G R E A T E R R O M E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C EMomentum

NOVEMBER 2012

PERIODICALSPOSTAGE

PAIDRome, GA,

30161

Rome’s Got Talent - Mr. Jay Shell

Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris

Foss Manufacturing

Ms. Emme Bolton:Open Door Home

tABLE OF CONTENTS

Table of ContentsIn this Issue...Letter from the Chairman..........................................................4Upcoming Community Events................................................4

Connect the Dots:Growing the Community.....................................................6-7Small Business Spotlight:Easy Living Yamaha & Polaris............................................8-9

Feature:Students Choose College and Career Academy..10-11Foss to create jobs in Floyd County.....................................12

Newcomer Profile:Ms. Emme Bolton: Open Door Home............................................................14-15

Membership Report:Rome’s Got Talent......................................................................16 New Members and Renewals........................................................................................17Ribbon Cuttings..........................................................................18Advertiser’s Index/Chamber Events....................................19Chamber Happenings..............................................................22

Visitor’s Guide..............................................23

For Advertising and Editorial Information

706-291-7663

Published by:Greater Rome

Chamber of Commerce1 Riverside Parkway

Rome, Georgia 30161

November 2012 3

G R E A T E R R O M E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C EMomentum

NOVEMBER 2012

On the Cover:

All content by:Chamber Staff

Momentum (USPS 395-030)Published monthly by the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, 1

Riverside Parkway, Rome, GA 30161. Periodical Postage Paid - Rome, GA

30161. Subscription Rate $25 per year in U.S.A.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MOMENTUM, 1 Riverside Parkway,

Rome, GA 30161

The owners of The Claremont House Holly and Chris McHagge with their daughter Iris, wearing a Thanksgiving dress from Rabbit’s Nest of Rome (1207 Dean Avenue).

Dear Reader,

As you enjoy this publication, I am sure you will see why Rome and Floyd County is a great place to live, work and play!

We are excited about this edition of Momentum. This issue features the Open Door Home’s Emme Bolton as the Newcomer Profile, Rome’s Got Talent with Mr. Jay Shell and West Rome Welcome’s Foss Manufacturing.This edition also features this month’s New Members and Renewals. Don’t forget to take a look at the Community Calendar and experience the vibrancy of Rome and Floyd County for yourself. As Chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors for 2012, I extend the invitation to visit the Chamber of Commerce located at 1 Riverside Parkway and meet the Chamber staff. You will find a group that is truly committed to the future of Rome and Floyd County.

Sincerely,

Angie LewisPresident & CEOCitizens First Bank, a division of Synovus Bank2012 Chairman of the BoardGreater Rome Chamber of Commerce

LETTER FROM THE

C h e c k t h e co m m u n i t y c a l e n d a r a t w w w. r o m e g a . co m fo r e ve nt d e t a i l s .

8-18Berry College Theatre presents:“Letters to Sala”Location: Berry CollegeEvent Description: Based on a true story, it is a riveting drama revolving around the 352 letters that Sala Garncarz Kirschner collected during her time in Nazi work camps.

10Alzheimer’s Association presents:“2012 Walk to End Alzheimer’s”Location: Ridge Ferry Park Event Description: Held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, this inspiring event calls on participants of all ages and abilities to help end Alzheimer’sdisease.

27Heritage First Bank presents:“Rome Christmas Parade”Location: Broad StreetEvent Description: Rome’s annual Christmas parade.

1333 presents:“Jon Byrd”Location: 333 Broad StreetEvent Description: Join Jon Byrd at 333 on Broad in Downtown Rome for a family-friendly acoustic music dinner show!

3Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce presents:“Business Expo 2012”Location: The ForumEvent Description: Come celebrate the 25th annual Business EXPO with us! This event features 100 booths, over 80 vendors, and welcomes over 1,000 visitors.

4Rome Symphony Orchestra presents:“Rome Fine Wine Festival” Location: Forrest Place BallroomEvent Description: The festival is a benefit for the Rome Symphony and offers Rome residents a chance to sample some of the best of high-end wines from around the world as well as gourmet appetizers.

Community Events

November 2012 4

November 2012

November 2012 5

Don’tLet �is

Great RateExpire.

GREATERAuto Loan Event

Greater Rates. Faster Answers. Superior Service.

AUTO LOANRates as Low as

2.50%APR

Rates Valid 11/1/2012 - 12/31/2012

*

706.295.9300GreaterRomeBank.com

Scan Code!Live Better. Bank Greater.

THE

*2.50% APR - 5 years - Subject to Loan Approval - Estimated monthly interest payment for 60 months is $17.75 per $1,000. These rates are Greater Rome Bank’s best rates for quali�ed members. All GRB loan programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change at any time without notice.These rates apply to new cars only.

......Growing the economy

and improving the community.

How do you dramatically improve your community over time? A clear vision for the future is always important, but pure vision alone is insufficient to bring about change. Moving forward requires more than just hopeful desires. Improvement requires an intentional commitment to action along the way, and the key to having a positive, lasting impact on your community lies within the specific actions that you take. Thus, action is the primary function of Rome-Floyd 20/20, our community-wide strategic plan. For the past 15 years, Rome and Floyd County has used as its guide a community-wide strategic plan called “Rome-Floyd 20/20,” a collaborative effort among the City of Rome, Floyd County, and the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce.

What has happened so far? Rome-Floyd 20/20 began in 1998 with 20 goals for 20 years. The plan was designed to unify our vision for the future of Rome and Floyd County and then put specific actions behind our efforts to move the community forward.After only ten short years, our concerted efforts accomplished the majority of the goals set forth in the original plan. By 2008, the community had celebrated many great successes. In light of these successes, City of Rome Mayor Evie McNiece, then serving as Chamber Chairman of the Board, declared that the community would “not settle for the status quo,” but instead would raise the bar and enter into “Rome-Floyd 20/20 Part II” in 2008, which outlined 26 additional goals to continue the great progress for improving our community. Since that time, we have continued to take action steps improving the community.

Where are we now? In order to stay relevant and forward-thinking in a rapidly changing global economy, our community is taking a fresh look at our approach to continuous improvement in Rome-Floyd 20/20 III. The City, County, and Chamber have jointly contracted with a professional consulting firm, Market Street Services, to gain objective feedback from local citizens and conduct thorough research into emerging

.The

.

...

.November 2012 6

....

Connect

November 2012 7

... dots.

.... .

“Having grown up in Atlanta I chose Rome because it’s close

enough, but not too close.” It has the benefits of

the big city without the expense and hassle.”- survey respondent

..

“the greatest strength of Rome is the partnerships between leadership. It’s truly a ‘what gets done’ mentality vs. a ‘who gets what done’ mentality. It makes a big difference.”

.trends and develop a detailed action plan. A steering committee appointed by the city, county and Chamber of Commerce are overseeing research of the plan and will decide upon final plans going forward. Market Street began their research in June with a phase called “Stakeholder Input” to gain community feedback. A community-wide survey was conducted, and 466 people responded with their honest thoughts on the current state of our community and their ideas for the future. A total of 11 focus groups were held with topics ranging from small business to education, tourism, healthcare and several one-on-one interviews with community leaders were held. The second phase compared Rome and Floyd County to three other cities: Chattanooga, TN, Greenville, SC, and Lynchburg, VA, along with state and national statistics to benchmark our progress. These insights were combined with the results of the community input into a 130-page report that provided an honest assessment of where we are now. The report outlines our community’s strengths, opportunities, and areas of improvement. In September, Market Street took a fresh look at our local economy and made specific recommendations for target sectors to develop in Floyd County, including: Technology and Business Services; Advanced Manufacturing; Transportation & Logistics; Diversified Healthcare Operations; and Tourism & Lifestyle recommendations. These sectors keep in mind our historical strengths while looking ahead at emerging trends in the economy.

By December, a final Strategy will be in place by the steering committee for developing the identified sectors to help continue growing our local economy. The first strategy will guide us on how we should move forward in the context of the national and global economic trends. Some trends and opportunities that will be addressed include: Technology & Business Services, Advanced Manufacturing, Transportation & Logistic, Diversified Healthcare Operations and Tourism & Lifestyle. By February 2013, a detailed Implementation Plan will be in place which will outline the specific actions for us to continue to improve our community. As Chamber Chairman of the Board Angie Lewis would say, “Rome makes things happen.” Given that action is the key to success in moving our community forward, this Implementation Plan will become the backbone of the future efforts of the City of Rome, Floyd County, and the Chamber of Commerce to continue improving our community into a place that is uniquely Rome and Floyd County...

W h a t h a p p e n s n e x t ?

July 2012 8

Over the last 40 years, Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris has transformed and grown with the community. In the 1970’s they began selling recreational vehicles and campers. Yamaha products were introduced in 1979 and Polaris products were introduced in 1998. After 25 years/ campers were discontinued and motorcycles were introduced. Motorcycles have been the primary product sold since 1998. “It has never been a job, it’s always been kind of an adventure,” said owner John Cummings. Ever since Mr. Cummings got his first motorcycle at 14, he has been a fan of racing and outdoor sports equipment. He enjoys interacting with customers and sharing his passion with others. For almost 40 years, they have provided the community with quality service, top brands and value. Yamaha is a leading brand for motor sports equipment with a mission to satisfy customers and exceed expectations. It is a brand that aims to create opportunities and memorable experiences. Polaris is about experience, ethics and values. Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris is a local motorsports dealer with substantial inventories of Star motorcycles, Grizzly, Big Bear and Raptor all terrain vehicles in addition to Polaris ATVs and utility terrain vehicles. They have a full line of YZ and TTR dirt bikes and Rhino side by sides. Also in their inventory, they sell award winning Sportsman ATVs and Ranger side by sides. Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris offer Yamaha parts and accessories. Full services are available for both Yamaha and Polaris brands including insurance and financing. With nine full time employees, this family owned business continues to thrive despite economic shifts.

In recent years, many motorsport shops have closed. Mr. Cummings, who is semi-retired, appreciates the fact that his sons “naturally fell into sales” and will be running the shop when he leaves the business. “It’s good to have family involved that you can trust,” he added. As a former racer himself, Mr. Cummings understands the importance of an exceptional experience and the necessity of having a good product. The staff at Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris strives to make the entire shopping experience pleasurable and to find the best fit for each customer. The success of the last 40 years, has led to the expansion of the shop five times. Mr. Cummings attributes success to good money management and dedication to customer service. Currently the customer base has branched out to surrounding counties, Northeast Alabama, and Tennessee. A trend that Mr. Cummings has noticed in the past few years is the increasing number of children riding. “It is not unusual to see a whole family riding now,” he explained. He added that in the past there were not models designed for children, although his own sons enjoyed riding when they were younger. He believes that everyone can become a good defensive driver by being a responsible motorcyclist. Mr. Cummings acquired the business from the previous dealer in 1979. Every Monday since, he has never dreaded going to work. Easy Living Yamaha and Polaris want to continue providing the local community with great products and fun adventures for years to come. Visit the business directory at www.romega.com to find out more information.

E a s y L i v i n gYamaha and Polaris

Small Business Spotlight

November 2012 8

With a growing number of positions in technical fields it makes it increasingly important for students to follow an education and career path that leads to direct success in obtaining a stable, well-paying job. Earlier this year, ten local manufacturers participated in a Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce “Skills to Jobs” event, which was based upon difficulty in the employers finding technically skilled employees for their company. Though unemployment is high, the solution often lies in the employee’s education and skills. During the past 15-20 years, there has been a large emphasis placed on standard secondary education (college and university). What is sometimes over looked are the technical colleges. Historically, parents have guided their children away from mill jobs or performing traditional “blue collar” jobs which pay lower wages. This resulted in less young people following a career path in the blue collar fields. However, times have changed and now the demand for these positions (i.e. – welders, pipefitters, electricians, millwrights, painters, robotics, machinists) is on the rise. Many of these positions are high paying jobs, but require increased skill level. The ability to program or “reteach” a robot (whether for welding, quality control, assembly or plasma cutting) is a skill that is in demand for many of our local industries. Wages for this skill are commensurate with the position. The College and Career Academy has recently acquired Greg Smith, who has joined forces with Bill Scoggin in the robotics and engineering division. This department includes instruction in PLC, pneumatics and hydraulics. More and more young residents of Floyd County are following in technical career paths. Hector Cornejo was excited about the option to attend the College and Career Academy as a sophomore at Model High School. After working at a local fast food restaurant and coming home late, he decided this was not what he wanted to pursue as a permanent career path. He cites the benefits of attending the College and Career Academy for 3 years as paramount to the success

and opportunities he has been afforded. Hector studied PLC, robotics, electricity, etc. at the academy. The instructor noticed the hard work of Hector and recommended him for an internship with Profile Extrusion. “Profile Extrusion provided me the opportunity to learn in their manufacturing environment and they gave me exposure to multiple facets of the company.” Hector attended Model High, followed by the College and Career Academy and currently works for Profile Extrusion. Hector works 20 hours per week while attending Model High, has a private office and is on a further education path to pursue either Industrial or Electrical Engineering at Georgia Northwestern Technical College. “Follow your goals and do what you really want to do in life.” One further piece of advice “Attend the College and Career Academy as early as you are allowed to attend!” “I would have never gotten started if I hadn’t attended the College and

Career Academy” expressed Hector.Chris Tolbert also began an educational path through the

Bill Scoggin and Greg Smith – Robotics and Engineering instructors at the College & Career Academy

November 2012 10

s t u d e n t s fi n d

s u c c e s s i n

Ttech

College and Career Academy while attending Coosa High School. Chris pursued numerous areas of study at the College and Career Academy such as CMM, electrical, CAD, construction, pipefitting, etc. During this time, he was allowed to attend plant tours of local manufacturing facilities. One of the plants he visited was F&P Georgia, for which Chris was awarded an internship. Like many high school students, Chris was uncertain of the career path he should choose and what his strengths were. “I went to high school in the morning until lunch, then the College and Career Academy, followed by working at F&P Georgia during the second shift,” said Tolbert.

Chris began working in the paint department at F&P, transferred to the facilities department and is now working in accounting. Accounting became an area for which his math skills, financial experience and accuracy are an asset to the organization. Chris was encouraged to further his education so he earned an Associates Degree from Georgia Highlands College and then pursued a Bachelor’s degree from Shorter College (now Shorter University).This path has successfully placed Chris (26 years old) in the position of Associate Manager of Accounting for this Tier I automotive supplier. While Chris readily admits that he didn’t follow many of the areas that he studied during his high school years, it did lead him to the internship and provided him resources which still assist him in his accounting position. These young men both represent a new path in education. Both have been open-minded to technical education and have devoted time and effort to work while attending school. They realize that education and training never ends. To grow and excel with a company means being willing to continue seeking knowledge and skills. It is simply their dedication, determination, work ethic, and the continual pursuit of increased knowledge and skills that determines their success.

Hector Cornejo – Maintenance/Logistics Apprentice at Profile Extrusion

"”I would have never

gotten started if I

hadn’t attended the

College and Career

Academy” “

November 2012 11

"”Follow your

goals and

do what you

really want to

do in life..” “

College and Career Academy

November 2012 12

Foss Manufacturing Company, LLC will be expanding with a manufacturing plant in Rome and Floyd County and create 150 new full-time jobs. Foss manufacturing CEO AJ Nassar announced in September at the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority meeting that the company will invest $15,000,000 and will be moving into the former Mohawk building on Huffaker Road. Foss is a well-known leader and pioneer in the use of non-woven fabrics and specialty synthetic fibers in an ever expanding number of environments and circumstances. As one of the world’s largest needle-punch based manufacturers, the company supports customers’ needs with patented technology driven solutions.

“We are very excited about our decision to expand our operations in Rome and look forward to great success,” said Mr. Nassar. “It is always great news for our community when we secure a new company with such a diverse customer base,” said Rome Mayor Evie McNiece. “We are happy that at least 150 people will directly benefit from this positive use of a former manufacturing building,” she added. “We are proud that Mr. Nassar and his team like what they see in our workforce and overall community,” said Floyd County Commission Chairman Mr. Irwin Bagwell. “The Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce is delighted to continue to work with this new employer and the creation of

the Foss jobs in Rome and Floyd County,” said Angie Lewis, Chairman of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and President and CEO of Citizens First Bank, a division of Synovus Bank. “Foss brings new jobs, more business with local small businesses, and a new employer to an area of our community that has experienced job losses, so this will be good for all,” she said. Special thanks to Governor Nathan Deal and his team, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the Department of Community Affairs, Georgia Power Company, Floyd County, the City of Rome, the Rome-Floyd County Development Authority, the Development Authority of Floyd County and the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce.

Foss Brings Jobs to Floyd County

Foss CEO AJ Nassar announces Foss manufacturing plant will bring 150 full time jobs to West Rome.

November 2012 13

(706) 409-1793 cindy@callromehome.com www.callromehome.com

Make all your dreams come true!

Your FootballHeadquaRters

2817 Martha Berry HwyRome, GA 30165706.291.8969

DINE IN CARRY OUT CATERINGEnjoy Anyway You Want:. .

www.wowcafe.com

November 2012 14

N E W C O M E R P R O F I L E

Counseler| Open Door Children’s HomeEmme Bolton

November 2012 15

The conventional image of a Superhero is a man whose face is hidden behind a mask to conceal his true identity. He soars through the air with his cape flapping in the wind and defeats the bad guys to save helpless humanity. However, the truth is Superheroes don’t just live in comic books. Some of them are here, working daily to uplift members of a community in need. Newcomer to Rome, Ms. Emme Bolton is a counselor for the Open Door Children’s Home. Established in 1927 as a residence for children whose fathers were being held in the Floyd County jail for bootlegging during the prohibition, the Open Door Home has since evolved to provide a safe, warm and loving environment for the children who have been neglected, abandoned and abused in the community. Emme is an Associate Professional Counselor receiving her undergraduate degree from Auburn University and her Masters Degree in Psychology from the University of West Georgia in Carrolton. Emme completed her practicum through the Open Door Children’s Home and began working there full time in 2011. Originally from Mobile, Alabama, Emme moved to Rome in 2011 and has completely embraced the Roman lifestyle. “I live in beautiful downtown Rome, it’s an easy walk to great restaurants, shopping and friends,” said Bolton. Just recently turning 30, she enjoys the culture and atmosphere that surrounds the community. “People smile when you pass them on the street, it’s nice to be settled in a place where it’s easy to make friends.” A few months ago Emme contacted

the Chamber to see if a young man, a current resident at the home, could possibly help out as an “intern” to expose him to a professional atmosphere. She called at the perfect time, in the middle of preparing for “Operation Thank You” in August. During his internship he had the opportunity to meet Mayor McNeice, multiple City and County leaders and U.S. Senator Isakson during his visit to the Chamber. “He framed the picture he took with Senator Isakson and hung it on his bedroom wall,” said Bolton. Bolton knew this experience would be helpful. “It exposes him to a world of professional business people in suits and ties who positively contribute to the community through their leadership and involvement.” Emme continued, “This internship has been eye opening for him it has helped grow his self-confidence.” The sensitive issues Emme and the Open Door Home staff are confronted with daily are not for the faint of heart. Hearing the tales from abused and neglected children and counseling them through this tough time is a responsibility only “Superheroes” can handle. “I had to make peace with the fact that I couldn’t fulfill every need, whether or not I’m in the picture these problems still exist. But, if I can help in any way then I’ve made a positive impact no matter how small,” said Bolton. Emme is thankful to the community for their gracious support and warm welcome. Find out more information about The Open Door Home in the Chamber’s Business Directory, which is now mobile friendly, at www.romega.com.

Jay Shell333 on Broad Street

Talent: Musician

Member Profile

Jay + Billy333 on Broad St.

Jay +Family @

the Brewhouse

Questions 1. What is band life like? I moved to Rome in 1998. Shortly after, I met Chris Austin and we started playing a little music. We had no intentions of trying to go anywhere or even get noticed. We started opening for some buddies down at the Rivers Edge around 2000 and soon were asked to start playing our own shows. In 2006 we brought Dave Harper, Derrick Ingram, and Shannon Wilson on board to form a full band. Since then we have played all over the Southeast and have been on cruise ships with people I never imagined I would meet. Earlier this year we made the decision to basically retire. We will continue to play some local show, but my days of traveling all over are done. Between my family and three businesses it is hard to load up and be gone for days at a time playing shows. Without the band I would have never thought of Rome River Jam. I would have never opened 333 or the Brewhouse. For over 10 years now my weekends consisted of where I was playing music, driving hundreds of miles and sleeping in hotel rooms. Now I want my weekends to consist of being here in Rome with my family. I just want to be in Rome, GA. Wake up in Rome. Sleep in Rome. Then do it all again the next day.

Rome River Jam

2. What is 333 restaraunt like? 333 On Broad offers a full service restaurant and has live entertainment 4 days a week. Our upstairs and our downstairs banquet room have become very popular spots for private parties such as class reunions and company parties. The Brewhouse is a full scale sports bar and is also Rome’s biggest music venue with a capacity over 500. In November we will be bringing Uncle Kracker to play right here on Broad Street. Rome has needed a venue such as this for a long time. I am glad to be a part of the team that helped it come together.

33. What do you enjoy most about your job? I enjoy the people the most. Meeting new people and seeing them excited about something you’re doing. Just last night I was on twitter and I saw a lot of folks tweeting about our upcoming Florida Georgia Line show at the Brewhouse. It made me smile knowing we are giving the town something to be excited about for only $12 a ticket. They don’t have to drive to ATL or Chattanooga. They get to stay right here in town and see a national act here on Broad Street.

November 2012 16

November 2012 17

Aramark Uniform ServicesBlue Fin Sushi and Grill Restaurant

BlueCross/BlueShieldCertified Collision Specialists

Commercial Fluid PowerCoosa Medical GroupEverett Construction

F & P GeorgiaFleetwood Security & Electronic Services, Inc

Gentiva Home HealthGeorgia Public Broadcasting

Harbin Clinic L.L.C.Hawthorn Suites, Ltd.Hines Delivery Service

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & SuitesHometown Headlines

Jowers-Sklar InsuranceKoba Electric Co., LLC

Lynn’s UniformsMatt Medley State Farm

Meals on HeelsMiller & Martin, PLLC

Montessori School of RomeOutback Steakhouse

Owens Hardware & Sporting Goods Co., Inc.Parker Systems, LLC

Perfect Dress of RomePineapple Place

Plaza CleanersPrimeCare Nursing Services, Inc.Quota International of Rome Inc.

Riverside GourmetRobert Noble Architect

Rome City Schools Board of Education

Rome Eye Care, P.C.Rome Symphony Orchestra, Inc.

Sam’s Club #6509Servpro of Floyd CountyKevin, Snodgrass, M.D.

South Rome Redevelopment Corporation

Southern Engineering & Surveying, Inc.

Sunrise Community of GATelenet Systems

Trinity United Methodist ChurchWaste Industries

West Georgia Roofing, Inc.Willis

New Members November 2012

Five Star Food ServiceMs. Amanda Bailey

248 Rollins Industrial CTRinggold, GA 30736

(706) 937-5077

Northern Georgia LogisticsMr. Charles Bills1800 Industrial Dr.Findlay, OH 45840

(706) 291-1220www.ohiologistics.com

OH! Be A Better You (Baby)Life Coaching

Ms. Gwen Dempsey520 Broad St.

Rome, GA 30161(770) 996-6955

www.ohbabylifecoaching.com

Payroll Professionals of TNMs. Kim Carlock

401 Chestnut St. Ste 200 Chattanooga, TN 37402

(423) 285-7995www.payrollprofessionals.com

Positive Changes CounselingMs. Greta Willoughby

520 Broad St.Rome, GA 30161

(706) 314-9739www.winshapewilderness.org

Did

Know...That Chamber Members can post their upcoming events on the Chamber’s Community Calendar at

www.romega.com?

Contact Lindy Lee, Director of Membership, at 706-291-7663 or email

llee@romega.com for more information!

You

Renewals November 2012

Ribbon Cuttings

Renaissance Marquis

Country Sportsman The Stitchery

B. Stevens Salon Right at Home of NWGA Sam’s Club

Travel Leaders

BuenaVista Mexican Cantina

November 2012 18

Travel Leaders celebrates the grand opening of their new location, 9 North Hanks Street

Country Sportsman owner Mr. Helmut Cawthon cuts the ribbon for their location in West Rome

The Stitchery celebrates their grand opening at 111 Broad Street with family, friends and Chamber Ambassadors

B. Stevens Salon celebrates their grand opening with owner Mr. Bobby Stevens at 505 E. 2nd street

Sam’s Club celebrates their new expansion with their staff, Mayor McNiece and the Armuchee Indian Cheerleaders

Right at Home of NWGA Owner Mr. Jay Deville cuts the ribbon for their new location; 11 John Davenport Drive, Suite B

Renaissance Marquis celebrates their expansion at 3126 Cedartown Hwy in Rome

BuenaVista Mexican Cantina celebrates their grand opening in Rome, located at 707 Turner McCall Blvd. NE.

page 2Harbin Clinic1825 Martha Berry Highwaywww.harbinclinic.com706-295-5331

page 5Greater Rome Bank1490 Martha Berry Blvd. www.greaterromebank.com706-295-9300

page 13Wow Cafe & Wingery2817 Martha Berry Highway www.wowcafe.com 706-291-8969

Unity Christian School2960 New Calhoun Hwy706-292-0700www.unitychristianschool.org

Greene’s Jewelers328 Broad Street www.greenesjewelers.com706-291-7236

Cindy Green, TT&W611 Turner Mccall Blvd.www.callromehome.com706-409-7236

page 19The Claremont House Bed & Breakfast906 E 2nd Avenuewww.theclaremonthouse.net706-291-0900

page 20

Bella Roma Grill770 Braves Blvd706-291-4050www.bellaromagrill.com

Logical Systems, Inc.605 E. First Street706-234-9896www.logsysinc.com

Georgia Northwestern Technical CollegeOne Maurice Culberson Drive706-295-6963

back coverFord, Gittings & Kane Jewelers312 Broad Streetwww.fgkjewelers.com706-291-8811

Advertiser’s Index

November 2012 19

3Business EXPO 2012Location: The Forum10:00 am6Sugar Candy Emporium Ribbon CuttingLocation: 4 East 3rd Avenue 12:00 noon7Social Media for Small Business SeminarLocation: Chamber Boardroom 3:00 pm7Transportation Committee MeetingLocation: Chamber Boardroom12:00 noon8Entrepreneurs Seeking Equity SeminarLocation: Georgia Power5:30 pm

8Riverwood Retirement Life Community Ribbon CuttingLocation: 511 W 10th St 3:00 pm8Stephens’ Music Company Ribbon CuttingLocation:122 Hicks Dr.11:00 am9Education and Workforce Committee meetingLocation: Chamber Boardroom8:00 am13Small Business Action Council MeetingLocation: Chamber Boardroom8:30 am28Governmental Affairs Committee meetingLocation: Chamber Boardroom12:00 noon

C h a m b e r E v e n t s

Visit the Chamber Calender at www.romega.com for full event information.

The Stitchery

The Stitchery celebrates their grand opening at 111 Broad Street with family, friends and Chamber Ambassadors

Holiday Tea12:30 and 2:30pm

Nov. 23 & 24Dec. 7 & 8

Dec. 21 & 22Reservations Requested

The Claremont House Bed & Breakfast906 E 2nd Avenue • Rome, GA 30161

706-291-0900 or 800-254-4797Available for Holiday Parties

November 2012 20

November 2012 21

November 3rd, 2012The Forum | Downtown Rome

10:00am - 3:00pm

Admission:$5 at the door - $3 in advance

Children 6 & under FREE

Sponsors:

R

Kindred HospitalRome

www.facebook.com/BusinessExpoRome

Chamber-Sponsored InsurancePrograms and Brokerage Services

PURCHASING ALLIANCESOLUTIONS, INC.

November 2012 22

Chamber Happenings

The Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce would like to say a special thanks to their

Partners In Prosperity Major Investors:

Young Professionals of Rome Small Action Business Counsel

November 2012 23

Visitor’s GuideDowntown Rome

Floyd County

Points of Interest1 Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce2 Rome and Floyd County Library3 City Hall4 Clocktower5 Historic DeSoto Theatre6 Old Courthouse7 Myrtle Hill Cemetery8 Heritage Park9 Tennis Complex Barron Stadium10 The Forum11 Rome Area History Museum12 Harbin Clinic Tony E. Warren Cancer Center

Points of Interest13 Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum14 Chieftain’s Museum15 Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau and Rome Visitors Center16 Ridge Ferry Park17 Shorter University18 Mt. Berry Square Mall19 Cave Spring20 Lock & Dam Park21 Coosa Valley Fairgrounds22 Stonebridge Golf Course23 Berry College24 Floyd Medical Center25 Harbin Clinic26 Redmond Regional Medical Center27 Darlington Lower School28 Darlington Upper School29 Georgia Northwestern Technical College30 Unity Christian School31 State Mutual Stadium32 Saint Mary’s Catholic School33 Georgia Highlands College34 Richard B. Russell Regional Airport35 Georgia School for the Deaf