D A W S O N
C O U N T Y
Chamber holds open house November 2010
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Post Office Box 299 292 Hwy. 400, North Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
Festival boosts local economy By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Once again, the Mountain Moonshine Festival has come and gone. The celebration was an economic boost for local businesses in the area, according to Linda Williams, local chamber of commerce president. “The festival’s economic impact was great,” Williams said. “It was good for local businesses of all kinds.” The event, held Oct. 22-24, featured
car shows, live entertainment, a parade and hundreds of merchants throughout downtown Dawsonville. The festival benefited KARE for Kids, a nonprofit organization that works to provide for underprivileged children in Dawson County. The 2010 festival grossed more than $115,000. Thousands of locals and out-of-towners arrived for what organizers called See FESTIVAL | 4
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Dawson Whitmire of Dawsonville takes in the sights at the 43rd annual Mountain Moonshine Festival last month.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
It’s important to take care of the little things I have been thinking lately about how important it is to take care of the little things in our businesses. Those little things that we take for granted that can make such a difference in whether our customer’s experience exceptional
quality service or not. The little things can make such a difference. I teach Sunday school and usually I end up teaching a lesson that I need to learn and this is one of those times. Our company, our chamber, as well as collec-
tively all of our businesses, if we would learn to take care of those little things, I believe it would move us from good to great. It is so easy to settle for just good. It has been said that “good is the enemy of great.”
stove and turn on the burnSo how do you move er. Stick a thermometer from good to great? Take inside the pan and watch the care of the minor details. water’s temperature rise. At Have you ever heard of 211 degrees, water is very the 211 degrees theory? hot. But raise it just one Coach Bill McCartney in his book “Blind Spots” talks degree, and all of a sudden, about this. He says you can See CARE | 2 place a pot of water on the
Underwood
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NOVEMBER 2010
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Communication is an opportunity for everyone Each month as I prepare to write my article for our newsletter, I sometimes am challenged to decide what to write about. This month I thought I would write about the challenge of communicating. Keeping you informed of upcoming events and what your staff, board, committees and ambassadors are currently doing is done through this newsletter, our monthly mailer, Web site calendar and our constant contact messages. Are you using social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Linked-In and more? Would those outlets serve you better? Just as important, how do you communicate with the staff and your board of directors?
This brings me to our annual anonymous membership survey. Williams This is your opportunity to communicate with us about how you think we are doing and give us your suggestions for next year. This is your organization and we want to build our plan of action around the activities that will benefit your business. You can access the survey directly from our Web site. Go to chamber of commerce and select membership, or look for a link in your next constant contact. The survey will be available during the month of November.
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difference one degree makes. So for me and anyone else, moving from good to great could be by taking care of those little pesky details. The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce is also here to help you move from good to great. It is our desire that all of our businesses here in Dawson County be as successful as they possibly can. Please call on us. We are here to help.
Care something remarkable happens: The water boils. At 211 degrees, as hot as that is, you can’t get a steam engine to budge. The scalding water inside has no power to move the engine, not even an inch. But at 212 degrees, that same steam engine can haul a mile-long freight train up and over a rugged mountain pass. It’s just one degree. But what a
One project we are considering implementing is an optional member to member discount program. There will be a section at the end of the survey that you may use to give us your viewpoint on this idea and any other comments you wish to make. Since we are talking about planning, your board has recommendations for the succession of board members for next year. At the Nov. 18 membership meeting and luncheon, you will be presented with the names of five members for your consideration as directors for 2011-12. You will find a mix of new, returning and previous directors who have been asked to serve. The five members are: Doris Cook, Etowah Water & Sewer
Authority; Kristie Myers, The Norton Agency; James Askew, United Community Bank; Carla Boutin of State Farm Insurance; and Jennifer Baker of United Community Bank. Look elsewhere in the newsletter for information on these proposed directors. The current board and proposed 2011 board members will meet in early December for a full day’s work in planning for next year. They will consider the worthiness of past projects and brainstorm ways to serve you in new innovative ways. One of the important tools they will use to create a plan is the membership survey that I just mentioned. So please give us your thoughts and ideas. In closing, the anonymous survey is just one
method you may use to communicate with us. Please do not hesitate to give me a call or send me an e-mail at any time during the year with your ideas or concerns. If something isn’t working for you, we can’t address it if we don’t know about it. In addition, if you would like to be more involved in the work of
the chamber, we are always seeking volunteers to serve in a variety of ways. Let me know your area of interest. I hope to see you at a chamber event soon. If you aren’t a member, won’t you join us?
of your world. Do you know what happened in your community last week? The Dawson Community News keeps you informed, so you always know what’s happening in your community.
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NOVEMBER 2010
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Nov. 11: Join the Veterans Affairs of Dawson County and the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce for the 6th annual Veterans Day Celebration. The keynote speaker will be Nathan Deal. The formal ceremony begins at 2:45 p.m. in the Dawson County Middle School Gym. The parade will begin at 4 p.m. in downtown Dawsonville. The grand marshals will be Korean War veterans. Nov. 12 - 14: Lily Creak Lodge is offering a 10 percent discount on two night stays during the Literary Festival and Writer’s Conference. For more information, www.literaryfestival.org, or call Sharon at (706) 865-6848 Nov. 16: Dawson Dines the United Way. Several area restaurants will be teaming up with United Way for Dawson County. A portion of the proceeds will be donated from today’s receipts to United Way for Dawson County. United Way works through 12 local agencies to provide services to local citizens. Plan to eat out for lunch and/or dinner at a participating restaurant and Dine United. Check the chamber Web site calendar and watch upcoming e-mails for a list of participating restaurants as it develops. If you would like more information about how you and/or your employees can support United Way for Dawson County through payroll deduction, call Jay Sessions at (706) 344-3501, Ext. 245, or e-mail jsessions@dawsoncounty.org. Nov. 18: Special date for the Chamber Luncheon that will be at noon at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road, Dawsonville. Guest speaker will be Clark Beusse,
Dawson County extension agent. Members and visitors register online by 5 p.m. Nov. 15 by going to www.dawson.org, click on “Chamber of Commerce,” then “Event Registration” or look for the e-mail reminder with a link to Membership Luncheon. For more information, call (706) 265-6278. Nov. 23: Join the chamber from 5-7 p.m. at Etowah Water & Sewer Authority, as it hosts the November Business after Hours. The authority will have a ribbon cutting ceremony at 4:30 p.m. prior to Business After Hours. For more information, call Jessica at (706) 216-8474. Special thanks to AFLAC, Sharon Reagan; Anderson Family Medicine, Dr. Larry Anderson; HealthyEatingOnTheRun.com, Barbara Roberts; The Norton Agency, Kristie Myers & United Community Bank, James Askew for sponsoring the cash drawing. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is drawn. The amount is up to $625. Nov. 24: Lily Creek Lodge, at 2608 Auraria Road, www.lilycreeklodge.com, (706) 8646848, is celebrating the arrival of the Capitol Christmas tree on the historic square in Dahlonega, by including an “early Christmas present of roses and chocolates for your sweetheart” with the price of a two night stay on Nov. 23 and 24, 2011. Nov. 25 - 26: Dawson County Chamber of Commerce will be closed to celebrate Thanksgiving holidays. We wish all our members a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. Nov. 25: Forrest Hills Mountain Resort will be serving all of the traditional
Thanksgiving favorites in its beautiful, Rose Garden Dining Room. The meal will feature slow roasted turkey, cornbread dressing with gravy, baked ham, green beans, sweet potato soufflé, real mashed potatoes and much more. One price includes salad bar, hot bar, desserts and non-alcoholic beverages. Ages 12 & Up$19.95- Seniors $16.95Children 5-11 $9.95 4 & Under free. Available by reservation only. Call (706) 864-6456 or (770) 534-3244 for reservations or more information. Available seating times are 11:30 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Nov. 25: Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge will have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner in the picturesque Maple Restaurant overlooking the Northeast Georgia Mountains. Reservations are required. Adults: $24.95, Children 4 years & under eat free, Children ages 5 - 11 $12.50 & Seniors 62+ $22.95. Call (706) 344-1505 for more information. Feast on roast turkey with giblet gravy, slow cooked pot roast, roasted leg of lamb and all the “fixins.” Nov. 27 and 28: Live nativity and holiday celebration at North Georgia Zoo from 5 to 9 p.m. For more information or directions, visit www.northgeorgiazoo.com or call (706) 348-7279.
December Dec. 24-26: The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce will be closed Dec. 24-26 for Christmas holidays. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas. There will not be a luncheon in December.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
“Shop Local Sheriff” Pam Hamalainen gives True Value Hardware owner Dwight Gilleland a gift package last month during a visit from chamber of commerce members.
There’s a new ‘sheriff’ in town By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
True Value Hardware owner Dwight Gilleland received a gift package from Dawson County Chamber of Commerce membership director Pam Hamalainen — dressed as the “Shop Local Sheriff” — last month. A “Posse” of fellow chamber of commerce members followed her as the group recognized local businesses. “It’s our way of showing appreciation to our members,” Hamalainen said. “It’s something nice we wanted to do for them.” Chamber staff visited a random selection of about 20 members Oct. 29 to thank them for their support. The shop local effort encourages county resi-
‘It’s our way of showing appreciation to our members.’ Pam Hamalainen Chamber membership director dents to keep consumer dollars in the city and county, according to Linda Williams, local chamber president. Earlier this year, chamber ambassadors visited businesses to hand out window decals to promote the campaign. The program kicked off in 2008 originally, but Williams said it needed to be refreshed to address the current economic situation.
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Festival one of the most successful Mountain Moonshine Festivals to date. A combination of comfortable temperatures and clear, blue skies played a big part said Calvin Byrd, president of the non-profit organization that holds the event. “It’s beautiful weather and everything’s great,” said Byrd as he directed volunteers in historic downtown Saturday morning. “We couldn’t have asked for a better day.” Festival attendee Dawson Whitmire said it’s no secret what brought people out this year. “Same as every year,” said the Dawson County resident. “They’re here to see these nice, old cars.” Antique automobiles lined the streets, many of them ’40 Fords— classic models often preferred by moonshine runners in the illegal liquor trade. “I love a ’40 Ford,” said festival attendee Matt Fuller of Lawrenceville. “It’s the history of it. It’s the way it
looks. Man … I just love everything about it.” Fuller said he plans to purchase and restore a 1940 Ford and bring it back to next year’s Mountain Moonshine Festival. “Seeing all these cars, it seals the deal. I gotta get me one,” Fuller said. The cars weren’t the only reason people came out. Stacey Dyer of Dahlonega showed up for the festival fare. “The food here, you can’t beat it,” Dyer said. “I know it’s not good for you, but it’s only once a year.” Those in attendance sampled fried apple pies, funnel cakes, ribbon fries, boiled peanuts and pizza. Many were drawn to the festival for its racing ties. NASCAR legend David Pearson served as Grand Marshal. The Grand Marshal’s job is to formally announce the event’s beginning. Pearson led a parade through downtown Oct. 23 and was later introduced by fellow NASCAR great and Dawsonville native Bill Elliott. KARE for Kids vice president Rhonda Goodwin said that, overall, the 43rd annual event was “a huge success.”
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
From left, Bill Elliott, Gordon Pirkle, David Pearson and David Sosebee talk prior to the Mountain Moonshine Festival’s opening ceremonies.
NOVEMBER 2010
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
From left, Hayley Adams and Britney Adams take the Georgia Work Ready skills assessment test last month at Dawson County High School.
Students test job skills By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
In today’s down economy, it’s wise to get an edge over applicants in the job market. Marjorie Poss, counselor at Dawson County High School, thinks students should take every possible opportunity to become more marketable. An opportunity presented itself Oct. 13, and 218 Dawson County High School students could not pass it up. The students took Georgia Work Ready, a skills assessment test and certification for job seekers, a job profiling system for businesses. Senior Matthew Allison took the test because he thought it might give him “a better chance of getting a job. “I also wanted to take it for the challenge,” Allison said.
Poss said it’s a challenge that’s well worth the outcome. “It tells a student what areas he or she is really strong in,” Poss said. The test was administered on a voluntary basis. Students were not required to take it. The fact that so many students volunteered showed Poss “their commitment not only to their education, but their future careers.” According to its Web site, Georgia Work Ready was launched in
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
August 2006 by Gov. Sonny Perdue and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce “to improve job training and marketability of Georgia’s workforce and drive future economic growth for the state. “By identifying both the needs of business and the available skills of Georgia’s workforce, the state can more effectively generate the right talent for the right jobs.” For more information, visit www.gaworkready.org.
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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NOVEMBER 2010
Chairman addresses state of the county Dawson faring better than others By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
File photo
A World War II era jeep leads a group of Vietnam War veterans through the square in downtown Dawsonville.
Veterans Day ceremony honors those who serve By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Local residents can show veterans their support Nov. 11 by attending the sixth annual Veterans Day Celebration in downtown Dawsonville. “Our veterans have given so much and received so little in return,” said Pam Hamalainen, president of Veterans Affairs of Dawson County. “This is our one day out of the year to honor and recognize them.” The event will start a little differently this year, with the formal ceremony first at 2:45 p.m., followed by the downtown parade at 4 p.m. Governor-elect Nathan Deal is scheduled to be keynote speaker at the formal ceremony, which takes place in the gym at Dawson County Middle School. The 2010 event marks the fourth straight year the local parade has been recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Veterans Day Official Site.
It’s one of 58 other sites in the country. Georgia’s only other site is in Atlanta. Recognizing Dawson County’s Veteran of the Year is a yearly tradition at the event. Last year’s selection was local physician Larry Anderson, who served in Vietnam from 1966-68. “The veterans feel like a big part of the community during the ceremony, and the community comes out to support them,” said Wayne Watkins, president of the local chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America. Added Watkins: “It still makes us feel good that somebody’s interested enough to organize events like this.” The high school band marches in the parade, and most local Boy Scout and Cub Scout troops participate by carrying the colors and marching. A number of military units and reenactor groups participate as well. For more information, call Hamalainen at (706) 265-6278.
A recent interest in the area coupled with projects to improve quality of life has Dawson County faring better than other regions in the state, according to the county’s top elected official. Mike Berg, chairman of the Dawson County Board of Commissioners, was the guest speaker Oct. 14 for the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce monthly luncheon. “It’s fun for me to think about what Dawson County is today and what it will be in the future,” he said during his annual state of the county address. Now in his second term, Berg said recent interest in Dawson County has the area poised as the economy begins to turn around. “Even though we have a lot of things going on, it seems like everybody is talking about the Varsity coming,” he said. The stimulus-funded fiber optic project will also lead the way for more development to move this way, he said. “We’re pleased we’re a part of that,” he said. While highlighting several local improvements, like new fire stations in under-served areas of the county, Berg cautioned continued efforts are vital to create and maintain a high quality of life. With unemployment locally and at the state level around 10 percent, Berg stressed the need for job creation in the area. He praised Charlie Auvermann, executive director of Dawson County’s development authority.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Dawson County Commission chair Mike Berg was the guest speak er for the chamber ’s monthly luncheon Oct. 14.
“I say right now, thank goodness for Charlie Auvermann and what he does for us,” Berg said. “He’s been at the forefront of talking to these different businesses, to find out what their interests are and getting them to take a look at Dawson County.” The chamber’s next luncheon will be held at noon Nov. 18 at the Lakeview Center on Dawson Forest Road. Clark Beusse, county extension agent, is scheduled to speak on the importance of agriculture to Dawson County. According to Beusse, the “gross income from agriculture in Dawson County is more than $60 million, with the vast majority from the poultry industry.” Members are expected, guests are welcome. Call the chamber at (706) 2656278 to RSVP.
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Teams compete for head of the class The Dawson County Woman’s Club team of Larry Stephenson, Duane Wallace and Susan McBerry proved to be smarter than a 10-year-old in last month’s annual competition.
Chamber selected as scholarship sponsor By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
In a room of about 200 last month, Duane Wallace was the only person who knew which animal kills the most people each year in Africa. A hippopotamus — for those who are wondering. For her steadfast knowledge of what she called “useless trivia,” Wallace took the Dawson County Woman’s Club team to the head of the class Oct. 12 in the third annual Are you Smarter than a 10-year-old Competition. She and her teammates, Susan McBerry and Larry
Stephenson, credit the win to a love for reading. “She (Wallace) reads all the time, and it shows,” McBerry said. “She’s the reason we’re here.” The annual competition, which benefits the literacy group Reading Education Association of Dawson County, is much like Jeff Foxworthy’s game show, asking questions taught at the elementary school level. Fifth graders from each of the county’s elementary schools were also on hand to help out if the questions were too difficult. Four of the 10 teams
made it to the grand prize, million point round, but only Wallace was able to answer the question. “Reading is the cornerstone of our community. If people can’t read or don’t have their GEDs, it just sets everybody back,” said Wallace, who was also part of the woman’s club’s winning team in 2009. Sandy Lipkowitz, the organization’s executive director, called the event, which raises funds for literacy initiatives in the community, a success. “I think it was absolutely wonderful. It was really exciting to
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
have four teams reach the million point playoff,” she said. “I thank the community so very much, especially during these tough times. It’s hard right now for people and yet these businesses and individuals came through.”
A portion of the event’s proceeds will go toward a scholarship for a graduating Dawson County High School senior this spring. READ will sponsor the scholarship in the name of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, which was selected
among about two dozen local businesses and individuals that helped sponsor the event by purchasing letters in an alphabet raffle. For more information about the READ program, contact Lipkowitz at (706) 579-1771.
Vietnam veterans group continues to gain members From staff reports
In August of 2005 a group of Vietnam Veterans in Dawson County wanted to form an organization to serve not only Vietnam Veterans in the county, but to provide veterans services and resources to local veterans. Since the formation of the Vietnam Veteran of American Chapter 970, the group has grown to more than 65 members and continues to grow. The group wanted to help where they could, within the great community they lived in, so, in November of 2005, Dawson County Chapter 970 received its official Charter, and joined more than 60,000 Vietnam Veterans of America members around the United States. Each year the chapter has awarded two
scholarships to local seniors. Chapter president Wayne Watkins said the group also supports various efforts throughout the community. The group also assists Etowah Lodge in putting up the “Flags of Honor” around Dawsonville. Additionally, Watkins said they also support KARE for Kids each year with the Mountain Moonshine Festival. If you served in the military between 1961 and 1975, you are eligible for membership, or you can join a partner organization the AVVA. The chapter meets on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at Ryan’s Steakhouse. For more information about joining, call Tom Quintrell at (706)429-3201 or Wayne Watkins at (706) 429-5002.
The chamber staff sends Thanksgiving greetings to all of its members. Linda Williams is grateful for the opportunity to live, work and play in such a great community. Marty Williams is grateful for the new chamber facility and Welcome Center. Pam Hamalainen is grateful for our veterans and active military. Robin Smith is grateful for KARE for Kids Christmas. Barbara Fulmer is grateful for loving family and friends. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.
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NOVEMBER 2010
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NOVEMBER 2010
Retirement planner opens financial services office By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
A local financial planner believes the current financial state means aging adults must protect their savings. Scott Yochum, president of Yochum Financial Group, calls himself a “safe money” expert who specializes in retirement planning for the “50 and older crowd.” “I sit down with folks to show them, ‘Here’s your nest egg and here’s how we protect it,’” he said. Wi t h m o r e t h a n 1 5 y e a r s i n t h e industry, Yochum recently opened his o ffi c e o n P r o m i n e n c e C o u r t i n Dawsonville, near Ga. 400. “ I t ’s y o u r n e s t eg g t h a t y o u ’ve worked for all these years to build and we put it in safe money options,” he said. The strategy protects principle, and “then as the market goes up, you get the uptick of the market without any of
the downside risk,” he said. A native of Newton, Iowa, Yochum graduated from Drake University with degrees in both finance and marketing. He spent the first 15 years of his professional career in marketing and management postions with both the Maytag and Rayovac Corporations. He then became executive vice president of the Tarkenton Companies. “I don’t try to sell or convince anybody to do anything with their money. It’s their money, they’ve earned it. I respect that,” he said. “In these financial times, it’s important to protect the nest egg that they’ve built. Yochum and his wife, Debbie, live in Dawsonville and have two sons, Brad, a second year law student, and Trevor, a junior at the University of Georgia. They are active members of Browns Bridge Community Church. For more information, call (706) 216-0022.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Scott Yochum, president of Yochum Financial Group, celebrated the grand opening of his new office on Prominence Court with a ribbon cutting ceremony, held by the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce.
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NOVEMBER 2010
Chamber ‘very pleased’ with open house Weekend turnout in the hundreds By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Members of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce got just what they were after last month: a packed house at the new building. Staff held a grand opening for the Ga. 400 location, inviting residents, business owners and tourists to see the new Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center. It kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 8, which attracted more than 150 to the building, according to Marty Williams. The chamber vice president of tourism said “it went great. We were very happy, very pleased.” Williams wasn’t alone. “We figured the whole house was filled,” said Pam Hamalainen, membership director. “I think everybody was impressed.” Added Hamalainen: “People said they were excited about the new location, and
we feel we can capture much more traffic here.” Visitors Michele Kraft and Amanda Thompson were impressed by the location. “It’s terrific,” Kraft said. “It’s in a convenient place.” Thompson said she likes that it’s “out in the open. It lets you know it’s here.” Visitors like Kraft and Thompson enjoyed hot apple cider and a meal, compliments of the chamber. Hamalainen said visitors told her they enjoyed the atmosphere. “When you come in, it really does feel like a welcome center,” she said. “You feel welcomed when you come in.” The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce moved to the new location in August, after outgrowing the old facility in downtown Dawsonville. The new 2,500-square-foot building is more than twice the size of the former headquarters, located in the historic jail. For more information, call (706) 2656278, or visit www.dawson.org.
From left, Mimi Seibel, Tom Foley, Pete Hill and Hoke Wofford enjoy refreshments last month at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce open house for the new welcome center.
Photos by Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
More than 150 people showed up for the ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 8 at the new Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center.
Rielyn Talley, 3, spends time with some critters at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 8.
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NOVEMBER 2010
NEW MEMBERS BodyPlex of Dawsonville (new owners) Bruce Stromwall 160 Nordson Overlook Road Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 429-0271 Category: Fitness, Health Club and Pool A Novel Idea Used Book Store Skip Arnhart 3651 Dawson Forrest Rd., East Ste 600 Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 216-0101 Category: Retail: Used Bookstore Jayne Hanlon Realty, LLC Jayne Hanlon 60 Nature View Dahlonega, GA 30533 (706) 344-2600 Category: Realtor ALS Pottery Amy Strickland 34 Instigator Cove Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 531-1392 Category: Art Studio Piazza Italian Restaurant David Meyer 837 Hwy 400 South Ste 175 Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 216-3142 Category: Restaurant Genworth Financial Patricia Nichols 192 River Sound Lane Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-1225 Category: LongTerm Care Insurance
Yochum Financial Group ScottYochum 137 Prominence Court, Ste 110 Dawsonville, GA 30534 (404) 307-4574 Category: Financial Planning CSJ Contracting Inc. Glenn Ulmer 36 Collins Rd Dawsonville, GA 30534 (770) 480-2801 Category: Construction
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
Crimson N’ Scarlett Glenn Ulmer 36 Collins Rd Dawsonville, GA 30534 (770) 480-2801 Category: Winery Blue Ridge Glassworks Rob Heath 45 Heath Road Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 216-2881 Category: Art Studio Gallery Park Place Reverse Mortgage Cindy Leveille 1176 Grimes Bridge Rd Roswell, GA 30076 (678) 316-3341 Category: Mortgage
October totals Walk-in visitors: 701 Telephone referrals: 2,997
OCTOBER MEMBER RENEWALS Special thanks to the following members that renewed memberships last month: • Grace Therapy Inc. • Chestatee Golf Club • Gold City Insurance Agency LLC • Burt, Bill and Harriet • Keating Family Medicine • North Georgia Zoo/Wildlife Wonders • R.E.A.D. (Reading Education
Association of Dawson County) • Dawson County WEE Read Books Program Inc. • Dawson County Homeowners Association • Mary Kay CosmeticsIndependent Sales Dir • Tax Help Doctor LLC
Property Investment Associates
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NOVEMBER 2010
AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT
Lori and Steve Lewis said they were excited to win a Halloween gingerbread house at the chamber’s business after hours event held at Community & Southern Bank’s conference center on Oct. 26, which is Lori’s birthday.
‘Shop Local’ testimonials “Marty and I are getting our wood floors refinished through 400 Paint & Floor Covering, Inc. When we were meeting with owner, Victor Dowis, about our project, he said that he definitely gets referrals through the chamber. He said primarily through the Web site and specifically newcomers who find him on our Web site and then they come in when they are ready to move here and have home improvements done!” Linda Williams President, Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
New member Harris Georgia, of The Graphic Edge, contacted the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce after the Business Expo and said his experience as a new member has been very positive and he has gotten new business. He is offering a 10 percent discount to chamber members on their first order through the end of this year.
Harben is Ambassador of the Month By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
For the second time this year, Angela Harben has been selected as the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Month. Harben, an administrative assistant and office manager at K.C. Fuller & Associates, was also recognized for her contributions to the chamber’s ambassador program in March. The ambassadors are an informed, select group of motivated, enthusiastic and articulate businessmen and women who
serve as the liaisons to the chamber’s membership and represent the chamber at many civic and social functions. Harben Harben joined the volunteer program in January. “I joined the Dawson County Chamber Ambassador program in January 2010, to become more involved in the community and to grow closer to the owners and employees of business in our community, also it is a great net-
working tool for our firm,” Harben said. An Ellijay native, Harben has worked at K.C. Fuller & Associates for six years. “We provide tax planning and preparation for business and individual along with a list of other services,” she said. Harben said she is looking forward to continued involvement in the chamber and the community. “I also will be in the class of 2011 Leadership Dawson,” she said. She and her husband, Shannon, live in Dawson County and attend Juno Baptist Church.
NEW 2011 BOARD MEMBERS During the Nov. 18 luncheon of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, five potential board members will be presented to the general membership for approval to the 2011-2012 board
James Askew UCB
Jennifer Baker UCB
of directors. The newly elected board members will begin their official term on Jan.1, but will participate in the chamber's upcoming planning retreat in December.
Carla Boutin State Farm Insurance
Doris Cook EWSA
Kristie Myers The Norton Agency
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Cash drawing grows for November event Etowah Water and Sewer to hold next BAH By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
The trick was on Judy and Demby Harmon on Oct. 26 when the couple’s name was drawn as the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce cash prize winner. Had the Harmons attended the chamber’s monthly business after hours event a few days before Halloween at Community & Southern Bank’s conference center, they would have left with extra cash in their pockets. Winners must be present to claim the cash prize. The chamber would like to thank the following members who support the monthly
cash drawings with monetary donations: James Askew-United Community Bank, Kristie Myers-The Norton Agency, Barbara Roberts-HealthyeatingOnTheRun.com, Larry Anderson-Anderson Family Medicine and Sharon Reagan-Aflac. The chamber would also like to thank the individuals and businesses that donated door prizes for the event. The pot for the cash drawing grows to $625 for the November affair, which will be held at Etowah Water and Sewer Authority. Business after hours will be held from 5-7 p.m. A ribbon cutting ceremony prior to the event will be held to celebrate the completion of the authority’s newly remodeled and renovated building on Hwy. 53. For more information, call (706) 216-8474.
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BodyPlex under new management By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Holly Jones and Carla Boutin browse the selection of books and assorted media at A Novel Idea, a used book store on Dawson Forest Road.
Used book store opens in county By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Skip Arnhart started coll e c t i n g b o o k s s ev e r a l y e a r s before he opened A Novel Idea, a used book store on Dawson Forest Road. The store has been open for about two months and shoppers are increasing each week. “We currently have a large selection of books, classic rock music and horror DVDs, but in the future our selection will be only as good as the i t e m s b r o u g h t i n f o r t r a d e ,” Arnhart said. The book store features a variety of books from the most popular genres. There is also a large select i o n o f c h i l d r e n ’s b o o k s , a s
well as a section devoted to inspirational reading. When items are brought into the store, credit is generally issued for one-quarter of the item’s retail price listed on the cover. The credit may be used for up to one-half of the purchase price of used items in the store. A Novel Idea will not a c c e p t d i r t y, d a m a g e d , p o o r quality or overstocked items. Vinyl records and CDs must be in good condition for trade. Arnhart said merchandise is priced at least half off the cover price. For more information, call (706) 216-0101, or stop by the store, located at 3651 Dawson Forest Road, East, Suite 600.
A fitness center in Dawsonville has new management, and Dawson County Chamber of Commerce members joined with the center’s staff last month for a ribbon cutting ceremony. BodyPlex features a gym and fitness equipment. In addition, said General Manager Lisa Stanley, the club has a pool, hot tub, sauna, steam bath and showers. “It is a full-service facility, so we have everything you might need,” she said. Stanley said the fitness center strives to “help our
‘Whether their goal is being able to do 10 pushups or losing 50 pounds, we’re here to help.’ Lisa Stanley General manager members to execute their goals. We sit down with them on an individual basis and go through what their goals are.” Added Stanley: “Whether their goal is being able to do 10 pushups or losing 50 pounds, we’re here to help.” She said front desk staff and trainers are available at all hours the facility is open. BodyPlex is open from 5
a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. It is located off Ga. 400 South. According to its Web site, the business “has a passion to deliver an incomparable, over-the-top, dynamic, stimulating, captivating ... workout.” For more information, call (706) 265-1398.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
BodyPlex and the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony last month for the fitness club, located off Ga. 400 South.
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Woman specializes in long term care By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Crimson ‘N Scarlett’s Vineyard celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this month. The celebration was held in tandem with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for CSJ Contracting.
Chamber celebrates winery, contractor By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Those who enjoy wine have the opportunity to visit a real winery right in their own backyard. Crimson ‘N Scarlett’s Vineyards is a family owned and operated business off of Hwy. 53 that specializes in fruit wines. “All of our fruit wines are made from Georgia whole fruit,” said Master Winemaker Glenn Ulmer. “There’s nothing added to them. It’s just whole fruit, which makes us a little unique as far as winemakers go.” The business specializes in fruit wines, but staff members also make traditional red and white wines. For a fruit wine, Ulmer said, “if everything works perfectly, it takes about one year to 18 months” for the wine to be ready to drink. Those who would like to sample the
Patricia Nichols of Dawsonville celebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremony with chamber of commerce staff earlier this month. Nichols is a long term care advisor with a background in nursing and rehabilitation. “Because of my nursing career, I have a passion to help people,” Nichols said. She consults with individuals, financial planners and provides coverage to major organizations and their members. Nichols said she specializes in helping clients in their 30s, 40s and “Boomers” to provide extended care coverage before a crisis happens. “Each plan is designed to specific
‘Each plan is designed to specific needs of the individual.’ Patricia Nichols Long term care advisor needs of the individual,” she said. “I also specialize in policies that provide international coverage. We are a global society on the move.” Long Term Care Insurance is located at 192 River Sound Lane in Dawsonville. For more information, call (706) 265-1225, e-mail pnicholsltc@yahoo.com or visit www.nicholsltciplans.com.
‘All of our fruit wines are made from Georgia whole fruit.’ Glenn Ulmer Master winemaker local business’s products are welcome. A tasting room is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (770) 4802801, or visit www.cnsvineyard.com. The chamber of commerce also held a ribbon-cutting ceremony in tandem with the winery, that of Ulmer’s contracting business. CSJ Contracting specializes in remodeling offices and restaurants. The business number is (706) 429-0114.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce for Patricia Nichols of Long Term Care Insurance.
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Local center treats patients like family By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Members of Georgia Farmgirls and the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony last month.
Farmgirls tout eco-friendliness By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
A local group that strives to promote homemaking, gardening and achieving an eco-friendly lifestyle held its ribbon cutting ceremony last month. Georgia Farmgirls, a local chapter of the international MaryJane Farmgirls, began in June 2009. Forsyth County resident Mary Ann Witcher said women who join the chapter “want to have a simpler lifestyle.” The international organization began with an organic lifestyle magazine by the original farmgirl, MaryJane Butters. It has since grown into a global sisterhood with 773 chapters worldwide.
The “Henhouse” straddles the Dawson-Forsyth county line on Hwy. 9 South. Georgia Farmgirls meets monthly. The 40-member group takes field trips and visits classes to discuss various topics. Every weekend, the group holds flea markets that feature the handiwork of its members. Georgia Farmgirls meet at the “Henhouse” at 10:30 a.m. the second Saturday of each month. For more information, call (770) 8455728, e-mail georgiafarmgirls@aol.com or visit www.georgiafarmgirls.org.
The staff of about 13 at Keating Family Medicine in Dawsonville is dedicated to treating their patients like family. “That’s what you get here. We’re all a family,” said Barbara Smart, office administrator. The practice, which recently moved to a medical center on Lumkpin Campground Road, was opened about seven years ago by William Keating, a board certified family practice physician. Keating is also certified to treat addiction. “So we see a wide range of patients, from infancy to centurions,” Smart said. Keating recently welcomed a new physician to the practice, Dr. Folake Taylor, who joined the staff in March and is board certified in internal medicine.
“Dr. Taylor presents a new face to Dawsonville. A female internist is something that the community really needed,” Smart said, “so we brought her on to expand our services.” Some of the most common conditions managed at Keating Family Medicine are hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease and arthritis. Among other illnesses treated are depression, anxiety, the common cold, allergies and skin conditions. The office also offers annual physical examinations, sports and employment physicals, some occupational medicine and any age appropriate health maintenance issues. The practice is open from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to noon Saturday. Appointments and walk-ins are accepted. For more information, call (706) 2654100.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
The staff of about 13 care gi ver s at Keating Family Medicine in Dawsonville is dedicated to treating their patients like family.
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In these uncertain times, it is nice to know there are still some things you can count on close to home. At Chestatee State Bank we are still taking care of our customers and their businesses, just as we have been for over a decade. Come see us. DOWNTOWN MAIN BRANCH WE’RE LENDING MONEY. HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?
L-R: Jim Curry, Russell Hewatt, Wanda Smith, Adam Buice, and Philip Hester
L-R: Cheryl Hunsinger, Amanda Gibson, and Susan Bergstrom
Main Branch located at Hwy 53 & GA 400 in Dawsonville, With locations at downtown Dawsonville, Keith Bridge Commons, Cumming and Marble Hill
(706) 216-2265
www.chestateestatebank.com