Bring One for the Chipper

If your family enjoys a live, cut Christmas tree, do your part to keep it beneficial to us all – bring it to the Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Drop Off. Trees are either chipped into mulch OR are used to provide habitat and protection for fish in area lakes and rivers. This keeps the trees out of landfills and keeps them useful.

Drop off dates:

Saturday, January 3, 2009 – Coweta County Temple Avenue Recreation Facility (the Old Fairgrounds) 9 am – 4 pm
December 29 – January 3 – All 12 Coweta County Compactor sites (hours and locations at http://www.coweta.ga.us/Index.aspx?page=368 )

Seedlings will be given to all who bring in a tree – but only at the Temple Avenue location where Coweta 4-Hers will be assisting.
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Greentop Bridge Closed Indefinitely

The Greentop Road Bridge over the CSX railroad closed December 23, 2008, until further notice. Repairs and/or replacement scheduling is underway.

The closure came after the county was notified by GDOT today that the bridge required immediate closing due to deterioration of the bolts and gusset plates. The bridge was last inspected on July 1, 2008 when the bolts and gusset plates were noted as a deficiency, but not sufficient enough to warrant closing. GDOT has been reviewing all bridges, in particular those with similar type construction as the one that collapsed in Minnesota. The Greentop Bridge uses gusset plates, similar in construction to the Minnesota bridge.

Because of its known deficiencies, the bridge was already on Coweta County’s replacement schedule. Engineering is 80% complete and the environmental documents have already been sent to the federal government. If funding can be determined soon, right of way acquisition can begin and the project can be let to contract in April/May. The projected construction time is 12 – 18 months and the estimated value of the project is $2.1 million.

The Greentop Bridge replacement was part of the Georgia DOT TIP (Transportation Improvement Program) and was one of two that Coweta County submitted for possible funding through the economic stimulus program. Canon Road at White Oak Creek is the other bridge submitted for funding. It is expected that the bridge cannot be repaired given the whole of its current state but county officials will be contacting GDOT to see if anything further can be done to shorten the amount of time the bridge will be out of service. The primary detour route is US 29 N to Herring Road.
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Yates Takes Home Big Award

Newnan, Georgia's Jerry Yates came out a big winner at the 2008 Roots Music Association's Award Ceremony, held on November 15th, in San Marcos, Texas.

The ceremony, was part of the World United Music Festival and Radio Conference, presented by the Roots Music Association and the United States Entertainment Forces. The festival and conference were the premier radio and music industry networking events for professionals involved in the music industry, around the globe. The event's focus was on the national and international radio, music industry, and related press, within the worldwide music market, providing a platform, primarily for independent musicians and artists, but including established performers, to gain exposure and be heard.

Although bad weather forced the cancellation of the music festival Saturday night and Sunday, the event was not a total wash out.

Rev. Jerry Yates, a solo Gospel artist, who sings, writes songs, and plays acoustic guitar, with a country blues, rockabilly style, performed Friday afternoon, showcasing his talents before a small, but enthusiastic crowd. However, the big event for Yates came during the award ceremony, which was held in the Embassy Suites Hotel, in San Marcos, when he walked away with the 2008 Roots Music Association's "Gospel Artist of the Year Award"! Other nominees in the "Gospel Category" included Ricky Scaggs and the Blind Boys of Alabama.

"It was absolutely impossible for me to win" Yates said, after the ceremony. "But God is known for doing the impossible, and I know it was only by His grace that I won! I need to hurry and get back home, to see if I'm dreaming" he said.

To learn more about the music ministry of Jerry Yates, listen to some of his music, and find booking information, visit www.jerryyatesministries.com or www.indieheaven.com/artists/jerryyates. Jerry's radio promotion is managed by RhonBob Promotions, www.rhonbob.com.
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Keith Brooking Nominated as Finalist for 2008 Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP

In November, the Atlanta Falcon’s own Keith Brooking was nominated by Home Depot as a finalist for the 2008 Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP. The Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP is a national program that recognizes players who are making a positive impact in their local communities through charitable programs and contributions.

Vote: http://www.nfl.com/partner?partnerType=neighborhood-mvp

Keith Brooking, a Coweta-County native whose mother raised numerous foster children, was selected for his years of work with Atlanta area foster children and children in need. His Keith Brooking Children's Foundation, a 501(c)3 public charity, is devoted to serving the needs of foster children and the agencies that serve them throughout metro Atlanta.

Keith was born and raised in Coweta County, Georgia, where he played football for East Coweta High School, and went on to play for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. He was drafted by the Falcons in the 1st round of the 1998 NFL draft. Since that time, Keith has been a 5 time Pro – Bowl selection, and distinguished himself as a leader both in the Falcon’s organization and the Georgia community. Keith Brooking is one of the few active NFL players who have played their entire football career (high school, college, professional) in the same state.

Keith founded the Keith Brooking Foundation in 2003 to serve the children of the metro Atlanta area. He was selected a two time Man of the Year by the Falcons due to his tireless work in the metro – Atlanta community. The Keith Brooking Foundation has quickly become famous through it’s Locker 56 program, a program designed to provide athletic shoes to children who cannot afford them. The program promotes good physical and mental health and improved fitness by encouraging children to keep their bodies active. Locker 56 has awarded over 1500 pairs of shoes since the program was funded, and continues to grow in reach.

“Keith’s involvement in his foundation is almost daily, even during football season. It’s well deserved recognition for a man who puts his community ahead of himself,” said Miranda Graham, Executive Director of the Keith Brooking Children's Foundation. She added, “We are encouraging the community to vote for Keith online as often as possible. Winning the award not only draws attention to Keith’s mission of helping our area foster children, but it also would award his Foundation a $25,000 donation to help support our children’s programs. That could make a big impact in the lives of many children in our community.”

Among over 1600 active roster NFL players, only 17 are nominated and 8 are chosen as finalists for the Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP program. The eight finalists will receive a $5,000 donation to the charity of their choice and are now in the running to be honored as The Home Depot NFL Neighborhood MVP. The national MVP winner will receive a $25,000 donation to the charity of his choice and will be recognized at an All-Star playground build project during the week leading up to Super Bowl XLIII.

The winner is determined by public vote, and a person can vote as often as they’d like. If you all can rally your network to vote, we can see to it that Keith is recognized for the work he does virtually every day in our community. All votes must be cast by December 31, 2008.

Vote: http://www.nfl.com/partner?partnerType=neighborhood-mvp
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Newnan Based CeloNova BioSciences Receives FDA Market Approval

/PRNewswire/ -- CeloNova BioSciences, Inc., announced December 16 that it has received 510(k) marketing clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for Embozene(TM) Color-Advanced Microspheres which are indicated for the treatment of hypervascularized tumors (tumors with a large number of blood vessels in many locations) and arteriovenous malformations (defects in the circulatory system). U.S. commercial sales of Embozene(TM) Microspheres will begin immediately.

Embozene(TM) Microspheres are the first and only microspheres to be color- enhanced with a different color for each size for increased procedural safety, efficiency and visibility. They are also available in a wider range of sizes than any other spherical embolic on the market. They are available in 40 micrometers, 100 micrometers, 250 micrometers, 400 micrometers, 500 micrometers, 700 micrometers, and 900 micrometers sizes in 1 ml and 2 ml pre-filled syringes and vials. CeloNova plans to submit a supplemental 510(k) to the FDA to add three additional sizes, 75 micrometers, 1100 micrometers and 1300 micrometers, for a total of ten sizes including the smallest and the largest microspheres available for endovascular therapy. CeloNova is the only Company that provides this complete range of products.

CeloNova's Embozene(TM) Microspheres consist of a hydrogel core and an exterior shell made from Polyzene(R)-F, CeloNova's proprietary polymer which is known to be anti-inflammatory and bacterial-resistant. Four design features distinguish Embozene(TM) Microspheres from other spherical embolics: biocompatibility, precise calibration, stable suspension, and structural stability. Embozene(TM) Microspheres are precisely calibrated, they retain their shape after passing through a catheter, and they can stay in suspension for an extended time. The unique color enhancement of the microspheres and finely calibrated sizes make selection easy, efficient, and precise for the operator. The result is an embolic microsphere that provides accurate and complete vessel occlusion.

Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to control or prevent abnormal bleeding, to shrink tumors by blocking the blood vessels that supply them, and to block off blood vessel malformations. Physicians use enhanced imaging techniques to visualize the blood vessel, then insert and advance a catheter to the treatment site. The embolic agent is then released into the catheter and positioned within the blood vessel or malformation to block the target vessel permanently.

"Embozene Microspheres are an innovative advance in embolic technology that has been well received outside the U.S.," said John C. Lipman, MD, FSIR, Founder and CEO of the Atlanta Interventional Institute and Director of the Center for Image-Guided Medicine at Emory-Adventist Hospital Atlanta. "Intuitively, a polymer that is anti-inflammatory and that provides more finely calibrated bead sizes, shape integrity, prolonged suspension, and has a unique color-coded selection system that makes for more efficient procedures, will appeal to physicians as well as patients. Embozene(TM) Microspheres maintain suspension better than any other embolic I've seen," said Dr. Lipman. "I'm looking forward to using this therapy in my practice."

"From the outset, we took a different approach to developing our Embozene(TM) Microspheres by asking physicians and medical scientists for the qualities and characteristics that the ideal embolic device should have," said Thomas A. Gordy, President and Chief Executive Officer, CeloNova BioSciences, Inc. "Then, we engineered Embozene(TM) Microspheres to have those properties, which are made even better with Polyzene(R)-F, our proprietary polymer. Polyzene(R)-F helps make our leading-edge technology better."

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Two Road Closures

Two Road Closures were approved by the Coweta County Commission at the December 4 meeting.

1 – Shaw Road will be closed December 8-11, weather permitting. This is part of the Raymond Hill/Major/Shaw/Fischer Road improvement. This will allow the connection of Shaw Road to its new intersection with Major Road. Detours include Pete’s Road to Palmetto Tyrone Road. At the same time, the Major Road traffic will be directed to the new location. This move will require the intersection of Fischer and Raymond Hill/Major to become a 4-way stop until the new signal is installed.

2 – Bill Estes Road in southeast Coweta County will be closed December 8-11 for a cross drain replacement

UPDATE:

Because the weather forecast calls for rain on Wednesday and Thursday of next week, we have received permission to close Shaw Road tomorrow, Saturday, December 6 through Tuesday, December 9 instead of as originally scheduled for Monday the 8th. It will still be closed for 4 days as planned, weather permitting. If the timeframe has to be extended beyond the 9th, we will notify you of the change.

Confirmed Rabies Case in Newnan

According to the city of Newnan animal warden, Cyndi Hoffman, there was a confirmed case of rabies in the city. There were no humans affected with the disease.

On Wednesday, December 5th, a resident reported a raccoon in her yard was acting strangely. Officer Hoffman went out to the resident off Pitts Street. The raccoon was then caught on a restraining pole and humanely euthanized. The body was sent to the lab where results came back positive for rabies.

Residents are urged to always keep family pets updated on vaccinations. Call your vetnarian as soon as possible to schedule an appointment.

“These vaccinations are critical to your families’ and pets’ well- being,” said Officer Hoffman. People do not realize the long and intense treatments needed for humans if bitten by a rabid animal and symptoms occur it is too late. Rabies has a 99% rate fatality for humans and animals,” continued Officer Hoffman.

Officer Hoffman wanted to remind everyone there is a leash law (4-41) and a vaccination law (4-44) in the city of Newnan. Citations will be issued if caught breaking these laws. If you need to review these ordinances please log onto www.ci.newnan.ga.us

Symptoms of Rabies for animals and humans

Symptoms usually develop between 20 and 60 days after exposure. Rabid animals may become aggressive, combative, and highly sensitive to touch and other kinds of stimulation. And they can be vicious. This is the "furious" form of rabies, the kind traditionally associated with mad dogs.
There is also a "dumb" form of the disease in which the animal is lethargic, weak in one or more limbs, and unable to raise its head or make sounds because its throat and neck muscles are paralyzed. In both kinds of animal rabies, death occurs a few days after symptoms appear, usually from respiratory failure.

Rabies infection in humans begins with symptoms such as fever, cough, or sore throat followed in several days by more serious and rapidly progressing symptoms such as restlessness, hallucinations and seizures. The final stage is coma and death.

Tips Residents for rabies prevention

Avoid wildlife.
Vaccinate your pets.
Do not approach any animal unknown to you or your family.
Secure trash in garbage cans with tight fitting lids.
Feed and water your pets inside your home to avoid attracting wild animals.

For city of Newnan residents to report animal related issues, please call animal control at 770-254-2355.
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Transition Fair for Fayette and Coweta County Students with Disabilities January 13

The transition from adolescence to adulthood is a time of anticipation, excitement, confusion and anxiety for students of all backgrounds and abilities. These emotions are often amplified for families of students with disabilities.

Special education students and their families sometimes face challenges in identifying resources in the community that can help them meet their needs and achieve their goals after graduation. That is why the Fayette County School System’s Exceptional Children’s Department and Exceptional Ops are hosting a Transition Fair called Building Alliances at McIntosh High on January 13 from 7-9 p.m.

Admission to the fair is free and open to students with disabilities and their families from both Coweta and Fayette counties.

The purpose of the fair is to provide information about services that are available in the community. Coweta and Fayette organizations that provide services for students with disabilities, whether they are still in school or transitioning out, will be on hand to discuss the assistance they offer and how they can help meet the various needs of disabled students and adults. Support and advocacy groups, employment preparation, vocational rehabilitation, supported living agencies, tutoring and recreation are a few examples of the services that will be exhibited.

All attendees will receive a booklet listing service providers in the area. For more information about the fair, contact the Fayette County School System’s Exceptional Children’s Department, 770-460-1309.

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Coweta Business Woman Celebrates 20 Years

In 1988 long-time Coweta resident Sharon Massengale had a dream. 22 years old and a recent graduate of Carroll Tech as a Master Cosmetologist, she envisioned herself running her own business. Engaged to marry another seasoned Coweta resident, Ricky Ragan, he encouraged Sharon to turn her dream into a reality. With additional support from her mother, Martha Massengale Tinsley and Sharon’s new step-dad, William Tinsley, she took the plunge. In early October of ’88 Sharon opened her own beauty salon. Two weeks later she married Ricky and became Sharon Ragan, owner and operator of The Upper Cut in Sharpsburg.

Sharon and her family had lived in Coweta County, Sharpsburg to be exact, since the age of four. Growing up active in the community, Sharon became captain of the East Coweta Cheerleading Team and ultimately 1984 ECHS Homecoming Queen. After graduation, she attended West Georgia College but was unsure what her future held. One thing she thoroughly enjoyed was doing her dorm mates’ hairdos. After a few years of that, her mom and friends encouraged her to become a Master Cosmetologist; Sharon took their advice and transferred to Carroll Tech.

The Upper Cut was originally located in her hometown of Sharpsburg for almost five years before moving to Turin. Sharon then stayed in Turin for ten years. In 2003 she decided to relocate to Sharpsburg at the newly constructed strip mall, Plaza 154 on Highway 154. Many employees have helped The Upper Cut to be successful: some of her member design team are Master Cosmetologists Kimberly Worley, Deborah Carabetta, Marsha Morris, and Master Barber Doc. Karlee Sargent is an assistant who is currently attending cosmetology school and plans to work at The Upper Cut upon graduation. High school student Kara Somerville serves as receptionist when not in school at Northgate. Sharon’s Administrative and Personal Assistant is hard-working Heather Rainey.


Sharon’s daughters are following in mom’s footsteps, both attending East Coweta High School. Lauren is a senior and ECHS cheerleader, and Lindsey, a sophomore, is captain of her cheerleading squad. The entire family is active at nearby Crossroads Church. Congratulations to Sharon Ragan, one of Coweta County’s successful female entrepreneurs!



by Glo Hahn Tinsley

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Southeastern Ballet Company To Perform at Ashley park, Nov. 29 and 30

Southeastern Ballet Company (SBC), principal dancers and soloists will perform highlights from its upcoming production, Le Petit Nutcracker Sweet, along with guest students from Classical Dance Theatre (CDT), at the Tree Lighting festivities at Ashley Park in Newnan on Saturday, November 29. SBC and CDT dancers will take the outdoor stage between 5:00 and 6:00 p.m. that evening.

On Sunday, November 30, SBC and CDT dancers will perform excerpts from Le Petit Nutcracker Sweet at Barnes and Noble bookstore, also in Ashley Park. Show times are 3:00, 4:00, and 5:00 p.m. In addition, Barnes and Noble will be hosting a bookfair to benefit SBC, a non-profit professional dance company, based in Newnan. Barnes and Noble customers making purchases that weekend can support the work of SBC in the community by printing out and using one of the attached vouchers or by mentioning voucher # 393876 to the cashier upon checkout. Customers can use this voucher number between November 29 and December 5 at any Barnes and Noble in the U.S. to help support SBC’s artistic work.

SBC volunteers and costumed dancers will also be providing complimentary holiday gift-wrapping at the Newnan Barnes and Noble store during the November 29th and 30th weekend from 12:00 noon until 9:00 p.m. on Saturday and from 12:00 noon until 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

SBC will host performances of its entire production of Le Petit Nutcracker Sweet on Saturday, December 6 and 13. Show times are 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. both days. SBC principal dancers and soloists, along with Classical Dance Theatre student dancers, will enchant and delight audiences in this sweet treat of a performance to be held at the Classical Dance Theatre studio at 1065 Sullivan Road in Newnan. Seating is limited, so $8 tickets should be purchased well in advance at the CDT studio. For more information, call 770-252-5515 or visit www.southeasternballetcompany.org and www.classicaldancetheatre.com.
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Nominate a "Citizen of the Year" for Coweta County

On January 15, 2009, Coweta County will honor its next Citizen of the Year, and the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce wants your nominations by Friday, December 19. Nomination forms are available through the Chamber.

"The Citizen of the Year Award was established by the Chamber in 1992 to recognize individuals with outstanding leadership and citizenship within the community," said Willie Boyd, community volunteer, Chamber board member and Citizen of the Year in 2006. "These are people who demonstrate exemplary vision, civic pride and a strong commitment to a better Coweta County."

Nominees must be residents of Coweta County and must focus their efforts in the county and surrounding area.

To learn more about the Citizen of the Year Award, contact Willie Boyd, 770-251-7658 or WBoyd10132@aol.com, or contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270 or info@newnancowetachamber.org.

With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta's citizens. As the county's largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all
business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.

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Main Street Newnan Releases 2008 Christmas Ornament

Main Street Newnan has released the first Christmas Ornament in their new series just in time for Holiday Open House on November 9th. The three dimensional, pewter ornament will replace the Christmas balls that were produced in series I. The 2008 ornament features the Carnegie Library in observance of the city of Newnan’s ongoing renovation project scheduled to be completed in 2009. The back of the ornament features the history of the Carnegie Library.

“We have had a very positive response from everyone that has seen these ornaments!”, says Linda Kee, Director of Business Development. “After fifteen years it was time to start a new series. We had sold out of many of the old ones so people could no longer get a complete set. This set will feature a different landmark each year and will make an excellent collector’s item as well as great gifts. We will never make more than 1,000 so get them quick!”

The ornament will be available in many of the downtown stores including Scott’s Bookstore, Morgan’s Jewelers and R.S. Mann Jewelers. The ornament will sell for $10.00 and each comes in its own presentation case. The remaining series I ornaments are available at the Main Street Office. Contact Ashley Chalker at achalker@cityofnewnan.org for more information and availability.
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Construction Underway on First Model Home at The Park at Heritage Ridge

PEC Development is pleased to announce that construction has begun on the first model home at The Park at Heritage Ridge. Located in historic Newnan, the 241-home community is the final neighborhood located in the successful Heritage Ridge master-planned community. Upon completion, the community will feature two model homes showcasing the Willow and Juniper floorplans. Drywall is currently going up in the Willow model home and the home is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Homes at The Park at Heritage Ridge are affordably priced from the mid $100,000s.

The two-story Willow model will consist of four bedrooms with two and one-half bathrooms, and will offer approximately 2,217 square feet of living space. The spacious interiors include a gourmet kitchen, master suite with sitting area and large walk-in-closet and a two-story foyer. Additional features include a two-car garage and a large covered front porch.

At The Park at Heritage Ridge residents enjoy the outdoors as much as the indoors with an array of amazing amenities. The extensive amenity package is already complete and includes a 9,500-square-foot clubhouse with large game room and billiards, exercise and fitness room, a large swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, bocce ball court and a large playground. In keeping with its name, The Park at Heritage Ridge also offers several beautifully landscaped parks.

The Park at Heritage Ridge is centrally located to employment centers, shopping and entertainment venues, educational and recreational resources and offers easy access to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

To visit The Park at Heritage Ridge, take I-85 South to Exit 47 (Newnan). Go left (east) on Ga. Hwy. 34 for one mile. Turn right onto Shenandoah Boulevard and go approximately one and a half miles. Turn left onto Lower Fayetteville Road and go approximately one mile, Heritage Ridge is on the left. The sales gallery is located at 6 Bayview Drive in Newnan. The sales office hours are Monday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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Four Coweta Dancers in GA Youth Ballet's Performance of Nutcracker

Shows run from December 12-14 at Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone.

According to Mary Caroline Moore of the Georgia Youth Ballet, there will be four Coweta County dancers in this year's four performances of the famed Nutcracker. Her daugher, Emily Moore, who has performed in many of the GYB's productions during the past several years, has graduated and is now dancing in college! But her sister, Ann Moore, is still here and she will be one of the Nutcracker performers, dancing as a sheep in the Court of the Sugar Plum Fairy in all four of the shows. Ann lives in Newnan.

Emily Ward of Senoia will be dancing as the Dream Fairy in two of the shows, and as the lead Russian in the other two shows. Olivia Jenkins from Sharpsburg will be the shepherdess in two shows, and the Arabian in two shows. The fourth Cowetan, Raegan Barnhill of Sharpsburg, who is a former GYB student and now is one of the teachers, will be a dancer in the Snow and Flowers scene. According to Moore, this is the first time a teacher has ever been one of the performers in the Ballet corps.

All four of the shows will be held at Patriot Hall in Sandy Creek High School. The first show will be Family Night on Friday, December 12 at 7:30 PM. Tickets for this show are $8. The other three shows will be on Saturday December 13 at 2:30 PM and 8:00 PM, and on Sunday, December 14 at 2:30 PM. The ticket prices for these shows will be $15 for adults and $12 for students (and also senior citizens).

Information on the Georgia Youth Ballet is available on their website http://www.gyb.us

Sandy Creek High School is located at 360 Jenkins Road in Tyrone in Fayette County.

By Forrest Schultz

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Circuit City Stores, Inc. Provides Update on Liquidity and Announces Store Closing Plan

CC Note: 19 Circuit City Stores are slated for closing due to the economy. Store locations include several around the metro Atlanta area and Newnan.

/PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Circuit City Stores, Inc. (NYSE:CC) today provided an update on its liquidity position and its previously announced ongoing comprehensive business review. Due in part to its deteriorating liquidity position and the continued weak macroeconomic environment, the company has decided to take certain restructuring actions immediately, including closing 155 domestic segment stores, reducing future store openings and aggressively renegotiating certain leases. The company also is considering all available options and alternatives to restructure its business.

Business and Liquidity Update

Over the past several weeks, a number of factors have impacted severely the company's liquidity position. These factors include the following:

-- Waning consumer confidence and a significantly weakened retail environment have impacted negatively the company's sales and gross profit margin rate to a greater degree than management had anticipated previously.

-- Following the company's second quarter results announcement, the company's liquidity position and the sharply worsened overall economic environment led some of Circuit City's vendors to take restrictive actions with respect to payment terms and the credit they make available to the company. Additionally, the recent disruption in the financial markets has contributed to certain of the company's vendors experiencing insurmountable challenges with obtaining credit insurance for the company's purchases. As a result of this and other considerations, certain of the company's vendors have set more restrictive payment terms than in previous quarters, including in some cases requiring payment before shipment. Vendors also have limited the credit available to the company for purchases, including in some cases not providing customary increases in credit lines for holiday purchases. While management is working diligently to secure the support of its vendors and believes it has maintained good relationships with these important partners, the current mix of terms and credit availability is becoming unmanageable for the company.

-- To date, the company has been unable to collect an income tax refund of approximately $80 million that the company believes it is owed from the federal government.

-- Due primarily to the weakened economic environment and its potential impact on the timing of sales of the company's inventory and costs and expenses associated with such sales, a recent third-party appraisal conducted for the company's asset-based credit facility resulted in a reduction of the estimated net orderly liquidation value of the company's inventory. This valuation adjustment was made despite the mix of merchandise remaining consistent with the previous appraisal in November 2007. This reduction has led to a lower borrowing base and reduced availability for the current period compared with what the company had expected previously.

James A. Marcum, vice chairman and acting president and chief executive officer of Circuit City Stores, Inc. said, "Since late September, unprecedented events have occurred in the financial and consumer markets causing macroeconomic trends to worsen sharply. The weakened environment has resulted in a slowdown of consumer spending, further impacting our business as well as the business of our vendors. The combination of these trends has strained severely our working capital and liquidity, and so we are making a number of difficult, but necessary, decisions to address the company's financial situation as quickly as possible."

Domestic Segment Real Estate Actions

As a result of the company's ongoing asset productivity assessment and working capital situation, the company has determined to take the following initial actions with respect to its domestic segment real estate portfolio and strategy:

-- Close 155 stores and exit certain markets: Circuit City plans to close 155 stores that are underperforming or are no longer a strategic fit for the company. The stores identified for closure are located in 55 U.S. media markets, of which Circuit City will exit 12 U.S. media markets.

The list of closing stores can be found by visiting the company's investor information home page at http://investor.circuitcity.com/ and clicking the link regarding today's announcements. The company expects that impacted stores will not open on Tuesday, November 4, and the store closing sales will begin on Wednesday, November 5. The company expects the sales to be completed no later than calendar year end.

For fiscal 2008, the stores that are being closed generated in total approximately $1.4 billion in net sales. When results were viewed at the individual comparable store level, the closing stores, as compared to the stores remaining open, on average had lower net sales, a lower close rate and a lower gross profit margin rate. The stores, on average, were also unprofitable when marketing expenses were allocated to the individual store-level results.

Circuit City will continue to honor its customer commitments and serve its guests through 566 stores in 153 U.S. media markets, via its Web site at www.circuitcity.com and via phone at 1-800-THE-CITY (1-800-843-2489). During this transitional period, Circuit City is executing a plan to minimize disruption to the operations of stores that are remaining open. No international segment stores are closing as a result of the real estate plans announced today.

-- Further reduce new store openings: The company has revised its store opening plans for the current fiscal year and will not open at least 10 locations that were previously expected to be opened. The company still expects to open up to two incremental stores during the remainder of fiscal 2009. As previously announced, other than existing commitments, management intends to suspend store openings beginning in fiscal 2010.

-- Renegotiate certain existing leases: Circuit City intends to begin immediately renegotiating certain of its existing leases with the goal of significantly lowering rents. In some cases, the company may choose to negotiate with landlords to exit leases if rents are not reduced. The company also plans to work with landlords to terminate the leases for the stores included in today's closing announcement, as well as leases for a number of inactive locations that were closed previously and for the locations that are no longer being opened.

As a result of the store closures, Circuit City expects to reduce store operating, payroll and marketing expenses. The store closures will result in a reduction of approximately 17 percent of the domestic segment workforce. The company also expects to incur charges in fiscal 2009 associated with the above real estate actions. The company is currently evaluating the benefits and expenses associated with these changes, which are subject to the outcome of negotiations and store closure agreements. Presentation on the financial statements is currently being evaluated for accounting treatment.

"We deeply regret the impact today's announcement will have on our associates, our guests and the communities where these stores are located. We truly are grateful to each of our associates for their many contributions to the company. We are also grateful for the loyalty and support we have received from our guests in the impacted communities. Circuit City will continue to serve guests through 566 stores in 153 U.S. media markets, via its Web site at www.circuitcity.com and via phone at 1-800-THE-CITY (1-800-843-2489)," concluded Marcum.

Evaluating All Options

As a result of unfavorable macroeconomic conditions and the company's deteriorating liquidity position, the company is considering all available options and alternatives for the business. Consistent with this evaluation, the company will continue to take appropriate actions to conserve cash, reduce expenses and improve liquidity. In addition, the company is continuing to evaluate additional near-term cost reduction initiatives that may be necessary to address its financial condition. The company is also in negotiations with its lenders and other third parties regarding various financing alternatives.

The company plans to operate its business without interruption while it engages in discussions with its lenders and works with advisors to determine the most appropriate restructuring alternatives. The company can make no assurance that the discussions will result in any agreements or transactions.

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Greison Trail

“The City of Newnan is delighted to announce the new roundabout located at Greison Trail will reopen for traffic tonight at 6 PM. The sidewalks are left to be back filled but this will not affect traffic,” said Cleatus Phillips, Community Development Director. The city would like to thank everyone for being patient with this project and think it is well worth the wait in the end.” There is beautiful landscaping in the middle of the roundabout everyone can enjoy.

Chamber Announces Leadership Coweta Class of 2008-09

Twenty-two citizens of Coweta County have begun a seven-month course of study as part of Leadership Coweta, a community leadership development program offered by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce.

The Class of 2008-09 includes: Tom Barron, Lindsey's Inc. Realtors; Caryn Broome, Cambridge House Enrichment Center; Jeff Burgess, Coweta County Schools; Will Conoly, Bank of Coweta; Brian Davis, PAPP Clinic; Josh Evans, Town of Moreland; Joseph Hajducko, West Central Technical College; Holbert Hale, Jr. (Dunk), Diamotec; Sharon Hazel, Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity; Kelly Hines, Piedmont Newnan Hospital; Pamela Johnson, BB&T; Amy
Matistic, Summit Healthplex Pharmacy; Leslie Merriman, Newnan-Coweta Habitat for Humanity; Nathan Nipper, Piedmont Newnan Hospital; John Proffitt, J3Development; Amy Riley, The Heritage School; Joni Scarbrough, Newnan Utilities; Owen Searcy, Georgia Power Company; Amanda Sexton, Coweta County Schools; Sarah Shirley, Canongate Golf Clubs; Connie J. Singleton, McKoon Funeral Home; and Chris Smith, Southern Company.

The Leadership Coweta experience begins with an annual one-day retreat. Over the course of the program, participants examine virtually all aspects of life in our County, including education, healthcare, regional leadership, community, economic conditions, growth, daily life, infrastructure, community safety and local government. The curriculum is tied closely to the work of the Chamber-led Vision 2020 community visioning process.

"Leadership Coweta was a great experience for me, and I'm delighted at the level of interest and engagement that continues for this program," said Dee Dee Bogolin, Personal Lines Producer at J. Smith Lanier & Co. and chairperson of the Leadership Coweta program. "With every class,
participants bring a wide variety of experiences and perspectives about our County, so there's always something new to learn and to consider, both from the presenters and from fellow classmates."

The Chamber will begin accepting applications for the 2009-10 class next summer. To learn more about Leadership Coweta or other leadership programs at the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce, contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270 or email valerie@newnancowetachamber.org.

About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta's citizens. As the county's largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all
business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.

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Only One Week Remains to Vote for Line Creek!

Your vote online can direct $5,000 for new trail signs and trail maintenance at the Line Creek Nature Area!

Line Creek is a 70 acre hidden treasure on the border of Fayette and Coweta Counties that offers something for everyone who loves the outdoors: a fishing dock over a placid pond . . . a picnic gazebo . . . both easy and challenging hiking trails that lead you through a majestic hardwood forest, over rock outcroppings, and down to rushing Line Creek . . . see the historic Mule Rock carving and ruins of an old stone bridge . . .

The Line Creek trails project is one of 20 finalists chosen from 70 applicants across the nation to be featured in the "Save the Trails" online contest sponsored by the American Hiking Society and Nature Valley granola bars.

Vote for Line Creek at www.wheresyours.com/SaveTheTrailsVote.aspx. (It's 2/3 of the way down the page.)

You can help improve this popular nature preserve without spending a dime and make Line Creek an even better place to visit!

The deadline to vote is Friday, October 31st.The Line Creek preserve is located on Hwy 54 on the border of Fayette and Coweta County.

Make a lasting difference in your own community -- vote for Line Creek Nature Area today!

www.wheresyours.com/SaveTheTrailsVote.aspx

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Dan Camp of Cousins Properties, Inc, Featured Speaker at Chamber's Early Bird Forum

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce will feature Dan Camp, Vice President of Development at Cousins Properties, Inc., at its upcoming Prosperity Happens Here Series Early Bird Forum on Tuesday, October 28 at 7:45 a.m. at the Central Educational Center.

The Thomas Enterprises/Ashley Park is the Forum sponsor and Kristy Pruitt-Hardage,
March of Dimes, is the Forum emcee. Admittance to the Forum is $15 for
Chamber members and $20 for nonmembers and includes breakfast. There is a
networking time from 7 - 7:45am and the program is from 7:45-9am.

The Coweta residential development of Blalock Lakes, designed by Cousins
Properties, illustrates a fast-growing trend of "new ruralism" in the United
States. With 399 home sites on 3,000 acres, nestled around 180 acres of
lakes, Blalock Lakes emphasizes its natural setting, wildlife conservation
and a back-to-nature-style retreat community. Instead of swimming and
tennis, residents enjoy canoeing, clay-shooting, quail hunting, hiking and
horseback riding. One of the first developments of its kind in the region,
Blalock Lakes is a 2008 Chamber Prosperity Award winner.

The Early Bird Forum is a monthly Chamber event that provides networking
opportunities and eye-opening information from business leaders throughout
Coweta County. To RSVP, contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270 or
info@newnancowetachamber.org. The deadline to make a reservation is Monday,
October 27 by 3pm.

About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta
Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to
increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta's citizens. As the county's
largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business
leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all
business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.

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Update on the Historic Courthouse

Just wanted to give you all an update on the work at the historic courthouse -

The general contractor, Headley Construction has begun work. The next outwardly visible part of the work will be the removal of the oak trees. White Meadows Tree Service, a subcontractor to Estes Landscaping and Headley Construction, will begin as early as Monday morning next week (October 27.) Work is projected to take much of the week and to occur during normal business hours. The next week (November 3) a 6 foot construction fence will go up to protect the construction site.

If you remember, the older oak trees were evaluated by four different arborists and the results were unanimous. The trees present a health and safety concern. One of the trees has already been removed because it was an immediate safety concern after its condition was discovered. The rest of the largest oak trees are nearing the end of their natural life and are affecting the structural integrity of the sidewalk and the wall – but most importantly, several of them are dangerous to people and property. The arborists’ reports all contained concern about the large trees. There are places with decay, limited structural integrity and weak spots. According to the arborists’ reports, these trees will only continue to deteriorate and be a danger to citizens, vehicles and the courthouse. In addition, these trees are not in a healthy growing condition, due to their location. They have physical limitations and reduced growing areas.

The plan is to replace all the large water oak trees with other specimens, which are more tolerant to physical restrictions and the urban environment. By replacing them all at the same time, the growth will be the same and will enhance the court square instead of detracting from it. Three of the four magnolia trees would remain as part of this plan, although their growth has been affected by the water oaks and it will take some time and pruning to insure they grow healthy and beautiful. One of the magnolias was damaged when a large limb blew off one of the oaks.

The magnolia and the oaks will all be replaced in the new plan. The oaks will be replaced with trees in the 8-10 inch diameter range.

I appreciate your help in spreading the word about the changes at the courthouse. It will certainly look different next week.

Have a great weekend -

Patricia Palmer, APR
Public Information Officer
Coweta County Government

Road Closure CHANGE - Coweta County

The intersection of Raymond Hill Road and Fischer Rd will be closed the weekend of November 1 and 2 INSTEAD OF October 25 and 26 as previously planned. Inclement weather changed the plans. Details remain the same - the closure will begin Saturday morning and end by Sunday evening, pending other inclement weather. This closure is part of the improvement project for that intersection. The work done will include the cutting down of some dirt on Raymond Hill Road to improve line of sight and raising the level of Fischer Road. Traffic on Fischer Road will continue to flow north and south, but no turns can be made onto Raymond Hill Road. Raymond Hill Road will be closed to traffic just before the intersection and traffic will be routed back toward Hwy. 154

Army Ground Forces Jazz Guardians Perform Big Band Music December 6th

The Centre for Performing and Visual Arts of Coweta County has during the past four years hosted several concerts by bands from our armed forces. On December 6 at 7 PM an Army Ground Forces group from Fort McPherson called the Jazz Guardians will be at the Centre performing big band holiday music. The concert is free.

The Army Ground Forces website provides this information about their jazz band:

The Jazz Guardians is an 18-member group whose primary mission is to maintain and promote Jazz, a uniquely American art form. The Jazz Guardians pay tribute to the big bands of yesterday by performing the music made popular by such greats as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller, and Woody Herman. Demonstrating their great versatility, the group also performs the latest and most innovative sounds of today's most popular composers.

The Jazz Guardians have been featured at numerous jazz festivals around the United States, performing with such notable artists as Louis Bellson, Cab Calloway, Bill Watrous, Conrad Herwig and Jamey Abersold.

Equally comfortable in live performance or the studio, the group recently finished recording its second compact disc, appropriately titled The Jazz Guardians.

Given their broad talents and diverse repertoire, the Jazz Guardians offer concerts that will be sure to entertain any audience.

By Forrest W. Schultz

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Coweta Files Suit Over Faulty Water Pipes

Coweta County and the Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority joined in filing suit today in Fulton County State Court against Shell Oil Company and others for negligence, breach of contract, product liability, fraud, and violations of the Georgia Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act over the misrepresentation, marketing and sale of Blu-Max pipe, which uses a polybutylene resin manufactured by Shell. Coweta County and the Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority are seeking at least $25 million in compensatory damages, in addition to treble damages provided by the RICO Act, attorneys’ fees, costs, and punitive damages.

“The Commissioners and the Authority Board are doing all we can to protect the customers of our water system. The performance of this pipe has been an utter failure for Coweta County and we have spent enough of our rate payers’ money to try and solve it,” said Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority board chair Neal Shepard.

These pipes were touted as easy to install, resistant to corrosion and deterioration, tougher than metal, flexible without cracks or kinks and having a useful life of 50 years or more. Shell has been sued dozens of times across the country over misrepresentations related to the properties of pipe containing polybutylene resins, and has since ceased manufacturing the resins.

The pipes were installed in Coweta County in the 1980s and 1990s, and were used for service lines that run from the water main to the customer’s meter. The pipes were installed during a period of great growth for the water department. From 1987-1997 water customers grew from about 1,000 to about 14,000.

“The county authorized the use of these pipes based on the information we received from Shell, the extruders who manufactured the pipe, the suppliers who sold the pipe, and industry leaders such as the American Water Works Association (AWWA),” said Theron Gay, Coweta County Administrator. “We were never told of any performance issues with this product – never told that our resource, our product, might be soaking into the ground.”

The Coweta County Water and Sewer Authority operated as a county department until April 2007 when it transitioned to a full authority.

Between 2005 and 2006, Coweta County experienced a dramatic change in water loss.
In 2005 the Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority documented a 10.84 % water

“loss” – meaning that was the difference between the water that was piped out and the water that was accounted for in customers’ meters. This was a reasonable amount because the industry standard is 15-18%.

In 2006, the water loss increased dramatically to 37.87% and in 2007, it increased again to 48.13%. Given the extreme level of loss and the drought that Coweta and Georgia were experiencing, the Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority began an aggressive effort to identify and repair leaks to lessen water loss.

“The more we repair, the more failures we find,” said Ellis Cadenhead, general manager, Coweta County Water and Sewerage Authority. “Of our 24,500 customers, we expect as many as 15,000 of those to have been affected by this defective product.”

“We have spent countless man hours and millions of dollars repairing and replacing these pipes. With the challenges we face in water conservation today and our responsibility to our rate payers, this suit was the right thing to do,” said Shepard.

The Water and Sewerage Authority issued a $27 million bond in 2007, backed by the county. So far about $6 million of this bond has been used to replace the Blu-Max pipe. This amount does not include the costs incurred in years past when the pipe failed and was replaced as a matter of course. It also does not include the value of the product that was lost as a result of this defective product.

The County and the Water and Sewerage Authority are asking that the trial be held with a jury in Fulton County State Court.
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PEC Development Selects Piedmont Residential to Build The Park at Heritage Ridge

PEC Development has tapped Piedmont Residential to build the homes in The Park at Heritage Ridge, one of Newnan’s newest communities.

“With its focus on first-time buyers, Piedmont Residential offers the quality and attention to detail while building affordable homes,” said Paul Corley, Chief Executive Officer of PEC Development Group. “They’re a perfect match for building the homes for The Park at Heritage Ridge because they deliver a great deal of value-added for buyers.”

The Park at Heritage Ridge features eight floor plans perfect for first-time buyers and those interested in downsizing without sacrificing quality and convenience. Phase I construction will consist of the first 91 homes; an additional 150 will be built in Phase II. The craftsman-style homes start in the $150,000s. Eight floor plan designs in ranch and two-story styles features exterior elevations of brick, stone and cedar shake. The homes average 2,000 square feet and have gourmet kitchens, two-car garages, three and four bedrooms and fireplaces.

The fabulous amenities are already in place at the community. They include a 9,500-square-foot clubhouse with large game room and billiards, exercise and fitness room, a large swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, a bocce ball court and a large playground.

Founded by Chris Kelly and J.D. Espana, Piedmont Residential and its staff have more than 20 years of home building and development experience. “Part of our philosophy is helping people realize that the dream of home ownership is affordable,” said Kelly. “From the first step of the building process to the day they walk into their new homes, new homeowners can sense a true commitment to our partnership with them.”

Piedmont Residential and its associates have over 20 years of home building and development experience. From the first step of the building process to the day you walk into your new home, we will work with you to ensure your complete satisfaction. We focus our efforts and attention on the things that are important to you, because we understand that you are the most important member of our team.

A local company grounded in Christian faith and values, Piedmont Residential was founded by Chris Kelly and J.D. España. They thrive on creating strong relationships with their clients - partnerships based on integrity, honesty and accountability. Piedmont Residential takes pride in being faithful stewards of each client’s trust while helping them enrich their lives and their community.

The Park at Heritage Ridge is centrally located to many businesses, educational and recreational resources and offers easy access to Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. To visit The Park at Heritage Ridge, take I-85 South to Exit 47 (Newnan). Go left (east) on Ga. Hwy. 34 for one mile. Turn right onto Shenandoah Boulevard and go approximately one and a half miles. Turn left onto Lower Fayetteville Road and go approximately one mile, Heritage Ridge is on the left.

The sales gallery is located at 6 Bayview Drive in Newnan. The sales office hours are Monday through Saturday 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
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Line Creek Nature Area is Finalist for Save the Trails™ Funding

Southern Conservation Trust invites local residents to vote at www.wheresyours.com before October 31st.

Southern Conservation Trust is pleased to announce that the Line Creek Nature Area is among 20 finalists in a competition for Save the Trails™ funding through Nature Valley® and the American Hiking Society. Line Creek was selected from a competitive pool of 160 trail projects located throughout the nation.

“We’re honored to be a finalist for Save the Trails funding,” said Abby Jordan, the Trust’s Executive Director. “This money would help us improve the trails at Line Creek, our most popular of three preserves the Trust manages. I hope that outdoor enthusiasts will log on to www.wheresyours.com by October 31st and support us with your vote.”

Save the Trails, in cooperation with the National Trails Fund, will award $5,000 to each of the top 10 finalists, based on online votes, to restore and revitalize hiking trails in their communities. Voting is open to the public now through Oct. 31, 2008, at www.wheresyours.com.

“Hiking trails are gateways to nature’s greatest experiences, but they need regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and safety,” said Gregory A. Miller, president of American Hiking Society. “The National Trails Fund is dedicated to preserving America’s hiking trails, and Nature Valley’s generous donation has doubled the size of this year’s fund. All area outdoor enthusiasts will benefit from the funding if Line Creek is selected by online voters.”

Southern Conservation Trust, the only land trust protecting greenspace in the Southern Crescent, applied for the American Hiking Society National Trails Fund earlier this fall to repair hiking trails at the Line Creek Nature Area, located on Hwy 54 between Peachtree City and Newnan. Funds will be used to upgrade the trail surface and install trail signs. More information on the Trust and its preserves may be found at sctlandtrust.org.

Nature Valley launched Save the Trails in June 2008 with a $50,000 contribution to the National Trails Fund. The annual fund’s sole purpose is to preserve our nation’s trails. Save the Trails funding recipients will be announced in April 2009; all funds are to be used towards trail restoration during summer 2009.

“National Trails Fund finalists were selected from a competitive pool, which was a record number topping 160 applications,” said Martin Abrams, Nature Valley marketing. “We’re grateful to be working with the American Hiking Society and truly excited to see how the National Trails Fund is piquing interest in hiking trails in local communities across the country. We are committed to helping make hiking trails enjoyable and accessible while protecting and preserving nature. Support your favorite trail at www.wheresyours.com.”

Since its inception in 1998, the National Trails Fund has granted nearly $340,000 to 89 different trail projects across the United States. Community preservation efforts include land acquisition, constituency building campaigns and a variety of trail work projects. With more than 200,000 miles of trails in the United States, the National Trails Fund is the only national private grants program that helps trail-maintaining organizations build and improve hiking trails and galvanize volunteers to ensure long-term trail sustainability.
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Free Writing Seminar at The Coweta County African American Heritage Museum in Newnan

Wednesday, November 5, 2008 marks the date of a free seminar on writing to get published by Coweta's own Vickie Kennedy and Christina Barber. Both are multi-published authors and editors, and Kennedy is the publisher of eTreasures Publishing.

This seminar will be an introduction for writers who want to be published or to sharpen their skills. More seminars will be scheduled monthly to cover various topics. A list of future topics will be available at the first seminar, as well as a schedule of dates for upcoming classes.

The seminar will be held at the African American Heritage Museum at 92 Farmer Street in Newnan. The Museum Director, Diane Wood, is excited about the seminars being held there. "This will draw attention to the museum, as well as free genealogy tracing for all families in Coweta County," Wood said.

The museum is located in a small house nestled in the woods on Farmer Street, along with a cemetery, and is definitely worth visiting.

Due to limited seating, you must pre-register by calling Vickie Kennedy at 770-683-8416 between 7:00-10:00 PM week nights or 12 noon to 5 PM Saturday and Sunday.

Information of Kennedy's publishing company is available on its website, www.etreasurespublishing.com. Info on her books is available on this website by clicking ENTER, then clicking on "Search by Author", and then clicking on her name. Information on Barber is available on her website www.christinabarber.net.
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The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation Announces its 2009 List of State's 10 'Places in Peril'

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation released today its 2009 list of 10 Places in Peril in the state.

Sites on the list include: the Mary Ray Memorial School in Newnan; the Crum & Forster Building in Atlanta; the Rock House in Thomson; the Campbell Chapel AME Church in Americus; the archaeological remains of Fort Daniel in Buford; Metcalf Township in Thomas County; Battery Backus at Tybee Island; the Sallie Davis House in Milledgeville; the John Berrien House in Savannah; and, Bibb Mill in Columbus.

"This is the Trust's fourth annual Places in Peril list," said Mark C. McDonald, president and CEO of the Trust. "We hope the list will continue to draw attention to a broad range of Georgia's imperiled historic resources by highlighting ten representative sites," McDonald said.

Places in Peril is designed to raise awareness about Georgia's significant historic, archaeological and cultural resources, including buildings, structures, districts, archaeological sites and cultural landscapes that are threatened by demolition, neglect, lack of maintenance, inappropriate development or insensitive public policy.

Through Places in Peril, the Trust will encourage owners and individuals, organizations and communities to employ proven preservation tools, financial resources and partnerships in order to reclaim, restore and revitalize historic properties that are in peril.

This year, the Trust will provide on-site preservation assistance to each of the 2009 Places in Peril through its Partners in the Field program, funded by grants from the National Trust for Historic Preservation and a number of Georgia charitable organizations.

Sites on the Trust's 2008 list, which was announced in November 2007, included: the Meriwether County Jail in Greenville; the A.L. Miller Senior High School for Girls in Macon; the Old Clinton Historic District in Gray; the Spencer House in Columbus; the UGA Marine Institute Greenhouse and Administration Building on Sapelo Island; the Trinity C.M.E. Church in Augusta; the Adam-Strain Building in Darien; the Sunbury Historic Colonial Town Site in Liberty County; the Cockspur Island Lighthouse in Chatham County; and, The Castle in Atlanta. Updates on these sites can be found at www.georgiatrust.org.

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation is one of the country's largest statewide, nonprofit preservation organizations. Committed to preserving and enhancing Georgia's communities and their diverse historic resources for the education and enjoyment of all, The Georgia Trust generates community revitalization by finding buyers for endangered properties acquired by its Revolving Fund; provides design assistance to 102 Georgia Main Street cities and encourages neighborhood revitalization; trains teachers in 63 Georgia school systems to engage students to discover state and national history through their local historic resources; and, advocates for funding, tax incentives and other laws aiding preservation efforts.

The Georgia Trust is a recipient of the Trustees Award for Organizational Excellence from the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Summary Information on each Places in Peril Site

Mary Ray Memorial School, Newnan-Coweta County


Built in 1909, Mary Ray Memorial School served the community of Raymond for educational purposes, public meetings, public worship, and entertainment. By 1950 the school had closed, and the building became the Raymond Community Center. Diminishing interest in the building contributed to its neglect and lack of maintenance.

Recently, a group of concerned citizens installed a new roof, made foundation repairs, and cleared vegetation from the property. The school has been stabilized and is now in need of assessments and a preservation plan to help guide future work.

Crum & Forster Building, Atlanta

Built in 1928 as the southern branch of the Crum and Forster Insurance Company, this office building is a rare example of classically designed architecture in Midtown Atlanta.

The Georgia Tech Foundation purchased the Crum and Forster Building in 2007. In May 2008 the Foundation applied for a Special Administrative Permit to demolish the building.

After several well attended public meetings and the circulation of a petition signed by over 2000 people opposing the building's demolition, Atlanta's Bureau of Planning denied the Georgia Tech Foundation's request. Recently, the Crum and Forster Building was nominated as a local landmark building, which would further protect it from demolition. Both actions currently are under appeal.

Rock House, Thomson

Built in the 1780's, the Rock House is recognized as the oldest surviving stone house in Georgia. The house remained privately owned until 1966, when the Wrightsborough Quaker Community Foundation purchased and restored the house with the intention of using it as a museum.

Now the house is closed, vacant and unstaffed. Located in rural McDuffie County with no occupied houses near it, there is a minimal amount of security. Vandalism and a lack of funding available for maintenance have added to the overall threat to this historic structure.

In December 2007, the Watson-Brown Foundation Junior Board issued an emergency grant for the repair of windows, historic sashes and doors, but the house is still in need of a solid overall preservation plan that addresses use, maintenance and security.

Campbell Chapel AME Church, Americus

Campbell Chapel AME Church has served Americus' oldest black congregation since 1920. This Romanesque Revival Church with Queen Anne style details was designed by Georgia's first registered African American architect Louis H. Presley.

The church's structural integrity is threatened by a lack of maintenance. The twisting and sagging of interior trusses and beams are the result of deteriorated mortar and faulty flashing at the bell tower. Recently the 700-pound bell collapsed from its rotted ceiling members and crashed to the ground floor.

The small, elderly congregation recently raised funds for roof repairs, but the high cost of restoration remains the church's biggest obstacle to preserving their historic church.

Fort Daniel, Buford

Built in the late 18th century, the archaeological site of Fort Daniel was once a frontier fort located on Hog Mountain in Gwinnett County. Archaeologists have unearthed artifacts such as historic pottery, black bottle glass, musket balls, musket flint, wrought nails, and an 18th-century Spanish coin.

The property and its surrounding lots are currently for sale. A developer has already sought a zoning change to allow commercial development, which would destroy this significant archaeological site.

A group of interested parties have formed with the intention of purchasing the archaeological site. With support from the community and at the county level, this group plans to purchase the property and create an archaeological park that would include a museum, lab, and classroom space.

Metcalf Township, Thomas County

Established in the late nineteenth-century, the town of Metcalf was once a center for commerce and trade of agricultural products during the railroad era. The town has many examples of late 18th-century commercial and residential Victorian-era, Romanesque Revival style, and vernacular architecture.

Since the 1920's, Metcalf has endured being unincorporated, the loss of rail transportation and the installation of a large loud lumber operation. Recently it has caught the attention of developers, due to its low cost of land and proximity to Tallahassee.

The possibility of new inappropriate development threatens a town already suffering from neglect, inappropriate infill, lack of building codes that address mobile homes, and no sewer system.

Thomasville Landmarks and the Thomas County Commission have agreed to support any preservation efforts and seek to protect the historic integrity of this small, rural, south Georgia township.

Battery Backus, Tybee Island

Built in 1898 as part of Fort Screven, Battery Backus played a vital role in the U.S.'s coastal defense system, protecting the entrance to the Savannah River against enemy vessels.

Currently Battery Backus is privately owned and threatened with development. Three of the six batteries along Tybee Island are unrecognizable following the construction of private residences on top of the batteries.

The Fort Screven Preservation Organization, The Tybee Island Historical Society, and other groups are working to ensure public access to the batteries; however, development pressure looms over this seaside property.

Sallie Davis House, Milledgeville

The Sallie Davis House is the 1890 home of African-American education pioneer Sallie Ellie Davis, who taught academics as well as life skills to African-American children in Milledgeville. Davis owned the house from 1912 until her death in 1950. The house was continuously used as a residence until 1989, when the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia purchased it. Since then, the house has been vacant and suffering from neglect, weathering and vandalism.

In 2003, a Certified Local Government grant was awarded to the City of Milledgeville for the Sallie Davis House, which funded an assessment and rehabilitation plan. Recently, several involved groups have met to discuss possible future uses of the Sallie Davis House.

John Berrien House, Savannah

The Berrien House is a federal style building in Savannah built circa 1800 for Revolutionary War officer Major John Berrien.

Located on Savannah's main commercial street, the Berrien House has been vacant for more than twenty years as several demolition permits have been sought and denied. Lack of maintenance and failed rehabilitation efforts have left the severely deteriorated building at risk of demolition by neglect.

Historic Savannah Foundation holds a preservation easement on the house and has invested $70,000 in roofing and structural repairs and has established a task force to seek strategies for the rehabilitation of this important building. A mortgage foreclosure has left the house in the ownership of a bank that is currently exploring and evaluating the economic feasibility of the building's rehabilitation.

Bibb Mill, Columbus

During the early 20th-century, Bibb Manufacturing expanded this 1898 mill and developed the surrounding community of Bibb City for its mill workers.

Following the company's bankruptcy in the mid 1990's, Bibb Mill was purchased by a private developer. The current owner has been searching for a way to rehabilitate the mill and has rehabilitated several historic buildings on the site as a conference facility. However, several warehouses have been demolished and last fall the owner received a demolition permit for most of the main mill, a 676,000 square-foot structure.

The owner has met with The National Trust, The Georgia Trust, and other advisors to explore feasible development options and demolition alternatives, but its immense size makes rehabilitation a multi-phase, complicated project.

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Barber Joins Chamber as Membership Director

Lesley Barber has joined the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce as Membership Director, a newly created position. In this role, Barber will be responsible for meeting with businesses throughout Coweta County, promoting the Chamber’s services, and enrolling new Chamber members. She will also help determine the business community’s expectations of and desires for the Chamber and use that information to support ongoing updates and changes in the Chamber’s programs and services to deliver maximum value for its members.

Barber was most recently a Real Estate Consultant with Parks and Mottola, Inc., in Newnan. An Illinois native, Barber moved to the Atlanta area in 1999. She has extensive experience in marketing and business development.

“We are delighted to have Lesley join our team,” said Candace LaForge, Chamber president. “Her experience and her go-getter spirit will be a great addition to our committed staff, and we anticipate that she will make great strides in spreading the benefits of the Chamber to more businesses throughout Coweta County.”

“This position really is a perfect fit for my skills and interests,” said Barber. “I’m passionate about the role of the Chamber in our community and the instrumental role it plays in increasing economic prosperity.”

In addition to her work, Barber also volunteers as a fundraiser and Host Committee chairman for the Atlanta-based Kool Kidz Foundation, which helps to create camps for special-needs children. She and her husband, Shawn, have a three-year-old son, John Austin, and live in Newnan.

To learn more go to the Chamber’s website: www.newnancowetachamber.org, contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270, email at info@newnancowetachamber.org.
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Coweta County Welcomes Nationally Known Economist October 22

The Coweta County Economic Summit is a "must attend" for business owners, business professionals, elected officials, candidates for office, and all citizens interested in the future of Coweta's local economy.

Nationally known economist William H. "Bill" Fruth will conduct Coweta County's first-ever Economic Summit, Wednesday, October 22, 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon, at the Centre for Performing and Visual Arts of Coweta County, 1523 Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan. Coffee, Danishes, and networking will be available at 8:00 a.m. Admission is free.

Bill Fruth is certainly not considered a typical "run-of-the-mill" economist. Unlike many of his colleagues who spend much of their lives in an academic setting, Fruth has mostly "walked the walk" in both the private and public sectors.

After earning his Bachelor and Master degrees from Bowling Green State University in Ohio, Bill Fruth began his economic journey in 1980, when he was elected to serve as the full-time Mayor of Tiffin, Ohio. It was quite a challenge, as manufacturing companies / jobs were leaving town, the nation was in the grip of a deep recession, and the city's economy and finances had
reached crisis level.

Facing the unthinkable, a relatively young Mayor Fruth had no other choice but to become heavily involved in economic and community development, in order to save his city from financial collapse. His hard work and accomplishments drew accolades from across the State, and Fruth was named one of "Five Outstanding Young Men of Ohio" before finishing his term in
office.

Bill Fruth's rise to notoriety in the economic development field soon led him to Palm Beach County, Florida, where he served as president of the Business Development Board. Once again, Fruth earned statewide recognition, and was named Florida Economic Development Professional of the Year in 1987.

It wasn't long before private industry took notice of Bill Fruth's accomplishments. He embraced the opportunity and served as Vice President of a major industrial land development company from 1988-1995. Fruth's responsibilities included directing the development and marketing of a
500-acre corporate park in West Palm Beach, Florida.

In 1996, Bill Fruth founded POLICOM Corporation, an independent economics research firm, located in Palm City, Florida. For the past twelve years, he has specialized in studying the dynamics of local economies, whether they are growing or declining, and what may be causing this to happen.

Fruth has personally evaluated more than 600 economies across the Nation. He has created more than 150 community studies, and since 1998, has provided presentations and workshops for state associations and communities in 32 states.

Bill Fruth is recognized by the Florida Administrative Court as an expert witness regarding local economies. He is the author of Where the Money Is ... America's Strongest Local Economies, along with numerous economic articles for newspapers and trade magazines.

Bill Fruth's presentation style may come as a surprise to those who have suffered through dry, often uninspiring economics lectures. To the contrary, he provides a fast-paced, entertaining, but mostly thought provoking analysis. Fruth's numbers are based on reality, rather than theory, and his purpose is to generate discussion of what makes an economy strong, and what each community must do to improve its economic condition and quality of life.

As a segment of the Coweta County Economic Summit, Fruth will first present examples of some of the strongest and weakest economies in the Nation. He'll then examine Coweta County's own economic strengths and weaknesses, and further compare them to those of Fayette County, Cobb County, Gainesville, GA, Auburn-Opelika, AL, the Atlanta area, and Georgia.

As Bill Fruth explained, "The purpose of this summit goes beyond presenting Coweta's economic strengths and weaknesses. I'd like to encourage discussion of what your community must do to further improve its economy during these difficult times, while motivating community leaders to work as one toward a common goal of long-term economic prosperity and a better standard of living for all citizens."

The Coweta County Economic Summit is sponsored by AT&T, Atlanta Gas Light, Coweta-Fayette EMC, Georgia Power, and Newnan Utilities. For reservations and further information, contact the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce at 770-253-2270.

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Road Closure, Coweta County

The intersection of Raymond Hill Road and Fischer Rd will be closed the weekend of October 25 and 26. The closure will begin Saturday morning and end by Sunday evening, pending inclement weather. This closure is part of the improvement project for that intersection. The work done will include the cutting down of some dirt on Raymond Hill Road to improve line of sight and raising the level of Fischer Road. Traffic on Fischer Road will continue to flow north and south, but no turns can be made onto Raymond Hill Road. Raymond Hill Road will be closed to traffic just before the intersection and traffic will be routed back toward Hwy. 154.

25 Elite Local Drivers Added to UPS ''Circle of Honor''

CC Note: Kudos to Newnan's Jeffery Crowley and Fairburn's Larry Rich for attaining this honor!

(BUSINESS WIRE)--UPS (NYSE:UPS) today announced 25 elite drivers from Georgia are among 692 nationwide newly inducted into the Circle of Honor, an honorary organization for UPS drivers who have achieved 25 or more years of accident-free driving.

Georgia boasts 191 active Circle of Honor drivers with a combined 5,489 years of accident-free driving. Robert Millican, Jr. of Flintstone and Carleton Byrd, Jr. of Savannah are Georgia’s senior safe drivers, with 39 years each of accident-free driving.

Nationwide, 4,582 active UPS drivers are members of the Circle of Honor. Collectively they’ve racked up 129,632 years and more than 5 billion safe miles during their careers, or the equivalent of 10,000 trips to the moon and back.

“UPS puts a premium on safe driving methods and training and these drivers reflect that commitment,” said Rocco Romanella, president, UPS Southeast Region. “I’m very proud of these drivers. To go at least a quarter of a century without an accident is a testament to how seriously our drivers, and trainers, take safety.”

Nationally, the most seasoned UPS Circle of Honor driver is Ron Sowder of UPS’s Kentucky District, with 46 years of driving without an accident. Thomas Camp of the Michigan District is next in line with 45 years of safe driving. Eight others have logged at least 40 years without an accident.

UPS’s 112,450 drivers are among the safest on the roads, logging more than 2.5 billion miles a year and averaging less than one accident for every million miles driven. There are 2,640 total UPS drivers in Georgia.

UPS has invested approximately $53 million in 2008 on safety training and employs its own comprehensive driving course called “Space and Visibility.” New UPS tractor-trailer drivers receive 80 hours of classroom and on-the-road training, and UPS delivery truck drivers receive 20 hours of classroom and on-the-road defensive driving training before operating equipment. Delivery drivers also are required to complete three safety ride evaluations during their first 22 days on the job.

Founded in 1907, UPS has a rich history of safety and training. The company issued its first driver handbook in 1917 and began recognizing safe drivers in 1923. In 1928, UPS recognized its first five-year safe driver, Ray McCue, with UPS founder Jim Casey presenting him a gold and platinum watch. UPS formally established the Circle of Honor in 1955.

More information on UPS’s commitment to safety is available at www.pressroom.ups/safety.

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Georgia Guitar Quartet at Arts Centre of November 13

The Centre for Performing and Visual Arts of Coweta County has by now become well known for offering a great variety of high quality arts events. They recently announced a concert by the highly acclaimed Georgia Guitar Quartet on November 13 at 7 PM. Formed in 1996 and hailing from Athens, Georgia, the ensemble maintains an active concert schedule, performing in a variety of venues, ranging from concert halls to popular music clubs. A typical GGQ concert will feature moving performances coupled with enthusiastic audience interaction. Passion, flair, sensitivity, and humor are characteristic qualities of every GGQ concert. In addition to performing classical music from the Renaissance to the present day, The Quartet explores other styles such as jazz, bluegrass, ragtime and Celtic music. While expanding the catalog of music for four guitars by arranging pre-existing works, the Quartet has a profound interest in the creation and performance of modern music. As a result of their diverse repertoire, the group appeals to a wide range of music lovers.

The Quartet performs regularly throughout the US. One review of their 1999 Piccolo Spoleto Festival performance in Charleston, South Carolina, described the concert as “a dazzling display of technical prowess, versatile programming, and audience rapport.”

In 2001, the Quartet was invited by Christopher Parkening to perform as quest artists in his twenty-seventh annual master class in Bozeman, Montana. The ensemble’s recordings have each won great critical acclaim. Their debut CD was ranked among the top ten Athens albums of 1998 by Flagpole Magazine. Two new albums of the Quartet’s original arrangements and compositions will be released this year on Solponticello Records
The Centre is located on Lower Fayetteville Road several miles east of Newnan. Information on the Georgia Guitar Quartet concert and any other Centre events is available by calling 770-254-2787.

- Forrest Schultz, Coweta Arts Tidbits
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Plan to Attend BigExpo Before it Sells Out

Coweta County's biggest and most influential business exposition will take place Thursday, October 16, 2008 at the Summit Family YMCA. BigExpo 2008, hosted by the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce, features 100 exhibitors who offer products and services to Coweta businesses and consumers. Doors open for business-to-business networking from 1:00 -
5:00 p.m., and to the general public from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. Cost for general admission is $5.00.

"In the face of a slower economy, the BigExpo really focuses on the great companies that are here in Coweta and what we can do to support them," said Jenny Fritz, Vice President with Southern Community Bank and Chamber chairperson for the event. "Many of the area's largest employers will be joining our exhibitors for a special 'Think Coweta First' business-to-business networking session. We'll also have an exhibitors' lounge hosted by Contemporary Catering, Inc.

"BigExpo is a great place to learn about other businesses and generate new leads for your own business," Fritz added.

Delta Community Credit Union is the Title Sponsor of BigExpo 2008. Summit Family YMCA is the facilities sponsor.

Other corporate sponsors include: Ashley Park, Bank of Coweta, Canongate Golf Clubs, Coweta-Fayette EMC, Inches-A-Weigh, Newnan Utilities, NuLink, PAPP Clinic, Piedmont Newnan Hospital, Relyco, Smile Center of Fayette, SouthTowne Motors, Toyota of Newnan and WOW Advertising. Media sponsors are Comcast Spotlight, Magic 98.1 and WCOH AM 1400.

About the Newnan Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta
Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to
increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta's citizens. As the county's
largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business
leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all
business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.

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Chamber Issues Position Statement Supporting Passage of Seven-Day Alcohol Sales Special Referendum

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce issued
a position statement stating that the Chamber SUPPORTS the passage of the
seven-day alcohol sales as proposed in the November 2008 Special Referendum
election.

The statement explains that the Chamber bases its support for the seven-day
alcohol sales, on the Chamber's core mission - to promote an environment in
which Chamber members and the community can realize economic prosperity.

According to the Position Statement, "there are broad economic benefits that
come with offering by-the-drink options to local diners, as evidenced by
countless other cities around Atlanta and throughout the country. If
seven-day sales are allowed:

* Newnan will be a more attractive location for many well-known,
fine-dining restaurants. Currently, several well-known restaurants have
chosen other locations instead of Newnan based on the alcohol ban.
* More of our existing restaurants will be open on Sundays. Many
restaurants depend on moderate alcohol sales to help them ensure
profitability on a day-to-day basis. Alcohol sales also provide for more
consistent patronage on Sundays, allowing restaurant owners to better plan
for attendant expenses and revenues.
* Tourism will increase. Currently, weekend tourists who are looking
for places to visit on Sundays must choose other places in our area if they
wish to enjoy an alcoholic beverage with their meal. Alcohol sales mean that
tourists will spend more time (and money) in Newnan.
* Restaurant patrons will likely contribute more to Newnan's retail
economy. For tourists or for locals, going out for a Sunday meal often
includes visits to retailers as well. Shopping and dining go hand in hand,
and overall consumer spending increases.
* City tax revenues will increase. As sales at restaurants and
retailers increase, so do city business tax revenues. That means more City
services can be delivered without adding to the tax burden on individuals. "

The Position Statement also points out that, because the Special Referendum
does not include package sales, it is "a measured way to support the
positive economic impact of seven-day sales without encouraging negative
impacts on our community."

For more information or for a copy of the Chamber's Position Statement,
contact the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce at 770-253-2270 or email
info@newnancowetachamber.org.

About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With more than 700 members throughout Coweta County, the Newnan-Coweta
Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to
increasing economic prosperity for all Coweta's citizens. As the county's
largest business organization, the Chamber works to provide business
leadership to foster an economic and cultural climate favorable to all
business, in order to create a higher quality of life for all residents.

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