Floyd Felines and Friends recognizes that addressing the issue of overpopulation requires both compassion and action. Through their latest program, they hope to improve the lives of cats in the area— one spay and neuter at a time. Forward
and
Surrounded by natural splendor on the banks of Eagle Lake, the simple things in life are made even better at The Spires. With all the serenity of our 27,000 wooded acres yet all the vitality of our location at Berry College, it’s second nature to explore new opportunities and make genuine connections when you’re here.
This spectacular setting is brought to life by resort-style amenities, chef-prepared dining, friendly neighbors and a carefree lifestyle — plus the assurance of quality care available on-site if ever needed.
Come see our breathtaking lake and mountain views for yourself — call
or
FEBRUARY 2025
8
20
Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. This month, Emperor Nero swipes right on romance.
Join the Harbin Clinic in saying thank you to the doctors who care for the youngest hearts in northwest Georgia this month.
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Floyd Felines and Friends Launches (S) pay it Forward Program to Tackle Feline Overpopulation.
This month’s Hardy Home is one worth paying attention to if you are in the market for an estate that checks all the boxes.
Publisher's Note
“Cobra Kai never dies”
These words epitomized the ultimate bad guy to me growing up.
There were a few movies from my childhood that outlasted every VCR I or my family owned before DVDs made VHS tapes obsolete. Sorry for all the acronyms. Among those titles were the Star Wars and Indiana Jones trilogies, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Teen Wolf and Top Gun, but none got more play time than The Karate Kid.
Daniel LaRusso’s journey from misplaced Jersey boy getting his butt kicked by the ultimate group of California bullies (Johnny Lawrence and his Cobra Kai gang) to All-Valley Under 18 Tournament Champion, was a story I still watch on an annual basis. I’m a big fan of the Part 2 and while it doesn’t quite have all the magic of the first two, Part 3 is still one I enjoy from time to time.
It's campy, but the relationship between Daniel and his sensei, Mr. Miyagi is great storytelling with Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita selling it to perfection on screen. With streaming taking over the way we consume movies and TV shows, the need for content started a boom in nostalgic reboots or continuations of classic films and shows. Most of them fall far from hitting the mark of their predecessors, but some like Top Gun Maverick absolutely crush it.
OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin
Romance at the Push of a Button
Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. Nero Romansky, the unqualified descendant of Julius Caesar, answers his letters from his less-than-loyal subjects. It’s like texting the love of your life, but your phone only has emojis.
Love. Is there any four-letter word that is so meaningful to the mind and malodorous to the mandibles? Whatever your persuasion or situation, Nero has answers for you. Let us begin and swipe right on romance.
First Question.
EMPEROR NERO,
“I’ve struck out trying to meet people the old-fashioned way. What are the best dating apps? Have you used any yourself?” — Chelsea Shalopski | Model High School, Class of 2015
DEAR CHELSEA,
Nero’s favorite dating apps are Uber and Lyft because they bring potential romantic partners directly to my location—all
at the push of a button. Add wine, cheese, and flowers to your Instacart order if you want the ride-share date to ooze oodles and noodles of romance.
Choices abound, but Tinder, Hinge, Eharmony, and Match. com are the most popular dating apps. Do you have a specific type of partner that makes your heart flutter? Consult this quick guide on affinity-based dating applications. If you are into:
• Celebrities g Raya
• The elderly g Ourtime
• LGBT g Grindr
• The Bible g Christian Mingle
• Agriculture and overalls g Farmers Only
• Fried catfish g Plenty of Fish
• People who mumble but appreciate a good rhyme g Bumble
Mark Suroviec, M.Ed., is the Chief Ambassador of Fun at WorkPlay Solutions, the author of Forever Sisters, and the Vice President of the Children’s Museum of Rome. He hopes you pity laugh at his humor and satire stories, especially the ones that aren’t funny.
• Chubby half-naked archery enthusiasts who can fly g OkCupid
• Breakfast items you would find on a New York streetcorner g Coffee Meets Bagel
• Caged animals participating in the Winter Olympics g Zoosk
• Sexy Accountants g QuickBooks
• Sexy Roman Emperors g V3 Magazine*
DEAR EMPEROR,
“How do I trick a woman into falling in love with me?”
— Douglas DeBaguette | Unemployed, but won $20 on a scratch-off lottery ticket
DEAR DOUG,
If this article were written by anyone other than the divine ruler of the Enchanted Lands, we would stop to consider the ethics of your request. But since Emperor Nero has the mandate of heaven, let's plow onward with your query, easy peasy.
Step 1: Discover why you are single and address the concern. If the ladies call you a “boresome peasant,” then gain a regal new title like “The Grand Viceroy of Oostanaula River Valley.” If she says you “have a face for podcasting,” buy a brown paper bag and wear it over your head like a disgruntled Falcons fan.
Step 2: Lie
If eleven hundred romantic comedies have taught me anything, the more elaborate the lie, the more likely the woman will fall in love with you by the end of the story. Hallmark wouldn’t churn out these absurd films like antacid candy hearts if the principle were not sound. For example, tell your lady friend, “I played violin in the remake of Gladiator, but live in Armurchee to hide from fans,” or “I invented the quadruple IPA,” or “I’m a hairy tarantula in the bedroom.”
Step 3: When your lie doesn’t work, become rich. Then, she’ll convince herself you are attractive, interesting, and a skilled lover — for as long as the money lasts.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
DEAR NERO,
“I know I’m supposed to ask you a dating question, but I can’t help myself. Kendrick Lamar’s Superbowl concert was FIRE! Like a million aura points. My stepfather thinks it was the worst show ever. Who is right?”
— Destiny Green | Rome High School, Class of 2027
DEAR DESTINY,
The emperor is indifferent to the so-called “Super” Bowl. If no one is mauled by lions, Nero loses his attention quicker than you can quote the tagline in a Budweiser commercial.
Superbowl performances, like varieties of cheese, are all about preconceived expectations. Nero knows you pondered the political symbolism of the Squid Game costumes and choreography and relished Serena Williams's surprise appearance. Kendrick delivered the lyrical charcuterie board of gouda and brie you hoped for.
Your stepfather had no such expectation. He ordered a cheese pizza for the halftime show and found his familiar mozzarella replaced by hip-hop cottage cheese. Please don’t blame him for finding the weird blend of chunky and creamy inedible. Anyone who watches Matlock and CSI-Grand Rapids, MI, with the subtitles on will never appreciate the subtle details of a rap feud with Drake.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
DEAR MORE INSIGHTFUL THAN USUAL,
“I have to say I’m pleasantly surprised by your answer regarding the halftime show. I did not expect a man of your abysmal intelligence to unpack the metaphor of age-based tribalism recusant of the societal polarity …[remainder of the email deleted out of boredom]
— Dr. Humbert R. Tuffleson, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Ancient History at Georgia Highlands College
DEAR DR. SNOOZEFEST,
Even when you compliment me, it's still annoying. Remind me to bury you in a cave—or drown you in a spring.
Me Vexat Pede,
— Nero
NERO,
“Will U B my Valentine ?”
— Anonymous | XoXoXo
DEAR ANONYMOUS,
Sure thing, sweetheart. Give Nero a few minutes to order the Uber.
Me Vexat Pede,
— Nero
Disclaimer: Emperor Nero Romansky is a satirical character written and created by Mark Suroviec, M.Ed. All people and quotations are fictional, invented by the limited imagination of the author, and do not reflect the opinions of the author, editors, or V3 Magazine.
*Alice, you are my Valentine
Floyd Felines and Friends, a community-driven animal rescue organization, has recently introduced the (S)pay it Forward initiative, designed to reduce the cycle of overpopulation and help pet owners access affordable spay and neuter services. The program encourages local residents to purchase vouchers that can be used by cat owners who may be struggling to afford the costs associated with spaying or neutering their pets.
Through the (S)pay it Forward program, the organization is working to ensure that more cats receive the care they need to prevent unwanted litters, while also making it easier for the Rome community to contribute to this essential cause.
The Need for Spay and Neuter Services
The importance of spaying and neutering pets, particularly cats, cannot be overstated. Without these crucial procedures, the number of homeless and abandoned animals grows at an alarming rate.
Most cats reach sexual maturity at around five months old, and females will often go into their first heat cycle soon after. Once in heat, a female cat is ready to mate, which can lead to multiple pregnancies each year. Typically, a single cat can have up to four litters annually, with an average of five kittens per litter. The impact is exponential: a single unspayed cat can result in dozens of unwanted kittens by the end of the year, all of whom may find their way to animal shelters and animal control facilities.
The Cost of Ignoring the Problem
Many pet owners are unaware of the harsh realities faced by shelters when dealing with overpopulation. When an unspayed cat gives birth, it sets off a chain of events that are both costly and emotionally taxing for animal rescue organizations. Each kitten born into the world needs a safe place to live, food, medical care, and ultimately, a forever home. These expenses add up quickly.
A single spay surgery, which costs around $70, can put an end to the cycle of overpopulation for good. On the other hand, when an unspayed cat gives birth to a litter of kittens, the financial burden of rescue skyrockets. The cost to vaccinate, test, microchip, and house six kittens can reach upwards of $1,500. Furthermore, these kittens require months of care and attention, as they wait for their permanent homes. The volunteers who care for these animals work tirelessly, cleaning cages, providing supplies, and ensuring the health and safety of every kitten.
For a shelter like Floyd Felines and Friends, this process becomes a logistical nightmare. Rather than focusing on adopting out a single cat, the organization must now find homes for several animals, coordinate care for them, and cover the costs of supplies, medical treatments, and housing for the duration of their stay. While the goal is always to find every animal a loving home, the burden of overpopulation can be overwhelming.
How (S)pay it Forward Works
The (S)pay it Forward program is a simple yet effective solution to this ongoing problem. By purchasing a $70 voucher, community members can help reduce the cost of spay and neuter surgeries for pet owners who may not otherwise be able to afford them. This approach addresses the root cause of feline overpopulation and helps to keep the local cat population under control while minimizing the strain on local shelters. By making the process accessible and affordable, Floyd Felines and Friends hopes to encourage more pet owners to
take responsibility for their animals. Spaying and neutering are one-time fees that yield long-term benefits, not only in reducing the number of unwanted animals but also in improving the health and behavior of cats. Cats that are spayed or neutered are less likely to roam, fight, or develop certain health problems, leading to happier, healthier pets.
The Bigger Picture: The Community’s Role
The responsibility for reducing the stray cat population doesn’t fall solely on the shoulders of animal rescue organizations like Floyd Felines—it’s a collective effort that involves the entire community. The (S)pay it Forward program is an invitation to people from all walks of life to become part of the solution.
Every voucher purchased is a small step toward breaking the cycle of overpopulation. These small acts of kindness have a big impact on the lives of animals and their owners, allowing pet owners to make responsible choices for their cats without worrying about the financial burden.
Floyd Felines and Friends recognizes that addressing the issue of overpopulation requires both compassion and action. With the support of the public, the organization hopes to reduce the number of unwanted kittens and improve the lives of cats in the area—one spay and neuter at a time.
Floyd Felines would also like to express their appreciation for PAWS for their partnership in this initiative. By allowing their parking lot to be used as a safe dropoff and pick-up location for spay and neuter services, they help to make the (S)pay it Forward program possible.
For more information, email SpayFloydFelines@ gmail.com or scan the QR Code
Unveils Stratagem
This captivating evening will not only showcase the artistry of the renowned company but also feature Isaac Brackett, a shining star hailing from Rome itself, among its gifted ensemble. The troupe will bring to life Stratagem, a riveting ballet inspired by C.S. Lewis’s timeless masterpiece, The Screwtape Letters. This stop in Rome is part of a sweeping tour spanning Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida, and New Jersey, before the company crosses continents to Kosovo and the Czech Republic later this spring.
Isaac Brackett’s story is interwoven with the very fabric of Rome’s vibrant arts scene. His journey began on this very stage at the tender age of four, performing in a Shorter College production directed by Sam Baltzer. Since those early days, Isaac has danced his way through illustrious stages with Rome Little Theatre, the Rome Shakespeare Festival, and Ballet Concerto of Fort Worth, Texas. Beyond performance, his artistic footprint extends to choreography for musicals in Rome and Cedartown, and teaching hip hop, tap, and musical theatre at The Dance Centre and Baird Ballet.
Recognized for his talent early on, Isaac was selected for the prestigious Governor’s Honors Program in dance during high school. But the call of destiny led him to join Ballet Magnificat! as a trainee during the pandemic—an audacious leap that catapulted him into the professional realm. Since then, his dance odyssey has spanned the globe, from The Prodigal tour across the U.S., Zambia, and Uganda, to a performance in Rome two years prior. His journey continued with The Scarlet Cord, a tour that carried him from American stages to the heart of Japan.
This season, Ballet Magnificat! unveils Stratagem, a mesmerizing two-act ballet choreographed by Tara Thibodeaux Drew. Tara, daughter of the company’s visionary founder Kathy Thibodeaux and Keith Thibodeaux—whom audiences fondly remember as Little Ricky from I Love Lucy— infuses the performance with rich legacy and innovative flair. Stratagem is a stunning exploration of spiritual warfare, vividly portraying the cosmic clash between malevolent forces and celestial guardians. With its eclectic mix of angelic protectors, flawed human souls, and mischievous,
whimsical demons, the ballet invites audiences into a dance of temptation, struggle, and ultimate redemption.
The narrative unfolds as Professor Dreadsworth unleashes his most nefarious apprentices to ensnare dancers grappling with the shadows of Vanity, Greed, and Condemnation. The stakes rise as Guilt, Shame, Depression, and Condemnation weave their oppressive spell in a battle for the human soul. But amidst the darkness, glimmers of hope and resilience pierce through. Set to dynamic, contemporary choreography, the performance is a whirlwind of athleticism and emotion. With quirky costumes and electrifying special effects, Stratagem evokes the playful eeriness of Beetlejuice and the gothic charm of The Addams Family Musical.
After the curtain falls, the performers will step off the stage to engage with the audience, offering words of encouragement, inspiration, and, when hearts are open, moments of prayer.
This one-night-only spectacle begins at 6:30 PM on Sunday, March 9, marking Ballet Magnificat!’s final bow in Georgia this season. Secure your tickets in advance at North Broad Animal Clinic, The Dance Centre, and Baird Ballet. Discounted rates are available for seniors, students, and groups at ShowSavvyProductions.com or by searching “Stratagem” on Eventbrite.com. Tickets will also be sold at the door for $25.
Do not miss this transcendent evening of dance and storytelling. For tickets, scan or click the QR code below:
Sunday, March 9
6:30 - 9:30pm
Doors at 6pm
Rome City Auditorium 601
TINY HEART, BIG DREAMS: JOEL’S EARP JOURNEY TO HEART HEALTH
When first meeting Joel Earp, it is hard to believe he had a heart condition that required specialized care from Harbin Clinic’s Pediatric Cardiology team. Now a master of outdoor survival skills and a lover of Minecraft, 8-year-old Joel was born with a hole in his heart. Only a few hours after birth, an echocardiogram was ordered to get a good read on what was happening with his little heart. It was discovered that he had a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD), which allowed oxygen-rich blood to flow from the left ventricle into the right ventricle, instead of flowing into the aorta and out to the body.
With what felt like mounting, medical concerns weighing on Joel’s parents, Thelma and Harrison Earp were comforted by the arrival of pediatric cardiologist, Dr. Joshua Donner. In
an interview about her experience, Thelma described how Dr. Donner’s hospital visit put them at ease. When he arrived, he grabbed a piece of paper and started drawing an anatomical heart for them.
“This is where the hole is in Joel’s heart,” he said. “It should close up within a year. We will continue to monitor him, and we are right here in Rome. We will walk through this together.”
“He was right,” Thelma said. “The first year of a baby’s life is full of doctor appointments. While I was trying to handle multiple children and multiple appointments, it was incredibly helpful that the Harbin Clinic Pediatric Cardiology office was so convenient and such a warm environment to visit.”
Thelma went on to share how Dr. Donner and Dr. Henaro Sabino, Harbin Clinic pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist, went out of their way to comfort Joel’s older sister during her brother’s doctor visits.
“They spoke on her level and made her feel like she was a part of the team,” said Thelma. She also talked about how easily they communicated with her children’s pediatrician, Dr. Robersteen Howard of Harbin Clinic Pediatrics Rome.
“There was excellent reporting between the two departments. I did not have to try to remember and relay medical information,” said Thelma. “Joel was known across the system, and with so much on my mind, this was an added comfort. When Harbin Clinic reached out to me about National Heart Health Month, I jumped at the chance to tell his story. The pediatric cardiology team in Rome cares for more than the heart of your child, they care for the whole person and frankly, the whole family.”
The CDC estimates that every 15 minutes a baby is born in the U.S. with a heart defect. Having access to a specialized pediatric cardiologist in northwest Georgia ensures timely and effective care for children in need. Get to know Dr. Joshua Donner and Dr. Henaro Sabino and the compassionate care they give to children (birth to age 21) who have disorders of the heart, arteries, veins and lymphatic vessels (vascular diseases). Join the Earp Family and Harbin Clinic in saying thank you to the doctors who care for the youngest hearts in northwest Georgia this month.
To learn more about Dr. Donner and the Harbin Clinic cardiology team, visit www.harbinclinic.com.
JRiverfront Oasis
This stunning 10-plus acre property is waiting for a new owner. Families looking for a new place to put down roots will surely be at home amongst the mature forest, and Hardy Realty will be happy to show you how to make this modern craftsman home a dream come true.
ust beyond the city limits of Rome, Ga., is a dream home waiting for a family with elegance and nature in mind. Hardy Realty has a new listing at 2938 Old Dalton Rd. in Rome, Ga., that is a headturning secluded retreat.
Immaculate is an understatement for potential buyers who are searching for a turn-key property. Hidden on just over 10 acres is this modern, craftsman-style home outfitted with all the amenities necessary for entertaining or taking in the sights and sounds of nature’s relaxing call to rest.
The 5,726-square-foot floor plan includes five bedrooms, four full bathrooms, and a single half-bathroom, all under one roof. Built in 2005, this Hardy Home has been beautifully updated with high-end finishes behind the wood and stone façade greeting guests.
text OLIVER ROBBINS, JR. | photo KEITH BEAUCHAMP
The grand entryway welcomes visitors with an elegant foyer floor that mirrors the light allowed in by the double front doors. The two-story main living area is also flooded with light from large picture windows that feature the manicured grounds of the backyard, and the design is complimented by the warm refinish of the hardwood floors.
For the home cook in the family, the kitchen is equipped with chef-inspired touches. A large center island is perfect for guests who enjoy watching a dish come to life while enjoying a glass of wine. In addition to all of the perfect design elements added to this 21st-century culinary workspace, there is also a walk-in pantry where items can hide away until they are needed for your next dinner party.
Just off the kitchen is the place where a family can share time reading, playing a board game, or streaming their favorite rom-com in a more intimate living room. Continued are the views of the outdoors, making nature a welcome guest at all gatherings.
All bedrooms have been reimagined for the modern family in need of private time to study or unwind. The master suite is flawless, offering a stunning master bath that beckons owners for a relaxing soak in the tub or a refreshing rinse under the rainfall shower head.
The main floor features continue with a second bedroom and an ensuite. An office, formal dining room, and laundry area are conveniently placed in the layout to provide a living space that flows and works well with the design of the home.
Three bedrooms, a wine bar, the home gym, and a bonus room live on the second floor of this estate. The options to spread out for peaceful moments are abundant, with the thoughtful touches brought to life in the design.
If outdoor living checks one of your boxes, then this home’s backyard playground is impressive. The well-maintained landscaping wraps a pool, outdoor kitchen, and spa, and the firepit area is perfect for fall evenings under the bright colors of mature hardwoods that surround the property.
Homes like this are hard to come by. The next family who takes the keys will be lucky to share this space with their loved ones and make lasting memories on the bank of the Oostanaula River. So, don’t miss your opportunity to own one of Rome and Floyd County’s premier properties. If you can find heaven at home, there is little need for a vacation.
