The Daily News is pleased to announce the return of our Neighbors series, where we’ll find one person from LaGrange and the surrounding area and feature them in the newspaper each week.

This week, we begin with a familiar voice to much of LaGrange. If you’ve ever called City Hall, the recorded phone messages are the voice of Sue Olson. We asked her a few questions about her job, her life and what she likes about LaGrange.

LaGrange Daily News: What is your name and occupation? What’s the best part of your job?

Sue Olson: Sue Olson, executive assistant in the city manager’s office for over 21 years. The best part of my job is that every day is different and it’s always a challenge. I love helping people, and in my job, there’s always someone to help; whether it’s questions about their utility bill, someone requesting to use public parks for an event or someone calling for the mayor, I am here to help.

LDN: How long have you lived in LaGrange, and where are you originally from?

SO: I was born and raised in LaGrange, graduated from LaGrange High School, and have lived here my entire life.

LDN: What are your hobbies and interests? What do you do in your free time?

SO: I love being outdoors. I love the lake, boating, being poolside or at the beach, walking, reading and UGA (University of Georgia) baseball and football! I’ve joined the new gym and am enjoying spending time there.

LDN: Where do you think is the most beautiful place in LaGrange? Why?

SO: I think Lafayette Square is absolutely gorgeous. I remember when the square was “round” with yield signs, then it was decided that the square should be “squared,” and at one time all of the streets around it were one-way. I love the history of Lafayette, the flowers and the sound of the fountain. I use it as a landmark so many times when I’m giving directions.

LDN: What music are you currently listening to, and do you have any recommendations for people to listen to?

SO: I mostly listen to modern country music but I also enjoy ’70s and ’80s, that’s my era and love the memories that some songs bring back.

LDN: What business would you like to see open in LaGrange, and why?

SO: I hear a lot of people say they want to see a bowling alley in LaGrange. I’m not much of a bowler, but I think it would be great family entertainment. I would like to see more retail and restaurants, no one in particular, just in general. I wonder if I’d get in trouble if I said — Steak ‘n Shake?

LDN: What is your favorite thing about living in LaGrange and Troup County?

SO: I’ve always said that LaGrange is a great place to raise children, and although my children are grown and gone, I’m proud to have raised them here. Being born, raised and educated here myself, it was a wonderful experience knowing people and introducing my children to them, and places to go and things that my children could be involved in. Troup County Parks and Recreation was a tremendous asset and influence to my children.

LDN: Is there anything you’d like to add or say?

SO: I cannot have a conversation without talking about my wonderful children and how proud I am of them. I have two: a daughter and a son. My daughter, Jennifer, is married and is a Spanish teacher in Brooklyn, New York, but loves living in Manhattan. She is expecting my first grandchild in November — a girl!! My son, Matt, is married, lives in Cumming, Georgia, works in medical sales, and is currently attending seminary at Liberty University, and we are excited to see what God calls him to do. They are both UGA graduates — GO DAWGS!