Wednesday, February 26, 2025–6:30 p.m.
-David Crowder, WRGA News-
Each year, in celebration of Black History Month, the Floyd County Commission recognizes members of the community who have made an impact, and on Tuesday, three more were honored for their leadership, courage, and citizenship that helped shape Floyd County into the place it is today.
Gregory Greene, nominated by Sara Malone, founded a feeding ministry for the homeless in West Rome. Through his relentless dedication, the ministry flourished. Supported by children, volunteers and generous donors contributing time, resources, and talents, the ministry known as “Fork, Spook and Plate” now serves over 100 individuals each week. Greene is a devoted member of Cornerstone Baptist Church and his deep love for others, as instructed by God, fuels his commitment to living out his word.
“There is a great need in the City of Rome and Floyd County, especially after the closing of places like the Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital, which left so many homeless and on the streets,” Greene told the commission. “We just want to give those who are displaced and the less fortunate the help that is needed.”
Shaylan Johnson, nominated by Leanne Cooke, is a community leader and activist for Northwest Georgia. The granddaughter of Bishop Norris Allen Sr., who was also recognized by this commission in 2021, she is a prominent community activist and MLK enthusiast in Rome. She founded it and currently serves as president of the northwest Georgia minority business association, continuing her grandfather‘s mission to empower minority business owners. She leads classes on financial literacy and addresses cultural changes, helping business owner sustain and grow their ventures. As a dedicated longtime consultant with One Community United, she demonstrates her unwavering commitment to community service. She serves on the board of the Hospitality House for Women in Rome, advocating for battered women and ensuring they receive the best care and protection. Johnson is a seasoned consultant for the Rome International Film Festival, where she focuses on integrating Black and minority films to educate and inspire audiences. She is a member of the Junior Service League of Rome, which provides grants and school supplies to students in need. Her nominator, Leanne Cook, says her greatest strength lies in her kind heart and relentless ambition. Shaylan is deeply devoted to creating positive changes in her community. Her passionate drive and genuine compassion inspire everyone around her, making her a beloved figure and a true catalyst for progress in her role as a community leader.
“When I moved back to Rome, I said I wanted to show how to be the change that I wanted to see—I want to be that,” Johnson said. “I have a 6-year-old little girl, and I wanted to show her that you can beat all the odds and still be amazing.”
John Ware, nominated by Floyd County Commissioner Mike Burns, has been deeply engaged in numerous community activities in Rome and Floyd County. A retired Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Army, Ware served as a Green Beret during the Vietnam War, holding leadership positions as Company Commander, Aviation Commander, and helicopter pilot. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Relations from Columbia College and a Master’s Degree from Webster’s College. He’s also a proud charter member of the Tau Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. After retiring from Temple Inland as a training and human resources specialist, Ware dedicated his time to local organizations. He served on the Campbell School of Business Executive Advisory Council at Berry College, as well as the Board of Directors and Foundation Board of Trustees at Coosa Valley Technical College. He has also been a member of the board of trustees at both Floyd College and Darlington School. His extensive community service includes being a founding member of the 100 Black Men of Rome, where he chaired the scholarship committee and contributed to the Health Initiative for Men. He served three terms on the Board of Directors of Redmond Regional Medical Center and held multiple terms on the Board of Directors for the Rome Rotary Club, where he also served as president-elect and president. Additionally, Ware has been involved with the Rome-Floyd Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and the transportation committee, the Floyd County Board of Elections and Registration, and the selection committee for the Floyd Human Relations Commission, which is integral in the creation of the Rome-Floyd 20/20 Plan. Ware has served on the 14th District Academy Selection Board since 2012, working with Congressman Tom Graves and now Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene. In addition to his civic engagement, Ware has contributed to the Metropolitan United Methodist Church, where he served on the trustee board as a member of the United Methodist Men. As an associate lay leader, he also taught effective parenting classes. John’s nominator, Mike Burns, says he is a man of integrity and has served his country and community well with honor and distinction.
“My parents told me early on, you have to be like Christ— that is a servant leader,’ Ware said. “So, whatever I’ve done, I’ve tried to be a servant to the cause I was working with.”