Bridges Magazine | 3rd Quarter 2022

third/fourth quarter 2022

Powering tomorrow, today.

from the editor When I look back, most of my memories have Rome and Floyd County as the backdrop—like in The Pocket, wading in Johns Creek while trout fishing with my daddy. Christmas shopping with my family on Broad Street. Sunday lunch at the Partridge. Or while attending Shorter University, spending time with friends at Schroeder's or El Zarape.

Thinking about those days, I can't help but recall people and places and how they impacted my life.

Being centrally located in the ABC triangle is a plus. For many years, we've touted how our geographical location allows easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and Chattanooga for business, shopping, and entertainment. However, today Rome, the hub of Floyd County, has moved into focus and we have much to offer.

Rome is a leader in northwest Georgia - of that we can be proud. Anyone can access the latest medical care, award-winning schools, colleges, and universities. Rome is the go-to spot for recreation, shopping, and quality restaurants. In addition, thriving independent businesses and national chains provide shopping and dining choices close to home.

There is much to be said about Rome and Floyd County. In Bridges, you will meet innovators, leaders, and influencers that impact our community. We hope you enjoy.

All the best,

Susan Moore Beyer Managing Editor

104 East Sixth Avenue Rome, GA 30161 706.290.0202

bridgesmagazinerome.com

1

20

18

contents 4 4

The Early Way Rontavious Coley

6

Blue Fin Eddie Yap

8

Bellus Wax Studio Juliana Duarte

10 PAM Studios Maria Guerra-Stoll

12 Combat Market Brandon Pledger

14 Cheeky Baby Boutique Mary Andersen

16 Heather's Outdoor Power Heather Hapner

2

Bridges magazine is created, written, and published by Advertising Dynamics, Inc. in collaboration with the Rome Floyd Chamber of Commerce. Bridges magazine reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and/or space availability in determining the suitability of all materials submitted for publication. Reproduction of printed materials is prohibited without the prior consent of the publisher. ©Copyright 2022. All rights reserved.

Contact Advertising Dynamics, Inc. for comments, information, and advertising inquiries.

706.290.0202 or goodideas@adigeorgia.com

18 Speakcheesy Hillery Sawyer

20 Cave Spring Is Unforgettable 22 Sandra Hudson Northwest Georgia Housing Authority

26 Sundai Stevenson

43 Networking 44 New Board Members 45 Ambassador of the Quarter 48 State Senate Summary Senator Chuck Hufstetler

Mayor, Rome, Georgia

28 Christina Holtzclaw NW Ga Center for Independent Living

30 Tony Ferguson Georgia Power

32 Ford, Gittings & Kane 36 Hot Eats, Cool Treats

On the cover - Spanning Cedar Creek, this old railroad bridge was discovered in Cave Spring. It is privately owned.

bridgesmagazinerome.com

WELCOME Hello everyone!

Along with the cooler weather and the Holiday season comes a crazy busy schedule, including here at the Chamber. There will be activities that bring our members together for networking, learning, and furthering news of their businesses.

If you missed some of our events during the summer, I want to personally invite you to attend the ones coming up. It is a time we can all meet you and learn how we can be a resource in any way.

Another invitation is extended from our Young Professionals group to other 21–40-yearold professionals who live or work in the Rome and Floyd County area. The group hosts two events per month. It is the perfect opportunity to network and make new friends. We are actively recruiting young people, and perhaps your company has employees you would like to introduce to this group. Please consider encouraging them to join us. We have some exciting things coming up with our events.

It is also important for you to know that should your business need assistance in hiring, please reach out. Alex Williams is our full-time Workforce Director on staff to support you. We are committed in assisting all segments of our business and industry community in achieving successful hiring results.

On a fun note, we are happy to be back with Business Before Hours and Business After Hours. Starting January 2023, we will resume charging for these. Some months are already reserved, so be sure to check availability if you would like to book one!

As always, feel free to reach out any time or visit us. We are here to help our members every day and are happy to do so!

Pam Powers-Smith Pam Powers-Smith President, Rome Floyd Chamber

3

african-american owned

RONTAVIOUS COLEY The Early Way Keeping a step ahead.

4

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Rontavious Coley has never been afraid to try something new and different. Stepping out, pun intended, with his Early Way on Broad boutique sneaker shoe shop, “Tay,” as he is known to his friends, has filled a void that many folks would never have realized existed.

His introduction to the sneakers market came when someone tried to buy the shoes off his feet. It was 2016, and someone took a liking to the Nike Air Jordan 12 Gamma shoes. “It was a pretty rare shoe at the time,” Coley said.

The name Early Way on Broad grew from the days when he sold shoes out of his house and car. Whenever someone would call, he would be there in a hurry. His logo features a brightly colored bird reminiscent of a woodpecker. “You know the early bird,” Tay said.

Coley started The Early Way at 326 Broad Street, but earlier this year, he took advantage of an opening at 200 Broad Street to move his shop into a larger space. The change offered him the chance to greatly expand his line of merchandise and showcase it in a significantly grander fashion, befitting the product line. In addition, Tay said the change has provided him with the opportunity to give his customers, many of them from well outside of Rome and Floyd County, a more enjoyable shopping experience.

“The shoe market does not really have an age limit,” Coley said. So you’ve got to think that when shoes started popping in the 70s and 80s, Sneakerheads are 60 years old now.” His customers range from those young adults who want highquality shoes for their toddlers just learning to walk up to those who have been wearing fashionable footwear for 30 or 40 years. “I would say the target audience we mostly appeal to is those from 14 to 35, so it’s a pretty wide age range,” Coley said. In addition to high-end sneakers, Easy Way on Broad also sells fashionable T-shirts, shorts, caps, and other accessories.

The new location at the corner of Second Avenue and Broad Street has been very good for Coley and his staff. He believes that the Rome market is growing and sees significant opportunities to grow his business along with the city. While embracing the new location, Coley has also embraced some businesses near The Early Way. “We love being a part of the downtown community,” Tay said.

He’s also just received a beer and wine pouring license with the opportunity to offer some forms of entertainment from the city. He plans to use the mezzanine section of the store to host special events several times a month. “We want to have something at least every other weekend,” Coley said. “We want to incorporate the sneaker lifestyle where everyone comes around and socializes. We want the Sneakerheads and anyone else to have a place where they feel accepted by like people.” bridgesmagazinerome.com

Coley attended Anna K. Davie Elementary School in South Rome and is a 2014 graduate of Rome High School. He’s been enrolled at Georgia Highlands College, where he is seeking a degree in Healthcare Management.

When Coley can find some spare time away from his store, he enjoys coaching youth basketball and mentoring kids in middle school. In addition, he has been active with the minority male initiative at Georgia Highlands College, Brother 2 Brother, which strives to enroll, retain and graduate African-American young men.

5

asian owned

EDDIE YAP blue fin Realizing the American dream.

6

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Rome restaurateur Eddie Yap is the perfect example of an immigrant coming to the United States to make their dreams come true. Yap, however, wasn't even dreaming that he'd one day own multiple restaurants when he moved from Malaysia to the United States at 19.

His sister had already moved to the U.S. "She kind of brought me here because the living environment was more than my country," Yap said. He started out washing dishes at a restaurant in Chinatown in New York City. At that time, I thought I would just make some money and go home and start my business in Malaysia," Yap said. He was 22 when he and his sister opened their first restaurant in New York City on Columbus Avenue. "It was a good experience for me to learn how to do business," Yap said. They owned it for about a year before selling it to start a series of successful start-ups and sales.

Yap met his future wife, a student at Georgia State University, and, like most good husbands, opted to move to Georgia rather than try to carry her to Massachusetts, where he lived.

deep-fried and served with steamed broccoli. Soft Shell Crab in Sweet Lime Green Curry is among the Chef's Selection entrees. The crab is deep fried with assorted vegetables and basil leaves in the sweet lime green curry, which offers a distinctive taste. The Panang curry salmon is another Chef's favorite featuring pan-seared salmon with onions, mushrooms, and bell peppers in a Panang curry.

In addition to Blue Fin in Rome, Yap has several other restaurants and spends a lot of time on the road between the businesses. He has a shop in Dalton and Okinawa restaurants in Cartersville, Austell, and Marietta.

"All told, I think I have opened up about 15 restaurants," said Yap. When he's not overseeing operations at one of the shops, Yap has become a pickleball aficionado and travels a lot to play in his spare time.

For more information visit bluefinrome.com.

Even before settling in Rome, Yap owned restaurants in Ellijay and Canton. Along with his wife, Yap did their homework and learned that Rome had a strong population of professionals, particularly physicians, and a number of industries in the Greater Rome community. So he felt it would be a good place to open a new restaurant.

Blue Fin Sushi and Grill, 727 Turner McCall Boulevard, was founded in 2008 during the heat of the recession. Yap said "Blue Fin had a tough start, but he hung in at every step of the way. "Our customers have become very solid, very regular," Yap said. Several of his employees have hung in there as well; several have been with him through the recession and, more recently, the pandemic.

Eddie Yap with partner Ping Xia.

"We have multiple cuisines from Thai to Chinese along with hibachi and sushi," Yap said. "We cover most of the famous (Asian) fishes that people like." The restaurant features three distinct menus for lunch, dinner, and a specialty menu for sushi items.

The sushi menu features favorites like the Alaskan Roll with a crab stick, smoked salmon, cream cheese, and tempura crunch topped with fresh salmon. The Caterpillar Roll has barbecued eel and cucumber topped with avocado slices. The Dynamite Roll includes salmon and crab, asparagus fried in tempura batter with eel, and a special savory sauce.

Dinner favorites include Mongolian Beef, which is stir-fried with scallions and onions, and Sesame Chicken, which is bridgesmagazinerome.com

Yap with Shandy Hill, a longtime employee who at been at Blue Fin since the beginning.

7

HISPANIC owned

JULIANA DUARTE

BELLUS WAX STUDIO Determination, dedication, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

8

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Born in California to immigrants, Juliana Duarte spent her early formative years in her parents' native Mexico. In 2002, the family relocated to Silver Creek, Georgia, when she was 14. The oldest of four children, she attended Pepperell Middle School. While adjusting to her new country, there were challenges to face and overcome. "When I first went to school, I was the only Spanish-speaking person in my class. It was a difficult time, and I wanted to return to Mexico. But as time passed, things got better, and I started to love my new home," she says.

After graduating from Pepperell High School in 2007, Duarte continued her education at Empire Beauty School.

After completing the course and receiving her license, she had planned to become a hairstylist. However, she began to look for more challenges and growth opportunities. That is when she began to work exclusively in body waxing services.

Duarte has always been encouraged to follow her dreams by her family, and she decided to open her own business. In 2018, Juliana opened Bellus Wax Studio, one of Rome's first Brazilian Wax specialty salons. As the business grew, the salon moved downtown in late 2020. Located at 307 East Second Avenue, they specialize in full body waxing for women and men and other self-care services.

One of the most important aspects of the business for Bellus Wax Studio is its dedication to customer satisfaction. Often referred to as "love notes" from clients, the team cherishes positive feedback and referrals. Currently, Bellus has five employees committed to their customers' needs.

While building the business, Duarte continued her education, pursuing a license to become an esthetician, which will be completed in Spring 2023. She looks forward to the continued success of Bellus Wax Studio, and plans are in the works to expand to a full-service day spa focusing on body treatments and holistic services in the future. She wants the studio to be a welcoming and relaxing place and to serve the community by partnering with other businesses to give back to the community.

When reflecting on her life experiences as a newcomer to America, she says, "You learn from different people and personalities. As we learn, we can understand each other and appreciate our differences allowing us to work together to improve our community."

Bellus Wax Studio is located at 306 East Second Avenue. For more information, visit belluswaxstudiorome.com.

Left to right: Chona Zavala, Ceci Phasavath, Rosy Reyes, Allison Hubbard, Claudia Navichoque, Juliana Duarte

bridgesmagazinerome.com

9

HISPANIC owned

Photo Credit: Eric Bern

MARIA GUERRA-STOLL pam studios Setting the scene for action: Take One.

10

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Photo Credit: Carlos Alberto Rivero Gonzalez

Hollywood has long been a part of the mix of responsibilities for Georgia's Rome Office of Tourism. But, if Maria GuerraStoll has her way, Georgia's burgeoning film and television industry will find its way to Rome more frequently. And if they don't, that's okay because Guerra-Stoll has brought her own PAM Studios to Rome, buying a building in the 500 block of Broad Street and converting it to studio space.

"We chose Rome because of its charm, natural beauty, architecture, and of course, the people," Maria said. "We want to empower the community and build relationships with surrounding businesses so that when we have a project going, we can share jobs and opportunities with everyone."

Guerra-Stoll has created relationships with the Rome and Floyd County College and Career academies for training specializing in film/TV-related fields to prepare students for careers in the industry. "We will provide internships and jobs during each stage of film development," she said.

Of particular interest to Guerra-Stoll is the chance to portray women, and minorities, particularly minority women, in a more realistic light. "Here at PAM Studios, we push to have women and Hispanic/Latino representation behind the camera. This is because so many gifted writers, directors, and overall Hispanic crew members are not being hired to tell Latino stories," she said. "We also promote women in the industry so everyone has a voice and can all work together to create amazing creative projects."

PAM Studios seeks to help Rome become a film destination with local talent both on and off camera. Rome and Floyd County residents can work with PAM Studios at every stage of production. That could be anything from hair, makeup, and wardrobe to film direction and post-production. "We also offer entry-level production assistance opportunities to anyone looking to start their career in film production," Guerra-Stoll said.

The studios have been busy since opening in Rome. Projects include: 'In My Sights,' a thriller film, 'Celebrations with Nirjary Desai,' a series showcasing event-planner Desai, and '40 Akers & A Brew,' a series that follows multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated Southern hip-hop icons Nappy Roots as they road trip to craft breweries across America. It won "Best Episodic Short" at last year's festival.

Successful movies always create a certain level of tourism.

Guerra-Stoll sees a chance to start tours for those interested in seeing where these projects were shot and where the stars once walked in Rome. "We are also discussing an opportunity with the City of Rome to install sidewalk stars (in front of the studios in the 500 block of Broad Street) to honor industry leaders that visit Rome," Maria said. The idea is based loosely on the Hollywood Walk of Fame established by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.

Officials with the studio told Rome Public Works Committee representatives that one of the first stars might well be dedicated to honoring the late Summerville attorney Bobby Lee Cook. For those who might not know, the television series Matlock is supposed to have been inspired by Cook. The renowned attorney actually owned the building that PAM Studios purchased and renovated.

Another famous Roman who could be remembered with a star is the late Dan Biggers, who played Frank "Doc" Robb in the series Heat of the Night." Also, Samuel L. Jackson has family ties to Rome.

Maria is an architect by trade and is Tyler Perry's architect.

"He started out just like me with a small sound stage on Krog Street. I saw what he did for his community and felt inspired," Guerra-Stoll said. She believes in her heart that she can do the same for Georgia's Latino community. "The film industry has a certain responsibility in the stories they tell. I intend to give everyone from all backgrounds the opportunity to tell their stories in front of and behind the camera," Guerra-Stoll said.

For more information visit pam-studios.com.

Guerra-Stoll's company will partner with the Rome International Film Festival to sponsor a Latinx Film Category for entries to the 2022 festival on November 1013. The partnership is one of the first to reflect the studio's commitment to the Rome community and will inaugurate a multi-year partnership with the studio. bridgesmagazinerome.com

Photo Credit: Carlos Alberto Rivero Gonzalez

11

veteran owned

BRANDON PLEDGER

combat market Custom fit and ready to serve.

12

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Brandon Pledger has always viewed service to the community and others as a foundation for his life. The Chattooga County native served in the Marine Corps and later with the Rome City Police Department. In February 2021, he and his wife, Misty, an Army veteran serving on the Floyd County Police force, opened Combat Market.

The store features merchandise from veteran-owned companies. Pledger especially seeks out other small vendors to supply the inventory for the store. Merchandise available includes apparel, coffee and drinkware, men's grooming supplies, and unique specialty items. They have collaborated with several vendors, including Woobie Brothers Apparel, Shooter Lube, and Savage Tacticians, to create unique items arriving later this year.

Combat Market moved to the thriving 200 block on Broad Street in April 2022, adding brewed coffee and guns. When asked about the unique combination, the Marine veteran quickly responded, "Everybody likes coffee and guns, so why not do them both?" The store features Blackout Coffee Company coffee exclusively. The brand is a small batch roaster out of Labelle, Florida. Combat Market is one of the few vendors licensed to brew and sell the product line. In addition to the unique merchandise and coffee bar, the store will begin incorporating guns and ammo into its business concept later this year after receiving the required permits from the ATF. Pledger will specialize in custom builds that will transform a purchased stock firearm to the owner's specifications. Some gunsmithing will be performed inbridgesmagazinerome.com

house. However, most customization will be provided by select outside vendors.

In addition to his work at Combat Market, Pledger also creates custom wood and metal products. One of his pieces is located in the 500 block of Broad Street. Commissioned by the Downtown Development Authority of Rome, the large lighted ROME sign has become a favorite selfie backdrop for locals and visitors.

With the community's support Combat Market has received, Pledger is dedicated to returning that support.

For example, throughout the year, the company donates a percentage of sales from limited-run T-shirts and items to charitable associations. One of the company's most successful events is the Thick Thigh Contest, where money is collected for the Coosa Fraternal Order of Police Christmas with Cops program. The second annual contest was recently completed with over $ 2,000 raised to help brighten the holiday season for local underprivileged children.

Brandon credits his military and law enforcement experience for much of his success. He says, "My time in the Marines and as a police officer helped me create an eye for detail which I have used in my business. Also, the discipline required in my previous positions has taught me to remain calm in situations others might find stressful."

Combat Market is located at 214 Broad Street. For more information, follow them on social media.

13

veteran owned

MARY ANDERSEN cheeky baby boutique

Delightful surprises for your beautiful baby.

14

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Following the example of her father, who served over 25 years in the U.S. Army, Mary Andersen, owner of Cheeky Baby Boutique, decided to serve our country. So in 2006, after graduating from high school, she enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving for over a decade.

Upon her honorable discharge, Mary would continue her career in a corporate environment, mostly in the legal and operations sectors. However, after 14 years of working and commuting to the Atlanta area from Bartow County, she and her husband, Stephen, also a veteran, decided it was time for a change. "After working for so many years for other people, I was ready to make an opportunity for myself and my family," Andersen said.

When the family relocated to Rome in 2017, they were ready to begin their new venture. After research and reflection, they realized the need for a store that offered products for children and their parents. Also, drawing on the inspiration of their children, they wanted to help families and friends celebrate babies and children. So they created a vision for such an outlet. Cheeky Baby Boutique opened on Broad Street in June 2020 and has been a destination location since. When asked about the business's name, Mary says, "Well, the first time I met my children, I couldn't stop staring at them, especially their cheeks. There is something about baby cheeks that beg you to squeeze them. If you're lucky, you just may get a cheeky little smile! The joy that comes from that face is

bridgesmagazinerome.com

something every parent knows. So how could we name the store after anything else?"

The stylish boutique offers popular lines of furniture and gear, clothing, shoes, and accessories. While customers will find the same products in big box stores, the superior personalized service sets Cheeky Baby apart. In addition, one of the most significant aspects of Andersen's business model is to empower employees to excel, "It is my goal to allow each employee to be a hero for their customer," said Mary. The staff is there to fulfill the customer's needs and wants. Most of the store's inventory has been selected based on customer feedback and requests.

Recently, the couple purchased an 8,000-square-foot warehouse to help the company have more merchandise for their customers. In the past, some inventory's arrival was delayed due to supply chain issues. The addition of the warehouse will help combat that in the future.

In running her business, Andersen has drawn on skills from her military experience. Some of those skills include creating and executing a plan and being willing to review and change course based on results. She looks forward to creating sustainable growth for the company as it serves the community.

Cheeky Baby Boutique is located at 306 Broad Street.

They may also be found on social media and also at cheekybabyboutique.com.

15

woman owned

HEATHER HAPNER Heather’s

Outdoor Power As a self-described overachiever, she has always been driven.

16

bridgesmagazinerome.com

While in high school in Ohio, Heather Hapner was also enrolled in the local art college and auditing a small engine repair class at a technical school. While learning side-by-side with her then fiancé, the instructor was so pleased with her performance in the class he allowed her to enroll. So, in one week, she graduated with a bachelor's degree, received her high school diploma, and a certificate in small engine repair, in that order.

Utilizing many of the concepts used in art, she was a natural at engine repair, and it set the path for her career and life.

In 1989, she and her husband moved to the southeast, where the season for lawnmower repair was much longer. While her husband worked at a busy repair shop, Heather landed a job as a graphic designer. After leaving work in the spring, she would roll up her sleeves and help him on evenings and weekends.

One Saturday during the spring, she was working in the repair shop and ended up helping a customer purchase a lawnmower.

While she had no sales experience and no knowledge of the brand, she did know about engine and transmission as a mechanic, and she made the sale. With the store owner's encouragement, she also began training as a salesperson. By knowing the machine's mechanics, Heather could translate the technical terms into lay terms to help homeowners find the mower to fit their needs.

Hapner continued to work as a graphic artist with an agency in Atlanta, her designs were well received, and her client list grew. However, she felt time constraints, and the sheer volume of the work stifled her creativity. So she decided to change to lawnmower repair full-time and focus on her art on her timeline to enhance her creativity.

As her skills and recognition in the repair industry grew, so did her job description. Exmark and Stihl hired her to go to underperforming dealers to help train them and build the business or to help new businesses from the ground up. In 2012, she took a new job with Action Rental, which had just become a Stihl dealer, and relocated to Rome. Heather knew this was the right move when she visited and saw the business was located across the street from Rome High School. About a year and a half earlier, she had come to the rescue of the the equipment van for the RHS band. After leaving her repair shop in Marietta one Friday evening she came across the group which had engine trouble. While she was unable to make the repair on site, she hooked up the trailer and loaded up the personnel and made sure the half-time show would go on. After her efforts were greatly appreciated and she was named an honorary band mom. After moving to Rome, she decides to make it her home.

Action Rental, which had become Rome Equipment Rental, dissolved in 2021. Heather took the opportunity to start bridgesmagazinerome.com

her own business, Heather's Outdoor Power, which opened in February 2022. They carry the full lines of Exmark and Stihl and offer a full repair service. The company works with homeowners, landscape companies, arborists, and other professionals.

One unique service Heather's Outdoor Power offers is a quick bay for priority service. It is open to anyone but is primarily used by professionals. Landscapers especially appreciate the use of the quick bay because it allows them to have simple maintenance repairs done without having to leave their equipment. These services might include oil changes, blade sharpening, belt replacement, or pulley replacement. In addition, there is a lounge area for the customer to relax while the repairs are completed.

Customer service is paramount for Heather. When working with a customer, she learns about the customer's needs, including what type of yard, size, obstacles, and other characteristics that could impact the effectiveness of the equipment. Her goal is to educate the customer on why the equipment costs what it does and the benefits of those features.

Hapner is a certified technician for Kohler, Kawasaki, Honda, Stihl, and Exmark. She is one of only approximately 1300 Gold Certified technicians for Stihl in the United States. She is certified to perform customer repairs, warranty repairs, and sales. The industry requires continuous education to maintain certifications.

Heather symbolizes her philosophy for life and business in her logo which features a wolf imposed on a full moon. She refers to her community as the Hapner Wolf Pack. Hapner is the family name, and she strives to represent honorably.

The wolf represents her late brother who was a great source of encouragement for her to make her way as a business owner.

The pack is all about the community, “Wolves live in and travel in packs. They need and rely on each other. I don’t think it is any different for humans. When someone comes into my store, they become a member of my pack. We need each other to operate and survive,” Hapner said.

Heather’s Outdoor Equipment is located at 90 Callahan Street.

For more information, visit heathersoutdoorpower.com.

17

woman owned

HILLERY SAWYER Speakcheesy A bright idea at the right time.

18

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Roman Hillery Sawyer is the epitome of a person with the right idea at the right time. Sawyer came home to Rome almost a decade ago and brought her love of grilled cheese back to town with her.

After finishing high school, Sawyer decided she wanted to get away from small town Georgia. “I didn’t really feel like I belonged here,” Sawyer said. So she headed to Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario, for college. She also lived for a while in Kingston, Ontario. “By the time I was 25, I was pretty much ready to come home.”

Food trucks were just beginning to become trendy across the country; however, there weren’t many in Rome in 2014, so Sawyer and a couple of her friends saw a void, and voila, Speakcheesy was born. But before she ever got the first food truck, her partners found other opportunities, so Sawyer was forced to go it alone.

Fortunately, about a year into the business, Sawyer rekindled a childhood friendship with Ben Mitchell, who has become her husband.

The early days were a struggle for Sawyer, who would typically plow the proceeds from today’s sales into tomorrow’s inventory. As any good food service industry executive understands, inventory control and ensuring you’ve got enough without too much is one of the biggest challenges.

Her husband has been a huge help in that regard. “Our motto has always been ‘Be Over Prepared,’” Sawyer said. They use a process called “Sous Vide” to season, flavor, cook, and blend her cheeses, weigh them out to perfect portions, zip-lock bag them, and then roll them so that they don’t take up a lot of space. The process also helped speed up the process of preparing sandwiches on location.

Fast forward a decade, and you can find Hillery and Speakcheesy at most major events around Rome. It’s not at all unusual to see the Speakcheesy truck outside the Cosmic Dog Outpost or River Remedy late at night on weekends when most of the restaurant kitchens in town have shut down for the evening. bridgesmagazinerome.com

Last month, Hillery spent a long weekend at the Imagine Festival at Kingston Downs, where Speakcheesy was crazy busy. Her husband said they pre-prepared nearly 900 pounds of cheese for the Imagine Festival. She also does several festivals in the area, including Chiaha Harvest Fair in Rome.

While Sawyer is constantly on the go, she has said that consistency in the location of her food truck was a major part of her early success. “Even though we’re in the mobile food truck business and can change our location, our customers expect that consistency from us to make sure our customers have a place to come back to,” Sawyer said.

Her best-selling sandwich is the Buffalo Gal. “ I’ve sold over 50,000 of the Buffalo Gal since we started in 2014,” Sawyer said. “it’s a Buffalo chicken grilled cheese. It’s mild. We don’t make it too spicy. It’s a blend of real chicken breasts, our homemade Buffalo sauce, sharp cheddar, and a touch of Buffalo milk mozzarella. It’s about 15% buffalo milk; the rest is cow’s milk. It adds a little moisture.”

Beyond the Buffalo Gal, Sawyer said her favorite sandwich is the Popeye, a spinach artichoke parmesan, mozzarella sandwich. “It’s got the flavor of spinach artichoke dip but the texture of a grilled cheese, you still get the stretch,” Sawyer said.

She rotates her menu, and folks somehow found a way to get to her wherever she’s at when the White Lightning comes up.

“It’s like a white pizza, garlic, and herb, or cheesy bread turned inside out,” Sawyer explained. “People descend on the truck to grab the White Lightning.”

There must be something about the name! Earlier this month, Sawyer began to spread out into Atlanta where she has opened a kitchen in the basement of Neighborhood Church right off Little Five Points at Candler Park. “We’re going to be doing “togo” and “pick-up” plates for grilled cheese fans in the ATL.” For more information, visit eatspeakcheesy.com and follow them on social media.

19

CAVE SPRING

is unforgettable

Cave Spring is a year-round attraction. In the summertime, you can dip your toes in the big swimming pool that is built in the shape of the state of Georgia, where the water maintains a temp of 57 degrees. Or venture into the famed limestone cave itself and imagine those who first found and entered it centuries ago.

20

bridgesmagazinerome.com

The fall and holidays are highlighted by activity and there is much to see and taste with spices and aromas wafting in the air. With all you can experience, you’ve found Cave Spring is one of a kind.

UNCOMMON HISTORY

Cave Spring has a rich heritage. Although settlers established the town around 1832, history speaks of the indigenous people living here long before. Fishing the creeks and hunting game in the forests and woods Native Americans, specifically, the Cherokee Nation, found it a special place to assemble for tribal gatherings and games.

The last remaining structure that attests to Cherokee living is called the Cherokee Vann Cabin, which was re-discovered in 2010. The cabin is a special find. It had almost been forgotten with all the additions and trappings attached that were disguising its whereabouts. It had served as an apartment house, a doctor’s office, an antique shop and landscaping and nursery, and more. When work began to reclaim the property, workmen uncovered the cabin finding it in surprisingly good shape. It is the oldest building in Cave Spring, recently restored, and is open daily to visitors.

Cherokee Vann Cabin

With the unquestionable draw of centuries past the pure spring water that streamed through the cool, natural limestone cave, still holds interest and attraction.

The water continues to serve as an excellent drinking water source. It has been noted by the FDA as the second purest water source in the U.S. The Cave Spring pumping station produces nearly two million gallons a day, enough to quench the thirst of countless Floyd County residents. Many still come and fill their jugs and containers with genuinely pure water.

“Cave Spring has long been a gem of the Floyd County communities. Its proclivity for quaintness draws us in.

The 1,200 residents who live in Cave Spring know that, and busy weekends prove it. Stores, shops, and restaurants are warm and welcoming, and visitors find the town square a centerpiece of interest.” Rob Ware, Mayor

In 1864, Civil War soldiers from both armies came to Cave Spring for rest and recuperation. Larry Dolan, Executive Director of the Cave Spring Downtown Development Authority relates how fortunate it was the town was spared from Sherman’s scourge, and 32 antebellum structures are still standing today. To explore the historic homes and buildings such as the 1867 Presbyterian Church, an 1880 train depot, and 19th-century hotels and boarding houses left from those early times is a treat for history buffs. Rolater Park came to be in 1931 when the land was willed to the town by Dr. Joseph Rolater, once a student at the Cave Spring Manual Labor School, now known as the Hearn Academy. He bequeathed the 29 acres of land so named in his honor. Rolater Park has formerly been the site for educational institutions including the Georgia School for the Deaf. It is now a frequent site for showcasing entertaining events and activities.

CHUBBTOWN REVISITED

A glimpse of Cave Spring and its beginnings must include the almost miraculous story of Chubbtown. Geographically, it is a mile outside of the county but the hearts and minds of Cave Spring claim its kinship.

The unincorporated town was founded by Henry Chubb and his eight sons who built a colony of free African Americans in 1864. They provided necessary goods and services to both (Continued on page 40)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

21

leadership

SANDRA HUDSON Sandra Hudson has made a career out of trying to eliminate Northwest Georgia's poverty cycle. Her efforts were recognized recently during the dedication of a new housing complex with her name, the Sandra D. Hudson Villas in East Rome.

Hudson serves as executive director for the Northwest Georgia Housing Authority. Before becoming executive director, she headed the drug elimination effort for the housing authority. Back in 1992, drugs were a significant problem in Rome's public housing communities, and Hudson wanted to do anything she could to combat the problem.

She was elevated to Director of Housing in 1997 and named interim executive director in 2000. Her position was made permanent in 2001, and she has worked tirelessly to elevate the quality of public housing in both Rome and Rockmart.

22

As director of the housing authority, she shares her motto with NWGHA Board Chairwoman Lee Hight: "Why would I build something that I wouldn't want to live in myself."

Consequently, visitors who meander through Rome might not know that complexes are part of the public housing stock.

These include Willingham at Division Apartments, the solarpowered Village Green Apartments, and, more recently, Joe Wright Village, a gated community off Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard in North Rome. Smaller developments like Bill (Continued on page 24)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

cell

• Cleaning & Check-Ups • Same Day Crowns & Bridges • Dental Implants • Teeth Whitening • Sedation Dentistry • Dental Emergencies

(Continued from page 22)

Collins Village at Summerville Park, Pennington Place, and High Homes at Avenue B also fall under Hudson's purview.

Her office also oversees the Section Eight Housing program.

Low-income individuals who can't qualify for public housing can receive rent assistance through the Section Eight program. One of the biggest challenges Hudson has faced in recent years is the lack of landlords willing to participate in the Section Eight program, which currently has a waitlist.

If you're looking for a word or two to describe Hudson, persistent and stubborn might come to mind. Stubborn in that Hudson does not like to take no for an answer. She applied for federal aid to make improvements across a large swath of East Rome at least four times before winning a Choice Neighborhood planning grant for the Maple Street corridor as far south as the US 27 overpass. She has a third application for tax credit financing to completely demolish and rebuild the John Graham Homes community in East Rome before the Department of Community Affairs this fall.

"I wouldn't live over there (Graham Homes) now, and I hate the number that has to live over there now," Hudson said." The ones that want to move are moving out, and we're not moving anyone in those units."

When Hudson eventually wins the state-sponsored tax credit financing plan for Graham Homes, and she will, the goal is to make at least 20% of the replacement units market-based rent properties." This is because we have so many applicants that are over income. You may be talking about a mother with two or three kids, and she gets $16 an hour income which is over income for tax credit housing," 24

Hudson said. The market rate, according to Hudson, will still be well below the going rate of as much as $1,300 a month for a two-bedroom apartment in Rome.

Hudson led the Northwest Georgia Housing Authority's effort to become certified as a Qualified Developer in March of this year. "We can build quality and still save money because we purchase all the materials, and then we only pay for the labor," said Hudson.

Under Hudson's leadership, the housing authority took over the public housing community in Rockmart in 2004, assumed control of the Ashland Park complex in Rome in 2014, and has paperwork in now to assume control of the Cave Spring public housing community. The plan in Cave Spring is to completely demolish the decades-old units and build new housing that meets the standards of quality that Hudson and the NWGHA board have implemented in Rome and Rockmart.

Once Hudson completes her work at John Graham Homes, and down in Cave Spring, she hopes to find a way to win upwards of $30 million in implementation funding for the Choice Neighborhood community in East Rome. "We may have to apply for that three or four times. "I'm not going to be here long enough to do that, but somebody, if they continue with the same persistence, hopefully, we can get that," Hudson said.

Hudson also mentors public housing leadership in LaGrange, Canton, Gainesville, Milledgeville, and Thomaston when she finds the time. bridgesmagazinerome.com

Better health

for a better community Atrium Health Floyd — where the brightest minds in healthcare have come together to bring award-winning care to you — will elevate and strengthen the health and wellness of our community like never before.

leadership

SUNDAI STEVENSON Rome's first African American woman mayor, Sundai Stevenson, has always come at life with a "glass is half full" outlook. She does her best to maintain a positive outlook on life, which has translated into how she has served since being honored by her peers on the city commission with election to the mayoral post.

26

bridgesmagazinerome.com

That sunny disposition, coupled with a very distinct laugh, is something that her husband Rick has said would always allow him to find her in a crowd.

The positive outlook was instilled by her parents, who always stressed that Sundai and her four siblings could do anything they set their minds to and make a difference in the lives of people they come into contact with. They also encouraged her to dream and work hard to bring her dreams to reality.

Her father was a disc jockey when she was growing up in Gordon County. Her husband's father was also a gospel deejay and gospel concert promoter, so the two fit together like a hymnal in a church pew. They dated for eight years and have been married for 32. The couple has two children and three grandchildren.

Since the COVID-19 outbreak, her cheerful countenance has been hidden behind masks she and her husband Rick religiously wear, largely to ensure that there is virtually no chance of transmitting a virus to her grandchildren.

Sundai's early work career was centered around social work before she became a property manager for LHP out of Knoxville, Tennessee. Today, she is a senior community manager for properties including Three Rivers Garden and Spring Grove in Rome, along with Dallas Manor down in Paulding County. In addition, LHP is a leading manager of affordable housing across multiple states.

Since moving to Rome more than two decades ago, Stevenson has been immersed in the community. She is a founding member of the One Community United program in Rome and a graduate of the Leadership Rome program.

She has served as past coordinator for the Rome Floyd Chamber of Commerce High School Leadership Rome Program. She has served on the Governmental Affairs and Small Business Council committees of the Chamber and been Chair of the Rome and Floyd County M.L. King Commission, served as a board member of the Open Door Home, and taken on many leadership roles at Thankful Baptist Church,

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Her decision to enter politics was based on her lifelong desire to help people. The notion of running for office was fostered during a Leadership Rome program. Three or four people still in politics today told her they felt she would work well on the commission. Stevenson was elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2019.

"I truly believe that God puts you where he wants you to be," Stevenson said."I don't impose or push my beliefs on anybody else. I just try to do what I feel is the best (for the community). I've loved every minute of it, (but) you have to have thick skin sometimes."

Becoming mayor has certainly increased the demands on her time which has, in turn, created some challenges with her day job, but because she is such a people person, she has enjoyed serving in the post. "I've met a lot of good people that I would not have met if I had not been in the mayor's seat."

She confesses to still getting nervous when asked to make public presentations.

A strong relationship with both of Georgia's Democratic senators has also helped. Stevenson said she has become a point person for Senators Warnock and Ossoff regarding issues in the Rome area.

Housing and jobs are two of the biggest issues Stevenson sees for Rome. She is also worried about the polarization that has dominated the political scene and feels she is wellequipped to bridge the gap between people on different sides of the political aisle.

"When we all walk outside, we're breathing the same air.

That same sun is shining," Stevenson said. "Bridging the divide and helping people see we have more in common than different. It's all about communication."

27

leadership

CHRISTINA HOLTZCL AW A visual impairment at birth has never stopped Christina Holtzclaw from living a productive life focused on helping others with disabilities.

Holtzclaw serves as Executive Director for the Northwest Georgia Center for Independent Living. She started with the NWGA CIL in 2004, when it was known as disABILITY LINK NW.

28

bridgesmagazinerome.com

The native Roman was one of the first blind students to enroll in the Floyd County School System, coming through the Model schools. "I know there was a discussion of whether to send me to the Macon Academy for the Blind, but my parents, of course, wanted me at home," Holtzclaw said. She graduated from Shorter University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and is a member of the Georgia Council of the Blind and the Federation for the Blind.

The independent living movement nationwide is linked to a group of students with disabilities at the University of California in the early 1960s. The school offered housing for students with disabilities at the campus hospital. As the students became more aware of the level of control exerted over their living arrangements, they began to adopt a philosophy that strove to develop a level of independent living. That led to the creation of the first Center for Independent Living in Berkeley.

Over the past fifty years, CILs have expanded to every state in the U.S., with nine serving Georgia residents.

The Northwest Georgia Center started as a satellite office for the Atlanta Center for Independent Living. It broke off from the Atlanta unit 19 years ago and currently serves 15 counties, Paulding, Haralson, Polk, Floyd, Bartow, Chattooga, Gordon, Catoosa, Dade, Whitfield, Murray, Pickens, Gilmer, Fannin, and Walker. The agency currently has six employees. Holtzclaw is in the process of hiring another couple of employees. Each employee is a certified peer mentor trained to help people with disabilities meet their individual goals. "We're small but mighty," Holtzclaw said with a visible sense of pride. It's a huge area, but we try to spread ourselves around."

"A lot of people don't know how to advocate for themselves," Holtzclaw said. "We've had so many people step up and use services for home modifications and technology."

Holtzclaw and her staff serve people with a wide range of disabilities, from visual to hearing to those with mobility issues and even mental issues. "We've got an infant that I think is one year old, and the oldest is 101," she said.

The center adopted a third-grade class of children with autism at Main Elementary School in Rome this year. The center provides things like weighted blankets and bean bag chairs that are comfortable for the kids.

She is on her third guide dog. Chloe was with her through her years at Shorter. Anna, a black Lab, was with her when she first joined the center, and Felicia is her current dog,

bridgesmagazinerome.com

another black Lab. "She went with me to Washington, so she's definitely a traveling dog," Holtzclaw said." We took a tour of the Capitol and the National Zoo. We did some advocacy for people with disabilities during the week of the 32nd anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act." "This is a job I would do for free. I guess that's when you know you're in the right place," Holtzclaw said. "When we get somebody who might need a ramp for their home so they can access the community, and when I see that they get too busy to talk with us, then I know we've done our job. They're so busy with their life that they don't need us anymore."

Holtzclaw is also particularly proud that the agency can work with many people whose disability came on suddenly and they feel lost. "They come here and are able to speak with somebody who has lived that themself," Holtzclaw said.

The agency has served more than 160 people during the past year.

For more information, visit nwgacil.org.

29

leadership

TONY FERGUSON

In April of 2022, after celebrating 35 years of service with Georgia Power, Tony Ferguson transitioned into his new role as the Northwest Regional Director.

30

bridgesmagazinerome.com

The significant sculpture "Double Deadend" is a reminder of his time as a lineman and a salute to the dedicated linemen and their contribution to the community.

When he first joined the company, it was a much different time, applications were only taken one day an month, and Ferguson was eager for the opportunity to work with the company. When he was hired, the only position available was delivering mail to the local Georgia Power offices. He appreciated the opportunity and worked in that department for several months until he moved into supply chain. This was the first of many promotions during his career with the company.

"Working at Georgia Power has given me the opportunity to do many things. I have worked in supply chain, power delivery (distribution and transmission line), sales, assistant to the executive vice president, and external affairs," Ferguson said. "I have had the opportunity to live in multiple parts of the state and lead/manage teams across Georgia. I am blessed to work in communities to improve education, workforce development, and economic development." He also served as the Northeast Regional Direct and the company's safety director. As regional director, he will provide leadership and support for power delivery, customer service, sales, external affairs, and community and economic development for the 17-county region.

One of the first projects Ferguson has had the opportunity to oversee is the Grid Investment Program, a 10-year, $10 billion project to upgrade equipment throughout the state bridgesmagazinerome.com

to improve service reliability and customer experience. The northwest Georgia region has received the greatest investment of $630 million. Improvements include moving service wires underground where appropriate, upgrading equipment and technology and replacing several substations in the area.

Construction in our area should be completed in 2023.

When discussing his goals in his new position, Ferguson says, "When we come into an area, we focus on three things.

One is education, working with school systems and college and career academies. Workforce development is essential for prospective businesses that are interested in the area. Finally, Georgia Power is determined to be a community leader in economic development by ensuring the infrastructure supports business and industry." The company was proud to partner with Georgia Northwestern Technical College to create the Electrical Lineman Program.

Ferguson grew up in Buford, Georgia. He attended North Georgia College, where he received a Bachelor of Business Administration with a double major in marketing and management. He later completed an MBA at Louisiana State University in Shreveport. Ferguson is also a Certified Economic Developer, which he received from the University of Georgia. He and his wife, Michelle, have two daughters and look forward to making Rome their home.

31

ford, gittings & kane 32

bridgesmagazinerome.com

It was 1958 when three local jewelers-watchmakers which included Joe Gittings came together to open Ford, Gittings, and Kane Jewelers at 312 Broad Street. The business was established 64 years ago and has remained a solid anchor in downtown Rome.

Joe was raised in Roanoke, Alabama working in his parent’s jewelry store, and upon graduating from high school he served in the World War II Infantry Division in the Pacific. As a civilian, he continued his training and studies at Bradley University in Illinois to become a second generation watchmaker and he and his wife settled in Rome in 1953 before joining the partnership in 1958.

Joseph C. Gittings became the sole proprietor in 1980 and in 1997 he sold his business to his daughters and to Jan Fergerson. Even after transitioning ownership, Joe would drop in to see friends and could be found at his watch bench with his monocle until his death in 2016.

One of the contributing factors to the success of Ford, Gittings and Kane Jewelers (FGK) has been the ability to find ideal team members. One such hire was Jan (Jones) Fergerson who came to work for the company as Christmas help in 1973 while a student at West Rome High School. She began working at FGK that Christmas and has been there ever since.

“I vividly remember my hiring. One evening while I washed the dinner dishes, my dad, Warren Jones, was meeting with Mr. Gittings in our home. The two men had been instrumental in volunteering to help create and found STAR House, a halfway house for those struggling with alcohol addiction. They often met in the evenings to discuss its needs and business. In the middle of their conversation, Mr. Gittings called out to me, “Hey kid, want to come work for me during Christmas?” And, of course, I did. After that Christmas, I kept coming back to work, and I am still here.” Now a partner in the company, Jan celebrates the beginning of her 50th year at FGK this year.

(Continued on page 34)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

33

From left to right: Hannah Bing, Jerome Thomas, Christina Johnson, Alice Herring, Jan Fergerson, Krista Lovering, Jimmy Madden, and Gabrielle Young. Not pictured Linda-Kay McLaughlin and Robb McElwee.

(Continued from page 33)

Joe Gittings was a huge proponent for education in the gemology world and encouraged Jan to study it. Jan’s education in the business began with a course on Colored Gemstones.

She then earned her certification as a Registered Jeweler, and in 1982 became a Certified Gemologist—the first woman in the state of Georgia to do so. At the time, it never occurred to Jan that she would be making history in her chosen profession.

Another first for Jan and FGK happened in 1984 when she became a Certified Gemologist Appraiser under the directive of world-renowned appraisal expert, Cosmo Altobelli. The American Gem Society’s Certified Gemologist Appraiser (CGA) program includes a practical exam, an examination of jewelry pieces, and a theory exam. Jan was again the first woman in the state of Georgia to reach this accomplishment and certification.

Alice (Gittings) Herring also worked at the store on occasion while growing up. Along with other siblings, she would often run errands and make deliveries. After graduating from Darlington, Alice attended Georgia Tech and earned a degree in management in 1989. Alice obtained her Certified Gemologist Appraiser title in 1994. Moving to Charlotte, North Carolina she worked with Fink’s Jewelers for ten years.

She returned to Rome to FGK to add the third generation to the family legacy in 2001.

34

The levels of achievement in ascending order, according to the American Gem Society, are CSA (Certified Sales Associate), RJ (Registered Jeweler), CG (Certified Gemologist), and CGA (Certified Gemologist Appraiser). There are only six CGAs in the state of Georgia: Two of them are at Ford Gittings and Kane—Alice and Jan hold this exclusive distinction.

In continuing the tradition of providing outstanding professional service, FGK is proud to have Jerome Thomas, a Certified Gemologist and Krista Lovering, a Registered Jeweler. Linda-Kay McLaughlin, Hannah Bing and Gabrielle Cordial are all Certified Sales Associates. Jan Felts does custom pearl and bead stringing. Michele Fergerson Rikard oversees the marketing for FGK. Christina Johnson and Robb McElwee joined the FGK Team in 2022 and have already embraced the long held commitment to excellence.

Although many changes have occurred over the years, some things remained the same by design.

Joe Gittings would say he built his business the way he wanted, by creating lasting relationships in business and community. Generationally, these relationships have continued to grow—with customers, designers, diamond cutters and our in-house team.

bridgesmagazinerome.com

The relationship of the FGK team is an important aspect of the business. The company encourages education for all employees who wish to further their knowledge in the field, often attending shows and seminars in New York, Las Vegas, and Atlanta. Thriving together, the current team of eleven resolves to serve customers and the community in a thoughtful and professional manner.

Along with quality service, FGK offers fine merchandise.

For over six decades they have offered exquisite diamond brands such as Simon G, Suna Brothers, and Charles Krypell, many of which are exclusive. Watches include Bulova and their Signature Ford, Gittings and Kane brand. In addition to a wide selection of giftware by Beatrice Ball and Waterford, tabletop traditional services of china and crystal are available.

Community service has always been at the forefront at Ford Gittings and Kane Jewelers. For the past twelve years they have hosted a silent auction, Kickback to the Community, that provides a percentage of all purchases donated to the non-profit of a customer’s choice. This year, 14 charities received funding through this action.

Both Alice and Jan are active members in a variety of civic clubs serving on numerous boards and committees.

Alice (Gittings) Herring

Jan (Jones) Fergerson

Ford, Gittings, and Kane Jewelers was established on a firm foundation in 1958. Joe Gittings was a monumental mentor for all those who worked with him. Jan Fergerson continues this excellence in leadership as she heads into her 50th year at FGK. Alice and the Team at Ford Gittings and Kane will be celebrating with Jan over this next year as she continues to be the Team mentor. Through the support of the community and innovations from new team members, the company has enjoyed tremendous growth while staying true to the original values of commitment to quality and customer service. Gratitude is evident in everyone at FGK.

HOT EATS cool treats Sometimes, half of the fun of eating out is in the experience...

Giggity’s Sports Bar and Grill

Voted Best Sports Bar three years running, Giggity’s Sports Bar and Grill is one of the gems of Broad Street. Boasting twenty televisions, you will easily find the best seat in the house to cheer on your favorite team. The cold beer flows, and there are no better wings in the area; they were voted Best Wings in town this year. There is no better option for great food and an electric environment when the home team is playing! Be sure to check out the extensive collection of sports memorabilia!

For more information, follow them on social media.

Harvest Moon

Many, if not most, local residents know the story of the Harvest Moon. Those of you who are new to the area or you locals who have not been fortunate enough to dine yet at the Harvest Moon, don’t know what you’ve been missing.

So, here’s the story: owner Ginny Kibler loves to cook and her wonderful fresh baked bread quickly became a staple for families all around Cave Spring, Georgia. In 1998 Ginny opened a shop in downtown Cave Spring at the corner of Rome and Alabama Highways. This shop was known as the Harvest Moon Bread Market. Then, Ginny’s dangerous yet prophetic words were spoken. “Why bake bread, when you 36

can make sandwiches?” Following this simple statement, the Harvest Moon Bread Market became a local cafe known for delicious fare and a funky atmosphere.

By 1999, word of this wonderful establishment spread throughout the area. In an effort to satisfy the clamor for her food. Ginny opened a second location in downtown Rome on 2nd Avenue. She quickly outgrew this location and she and her husband, Doc, decided to renovate the historic Fahy Department Store building, located on Broad Street and turn it into the Harvest Moon Cafe we have today. The Renovations took just over a year to complete, and the new Harvest Moon Cafe opened in 2001, serving a full lunch and dinner menu.

Later, the patio was expanded to allow for outdoor seating.

The restaurant did not stop growing there! Since opening, The Harvest Moon has added a full-service catering department and multiple event venues for all of your catering and event needs. The restaurant itself includes two wonderful bars, The Dark Side of the Moon Bar and The Moon Roof Bar which regularly have live music. They are wonderful places to hang out with friends, play a little trivia, sing karaoke or just sit and listen to talented local musicians. In addition to these bars the Harvest Moon has four special event venues, The Moon River Room and The Mezzaluna located inside the restaurant, The Vogue located at 247 Broad Street as well as, Broad & Fifth located at 436 Broad Street.

The special event venues are available for corporate or social events. The varying sizes of the spaces allows for the accommodation of groups from 10 in the Mezzaluna to as many as 400 at The Vogue. Whether you are having a lunch meeting or a large wedding, Harvest Moon can provide the venue, the food and planning assistance through the full-service catering department. As you plan your next meeting, wedding, family reunion please give our staff a call. Our catering and meeting professionals can be relied upon to help you with everything (Continued on page 38)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

100 Top Hospitals® is a registered trademark of Merative™.

(Continued from page 36)

from planning the decorations to choosing a delectable menu.

The food quality at Harvest Moon is surpassed by none. Fresh ingredients are used daily and gathered from local sources whenever possible. The staff are committed professionals ensuring that a delightful experience will start at the front door and continue throughout your time at the Harvest Moon.

The Foundry Growler Bar

A hub in Downtown Rome's developing Arts District, The Foundry is a favorite for locals and those visiting the area. Craft beer, unique food options, and smiling faces are abundant at The Foundry. They offer flight tastings, pints, and growler fill-ups. The bar features over 40 taps of rotating craft beer options in addition to a selection of tapped wine.

So, while enjoying live music on the outdoor patio area or indoors, check out their menu and treat yourself to some good eats whipped up by their friendly staff. The new seasonal menu is farm to table and features products from many local growers. For mor information, visit foundrygrowlerbar.co or follow them on social media.

CAFE / BAR CATERING LIVE MUSIC

234 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

Cafe: 706-292-0099 Catering: 706-291-4224

Tortaco Mexican Restaurant

Located at the corner of Broad Street and Second Avenue, Tortaco is a family-owned restaurant specializing in authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex food. You will find delicious favorites on the menu, including sopes, enchiladas, tacos, and all your favorite Mexican dishes. It also features many Mexican sodas as well as a full-service bar. In addition to the wonderful selection of food and drink, Tortaco has become a nightlife destination for its unique events and live music. So, there is something for everyone to enjoy. For more information, visit tortacorome.com or follow them on social media.

(Continued from page 21)

white and black residents of the surrounding area. It was a thriving community in its time with a post office, school, sawmill, general store, and coffin factory. It is said that when General Sherman learned what the men of Chubbtown had accomplished, he declared their buildings to be spared from union torches. The Church, now known as the Chubb Chapel, was built in 1870 by the Chubb Family, friends, and neighbors. Destroyed by a flood in 1917, all but the chapel was lost. Today, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is currently the only remaining non-residential structure of the original Chubbtown.

Fairview-Brown School

ENDOWMENT FOR EDUCATION

The Fairview-Brown School dates to 1924 when it was established and known as a Rosenwald School. It was so named after Julius Rosenwald, the second CEO of Sears, the largest retail store during the early 1900s. Rosenwald’s philanthropy included improving educational facilities for African American children and garnered the help of Booker T. Washington in his endeavors.

Chubb Chapel

Together they built approximately 5,000 such schools throughout the United States. Upon his retirement from Sears, he donated 62 million dollars for the perpetuation of the schools. Only 500 have survived, representing just 10% of the communities willing to preserve this historic landmark. Cave Spring is one of the few.

SET TO ROLL

Larry Dolan says that the seven-member Downtown Development Authority board is challenged to promote and build Cave Spring business and industry: Awareness being the key.

“During the last decade, Cave Spring has enjoyed a new awakening. With the help of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers and leaders ready to offer support, much has been accomplished. Of course, the summer Arts Festival is always a popular hit. Because the show vendors entrants are vetted by committee, attendees can expect to see arts and crafts and products they can appreciate.

Descendent of Henry Chubb live throughout the area, and some have received national recognition. Nick Chubb starred as a star running back at the University of Georgia from 2014-17, while his cousin Bradley was an outstanding defensive lineman for the University of North Carolina.

Both went on to play professionally, Bradley for the Denver Broncos and Nick for the Cleveland Browns. Both have proud family ties to Chubbtown.

40

One of the successful things we have done recently has been to get attention from filmmakers. We offer a perfect setting, and during the last eight months, six films have been produced here. We were pleased that this is where they chose to shoot most of the movie Scary Fun, scheduled to premiere in (Continued on page 42)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

STIHL Handblower BG50 $139.99

90 E Callahan Street Rome, Georgia 30161 HeathersOutdoorPower.com

B E ESSE N TI AL. E arly C hi ldh o o d Care a n d Edu catio n Apply Now!

GNTC.edu

8 6 6 -9 8 3 -46 8 2

GNTC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees. GNTC is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and an EOI.

(Continued from page 40)

October. Also, a Georgia lottery commercial, some miniseries, music videos, and documentaries are included in the mix, shot at several Cave Spring locations. We plan to continue soliciting the film industry, which not only brings us additional revenue when they are working here but also attracts the attention for other filming projects.”

Dolan added that a recently created video of Cave Spring is expressly directed to appeal to film producers. It will be viewed on social media and other outlets such as YouTube.

1810 Caboose

He says that everyone is also excited to see the completed renovation of the beautiful 1810 caboose which, in its day, ran the main line between Rome and Memphis. “The train would stop over for lunch here. It is a welcomed addition to our venue.

Entrance to Limestone Cave

“For a small town, we have excellent attractions. Our restaurants get rave reviews. The gift shops, the general store, and the antique stores stay busy. Especially on the weekend, this place is teeming with people.”

Some of the events to look forward to include the November Christmas Open House, and Chili Cookoff. December ushers in Christmas in the Country, and Christmas Parade. For the brave at heart, you have plenty of time to plan participation in the Polar Plunge on January 1st.

For more info, visit the website CaveSpringGa. com or follow them on Facebook.

Larry Dolan

42

bridgesmagazinerome.com

Networking

bridgesmagazinerome.com

43

new board members Stephanie Graves | Coosa Valley Credit Union Stephanie Graves serves as Vice President of Marketing at Coosa Valley Credit Union, named by Forbes as a top credit union in Georgia. She oversees the Credit Union’s marketing, branding, and public relations strategies.

With more than 20 years of experience in the field, Stephanie previously held positions in marketing within the financial services, higher education, and non-profit industries. Most recently, she served as Director of Marketing at Northwest Georgia Credit Union. Stephanie holds a master’s degree in Leadership from Shorter University and a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Samford University. She resides in Rome with her husband, Charles, sons Thomas and Jack, and daughter Emma Cate.

Marc Hunsaker | Berry College Marc Hunsaker currently serves as the Dean of Personal & Professional Development at Berry College. Marc oversees Berry’s LifeWorks (student work) Program, Career Development Network, and Employer Engagement initiatives in this role. For over 19 years, Marc has been helping young adults explore their life and career goals and devise strategic plans to reach them. In addition to the field of professional development, Marc’s career journey has included stints in campus/church ministry, university-community relations, service-learning, civic engagement, and marketing/communications for a small business in Augusta, Georgia. Marc completed his Ph.D. through Michigan State University’s department of Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education, where his research focused on topics including meaningful work, the role of faith in the workplace, college students’ purpose development, and the vocational formation of Christian young adults. Marc has been married to his wife Megan (Art Teacher at Saint Mary’s School) for 20 years and has two young children, Hannah (11) and Logan (8). The Hunsakers are originally from South Carolina and have been thrilled to call Rome their new home since 2019. Marc & Megan are also members of 7 Hills Fellowship, where they serve on the church’s worship and children’s ministry teams.

Seth Ingram | Rome International Film Festival Seth Ingram has a passion for community and the arts. He holds a BA in Management from Covenant College and a master’s degree in film production from Georgia State University. He has an extensive background in writing, directing, and producing for film and television. Seth has served as the Executive and Creative Director at the Rome International Film Festival since 2015. He has elevated the festival to become recognized as one of the top film festivals in the South. In addition, Seth developed and launched the Film Program at Georgia Highlands College in 2019, where he serves as a faculty member and Division Chair of Film and Theater in the School of Humanities. Seth serves on the Advisory Board for the Georgia Film Academy, The Rome City Schools, The Floyd County Schools, The Gordon County, The Bartow County Schools, and the Paulding County Schools College and Career Academy. Additionally, Seth is a strategic consultant and influencer in the Georgia film industry with and higher education. Seth strongly believes that relationships are the real currency of life, and he is willing to use his wit, wisdom, and extensive network to better the lives and fortunes of those he mentors.

David Lance | Greater Community Bank David Lance grew up in Calhoun, Georgia. He graduated from Calhoun High School and earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He holds an A.A. from Oxford College at Emory University, a B.B.A. in Finance from Emory University, and completed the Graduate School of Banking at Louisiana State University. David has served as President, CEO, and Director of Greater Community Bank and Greater Community Bancshares, Inc. since 2010. He began his banking career at C & S Bank in 1977. He served 15 years as President, CEO, and Director of Calhoun First National Bank/First National Bank of Northwest Georgia and as a Director of Hardwick Holding Company from 1984-1999, and then as President, CEO, and Director of North Georgia National Bank and North Georgia Community Financial Partners from 1999-2009, prior to assuming his current position with Greater Community Bank. David has been named to Who’s Who in Banking as well as 100 Most Influential Georgians in 1999 by Georgia Trend. Currently, David is the longest serving Board member for AdventHealth Gordon. He is a member of YPO/WPO, the Georgia Bankers Association “The League” CEO Roundtable, and the Board of Trustees at Young Harris College. David also served as the 2021 Chairman for the Community Bankers Association of Georgia. David has been married to Barbara Bell Lance for more than 40 years, and they have three children. He is a serious collector of Presidential signatures, a passion introduced to David at the early age of 5 by his parents and a hobby they enjoyed together. David is also an antique cars enthusiast and enjoys traveling, but nothing compares to the joy he gets from his three wonderful grandsons.

44

(Continued on page 46)

bridgesmagazinerome.com

ambassador

OF THE QUARTER

Julie McCluskey | Rome Shakespeare Festival Named Ambassador of the Quarter for second quarter of 2022 by the Rome Floyd Chamber L-R: Rocky Shaw, 2022 Chair of the Ambassadors (Rome Floyd Chamber) & (JBM Office Solutions), Karley Parker, Rome Floyd Chamber; Julie McCluskey, Rome Shakespeare Festival; Pam Powers Smith, Rome Floyd Chamber.

Your One-Stop Shop For Insurance Ben McWhorter

601 E 1st St. Rome, GA 30161-3143 (706) 234-8686 BMcWhorter@alfains.com

g e or g i a

Stat e

SE N AT E

CHUCK HUFSTETLER Georgia State Senate Finance Chair

Georgia is continuing to do well.

Our unemployment is the lowest in history. Our rainyday fund balance is at a record high. We have implemented only the second in history and the largest income tax rate cut Georgia has seen. It will start phasing in, and our 8th overall lowest tax rate in the country will start dropping down. I don't, however, see us replacing the number one state of Alaska unless we strike oil. Our fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, was a record for new investment in Georgia at $11 billion. The fiscal year for this year ending June 30, 2022, shattered that record at $21 billion. Over 70% of the new investments in both years are outside the 10-county metro area, strengthening all of Georgia. Our Savannah port (the second busiest on the east coast), of which Northwest Georgia is the largest user in the state, had another record quarter. Many businesses are switching to Georgia because of the backlogs at other ports.

We are using innovative measures to ensure we do not have a backlog from the increased business.

In education, our teachers, with the recent raises, now have the highest average pay in the Southeast, from Texas to Virginia.

In addition, two of our Universities, UGA and Georgia Tech, are ranked in the country's top 20 public universities. Forty states don't have any universities in the top 20 - we have two!

With more people working in Georgia than ever before, the lowest gas prices in the country, and being ranked the number one state to do business in for eight years in a row, we are the envy of the country.

collapsed real estate prices, and Russia is obviously in trouble.

At home, we had the Federal Reserve Chairman use the word pain in his short statement twice, which sent the stock market tumbling. The incredible debt piled up in a bipartisan manner in Washington fuels inflation we have not seen since the Jimmy Carter days of the '70s. The current administration has added $4.8 trillion to the national debt, including $1.1 trillion in executive action. While this is less than the $7.5 trillion in the previous administration ($4 trillion excluding bipartisan covid relief), the current administration is on track to exceed the previous administration by the end of the term.

Two reckless spending administrations don't cancel each other out. The recent debt will add $700 billion in interest costs to be paid by the taxpayers, and interest is already the fastest growing part of the US budget.

While I don't believe I have ever talked about global issues in this column before, it is on my mind because it will be difficult for Georgia to escape these headwinds next year. Unfortunately, the national and international problems will impact Georgia, particularly in 2023 and 2024. Being Finance Chair of the Georgia Senate for the last six years and representing this area has been an incredible honor and excitement at all the good that has happened. I and others will do everything we can to continue to make Georgia the envy of the nation.

Because of our status and for other reasons, we are part of a global economy. While Georgia is doing well, there are troubling signs on the horizon. China is in trouble due to 48

bridgesmagazinerome.com

for commercial leasing, sales and property management for over 96 years Hardy Realty manages over 1400 commercial and residential properties in Northwest GA

Jimmy Byars, CCIM

Jimmy Kelley

Carol Hatch, CPM

Steve Graves

Bill Summer

Brooke Brinson

Kimberly Prusakowski

Tom Sipp

Ginger Alexander

Larry Cagle

Scotty Davis

Jim Harrington

Amanda King

Michele Rikard

Nick Rogers

Ann Smith

Soraya Collins

Debbie Hayes

Michelle Cochran

Keith Beauchamp

Otis Raybon

Carol Hatch, CPM

Jimmy Kelley

Ann Smith

RESIDENTIAL

|

Kathy Mull

Amber Moreland

Susan Lambert

COMMERCIAL

706-291- 4321

Susan Paul

|

Regina Wright

Jennifer Robinson

|

Brandon Prater

Katrina Stewart

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

104 East Sixth Avenue Rome, GA 30161 706.290.0202