Nominate a "Citizen of the Year"

On January 28, 2010, Coweta County will honor its next Citizen of the Year, and the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce wants your nominations by Friday, December 18. 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 Don Chapman, community volunteer and 2009 Citizen of the Year. "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, email Don Chapman at chapmandon@aol.com or contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270,
info@newnancowetachamber.org or go to their website at
www.newnancowetachamber.org to download a nomination form.

With more than 600 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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The Carnegie Introduces the Honor Book System

The Carnegie invites the public to participate in the honor book system. The honor books are donated for the purpose of trading and sharing reading experiences with others.

Honor book criteria:

• You loved the book (no dumping of titles no one would want to read, space doesn’t allow for that)
• Books need to be in excellent condition
• Hardback or paperback
• Fiction or non-fiction
• Adult, young adult or children’s books

Drop off donations and fill out a comment sheet at front desk.

Choose a book, take it with you and, upon completion, return it to the Carnegie with your comments in the space provided for the next person to enjoy. All books are one way donations and become part of the honor book system

“We are excited to introduce the honor book system to the Carnegie,” said Amy Mapel, Carnegie Media Coordinator. “I think it will enhance the reading opportunities for the Carnegie patron.”

About the Carnegie
Carnegie is one of the most historically significant structures in downtown Newnan and was built in 1904. The building served as a library until 1987 when a new facility was constructed on Hospital Road. With its iconic lighted sign that states the ‘City of Homes’ on top of the building, citizens recognize the Carnegie when they drive through historic downtown.

The Carnegie was funded by the city of Newnan’s General Fund and partly by 2007 Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). The Carnegie’s cost to be renovated was over $1.5 million dollars to the city. For more information on the Carnegie, please visit www.ci.newnan.ga.us or email amapel@cityofnewnan.org

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Courthouse Committee Seeks Memories and Photos

Work on the historic Coweta County Courthouse continues with the completion date still targeted for early summer of 2010. The Courthouse Citizens Advisory Committee has begun discussions on opening festivities and is asking for the community’s assistance.

The festivities surrounding the opening of the courthouse are not determined yet but the committee has one project that they’d like to get started. The committee is soliciting individual memories and photos of the courthouse to be used in some type of historical record. The Courthouse represents many things to many citizens and the committee would like to record that and save it for future generations.

“This courthouse is the citizens building. It’s been the heart of Coweta County for over 100 years and we know there are many people with fond memories of the building and the square,” said Patricia Palmer, Director of Public Affairs for Coweta County. “I’ve had friends, family and complete strangers tell me stories about things they remember at the square and how the courthouse was the backdrop for family memories. That’s what we want to hear about.”

Memories can be personal, told to you by a friend or family member OR memories of major county events and how the courthouse was a part of that time in history. “If your granddaddy told you about playing checkers on the square, or you loved the Christmas lights that used to be draped from the high points on the dome or if you always rested on the courthouse steps when trick or treating with the downtown merchants, we’d like to hear about it and, hopefully, get a photo of it as well.”

The committee has not finalized exactly how the memories and photos will be used but the plan is to gather them in some type of document or printed piece that will also trace the history of the courthouse and the work done in the recent rehabilitation. Images and memories can be submitted via e-mail to cowetainfo@coweta.ga.us or sent to Patricia Palmer, Coweta County, 22 East Broad Street, Newnan, GA 30263. The following release must be included for your memories and photos to be used. The information is posted on the county website as well.

I hereby give permission for images and/or information/stories about the historic Coweta County Courthouse that I have submitted to be used for historic purposes. I understand that this submitted information and/or images may be used in print, video, web and other electronic data and waive any rights of ownership or compensation.

Subject in photo and approximate date taken, if applicable:
Date:
Name:
Signature:
Address:
Phone number:

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Main Street Newnan Labor Day Weekend Events

Dust off those running shoes! Main Street Newnan’s Annual Mike Fitzpatrick Ford’s Sunrise on the Square Road Race is planned for Saturday, September 5th.

The One Mile Walk/Run begins at 7:45 a.m., followed by the 5K at 8:00 a.m. There will be a short “Tot Trot” following the race. Runners will gather on West Broad Street for the start of the race. The race course continues to Newnan High School and through historic neighborhoods and then finishes at the square.

The entry fee is $20 for runners if received by September 3rd and is $25 on the day of the race. All participants will receive a 100% cotton long sleeved road race t-shirt. Beverages and light refreshments will be available. Tot Trotters will receive a short sleeved youth size t-shirt.

The road race is a fundraiser for the Main Street Newnan program, which hosts about 40 special events throughout the year in downtown Newnan. Along with Main Street Newnan, sponsors of the road race include Mike Fitzpatrick Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Piedmont Newnan Hospital, Coweta Fayette EMC Natural Gas, Bank of Coweta, and Synergy Fitness.

There will be prizes given out to top finishers in male and female categories based on age groups. Non-runners have the phantom runner option, which allows people to support the cause without making the run. Phantom runners can donate to the main street program and receive a t-shirt.
The road race is a part of Main Street’s Labor Day festivities. The Annual Labor Day Sidewalk Sales kicks off at 9 a.m. on Friday and continues on Saturday. The ever-popular Market Days on the Square will also be featured on Saturday.

Online registration is now open at www.active.com or download an application at www.mainstreetnewnan. For more information, please contact Main Street Newnan at lbridges@cityofnewnan.org.
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Local Florist to Support Good Neighbor Day

Residents of Newnan and Coweta County will once again have the unique opportunity to meet each other and develop new friendships when Arthur Murphey Florist hosts its second annual Good Neighbor Day on Wednesday, September 9, 2008. Beginning at 9:00 a.m., Arthur Murphey Florist at 6 LaGrange Street in historic downtown Newnan will give away a minimum of 1500 roses in bunches of a dozen, absolutely FREE to anyone who visits the shop, while supplies last.

Anyone who picks up a dozen free roses will be asked to keep one of the roses and give the others away to 11 different people – spreading goodwill and friendship in the community. In keeping with the spirit of “Good Neighbor Day”, a donation of a non perishable food item for the local food bank would be appreciated but not required. All items collected will be taken directly to the Newnan Food Bank located at One Roof Ministries.

“This is an opportunity for us to motivate our community and get people to show friends, family and strangers how much they care,” says Hutch Murphey, owner. “Newnan and Coweta County is made up of friendly, caring people that can make an impact right here at home.”

Arthur Murphey Florist has been located in Historic downtown Newnan for over 60 years and was founded by Hutch’s father, Arthur “Doodle” Murphey. Murphey Florist is a full service FTD florist offering service to all of Coweta County.
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Coweta County Holding Millage Steady for 2009

The Coweta County Board of Commissioners voted last night to maintain or reduce the county’s millage rate for 2009.

“We are holding steady or, for the unincorporated area, slightly reducing the millage for 2009,” said Coweta County Commission Chairman Paul Poole. “We feel like it is extremely important that we keep our expenses to a minimum in the current economic market. Our citizens have tightened their belts and expect us to do the same – even while we invest in important infrastructure projects.”

This is the second year in a row that the Commission has either slightly reduced or kept the millage rate steady. The proposed rates are 7.66 for the incorporated areas, which is the same as last year, and 6.93 for the unincorporated areas, which is .05 mills less than last year. The net levy will increase by only $128,764 due to growth in the digest.

The difference in rates is due to the way insurance premium taxes are returned to the county and municipalities. Unincorporated property owners receive credit for the insurance premiums that are returned to the county. Cities and municipalities also receive this credit and can pass it along to their property owners on city tax bills.

Coweta citizens approved a $20 million Fire Bond last November that will vastly improve fire and public safety services in the county. The Fire bond will amount to roughly $28 in taxes for a $150,000 home. These dollars will be used to purchase new fire equipment, build two fire stations and purchase a new, countywide public safety communications system and should result in an improved ISO rating and lower insurance premiums for citizens.

Citizens in the unincorporated areas, along with the municipalities of Moreland, Turin and Sharpsburg, will see an additional line item on their tax bill for this fire bond. The municipalities of Grantville, Senoia and Haralson are participating in this Fire Bond as well and will include the cost on city tax bills.

The state has also made a change that will affect taxpayers. Since 1999, the Georgia General Assembly and the Governor have provided a credit on property tax bills called the Homeowners Tax Relief Grant (HTRG). In recent years, that credit resulted in a $200 - $300 reduction to property tax bills.

Due to financial strains on the state budget, the Georgia General Assembly and the Governor did not fund this credit for 2009 property tax bills. While the HTRG credit may someday be reinstated by the General Assembly, it is not expected to be considered again until state revenues increase significantly. Because of that credit not being funded, the average homeowner will have an increase on their tax bill.
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Electronics Recycling Day in Coweta County

Do you have electronics cluttering your basement or extra bedroom? Take care of that clutter. Bring your recyclable electronics to our special Electronics Recycling Day on August 1, 2009 from 8 am - noon at Thomas Crossroads Elementary, 3530 East Highway 34. Coweta County Environmental Management, Creative Recycling Systems of Georgia (CRS), and the Coweta County School System have partnered to provide a location for county residents to recycle obsolete and used electronic devices. Trailers will be set up in the parking lot to collect the items delivered that day.

The electronics items you bring will be recycled into valuable commodities which are circulated back into worldwide production. The items brought will be 100% recycled – plastic, wiring/glass/ all components. Not only does this reduce the volume of items taken to landfills, but it also keeps toxic metals out of landfills. The items will be collected and recycled by CRS. CRS has been an innovator in developing methods to process obsolete electronics with zero waste and less impact on the environment. CRS also takes the electronics left at the Coweta County Transfer Station for recycling.

ACCEPTED ITEMS (all accepted free of charge with the exception of televisions)Personal Computers (PCs), Monitors, LCD Screen / Flat Screen Monitors, VCRs, Radios, Stereos, DVD Players, Microwaves, Power Supplies, Rechargeable Batteries, Vacuums, Banking Equipment, Telephones, Pagers, Networking Equipment, Laptops, Keyboards, Mice, Power Cables, Medical Equipment (Non-Hazardous), Printers, Copy Machines, Fax Machines, Cell Phones, Transformers, Scanners, Portable Electronic Devices, Servers, HUBS, Ink Cartridges, Toner Cartridges, Remotes, Modems, Projectors, Cameras, Televisions (Processing Charge of $10).

UNACCEPTED ITEMS Refrigerators, Washer Machines, Clothes Dryers, Dish Washers, Mercury Containing Devices (Thermometers, Fire Alarms), Hazardous Chemicals / Materials, Light Bulbs, Florescent Tubes, Bio-Waste

In case you can’t make it out to this Recycling Day at Thomas Crossroads, you can bring these items to the Coweta County transfer station on Essie Mae Walker Road, which is off Ishman Ballard Road between Smokey Road and Franklin Highway (Hwy. 34 West). If you bring your recyclable electronics to the transfer station, please keep them separate from other trash to insure you are not charged. In addition, televisions are not recyclable if taken to the transfer station. They are treated as regular waste and charged as such.
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Coweta-Fayette EMC and Chamber’s Bowling Adventure Turns Back Clock to the Rocking 50s

Dust off those poodle skirts, grab your pink bubble gum, and get into the swing of things for the annual Coweta-Fayette EMC and Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce Bowling Adventure on Thursday, August 27 from 1:30 to 5:00 pm at Junction Lanes. Members and non-members are invited to participate in this 50’s style event which features a “Rockin’ Around the Lane” theme. Annually people come from all over Coweta County to participate in this afternoon of friendly competition, networking, and team building.

“This will definitely be a high-energy crowd, so it makes perfect sense for Coweta-Fayette EMC to be the title sponsor,” said Mary Ann Bell, Vice president of the utility. “We think the Chamber adds great value to our community and we encourage anyone and everyone to join the fun. We welcome the new Silver Sponsors Cardiovascular Consultants of Georgia and PAPP Clinic.”

Robin Harrington, general manager of Junction Lanes, explained that this year’s tournament features a few new twists including an “At the Hop” Networking Game, “Spin the Wheel” when you make a strike, and “Mystery Shot” Contest for Cash. Junction Lanes serves as the annual facilities sponsor.

Immediately following the bowling tournament will be a Chamber “Business-After- Hours” networking event sponsored by Marketing Sense.

Prizes will be awarded for the best-dressed team (50’s attire), the best-decorated lane, and the best combined score. In addition, to win prizes, individuals can compete in the Crazy Bowl and Out-Med “Mystery Shot” contests.

The best advertising deals in town can also be found as a part of the bowling adventure. Businesses can promote their products and services for an entire year to more than 338,000 people. Special deals are available for year-long banner ads, lane sweeps, and combo packages, starting as low as $100.

Registration information is available from the Chamber at 770.253.2270 or at info@newnancowetachamber.org. Cost for Chamber members is $200 per team for four players or $50 per individual.

About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With almost 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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Governor Kicks Off Sales Tax Holiday Weekend in Newnan

Beginning at midnight tonight, shoppers will find savings on back to school supplies

Governor Sonny Perdue today visited a Wal-Mart in Newnan to kick off the sales tax free holiday weekend, joining State Rep. Lynn Smith who sponsored this year’s tax holiday bill. Georgia shoppers will be able to purchase clothing items, school supplies, computers and computer accessories free of state and local sales tax during the state’s eighth annual tax-free holiday, which begins at midnight tonight and continues until midnight on Sunday, August 2.

“I encourage parents, students and teachers to take advantage of our eighth annual sales tax holiday to save on purchases of much-needed supplies,” Governor Perdue said. “Experience has shown that many retailers offer additional discounts and sales that result in even more savings for back-to-school shoppers.”

This year’s sales tax holiday is a result of House Bill 120, which Governor Perdue signed into law on May 4.

During the sales tax holiday, clothing and footwear up to $100 per item are exempt from payment of sales tax. There is no limit on the number of shoes and clothing items an individual can buy. If the price of an article of clothing or pair of shoes exceeds $100, the item will be taxed at the full retail price. Clothing accessories, jewelry, handbags, umbrellas, eyewear, watches, watchbands and similar items are not exempt from sales tax during the tax-free period.

School supplies bought for classroom use or classroom-related activities are exempt if they cost $20 or less per item. Qualifying items include pens, pencils, notebooks, paper, book bags, calculators, dictionaries, thesauruses, children’s books and books listed on approved school reading lists for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Sales tax will be due on the purchase of any single school supply item that exceeds $20.

Purchases of personal computers and accessories are exempt up to $1,500 per transaction. Qualifying items in the personal computer exemption category include monitors, personal computer base units, keyboards, handheld computers, printers, modems, non-recreational software and other peripheral devices.

Personal digital assistants are exempt unless they allow voice communication. Other items that would not be exempt are regular cell phones, digital cameras, furniture and any systems, devices, software or peripherals designed or intended primarily for recreational use.

The sales tax exemption for all qualified merchandise is intended only for individuals and their personal use. The exemption does not apply to purchases made for resale, purchases by businesses, for items leased or rented, or items sold at sports facilities, theme parks, restaurants, public lodging establishments, and airports.

Additional information and a comprehensive list of exempt items are available at any Department of Revenue Regional Office or via the Department’s website https://etax.dor.ga.gov/salestax/holiday/2009/index.aspx . Information is also available by calling 404-417-6601 or by contacting the DOR by e-mail: taxpayer.services@dor.ga.gov .
A tax-free holiday for certain energy efficient and water efficient products with a sales price of $1,500 or less is slated for Oct. 1 through Oct. 4.
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Newnan Armed Bank Robbery

Today at 9:35am, the Coweta 911 Dispatch Center received a call from The Bank of Georgia at 471 US Highway 29 North, Newnan, that they had been robbed.

Newnan PD and Coweta Co. S.O. units responded to the bank.

Responding officers discovered that a B/M armed with a semi-automatic pistol had entered the bank, pointed the gun at an employee, and demanded money. The robber gave the teller a plastic grocery store bag to put the money in.

After receiving the money, the suspect fled the bank, and was seen running in the direction of the back of a convenience store. From there, he fled across an open field, toward the driveway of a grocery store. It is believed he may have gotten into a waiting car at this point.

A search of the area located some of the money apparently dropped by the suspect as he fled the bank. The trail of money ended at the grocery store driveway. A perimeter was set around the area, and a search by ground units, K-9 units and the Coweta County Sheriff Office helicopter did not locate the suspect.

The suspect is described as a B/M, 5’5”-5’6”, approx. 170-180 lbs, wearing a dark blue ski mask, dark colored gloves, a gray jacket, dark pants and boots. The pistol is described as a large, black semi-automatic pistol. The suspect is considered armed and dangerous. No shots were fired and no one was physically injured during the robbery.

An undetermined amount of money was taken from the bank. Anyone with information concerning this bank robbery is asked to contact Newnan Police Department at 770-254-2355.

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Win the Window in Downtown Newnan

Main Street Newnan premiered a new promotion called “Win the Window” at this year’s 4th of July festivities. The window will be located on South Court Square in the old Globe building.

The window, themed "Summer Stay-cation", is filled with items from Main Street merchants and is valued at over $1,000. Participants have the chance to win everything in the window.

“The merchants have all given really great items for the window, each item worth $50 or more!” said Samantha Hinze, Main Street President.

The first step to register for “Win the Window” is to view the window on South Court Square and read the list of participating merchants. Next, they will need to visit the participating merchant’s stores, find out the retail value of the items on display in the window and fill out those amounts on their entry form.

Once the entry form has been filled out completely, participants can submit their form into the drop box located on South Court Square by the window.

“Molly Morrow at M. Cole Design has come up with a really cool “Win the Window” logo which has been placed in the stores of participating merchants. So be on the look-out!” said Ashley Daniel, Main Street Coordinator.

The “Win the Window” promotion kicked off July 4th. The winner will be revealed Saturday, August 1 at Market Day on the square.

Participants must be 18 or older to register and all valid entry forms must be filled out completely. Only one entry form may be submitted per person.

For more information about Main Street Newnan or how to become a member of the organization visit www.mainstreetnewnan.com, call 770-253-8283 or email at adaniel@cityofnewnan.org.
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CharterBank, West Point, Georgia Assumes All of the Deposits of Neighborhood Community Bank, Newnan, Georgia

Neighborhood Community Bank, Newnan, Georgia, was closed today by the Georgia Department of Banking and Finance, which appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) as receiver. To protect the depositors, the FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with CharterBank, West Point, Georgia, to assume all of the deposits of Neighborhood Community Bank.

The four offices of Neighborhood Community Bank will reopen as branches of CharterBank. All of the offices will maintain normal business hours. Depositors of Neighborhood Community Bank will automatically become depositors of CharterBank. Deposits will continue to be insured by the FDIC, so there is no need for customers to change their banking relationship to retain their deposit insurance coverage. Customers should continue to use their existing branches until CharterBank can fully integrate the deposit records of Neighborhood Community Bank. Depositors of Neighborhood Community Bank can access their money by writing checks or using ATM or debit cards. Checks drawn on the bank will continue to be processed. Loan customers should continue to make their payments as usual.

As of March 31, 2009, Neighborhood Community Bank had total assets of $221.6 million and total deposits of approximately $191.3 million. In addition to assuming all of the deposits of the failed bank, CharterBank agreed to purchase approximately $209.6 million of assets. The FDIC will retain the remaining assets for later disposition.

The FDIC and CharterBank entered into a loss-share transaction on approximately $178.5 million of Neighborhood Community Bank's assets. CharterBank will share in the losses on the asset pools covered under the loss-share agreement. The loss-sharing arrangement is projected to maximize returns on the assets covered by keeping them in the private sector. The agreement also is expected to minimize disruptions for loan customers.

Customers who have questions about today's transaction can call the FDIC toll-free at 1-888-408-4360. The phone number will be operational this evening until 9:00 p.m., Eastern Daylight Time (EDT); on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., EDT; on Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m., EDT; and thereafter from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., EDT. Interested parties can also visit the FDIC's Web site at http://www.fdic.gov/bank/individual/failed/neighbor.html.

The FDIC estimates that the cost to the Deposit Insurance Fund (DIF) will be $66.7 million. CharterBank's acquisition of all the deposits was the "least costly" resolution for the FDIC's DIF compared to alternatives. Neighborhood Community Bank is the 42nd FDIC-insured institution to fail in the nation this year, and the ninth in Georgia. The last FDIC-insured institution to be closed in the state was Community Bank of West Georgia, Villa Rica, earlier today.

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The City of Newnan Begins Its Mosquito Control Program In June

The Public Works Department will begin its mosquito management program in June and continue through September, fogging Tuesdays and Fridays from 7pm to 10pm, weather conditions permitting. We use a truck mounted ULV (ultra low volume) aerosol fogger for spraying a synthetic pyrethroid product (a synthetic version of a natural insecticide produced by chrysanthemum flowers) to help control adult mosquito populations within the City. At this time, the Public Works Department does not have a program for larval monitoring or surveillance, nor does the Department use any larval control products.

We will accommodate special requests, including requests for not spraying near particular residences.

Residents and property owners can help abate existing mosquito breeding sources by clearing property of any potential breeding sites and preventing them from recurring. Here are some suggestions for what you can do help eliminate potential breeding grounds and increase your enjoyment of the outdoors:

Get rid of old tires, tin cans, buckets, bottles or any water-holding containers
Fill in or drain low places in your yard
Keep drains, ditches and culverts clean of weeds and trash to help drainage
Cover trash containers to keep water out
Repair leaky outside pipes and faucets
Empty plastic wading pools regularly and store them indoors when not in use
Fill in tree rot holes and hollow stumps
Change the water in bird baths and tray for plant pots at least once a week
Keep your grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed

Together we can eliminate potential breeding grounds and increase our enjoyment of the outdoors.

Because of ideal weather conditions, the mosquito population this spring and summer are predicted to be a bumper crop.

Mosquitoes are an all-too familiar summer nuisance, but much worse, they can carry West Nile virus or Eastern Equestrian Encephalitis for humans and heartworms for pets. West Nile virus can result in serious illness and sometimes death. The virus can infect humans, birds, mosquitoes, horses and other mammals and is transmitted through the bite of a mosquito that has bitten an infected bird.

If you have any questions, comments or requests, please call the Public Works Department at 770-253-1823 or email Michael Klahr; Public Works Director at mklahr@cityofnewnan.org.
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City of Newnan Police and Fire Complete Special Incident Response Training

Some of the city of Newnan’s Police and Fire personnel were able to complete Incident Response to Terrorist Bombings (IRTB) training at the Energetic Research and Testing Center in Socorro, New Mexico. The police staff who attended was Deputy Chief Rodney Riggs and Detective Danny McDonald. The Newnan Fire Marshall Ricky Ayers and Captain John Byrom and was also able to attend.

The four hour performance level IRTB course provides basic information on explosive and incendiary devices that could be used as terrorist weapons. Classroom topics include:

Understanding the terrorist threat
Improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
Safety issues
Departmental or agency policies to ensure compliance with local requirements
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security provided all the funding for the public safety personnel to attend. It was no cost to the city for the travel and training opportunity.

“One of the most important aspects of this training is recognizing First Responders, local police officers and firefighters, may be able to detect unusual activity or devices, before solid intelligence is developed by State or Federal agencies, concerning an imminent bomb attack. In reviewing case studies of previous terrorist bombings, the terrorists' methods of identifying targets, recruiting associates, obtaining funds and materials and training for their attacks were discussed. This training gives the First Responder a basis for developing intelligence in their local areas, to prevent such attacks, said City of Newnan Police Deputy Chief Rodney Riggs.

EMRTC provides world class training in explosives, firearms and explosive site safety in association with The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, The U.S. State Department and other Federal and State agencies. Our course instructors are recognized worldwide as top explosives and WMD experts. EMRTC's facilities include a 40-square-mile field laboratory that includes over 30 separate test sites, gun ranges and research laboratories to use for training field exercises. The Center is a division of New Mexico Tech. For more information please log onto www.emrtc.nmt.edu.
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Help Blaze Get Home, He's Lost and Scared

A black Lab mix has been missing since April 26. He was last seen near a body of water (pond/lake) in Coweta County, Georgia on May 1, 2009.

Blaze is very gentle but timid and may not come when called.

Reward offered for assistance in getting him back home. Please call 770-328-2511 with information.

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West Central Technical College President to Speak at Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce Early Bird Forum on the Role of Post -Secondary Education

The Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce will feature Dr. Skip Sullivan of West Central Technical College at its Economic Engagement Series Early Bird Forum Tuesday, April 28, at 7:30 a.m. April's Early Bird Forum sponsor is Pattillo and will be emceed by Caryn Broome. The
Forum cost is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for nonmembers and includes breakfast.

Dr. Sullivan has over twenty years of prior business and industry experience and has been the President of West Central Technical College for six years. Dr. Sullivan's passions include developing programs that emphasize the importance of access to education for all, improving the educational opportunities for students in the College district, and highlighting the value of assisting students to get their GED.

The Early Bird Forum is a monthly Chamber networking event that provides information about key economic drivers in our community and the roles they play in helping keep Coweta's economy strong. Reservations are required; contact the Chamber at 770-253-2270 or info@newnancowetachamber.org.

About the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce

With more than 650 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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Annual Spring Taste of Newnan April 16

Main Street Newnan will host the Annual Spring Taste of Newnan on Thursday, April 16 from 5-8:30pm. This event gives people an opportunity to sample specialties of the best restaurants and caterers in the area.

Approximately 60 vendors will be set up around the Historic Courthouse Square. North Court, South Court and West Washington will be closed off to allow for vendor booths and walking space.

“Taste of Newnan gets bigger and better every year and has become a tradition for many families,” said Linda Kee, Director of Business Development.

New this year, The Braves Around Town, a mobile fan experience for the Atlanta Braves, will be setting up a speed pitch booth and a Braves t-ball booth in the Kidz Corner.

“Having The Braves Around Town Street Team come to Taste of Newnan is going to be so much fun for kids of all ages! It’s just one more great reason to come out with the family and enjoy a night in Downtown Newnan!” said Main Street Coordinator Ashley Chalker.

Live entertainment will be provided on the square. 92.5 The Bear will be hosting Southern Pride on South Court Square and J93 will be hosting A True Story on North Court Square.

“We have been looking forward to this event since the Fall Taste of Newnan! It truly is so much fun!” said Chalker.

Those planning to attend can purchase their tokens now. R.S. Mann Jewelers, Musicology, Bank of Coweta, 34 Madison, Brothers Ltd., The Wellness Center of Piedmont Newnan Hospital, Costume Shop, Scott’s Bookstore, Hit the Trail, Smart Solutions, Morgan Jewelers and Full Circle Toys and Collectibles will be pre-selling tokens until the day of the event.

“Our sponsors and Main Street members make these family oriented events possible in downtown. A special thanks goes to our sponsors The Preserve at Greison Trail, Food Lion, Newnan Utilities and Coweta EMC,” said Chalker.

All Main Street Newnan events are free and open to the public. For more information about Main Street Newnan or how to become a member of the organization visit www.mainstreetnewnan.com, call 770-253-8283 or email at achalker@cityofnewnan.org.
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Rite Aid to Close Newnan, GA, Distribution Center in September 2009

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Rite Aid Corporation (NYSE:RAD) announced today that it is closing its distribution center in Newnan, Georgia. Closing is expected to be in late September.

The 297 associates employed at the facility and local and state officials are being notified today of the closing pursuant to the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. All associates will receive severance and outplacement services.

Rite Aid acquired the Newnan facility in June 2007 with its purchase of approximately 1,800 Brooks Eckerd stores and six distribution centers. The company said at the time of the acquisition that once all of the Brooks Eckerd stores were integrated into Rite Aid, it would look for opportunities to consolidate the distribution activities of its 14 distribution centers. The decision to close the Newnan facility is also part of Rite Aid’s initiative to improve operational efficiency throughout the company.

The 194 stores served by the Newnan distribution center will be served by other Rite Aid distribution centers.

“We have an excellent and dedicated workforce at the distribution center in Newnan, and they did an outstanding job during the integration of the Brooks Eckerd drugstore chain into Rite Aid,” said Wilson A. Lester, Jr., Rite Aid Senior Vice President, Supply Chain. “This closing has no reflection on them or the quality of their work, and we will do everything we can to assist them with finding new positions.”

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Special ‘Artist of the Month Display’ at Newnan City Hall for April for GA Cities Week April 20-25

The ‘Artist of the month’ at City Hall helps kick off Georgia Cities Week for the month of April. There are seven artists being featured for the month of April. All the artwork being displayed this month celebrates the City of Newnan.

Cities across Georgia will be celebrating Georgia Cities Week, sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) to showcase and celebrate cities and the many services they provide. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides advocacy, educational, employee benefit and consulting services to its 500 member cities.

“Downtown Beauty” by Ellie Farrington
Ellie traveled from Maine to Georgia to be introduced to painting in oils through Tom Powers and the Newnan-Coweta Recreation Department. Perhaps best known for her paintings of flowers and ocean scenes, this painting is a departure from those themes. “Downtown Beauty” depicts the Court Square during a show sponsored by the Newnan-Coweta Art Association when antique cars were also on display.

“Goldens on the Square” by Dana Johnson
A native Texan, Dana digs into her roots of ranchers, teachers, artists, churchgoers and misfits. She paints on-site when possible, capturing the feel of the moment. Her goal is to depict scenes which elicit an emotional response. “Paint outside, everyday!” is her motto. She takes advantage of every day of good weather. Painting on the Square in Newnan, she saw the light reflected on Goldens in a way that intrigued her.

“The Carnegie Library” by Jenny Jones
Jenny is a native of Newnan and a Newnan High School graduate. Working from her own travel photography, she paints landscapes with a lot of color. She also paints the ocean and buildings. She especially loves to paint lighthouses. She went to the library often as a child and has vivid memories of those times. She even remembers the details of the interior. Painting is very relaxing for her and when asked if she is attending art class, her response is “Try and stop me!”

“The Stately Ole Tree at the Newnan Senior Citizen Center” by Lee Long
A native of Carroll County, Lee has been painting almost thirty years. While winning awards, both cash and ribbons, she has continued to serve in leadership positions in several arts related associations. This stately old tree which stood in front of the Senior Citizen Center intrigued her because she imagined the history it had witnessed.

“New Faces and Familiar Places” by Linda “Rusty” Sharp Framed Print
Another Texan, Rusty, has a mostly Louisiana background. The whimsical nature of this painting also reflects her take on life. It is a mixed media of graphite, watercolor and pen and ink that tickles the memory of those familiar with downtown Newnan. Her prints are available framed and unframed.

“Water Tower from Old Coweta Fairground” by Rebecca Wayne
Rebecca closely observes the things around her and artistically presents them from her own viewpoint. She challenges herself with a variety of styles and mediums. She is originally from Ohio and has a degree in Earth Science Education. Her keen eye for detail is reflected in her artwork. The water tower was observed on the day that the tornado heavily damaged Atlanta. The view is from south to north.

“Remembered Sweet Spot” by Jean Westbrook
Growing up in Newnan, Jean left after graduating high school, but returned twenty-five years later. She started art classes at “the old art house” and found it a great place for friendship, good food and new ideas for painting. Most of the artists she met are still her friends and painting buddies. Precious memories of this place always make her smile.
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City of Newnan Occupational Taxes Due April 1st

For business owners, 2009 Occupational Tax Certificate Renewals (formerly Business Licenses) are due to the City of Newnan by April 1st.

“The penalty for late returns starts at 11.5%, with an additional 1.5% penalty per month thereafter,” says City Finance Director Katrina Cline. “We have mailed out approximately 2.300 renewals packets this year. Tax returns, including appropriate taxes, must received by the Finance Department by April 1st. Postmarks are not acceptable. There are no extensions or exceptions.”

Taxes can be paid in person at City Hall or by mail, as long as there are no changes to the information. Be sure to submit the renewal forms with the payment if paying by mail. Please call the city’s Finance department at 770-254-2351 if you have questions or need additional information.
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