After Midnight
The Gremlins are coming! RIFF kicks off its 21st edition with Gizmo and the gang.
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OCTOBER 2024
COLUMNS FEATURES
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Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. This month, Nero Romanski makes costume suggestions and unpacks the historical significance of Halloween.
Celebrating Renaissance Marquis staff members who have gone the Extra Mile in caring for their residents.
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When it comes to early breast cancer detection, a mammogram with The Breast Center, the Mobile Mammography Coach or with Harbin Clinic Imaging Cartersville can be invaluable.
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For over two decades, the Rome International Film Festival’s continued growth has made it a priority stop for the film industry.
From shopping to cocktails, The Cotton Warehouse promises to become the go-to venue for locals and visitors in Rome.
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.
Publisher's Note
There’s bite to the air and everything is covered in pumpkin spice...like it or not. Fall is here and I for one am all for cooler temperatures. I love a good hoodie and love saying farewell to mosquitoes even more. The days get shorter, but that’s all the more reason to
PUBLISHER
V3 Publications, LLC
CONTACT hello@v3collective.com
CREATOR Neal Howard
OWNER & CEO Ian Griffin
The Sizzling Smell of Sexy Bacon
Letters to the Emperor is a monthly humor column from the perspective of the self-proclaimed Emperor of Rome, GA. Nero Romansky, the unqualified, long-lost descendant of Julius Caesar, answers his letters from his less-than-loyal subjects. It’s like that feeling of intellectual disappointment when you go trick-or-treating, and your abundantly clever Halloween costume draws blank stares 261 houses in a row.
Goblins and ghosts, Skeletons and party hosts. Macabe and horror, Paw Patrol and Dora the Explorer. Nero’s a Halloween poet Don’t he know it?
First Question
DEAR NERO,
“Did the Ancient Romans celebrate Halloween?”
— Mackenzie “Mac Attack” McMillian | Coosa High School, Class of 2026
DEAR MMAMcM,
If by “Ancient Romans” you mean the spry elderly folks playing pickleball at the Spires, the answer is yes. Retirees have a full slate of age-modified spooky festivities planned by the party committee. Single-residence trick-or-treating, bobbing for dentures, and the Annual Pumpkin-Staring Contest are perennial favorites.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
MR. EMPEROR,
“Every year at Halloween, there is a rash of YouTube and TikTok videos of degenerate parents trying to go viral by pranking their children. A parent captures the reaction of unsuspecting kiddos after PRETENDING to eat all the Halloween candy. The meltdown videos are then exploited for likes and temporary popularity at the expense of their precious offspring. Do you find this behavior as unconscionable as I do?”
— Jeazeledean Bisquik | Concerned Mother
DEAR JEAZELEDEAN,
The Emperor agrees with you! Children’s reactions are WAY more authentic if Dad really eats all the candy first.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
DEAR BUMBLING NINNY,
“After reading last month’s historically inaccurate pedagogy about Pumpkin Spice, I’m hesitant to see you describe the origins of Halloween.”
— Dr. Humbert R. Tuffleson, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Ancient History at Georgia Highlands College
DOCTOR TUFFELSON,
You are in luck, professor! My governess recently led me in a tutoring session on the historical significance of autumnal pumpkin holidays, and I’ll recount what I remember.
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.
The word “Halloween” is a phonetic juxtaposition of the Latin root words “Hollow” and “Tween.” This onomatopoeia describes the buckets of chocolate-soaked anxiety every middle school kid feels before Trick-orTreating.
The holiday was originally a pagan religious ceremony dating back to 1280 BC. Townspeople would gather at nightfall and dress in special cloaks to ward away evil spirits and political spam text messages. It evolved into the modern consumer holiday in the 1880s after Dwight F. Hershey and David Q. RingPop tricked an unsuspecting group of kindergarten parents into giving away overpriced packaged candy.
Then, some other stuff happened that may have involved ghosts, swords, and inflation.
Me Vexat Pede, — Nero
EMPEROR NERO,
“My girlfriend and I are attending a Halloween party with a costume contest. I’m not a very creative person, and we don’t have a huge budget. Can you recommend some partner costume ideas? What are you dressing up as for Halloween?”
— Gregory DuChello | Once Saw Kirby Smart Pumping Gas at the Quick Trip in Cartersville
DEAR GREGORY,
You could try some traditional costume pairings:
• Ken & Barbie
• Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce
• Super Mario & Princess Peach
• Donald & Kamala
• BBQ Ribs & Cholesterol
• Harry Potter & Someone Who Hasn’t Read Any of the Books
• Peanut Butter & Epipens
• A Guy Named “Dave” & A Guy Who Isn’t Named “Dave”
But if there is one thing ole Nero loves about the moral collapse of modern society, it's how every costume now has a sexy version. Leave a few buttons undone, and wear a pair of skin-tight yoga leggings. Bam! Any attire in your closet instantly becomes a “costume” without costing you a denarius.
Some of my favorites:
• Sexy Nurses
• Sexy Maids
• Sexy Witches
• Sexy Police Officers
• Sexy Tennessee Volunteers Mascots
• Sexy FEMA Hurricane Aid Workers
• Sexy Collard Greens
• Sexy Donald & Kamala
• Sexy Etowah River Tubing Passengers
• Sexy Burger King Night Shift Assistant Managers
• Sexy Dominion Voting Machines
• Sexy Clocktowers
• Sexy Bacon
What is Nero dressing up as? Two words. Sexy Roman Holiday River Boat Party. And don’t forget to take pictures.
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.
LIGHTBULB MOMENTS
with Matthews Lighting & Electric
It’s a great time to be outside enjoying all the season has to offer, but with shorter days and longer nights, we need lights to make things right.
Matthews Lighting and Electric is equipped to help with all of those things and if you are looking to light your outdoor space, we’d love for you to give us a call, but most importantly we want you to be safe and sound during this wonderful season so here are a few tips we’d like to share.
Make sure to keep dry leaves away from outdoor lighting: Leaves and other dry brush are fuel for fire, so keeping things clean around your outdoor fixtures is important. Check your cords: If you are breaking out your electric blower to take care of those leaves make sure to check the cords for wear and tear. If they ever look torn or frayed it’s time to replace them.
Chutes and Ladders: If you decide to hop on a ladder, it’s important to understand that a ladder made out of aluminum is an electrical conductor. Make sure that nothing touches the power line supplying electricity to your home.
Secure your tools and cords: Extension cords and tools aren’t meant to be left in the elements. Animals and weather conditions can deteriorate these items and make them hazardous for future use. Wrap up your cords and store those and your power tools in a safe, secure and dry area.
Extra Mile Care
Where The Heart Is with Renaissance Marquis
The dedicated staff at Renaissance Marquis are known for the level of care given to their residents; the Extra Mile Award recognizes staff who have gone above and beyond in service.
Alyisha Staccato
Alyisha Beth Staccato was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and grew up in Jacksonville, Florida. She attended Southeast Whitfield High School in Dalton, Georgia. She has three siblings, one older sister, and two brothers.
Alyisha has three children, Emmaleigh who is 11 years old, Macie who is 9 years old and Liam who is 7 years old. They have a cat named Itty bitty. She has been a part of Team Rome for five months working in the Harbor. When asked whether she enjoys working at Renaissance, she answers, “Yes, I love the mission and watching the company serve our residents and treat them as family.” When asked if working in an aging community has changed her life, she shares, “Absolutely! After losing my dad to Alzheimer's Disease in 2013, I knew I wanted to work in Memory Care and help others live life to the fullest, making every day last. I am currently looking at enrolling in college to pursue my nursing degree.”
Her hobbies are spending time with her children, hiking, and sightseeing, and enjoys live music. Her favorite memories are of the births of her children. Pigeon Forge is her favorite vacation spot. Pink is her favorite color. Alyisha states, “My life’s passion is to live each day to the fullest. I try to always be positive and optimistic.” Her favorite quote is “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Fall is her favorite season. An interesting fact is she is double-jointed!
Wendy Johnson nominated Alyisha for the Extra Mile Award saying, “Alisha always pitches in and helps residents on activities such as Bingo. She always spends her own money to bring them refreshments for parties and even brought items for their Christmas stockings.” We are thankful Alyisha has a heart for our residents and is a part of Team Rome. Thank you, Alyisha, for going the Extra Mile!
Heather Carnes
Heather Carnes was born here in Rome and raised in Cedartown, Georgia. She attended West Georgia College. She is single and has fur babies – her dogs! She works primarily in our Housekeeping Department but is great to jump in and help as a Receptionist when needed. She has worked for Renaissance Marquis for approximately three years.
When asked if she enjoys working at Renaissance and how it has changed her life, she responds, “Yes, I love the residents and coworkers. I love spending time with the residents. It has made me thankful for good health and made me more knowledgeable of the needs of the elderly.”
Her hobbies include riding roller coasters, going to the beach, swimming, horseback riding, and spending time with her family and her dogs. She collects shoes and always has on something unique or bright! Her favorite memory is a family beach trip. She volunteers at Star Ranch Rescue, working with horses and dogs, and has helped with the animals when Star Ranch has come to Renaissance to visit. She is also involved in her church and does activities with the seniors. She shares her church family is important to her.
When asked what her passion is, she states, “My passion is to continue working with the company. I encourage others by always being positive and trying to help others stay positive by smiling. Another passion I have is to rescue dogs, I want to save them all!”
Heather was nominated by Cyndi Brannon, one of our Marketing Directors. Cyndi wrote, “Heather goes the extra mile very often. Recently we had a water leak in a resident’s room, and she immediately started moving the resident’s things to a vacant apartment. She took great care to make sure his space was set up, as it was in his damaged room, and that he was comfortable. She is always willing to help out in any department of our facility.”
Ben Gilbert
Ben Gilbert was born and raised in Rome, Georgia, but has also lived in Pensacola, Florida. He has an older sister and a younger brother. He graduated from Pepperell High School and is currently enrolled in Georgia Highland’s College.
Everyone here at Renaissance knows and loves Ben! He works in our Dietary Department, as well as the Activity Department, running the Coffee Shop and Ice Cream Shop. When asked if he enjoys working at Renaissance and if working in an aging community changed his life, he responds, “I do because working with the residents and coworkers is fun. It has made me realize how much I enjoy helping and making people happy. It’s always a pleasure to make people’s day better!”
Ben’s hobbies are soccer, football, shows, video games, card and board games. His favorite memories are a night out with his best friends. A family cruise is his favorite vacation. Cyan is his favorite color. His favorite candy is the holiday special Reese’s chocolate. He prefers DC rather than Marvel because his favorite superhero is Batman. Hoodies are his favorite thing to wear. Mexican is his favorite cuisine. Ben shares, “My passion in life is having fun and making sure everyone does. I encourage others by having them look forward to things.”
Ben was nominated by Mary Wilbanks, Dietary Director. She writes, “Ben is such a good worker. He knows the residents and what they like. He is always willing to help cover shifts for me. He will stay and help the dishwasher finish and take out the trash for her. It is refreshing to work with such a thoughtful young man.” Activity Director, Lori Lewis, also agrees Ben goes the extra mile, saying, “When Ben works in the Coffee Shop the residents don’t even have to ask for what type of creamers they would like, he has them all memorized! One day after Wheel of Fortune one of the residents made a comment saying she’d love to find someone to play Scrabble with. Ben stayed after he completed his shift and played Scrabble with this resident for two hours on his own time. He truly cares for our residents.” Thank you, Ben, for going the Extra Mile in everything you do!
Levi Dunaway
Levi was nominated for Going the Extra Mile by Britni Bagwell, whose grandfather, Danny Story, is a resident here. Britni stated, “My grandfather received a bookcase for his birthday that was not assembled. He did not have the tools to put it together. Levi took the time to put it together for him.” Other managers agree Levi is always willing to help with whatever is asked, including special transport for residents. He has a great attitude and is dependable.
Levi was born in Armuchee, Georgia, and grew up in Ball Ground, Georgia. He is single and a “Dog Dad” of an 8-year-old Scotts American Bulldog, Stella. She is very special to him, and he even has a tattoo representing her. He graduated from Pickens Mountain Education, a Charter School in Jasper, Georgia.
When asked if he enjoys working at Renaissance and if working in an aging community changed his life, he responds, “Yes, I enjoy my coworkers and hearing stories from our residents. I’ve always been an old soul, so I love interacting with our residents and hearing stories from the past. Our residents always make me feel appreciated, no matter how big or small my actions are.”
When he is not working, he takes care of his chicken farm. He loves to go to concerts. Some of his favorites were ZZ Top, Guns N’ Roses, and Joe Diffie. A fun fact about Levi is he has played pool with the Ying Yang Twins (musical entertainers) and won. He is an avid fisherman. He has a blueberry patch that he plans to extend over the next few years. He shares, “I come from a big family. I’m the youngest of seven, with five sisters and one brother, so my favorite memory is any time I can have my whole family together. I enjoy seeing others be the best version of themselves and am always willing to be present and have an open ear when needed.”
Levi has been a great addition to Team Rome, and we are glad to have him! Thank you, Levi, for going the Extra Mile!
OCTOBER26&27I10AM-5PM
INNOVATING BREAST CARE IN NORTHWEST GEORGIA
A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE IN FLOYD COUNTY
Sixteen years ago, Atrium Health Floyd pioneered a new approach to breast care for women with the visionary efforts of Harbin Clinic surgeon Dr. Paul Brock and Aimee Griffin, now the vice president for Professional Services at Atrium Health Floyd. Their dream was to create a seamless, efficient breast care experience, which led to the establishment of The Breast Center.
Dr. Brock and Griffin believed their dream could be a reality, but knew cooperation from radiologists, pathologists and medical staff would
be crucial. Dr. Brock played a key role as a physician advocate, ensuring the collaboration necessary to fulfill the promise of 24-hour turnaround results, now known as “Know in 24.”
“We designed The Breast Center to create a single point of entry for women to have mammograms, screening breast exams and diagnostic studies and within 24 hours be able to have the results of these studies to shorten the length of time they have from diagnosis to ultimate treatment options,” Dr. Brock said.
“Women, unfortunately in the past, have had to wait days, sometimes weeks for the information we got from their mammograms,” Dr. Brock said. “That delay is anxiety producing and is very difficult for patients. It has always been my goal to
try to reduce that as much as possible to the shortest time interval for the patient’s sake.”
Griffin led the development of The Breast Center at Floyd, assembling a team dedicated to creating a welcoming environment and fostering community engagement around education and empowerment.
"Establishing The Breast Center was not just a professional endeavor," Griffin said. "It was personally fulfilling. To know that we could impact the anxiety women feel following a mammogram, to know that we could reach women who otherwise might skip having an annual mammogram, to know that we would most definitely save lives, was so much bigger than establishing a new service line."
The Breast Center provides a range of services beyond screening and diagnostic mammograms, including onsite clinical breast exams by specially trained providers, risk assessments, genetic testing, biopsies and breast health education. Griffin emphasized that this comprehensive approach is essential for eliminating barriers to access and equipping the community with life-saving information.
The Breast Center at Floyd offers a comprehensive suite of diagnostic services:
• Clinical Breast Exam: Specially trained providers conduct a physical breast exam. Women as young as 20 are encouraged to receive a clinical breast exam every one to three years.
• Mammogram: This low-dose X-ray detects changes in the breast. Annual visits to The Breast Center include either a screening or diagnostic mammogram. Screening mammograms are for women with no breast disease symptoms, while
Aimee Griffin, vice president for Professional Services at Atrium Health Floyd and Harbin Clinic general surgeon Dr. Paul Brock
diagnostic mammograms are for those exhibiting symptoms, noticing changes in breast tissue or having a history of breast disease.
• Genius™ 3D Mammography: This technology provides detailed, layer-by-layer images of breast tissue, enhancing the detection of breast cancer, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
• Genetic Testing and Counseling: Women who meet specific criteria are advised to undergo genetic testing and counseling to determine if they carry the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation associated with breast cancer.
• Breast Ultrasound: High-energy sound waves are used to create a sonogram, offering additional information about any detected abnormalities.
• Breast MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended for further evaluation of abnormalities found during mammography and for early cancer detection, particularly in women at high risk or those with dense breast tissue.
Reflecting on their progress, Griffin said, "I am grateful that nearly two decades ago, we worked together with Harbin Clinic to impact the health of women and their families, and I am grateful that work has continued. The Breast Center mission of providing mammogram results within 24 business hours was only possible because of our cooperation. Now that we are one Advocate Health/Atrium Health team, I can only imagine what we can accomplish together in the next 20 years."
CARE BEYOND THE BREAST CENTER
Recognizing the need to make mammography services accessible in rural parts of northwest Georgia and northeast Alabama, Atrium Health Floyd simultaneously launched its Mobile Mammography Coach in 2008 with the opening of The Breast Center.
The Mobile Mammography Coach is equipped with advanced digital mammography technology and staffed by trained clinicians specializing in screening mammography. It provides a convenient option for those who need a mammogram but wish to minimize time away from work due to travel.
The experience is designed to be like a physician’s visit. The staff conducts mammograms and exams in a private, comfortable environment — so comfortable that patients may forget they are on a mobile unit.
A second mobile unit is planned for Atrium Health Floyd’s standalone emergency department in Chattooga County, enhancing access for women in rural communities. Atrium Health Floyd Cherokee Medical Center and Atrium Health Floyd Medical Center also offer screening, diagnostic mammograms and breast ultrasound.
For Bartow County residents, Harbin Clinic Imaging Cartersville offers its own advanced 3D mammograms for routine and diagnostic screenings. A quick and generally painless test, 3D mammograms take less than 20 minutes.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING MAMMOGRAPHY SCREENINGS
To receive a screening or mammogram at The Breast Center or mobile coach, patients can schedule an appointment on the Atrium Health Floyd website, call 706-509-6840 or have their provider send in a referral. To receive a mammogram at Harbin
Clinic Imaging Cartersville, patients need to have their provider send in a referral. On screening day, patients should wear a comfortable two-piece outfit so only removal of a top is required. Patients can eat and drink normally as these tests require no diet changes or fasting.
A TYPICAL MAMMOGRAM
Whether patients are coming for an annual screening or concerned about potential symptoms, mammography involves capturing images of the breast, sometimes from different angles. These images are then compiled to create a detailed picture of a patient’s breast tissue.
During these procedures, the breast is positioned and compressed, capturing images in a few seconds. This imaging process allows radiologists to examine the breast tissue in layers, making it easier to detect problematic areas.
3D mammography is particularly beneficial because it:
• Improves cancer detection rates.
• Reduces false positives and being called back for additional testing.
• Provides clearer images which is especially beneficial for individuals with dense breasts.
THE VALUE OF MAMMOGRAPHY
Mammography requires little time and discomfort when considering the power of early breast cancer detection. In many cases, identifying cancer at a very early stage means more effective and less invasive treatment, keeping breast cancer from being life-threatening.
Contact your health care provider to help schedule a mammogram with The Breast Center, the Mobile Mammography Coach or with Harbin Clinic Imaging Cartersville today.
Harbin Clinic Women’s Center Macie Goff, CNM with Imaging Cartersville’s 3D mammography unit
RIFF Turns 21
Still Riffing after all these years
Text: Seth Ingram
Photos: Andy Calvert & Courtesy of RIFF
The 21st Rome International Film Festival: A Spirited Celebration of Southern Cinema
Downtown Rome, Georgia, is about to explode with film, music, and all the wild-eyed revelry that comes with the Rome International Film Festival (RIFF). This year, the festival turns 21—old enough to legally drink, though it's been serving up cinematic libations and Southern grit long before the law caught up. No one said it, but you can bet they thought it: "The little festival that could, keeps chugging along." From October 31st to November 3rd, 2024, the sleepy riverside town will transform into a film mecca, where creativity flows as freely as moonshine, and the love of cinema bleeds through the streets like the end of a good horror flick.
But before we dive into the madness, let’s take a step back. The Rome International Film Festival is no ordinary film fest. It’s got that same Southern charm, slow drawl, and laid-back hospitality, but underneath it all lies the heart of a wolf that never stops striving for more. It could be Romulus or Remus, who knows? Founded in 2003, RIFF was a bold bet that a small Georgia town could host a festival worth noticing. Now, after two decades of uphill battles, it’s a contender, pulling in talent
from Hollywood to Bollywood and everywhere in between. It’s a celebration of Georgia-made films, the Southern Gothic spirit, and a healthy dose of mischief. It’s pure, unfiltered RIFF.
This year, they’re kicking things off with a Halloween soft opening. You heard that right—RIFF is jumping on the spooky train, and they're doing it with a vengeance. And why not? Film and horror go together like bacon and eggs. There’s a lot to love about a Halloween opening night — especially when it involves a 40-ish anniversary screening of Gremlins. Yes, Gremlins, that fever dream of ‘80s absurdity, will be back on the big screen to remind us that puppets can, in fact, wreak glorious havoc. Leading the charge is Zach Galligan, the actor who brought Billy to life and kept those little monsters in check (well, mostly). He’s sticking around for a Q&A afterward, so fans can grill him on everything from gizmo puppetry to the questions about what it was like to work with RIFF alumni Judge Reinhold in that bank scene.
It doesn’t stop there. The University of West Georgia and Georgia Highlands College are throwing a Halloween film race—a cinematic gladiatorial event for students who’ve drawn subgenres of horror and are forced to churn out a five-minute film in under a week. Their masterpieces will screen at the Rome City Auditorium at 6:15 p.m., a far cry from the usual collegiate film classes where deadlines can be pushed, and creativity flows lazily. No sir, this is the real deal. Five minutes, one week, and an audience eager for thrills, chills, and the next wave of student auteurs.
Later that night, RIFF turns up the Southern charm (with a side of terror) in an after-dark shorts block featuring Georgia-made films. This is where you see the deep-rooted talent of the state come alive, all under the shadow of the old brick and former cobblestone streets of old Rome, Georgia. Among the films is Honk, also starring Zach Galligan,
making him the unofficial king of RIFF Halloween. And for those who still have energy (or simply refuse to sleep), the night will cap with an after-party at The Vogue. The word on the street is it’ll be as raucous as it is refined, blending the festival’s indie spirit with Southern hospitality. Oh wait… did we mention a red carpet in your favorite Halloween costume!!
By Friday, November 1st, the festival shifts gears from Halloween frights to serious film culture. The morning is packed with industry panels and workshops where filmmakers, screenwriters, and the occasional wide-eyed dreamers talk shop and maybe—just maybe—find that elusive ticket to the next big project. The day rolls on with more screenings, but the main event is the “official” Opening Night Festivities. This year’s marquee feature is Bob Trevino Likes It, a festival darling that stars John Leguizamo, Barbie Ferreira, and the delightfully offbeat French Stewart. French Stewart
will be in the house for a Q&A, and if you’ve never experienced his brand of quirky, unfiltered wit, you’re in for a treat. The opener will set the tone for the festival—an unapologetic celebration of creative voices that zig where others zag.
Saturday, November 2nd, is all gas, no brakes. Four screening venues will run all day, offering up everything from hard-hitting documentaries to indie gems that’ll make you question why you haven’t quit your day job to pursue filmmaking (or at least watch better films). The Latin-focused film day is an exciting addition, pushing the boundaries of what Southern cinema can be and offering a global perspective right in the heart of Georgia.
But for many, the highlight will be the Georgia premiere of Bang Bang, starring none other than RIFF alumnus Tim Blake Nelson, a man whose Americana roots run as deep as RIFF’s. Acclaimed Director Vincent Grashaw will be on hand, too,
so you can pick their brains about the intricacies of making movies in today’s chaotic landscape. Spoiler alert: it’s not all glitz and glamor, but it sure is stunning when it hits right.
After the premiere, it’s time for the after-party, where the 88s—known for playing the theme song of the hit show Community—will light up Blossom Hill. Imagine this: indie filmmakers, Hollywood veterans, and Georgia’s finest all under the same night sky, the air thick with laughter, booze, and the electric hum of creative energy. It’s the kind of party that leaves you blurry-eyed but inspired, convinced that cinema is the only thing that really matters.
And just when you think you’ve hit the peak, Sunday arrives, bringing with it another packed day of screenings and events. One of the highlights will be Break Up Season, a Georgia-produced film that stars Chandler Riggs of The Walking Dead fame. Riggs is another Georgia native who’s making waves
beyond the zombie apocalypse, and his presence in this festival signals that Georgia isn’t just the land of peach farms and Southern charm—it’s a bona fide breeding ground for talent.
But the real heart of Sunday is the presentation of the Flannery O’Connor Award for Storytelling. This year’s recipient is Tim Blake Nelson, a man who’s no stranger to cinematic Southern Gothic tales. The award has become synonymous with RIFF and is a coveted prize for storytellers who embrace the rich, complex, often dark layers of Southern culture. Previous recipients include heavyweights like Billy Bob Thornton, Maya Hawke, and Ethan Hawke, with last year’s award presented by none other than the legendary Francis Ford Coppola. It’s an award with prestige, but also with heart—much like the festival itself.
And if you’ve somehow still got energy after all that, RIFF will close with a performance by the
Rome Music Collective, who’ll be performing the soundtrack to O Brother, Where Art Thou?. Fitting, right? After all, the film starred Tim Blake Nelson, and it’s only proper to close this wild weekend with a nod to a film that perfectly captures the festival’s ethos: a celebration of storytelling, of Southern roots, of art that stands the test of time.
So grab your passes, pack your bags, and prepare for one hell of a weekend in Rome, Georgia. The Rome International Film Festival promises to be another chapter in the gritty, glorious history of Southern cinema — and maybe even leave you with a little cinematic mischief in your own heart. For more details and tickets, head over to RIFFGA.com.
The Cotton Warehouse: A Historic Space Reimagined
A new era begins for The Cotton Warehouse as it welcomes retailers, restaurateurs, and fitness services into its historic walls.
In the heart of downtown Rome, where the charm of Broad Street meets the peaceful flow of the Etowah River, The Cotton Warehouse is poised for a stunning transformation. This 68,000-square-foot historic structure, originally built as a cotton warehouse before the 1900s, is being restored and reimagined into a dynamic, multi-use market. A project powered by the passion of its diligent real estate agent, Jimmy Kelley, and the Brooks Building Group, the revival of The Cotton Warehouse is bringing together food, retail, fitness, and more under one massive, approximately 68,000-square-foot roof.
“The building is being restored with a blend of its original charm and modern touches,” Kelley shared. “We’ve maintained the feel of the historic wooden beams and added tongue and groove deck roofs, while parts of the floors have been rebuilt with wood, and others with concrete.”
text CURRY TEEMS | photo KEITH BEAUCHAMP
As part of the redevelopment, The Cotton Warehouse already has two pending tenants, which will occupy the middle of the building. Kelley is seeking additional businesses to join, with hopes of attracting more restaurants, retailers, and even a microbrewery to complete the vision. “It’s going to look so good, it’s going to scare Rome, Georgia,” Kelley said, noting how the conceptual drawings by Brooks Building Group will drastically reshape the space’s front and interior.
One of the most striking aspects of the renovation is how the project honors the building’s history. Original features, such as the Toledo scale, once used to weigh cotton bales, remain embedded in the floor, adding character and a sense of heritage. “We’ve got the old cotton scale still in place, and we’re keeping it there as a piece of history,” Kelley explained. In addition, a faded mural reading ‘Georgia-Alabama Warehouse Bonded’ on the side of the building is being restored, reminding visitors of the building’s industrial roots.
In total, The Cotton Warehouse will feature a mix of tenants, creating a vibrant environment for shopping, dining, and more. Kelley likened the development to a smaller, single-story version of Atlanta’s Ponce City Market, combining diverse elements that will appeal to a wide range of people. “We want it to be a place where people can shop, eat, drink—just spend time here.”
The renovation also includes upgrades to the building’s exterior, with a new parking lot and the addition of glass-paneled walls in the rear to open up the space and let in natural light. “There’s a big open space at the back, with a little wooden hip wall behind it, and that whole wall will be glass. It’s going to look really nice,” Kelley said.
Looking back at the project’s progress, Kelley reflected on the warehouse’s condition when they first bought it nearly two years ago. “There were sections where the floors, ceilings— everything had collapsed and rotted. Now, it’s almost unrecognizable in the best way possible. People won’t believe how beautiful it’s become.”
With its historic charm and fresh modern appeal, The Cotton Warehouse is set to become a cornerstone of downtown Rome’s growth. As Kelley pointed out, the project doesn’t just aim to fill the building with businesses but to create a true community space.
For business owners looking for a unique and exciting location, now is the time to join The Cotton Warehouse’s growing roster of tenants. With its rich history, thoughtful restoration, and prime downtown location, this market is set to become a vibrant destination where Rome’s past and future meet.
For more information on leasing opportunities, contact Jimmy Kelley at jimmyk@hardyrealty. com.
