NEWNAN, GA — The historic statue in downtown Newnan now features the Waffle House logo as part of a controversial new sponsorship initiative.
City officials state the partnership is a purely financial decision designed to cover rising maintenance and structural preservation costs without increasing taxpayer burden. If the pilot program is successful in funding the monument’s upkeep, the city may explore similar corporate sponsorships for other historical sites in the district.
The visual shift in the historic square has sparked immediate debate among locals.
“It’s tacky and completely disrespectful to the history it represents. What’s next? A neon beer sign on the courthouse?” argued longtime resident Mark Davis. “Some things just shouldn’t be up for sale, no matter what the budget issues are.”
Others took a more optimistic view of the change.
“Look, these old stone structures require expensive specialized repairs,” said local business owner Sarah Jenkins. “If selling a little advertising space keeps my property taxes down and ensures the statue doesn’t crumble, I’m all for it. Besides, it’s Waffle House and that’s practically Georgia heritage anyway.”
Newnan Time with Harold 