Winter Art Market at the Rome Civic Center on December 2 from 12pm - 6pm and December 3 from 10am - 6pm

 

Media release:  Kids, sharpen your pencils and crayons! Izo, the state of Georgia's holiday snowman, is coming to the Winter Art Market on December 2-3 to launch a holiday coloring contest in Rome and Floyd County.

 

Izo, the state's official holiday campaign, is a Northern snowman who has traveled to Georgia in search of a more temperate climate and authentic holiday experience. He is visiting holiday events, festivals, destinations, and more across Georgia this month.

 

Izo will be at Rome's Winter Art Market at the Rome Civic Center on December 2 from 12pm - 6pm and December 3 from 10am - 6pm. Children and families will be able to take photos with Izo and complete an official "Izo" coloring sheet.

 

The coloring contest will end on December 16, 2011, and the most creative sheet from each age group of 5 and under, 6-8 and 9-11 will win a prize package of holiday movie activities, a free movie pass and Rome memorabilia. 

 

To participate in the coloring contest, visit www.RomeGeorgia.org to print off the Izo coloring  sheet. Color Izo the snowman in the most creative, fun way you can! Return your completed coloring sheet to the Rome Cinemas at 2535 Shorter Avenue or the Movies at Berry Square located at 2820 Martha Berry Highway. Winners will be announced on December 19, 2011.

 

The coloring contest and Izo's visit to Rome is sponsored by the Greater Rome Convention & Visitors Bureau, Village Theatres, Inc. and the tourism division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

 

To learn more about Izo the snowman and his journey through Georgia, follow www.facebook.com/exploregeorgia and www.twitter.com/exploregeorgia.

 

For more information on the coloring contest, visit www.RomeGeorgia.org or call 706.295.5576.

Watch for slick spots on morning commute. 20,000-plus see cold, bold parade. Warmer days, colder night. Publix: 2013 opening?

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

Watch for possible icy patches on bridges during morning commute.

Don't expect Publix here until 2013:
-Store requires 10-month build-out; with Hight deal still pending and groundwork to do, store unlikely to open before 2013.

-Kroger expansion to get under way in January.

Parade aftermath:
-20,000-plus shake off cold to welcome largest Rome parade yet.
-The winning entries: Overall, adult, children.
-Plus: List of regional parade dates, times across Northwest Georgia. 

Pepperell High standout gets bit to play in all-star game today.

Suzanne Scott leaving Shorter University.
-Susan Cooley will direct library as search for replacement extended.

Your latest forecast:
-Wednesday: Sunny, with a high near 51; gusts to 20 mph, low of 26.
-Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 58, low of 27.
-Friday: Sunny, high of 63, low of 30.

 

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

-Join us for U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., at 7:40 a.m.; at 8:10 a.m., Layla Shipman of the Rome Young Republicans and ardent Herman Cain supporter. 

 

John McClellan's high school predictions.

 

Friday: Norman Arey's college football losers.

Cooley to stay with library until successor found

Media release: Sara Hightower Regional Library Director Susan Cooley has agreed to a request from the Library Board of Trustees to continue in her role as director while the search for her successor is extended.  Board Chair Margaret Davis, who also chairs the search committee, says "We are committed to identifying the ideal candidate to lead our library system, and are willing to take whatever time is necessary to do so.  We greatly appreciate Susan's willingness to return after a leave of absence early in 2012, until we can complete our search."

Davis and the search committee received a small number of applications for what is considered to be one of the top library positions in Georgia.  Board members speculate that the economic difficulties in selling real estate and relocation may have contributed to the lack of applications.  Several other large public library systems throughout Georgia are also currently seeking directors at this time, notes Deputy State Librarian Julie Walker, who is assisting with the search.  "The Georgia Public Library Service stands prepared to assist Sara Hightower in any way as they continue their search," says Walker.  "We are confident that the Board will complete a successful recruitment effort and hire an excellent leader to continue the outstanding work that makes Sara Hightower a model library system."

Snow due by 7 a.m., turning to flurries later today. Little if any accumulation. Parade still a go for tonight; updates all day.

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WEATHER: Snow due by 7 a.m., little if any accumulation. Flurries this afternoon.
-Occasional rain and snow showers, becoming all snow after 7 a.m., then gradually ending. High near 43. Southwest wind between 5 and 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
-Tonight: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 33. Northwest wind around 5 mph
-Latest forecast: After today's threat, get ready for 25 degrees tonight.
-Unofficial rainfall total: 3.11 inches in West Rome.
-Latest look at local river levels; flood warnings in Gordon, Chattooga.
-Updates on any delays today (Chattooga schools so far).

 

PARADE:
-Decision due by noon whether to go as planned tonight at 6:30 p.m. or delay until same time Thursday.
-Complete look at the revised parade line-up.
-Instructions for line-up, drivers (new from last year)
-138 entrants this year; Janet and Sam Baltzer are grand marshals.

Rome woman misses $55 million by one number -- but is fine with $10,000.

John McClellan's High School playoff picks: Calhoun should win by 20, setting up likely rematch with Buford for the Georgia AA championship one last time?

New FM radio station in Calhoun: 94.5 FM is on the air.

Floyd to take over Polk Medical Center on April 1.

Longtime City Hall Christmas tree removed.

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

-Join us for Mike Morton of the Rome TEA Party on Thursday's guest speaker and WSB meteorologist Brad Nitz on our early taste of winter.
-Plus: Continuing weather updates on WRGA 1470 AM. 

Tips to Get Ready for Winter Weather from GEMA

 

GEMA media release:  As winter weather begins to make its way across the South, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency's Ready Georgia campaign – the state's resource on disaster preparation – is  encouraging all Georgians to start preparing now for colder temperatures and possible snow in the days ahead.

 

For a state that is not prone to extreme snow and ice during winter months, even small amounts can cause significant problems in Georgia. Earlier this year, a severe winter storm blanketed parts of the state, disrupting transportation and closing down roads for days. To avoid being caught off guard during the next storm, GEMA officials recommend that residents turn to the Ready Georgia campaign to prepare for winter advisories and ice storms before they happen.

 

Here are some winter preparedness tips that you can share with your readers:  

 

Prepare for Winter Weather

• Prepare a Ready kit of emergency supplies for your home and car and include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
• Ensure proper home insulation by placing weather stripping around doors and windows, allowing faucets to drip during cold weather to prevent freezing and opening cabinet doors to let heat reach uninsulated pipes under sinks and appliances near exterior walls.
• Winterize your vehicle and keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent your fuel line from freezing.

 

Create a Winter Weather Plan

• Plan to stay inside, if necessary, for at least three days. If trapped outside during severe winter try to stay dry, cover all body parts, periodically move limbs to keep blood circulating and build a fire, if possible.
• Avoid traveling by car in icy conditions.  If you must go out and do get stuck, stay with your car. Leave the overhead lights on when the engine is running so you can be seen.
• Plan for pets to come inside and store adequate food and water for them.
• Create an emergency communications plan so family members will know who to contact if separated during a storm. Designate at least one out-of-town contact that all family members can call.

 

Stay Informed about Winter Weather

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio and monitor commercial radio, television and the Internet to stay informed of winter weather.
• Learn about the terms used to describe winter hazards such as freezing rain, sleet, winter weather advisory, winter storm watch and winter storm warning.
• Know the symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia. If you suspect you have frostbite or hypothermia, get medical attention immediately.
• Keep in mind that during a severe winter storm it could be hours, or even days, before emergency personnel are able to reach you, so be prepared to survive on your own for at least three days

 

For more information on preparing for winter storms, visit www.ready.ga.gov. The site offers comprehensive preparedness tools and resources including an interactive preparedness tool that generates customized checklists and communications plans so Georgians can take the guesswork out of getting ready for the unexpected. For preparedness on the go, download Ready Georgia's free mobile app.

 

Fall, early winter are the best times to plant shrubs and trees

 

By Keith Mickler

County Coordinator and agriculture agent

for The University of Georgia/Floyd County Cooperative Extension.

 

Right now is a great time to plant shrubs and trees. Because the air temperature is cooling, plants planted during this time of the year will not produce much too or any top growth. This is an advantage because the energy for growth is going into producing a root system. As temperatures warm in spring, plants established during the fall already have additional roots to support the new spring growth and thus an advantage over spring time plantings.

 

Trees and shrubs grown in containers can be planted any time. But when planted in spring or summer, they often have to struggle to absorb the water and nutrients their growing tops need. As new roots begin to grow out of the container shape, they send much of the nutrients and water that they absorb upwards to be used for growth of shoots, leaves and flowers. Little is left to grow more roots.

 

As the top gets too big for its roots, the almost inevitable spell of hot, dry weather brings on the real test. During this time, the plant may begin dropping foliage and deserting some branches in an attempt to survive.

 

If you plant now through December, with average weather, the plant has a much better chance. The key is that the roots don't go dormant. They continue to grow and develop throughout the winter. And because the top is dormant for the winter (tops of even evergreen plants go dormant) there is little demand on the roots.

 

Fall-planted ornamentals normally have a supply of carbohydrates and other food substances stored in their roots from the past growing season. So, with little demand from the tops, the roots are able to grow and become well established before next spring. And, during the colder weather of winter, the roots are better protected in the ground as compared to being above ground in a container.

 

Fall planted shrubs and trees typically do not need to be fertilized or pruned. These two practices can cause new top growth. You don't want to encourage foliage growth, but root growth, during the fall and winter.

 

Make sure to not plant trees and shrubs to deeply, this is the number one most common reason for stunted and/or dying plants. The publication "Soil Preparation and Planting Procedures for Ornamentals in the Landscape" and "Plant Trees Right" go into more detail on correct planting techniques and are available online or from your University of Georgia Cooperative Extension office in Floyd County.

http://www.caes.uga.edu/applications/publications/files/pdf/B%20932_2.PDF

http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/warnell/service/library/b1047/b1047.pdf

 

Don't forget to water as needed through fall and winter. Plants can be much more forgiving if you're a day late watering them during the fall and winter months. The real test comes next summer.

 

Keith Mickler is the County Coordinator and agriculture agent for The University of Georgia/Floyd County Cooperative Extension. Located at 12 East 4^th Ave, Rome, GA 30161 (706) 295-6210. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension - Learning for Life. Agriculture and Natural Resources, Family and Consumer Sciences, 4-H Youth.  An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution. To obtain extension publications please visit our web site www.ugaextension.com or contact your county Cooperative Extension office.

Snow due between 4 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday; little if any accumulation. Rainfall at 1.62 inches; cold on the way. Plus: The Buzz of Northwest Georgia

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

SNOW EXPECTED OVERNIGHT, EARLY TUESDAY

-Little if any accumulation expected between 4 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday.

-Flood advisory continues through tonight. Rainfall at 1.62 inches so far.

-Today: 100 percent chance of rain, perhaps up to an inch. High of 56.

-Tonight: 70 percent chance of rain before 4 a.m., then rain and snow likely. Low of 37.

-Tuesday: 70 percent chance of snow before 1 p.m., then a slight chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 47.  

-Tuesday night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. West wind around 5 mph.

Continuing weather coverage on Hometown Headlines all day.

Georgia gas prices drop another 9 cents; still 47 cents more per gallon vs. a year ago.

The Buzz of Northwest Georgia:

-A different type of tree trimming at City Hall this year.

-Parade updates: Unity Christian's state champion football team joins Rome's largest Christmas parade ever.

-A 'new' restaurant for downtown Rome

-Small Business Saturday: How to grow it next year.

-Today's Focus: Salvation Army's Can-A-Thon reaches far beyond Friday's collection. It feeds the needy in three counties throughout the year. Natalie Simms reports.

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

-Join us for Scotty Hancock, Floyd County's emergency management director, on the heavy rain and flooding potential; Allison Cox on "It's A Wonderful Life" and Cups & Mugs return; and Janet Byington and Jerry Rucker on the Christmas Parade and City Hall tree.

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey

-This Friday: Norman's spin on the conference title games and whatever else is left.

John McClellan's high school playoff picks.  

-Calhoun hosts Appling County in AA semi-finals.
-Coming Tuesday: A breakdown of who advances this weekend in playoffs.

NAIA national title game countdown is under way
-'Final Four' play this Saturday; winners advance to Rome.

-Game set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Barron Stadium.

    

Rome Braves: Sports

-Package breakfast Dec. 10 to help Miracle Field; Tradin' Post half-price sale as well.

Cancer Navigators' 'Holiday Ball' under way

It's time for Cancer Navigators' Third Annual Holiday Ball

Media release: The holidays are here and in what has become a local
tradition, Cancer Navigators is once again celebrating its Third Annual
Holiday Ball.

This is no ordinary event. In fact, it is a "non-event." That's because, as
the invitation from the board of directors states, "We will not be at the
event. We do not wish to look for parking and drink wine out of plastic
glasses. We invite you to join us in staying home and celebrate the holiday
season with your family. You will not have to mingle with people you barely
recognize. You will not have to hire a babysitter, buy a fancy outfit to
appear in or travel after dark. We would just like you to Have a Ball at
home!"

The idea is that instead of attending a big fancy ball, folks can instead
donate the money they would spend on such a night to Cancer Navigators to
help cancer patients on their journeys.

Cancer Navigators has begun mailing out more than 1,000 commemorative
ornaments – its annual "Holiday Ball." The 2011 event is in memory of Kandis
Drummond Riddle, Cancer Navigator board member and community stalwart, who
lost her battle with cancer this year.

The keepsake ornament comes in an informative wrap about Cancer Navigators'
mission of reassurance, resources and renewal for cancer patients.

Also included in the invitation to the non-event Holiday Ball is a donor
card that recipients can return with a donation. For $75 you can designate
yourself as an "attendee." For $150, you can be an "honored guest." For
$250, you can be the "life of the party."

Cancer Navigators Executive Director Charlotte Atkins says the annual
Holiday Ball is one of the organization's two major fundraisers of the year.

"The is a joyful way to kick off the season, by encouraging people to stay
home and enjoy the holidays with their loved ones and to contribute to
making cancer patients' journeys more manageable," she said. "It's
especially meaningful this year since the Holiday Ball has been named in
honor of Kandi Riddle, who meant so much to our community and to our
organization."

The Cancer Navigator Holiday Ball packages should begin arriving in
mailboxes this week. Those not on the mailing list who would like to make a
donation and receive an ornament may contact Cancer Navigators at
706-295-4119 or by e-mail at
Sbattle@cancernavigatorsga.org<mailto:i@cancernavigatorsga.org>

Cancer Navigators Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and your
donations are tax-deductible.

"The main thing we want people to know is that every single dollar donated
stays right here in our community to serve area cancer patients," said
Atkins. "We are so thankful for our donors who partner with us in making a
difference in cancer patients' lives. "

Web link for Cancer Navigators website:
http://www.cancernavigatorsga.org

Web link for Cancer Navigators Facebook page:
http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d6a63334d7a49334d44513d0d0a&sb=1

Georgia gas prices drop another 9 cents; still 47 cents more per gallon vs. a year ago.

 

Media release: Gas prices continued to fall last week despite the 38 million travelers who were projected to hit the road during the holiday weekend. Demand for gasoline still lags behind last year's numbers and Europe's financial problems continue to weigh down oil prices. Although the national average price for a gallon of regular retail gasoline decreased 5 cents from last week, the price of crude oil remains relatively unchanged. Crude oil settled at $96.77 a barrel last week on the New York Mercantile Exchange—64 cents less than the week prior. 

Although oil prices remain stable at this time, demand for diesel and heating oil has increased causing U.S. stockpiles of crude to drop by 6.2 million barrels during the week of November 13. While crude stockpiles decreased, gasoline inventories increased 4.5 million barrels during the same week.

"The price of oil will yo-yo as long as there is not a solid plan in place to resolve Europe's debt issues," said Jessica Brady, AAA spokesperson, The Auto Club Group. "However, if gasoline demand remains weak, consumers could see prices at the pump fall even further as we enter the holiday season."

The national average price of regular unleaded gasoline decreased 5 cents from last week for an average of $3.30 per gallon. Florida's average price of $3.32 decreased 4 cents from last week and Georgia's average of $3.19 fell 9 cents. Tennessee's average price decreased 7 cent from last week, respectively.  

CURRENT AND PAST PRICE AVERAGES

Regular Unleaded Gasoline

                                    Current           Week Ago      Month Ago     Year Ago     

National:                   $3.300        $3.359                $3.448            $2.859

  Florida:                      $3.322          $3.369                  $3.433             $2.858

  Georgia:                     $3.196          $3.280               $3.383             $2.725

Tennessee:               $3.119          $3.187             $3.286              $2.676

AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report (fuelgaugereport.com) is updated each day and is the most comprehensive; reflecting actual prices from credit card transactions within the past 24 hours at two-thirds (100,000 stations) of the gasoline stations in the U.S. Its accuracy is unparalleled.

Christmas shoppers to get early start on Black - and Blue - Friday. Some stores opening Thanksgiving night

By Natalie Simms
nsimmshh@att.net

 

(This story originally was posted on Nov. 7 and has been updated)

 

With Black Friday just a few weeks away, local stores are making preparations to open earlier this year to give shoppers a jump start on their Christmas gift buying. While most retailers will still open in the wee-hours of the morning, some will do so at midnight for the biggest shopping day of the year.

 

Mount Berry Square will open at 4 a.m. but Belk will be open an hour earlier at 3 a.m. Special benefits will await those early shoppers, says Mimi Fernandez, marketing manager.

 

"The first 500 shoppers will receive shopping totes with merchant coupons, plus we will have gift cards randomly placed in some of the bags," she says. "There will also be special one-day savings at Sears, Belk and J.C. Penney and others."

 

Rome's Home Depot at 103 Hicks Drive will be opening at 5 a.m., an hour earlier than in previous years, according to Manager Dena Jacobs.

 

"We will have a number of doorbuster deals that will be available at 5 a.m. until we sell out. We'll have lots of deals on Christmas items and hardware. We're looking forward to a busy day," she says.

 

Nearby Kmart at 102 Hicks Drive also will be opening up at 5 a.m. for what they call "Blue Friday," says Manager Mike Barger, adding, "we will also have our annual Thanksgiving Day sale from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. the day before."

 

Barger predicts items in electronics will be popular items this year but the store does not yet know what items will be on sale.

 

"We want shoppers to know that our layaway will be open on Blue Friday and everything that is on sale is eligible for layaway … most everything in store is eligible, not just in certain departments," Barger says.

 

This might give Kmart a boost in local competition with Wal-Mart stores whose layaway departments will not be open on Black Friday. According to their corporate website, Black Friday items will not be eligible for layaway. And during the Christmas season, the only items eligible for layaway are from toys, electronics and fine jewelry departments.

 

However, local Wal-Mart stores will be opening up earlier this year for two special sales. Stores will open for the first sale at 10 p.m. Thanksgiving night, a two-hour shift from last year's midnight sale, says Bert Parker, assistant manager at the East Rome Wal-Mart.

 

"We will also have our second sale at 4 a.m. instead of 5 a.m. on Friday morning. We don't know what items will be on sale yet, we're just told to prepare drop points around the store," he says.

 

Calhoun Premium Outlets will again be opening at midnight for the annual "Midnight Madness" event.

-But some stores will get a jump on the sales by opening at 9 p.m. Thanksgiving Day while others will open at 10 p.m.

 

Over in Cartersville, two local stores will be opening at midnight. Target stores nationwide will be opening at midnight this year, much earlier than the 4 a.m. opening last year. Kohl's stores also will be opening at midnight.

 

 

2011: Aggressive year for growth -- and what didn't happen. Forecast: 30% rain today, clear and 67 on Thanksgiving. Restaurant scores, downtown entertainment, holiday closings.

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

As the holidays begin, region celebrates three project milestone (well, maybe four with LakePoint) while questions remain about three others.

-Lowe's, cancer center, specialty hospital are highlights with eyes now quickly moving to Charles Hight Square/Publix, Tennis Center and West Third hotel.

Thanksgiving reminders:
-Some banks, offices closing early today for Thanksgiving holiday: All will be closed on Thursday with most reopening Friday.
-Track state highways
-Latest gasoline prices

The Buzz:
-Tea Party to hear tough talk on immigration.
-Debating the presidential debates at Berry.
-Chamber launches new mobile website.
-Janet, Sam Baltzer to lead largest Christmas parade ever.

Your Thanksgiving forecast:
-No record high Tuesday -- or serious storms.
-Wednesday: 30% chance of rain, high of 63, low of 36.
-Thanksgiving: Clear skies, high of 67, low of 32.
-Friday: Sunny, high of 68, low of 38.

Public health restaurant inspection scores:
-A bunch of 95-plus scores and one in the low 50s in Chattooga. Details on Dining

Bryan Mullins' entertainment report:
-Tonight feels like a Friday night with Scott Thompson, Kneckdown.

Coming Friday:
-Norman's No-Nos for Rivalry Week in college football. How close with UGA-Tech be? A one-point win for ... check back Friday.

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

--Please join today's guests including Chris Carey of Logical Systems talking about the chamber's new mobile friendly website; Brian McClellan, Gordon County 's Director of IT and GIS, on 'hot' Christmas gadgets; and Michele Rothstein on Black Friday at Calhoun Premium Outlets.

 

John McClellan's high school picks: Football 

--Calhoun at Dublin: An 8-point win for the Yellow Jackets.
Plus: A breakdown of who advances this weekend in playoffs.
-And: What the reclassification proposal means to Northwest Georgia schools. Football

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey 

-Rivalry week picks due Friday.

 

NAIA national title game countdown is under way

 -Game set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Barron Stadium.

 

Georgia High School Football Daily. 

    

Rome Braves: Sports

-Package breakfast Dec. 10 to help Miracle Field; Tradin' Post half-price sale as well.

Record heat and storms likely today. Rumors swirl at old Shannon Mohawk plant. Latest Christmas parade updates. John McClellan's high school playoff picks.

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

Record heat -- and concerns about storms?
-We could tie or break a high temperature record today while dodging potential storms across Northwest Georgia. We'll have updates all day on Hometown Headlines.
-Your Thanksgiving Week forecast:

-Tuesday: 50-100% chance of rain, high of 77, low of 55.

-Wednesday: 20% rain chance, high of 66, low of 39.

-Thanksgiving: Clear skies, high of 67, low of 36.

 

Rumors swirl about new use of former Mohawk warehouse in Shannon.

-Box plant, beer distributorship among the reports; beer supplier says nothing brewing for the next three years until economy recovers.

 

Later this morning: Learn the identities of the 2011 Rome Christmas parade grand marshal(s)?

-Plus: The parade lineup is posted. 

 

Black Friday starts at 12:01 a.m. at Calhoun Premium Outlets ... and 10 p.m. Thursday ... and 9 p.m. Thursday ... and ...

 

Veterans career center and expo due in Cartersville Dec. 27. 

 

John McClellan's high school picks: Football 

--Calhoun at Dublin: An 8-point win for the Yellow Jackets.
Plus: A breakdown of who advances this weekend in playoffs.
-And: What the reclassification proposal means to Northwest Georgia schools. Football

 

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

-Please join our guests today include: John McClellan talking about high school football reclassification and Calhoun's bid for the state AA title; County Commission Chairman Eddie Lumsden on his bid for the state House; and Jill Golberg from DOT on the new webpage for winter weather motorists. 

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey 

-Rivalry week picks due Friday.

 

NAIA national title game countdown is under way

 -Game set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Barron Stadium.

 

Georgia High School Football Daily.

   

Rome Braves: Sports

-Package breakfast Dec. 10 to help Miracle Field; Tradin' Post half-price sale as well.

Georgia DOT suspends lane closures for Thanksgiving holiday

Here's some good news for travelers during the Thanksgiving holiday. The Georgia Department of Transportation will suspend all construction-related lane closures on interstate highways and primary state roads in Northwest Georgia from 5 a.m., Thursday, through midnight, Sunday.

"Northwest Georgians are very patient with our construction throughout the year," says Kent Sager, district engineer at the DOT office in Cartersville. "We appreciate it very much and enjoy giving them these well-deserved breaks from lane closures. We hope everyone has a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving."

The Department reminds travelers to exercise caution nonetheless as heavy holiday traffic is expected throughout the state. In addition, crews may be working and equipment may be staged in proximity to roadways; and safety concerns may require some long-term lane closures remain in place. Also, incident management or emergency maintenance-related lane closures could become necessary on any route.

Motorists can access real-time, statewide, route-specific information on accidents, road work, traffic and weather conditions through Georgia 511 - a free phone, web, and mobile service. By dialing 511, callers also can transfer to operators to 24 hours a day to report incidents or request assistance. The system can be used to access transit providers, major airports, rideshare organizations, tourism information and 511 systems in surrounding states. Additionally, 511 is available online or as a hybrid solution via a free download for your smart phone. Georgia DOT partners with sponsors for assistance in funding 511, preserving tax dollars and helping sustain critical services. For more information about 511, its mobile application download, or to learn how to become a sponsor, visit 511ga.org. For information on the Department of Transportation, visit (www.dot.ga.gov); you also may follow Georgia DOT on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/GeorgiaDOT) and Twitter (http://twitter.com/gadeptoftrans).

Buzz: Existing industry's big growth numbers. Deeper meaning from Unity's football title. How to help others have a Merry Christmas. Soggy forecast but sunny Thanksgiving

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

The Buzz of Northwest Georgia: Click

-What's buzzing this week: Existing industry and dancing with the ones that brung ya; deeper impact of Unity's state football title; a Poe proclamation reading -- at city hall?; and giving respect to a maligned regional hot spot.
-Campaign 2012: From legislature to Congress, be ready for massive changes (White House, too?)
-Today's Focus: Part two of Natalie Simms' look at groups trying to make the Christmas season brighter for those in need.

Your Thanksgiving Week forecast:
-Monday: 20% rain chance, high of 75, low of 55.

-Tuesday: 40-80% chance of rain, high of 78, low of 54.

-Wednesday: Partly sunny, high of 70, low of 42.

-Thanksgiving: Clear skies, high of 66, low of 38.

 

Latest gas prices from AAA South: Georgia gas prices fall another 7 cents; still 57 cents higher than a year ago. AAA

 

Remembering Larry Munson: Lengendary voice of the Georgia Bulldogs dies. UGA

 

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.

-We'll have an expanded program today as we substitute for Nelle Reagan in the 9 o'clock hour. On the way:

-7:40 a.m.: Harry Musselwhite and Christmas 2012.
-8:10 a.m.: U.S. Rep. Tom Graves and the 'super committee' results.
-8:40 a.m.: Amy and Keith Summerlin and their new Fat Nanny's restaurant.
-9:10 a.m.: U.S. Rep. Phil Gingrey on Washington updates.
-9:30 a.m.: Jessica Brady of AAA South on Thanksgiving travel, fuel costs.   

 

John McClellan's high school picks: Football 

-Next predictions due Tuesday including Calhoun at Dublin.

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey 

-Rivalry week picks due Friday.

 

NAIA national title game countdown is under way

 

-Game set for 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17, at Barron Stadium.
-16 teams in the hunt; all play Saturday. 

 

Georgia High School Football Daily.

   

Rome Braves: Sports

-Package breakfast Dec. 10 to help Miracle Field; Tradin' Post half-price sale as well.

  

Georgia gas prices fall another 7 cents; still 57 cents higher than a year ago

TAMPA, Fla. (Nov. 20, 2011) — Oil prices surpassed $101 a barrel last week, but quickly fell back below $100 after the value of the euro dropped and European leaders acknowledged the resolution of the debt crisis would be a longer than anticipated process. Crude oil settled Friday at $97.41 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange—$3.15 more than the week prior.

Although the price of oil has inched up week after week, gasoline prices continue to fall on lackluster demand levels. Gasoline demand is 3.6 percent behind a year-ago and the reduced demand has kept pump prices at bay. However, demand for diesel has spiked with infrastructure development across the globe. The jump in demand caused diesel prices to hit nearly $4 a gallon.

"Thanksgiving travelers will get a bit of a break at the pump this year. Although a gallon of gas costs more than last year, motorists shouldn't see prices spike before Thanksgiving," said Jessica Brady, AAA spokesperson, The Auto Club Group. "There's a good chance gas prices will continue to drop into Wednesday—the official start to the holiday."

The national average price of unleaded regular gasoline is $3.35 a gallon, 7 cents less than last week. Florida's average price of $3.36 is 5 cents less than last week, while Georgia's average price of $3.28 dropped 7 cents. Tennessee's average price of $3.18 decreased 6 cents from last week, respectively.

CURRENT AND PAST PRICE AVERAGES

Regular Unleaded Gasoline

                                    Current           Week Ago      Month Ago     Year Ago

National:                    $3.359         $3.422                  $3.468              $2.879

Florida:                      $3.369          $3.414                  $3.472              $2.875

Georgia:                     $3.280          $3.355                  $3.420             $2.758

Tennessee:                $3.187          $3.245                   $3.318            $2.708

AAA's Daily Fuel Gauge Report is updated each day and reflects actual prices from credit card transactions within the past 24 hours at two-thirds (100,000) gasoline stations in the U.S. Its accuracy is unparalleled.

Floyd County Sheriff's Office Completes, Receives National Accreditation Assessment

Media release: The Floyd County Sheriff's Office sought and received National Accreditation and was recognized for excellence by being placed in the top 3 percent of law enforcement agencies "Nationally".

 

Sheriff Tim Burkhalter completed National Accreditation verification last week in Colorado Springs, Colorado, accompanied by Floyd County Sheriff's Office Accreditation Manager, Sgt. Nathan Blanton, Together they met with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA®), who examined all aspects of the Floyd County Sheriff's Office policy, procedures, management, operations, and support services.

 

This marked the final phase to be recognized as a National Accredited agency. An on-site assessment was completed May 1, 2011 through May 3, 2011. 

 

The Floyd County Sheriff's Office had to comply with 177 applicable standards in order to gain accreditation status, Tim Burkhalter said, "National Accreditation has been our goal since 2005 and we have been working toward that. It is absolutely critical to all we want to accomplish as an agency to reach this ultimate level of professionalism. It will assure our community that we strive to be the best and hold ourselves to the highest possible standard and that is what C.A.L.E.A. is."

 

A copy of the standards is available at the Floyd County Sheriff's Office 2526 New Calhoun Highway Rome, Georgia 30161. Local contact is Sergeant Nathan Blanton 706-314-0707.

Nov. 20: Cancer Center adds open house for public to view holiday wreaths silent auction

Media release: For those who have been unable to stop by to see the Masterpiece Wreath Auction on display at the Harbin Clinic Tony E. Warren Cancer Center during business hours, an open house has been added 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20.

Local decorators, florists, artists and cancer survivors have created one-of-kind wreaths that are up for bid through 1 p.m. Wednesday. Proceeds from the silent auction benefit Cancer Navigators, a local nonprofit that provides free services for area cancer patients on their journey through treatment and beyond.

"These wreaths are truly masterpieces, created with great care and artistry. Folks really should come out and see these creations. It's a fun way to get into the Christmas spirit," said Charlotte Atkins, executive director for Cancer Navigators. "We are so appreciative that the Cancer Center team decided to host this auction on our behalf. Every dollar raised stays right here in Rome to serve cancer patients."

Some wreath motifs are traditional holiday themes, some are floral and botanical, still others are whimsical, some elegant -- all original. For example, there's a Georgia Bulldog spirit wreath, one with giant lollipops and a seashell grapevine wreath on holiday greenery. After Christmas, the shell wreath can be separated from the holiday greenery for use year-round. And there are many others.

The public is invited to come enjoy the wreaths 1-4 p.m. Sunday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, and bid on you those you want for gifts or yourself. You can also vote on the People's Choice Award with votes costing $1 each.

Winners will be contacted by the Cancer Center after bidding closes Wednesday. For more information on the Cancer Center or the auction, contact Janice Hopkins at 706-528-9091. For more information on Cancer Navigators, call 706-295-4119 or visit the website at www.cancernavigatorsga.org or the group's Facebook page.

Web link for slideshow of the Masterpiece Wreath Auction:

http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d6a63334d7a49334d44513d0d0a&sb=1

Web link for Cancer Navigators Facebook page:

http://secure.smilebox.com/ecom/openTheBox?sendevent=4d6a63334d7a49334d44513d0d0a&sb=1

Cold start today (27 at 5 a.m.); another cold one tonight. Fat Nanny's opens; Country Gentleman for lease? Latest from Lowe's. Norman Arey's college losers. John McClellan's playoff picks. Big weekend calendar

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

 Low of 27 (so far today) with another frigid night ahead:

-Friday: Sunny, high of 57, low of 28.
-Saturday: Mostly sunny, high of 62, low of 43.
-Sunday: 20% rain chance, high of 67, low of 52.
 

Fat Nanny's opens Saturday in East Rome:

-Soft opening for Saturday dinner, Sunday lunch to be followed by Wednesday-Sunday dining service.

 

Country Gentleman in East Rome up for lease?

 

Lowe's corporate selling nearly $1 billion in bonds for growth, 'working capital.' The new Shannon distribution center carries a $125 million price tag.

 

Greater Rome Realtors' Christmas/change of command meeting is Dec. 2.

 

Shorter lifestyle policy backlash continues; donor rescinds $10,000 library pledge.

 

HBO's Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel 'reconnects' with former Pepperell star Marcus Dixon, now with the New York Jets.

 

Keep an eye on 'falling' gas prices. Plus: More than a million Georgians will take to the road for Thanksgiving.

 

John McClellan's high school football predictions.

- Unity to win state title game by 14 points. Calhoun

gets big victory vs. Brooks County; rough ride for Adairsville

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey

-Banking on his 10-for-10 run last week, Norman says look for these teams to lose Saturday: Vols, Penn State, Wildcats and Duke.

Weekend Calendar: what's on tap including pancake breakfast, Big Boys Toys, Turkey Jam.
-Latest public health restaurant inspection scores.
-Bryan Mullins' entertainment report.

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM.
-Please join today's guests including Joe Curtiss, head coach of the Unity Christian School Lions as they head into the state title game Saturday night; and Tara Jones on Saturday's Noon Optimist Club's pancake breakfast.

 

Heyman HospiceCare at Floyd's Love Light tree returns

Media release: Heyman HospiceCare at Floyd is rekindling a treasured holiday tradition this season–the Love Light Remembrance tree.

The Love Light Tree will shine from atop the Floyd Medical Center parking garage, each light glowing in memory or in honor of a special friend, loved one or caregiver. The parking garage is located on the Floyd Medical Center campus, adjacent to 330 Physicians Center. The tree will be lighted for the first time this season in a special ceremony on Nov. 28, 2011, and the Love Lights will continue to shine through Jan. 2, 2012.

For a donation of $10 or more you can have a light shine in honor of or in memory of someone special in your life. Proceeds from the Love Light tree will help continue the mission of Heyman HospiceCare at Floyd, which is to serve patients with quality care and providing support to those facing the end of life. You can donate online at www.floyd.org, or by contacting Heyman HospiceCare at Floyd at 706.509.3200.

The Love Light tree-lighting ceremony is planned for Monday, Nov. 28 at 5:30 p.m. on top of the parking garage. A brief reception will follow. The event is free and open to the public.

Thanksgiving Travel Expected to Increase 4% Year-Over-Year

Media release: Thanksgiving travel in the U.S. is projected to increase 4 percent this year from 2010, with more than 42.5 million Americans taking a trip of 50 miles or more away from home between Wednesday, Nov. 23 and Sunday, Nov. 27. Auto travel remains the preferred method of travel this Thanksgiving with 38.2 million Americans traveling via automobile, also up 4 percent from last year. Auto travelers make up 90 percent of all holiday travelers. Click here for full report.

"This is definitely a positive sign for the travel industry," said Brent Hubele, Vice President, AAA Travel, The Auto Club Group. "Despite sluggish economic news, more people plan to travel this year than last, showing a slow, but steady recovery. Pent-up demand is likely the dominate factor contributing to the increase in the number of holiday travelers."

Almost 3.4 million leisure travelers (8% of holiday travelers) will fly during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, a 1.8 percent increase from 2010. Fuel costs, combined with steady air travel demand and capacity cuts have resulted in rising airfares over the past year.  According to AAA's Leisure Travel Index, Thanksgiving airfares are expected to be 20 percent higher than last year with an average lowest round-trip rate of $212 for the top 40 U.S. air routes. The combination of higher fares and lower availability of seats is expected to limit air travel growth this holiday to less than half of total traveler growth. 

Other modes of travel (bus, train, watercraft, etc) will make up the remaining two percent of the total person-trips, with just over 900,000 people expected to travel by these modes, 14.7 percent higher than in 2010. Travel via other modes has declined significantly since 2008 and remains well below historical averages, so there is stronger pent-up demand from consumers who travel using these modes. In addition, economic conditions are dictating that those who otherwise might travel by air or automobile are now traveling by alternative modes of transportation.

 

Hotel Rates Increase; Car Rental Rates Decrease 

Hotel rates for AAA Three Diamond or mid-range lodgings are expected to increase six percent from one year ago with travelers spending an average of $145 per night compared to $136 last year. Travelers planning to stay at AAA Two Diamond hotels can expect to pay seven percent more at an average cost of $103 per night. Weekend daily car rental rates will average $37, an 11 percent decrease from last year.

Distance Traveled Decreases; Median Spending Increases

The average distance traveled by Americans during the Thanksgiving holiday is expected to be 706 miles, a decline of 13.5 percent from last year when travelers planned to log an average of 816 miles. Median spending is expected to be $554, a 12 percent increase from $495 last year. However, Thanksgiving holiday travel is typically less expensive than other travel holidays because of the emphasis on the Thanksgiving meal and gathering of friends and family. Fuel and transportation costs combine to consume the largest share of holiday spending (33 percent), followed by shopping (18 percent) and food and beverages (18 percent).

AAA Offers Travelers a Variety of Trip Planning Tools Including:

• Free, printed TourBook guides and maps for members
• The online TripTik^® Travel Planner, available free to all travelers at AAA.com
• 80 free, downloadable AAA eTourBook Guides that highlight top North American travel destinations complete with AAA Approved and Diamond Rated hotels and restaurants; AAA Editor's Picks for attractions, events and nightlife.
• AAA TripTik Mobile iPhone app provides updated gas prices, maps and direction functionality, with information on AAA Approved hotels, restaurants and attractions.
• AAA Roadside iPhone app, offers AAA members requiring emergency road service the ability to quickly send their location, vehicle description and specific breakdown details directly to AAA without placing a phone call.
• AAA Discounts iPhone app, which has been downloaded more than 900,000 times, uses GPS technology to identify a user's location and displays nearby businesses that offer members AAA Show Your Card & Save^® discounts. A version of the AAA Discounts app is also available for Android-platform smart phones.

The iPhone apps are available for download from the Apple iTunes Store, and the Android app is available for download from the Android Market.

AAA's projections are based on economic forecasting and research by IHS Global Insight. The Boston-based economic research and consulting firm teamed with AAA in 2009 to jointly analyze travel trends during the major holidays. AAA has been reporting on holiday travel trends for more than two decades. Click here to view the complete AAA / IHS Global Insight 2011 Labor Day Holiday Travel Forecast.

1,000 fewer jobs in Floyd last month vs. Oct. 2010. Jobless claims up 35.2% T-minus a month to NAIA, $2 million impact. Much colder; 26 tonight.

Please click www.hometownheadlines.com:

 

1,000 fewer jobs in Rome/Floyd County last month vs. October 2010.

-Also: 35.2 percent jump in first-time jobless claims compared to a year ago.

-On the bright side: 100 more people had jobs in  Floyd last month than in September. Also, the statewide jobless rate dipped to 10.2%

-County-by-county unemployment rate due later this month.

-What jobs are out there in 2012 and beyond.

  

T-minus one month for the fourth NAIA football championship to be played at Barron Stadium in Rome. What it means: $1.5 million to $2 million for the local economy. 

  

Latest public health dining scores: Floyd, Bartow, Gordon, Polk.

-Fat Nanny's to announce opening date.

-Downtown entertainment snapshot by Bryan Mullins.   

 

Get ready for a low of 26 degrees tonight, 29 Friday night
-Our soggy, stormy Wednesday gives way to latest cold front.
-Thursday: Sunny, high of 56, low of 26.
-Friday: Sunny, high of 56, low of 29.
-Saturday: Mostly sunny, high of 61, low of 42.

 

Today's Hometown Headlines Radio Edition, 7-9 a.m., WRGA 1470 AM:  

-Our guests today include -Please join today's guests including Floyd EMA Director Scotty Hancock on the agency's statewide honors; Dr. Frank Stephenson, professor of economics at Berry, on a possible new recession ; and Rachel Rogers and Ann Hortman on the 2011 NAIA National Championship, now just a month away.   

 

John McClellan's high school football predictions.

-McClellan: Unity to win state title game by 14 points. Calhoun

gets big victory vs. Brooks County; rough ride for Adairsville

 

Norman Arey's Norman's No-Nos. Arey

 

-How did Norman do Saturday? 10 for 10! His next picks are due Friday morning.

Georgia High School Football Daily.

Rome Braves: Sports

-Package breakfast Dec. 10 to help Miracle Field; Tradin' Post half-price sale as well.

-Ingle returns for 2012 season; schedule.