The magic of Disney comes to Southlake Mall when The Disney Store opens this fall. The 4,300 square foot store will employ 25 to 30 cast members and is the eighth store in the Atlanta region.

The Disney Store features a variety of proprietary Disney Character merchandise set in an entertaining retail environment with an emphasis on fun and guest service. The store's design includes three-dimensional Disney characters, colorful carpeting, a video wall playing Disney tunes and unique merchandise displays.

Over the past years, the company has broadened its collection of fashion apparel and accessories for adults and children. The store also has an extensive collection of jewelry, watches and gifts, along with an assortment of toys, books and videos. Introduced in May of 1997, Disney Mini Bean Bag Plush Toys quickly became the chain's top seller and the most popular line in its 11-year history.

The Disney Store provides shoppers with the convenience of purchasing Disney theme park tickets at the store, as well as Disney Dollars and Disney Store gift certificates. For more information about the store, call Janet Paulsen at 770-961-1050.

Sandra West has been appointed branch manager of the Peachtree City office of Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., the nation's largest independent mortgage lender and servicer. In this position, West will work with home buyers, homeowners and real estate professionals to help residents obtain the American dream of homeownership.

"As this area continues to grow, Sandra will play an integral part in helping consumers receive the best home financing possible," said Kerry Rainey, regional vice president of Countrywide's Consumer Markets Division. "Sandra has a proven track record of providing the highest quality customer service available."

West is a 15-year mortgage industry veteran. Prior to joining Countrywide, she was a branch manager for Tucker Federal Mortgage.

Prudential's Jeffery Huggins has received the Bronze National Management Award from the General Agents and Managers Association for the 1997 production year.

Huggins manages the Fayetteville office, located at 150 Marquis Drive in Fayetteville.

The GAMA International Awards recognize the achievement of excellence in field management. This year, Prudential received a total of 241 awards for managers, more than any other insurer.

Home-based business owners can find a wealth information at the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber's Home Based Business Council offers members a variety of services and resources.

You can even get nutritional products to help you burn the midnight oil and have your cleaning supplies delivered to your home.

The next opportunity to get more information about the council is Oct. 16 at the Chamber of Commerce. Lunch is provided by Sue Kassin of Joyful Paintings and Design. Call the chamber at 770-461-9983 for more information.