Fayetteville Main Street Receives 2008 National Main Street Accreditation

Fayetteville Main Street has been accredited as a 2008 National Main Street Program for meeting the commercial district revitalization performance standards set by the National Trust Main Street Center@. Fayetteville joins over 700 other Main StreetTM revitalization programs being recognized as 2008 National Main Street Programs. Each year, the National Trust Main Street Center and its coordinating program partners announce the list of accredited National Main Street Programs around the country that have demonstrated their ability to follow the Main Street methodology.

"We congratulate this year's accredited National Main Street Programs for meeting our established performance standards," says Doug Loescher, director of the National Trust Main Street Center. "Rebuilding a district's economic health and maintaining that success requires broad-based community involvement and support, in addition to establishing a solid organization with sound management that is committed to long-term success."

The National Trust Main Street Center works in partnership with Coordinating Main Street Programs throughout the nation to identify the local programs that meet the National Trust Main Street Center's ten basic performance standards. These standards set the benchmarks for measuring an individual Main Street program's application of the Main Street Four-Point ApproachTM to commercial district revitalization. Evaluation criteria determines the communities that are building comprehensive and sustainable revitalization efforts and include standards such as developing a mission, fostering strong public-private partnerships, securing an operating budget, tracking economic progress, and preserving historic buildings. For more information on the National Main Street Program accreditation, visit www.mainstreet.org/nationalprograms.

The organization's performance was evaluated by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Office of Downtown Development, which is the coordinating organization for Main Street programs in Georgia.

“It’s an honor for downtown Fayetteville’s efforts to be nationally recognized for the sixth year in a row,” said Lane Brown, Main Street Chairman. “The improvements to downtown can be visibly seen and experienced and this past year reflects our success and we’re proud of what our downtown has to offer individuals and families.”

Since 1980, the National Trust Main Street Center has helped hundreds of downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts across the nation reclaim the unique quality of life that only a thriving community center can provide. Through the Main Street Four-Point Approach to commercial district revitalization, which combines historic preservation and economic development, the Center has forged a nationwide movement for the revival of America's historic and traditional commercial districts. The Center provides a nationwide membership network, comprehensive on-site consulting services, in-depth seminars and conferences, technical publications and training materials, and national advocacy for commercial districts.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a non-profit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the-places that matter to them. By saving the places where great moments from history - and the important moments of everyday life - took place, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With headquarters in Washington, DC, nine regional and field offices, 29 historic sites, and partner organizations in all 50 states, the National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people, organizations and local communities committed to saving places, connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of America's stories. For more information, visit www.preservationnation.org

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Free "BEE Movie" at McCurry Park June 28th

6/26/08 (9:50 a.m.) Star 94 and the Fayette County Parks and Recreation is coming to McCurry Park for a free “Movie Under the Stars” on June 28th. The movie, "BEE Movie", starts at sundown, around 8:30pm but plenty of activities will be on hand before the movie. Bring your blanket, lawn chairs, a picnic basket and the kids for an evening of entertainment, lawn chairs, a picnic basket; For more information call 770-716-4320

Peachtree City Announces Grand Marshal for July 4th

In 1963 the Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich was invented. In 1977 their freshly squeezed Chick-fil-A® Lemonade was introduced. In 1982 Chick-fil-A was the first chain to sell nuggets nationally.

In 2008 the President and Chief Operating Officer of Chick-fil-A, Inc., Dan T. Cathy, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the annual Peachtree City July 4th Parade. This is Dan’s first time serving as Grand Marshal in any parade, and an experience he looks forward to.

Chick-fil-A® was founded by Dan’s father, S. Truett Cathy, but Dan has been the President & COO of Chick-fil-A, since 2001. Mr. Cathy strives to provide customers with the most exceptional service. Perhaps this is why he lives by his own quote, “I work in customer service.”
People may love the restaurant for their chicken nuggets and waffle fries, but in 2007 Restaurant & Institutions magazine chose them as the winner of “Choice in Chains” for the 13th time in 14 years. In 2004 the chain was chosen “Best Drive-Thru in America” by QSR Magazine and later named as the highest rated quick-service chain in the south by J.D. Power and Associate’s.

Dan, a native of Jonesboro, GA, has chosen to expand his duties as President. You will probably not find him in the local Chick-fil-A restaurants. He chooses to travel a majority of the time. He attends Grand Opening ceremonies, spends the night in parking lots, and visiting numerous chains. Dan says, “I’m having the most fun I have ever had at Chick-fil-A.” This comes as a “no” surprise since he used to sing songs for customers and radio commercials for the chains Dwarf House Restaurant in Hapeville, GA at age nine.

Mr. Cathy leads a busy life. He is a devoted husband, a father of two, a business man, an instrument-rated commercial pilot, a marathon runner, a trumpet player and a motorcyclist. His main goal in life is to see the business his family built succeed. The Chick-fil-A Corporate Purpose: “To glorify God by being a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to us. To have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-fil-A.” Maybe this is why Chick-fil-A has become a national chain and a multi-billion dollar entity. You can find more information and interesting facts about the restaurant chain, Chick-fil-A at www.chick-fil-a.com.

The parade begins at 9 a.m. on Friday, July 4. “We are already on a wait list, and have some unique entries this year” says Ashley Alonso, parade coordinator. It begins on Peachtree Parkway near the Braelinn Golf Course and will proceed north on Peachtree Parkway, crossing over Crosstown Road, turning left onto McIntosh Trail and will disperse at Huddleston Elementary School and McIntosh Trail Recreation Complex. The fireworks are scheduled to begin at dusk.

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Public Is Invited To Walk For Freedom Sept 6th

Public Is Invited To Walk For Freedom
Patriot Day and “America Supports You Freedom Walk” To Be Held September 6

Peachtree City is holding the 2nd annual “America Supports You Freedom Walk” along with Patriot Day on Sept. 6, 2008.

People can demonstrate their support for the men and women fighting for our freedom by participating in the one-mile walk, which will begin at 8:45 a.m. at the intersection of TDK and Dividend in Peachtree City. The public is encouraged to participate. The walk will end at Falcon field, where the Patriot Day celebration takes place. The end of the walk actually kicks off the Patriot Day event, which features live patriotic music, vintage military aircraft, vehicles and equipment, a special guest speaker and more.

Those interested in walking can register their name and how many will be attending by email at: Ptcfreedomwalk@yahoo.com.

By Presidential proclamation, Patriot Day is a day to reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, when more than 3,000 people were killed by terrorists in New York, Washington and Pennsylvania.

The “Freedom Walk” is an event, first started in 2005 by Pentagon employees to commemorate the people who were killed there, as a reminder of the continuing Global War on Terror and to renew commitment to freedom and the values of our country.

Last year 255 communities participated across the nation, and every state was represented along with 8 nations overseas. What began as a small gesture became a new national tradition.
“We would love for everyone to be a part of it!” said Freedom Walk coordinator Caitlin Dillon, a Sandy Creek High School senior. She organized the first Freedom Walk in Peachtree City last year after having participated in one the year before in another city.

PTC Releases Map of July 4th Route and Information

The Peachtree City Recreation Department has released a map showing the parade line up, the water station locations and the porta john locations. “We thought it would be a good idea to inform everyone ahead of time where water stations would be, where the parade will start, and where the porta johns will be located,” says Ashley Alonso, parade coordinator.

The parade will begin at Village On The Green and continue north on Peachtree Parkway. It will turn left onto McIntosh and disburse into the Recreation Department and Huddleston Elementary School parking lots. There will be three water stations along the route. They will be located at Braelinn Road and Peachtree Parkway, Loghouse Road and Peachtree Parkway, and at Crosstown and Peachtree Parkway.

All parade participants need to be in line no later than 7:45 am if they want their entry judged. Judging will begin promptly at 8 am and the parade will begin at 9am. Spots will be marked and parade staff will be available to help line the participants up and guide everyone in the right direction. Everyone needs to be ready no later than 8:45 am. “This is going to be a great parade with unique entries and a lot of floats,” says Alonso.

This year there will be a total of 31 porta johns, including two that are handicap accessible. The porta johns will be scattered along the parade route and throughout the city. They will be at City Hall, all along the Parkway, Battery Way, in front of the fire station, Dover Square and by the Wyndham Hotel.

The 700-800 foot fire safety zone will affect Picnic Park and Drake Field. Those areas will be prohibited for spectators. The All Children’s Playground will remain open for play until 8 pm. At this time, all persons must be cleared from the area. All other areas at City Hall will remain open for viewing. The Fire Department will hold the Fire Expo at Drake Field from 2 pm until 4 pm. At that time all citizens will be asked to clear the area. Alonso says, “There will be a variety of food vendors and music by Cedar Hill at City Hall for your enjoyment.”

In order to ensure a safe environment for residents viewing the fireworks presentation, a buffer of 700-800 feet in all directions from the area of discharge must be maintained. All safe areas will be marked by red or yellow security tape, placed in the area by July 3rd. Even though much of the Picnic Park area is affected, the All Children’s Playground will remain open for play until 8 pm. At that time, all persons must be cleared from the area, since this is in the safety zone and no patrons can view fireworks from that area, to prepare for the show which begins at dusk. The safe zone is based on the requirements of the fireworks contractor.

The Fire Department reminds residents that no consumer fireworks are allowed to be used, sold or possessed on any city-owned or controlled property.

For more information please contact the Recreation Department at 770-631-2542 or visit our website at www.ptcrecreation.org or on the City website at www.peachtree-city.org.

New Art Classes Offered

Take time for yourself and enjoy life while making new friends.

Personalized art classes in a professional studio. Class size limited to four. Learn the basics of drawing and how to paint in oil and acrylic. Pastel instruction also available. Adult classes held on Tues. and Wednesday mornings/afternoons plus evening classes on Mon., Tues. and Wednesday 6:30-8:30 pm. $15/hr drop-in or $10/hr for 4 classes.

Call 770-719-9440 to register. KB Studio. Kathaleen Brewer, artist. (Her work can be seen in Fayette County Library or come by the studio.)

Maternity Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital Offers Classes for Expecting Parents

Parents and expectant parents are invited to attend several informative classes offered by the Maternity Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital (PFH). For more information on the Maternity Center at PFH, visit www.fayettehospital.org. Community members are invited to take part in the following classes:

Prepared Childbirth Class - This course, recommended for women 20 to 28 weeks into pregnancy, provides an eight hour childbirth education class that teaches mom and her partner about what to expect during labor and delivery. The instructor will discuss the stages of labor, relaxation, breathing techniques, common concerns, comfort measures and much more. Participants will need to bring two pillows and a blanket or towel. The fee for the course is $85 and includes light refreshments. The class will be held Saturday, July 19 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Dietary Conference Room on the ground floor of the hospital. To sign-up call Link2Health toll-free at 1-866-900-4321. For more information call 770-719-6305.

Breastfeeding Basics - The Maternity Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital offers a three hour group participation discussion on the benefits and how-to's of breastfeeding. This class includes preparing for breastfeeding and getting started in the hospital and at home, special situations and growing a breastfeeding family. The class is best if done prior to delivery, but participants are welcome at any time. Fathers and grandparents are welcomed and encouraged to attend also. This class is offered July 12, September 13 and November 8 at 9 a.m. in Conference Room C on the third floor of the hospital's 1279 Building. To sign-up call Link2Health toll-free at 1-866-900-4321. For more information call 770-719-6305.

Moms in Motion - “Moms in Motion” is a fitness program designed to prepare women for the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and postpartum. The class combines low impact aerobics, toning exercises, relaxation and breathing techniques and appropriate warm-ups/cool-downs perfect for both pregnant and postpartum women. The program provides not only a safe and effective exercise regime, but also provides valuable information on pregnancy, postpartum and child safety. Participants may register for this ongoing program at any time during or after pregnancy. Classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. in Suite 200 of the Piedmont Fayette Hospital Fitness Center at 1250 Hwy 54 West. Space is limited. The classes are FREE to fitness center members, and $25 per month for non-members. Written approval from a physician is required. For more information or to register, call 770-719-7290.

Maternity Center Tours - The Maternity Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital welcomes expectant mothers and their families to take a tour of the facility. The tour will be offered on Saturday, July 12 and July 19 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The tour will provide information on the hospital's approach to maternity care and how physicians and staff help new mothers and their babies before and after delivery. Please meet in the Maternity Center lobby (third floor, enter through the West Entrance) and sign in. For more information call 770-719-6305.

Fayette County Safe Kids Child Passenger Safety Training Class - Fayette County Safe Kids will offer a car seat safety class to teach parents how to keep children safe, especially while traveling by car. The course will be offered Monday, July 14 from 3 to 5 p.m. in Conference Room A on the third floor of the hospital's 1279 Building. This class is offered the second Monday of each month. For more information or to register, call 770-631-0743, ext. 150.

Harry Norman, Realtors President Lewis Glenn Retires, Successor Named

Rismedia - After months of thoughtful consideration, Harry Norman, Realtors® President and CEO, Lewis Glenn, announced his retirement from Harry Norman, Realtors to pursue other personal and professional opportunities. Senior Vice President and General Manager, Martha Hayhurst, will succeed Glenn as President of Harry Norman, Realtors®.

Lewis Glenn was named President and CEO of Harry Norman, Realtors® by the late Harry Norman, Jr. in 1994. Glenn and a group of managing partners led the company until it was sold to its present owner, HomeServices of America - a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, in May 2006. Prior to being named President, Glenn served as vice president and managing broker of the company’s Buckhead/Northwest office.

“My decision to retire has been made easier by having the current leadership team in place. Harry Norman, Realtors leadership team is committed to taking our company to the next level of greatness. Our company values, principles, good name and reputation are still in place today and this team will only enhance our heritage and legacy. It has been a great honor and pleasure serving as the President and CEO of Harry Norman, Realtors® and I leave this company deeply grateful for the opportunity to be of service to our sales associates, staff members and leadership team. I admire Martha Hayhurst’s professional expertise and leadership skills and after observing her thorough commitment to the success of everyone connected with Harry Norman, Realtors, I am confident in her ability to lead this company to its next level of accomplishment,” said Glenn.

Ron Peltier, chairman and CEO of HomeServices of America, said the following of the announcement:

“I want to personally thank Lewis on behalf of HomeServices for his strong leadership, his dedication to the company and its people, and for his passion to always strive for excellence in our business. I’m sure that, like his colleagues across the HomeServices family, everyone at Harry Norman, Realtors will miss Lewis. I also want to congratulate Martha Hayhurst in her new role as President of Harry Norman, Realtors®. Everyone at HomeServices wishes her the very best in this endeavor. Martha has demonstrated a strong passion to do what’s best for the company and the leadership skills necessary to act on them. HomeServices is committed to the long-term growth and success of Harry Norman, Realtors.”

Martha Hayhurst served as a Senior Vice President since 2006, first as the Senior Vice President in charge of Branch Growth and Development and most recently as the Senior Vice President and General Manager in charge of the overall operations of Harry Norman, Realtors®. Hayhurst joined Harry Norman, Realtors® as Vice President and Managing Broker of the Peachtree City Office, which she opened in 2001.

With more than 20 years experience as a Realtor® in the metropolitan Atlanta area, the Fayette County Board of Realtors® named Hayhurst Realtor® of the Year in 2000 and 2002. She was named as one the top 40 most influential Realtors® in Atlanta for three years by the Atlanta Business Chronicle; she is the recipient of the inaugural President’s Award for service to the Fayette Board of Realtors®, the past President of the Fayette County Board of Realtors and chair or vice chair of many Georgia Association of Realtors committees.

“Being named President of Harry Norman, Realtors, a nationally recognized leader in the real estate industry, is an honor and humbling responsibility. This is an opportunity of great magnitude and I meet this challenge with excitement. I am tremendously grateful to Lewis Glenn and my fellow leaders for preparing me for this task through their fellowship and support,” said Hayhurst.

Hayhurst continued, “Together with our leadership team, I can promise that Harry Norman, Realtors core values of uncompromising honesty and integrity will not change. We will provide nurturing courageous leadership that is not afraid to make difficult decisions with compassion for all involved. We will continue to be a results-oriented company; a place where people are encouraged to grow and flourish, and where they are recognized for their commitments and accomplishments that help to better the entire organization. Together, our leadership team will be relentless in our pursuit of excellence. “

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Public Health Continues Mosquito Surveillance

District 4 Public Health reminds the public to stay vigilant about preventing mosquito bites. So far this year, surveillance data gathered by the Georgia Department of Human Resources Division of Public Health confirms two horses in Lowndes County and one horse in each Cook, Berrien, Brooks, and Lanier counties tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. A dog in Ware county was also infected.

District 4 Public Health works to protect residents against mosquito-borne viruses through arboviral surveillance. Dr. Mike Womak will be assisting District 4 again this mosquito season with the collection of potential infected mosquitoes and the enhancement of the vector disease prevention skills of environmental health personnel.

He received his training from the University of Mississippi Medical School’s graduate program and the United States Air Force. He taught in the biological science program at Macon State College for 32 years. From 1999-2006 the Tennessee Valley Authority engaged his entomological services for mosquito surveillance in North Georgia and Western North
Carolina. He also was actively engaged in collecting for West Nile Virus from 2001-2004 in Macon, Warner Robins, Albany, and Valdosta, Georgia.

Mosquito traps are set, in permanent and semi-permanent water areas, and collected beginning in mid-summer and lasting until mid-fall. Once mosquitoes are trapped they are sent to the University of Georgia’s Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study for testing. If they are
found to carry any potentially dangerous viruses District 4 personnel are notified immediately. This type of surveillance allows public health to notify residents of an increased risk in the area.

Locations for setting traps are identified using known breeding areas, complaints from residents about standing water and problems with mosquitoes, and/or dead bird calls. Calls are logged and mapped using GIS to determine placement of the mosquito traps.

Although human infections from mosquito-borne viruses are rare, mosquitoes can infect humans with West Nile Virus (WNV), Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE), and Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE). People can reduce their risk of contracting these viruses by taking steps to
prevent mosquito bites and reducing mosquito habitats around the home.

The following is a reminder of four simple steps you can take to prevent and reduce bites:

1) Areas with standing water are locations where mosquitoes will
lay eggs and breed. Drain or treat standing water with larvicides
(Mosquito Dunks or Mosquito Torpedoes) available at home improvement
stores. Tipping out water twice a week from planters and basins around
the house and yard as well as keeping gutters cleaned and properly
drained can prevent Mosquito problems.
2) Dawn and dusk are the times of day that mosquitoes are most
active. Avoid outdoor activity at these times.
3) Dress appropriately when outdoors for long periods of time or
when mosquitoes are most active. Wear long sleeves, pants, shoes and
socks, and clothing that is tightly woven to prevent mosquitoes from
coming in contact with your skin.
4) Use insect repellant with an EPA-approved active ingredient such
as DEET. Always follow the directions on the package for safest and most
effective use. Do not use DEET on infants or pets. For children, use
repellants sparingly and only use those that contain 10% DEET or less.

“The best prevention for West Nile Virus is to control the breeding sites of the Southern House Mosquito. This is accomplished by reducing standing water. Drain breeding sites such as clogged gutters, old buckets, swimming pools, clay jars, and dog feeding dishes. Almost
anything that will hold water can breed mosquitoes,” said Dr. Mike Womack. “Less than an inch of standing water is enough to produce hundreds of mosquitoes in a very short time.”

Products containing Permethrin can be used to treat clothing, tents, and other equipment using manufacturer specific recommendations. These products are often available in stores that also sell sporting goods.

Equine owners are encouraged to have horses vaccinated against Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). District 4 Public Health currently has no confirmed cases of WNV, EEE, or SLE. In 2006 there were nine confirmed WNV cases of human infection in Georgia, including one death and one fatal confirmed case of EEE human infection in Georgia.

In 2007, Georgia reported 52 confirmed cases of WNV infection, including 1 death. In addition to WNV, two confirmed cases and one suspect case of LaCrosse Encephalitis were reported in Georgia in 2007. One suspect case of Eastern Equine Encephalitis was also reported in
2007.

District 4 Public Health serves Butts, Carroll, Coweta, Fayette, Heard, Henry, Lamar, Meriwether, Pike, Spalding, Troup, and Upson Counties.

175 in House sign Westmoreland Pledge

Millions of Americans have signed petitions telling Congress to take action on energy prices. And U.S. Rep. Lynn Westmoreland responded by taking the petition straight to the members of the House.

By Friday, 175 members of Congress signed the Westmoreland Pledge on the floor of the House this week. The pledge reads “I will vote to increase U.S. oil production to lower gas prices for Americans.” Westmoreland looks to add more members in the coming week and hopes more Democratic members will sign on to help Americans pay less at the pump.

“I made this simple so there would be no wiggle room for members of Congress,” Westmoreland said. “I pushed hard all week to get my colleagues to sign the pledge and I’m very happy that we’re closing in on 180 names. We are saying that supplying our energy needs requires ‘all of the above’: conservation, alternative energy development and increased supply of oil.”

Westmoreland’s petition aims to create momentum on Capitol Hill to open up new energy production offshore on the Outer Continental Shelf and on federal lands such as ANWR. Westmoreland further supports building new refineries for the first time in more than 30 years.

“With prices at $4 a gallon, families and businesses are feeling the squeeze. Higher gas prices lead to higher prices for food and every other product that has to travel to a store. Americans are cutting back. Unless Congress takes action, we’re going to erode our American quality of life and our economy is going to grow less and lose good-paying jobs.”

Public opinion surveys indicate that large majorities of Americans believe it is possible to drill for energy in untapped regions of Alaska and deep ocean areas far off the U.S. coast in an environmentally responsible manner, and they support reforms that would allow such drilling to finally begin.

“At least 175 members of the House are saying to the American people, we support ‘all of the above’ when it comes to solving America’s energy crunch,” Westmoreland said. “We need to continue to research and develop alternative fuels. We need to continue conservation efforts. But for right now, we also need more traditional energy sources to bring down the cost of gas to help our economy thrive as we transition into new forms of energy.

“We still have a way to go with our petition. Finding solutions for our energy crunch should be a bipartisan effort and I would like to see more Democrats sign. Their constituents are hurting just as much as mine are. So far, we have one Democrat, my good friend Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii. Neil said to me that he knows more oil production won’t solve the problem, but that it is part of the solution. I think a lot of his colleagues on the other side of the aisle would agree with that assessment, and we hope to get their names on the pledge.”

Westmoreland encourages Americans to sign petitions calling for more energy exploration and to call their members of Congress to ask that they sign the Westmoreland pledge to increase oil production to lower gas prices for Americans. Find the list of all the members of Congress who have signed at www.house.gov/westmoreland.

Brian Robinson
Deputy Chief of Staff

Girls-- Get Your Creative Game On!

FL Note: We thought this sounded like fun! And we know our local gals in Fayette County are as creative as can be. Give it a shot.

Girls-- Get Your Creative Game On!
Rack Rooms Shoes Announces Shoe Naming Contest for Girls 7-12

The Milly’s? The Emma’s? The Cindy’s? Just like girls themselves, girls shoes go by very cool names these days. Since it can be such a tough job to think of all these highly creative brand names, Rack Room Shoes is asking some of its most important customers to weigh in. Girl’s ages 7 to 12 are invited to enter their most creative shoe name and even a logo design if they like, for Rack Room Shoes 2008 Name That Shoe Contest!

Entering is easy. Sales associates at any Rack Room Shoe stores will happily provide an entry form or the entry forms and rules can be downloaded from rackroomshoes.com. “This is a fun way to get our younger customers involved in the process. We encourage them to get creative, and share their most zany, brainy or fun shoe names. They can also sketch a logo for the shoe if they like, it’s optional,” says Jan Mauldin, Rack Room Shoes director of marketing. Entry forms must be returned to stores or mailed by July 12, 2008. A parent or legal guardians signature is required on the form.

Rack Room Shoes creative team will select a winner based on originality. The Winner will receive a year’s worth of free shoes (valued at $600) and a $1,000 scholarship. The Winner and their shoe name will also be featured on the Rack Room Shoes website.

“You can enter as often as you like,” says Mauldin. “We’re counting on getting flooded with entries from all the up-and-coming shoe lovers, designers and marketers out there!”

Little League Tournaments Start June 28 for Georgia District 4

District 4 Little League Tournaments will be played in Senoia at the LeRoy
Johnson Ballfields beginning June 28.

Twelve teams from the district will compete in the 9/10 Year Old Baseball
Tournament. The winner of the tournament will represent District 4 at the
State Tournament in Warner Robins beginning July 19. Warner Robins is the
home of the 2007 Little League World Series Champions.

Two teams will compete for the District Championship in the newest
tournament division, 10/11 Year Old Baseball. The winner will play in the
State Tournament at Murphey Candler Little League beginning July 12.

In the Little League Baseball division for 11 and 12 year olds, eight teams
will compete for the Championship. The winner will go on to compete at the
State Tournament hosted by Belvedere Little League, Flat Shoals Park in
Decatur, beginning July 19.

Junior League Baseball for 13/14 year olds and Senior League Baseball for
14/16 year olds will each have 5 teams. The Junior State Tournament will
begin July 12 in Hart County and the Senior State Tournament will begin July
19 in Oconee County.

Big League Baseball for 16/18 year olds will have teams representing
District 4 and West Point. The Champion will compete in West Point at the
State Tournament beginning July 12.

Senior League Softball for 13/16 year old girls will be played between
Senoia Area Little League and West Point Little League. The winner will
move on to the State Tournament in West Point beginning July 12.

Game schedules for all divisions of the District 4 Tournament may be viewed
at www.eteamz.com/ga4LLB. To view the tournament schedules and results for
the various State Tournaments, visit www.eteamz.com/LLBgeorgia. To see
the results of the various Regional and World Series tournaments, go to
www.littleleague.org.

Blown Away!

My husband Greg and I went to three concerts this weekend. Yep, three. The great thing about these concerts is they were all in Fayette County and all were fantastic! Two showcased local talent, the third was a Kenny Rogers concert at the Fred in Peachtree City.

What an eclectic musical weekend we had!

First we heard the Southern Nights Chorale perform at the First Baptist Church in Peachtree City Friday night. Southern Nights is a precision a cappella men’s select chorus. It was formed in 2004 by J. D. Holmes. The group has performed at the Governor’s mansion, sung the National Anthem to kick off a Braves game at the Atlanta stadium, and sung at numerous church and civic events.

We were treated to favorite tunes to include Danny Boy, Ave Maria, You’ll Never Walk Alone, Georgia On My Mind and When the Saints Go Marchin’ In. Darlene Simpson Ware impressed the crowd when she sang Summertime and Don’t Rain on My Parade. Simpson Ware has sung in an assortment of productions with the Atlanta Opera Company’s Chorus and sung with Robert Goulet in South Pacific at the Fox.

Two fun songs brought laughter. Steve Morris took the Song “Little Ol’ Lady” and re-wrote the lyrics. The “new” song, Little Ol’ Lady from Peachtree City included a “little ol’ lady” in a “golf cart” zipping back and forth across the front of the pews! The Manly Men Extravaganza also had the audience laughing as the guys cut up with each other, showing off their “manliness”.

On Saturday we say two concerts that couldn’t have been more different! We went from one end of the musical spectrum to the other.

At 5 p.m. we were sitting in the pews of the Fayetteville First United Methodist Church. Titled “An Evening of Vocal Artistry Concert Directed by Rick Massengale” we weren’t entirely sure what to expect. We had both heard Rick playing piano and singing in “Those Two Guys” duo and the “Rick Massengale Quintet” so we were expecting something along those lines. Were we ever wrong! Mr. Massengale is an extremely talented tenor AND baritone.

We were awed by the phenomenal talents of the six artists who shared the stage. If we closed our eyes it would be easy to think we were on Broadway! The repertoire ranged from well-known popular tunes to those that possibly only opera buffs would recognize. Kim Bowers-Rheay, Brent Davis, Joan Aycock, Frank Green, Bill Killmeier and Rick Massengale chose their favorite songs for the event.

After shaking hands and talking with the artists for a few minutes, we zipped down to Peachtree City to see Kenny Rogers. We’ve both seen Rogers a number of times and he always has a good concert. However, I’d have to say that this may have been one of his best. His two twin four-year old sons and wife joined him on stage at one point. The two boys were obviously used to being on stage as they sang a song for the ooohing audience. Later Rogers called two fans up on stage and presented them with a framed arrangement of his platinum records. The pair had been to well over a thousand of his concerts!

If I’m ever treated to a Rogers concert again, I’m going to make sure my husband and I sit front and center stage. Rogers picked one lucky gentleman from the front and tossed money at him for every hit song he recognized. Of course, the guy recognized a lot of tunes!

The weekend of music was fantastic. It also highlighted how much hidden talent we have in Fayette County. I can’t help but wonder how many people I talk to each day have talents unknown to me.

- Janet McGregor Dunn
Fayette Front Page

Breakfast Brain Food Is The Best Way To Start The Day

FL Note: We see children everyday out enjoying our home turf. With all the summer activities for them to do, sometimes eating a good breakfast can get lost in the shuffle. Here's an interesting story that also includes a yummy recipe.

(NAPSI)-Buying the newest supplies may not be the best way to help your child succeed in school or at play. The best purchase may actually be the groceries stocked in the refrigerator, like healthy breakfast foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and choline for brain development, as found in Eggland’s Best eggs.

The foods that kids consume affect their daily performance and parents can help them jump-start their day by ensuring they eat a nutritious and healthy breakfast. A recent research study conducted by the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that children who suffered from decreased school performance were directly linked with unhealthy eating patterns. These children consumed a diet with low levels of highly nutrient-dense foods such as vegetables, fruit, fish and eggs.

Additionally, a study in the Official Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics outlines the importance of a nutritious morning meal, linking skipping breakfast to weight increase in adolescent schoolchildren.

With three times more omega-3s and 10 times more vitamin E than the average egg, Eggland’s Best (EB) is one of many nutrient-dense foods that can potentially help promote brain focus along with memory and cognitive functions in children throughout the day. Compared to ordinary eggs, EB eggs contain 25 percent less saturated fat, 19 percent less cholesterol (175 mg. vs. 215 mg.), 200 mcg. of lutein for eye health, plus provide 40 percent of a person’s daily requirement of iodine. Here’s a tasty recipe to make the most of this valuable brain food:

Eggland’s Best Brainy Burrito

Serving Size: 1

Cook Time: 3-4 minutes

Ingredients:

2 Eggland’s Best eggs

1 whole wheat tortilla

1 tablespoon refried beans

¼ cup low-fat cheese

2 tablespoons salsa

½ avocado, sliced

Nonstick spray

Preparation Method:

Spray nonstick skillet with cooking spray. Beat Eggland’s Best eggs; pour into skillet and cook, stirring continually, until slightly set, about 2 minutes. Add cheese. Spread refried beans on tortilla. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 30 seconds. Spread Eggland’s Best egg and cheese filling down the center of the tortilla. Add salsa and sliced avocado. Fold one side of the tortilla over filling. Fold up bottom. Roll securely.

Don’t let the morning time crunch tempt kids to skip breakfast.

Here are a few ways to save time:

• Pack schoolbags at night and set them by the door.

• Make bedtime fun and lay out clothes the night before.

• Get kids more enthusiastic about eating in the morning by asking them to help select some of their favorite foods.

For more information, visit www.eggland.com.

Unhealthy eating habits can negatively affect kids’ school performance, so make sure they eat a nutritious breakfast.

Check out my Slide Show!

Novelist Margaret Hoffman Book Signing in Fayetteville

Pirates, and especially Blackbeard, have always been a subject of intense fascination. But it was not until the discovery of Blackbeard’s flagship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge, that there has been a resurgence of interest in Blackbeard unprecedented in America’s history. - Margaret Hoffman

Blackbeard: A Tale of Villainy and Murder in Colonial America, was written by Margaret Hoffman while she lived in Atlanta. It was published 25 years later, 2 years after the discovery of the Queen Anne's Revenge, Blackbeard's flagship.

Hoffman will be in Fayetteville on August 7 for a book signing. Please join her at Barnes & Noble from 6-9 pm.

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Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone

Meeting Location Change for Grandparent Raising Grandchildren Support Group Effective July 10

Starting July 10, 2008 the support group for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren will begin meeting at Fayette Presbyterian Church, 791 Forest Ave, Fayetteville. Meetings will still be held from 9 am to 11 am on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. Childcare will now be provided. Those requiring childcare will need to contact Connie Gouge; 770-460-9471 or congouge@bellsouth.net no later than the Tuesday prior to each meeting.

For more information about Grandparents Raising Grandchildren contact Program Director and co-facilitator, Betty Davis, LMSW at 770-487-9802 or grandbb1@gmail.com or co-facilitator, Connie Gouge at 770-460-9471 or congouge@bellsouth.net. Grandparent Raising Grandchildren is a program of FACTOR.

Wyndham Peachtree Hosts Golf Drive-In Movie Night

The Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center will host the city’s first golf cart drive-in movie night on July 5 featuring the live-action movie, Transformers.

Children’s activities will begin at 7 p.m., and the movie will begin 10 minutes after sunset at approximately 9:05 p.m. Cost for admission is $5 per person or $15 for a four-person golf cart. Admission includes one free popcorn. No outside food or drinks are permitted. A bar and concessions will offer refreshments. For those without golf carts, there will be an area for chairs.

The hotel’s grounds, situated on 19 wooded acres adjacent to the Flatcreek Golf Club, offer Peachtree residents more than 100 miles of paved paths for leisurely golf cart riding and for the first time, movie viewing.

“With the increasing price of fuel, we wanted to provide the community with a fun and inexpensive family event this summer,” said Jessica Cannon, Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center director of sales.

The event, which will be sponsored by Webb, Lindsey and Wade; Cookies by Design; Jumping Jelly Beans; and Rudjard Hayes for District Attorney, will be the first of five outdoor movie events to be held at the hotel. Subsequent movie dates are July 26 and Aug. 9, 16 and 30. Remaining movie titles will be announced at a future date.

In conjunction with the inaugural movie night, the Wyndham Peachtree Conference Center will host a pool party July 5 featuring music, an outdoor barbecue, horseshoe tournament and children’s activities. Admission is $5 per person.

Overnight hotel packages are also available for $129 for a family of four. The package includes guest room accommodations; reserved seating for the Peachtree City fireworks show; breakfast in the Terrace Restaurant; and admission to the pool party and golf cart drive-in movie. For more information, call (770) 487-2000, (800) WYNDHAM, or visit www.wyndham.com.

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Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone

Champions for Children Starts July 1 in Fayette

Beginning July 1 for families in Fayette County!
The Champions for Children Program is designed to primarily assist children and families that do not meet the eligibility requirements for the TEFRA/Katie Beckett Medicaid program. The program will provide direct financial assistance and support services for Georgia’s medically fragile and special needs children and their families.

Dear Georgia Families of Children with Exceptional Needs:

As you may be aware, the Easter Seals Georgia Coalition was awarded the grant for the Champions for Children with Exceptional Needs Initiative. Included in the Coalition are Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Easter Seals North Georgia, Easter Seals West Georgia, Easter Seals East Georgia, Easter Seals Middle Georgia and Parent to Parent of Georgia. The Champions for Children Program is funded by a $4.87 million five-year grant from The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta. This grant was made possible by a one-time 2006 Georgia legislative allocation.

The Easter Seals Georgia Coalition is pleased to announce the implementation of the Champions for Children Program in the following counties beginning July 1, 2008. Families in these counties will be served by Easter Seals North Georgia.

Banks Floyd Newton
Barrow Forsyth Oconee
Bartow Franklin Paulding
Catoosa Fulton Pickens
Chattooga Gilmer Polk
Cherokee Gordon Rabun
Clark Gwinnett Rockdale
Clayton Habersham Stephens
Cobb Hall Towns
Dade Henry Union
Dawson Jackson Walker
DeKalb Lumpkin Walton
Douglas Madison White
Fannin Morgan Whitfield
Fayette Murray

Families living in the counties served by Easter Seals East Georgia, Middle Georgia and West Georgia will be able to access the program beginning October 1st. For more information on the Easter Seals affiliates and the counties they serve, please visit our website at www.easterseals.com

The Champions for Children Program is designed to primarily assist children and families that do not meet the eligibility requirements for the TEFRA/Katie Beckett Medicaid program. The program will provide direct financial assistance and support services for Georgia’s medically fragile and special needs children and their families. An Easter Seals Champions for Children Coordinator will work directly with families to determine eligibility, identify service needs as described by the family and connect them with resources and services.

Families residing in the counties listed above may access services by calling the Easter Seals Coalition toll free number: 1-866-584-3742. A website for the Easter Seals Champions for Children’s Program is under development and is scheduled to be operational by June 20th. A description of the Champions for Children Program, the application for services and other information will be available on the site www.championsforchildrenga.org.

While the $500,000 in annual funding over the next five years will be a wonderful resource for families, we recognize that all needs will not be addressed. However, the Easter Seals Georgia Coalition is committed to serving the needs of children and families to the greatest extent possible using a family friendly approach.

The Easter Seals Georgia Coalition wants to ensure that a simple and effective process is put in place, which is why we are rolling out the Champions for Children Program in stages. We realize that many of you will have specific questions about the eligibility criteria for the Champions for Children Program and the application process.

We promise to keep you informed as we roll out the program throughout the state, and other ways that we seek to serve your family. We also promise later on to provide you with an opportunity for your feedback on the Coalition and how we might improve services.

Yours in Service,
Easter Seals Georgia Coalition

Piedmont Hospital and Piedmont Fayette Hospital Receive Komen Foundation Grants

Piedmont Hospital and Piedmont Fayette Hospital have received funding from the Greater Atlanta Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The grants will be used to provide breast imaging services for underserved and underinsured women in the Atlanta area

“Piedmont is committed to providing state-of-the-art breast services to all women,” said Jeffrey Allen, M.D., medical director of the Doris Shaheen Breast Health Center at Piedmont Hospital. “We appreciate the support provided by the Atlanta affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and are committed to meeting the needs of the community.”

Dr. Allen explained that a recent survey conducted by the Atlanta affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure demonstrated the marked underutilization of breast services in the Atlanta area by African-American and Latino women as well as indigent women of all races.

“To address this gap in crucial breast health services, the Doris Shaheen Breast Health Center at Piedmont Hospital and Women’s Imaging Center at Piedmont Fayette Hospital are providing free screening mammography, diagnostic mammography, breast ultrasound, ultrasound guided core biopsies, and stereotactic core biopsies to qualifying women,” he said. “A second grant is funding breast MRI and MRI-guided biopsies at Piedmont Hospital as well.”

Patients should be referred by a physician or can complete a form to see if they qualify at www.piedmonthospital.org/komen or www.fayettehospital.org/komen. If a patient qualifies and doesn’t have a physician, she will receive help finding a physician to follow her care. To learn more about the program and to check qualifications, call Suzette Wheeler at 404-352-1409, extension 304.

This year, Komen Atlanta awarded $2.25 million to 38 grantees in its 10-county service area. For more information on Susan G Komen or grants in your area, please visit www.komenatlanta.org.