Dear Editor:

   One of the most important details in planning a conference is selecting the location. Covington is indeed the finest - bar none.

 On behalf of the board of directors of the East Metro Atlanta Christian Writers and EMACW members, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to all those who received our guest speaker, world-renowned author Ms. Elizabeth Sherrill of Chappaqua, N.Y., during our writers conference this past week. As she has journeyed across the globe and taught on five continents, her greeting by the wonderful folks in Covington far surpassed any of her travels.

 Our thanks to all who went the extra mile to make Ms. Sherrill's stay enjoyable and unforgettable: Mayor Kim C. Carter, BOC Chairman Aaron Varner, Homer Sharp Jr., Jerry and Linda Love, the Rev. Billy Wade, Newton County Chamber of Commerce Director of Tourism Clara Deemer, a host of admirers including Alice Walker and Becky Ramsey, Holiday Inn Express General Manager Andrea Stone and staff, the Newton Center of DeKalb Technical College, Louis and Billie Van Dyke and the Blue Willow Restaurant staff, Mandi Singer, Jennifer Long and The Covington News.

 As a fourth generation, life-long resident of Newton County, I am always proud to call Covington my home and to invite others to visit and experience the southern hospitality, the historic charm and the sincerity and Christian love of its people. Thank you again for opening your hearts to a world traveler.

Colleen Capes Jackson
Director, East Metro Christian Writers