April 2014 Momentum Magazine

Momentum April 2014

G R E AT E R R O M E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Hands-On Education *Berry Farms *GNTC Culinary Arts *College and Career Academy

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TABLE OF CONTENTS April 2014

Published by:

Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce 1 Riverside Parkway Rome, Georgia 30161 Momentum (USPS 395-030)

Published monthly by the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, 1 Riverside Parkway, Rome, GA 30161.

Periodical Postage Paid - Rome, GA 30161. Subscription Rate $25 per year in U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MOMENTUM, 1 Riverside Parkway, Rome, GA 30161

Content by:

Blake Buford

Communications Coordinator Shorter University Writers:

Merrilee LaVilla Dominique Henfield Dustin Evans Courtney Liddell Alan Samson For Advertising and Editorial Information: 706-291-7663

On the Cover

Momentum G R E AT E R R O M E C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E

Table of Contents

In this Issue...

Letter from the Chairman......................................... 4 Upcoming Community Events............................... 4

Feature:

The Berry Farms..................................................... 6-7

Newcomer Profile:

Michael Robins, Southeastern Mills......... 10-11

Education Spotlights: Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Culinary Arts Program.................................. 14-15 Floyd County College and Career Academy’s Horticulture Program.................................... 16-17

Nonprofit Spotlight:

Network Day Service Center...................... 18-19

Membership Report: Floyd County College and Career Academy student Coby Reeves examines an Americana Dark Red flower. He is growing many different flowers and vegetables for his horticulture class. Horticulture is one of the many technical career programs the College and Career Academy offers.

Chamber Happenings/Ribbon Cuttings......... 20 New Members and Renewals............................. 21 Advertiser’s Index.................................................... 22 April 2014 3

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN Dear Chamber Friend, 2014 is an important year for this Chamber of Commerce. Our second area of focus is from the Rome-Floyd 20/20 Part III strategy, the telling of our story - marketing our community in a way that showcases our greatest assets like: education, rivers, biking trails, diverse business sectors and a committed citizenship... just to name a few. With goals of overhauling romega.com, rebranding the Chamber and creating unified marketing for Rome, you may notice more than a few changes taking place.

We would love your comments. Tell us your favorite part of being a Roman, a neighbor in Floyd County.

This issue has Education Spotlights on Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Culinary Arts Program and the Floyd County College and Career Academy’s Horticulture Program, a feature on Berry Farms, a Newcomer Profile on Southeastern Mills Director of Culinary Services, Chef Michael Robins and a Nonprofit Spotlight on Network Day Service Center. This edition also features New Members and Renewals.

As the 2014 Chairman of the Board of Directors, I would like to extend an invitation for you to visit the Chamber of Commerce located at 1 Riverside Parkway and meet the Chamber staff. You will find an incredible group who are committed to the future of Rome and Floyd County.

Sincerely, Anne H. Kaiser Georgia Power Company 2014 Chairman of the Board, Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce

Community Events April 9

Lunch and Learn: Easter Decorating Location: 100 Covered Bridge Rd, Euharlee, GA 30145 (Johnny Mitchell’s Smokehouse) Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

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Wine Tasting: Wine Tasting 101 Location: 100 Covered Bridge Rd, Euharlee, GA 30145 (Johnny Mitchell’s Smokehouse) Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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Wine Tasting hosted by Rome Liquor & Tobacco Location: 100 West 2nd Ave (Hawthorn Suites) Time: 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

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Berry College Theatre presents Plays from Provincetown Location: E H Young Theatre (Berry College ) Time: 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

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Georgia Highlands College Gala Location: 110 Branham Ave. SW (Coosa Country Club) Time: 6:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

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3rd Annual Spring Art Market Location: 402 Civic Center Dr (Rome Civic Center) Time: Friday 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

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The Booth Brothers Location: 601 Broad Street (Rome City Auditorium) Time: 5:30 p.m.

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Jim Bishop Memorial “Tee Off Against Child Abuse” Golf Tournament hosted by Exchange Club and the Exchange Club Family Resource Center Location: 585 Stonebridge Drive (Stonebridge Golf Course) Time: 10:00 a.m.

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

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March 1

April 5

“We’re so much more than school!”

2960 New Calhoun Hwy NE • Rome, GA www.unitychristianschool.org • (706) 292-0700

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month Let's join together in eliminating child abuse and neglect in Floyd County! * In 2013 there where 205 substantiated cases of child abuse/neglect in Rome and Floyd County. *There where 3 child abuse/neglect related deaths.

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Wear Blue on each Monday in April to show your support for child abuse prevention!

April 2014 5

By: The Berry Farms Text Merrilee LaVilla

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Small Businesses

With

Enterprise. “The cows have to be ours milked during wind, before snow, rain, or shine, the sun is up Christmas morning and shining, or otherwise. I can nine Berry honestly say Berry College students has some of the most dedicated student workers.” have already begun their day. Rain or snow makes no Being a full-time student and managing a business difference; they will be there promptly at 4:30 every within the Berry Enterprises is no small task, but the morning to make sure the newest batch of cow’s milk experience it provides to the students is something you gets loaded up and sent to their processor. This is not can’t get everywhere. Berry Angus CEO Josh Moore is a chore to them; this is their passion and they will only a sophomore, but through the enterprise program gladly wake up and be back the next morning. he has gained experience with farming that few other The Berry Farms’ unique student enterprise program campuses could provide. exists due to the passion of its workers. Launched in “I’ve been able to learn firsthand what it takes to 2009, though similar programs have existed on Berry raise and care for cows and then sell their beef as a Campus before, it’s the students who take on the business. The program itself has been an amazing responsibility of running operations from start to experience and I’m so proud of the product we put finish. For the Berry Farms Enterprise, it’s the students out. It’s all natural with no antibiotics or hormones. In who raise the cows, care for them, milk them, and comparison to meat at the grocery store, it’s superior. eventually sell their beef and cheese.

My family didn’t really eat Berry beef before I became “The cows must be kept on a strict schedule,” said CEO of Berry Angus. I started bringing different Addison Harbin, Co-Manager of the Jersey Milk April 2014 6

Big Ideas

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A.) (Left to Right) Josh Moore, Jacob Lammie, Addison Harbin and Claire Walker with one of their many dairy cows. B.) Cow #923 is next in line to be milked. C.) The Berry Farms Jersey Milk students stop for a picture at the 2013 Chamber Business Expo. D.) Berry Farms sells a variety of meats and cheeses. E.) Chase Swayze helps a customer decide which cut of meat will be best for him. F.) Claire Walker stands by the cow milking machines. G.) Berry College Student Enterprises gives students an opportunity to run and manage unique businesses. H.) Amber Ullman helps a customer decide which cheese she wants.

products home and now that’s all we eat. Once you try our hamburger meats and our steaks, you don’t go back.”

“This program gives us a lot of real world experience,” said sophomore Berry Farms Business Manager Jacob Lammie. “Before this, I never had any experience with purchase orders or inventories or anything along those lines. I had never been given any real responsibility.

Being here you get to be a part of a real business... and hopefully once you get to the real world, you’re not in shock. You’ve got some experience behind you.”

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G Berry Farms strives to make an impact not only on the campus, but on the entire Rome community. They sell cheese and beef year-round, but especially enjoy hosting cookouts and letting customers sample the food.

“The kids run around and see the cows in the pastures and they get really interested,” says junior Sales Associate Claire Walker. “Not only do children get a unique experience by visiting the farm, they also get to learn. They get to see what goes into making the meat and cheese they eventually get to eat.”

April 2014 7

Rome Office 1609 Martha Berry Blvd.

Rome, GA 30165 p:(706) 291-4321

Looking for office space? We have what you need!

25 LEGACY DRIVE

37,000 sq ft building on 10 acres.

255 parking spaces, open flexible space, multiple trainings rooms, generator

100 EAST SECOND AVENUE

401 BROAD STREET

336 BROAD STREET

Two spaces available on second floor.

One is 1,600 sq ft, one is 950 sq ft Both include cubicles, can be combined for 2,500 sq ft

Two suites available at The Masonic Lodge. Suite 203 has 2,176 sq ft, 7 offices, hardwood floors & exposed brick walls.

Suite 100 has a 900 sq ft office

519 BROAD STREET

529 BROAD STREET

3,100 sq ft office suite on second floor.

Utilities & janitorial included

2nd floor, large 800 sq ft room with hardwood floors

8,000 sq ft of office potential on second floor. Hardwood floors, will build to suit

510 BROAD STREET

300 EAST 6TH AVENUE

508 EAST 1ST STREET

2nd floor office space available. 4,000 sq ft with multiple offices, parking available

2,000 sq ft office space with multiple offices, built in cabinets and parking

1,800 sq ft upstairs, 1,000 sq ft downstairs. Conference room furniture included. Parking lot included

101 EAST 2ND AVENUE

SUITE 340, 3 offices, reception, conference room, break room, new paint & carpet

700 EAST SECOND AVENUE SUITE H. Approx. 1,075 sq ft Reception, 3 offices, bathroom, will build to suit

19 A JOHN MADDOX DRIVE 3,000 sq ft, dental office, waiting area, 6 exam rooms, 2 half baths, 3 offices, break room

115 A JOHN MADDOX DRIVE 2,800 sq ft office with open floor plan. Close to Redmond Hospital

2 PROFESSIONAL COURT

102 EAST 5TH AVENUE

2 story office building, individual offices, 4 bathrooms, large conference area

Clocktower Hill. 2 story building, kitchen, large offices, 8 parking spaces in deck

203 EAST 11TH STREET

234 GLEN MILNER

9 WEST 5TH AVENUE

750 sq ft, remodeled office suite next door to old court house, water included.

Reception, 3 offices & bath on corner of 5th Avenue & W. 1st Street

510 AVENUE A

5 offices & reception area. 2 bathrooms, kitchenette, parking available

3 private offices, reception area, work area, bathroom, kitchen.

Lighted sign & parking

3,000 sq ft building with parking.

2 large offices, 2 large rooms, 3 bathrooms

206 BROAD STREET

1709 B MARTHA BERRY BLVD

704 EAST 2ND AVENUE

Approx. 3,000 sq ft, front & back entrance, office, warehouse, bathroom & kitchen

Large Victorian style office building, 3,600 sq ft, great parking. Must see interior

4,000 sq ft of 2nd floor office potential. Hardwood floors, will build to suit

210 REDMOND RD

Approx. 4,000 sq ft, large waiting room, 7 smaller rooms, large room that can be divided

231 NORTH FIFTH AVENUE

1,300 sq ft office space, large open floor plan with parking

510 RIVERSIDE PARKWAY SUITE 400. 2,100 sq ft, 7 offices plus large kitchen, parking included

103 WATSON STREET 8,600 sq ft, 14 private offices, large clerical area, plenty of parking

For more information on any of these listed properties please call 706-291-4321 or visit www.hardyrealty.com.

Chef Michael Robins Director of Culinary Services, Southeastern Mills

Text By: Dominique Henfield

Newcomer to the area, Chef Michael Robins arrived at Southeastern Mills with accomplishments that aren’t easy to come by in the culinary world. At the age of twenty six, he became the youngest American to become certified at the Master Chef (CMC) level. In 2008, he was in the first graduating class of Globally Certified Master Chefs in the United Arab Emirates.

“The Certified Master Chef program is an extremely tough program,” said Chef Robins. “The exam is eight, ten-to-eighteen hour days. You could say it weeds out more people than the Navy SEALs!” There are approximately 75 CMC’s in the US. “The practical exam is administered in eight segments: healthy cooking, buffet catering, classical cuisine, freestyle cooking, global cuisine, baking and pastry, continental and northern Europe cuisines and market basket, demonstrating that the chef is well-rounded. Each category is graded in two parts: kitchen skills and presentation, and tasting. The minimum passing score for the entire exam is 75 points out of 100.

If a candidate fails along the way,

he/she is ineligible to continue,” said Chef Robins.

Before Chef Robins became the Director of Culinary Services for Southeastern Mills, he was a renowned chef around the world. During the early stages of his career, Chef Michael held executive positions at some of the

most prestigious clubs, hotels and restaurants. He graduated from the Culinary Institute of America with honors and has earned over 150 culinary awards throughout the US as well as three gold medals from the 1988 World Culinary Olympics in Frankfurt, Germany, with all perfect scores.

Now that he’s settled in at Southeastern Mills, Chef Robins spends a little less time with a knife in hand and more time advising

Upcoming Food Trends

his team. “Day-to-day I start off walking through the lab and seeing what projects our staff have. I touch base with our scientists. I ask questions, give feedback, taste things throughout the day... have meetings on customer engagement and marketing where we talk about website content, collateral, etc. I get to spend a lot of time helping with the redesign of the Center for Innovation. Hopefully in the next 14-16 months we’ll break ground.”

Even after all the awards he’s won, and all the places he’s seen, it isn’t the accomplishments that keep Chef Robins motivated, it’s the science behind food that keeps him intrigued and excited. “It’s easy to make something taste good and look good, but its more complex to understand the molecular structure of the food. However, taste is the most important part at the end of the day. We try to create things here that taste ‘stupid good’! Food doesn’t have to be something that we eat just to survive. It should be an experience, something you enjoy and remember.”

Chef Robins has three children, Hunter (19), Courtney, who teaches in the Rome City Schools (26) and Danielle (29).

“There are always new food trends coming and going in this industry. With an increased focus on health and wellness, look for veggies to make their way into the center of the plate and more emphasis on healthy beverages like tea. I think we’ll be seeing more comfort foods with a healthy twist. I’d expect to see more exotic game (goat, rabbit and pigeon) on the plate. The egg yolk is certainly on the rise, topping sandwiches, burgers and salads. Nutty dairy alternatives like cashew, almond and peanut will gain more traction. Tea is a flavor that is really picking up steam, expect to see it in dinner items, dessert items and more. As these trends swing in, we’re expecting the cupcake to slide out for ice cream sandwiches. Various cocktails will make way for tea cocktails and the croissants and pretzel items will make way for the biscuit.” - Chef Michael Robins April 2014 10

“Our goa lh good... b ere is to create thi ut stupid good!” - ngs that aren’t j us Chef Mic hael Rob t ins

April 2014 11

Thank you to all of our members who have given EXTRA support by investing in our Partners in Prosperity campaign!

Platinum Sponsors Floyd Medical OTR Wheel Engineering Redmond Regional

Bronze Sponsors A&L Shielding Inc Aaron’s Cleaning Company Accounting Solutions Plus AG Georgia Farm Credit All Wireless Allen Murphy Allgood Pest Solutions Alliant Health Plans Allied Food Service Allied Waste Amanda Corbin Agency - Lindale Appraisal Associates of Rome Aramark Berry College Ashton Staffing ATCO Fire Protection Avery Drugs B. Stevens Salon Barnes Autobody Barnhart Crane & Rigging Frank Barron Batteries Plus BDD Consulting Bella Roma Italian Grill John J. Beninato, DDS, P.C. Bert Brooks Tire BestWay Construction Michael M. Blackmon, DDS Blue Fin Bohannon Glass Co. Brassfield & Gorrie Brent Scarbrough & Company Brinson, Askew, Berry, Seigler, Richardson & Davis LLP Brooks Building Group Camp Industries Carroll EMC Century Travel Affiliates Certified Collision Specialist Christie’s Office Supply CiCi’s Pizza City Electric Supply Co Coca-Cola Cooks Pest Control Coosa Valley Communications Cycle Therapy Davis Comercial Contracting

April 2014 12

Gold Sponsors Silver Sponsors Citizens First Bank AT&T Bekaert General Electric Berry College Hardy Realty Rocky Mountain Ford, Gittings & Kane Hydroelectric Plant Garner & Glover

Greater Rome Bank Heritage First Bank Marglen Industries McRae, Stegall, Peek, Harman, Smith & Manning, LLP Bernard Neal Georgia Machine Works Northwest Georgia Credit Union

Dempsey Lord Smith Diagnostic Systems of Georgia DiPrima Shoes Duffey Southeast Eagle Rock Distributing Company EastLand Court Apartment Homes Easy Living Yamaha & Polaris Edible Arrangements Ehrlich Pest Control Elite Forming Design Solutions Elmo Carter Construction Etowah Employment First Bank Mortgage First Choice Restoration Services Five Star Food Service Floyd County Farm Bureau Floyd County Schools Fore Orthodontics Gentiva Home Health Georgia Highlands College Georgia Power Federal Credit Union Gerber Collision Good Shepherd Funeral Home Grasshopper Lawn & Lawnscape Greene’s Jewelers Guest House Apartments of Rome Harvest Moon Cafe Haynes & Moore, CPA’s Heartland Hospice Help at Home Heritage Buick-GMC-Honda Heritage First Bank Investments Hi-Tech Signs Hodge, Cheryl Holiday Inn Express & Suites Home Instead Senior Care Hometown Headlines Hometrust Mortgage Company Hortman Carney Dental Inc Howse & Rice, CPAs, PC Hudson, James H. DMD Hype, Inc Integra Anesthesia Association In-Touch Computer Systems J.H. Barnette, Inc. General Contractors James W. Buckley & Associates Architects JEM Manufacturing

Joe Howell Motors Joe Tarpley Real Estate Auctioneer Joel McCool Agency Jowers-Sklar Insurance Agency Kelly Services Lansource Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant Lawson Electric Co. Inc Lieberman Family Chiropractic Lindale Hometown Pharmacy Liverett Fabricating Company Logical Systems Martin’s Real Estate Mattress Max Mike Ford’s Auto Service Morgan & Hunt Oil Company Nelson & Nelson Contractors NIFAST Corporation NL Smithworks North GA Equipment Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Old Havana Cigar Company Perfect Dress of Rome Petland of Rome Pharmacy Insurance Administrators Plainville Brick Co. PM Tristar Division Polk Medical Center Potts, Willis Powell’s Auto Parts Prater & York Preferred Travel Pridemore & Cox Orthodontics Primecare Nursing Services Promotions Plus PSI R.J. Fricks R.L. Jennings & Associates Randstad Ready or Not Reese & Associates LLC Republic Finance RICOH USA, INC. Right at Home RJ Young

Profile Extrusion Purchasing Alliance Solutions River City Bank Rome Braves SCANA Energy Shorter University V3 Publications

Roman Chemical Corporation Rome Braves Rome Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Rome Monument Company Rome Radio Partners Rummel Stampings SAI Digital SMI Direct Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q Southern Home Care Services Soymet 101 Sparks, William D., Attorney Star Cleaners Starr-Matthews Insurance Steak ‘n Shake StoneBridge Golf Club Stor-it Mini Warehouses Suzuki Sylvan Learning Center of Rome Talley Insurance Services Telenet Systems Teresa Lumsden Insurance Agency Terry Simmons Insurance The Car Store The Garage The UPS Store Toles, Temple & Wright Tommy Roberts Trucking Travel Leaders Trees Unlimited Uncle John’s BBQ United Community Bank United Hospice United Medical Response Walker Orthotics & Prosthetics Wallis Printing Ware Mechanical WATG - The Ridge 95.7 Watters & Associates WG Wireless Winthrop Court Winthrop West Senior Living Womble, Carlyle, Sandridge & Rice, LLP Woods Brokerage Company WOW Cafe & Wingery Gardner Wright Wright’s Memorial Mortuary

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Call 706-238-7715 or visit winshapewilderness.org April 2014 13

Allez Cuisine!

Text By: Dustin Evans

How Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Culinary Arts program is inspiring hopeful chefs to ‘start cooking’ With the boom of culinary competitions and reality shows, interest in culinary arts has skyrocketed over the last decade. Top Chef, Chopped, Hell’s Kitchen and Iron Chef America give people a glimpse, albeit skewed, of life as a chef. However, the Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s Culinary Arts program gives them the real preparation they need to enter the industry.

GNTC’s culinary program officially began in the fall of 2009 and was created as a two-year program for students interested in culinary arts.

The program consists of six semesters total, and is completed during fall, spring and summer courses. “The first course covers fundamentals, sanitation, history of uniform and different cuisine, key figures and then they progress into kitchen classes,” said Director of Culinary Arts, Chef Greg Paulson. “They learn fundamentals from turning stocks into soups, soups into sauces, various cooking methods, sautéing, frying, broiling, grilling, poaching and simmering. In the summer we learn about nutrition and menu development, and in the fall we start serving the public, opening up the center to banquets and events where our students get ‘real world’ experience catering and hosting.”

The Culinary Arts program is located in the Woodley Center, a historic April 2014 14

house built in 1902. When Chef Paulson was hired by GNTC, he was tasked with designing the space he would need. “I designed the kitchen to be functional as both a classroom and a working kitchen,” said Chef Paulson. “One side serves more as a lab and the other serves more as a typical restaurant style kitchen with a cooks line.” The dining “I think it’s important rooms of the Woodley Center also to see the world before serve as classrooms to host lectures you leave it. The life of and discussions. a chef allows you the Creating a program that could rival possibility to travel those in other communities was no easy task. In addition to his previous anywhere.” cooking experience, he looked to - Chef Greg Paulson at different schools around Georgia to help the creation process of this program. “I traveled to other culinary schools in Georgia to see how their kitchens and school were set up so that I could get an idea of how I wanted ours to be. I went to schools such as North Georgia Tech and Gwinnett Tech to help me in making our school as great as possible,” said Chef Paulson.

Since the program began, it has been a very popular addition to GNTC’s educational paths. “We’ve basically been at max capacity since the beginning,” said Chef Paulson. “We have two instructors here, Ms. Shannyn King and me. Jointly we have about 42 students and each time the class opens for new enrollees, we end up having to create a waiting list.”

Culinary Arts isn’t always the first career choice for people right out of high school, it’s after they’ve worked the desk job that they realize it’s time to pursue the passion in food they always had. “The first group of students we had was probably in the 28-30 age range,” said Chef Paulson. “The previous group was mostly early 40’s age range and this current group consists of mostly early 20’s. Age really isn’t a factor in this career, it’s all about passion.

With all the glitz and glamour with television shows, many people expect a television experience. They get in and realize this career involves long hours, weekends, holidays, etc. Being passionate and having some artistic flair go a long way.”

At the end of the two year culinary program, students can either receive an Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts or a Diploma in Culinary arts. “It’s essentially the same training but the degree has more of an academic background. Most of our students graduate with the Associates Degree for the fact that they can take core classes while doing culinary arts.”

April 2014 15

From Soil & Seeds

Text By: Courtney Liddell

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How the Floyd County College and Career Academy’s horticulture program is preparing students for different careers through hands on experience

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orticulture, the genomics of growing plants for consumer use, is a trade that is best learned from hands on experience. At the Floyd County Schools College and Career Academy, students enrolled in the horticulture program are no strangers to ‘getting their hands dirty’, all the while acquiring valuable gardening and management skills inside and outside the classroom.

“The course is about 25 percent in-class activity and 75 percent lab work,” said instructor Troy Fitzpatrick.

“The students learn about a wide variety of different plants and vegetables, their biology, potential diseases, and what it takes to grow, maintain and harvest them.

This week, we are studying tomatoes.”

The class schedule for the horticulture program is designed to help the kids stay engaged. “The typical day for a horticulture student starts at 8:30 a.m. We will spend around 30 minutes going through class and book material,” said Mr. Fitzpatrick. “After the lecture, the students spend the rest of their time gaining hands April 2014 16

on experience in one of our greenhouses.”

At the College and Career Academy, the horticulture students have access to everything from basic hand tools to tractors. “Our students help manage two greenhouses and one-half acre of land,” said Mr. Fitzpatrick. “This valuable experience allows students to get a taste of what they may actually do with their careers in horticulture.”

Through the course of the program, students are able to showcase their hard work to the public. At different times of the year, the academy will sell the vegetables and plants they grow. This year the academy will sell Boston Ferns, a variety of vegetables, and seven types of tomatoes.

“In three years of overseeing the horticulture program, it has been great getting to teach these students practical skills while getting to watch them mature and grow as individuals, said Mr. Fitzpatrick.

“If you go back 20 years or so, technical careers were looked at as “lesser than”... but the tide has completely

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F changed. These technical careers are in demand and are paying extremely well. Helping these students to prepare for future jobs has been great.”

Who would Mr. Fitzpatrick recommend for a program like this? “The type of student who usually thrives in a program like this loves the outdoors and doesn’t mind the change in weather patterns,“ said Mr. Fitzpatrick. “However this program isn’t for everyone. It requires time and focus, but If you can dedicate the time, I truly believe it will be a rewarding program.”

“This has been a really fun program and I’ve learned so much,” said student Alexis Martin.

“It’s been really rewarding growing our plants and Mr. Fitzpatrick has been a great instructor.

He’s always available whether it’s before, during or after school.” The program may sound new, but it has been a part of the school’s curriculum for nearly forty years!

Troy Fitzpatrick received his Bachelor of Science

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A.) Austin Webb and Alexis Martin show off blue and white petunias they’ve grown. B.) Two greenhouses are located on the College and Career Academy property. C.) Coby Reeves examines an Americana Dark Red flower he is growing. D.) The two greenhouses and available equipment allow the students to grow a variety of plants and vegetables. E.) Students grow sweet peppers in trays. The peppers mature in 70-90 days. F.) Students Austin Webb, Coby Reeves, Austin Dockery and Alexis Martin work together to plant seeds in a tray. G.) Horticulture instructor Mr. Troy Fitzpatrick stands with the ferns the students grow and sell. H.) Jacob James makes sure the seeds are at the correct depth in the tray.

in Animal Science from Berry College and taught biology at Model High School.

For more information on the Floyd County College and Career Academy please visit our online business directory located at www.romega.com.

April 2014 17

Network Day Service Center Turning 60 Years Young

Text By: Alan Samson Ms. Jenny Shealy, Director of Network Day Services

Network Day Service Center, Inc. may be quietly tucked away on W. 10th Street, but for almost 60 years this center has provided individuals with developmental disabilities a safe place to work and learn. A non-profit organization, Network Day Service Center provides comprehensive services for 90 individuals with developmental disabilities in the Floyd County community. Originally created as the Cerebral Palsy Center in 1954, Network Day will be celebrating their 60th anniversary this October.

“Network Day provides an opportunity for developmentally disabled adults to live a more independent lifestyle and gives them the ability to work, learn and participate in their community after their high school years,” said Jenny Shealy, Executive Director of Network Day Services. “We have supported employment, employment development and skills training here. Network Day also offers respite services and personal supports in the home. We try to help them live as independently as possible.” Ms. Shealy has been the director for two and a half years and shadowed the former director, Mrs. Helen Runninger, before being offered the position.

In her position, Ms. Shealy works closely with the school systems in Floyd County to raise awareness for parents to know about the presence of Network Day. The program is always accepting applications but families need to get their applications in early for them to be able to get into the program sooner than later.

“They need to get their application in their freshman year in high school because it is a lengthy process to get the funding,” said Ms. Shealy.

April 2014 18

Individuals are able to join Network Day after they turn 22 years old and can stay for as long as they are able and willing. Once on the “planning list” the wait begins until funding is available and a spot is open in the program.

Funding for Network Day is provided through the Medicaid Waiver program and a state grant under the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. They also receive funding from the local United Way. Ms. Shealy and the Network Day Board of Directors are planning their 60th year celebration in the fall of this year. She plans to have a “party” at the Network Day Service Center building in Rome. The 90 individuals, the Board of Directors and their 35 employees will all be in attendance for the momentous anniversary of their time in service. “Our plans are to have a big party and invite the community. We are trying to so do some sprucing up in addition to updating our sign out front,” said Ms. Shealy.

Network Day is a private, non-profit agency. The property was donated by Mr. and Mrs. John Jackson in 1954. “We’re currently at capacity with this space,” said Ms. Shealy. “We’re hoping to raise the money to add an extension. Robert Noble created a wonderful architectural design that we are looking forward to creating.”

For more information on the Network Day Service Center please visit our online business directory located at www.romega.com.

Whitney Mount, Network Day, puts the seals on Momentum magazine. Anne Sennell, instructor helps an individual on the computer.

Chamber Reports Harbin Clinic has launched their new website. The new harbinclinic.com, built in partnership with SAI Digital, makes it

easier to find physicians and medical services on any device. The update includes a robust search engine to help patients find physicians, medical services and locations; helpful and informative tools for current and prospective patients; news about upcoming community events sponsored by Harbin Clinic; and a social media stream that updates in real time. According to Leanne Hand Cook, Senior Director of Marketing for Harbin Clinic, “The main goal of any medical website should be to assist current and potential patients with finding information they particularly want quickly and easily. A site must be searchable and relevant to them and their needs.”

The new website creates a more streamlined experience regardless of what device is used to connect to the site. “The website automatically adjusts its display and orders information according to size of display screen,” noted Mrs. Cook.

“More than 40% of our current viewers are using either a phone or a tablet to access our site, so it must work for them.”

International Paper received two recent recognitions. The company was recognized by Fortune magazine as the most admired company in the Forest and Paper Products sector. This is the 11th time in the last 12 years International Paper has earned the honor. “This recognition reflects the exceptional talent and commitment of International Paper’s leaders and our 70,000 employees around the globe,” said John Faraci, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. The company also reached a safety milestone by topping 1.2 million work hours without an Occupational Safety and Health Administration certified lost time incident!

Pirelli Tire North America was recognized by the Rubber Manufacturers Association for worker health and safety for the fourth year in a row. “It was an honor to receive this Excellence Award from the RMA on behalf of Pirelli Tire North America,” said Pirelli CEO Paolo Ferrari. “We have a strong team in Rome, Georgia that is committed to engineering and implementing the very best sustainability, health and safety initiatives.”

The Lewis Chemical Company recently opened a new facility that has hired several new staff. Lewis Chemical was also awarded the 2014 Small Business of the Year award by the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce. Congratulations!

April 2014 19

Issues and Opportunities

The Governmental Affairs Committee attended the Issues and Opportunities Conference in Washington, D.C. on March 12th – 14th.

The group met with Senator Johnny Isakson, Senator Saxby Chambliss and Congressman Tom Graves to discuss issues such as: a direct connection to I-75 (which would assist small business with traveling and shipments and also helps to attract large companies who do business with small businesses), additional funding for Richard B. Russell Regional Airport/Towers Field (which helps to attract large companies) and the Marketplace Fairness Act (which helps level the playing field for small business). Members from the group also Rome community leaders stand with Congressman Tom Graves. met with key individuals with FAA, FHWA and ARC to discuss different priorities. Specific funding requests related to obstruction removal, paving, lighting, safety improvements at the airport; increased funding for the expanding trail system were discussed during meetings with federal agencies.

Ribbon Cuttings/Chamber Happenings 1.) Mr. James Cunningham cuts the ribbon for Cunningham Dynamic Legal Services.

2.)Captain Douglas McClure cuts the ribbon for the new Salvation Army food storage building.

3.) It was a great turnout at Business After Hours hosted by Georgia Power! Members networked and were given the opportunity to ride in a Tesla, Nissan Leaf or Chevy Volt.

4.) Nathan Roberts, Arborhaven Investments, introduces himself at Young Professionals of Rome hosted by Coosa Country Club.

Twinkle twinkle little star, Transfer money wherever you are.

1.)

2.)

MOBILE BANKING MADE EASY

by River City Bank

3.)

April 2014 20

4.)

New Members - Welcome!

JoNell Hulsey Agency, LLC Ms. JoNell Hulsey 2014 Redmond Cir NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 314-9129 www.jonellhulseyagency.com

Southern Research Institute

Mr. Jay Wos 2000 9th Ave S Birmingham, AL 35205 (205) 581-2502 www.southernresearch.org

K&L Paint Services LLC Mr. Kenneth Vaughn 212 Park Ave SE Lindale, GA 30147 (706) 252-0258

ViziTech USA

Retired Brigadier General Stewart Rodeheaver 136 Cold Branch Rd Eatonton, GA 31024 (404) 725-5104 www.vizitechusa.com

Simms Inspection Service Mr. Brian Simms 96 Toles Rd NE Rome, GA 30165 (706) 252-1357

WMP Crates, LLC Ms. Betty Duke 1 Superior Dr SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 232-0775 www.wmpcrates.com

Renewals My Supplies Action Rent All New Horizons Treatment Allen Murphy Appliance Ctr., Inc. Center, LLC Atlanta Steeplechase NIFAST Corporation Best Western Executive Inn Northwest Georgia Clinical Campus, Blue Ridge Area Health Georgia Regents University Education Center Northwest Georgia Dermatology Broome’s Hall of Fame Trophies & Skin Surgery Brugg Cables, LLC R.J. Fricks C&S Trophies, Inc. Ready or Not, Inc. Chick-Fil-A Dwarf House Christian Counseling & Education RICOH USA, Inc. Riverside ChevroletMinistries, Inc. Oldsmobile-Cadillac Commercial Fluid Power Rome Area History Museum Floyd Training & Service Center & Rome Area History Store Foundations Orthodontics Rome Braves Georgia Power Goodwill of North Georgia Career Rome Floyd Cancer Initiative Schroeder’s New Deli-Downtown Center at Rome Sherwin-Williams Co. Healing Arts Center of Rome Health Markets Insurance Agency SilverLeaf Insurance Agency, LLC Simpson Organization Heritage First Investments Smith, S. David, Jr., P.C. Attorney & Insurance at Law Hogan Construction Group, LLC HoneyBaked Ham Company & Cafe The Forum The Medicine Shoppe Horizon Bay - Retirement Living The Sweet Cocoon, Inc. Image Electric Tim Burkhalter, Sheriff International Paper Tom Bennett Company, Inc. J Supply Company Wallis Printing Company Benjamin, Knaak, DMD PC Wings Over North Georgia Lowe’s Martin Marietta Materials Meadow Lane Apartments Muller, Richard L., Jr., DDS, PC Murphy-Harpst Children’s Centers, Inc.

April 2014 21

Advertiser’s Index page 2

Harbin Clinic

1825 Martha Berry Highway www.harbinclinic.com 706-295-5331

page 5

Kindred Hospital

page 13

Georgia Northwestern Technical College 1 Maurice Culberson Dr SW www.gntc.edu 706-295-6963

WinShape Wilderness

706-378-6800

2277 Martha Berry Hwy NW www.winshapewilderness.org 706-238-7715

Unity Christian School

page 19

304 Turner McCall Blvd. SW www.kindredhealthcare.com

2960 New Calhoun Highway www.unitychristianschool.org

706-292-0700

Greene’s Jewelers

328 Broad Street www.greenesjewelers.com 706-291-7236

Rome-Floyd County Commission on Children and Youth 3 Professional Ct SW www.rfcccy.com 706-232-0703

page 8-9

Hardy Realty

1609 Martha Berry Blvd NW www.hardyrealty.com 706-291-4321

April 2014 22

Brinson, Askew, Berry, Seigler, Richardson & Davis 615 W 1st St. www.brinson-askew.com 706-291-8853

page 20

River City Bank

228 N 2nd Ave SW www.rivercitybankonline.com 706-236-2123

page 21

JBM Office Solutions 510 McGhee Dr. www.jbmga.com 706-278-2617

page 23

Southeastern Mills 333 Old Lindale Road www.semills.com 706-291-6528

back cover

Ford, Gittings & Kane Jewelers

312 Broad Street www.fgkjewelers.com 706-291-8811

For Advertising and Editorial Information Please Contact: Blake Buford 706-291-7663 bbuford@romega.com

February 2013 23

CELEBRATE

DIAMOND MONTH

WITH FORD, GITTINGS & KANE.

312 Broad Street, Historic Downtown Rome www.fgkjewelers.com 706.291.8811