Connection The
Showcasing the best of Polk County MAY/JUNE 2014
Official Publication of
Polk
Chamber of Commerce & Development Authority
www.polkgeorgia.com
Connection News
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON
July 2014 is the fifteenth year of the Cedartown Wheelchair Athlete Training Camp & 5K Road Race and this summer we are once again inviting the athletes of the world to come and visit Cedartown. More than a hundred of the world’s best wheelchair athletes have come to Cedartown over the years to participate in the Training Camp to race against the very best competition possible; in fact, the alumni earned every gold medal awarded in races of 800 meters or more at the 2013 Paralympics World Championships in Lyon, France. The Camp is considered the highlight of the year for many of these elite athletes and the race is widely known as the pre-eminent 5K Road Race in the world! Every world record time for a 5K road race in the men’s and women’s wheelchair classifications have been recorded on the streets of our hometown. We have hosted the world championship five-kilometer Road Race two times in the last ten years. To be known in the racing world as a ‘destination’ race would be a major coup for any town, especially so for a modest hometown like Cedartown. We still find it amazing that our picturesque little city can host such an event year in and year out, but we do! We are fortunate that we have the continued backing of the many supporting partners who have been with us since day one, as well as new supporting partners. The sponsors are the sole source of income for the annual budget. The Fun Race begins at 6pm and the Wheelchair races at 6:30pm, near Peek Park on North College Street in Cedartown.
Race Schedule: June 29: Athletes arrive in Cedartown June 30: Training July 1: Race day! July 3: Athletes depart to Atlanta for the Peachtree Road Race
For more information on the Cedartown Wheelchair Athlete Training Camp and 5k Road Race contact Dave Grove at cedartown5k@aol.com and like us on Facebook at Cedartown Wheelchair Training Camp & 5K.
Table of Contents
Connection News ................................................... 2 Events Calendar....................................................3-4 Connection News................................................... 5 Welcome New Members......................................... 7 Silver Comet Map.................................................... 8
Events Calendar May 3rd & 4th Polk County Relay for Life
Join cancer survivors and participants for an overnight fight against cancer at the Rockmart High School. Teams and participants will camp out and participate in a variety of activities while waiting their turn to walk the track. From live bands to tug of war, womanless beauty pageant, frozen t-shirt competitions and midnight Zumba/ dancing, there is something for everyone. The Survivor/ Caregiver Celebration Lap led by cancer survivors and their caregivers begins at 6:30 pm and the Luminary Ceremony will begin at 10:00 pm where they will burn throughout the night and serve as a reminder the reason for the event. Closing Ceremonies will be on Sunday Morning at 6:00 am. For more information visit http://www.polkrelay.org or email haley. cochran@cancer.org.
May 10th Mill Town Music Hall
David Phelps will be performing Saturday, May 10 at 7:30 pm. The cost is $30 Premium Reserved, $25 Reserved or $25 General Admission (All ticket prices increase by $5 at the door after 5:00pm night of show). For more information, please contact 770-547-6455. Visit the website at www.milltownmusichall.com or find us on facebook at www.facebook.com/milltownmusichall
Rockmart First United Methodist Church
Friday, May 2nd – BBQ lunch 11:00 am- 2:00 pm $7/ plate-Tickets for sale at church or at door Sunday, May 11th – Special Mother’s Day service with children singing at 11:00 am Sunday, May 25th – Men’s Breakfast 8:00 am, all men are invited from the community. Sunday, June 15th – Father’s Day service 11:00 am Sunday, June 29th – Men’s Breakfast 8:00 am
May 17th Polk County Kid’s Fishing Rodeo
Sponsored by the DNR at Kenview Farms this fishing rodeo is for children 15 and under beginning at 8:00 am until 2:00 pm. The Children will be able to fish for channel catfish. All children must be accompanied by an adult and bring their own rod (only one per child) and their own fishing equipment and bait. There is an eight fish limit and fishing with minnows is not allowed. There will be hourly drawings, free refreshments, and T-shirts for the first 500 kids. For more information call 770-748-7535.
May 30th – June 1st The 4th Annual Chief Ladiga Silver Comet Trail Skate Challenge
The Chief Ladiga Silver Comet Skate Challenge will be coming to Polk County May 30th through June 1st for an epic long distance stage race that is 3 days for 188 miles. It will go through Atlanta- Rockmart – Weaver. The race starts and ends in Atlanta. There will be places to sleep both at the end of Day 1 and Day 2 in Rockmart and Weaver and there will also be discounted hotel rates in both towns. Shuttle service for your gear and to and from sleeping locations and hotels will also be provided. For updates go to the Chief Ladiga Silver Comet SK8 Challenge facebook page or you can visit the website at http://sk8challenge.org/ for more information.
June 20th & 21st 40th Annual Aragon BBQ
The date for this year’s BBQ has been changed to accommodate the additional celebration of Aragon’s Centennial. Thursday evening through Saturday evening there will be a softball tournament. Friday evening at 6:00 pm will start the festivities off with “Gospel Night”. Many local artists and singers will be performing. On Saturday join us for some great BBQ as well as other food vendors and entertainment for adults and children of all ages. Gates open at 10:00 am and close at 10:00 pm on Saturday with a firework extravaganza. Music entertainment will be from 4:00 pm- 10:00 pm on Saturday. For more information on this event please call 770-684-6563 ext. 100.
Rockmart Cultural Arts Center May 2nd – June 28th “Sports” Exhibit at Rockmart Art Gallery
View featured artists as they present their renditions of sports themed paintings, drawings, sculptures, photography and more. There will be an artist’s reception on May 18 from 12:30 – 2:30 pm. Gallery is open Fridays and Saturdays 10 am- 4 pm or by appointment 770-684-2707.
May 3rd Rockmart Writers’ Round- Spring Variety Showcase
The first of many musical performances and showcases to highlight writers of all types. For more information or to get involved call 770-684-2707 or find them on Facebook at “RCAC Rockmart Writers’ Round”.
May 5th & 6th Rockmart Theatre Company Casting Call & Auditions
Calling for talented actors, singers, musicians, stage hands, visual artists, set designers, set builders, filming crews, sound & lighting techs, ushers, extra volunteers, concessions, public relations volunteers, marketers, ticket sales and anyone interested. Auditions for both shows- 6 – 8 pm at Art Center Theatre (116 E. Elm St.) First Show: “Shrek, the Musical” for ages 12-adult. Prepare short song (may be from show or any Broadway musical) and be prepared to read from script. You may present a short monologue if you like. Performance dates are June 26- 28. Directed by Margret Jacobs. Second Show: “Comedy Showcase”. Be prepared to read from script and participate in some improv. Performance dates are July 18- 19. Directed by Syd Locklear.
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON ART GALLERY – “SPORTS!” EXHIBIT SPORTS! Is the theme of the exhibition. Show dates are May 2 – June 28, 2014. An exciting part of everyone’s lives, the SPORTS! Theme has been captured by our featured artists through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, etc. Please join the Artists on Sunday, May 18, 2014 for the Opening Artists’ Reception. Everyone is invited to attend and refreshments will be served. (12:30 – 2:30 PM). The Art Gallery, located in Rockmart Cultural Arts Center, 316 N. Piedmont Ave., Bldg. 300, Rockmart, is open Fridays and Saturdays (10 AM – 4 PM) or daily by appointment only by calling 770-684-2707. Rockmart Writers’ Round- Spring Variety Showcase (May 3, 2014) Rockmart Writers’ Round presents a Spring Variety Showcase at the Arts Center Theatre One Evening Only. Be sure to save the date of Saturday, May 3, 2014 to attend the first of many musical performances and showcases to highlight writers of all types. The Arts Center Theatre is located at 116 East Elm Street, Rockmart, Georgia 30153.
ATTENTION YOUNG ARTISTS – UPCOMING EVENTS
Summer is the time for our YOUTH to shine! • 2014 SUMMER CAMPS o THEATRE CAMP – JUNE 11 – 20, 2014 – “DISNEY PETER PAN, JR.” (K – 6TH GRADE – COMPLETED THIS YEAR) o JUNE 21, 2014 – “DISNEY PETER PAN, JR.” – LIVE PERFORMANCE AT 6:30 PM – THE ARTS CENTER THEATRE, 116 E. ELM ST., ROCKMART, GA 30153 o TEEN ART CAMP – JUNE 23 – 27, 2014 (AGES 13 – 17) o YOUTH ART CAMP – JULY 7 – 10, 2014 (AGES 7 – 12) • THE ANNUAL YOUTH ART EXHIBIT o Artists ages 18 and under are invited to deliver their art (any type of art) to the Art Gallery on Saturday, June 28 (4 – 6 PM) or Sunday, June 29 (1 – 3 PM). o Exhibit Opens & Reception – July 12, 2014. Call Laura Robinson for more information regarding the Art Gallery. 770-684-7578.
REGISTER NOW FOR ART CLASSES
• Whittling – with Alvin Mallicoat 4 Mondays – (5:30 – 7:30PM) - $45 Ages 8 and up Tuition includes all materials. Students bring a locking blade pocket knife. Class location: Rockmart Silver Comet Trailhead, 100 Church Street, Rockmart, GA 30153 (behind Seaborn Jones Park, Downtown Rockmart) Call today to register today. 770-684-2707 • Photography – with Carla Redding 4 Thursdays, 6:30 PM (First class begins May 22nd) - $75 Ages 15 and up Class location: Rockmart Cultural Arts Center, 316 N. Piedmont Ave., Bldg. 300, Rockmart, GA. Call 770-684-2707 to register today! • Portraits – with Omar Bolado 4 Tuesdays (10 AM – 12 PM) - $60 Ages 16 and up Class location: Rockmart Cultural Arts Center, 316 N. Piedmont Ave., Bldg. 300, Rockmart, GA. Call 770-684-2707 to register today!
ONGOING CLASSES AT ROCKMART CULTURAL ARTS CENTER
By Appointment: Oil Painting, Guitar, & Piano Lessons Weekly classes: Open Studio Pottery – Tuesdays & Wednesdays (6:30 – 8:30 PM) $15 per session – All ages Open Studio Pottery – Thursdays (10:00 – 11:30 AM) $12 per session – All ages Don’t see a class you would like to take? Let us know what you would like to learn. We want to hear from you. For more details, email rcac@rockmart-ga.gov or call 770-684-2707.
INTERESTED IN GETTING INVOLVED IN THE ROCKMART ARTS?
Call us at 770-684-2707, send us an email to rcac@rockmart-ga.gov , or join us on Facebook! We would be honored to have you join us in our pursuit to enhance the arts in Rockmart.
Rockmart Library
Fizz! BOOM! READ! Is the Science based theme for this year’s Summer Reading Initiative for ages: newborn- rising 12th grade (rising 6th – 12th grade theme is “SPARK a Reaction!” Reagistration begins Friday, May 30th – Ends July 19th. There will be prizes when you reach certain goals. This is a family literacy event and we strongly encourage you to enjoy your children’s books with them.
Contests &More
Beaker Seekers Scavenger Hunt - May 30-July 19 Decipher our riddles to find the 6 locations around Rockmart where you can find Beaker the Muppet. Find all six and earn a prize! Coloring Contest May 30 –July 12 Prizes awarded by age divisions. Guess How Many May 30 - July 12 Can you guess how many items there are in the jar? 1 guess per person. Robot Design May 30– July 12 Design a Robot made from recyclables. Entries cannot be larger than 15 inches wide/tall. 1 child per entry. Ages 5 - 11. Beaker Photo Bombing Gallery - Take a picture of Beaker photo bombing while you are visiting a fun or unusual place. We will post photos in the library & you can post to the library Facebook page! “Loan-aBeakers” available from the library.
Schedule of Shows @ Rockmart Library
(All shows are FREE through the generous donations made by community sponsors!) Wednesday, June 4 @ 11am Planet Earth, Inc. by “Big Thinkers Science” Monday, June 9 @2pm Lee Bryan “That Puppet Guy” Wednesday, June 11 @ 11am Story Hour w/Rome Library Puppeteers Monday, June 16 @ 2pm All Hands Productions Puppet Show Wednesday, June 18 @ 11am Story Hour Show- To Be Announced Monday, June 23 @ 2pm Southeastern Reptile Rescue Show* *This show will be held in the gym behind Rockmart City Hall. Follow signs for overflow parking. Tuesday, June 24 -@ 2pm Magician Chad Crews Wednesday, June 25 @ 11am Story Hour w/Rome Library Puppeteers
Connection News
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON
The City of Aragon will once again host the “Aragon BBQ”, an annual event, June 20th & 21st. This event is the oldest, ongoing annual outdoor activity in Polk County. Beginning as a fundraiser in 1974 for the Fire Fighters at Station 4, this year will celebrates its 40th anniversary. The Aragon Volunteer Fire Department will be in charge, under the supervision of Fire Chief, Frankie Matthews, and the event Chairman. The event is FREE to the public, sponsorships from local businesses and individual donors help defray the cost, with all the net proceeds going to benefit the Fire Department. All the activities take place at the Tom Pittman Recreation Center, located on New Prospect Road, adjacent to the Aragon United Methodist Church just off Georgia Highway 101, with ample parking. A “first ever” parade through Aragon’s old Mill Village is being considered for Saturday morning, June 21st. This is a very special year for Aragon, not only is it the 40th anniversary of the “BBQ”, it is also Aragon’s CENTENNIAL. The City, founded in 1899, was incorporated on July 29, 1914. Activities celebrating the Centennial, such as “The Aragon Mill Jam Fest” on October 11th will make this a memorable year for the City. A “first ever” parade through Aragon’s old Mill Village is being considered for Saturday morning, June 21st. Other activities are in the planning stage, and will be announced when finalized. The Aragon United Methodist Church Men’s Club will be holding its 2nd Annual Pancake breakfast prior to the opening of the BBQ, Saturday morning from 7 a.m., until 10 a.m., and is open to the public. Also associated with the “Aragon BBQ” is the annual Softball tournament which begins on Thursday evening, June 19th. The tournament is played Thursday and Friday nights, and all day Saturday, until the FIREWORKS show, beginning at 10 PM. Musical entertainment starts with “Gospel Night” on Friday at 6 PM until 10 PM. Saturday beginning at 4 PM there will be Country, Rock and Bluegrass, bands, with a “comeback”, will be the very popular band, “SWEET SOUTHERN” closing out the show. There will be food, and entertainment available for adult and youth attendees through the festival. Gates open at 10 a.m. on Saturday and will close following the FIREWORKS show at 10 PM. Anyone wishing to be a vendor, or sponsor should call 770-684-6563, extension 100, for information.
Connection News
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON National Small Business Week May 12 – 16, 2014
Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year. Small business owners embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and strong work ethic that lie at the heart of the American dream. They are the backbone of our Nation’s economy, they employ tens of millions of workers, and in the past 15 years, they have created the majority of new private sector jobs. During Small Business Week, we reaffirm our support for America’s small businesses and celebrate the proud tradition of private enterprise they represent. As part of National Small Business Week, the U.S. Small Business Administration takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others from all 50 states and U.S. territories. Every day, they are working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation and increase America’s global competitiveness. Small businesses are major contributors to the strength of the American economy and create 80 percent of jobs. Eighty percent of the Polk County Chamber’s membership is small businesses. Each year the Polk County Chamber of Commerce presents the Small Business of the Year Award to a Chamber small business (20 employees or less) for accomplishments made in their business that benefit their customers, employees and the county. Nomination forms are sent to the Chamber membership who in return nominates a business for the award. The nominees must meet the criteria presented and complete an application and activity form providing the following information: • Ongoing Growth and Success (Increase in Employees, Expansions, etc.) • Community Involvement • Impact on the Economy of Polk County • Creative Approaches to Management and/or Other Business Innovations • Obstacles Overcome • Chamber Involvement • What else should be known about your business that would assist in the selection of the award Criteria to be met: • Nominee must be a member of the Polk County Chamber for at least five (5) years • Nominee must be in business for at least five (5) years • Nominee must be active in the Polk County Chamber • Nominee must have twenty (20) employees or less • Nominee must have an owner or manager that has been active in the day-to-day management of the business for the last five years • Nominee must be a for-profit entity • Nominee must participate in and support the community The information is then sent to an unbiased party to judge the nominated businesses and select the winner of the Small Business of the Year Award. This prestigious award will be presented at the Small Business Appreciation Breakfast, Tuesday, May 20, 7:30am. For complete information regarding the breakfast call 770-684-8760, email info@polkgeorgia.com or visit www.polkgeorgia.com. The beginning article in part was taken from the U.S. Small Business Administration website.
Paris Mountain Photography Pam Jones 230 S. Marble Street Rockmart, GA 30153 (770) 881-0617
R I B B O N
C U T T I N G
The Perch on Marble Stacy Lovvorn & Kim Smith 116 N. Marble Street Rockmart, GA 30165 (678) 685-4799
Connection News
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON
SMART RESPONSE initiative at CMS During the month of February, Principal Tamra Walker prioritized professional learning time to instruct all teachers at CMS how to use the SMART response “clickers” in their classroom instruction. All teachers developed lessons centered on using the response systems to quiz, test or help formatively assess students in their learning. The school and district had invested a lot of resources in previous years in the procurement of SMART response systems that were being underutilized as a whole. A few teachers were previously using the response systems as a regular part of their lessons but many teachers had not had any exposure to the technology tool. With training by the instructional technology specialist and the constant support of teachers experienced in the use of SMART response systems, the whole faculty became involved in developing and using the response systems in their classrooms. Students, who naturally gravitate toward technology usage, were very open to the use of the assessment tool and liked the immediate feedback the technology offered when taking an assessment. So how is this immediate feedback generated? Teachers make their own questions and answers in the program software. Students have unique login codes to enter when taking an assessment and the number of missed questions is immediately reported to students after the entire class completes the assessment. This is accomplished as the software associated with the response system collects, lists and grades the student responses in accordance with the set up the teacher completed. As a result of the training, some teachers at CMS have come to use the clickers almost daily in the classroom as a way to generate formative feedback from students. These teachers now can narrow the focus on areas that students have the most issues with the learning of new concepts. SMART response software is
CMS teacher John Sheffield going over SMART response answers with his class. Mr. Sheffield has begun to use the SMART response system as a regular part of his teaching of math concepts since the new training. As Mr. Sheffield explains, “When students miss a problem in a daily exercise (class data feedback is displayed for each question), it is very easy to stop at that moment and review the necessary steps to solve the problem.” This allows teachers to focus in on the student learning and immediately address where students have issues in the process.
also presently beginning to expand beyond purchased clicker sets to soon have the capability to be used with iPads, smart phones, and other mobile devices. As teachers completed their use of the SMART response software, they posted pictures on their teacher online classrooms. The timing of the training was important as it gave teachers the opportunity to begin to integrate their CRCT readiness materials with the SMART response system so that students and teachers can rapidly determine their strong and weak areas during preparation. Author: Brian Griffin, Instructional Technology Specialist
CMS student Evie Blackmon uses the SMART response system in Mrs. Davenport’s class.
WELCOME NEw members! The Perch on Marble Stacy Lovvorn and Kim Smith 116 N. Marble Street Rockmart, GA 30153 (678) 685-4799
Dupree’s Vending, LLC Dupree Walker 217 Kings Crossing Court Rockmart, GA 30153 (678) 757-5533
West Georgia Roofing II, Inc. Glenn Ellis 126 Parkwood Circle Carrollton, GA 30117 (770) 832-7118 westgeorgiaroofing.com
Price Just Right Carol Casey 401 Main Street Cedartown, GA 30125 (404) 640-4735
Silver Comet Trail
The Silver Comet Trail is located 13 miles northwest of Atlanta, Georgia. It's free of charge, and travels west through Cobb, Paulding, and Polk counties. This quiet, non-motorized trail is for walkers, hikers, bicyclists, rollerbladers, horses, dog walkers, and is wheelchair accessible. Parking & Trail Access
Mile Marker
Elevation (Ft)
South Cobb Dr.
-1.00
1015
Mavell Rd. Fontaine Road Concord Road Floyd Road Carter Road Sailor’s Parkway Florence Road Hiram Paulding County Chamber of Commerce Tara Drummond
0.00 1.20 2.60 4.20 8.60 9.40 11.60 14.66 14.66
925 906 887 1021 948 984 946 1001 1001
20.23
1035
Rambo Nursery Coot’s Lake Van Wert Rockmart Riverwalk Nathan Dean Park Don Williams Grady Road Cedartown Depot Martin Trailhead Esom Hill Stateline Gateway
22.22 33.49 36.06 37.66 38.76 44.90 45.80 51.30 52.90 61.20 61.50
941 930 807 749 748 864 904 796 824 923 922
(Note: This is considered part of the Silver Comet Extension)
(previously Dallas Trailhead)
(Georgia-Alabama Line)
Attractions Guide Landmarks and Historic Areas Cedartown
POLK COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY/MUSEUM Formerly Hawkes Children’s Library, the museum contains the history of Polk County. The building was designed by J. Neel Reid, famous Georgia architect, and was built in 1924. The site is on the National Register of Historic Places.
POLK COUNTY COURTHOUSE #2 At 100 Prior Street, this building was designed by Otis Clay Poundston in Neoclassical Revival Style and constructed in 1935. It was originally City Hall, but is now used as a courthouse annex.
CEDARTOWN MURAL Completed in 1999, the mural is located in downtown Cedartown. The project was designed and completed by local artists and volunteers from The Art Lover’s League of Cedar Valley. The mural is a collage of well-known structures in Cedartown including many historic sites such as Hawkes Children’s Library and County Courthouse #2.
CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL
Outside Courthouse #2 is a Confederate monument erected in 1906 by United Daughters of the Confederacy to honor Confederate veterans.
ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH Built on West Avenue in 1883, this is the oldest church still in use in Cedartown. The church has been maintained in its original state except for the outside color. Sterling Holloway grew up in this church.
BOOZ HOTEL This structure was built in the 1800s and operated as a hotel in the 1890s. Located across the street from the Polk County Historical Society.
BIG SPRING Located on Wissahickon Avenue, this was the site of a ballground and ceremonial dance ground of the Cherokee Indian natives until the early 1800s. It is the second largest limestone spring in the South and produces an average of 4 million gallons of water per day.
DOWNTOWN CEDARTOWN In 1988, Cedartown became a “Mainstreet City” and is a registered site in the National Register of Historic Places. The last decade has seen much renovation in the downtown area including second floor residential availability, new businesses and remodelings. 770-748-2090. HIGHTOWER FALLS
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON
Landmarks and Historic Areas Rockmart/Aragon
VAN WERT
Created in 1832 from the village of Cleantown, Van Wert was made the seat of Paulding County. It was known for slate, iron, gold and fertile farmland and served as the county seat until Polk County was formed from part of Paulding in 1851 and the county seat was moved to Cedartown. Van Wert was awarded a Historic Township of Georgia by the Department of Community Affairs.
VAN WERT METHODIST CHURCH
Built in 1857 by Rev. Wm. Simpson, Van Wert Methodist Church is one of the oldest structures in Polk County. The Van Wert Church Restoration Group, led by Greg Gray, is renovating the structure.
ARAGON-EUHARLEE PRIMITIVE BAPTIST CHURCH In Aragon, the oldest church still in use in the County.
ROCKMART MURAL
The mural was created in 1997 and painted on the side of Morgan Hardware on Marble Street. The mural was created by 180 volunteers over a three week period and was part of a celebration of Rockmart's 125th anniversary.
THE GOODYEAR MILL
In 1929, Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company selected Rockmart as the site for one of its clearwater mills. They built a multi-million dollar plant on what is now Goodyear Street and gave Rockmart "the biggest boost it has ever received in its history." Goodyear sold the plant in 1987 and it is now owned and operated by Meggitt Polymers & Composites
GOODYEAR MILL VILLAGE
In the 1930s, Goodyear built a modern village with approximately 180 homes, two tennis courts, a baseball field and a golf course directly across the street from the mill.
CITY HALL
The Rockmart Municipal Complex located on N. Piedmont Ave, is now considered "City Hall". The complex includes the Administrative Services Building, Cultural Arts Center,Recreation Department, and Rockmart Police Department. The complex is located on what was originally the site of the Piedmont Institute College, which was replaced later by Rockmart High and Middle Schools which later became known as Rockmart High School.
ROSE HILL CEMETERY/GAZEBO
On Elm Street, the land for the cemetery was donated to the town. The gazebo, constructed in 1891 is now considered one of Rockmart's most recognizable historic landmarks. The cemetery site also offers a spectacular view across Rockmart.
EUHARLEE CREEK/SEABORN JONES PARK
A city park, Seaborn Jones Park sits in the middle of downtown Rockmart along the banks of the Euharlee Creek. The name Euharlee comes from the Cherokee or Creek Indians and means "she laughs as she runs."
Originally the site of a wooden grist mill purchased by Elias Hightower in 1846 and converted into a facsimile of the Whitney cotton gin. Mr. Hightower also constructed a three story mill on the site in 1850 using the 60 foot Falls for power. The mill was once a vibrant mercantile center near Cedartown. Sherman’s men ate and slept here on their march through the state, but spared the mill from the fate which befell so many others. Hightower Falls is presently a private group facility available for special occasions. Call (770) 748-8588 for more information.
ROCKMART HISTORICAL MUSEUM The recently opened Rockmart Historical Museum is a must to see for anyone interested in history. It chronicles the unique history and culture of Rockmart with heirloom contributions of items and photos supplied by members of the community. Of particular interest art the items concerning "Welsh" Rockmart, with its miners and slate industry, chapels and slate roofs. The museum is located in Old City Hall Building at 133 Marble Street, next to Seaborn Jones Park.
OLD MILL
DODGE & DAVIS AT PEEK SPRINGS
Located on Hwy. 27 South, this structure was built by slave labor in 1848 for Asa Prior who came to Polk County in 1837. The first miller was a slave named “Old Allen” and the structure was operated as a mill until 1945. It was renovated and operated as a restaurant by Mr. And Mrs. Robert Stephens from 1960-1991. It was purchased by Ann and Jimmy Madden in 1997.
Near Aragon's City Hall, camping place of General Grenville Dodge's 16th AC of McPherson's Army of Tennessee. Later, Brig. Gen. J.C. Davis' 2nd division, 14th Corps Army of the Cumberland camped here en route from Rome to Dallas, Ga. These troops were part of the right wing of General Sherman’s forces moving to outflank General Johnston’s army at Allatoona Pass. This resulted in 10 days of battle at New Hope Church, Dallas and Pickett’s Mill in Paulding County.
Leisure Life in Polk County Cedartown Performing Arts Center
The pride of the City of Cedartown, The Cedartown Performing Arts Center located at the Cedartown Auditorium, presents a wealth of premium entertainment each year from the Atlanta Symphony to touring Broadway plays. The Performing Arts Center also sponsors enrichment programs for children in Polk and surrounding counties through workshops and performances. 770-748-4168.
West Theater
This 1941 Art Deco style theater hosts first run movies for both children and adults.
Peek Park On North College Street, this beautiful city park is located on land donated by Captain J.A. Peek. It contains tennis courts, playground and picnic areas.
Bert Wood Youth and Athletic Complex Softball and baseball fields, gymnasium, track, cabin, playground, and Senior Center make up this recreational facility in Northwest Cedartown. Government sponsored and volunteer activities abound almost year round.
Cherokee Golf and County Club This private facility off Cherokee Road contains an 18 hole golf course, four tennis courts, a swimming pool and beautiful clubhouse with dining facility. The club hosts many local fundraising golf and tennis tournaments as well as member-related events. 770-748-2800.
Cedar Valley Arts Festival An annual festival is held on the last full weekend in April. This event is sponsored by the Cedartown Junior Service League. Local and regional artists display their craft as do the children of Cedartown whose works are displayed throughout Peek Park, the site of the festival.
Meadow Lakes Golf Club
Meadow Lakes is a public facility in North Polk County offering 18 holes of championship golf as well as a clubhouse, banquet facility, and swimming pool. The club regularly hosts tournaments and lessons are offered by the PGA Golf Professional. Call for tee times on the weekends. 770-748-4942
Rockmart Civic Arts Commission
Promotes and hosts various arts activities in the city and maintains the city’s Art Center on Piedmont Avenue, Rockmart. 770-684-5454.
Seaborn Jones Park
A city park along the banks of Euharlee Creek in downtown Rockmart. Complete with picnic tables and a gazebo.
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON Nathan Dean Sports Complex Rockmart’s primary recreational park for softball and baseball. The park also contains a track and a playground area. Pavilions are also located through the park.
Prospect Valley Course Nine hole, public golf course. 770-684-5961.
Silver Comet Trail The Silver Comet Trail is a paved, converted rail trail spanning more than 60 miles from Smyrna GA to the GA/AL border in Polk County. Here the trail joins the Chief Ladiga trail for another 33 miles to Anniston, AL. The two trails provide 95.5 continuous paved recreational miles not available to motorized traffic. The longest segment of the Silver Comet in one county is 29 miles through Polk. The Depot in Rockmart provides water and restrooms and is next to Seaborn Jones Park. Snacks and restrooms are available at the Depot in Cedartown which houses several offices including the welcome center and museum of local memorabilia. The first foot of the Silver Comet Trail was poured on July 9, 1998 in Cobb County, GA.
Polk County Homespun Festival An annual event sponsored by the Polk County Chamber of Commerce held on the third weekend in July in Seaborn Jones Park. Local and regional crafters display their wares throughout the park. Continuous entertainment is a highlight of the festival as well as many games and events throughout the park. 770-684-8760.
Aragon Barbeque Patriotism at its peak, the annual barbeque is held on the third Saturday in June. Great food, a variety of games and a softball tournament are highlights.
Tom Pittman Field and Jake Belk Park
Aragon’s two city parks both have recreational and picnic facilities.
Welsh Festival
Mae'n dod Gwy! Cmry!/Rockmart hosts the only Welsh festival in Georgia, featuring lively Celtic music, Welsh food and Bar-B-Que, plus tours of the historical Van Wert Church and graveyard where Welsh miners and Civil War soldiers are buried. It is held on the quad (square) next to the Old City Hall Building, 133 Marble St. in the heart of downtown Rockmart. Welshfest is held the 3rd Saturday in March.
Polk County at a Glance LOCATION AND LAND AREA Polk County, consisting of a 312 square mile area, is near the center of the South's three largest industrial centers: Atlanta, 45 miles east; Birmingham, 85 miles west, and Chattanooga, 83 miles north. Surrounded on four corners by mountains, Polk County is a land of dramatic contrasts - from the city of Cedartown which lies on a gentle plain to Rockmart with its rocky hills and deep valleys.
GOVERNMENT Polk County is governed by a six member Board of Commissioners elected for four-year staggered terms. The chairman is elected from the board for a one-year term. Cedartown, the county seat, is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners who elect a commission chairman from amongst board members and appoint a City Manager. The city of Rockmart is governed by an elected mayor and five council members who elect a City Manager. Aragon is governed by a mayor and four council members. Full-time police and fire departments are maintained in all three areas and the county for the protection of all residents.
INDUSTRY Polk County boasts a wide array of existing industry and takes pride in its success in new industry recruitment in the last decade. The top ten industries employee some 3,700 people and include both manufacturing and service.
CLIMATE A moderate climate with seasonal variation creates an excellent environment for outdoor activity throughout most of the year: January average minimum/maximum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32/55 degrees July average minimum/maximum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67/83 degrees Average annual rainfall is 50" based on ten year data. Relative humidity is 69.7%.
POPULATION 42,709 people reside in Polk County including 10,021 in Cedartown, 4,242 in Rockmart and 1,039 in Aragon.
TRANSPORTATION
Major trucking lines and both CSX and the Norfolk Southern Railway system link Polk County to points in all directions. Hartsfield/Jackson International Airport is only one hour away while Cornelius Moore Airport in the middle of the county provides a paved and lighted 4,000 ft. runway. The new $15,000,000 state of the art Paulding Northwest Atlanta Airport is only 8 miles from Polk County. Four lane Highway 278 east links Polk County to Atlanta via I-20. Other main arteries include U.S. Highway 27 and 113.
Advertisers Index: Georgia Power.......................................7 Redmond Physician Network................7 Coosa Dental Associates.......................7 Holmes Clothing...................................7 Raceway................................................7
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON COMMUNICATIONS
Two newspapers, the Cedartown Standard and the Rockmart Journal, and two radio stations, WGAA Cedartown and WZOT Rockmart, keep county residents informed of local, regional and national hap penings.
EDUCATION Educational institutions in the county include six elementary schools, two middle schools, two high schools and a regional vocational-technical school. Two private schools are maintained and county residents have easy access to three additional private schools in a neighboring county.
UTILITIES
Georgia Power and Carroll EMC service electrical needs in Polk County and gas is distributed by Atlanta Gas Light Company and sold by several suppliers. The cities of Cedartown and Rockmart operate sewage treatment facilities and have their own water supply via a spring-fed gravity system in Cedartown and Euharlee Creek in Rockmart. The county’s water supply originates with three springs and one well. BellSouth provides a first-rate telecommunications system and cablevision is provided by Charter Communications.
HEALTHCARE
Polk Medical Center is located in Cedartown. Numerous physicians, dentists, chiropractors and other health care proviers are throughout Polk County. Immediate Care facilities are also available.
POLK COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The main office of the Polk County Chamber of Commerce is located at 133 South Marble Street in Rockmart. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 8:30 am-5:00 pm. The Chamber also maintains a Cedartown office in conjunction with the Cedartown Welcome Center at 609 S. Main St.. Cedartown office hours are Mon.-Fri., 8:30 am-5:00 pm. Call the Chamber office at 770-6848760.
Connection The
Showcasing the best of Polk County Official Publication of
Polk
Chamber of Commerce
& Development Authority www.polkgeorgia.com
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
133 South Marble Street Rockmart, GA 30153 770/684-8760 Fax: 770/825-9002 609 S. Main St. Cedartown, GA 30125 www.polkgeorgia.com
Published by: News Publishing Company P.O. Box 1633 Rome, GA 30162 For Advertising Information call Todd Britt at 770-748-1520 or LaDonna Mears at 770-748-1520 Editorial Content by: Polk County Chamber of Commerce 770/684-8760
Congratulations Polk County 2013 Industry of the Year
Kimoto Tech The Polk County Chamber of Commerce wishes to Thank You for being here, locating here, and most of all Staying in Polk County
Polk
Chamber of Commerce & Development Authority
The Polk County 2013 Small Business of the Year will be announced on May 20th Log on to: www.polkgeorgia.com for further information