World-renowned author, Elizabeth Sherrill taught a writers workshop at the Newton Center of DeKalb Technical College on Saturday. Writers from Florida, Oklahoma and Georgia gathered to welcome her at a reception on Friday hosted by the East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers.

  Clara Deemer, Covington/Newton County Chamber of Commerce director of tourism, brought greetings and presented Sherrill with gifts - a book titled "Main Street, Covington" and a set of coasters portraying Covington's legendary clock tower.

 Covington Mayor Kim Carter extended a warm welcome to Sherrill and read a signed proclamation naming August 8 as "Elizabeth Sherrill Day" in Covington.

 In honor of Sherrill's accomplishments, EMACW established an annual scholarship in her name to promote education for aspiring writers. EMACW board members presented Sherrill with the first "Elizabeth Sherrill Award," a crystal tribute to her 56 years as writer and editor of "Guideposts Magazine" and for writing over thirty books - many co-authored by her husband, John - which have been translated into 40 different languages.

 The award reads, "As an editor, writer and teacher, Elizabeth sets a standard of excellence across the globe."

 Blue Willow Restaurant owners, Louis and Billie Van Dyke hosted a dinner party for Sherrill and guests in the Garden Room.

 Chairman of the Newton County Board of Commissioners Aaron Varner, and Friends of Gaither's Committee members - Homer Sharp Jr., Jerry and Linda Love, greeted Sherrill and EMACW President Joyce Fincher as they gave an extensive tour of the property. The Rev. Billy Wade, pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Covington, guided Sherrill through the history of the church in a gallery of previous pastors that included her friend, the late Peter Marshall.