Connection The
Showcasing the best of Polk County
Official Publication of
THE CHAMBER
Georgia www.polkgeorgia.com
MARCH / APRIL 2016
Polk Promoting Prosperity -
“Putting The Right Pieces Together”
Table of Contents
Welcome News: Events Calendar: Connection News:
Page 2 Page 3 Page 4
Connection News Connection News Connection News:
Page 5 Page 7 Page 8
“Polk Promoting Prosperity” Polk County… This name fills you with a sense of Pride and with a Promise of tomorrow. It is home, a place to learn and grow, a vibrant center for business and industry, a relaxing retreat with wonderful attractions. Polk County has so many wonderful things to offer, from skydiving to bike riding, to taking in a show to enjoying dinner with family and friends. I am proud that I call Polk County all of these things. I am a Cedartown native and graduate and also a graduate of the Polk County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class of 2000. I currently serve as the Campus Manager and Director of Student Affairs on the Polk Campus of Georgia Northwestern Technical College, and I am honored and most excited to take on the role of the Polk County Chamber of Commerce Chairperson for 2016. The Chamber’s vision for this year is “Polk Promoting Prosperity”. This year we are going to push hard to build on the successes of 2015. Our goals were set at the Chamber Board Retreat in December, and we are dedicated to achieving them this year together. The true work is accomplished via the Chamber committees and the strong collaborations among educational partners, business and industry, the community, individuals, and the Chamber. I urge each of my fellow Board Members and Chamber Partners to be a ‘Doer’ not just a ‘Hearer’. The Chamber is volunteer driven and it takes each of us working together to ‘Promote Prosperity in Polk”. I challenge you to get involved and get active with the Chamber committee of your choice; we have seen many great accomplishments come from within our committees. Call the Chamber office today and start your journey helping Polk Promote Prosperity. If you are a Polk ‘Countian”, just like I am, then consider shopping locally, and SHOP POLK FIRST! YOU are a vital part of our community, and WE can make a difference when we all work together! Sincerely, April Welch, Chairperson Polk County Chamber of Commerce
Events Calendar Mill Town Music Hall
For more information or to purchase tickets go to www.milltownmusichall.com or call the box office at 770-537-6455.
Upcoming Events
Friday, March 4 - Rhonda Vincent and Gene Watson, 7:30 pm- Tickets - $35 Premium and $30 Reserved Friday, March 18 - The Heart Behind the Music featuring Lee Roy Parnell, Suzy Bogguss, Marty Raybon (Shenandoah), and Linda Davis, 8:00 pm- Tickets- $35 Premium and $30 Reserved Saturday, April 16 - Ray Stevens, 8:00 pm- Tickets- $60 Premium and $55 Reserved Saturday, April 30 - David Phelps, 7:30 pm Tickets- $35 Premium and $30 Reserved
Rockmart First United Methodist Church Events
Wednesday nights at 6:15 on March 2, 9, 16 are children’s programming. The adults also have a Bible study during the same time. It is over at 7:15pm. Palm Sunday worship/ luncheon and egg hunt- Rockmart First has the children’s Easter performance on Palm Sunday during worship with a pot luck luncheon immediately following in the fellowship hall. There will also be an egg hunt with prizes for all the children. March 21 at noon in the fellowship hall at RFUMC is the first Holy week luncheon. All are invited for lunch and to hear a message from a local pastor as we begin the journey to the cross. March 24 at 6pm is the Maundy Thursday service held in the sanctuary at Rockmart FUMC Easter Sunday - Rockmart FUMC’s pastor will preach at the Sunrise service in Rose Hill at 7am. There is a community breakfast offered immediately following in the church’s fellowship hall. 11:00 am is Easter worship in the sanctuary.
March 18
Old- Fashioned Hymn Sing / Gymanfa Ganu A candle light old- fashioned Hymn Sing will be held to start of WELSHfest in the Historic Van Wert Church on Friday evening March 18 at 7:00pm. Hymns will be led by Choir Director Ron Chalker. A free will offering will be taken to support the preservation of the Historic Van Wert Chapel & St. Peter’s Church, Carmarthen, Wales.
March 19 WELSHfest
WELSHfest is the only Welsh centered festival in Georgia! It takes place the third Saturday of March in Downtown Rockmart, Georgia, the city that the Welsh built, and features great Welsh & Local entertainment, plus…. Big Welsh Bike Ride, Hymn singing, Welly Wanging, Men in Kilts (for charity), Medieval Activities, Brenda’s Welsh Tearoom, Vendors & Crafts, Children’s activities, Tours of town & the Historic Van Wert Church and so much more. Visit www.welshfest.vpweb.com for more information.
OPEN STUDIO POTTERY- Instructor Paul Craighead DRAWING -Instructor James Hill PAINTING -Instructor James Hill PHOTOGRAPHY -Instructor Carla Redding of C. Redding Photography PHOTO EDITING with LIGHTROOM -With Carla Redding of C. Redding Photography OTHER ART CLASSES AVAILABLE • Calligraphy & Lettering Art – Instructor Latasha King • Guitar – Instructor Kris Anderson • Piano – Instructor Joy Wooddell • Whittling – Instructor Alvin Mallicoat • For a detailed list of classes offered and additional information, please email rcac@rockmart-ga.gov with the name of the class(es) which interest you listed in the “Subject” line. Please include your name, address, phone number(s), and name of potential student with date of birth listed. Your information will be forwarded to the art instructor to contact you regarding your particular art interest(s).
“Foreign Travel”
RCAC Art Gallery’s “Foreign Travel” Art Exhibit will be on display March 4 – April 23, 2016. Artists share their memories of traveling to other lands just in time for Rockmart’s WELSH FESTIVAL! Come and browse the gallery to view the art. Several pieces will be for sale. There is no fee to visit the gallery. Hours are Fridays and Saturdays, 10 AM – 4 PM. Please join us for the Opening Reception on Sunday, March 13, 2016 from 1 – 3 PM. Everyone is invited to attend, and refreshments will be served. Show Opens:................................. March 4, 2016 Reception.................................... March 13, 2016 (1 – 3 PM) Show Closes: ................................. April 23, 2016
Calling for Artists!!! “Repurpose” Inspiration comes from everywhere! What can you turn from trash to art treasure? All medium accepted from artists 18 and older. Artist Submissions DUE.............. April 15, 2016 Notify Artists................................. April 21, 2016 Art Delivered................................. May 1 (1-3pm) & May 2 (10 AM – NOON) Show Opens.................................. May 6, 2016 Reception.................................... May 22, 2016 (1 – 3 PM) Show Closes.................................. July 2, 2016 Questions? Visual Arts Chair Laura Robinson – 770.684.7578 / LRobinson1301@bellsouth.net
Art Auction and Gala Free Art Groups to Join at RCAC Are you a singer? Join Rockmart Community Chorus
Director Debbie Miller and the Rockmart Community Chorus meets on Tuesdays at 7 PM in the Rockmart Cultural Arts Center Chorus Room to practice for the 2016 Spring Concert. Singers interested in joining this volunteer group may contact Mrs. Miller at 404-219-9572. Do you like Photography, but need a little help? PHOTO STOP-IN is the place for you! RCAC Photography Instructor Carla Redding of C. Redding Photography offers a free focus group called “Photo Stop-In” at RCAC on designated Thursdays from 6 – 7 PM. Drop by and discuss photography. The discussions will be open topic, but all participants will be able to share photography information. Want to talk about your equipment? Be sure to bring it with you to the group meet! It is FREE, so please RSVP. Please let us know if you plan to attend. Email Carla at ctr7510@aol.com for current schedule and RSVP. You are also encouraged to join the group on Facebook – “RCAC – Photography | Art | Love” for the latest group updates.
Art classes offered by RCAC Classes are located in the City of Rockmart Government Complex Rockmart Cultural Arts Center 316 North Piedmont Avenue Building 300 Rockmart, GA 30153
April 30, 2016 (6 – 8 PM) Visual Art and Musical Entertainment Heavy hor d’oeuvres will be served. Free admission. Everyone is invited to attend. If you are an artist and would like to submit art for consideration, please contact Visual Arts Advisor Laura Robinson at 770-684-7578 or email rcac@rockmart-ga.gov . In the “subject line”, please list your LAST NAME, FIRST NAME – ART AUCTION. In the body of the email, be sure to include your name, address, mailing address (if different), email address, phone number, title, medium, date created, and dimensions of each piece. Attach photos of each piece of art to be considered. The file naming convention to be used is “LAST NAME, FIRST NAME – TITLE – MEDIUM – DATE”, i.e. if Jane Doe wanted to submit a photo of an oil painting she completed in 2015 and titled “Waking at Dawn”, she would name the photo file: “DOE, JANE – WAKING AT DAWN – OIL PAINTING – 2015”.
April 22- 24 52nd Annual Cedar Valley Arts Festival
Come and join us for a weekend full of art, music, food and lots of fun at Peek Park in Cedartown! You will find many wonderful fine artists and crafters, kid’s games and rides, a 5K & fun run and dog show. You are sure to find something for the whole family here! For more information, visit www.cedarvalleyartsfestival.com.
Connection News:
Polk Partnerships with Purpose — A Focus on Jefferson Southern Corporation Jefferson Southern Corporation (JSC) is a Tier One automotive supplier to Honda Manufacturing, producing automobile components for the popular Honda Pilot and Odyssey. JSC is bringing valuable industry and employment to Polk County and more recently, an opportunity for students in the district to learn about exciting new careers available locally. By employing manufacturing production associates, tool and die maintenance technicians, maintenance technicians, quality associates and material handlers; JSC has focused on the need to fill these high skilled positions. Jefferson Southern Corporation is a committed partner to Polk County College and Career Academy, chartered effective July 1, 2015. This partnership will include the launch of the Jefferson Southern Junior Engineers/Robotics program in the fall of 2016. JSC has been working with instructor, Corey Smith, in equipping the classroom to model essential functions in the JSC plant. Smith thanks JSC stating, “The value-added components JSC is adding to my classroom focuses on preparing students for the real world of work. Coming from industry, I see this program being even more beneficial to the upcoming students as they prepare for careers. There is a dire need for the skilled professionals in the labor force and this program will provide just that here in our community. I look forward to helping change the lives of students through our continued partnership.” The partnership forged between Jefferson Southern Corporation and the Polk County College and Career Academy will allow students to graduate with the transferrable skills needed for viable employment. In addition, JSC is providing internship experiences for PCCCA seniors as Welding Maintenance Jr. Technicians allowing students to transfer knowledge gained in the classroom to the worksite.
However, JSC hasn’t stopped there; they are also sponsoring the middle school Robotics program getting students excited about programming, robotics and hopefully the engineering/robotics career pathway thus creating a pipeline of students for PCCCA. Recently, the Rockmart Middle School Robotics team competed at their first LEGO League Trash Trek Challenge and won first place in mechanical design and strategy and innovation programming. The investment JSC is making in the students of Polk School District and Polk County College and Career Academy truly is a partnership with purpose benefiting everyone involved, especially the Polk County community.
Holmes for Her celebrates 20 Years For twenty years the women of Polk County have been eloquently dressed to perfection by the lovely ladies at 301 Main – Holmes For Her. Patsy Casey, with her flare for fashion opened the doors of Holmes for Her on March 1st 1996 at 301 Main Street in Cedartown. One year later, her sister Alice Pittman, joined her and together as co-owners they have become an ‘Element of Style’ for the ladies of Cedartown and surrounding counties. Being in business for twenty years has found its share of challenges. Upon first opening, Holmes for Her sold mainly dresses, women’s business attire and tailored suiting. Trying to find a way to best meet our customer’s needs is always a challenge but not unreachable for Patsy or Alice. The store is now more item driven, with separates such as jackets, tops, pants and tees. Brighton, Pandora and Vera Bradley continue to be the leading accessories. Brighton leathers and accessories are a large part of the business. There are approximately 5000 stores in the United States that carry Brighton. Holmes for Her is one of Brighton’s 200 Heart Stores, nationwide. From purses, shoes, jewelry, charms and collectibles, Holmes for Her sells a complete line of Brighton and participates in all Brighton Events and promotions. Holmes For Her was one of the first stores in NW Georgia to carry Pandora. You will find a large selection of Pandora rings and charms for every occasion. If it’s Vera Bradley you’re after, Holmes for Her offers all the latest styles and patterns with accessories to match. Alice and Patsy’s years of experience in the retail business have given them an understanding into the needs of their customers. Holmes for Her offers gift wrapping, alterations, gift certificates, and shipping to anywhere in the United States. With these great services your shopping experience at Holmes for Her leaves you feeling like royalty. Patsy and Alice take great pride in not only their business but also their community. They have hosted fundraisers for many great causes and organizations such as Breast Cancer Awareness, Polk School programs, and raising donations for Our House and The Samaritan House. Being able to give back to the place they call home and make their community a great place to live is one of the reason’s Holmes for Her has succeeded in the business world for twenty years. When asked the question ‘What advice would you give to other businesses starting out?’ Alice and Patsy both agreed that having a good work ethic, being consistent, accountable and most importantly providing quality customer service are the keys. Patsy and Alice are preparing for a 20-year Grand Celebration and would like for everyone to come out and help them celebrate. Like them on facebook or join their e-mail list to stay up-to-date on all events and promotions. Holmes for Her has been a member of the Polk County Chamber of Commerce for 20 years and we are proud of our relationship. Holmes for Her was the Chamber’s Small Business of the Year Award winner in 2013.
Connection News:
Visit the Beautiful Rock Campground, RV and Music Park future business projects in the area. This event among others is what we, at The Rock, do to try and get positive exposure to Polk County. It’s not all about us; it’s about promoting our community. Polk County is blessed with such musical talent! We always try to promote local talent by furnishing a friendly atmosphere for exposure. As always we try to let this exposure be their first step to stardom. We really need your support, so that we can keep activities/concerts/shows in our planning for the future. The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park is what Polk County needs to read about, know about, and support. Please keep in mind that we are a non-alcoholic venue. You will never meet a stranger at one of our events! We would like to welcome local businesses to take part in some of the events that we host. We would be glad to display your business, cards, and flyers in our office. Most of the events that we host are for different organizations in our area, and are usually charity events that promote children or families in need. It is sad to say that we are in desperate need of LOCAL support if we are to continue to bring in great bands to play for our concerts. We desperately need to increase our attendance from locals, because our attendance has fallen to the point that we feel like we are not capable of doing shows/ concerts/benefits to justify the expenses of putting one together. We are visited by thousands of people year around that come from as far away as Canada to find a resting place along the way-from the snow covered states to the beautiful beaches of the coast (as they travel across the country). We are currently filled up with contractors that are working on the new Atlanta Braves Stadium, Georgia Power contractors working on outages, Contractors working for Norfolk Southern Rail Road, and many more! These contractors buy groceries, gas, and eat out at our local restaurants generating thousands of dollars that they bring into our community. Please go to our website for upcoming events (a lot is going on in April): www.therockrvpark.com or www. rockmartfestival.com and follow us on Facebook: The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park.
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It’s time for the people of Polk County and the surrounding areas to get in the know about where we live and where we work. Polk County is not all about the negative things that we read about, see, or hear-but there are also many positive things about this beautiful place! The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park has been constructed to leave something that the world would remember. It seems that all too often the past is forgotten. How can we forget the past? It defines who we are, what we are, and how we develop into individuals. “The Rock” is dedicated to the Past. The owner, Jon Hitchcock, has put every fiber of his being into this place to make it in to something that upcoming and future generations can come to and enjoy. Jon said, “I have watched my children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren walk across the very ground that my business is on. Nothing can take away the memories that have been made here. I can only hope that you and your family will come and visit with us. Make memories that will be engraved into your heart, mind, and soul as they have been to mine. My family is my life and I hope to share that experience with you.” The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park is also known for being there for people when they are in need. The Rock always trying to promote the local businesses in our area. We do not compete! We are currently the only Campground/RV Park that is located near the Silver Comet Trail on mile marker 34. Thousands of Boy Scouts visit our campground year-round to enjoy the beautiful ride! We proudly provide accommodations for the Atlanta Cycling Festival where hundreds of people from Atlanta bike and stay with us-eat at our local restaurants along the way (which we strongly encourage!). We proudly host the Greater Atlanta Athletes 12k/5k race on the Silver Comet Trail each year. We also host weddings, and private events! For example, LPR Construction will be doing a private event Valentine weekend that has been sponsored by The Atlanta Braves Team, NASA Test Stand Team, and Solvay Project Team. This event, will give us positive feedback from corporate representatives from these companies, which may encourage
Welcome New Members! Liberty Tax Service Ralph Lowther 1745 Nathan Dean Pkwy. Rockmart, GA 30153 770-450-8164
HOLMES CLOTHING
Ace Total Solutions Gary Busby 1567 Rome Hwy. Cedartown, GA 30125 770-749-7120
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235 MAIN ST. DOWNTOWN CEDARTOWN 770-748-1455
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770-748-7736
FAX: 770-748-4015
109 E. Ave. • Cedartown, GA 30125
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 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.
OLD MILL 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.
Veterans Memorial
There are two in Polk County. One in Cedartown at the corner of East Avenue and Greenwood, behind the Library. The other is located in Rockmart on Veterans Plaza. Both were built to HONOR and MEMORIALIZE the Veterans of Polk County. Annual Services are held on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
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." 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.
DODGE & DAVIS AT PEEK SPRINGS 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
CEDARTOWN • ROCKMART/ARAGON
Nathan Dean Sports Complex
The pride of the City of Cedartown, The Cedartown Performing Arts Center locat- Rockmart’s primary recreational park for softball and baseball. The park also coned at the Cedartown Auditorium, presents a wealth of premium entertainment tains a track and a playground area. Pavilions are also located through the park. each year from the Atlanta Symphony to touring Broadway plays. The Performing Pleasant Valley Course Arts Center also sponsors enrichment programs for children in Polk and surroundNine hole, public golf course. 770-684-5961. ing 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
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. 770-6848760.
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.
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 Tom Pittman Field and Jake Belk Park craft as do the children of Cedartown whose works are displayed throughout Aragon’s two city parks both have recreational and picnic facilities. 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
The Rock Campground, RV and Music Park located near the Silver Comet Trail on Mile Marker 34. With over 100 RV sites w/ Power & Water, Cabins, Fishing, Entertainment, Silver Comet Trail Access, Creek, Picnic Tables, Showers- Camping and Special Events. This facility is open year round. 130 Forsyth Lake Rd., Rockmart- 770-684-8519.
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.
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 employ 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.
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 happenings.
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 770-684-8760.
Connection The
Advertisers Index:
Showcasing the best of Polk County Official Publication of
THE CHAMBER
Georgia
Published by: News Publishing Company P.O. Box 1633 Rome, GA 30162
www.polkgeorgia.com
Georgia Power.........................................7 Redmond Physician Network..................7 Coosa Dental Associates..........................7 Holmes Clothing......................................7
OFFICIAL PUBLICATION
133 South Marble Street Rockmart, GA 30153 770/684-8760 Fax: 678/224-5320 609 S. Main St. Cedartown, GA 30125 www.polkgeorgia.com
For Advertising Information call Todd Britt at 770-748-1520 Editorial Content by: Polk County Chamber of Commerce 770/684-8760
Sponsored by The Cedartown Junior Service League Historic Peek Park, Cedartown, Georgia Friday, April 22, 2016 • 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Live Entertainment Saturday, April 23, 2016 • 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Certified 5k/ 1 mile fun run Sunday, April 24, 2016 • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dog Show
The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park Presents:
The Great American Comeback Bluegrass and Gospel Music Festival
April 7, 8, & 9, 2016 Come Jam with Us!!
Then enjoy Great Live Music From:
Trinity River Band, The Band Kelley, The Suggins Brothers, Dan Daniel & Georgia Grass, Smoke Rise, and many more!
Concessions & Hot Food! Music Rain or Shine!! Indoor or Outdoor stage available! NO Alcohol, Coolers, Smoking or Pets allowed in the concert area!!
Bands are subject to change!
Visit us at www.rockmartfestivals.com Facebook: The Rock Campground and Music Park The Beautiful Rock Campground, RV, and Music Park 130 Forsyth Lake Road -- Rockmart, GA 30153 Or call 770-684-8517 or 770-684-8519 for information!
Camping Per Day: Tent Sites: $15.00 RV / Camper / Pop-up sites: $25.00 ** Price includes 2 people**
$5.00 for each additional person
SHOWTIMES / GENERAL ADMISSION Thursday 7 pm - Covered dish dinner & jamming with TRB............ FREE! Friday 7 pm-10 pm (Gates open at 6 pm).................................$10.00 Saturday, 12 Noon-11 pm (Gates open at 6 pm).........................$20.00 2-Day (Weekend Special Ticket)**........................................$25.00 Children 12 and under.........................................................FREE! (Ticket Prices DO NOT INCLUDE Camping! Tickets not mailed: Cash, Checks or Money Orders ONLY! No credit or debit cards of any kind!!
Bands performing at the festival are under contract. Each band is responsible for it’s own arrangement and selections of materials usedon stage. Promoters are not liable for collecting royalty or purchasing license or copyrighted materials for any organization.