experience the cultural tapestry of northwest georgia

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arts · entertainment · DestinatiOns · DininG

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103 John Maddox Drive / Rome, GA / 706.235.7711 / 888.969.3376 / www.nwgadermatology.com

Jason Smith, MD

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enjoy! magazine is produced and designed by

Advertising Dynamics, Inc.P.O.Box 1345 Rome, Georgia 30162 706.290.0202 · www.adigeorgia.com

2 Welcome

4 History Close to Home: Oak Hill and The

Martha Berry Museum

6 Winning Ways

11 Treat Your Senses: Chiaha Harvest Fair

12 A Southern Wordsmith

15 J. Jacobs

16 On Many Different Notes

18 Rome Area History Museum: Opening New Doors & Rising to New Heights 20 Dining Experience

23 Calendar of Events

27 The Bluffs: So Close, Yet So Far Away

30 Testing the Limits An Interview with Courtney Hizer

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w e l c o m eTo Our Readers, That little exclamation point in our name Enjoy!, serves a particular purpose.

As we explore the joy and excitement jam-packed within the four county areas, we can’t help but exclaim! We hope you share the sentiment, too. We celebrate our beautiful northwest Georgia and the events and happenings that continue to interest and impress us. We acknowledge the gifted and vivacious people for their undertakings and devotion in helping to make things happen that are exciting and new.

Maybe it’s just us, but we think a sizeable number of our readers will exclaim over the exquisite beauty and simple elegance to be found in Miss Martha’s dining room. Of course, her beautiful and exceedingly well-preserved home has been featured in hundreds of publications, not to mention the stardom received by the comedy film, Sweet Home Alabama. Nevertheless, we were captivated by a singular moment in the house recently, just when outside lightening illuminated the quiet elegance of the dining room. It was Oak Hill at its best. It ‘spoke’ Martha Berry. One felt the expectation of important company coming. Knowing that her dinner parties with a president, foreign ambassadors, prime ministers and manufacturing gurus would shape the course of our history, it spoke quite well! The ambience is literally fit for a king or queen, and it’s all yours to cherish.

We hope you’ll applaud ‘the little elevator that could’ and take a fresh look at history offered at the Rome Area History Museum, indeed rising to new heights...or maybe you’ll like getting to know a woman who believes that joy indeed comes from giving back to her community, and she does so again and again...and, you might not ever feel the thrill of flying low at 254.1 miles an hour, but you’ll learn that planning and determination can be personally rewarding, and even bring home a championship.

If you think Shorter College football is engaging, we remind you that your love affair with Shorter began with the arts, which continues to lure the brightest and most talented. Then consider Floyd’s next-door neighbor, Bartow. Cartersville, Georgia, is on fire with surprising interest in western art at the Booth Museum – along side Tellus to sky-rocket our imagery, taking us to the stars.

How could we not exclaim the wealth of enthusiastic, altruistic people who happily live among us? With generosity and purpose, they have intertwined us, and the tapestry of our culture is deeper and richer for it!

BariatricsBehavioral HealthBreast Care & DiagnosticsCardiac CatheterizationCardiologyChemical Dependency ServicesCritical CareDiabetes CareDiagnostic RadiologyEmergency CareFamily Medicine Residency CenterGynecologyHospiceHospitalist CareImaging ServicesInternal MedicineLaboratory ServicesLevel II Neonatal Intensive Care UnitLevel II Trauma CareMaternity ServicesMobile MammographyNeurosciencesOccupational HealthOncologyOrthopedicsPediatricsPrimary CareRehabilitation ServicesSleep Disorders CenterSports MedicineSurgical ServicesUrgent CareWound Care & Hyperbarics

At Floyd, people are at the center of everything we do. We are committed to our patients, our co-workers and our community, and we are committed to exceeding your expectations.

Despite a troublesome economy, most Americans are not letting it interfere with vacation and travel plans. More and more individuals and families, however, are focusing at least some of their leisure time toward historical and cultural adventures, which can often be found in their own communities. While Rome’s Berry College is known for its challenging academic program, innovative student work program and expansive campus, Historic Berry offers an on-going program of cultural and recreational opportunities that appeal to a variety of interests.

The heart of Historic Berry lies on the eastern side of bustling U.S. Highway 27 (Martha Berry Highway) across from the college campus. In a setting of sweeping lawns and graceful structures is founder Martha Berry’s home, Oak Hill, along with its grounds and gardens; the Martha Berry Museum; and the Oak Hill Gift Shop.

Oak Hill was built before the Civil War. “It was a farmhouse-style structure that was converted by the Berry family into a Greek Revival mansion in the 1880s,” says communications and marketing coordinator Patrice Shannon, “and it became the lifelong home of Martha Berry.”

Today, guided tours which are led by Berry College students, take visitors through the house, carriage house and grounds. On the grounds, a popular stop is Aunt Martha’s Cabin. “Aunt” Martha Freeman was a former slave, a cook for the Berry family, and for many years a highly valued friend and trusted advisor to Martha Berry. It’s a setting even Hollywood cannot reproduce. Oak Hill was the filming location for the 2000 movie Sweet Home Alabama. Special “Behind the Ropes” tours of the house are offered twice a year for a glimpse into rooms and areas not normally open to the public. “It’s a chance to see the house in a different, more personal way,” Shannon says.

The Oak Hill gardens – a formal garden, a sundial garden, a flower garden with 23 different varieties of flowers, a goldfish garden and a sunken garden – are one of only three All-America Selection Gardens in Georgia. “There are also nature trails which run down to the Oostanaula River,” Shannon adds. The trails stretch over some 170 acres of the property.

The history of the Berry family and the institutions which were the forerunners of today’s Berry College are highlighted at the

history close to home...oak hill &the martha berry museum

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To be added to Historic Berry’s newsletter mailing list, call 706.368.6775 or email pclonts@berry.edu.

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Martha Berry Museum, a short walk from the house. The second floor houses the art collection of Miss Berry’s sister, Eugenia, who married the Italian prince Enrico Ruspoli and includes paintings by both Italian and American artists. The Oak Hill Gift Shop, an historic structure which was once a gatehouse to the property, is stocked with Berry-related merchandise including gardening items and gifts, children’s items, handicraft items and paintings.

It is, however, Oak Hill’s growing calendar of year-round special events and programs that keep visitors coming back. “Since 2007, we’ve been hosting Movies on the Meadow, an outdoor series of classic films on the second Friday evening of June, July and August,” Shannon says. Indeed, there are few more beautiful locations in northwest Georgia than the verdant meadow that slopes gently away from the Oak Hill lawn to enjoy Hollywood favorites under the summer stars. “These are films that are suitable for everyone,” Shannon adds, “from nine-year-olds to ninety-year-olds.” While it’s not official yet, Shannon hints that the 2010 series may be Alfred Hitchcock-themed. “We’ve gotten many requests for it,” she says. The Rome Symphony Orchestra also performs an annual summer jazz concert on the meadow in August.

During the summer and early fall months, bicycle tours have as their itinerary major (and historic) buildings on the main campus such as the Berry chapels, the Ford buildings and Roosevelt Cabin (currently undergoing restoration). As a slight chill begins to fill the air, it’s time for Haunted History Tours the last two weekends of October. From Oak Hill to the college chapels to Possum Trot, the 1850s church on the college’s Mountain Campus where Martha Berry began teaching Southern Highland children in 1900, ghostly myths and legends of these Southern Highlanders are explored. In keeping with the holiday season, Oak Hill hosts its annual celebration of Candles and Carols in December, which

celebrates the Christmas traditions of Berry College throughout the years.

Oak Hill and the museum host many temporary exhibits. Currently, visitors may explore “A Rich Tapestry: The History of Handicrafts at Berry.” In her desire to preserve the traditional crafts of the Southern Highlanders, Martha Berry made arts such as weaving, sewing and basket-making an integral part of her Mount Berry School for Girls, established in 1910. Late winter and early spring workshops in 2010 will have a handicrafts focus. “We will have sewing workshops for children as well as for adults,” Shannon says.

In April 2010, Historic Berry will be celebrating a new event, the Azalea Festival, with concerts, garden shows, art displays and show-casing products from Berry’s student-run beef and dairy industries. “We want to take advantage of the beauty that bursts into bloom at this time of year with the azaleas, tulips and cherry trees,” Shan-non observes. “It’s an event that will hearken back to traditional May Day-type festivities.” A series of spring and summer gardening workshops introduce amateur gardeners to the delights of tilling the soil. In addition, in 2009, garden-themed walks were also added.

Oak Hill’s first Mother’s Day Tea, a light afternoon tea, was also an inaugural event in 2009. A year-round free public lecture series in the museum’s auditorium focuses on history, literature, art and gardening.

“Most of our visitors are not Berry alumni,” Shannon says. “But, that’s what makes it so wonderful. We’re able to share with others the incredible story of Martha Berry and the unique Berry mission of educating the head, the heart and the hands. All of these events and programs are opportunities to enjoy beauty and nature – and to learn – something Martha Berry would definitely approve.”

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Winning WaysGlenda Almand, Floyd Medical Center 2009 Samaritan of the Year

It is a win-win if you find that special something that both satisfies your craving

for doing something you consider worthwhile, yet

fills a community need. Such is the pleasure that

keeps Glenda Almand busy and happy volunteering at

Floyd Medical Center.

Glenda is no stranger to many of those she sees while on volunteer duty. A native Roman, she attended the “old” Rome High. She graduated from Mercer in 1961 with a major in English. She worked in a Dean’s office at Emory University, and attended graduate school at Georgia before settling back in her home town of Rome in 1963 to teach.

She was a popular high school teacher and counselor at East Rome High School, counselor at Coosa High School before going on to Coosa Valley Tech High until she retired in 1997. A generation has grown up since her teaching career began, and she sees many of the students and their families she taught and counseled come through Floyd Medical Center. “It’s good to see so many people you know and can help in some way,” she says.

She has been a Sunday school teacher for 30 years, accompanied her Church on mission trips and home ministries and provided her musical talents with choir and piano. She has worked in

Arts in Medicine: This is a relatively new and very exciting field of vol-unteerism, attractive to people with a talent for music, painting, writing or other expressive arts. Especially are those with an outgoing personality invited to join the team that explores healing benefits of artistic expression. Working one-on-one or with groups of patients, Arts in Medicine volunteers quickly build relationships with pa-tients and encourage them to express their feelings about their hospitalization through art. As this program devel-ops and expands, the volunteers tell Floyd that their lives are greatly enriched as they share talents and know-how with patients who are strengthened by a pursuit of artistic challenges. Uniquely, this field of volunteerism is open to all age groups, and Floyd offers guidance on how to develop special skills of working with patients.

Rehabilitation Volunteers: They help assist patients to practice tasks of daily liv-ing in preparation for their return home.

First Steps: Provide support for new mothers and services for families of newborns, helping get their babies off to a healthy start in the first three months of their lives. This program helps parents and their infants get to know each other.

American Red Cross: These friendly individuals serve as greeters that man the front desk, provide information to guests, answer telephone inquiries, help deliver cards, flowers and balloons to patients. These people are first members of the American Red Cross.

(Continued on page 8)

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her community with Habitat for Humanity and Heroes Great and Small. She is a member of the Georgia School of Retired Educators, Delta Kappa Gamma and Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce Leadership Rome class, VIII.

The retired high school counselor found her niche serving as a Floyd volunteer with a variety of duties. She has happily served in The Breast Center since its opening in 2008, and although she thoroughly enjoys working at the Outpatient Surgery desk, you can often find her in the Auxiliary Gift Shop on weekends. The breast cancer survivor has amassed some 1,500 hours of volunteerism, yet still finds time for her husband, Avery, her three grown children and three grandchildren.

Glenda says that for her, the real joy in life is giving back to others and her community. “You don’t have to have a special talent to do good things – everyone has something to offer – you just need to tap into it.”

volunteeropportunitiesat floyd medical center

Coosa Valley Technical College & Northwestern Technical College

have joined forces to become

Georgia Northwestern Technical College,

the largest college in Northwest Georgia.

www.gntc.edu

Georgia Northwestern Technical College is a Unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and an Equal Opportunity Institute.

The Tradition of Excellence in Workforce Education Continues

(Floyd Volunteer Opportunities continued from page 7)

Support Services: Encompasses all volunteers who are not part of a specific volunteer program, with responsibilities that vary widely through Floyd and serve in all departments. Small rehab tasks such as hairdressing, facilitating for games, walkers for exercise. It may provide clerical help in the ER reg-istration or any department with a need for non-medical tasks. Escorts are needed throughout the hospital and the 330 Physicians Center. Doctors may request research assis-tance. The library cart, pet therapy, and The Breast Center volunteers come from this group. College students looking for experience come into this group.

In the pursuit of wellness beyond expectations, volunteers give of themselves, and receive in return – deeply meaningful personal benefits. It is a win-win for everybody.

An organization as large and as diverse as Floyd Medical Center offers a wide menu of volunteer possibilities for all ages. If you would like to explore the possibilities, contact Amy Astin, Floyd Director of Volunteer Services, at 706- 509-5109. Go to www.floyd.org for a more complete picture of Floyd – one of Georgia’s top hospitals.

Saturday, September 26, 200910am - 6pmMusic by “The Jazz Merchants”

For directions: www.thebluffsofweiss.comRaindate, Sunday, September 27Second raindate (if needed) Saturday, October 10

you’reinvited to...

G e o r g i a Pow e r

Proudly Supports the Arts in Northwest Georgia

you’reinvited to...

www.chiaha.org

125 Juried Artist and Craftsmen Live Musical Entertainment Every Hour for Two Days Community Exhibits and Information Booths 15 Southern Cookin’ Food Booths Children’s Fun Art & Activities FREE Hot Apple Cider

Saturday & Sunday, October 24th and 25th

Days: Saturday & Sunday Hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm both days Admission: $5 Adults, $1 Children

45th Annual Fair • Rome’s Premier Arts & Entertainment Festival

Two Days LIVE ENTERTAINMENTSCHEDULE: Saturday, October 2510:15 - Russell McClanahan & Moon Crew10:45 - David Elliott11:45 - Calvin Snow 12:30 - Bryan Bowers1:15 - Rome Little Theatre - Scenes from “Steel Magnolias”2:00 - Little Country Giants3:00 - Kelley & Marcie Lane4:00 - Faye Pierce Band

Sunday, October 2610:30 - Steve Vasil12:00 - Craig & Steve12:45 - Bryan Bowers1:30 - Naked Blue2:15 - Jennifer Daniels3:00 - Thunderbolt Patterson4:00 - Laura Monk & High Cotton 2 0 0 9 S P O N S O R S :

2009 Community Purchase Awards

EnjoyChiaha.2009.indd 1 8/14/09 8:34 AM

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Over 120 artists and craftsmen who have been carefully selected for the quality of their work offer unique items for sale at individual booths. From pottery, baskets, wood turned bowls to leather work, glass, watercolors, oils, jewelry and textiles – each item offers shoppers those “rare finds” for gifts or collecting.

According to Fair Director, Andi Beyer, “many of our exhibitors return every year because they enjoy being included with other high quality vendors and know that we take the time and effort to balance the show. Our exhibitors also come to compete for awards and ribbons as well as over $5,000 in purchase awards offered to them. It makes for an excellent mix of vendors.”

Another unique art exhibit that will take place at Chiaha this year will be the work of hundreds of school students from throughout Floyd County. Students are given free admission to the Chiaha Harvest Fair if they have work on exhibit in this unique student art section.

Chiaha also treats the auditory senses with a continual offering of live musical entertainment from bluegrass to soft rock to blues. There is a little bit of sound for everyone’s taste, and plenty of room to circle around a giant stage platform in the park to enjoy. Grab a seat on a hay bale, get an ear of roasted corn, and spend some time just chilling to the tunes of some of the region’s best talent. A full list of entertainers as well as descriptions of their music can be reviewed on the Chiaha website at www.chiaha.org.

The sense of taste can also be tantalized by approximately

fifteen unique food vendors that offer a variety of southern food treats. From fried fruit pies to authentic New Orleans style gumbo, from roasted ears of corn to lace cakes, fairgoers will delight in a walk thru the Chiaha “food court” to find a full meal or just a snack to enjoy while strolling the park. The unique smells of kettle corn, barbecue and hot apple cider waft throughout the park and combine for a marvelous flavor of fall only available at the Chiaha fair. Hot apple cider is a trademark product offered at the fair, as it has been given to fairgoers free of charge for all 45 years of the fair. It is warmed in a large black cauldron that serves as a centerpiece of the fairgrounds.

The color and texture of fall abound at the fair from pumpkins and corn stalks to bright banners, flowers and flags, all washed against the brilliant blue sky of fall and the changing leaves of giant oaks that line the banks of the Oostanaula River in Ridge Ferry Park.

The Chiaha Fair takes place on two days only, Friday and

Saturday, October 24 & 25 from 10 am until 5 pm each day. Admission to the fair is $5 for adults and $1 for children.

For more information about the fair and a list of vendors and entertainers, check out the website at www.chiaha.org.

Every year folks from all over Georgia look forward to the two-day festival of arts and crafts (and so much more) held in Rome’s Ridge Ferry Park.

to fall’s finest festival at the 45th annual chiaha harvest fairtreat your senses

“The publisher wanted to market Sorrow Wood as a mystery, and there is a mystery in the book that is resolved, but it’s really a love story,” Atkins explains. “It’s a love story between two people, Wendell and Reva, who have loved each other through this long life, and if Reva is right, through many other lives as well. She believes in reincarnation because of dreams she has had all of her life, dreams in which she has loved the same man in earlier lives. It’s a story about undying love, love that transcends the word in the traditional sense.”

A southernWordsmith

Unlike most nineteen-year-olds, Raymond Atkins listened to his soon-to-be wife’s advice. Atkins had written her “a long, very sappy, awful” poem designed to impress with the title The Front Porch Prophet. Her reaction – and her advice? Scrap the poem, but save the title, advice which he took and which became the title of his first published novel,

and an award-winning novel, in 2008. Only a year later, in August 2009, Atkins’ second novel, Sorrow Wood, was released, and he is already under contract with Medallion, his publisher, for novel number three, coming in August 2011.

The mystery element, Atkins says, wasn’t intended. “I didn’t sit down to write a mystery,” he says. “The mystery element is just the vehicle through which I tell my love story.” Those who have lived for many years in northwest Georgia may remember the infamous Corpsewood Manor murders in 1982 in a wooded mountainous region, approximately five miles from Trion. “The murder mystery aspect of the book is very, very loosely based on that incident,” Atkins says. “While this couple in my story, Wendell and Reva, the town policeman and the town probate

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judge, work their way through a similar series of happenings at the fictional Sorrow Wood farm, I’m able to use that as a vehicle to illustrate not only their love for each other but also their love for each other for lives uncounted.”

While there appear to be differences between Atkins’ first book and his current novel, they are not as different as they appear at first glance, he says. “They are a little different in subject matter,” he admits, “but the people are the same. My heroes are regular people, and my towns are just small Southern towns.” The two novels are set in adjacent fictional towns. The Front Porch Prophet takes place in Sequoyah, Ga., and Sorrow Wood takes place in Sand Valley, Ala., just across the state line from Sequoyah. The second book shares some minor characters with the first, although the major characters are different. The third book will also take place in the same fictional geographical area and will share some characters. “They are stand-alone books,” Atkins says, “and it’s not necessary to read the first before the second in order to understand the plot of the story.

“There is nothing especially remarkable about my plots,” he notes. “Where I think I excel as a writer is in how I tell my stories. The way in which a story is told is at least as important as the story itself, and sometimes more important. I love language; I love how words tie together and the way words play off each other, so to me the telling of a story is the art of it.”

For The Front Porch Prophet, Atkins was awarded the prestigious Georgia Author of the Year Award for First Novel. The Front Porch Prophet also garnered an IPPY Award (Independent Publishers Book Award), the gold medal for regional fiction – Southeast. “I was quite happy to receive these two awards in my first outing as an author,” he says.

For the first time, Rome will play host to the annual Georgia Literary Festival. Celebrating Georgia’s rich past and current literary heritage, the festival has been held in cities around the state since its beginning in Eatonton in 2001, with 2009 being Rome’s – and northwest Georgia’s – first event. Rome author Raymond Atkins serves as chair of the festival’s planning committee. The various events that make up the festival will be held at locations around downtown Rome on Saturday, October 17.

Over 30 authors will be in town and will be presenting their work at multiple venues: at the Rome City

Auditorium, in the Rome City Commission chambers, in the Coosa and Oostanaula rooms of the Sarah Hightower Regional Library, at the historic DeSoto Theater and at Hair Story’s presentation room on Broad Street.

“We’ve got quite an outstanding line-up,” Atkins says. Among the long list of authors (which can be viewed at www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/Georgia-Literary-Festival) are Terry Kay, the prize-winning Georgia Hall of Fame author of more than a dozen books; Lloyd Arneach, author and master Cherokee storyteller; poet Earl Braggs; essayist and gardening expert Lynn Coulter; and Vincent Coppola, former Newsweek correspondent and author of the nonfiction book, The Sicilian Judge. It will be an opportunity to also see and hear Lauretta Hannon, the popular NPR commentator and Atlanta-based author of The Cracker Queen; novelist Joshilyn Jackson; Southern humorist Man Martin; historian Robert J. Norrell, author of Up from History: The Life of Booker T. Washington; and popular Atlanta mystery author Patricia Sprinkle. Rome authors featured are Atkins; Carmen Acevedo Butcher; Eric

Haney; Rome News-Tribune cartoonist Mike Lester, who is also a children’s author and illustrator; Gregg and Debra Lewis; Sandra Meek; and Helen Ruchti.

In addition, several panel discussions will address various aspects of publishing and literary work. These include sessions on songwriting, genealogy, oral history, self-publishing, storytelling and play writing.

“This event also showcases the success of authors from the region of the state where the festival is being held,” Atkins explains. The four authors honored this year will be Calder Willingham and Jeanne Braselton, who are both deceased, as well as Tony Grooms and Melanie Sumner, both novelists who teach at Kennesaw State University.

Barnes and Noble will be the on-site bookseller and will be located in the lobby of the Rome City Auditorium. “It’s a great opportunity to hear a favorite author speak and then walk out into the lobby and buy a book and get the author to sign it,” Atkins says.

the Authors Are coming to town! saturday, october 17

Before Sorrow Wood’s official release, the novel received praise from Publishers’ Weekly, a premier industry publication that often influences booksellers and libraries’ choice of books.

While he has not tried his hand at poetry again, Atkins does also write essays, columns and blogs and has been an occasional contributor to the Rome News-Tribune. His books can be purchased locally from Barnes and Noble at Riverbend Center and Dogwood Books on Broad Street as well as from the Rome Area Council for the Arts (RACA). Dogwood Books also carries signed copies of both of Atkins releases. “I believe in supporting local booksellers,” he adds.

Novel writing has only been an activity he has been able to pursue since his retirement. A Valley Head, Ala. native, Atkins lived in Summerville for a number of years before moving to Rome about twenty years ago. “I always wanted to be a writer,” he says. “I was always in love with the idea of being a writer, but it wasn’t until I retired that I was able to make the dream come true.” Married at 19, Atkins and his wife worked at Riegel Textile Corp. (now Mount Vernon Mills Inc.) in Trion. “For the first four years, I put my wife through school, and then for the next four years, she put me through school,” he recalls. “Although I wanted to be a writer, with four children at home, I couldn’t afford to write and didn’t have time.”

Finally, three years ago, when the youngest of the children left for college, his wife, the woman who gave him such wise advice at 19, told him that if he was going to get around to writing, he was not getting any younger. “So I started putting together all the snippets and chapters that I had collected and stuck away over the years,” he says. A familiar bit of writing advice is to “write what you know,” and Atkins concedes that “a lot of what I’ve done and what I’ve experienced has worked its way into my novels. Writing is not always easy, but it’s enjoyable and – it beats working at the mill,” he jokes.

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Anchored by a timeless tradition of patient-centered care, Harbin Clinic has assembled a world-class clinical offering that cultivates wellness and builds stronger communities. Because we know that when we have our health, the possibilities are endless.

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J. Ja

co

bs With talent and

passion, Jeremy Jacobs has built a business with a fresh artistic approach to style.Jacobs’ desire to perfect his hair styling talent first took him to a Buckhead salon. He furthered his training in New York with renown stylist Richard Penna. For 18 years he has grown that foundation into his own successful hair salon in Rome.

Why is hairstyle so essential to our self-image?

JJ: An up-to-date, fresh hairstyle does wonders for appearance, confidence and mood. It’s almost instant gratification. I enjoy seeing my clients leave with a positive attitude.

How do we avoid ‘bad hair day’?

JJ: Healthy hair. Using good products, including a good leave-in conditioner, is a must. Don’t ‘over style’ your hair with curling irons, flat irons and blow dryers.

What do you see for hair trends next year?

JJ: In 2010 more waves and curls, with a relaxed feel. Color will be more vibrant, reflecting a new, hopeful outlook for the year.

How do you wind down?

JJ: My family and our time together. I read everything. I also make it a habit to exercise and workout regularly. It keeps stress levels in line.

J Jacobs Salon is located at 1105 East Second Avenue in Rome. Services include manicure, pedicure and waxing in addition to hair care. Appointments may be arranged by calling 706.802.1515.

Whether they are the sounds that soothe the soul or uplift the spirit, music lovers will find them in

northwest Georgia. The Rome Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1921, has the distinction of being the oldest symphony in the South. The orchestra will launch its 2009-2010 season on September 19 with a performance of a Mendelssohn Concerto for violin and piano. The featured piano soloist will be Emory University’s William

Ransom (who has collaborated with world-renowned musicians such as cellist Yo-Yo Ma) along with internationally known violin soloist David Kim, concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra.

The 2009 holiday concert will be December 5, a traditional “Feaste of Caroles” in conjunction with Shorter College’s Chorale and Chorus. “We will feature our conductor, Dr. Richard Prior and Shorter College’s Dr. Martha Shaw,” says Rome Symphony Executive Director Debra Cook.

On February 27, the symphony will present a Brahms Concerto for violin and cello with Timothy Schwarz from Lehigh University as violin soloist and Lawrence Stomberg from the University of Delaware on the cello. The April 24 concert will offer a Mendelssohn Concerto for clarinet and bass clarinet. Special guest soloists will be clarinetist virtuoso Ashraf Attalla, formerly with the Cairo (Egypt) Opera and now an Atlanta-based soloist and bass clarinetist Alcides Rodriguez, from the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

“In the summer, in June and August, we move to our very popular Pops concerts,” Cook adds. The Pops concerts are held at Darlington School’s Huffman Center and on the grounds of Oak Hill at Berry College. “The 2009-2010 season should be a wonderful one, marking the second season for Dr. Richard Prior, our conductor.” Prior’s orchestral, choral and chamber music compositions have been performed, recorded and broadcast widely in Europe and North America, with works featured at international festivals.

Since 2002, Cartersville’s Etowah Jazz Society has been bringing the sounds of big band-era jazz to concerts, festivals and events around northwest Georgia and the metro Atlanta area. “It’s a Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller and Count Basie-style group,” says Jack Howell, a retired teacher and coach and one of the group’s founders, “and we also have a jazz combo for smaller venues such as weddings and restaurant settings.” The 21 members of the jazz society hail from Cartersville and surrounding areas. They play all types of jazz from old favorites to Broadway classics, pop hits and new compositions. With one CD, Headwaters, already behind them (CDs may be purchased at Amazon.com or CDBaby.com), the group anticipates the release of a Christmas CD in time for the 2009 holiday season.

Another uniquely American musical genre, bluegrass, also has a loyal fan base around the Coosa Valley. The Armuchee Saddle Club hums to the sounds of jam sessions of bluegrass, gospel and old-time music on the Friday and Saturday of Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends during the Armuchee Bluegrass Festival. “It’s the oldest bluegrass festival in Georgia,” says Chuck Langley, who began the event in1973, along with his wife Kricket. “We started in a pasture off Old Dalton Road,” he explains. “After the first three years, it had grown so much that we had to move to the saddle club.” It is now a widely recognized event throughout the Southeast (it has also been inducted into the Atlanta Music Hall of Fame) and has been a springboard for many musicians into the world of professional bluegrass music. In addition to toe-tapping music, concessions are available, including barbecue and Brunswick stew.

on manydifferentnotes

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ArtsSpotlight

on the

The word spotlight has been defined as

“a projected circle of light used to illuminate brilliantly

a single person or object or group on the stage.”

The 2009-2010 School of the Arts Season does exactly

that: it “illuminates brilliantly” the many students,

faculty, and guest artists who will provide unique

artistic experiences this year.

Shorter College’s strong legacy in the arts lives on in the

excellent visual arts, music, and theatre events included

in this season. Yet, these great artistic events will be

lacking without great patrons like you.

Please join us for our 2009-2010 season as we put the

Spotlight on the Arts at Shorter College.

For complete season information, visit www.shorter.edu/academics/arts/calendar.htm

Schoo l o f t h e Ar t s

www.shorter.edu315 Shorter Avenue, Rome, GA 30165

706-291-2121 • 800-868-6980

Believe. Become.Be True. Perennially ranked among the South’s best colleges by U.S. News & World Report and The Princeton Review.

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opening new doors and

rising to newheights

After years of hard work, the Rome Area History Museum is

making its own history.

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Leading Museum officials: Bill Temple (left) and Janet Byington (right).

Thousands of travelers visit the world’s major cities every day, and one of the first items on their itinerary is to visit the museums. Here in the U.S., from New York to San Francisco, museum visits are a number one choice on sightseeing lists.

Increasingly, smaller cities have also invested in museums to tell the stories of their communities. Rome is fortunate to have three fine museums, each dedicated to bringing the city and the area’s history and heritage to life. The newest is the Rome Area History Museum, established in 1996, located in the heart of the city at 305 Broad Street in downtown Rome. The core of the museum is the private collection of photographs of the late physician and local historian Dr. C. J. Wyatt, which chronicle decades of community life. The building which houses the museum was also a gift from the Wyatt family.

Fascinating exhibits and displays educate visitors of all ages. The permanent exhibits begin with the story of the Native Americans and the early settlers. They explore the struggles of the Civil War era and tell the story of Rome’s manufacturing and industrial legacy as well as illustrate the city’s educational and cultural growth. Of special interest is an exhibit highlighting the history of Rome’s prominent medical community. Many of the names and faces who helped shape Rome and northwest Georgia can be found here, among them native Roman Admiral John H. Towers, who is widely considered the Father of Naval Aviation.

Events at the museum include lectures, traveling exhibits, videos, mini-concerts, poetry readings and front-porch storytelling. High teas with featured speakers are also popular events, as are the monthly City Clock tours. An important part of the museum’s mission is to share the city’s rich and diverse heritage with new generations of Romans. A number of programs are offered year-round for youngsters, including school tours and summer history camps.

A recent fund-raising campaign has allowed the museum to expand its floor space. While it was “a long time coming,” the elevator now lifts off the ground floor to provide easier access to the archives on the third floor. Rising to new heights has finally become more than wishful thinking. It was through the generosity of long-time volunteer and Rome businessman Bernard Neal that

the elevator now opens to make the historic documents of the third floor accessible for anyone interested in viewing them. As a community-supported institution, the museum depends upon contributions and assistance from volunteers, members and donors who keep the doors open and the lights on because they love their community – its past, its present and its future.

As Rome comes alive along the river path with the beautiful pedestrian footbridge and the new Town Green in front of The Forum, so the Rome Area History Museum is opening new doors to history. The new entry on Tribune Street welcomes all who cross the bridge, walk along the levee, attend an event at the Forum, or stroll through downtown. Visit the Rome Area History Museum. You’ll find volunteers ready to answer questions or share a favorite story. Perhaps you’ll find answers to questions about your family history, too.

The Rome Area History Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10a.m. – 5p.m. and is closed on major holidays. For more information or to schedule a group tour, call 706.235.805 and visit our website www.romeareahistorymuseum.com.

Looking to the future...learning from the pastGiving Levels ($1 - $25,000*) Donors will be listed in Annual Report

b $10,000 - $25,000 The Founders’ Roundtableb $5,000 - $9,999 Romulus and Remus Societyb $1,001 - $4,999 Clocktower Societyb $1,000 Museum Patronb $1 - $999 History’s Heroes

b $25,000 or more* Naming Opportunities Available

I would like to secure a naming opportunity in the amount of ________________________________.

Please contact me about further details. I can be reached at _________________________________.

RAHM is a 501(c)-3 non-profit corporation. Your gifts are tax deductible to the extent of the law.

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Left to right: Gardner Wright, Janet Byington and Bill Temple

diningexperience local flavors

adairsville Adairsville Inn Restaurant · 770-878-9695100 South Main Street, Adairsville GA 30103Come experience the newly-remodeled Adairsville Inn Restaurant, now open under new ownership. Enjoy an extensive menu, homemade breads and desserts. Open Tues.-Fri. for lunch 11am-2pm. Thurs.-Sat. for dinner 5-9pm & Sun. 12:30-2:30pm.

El Nopal Family Mexican Restaurant · 770-769-933515 Legacy Way, Adairsville. I-75 Exit 306, GA 140 west, turn left onto US 41 south at traffic light. Continue approximately 1/2 mile to Legacy Way on right (just past Sim-ple Simon’s). Open Mon.-Sat. 11am-10:30pm; Sun. 11am-10pm. Full bar service.

Maggie Mae’s Tea Room · 770-773-190Inside 1902 Stock Exchange, Downtown Adairsville. Hours: Tues.-Sat. 11am-2pm. Call for dinner theater & special party reservations. No alcohol served.

calhounMJ’s Grill · 706-629-9969Prime Outlets, Suite #12 in Calhoun, GA. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am-9pm and Sun., 11-7pm. Menu consists of homemade pizza, wings, burgers, chicken strips, salads and appetizers. All you can eat wings for $7.99 every Wednesday evening.

cartersville Appalachian Grill · 770-607-535714 East Church Street, “Under the Bridge” in downtown Cartersville. Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 11am-9pm; Fri. 11am-10pm and Sat. 5-10pm. Arrive early if possible. It’s worth the wait! No reservations accepted, everyone seated on a first- come, first-served basis. A People’s Choice Best Restaurant Award Winner!

Antonino’s Italian Grotto · 770-387-9664 28 S. Wall St., downtown Cartersville. Select from Italian entrees, salad, soup, pasta and homemade desserts. Homemade fine Italian cuisine to tantalize your taste buds. Tues.-Fri. 11am-2pm & 5-10pm; Sat. 5-10pm. Closed Sun. & Mon.

The City Cellar and Loft · 770.334.3170110 South Museum Drive , downtown Cartersville. “Big city flavor in a small town” Executive Chef Sean C. Pruitt puts a delicious modern twist on traditional Ameri-can style food. Sorry, reservations not accepted. All major credit cards accepted. Full bar served. The Loft is a special events venue for parties of up to 150 patrons; ideal for special events, catering and jazz concerts. Open Monday-Thursday 11 am-10 pm, Friday-Saturday 11 am-Midnight.

Hearth & Harvest · 770-607-7772650 Henderson Drive, Suite 403 at West End Commons in Cartersville. “Fine Comfort Food” is to be expected from the newest dining experience created by the owner of the popular Appalachian Grill. Menu choices include signature entrees paired with delicious vegetables chosen to complement each dish, along with the side of the day. Guests may choose a beverage from Pop-Pop’s Fridge, which features a selection of nostalgic beers, or from the extensive wine list. Open Monday-Thursday 11 am-2 pm and 5-9 pm Friday 11am-2 pm and 5-10 pm and Saturday 5-10 pm No reservations, everyone is seated on a first-come basis.

Knight’s 1889 Food & Spirits · 678-605-1889 24 West Main Street, downtown Cartersville. New Home Style Menu, as well as old favorites such as Etouffee, Gumbo, Crabcakes, Shrimp & Grits, Red Beans & Rice, Ribeyes, Filets, Ribs and more. Lunch served Mon.-Sat. 11am-2:30pm (open all day Sat); Dinner served Mon.-Thurs. 5-11pm, Fri. 5pm-1am and Sat. 5pm-mid-night. Full-bar service.

Moore’s Gourmet Market · 770-387-0059 227 Fite Street, Cartersville. Mon.-Sat. 11am-9pm for lunch and dinner. Outdoor seat-

We have a unique corridor of home-grown restaurants to satisfy

any taste. From Adairsville to Rome, enjoy treats from the traditional

southern meal to tasty ethnic treat.

Read on and discover some

of the local favorites!

Appalachian Grill, Cartersville

Blue Fin, Rome (Courtesy of Tracy Page)

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ing available. Friday Night Dinner Series on the 3rd Friday of each month features reserved seating and unique menu from 5-9 pm. Also offering full-service catering, meals to go, hand-cut butcher shop steaks and more.

Schroeder’s New Deli · 770-334-3141148 West Main Street in downtown Cartersville. “Food for the Beli” . Classic menu items that are regional favorites include the Roast Beef Relief, Hoagie Carmichael and Salvador Deli. Enjoy sandwiches, pizza, calzones, salads and appetizers. Beer and wine served. Group reserva-tions available for parties of 20 or more. Monday-Saturday 11am-10pm; Sunday Noon-8pm. Don’t miss trivia night, fun for the entire family!

Swheat Market Deli · 770-607-00675 East Main Street, Cartersville. Serving lunch Mon.-Sat. 11am-3pm. Choose from Gourmet Soups (three choices daily) and Bread Stix, Swheat Sandwiches (all served with organic breads and veggies) and Bountiful Bowls of Greens (four delectable salad choices).

The Village Porch Cafe · 770-386-310025 N Wall Street, Downtown Cartersville, near the Grand Theatre. Choose from more than 20 sandwiches, Italian sodas and ice cream. Tuesday-Fri-day 10:30am-3pm, Sat. 7:30am-3pm. No alcohol served.

cedartownA Taste of New Orleans · 678-901-0374109 Prior Street, Cedartown. This fun restaurant offers an authentic taste of New Orleans where the proprietor is from! Specialties of the house include the must try Crawfish & Crabmeat Pasta. Open Tues.-Fri. from 11am-2:30pm, dinner 5pm until. Sat. from noon until and Sun. for lunch from noon until 3pm.

Heavenly Bar-B-Que · 770-748-84481375 S. Main St., Cedartown. Really yummy BBQ, 15 Southern Style Veggies and Award Winning Fried Green Tomatoes are some great rea-sons to check out this little piece of Heaven. Open Wed. and Thurs. 11am-8pm; Fri. and Sat. until 9pm.

Moore’s Drug Store & Soda Fountain · 770-748-0974 402 Main Street, Cedartown. An old-fashioned experience with great down home southern food. Hours are limited.

Zorba’s · 770-748-8490805 Main Street, Cedartown. Great Greek and Italian Food in this Cedartown standard, Open Sun.-Thurs. from 10am to 10pm and Fri. and Sat. until 11pm.

rome333 on Broad · 706-528-4844333 Broad Street, Downtown Rome. Owner Jay Shell offers laid back and casual dining at this popular eatery. The diverse menu offers ev-erything from mahi mahi, wings, country fried steak and filets. Kids eat free every Thursday night. For a fun, relaxing evening enjoy the upstairs acoustic lounge featuring some of the best music in northwest Georgia. Happy hour daily from 5 to 7pm on the outside patio. Lunch Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 11am-2pm. and dinner 5pm-10pm. The acoustic lounge opens Tuesday-Saturday from 5pm-1:30 am.

Amer Pacific Rim Bistro · 706-232-2455168 Shorter Avenue, Rome. Offering a stunning blend of Thai and Japa-nese cuisine. Lunch: Monday-Friday 11:30 am-2:30 pm Saturday-Sun-day 12:00-2:30 pm. Dinner: Monday-Thursday 4:30-9:30 pm Friday and Saturday 4:30-10:30 pm and Sunday 4:30-9:00 pm.

Bella Roma · 706-235-0911 3403 Martha Berry Highway, Rome. This Italian restaurant also features great Greek food and very good pizza. Hours are 11:00 am to 10:00 pm Sun.-Thurs. and until 11:00 pm on Fri. and Sat.

Blue Fin · 706-232-3317727 Turner McCall Blvd., NE, Rome. Specializing in sushi, hibachi and steaks. Mon.-Thurs 11:30 am-2:30pm and 4:30pm-10pm. Fridays and Saturdays 11:30am-2:30pm and 4:30pm-10:30pm.

The Country Gentleman · 706-295-0205 26 Chateau Drive, SE, Rome. Offering seafood and steaks as a staple, along with good Italian food since 1978. Open for lunch during the week from 11am-2pm. Mon.-Fri. 5pm to 10pm and Sat. 4pm-10pm. Now open for lunch on Sundays 11am-2:30pm.

Crystal Thai Restaurant · 706-291-9599 526 Broad Street, Rome. Excellent Thai food served in an elegant atmo-sphere. The owner absolutely delights in recommending dishes for her guests. Open for lunch and dinner.

Duffy’s Deli · 706-291-0531500 East Second Avenue, Rome. A great place to go for lunch, a Rome classic! Enjoy a huge selection of sandwiches, soups and desserts. Mon-Fri 10am-7pm. Saturday 10am-4pm.

Harvest Moon Café · 706-292-0099234 Broad Street, Rome. Enjoy a very eclectic atmosphere and an even more eclectic menu. Joining Harvest Moon recently is the Honeymoon Bakery with an excellent selection of homemade Italian gelato and great cakes. Hours are 11am-2:30pm on Mon; 11am-10pm Tues.-Sat. and 10:30am-2pm on Sun.

Jefferson’s Restaurant · 706-378-0222340 Broad Street, Rome. A fun sports bar, great burgers and spicy wings make up this fun downtown eatery. Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Mon. -Wed. 11:00 am-10:00 pm, Thurs.-Sat. until 11 pm, Sunday 11:30am-10 pm.

La Scala Italian Restaurant · 706-238-9000413 Broad Street, Rome. Our favorite classic Italian restaurant in an up-scale but cozy atmosphere with an excellent wine list. Accompanied by the 400 Block Bar on the Broad Street side. Hours are 5:30pm-10 pm Monday-Saturday.

Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant · 706-290-07335 East 12th Street, SW, Rome. This restaurant overcomes location issues with the most authentic Mexican food in Rome. This popular restaurant features freshly prepared Mexican dishes with homemade tortillas and garnished with cilantro. Open for lunch and dinner, Mon.-Thurs. 10:30 am-8pm; Fri. & Sat. until 9 pm.

Schroeder’s New Deli · 706-234-4613 406 Broad Street, Rome. We don’t think any of us really remember Broad Street without Schroeder’s which has become a Rome institu-tion. Since 1981 they have been serving their own brand of “Food for Beli” including tasty sandwiches & pitas, pizza & calzones. Now serv-ing in Armuchee as well at 3170 Martha Berry Highway. Open for lunch and dinner Mon.- Thurs. 11am-10pm; Fri. and Sat. until 11pm. The Martha Berry location offers trivia on Monday nights, 7pm.

Victorian Rose Tea Room · 706-232-3911 510 Broad Street, Rome. No main street is complete without the clas-sic Southern tea room. Rome’s version serves excellent salad plates, scones, biscuits and a wonderful variety of hot tea. Open Mon.-Fri. for lunch service through afternoon tea and available for special events.

THE VENUE FOR IT ALLThe Forum Civic Center

OFFERS 34,300 SQUARE FEET OF FLEXIBLE MEETING SPACE TO ACCOMODATE GROUPS OF 4 TO 4,000 FOR CONCERTS, SPORTS EVENTS,

MEETINGS, CONFERENCES, TRADE SHOWS, BANQUETS, WEDDINGS, AND RECEPTIONS.

The best place to hold a meeting...

IS ALSO THE BEST PLACE TO ADJOURN ONE.THE FORUM IS JUST A SHORT DRIVE FROM

ATLANTA, BIRMINGHAM, AND CHATTANOOGA IN THE HEART OF

BEAUTIFUL DOWNTOWN ROME, GEORGIA. UNIQUE BREAKOUT OPPORTUNITIES ABOUND

INCLUDING BOUTIQUE SHOPPING, HISTORIC TOURS, CANOEING, AND HIKING. THE

FORUM HAS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO MAKE YOUR NEXT MEETING THE BEST EVENT YET.

The Forum offers you:34,400 SQ FEET OF EXHIBIT SPACE

4,000 SEAT ARENA SPACIOUS BANQUET ROOMS FREE HIGH-SPEED WIRELESS

INTERNET SERVICE

...AND MUCH MORE!2 GOVERNMENT PLAZA, ROME, GEORGIA 30162

PHONE: 706-291-5281 OR 800-858-7601 VISIT US ONLINE AT: WWW.FORUMEVENTS.ORG

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august4-28 Exhibition of Works by Mike LesterFeatured works by illustrator and cartoon-ist Mike Lester sponsored by the Rome Area Council for the Arts.248 Broad Street, Rome. Gallery hours are Tues- Fri, 11-5 and the first Saturday of the month from 10-4. Free. 706-295-ARTS

28-30 Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors/students $10. 706-295-7171

29 Blue-Eyed GrassThe singing duo of Delnora Reed and Jayron Weaver blend their unique talents ranging from the Celtic-toned fiddle of the West Virginia Mountains to the pure coun-try music that rises from the small towns of northwest Georgia. The Grand Theatre, Cartersville. 7pm. $10. 770-386-7343

29 Rome Symphony Orchestra at Oak HillMartha Berry Museum, Rome, GA.706-291-7967

31 Shorter College Music Faculty GalaThe Historic DeSoto Theatre, 530 Broad St, Rome. 7:30 pm. $20 adults, $15 seniors and students. 706-233-7288

september1-30 Behind the Ropes ToursThe tours provide visitors unprecedented access to the home of Berry College found-er, Martha Berry. Guided tours will take guests beyond the velvet ropes and into the private life of Martha Berry. Martha Berry Museum, Rome. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students and children. 706-368-6775

4-6 Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors/students $10. 706-295-7171

4-7 30th Annual Acworth Pioneer DaysFriday: 4-11 pm - Arts & crafts booths, car-nival rides. Concert featuring the Georgia Satellites. The Mother Trucker Band begins at 7 pm followed by the Georgia Satellites at 9 pm. Saturday: 10 am - Pioneer Days Parade through downtown Cartersville. Noon-Midnight - Arts & crafts, carnival rides. Sunday: Noon-11 pm Arts & crafts, 1-11 pm Carnival rides Dusk (9:15 pm) Labor Day fireworks display. Monday: 10 am-10 pm Arts & Crafts; Noon-10 pm carnival rides. Sam Smith Park at Milam Farm, Cartersville. $5 admission; children ages 12 and under are free. 770-387-5625

12 Southern Vets FestBuck & Duke, Babes Bayou Band & other featured artists. Ridge Ferry Park, Rome. Gates open at 11:00 am. And music begins

at 1:00 pm. General admission advanced $14. General admission day of show $20. 706-291-5281

12 Movies in the Park: Wall-EEnjoy the showing of Wall-E at the out-door movies in Cartersville’s Dellinger Park. Movie begins at dusk. Guests may bring picnic, chairs and blankets from home. Come early and enjoy family activi-ties before the movie. 100 Pine Grove Rd, Cartersville. Free. 770-387-5625

18-19 One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s NestPresented by Stageworks, Inc. Grand The-atre, Cartersville. Times and ticket prices to be announced. 678-848-4400

19 Shorter Chorale Fall Fundraiser: Star Spangled Salute! A tribute to the men and women of the American Armed Forces. Hilltop Café, Shorter College, Rome. 6:30 pm $40(includes dinner). 706-233-7288

19 Rome Symphony Orchestra Concert Mendelssohn’s Concerto in D-minor for Violin and Piano William Ransom, Piano (Mary Emerson Professor of Piano at Emory University) and David Kim, Violin (Concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra). City Audito-rium, Rome. 7:30pm. Tiered ticket pricing in effect. 706-291-7967

19 Rome Beer FestivalTaste exotic and interesting beer from all over the world. Heritage Park, Rome. 1-5 pm. $25 admission. Admission includes: live music, 5 oz. commemorative plastic glass, available samples of over 40 beers. Designated Driver tickets available for $10 at the gate the day of the festival when accompanying someone with a ticket. For ticket information, contact the Rome Area Council of the Arts. Must have picture ID to enter. No Admission under 21. 706-295-ARTS

19 Euharlee Chili Cook Off11 am-5 pm. Backyard chili “experts” compete for cash and trophies. A fun day is planned for all with crafts, food, and entertainment featuring the Tom and Chad Show. Moby from South 107 will broad-cast live! Frankie Harris Park, Euharlee. 770-386-1542

19 Historic Berry Bike Tours10 AM. Tours of the Berry College cam-pus take guests on a ride through history. Guests will hear about the rich history of each building and the tour will feature no-table sights such as Roosevelt Cabin, The College Chapel and The Ford Buildings. Berry College, Rome. Meet behind Her-mann Hall. Call to reserve your spot. Free. 706-368-6775

19-20 34th Annual Arts Festival at Rose LawnSat. 10 am-6 pm; Sun. 12 noon-5 pm. A juried fine arts festival held on the spa-cious lawn of historic Rose Lawn, the

home of evangelist Sam Jones. The show includes everything from fine paintings and jewelry to basketry, quilting, weav-ing, pottery, glass, photography and wood - all original works by exhibitors with prize monies being awarded in Jur-ied Categories. Victorian House Museum Tours $4 adults. Rose Lawn Museum, Cartersville. Free. 770-387-5162

october1-4; 8-11 Shorter College Theatre’s Fall Musical: The Wedding Singer Thurs-Sat, 7:30 pm and Sundays, 2:00 pm. Shorter’s Callaway Theatre, Rome. $12 for adults and $8 for senior adults/students. 706-233-7288

2-440th Annual Great Locomotive Chase FestivalArts and Crafts Festival in the town that witnessed Andrews’ Raiders Civil War Escapade. Adairsville Historic Square, downtown Adairsville. $3.770-773-3451, ext 26.

3Cedartown Fall FestivalLocal vendors feature baked goods and hand-made crafts along Cedartown’s Main Street, Main Street, Cedartown. Free. 770-748-2090

3 Torchlight Tour of the Ancient CityWhen the sun goes down, history comes to life with this torchlight tour of Geor-gia’s famous ancient city. Etowah Indian Mounds State Historic Site, Cartersville. 7:00-9:00 PM. Admission charged. 770-387-3747

3 An Evening at Oak Hill CemeteryThe Bartow History Center, Cartersville, and Stageworks present “An Evening at Oak Hill Cemetery” with costumed per-formers presenting a living history. Tours begin at 6:00 pm and take place each half hour. Tickets will go on sale Sept. 1 and must be purchased in advance. $10 for members and $15 for non-members.770-382-3818

4Shorter College presents a Special Guest Concert featuring pianist Emile Pandolfi Emile Pandolfi applies his classical tech-nique to Broadway and popular music, in addition to classical performance, to the delight of his many fans. You will be treated to a brilliant musical perfor-mance and entertained by his charming sense of humor and friendly personal-ity. City Auditorium, Rome. 3pm. $18 adults, $15 senior adults, $10 students. 706-233-7288

6 Northwest Georgia Winds presents Mu-sical Milestones: Anniversaries in Music City Auditorium, Rome. 7:30 pm. Free.. 706-233-7285

(Continued on page 24)

calendar of events09-10

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(continued from page 23)

10 14th AnnualTrout Unlimited Chili Cook-OffRidge Ferry Park, Rome. Gates open 10:30am, judging starts at 2:30pm. $5 adults, $2 children 12 & under.

10 Classic Car Cruise In5 -9pm. Crank your classic and roll into Rome! Door Prizes & 50/50 drawing. Historic Down-town Rome, Fourth Avenue - Broad Street to Second Street. Free. 706-236-4520

10-11 Native American Pow WowGathering of Inter-Tribal Native Americans bring their handmade crafts, foods, music and dance. Bert Wood Youth & Athletic Complex, Cedartown. 770-684-8760

10-117th AnnualEtowah Valley Indian FestivalThis annual festival celebrates with dance, mu-sic, native foods and crafts. Sam Smith Park at Milam Farm, Cartersville. 800-733-2280 or 770-387-1357 17 Georgia Literary FestivalThe 11th annual festival, a “moveable feast” that celebrates Georgia’s rich literary heritage in a different city each year, will be held in Rome. It marks the festival’s first appearance in North-west Georgia. More than 30 authors will be lec-turing, appearing on panels and signing books including Terry Kay, Hollis Gillespie, Virginia Willis, Robert J. Norrell, Lauretta Hannon, Pa-tricia Sprinkle, Eric Haney, Joshilyn Jackson, Raymond Atkins and Kim Siegelson. The festi-val also will pay a special tribute to four Georgia writers: Anthony Grooms, Melanie Sumner and the late Calder Willingham and Jeanne Brasel-ton. www.georgialiteraryfestival.org. 9 am - 6 pm Locations in downtown Rome. Free. (Featured on page 13) 706-295-ARTS

16 & 17 Much Ado About NothingPresented by The Pumphouse Players. Grand Theatre, Cartersville. Times and ticket prices to be announced. 770-387-2610

16-17, 23-24, 30-31Halloween HayridesTake a “spooktacular” hayride and then listen closely as storytellers bring ghosts and goblins to life around a campfire. Suitable for all ages. Reservations required. $5 parking. Red Top Mountain State Park and Lodge. Cartersville. 770-975-4226. 16-17, 23-25Steel MagnoliasFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors/students $10. 706-295-7171

17 Historic Berry Bike Tours10 am. Tours of the Berry College campus take guests on a ride through history. Guests will hear about the rich history of each building and the tour will feature notable sights. Berry College. Meet behind Hermann Hall. Call to reserve your spot. Free. 706-368-6775

17 Myrtle Hill Cemetery ToursMyrtle Hill Cemetery, Main gate on Myrtle Street, Rome. Tours depart at 10 am, 10:30 am, 11am and 11:30 am. Tour guides lead you through

intricate paths and tell the stories and note sym-bolism of the cemetery, circa 1857. Grave hosts will tell the stories of the lives of those who rest along the way. Wear comfortable shoes. Tickets available at the Rome Visitor Center. Adults, $8 and children under 12, $5. 706-295-5576

17-18 Cartersville Antiques on the SquareA weekend dedicated to antiques and collect-ibles featuring demonstrations and appraisals, plus food and music. Sat. 9 am-5 pm and Sun. 11 am-5 pm. On the Square in Historic Down-town Cartersville. Free. 770-607-3480

22-25 Shorter College Fall Opera: Hänsel und Gretel Shorter’s Callaway Theatre, Rome. Thursday-Saturday, 7:30 pm and Sunday, 2 pm. $12 adults, $8 senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

22-25 7th Annual Southeastern Cowboy Festival and Symposium Booth Western Art Museum, Cartersville. 770-387-1300

24 & 25 Chiaha Harvest Fair“A Toe-tappin, cider sippin, fun-for-everyone arts festival”. Ridge Ferry Park, Rome. 10am - 5pm. Admission charged. 706-295-5576 or 800-444-1834

24 & 31Haunted History ToursTours of Oak Hill and the Berry College cam-pus will reveal the myths about death and spirits that were held by the Southern High-landers. Tours will also feature prominent ghost stories and tales told by Berry College students, faculty and staff members. Martha Berry Museum, Rome. 6-8pm. Limited seat-ing is available, please call to reserve a space. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students and chil-dren. 706-368-6775

31 Cartersville’s Downtown Holiday ExtravaganzaEnjoy music, crafts, foods and holiday shop-ping. Friendship Plaza, Downtown Carters-ville. 10 am-6 pm. 770-387-1357

31 Shorter Chorus Fall Concert Brookes Chapel at Shorter College, Rome. 7:30 pm. $12 adults/ $8 senior adults and stu-dents. 706-233-7288

31 Hallowed HauntingsChieftains Museum, Rome. 8:00 pm. Join the Seven Hills Tellers as they meet at Chieftains for the special 13th year of scary stories! Deb-by Brown, Jane Cunningham, Bob Harris and Mary Elena Kirk will weave their frightening stories. $5 adults, $3 senior adults, $2 students. $1 discount per ticket for Chieftains Museum members. 706-291-9494

november1 5th Annual Rome Fine Wine Festival Wine Tasting to Support the Arts Forrest Ballroom, Rome. 3:00pm to 6:00pm. $50 per person, in-cludes a complimentary Riedel wine glass. $60 at the door. 706-291-7967

7 96th Annual Stilesboro Chrysanthemum Show

Historic Stilesboro Academy, Cartersville. 11 am to 8 pm. $2 adults; $1 children. 770-382-7773

7 Shorter College Friends of Theatre Cabaret Best of Broadway Fundraiser Georgia North-western Technical College Conference Center, 1 Maurice Culberson Dr., Rome. Doors open: 6:30 pm, Performance: 7:00 pm. $25. 706-233-7288

7-8 Come Harvest Our History Tour of Homes - CartersvilleSat. 10 am-4 pm Sun. Noon-4 pm. Tours begin with purchase of tickets at the 1903 gold-domed Bartow County Courthouse in downtown Cart-ersville. Shuttle buses will take visitors to the homes and return visitors to the courthouse parking. At each stop, hostesses will be avail-able to provide historical points of interest and information about each home. Tickets are $15, $12 for groups of 10 or more, and may be purchased in advance from the EVHS Office (770-606-8862) in the 1903 Bartow County Courthouse. Tickets will also be available on tour dates. Call for information on the tour and on these spectacular homes. 770-386-7944

10 Empty Bowls DinnerPottery by Potters, filled with soup, benefitting local charities. 5:30 - 7:30 pm. Rome Civic Cen-ter, Rome. $20, purchased in advance at Rome Area Council of the Arts. 706-295-ARTS

14 Shorter Chorale Fall Concert Brookes Chapel at Shorter College, Rome. 7:30 pm. $12 adults, $8 senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

12-14 2010 Miss Georgia USA and Miss Georgia Teen USA PageantsWoodland Performing Arts Center, Cartersville. 770-387-1357

13 & 14 Christmas with the Homemakers ClubsWonderful homemade arts, crafts, baked and canned goods. Rome Civic Center, Rome. 10am to 5pm. Free. 706-295-5576 or 800-444-1834

14-15Cave Spring Holiday Open HouseRetailers in Cave Spring are decorated and ready for the holidays!

18-22 Shorter College’s Fall Play: Still Life with Iris Callaway Theatre at Shorter College, Rome. Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 pm and Sun., 2 pm. $12 adults, $8 senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

20 & 21 Willy Wonka, Jr.Presented by The Grand Theatre, performed by an all youth cast ages 7-18. Grand Theatre, Cartersville. Times and ticket prices to be an-nounced. 770-386-7343

december1Weekend in December Candles & Carols Enjoy the glow of Oak Hill and The Martha Berry Museum with hundreds of candles and lights. Delight in Christmas traditions and walk through the Oak Hill home to see it decorated for Christmas. 6-9pm. Oak Hill and Martha Berry

calendar of events

calendar of events

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Museum, Rome. Parking at the Harbin Clinic. $5 admission. 706-295-7171 or 706-368-6775

1 Rome Christmas ParadeHistoric Downtown Rome. Free. 5:30 is approxi-mate start time. 706-295-5576 or 800-444-1834

4-6; 11-13Babes in ToylandFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors, students $10. 706-295-7171

5 The Shorter Chorale and Chorus with the Rome Symphony Orchestra present Han-del’s MessiahConducted by Dr. Martha Shaw. City Audito-rium, Rome. 7:30 pm $15 adults, $10 seniors, $3 students. 706-233-7288

6 Downtown Cartersville Tree LightingComplete with a visit from Santa! Friendship Plaza, Downtown Cartersville. 5 -7:00 pm. 770-387-1357

8 Christmas Candlelight Procession and Concert Presented by the Northwest Georgia Winds, mass choir and soloists. The Forum, Rome. 7:00 pm. Free. 706-233-7285

12Christmas at the CabinBring your kids and camera for a photo oppor-tunity with Santa and his Mrs. by the fireplace. Experience the sights and sounds of holiday preparations in a simpler time. Red Top Moun-tain State Park and Lodge, Cartersville. 10 am to 4 pm. $5 parking. 770-975-4226

12 Cave Spring Christmas ParadeCave Spring Square, 6:00 pm. Free.

19 NAIA National Championship Football Game Barron Stadium, Rome. 10:00 pre-game, 12:00 kickoff. $25 reserved, $20 general, $15 group706-295-5576 or 800-444-1834

january22-23 Shorter College’s Winter Opera:The Merry Widow A comic opera presented by the Shorter Col-lege Opera Theatre and Chamber Players of the South.City Auditorium, Rome. 7:30 pm. $12 adults, $8 for seniors and students.706-233-7288

29-31; Feb. 5-712 Angry MenFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors, students $10. 706-295-7171

feburary1-28 Erasing the Color Line ExhibitTells the story of integration at Berry College and of the courageous individuals who led the way in erasing the color line. Martha Berry Mu-seum, Rome. 10 am - 5pm. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students and children. 706-368-6775

6 Shorter College Friends of Theatre Fund Raiser Stratton Tor, the home of Jerry and Patsy Hub-bard, 593 Radio Springs Road, Rome. 6:30 pm. $35. 706-233-7285

12 Heart and Soul 3Concert presented by the Clock Tower Jazz En-semble. The City Auditorium, Rome. 7:30 pm. $10 single, $15 couple. 706-233-7285

25-28 Shorter College Spring Play: Romeo and Juliet Callaway Theatre at Shorter College, Rome. Thurs-Sat, 7:30 pm, Sun. 2pm. 706-233-7288

27 Rome Symphony Orchestra ConcertBrahms’ Double Concerto in A-minor for Violin and Cello Timothy Scwartz, Violin (Head of the String Department at Lehigh University) and Law-rence Stomberg, Cello (Associate Professor of Cello, University of Delaware). City Audito-rium, Rome. 7:30 pm. Tiered ticket pricing in effect. 706-291-7967

march1-31 Behind the Ropes ToursThe tours provide visitors unprecedented ac-cess to the home of Berry College founder, Martha Berry. Guided tours will take guests beyond the velvet ropes and into the private life of Martha Berry. Martha Berry Museum, Rome. $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 students and children. 706-368-6775

9 Invitation to DanceConcert presented by the Northwest Georgia Winds. The City Auditorium, Rome. 7:30 pm. Free. 706-233-7285

19-21; 26-28My Fair LadyFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm, Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors, students $10. 706-295-7171

april9-10Azalea FestivalGuests will be able to attend concerts by local bands, there will be an arts and crafts festival, garden how-to showcasing, “Something Old, Something New” garden tours, tours of the Oak Hill home and the Martha Berry Museum. Oak Hill, Rome. 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. $10. 706-368-6775

17 Shorter Chorus Spring Concert Brookes Chapel at Shorter College, Rome. 7:00 pm. $12 adults, $8 for senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

20-25 Shorter College Spring Musical: Godspell Callaway Theatre at Shorter College, Rome. Thurs-Sat, 7:30 pm and Sun, 2pm. $12 adults/$8 for senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

24 Shorter Chorale Spring Concert Featuring the Requiem of

Maurice Duruflé First Baptist Church, Rome. 7:30 pm. $12 adults, $8 for senior adults and students. 706-233-7288

24 Rome Symphony Orchestra Concert Mendelssohn’s Concertstock for Clarinet and Basset HornAshraf Attalla, Clarinet, (Former Principal Clarinet of the Cairo Opera, internationally re-nowned Atlanta-based soloist) and Alcides Ro-driguez, Bass Clarinet, Principal Bass Clarinet of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra). City Au-ditorium, Rome. 7:30 pm. Tiered ticket pricing in effect. 706-291-7967

24 The International String Band FestivalEnjoy free music in the streets of Calhoun be-ginning at 11 am, then join us for the ticketed performance in the Ratner Theater that eve-ning. Harris Arts Center, Calhoun. 7:00 pm. General admission $15. 706-629-2599

24 44th Annual Atlanta SteeplechaseKingston Downs, between Rome and Carters-ville on US 411. Tickets by advance reserva-tion, $30. 706-295-5576 or 800-444-1834

24-25 Cedar Valley Arts FestivalRegional arts and crafts fair hosted by the Ce-dartown Junior Service League. Peek Park, Cedartown. 770-748-2090

may1Across the Big Pond XGaelic & Celtic Concert. Northwest Georgia Winds. The Forum, Rome. 7:30pm. Free.706-233-7285

12nd Annual Mother’s Day TeaThe light afternoon tea will include and as-sortment of sandwiches, fruit and sweets; live music; tours of the Oak Hill home and gardens as well as the opportunity to be pho-tographed in front of the Oak Hill home. Oak Hill, Rome. 2:00 pm. $20. Reservations are contingent upon payment. 706-368-6775

7-9; 14-16Play it Again, SamFridays and Saturdays at 8:00 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm. Rome Little Theatre, Rome. Adults $12 and seniors/students $10. 706-295-7171

15 Celebrate International Museum DayFree admission. Refreshments all day with special activities. Martha Berry Museum, Rome. 10am - 5pm. 706-368-6775

30 American Salute Concert presented by the Northwest Georgia WindsThe City Auditorium, Rome. 7:00 pm. Free. 706-233-7285

To learn more about what’s happening in Rome visit:

www.romegeorgialiving.com

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When two Atlanta area businessmen discovered a beautiful yet undeveloped mountain range property at Lake Weiss near Cedar Bluff Alabama in 2005, they recognized immediately that this vast expanse of 1,300 acres, just across the Georgia state line, was perfect for people looking for that special place with both lake and mountain views. What they had discovered is now one of the best opportunities for potential land investments and homeowners in the Southeast.

Developers Joe Hiatt of Atlanta and John Hyatt of Roswell were captivated when the first selective clearing of timber and underbrush revealed the breathtaking views that only a few people even knew existed. With the 30,000-acre Weiss Lake and its tributary rivers unfolding below and the beautiful Talladega mountain range serving as a backdrop, the development was christened The Bluffs, Overlooking Lake Weiss. It was their plan that every home site would have a generous view of both the mountains and water.

Home sites in the first three phases have sold quickly. The 1,300-plus acre property was carefully prepared so that every lot would offer owners views of the mountains, rivers and the expansive lake that stretches below. “Our primary goal was to make this development attractive and affordable while we preserved the natural beauty of the area,” says Joe Hiatt. “Low Alabama tax rates, moderate building costs and super amenities make this an ideal investment – but more importantly, a great place to live.” The development follows natural ridgelines providing gently sloping building pads on lots that average 1.5 acres. Little earth moving was required to introduce the paved roads that interlace the various levels of view. Underground utilities deliver municipal water, central sewer and fiber optics. As a member of the Southern Living Custom Builders Program, The Bluffs offers a variety of

superb house plans created by a selection of the Southeast’s most outstanding architects and designers to meet homeowners’ needs.

Miles of walking/mountain biking/horseback riding trails wander along the streams and rise to the mountaintops overlooking Weiss Lake and the Chattooga, Coosa and Little Rivers. Homeowners at The Bluffs have private access to Weiss Lake and a private lakeside park that is currently under construction. While the lake is world famous for its crappie and bass fishing, water enthusiasts can also enjoy sailing, jet-skiing and leisure boating. A marina with boat rentals and protected boat storage is located a mile away.

“We think it is important for potential lot or home owners to know that we do not have external debt, therefore we do not have financial institutions “helping” us make decisions,” says John Hyatt. “In this time of strict lending requirements, we offer a seller-supported financing plan with a 10% down payment and attractive interest rates,” he adds.

“There are so many reasons for the popu-larity of The Bluffs, but we’ve had a natu-ral edge from the very beginning: A mountain peninsula surrounded by water with astonish-ing views in any direc-tion,” says John Hyatt. “We think anyone who visits will find it is absolutely spectacu-lar.” Visit The Bluffs website at www.TheBluffsOfWeiss.com for more photos and property information. Or, call Joe or John at (770) 512-8168.

27

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How many people do you know who can – legally – thunder along at more than 200 miles per hour? Rome’s Courtney Hizer is one of a select few who have performed this daring feat. Hizer is a member of the Bonneville 200 MPH Club and the owner of seven records set at the Bonneville Salt Flats speed competitions.

The 159-square-mile Salt Flats (a deposit of dazzlingly white, hard, densely packed salt, the remnants of a lake from prehistoric times) are located on the eastern edge of the casino-resort town of Wendover, Nev., 88 miles west of Salt Lake City, Utah. They are most famous for their use as the Bonneville Speedway for high-speed race cars, and they are the site of three annual events in which cars compete for speed records. Speed Week, the world’s fastest speed trials, often called the “granddaddy” of racing events, is held in August of each year, while the World of Speed is held in September and the World Finals take place each October. Hizer’s most recent record, set just last year, was 254.1 miles per hour driving his 1987 Buick LeSabre T-Type Coupe.

“I started reading about Bonneville in car magazines when I was 13 and started building my first car when I was 15,” he says. “It was a 1939 Mercury convertible with a modified 1951 Oldsmobile engine. I’ve had a car or motorcycle project going ever since.” In 1961, as a student at Georgia Tech, he planned, with a fellow student, to build a car that would race at Bonneville. Involved with drag racing until 1962, a year later he entered the fast-paced world of NASCAR.

In 1985, after establishing his business career, he decided to build the car to race at Bonneville. “Friends went with me to the Salt Flats in 1985 and 1986 to start preparing,” he explains. “When evaluating what class to run, I looked for a record that would put me in the 200 MPH club. While I was at a 24-hour IMSA [International Motor Sports Association] race in Daytona in 1987, I presented my plan to Joe Negri, who was director of racing for Buick. Within a few weeks, parts began arriving at my shop, and frame assembly began at my friend EJ Trivette’s shop

30

testiNGthelimitsAn Interview with Courtney Hizer

in Norcross.” The car’s sheet metal was the ’87 Buick LeSabre T-type coupe (the same body style that Bobby Allison drove) with a Buick turbo-charged IMSA V-6 engine. Hizer’s group of friends worked around the clock for 30 days to complete the car’s construction at the shop of Don Ledingham in Pendergrass.

“The car was finished on a Wednesday, and we drove straight to Bonneville, arriving on a Friday afternoon, the last day of racing,” Hizer says. “I made my test run at 188 mph, then the qualifying run for a record at 210 mph. The next morning, we made two record runs, averaging 215.5 mph. That broke the record by 20 mph. From that point, we were hooked.” Hizer and his racing buddies have continued racing at Bonneville for the last 23 years, having set seven records with five different engine combinations.

The quest for records on the Salt Flats requires dedication and perseverance. “There are long lines, on a first come, first run basis, on some very hot days,” Hizer adds. “Drivers must bring

whatever they need to set up in the pits on the salt. Everything is inspected for safety, and drivers must wear fuel-proof suits. It’s a five-mile course, and to qualify to run, drivers must beat the current record.”

Hizer’s business partner in his racing venture is Bobby Hogg, and his crew consists of Jim Captain; Parker Merrill; Hizer’s wife, Villa; Paul Powell; Pat Ryan; and Chris Camp. “It’s a great group of racing addicts,” Hizer says, “enjoying the challenges of engineering and salt gremlins. There’s no money involved,” he admits. “It’s all for the record books and a trophy.”

“What I think is so great about his success is that he realized his dream of being in the 200 mph Club,” says Villa Hizer. “He saw an opportunity. He had friends who helped him, he never gave up and he was successful on his first try. He is now well-respected on the Salt Flats, even for a guy from Georgia. He has seven world land speed records, and he still wants to drive faster.”

31

testiNGthelimitsAn Interview with Courtney Hizer

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