V3 October 2023

NWGA'S PREMIER FEATURE MAGAZINE / OCTOBER 2023

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Nurturing Independence, Promoting Individuality and Enriching the Lives of Our Residents

With over 78 combined years of senior living experience, you will be delighted to see how fast our team will help you feel right at home!

Independent Living | Personal Care | Memory Care 3126 Cedartown Hwy | Rome, GA 30161 | 706-295-0014 | renaissancemarquis.com 2

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Southern Dining, Redefined Rice House Restaurant at Barnsley Resort Garden-to-table is a way of life at Barnsley Resort, the idyllic, awardwinning 3,000-acre destination steeped in history and outdoor adventure just a short drive from north Georgia landmarks in Cartersville and Rome. While the resort’s close connection with nature is infused throughout the property’s three culinary experiences, this philosophy is perfected into an art form in the Rice House restaurant.

Upon arrival, diners are welcomed into the 19th century farmhouse – now converted into an elegant yet relaxed setting for dinner on weekends. After savoring a signature cocktail in the lounge while admiring a dramatic gallery wall of collected art, guests enter the dining room, where hem-stitched linen napkins, Vietri bud vases, and glass chargers set the mood – and table – for the experience to follow. In the distance, dramatic views of the landmark Manor House Ruins of Godfrey Barnsley’s former Woodlands estate complement the menus with fresh inspiration featured for the harvest season.

The culinary team at Rice House infuses classical culinary techniques with inspiration found from treasured Southern methods, local farmers, and the resort’s on-site gardens. This talented group of chefs thoughtfully designs menus that intentionally tell a story of Barnsley’s location and place.

Before preparing the evening’s dishes, the culinary team cultivates seasonal ingredients in the gardens at the farm to incorporate them into the menus.

Inspired by the autumn season, new dishes featured on the menu include a citrusroasted beet tart accented with Lake Lanie Farm goat cheese and Loudermilk Hobby Farm honey. The Fish & Seafood Cataplana is a Portuguese-inspired stew featuring a medley of ingredients from the sea along with preserved tomatoes preserved from the Barnsley Farm and Sweet Grass Dairy’s signature Thomasville Tomme cheese.

In addition to a memorable dinner experience, Barnsley Resort’s reputation as a culinary destination is on the rise thanks to featured events and gatherings within one of two private dining rooms.

HOLIDAY CELEBRATIONS

The Rice House is open for dinner on Friday and Saturday evenings. Reservations are requested by calling 770.773.7480, ext. 1. While staying overnight offers a complete resort experience, a room reservation is not required to dine in the Rice House.

Celebrate the festive season with family, friends or even co-workers at the Rice House. Chefs have special menus planned for Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve. The Rice House is also an exceptional location to host an intimate office group for a special dinner in one of the private dining rooms or even reserve the entire restaurant exclusively for your party’s celebration. Afterwards, guests may enjoy an evening stroll through the festive holiday lights and well-decorated resort village.

597 Barnsley Gardens Road Adairsville, Georgia 30103 READV3.COM | OCTOBER 2023 V3 MAGAZINE

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OCTOBER 2023 COLUMNS

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Nina Lovel shares a motivational trick that carried her through the summer and on to victory in her favorite 5K race.

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Approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and Harbin Clinic physicians advocate that early detection of breast cancer is critical to successful treatment and recovery.

V3 MAGAZINE OCTOBER 2023 | READV3.COM

FEATURES 14

Bob Sapp and his team at Envirotec are winning the war against germs with customized plans for every client and non-toxic chemicals to kill germs where they breed.

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Hardy Realty offers the Weiss Lake Lodge, the ideal getaway spot for outdoorsmen and avid fishermen.

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Committed to providing memories through photographs, The Morgan Lee Photography offers framed joy for their brides and grooms.

Learn more at PinkPorchGA.com.

This October, join us as we shine a light on breast cancer. While breast cancer affects one in eight women, it is easily treatable when caught early.

A mammogram has the power to save your life.

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, light your porch pink and increase awareness for early breast cancer detection.

Schedule your mammogram:

Our Breast Care Locations

AdventHealth Redmond Women’s Center 3D Mammograms Available 501 Redmond Road, Rome, GA 30165 AdventHealth Edna Owens Breast Center 3D Mammograms Available 1035 Red Bud Road, Calhoun, GA 30701 AdventHealth Murray 707 Old Dalton Ellijay Road, Chatsworth, GA 30705

PinkPorchGA.com 800-776-5102

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Publisher's Note OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin MANAGING PARTNER Chris Forino CREATIVE DIRECTOR Elizabeth Childers WRITERS Jim Alred, Ian Griffin, Nina Lovel, Paul Moses PHOTOGRAPHERS Andy Calvert, Ivan Felipe

O W N E R & C E O Ian Griffin

AD DESIGN Elizabeth Childers

It’s October, so it’s a natural month to think about life and death, right?

So I suppose it's apropos that I got a call from my life insurance provider recently to inform me it’s time for me to reconsider my options now that I only have five years left on my 20-year term policy.

Time flies and apparently, I’m closer to croaking so I better act quick!

This hit me in a few different feel zones.

Out of all the insurance policies I pay for, this one has long given me the most peace of mind.

To know my kids would be taken care of if I kicked the bucket is something I really appreciate. Not that I am or was planning on going to the Great Beyond, but nobody knows when their ticket will be punched so all that to say it helps me sleep at night.

The first and I’m sure most expected reaction from this renewal call was, dang it I’m getting old.

I don’t feel it most of the time, but 15 years have passed, and my rates are going to go up because as Pink Floyd so poetically put it, I’m shorter of breath and one day closer to death. Mid-forties is a far cry from mid-twenties, but I’m handling all that aging stuff pretty well so far, so I tried not to let it get to me.

The second reaction was my willingness to extend and the importance of this particular expense is still there. My children are 22, 16, and 8, so there are a lot of life events still upcoming for all of them. If I’m not here for some reason, wherever I’m looking in from, it will make me happy to know I still was able to help with those expenses. So even though I know it's going to cost more, it's worth it to me to spend the money. I don’t feel that way about much of anything else…and definitely don’t feel that way about any other insurance policy I carry.

Third was the trip down memory lane it caused me to take. I took this policy out in 2008 as a 28-year-old manchild who was learning how to be a husband, dad, and business owner. I've failed and succeeded along the way, but I’ve tried to learn from it all and most importantly make sure those three humans I’m responsible for raising are taken care of.

I never knew I’d get so much out of a call from an insurance agent, but life is full of surprises.

Enjoy a good scare this month and I’ll see you on the Darkside of the Moon.

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PUBLISHER V3 Publications, LLC CONTACT 417 Broad Street Rome Ga, 30161 Office Phone 706.235.0748 hello@v3collective.com CREATOR Neal Howard

READV3.COM ReadV3.com: Where you can find all the print content from this issue, our archives and exclusive ReadV3 digital features.

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I've Never Been Sorry Here and Now

with Nina Lovel

How are you doing with regrets? Isn’t it maddening how they drift in when least expected, hijacking a pleasant mood or a productive day?

As hard as I’ve worked through the years to keep mine suppressed, they’ll still sometimes bounce up with the energy of a September hummingbird.

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I had an epiphany this summer that has helped me neutralize regrets, and I want to share that with you. It’s a mental trick that focuses on the positive, the things you’ve *never* regretted doing.

Here’s how it works:

Think of something you need to do, but your masterful Lazy-Side-Procrastinator (LSP) wants to get loud and talk you out of doing it. It can be something simple like flossing (wait, that’s supposed to be a habit, not a choice!) or getting the oil changed, or it can be something bigger, like cleaning the garage or clearing space for a new garden.

The only requirement is that it has two options: “get it done” or “wait till later”. As your LSP nudges you down the path of least resistance, your logical mind knows the other choice is better. Energize that best decision by picturing yourself on the other side of it, thinking how good you’ll feel once it’s done. Tell yourself these magic words: “I’ve never been sorry I [flossed, took care of the car, cleaned the garage, made a new garden, etc.].” Get the idea?

This is the best motivator I’ve found; read on for examples from my summer life.

I’ve never been sorry I got up and went for a run

I discovered the power of Never Been Sorry in the snooze-alarm twilight of a late spring morning.

I had just weathered nearly a year of hip pains, and because running is my exercise of choice (I take huge license with the word “running”: a good day is a 60:40% run-walk, powerfully slow but determined), I was pretty sure my hip pains were running-related. The time off had indeed made them all better.

The hiatus had done nothing for my fitness, however. If I wanted to run the Tillman Clocktower Memorial 5K (which I did) again, I was going to have to train back up from the beginning. I re-loaded the Couch to 5K app and got back to my slow, diligent trot.

When you’re just starting to run, it just doesn’t feel that great. It’s hard work, in fact. But I had the gift of remembering days of better fitness, when a run was so exhilarating that it felt like I was actually being helped along and even “lifted” up the steps on the path! I knew I could recapture that feeling if I just got up and put in the work, but my bed was oh, so cozy.

Then one day this epiphany broke through the pre-dawn drowse: “I’ve never been sorry I got up and went for a run!” How true! Now, this didn’t make the run any easier, but it did remind me that

a self-righteous energy would follow me the rest of the day, and it got me up and out all summer long. The exhilarating runs returned, and my best reward was placing first in my age group in the Clocktower race! Before you start thinking I’m some kind of beast in disguise, I actually placed first, second, *and* third, because, um, I was the only racer in my age group this year. HA! My time was longer than I wanted, but a victory is sweet no matter how it’s won, and you can’t win unless you finish the race. This wasn’t the first time I’ve placed by being in a very small field, and until this group of very fast ‘youngsters’ catches up to my AG, I hope it won’t be the last.

I’ve never been sorry I got up and went for a run.

I’ve Never Been Sorry I Fed that Man

Confession time: I made a judgment based on something I observed. To my knowledge, the only harm that has resulted is my own deep

consternation, so I’ll continue to embrace my faults.

Early on a misty summer dawn, I pulled into the park to run. There was a rust-covered old car parked off to itself; I saw no occupant. It was packed all the way up to the windows with trash bags with soft-looking contents, and books were shoved into all available space. I ran on by.

Later, I saw a wraith-like being quietly coming down a wooded hill, moving toward the car.

My judgment registered a homeless person living in their car, and I thought it kind that they had been allowed to remain undisturbed there in the park for the night. My run completed, I hurried home to bring back some food, but the car was no longer there.

Subsequent mornings usually found the car back in place, its occupant usually visible somewhere in the park, diminutive, clearly not wanting to be noticed. Some friends had tried to converse with the man, but he was withdrawn

and unapproachable. I respected that, but I felt a pull on my heart. I wanted to help this poor man who lived in his car and had to flee the park by daylight. So, one morning I left a sandwich, drink and fruit on the car. The next day, there was a note on my truck, thanking me for my kindness.

I didn’t bring food every day, but I did sometimes leave some fruit or a cold drink.

After a few weeks, one of my park friends told me they had found out more about the rusty-caroccupant. Turns out he lives nearby and comes to the park to walk in the mornings, just like everybody else. As my little toddler grand-buddy would say, “Silly me!” I doubled over, laughing at myself. My daughter chortles every time she thinks of it. I’m sure this man assumed there was a crazy old lady running around in the park, just like that crazy old lady assumed he was homeless.

I’m still not sorry I fed him. Because, you never really know.

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I’ve never been sorry I took that video.

The first hint that I might have a problem came a few years back, in a message that my cloud account was out of storage space. Since I could purchase additional storage for only $4.99 a month, I plunked down my debit card and kept taking videos, finally giving in to the zillionterabyte plan because it’s such a bargain if you consider the cost per terabyte of the smaller plans.

But I’ve had such good things to video! With progeny that have played and performed all their lives and have now begat playing, performing progeny of their own, there are decades of recorded memories in my house, in the iMemories box, and in those terabytes, waiting to be watched again.

In recent years I’ve tried to spend more time in the moment and less on that tiny glass screen, though. My old self might have captured every one of Maddie’s at-bats, but today I prefer absorbing real-life: the heat of the sun, the dust from a slide, the yum of the concession-grilled hot dog with just catsup (because the mustard ran out), and the way the little girls look and smell.

These ‘little girls’ are now fifteen years old. They play fast-pitch softball with confident vengeance and french-braided hair. They smell like Brazilian Crush Sol de Janeiro and sport makeup that’s more perfectly applied than I knew could be done at home. They’re absolutely beautiful in splendor, sweat and dust, and I go home just glad I got to watch them play.

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This speaks to videoing concerts as well. Look, no matter HOW incredible that performance is, you’re not going to take it home on your phone.

Leave the phone in your pocket and live in the magic. Your terabytes will thank you.

Which brings me to a major exception.

August 22, 2019, Berry College Chapel. Dr. Hamilton Dixon’s last piano concert. I’ve enjoyed many of Ham’s private concerts through the years, and something told me to take my tripod this time. I secured my phone to it and enjoyed the wonderful concert distraction-free. His beloved wife Jane turned the pages as he played masterfully, a lifetime of beloved songs, many of them exceedingly difficult, for a loving crowd of family and friends. I sent the video to his daughter and she put it on YouTube that night, where it now has hundreds of views. You may enjoy it here:

A recent evening. Ham reclines in comfort, wearing a long sleeved, brightly tie-dyed t-shirt.

His face is serene, unaffected. His every need is attended to. He moves very little and talks even less, but he still has the sweetest smile of recognition for his friends. His hands, in his lap, rest on a soft burgundy comforter. He watches himself playing his last concert, cast from YouTube to the large screen TV. Almost imperceptibly, he nods now and then. Look closely and you'll see his fingers moving, ever so slightly, just along the comforter.

I’ve never been sorry I took that video.

It’s now time for audience participation: make your own list right now!

I’ve never been sorry I:

_______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________ _______________________________

It will balance out those times that regrets try sneaking back in.

High Demand Careers Begin Here!

AVIATION MAINTENANCE

GNTC.edu 866-983-4682 GNTC is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate degrees.

A unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and an EOI.

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EVERY TWO MINUTES, A WOMAN IN THE UNITED STATES IS DIAGNOSED WITH BREAST CANCER. Approximately one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. In 2023, an estimated 2,800 men will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Harbin Clinic physicians advocate that early detection of breast cancer is critical to successful treatment and recovery, and one of the most accurate ways to detect the disease in its earliest stages is to get a mammogram. But don’t just take their word for it.

Kim Raulerson, a breast cancer survivor and a mammography technologist with the Harbin Clinic Imaging Cartersville, is living proof of how early detection, and a positive mindset, can save lives.

Kim shares that when she was accepted into a radiology technologist program, life got busy, and she put her yearly breast cancer screening on the back burner. With no family history of breast cancer and no pre-existing risk factors, she wasn’t worried about her annual check-in.

“I hear many women say they’re too young, have no family history or risk factors,” explains Kim. “But it’s not that simple. Breast cancer doesn’t discriminate, and I found out the hard way.”

Kim made an appointment for screenings the following year but never expected a breast cancer diagnosis. “It was a complete shock,” Kim says. “They caught it early, but my doctor told me if I had waited one more year, it would have been too late.” After her diagnosis, Kim’s doctor recommended a lumpectomy.

While in surgery a month later, Kim’s doctor discovered the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes. “I had to start chemotherapy and radiation while still going to school,” Kim explains. “It was the most difficult journey I’ve been on, but I wouldn’t change it.” After a lumpectomy, 16 weeks of chemotherapy and 33 radiation treatments, Kim could finally

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say that she beat breast cancer—and graduated from her radiology technologist program.

Along with Kim, the rest of the team at Harbin Clinic Imaging Cartersville is committed to the early detection and diagnosis of breast cancer. Harbin Clinic invested in a stateof-the-art 3D mammography system that provides crystalclear images of breast tissue for Cartersville patients. This technology makes it easier to detect masses and tumors and begin developing a personalized treatment plan for patients.

Kim Raulerson, Harbin Clinic mammography technologist and breast cancer survivor

“I can’t put into words how important it is for women to be here every year to get a mammogram,” says Kim. “When it comes to breast cancer, everyone is vulnerable.”

Kim’s approach to her journey is filled with positivity and hope. “I always tell people your story doesn’t end at your diagnosis,” Kim says tearfully. “It’s tough, but a lot of it is attitude and mindset. My advice to others who have been diagnosed is to hold on to hope wherever you can find it.”

Harbin Clinic medical experts also encourage understanding how to reduce risk. While certain factors, such as family history, cannot be changed, there are lifestyle choices you can make to minimize a diagnosis.

THEY RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING: · LIMIT ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION. · AVOID SMOKING. · CONTROL YOUR WEIGHT. · BE PHYSICALLY ACTIVE. · CONDUCT REGULAR BREAST EXAMS AT HOME. · UNDERSTAND YOUR FAMILY HISTORY.

Finally, Harbin Clinic medical experts encourage the community to join them in wearing pink this October. Harbin Clinic wears pink to memorialize, honor and raise awareness about breast cancer. But it is also more than a t-shirt; it’s a commitment to action.

A COMMITMENT TO: · A BREAST SELF-EXAM ONCE A MONTH. · A MAMMOGRAM EVERY YEAR IF OVER 40 YEARS OLD. · AN ANNUAL DOCTOR’S APPOINTMENTS THAT INCLUDE A BREAST EXAM. · HAVING CONVERSATIONS WITH LOVED ONES ABOUT EARLY DETECTION AND BREAST CANCER PREVENTION. · FUNDING RESEARCH AND PROVIDING ESSENTIAL SERVICES. When asked why she wears pink, Kim Raulerson says, “I wear pink in October because I’m living proof of how early detection can save lives.”

This October, wear pink with Harbin Clinic, schedule a mammogram or to learn more about the collaborative services provided by the medical professionals at Harbin Clinic, visit harbinclinic.com.

Harbin Clinic Cancer Center’s Pink Out

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BORN TO

PROTECT

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TEXT Ian Griffin PHOTOS Andy Calvert

Bob Sapp dedicated his life to protecting others as an officer of the law. Instead of retiring after a decorated career, he now fights an invisible enemy…germs.

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Wars, assassinations, elections, tragedies of all sorts, and most recently, a global pandemic. With nearly 7 million deaths so far and well over a million of those here in the USA, the world we live in today is marred by the effects of the COVID-19 virus. The dominoes continue to fall in the aftermath, but the virus is here to stay, and the workplace may be the place we feel it most.

Employers need their staff to be healthy and employees want to feel safe in their work environment. As our country picks up the pieces and strives to move forward, it is imperative that we learn from and honor all those lives that were lost by protecting ourselves from an invisible enemy… germs.

The pandemic is a divisive topic, as most things are these days. Still, the bottom line is germs, bacteria, and viruses that transmit infectious diseases such as common colds, Influenza, COVID-19, and so many more aren’t going anywhere, and protecting ourselves from them is paramount.

A CALL FROM WUHAN

HISTORY IS MARKED BY EVENTS THAT CHANGED OUR LIVES FOREVER. 16

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When the first whispers of the coronavirus possibly making its way across the globe started, Major Bob Sapp was serving as the Jail Administrator for the Floyd County Sheriff’s Office. In December 2019, he received a phone call he would never forget.

“An old friend of mine, who was working in Wuhan, China called to inform me of suspicious activity by government operatives there,” recalls Sapp. “I remember thinking why do I need to know about this, but as he continued to speak, I could hear the fear in his voice as he talked about pets and animals being euthanized and restricted movements being enforced in certain neighborhoods. He surmised it might be some type of disease spreading quickly and said he was trying desperately to find transport out of the country. He advised that whatever this illness was we should ‘stock up on PPE, masks, chemicals, and disinfection materials immediately,’ in case it makes its way to America.”

While it was hard to digest what he just heard, Sapp didn’t waste any time acting.

“I immediately went to Sheriff Tim Burkhalter and Chief Tommy McGuire and they agreed we should be proactive,” said Sapp. They knew my source was reliable and we decided to heed his advice.”

The Sheriff remembers this call to action.

“Bob’s job as Jail Administrator was to manage our staff and make sure the inmates are kept safe, fed, and medically treated,” says former Floyd County Sheriff, Tim Burkhalter. “Major Sapp assigned one of his command staff, Lt. Debra McCain, as the Infectious Disease Control Program Coordinator, and together they developed an exceptionally thorough and aggressive prevention and protection plan that exceeded any other that I have seen.” That plan was shared with other facilities in Georgia and beyond.

The results of those early actions undoubtedly saved lives. As the pandemic swept through America, inmate deaths rose nearly 50 percent in prisons and similar numbers in jail deaths were also being reported, with many officer casualties reported as well. Unfortunately, supply shortages made it difficult

for facilities to restock and chemical disinfecting services became too pricey to be sustained as the pandemic stretched on.

The team initially used several name-brand disinfectant cleaners to treat approximately 300,000 square feet three times weekly, (about the area of five football fields every time) at the jail, so each application was a massive undertaking. The comprehensive COVID protocols along with those treatments kept cases at a minimum for a few months, but eventually, the virus gained a foothold in the jail and cases jumped dramatically. “ Just as it seemed our darkest hour was looming, our research efforts paid off, with the discovery of a unique antimicrobial product that works very differently, and that difference changed everything for us. We deployed deputies out of state to pick up an emergency order and bring it back. It was an absolute game-changer.”

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“This chemical worked differently than most disinfectants. Instead of poisoning the bacteria and viruses, it formed a molecular bond with the surface once applied, utilizing thousands of microscopic spikes imperceptible to the naked eye or human touch. Those spikes mechanically pierce the pathogen's cell wall and then electrocute it, leaving it disrupted and unable to replicate,” says Sapp. The other big advantage besides being extremely affordable, was the fact it reduced the previous required application frequency cycle of three to four times a week… to just once a month.

“This helped us quickly slow the spread of infectious disease at the jail.

Cases started dropping and ultimately, we made it through the pandemic with no facility-related inmate deaths or officer deaths. Unfortunately, that was not the case at many other facilities like ours,” says Sapp.

PERMASAFE AND A CALLING TO PROTECT

With more than 30 years of experience in working with federal, state, and local agencies in both the private and public sectors including his time spent as an FBI-trained SWAT hostage negotiator, Sapp’s career in law enforcement reads like a Rhodes Scholar resume. Analytical thinking and problem-solving are strengths he had long before the pandemic, but seeing the results of their proactive approach and more so the amazing results from the products used called Sapp to a new line of work.

“So many lives were lost, including a few very close friends of mine,” Sapp recalls. “Upon retiring from the sheriff’s office, I decided there was no better purpose for my life than to continue protecting people and places with the extensive knowledge I learned while in the trenches.”

And so Envirotec Pro was born. Sapp wanted to help businesses stay open and people stay safe against an invisible enemy. Since we cannot easily see the microorganisms that threaten to spread germs and make people sick, they naturally go unnoticed.

“The problem with trying to fight infectious disease, or germs if you will, is they can’t be seen by the naked eye,” says Sapp. If you could look around your home or office and actually see the nasty little beasts that make us sick and could even prove to be deadly, you might just run for the hills. If people see spiders or snakes in their workspace or homes, they are going to do something about it. The truth is what we are eliminating can be as dangerous as spiders or snakes, but because people can’t see what lurks on their countertops, door handles, electronics, desktop spaces, or furniture, they may not think or do anything about it,” he continues.

That’s where Envirotec comes in, providing the know-how, specialized equipment, and lab-tested – field-proven chemical formulas that sanitize and disinfect so much more effectively than the over-the-counter products we grew up with and normally try to use.

“Our sole mission is to create healthier environments by providing affordable and comprehensive germ-fighting solutions for our commercial and residential customers,” says Sapp. “When it comes to protecting the lives and livelihoods of our valued customers, we choose PermaSafe Clean and PermaSafe Shield antimicrobial products.

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“We are proud to only use PermaSafe products in our process,” says Sapp. “Being EPA and FDAapproved, these products allow us to provide a solution for every surface and space because they are extremely safe for people and pets, where most other sanitizers and disinfectants are toxic.”

Most importantly, PermaSafe keeps killing microorganisms, for weeks, even months in some cases after they dry, with only a single application.

“We use PermaSafe antimicrobial formulas exclusively because they are without question the ideal selection for lasting protection,” Sapp says.

THE PROCESS

Envirotec’s commercial clients consist of both small and large businesses, most with lots of foot traffic. The workplace is forever changed by the pandemic, which is stressful for employers and employees alike. Sapp’s phone started ringing off the hook as companies that fit this description were concerned because many of their staff were falling ill and missing time at work, affecting their ability to remain operational and minimize downtime.

Just as important, they wanted to provide safer environments for their customers as well.

ONLY PROTECTS A FEW MINUTES AFTER APPLICATION

CONTINUES TO PROTECT FOR WEEKS OR EVEN MONTHS

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“We have been using Envirotec since early 2020,” says Rome UPS Store Manager, Misty Puckett. “We serve up to 500 individuals and small businesses daily, seven days a week. We especially love the fact that Bob can measure surface contamination on hard and soft surfaces on-site, via ATP Analysis.

That allows us to know our store is safer as well as monitor how well our janitorial services are doing.”

Family Savings Credit Union has multiple branch locations in Alabama and Georgia that Envirotec services and thanks to their efforts and Envirotec's treatments, COVID-19 among their employees is no longer an issue.

“I am proud to say that once we implemented the treatment plan Bob suggested at all of our facilities, the COVID-19 case count was almost completely diminished and remains so at this time,” says President/CEO Danny Varnon.

“Bob’s efforts help honor our commitment to protect the health and wellness of our 300 employees and 75,000 members. Their safety always matters and is important to us.”

Envirotec’s goal is to not only mitigate those issues, but eliminate them.

They do that by creating a customized plan for each of their clients. Sapp’s former police training in critical infrastructure protection (CIP) skills are handy during this process, as he and his team evaluate each space so they can create an affordable treatment plan that will be effective.

“We have helped folks all over and no two jobs are the same,” says Sapp. “It is imperative that we analyze a space and the patterns of those who inhabit it to be successful, and we provide the assessment service for free in most cases.

We do that by taking readings with our ATP Meter, so we know where germs are thriving and can eliminate them and the microscopic food they feed upon.

Once we form a plan, we put our people and products to work. When we’re done, you could literally eat off the areas treated, without fear of getting sick, as our products continue to protect the surfaces we applied them to.”

THE RESULTS

With almost four years of experience in his new business, the proof is in the pudding, and Envirotec’s clientele backs up Sapp’s promises being delivered time and time again.

My goal is and always has been to provide cost-effective protection from harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses and it brings me a lot of joy to know we can not only do that but help businesses thrive in the process by having a healthy workforce, and keeping residential customers safer in their homes.

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THE ENDGAME

Had he wanted to, Bob Sapp could have ridden off into the sunset and enjoyed his retirement, but comments like those made by his clients only reinforce his resolve that he made the right decision to go into business for himself.

“This has never been about anything but helping people,” says Sapp. “My goal is and always has been to provide cost-effective protection from harmful germs, bacteria, and viruses and it brings me a lot of joy to know we can not only do that but help businesses thrive in the process by having a healthy workforce, and keeping residential customers safer in their homes.”

Sapp says “No one has to feel helpless when it comes to harmful microorganisms anymore. As a former Jail Administrator of several large confinement facilities, my team and I have battled all types of infectious diseases, including Tuberculosis, MRSA, Influenza, Hepatitis, Coronavirus and more.

But today the products and antimicrobial technology exist to win these battles, and that’s what we do … every day.”

"People running businesses, organizations, and families these days are busy. Often so much so that they simply don’t have the time to think about microbial management, or the harm that can come from ignoring it. That’s where we can help!"

To protect your office or home for pennies a square foot call Bob Sapp 24/7 at 706.252.1254 or visit EnvirotecPro.com. To learn more about the unique chemistry he uses, visit www.PermaSafe.com.

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Voted #1

Staffing Service

for the past 9 years Uniting exceptional people with exceptional businesses W W W. E T O W A H E M P L O Y M E N T. C O M 7 0 6 . 2 3 5 . 3 4 0 8 | 3 0 9 E . 2 N D AV E R O M E , G A 3 0 1 6 1

Gentle and caring dentistry for the whole family!

Official Dentist of the Rome Braves 19A John Maddox Dr • (706) 235-5899 Find us on Facebook @KentCEllingtonDMDPC 22

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Local. Experienced.

Responsive.

You deserve to have the future you want.

We work with you to create a personalized roadmap designed to guide you through life’s milestones.

WEALTH ADVISORS Kitty Barton 706-314-2051

Rob Masters 706-236-3549

Madison Wilder 706-236-3560

David Tomlin 706-236-3536

Retirement • Legacy & Estate • Asset Management Services Insurance • Lifestyle • Education 228 North 2nd Ave SW Rome, Georgia 30165 www.rivercity.bank/wealth Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. River City Bank and RCB Wealth Management are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using RCB Wealth Management and may also be employees of River City Bank. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of River City Bank or RCB Wealth Management.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are: Not Insured by FDIC or Any Other Government Agency

PRIVATE DINING

Not Bank Guaranteed

Not Bank Deposits or Obligations

May Lose Value

CATERED EVENTS

413 Broad Street, Rome, Ga 30161 • lascalaromega.com • 706.238.9000 • 706.238.9011 READV3.COM | OCTOBER 2023 V3 MAGAZINE

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Lakeside Lodge Weiss Lake Lodge offers the perfect opportunity for an investor who has a vision for what a charming lake community lodge can be.

text PAUL MOSES | photo KEITH BEAUCHAMP

F

or many years, the locals around Alabama’s Weiss Lake considered their aquatic paradise one of the best-kept secrets in the Southeast. But these days the word is out: Weiss Lake is the place to visit—and to buy. The potential is abundant, and homeowners and businesses alike are snatching up properties. The lake covers 30,200 acres and boasts 447 miles of shoreline.

With a combination of deep channels, shallow flats, and expansive coves, the lake is an outdoorsman’s dream come true. And as many fishermen know, the crappie, largemouth bass, and striped bass are biting. It’s no wonder the lake hosts as many as 15 annual fishing tournaments.

Hardy Realty is showcasing Weiss Lake Lodge (at 998 Cedar Bluff Rd., Centre, Alabama) as an ideal opportunity for some lucky buyer or investor with enough vision to capitalize on the rising interest in this lake community.

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Lots to offer

Weiss Lake Lodge is a 28-room motel, situated on 2.7 acres in close proximity to the lake. It has RV parking, a swimming pool, a private pavilion with a kitchen, a tackle shop, and room for boat storage. Conveniently located, the Lodge is about a one-hour drive from Atlanta, Chattanooga, and Birmingham.

Currently, Weiss Lake Lodge is owned by Gauntlet Private Investments, of Los Angeles, California. They are open to selling outright, but they are also interested in taking on a co-owner for the property. Mike Clinton, Gauntlet’s managing partner says, “Honestly, I’d love to find a partner. I love the lodge.

We’ve made some extraordinary plans for this place that we think will make it a pillar in the community, a gathering place.” There’s plenty here to catch the public’s attention, starting with the two oversized fish statues in the front yard, which have made the lodge a memorable landmark. “People pull off to the side of the road to take pictures,” Clinton says.

“We have some pretty solid plans,” Clinton explains, “but in the meantime, the economy being what it is, I’m staying open to God’s plan for the whole situation. We want to be flexible. We’re willing to invest alongside someone else, but if a buyer comes along who has a different vision for the property, we’ll respect that as well.”

Interested parties are invited to ask about owner financing and equity swap.

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Room for change

The land around the lodge provides some elbow room for creating new points of interest. Clinton says, “There’s a large piece of adjacent land where I think we could do some fire pits, some outdoor grills, and—if there’s room—a small wedding venue or a small amphitheater—twenty to fifty seats—and room for performances, acoustic guitar and that kind of thing. We’re working with an architect right now to see what all we can fit in.”

Plans are in the works to add value to the lodge itself. “We want to upgrade it to more of a modern farmhouse look,” Clinton says, “and improve the rooms: nicer beds, nicer sheets, nicer televisions, cool colors. We’d also like to add some sort of food service—a restaurant or a food tenant. We already have a picnic area, so we’d have space to serve people on the street. We have a kitchen area, and we’d like to expand on that. We’re still planning, we’re having multiple

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conversations. There aren’t a lot of places to eat in this particular part of Cedar Bluff, so we’re hoping to offer something.”

With the Weiss Lake area becoming more desirable for buyers, housing is quickly becoming an issue. The owners of the lodge have an idea that will be a helpful solution. As Clinton puts it: “For at least ten of our twenty-eight rooms, we’d like to renovate them into studio apartments.

That would help offset the seasonality of the business and provide more housing for the local community.”

A heart for the place

“The ideal buyer or partner needs to be someone who sees the vision for this particular location and understands Weiss Lake,” Clinton says. “I try to explain to people how gorgeous this lake is. I compare it to Lake Como in Italy; that’s how beautiful it is. It’s amazing. If you understand the beauty of this place, you know you’ll always have visitors here. And considering all the fishing tournaments, I think someone with a passion for these things can really fall in love with this location. This needs to be someone who wants to be part of what’s happening locally.”

It cannot be overstated that this is a place that caters to the fishing community. Clinton says, “We have a full fish-cleaning station as well as an on-site tackle shop, where we sell fishing supplies. Also, we have charging stations for

the fishing boats’ trolling motors. The RV park is not up and running yet, but for now, people can park their RVs in the parking lot.”

Also, Weiss Lake Lodge has three small cabins that are usually occupied by outdoorsmen who want to be as close as possible to camping outside, perfect for those who want to rough it a little bit, rather than staying in a motel room.

Tom Sipp of Hardy Realty says, “Weiss Lake has really changed over the years. I’ve been in this area for two decades, and when I first came, a lot of people didn’t really know about

this community. Since Covid there’s been a real estate boom, and this lake has exploded.

Now, this area is really being discovered, as far as property sales go. And the population out here has also increased. Weiss Lake Lodge is in a perfect position to take advantage of that growth. It has great potential.”

For more information on this property, visit HardyRealty.com or call Hardy Realty agents Tom Sipp (706-346-4077) or Larry Cagle (770241-0772).

Jingle Jog 5K/10 & FUN RUN Saturday, December 9 Cartersville’s Sam Smith Park Soccer Complex 152 Milner Road

5K

$30 Pre-registration until December 3rd $40 on Race Day

10K 1-mile

$35 Pre-registration until December 3rd $45 on Race Day

Fun Run/Walk $20 Pre-registration until December 3rd $30 on Race Day

Benefitting Tranquility House Domestic Violence Center REGISTER- WWW.WIRE2WIRERUNNING.COM/ RACE-CALENDER For additional information 770-386-8093 or assistant@tranquility-house.org

FIVE ACCESSORIES TO CHECK OUT AT ROME ATHLETIC CLUB Squat ramps are great tools for progressing towards more complex squats,allowing your body to move through a greater range of motion without the strain of flat foot.

Foam rollers ease muscle pain and soreness, increase range of motion, and aid in muscle recovery.

Glute Bands and resistant bands are super effective when it comes to muscle activation. They help add assistance not just resistance.

Lightweight and portable, can be included with lots of workouts.

Barbell pads help ease pressure from a loaded barbell during heavy lifting.

Helps effectively and evenly distribute weight across upper back, neck and shoulders.

Cable attachments provide different angles to target specific muscle groups that are difficult to isolate with conventional barbells, kettle bells and dumbbells alone.

NW GEORGIA’S LARGEST GYM OPEN 24 HOURS • NO CONTRACT • $35 MONTHLY

2 Center Street Rome GA • 706-295-3678 30

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www.themorganleephotography.com the_morganleephotography

Your Best Choice For Rome, Georgia, Landscaping

Residential & Commercial Services Including • Hydroseed • Outdoor Spaces • Hardscapes • Irrigation Systems • Trees & Shrubs • Flower Beds

• Stone Work • Drainage Systems • Retaining Walls • Patios • Bobcat Work • Sod Installation & Service

salandscaperome.com joselopezland@gmail.com

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Framing Forever

A passionate and creative photographer, Morgan Lee Worsham continues to give brides and grooms beautiful memories to hold onto.

Story: Curry Teems | Photos: The Morgan Lee Photography

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Morgan Lee Worsham

Photo Credit: Grace Cockrell Photo

Romantic Real

&

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is The Morgan Lee Photography’s slogan, which epitomizes the process and passion behind the business for Morgan Lee Worsham. Her photography journey started at age thirteen when she photographed a bumblebee on a flower and decided that she wanted to learn to compose pictures that always looked as exceptional as that one.

Fifteen years later, Morgan has exceeded that goal. Her first love was the craft, but it is her drive to create photographs that allow people to experience precious, once-in-a-lifetime moments for years after that sets her apart now.

“The fact that I get to be there and document all those happiest moments for people is really why I love what I do. I want my clients to have beautiful photos, but at the end of the day, I want to capture that little bit of joy that they’re having in that moment, so they can hold onto it,” says Morgan.

From shooting her first wedding at fifteen, to running her own photography business five years later, Morgan has always loved capturing memories for clients to look back on. After graduating with a degree in photography from Jacksonville State University, she contrived a candid style that effectively portrays moments of intense emotion. She applies high contrast and muted colors, but still tailors the style to individual clients. “Every session is different, because every person is different. My base style is real, candid, and a little bit moody, but I tweak that depending on the session,” says Morgan.

A client can always count on Morgan to be flexible and calm on their big day, as she plans the order of events with them a month ahead of time.

“It’s typically just an outline of the day with a lot of buffer room in between things,” says Morgan. She manages the bustling day with a tranquil demeanor, helping clients stay poised and relaxed by setting aside time for the bride and groom to process and revel in the hectic moments of the day. “I also like to get my zoom lens and step away from them and take pictures when they’re talking. I try to emphasize as much as I can to the bride and groom that, yes, you’re celebrating with your friends and family, but you need to have time for you on your wedding day. Because it’s about you and you want to have these memories together,” says Morgan.

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When in a photoshoot with her, clients can expect Morgan to ease their nerves with a laidback environment to take the pressure off, often employing jokes and prompts to keep a light-hearted feel to the session. “For couples, I love to have one partner whisper the names of fruits or vegetables in their sexiest voice in the other person’s ear. That usually gets a laugh out of both of them.” She gives some instruction on poses for what she calls the “mom’s-refrigerator” pictures, but Morgan mostly creates fluid candids that capture the energy of her clients. “I try to keep it really laid back and really positive. I don’t ever want anyone to feel stressed out. I like to get a lot of motion in my photos, so I like to have people move and talk, just play around and do fun things,” says Morgan.

In alignment with her style and the product she consistently delivers, some of Morgan’s favorite photographs from a wedding are at the reception.

“I usually send so many reception photos, because that’s typically when everyone is letting loose and not worrying about what they look like or if their hair is still perfect. Everyone is just having a good time,” she says.

More than anything, the heart behind her business is most apparent in her love for candid photos with family. “I love any emotional candid photos with parents or grandparents during the day. Especially anything with hands,” says Morgan.

Her passion for wedding photography is profoundly clear in her photos. She not only captures the love and beauty of a couple, but also the emotions they’re feeling collectively in the moment. “When I go back and I’m editing, sometimes I’ll cry. I just hope my client feels that way when they look at the photos too. There are so many times where you just see the love, and that really gets me,” says Morgan.

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Morgan dedicates herself to providing couples with an easy, fun, romantic, and memorable wedding day. The quality photographs that give them access to the many memories for the day are just the added bonus for her clients. At the end of the day, Morgan delivers romantic memories of real people on their momentous day.

You can browse her beautiful photos on her Instagram! Find out more about Morgan, as well as her portfolio and various pricing packages, on her website. You can check out her contact her through her website and read through her FAQ’s page.

Instagram: @the_morganleephotography www.themorganleephotography.com

Morgan Lee Worsham & husband Wes Photo Credit: Grace Cockrell Photo

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Toe-tappin’, cider-sippin’, arts & craftin’ fun-for-everyone!

COOSA VALLEY FAIRGROUNDS OCTOBER 28 & 29 CHIAHA.ORG

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Hospitality House for Women, Inc. Presents...

Did you know?

1 in 3 women are victims of intimate partner violence in their lifetime, and 3 in 4 Americans know a victim of domestic violence.

20 October

Come join us as we walk to end the cycle of intimate partner violence in our community!

Rotary Plaza | 11:30 am Contest Begins *Free t-shirts while supplies last*

@hospitalityhouseforwomen hospitalityhouseforwomen.org

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YOUR HEART’S IN THE RIGHT PLACE AT HARBIN CLINIC. At Harbin Clinic, we have big hearts for the people of Northwest Georgia!

From pediatric cardiology to complex cardiovascular conditions, our patients receive the most comprehensive heart care in the region. Harbin Clinic’s expert providers and staff utilize the latest technologies and clinical therapies to improve patient quality of life and overall health.

Experience seamless, coordinated care across other Harbin Clinic specialties and uninterrupted heart treatment in a trusted clinical environment. Rest assured, your heart’s in the right place at Harbin Clinic.

harbinclinic.com/cardiology 40

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