Kari Apted
Kari Apted has been writing for The Newton Community Magazine since its inception. She began writing professionally in 2005 when her work was chosen to appear in "Operation Homecoming: Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Home Front, in the Words of U.S. Troops and Their Families," an anthology sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Kari’s portfolio now includes blogs, feature stories, humorous newspaper columns and a plethora of home design articles. She’s currently working on her first book. Kari adores her husband, Donnie, their four mostly-grown children, and the family’s pack of rescued mutts. When she isn’t writing, Kari loves creating artwork, traveling, and hosting paint-and-sip parties.

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

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

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

Chasin’ Shade
A daughter’s love of Highland Cows led her family to create a small farm in Social Circle where people can visit and learn more about the beautiful animals. by Kari

Love Between Continents
Joy, laughter and trials fill the Apted family’s adoption story. The international union led to an outreach that provides assistance to more vulnerable people in Uganda. by Kari Apted We

Heir Apparent
by Kari Apted New Arts Association in Newton County Executive Director Abigail Morgan Coggin, like her predecessor, has dedicated over 20 years to expanding fine arts offerings in and around

Curtain Call
As Buncie Hay Lanners exits the stage from her 25-year position as executive director of the Arts Association in Newton County, she leans into her memories and shares hopes for

Art Reimagined
The Museum of Art near Madison brings Georgia’s creative legacy to life, hosting a rare traveling exhibit that unites rural communities through contemporary creativity. by Kari Apted An easy 30-minute

No Place Too Dark
Addiction, violence and loss once defined Myles Lance. Prison became the place where he found faith, purpose and transformation, along with the desire to reach out to others battling the