V3 January 2019

NWGA'S PREMIER FEATURE MAGAZINE / JANUARY 2019

Darlington’s VARSITY WRESTLING TEAM has developed an approach to winning on the mat, and part of that strategy is being as tough as nails.

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JANUARY 2019 COLUMNS 12

Atlanta pro sports fans, this one is for you. Get ready to bask in the glory of soccer as JIM ALRED takes us down the road of victory and defeat, and the woes of the flirting with raising the trophy.

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Already securing several state titles the DARLINGTON TIGERS WRESTLING team plans to continue their winning ways in 2019.

Some folks like Matt Schieffer have traded their steak knives for a salad fork, and they say their LIFE IS

BETTER AFTER BEEF.

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These three BEESHEES help to spread awareness and love for honeybees through their sweet messages and dedication to beekeeping.

Bartow County is booming with local businesses and their CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CEO, Cindy Williams says the best is yet to come.

TWICE IS NICE has become a place where family and friends can pick up a few things they need, drop off things they don’t, and leave with relationships that will last for a lifetime.

COVER Darlington Wrestlers: Rhett McDurmon, Dalton Blankinship, and Colton Woods 6

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With the dark nature of domestic violence being her motivation to throw back the curtains and expose the truth, Balerie Byars hopes LIPS UNCHAINED will light the way for victims who want to get out of abusive relationships.

Wishing you a wonderful 2019!

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PUBLISHER'S NOTE

AS A BUSINESS owner, I value conversations with others in my shoes.

Some of my very best friends walk this path and like many things, it’s hard to understand if you have never done it. Sharing many of the same pitfalls and successes makes their advice and experiences invaluable, and I never leave those chats without learning something that can be applied to my business.

OW N E R & C EO Ian Griffin One thing I know we all agree on is that you are only as good as the team you have around you and I can’t express how fortunate I am to have a staff that helps to realize our vision at V3. They are talented, energetic and enthusiastic and they know how to give and take a joke, making our office a productive but fun place to work.

Letting them know how much they are appreciated is something I try to do regularly.

Over the years we have used our own events and features to celebrate all-things-V3 while also having company dinners and parties to fellowship and not think about work for a while.

We have gone to music festivals, ice-skated, crushed cars with tanks and much more, but never in the name of team-building. You see it on sitcoms and hear about it from time to time and it always comes across as forced or cheesy, so I’ve stayed away from anything that ties itself to that mantra.

In 2018, all of that thinking changed.

Escape rooms have become more and more popular over the years. When I asked my staff what they would like to do in celebration of a solid 2018, trying our hand at one of these challenges was the winning suggestion. When I started exploring the options the group experiences all sold what a great team-building experience it would be. I could see how that would be the case, but something about that term just makes it seem obligatory and that’s not how we roll ’round here.

We team-build without thinking about it, damn it! But I swallowed my pride and signed us up anyway…it looked fun enough.

For our escape we went to Chattanooga and traveled back in time to 1944 where we laced up our sleuth shoes and became a team of FBI agents tasked with tracking a Nazi sympathizer. The assailant was wreaking havoc on the railways and had been spotted at the Chattanooga train station. We had to use the clues available to use to find out his next destination and the number of the train he would be travelling on.

In respect of the company that hosted us, I can’t list the details of how we managed to track him down. But we did manage to catch the scoundrel with only 2:51 left on the clock.

It was challenging, exciting and something all of us want to do again soon. We all worked together, breaking off into groups to work on different tasks or solve different puzzles, and each of us contributed to complete the mission. All in all, it was the perfect team-building experience. There, I said it.

It was a great way to close out a wonderful 2018 and prep for what I hope will be an even better 2019. From our team at V3 to you and yours, Happy New Year!

READV3.COM Our new online platform is live. You can find all the print content from this issue, our archives and exclusive ReadV3 digital features.

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OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin EDITORIAL MANAGER Oliver Robbins, Jr. MAG ART & DESIGN Ellie Borromeo WRITERS Oliver Robbins, Jr., Jim Alred, Lauren Jones-Hillman, McKenzie Todd, Rachel Reiff, Ian Griffin, DeMarcus Daniel, Ashlee Bagnell EXECUTIVE PHOTOGRAPHER Cameron Flaisch CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Jason Huynh AD SALES + CLIENT RELATIONS Chris Forino AD DESIGN Elizabeth Blount Ellie Borromeo PUBLISHER V3 Publications, LLC CONTACT 417 Broad Street Rome, Ga. 30161 Office Phone 706.235.0748 v3publications@gmail.com CREATOR Neal Howard

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Sweet Home, Atlanta For the Love of the Game with Jim Alred

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ON A COLD, WINDY, dreary night in Little Rock, I stood shivering on the sidelines watching Auburn’s football team fall to Arkansas in a forgettable game.

My original assignment had me set up in the cozy, warm press box where almost every television hanging above our heads was tuned in to game six of the 1995 World Series.

The photographer, scheduled to shoot for us, didn’t make the trip from Auburn to Arkansas, forcing me to grab my camera and spend the evening on the turf.

Sometime in the late third or early fourth quarter, I turned and saw fans in the stands wearing Arkansas and Auburn colors performing the Tomahawk Chop. I knew then my beloved Braves had won the World Series.

I cringed a bit, realizing I hadn’t gotten to see the game live or in person, but a large piece of me thought it didn’t matter. Many more World Series titles were on the way. What I didn’t realize was Atlanta’s next pro sports championship would come in a league that had yet to start playing at that time.

This isn’t an article bashing the Braves, Hawks, Thrashers, Falcons or others. I’ve already documented my long love/hate relationship with Atlanta’s sports teams. Instead this is a celebration, which had been brewing for 23 long years.

Even on the night that Atlanta United, the city’s two-year-old Major League Soccer expansion team, captured the MLS Cup, announcers and pundits talked about jinxes, curses and how Atlanta just isn’t a pro sports city.

Before we talk about anything else, we start with the fans. During the first and second Atlanta United seasons, throngs of fans packed first Bobby Dodd Stadium and then Mercedes Benz stadium, once it opened, turning game day into a carnival– like atmosphere.

As other cities and MLS franchises scoffed at the upstart Atlanta fan base, the fans paid no attention and kept showing up. This season, United fans filled the Benz so often that the club had the seven highest attended regular-season games, as well as the three most attended post-season games.

Those fans showed again for the MLS Cup

with a championship game record 73,000-plus screaming, yelling, clapping, dancing and cheering as United topped Portland 2-0.

I’ve attended Braves, Falcons and Hawks games, and Atlanta United contests. The atmosphere at the United game, including the crowd and noise from game start to game end reminded me more of a big college football game than a pro game.

And the product United put on the field can only be described with a three-letter word: FUN. Watching Josef Martinez and Miguel Almiron slice and dice opposing backlines with aplomb energized the stadium all year. And in the finals when Michael Parkhurst dislodged a ball from a Portland defender before finding Martinez, who deftly maneuvered around Portland’s keeper before slotting the ball into the net for the opening goal late in the first half, the stadium erupted. Crazily enough, this was Pankhurst’s fifth MLS final, but the first time his team was able to raise the cup.

United’s attack before the goal had been steady and unrelenting, but it wasn’t just the attack, as the defense shut down Portland’s top attacker, Diego Valeri, during the evening. United keeper Brad Guzan, who has served as net minder for the U.S. National Team on many occasions, executed a couple of brilliant diving saves to keep the Timbers off the board.

Martinez, who finished with the most goals in a single season in MLS history, got his head onto a cross into the box and Franco Escobar pounced on the ball sending it into the goal for the 2-0 lead early in the second half.

And from minute 54 on, it was all about clock watching. United had a few more solid scoring chances, Guzan notched a few more saves and Portland made substitutions, runs and attacks try-

ing in vain to cut the lead. All the while, the largest crowd to watch an MLS Cup cheered, danced and prayed for the clock to continue to run.

Remember this is Atlanta, the same city that saw its NFL team squander a huge lead and lose the Super Bowl. The same city which saw its baseball team win with regularity in the regular season for more than a decade only to fall short in the World Series or playoffs time and again. And don’t get me started on the Hawks. But I said no dwelling on the past.

Somewhere around the 80th minute I allowed myself to breath easier and as those final seconds ticked away, I smiled from ear to ear. For once, I didn’t have to turn off the television or watch another team celebrate.

Of course some of the game brought bittersweet moments as well. When manager Gerardo Martino subbed out Martinez late in the second half, the sound cascaded from the upper deck and washed across the field.

Martinez returned the love, clapping with both hands over his head. The same happened when Almiron exited near the end as well. Both players helped bring the cup to Atlanta and their wonderful, attacking, frenzied style of play helped define the team.

More than likely, both players will not be back next season for United, as overseas clubs are pining for their talents. And Martino, who also helped define this team and develop a strategy and a system, which resulted in tons of fun games wins and the MLS Cup, is also leaving. He will take over the helm for Mexico’s men’s team.

But those thoughts can wait. As the final whistle sounded, the Benz erupted in a cacophony of sound and jubilation. The United players danced and

celebrated with the cup as red confetti exploded again and again.

Team owner Arthur Blank, who had to watch his Falcons fall flat a few years ago in the Super Bowl, was all smiles as the team he talked about bringing to Atlanta a decade ago had managed to fulfill the dream of bringing another championship to town.

I watched as my Facebook and Twitter feed filled with celebratory posts and photos. Numerous friends and acquaintances were celebrating. Many were soccer fans long before United came to town.

However, I also counted a lot who weren’t. Some of them were even the type of sports fan who derided soccer. For most, all it took was one trip to the Benz to have their eyes opened.

And of course the critics will come out, reminding us how hard it will be for United to stay on top.

But it doesn’t matter. Atlanta won the MLS Cup, and we get to celebrate it. But here’s something else to think about. United’s fan base—albeit brand new—has shown a level of support few others in the MLS have. You can bet potential players and managers have taken notice and would love to be a part of this franchise.

Go ahead and tell us Atlanta isn’t a professional sports city or that soccer isn’t a mainstream sport.

You’d be wrong, but you can say it if you want.

For a city that has seen more than a few flounders on the championship level, it couldn’t be more fitting that the team with United in its name showed Atlanta and its fans were just that. And we have the big, shiny cup to prove it. *The views expressed in this column are those of the writer, and do not represent the opinions of V3 Magazine.

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ABOVE Colton Woods, Rhett McDurmon, and Dalton Blankinship 14

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There is no quit in these young Tigers, and all who oppose them should be ready to fight until the finish.

TEXT DEMARCUS DANIEL PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON FLAISCH

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" When a wrestler walks off that mat after a match with Darlington their arms should be tired and hurting.

They should be panting for breath. We like to wrestle at a high pace and be very physical."

W

hen an organization sets a goal of being great and all work to meet those expectations, the birth of some special is inevitable.

A great example of this philosophy can be found in Darlington High School’s wrestling program. For the past four seasons, their young athletes have taken to the mat with one objective in mind, and that objective is to win. When speaking to Darlington’s wrestling coach, Kelly McDurmon, it is hard not to be impressed by the team’s dedication to pinning the competition.

McDurmon cannot express the success of his athletes without a little background on the program.

“This year’s team is unique to me in my 25 years of coaching,” he says. “We have never had a team with four returning state finalists, three of which won the state championship in their respective weight class.”

The coaching staff, which consists of McDurmon and assistants Chris Butler and Craig Kipp, feels like this is a special group this year. “We expect to 16

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come home with a trophy after each tournament,” McDurmon says. This culture of excellence, now ingrained in the wrestling program at Darlington, is one that is part of the team’s blueprint to success

but has taken time to build outside of the weight room and gym.

The coaching staff also instills a tough mental edge when detailing the roadmap to victory. “When a wrestler walks off that mat after a match with Darlington their arms should be tired and hurting. They should be panting for breath. We like to wrestle at a high pace and be very physical. You should feel like you’ve been in a fight, and part of being physically tough is also being mentally prepared to defeat our opponents,” McDurmon says.

By coaching the mind of his athletes he has tried to make them relentless. Darlington’s wrestlers often

work to wear the opposition down. This is only accomplished when workouts push the Tigers’ limits, both physically and mentally. Using this effective method of preparedness has produced results, and successful sports programs across the country often hang their hat on the same practice habits.

This team has a strong senior leadership base since the Tigers roster five seniors out of 12 total wrestlers. Three of the seniors, all defending state champions, are standouts and are in line for huge years. Perhaps what is most impressive is the diversity. McDurmon notes that, “You can’t scout one of the three and think you have Darlington Wrestling figured out. All three of these guys approach their matches differently and use a wide range of skill sets to win.”

The first of the three is Senior, Dalton Blankenship. He is a three-time state champion. “Dalton is a defensive superstar. He is a counter-puncher,” McDurmon explains.

He won the state title in the 106-weight class as a freshman. Blankenship again won the state title at 113 pounds as a sophomore and last season as a junior in the 126-weight class.

Also wrestling for the Tigers is senior, Colton Woods. Like Blankenship, Woods is a three-time state champion. “Colton is incredibly offensive.

His moves include lots of fakes and he wrestles at an extremely high pace,” says Coach McDurmon.

Woods won 113-weight class as a freshman, and he captured the title as a sophomore. As a junior he

won the state title in the 132-pound weight class.

The last of the three title holders is Rhett McDurmon. Rhett won his first state title as a junior after finishing in second place as a freshman and sophomore. When giving his observations of Rhett’s attack McDurmon says, “He is more of a brawler.

He’s a very physical wrestler and he is one of the strongest kids you’ll run into.”

Coach McDurmon plays double duty for a couple of his athletes. He is Rhett’s father, as well as dad to another Darlington wrestler, Carl McDurmon.

“Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to coach brothers or blood relatives. Those rivalries have always driven the team to have some of the best, most intense practices I have seen. Those guys have always seemed to bring their sibling or family rivalries to practice and it inspires everyone to go harder,” recalls McDurmon.

Darlington fills 12 of 14 weight classes. “We are trying to fill all of the weight classes, but sometimes it’s hard to get kids out because not everyone is willing to put in the work it requires to be successful in the blue-collar sport of wrestling. They would have to punish themselves to be ready to punish someone else on the mat, the Darlington way,” McDurmon says.

The team also has two other seniors who were state finalists. Garrett Sheffield, who finished fifth in the state last year, is ready to match the level of his fellow senior teammates. Another, Darlington transfer Tyler Ingram, also finished fifth in state last

year in AAAA. McDurmon says, “A lot of leadership comes from these five seniors. We as coaches can make a plan for practice, but we need the leaders to execute the plan. We need them to push these younger guys to learn the Darlington Wrestling way.

If so, we stand a good chance of coming home with a trophy from every tournament.”

To further advance the culture, there is a plaque of past champions above the water fountain for all the wrestlers to see and touch. They all have chosen the spot where their name will be, and they visualize it every day.

When reflecting on his 15 years at Darlington McDurmon, who is also a history teacher, remembers how he built the program at Darlington. “I had a pretty good wrestling team at my alma mater when Darlington called on me to coach. I was hesitant to leave what I had built for someone we had pretty much handled every time we faced them.”

During his first season leading the Tigers, Darlington secured a fourth-place trophy in a tournament, several state medalists, and a state finalist.

“That season was a pretty big deal at Darlington.

Looking back, I realized that season was the beginning of the process of turning out state champions.

Over the past 15 years, we’ve had 17 state champions and finished as a top-five team four times.”

With strong senior leadership and the team’s grit and determination, Coach McDurmon hopes to add a few more names over the water fountain.

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TEXT MCKENZIE TODD PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON FLAISCH

If you are thinking of taking your diet to the vegan side of the force, then there may be more benefits and fewer drawbacks than you may think.

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ABOVE Matt Schieffer

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he New Year brings about change and the motivation to want to be better. Most of the time, this includes a good hard look at what we eat and how active we are in an effort to stay healthy.

It can be difficult to cut out some of the most important pieces of life; however, some people commit and make a drastic change successfully. One person who dedicated himself to living a healthier life took the leap and is thriving thus far.

Meet Matt Schieffer.

As the owner and creator of Lumina Coffee Company, he has been a vegan for around a year and six months.

“For me, becoming a vegan simply culminated through the journey of eating healthy,” explains Schieffer. “Since I was around ten years old, I suffered from serious migraines. They would sometimes put me out of commission for three or four days. It got

to a point where I would get up to three migraines a week, and I just couldn’t handle it.

“I tried eliminating things from my diet,” he continues, “to see if that would help to alleviate my migraine symptoms, which started my journey with the paleo diet.”

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the paleo diet, (or any diets other than the latest Facebook fad-induced eating plan) it is a dietary plan based on foods similar to what might have eaten during the Paleolithic era, which dates from 10,000 to 2.5 million years ago.

This diet typically includes lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds — foods that in the past could be obtained by hunting and gathering. The paleo diet limits food that became common when farming emerged about 10,000 years ago, which includes dairy products and grains.

“While on the paleo diet, I was still having migraines each week, which concluded in me living

off of medications every single day,” says Schieffer.

“Someone turned me on to the Netflix film, ‘What the Health?’ and it changed my perspective on a vegetarian diet. I started doing research into what truly was the healthiest diet for what I was hoping to achieve, and I came across veganism.”

If you are like most, your daily diet likely consists of things like pop-tarts, hamburgers from any fast food joint of your choice or chicken, pizza and french-fries, etc. Going on any sort of strict diet is beyond the realm of consideration for those who are not health conscience in the least little bit. This is perhaps what makes his story worth a read.

Why veganism?

“People normally go vegan for about three reasons,” explains Schieffer. “You could choose just one reason or choose all three. The first reason could focus around environmental damages. For

example, the result of greenhouse gases that comes from slaughter houses and other lasting damage to our planet as a result of processing meat. Another reason is animal welfare. Lastly, health reasons seem to be at the forefront of the decision.”

Before we get too far into this subject, one who is not familiar with veganism may be wondering (besides the jokes they hear from other people about vegans) what exactly is the difference in vegetarians and vegans?

People who have a standard diet are people who tend to consume the normal things found on menus.

They eat everything that tastes good, whether it grows or moos. Vegetarians do not meat but will eat animal byproducts like milk, cheese and yogurt.

Vegans, however, eat no animal products whatsoever.

“Like I said before, the journey to eating healthy is where I started this vegan diet. Once I swapped to the vegan, plant-based diet, all of my migraines were almost immediately eliminated,” says Schieffer.

For the majority of us, especially those who love a good steak, the road to being completely convinced is riddled with obstacles. It is hard to tell a meat lover that going without meat is the best way to live a healthier life. How Schieffer achieved the correct levels of protein and calories on his plant-based diet is an enigma that is worth looking into further.

“I tend to eat a lot of beans, nuts and seeds which, from just those three categories, you can get plenty of protein. I track my food and usually get around 80 to 100 grams of protein a day, 80 to 100 grams of fat daily and about 300 to 350 grams of carbs,” says Schieffer. “For carbs, I am usually eating bananas, sweet potatoes and lettuce… all foods that are really great for you.”

Another question that generally arises is how vegetarians or vegans eat enough to make their body feel full?

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else is usually why they fall off the wagon. They are usually still hungry even after finishing the salad.

“As long as you are getting enough nutrients from the food you are eating, you will be full at some point. I have noticed that I eat more on this vegan diet than I ever did before, yet it is foods that are great for you. So, it is okay to consume more,” says Schieffer.

And the question any curious person always asks is, “Do you miss meat?”

“I honestly don’t miss meat that much. The first month after going vegan, I craved meat so badly. Every piece of meat I saw made my mouth water. But now, it is almost like my taste buds have adapted to where I crave and love healthy food and the way it makes me feel. I will say, however, that I do crave cheese pizza every once and a while,” laughs Schieffer.

“Veganism is just one of those things that is very difficult to get started. But, as you move into the practice, it becomes so easy and you reap the benefits of it,” says Schieffer. “For example, I never get tired throughout the day. It also really improved my immune system, as in the year and six months that I have been on this diet, I have gotten sick once with a cold.”

As mentioned above, friendly jabs about people who choose to live a vegan lifestyle are abundant.

And those who say they have never joined in on the laughs may be taking the long way around the truth. One way we at V3 Magazine were able to truly get excited about going all-veggie was to see what vegan meals Schieffer had put together for us to try.

“There definitely are falsehoods about veganism where people think it could be boring. People often ask if I only eat salads, is it expensive and other completely normal questions, which is why I chose several meals that were super cheap and easy to obtain. They are also easy to make,” says Schieffer.

Chia Pudding Breakfast Bowl What you will need Your choice of berries Water 2 Bananas Chia seeds Granola Mixed nuts Your choice of yogurt A blender First, add your choice of berries, water and a banana to the blender. Blend it up. Once it’s blended, add a scoop of chia seeds and store in refrigerator overnight. The chia seeds absorb the water and create a sweet pudding-like substance. The next

morning, transfer the berry chia pudding into a bowl and top with whatever you would like— Schieffer topped his with vegan granola, mixed nuts, banana slices, coconut milk-based yogurt (not as bad as it sounds) and more chia seeds.

Schieffer normally makes his own granola, but for the sake of time and easiness, you can purchase a great bag at Kroger. Of course, you can also make this bowl with non-vegan materials as well. Either way, it is still loaded with protein and serves as a healthy breakfast option.

The second menu option was a Greek Bowl.

Greek Bowl What you will need: Quinoa Cucumber Tomato Avocado Chickpeas Vegan Taziki Sauce (Schieffer made his own) Spices of your choice Parsley Lemon

This dish has a quinoa base—some of us had no clue what quinoa was before Schieffer introduced it to us, but it was surprisingly good.

First, boil the quinoa in water and vegetable broth.

Once the quinoa is cooked, transfer to a bowl and add a little bit of lemon and chopped parsley for flavor. Mix together. Empty chickpeas into a pot and sprinkle whatever different spices you would like (he added cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper and paprika). Once the chickpeas are soft, add them to the quinoa bowl and mix. Chop your cucumber, tomatoes and avocado and add to bowl. Top with Taziki and enjoy!

Expecting our raw opinion to be pretty biased, we surprised Schieffer with our true enjoyment of the two dishes. Some of the folks in our office have even recreated their own Chia Pudding Breakfast Bowl at home. Though the overall consensus is that some could not give up cheese pizza or steak and chicken, we applaud Schieffer and other vegan’s around the world for their creativity when keeping this diet.

So, should you go vegan?

We don’t know if we would ever tell someone they should; however, a healthier diet may be a better alternative. If it means giving up pop-tarts… well that’s another story.

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STAYING ALIVE TEXT RACHEL REIFF PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON FLAISCH

Many dance around the topic of the dwindling numbers in the honeybee population, so this group has made it their goal to conserve a valuable resource we all need to keep the life cycle in its groove.

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ABOVE From Left: Denise Champagne, Monica Sheppard, and Anid Beyer

T

hree Rome women did not initially join a pottery class at Earthworks to figure out a way to save the bees and our local ecosystem; but almost a decade later, that’s exactly what Anid Beyer, Denise Champagne and Monica Sheppard (also known as The BeeShees) are on a mission to do. The three locals are not just beekeepers but advocates for the honey bees and their impact on the local environment.

It all started back in 2010, as Beyer’s son headed off to college. He developed a hobby of keeping bees while at home and the process had always intrigued his mother. “You know how there are soccer moms?

I had been the ‘bee mom’ for my son,” she explains.

But with Brenden away, Beyer decided to try her own hand at beekeeping. She had the bright idea to enlist the help of none other than her dear friends from pottery class.

“I knew Monica had experience keeping bees because her father was a beekeeper, and I just asked my friends, ‘I’m going to keep bees. Who’s in?’ I wanted to do it together, because it’s always more fun with friends,” Beyer says.

Champagne did not have any experience with bees or beekeeping, but she knew that it would be fun. “Especially with these ladies!” she laughs.

Sheppard came up with the name BeeShees, a moniker inspired by the musical group, the Bee Gees. So with a name and a goal that would stick, the group became official.

They purchased their first bee colonies from the University of Georgia, because those bees had been bred to combat colony collapse disorder. Yet

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even with these genetically modified insects, the ladies learned that beekeeping is no frivolous hobby.

Bee populations in the United States have been weakened over the past several decades by the use of chemical pesticides and new predators, such as the Varroa destructor mite that was not introduced to the United States until the 1990s. “Imagine something the size of a dinner plate attaching itself to your abdomen. That’s what these mites are like to the bees,” explains Beyer.

Monocultures are another modern inhibitor of healthy honey bees. Commercial farming of almonds, blueberries, and cranberries, for instance, only provide bees one source from which to pollinate for miles and miles around them. The problem is that bees need to get their nutrients from multiple sources; so the commercial beekeepers have been weakening bee populations through this lack of crop diversity.

Additionally, this poses a problem because wild bees and other natural pollinators are eliminated in the process, and commercial farms become entirely dependent on honey bees to sustain their crops.

There are even efforts in some Asian countries to develop tiny drones for pollinating because of the fear that natural pollinators are becoming too scarce.

“People need to realize the importance of the bees,” says Beyer. “One in three bites of food you eat is insect pollinated, and without them our food supply will become greatly diminished.”

Fighting for the plight of the honey bees is one of the missions of the BeeShees. In the past year alone, the group has worked with the city and county to get Rome designated as a Bee City USA. They’ve also partnered with the Rome Floyd Parks and Recreation Authority to reduce pesticide

“ I knew Monica had experience keeping bees because her father was a beekeeper, and I just asked, ‘I’m going to keep bees. Who’s in?’ I wanted to do it together, because it’s always more fun with friends.” spraying and add acres of wildflower-filled land to local parks, which not only helps the bee population, but also saves the city money.

Another goal of the BeeShees and their multiple partnerships throughout the community is to provide education for our friends and neighbors who share our beautiful green spaces. By spreading the word, the BeeShees have helped individuals and pest control companies to stop the unnecessary destruction of honey bee colonies and to instead find them new homes with local beekeepers.

And after starting the Rome and Floyd County Beekeepers Association in 2017, the BeeShees know plenty of beekeepers. At just over a year old, there are already over 50 people involved, and the club

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The Exchange Club Family Resource Center Invites You to Attend

the 19th Annual Night at the Movies Tuesday, February 26 at 7:00PM Hors d’oeuvres and Libations Your Choice of Six Blockbuster Movies

Doors Open at 6:00PM | Movies Begin at 7:00PM $55 Per Person or $100 Per Couple $45 Groups of 10 or more

has installed over 49 new colonies of honey bees in the Floyd County area.

The local schools have also taken notice and have gotten involved, Sheppard notes. “We’re able to teach the kids that bees are different kinds of insects, and they play different roles. And that we don’t be need to be afraid of a honey bee because it’s not the same as a yellow jacket. They don’t want to sting you,” she says.

“We also speak at garden clubs, churches, schools and more.” says Champagne. “It’s like we threw a pebble in a lake and are seeing the huge ripple effect.”

In addition to their bee projects and campaigns, the BeeShees still stay busy with their many colonies of honey bees, with hives at the South Rome Community Gardens, Rise and Shine Farms, the Community Garden, in a separate location in Cedartown and at Beyer’s house.

Despite the fact that it is laborious, the ladies thrive on the care and keeping of their bees. “We’re very involved. We’re liked their mamas,” jokes Champagne.

“We even sang them ‘It’s a Small World After All’ when they were very worked up,” laughs Beyer.

Since a healthy hive contains around 50,000 bees, the BeeShee gals work around the clock to make sure their dozens of hives are strong and in a good position to grow and swarm.

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“In springtime, if a hive is super strong, then it will decide on its own that it is going to separate.

And that is how they perpetuate their population,” explains Sheppard. “We can see if queen cells are being developed, and if the hive is making preparation to swarm. We can take the queen, put her in another hive, and that’s called doing a split.”

Yet with all the work that beekeeping requires, the BeeShees are able to reap its golden reward: the honey their bees produce. They call it “liquid gold,”

and divide it evenly between the three of them. Each person then gets to decide what they want to sell, give as gifts, or use to make mead, honey kolsch, or other goodies. They also enjoy using the bee wax to make wraps, lip balm and soaps.

The quality of their honey and honey products is vastly different from the honey that is available in most grocery stores. “Most of that honey is totally adulterated; it actually contains Chinese honey,” says Beyer. “And it’s a big scandal, because even though the U.S. tries to prevent Chinese honey from coming in, China sends it to other countries who then ship to the states.”

This is one of the many reasons the BeeShees advocate buying and consuming only local honey.

An additional benefit is that it can lessen the severity of allergies by exposing people to the allergens in small enough quantities that their bodies can fight them off.

Overall, the BeeShees enjoy every moment of their bee-caring adventures. “It’s very rewarding and great fellowship when we get together,” says Champagne.

“What I love is that honey bees are a super organism,” says Sheppard. “They function as one.

Every insect is an individual, but they all have a job.

I use them as an example of how a good community works: they do their jobs for the good of all.”

If you’re interested in learning more about honeybees and beekeeping, you’re invited to join the BeeShees and the Rome/Floyd Beekeepers Association for their meetings on the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at the EcoCenter.

Also look for BEE ROME stickers around town and help spread awareness about the local honey bee population.

We invite you to the

Bartow Bash We’re increasing our coverage in Bartow county in print and online and it’s time to celebrate!

Thursday, January 31st from 6:00 - 8:00 Food and Drinks on the house!

Pizza, Appetizers, Beer and Wine Prizes & Giveaways

Mellow Mushroom in Cartersville 28 S Wall St, Cartersville, GA 30120

WE ARE HONORED TO WELCOME

BILL WILCOX TO OUR TEAM

Bill Wilcox joins United Community Advisory Services as an LPL Financial Advisor where he will serve the Northwest Georgia area. Bill brings over 28 years of investment management and banking experience.

Call Bill to schedule an appointment.

307 East 2nd Avenue | Rome, GA 30161

706-236-3789

The investment products sold through LPL Financial are not insured United Community Bank deposits and are not FDIC insured. These products are not obligations of United Community Bank and are not endorsed, recommended or guaranteed by United Community Bank or any not guaranteed and loss of principal is possible. United Community Bank and United Community LPL Financial. © 2019 United Community Bank | ucbi.com

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IT’S AS SIMPLE AS 1, 2, 3…

GET REWARDED WITH CASH FOR YOUR SMART DECISIONS It’s as simple as…

1. Maintain a homeowner and auto policy with American National, 2. Remain claim free for three consecutive years, and 3. Receive 25 percent of your first year auto and home premiums back after your third year.

BONUS: Your 25 percent reward continues every year as long as you remain claim free!

MATT DAVIS Agent 504 Riverside Pkwy. NE Ste. 403 Rome, GA 30161

matt.davis@american-national.com 706.844.1616

Products and services may not be available in all states. Terms, conditions and eligibility requirements will apply. Property and casualty products and services may be underwritten by American National Property And Casualty Company or American National General Insurance Company, both of Springfield, Missouri. American National reserves the right to discontinue the Cashback program at any time. Cashback is not available in all states.Homeowner premiums used to calculate Cashback reward do not include earthquake, equipment breakdown, service line coverage and Identity Theft Protection endorsement premiums. Claim free means no paid claims of any type, other than roadside assistance, windshield repairs, homeowner earthquake, equipment breakdown, service line coverage and/or stolen identity claims.

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SILENT NO MORE Victims of domestic abuse now have a place to heal the hurt and tell their truths.

TEXT DEMARCUS DANIEL PHOTOGRAPHY CAMERON FLAISCH 34

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U

NCONCERNED We all know someone who doesn’t care for something, or maybe that someone is you. Let’s take the subject of sports, or watching anything on the tube that revolves around a ball, and use them as an example.

Regardless of what the score is or how excited everyone may be about the big game, those who could care less turn a blind eye to the fuss and revelry.

Oftentimes, people aren’t concerned about things that barley peak their interest or impact their lives in a meaningful way. For issues that have little impact or would not put others in grave danger, blowing the subject off may be considered a harmless social norm.

For the issue in which the fledgling organization Lips UnChained was developed for, everyone should be concerned. Lips Unchained is a non-profit organization started by Balerie Byars that has set a goal to make reporting domestic abuse easier and safer.

Getting help when in an abusive relationship seems cut and dry to most of us, but in reality the numbers are staggering and paint a very different picture.

As a matter of fact, it is probably happening to someone close to us according to the statistics, and this scary subject could be plaguing homes and people are blind to what the problem looks like.

All must speak up if you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship, even if staying in that relationship is by choice. Some of us may have been raised on that old adage that “what goes on in the house stays in the house.” It is common, but how detrimental and deadly is that rule to all others involved?

Statistically, Nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. During one year, this adds up to more than 10 million women and men over a 12 month period. Nearly one in four women and one in seven men have experienced severe physical violence at the hands of a partner during their lifetime. 85 percent of domestic violence victims are female, and 15 percent are male.

All abuse is scary and the ripple rocks the boats of entire families. These next two stats are the most troubling because they affect our most precious resource, our kids. Approximately five million children are exposed to domestic violence every year. Children exposed are more likely to attempt suicide, abuse drugs and alcohol, run away from home, engage in teenage prostitution and commit sexual assault crimes. Sadly, most cases of domestic violence are never reported to police.

Those who grew up witnessing domestic violence will tell you that the trauma follows youngsters throughout their life. It effects who they are as an

adult and they can develop tendencies and habits from living through it. Just like growing up in a healthy household, children learn through what they see and hear.

Imagine navigating childhood with an incessant fear of weekends in an abusive household and hating knowing that those days were coming. Fear is just one issue that causes problems mentally and emotionally, and the research shows that a plethora of other social issues can develop over time. What if there was a way to decrease the millions of children who have their own lasting issues from witnessing and living through domestic violence as they transition into adulthood?

As that thought sinks in, let’s now hear the story of an actual victim of domestic violence who will never be able to tell her story.

UNLOVED “She was infatuated with him,” says Ms. Balerie Byars, founder of Lips UnChained as she stretches out the phrase for emphasis. “It was sickening how much she loved that man. We could be talking about tacos and she would figure out a way to bring him into the conversation. My friend was a beautiful person, inside and out. She was such a wonderful, amazing friend. She was a great listener and she gave great advice. She would do anything in the world for people in need at the drop of a hat and not complain a bit.”

Byars was passionate when describing her friend and sister-at-heart of six years, Ms. Crystal Vega.

“She was crazy in love with her boyfriend. Her face lit up, she had a constant smile and was just the happiest person ever because of him. It was an adult puppy love. However, we never knew what was happening behind closed doors.” Byars says, her voice cracking with emotion.

For the purpose of this story, we will use a false

name for the abuser, Mr. John Doe. Doe knew exactly what she liked and loved. He loved her as well; in his words he loved her a lot. They had two children together, a three-year-old and a two-week-old. Doe also helped Vega with her other three children when needed, as she was a mother of five, all under the age of 12. Outside of the standard relationship issues everyone struggles through, to most they appeared to be a fantastic couple.

On a balmy night in June, some of the darkness that had been locked behind Vega’s door came creeping over the threshold and the ugliness of abuse took the place of the love everyone thought was so very strong.

Byars recalls a phone call. “They were saying Vega had been shot, so I rushed to all of the hospitals but they said they didn’t have a record of her,” Byars says with a shaky voice.

One of the hospitals was placed on lockdown for security reasons so she was very confused. “I didn’t know if it was real or what. I was just lost and I could not get her or her boyfriend on the phone.”

When everything was sorted out, the worst of her fears had become a reality and was in stark contrast to the stories she had heard Vega tell so many times during their talks about her man.

“My best friend, my sister was dead,” Byars sobs.

Everyone wanted to talk with John Doe to see what had transpired, and to make sure he and the kids were safe. Doe was nowhere to be found, and a horrible rumor was spreading. His absence gave reason for Vega’s friends and family to believe that things were not as they seemed for the happy couple.

“When we were allowed inside her house, we saw brain and skull fragments on the floor and blood everywhere. She had been in the kitchen cooking dinner when it happened,” says Byars.

The story shared by a neighbor was that Doe knocked on their door in a panic asking for help.

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“He told them she had shot herself and needed to go to the hospital.” Doe then drug Ms. Vega’s limp body to the car they shared, grabbed a bag and fled, leaving the children behind.

He never answered phone calls. He never showed up to the hospital. He never returned to the residence.

“I was in disbelief. The rumor was that he shot her, and the scene indicated that it happened in front of two children. They had just had a 10-day-old baby that was in the neonatal unit at the same hospital holding her body. There’s no way he did this. They were so in love,” Byars recalls thinking with her eyes filling with tears. “It was unbelievable.”

After a week or so later, warrants were issued for Doe’s arrest. Another week later, on the day the family gathered to mourn her passing and celebrate her life, he was captured. Every person, no matter what they are arrested for, is presumed innocent until proven guilty and the case remains the same for John Doe. Besides, no one wanted to believe her death was at the hands of her boyfriend, the person she couldn’t even talk about tacos without mentioning. Her true love was looking more and more like her worse nightmare.

A few stories started going around about things bystanders had seen suggesting that life wasn’t right behind closed doors. People saw the signs while sitting in traffic; people heard banging around their house. Vega would become distant from her friends

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and family. Doe even stopped Byars at the door three days before the tragic event, promptly letting her know that, “She is sleeping. She’s very tired.”

“I really wish I had insisted on seeing her that day,” Byars recalls solemnly.

Crystal Vega’s family members noticed emergency room visits that did not quite add up. Injuries from falling down the stairs, dressers falling on her, running into walls and other incidents were a clear sign that maybe someone should have spoken up and investigated the well-being of the young mother of five. She even showed signs of abuse leading up to the birth of her last baby, an infant who was still in neonatal care at the time of the tragic events.

“We never heard about any of the horrible things until after she passed,” Byars says.

While this story had a fatal ending, how often do parts of other people’s stories of domestic violence line up perfectly with the story of Crystal Vega?

UNSURE “After the tragic event, a lot Crystal’s friends came to my house. A few of the ladies were shaken, and we talked about how the incident scared us. We talked about how it could have been us. They started to admit that they were going through similar struggles with their men. I was driven to do something about domestic violence, and to do something to honor my sister’s name. After thinking hard about it, I realized that the silence of her abuse is what

provided me the perfect name. I wanted to call the organization Lips UnChained,” says Byars. “It’s time for people to speak up and speak out against domestic violence.”

With October being Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Byars decided that this would be the perfect time to kick start her movement. She started by designing a T-shirt and then having it printed with a picture of Crystal Vega on the front along with a number to call a domestic violence hotline.

The shirt sales took off and people started asking questions.

“People started contacting me thanking me for taking a stand and trying to raise awareness. They also thanked me for giving people someone to talk to about a very scary and sensitive issue, problems in their lives and lessons learned from the abuse of others,” says Byars. “The T-shirts bring a lot of attention to what we hope to accomplish using the Lips UnChained platform.”

For obvious reasons, domestic violence is hard to detect because the crime isn’t reported. Victims don’t feel like they are victimized, so there is no witness to report the wrong doing. Murder, robberies and other deadly crimes are usually easier to detect and viewed less through taboo lenses by the witness.

Domestic violence occurs with women, children and men. Yes, men are victims of domestic violence also. Most victims won’t report domestic violence

for fear of being judged or being embarrassed, especially the men. Men are afraid they will be seen as weak, fragile or not manly.

“Men fear the judgment of people and fear looking like they are not masculine,” says Byars. “Because of this, many men live their lives being abused, and some even commit suicide due to feeling helpless; a feeling that they can never make their partner happy or love them properly.”

Domestic violence can happen in the most sober of homes, but many cases can be linked to substance abuse. While this is not the case for all domestic violence crimes, it is for the overwhelming majority.

Mind altering drugs can bring out an aggression in people, and when added with outside stressors, the substance becomes a spark in the powder keg.

Byars, through her experiences helping abused people and hearing from victims and survivors, advises that others learn their partner. “You should be able to identify what behaviors and what kind of personality you are sharing a space with,” she explains. “Tell-tale signs will be there and if it quacks like a duck, it is a duck.”

Don’t miss patterns and tendencies in people.

If things get violent, don’t forget the potential repercussions for a repeat performance.

UNAFRAID If a person wants to be freed from domestic violence immediately, the number on the back of the Lips UnChained shirts can have a rescue team to a victim and their children within minutes.

Their job is to get you out of your current location and to a new location, as well as help you gain employment and reconnect the pieces needed to start a new life.

“We can get them to a new city and get them going again. But they have to be sure it is what they want and that they are willing to follow through. If someone is not sure they are ready to let it all go, they create a dangerous situation when we try to help them. We hope the person is ready to go when they call,” says Byars.

Fear of a fresh start and new struggles is what stops some from reporting the violence or leaving the relationship. “It’s all a control thing,” says Byars.

“If he or she pays all of the bills, and by leaving all you will have is the shirt on your back, it is worth being away from the beatings.”

Another reason is shared children. Byars explains that some people stay in relationships because of the kids. Some have been told that they won’t ever see them again and that scares them. There are many angles concerning the level of control that places someone in fear of losing something they really love, so they remain on the leash of their abuser.

Balerie Byars started Lips UnChained in early October and she says that she has seen, heard and learned so much in the last few months. She wants

" I was driven to do something about domestic violence, and to do something to honor my sister’s name." to go further; she wants to help more people in abusive relationships. “I want a Lips UnChained shelter for battered people. I want Lips UnChained group meetings. I want Lips UnChained therapists and counselors. I mostly want people to do what the group’s name says and UNCHAIN your lips and speak up and speak out! UnChain those Lips for those who are going through it; UnChain those Lips and speak out against those people you know that are abusing someone. Unchain those Lips and speak out!”

In today’s society there are more instances of domestic abuse being highlighted in the media which

ABOVE Balerie Byars

has, in turn, started a meaningful conversation. More people are outraged and disgusted by the face of domestic violence, and rightfully so. With one in four women and one in seven men having experienced some type of domestic violence, it is likely that someone is suffering right under your nose. Speak up and speak out, UnChain your Lips!

24 Hour Crisis Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE

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PRIVATE DINING

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New Year,

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OPEN Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Saturday 10am - 4pm

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LaRue

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Land of Skill and Money: Q&A with Cindy Williams, CEO of Cartersville-Bartow Chamber

TEXT ASHLEE BAGNELL PHOTOGRAPHY JASON HUYNH AND CONTRIBUTED BY \ CARTERSVILLE-BARTOW CHAMBER

Part of growing local businesses and asking outside organizations to plant their roots in your city’s backyard is understanding their needs. A good leader can build a bridge between resources and the goals of those with an entrepreneurial spirit. That connection requires a bit of savvy and a lot of good oldfashioned Southern charm. Cindy Williams has plenty of both and she says that after talking with her town, the sky is the limit for Cartersville and Bartow County.

V3: Alright Cindy, can you tell our readers the role the Chamber of Commerce plays in Bartow County?

CW: The Carterville-Bartow Chamber plays a vital role in the economic development in Bartow. We exist to serve, promote and add value to businesses in our community. This comes in many shapes and forms and presents new and fun challenges all the time. We are a resource for local organizations, both public and private. We are developers of local talent and leadership, innovators in addressing community and business needs, and experts in serving existing businesses. If you were to ask a variety of our 815 members what value they derive from being a member, you would receive a variety of answers.

That’s because we are in the business of finding solutions for the organizations we serve and guiding our members through the oftentimes complicated course of starting and growing a thriving business.

V3: Can you walk us through some of your duties as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO)?

CW: As CEO of the Chamber, I have the privilege of working internally with a team of five other professionals to advance our organization. Additionally, I have the honor of working with a community full of bright and talented individuals. My typical day revolves around a lot of meetings. However, each of these meetings allows me to better understand the unique environment and talent we have in Bartow County and, in turn, create better strategies and solutions for a variety of issues. No two days are typically alike. However, it would not be unusual to find me doing things like brainstorming with teams on community-wide initiatives such as workforce development, poverty elimination, or transportation enhancements; meeting with a local business owner to discuss their individual needs and recommending a plan of action; or collaborating with my Chamber team to develop programs and services that meet the broader needs of our membership.

V3: What is the Chamber's biggest goal for 2019?

CW: Each year our Board of Directors convenes to discuss areas of opportunity for our organization and our community. This strategic planning session allows us to identify our organizational goals for the following year. I am extremely excited about the goals we have set for 2019. The top priority for our Chamber is to strengthen our business-to-education partnerships. Through multiple research avenues, both locally and regionally, we have learned that employers’ top concern for future growth is access to an educated workforce. Employer expectations include both hard skills, such as writing and computer programming, and soft skills like time management READV3.COM |

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“ It is a pleasure to work alongside local leadership that genuinely cares about the future of our community and business owners who understand that they are part of something bigger.” or communication skills. Thanks in large part to advanced technology, today’s workplace functions dramatically different than even five years ago.

This rapid change in business, more than ever, requires steadfast partnerships and open lines of communication between local businesses and local educational institutions. Our largest goal in 2019 is to lead the path toward further collaboration, strategic thought processes, and a better understanding of the two environments of business and education. The strengths of Bartow County’s current leadership give us a competitive advantage in this area. Additionally, the Chamber’s connectivity to both business and education positions us perfectly to create positive outcomes for the success of our students and employers.

V3: How can the community get involved?

CW: There are several ways local community can be involved in the Chamber. Let us talk first about local businesses and non-profit organizations. Joining the Chamber is step one. Being a member not only connects businesses to the largest and most successful group of business owners, but it also adds credibility and affords direct opportunities for marketing, continued education, leadership development and networking. Members often find that through their involvement in the Chamber, they are more informed about local happenings, better prepared to face business challenges and viewed by others as a more credible entity. And on top of all of that useful information, when the benefits are properly utilized, members are typically more successful in generating business revenue. Moving beyond businesses and non-profits, people of are often surprised to learn how much individuals, both residents and visitors, can engage with the Chamber as well. By following our social media or checking our website, the general 44

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public can learn about new businesses opening in our area, fun events and happenings throughout Bartow County, and even snag some hot deals provided by our members. Our staff is always happy to refer member businesses to those looking to find a local product or service, or even send a lead request to

member businesses to make price comparisons for services like hotel rooms, insurance or lawncare a breeze. One of our most frequently visited pages on our website is our member job postings which is another great resource for the public.

V3: Tell us your top two favorite things about Bartow County!

CW: My two favorite things about Bartow County are the people and the natural resources. Bartow County undoubtedly has some of the kindest and most generous people I have ever met. It is a pleasure to work alongside local leadership that genuinely cares about the future of our community and business owners who understand they are part of something bigger. The amount of philanthropic activity in the county is awe-inspiring and I have never been prouder to work in partnership with such wonderful people. Secondly, I love being outside and I am never at a loss for places and areas to enjoy the natural beauty of Bartow County. Some of my favorites are the grand views of Allatoona Lake, the hiking trails, and the numerous county and city managed parks.

From the hearts of its people to the scenery around every corner, Bartow County is a beautiful place.

FROM

A Audiology

Blood Pressure

F

G

Family Medicine

B

C

Cardiology

Gastroenterology

Health & Wellness

D

E

Dermatology

Ear Nose & Throat

I

J

Joint Care

Infusions

(we’re everywhere!)

K

L

M N Midwives

Nephrology

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

P

Pediatrics

Q

Quality Care

R

S

T

U

V

W X

Kidney Care

Ultrasounds

TO

Z

Lab

Reflux

Vascular Medicine

ZZZzzzzzz........

Women’s Health

O

Tennis Elbow

Surgery

Y

YOU

X-rays

We Care Completely harbinclinic.com/bartow

(rest easy with Harbin Clinic care) READV3.COM |

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ABOVE Melanie Burke Drummond and Dina Drawdy Cowan 46

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Second Time’s a

These two ladies have just the solution for families who are feeling the heat of being buried in stuff and love cold, hard cash.

TEXT OLIVER ROBBINS, JR. PHOTOGRAPHY ANDY CALVERT

As the seasons change, the urge to get rid of things we do not use grows strong. The garage is bursting at the seams with toys, tools and everything in between. Our closets are so full that hanging another garment would require the aid of Hercules and a smidgen of Vaseline.

Let’s face it, most of us are blessed beyond measure and we accumulate way more than we would ever need. It helps when we lessen the load and move out the things that are far

too short, a touch too tight or just products we don’t use anymore. Well, you should be happy to know that there are two ladies who have taken the baton from business owners of yesteryear, and made consignment an easy and family-fun affair.

Thank goodness for Dina Drawdy Cowan and Melanie Burke Drummond, owners of Twice is Nice. Twice is Nice is Rome’s oldest consignment business that was started over

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35 years ago by a group of friends who wanted to save a few bucks when shopping for their children.

Of course, we all know that kids grow like weeds, so buying something nice for them this week often means we get to watch it be pushed to the rear of the closet in only a few months. The first group of owners grew wise over the years, and decided to offer the gently-used items for a discounted price and keep their homes from becoming overcrowded with the clutter from raising tiny tots and teenagers.

“Karen Foss and I started Twice is Nice in 1983,” says Emily Barba, one of the original owners of the business. “We started with 25 of our personal friends.

Within three years our business tripled. We started with an investment of $25 each to pay for the flyers.

When we out grew my house at 515 Cooper Drive, I partnered with Jane Cunningham and we rented our first building. We sold the business in 1992.”

As the community grew, so did the fellowship they all shared during the times the sales were held.

Parents who were looking to save money when buying children’s items could find quality shopping at a fraction of the price, and the bonds naturally tightened as they continually made the event a must-attend several times a year.

“Before we bought Twice is Nice in 2004, from four well-known ladies in the community, we were young moms who were dedicated contributors and shoppers. It is really amazing to think that this business started in the back yard of two wonderful

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ladies,” Drummond says. “At that time we had a third partner for several years, Christi Cates, until she retired from the business.”

As with all things business related, the prior owners eventually looked to pass the baton. It should not be a surprise that the owners of Twice is Nice would start the search for their successors amongst their most loyal clients.

“Emily Barba and Jane Cunningham eventually sold the business to Angie Stegall, Robin Easterwood, Ellen Ryan and Debbie Galloway,” says Drummond,” and when they were ready to sell, they approached us because they knew we were interested in the consignment business.”

Both Cowan and Drummond have full-time careers, so balancing the demand of running the now massive sale is a task. Cowan is a Registered Nurse for Redmond Regional Medical Center and Drummond is a Speech Pathologist for the Floyd County Schools system. Both have roughly 26 years each invested in their jobs, but it does not take long at all to gather that they do not view their consignment business as work. They think of the time spent as tradition.

It also helps that these two ladies have been friends since the first grade.

“Twice is Nice has grown over the years and requires a large space,” Cowan explains. “Finding a location for the sale can be very challenging. We

Coosa Valley Home Health Care, an Amedisys company, is in the business of helping our patients maintain and improve their quality of life-at home. Home is the place where family, friends and familiar surroundings make patients feel most comfortable - and recover faster.

With more than two decades of experience in the health care industry, we understand the importance of delivering high-quality services to patients in their homes. Choose Coosa Valley for all your home care needs. have worked with several business owners, real estate agents, and friends in the community to make Twice is Nice happen each sale. Twice is Nice has contributors not only in Rome but all surrounding cities and states.”

And now, let us get to the hangers and racks of what this business is and how it all works. The sale site rotates depending on the availability of space.

The Kessler’s building in Downtown Rome, Rome’s now demolished Riverbend Mall, the old Battey Machinery building that now houses Unity Christian School and recently, one of the exhibit buildings at the Coosa Valley Fairgrounds have all served as sale locations for Rome’s oldest consignment mainstay.

With 300 to 500-plus contributors for each sale, the ladies need at least 10,000-25,000 square feet to pull it off.

“There are not many locations that can support the amount of space we need. We require heating and air conditioning, good lighting and plenty of space for parking,” Cowan explains. “We also try to make our space central and convenient for the surrounding counties who visit and contribute to our sale. We have reached the 600-contributor mark before, so it takes a really large space to organize everything properly and to make sure the shopping experience is enjoyable.”

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Those who wish to sell their gently-used children’s items are referred to as “contributors” by the pair of consigners. They communicate with their contributors and inform them about planning details.

The next step is for the contributors to name their desired selling price and then to drop the items off on designated drop off days.

There are two sales per year, one in the fall and one in the spring. From drop off to check/items pick-up, the entire event lasts for about a month.

Contributors and other partners in the sale are allowed several early shopping opportunities, with the contributors getting the first pick of the inventory. The idea is to allow those who make the sale possible the chance to benefit from the amazing deals and vast inventory found at the Twice is Nice sale.

From maternity clothing and stuffed animals to video games and playground equipment, nothing is turned away that is in good shape and is kid-centered.

Infant to junior are the sizes they prefer, but they

50 HomeLoan_KeyinHands_3Oct2018.indd V3 MAGAZINE JANUARY 2019 1 | READV3.COM

will take clothing for the healthy young lad in your family as well.

“Many of our contributors make enough money to buy their children’s clothes for the season,” Cowan explains. “It really is an excellent opportunity for families to make extra money and remove unwanted items from the household inventory. We offer 70 percent of the ticket price to our contributors.

Most consignments only give 60 percent to their contributors, so we feel like they are getting a good return on their items.”

Perhaps one of the most important and fulfilling parts of what the ladies share is the charity after the contributors have a chance to pick-up or donate their items.

“The last weekend of the sale the items go half price depending on the seller’s discretion. Items left after pick-up are donated to charity,” Drummond says. “We have donated to several charities around our community including Restoration Rome, Crisis

Pregnancy Center of Rome, Mountain Top Experience, Hospitality House, many foster homes, local schools and Children’s Home in Cedartown. Also, donations of shoes were given to Trinity United Methodist youth group to send to villages in Africa.

Not only do donations help children locally but in other parts of the world.”

For more information about Twice is Nice visit their website at www.twiceisnice.biz or search “Twice is Nice” on Facebook. Times and dates for the sales change based on the availability of space, so be sure to keep an eye on the website or Facebook.

10/2/18 4:34 PM

New Year, New Bling

Serving Our Community Since 1948

328 Broad St. Rome, Ga. 30161 • 706-291-7236 • GreenesJewelers.com

Studio Siri Studio Siri Where

Framing Art is Framing Art Where is

WISHING YOU A WONDERFUL 2019!

GIFT CARDS FOR FRAMING AVAILABLE

1205 DEAN AVE. ROME, GA | 706.409.3022 | WWW.STUDIOSIRI.COM

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Happy New Year from the Family and Staff of Henderson & Sons Funeral Homes and Rome Memorial Park

“Rome’s Locally Owned Funeral Homes” Barry R. Henderson

Joe Paul Henderson (1919-2008)

www.hendersonandsons.com 52

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Giving you time for the more important things in life

313 Clean is a full service residential, commercial & construction cleaning company.

Specializing in:

• biweekly, monthly cleanings • move in/out turn key cleanings • hoarding cases • renovation clean up & more.

We work with sellers, buyers, realtors, offices, property managers, commercial offices, contractors & more

706.463.5379

Find us on Facebook

Need Frames?

Classically Crafted

27 Central Plaza Rome, 30161

•

706-784-4509 • @OverTheMoonRome

706.584.7816 116 Broad St.,Rome, GA amanda@farrellsframeanddesign.com www.FarrellsFrameAndDesign.com READV3.COM |

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Ducks Unlimited Annual Dinner Event

The Only Sportsman’s Spectacular event of the season.

All outdoor enthusiasts welcome.

FUND CONSERVATION IMPORTANT TO GEORGIA

YOU’RE INVITED TO OUR NEXT EVENT Rome Ducks Unlimited Banquet Friday March 8th, 2019 The Forum | Rome, Georgia

Single tickets - $75 Single Sponsor Ticket - $300 Sponsor Table (seats 8) - $1,000 & up

COCKTAIL HOUR 6:00PM - 7:00PM

DINNER SERVED AT 7:00PM LIVE AUCTION AT 8:00PM

Space is limited, buy your tickets now!

Contact any Ducks Unlimited Volunteer | www.ducks.org | Facebook at Rome Ducks Unlimited Shawn Snow @ 706.346.1272, Kelli Snow @ 706.346.5783 or David Culp @ 706.346.0571

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The Dish bistro

MEDITERRANEAN

bistro

101 West 1st Street Rome, GA 30161

PH: 706-622-2977 moesoriginalbbq.com/rome Hours: Sun-Thu: 11am - 10pm Fri- Sat: 11am - 2am

Moe’s Original BBQ is a Southern soul food revival where great food is served in an atmosphere that is relaxed, spontaneous, yet civilized…. well, sometimes.

www.schroedersnewdeli.com

www.lascalaromega.com

www.thesteepteahouse.com

406 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

413 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

198 North Street Canton, GA, 30114

PH: 706-238-9000

PH: 770-213-8890

Hours: Mon - Sat: 6:00pm-10:00pm 400 Block Bar & Lounge: 4:00pm-1:30am

Hours: Tues - Fri: 11:00am-3:00pm

PH: 706-234-4613 Hours: Mon-Thur: 11:00am-9:00pm Fri-Sat: 11:00am-10:00pm Sun: 11:30am-3:00pm

Live music each weekend.

Schroeder’s menu includes sand-

La Scala offers both first-rate

wiches, calzones, soups, salads, potato

service and terrific Italian Cuisine in an

skins, nachos, wings, and more. And

upscale casual atmosphere.

We offer live music, heavy appetizers,

50% off cafe menu

tea infused cocktails, & beer and wine

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

on weekend nights in addition to our

don’t forget our pizza! It’s the best in town... and for a sweet treat, try our Cheesecake Calzone! (Draft and

regular menu.

Bottled Beers & Wine also offered)

Book Your Private Event with Us!

Famous for: Their Roast Beef Relief!

www.hardees.com

1204 Turner McCall Blvd • Rome, GA 30161 2300 Shorter Ave • Rome, GA 30165 3110 Cedartown Hwy • Rome, GA 30161 104 S Tennessee St • Cartersville, GA 30120

PH: 706.291.2021

Hours: Mon-Sat: 5:00am-10:00pm Sun: 6:00am-10:00pm

Buy one Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit at regular price and get another one FREE Offer good at 1204 Turner McCall Blvd only. Not valid with any other discounts. One coupon person per visit. Valid thru 9/1/18

Sat: 10:00am-3:00pm Sun-Mon: CLOSED Hours are extended: 9am - 9pm during First Friday Events

www.getjamwiched.com

510 Broad Street Rome, GA 30161

PH: 706-314-9544 Like us on FACEBOOK Mon: 11am-3pm, Tues-Sat: 8am-3pm

595 Riverside Parkway Rome, GA 30161

Call or Text Your Order to:

PH: 706-233-9960

Lunches: Wed/Thurs/Fri in Downtown Rome

PH: 706-237-8320.

Hours: Sun -Thu: 11:00am-9:00pm

Food Truck Friday: 11am-2:00pm @ 2nd Ave. & 2nd Street

Fuddruckers catering can help you

Friday Nights @ River Dog Outpost

Fri - Sat: 11:00am-10:00pm

feed just about any size group,

Saturday Late Nights on Broad Street

Jamwich - From breakfast bowls in the

anytime, anywhere. Our menu will

Delivery through Roman Food Delivery Check out our full weekly schedule & rotating menu at: eatspeakcheesey.com Contact us about booking, catering, and private events at : hillery@speakcheesey.com

morning to creative sandwiches at

please the most discerning tastes and

lunch and dank tacos for dinner, we

meet the high standards you require.

believe in serving fun, fresh and colorful

We know how to make your event

food crafted with quality ingredients for

spectacular with the WORLD’S

a one-of-a-kind flavor experience.

GREATEST CATERING.

M U LT I P L E T R U C K S. G O O D E AT S

Make it a meal worth remembering. Where to eat in Northwest Georgia.

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KNOW YOUR

C RE 4

Did you know that there are 4 numbers that can give you a snapshot of your overall health?

For proactive health management, men and women of all ages should see their primary care physician yearly for these routine evaluations:

Blood pressure

Blood sugar / glucose

Cholesterol and triglycerides

Healthy weight ranges

888.427.2461

harbinclinic.com/healthscreenings 56

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