Published Sunday, September 05, 2010
Powers Festival opens with moment of reflection
The Newnan Times-Herald
The 40th Annual Powers’ Festival kicked off Saturday with beautiful weather and an opening ceremony honoring both current and past board members.
The festival continues through Monday on the grounds of the historic Powers’ plantation, located just off Ga. Hwy. 34 West near the Heard/Coweta line. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $7; children under 5 enter for free.
The festival features fine arts and crafts, heritage crafts, demonstrations, entertainment and lots of great food prepared by local churches and nonprofit organizations.
“It’s hard to believe that, 40 years ago,” a handful of friends sat down with Coweta artist Tom Powers and “envisioned one of the South’s leading festivals,” said Mike Barber, chairman of the anniversary committee. “It was the start of an era.”
Dr. Jim Farmer, Powers’ cousin, brought a message from the festival’s founder during the opening ceremonies.
Farmer said Powers “really regrets he can’t be here in person,” but that the only thing that could stop him from attending the 40th annual event is his health. “He expresses his best wishes for the 40th,” Farmer said.
The festival grew quickly after that first year, and soon was taken over by several non-profit organizations that comprise Coweta Festivals. They are the Newnan-Coweta Art Association, the Newnan-Coweta Chamber of Commerce, Coweta County 4-H, the Newnan-Coweta Jaycees, and the Pilot Club of Newnan.
Members of those groups “work as volunteers” pretty much on a year-round basis, said Barber. “We give our time freely,” he said.
Many previous Coweta Festivals board members were on hand, and they, and current board members, were recognized. The names of former board members who have passed away were read aloud, and there was a moment of silence. Barber in particular recognized long-time Festival Director Harriet Alexander. “She would be very proud that we are celebrating our 40th,” he said.
There was also a special recognition for Juanita Hieronymus, who has volunteered with the festival ever since it began.
There are also many others who have helped make the festival a reality over the years, Barber said, and they are all appreciated.
“Thank you all so much for all you have done,” said Karen Jones, Coweta Festivals board president.
“It takes so many volunteers to make this event what it has been, down through the years,” Barber said.
“I hope you will enjoy three days of … fantastic food, outstanding entertainment, and outstanding arts and crafts,” he said.
