July 2013 Momentum Magazine

Momentum July 2013

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

*Innovations abound in Rome *Apollo Marketing *Foss Manufacturing *PSI

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID Rome, GA 30161

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Momentum July 2013

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 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

All content by: Blake Buford Communications Coordinator For Advertising and Editorial Information: 706-291-7663

On the Cover:

In this Issue...

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

Feature:

Big Time Products/Apollo Marketing............. 6-7

Small Business Spotlight:

Professional Screening & Information, Inc... 8-9

Feature:

The Chamber Games Recap....................... 10-11

Manufacturing Spotlight:

Foss Manufacturing....................................... 14-15

Membership Report:

Rick Chambers, Harry Pierce, Kirby Blalock, Don Groce, Stevi Ellison and Blake Fievet put their hands in the center for a “go team” while standing in the Apollo Marketing laboratory.

New Members and Renewals.................... 16-19 Ribbon Cuttings....................................................... 20 Advertiser’s Index/Chamber Events................. 21 Chamber Happenings........................................... 22 Visitor’s Guide........................................................... 23

July 2013 3

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN Dear Reader, Exciting things are happening in Rome and Floyd County!

2013 has been a great year and we are delighted to share our community with you. The Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce takes great pride in providing this publication to introduce you to our membership, manufacturers, small businesses and community.

This issue features Apollo Marketing, Big Time Products and Foss Manufacturing, a Small Business Spotlight on Professional Screening & Information Inc., and a recap of the 2013 Chamber Games. This edition also features this month’s New Members and Renewals. Don’t forget to take a look at the Community Calendar and experience the vibrancy of Rome and Floyd County for yourself. As the 2013 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 that is truly committed to the future of Rome and Floyd County.

Sincerely, Doc Kibler State Mutual Insurance Company 2013 Chairman of the Board, Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce

Community Events 4

July 2013

July 4th Salute to America Celebration Location: Ridge Ferry Park Time: 6:00 p.m.

Event Description: Games: Family games will be added to this year’s event line-up and is sponsored by Harbin Clinic. Games include Watermelon Eating Contest, Hula Hoop Contest and 3-Legged Race. Games will start at 6:30 p.m. and it is free to play. Families are encouraged to participate and prizes will be awarded. No registration required, just show up to join the family fun.

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Rolling on the River Location: Heritage Park Time: 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Event Description: Explore Rome’s vast river system of the Oostanuala, Coosa, and Etowah aboard the Roman Holiday, a 48-passenger boat. The two hour tour explores the ecology and history of America’s most diverse ecosystem: the Coosa River Basin.

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Floyd Bariatrics Informational Seminar Location: 420 E. Second Ave. Suite 101 Time: 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Event Description: The first step toward a healthier future is already planned for you. Simply attend one of our free informational sessions to learn more about how excess weight impacts your health and the medical options available to help you conquer your weight once and for all.

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Floyd Stroke Survivor Group Location: 304 Turner McCall Blvd.

Time: 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Event Description: By offering lectures, games, fellowship or networking, this group encourages caretakers as well as survivors of a stroke. The goal is to make sure everyone feels they have an outlet for the everyday issues that arise from “life after Stroke”.

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Dual Accreditation www.acsi.org

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

Proverbs 22:6

Train a child in the way he should go.

Our nationwide network of transitional care hospitals is designed for medically complex patients who require continued care and extended recovery time.

We specialize in: • ventilator weaning and management • complex wound care • short-term rehabilitation • dialysis • IV antibiotic therapy Doctors, case managers, social workers and family members don’t stop caring simply because their loved one or patient has changed location. Neither do we.

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•Athletic Program

ommUnity!

At Kindred, we understand that when people are discharged from a traditional hospital, they often need continued care to recover completely. That’s where we come in.

Kindred Hospital Rome 304 Turner McCall Blvd Rome, Georgia 30165 706.378.6800 • 888.487.9519 fax GA TDD/TTY# 800.255.0135 www.kindredrome.com

Healthcare Companies in the World, Fortune Magazine Five Years in a Row • 2009 – 2013 © 2013 Kindred Healthcare Operating, Inc. CSR 168250-01, EOE

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

AG Georgia Farm Credit All Wireless Allen Murphy Appliance Center Allgood Pest Solutions Avery Drugs Barnes Autobody Batteries Plus Bert Brooks Tire Best Way Construction Blue Fin Bohannon Glass Company Camp Industries Carroll EMC Christie’s Office Supply Cooks Pest Control Coosa Valley Communications Cycle Therapy Diagnostic Systems of Georgia DiPrima Shoes Easy Living Yamaha Ehrlich Pest Control Elmo Carter Construction Co. First Bank Mortgage

Gerber Collision & Glass Harvest Moon Cafe Help at Home Hometrust Mortgage Company Integra Anesthesia Assoc In-Touch Computer Systems J.H. Barnette James W. Buckley & Associates Architects Joe Tarpley Real Estate Auctioneer Joel McCool Agency Lansource Inc Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant Lindale Hometown Pharmacy Mattress Max Mike Ford’s Auto Service Nelson & Nelson Contractors NIFAST Corporation North Georgia Equipment Company Petland of Rome Pharmacy Insurance Administrators PM Tristar Division Polk Medical Center

Powell’s Auto Parts Preferred Travel of Rome Pridemore Orthodontics Rome Braves Rome Monument Company SAI Digital Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q Soymet 101 Star Cleaners Starr-Matthews Insurance Agency Stonebridge Golf Club Stor-it Mini Warehouses Teresa Lumsden Insurance Agency Terry Simmons Insurance Agency The Garage of Rome The UPS Store Toles, Temple & Wright Tommy Roberts Trucking Walker Orthotics Wallis Printing Ware Mechanical Inc WATG

July 2013 5

From a Napkin Sketch to an Industry Leader

How Big Time Products and Apollo Marketing are bringing Innovation and jobs to the community!

L

ike the beginning of many great businesses, Big Time Products was once no more than an idea sketched on a napkin.

It began 10 years ago when two retail experts, Harry Pierce and Rick Chambers, saw a need for a better constructed glove. Using their industry experience Mr. Pierce, the former West Coast President of Home Depot and Mr. Chambers who has over 30 years of experience in Senior Sales Management positions, partnered their ideas to make the glove manufacturing company Big Time Products a reality. Now with 65 full-time and 80 temporary employees, Big Time Products has become the largest supplier of high performance gloves in the U.S. with a distribution and packaging facility in Shannon. Big Time Products distributes automotive, work, garden and household gloves under several brand names to more than 40,000 stores.

Ranked in 2007 as the 15th (out of 500) fastest growing U.S. company, CEO Harry Pierce and President Rick Chambers have apparently found the winning combination of an excellent product line and a “world-class team of talented employees”.

Apollo Marketing, a million dollar facility

July 2013 6

became a dream of CEO Rick Chambers and Chairman of the Board Harry Pierce after the launch of Big Time Products. “Our commitment to having the safest and highest quality products on the marketplace is what pushed our business forward,” said Mr. Chambers.

Walking into the Apollo Marketing laboratory feels like walking into an episode of CSI. Stocked with a 3-D printer, liquid nitrogen tank, grip test, material durability machines and test tubes galore, the Apollo Marketing facility has all the tools necessary to test the product safety of all gloves on the market.

Originally the company would have performed glove testing in Tennessee, Arkansas and various other places but Apollo Marketing President Kirby Blalock said now Rome and Floyd County can be their hub for testing. “We’re going to have the lab certified so other companies can send their items here for testing. We’ll also be expanding this lab about twice the size over the course of the next year.” The lab works ‘glove-in-glove’ with Big Time Products by testing all gloves the team brings in to avoid any chemicals that may be harmful for adults or children.

Apollo Marketing is creating hand protection for various uses ranging from golfing to military use.

“The use of our 3D printing technology is helping us develop tactical gloves for military use. This Rome lab will also be a single source for certifying consumer product safety of a variety of products from clothing, leather, children’s toys, anything plastic and anything with a chemical makeup. We want to bring things back to the U.S.,” said Blalock. “Here we can be a

Harry Pierce

Blake Fievet

Don Groce

Stevi Ellison Rick Chambers

Kirby Blalock

one-stop-shop testing area.”

“The entrepreneurial spirit of Harry Pierce, Rick Chambers and Kirby Blalock is alive and well in Rome and Floyd County,” said Rome Mayor Evie McNiece. “We are very proud of what these guys have created and we look forward to the new and innovative products this company will produce. ***Did you know Big Time Products was named for the expected success of the company... making it ‘Big Time’?

Additionally Apollo Marketing was named after Mr. Chambers and Mr. Pierce’s expectation of an ‘out of this world’ research facility.

(Bottom to Top): A display of Big Time Products gloves. (Next) Blake Fievet programs the 3D printer. (Next) Don Groce uses liquid nitrogen to test a sample. (Next) An exterior shot of Apollo Marketing.

(Main) Employees package the gloves at the Big Time Products distribution center.

July 2013 7

Small Business Spotlight:

Professional Screening & Information Dr. Greg Sumner

The road to PSI It’s one of the most basic rules of

entrepreneurship: figure out if there is a need.

This rule is what would lead Dr. Greg Sumner to create Professional Screening & Information, Inc. His career began with his love for criminal justice.

At age nineteen, Dr. Sumner was a full-time student and a full-time police officer. “I knew as a police officer I was making a difference,” said Dr. Sumner. “However I wondered if I could make a difference on a larger scale?” Dr. Sumner continued his education receiving his July 2013 8

Bachelor of Science Degree in Forensic Science and a Masters of Science Degree in Criminal Justice. He holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Human Services. “Fourteen years ago I created PSI, back then we did uniform security, background checks, security consulting etc...it was tough trying to figure out what was going to stick.” The new business required non-stop hours of commitment from both Dr. Sumner and his wife Shani. Realizing he wanted to have a life outside of work, including children, Dr. Sumner decided to shift the business to focus 100% on background checks. “We sold the other sides of our business. We saw that the biggest need was for pre-employment screening so we held on to that and went full steam ahead.”

The Technology

Now, with an excellent team of professionals, PSI offers all things pre-employment screening related: background checks, drug screening, criminal history reports, employment/license verification, credit reports, I-9, E-Verify and more. “With our I-9 and E-Verify we partnered to create software that allows our clients to fill out a smartform (which eliminates the possibilities of errors). If the client is audited they can’t be fined

because the smartform process protects them,” said Dr. Sumner. “When the average company fine is about $100,000 for an I-9 mistake our system can be extremely beneficial. Not to mention, it’s done electronically so there’s no paper, no time lost searching for physical files and you get an instant E-Verify.” At PSI, every background investigation goes through a quality control process whereby each and every part of the background investigation is evaluated for accuracy and any errors or omissions.

Another aspect of PSI that sets them apart is their unique online individuals/organizations driven background screening component. This is an online facilitator for organizations, colleges and universities, whereby an individual submits the required information and payment for their background investigation at PSI’s website. The applicant, organization and college/university can then login with a designated security code and obtain the results of the background investigation.

In addition, an individual can order a background investigation on themselves to determine what information is available and reportable to potential employers before applying for employment.

PSI has also developed ReferenceWise, a revolutionary way to remove clients from the employment verification process to reduce legal risk, save time and money and allow a client to leverage employment data to generate revenue.

PSI’s ReferenceWise allows the client to enter the employee’s name, social security number, dates of employment, etc. Once this is done the client will never have to provide employment verification on this person again. It will be permanently stored in PSI’s ReferenceWise System, which is available to other employers online. Now when another employer calls to obtain employment verification

on a former or current employee, the business can give them a unique organization ReferenceWise code, which is specific to their organization and the secured website.

The employer can then log in, pay a nominal fee and obtain the information they need for the employment verification.

Sarah McDaniel helps a client find information.

Analyzing their Success

Now a thriving company, the quality products and exceptional customer service provided by its committed team of professionals has enabled PSI to carve out its unique path in Rome and around the globe. Although it has had a website for a number of years, only in the past year has PSI made any other investment in marketing. “I can truly link our success starting 14 years ago with our decision to join the Chamber of Commerce. They provided us with the opportunity to network and build our business. We have partnered with many incredible companies here in Rome as a result of relationships built through our involvement with the Chamber,” said Dr. Sumner. “We have been very fortunate to watch as our company has had an approximate 25 percent growth rate over the past five years….we have been truly blessed.”

More Info

Andrea Riddle enters data into the computer.

Dr. Sumner was raised in Cedartown, Georgia and moved to Rome in 1992. He conducted his doctoral residency at Indiana University and has post doctoral training in developmental psychology. Dr. Sumner is a Tenured Professor of Criminal Justice at Georgia Highlands College. He resides in Rome with his wife Shani and their three sons, Brinson, Peyton and Evan. Find out more information on PSI in the Chamber’s business directory located at www.romega.com.

July 2013 9

The Chamber Games

recap S

................................................................................................................. o here’s what happened. In February the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce Membership Campaign team, chaired by Kay Chumbler, Heritage First Bank, and Anne Kaiser, Georgia Power, decided on the Annual Membership Campaign theme. The Chamber Games was chosen and the Board of Directors cheered. Kay Chumbler took on the role of Effie Trinket, leather jacket and all, and helped orchestrate the event. “May the odds be ever in your favor” she continually proclaimed to the different district tributes. Kay wasn’t sure what that meant but she committed to her role none-the-less.

Ten districts (teams) were formed with the goal of recruiting New Chamber Members. Like The Hunger Games, The Chamber Games pitted different districts against each other, but unlike the movie they were all united by the goal of bringing in those New Members.

With a goal of $25,000 in revenue set, strategies were devised and it was every “tribute” for themself.

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ot to be outdone by Kay Chumbler’s Effie Trinket character, Ron Tomlinson, Coosa Valley Credit Union, donned a blue wig and transformed into Caesar Flickerman. An eccentric and brash character, Tomlinson took on the job of interviewing the tributes. Through Ron’s interrogations we learned that Elaina Beeman, Mercy Housing, has a nice singing voice and Brad Reeder’s, Berry College, favorite song is YMCA by The Village People.

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n April 25th the districts united for a night of competition. Some teams donned their district emblems while others opted for the more practical camouflage gear. Hosted by Georgia Power at the Brewhouse Music & Grill the districts had a chance to size up their competition, setting the tone for the campaign.

July 2013 10

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hen the dust finally cleared, after a month’s worth of recruiting new members we found that all of our amazing tributes had survived The Chamber Games. After four weeks the competing teams had collectively brought in 107 New Members and $34,457 in revenue exceeding the $25,000 goal! Lindy Lee, Director of Membership and the entire Chamber staff were able to celebrate knowing that all the hard work the districts put in would ultimately help all small businesses, economic development and create jobs in Rome/Floyd County. Now back to the competition. Heritage First Bank was the winning district bringing in over $8,000 in revenue. They were awarded Atlanta Braves tickets, sponsored by Georgia Power. United Community Bank came in second bringing in over $7,500 in revenue. They were closely followed by Georgia Power and River City Bank. Generous prizes were donated by Pirelli, Harbin Clinic, Barnsley Gardens, Coosa Country Club, Forevergreen Landscaping and many of our other Chamber Members. The celebration was hosted at the Rome Area History Museum and catered by new member Johnny Mitchell’s Smokehouse. Cheers to a very successful membership campaign and all those that helped to make it a success!

Todd Kelley, United Community Bank, doesn’t mess around! Single handedly bringing in 14 new members (14!!) he was awarded with a new iPad Mini at the Membership Campaign Celebration.

He was also the leading recruiter during the 2012 membership drive.

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................................................................................................................. amily 8 BROAD Owned Since ST. 1948 • Phone • www.GreenesJewelers.com 706-291-7236

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FFamily Owned Since 1948 • www.GreenesJewelers.com June 2013 11

F&P Georgia, International Paper and Lewis Chemical Receive State Wide Manufacturer of the Year Nominations

Floyd County recently had three manufacturers nominated for the Georgia Manufacturer of the Year Award: International Paper, large manufacturer, F&P Georgia, medium manufacturer and Lewis Chemical, small manufacturer. The nominations were peer submitted with economic impact, years in operation, community involvement and civic involvement being a part of the judging criteria.

“Devin Nix and I are both excited and extremely honored for this nomination,” said Rick Mills, CFO of International Paper.

“We were additionally excited to see a Rome manufacturer nominated in each category.”

Find out more information on International (Left) Devin Nix and (Right) Rick Mills, International Paper are presented Paper, F&P Georgia and Lewis Chemical in the their nomination award by Ken Wright, Greater Rome Chamber of Chamber’s business directory located at Commerce. www.romega.com.

Bekaert Steel Wire Reaches One Million Man-Hours with Zero Lost Time Injuries

The Bekaert Steel Wire team celebrate one million man-hours of production without a safety incident.

The Bekaert Steel Wire team recently celebrated their millionth man-hour without a safety incident. “We’ve focused our efforts on reducing corner cutting and risk taking for the sake of saving time,” said Gary Downey Plant Manager and Chairman of the Greater Rome Existing Industries Association. “We strive for milestones like this and are excited for the next one.”

July 2013 12

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www.callromehome.com cindy@callromehome.com

Communities in Schools Program Helps Local Children Succeed

The Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce recently honored Communities in Schools (CIS), a program that began in 1993 to help deliver needed resources to kids so that they can focus on education. The proceeds of the event go to CIS, GOAL and the STAR Student/Teacher programs.

“95 percent of students in the program have improved their academics, 96 percent improve their attendance and more than 90 percent stayed in school, were promoted or graduated,” said Nancy Griffin, Director of CIS. “Mentorship makes a difference statistically, but our mentors and mentees are physical proof of what a difference it makes in someone’s life.”

CIS Director Nancy Griffin introduces Elaine Abercrombie to Arius Ofum.

<< Mentor Larry James with mentee Arius Ofum. >> Mentor Elaine Abercrombie with Makenzie Luallen and Shelbi Luallen.

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Relay for Life Committee Present Awards to those who Offered Support at the 2013 Relay

The Relay for Life Committee and Rome Mayor Evie McNiece present a signed banner to the Redmond chefs who helped at the 2013 Relay event.

The Relay For Life Committee recently celebrated their fund-raising success by presenting awards to those who helped with the 2013 Relay.

“We are so fortunate to have these amazing people who volunteer and give their time, energy and talents to the relay,” said Rome Mayor Evie McNiece. “We truly appreciate everything that our volunteers have done.” The 2013 Relay broke records. $109,663 were raised in Floyd County with $7,195 raised by the Redmond Bluebirds team. All proceeds go to help finding a cure for cancer.

July 2013 13

Foss Manufacturing Engineering Non-Woven Fabrics and bringing jobs BACK to America

Innovation and fabric are two words that don’t often occupy the same sentence, but the men and women at Foss Manufacturing are looking to change that. They have created non-woven fabrics that can be combined with essentially whatever attributes their clients request. “The Foss concept is that we can take a product, along with an idea and work to take it from concept to creation,” said Plant Manager Kevin Nassar.

“One way or another we make it happen. Whether it’s creating trunk liners, door liners, those brushes that slap your vehicle at the car wash or working with New Plant Manager Kevin Nassar shows off a carpet sample.

Balance to create a fully recycled shoe, the possibilities are endless. We have also created Ecospun, a high-quality polyester created from 100 percent post consumer plastic bottles.” Ecospun combines recycled plastic bottles to create everything from sweatshirts to rugs.

Foss has the capability to create fibers that are antimicrobial, abrasion resistant, fire retardant, water repellent, UV protectant, have superior colorfastness and color matching. Having been instrumental to the decision to locate Foss to Rome, CEO A.J. Nassar thinks Rome has been a great fit for Foss. “It was very important for us to find a friendly place for our business,” said Mr. Nassar.

“We want to keep our employees around.

Turnover is expensive, so finding that solid workforce is crucial.”

Rick Archer moves bails of fabric around with a clamp truck.

July 2013 14

This machine takes loose fibers and compresses them via a rolling operation.

A belt rolls out carpet that can be colored or combined with whatever attributes the client needs.

The Importance of keeping jobs in America

“Our team shirts say ‘Work America’,” said Mr. Nassar. “We have always seen the importance of bringing jobs back to America. Fortunately for us our company continues to grow and we are able to provide those jobs.” Mr. Nassar also praised the Rome workforce as a whole. “We were easily able to find employees that really care about their job. We have employees who don’t just come to work, they genuinely care about what’s happening here. In return we really push and empower them to know that they are the ones who make or break this place.”

Foss manufacturing, headquartered in New Hampshire was considering options to locate the new facility in the Carolinas when they were informed of an empty facility on Huffaker Road. “It is always great news for the community when we secure a new company with such a diverse customer base,” said Rome Mayor Evie McNiece. We are thrilled that at least 150 people will directly benefit from this positive use of a former manufacturing building.”

The Future...

A.J. Nassar said they expect to have the facility up to 60% capacity over the next 24 months. This would put Foss in the 100-150 employee range. “We have great confidence with the business we are doing. The new technology we are bringing to manufacturing here in Rome allows us to compete with anyone in the world.” Jim Magruder, Foss, stated that the Rome facility is at maximum output. “Currently we have enough work to sustain additional lines. We hope to have three additional lines running in the future.” Find out more information on Foss Manufacturing in the Chamber’s business directory located at Chris Nelson uses a propane gun to seal and www.romega.com. heat-shrink finished goods.

July 2013 15

Renewals Advanced Steel Technology AgGeorgia Farm Credit, ACA Alfa Insurance - The Jerry Vincent Agency Arco Ideas & Design, Inc. Ball Metal Beverage Container Bank of the Ozarks Batteries Plus Big Time Products, LLC Brasfield & Gorrie, LLC Brown & Brown Insurance of Georgia, Inc. Brugg Pipesystems, LLC Buenavista Mexican Cantina Bussey’s Flowers, Gifts & Decor C & R Compliance, LLC Cartridge World of Rome Carver & Carver Plumbing, Inc. Cevian Design Lab (formerly

Cochran Design Collaborative) Chick-Fil-A Mt Berry Square Chili’s Bar & Grill Christie’s Office Supply, Inc. Claremont House Collins Auto Clean-Up Coosa Diagnostic Center Coosa Valley Communications, Inc. Country Sportsman Culbreth-Carr-Watson Animal Clinic Ear, Nose, & Throat of Northwest Georgia Edible Arrangements First Baptist Church of Rome First Presbyterian Church Forrest Place, LLC Fuddruckers General Electric Company GNC Value-Mart Gondolier Pizza

Harvest Moon Cafe Hillis Outdoor Specialists, Inc. Historic Desoto Theatre Foundation, Inc. Howse & Rice, CPAs, PC Husser & Husser, PC/H.L. Cromartie III, PC Hype, Inc. Integra Anesthesia Associates, LLC Joe Tarpley Just Buyers Realty Las Palmas Mexican Bar & Grill Las Palmas Mexican Restaurant Mattress Max McDonald Wealth Management Midian Roofing Mortgage America, Inc. Nelson & Nelson Contractors, Inc. North Georgia Staffing Old Havana Cigar Company PaperPack, Inc Party Time Beverages Peachtree Planning Corporation Perfect Home Petland Pharmacy Insurance Administrators Pick-O-Deli Cafeteria PORTA Toilets of Rome Johnny on the Spot, Inc Powell Discount Auto Parts Inc. Prater & York, LLC Premier Imaging/Medical Systems Provino’s Restaurant Putt-Putt Golf Read, Martin & Slickman, CPA Redmond Physician Network Rehab Techniques Physical Therapy Resch Construction, Inc. RICOH USA, INC.

Riverside Oral & Facial Surgery, PC Riverside Toyota Riverwood Retirement Life Community Rome and Floyd County Habitat

for Humanity ReStore Rome Area History Museum & Rome

Area History Store Rome Chapter Georgia Society of CPA’s Rome Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Rome GI & The Rome Endoscopy Center Rome Mechanical, LLC Rome Monument Company Rome Women’s Health Center, PC Safe Storage Save-A-Lot SCANA Energy Scott Logistics Corp.

Sisson Hydraulics Smith, Lewis & Haley, LLP Sonny’s Real Pit Bar-B-Q Source Therapy Billing SouthEastern Pathology, P.C. Teresa Lumsden, State Farm Insurance &

Financial Services The Exchange Club of Rome Thornton Pest Control The UPS Store Welding Equipment & Supply Co. West Rome Animal Clinic WGJK Radio - AM 1360 Willis Winslette Pharmacy Wright’s Bonding Yager Corporation YMCA

New Members - Welcome!

A.J. Green Homes Mr. David Green 175 Ward Mountain Rd Kingston, GA 30145 (706) 232-5149

Babycake Studios Ms. Tracy Page 309 E 5th Ave Rome, GA 30161 (706) 766-8468 www.babycakestudios.com

July 2013 16

Amanda Corbin Allstate Agency

Alma Roman Agency, LLC Ms. Alma Roman 322 Shorter Ave NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 291-7161

Ms. Amanda Corbin 2206 Shorter Ave NW Rome, GA 30161

Armuchee Auto Collision Mr. Ed Baker 21 North Dr Armuchee, GA 30105 (706) 235-7030

(706) 232-0300 www.amandacorbinagency.com

BMA Beeman’s Management Association Mr. Ricky Beeman 10 Blueberry Ln SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 346-9007

Burgers Market

C & C Gutters, Inc

Ms. Donna Weaver 2520 Shorter Ave NW Rome, GA 30165

Ms. Nicole Hughes 1489 Hwy 411 NE STE A Cartersville, GA 30121 (770) 382-0032

Canter for Cancer

City Market

Ms. Cyndy Ferguson 9 Central Plz Rome, GA 30161 (706) 506-2630

Clear Cleaning Services, Inc.

Ms. Denise Miller 137 E 1st St Rome, GA 30161 (706) 238-9122

Mr. Randy Robinson 114 Pine St NE #C Rome, GA 30161 (706) 232-1256

Colston Contracting, Inc. Mr. Jake Colston 725 Bailey Rd SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 252-0012

www.canter4cancer.org

Comfort Suites

Complete Cash Discount Title Pawn

Mr. Nick Patel 23 Chateau Dr SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 232-6055

Coosa Valley Signs Cornerstone Insurance Solutions Mr. Brad Shadday 307 Cedar Ave SW Rome, GA 30161 (706) 234-6225 www.coosavalleysigns.com

Ms. Kim Kent 1831 N Broad St NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 295-2288

www.comfortsuites.com

Daniel Dunagan, Inc. Dean’s Collision Center Mr. Daniel Dunagan 2833 Everett Springs Rd NE Armuchee, GA 30105 (706) 766-5582

Flowers by Jacki

Ms. Jacki Keith Lansdell 1929 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 232-9761 www.flowersbyjacki.com

DiPrima Medical

Mr. Billy Dean 1544 Calhoun Ave NE Rome, GA 30161

Ms. Debbie DiPrima 931 N 2nd Ave NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 291-1490 www.diprimamedical.com

(706) 290-0062

Mr. Jeff Ward 105 Redmond Rd NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 232-5522

Edwards Family Dentistry Dr. Robert Edwards, Sr. DDS307 Redmond Rd NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 291-2800 www.edwardsdentistry.com

Floyd County Wildlife Club Foster’s Bend Hay Farm The Free Clinic of Rome Ms. Pam Taylor 909 Holland Rd Rome, GA 30165 (706) 234-7879 www.floydcountywildlifeclub.com

Goo-Goo Express Wash Mr. Brian Dulaney 1040 N Broad St NE Rome, GA 30161

Mr. Helmut Cawthon 2551 Foster’s Bend Rd SW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 346-9064

Guttermasters

The Grill on Redmond Mr. Larry Hight 1850 Redmond Cir NW Rome, GA 30161 (706) 266-1009

705 Old Dalton Rd NE Rome, GA 30165 (706) 235-3400

Ms. Barbara Earle 315 W 10th St NE Rome, GA 30165 (706) 234-1331 www.freeclinicofromega.org

Healing Hands Life Center Ms. Rachel Lieberman 423 Broad St Rome, GA 30161 (706) 232-0907 www.massagerome.com

Hoban Outdoor Construction Home Depot Homescapes Landscaping Imagine Studio for Hair and Art Mr. John Hoban Ms. Michelle Ruper Ms. Shea Dale Company 848 Turkey Mountain Rd Armuchee, GA 30105 (770) 546-4450

103 Hicks Dr SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 236-9030 www.homedepot.com

Mr. Chris Goodwin 1282 Taylorsville Rd Aragon, GA 30104 (706) 252-0200

Johnny Mitchell’s Smokehouse Joseph R. Wade, Jr. CPA Ms. Jill Mitchell 100 Covered Bridge Rd Euharlee, GA 30145 (770) 383-3383

Mr. Joseph Wade Jr. PO Box 5044 Rome, GA 30162 (706) 235-5241

Kaleido-Sno

Ms. Barbara Ware 414 Broad St Rome, GA 30161 (706) 291-7275

www.johnnymitchellssmokehouse.com

Kitchen & Bath Depot

La Conquista

334 Broad St Rome, GA 30161 (706) 622-2471 www.imaginehairart.com

Kelly Moore Photography Mr. Kelly Moore Hawthorn Suites; W 2nd Ave Rome, GA 30161 (706) 266-9585 www.khmphoto.com

Linde Marie’s Steakhouse Mike’s Lawncare and Landscape Mr. Mikal Patterson on the Square

Mr. Mike Finnegan Mr. Alex Perez 249 North 5th Ave SW 3989 Martha Berry Hwy NW Rome, GA 30165 Rome, GA 30165 (706) 766-3472 (706) 292-0227 www.kb-depot.com www.laconquistarome.com

Ms. Linde Wentz 18 Broad St Cave Spring, GA 30124 (706) 381-2097

317 Hasty Rd NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 346-7793

www.romegeorgiawebsites.com

July 2013 17

Mosquito Squad of Northwest Georgia

Ole Tymer BBQ

Panhead City

Ms. Julie Owens 4534 Martha Berry Hwy NE Mr. Peter Connolly Rome, GA 30165 PO Box 117 (706) 622-2388 Ringgold, GA 30736 (706) 980-9218 www.northwest-georgia.mosquitosquad.com

Plymouth Builders, LLC

PICC Acccess, LLC Mr. Ted Hufstetler 214 E 3rd St Rome, GA 30161 (706) 766-7330 www.piccaccess.com

Mr. Chuck Summers 355 Willow Rd NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 234-5073 www.panheadcity.com

PREMEDEX

Rome Center for Pediatric Dentistry

Roma Mia

Mr. Rick Singh Ms. Nadia Hasko 1324 Martha Berry Blvd NE 3401 Martha Berry Hwy NW Rome, GA 30165 Rome, GA 30165 (706) 291-6360 (706) 291-1881

Dr. Freddy Padilla 17 John Maddox Dr NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 622-2286 www.romekidsdentist.com

2507 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 378-7849 www.romegeorgiapawn.com

Publix Super Markets, Inc.

Mr. Van Willis Mr. Greg Huggins 3585 Garden Lakes Pkwy NW 6151 Powers Ferry Rd STE 100 Atlanta, GA 30339 Rome, GA 30165 (678) 285-3010 (706) 331-5060 www.premedex.com www.plymouthbuilders.net

Rick’s Food Shop

Pawn Star’s

Mr. Justin Hight

435 Turner McCall Blvd, NE Rome, GA 30161 www.publix.com

Rome Federated Garden Clubs, Inc. Ms. Diane Harbin 100 East 8th St. Rome, GA 30165 770-684-8229 www.romefederatedgardenclubs.com

Rome Hydro-Test, Inc.

The Salvation Army

Scants Pawn Shop

Send Out Cards

Coy Clark 1020 Desoto Ave NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 235-8640

Captain Douglas McClure 317 E 1st Ave Rome, GA 30161 (706) 291-4745 www.salvationarmyrome.org

Mr. Justin Hight 1409 N Broad St NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 234-9828

Ms. Lyn Ingram 3 Central Plz #371 Rome, GA 30161 (770) 262-1874 www.sendoutcards.com/lyningram

Silver Pest Services Mr. Justin Silver

1352 Ward Mountain Rd NE Rome, GA 30161 (770) 548-1931

STAR Safety Supply, LLC Mr. Michael Whelchel Jr. 1 Brook Valley Ct SW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 506-4197

Treasure Trove

Trek Custom Homes

Ms. Anna Smith 1944 Shorter Ave NW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 378-0003 www.rometreasuretrove.com

Mr. Ted Noe 2904 Kingston Hwy SE STE B Rome, GA 30161 (706) 506-5594 www.trekcustomhomes.com

West Rome Animal Clinic West Rome IGA

Dr. Daniel Pate Mr. Keith Clark 2012 Shorter Ave NW 610 Shorter Ave NW Rome, GA 30165 Rome, GA 30165 (706) 235-8861 (706) 234-7578 www.westromeanimalclinic.com www.westromeiga.com

Wright’s Heating and Air, Inc. Mr. Steven Wright Sr. 3118 Rockmart Rd SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 235-2024 www.swrighrair.com

July 2013 18

Sublett Video’s

Sun Block of Rome

Mr. Eddie Sublett 107 Porter St SW Rome, GA 30161 (706) 506-3482

Mr. Corey Rowland 1401 Shorter Ave SW Rome, GA 30165 (706) 232-0411 www.sunblockofrome.com

Tucker Electric

WC Timber, LLC

Mr. Mike Tucker 562 New Rosedale Rd NE Armuchee, GA 30105 (706) 252-0325

Ms. Tara Colburn 5 Woodcliffe Dr NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 238-1214 www.wctimber.com

Women of W.O.R.T.H. Wright’s Grading Services, Inc. Mr. Frank Wright Inc. Ms. Marilyn Ringstaff 1513 Dean Ave SE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 232-3408 www.womenareworthit.org

31 Riverside Industrial Park NE Rome, GA 30161 (706) 234-9166

On behalf of the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce, Thank you to ALL of our generous members who sponsored the Membership Campaign by donating prizes for all the volunteers who recruited new members!

July 2013 19

Ribbon Cuttings Floyd Training & Service Center

Ms. Shannon Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Berry cuts the ribbon for Floyd Training & Service center located at 1201 Maple Avenue.

Big Time Products

Mr. Harry Pierce cuts the ribbon for Big Time Products located at 2 Wilbanks Road.

Redmond Regional Radiology Atrium

Ms. Bea Mathis cuts the ribbon for the radiology atrium/waiting area dedicated to her located at 501 Redmond Road NW.

PLAYERS

Mr. Bryan Allen cuts the ribbon for PLAYERS located at 317 Broad Street.

Roma Mia

Ms. Nadia Hasko cuts the ribbon for Roma Mia located at 3401 Martha Berry Hwy NW.

July 2013 20

Apollo Marketing

Mr. Kirby Blalock cuts the ribbon for Apollo Marketing located at 17 Yale Rd NE.

The Grill on Redmond

Ms. Tina Watson cuts the ribbon for The Grill on Redmond located at 1850 Redmond Cir NW.

Ted Corwin P.C.

Mr. Ted Corwin cuts the ribbon for Ted Corwin, P.C. located at 414 E 1st Ave.

Advertiser’s Index page 2

Harbin Clinic

page 11

Greene’s Jewelers

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

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

page 5

page 12

Unity Christian School 2960 New Calhoun Highway

www.unitychristianschool.org

706-292-0700

Kindred Hospital

304 Turner McCall Blvd SW www.kindredhealthcare.com

(706) 378-6800

Cindy Green, Toles Temple & Wright 611 Turner McCall Blvd. www.callromehome.com 706-409-1793

back cover

Ford, Gittings & Kane Jewelers 312 Broad Street www.fgkjewelers.com 706-291-8811

July 2013 10

Small Business Action Council “Mid-Year Chamber Updates” Location: Chamber Boardroom 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

12

Education and Workforce Committee Location: Chamber Boardroom 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

18

Special thanks to our advertisers! Find out more information about membership & advertising by visiting the Chamber’s website www.romega.com..

Business After Hours hosted by: Children’s Dental Center in Rome Location: 15 Riverbend Dr STE 130

Chamber Events 24

Governmental Affairs Committee Location: Chamber Boardroom 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

26

Technology Squaretable Location: Chamber Boardroom 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

26

Just Sports & Tennis Ribbon Cutting Location: 717 East 2nd Ave 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

July 2013 21

Chamber Happenings << Ryder McEntyre, SAI Digital, introduces himself at YP Rome hosted by: The Vault at La Marieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s >> Leah Cosby talks to Taylor Patterson, Berry College, at YP Rome. << Chris Barbieri, First United Methodist Church, discusses the Marketplace Fairness Act. >> Robert Smyth, Coosa Valley Credit Union, listens during the Marketplace Fairness Act discussion. >> GREIA members attend a meeting hosted by Plant Hammond/Georgia Power. << Mark Butler, Commissioner for the Georgia Department of Labor, introduces himself to city/ county members. >> Jim Alred, Rome News-Tribune, discusses the importance of social media. << Dr. John Grout, Berry College, and Harriet Haase, learn about new innovative ideas at Researcherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Roundtable.

July 2013 22

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1 Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce 2 Rome and Floyd County Library 3 City Hall 4 Clocktower 5 Historic DeSoto Theatre 6 Old Courthouse 7 Myrtle Hill Cemetery 8 Heritage Park 9 Tennis Complex Barron Stadium 10 The Forum 11 Rome Area History Museum 12 Harbin Clinic Tony E. Warren Cancer Center

6 th

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13 Oak Hill & the Martha Berry Museum 14 Chieftain’s Museum 15 Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau and Rome Visitors Center 16 Ridge Ferry Park 17 Shorter University 18 Mt. Berry Square Mall 19 Cave Spring 20 Lock & Dam Park 21 Coosa Valley Fairgrounds 22 Stonebridge Golf Course 23 Berry College 24 Floyd Medical Center 25 Harbin Clinic 26 Redmond Regional Medical Center 27 Darlington Lower School 28 Darlington Upper School 29 Georgia Northwestern Technical College 30 Unity Christian School 31 State Mutual Stadium 32 Saint Mary’s Catholic School 33 Georgia Highlands College 34 Richard B. Russell Regional Airport 35 Georgia School for the Deaf

Floyd County GA -1

GA -156

US 27 34

22

GA-53

18 23

26

GA-20

17

31 13 14 16 15 30

25

27

21

24

GA-293

32

GA-20

29 28

GA-100

20

35 19

411 USUS-27

33

GA-101

July 2013 23

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