Bridges Magazine Rome - Second Quarter 2024

125 YEARS STRONG SENATE

TAKING

AS I SEE IT

Exciting things are happening all over Rome, and things are taking shape!

The NOVA River District mixed-use residential/retail development is finally beginning to rise skyward on West Third Street, a dream come true. In fact, it would be hard to list all the different residential developments on the books, from Sparrow Point on Martha Berry Highway to The Maxwell in West Rome, to name a few. As those projects come to fruition, we are working diligently to bring additional good-paying jobs to our community. I’m confident you’ll be hearing announcements in that regard over the next few months.

The Rome Police Department has moved into a new home at 375 Technology Parkway in West Rome, pending a decision on a permanent new home for the agency. One of the priorities for the new City Commission this year is to prioritize the order of projects that will be funded by a Special Purpose Sales Tax that voters passed last November. Those decisions will pave the way for Rome to continue its growth into the future.

In the meantime, enjoy the latest issue of BRIDGES magazine with features on Finance Director Toni Rhinehart and her Finance Department team, the Stonebridge Golf Club, Rome businessman Ira Levy and his effort to restore so many of our beautiful downtown buildings, the new Rome Emperors, the stunning South Meadows housing development, celebrate with McRae, Smith, and Peek law firm as they reach a historic milestone, and much more.

Sincerely,

Sammy Rich

Rome City Manager

601 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

706.236.4400

FROM THE EDITOR

All dressed up and with somewhere to go, I, along with 600 others, attended the annual Heart of Community Awards earlier this year. This formal event honored seven recipients who distinguished themselves by volunteering, caring for, and reaching out within the community to its citizens.

A particular delight was seeing The Forum (now dubbed the Forum River Center) at its finest. What a beautiful transformation—one day, a bull riding ring; the next, a gorgeous venue celebrating our local heroes.

The event’s overwhelming response and complete sellout are a testament to its enduring popularity. We are grateful for the original support and host, AdventHealth Redmond, whose focus on heart health and treatment aligns perfectly with the spirit of the event.

Next fall, when the notice for recipients for the Heart of the Community awards is let, nominate someone you feel has made a significant contribution. Everyone is welcome.

All the best,

Susan Moore Beyer Managing Editor Bridges Magazine susan@adigeorgia.com

TONI RHINEHART CONQUERING THE COMPLICATED

When you sit down with Rome Finance Director Toni Rhinehart, one of the first things the 23-year veteran will tell you about keeping track of the city’s books is that it is very complicated. The city does not just have one budget; it’s more like 32 different budgets that she and her staff have to keep a close eye on, and they’ve done it well for decades.

Rhinehart and her team have been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada. The bar for that recognition is very high; however, the city has been recognized with that certificate for more than 30 consecutive years. The honor is the highest form of recognition for excellence in state and local government financial reporting, and Rhinehart and city officials are extremely proud of it.

Mayor Craig McDaniel explained during a recent commission meeting that getting recognition like that from an outside agency reflects very well on the entire finance office. “I know that’s not an easy job to manage as many departments and employees,” McDaniel said, “sometimes you get questioned, and that’s part of it, but you always seem to have answers.

Thank you for what you and your people do.”

Rhinehart is just the city’s third Finance Director in the last 40 years, following in the shoes of Gary Burkhalter and Sheree Shore.

The stability in the finance office has helped maintain Rome’s positive financial status through the economy’s ups and downs. Suppose you want to know something about the city’s financial condition. In that case, Rhinehart has the answer or can quickly get it from one of the staff.

Her team includes Assistant Director Kraig Ingalsbe, Tracy Morris, Rhonda Boyer, and Dylan Nelson. Carol Scott, Kim Hernandez, Vickie Blair, Gina Brown, and Angela Mathis. The Purchasing Department, led by Becky Smyth and Jackson Abercrombie, also falls under Rhinehart’s supervision.

“I’ve got a good group and everybody gets along,” Rhinehart said.

Rhinehart was hired on as a staff accountant and did that for one year before Gary Burkhalter retired. Sheree Shore was promoted to director, and Rhinehart was promoted to assistant. She served under Shore for almost 18 years before being named director.

As the director, Rhinehart has her finger on the pulse of more than 30 different budgets. The general fund budget is the most complex because it encompasses many other budgets. There are also enterprise funds like water and sewer, building inspection, solid waste, and then there are functions like Stonebridge golf course, the Rome Tennis Center, Rome Transit Department, the Rome-Floyd County Fire Department, and most recently, the city took on ownership and oversight of The Forum River Center.

“We are very diverse,” Rhinehart said. She loves working with all of the different departments in city government but admits it can be a very challenging part of her job.

Government regulations in accounting can be a big challenge. Take the recent influx of federal money from the American Rescue Plan Act. The money that the federal government distributed to help cities counter the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic came with all kinds of strings attached and required an audit of its own. The Rome Transit Department is largely funded by state and federal dollars, and accounting for the way those funds are matched and spent is also tedious at best.

“We pride ourselves on having a clean audit every year,” Rhinehart said. She credits continuity among staff as a large part of the reason for the clean books.” It’s a complicated government and it takes a long time to wrap your hands around the operations of a government like Rome,” Rhinehart added.

A considerable part of Rhinehart’s responsibilities come when the annual budgets are prepared during the second half of the year. Since the Local Option Sales Tax has become such a large part of the city’s revenues, Rhinehart must make an educated calculation on projecting the economy’s direction to forecast the revenue. She pointed out that for the calendar year 2024, revenue from the sales tax has been right on target.

Getting the sales tax numbers right cannot be understated. The city lost its number one property taxpayer when HCA spun off all Redmond Hospital-related properties to AdventHealth. The same can be true for the Atrium Floyd acquisition of Harbin Clinic which was approved this spring by the FTC.

“We’re complicated. I don’t think people really understand the complexity down here,” Rhinehart said. It all happens behind the scenes; we’re the silent warriors. If we stopped what we were doing, it would become very evident, but if we just keep on doing what we do, no one really notices.”

ROME IS Blossoming

SCENIC ATTRACTIONS LURE TOURISTS

As the vibrant colors begin to bloom in Rome, Georgia, the season offers a plethora of exciting activities and attractions for locals and visitors alike. Nestled in the heart of Northwest Georgia, our charming city boasts a rich tapestry of history, stunning natural landscapes, and a thriving cultural scene. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for some family-friendly fun, Rome has something for everyone.

Spring in Rome beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its breathtaking natural beauty. From the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains to the serene waters of the Coosa River, the city provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and water-based activities. Head to the scenic trails of Jackson Hill and Blossom Hill for hiking or mountain biking. For fishing or paddling, put in at the Dixon Landing public access point at Grizzard Park and take out at

Heritage Park. If you need to rent equipment, River Ratz provides complimentary transportation.

Rome comes alive with a variety of springtime festivals and events that celebrate the local culture and community spirit. RoFlo Fest, a cultural arts festival, returns to fill the streets of Downtown Rome on the first Saturday in May. Baseball season will be in full swing with the Rome Emperors at the AdventHealth Stadium. Enjoy the lively tunes of the free First Friday concerts held in historic Downtown Rome from June to September. Cave Spring will host its annual arts and crafts festival in Rolater Park in June.

History buffs will delight in exploring Rome’s rich heritage and architectural marvels. Take a stroll through the historic downtown district, where charming Victorian-era buildings coexist with modern amenities. Visit landmarks such as the Capitoline Wolf and

Admiral Towers Plaza located in front of Rome City Hall. Stop by the Rome Area History Center to gain insight into the city’s past and the pivotal role it played in Georgia’s history. Georgia’s Rome Welcome Center and Gift Shop, located inside the center, offers printed guides on the Historic Markers Tour to help you discover all the historic markers in the area.

Immerse yourself in Rome’s vibrant arts and culture scene. Catch a show at the Historic DeSoto Theatre or Rome City Auditorium. Check out Rome’s latest public art installations. “Angel in the Oak” welcomes visitors to Myrtle Hill, which local artist Jeremy Smith carved. Grab a selfie in front of the butterfly wings on E. 2nd Avenue created by professional muralist Kelsey Montague.

No visit to Rome is complete without sampling its delectable Southern cuisine. Choose from a large variety of locally owned eateries only found in Rome. Be sure to visit our local you-pickfarms and farmer’s markets for a taste of the region’s freshest produce and artisanal goods.

Rome offers a vibrant night scene where many of the local restaurants and bars offer live music. Sample vintages from Rome’s local vineyard at Newby’s Tasting Room; they offer a jazz night every Thursday and host local talent throughout the weekend. Taste award-winning locally crafted brews at River Remedy, where they feature a variety of live bands and food trucks each week.

Springtime in Rome offers plenty of family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained and engaged. Embark on a scenic riverboat cruise on the Sulzbacher Roman Holiday Riverboat for an unforgettable outdoor experience. Public tours are offered from May to October. Explore the AdventHealth ECO Greenway, where a trail connection from the Mt. Berry Trail to AdventHealth Stadium will be completed this summer. This connection will create a 15-mile paved loop that wraps the river system, offering scenic views at every turn. Enjoy amenities all along the AdventHealth ECO Greenway, including the new 9-hole Kingfisher Disc Golf Course, Ridge Ferry Park Playground, and Ridge Ferry Dog Park.

For a fun educational experience, visit the Chieftains Museum/ Major Ridge Home, where interactive exhibits share the story of a Cherokee leader who played a pivotal role in Native American and United States history.

Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, indulging in delicious Southern cuisine, or immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant arts scene, Rome promises an unforgettable springtime experience. For more details on exploring Georgia’s Rome, visit RomeGeorgia.org.

FIRST FRIDAY CONCERT SERIES JUNE 7 JULY 5 AUGUST 2 SEPTEMBER 6 ROME IS THE PLACE FOR SUMMER

CAVE SPRING ARTS FESTIVAL JUNE 8 JUNE 9 9AM - 6PM 10AM - 5PM

IRA LEVY A MAN WITH A PLAN

Rome’s historic downtown, Between the Rivers District, is always among the first things visitors notice. The historic district is a big part of what attracted Ira and Libby Levy to Rome from Sandy Springs in the mid-80s, and downtown hasn’t been the same since the couple planted roots in Rome.

The couple was on their way to check out a property on Weiss Lake when they drove through Rome, saw the Clocktower, and decided to give the downtown area a once-over. As the late commentator Paul Harvey might have said, ‘the rest of the story’ can be seen all over the central part of the city.

Ira and Libby have always been interested in preserving the city’s historic flavor. Over the years, they have invested millions of dollars in saving several historic structures.

“When we first married, we bought a brownstone in Chicago in a changing neighborhood. We converted the brownstone from multifamily to single-family,” Ira said. Everywhere we’ve lived, we’ve purchased and renovated old homes.”

Libby is an artist with a keen vision for what “can be” after a project is completed. “When we moved to Rome, it was the natural thing to do,” Levy said.

The old Heilig Meyers/Sterchi’s building at the corner of Fourth and Broad was the first to be rehabbed by the couple. The old Forrest Hotel followed soon thereafter, and the list continues. That project won the Levys the Renaissance Award from the Georgia Cities Foundation.

Levy became the second redeveloper of the old Battey Buildings at Second Avenue and West First Street. In the 80s, a previous group converted the former hardware structure into loft apartments. Levy acquired them as part of a group of investors and converted the property into a Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham boutique hotel.

The franchise agreement with Wyndham expires later this year and Levy has already inked a deal to convert it into a Hilton Tapestry property. “There will be extensive renovations, especially in the older section of the property right at Second Avenue and West First Street, the original 38 rooms. All of the corridors, wallpaper, and paint will be changed, and tubs will be pulled out of the bathrooms to make way for roomy showers. All the bathroom sinks will be removed and replaced with a more modern type of cabinetry, and countertops will be replaced in the kitchens. All the carpet will be gone in the kitchens.

The renovations will include the Off Broad Bar and breakfast nook. Longtime plans for an addition to the property have been put on hold pending more favorable interest rates.

Levy acquired the old Adams Furniture and Atlanta Gas Light buildings in the 500 block and converted them for business and residential use.

He recently demolished a dilapidated Third Avenue and Broad building and built new condominium units over ground-floor retail space. “That was my first, only, and last “new” construction project, Levy said.

Levy also acquired the former Georgia Power buildings at the intersection of Broad Street and Turner McCall. He found a major client and undertook a significant renovation of the building on the corner to make it a highly sought-after business location.

He has also acquired the building next to the Rome History Center on Broad Street and is converting the upper floor into residential units. He has also ventured into the river district on North Fifth Avenue acquiring the former Fifth Avenue Baptist Church but has not completed plans for that property yet. Expect more residential units.

Ira claims he does not have a favorite project in Rome and explains that each has had its unique challenges. The city’s efforts to bring building inspectors, the fire marshal, and the engineering office together at the same time to review major projects have benefited his projects.

Levy has served as chairman of The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation and is a board member emeritus.

The Heart of the Community Foundation honored the couple as a Board of Governors Award winner in 2018.

Levy sold his primary business, Paper Recovery, a paper recycling company located off Sixth Street, almost two years ago. The sale will allow the couple to travel more in the future, something they might enjoy more than rehabbing old buildings.

Maybe?

The transformed Heilig Meyers/Sterchi’s building is now home to retailers and professional offices.

The former Forrest Hotel at 436 Broad Street.

The Lofts at 3rd and Broad.

STONEBRIDGE SUITING GOLFERS TO A

Rome’s Stonebridge Golf Club is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2024, and the most significant part of that celebration will be the retirement of bonds used to finance the development of the course three decades ago.

Retired City Manager John Bennett said that one key to the course’s location was working out an arrangement with Berry College to acquire enough acreage for the course and its eventual residential communities. “I think the other key factor was that there were no other public golf courses,” Bennett said. They were primarily private or semi-private clubs, so the deal with Berry and their golf team made the arrangement attractive.” The former city manager also said that several city commission members back in the early 90s were clearly in favor of developing the municipal course after attending a National League of Cities meeting.

The course was designed by the late Arthur Davis, a renowned golf course architect. The inherent natural beauty of the landscape in the shadow of Lavender Mountain inspired the layout. The club is certified as a Cooperative Sanctuary by Audubon International. The 18-hole championship layout plays from 5,463 yards using the

green tees to 6,732 yards from the gold tees. In 2004, city leaders decided to turn over management of the course to Billy Casper Golf, now a subsidiary of Troon, the world’s largest professional club management company.

Former Rome Middle School band director Wade Williams said the thing he likes the most about Stonebridge is the staff. “The people in the clubhouse are great, you walk in, and they know you by name,” Williams said.

Brian Farrer, golf coach at Berry College, sings the praises of long-time course superintendent Chris Snyder. “It’s probably one of the most consistently well-conditioned golf courses that we get to play year-round,” Farrer said, “he knows how to grow grass. He knows how to keep the bad grass out of there. For us to be able to walk around, the rough and everything, there’s no grass that’s not supposed to be there.” The Berry coach said that when you hit the fairways, you expect a decent lie, which you get at Stonebridge. He also said the greens are always immaculate, not too fast, or slow, and very consistent.

The signature par-five ninth hole draws many comments from out-of-town players who may not have played the course previously. These comments relate to the relatively straight shot into the green, which can lead to an eagle or a shot that went awry, got wet, and resulted in a 12.

The course has always been highly rated by those who play it. Still, it received a significant boost in 2010 when the Bentgrass greens were replaced with hybrid Bermuda grass, which is more tolerant of the whims of the weather in Northwest Georgia.

David Hoyt has been the course manager for almost a year and is planning many big things for Stonebridge in 2024. Significant improvements are in store for the practice range, which generates close to $100,000 annually in revenue. All-weather mats are being installed to hit off of.

The course will also host a couple of playing ability tests for anyone interested in becoming certified as a Professional Golf Association member. There are very few members of the PGA in Northwest Georgia, and Hoyt is one of them.

Hoyt has also brought HOPE to Stonebridge. HOPE is an acronym for Helping Our Patriots Everywhere. The program is designed for veterans with any number of disabilities. Hoyt told city leaders in February that the Veterans Administration views golf as a highly therapeutic activity for veterans who may suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome or Traumatic Brain Injury.

Big changes are also on the horizon for the clubhouse. Architects are being engaged in designing some of the proposed improvements to the clubhouse. Physical work is expected to occur late in 2024 into the first quarter of 2025.

With work on the practice range and clubhouse taking precedence this year, replacing the irrigation system on the course has been pushed back a year or so.

Commissioner Jamie Doss calls the golf club “one of our crown jewels.”

For more information regarding Stonebridge Golf Club, please visit romestonebridge.com.

K-9 OFFICERS Trained To Serve

According to American Indian mythology, the world became divided at the beginning of time by a great and frightening chasm that tore the earth apart, causing most creatures to retreat into the forest. The animals were on one side, and the man on the other. However, the dog had a deep affection for humanity and tried to find a way to cross over to be with man. The dog leaped, but only his forepaws could reach the edge. Man then extended his arm and pulled the dog to safety, promising the dog he would be his companion forever.

The profound loyalty of these dogs was recently showcased in a three-day training event. Sponsored by Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security, the event brought together twenty-six dogs and handlers from Georgia and Florida. The Battey Business Complex served as the backdrop for this awe-inspiring display of canine capabilities.

With their extensive experience and training, FCPD Sergeant Matt Henry and his K-9 officer, Raider, have been instrumental in detecting explosives throughout the region, even in our own backyard. These dogs are trained to detect various explosive

materials, bombs, and narcotics, demonstrating their crucial role in maintaining public safety.

The FCPD police dogs are sourced from a specialized kennel in Florida, chosen with utmost care to match the specific requirements of their duty. Each dog undergoes a rigorous selection process, and the cost of these highly trained canines can range from five to ten thousand dollars each. Bomb dogs and narcotic dogs typically serve for eight to ten years, and when they join the team, they are fully prepared to start their important work—just like their mythical cousins, ready to jump.

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE

“Rome-Floyd County is the South’s best kept secret,” says Bill Temple, VP of Toles, Temple & Wright, Inc. (TTW), a second-generation family agency specializing in residential and commercial real estate sales, leasing, and business brokerage. “People come here with eyes wide-open and realize there’s nowhere else they want to live.”

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the “large, small town with mass appeal” is home to the largest Victorian-era district in Georgia. It also boasts a thriving arts scene that includes the oldest symphony in the Southeast, a Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Atlanta Braves, and several postsecondary educational institutions. With an impressive range of commercial properties, homes, and recently sold listings, like a hilltop estate designed by iconic Atlanta modernist Joseph Amisano and the “Creel House” from Stranger ings, TTW is the go-to resource for clients exploring the region.

Since the pandemic, Temple says the area has seen more people relocate from metro Atlanta and di erent corners of the United States because of a desire for a slower paced life. “Commute time to work in our area is o en under 10 minutes, and once home, you have plenty of golf courses, the nation’s largest hard-court tennis facility, and an abundant trail system to keep you busy,” he says.

Rome and Floyd County have everything anyone could ask for, catering to retirees, young families, and everyone in between— providing a unique quality of life, as both a medical and cultural hub with favorable taxes, abundant public and private educational institutions, as well as signature events and festivals. With a variety of architectural styles, Temple says there’s something for everyone, “Especially if you don’t want to live in a big city but prefer to be near one. Rome is centrally located in the ‘ABC triangle’ of Atlanta, Birmingham, and Chattanooga.”

WHEN IN ROME

“As the northeast part of the state becomes increasingly saturated with distribution centers, we’re seeing more manufacturing companies plant roots here,” says Temple.

In late October 2023, it was announced that Microso was set to build a $1 billion data center in Rome, creating more than 150 new jobs. at same week, it was made public that F&P Manufacturing would be moving forward with a $22 million expansion to its Rome facility as the result of partnerships with Tesla and Honda.

Toles, Temple & Wright was founded over 50 years ago by real estate visionaries C. Max Toles, Sara Wright, and Temple’s father, Brooke. Temple acknowledges that the rm has much to be grateful for, including record-breaking sales, more than 30 residential developments, and dozens of agents, who are just a phone call away for clients exploring the region.

“We remain committed to developing relationships and developing communities. We’re not just a business, but an invested neighbor and a community partner. We’re honored to be able to walk alongside newcomers to help familiarize them with everything the area has to o er,” emphasizes Temple. Whether buyers and sellers are starting a new chapter or closing another, “Our close-knit family of Rome-based REALTORS® is committed to using their expertise to help our clients write their story.”

Brian Bojo

Jordan Knight

Jule Peek

Andrew Garner

Michael McRae

Carey Pilgrim

Christopher Jackson

Trey Newton

Scott Smith

Virginia Harman

Robert Monroe

Jason Sanker

Lint Johnson

Lee Niedrach

Benjamin Stell

ICelebrating 125 Years

t is often said that “change” is one of the few constants in life. While the names and faces of the McRae, Smith, Peek, Harman & Monroe law firm may have changed over the years, the firm’s tenets have not. This year, the firm is celebrating its 125th anniversary as one of the oldest law firms in Georgia.

The firm’s roots were planted in 1899 when George Edmondson Maddox and Colonel William S. McHenry partnered to offer a full slate of legal services for residents of Rome, Floyd County, and the entire region. The Maddox family has been involved in one way or another throughout the ages.

For decades, the firm was known as Smith, Shaw, and Maddox, led by partners Oscar Smith, Charles C. Shaw, and Judge James D. “Jimmy Dick” Maddox. Members of the firm have always been committed to serving the community beyond its legal needs. Judge Maddox was a leader who worked to bring Floyd Junior College, now Georgia Highlands College, to Rome. “Today, we all continue to be involved in the community on various boards and projects,” said Andy Garner.

Offices are currently found in Rome and Cedartown. Today’s principals include Mike McRae, a partner primarily involved with Polk County. Partners Robert Monroe and Carey L. Pilgrim are based in Polk also. Partners Scott Smith, Jule Peek, and Virginia Harman, are part of the Rome office, working with partner Andrew (Andy) Garner, Lee Niedrach, Chris Jackson, Brian Bojo, Ben Stell, Trey Newton, Lint Johnson, Jordan Knight, and Jason Stanker. The firm also includes a full staff of paralegals and administrative assistants.

The firm is currently housed in its own building on Second Avenue in the Cotton Block. Built in 1898, it’s a year older than the law firm. The firm followed the First National Bank of Rome for years, which would become SunTrust and eventually Truist. “As we grew, we needed more space and wanted more visibility and to own our own building,” Garner said. The visibility of the new, historic building on Second Avenue was excellent for us because all the years in the SunTrust/Truist building, most folks didn’t know where the firm was.”

“For a law firm to stay intact 125 years is almost unheard of,” Garner said. “That says a lot. There tends to be a lot of big egos as a rule, and it’s hard for those egos to stay together unless you have some humility about you. It doesn’t mean you’re not good at what you do; we’re confident, but we have great deal of humility.” He said the firm doesn’t do a lot of advertising with a lot of billboards around the region as some do,

but we let our work and successes tell our story.

We are honored to work for all types of clients, including Floyd Medical Center, now Atrium Health Floyd, the firm’s oldest continuous client. The firm has also represented the Berry Schools and Shorter University.

“We’ve traditionally been a defense firm, so what we do is not flashy,” said Andy Garner. We represent institutions, businesses, banks, and insurance companies.” In recent years, the firm has successfully argued many noise pollution cases. In Polk County, the firm represented a number of landowners in a case against one of

Georgia’s electric membership co-ops and received several large verdicts in the Polk County Superior Court. It is currently litigating similar cases in Northeast Georgia.

Current firm members have specific distinctions across a broad spectrum of legal issues. Brian Bojo, for one, has a Master of Law in taxation, so he has that expertise. Jule Peek is a member of the American College of Trial Lawyers. Real estate work and medical malpractice defense are heavily involved with local government clients, including Floyd County, Haralson County, the Haralson County School Board, and the cities of Rockmart,

Cedartown, Temple, and Buchanan. With much experience and ability to pull from, the client’s legal needs of all classes are successfully concluded.

“We’ve got a lot of work right now that we’re doing for the DOT,” Garner said. One project has involved preparations for right-ofway acquisition for the Rome-Cartersville Development Corridor. Years ago, Oscar Smith was one of the partners who helped negotiate the acquisition of property on I-75.

“I think what sets us apart is our commitment to the community, our clients, and our families,” Garner said. “Our humble but confident approach to the practice of law has proven to hold us together for 125 years. Our relationships with one another have been a true strength.”

GENA FLANIGEN

Photographer with an Eagle Eye

Photography has been a life-long hobby for Roman Gena Culbertson Flanigen. Her passion for photography was ignited when her parents bought her an old-fashioned point-and-shoot camera when she was about 12 years old. “I just started getting

little better cameras as time went on and when I became assistant principal at Clear Creek (Elementary School in Bartow County) I needed some stress relief and so that’s when I bought my first Digital Single Lens Reflex camera,” Flanigen said.

Fast-forward almost a decade to the time the eagle nest was discovered behind the Cage Center on the Berry College campus. That was right about the time Flanigen made the decision to retire, and the eagles quickly became the focus of, well, her focus.

Over the past 13 years, Gena has probably spent as much time ‘with’ the pair of eagles who nest behind the Cage Center as anyone. During that time, her skills and knowledge of photography grew exponentially, and a few years ago, she was asked to provide photos for an exhibit at the Martha Berry Museum. The 2018 exhibit was titled “Sanctuary at Berry.”

Many of the images in the show were critters aside from the bald eagles. Her subject matter can range from hummingbirds to hawks or warblers to whooping cranes. If it flies, it’s liable to make its way into one of Flanigen’s viewfinders; she has plenty of them. Gena

An old dead snag at the Flanigen farm had become a nesting spot for a pair of Barred Owls. It wasn’t the best choice for the owls. An owlet was found on the ground at the base of the dead snag on three consecutive days. Thanks to the heroic efforts of Kim Kilgore, a friend and licensed wildlife rehabilitation specialist, her husband Jimmy, and crew, the owls were relocated to the nesting box, which Jimmy built and installed. A few restless nights were spent worrying about the owlets due to the recent storms, wind, and cold temperatures until the new nesting box was placed beside the old dead snag. Kilgore took the first two babies with her for observation and care until they were ready for relocation. The last owlet was with the mother all morning until the nest box was installed. Gena will be forever thankful for Kim’s knowledge and efforts to save the owls. The relocation was a complete success and all three babies have fledged. Undoubtedly, the new residents of the farm will soon be captured by Gena’s viewfinder as she views the wildlife on her farm.

Owlet Rescue

currently has five cameras and about seven lenses. She was quick to add that one of her lenses is more expensive than the first car she and her husband Rick purchased (a Volkswagen Rabbit) after they were married.

Gena loves her husband’s support. Rick will occasionally accompany her on a photo safari that could range from the Hiawassee National Wildlife Refuge in Tennessee to the Harris Neck National Wildlife Refuge on the Georgia coast. She’s just as apt to journey from Guntersville to Gulf Shores in Alabama. If it’s on a flight path and the migration is on, Gena is liable to be there with multiple cameras and multiple lenses.

Her parents and grandparents both instilled a love of nature in Gena, and she has become one of the most proficient at photographing just about any kind of wildlife. Protecting the wildlife that she photographs is also very important to Gena. A few years ago, she got some beautiful pictures of rare and endangered Whooping cranes migrating with Sandhill cranes, but she won’t say where she took the pictures to protect the birds.

She has transitioned from the traditional DSLR cameras to the newer mirrorless ones. “The animal eye and bird eye detection is amazing (in the mirrorless cameras). Do you know how there is that digital noise level? There is less of that in the mirrorless cameras,” Flanigen. And the mirrorless cameras are much lighter, which is handy when she’s often toting two of them around on an outing. She’s sold most of her older gear to her many photographer friends. “I need to get rid of a few more,” Gena said.

Flanigen is a self-taught, trial-and-error photographer whose skills developed so quickly that she has published a pair of books featuring her photographs of the Berry Eagles. One is titled Majestic, published in 2015, and the other is titled Strength and Beauty, published in 2016. The newer cameras and lenses make good photography easy, and the intricate knowledge of camera settings that Flanigen has mastered helps make a lot of her work National Geographic caliber.

Recently, the retired educator has developed a passion for more common, smaller “yard birds,” particularly warblers and others that are more migratory and not always seen in the Rome area. “They’re not as common,” Flanigen said. Her ability to capture a perfect still shot of hummingbirds whose wings beat at a rate of 70 per second without distortion is a true testament to her working knowledge of the camera and lens.

Hummingbirds

White and Gray Squirrels

Whooping Cranes

TAKING THE FIELD

It’s unlikely that anyone named Augustus, Tiberius, or Claudius will see action on the diamond at AdventHealth Stadium this summer, but to be sure, the Rome Emperors will take the field for 66 home games this year. Rome baseball fans hope the Emperors will stake a quick claim as rulers of the South Atlantic League.

Formerly known as the Rome Braves, the Atlanta Braves High-A affiliate, the Emperors are currently the longest continuing affiliate of the Braves. The club moved to Rome from Macon in 2003 and are two-time South Atlantic League champions, claiming titles in 2003 and 2016.

One of the fun challenges of being a fan of minor league baseball is the opportunity to guess who will become the next major league superstar. Rome baseball fans have been fortunate to witness the likes of Brian McCann, Jeff Francouer, Mike Soroka, Max Fried, Spencer Strider, Austin Riley, Ozzie Albies, and last year’s runaway Most Valuable Player Ronald Acuna Jr. Will the next superstar be someone like Ignacio “Nacho” Alvarez Jr. who had a .284 batting average with 24 doubles, seven home runs and 66 RBI in Rome last year?

Along with the name change, fans will notice changes at the ballpark. At the very front of the stadium, the former souvenir shop has been replaced by a season-ticket holder’s lounge. The gift shop has been moved into the area that formerly housed the restaurant. The bar section of the former restaurant is still in place, but the restaurant itself is no longer part of the venue. A new children’s play area on the hill just beyond the right field wall has been added.

While not likely to be noticeable from the grandstands, Floyd County Manager Jamie McCord says close to $4 million in physical improvements to AdventHealth Stadium are underway. Temporary locker rooms for the Emperors and visiting teams have been completed in time for this season, while permanent renovation work takes place this summer. The changes also include designated staff space for women as well as female umpires. Improvements to the hitting tunnel and pitching cages are also underway. A major upgrade for the playing surface will occur following the 2024 season.

Minor League Baseball underwent a major restructuring prior to the 2021 season when Rome was advanced from a Low-A affiliate. Diamond Baseball Holdings owns the team, which it acquired from the Atlanta Braves organization prior to the 2022 season. David Lane is the General Manager, and Cody Gabella will be the on-field skipper for the 2024 season.

Lane came to Rome in the fall of 2022. A native of Spartanburg, S.C., Lane has served several minor league franchises across the South Atlantic region but joined the staff at Rome from a position at Samford University in Birmingham.

Gabella comes to Rome after serving as the on-field manager for the Augusta GreenJackets a year ago. The rest of the coaching staff includes Mike Steed as pitching coach, Danny Santiesteban as hitting coach and the venerable Bobby Moore is back as an assistant coach. Austin Smith is the athletic trainer, and Julian Rip is the strength coach.

The name change occurred shortly after the 2023 season ended when the club opted to follow a trend among minor league clubs to differentiate themselves from their major league partners. More than 5,000 suggestions for the new name were received by the owners who settled on Emperors which has an obvious tie to Rome. The Emperor penguin mascot caught some folks by surprise but has steadily grown on the Rome fan base. In a press release between seasons, Lane reminded fans that there are “no Bengals in Cincinnati, or Grizzlies in Memphis,” referring to the football and basketball teams in those cities.

The Emperors are planning a plethora of promotions during the 2024 season. This year, there will be a fireworks display following every Friday home game. AdventHealth will sponsor Sunday Fun Day games, where kids not only get in FREE but also eat FREE! Following the games, kids will be allowed to run the bases at AdventHealth Stadium. Double Dog Wednesday will allow fans to bring their pups to the park and enjoy specials on hot dogs. Something special is planned for EVERY home game!

Gavin Booker will be the Voice of the Emperors. Booker played baseball at Berry College in Rome, where he received a degree. All of the Emperors’ home games will be broadcast live on MiLB.TV as well as the Bally Sports App. Audio-only broadcast will be available on the GoEmperors.com website.

DAWN TOLBERT Finding Hope In Struggles

Local author Dawn Tolbert invites readers on a profound exploration of faith, obedience, and the boundless love of the Creator in her book, “I’d Rather Die than Obey: Trusting God Even When It Hurts.”

With a fresh perspective on the timeless story of Jonah, this women’s Bible study is more than a retelling of a familiar biblical tale. It offers a companionable walk through the story of God’s unwilling prophet and encourages readers to bring their angry, hurt and unforgiving thoughts to God as they draw near to him in faith.

“By examining the life of this less-than-willing messenger, we learn about God’s unfailing love and discover how much he wants to use people like us, not in spite of our hurts, but often because of them,” the author said. “Our struggles have uniquely equipped us to share his love with others who are hurting, and even those who have hurt us.

“It’s easy to skip over the book of Jonah, assuming we know the story, but when we read it with fresh eyes, we find it is as relevant in the 21st century as it was when God first used a fish and a worm to change his prophet’s heart.”

The paperback book was released in November 2023 and is available through the publisher’s website at eilaimpressions.com and Amazon. eBooks are available at Amazon and other major retailers.

Tolbert began her writing career working for Rome’s News Publishing Company, first at the Cedartown Standard and later as a lifestyles writer and editor at the Rome News-Tribune. Her career in higher education includes her current role as director of advancement communications at Berry College and managing editor of Berry magazine.

Readers can also find her writing at dawntolbert.com, where she writes hope-filled, faith-inspired blog content to encourage women in their walk with Jesus Christ. “In this hectic, modern world, we’re told to try harder and hustle more, but all that striving leaves us empty, anxious, exhausted and spiritually drained,” Tolbert wrote on her website. “But there is good news: we can have a friend named Jesus who calls us to a better way. My goal with my writing is to remind us to break free from striving and unwrap God’s gift of rest.” She also hosts the “Unwrapping Rest with Dawn Tolbert” podcast.

SOUTH MEADOWS APARTMENTS IN HISTORIC SOUTH ROME

The South Meadows Apartments are the latest addition to the housing stock in historic South Rome. A partnership between the South Rome Alliance and Laurel Street, the 80unit apartment community on the site of the former Curtis Meat Packing plant on Pollock Street offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments designed specifically for households earning 80% or less of the Rome area’s median income.

The South Meadows community is Laurel Street’s second project in cooperation with the South Rome Alliance. Previously, the North Carolina-based company partnered to construct the Burrell Square, Etowah Bend, and McCall Place apartments. All the developments were financed partly with the assistance of tax credits issued by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

Laurel Street was founded by Dionne Nelson, who has more than two decades of experience in real estate development, finance, and operations. Her company has developed more than 40 high-quality mixed-income communities for working families and seniors across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic region.

Nelson was speaking at a Purpose Built Communities conference attended by South Rome Redevelopment leadership, who later contacted Laurel Street to see if there was any interest in partnering with the South Rome group. A mission statement of sorts on the Laurel Street website says, “We seek to build quality homes in connected communities as a place where true family values can be fostered. To me that makes it a Laurel Street home.”

The South Meadows apartments are finished and include high-end features, hardwood-style flooring, and the ever-popular open floor plan. Energy-efficient appliances and light fixtures to save residents money, as well as patios or balconies. The apartment community includes a community meeting room, a fitness center, and a playground with a covered pavilion.

Adjacent to the apartments is the Davies Shelter South Meadows Farm, which includes garden plots that provide fresh produce, the Davies men’s and women’s shelters, and residents of the South Meadows apartment community. A natural walking trail along the South Rome levee, which protects the new community from the

Coosa River, is another one of the amenities in the neighborhood surrounding the apartments.

As an important addition to the South Rome community as the South Meadows Apartments are by themselves, South Rome Alliance Chairman David Williams believes that their construction, coupled with Etowah Bend, Burrell Square, and McCall Place, have been critical to an influx of private capital investment in South Rome. “That was always the intent,” Williams said. “If we got these leading things accomplished, then private money would follow, and it is following.”

Lee Cochran, Senior Vice President for Development at Laurel Street, said that showcasing South Rome as a viable community for private investment was always a part of the development plan, going back to Burrell Square, McCall Place, and Etowah Bend. Those three developments, along with South Meadows, in four district areas of the historic community, have provided a wide range of housing options at affordable price points.

The South Meadows Apartments, which Cochran says should be fully leased by mid-Spring, are targeted for families with incomes ranging from 80% of median income, which is close to market rate costs, to 30% of median income. In terms of real dollars, that ranges from $350 a month up to $1,270 a month.

Virtually all of the other private investments are in the form of upgrades to existing housing and a significant number of new builds

on previously abandoned lots. Walt Busby with KC Homes said his company has built at least seven new homes on in-fill lots and most have sold quickly. “We feel like we’re building the least expensive products out there,” Busby said. He’s acquired several other parcels on which he hopes to start new homes soon.

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

It is an honor to serve as the mayor of what I consider the absolute best city in the south. The city of Rome and our Floyd County partners are enjoying a period of growth and opportunity we have not seen in almost seventy-five years. We have over 6,000 new homes at some stage of development, new jobs being announced almost weekly, and a sense of cooperation and excitement I have not seen in my adult life.

Former Rome City Commissioner, Napolean Fielder, is remembered for saying, “Working together works.” I have found that to be true and I can truthfully say that the level of cooperation, respect, and teamwork I see among our city of Rome folks and our friends in Floyd County government, business and industry, and throughout northwest Georgia has never been stronger.

Working together truly does work and it is an exciting time to be working in our wonderful community.

Craig McDaniel

SENATE REVIEW

FINANCE CHAIR, GEORGIA STATE SENATE

The Georgia session ended on March 28. Two thousand bills were introduced, and a record 725 passed. Many of these bills targeted certain cities and schools and were irrelevant to the State. We passed a budget that contained raises for employees. Our K-12 teachers-who already have the highest average pay in the south - increased by $2,500. We continue to support our education system and retain quality teachers. We also had funding for Northwestern Technical College and Georgia Highlands for new facilities. The funding for Georgia Highlands will result in a new medical building that will let us triple our number of dental hygienists and double our number of nursing students. Nurses are sorely needed right now.

We also reduced our income tax rate again. This bill (which I sponsored several years ago) is slowly bringing the rate down. It was scheduled to be reduced from 5.75% to 5.49%. The governor agreed to reduce it to 5.39%. Eventually, it will be down to 4.99%. We continue to try to fund the state, build infrastructure, have a healthy rainy day fund balance, and reduce the taxes on our citizens.

Even though the state does not collect any property taxes, it has been the item that I have heard the most about over the last two years. The increased taxes due to property values rising are of particular concern. We passed a bill that I sponsored in the Senate that will limit these increases in the future to about 3% a year. Some assessments have increased by 20 to 40%, but the millage rate statewide has not been reduced. This will no longer be allowed if the voters approve it on a constitutional amendment that will be on the ballot in November. I believe it will pass by 90%. Even more important is that the legislature will not take it away in the future without going to a constitutional amendment, which I do not believe the voters will pass. It also will allow the locals to have an additional penny local option sales tax that can be used for only one thing—to reduce property taxes. If this passes, I have calculated that Floyd

County government taxes will be reduced by 41% and Rome City government taxes will be reduced by 82%. This will be, by far, the largest reduction in property taxes in Georgia’s history. So not only will there be a cap on future tax increases through assessments, but by next year, there should be significant reductions in the amount of property taxes we all pay.

While the Governor will decide which bills to approve over the next 30 days, I do not doubt that these will be signed. Hopefully, we can discuss a few of the other significant bills in the future.

Thank you for letting me represent this area in the Georgia State Senate. It is a great time to be in Georgia, and I appreciate being part of the process of seeing good things happen for all of our district.

State Senate Committee Memberships: Appropriations, Ex-Officio Finance, Chairman Health and Human Services, Member Rules, Member

Dempsey Auction Company

City Employees of the Quarter Salutes

Dempsey Auction Company continues to reflect the standard of our founder, Sproull Dempsey, Sr. –“Nothing succeeds like success.” This standard would be impossible to reach without dedicated and enthusiastic employees. The City of Rome is fortunate to have numerous employees who exhibit characteristics which help ensure the success of their departments and the city in its entirety. Dempsey Auction Company is proud to salute these outstanding City of Rome’s Employees of the Quarter.

Trina Dean, the senior Scale House Operator at the Walker Mountain Landfill, has served the city for an impressive 16 years. Her commitment to learning and maintaining strong relationships with her team has resulted in positive changes, such as adding a second scale to minimize customer wait times.

Marvette Mohorn, a new Rome Transit Driver, has already made an impact in her year of service. Her enthusiasm for meeting high expectations and helping train other employees reflects her dedication to the job.

Jason Martin, the business manager/systems & application analyst for the Rome-Floyd Fire Department, plays a critical role in ensuring firefighters have the technology they need. His recent project involving Bluetooth radios for clearer communication during emergencies is commendable.

Jenny Morales, the operations coordinator for Public Works, embodies initiative, teamwork, and continuous learning. Her bilingual skills allow her to bridge communication gaps between the office and the field, creating efficiencies in administrative processes.

CITY DIRECTORY