and lo and behold, the driver is gorgeous. Trying to ignore all that, she explains the family emergency and promises to pay for the damage. She doesn’t have a business card to give him but she does have a sharpie, so he offers his arm and she writes her phone number. On his arm.
Once Maggie talks with her sister, Violet, and visits Gran who is still unconscious, she retires to Gran’s home to try to sort things out. Little does she know at that time, her Gran and mom are not the only worry. She stresses about her job and boyfriend up in New York. She knows she will need to stay in the Lowcountry longer than planned and her boss won’t be happy about that. And then there’s that super cute guy in the pick-up truck…
With thoroughly delightful characters including Maggie’s mom who is dealing with grief and other issues, Maggie must decide what is most important and where she truly wants to be.
It seems the daughter of the popular women’s fiction author, the late Dorothea Benton Frank, has smoothly picked up the mantel, carrying on her mother’s tradition of delivering irresistible women’s fiction, always with humor, family drama and characters you will love.
“My Magnolia Summer” was published by HarperCollins Publishers; 352 pages; NCM
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Send your review with your contact information to magazine@newnan.com or mail to Newnan-Coweta Magazine, 16 Jefferson St., Newnan, GA 30263.
NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT
Southern Arc Dance
Written by JENNIFER LONDON
Photographed by
SARA MOORE
In 2013 Southern Arc Dance Center was founded in Newnan by Artistic Director Paulo Manso de Sousa and his spouse, Director of Operations Will Slay, Jr. They also operate the Southern Arc Dance Theater, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit professional dance company of which Slay is the chairman of the Board. Manso de Sousa says their partnership is a great balance. “I just want to choreograph, concentrate on the classes, because you can’t do both so I gave it to him and he’s been amazing. Will’s the one that really keeps the doors open.”
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Southern Arc Dance Studio Operations Manager Will Slay and Artistic Director Paulo Manso de Sousa ensure Southern Arc Dance is an inclusive environment for everyone.
Paulo Manso de Sousa leads a Gentle Ballet class at Southern Arc Dance Center.
Speaking with Paulo is like taking a leisurely walking tour through a historic estate. He allows it all to be taken in, suggesting first to take a class to experience his teaching, then hearing his stories, so beautifully unfolded, of the poetry of dance and the artistic journey that led him from ballet dancer in the Miami City Ballet and then performing throughout Europe, to freelance teaching and by some stroke of magic, softly landing in Newnan.
After moving to Newnan, he began teaching at Atlanta Ballet and other local studios but felt something was missing and longed for something of his own. “After these fifty years of professional work, I wanted integrity, I wanted students to learn how to dance,” Manso de Sousa says.
“Southern Arc has programs for every body, every dancer who has a desire but doesn’t have a space, because of their disability. Our Dance Without Limits program is designed for them,” says Manso de Sousa.
The partners started their 501(c)(3) company to sponsor the Dance Without Limits and Dance for Parkinson's programs. Dance Without Limits began with a conversation with parents and recognizing the
need for a program to give kids with special needs who were not able to participate in regular programming.
The Special Olympics now recognizes Dance Without Limits as a dance sport and Southern Arc is hosting the first-ever Coweta Special Olympics Dance Sport Invitational on April 26 at the Madras Community Center.
Manso de Sousa then went to New York and became certified to teach the Dance for Parkinson’s classes. They have ladies and men who attend the classes every week.
“We’re here to actually meet the needs of the community, so those two programs in particular are dear to our hearts, and we’ve seen the growth – not just in the programs, but in the students in the programs,” Slay says. “We see that it’s not just dance, it’s actually lifechanging. Dance changes lives.”
Southern Arc also sponsors special events like monthly open mic night. People sing, tell jokes or read poetry. The $5 admission is donated to the non-profit, and the event empowers people looking for a creative outlet. Thursday night’s Latin social dance is perfect for date night or for groups of friends.
One local show that has quickly become a holiday tradition is Southern Arc’s inclusive production of “The Nutcracker.”
Manso de Sousa says everyone loves how the kids are not segregated, but are all just part of the group of dancers participating in the performance.
“We do use the kids because it’s part of their education and we use the Dance Without Limits, they’re in Nutcracker,” Manso de Sousa explains. He is also talking his Parkinson’s class into participating in the end-of-year performance so they get onstage.
On May 10, the ninth annual Artz’N Park festival highlighting diversity in the arts will be sponsored by Southern Arc Dance, featuring dance, music, visual and literary artists, artisans and food trucks. The event is from 1-7 p.m., at Lake Marimac Park in Senoia.
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Southern Arc Dance Studio Artistic Director
Paulo Manso de Sousa guides student Carol Healy through a barre exercise.
Manso de Sousa’s goal for Artz’N Park is simply to educate the audience so they can understand what they are seeing and to appreciate the diversity in dance, from ballet and modern to jazz and hip hop. “We have different styles of dance, different styles of music. We have classical music, we have bands,” he says. “A lot of these students that are now our bands, they were students of CEC and Doug Kees. It gave them an opportunity to perform so that was the base of the original idea.”
Manso de Sousa says, “Our festival is not only about showcasing artistic excellence but also fostering connections, understanding and appreciation among people of different backgrounds.”
“This is about community, it’s about the arts,” says Slay.
Southern Arc Dance Theater is always looking for energetic, innovative people to serve on the board and for volunteering and making donations, visit southernarcdance.org. NCM
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A sample of posters for upcoming events.
RIGHT Southern Arc Dance Studio Artistic Director Paulo Manso de Sousa stands by a Carl Tate painting. Tate, a renowned artist from LaGrange, painted these three canvases representing the four seasons and on display at Southern Arc.
A Musical Legacy:
The First Baptist Church Sandra M. Carter School of the Arts
Written by MELISSA JACKSON
Photos courtesy of THE FIRST BAPTIST SANDRA M. CARTER SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
In 1998, 152 years after seven pioneering men and women established First Baptist Church of Newnan, associate music minister Sandra M. Carter founded the church’s School of the Arts. Her vision was simple yet profound: to provide quality music education while ministering to children and adults throughout the community.
Today, the school proudly bears Carter’s name and continues her legacy of musical excellence and spiritual growth. Under the direction of Andrea Chitwood, an accomplished teacher and vocalist who also serves as a music specialist at Canongate Elementary, the school nurtures dozens of students year-round in a variety of musical disciplines.
Those who know Chitwood often find her embracing the costume theme of the day, whether at the school or at Canongate Elementary. Her infectious enthusiasm transcends both roles, as she brings vibrancy and genuine love for children and learning to everything she does.
In Chitwood’s world, music isn't just taught – it’s celebrated, sharing the joy and passion that have defined the school since its founding.
The story of the school’s current leadership begins in 2000, when Lee and Andrea Chitwood arrived in Newnan from Chatsworth, Ga. The couple, who met during their college studies, brought with them a shared passion for musical ministry. While Lee took on the role of Music Minister at First Baptist Church, Andrea’s educational background and musical talents found purpose in the community as well. Together, they reinstituted the School of the Arts in 2002, building upon the foundation laid by Sandra M. Carter.
“Our purpose is to take the gifts
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George Fenton plays the piano prelude for a children’s Christmas program.
RIGHT
Ukulele instructor Brian Coski leads students in a concert for parents and guests at the close of Ukulele Camp.
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Andrea Chitwood is the School of the Arts director and private voice instructor as well as Good News Choir director at First Baptist Church in Newnan.
God has given young musicians and grow them so they can plug in and serve their community,” explains Andrea, whose philosophy extends beyond musical proficiency to encompass character development and spiritual growth.
To achieve that goal, the School of the Arts offers a range of instructional options, including piano, trumpet, saxophone, viola, voice, guitar, oboe, cello, conducting, bass guitar, violin, and group string classes.
“ “Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals.
- Psalm 150:3-5
The school maintains close relationships with local band directors, helping students maximize their potential and prepare for prestigious opportunities like All-State Auditions. They also work with high school vocalists preparing for school musical productions, providing specialized coaching that helps them achieve their goals.
Andrea recalls one success story involving a ninth-grade student who arrived with the ambitious goal of earning a lead role in her high school musical. The young lady was so invested in this dream that she wept after their first session. Four years later, Andrea sat in the audience, beaming with pride as her student performed the role of Madame Thénardier in the high school production of “Les Misérables.”
“I felt like a peacock sitting there,” Andrea admits. “I was so proud to see her achieve her dream!”
“Building students’ confidence is just as important as teaching them music. If you sing and your voice cracks, the world is not going to end,” she says with a smile.
Through these experiences, students learn to accommodate imperfection and embrace possibility. “We are really teaching them coping skills and how to be well-rounded people who can manage challenges,” says Andrea.
This is one reason the school hosts biannual recitals, held during the Christmas season and spring. These performances provide students with valuable opportunities to develop confidence as performers in a supportive environment.
Following the Coweta County school calendar for vacations and holidays, the school accommodates families from diverse educational backgrounds, including homeschooled students.
Continues on page 24
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Piano students beam following a recent recital. BELOW
Voice and brass students receive certificates following a recital.
Finding Voices, Changing Lives: Newnan Community Youth Choir
Written by MELISSA JACKSON
When Dr. Ronnie Oliver became the music minister at Newnan’s Central Baptist Church in 2023, he made a commitment to music fellowship for the community at large as well as to the church congregation.
The church was interested in offering choral experiences to members’ middle and high school students, but Oliver proposed expanding that mission to include 6th through 12th graders throughout Coweta County regardless of church affiliation.
Central Baptist leadership eagerly supported the idea, and the Newnan Community Youth Choir was born with the goal of bringing musical opportunity to any young person willing to show up for Sunday evening rehearsals.
Oliver, a lifelong music educator and performer who founded and continues to work with EnsembleNYC in Manhattan, has taught at Juilliard, Carnegie Hall, and the Manhattan School of Music.
He brings the same commitment to excellence and musicianship in his work at Central Baptist and with the Newnan Community Youth Choir.
The opportunity is free for participating students; however, there is a discretionary summer mission trip that families are asked to help fund. Central offers scholarships for interested students who need financial support to join the summer experience.
A church, Oliver explains, should be more than an address or a building; it should reach into the community through service and stewardship. That service, for Oliver, now engages two dozen young men and women who join him Sunday evenings from 5 to 6 p.m. to learn new music and prepare for two
annual concerts and the summer mission opportunity.
While the choir features several youth members from Central Baptist, it also includes homeschooled students, singers from other local congregations, and aspiring musicians from secular homes.
“It’s a safe place for kids to learn music, discipline, and social skills,” Oliver maintains. “We sing sacred and secular music, but always with a focus on songs that are encouraging, inclusive of community, sincere, and compassionate.”
Oliver admits that he always looks for a contemporary hit to motivate and inspire his young singers. The energy and excitement is palpable when the choir approaches a familiar song like “You Will Be Found,” from “Dear Evan Hansen” or “For Good,” from the musical “Wicked.”
In both cases, the lyrics adhere to Oliver’s standard of elevating justice, compassion, and the virtue of genuine community.
“Everything we do as a choir – I want it to inspire and motivate the kids, to help them internalize the love and potential of community,” says Oliver. “I want them to become the friends who carry friends through the storm, the reason someone was found or changed for good.”
For those interested in joining the Newnan Community Youth Choir, rehearsals are held every Sunday from 5-6 p.m. at Central Baptist Church, 14 West Broad St, Newnan. No audition is required – just a willingness to participate and learn.
For more information contact Dr. Ronnie Oliver at 770-683-0610.
Continued from page 22
This flexibility ensures that musical education remains accessible to all interested families in the community.
The school’s influence extends throughout Coweta County, where appreciation for music and the arts thrives.
“It’s something we do well in Coweta County,” Andrea notes. “It’s really a win/win for the church and the community.”
In an age dominated by digital distractions, the school provides a valuable alternative.
“Kids benefit because it helps their attention spans,” she explains. “They are not on their phones or on a screen. They are having real conversations with you.”
These interactions create genuine connections while teaching students to manage vulnerability as they grow as musicians.
Each summer, the School of the Arts expands its
offerings to include popular camps like Ukulele Camp and “Cake Camp,” where students learn to decorate cakes with a professional baker. These summer programs, offered in part or full-day sessions, typically last one week with tuition around $275.
All SOTA teachers undergo annual background screening and are qualified to work with both children and adults. Weekly private lessons range from $15 to $25 per half-hour session, paid monthly, with an annual administrative fee of $25 per student (maximum $50 per family).
Through its comprehensive programs and dedicated leadership, the First Baptist Church Sandra M. Carter School of the Arts continues to fulfill its founding vision, enriching lives through music while ministering to the community it serves. NCM
Brass students celebrate following a recent recital.
Ukulele student Finn Coski enjoys lessons at First Baptist Newnan.
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Melody’s Music: Bringing PorchFest to Newnan
Written by BETH NEELY
With a name like Melody, it was inevitable that music would be a part of her life.
Thanks to her hard work and vision, the inaugural Newnan Porchfest will take place on May 31st in the College-Temple Historic District.
The music festival will feature art vendors, food trucks and exclusive VIP experiences, all to benefit the Newnan-Coweta History Center.
Melody Kiser is a 2016 East Coweta High School graduate. She went on to Berklee College of Music in Boston and got a degree in music business. By the time this article is published, she’ll most likely have earned her Masters.
She grew up listening to blues and rock – she says that’s what inspired her desire to play music. “I'm a classic rock kid,” she says.
Her inspirations include the bands Heart, Journey and Led Zeppelin, though she really loves all styles of music.
Last May, Kiser’s high-energy rock band HeyDreamer played at the Virginia Highlands PorchFest in Atlanta. She had a great time playing amidst a large crowd
celebrating music, community and culture. “Right after we played that I thought, man, we need to do this in Newnan,” she says.
Music is absolutely alive and well in Newnan, says Kiser. But it has definitely changed since the pandemic.
She called her friend, local musician Kris Youmans, with her idea. “I said, ‘I think we need to bring music back to Newnan in a big way.’”
“I was like, ‘Yes!’ Let’s do it! Definitely,” says Youmans.
Youmans is no stranger to music festivals or fundraisers. In addition to playing Newnan Unplugged and the Twang Shabang Benefit for CASA, she and her band have hosted the annual Blues Plate Special, a fundraiser that focuses on local community outreach operations such as Coweta’s Court-Appointed Special Advocates, Meals on Wheels of Coweta, and the More Music Foundation in Newnan. This September will mark the 13th annual Blues Plate Special.
Kiser also tapped her friend Steve Quick, who, while he lived in Griffin, hosted his own South Sixth Street
HeyDreamer band members, from left: Dustin Williams, bass and vocals; Donnie Gee, keys and vocals; Melody Kiser, guitar and lead vocals; and David Williams, drums and vocals.
Photo by Smiling Eyes Media
PorchFest for five years. Her band HeyDreamer had played at every one of his events, and she knew he would be a great partner.
“It’s going be the biggest and best music festival Newnan has ever seen,” says Quick.
Quick adds one thing that will make the Newnan PorchFest unique is that musicians picked the bands. “The level of talent is going to be beyond what people are expecting,” he says.
Youmans says this PorchFest is poised to be special because it’s going to include so many things: from kids, artists, food trucks and dogs to a VIP afterparty at the Alamo and breakfast at Whimzical Cafe.
“Our goal with this is to create outlets for all the artists and musicians who live in Newnan to share their music with the community and to give them a platform and a stage to do it. We're simply supplementing something that's already doing well on the creative side,” says Kiser.
It’s not an entirely foreign concept to the area. For the last three years, Senoia has hosted a Fall PorchFest, organized and sponsored by the Senoia Downtown Development Authority. Last year’s event saw more than 2,000 attendees.
“The goal with this one is to bust it wide open again… something that's really big where we can have thousands of people out listening to music in Newnan. That's where my passion is,” Kiser says.
“Melody is a forward thinker,” says Youmans. “She’s a step ahead. She’s spearheading this and doing a great job.”
Between the three of them, Kiser has experience with Atlanta-area PorchFests, Youmans has played in Senoia’s, and Quick has hosted them in Griffin.
Their original goal was to host around 20 bands. So far, they’ve got over 45 lined up. Some of the big names include Sweetgrass Sally, Kris Youmans Band and the Duncan Brothers Band. “There are bands coming from all over Georgia and a few from out-of-state,” Kiser says.
Newnan’s PorchFest will take place in the historic College-Temple District. Streets will be closed to cars from College Street at West Washington all the way to Clark Street. There will be vendors, food trucks, games, and music. Houses with music will be on Temple Avenue and Wesley Street to prevent noise interference between bands.
The area was chosen logistically due to the way the City closes the streets on Halloween. It’s a familiar closure that works well for the area.
“It just seemed like the place to be - it’s got a very neighborly feeling. We were just drawn to the way it felt. They are precious houses,” says Youmans.
Youmans says one of her favorite parts so far has been going door-to-door and meeting the homeowners. “I personally enjoy meeting so many people. Everybody has been very helpful and excited!”
The ChildrenConnect Museum, located at the corner of College Street and Temple Avenue, will host a children's zone full of activities that day. Special guests will include representatives from Georgia Tech demonstrating music technology. Georgia Tech’s Guthman Musical Instrument Competition was recently featured on CBS Sunday Morning. “We reached out to them and by some miracle, they said yes,” said Kiser.
ChildrenConnect will also have performances by Grassroots Music.
Kiser says they chose the Newnan Coweta History Center as the beneficiary because it just made sense, given the location of the festival in the historic district that almost directly abuts the History Center.
The History Center will be having its regular garden tour at the same time, so between the two events, there should have something for everyone.
“We are thrilled that a portion of the proceeds will benefit the museum. From our first meeting with PorchFest organizers, Melody Kiser and Kris Youmans, we were sold on the event and eager to help. As fellow music lovers we felt a certain kindred spirit,” says NCHC Executive Director Larisa Scott.
There will also be an extra perk for VIP tourgoers: special entry to select homeowner gardens in College – Temple. Each garden will feature something unique and interesting, says Scott.
“We’re already looking to next year for how we can include more houses and more venues,” says Youmans. “I think once everyone sees how much fun it is, they’re going to look forward to seeing it again next year.”
For more information about the Newnan PorchFest, contact Melody Kiser at newnanporchfest@gmail.com.
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The Newnan Centre and You
Stringing together moments:
Chris Johns makes music wherever he goes
Written by CHAN SUTO
Photographed by
SARA MOORE
WWhen you meet Chris Johns, he strikes you as being easy-going, friendly and unassuming. You won’t know that he’s the principal cellist of the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra, a conductor for the intermediate orchestra of the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra, a private music instructor or a shop owner.
Growing up, Chris was destined to be a creative artist or a performing musician. Chris’s father, Dean, was as prolific in visual arts as his mother, Elaine, was gifted in music. His father designed and produced tapestry, gallery jewelry, pottery and metal artworks with some of his art featured in the Mint Museum of Charlotte and other galleries.
Chris’s mother was a violinist who taught middle school orchestra and performed with ensembles like the Savannah Symphony and the Florence Symphony.
In an environment steeped in artistic and musical talents, it’s hardly surprising that Chris and his siblings followed in their parents’ footsteps. In 2014, Chris combined his music education and entrepreneurship to open a string shop in Peachtree City that became Johns Violin Company.
Originally from Charlotte, N.C., Chris and his family of four children, ages 8 to 14, have made Newnan their home since 2014. His three siblings are all musical. His younger brother, Alex, played string bass and has a degree in recording engineering. His two older sisters, Stephanie and Tasi, both studied violin; Tasi would later turn professional. With mom and sisters as violinists, it was decided that Chris would play a different instrument. At age 4, Chris began cello studies under the tutelage of his mother’s friend, Jennifer Frisina, who took him as her first student and remained his cello teacher for the next decade. His next cello teacher, Alan Black, the principal cellist of the Charlotte Symphony, significantly influenced his musical development in high school.
To advance his musicianship, Chris joined youth orchestras and auditioned for various regional and state orchestras.
“Helping musicians and serving their needs are more important than making a one-time transactional sale.”
- Chris Johns
ABOVE
Chris Johns conducts the intermediate orchestra of the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra at a spring concert in Peachtree City.
RIGHT
Chris Johns is the principal cellist for the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra.
At UNC-Wilmington, Chris focused on cello performance, earning his bachelor’s in 2002. Chris had the unexpected fortune of meeting and reuniting with helpful people who would profoundly impact his life.
While researching graduate schools for his master’s in cello performance, he reconnected with his middle school orchestra director, Dr. Skip Taylor, who was teaching at the University of Georgia’s Hugh Hodgson School of Music. As a graduate assistant at UGA, he helped run Dr. Taylor’s summer music camp for three years.
Then, a chance encounter with a string proprietor at a music conference gave Chris the golden opportunity to later work for himself after earning his master’s in 2007. A familial entrepreneurial past likely inspired Chris to strike out on his own; Grandfather Gus operated a grocery store, and an uncle owned an auto repair shop.
Chris stays musically engaged in the community and afar. He continues to hone his performance skills by playing in the LaGrange Symphony and in local churches. In the fall of 2024, his collaboration with Chris Ferebee, an old friend from UGA who is currently an adjunct professor at Berry College, took them to the UK for an invitational performance at the Oxford University. They and another friend, Jesse Graves, a professor of English at East
Tennessee State University, will be returning to Oxford this fall for another original performance of music inspired by poetry.
In addition to operating his shop and “maintaining his chops,” Chris offers private cello lessons and gives back to support music education. Danya Claiborne, a parent of one of his students shared, “He offers expert instruction with a relaxed, encouraging atmosphere. I have enjoyed seeing her musical skills grow over the years…. Mr. Johns maintains a busy schedule and I feel blessed that he can work with Rebekah.”
Chris is a staunch supporter of the Fayette Philharmonic Youth Orchestra (FPYO), a community-based 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides string students the opportunities to develop their musicianship in a collaborative setting. Last fall, Chris became the conductor of their intermediate orchestra when FPYO formed a second ensemble for intermediate musicians.
In many ways, Chris has fashioned his life around music. He applies his musical expertise to instruct, perform, conduct and service our community with care. In his words, “Helping musicians and serving their needs are more important than making a onetime transactional sale.” Chris’s journey speaks to self-determination, business acumen and serendipity.
NCM
Artisan Custom Closets
Ever find yourself frozen with anxiety looking into a chaotic closet, pantry or garage area? You aren’t alone. Many homeowners find these spaces to be poorly designed catchalls that add to disorganization, stress and time management problems. There is hope, though.
Artisan Custom Closets has been bringing beauty and organization to clients’ homes since 2013. They specialize in custom built organizational systems for some of your most challenging spaces, including closets, garages, pantries, offices spaces, mudrooms and laundry areas. They also create beautiful built-ins and wall beds for other areas of the home.
Kimberly Lassiter, Senior Design Consultant
Senior Design Consultant
Kimberly Lassiter leads a team of 20 designers that serves Coweta and the surrounding areas.
Updating your home through Artisan Custom Closets is easier than ever with the opening of their new Fayetteville showroom. This showroom allows potential clients to see Artisan designs up close. Marketing Director Christina Johnson shares her excitement over brand new color releases as well as beautifully laid out vignettes for clients to browse. “We are so excited to be a part of the growth in Coweta by offering a showroom only a short drive from Newnan," says Johnson.
What Does Artisan Offer?
Artisan provides an all-inclusive suite of services that can take your custom built space from inspiration to realization. This includes free consultations, design software used to create highly customized designs, and even color schemes to match your taste and aesthetic.
Why Visit a Showroom?
Getting inside the showroom can really get the gears moving on new ideas for your home, according to Lassiter. It allows you to see the functionality of the spaces, designs, and little details that make a difference.
The Artisan Process
Most potential clients start their Artisan journey by visiting a showroom or booking a free consultation.
During the consultation, an Artisan designer will visit your home, evaluate your space, and make recommendations.
At your followup visit, you’ll view a 3D walk-through of the new space. The client can provide feedback before construction begins.
The Artisan Difference
When you work with Artisan, you’ll get a beautifully designed space and a life-changing upgrade to your home. Organizing spaces can improve the look of a room and have a profound impact on mental health and time management. When your space is organized, you plan the way you want to live each day rather than become overwhelmed by chaos.
Ready to see the possibilities with Artisan Custom Closets?
Visit their new showroom in Fayetteville or call to book a consultation.
artisancustomclosets.com • 770-790-5368
Fayetteville: 1240 Hwy 54 W, Ste 305 Fayetteville, GA 30214
Marietta: 600 Wylie Rd. SE, Marietta, GA 30067
Entertainment and Inspiration at Newnan’s First Songwriters’ Festival
Written and Photographed by JOAN DOGGRELL
Newnan’s first Songwriters’ Festival that took place this past Jan. 31 – Feb. 1 drew both Newnanites and out-of-towners downtown for a variety of musical talent.
On the first night, four singer/songwriters were featured at the Charles Wadsworth Auditorium. David Ryan Harris, James Angelo “Angie” Aparo, Alex Guthrie, and Davin McCoy played original compositions, told the stories behind their songs, and revealed their sources of inspiration. As a group, they look upon music not as an end in itself but as a vehicle for communicating their poetry, emotions, and experiences. David Harris calls himself “a writer who plays the guitar.”
When asked for tips for aspiring song writers, they all emphasized the importance of good writing. Their advice was not to wait until you’re sure you’re going to produce something great. “Give yourself permission to write bad songs,” said McCoy. “If your trash can isn’t full, you’re not doing it,” said Harris.
The commercial side of song writing has gotten tougher for artists. With so much music available for free online, it can be hard for emerging artists to make a living. “Buy our T-shirts!” said Guthrie.
Aparo’s comment was more optimistic. “If your heart is in your work, the world will find you,” he said.
On the second night, it was the turn of local musicians to exhibit their talents. Sarah Hendrix was featured at Leaf & Bean, playing keyboard with Joey Riddell on guitar. At Below the Neck, Marty Weatherby and Allen Wendell entertained in a variety of styles, chiefly country and bluegrass. The Liberty Road band supplied the music at The Bays. Vocalist, songwriter, and Iraq War veteran John Hensley said proudly that he had heard two of his songs played on the radio. Ken and Ginger Busby learned about him on the Veteran’s Podcast and came from Alabama especially to meet him.
Joe Arnotti, president of the Newnan Cultural Arts Commission, and Doug Kees, acclaimed musician and owner of Newnan’s Musicology, spoke proudly of the NCAC’s achievement in bringing such talent to Newnan and expressed their hope that the Songwriters’ Festival would become an annual affair. Kees pointed out that with so many venues, Newnan is well-suited for such an event. Four of them are around Court Square within walking distance of each other, making it easy for fans to experience a variety of performances.
Like Arnotti and Kees, Jaami Rutledge, treasurer of the NCAC, was hopeful that the 2025 Songwriters’ Festival would become known as the first annual Songwriters’ Festival. NCM
James Angelo "Angie" Aparo on guitar, right, with Davin McCoy.
Alex Guthrie (on guitar) rocks out with David Ryan Harris.
“If your heart is in your work, the world will find you.”
- James Angelo "Angie" Aparo
Left, Alex Guthrie with David Ryan Harris on guitar, center, and Davin McCoy.
The Liberty Band plays at The Bays. Band members are, from left, Patrick Thompson, Jeezy Lee, John Hensley and Kevin Walker.
Allen Wendell and Marty Weatherby at Below the Neck. Sarah Hendrix and Joey Riddell at Leaf & Bean.
The Women's Specialists of Fayette comprise a healthcare team that understands that women have special healthcare needs throughout their lives.
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In addition, specialized care is available in areas such as high risk pregnancy and gynecological/ urogynecological surgery.
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Coweta Women Making It in Music
Written by CAROLINE NICHOLSON
Music is a part of our everyday lives, whether you’re driving to work, hitting the gym, or simply in need of something to fill the silence. It also plays a crucial role in our identities, cultures, and relationships. Among the millions of musicians filling the world with melodies, women account for a large portion of that number.
That being said, women are still severely underrepresented in the music industry, a fact supported by a recent study conducted by the University of Southern California that revealed that women only made up 37% of artists on the year-end Hot 100 chart. With this imbalance in mind, it is time to recognize some of Coweta County’s own women musicians making names for themselves in the music industry.
Mary Martin
Rylee Banks
Kris Youmans
Photo by Susanne McMurry
Photo by Jen Bibby
Photo by Amber Fronebarger
Mary Martin
A proud Newnan native who has spent her whole life in Coweta County, Mary Martin had a unique musical upbringing. From ages two to 13, Mary was classically trained in piano, learning to read sheet music before learning to read words. When she was 13, her parents gave her the choice to continue her piano lessons or dedicate that time to teaching herself how to play guitar, an instrument she was clearly drawn to.
For Mary, who had grown tired of the piano, this was an easy choice.
As she was teaching herself guitar with the help of the internet, Mary was also working behind the scenes in the music industry, taking photos of different bands at venues like the Masquerade and the Tabernacle. Her time spent around these bands inspired her and influenced the way she plays.
Her talent for playing the guitar and singing grew, and Mary began to perform at local open mic nights, specifically those held at RPM in downtown Newnan, starting in July of 2017.
Still new to performing in front of others, these events were nerve-wracking for her, and in the beginning, required a lot of courage.
However, with practice came comfort, and Mary started getting booked for gigs in and around the county, with her first one at Line Creek Brewery in Peachtree City.
With her career in music growing, Mary found that music was the perfect outlet for her abundant creativity. She says she’s also constantly witnessing how music brings people together. “I love the social aspect of performing,” Mary says.
She caters her performances to fit all audiences, whether they are coming for a date night or to get up and dance.
It hasn’t always been easy for Mary
to find her footing in the music industry, but she has gotten where she is today by making connections in the community. Mary says, “Once you find one good connection, a lot of meaningful connections can spring up from that.”
Even better, Mary has found a support system of other women
musicians in Coweta County, like Kris Youmans and Melody Kaiser, who have helped her along her journey. Moving forward, Mary has a lot of big and exciting plans for the year ahead. In April, she started her third tour as a backup vocalist for the band Rookie of the Year. Mary and the band are traveling the country as an opening
Mary Martin has been performing locally since 2017.
“Once you find one good connection, a lot of meaningful connections can spring up from that.”
- Mary Martin
act for Framing Hanley and their Flowers Tour.
In addition to the tour, Mary is finishing up the writing for a personal project she has been working on that she hopes to release soon.
To stay up to date with Mary, check out her website: www.marymartinmusic.com.
Mary Martin dolls herself up for a photoshoot for her single, “Who Cares.”
Mary Martin performs with Rookie of the Year in Las Vegas
Photo by Stan Huffman
Photo by Ashley Anderson
Photo by Aaron Mattern
Kris Youmans
Born and raised four hours away in the “Hostess City” of Savannah, Ga., Kris Youmans didn’t discover her love for Coweta County and the City of Homes until later in life. Her love of music, though, blossomed at a young age, fueled by those around her when she was growing up.
“I have a musical family,” Kris says. “None of us are classically trained or anything. It’s more that we learned on our own.”
It was her mother who bought Kris her first guitar at age 15 and sparked her music career, a passion that would grow to fill her life in the years following. When she was 18, Kris started playing on Savannah’s famous River Street, frequenting late-night clubs and building a community of fellow musicians and songwriters.
Once she married and had children, Kris’s music career was put on hold. For many years, her main involvement with music was at church, until 2005, when her kids were grown up and she made the move to Newnan.
In Coweta County, she reignited her love for playing music and songwriting. It was here that Kris started to meet
other musicians and play alongside them, thanks to her outgoing and friendly nature.
In 2014, Kris started playing with a group of other artists, now known as “Her Mighty Fine Band.” Alongside her, her husband Warren Hall plays steel guitar; David Puett is the guitarist of the band. Patrick Thompson plays bass guitar, and Jerry Lee is the band’s drummer.
Working with her band has helped Kris develop an even deeper appreciation for music. When asked about her favorite part of creating music, Kris said, “I love watching how the songs transform because the guys are so good and they add so much to each one.”
Beyond that, Kris stated that another beautiful thing about music for her is that it has helped her meet so many likeminded people who share her passion for music. She truly has her finger on the pulse of the music scene in Coweta County.
Kris started her own program called Newnan Unplugged over a decade ago, which features local songwriters and their original songs. Through the program, up-and-coming musicians are able to find a community of others like them and have
ABOVE
Kris Youmans has been entertaining Cowetans for more than a decade.
LEFT
Kris Youmans and Her Mighty Fine Band includes, from left, Warren Hall (back), Jerry Lee (front), Patrick Thompson, and David Puett
Photo by
Susanne McMurry
She truly has her finger on the pulse of the music scene in Coweta County.
a platform to share their songs at local venues in Coweta County.
Like those just starting in the industry, Kris knows just how hard it can be to navigate the music world and achieve success. “It’s an ongoing process,” she says. “You have to go into it with love for the music you are playing so you don’t get totally distraught over the business of it.”
It is clear when watching Kris and her band perform that a deep love for music is at the heart of everything they do. In February of this year, Kris and Her Mighty Fine Band had the opportunity to perform for the Atlanta & Company show.
Over the rest of 2025, Kris and the band are taking part in several fundraisers for local nonprofits in the area. She is also part of the team behind the planning and execution of Newnan’s first PorchFest.
To learn more exciting things Kris and her band have planned, check out their website: www.krisyoumansband.org.
Kris Youmans and Her Mighty Fine Band performs.
Photo courtesy of Crest Pointe Entertainment Group
Photo by Susanne McMurry
Rylee Banks
Ever since she was a little girl, singing has played a key role in Rylee Banks’s life. She has many fond memories of childhood, using her home fireplace as a stage and performing for her family with a fake microphone in hand.
Recognizing Rylee’s talent at a young age, her family quickly started her in voice lessons when she was only eight. This was something Rylee stuck to and poured her heart into for 10 years until she graduated high school.
In the midst of her vocal journey, Rylee also taught herself how to play guitar at only 13 years old. With such talent for singing and making music, it was only a matter of time before her career in music took off.
At the age of 17, Rylee had her first opportunity to perform live at a friend’s restaurant.
She was nervous at first because she had no equipment or experience performing live. But she knew that this was a chance to start her career, so she and her dad went out and bought a sound system.
After that first gig, her career started to flourish as word spread about her talent, and she began making connections within the community. She played more and more gigs at different venues like the Senoia Beer Company, the Summergrove Clubhouse and The Cellar, making a name for herself across the county.
To her, music is a way she’s able to share her story and her faith with those who listen to her. Beyond that, her songs are a way for her to express herself and her emotions.
And there are a lot of emotions that come with trying to make it in the music industry. Rylee has faced a lot of adversities since she began performing, and she has been told “no” over and over again.
She has auditioned for the television shows “The Voice” and “American Idol” and has been turned away more times than she can count. But Rylee knows that’s just the nature
Photo by Danielle Lynch
Rylee Banks uses her music to share her story and her faith.
Rylee has faced a lot of adversities since she began performing, and she has been told “no” over and over again.
of the music industry, and it hasn’t slowed her down one bit.
Despite the challenges, Rylee is still doing amazing things that put the “no”s into perspective. “The no’s have been really difficult, but then it's really worth it when you do have those big opportunities,” Rylee says.
In the past few years, Rylee has had a lot of great opportunities to perform alongside successful country artists such as Riley Green, Gyth Rigdon, and Gary LeVox, the lead singer for the band Rascal Flatts.
With her determination and talent at only 20 years old, more success and opportunities are definitely on the horizon for Rylee.
To follow her story, you can check out her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ ryleebanksmusic. NCM
Photo by
Rylee Banks
Rylee Banks records new music in the studio..
Rylee Banks performs at Christ Chapel Community Church in Fayetteville.
Photo by Jen
Bibby
Rylee poses with her guitar for a photoshoot.
Photo by Danielle Lynch
Coweta County Bands
Written by CAROLINE NICHOLSON
Less than a five-hour drive from the capital of country music, Nashville, Tenn., and with significant influence from the bluegrass region, Coweta County produces myriad talented country artists and bands – most famously, Alan Jackson.
Amongst these country stars, there are many other gifted musicians who dabble in styles quite different from the traditional country music the area is known for. Whether it be hardcore “emo” music featuring bass guitars and drums or Celtic folk punk and sea shanties accompanied by accordion and mandolin music, Coweta County is sure to have a musician or group that caters to your music taste.
The Outfield Clovers
The Outfield Clovers’ origin story aptly resembles the plot of a great coming-of-age movie. The band’s lead guitarist, Jon Langston, and their bass guitarist, Ryan McMeans, met in their Strings I class at the Central Educational Center. Upon meeting, the two realized that they shared similar unique music tastes.
Ryan met the band’s drummer, James Coyne, in a similar way when both played for the Northgate High School jazz band. Having found two like-minded musicians with a passion for creating music, Ryan brought the group together, and so, the Outfield Clovers was formed in 2021.
From left, drummer James Coyne, bassist and vocalist Ryan McMeans and guitarist Jon Langston make up the band The Outfield Clovers.
Photo courtesy of Reel 2 Reel Studios
Since its formation, the group has worked exceptionally hard to establish themselves and find a niche where their style of music is celebrated and appreciated. They play mostly rock music with heavy indie and Midwest emo influences.
They’ve played at venues like The Masquerade, Smith’s Olde Bar, and Line Creek Brewing Company in Newnan. No matter where the show, their audience is always dancing or moshing, adding a spark of energy to each performance.
With Ryan only 21, Jon, 19, and James just 18 years old, the group is early in their music career but already achieving significant success. In 2023, the band released their first single, quickly followed by three other singles and their first EP in the same year.
In 2024, the Outfield Clovers released four new singles and received over 76,000 streams on Spotify in the year.
This year promises to be an equally big year for the band who released their first album in March called “You Deserve It.”
At the heart of their success, each of the members has different reasons they’re pursuing this career and different things that make it special to them.
For Ryan, the band has been a way for him to grow a community of friends and fellow music lovers. When attending concerts or performing at one, he says it feels like “one big hangout” with friends. Jon, on the other hand, loves the art of composing and using music as a release for his emotions. And James simply loves the fun that comes with performing, whether that’s interacting with the audience or joining them by stage diving.
The energy and passion the performers have for music and their band is clear every time they perform and in everything they do. Moving forward, they hope to book more gigs, grow their audience, and write and release more music.
To follow their journey or see when their next show is, check out their website, theoutfieldclovers.com.
Jon Langston shreds the guitar at Line Creek Brewing Company.
Photo by Lee Ainsworth
Ryan McMeans sings at Line Creek Brewing Company.
Photo by Lee Ainsworth
Photo by Lee Ainsworth
The Outfield Clovers perform at Line Creek Brewing Company in Newnan.
Kraken’s Release
How often do you see a band comprised of an accordion, a mandolin, and an upright and electric bass? Probably not often. But Kraken’s Release has all three, along with acoustic guitar and drums, culminating in one of the most eccentric bands in Coweta County.
Brian Walsh, the force behind the creation of the band and their accordion player, went on a winding journey to arrive where he is today with his bandmates. Their story starts in 2021 when the band Brian was in previously started to slowly break up.
As the members of that band grew apart, Brian was in desperate need of fellow musicians to work with to finish out the gigs the band had booked. He first met Richard Oteri, the band’s mandolin player, when planning a musical performance for a friend’s birthday. After that experience, Brian knew Richard would be a perfect fit for the sound he was trying to create.
Later, Brian and Richard met Elijah Lees at an open mic night held at RPM in downtown Newnan. Elijah approached the band and offered his skills at the upright bass to the group, an offer that was quickly and gratefully accepted.
After cycling through some guitarists who didn’t quite fit with the group, they found Mark Bodnar in September 2022, and with guest drummers Spencer Davis and Travis Brown, they knew their band was finally complete.
Though it took over a year to bring everyone and their talents together, they all agree that the circumstances that led them to one another were kismet.
With such an eclectic pairing of instruments, it only makes sense that their music style is equally interesting. Kraken’s Release doesn’t identify with just one style of music; instead, they dabble in and combine influences from Irish punk, polka, sea shanties, and Southern gothic music.
From left, Mark Bodnar, Richard Oteri, Brian Walsh and Elijah Lees form the eccentric band Kraken’s Release.
Music like theirs has the ability to engage any audience they play for. No matter where they are performing, they transfer their lively energy to the crowd, which is always dancing, drinking, chanting, and laughing.
Their love for what they do is clear in each show. For Brian, a former theater kid in middle and high school, he says he loves the instant gratification that comes from performing for a live audience. “I’ve always enjoyed hearing people laugh at something you want to be funny, hearing people sing along to a well-known song, people clapping and cheering and just getting that good feeling,” Brian says.
Mark says he values the camaraderie that accompanies being part of a band, and he loves the interesting instrumentation of Kraken’s Release with the accordion and mandolin. He says he also enjoys watching the music take over the audience and the spontaneous dancing that happens at every show.
Because Richard tends to play his instruments reactively, he says he loves how
dynamic Kraken’s Release is and how it allows him to continue to play in new and interesting ways.
At times, the band does struggle to find local venues willing to accept their quirky music style, but as Brian says, they’ve never met an audience they couldn’t entertain.
Kraken’s Release has had the opportunity to play at Dragon Con and Nerdi Gras thanks to their distinctive sound. The band also performs at places like the Tavern on 74, Line Creek Brewing Company, and even the Coweta County Fair.
Kraken’s Release has a lot in store for 2025, including performing at the inaugural Newnan PorchFest in May. With two singles already released, the band is looking forward to releasing their first LP in the summer of this year. They also hope to find new venues that are looking for fun and eclectic live bands.
To stay up to date with the group and see where they’re performing next, check out their Facebook at facebook.com/krakensrelease. NCM
Photo by Sophie Louise Kelley
Photo Will Goicochea
Kraken’s Release performs at DragonCon in 2024.
COWETA COUNT Y
HEALTH DEPARTMENT HEALTH DEPARTMENT
W E I N F O RM, W E PR EVE NT , W E PR O T E CT !
At the Coweta County Health Department, we're dedicated to building a healthier, happier community – one person at a time. Our team of experts provides comprehensive care, education, and resources to support your overall well-being.
Take the first step towards a healthier you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
Children's Special Programs
Immunizations
General Labs (with doctor's orders)
Family Planning and Contraception
HIV/STI Testing and Treatment
Travel Vaccines
Tuberculosis Management
School Immunization and Screening
Requirements
Women's Health and Breast and Cervical Cancer Screenings*
*through Georgia’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Program
Well-Child Check-Ups ... and much more!
Nurturing Nature in Newnan My Green Oasis
Written by CHRISTINA POTTS
by CIDNEY ZAMORA
In the heart of Newnan, there’s a subdivision where neatly trimmed lawns and small manicured hedges dominate the landscape.
In this neighborhood, I’ve cultivated my own small oasis of nature. I like to think it stands in striking contrast to the conventional suburban scene.
A haven for native plants that attract a plethora of pollinators, my yard owes its current iteration to the Georgia Green Landscape Stewards program. Created by University of Georgia Extension, this certification program for individuals and businesses provides fact-based information to help people implement sustainable green practices in their landscape.
Georgia landowners have a large impact on natural resources, such as water, wildlife and native plants. With sustainable land management practices, we can help protect these natural resources for generations to come. Georgia Green Landscape Stewards offers a harmonious blend of subdivision life and the beauty of native nature, serving as a sanctuary for some of the smallest and most beneficial creatures in the ecosystem.
My journey into environmental stewardship began with a simple realization: Even the smallest plot of land can make a significant difference in the larger ecological picture.
I’ve recognized that traditional landscaping practices often prioritize aesthetics over ecology, which leads to the loss of native plants and the beneficial insects that rely on them.
Determined to change that in my own neck of the woods, I transformed my yard into a haven for native plants, butterflies, bees and other pollinators.
One of the cornerstones of my approach was to focus on protecting beneficial insects, particularly pollinators like bees, butterflies and even beetles.
Photographed
These tiny creatures play a crucial role in maintaining the health of ecosystems by pollinating plants, which in turn supports a wide range of wildlife.
To ensure my yard would be a consistent food source for these insects, I selected plants that provide nectar and pollen throughout the growing season. I avoid using pesticides, which can be harmful to pollinators, and instead employ natural pest control methods, such as planting items that encourage ladybugs and other predatory insects that help keep pest populations in check.
Balancing the needs of native wildlife with the expectations of subdivision life is no small feat. I believe my yard, however, demonstrates that it is possible to create a landscape that is both beautiful and beneficial. I strategically incorporate native plants that are well-suited to the local climate and soil, reducing the need for excessive watering and maintenance. These
plants, while different from the traditional ornamentals often seen in suburban yards, add a unique charm and resilience to the landscape.
I also integrate subtle design elements that blend seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood. My yard features carefully placed garden beds that invite neighbors and passersby to stop and appreciate the natural beauty. This not only provides a refuge for wildlife but also fosters a sense of community around the shared value of environmental stewardship.
When neighbors visit my yard, I’m prone to strike up conversations about the importance of native plants and pollinators. And I’m always eager to offer tips on how they can create a more eco-friendly landscape, too, regardless of the size of their yard.
the smallest creatures and bring balance to our relationship with nature.
Even in a suburban subdivision, it’s possible to create a space that honors and nurtures the natural world. In my yard, there’s more than just a garden. I see it as a living example of how thoughtful stewardship can protect
In a world where green spaces are increasingly under threat, I hope my yard demonstrates that with a little effort and a lot of passion, anyone can make a positive impact on the environment, right in their own backyard – or front yard! NCM
Author Christina Potts displays her Georgia Green Landscape marker that signifies her yard employs environmentally friendly practices.
A monarch butterfly rests on a zinnia.
One Piece at A Time: Quilting Works of Art
Written by FRANCES KIDD
Photographed by MCCLAIN PHOTOGRAPHY
QQuilts… just the word can conjure up the pleasure of crawling under the covers on a chilly night. The word might also conjure the vision of one hanging on a museum wall. Quilts today are no longer just for warmth; they are getting the recognition as art they deserve.
Many Southern families probably have quilts that were made by family. An older family member would take the scraps of worn-out clothing along with other fabric remnants and make a cover for each family member’s bed. In addition to bringing warmth, they also often told stories. Memories of where the pieces of fabric came from and stories swapped as folks did the quilting.
But Southerners didn’t invent the quilt. According to London’s Victoria and Albert Museum, quilts in their collection have come from Europe, India and the Far East. Some forms of quilting can be traced to Medieval times.
Quilts have long shown the history and culture of our country through the stories they tell.
RIGHT
Coweta resident Sharon Hendrix is a modern-day quilter. She is known for mixing traditional patterns with other designs and her use of modern colorful fabrics.
There’s The Freedom Quilting Bee, an “Encyclopedia of Alabama” entry describing quilting as work born in the civil rights movement as a way for poor Black craftswomen in the Alabama Black Belt to earn money for their families.
A 2020 “Smithsonian” magazine article described an exhibition called “Radical Tradition: American Quilts and Social Change” at Ohio’s Toledo Museum of Art. The exhibit “reveals a form of creative, sometimes biting, political art.”
In World War I, quilting became a patriotic act as American women made quilts to raise money for the Red Cross. During World War II, one of the Red Cross’s many relief projects was sending quilts to soldiers, or to those who had lost their home due to bombing raids. These are now known as Red Cross Quilts; today we have the Quilts of Valor Program to honor service members and veterans.
In Coweta, folks are quilting… still partly for utilitarian purposes, but increasingly as art.
Coweta resident Sharon Hendrix is a perfect example of a modern-day quilter. She is known for mixing traditional patterns with other designs and her use of modern colorful fabrics. Hendrix is also known for applique work, which gives texture and dimension to her pieces.
As Hendrix describes herself, “I am a traditional quilter. What sets me apart are the colors and fabrics I choose.” And she turns those colors and fabrics into works of art. Her work has been selected to appear in quilt shows at the local, regional, and national levels. She has been juried into the American Quilter’s Society National Quilt Show eight times, and has been a semi-finalist each time.
All quilts featured shown in this feature were created by Sharon Hendrix with various styles and color schemes.
Photo by Sharon Hendrix
The national show takes place every April in Paducah, Ky., and each item submitted goes through a vigorous jury process.
In September 2024, Hendrix was invited to show her work at the Southeastern Quilt & Textile Museum in Carrollton. Founded in 2012, the museum is in a former cotton warehouse in downtown Carrollton, and currently has a
collection of more than 200 quilts from the region.
According to their website, the museum gets visitors from most states and multiple countries each year to see the quilts, which range from the late 1700s through the early 2000s.
When asked about the honor of exhibiting her work, she says, “The most surprising thing is that they
always referred to me as an ‘artist.’”
Amy Loch, director of the museum says, “I think people enjoyed seeing her work. It’s bright and joyful. Makes people happy to see it.”
Hendrix is also involved with several local quilting groups that make and donate quilts to the community, in addition to advancing their own projects.
“I am a traditional quilter. What sets me apart are the colors and fabrics I choose.”
- Sharon Hendrix
Common Threads is a quilt guild that has been meeting for almost 20 years. According to President Julie Kennedy, their nearly 50 members reflect a wide variety of skill levels.
About Hendrix’s show in Carrollton, Kennedy says, “It was so exciting for the members of our guild to see an exhibit of one of our own. Sharon is an inspiration.”
Their meetings are a mix of presentations and demonstrations. The group has a community service chair and make placemats for Meals on Wheels participants, as well as quilted book bags for Operation Christmas Child, a project in conjunction with Mills Baptist Church, which hosts their meetings.
You can also find quilters working away at Sharpsburg Piecemakers, a group started in 1994 with five members that has grown to a membership of 50 today.
Hendrix says it is a “quilting bee that has many talented artists.”
Since February 2014, they have been making quilts for the Homeless Veterans Program at Fort McPherson in East Point. This program offers emergency, short-term housing as well as aiding veterans in finding permanent housing. Each veteran receives a quilt for their bed and when they complete the program, they are able to take the quilt with them.
The Piecemakers work together on these quilts on the second Tuesday of each month. Members bring their sewing machines and sew quilt tops, which are then machine-quilted. The Piecemakers have donated almost 400 quilts to this program.
Hendrix is also involved with the Quilt Guild of the Southern Crescent, active in neighboring Peachtree City and Fayetteville. According to their website, it is celebrating over 25 years of “Quilting, Friendships and Community Service.” This organization brings together another group of people who love to quilt and also love to give back to their community.
If you can’t get enough of the extraordinary quilt work in Coweta County, take off for the Barn Quilt Trail. Because today, quilts also influence tourism. The trails are a public art movement featuring colorful quilt squares painted on barns & buildings throughout North America. It’s possible to find one nearby, the Chatt Hills Barn Quilt Trail.
Or, if these organizations pique your interest, grab a needle and some fabric and inquire about joining in.
And if you’re lucky enough to have quilts, please give them the respect they deserve – whether for their warmth, their memories or their art. NCM
Written by BETH NEELY | Photography from COWETA COOKS
SUMMER BRINGS TONS OF OPTIONS Local Abundance: W
ith summer weather comes fresh produce, and what better way to celebrate our local abundance than with some summery dishes featuring in-season fruits and veggies?
If you didn’t plant a garden this spring, don’t worry – Coweta has several farmers markets that are brimming with locally grown options. Here are some of our summer favorites as featured in “Coweta Cooks: Sharing a Legacy of Our Favorite Recipes.”
5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 large sweet onion, like Vidalia, sliced thin
1 large bell pepper, sliced thin
3 tablespoons cooking oil
2 (20-ounce) large cans chunk or crushed pineapple, juices included
1 cup raisins
1 cup unsalted cashews
2 tablespoon sugar
2 cloves minced garlic
¼ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon dried basil
1½ teaspoons curry powder
½ teaspoon nutmeg
Salt, to taste Pepper, to taste
1 (14-ounce) can low sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons cornstarch
½ cup water
Precook chicken breasts; use Instapot or cover chicken in water and boil about 20 minutes, making sure internal temperature is 165 degrees. When cool, cut chicken into strips and set aside.
In large pot, sauté onion and pepper in cooking oil. Add pineapple and juice, the raisins, cashews, sugar and spices. Cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes. Add chicken and broth, and cook 10 more minutes.
Mix cornstarch with water, pour over all ingredients, and stir. Continue cooking until liquids are thickened. Serve over a bed of rice.
Hawaiian Chicken
Jalapeño Poppers
20 medium jalapeños
1 pound hot pork sausage
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
4 ounces cream cheese
Split jalapeños in half, length wise. Clear out seeds and membranes. Scramble and fry sausage. Add cheddar cheese and cream cheese. Stir together until well mixed. Stuff jalapeño halves. Bake and serve immediately or freeze individually. When ready to eat, defrost as many as desired. Bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes.
Shirley’s Parmesan Cheese Southern Squash
3 Longneck yellow squash
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
2 cups Parmesan cheese
Wash squash thoroughly and cut into thin slices. In a bowl, combine squash, salt and pepper, to taste.
Spray baking sheet with cooking spray.
Spread squash on baking sheet and cover with Parmesan cheese. Cook at 425 degrees for 15 minutes.
Yummy Fried Okra
1 pound fresh okra, small- to medium-sized pods
2 large eggs
1½ teaspoon salt, divided Vegetable oil for frying
1¼ cups yellow cornmeal
¼ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
Trim stems and thin tips from okra pods. Cut okra into ½-inch pieces. In medium sized bowl, lightly beat eggs with ½ teaspoon salt. Add okra and mix well to coat with egg. Let soak 10 minutes.
Heat ¾ inch vegetable oil in large cast-iron skillet until a deep-fry thermometer registers 375 degrees.
Meanwhile, in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag, combine cornmeal, flour, remaining 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper and cayenne, if using. Seal bag and toss to combine ingredients. When oil is heated, using a slotted spoon, remove okra from egg mixture
and add to bag with breading. Seal the bag, and toss well to coat okra. Working in two batches, add okra to skillet and fry 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown all over. Use a slotted spoon to transfer okra to a paper towel-lined plate.
Fresh Fruit Cobbler
2 cups fresh fruit (either: blueberries, blackberries, apples, peaches or strawberries)
6 tablespoons butter
¾ cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cups whole milk
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Put butter in square Pyrex dish and place in oven to melt. Mix flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and milk until just combined. Pour batter over melted butter. Do not stir. Add fruit on top of batter. Do not stir. Bake 45 minutes. NCM
Happy Heavenly Father’s Day
Written by GLENDA STANGE HARRIS
Since my father left this earth in 1999‚ I have often thought about his life as a young boy. I wish I had known or realized sooner as I was growing up, more about what he and his mom and two siblings went through… how very sad and tough it must have been.
My father, Bob, a handsome, quiet, intelligent and hardworking man was the youngest of three children born to Jacob and Julia Stange in the early 1900s. This family of five lived in a large home in the suburbs of Virginia. My father’s father was a highly respected man who excelled at his job as a fine furniture salesman, winning numerous best salesman awards.
In 1925, their world was changed forever. Bob was 7 years old when his father suddenly became ill and was diagnosed with tuberculosis. At that time, there was no cure or treatment other than relocation to a dry climate. Bob’s father was sent to Denver, where hopefully he would improve. This meant he had no way to provide for himself or family.
His wife, Julia, sold their home and furniture, sending money to her husband as
needed. Although he tried several times to work, his health worsened each time and the doctors stopped him from working.
Ultimately, he had to travel to Arizona and soon passed away, at age 38, from advanced tuberculosis. He had been away from his family for six years. This was during the Great Depression, and the cost of travel made that option impossible. Hard to image their grief after the long separation, to never see him again.
Bob was 13 years old when his father passed.
The children had to be placed in a Children’s Home and Julia took a job at a department store, so she could save her earnings and hopefully reunite her family soon.
A bright spot was a surprise benefactor who was instrumental in reuniting the family sooner than thought possible. The salesman who sold Jacob Stange a life insurance policy years earlier came forward. Upon hearing of Jacob’s illness, he had continued to pay the monthly for their policy. It was still active. Like a gift from an angel, the proceeds covered most basic living expenses
and with Julia working, the children could be reunited with their mother.
Incredibly, at just 13 years old, Bob chose to take inspiration from his father’s illness and his long fight to get better. He set goals for his life and rejecting smoking, alcohol and other teen shenanigans. He dedicated himself to living a purposeful and clean life, eating healthy food and working hard to build a strong and able body.
And he did. After finishing high school, where he played football, he developed exercise and weightlifting routines. He entered bodybuilding and weight-lifting competitions, continuing this into his 30s. He loved it and even became a bit of a local sensation with his skills and powerful physique.
His titles included the “Washington Middleweight Weight-Lifting” title for seven years straight, the title of “Mr. District of Columbia Physique” in 1941, the title of “Mr. Arizona” twice and “Mr. YMCA.” He was a runner-up in the “Mr. Universe” competition in the 1940s as well. I have some of his trophies in my home today. After my dad passed at age 80 years and 5 months, we found some short snippets
he wrote (as an adult) recalling memories of his life as a child. Especially heartbreaking were these… “Father became ill. Left for Denver. Mother with 3 children, 5, 7 and 10 with a 3rd grade education. Tried to support us. Friend, then children’s home in D.C. I thought end of world.”
His devotion to healthy living positively influenced the next generation as our two boys were growing up. My dad returned to competition in his 70s, winning several “Over60 Masters” events. Amazingly, he was still lifting barbells and playing tennis regularly up until the day before a sudden illness struck and within a few days he was gone. Thanks, Daddy. Though you are not here to hug, I hold you closely in my heart every day for evermore. NCM
Glenda Harris lives in Senoia with her husband and their Boykin spaniel, Buddy. A freelance writer and book review columnist, she worked many years as a medical editor and is creator of The Book Vault, a large online book club.
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Blacktop
Laurie Mattingly snapped this photo of her star lily in bloom.
The sunset lights up the west side of Coweta County.
Photo by Holli Smith
More deer come in for their nightly visit.
Photos by Laurie Mattingly
A deer visits Laurie Mattingly’s yard for corn and a salt lick.
This fox squirrel visits Clifford Conn’s bedroom window for breakfast every morning.
Mother Nature left damages from a February wind storm.
our 30th summer concert season!
APR 5 MAY 2 MAY 3
MAY 9
Jeff Foxworthy
Gene Simmons Band
Melissa Etheridge + Joss Stone
APR 5 MAY 2 MAY 3
MAY 9
MAY 31
JUNE 21
JUNE 28
MAY 31
JUNE 21
JULY 19
JUNE 28
AUG 8
JULY 19
AUG 8
AUG 30
AUG 30
SEPT 12
SEPT 12
SEPT 13
SEPT 13
OCT 12
OCT 12
Let’s Sing Taylor - A Live Band
Jeff Foxworthy
Gene Simmons Band
Melissa Etheridge + Joss Stone
Let’s Sing Taylor - A Live Band
Night Ranger + 7 Sharp 9
The Gap Band + Soul Cartel
Experience Celebrating the Music of Taylor Swift
Night Ranger + 7 Sharp 9
Guardians of the Jukebox + Flannel Nation
The Gap Band + Soul Cartel
Guardians of the Jukebox + Flannel Nation
The REMakes + Synchronicity - The Police Tribute Live September in the Park - The Ultimate E.W.F. and Chicago Tribute
The REMakes + Synchronicity - The Police Tribute Live September in the Park - The Ultimate E.W.F. and Chicago Tribute
George Thorogood & The DestroyersThe Baddest Show on Earth
George Thorogood & The DestroyersThe Baddest Show on Earth
Travis Tritt Homecoming with special guest Tyler Reese Tritt
Blues Traveler + Gin Blossoms + Spin Doctors
Travis Tritt Homecoming with special guest Tyler Reese Tritt
Blues Traveler + Gin Blossoms + Spin Doctors
Star Wars and More: The Music of John Williams with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
Star Wars and More: The Music of John Williams with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
Photos by Clifford Conn
Photo by Hilary De Puy
The beauty of music
Music has always played an important role in my life. I grew up with a father who loved Willie and Waylon, a mother who loved Elvis, and older brothers who loved everything.
I knew every word to “Paul Revere,” “Pancho and Lefty” and “Beth.” I remember the girls in elementary school singing “Greatest Love of All” on the playground at recess. We believed that children were the future because we were children, and our future was bright (if you asked us anyway).
I’ve gone through phases. I’ve seen Alan Jackson in concert. I’ve also seen Limp Bizkit, Method Man and Redman, Metallica multiple times, and Dwight Yoakum. There's this line from Kris Kristofferson. At the beginning of a live song, you can hear him say, “If it sounds country, man, that’s what it is. It’s a country song.”
I’ve always liked that line because I’ve never cared about labels. What sounds hard rock to me may be pop to someone else. Who cares what it’s called? If you like it you like it.
I like songs with stories. I like songs with emotion. “Go Rest High on that Mountain” is not a favorite of mine, but I’ve watched the video of Vince Gill and Patty Loveless singing it a hundred times. And I’m sure I have at least another hundred in me.
My music playlists are all over the place. When I’m on the way to Florida, I lean toward Jimmy Buffett. If I’m at the gym, Metallica is usually on the top of the list.
There are different moods and there is music to fit each mood.
Music is like food. Sometimes you want an appetizer that doesn’t require much thought, and other times you want an elaborate dish. I can listen to a song just because I like the vibe of it. I would never walk 500 miles, or 500 more, but I will invariably nod my head to the beat when I hear that song.
Then there are songs that can cut me down to my soul. While following my mother’s hearse from the funeral home to the gravesite, I played “Will the Circle be Unbroken” several times. The verse asking the undertaker to please drive slow tore me up that day. It’s torn me up every time I’ve heard it since. And sometimes I’m in a mood where I just want to be torn up. That’s the beauty of music: Whatever you’re in the mood for, it has what you need. NCM
Southern-born and Southern-bred, Toby Nix is a local writer who works in law enforcement.
