As Newnan reflects on the impact of the EF-4 tornado that struck in 2021, the Seasons of Strength project is inviting final contributions from community members to preserve the shared memory of recovery, resilience, and unity.
The aural history and performance initiative has already collected dozens of personal stories and community reflections. With the final in-person sessions now scheduled, organizers are encouraging survivors, volunteers, and first responders to participate before the window closes.
FINAL IN-PERSON INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES
Now through June 10
Newnan-Coweta History Center Collections Building
Private, facilitated recording sessions available by appointment. Please visit: https://seasonsofstrengthnewnan.org/tellyourstory
Sunday, June 8
Coweta Force, 12:30–4:30 PM
Saturday, June 22
African American Cultural Heritage Museum, 3:00–6:00 PM
“If you lived through the tornado, supported someone who did, or served on the front lines of recovery, this is your invitation,” said producer Gwendolyn Kuhlmann. “Your story deserves to be heard, and it holds the wisdom, perspective, and comfort someone else needs to hear — especially those facing natural disasters today.”
ONLINE SUBMISSIONS OPEN UNTIL AUGUST 10
If you are unable to attend in person, Seasons of Strength is accepting audio-recorded stories, as well as videos and photos of the tornado recovery, through August 10. Submit online at:
https://seasonsofstrengthnewnan.org/tellyourstory
NOW STREAMING: Listening for Art Workshop
A resource now available on the project’s website is the Listening for Art Workshop, filmed at the Central Educational Center with support from student interns and filmmaker Jake Barton, and funded by Georgia Humanities. The video walks viewers through how Seasons of Strength combines deep listening with storytelling methods that serve both historical preservation and artistic expression.
PROJECT SUPPORT & PARTNERS
This is a project of the Coweta Community Foundation in partnership with the Newnan-Coweta History Center, with sound technician Richard Oteri guiding the archival process. Additional gratitude goes to Coweta Force, the African American Cultural Heritage Museum, and the many churches and community members who have shared their time and stories.
