Sheila Crews hates to let the secret out, but knows it's in the county's best interest.

As the new South Fulton County Chamber of Commerce chairman, Crews wants everybody to realize that South Fulton is a very special area.

"It truly is the best kept secret in the area. The land is gorgeous with all the horse farms," she said.

Crews has been acquainted with the area for several years during her banking career. Working for Tucker Federal several years ago, Crews' office was in Union City. She slowly started realizing the potential of the area.

She now works for Peachtree National Bank and has served on the South Fulton Chamber board for five years.

During her year as chairman, Crews wants to put the emphasis on education.

"We're going to do everything to promote education. It's a matter of changing perception," she said.

Crews said the area has wonderful private schools and education represents the best bet for increasing the economic development area in the county.

During the year, she wants to conduct several meetings at local schools, along with possibly staging events such as a business exposition, a golf tournament and a developer's day.

But above everything else, Crews hopes her tenure is marked by a higher level of respect for the county and the educational efforts on the Southside.