Summer 2026 cover

Summer 2026

The The Newton Community Magazine Magazine · 14 stories

Read the Digital Edition

Stories in This Issue

Features

We Believe in Family

When multiple generations live in the same small town for decades, it fosters deep bonds that last a lifetime. Charles and Amma Gaither enjoy just such a legacy, one that…

View Post

Helping Others Heal

Shawonna Gaither’s memories of that September day are clear. She was removed from class and driven to a crowded crime scene, where she tried to wrap her brain around the…

View Post

Living

(senary)

A Craftsman’s Legacy

After committing his life to military service, various vocations and other pursuits, Bob Hickly found peace and quiet in creating handmade wooden violins that now carry his memory forward. by…

View Post

Courage Built on Grace

Through compassion, grit and a village that rallied behind them, the McQueens have spent roughly a decade providing children with safety, connection and a chance to heal. by Delaney Derry…

View Post

Health & Wellness

(no caption — Dr. Melvin Baker at the Baker School heritage wall)

Strong Roots

Dr. Melvin Baker’s trailblazing dental practice became a beacon of possibility, proving that focus and community can open long-closed doors. by Phillip B. Hubbard When Dr. Melvin Baker opened his…

View Post

Medical Miracles

Pregnancy can be an unpredictable process for anyone, but Tim and Sheri Benton’s journey to parenthood was filled with multiple surprises and challenges from the start. by Kari Apted Tim…

View Post

Sports & Recreation

Fuzzy Feelings

Born from a promise to help others, the Covington Police Department’s annual Fuzz Run has grown into a decades-long tradition of compassion, unforgettable milestones and unwavering support for Newton County.…

View Post
Small in Number Only — 8K9A4485

Small in Number Only

From a 10-year hiatus to a historic state championship, the Providence Classical Christian School girls soccer team forged an unforgettable season that was defined by growth, determination and an injured…

View Post

Arts, Education & Innovation

Time Well Spent

Bea Jackson steps into retirement after helming the Washington Street Community Center as executive director for nearly a quarter century, leaving behind a legacy of opportunity, partnership and unwavering care.…

View Post

From Corporate America to the Classroom

Dr. Quinita Morrow, the Newton County School System ‘Teacher of the Year’ for 2025–26, transforms marketing education at Alcovy High School through real-world experiences, entrepreneurship and a passion for pushing…

View Post

Grace & Truth

Power of Community

As division grows louder, quiet acts of support still have the power to restore hope. Imagine what could happen if we encouraged each other instead of choosing the alternative. by…

View Post

What's Cooking

Summer 2026 Recipe - 8K9A3612

John White’s Seared Chicken Breast, Spring Pea Puree and Honey Turmeric Cauliflower

Chef John White from The House of Nosh and Brew in Covington can craft a fresh summer meal like few others. As restaurant owner Candice Dean put it, “If John…

View Post

More from this Issue

The Boardwalk to Brightness

Martin Mensah could not imagine his life without art. “It has fundamentally changed how I see the world,” he said. “I no longer observe casually. Light becomes something to analyze;…

View Post

Publishers’ Note - Summer 2026

We are grateful to be a part of this community, and we are grateful for everyone whose support makes this magazine possible. I’m an overplanner. I just stepped out of…

View Post