D A W S O N
C O U N T Y
Annual festival rings in season April 2011
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Post Office Box 299 292 Hwy. 400, North Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
SunTrust holds chamber event By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
The staff at SunTrust Bank’s Dawsonville branch kept the doors open late March 22 to sponsor the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours event. Branch Manager Jane
Alvarez welcomed the group and talked about the bank’s involvement in the community. Recently, SunTrust, located at 6602 Hwy. 53 East, sponsored a blood drive at the bank. SunTrust staff members are currently working on a fundraiser for the the
Dawson County Relay for Life event to be held in May. Raffle tickets are available at the bank for several prize packages that will be given away. Proceeds will benefit the cancer fundraiser. As the after hours event See EVENT | 3
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Jane Alvarez of SunTrust Bank draws names for door prizes at the March Business After Hours event. Also pictured are Stephanie Mathis, chairman of the chamber’s board, and Chamber President Linda Williams.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Good health is the key to a good life As I write this article I am out of the office improving my positive mental health on the coast of South Carolina. I believe in “Travel Therapy” and it does my mind, body and soul good to get away from the everyday... just for a little while.
When I return I am usually refreshed and ready to work. I believe this time will be no different. We all have many levels of health to maintain: Mental, physical and spiritual. When one of these elements are out of whack, it effects your
entire life. Yet, when our minds, bodies and spirits are working together at their best, we all have the innate ability to do amazing things. We can create for ourselves our best life in all aspects: Love, family, work and com-
munity. We can heal our wounds, care for those around us, develop new ideas and perform at a high level. It's a lot to keep up with. Fortunately for us, we do not have to do it alone. In Dawson County, and our surrounding communities, we have profes-
sionals in their fields eager to help us build Mathis healthier lives for ourselves. Whether you are young, old or somewhere in between, See HEALTH | 4
2 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Are you trendy and trending? According to quick facts just released by the State of Georgia, I was surprised to learn that Atlanta ranks No. 2 in the United States as the most socially networked city behind Washington D.C. With this information in hand, it is definitely time to assess your social networking connectivity and make sure you are not neglecting an affordable, if not often free, component to the marketing of your business. An article posted on BusinessInsider.com says there are four current trends you should consider. The first is going mobile. “Mobile marketing is becoming increasingly important as consumer adoption of smart phones increases. Whether you market to businesses or consumers, your cus-
Williams
tomers are increasingly accessing the Internet and using phones as shopping
tools. “But it seems few small business owners currently use mobile marketing methods such as texting promotions to customers, creating a mobile site or mobile application, and advertising on mobile sites. Just 15 percent of entrepreneurs surveyed said these activities have the potential to be “extremely” or “very valuable” to their businesses.” The author continues: “I think this is a big mistake. Young people are an obvious market for
mobile marketing, but with smart phones becoming essential tools for everyone from soccer moms to businesspeople, no business can afford to ignore this trend.” The article continues with: “The second trend you should be aware of is social deal sites. Social deal sites, where customers sign up to get daily e-mails of deep discounts on products and services in their areas, are sizzling hot. “Currently, Groupon and LivingSocial are the biggest names in this industry, but there are plenty of local and regional offerings too. If your business caters to local customers, you’ll want to explore these sites as a marketing tool.” Third, subscription services, not to magazines, but rather an
affordable way to pay for consulting services for activities you can’t handle yourself. These services can be selected and paid for on a monthly basis with assistance on everything from your software needs to IT services. The fourth trend you already know, but perhaps bears repeating in respect to these trends. Seniors, not the teenage kind, but the retired ones. According to Business Insider.com: “Americans age 65 and older are a hot market, but one that’s too often ignored by small business ... In fact, Census data shows seniors are more affluent than most segments of the population, with the median net worth of households aged 65 and over at $108,885 in 2000, compared to a measly
$7,240 for households under age 35. By 2030, people over 65 will account for 20 percent of the population, so if you’re not already targeting this market, figure out how you can.” I find it challenging to keep up with social media and all of the technology that is at our fingertips. But in today’s quickly evolving market-
Barn dance helps WEE Books By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
The fourth annual WEE Books Barn Dance is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. May 14 at the Kinsey Family Farm at 7170 Jot Em Down Road near the Dawson and Forsyth county lines. Dollars raised for the event will benefit the local literacy program, which buys and mails books to 650 pre-schoolers every year. A $25 ticket to the barn dance includes admission, barbecue dinner, two glasses of wine or bottles of beer and the opportunity to
learn how to square dance. WEE Books Director Lionel Graves said those who attend are encouraged to wear “western gear.” “Everybody has fun,” Graves said. “We’re all amateur dancers, so nobody has to worry about getting embarrassed.” The event is sponsored by the Dawson County Homeowners Association. WEE Books, which started in January 2007, delivers more than 7,800 books every year. It costs $36 per year to buy books for each child.
The program helps students prepare for kindergarten. WEE Books held its inaugural Leap for Literacy in February this year. Dawson County residents raised money for the organization by taking a dip in the icy waters of Lake Lanier at Thompson Creek Park. To purchase tickets for the dance or to donate to WEE Books, call Judy Cahill at (706) 216-1931 or Marge Carey at (706) 2164872. For more information about WEE Books, call Graves at (706) 216-0173.
place, we certainly need to educate ourselves on how to use every tool available to us. Get connected and get trendy. I hope to see you at a chamber event soon. If you are not 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.
Dawson Community News 514 Academy Ave., Dawsonville 706-265-3384 FAX 706-265-3276 ❑ $15 Local 1 Year Subscription ❑ $25 Local 2 Year Subscription
SUBSCRIBE TODAY MAIL CHECK & FORM TO: WEDNESDAY MAIL DELIVERY
NAME:_______________________________________________
Dawson Community News (706) 265-3384
P O BOX 1600 514 Academy Ave. Dawsonville, Ga 30534
ADDRESS:____________________________________________ CITY: ________________________________ ZIP:____________ PHONE: ______________________________
OFFER GOOD WITHIN DAWSONVILLE MAIL LIMITS ONLY
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 3
APRIL 2011
CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 13: "Cleaning Spring" event sparks friendly competition: 2011 Great American Clean-up. Keep Dawson County Beautiful in partnership with Etowah Water and Sewer Authority and the Dawson County Woman's Club encourages volunteers to form 2-4 person teams to free our roads of litter, while preserving the environment through recycling. A $20 entry fee per team is required. For more information, contact Cathy Brooks at (706) 344-3501, Ext. 255 or e-mail cbrooks@dawsoncounty.org. April 14: Join the chamber at noon at the Lakeview Center for the monthly luncheon. Lynn Jackson from Northside Forsyth Hospital will be the guest speaker. Administrative Professionals will be recognized, so invite yours. Special thanks to the luncheon sponsor, Northside Forsyth Hospital. For more information, call the chamber at (706) 2656278. April 16: United Community Bank, along with its Junior Board of Directors, will be hosting a Relay Rod Run charity car show to benefit Relay for Life. The event will be from noon until 2 p.m. in the bank's parking lot near Ga. 400, 6372 Hwy. 53 East, Dawsonville. Awards will be given at 3 p.m. Admission will be free to the public. For more information, call Kara Hewatt at (706) 265-3232. April 23: Great American Cleanup event, Electronics Recycling Day, will be held from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. in the Wal-mart parking lot. Dawson County residents may bring personal computers, printers, monitors, stereo equipment, radios, telephones, circuit boards, fax machines and many other electronic items. A complete list of acceptable items can be found at www.dawsoncounty.org. April 26: Business After Hours Health Fair will be held from 5-7 p.m. in the gymat Rock Creek Park. Many of the chamber's
health care members will be participating. The event will be open to the general public, as well as chamber members. Special thanks to AFLAC-Sharon Reagan, Anderson Family Medicine-Dr. Larry Anderson, Weddings and Wellness Enterprises-Barbara Roberts, Kristie Myers-The Norton Agency and United Community Bank-James Askew for sponsoring the cash drawing. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is drawn. April 25-29: Manufacturing Appreciation Week Through April 31: The Bowen Center for the Arts presents: "Chasing the Light," the Plein Air Fine Artist Alliance Show. For more information, visit www.dawsonarts.org or call (706) 216-2787. May 4: Wellspring Counseling Center, 800 Old Dawson Village Rd., Suite 10, Dawonville, will have a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. May 7-8: 10th annual Spring Fling will be held from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on the grounds of the Bowen Center for the Arts. The festival will feature garden plants and accessories, juried arts and crafts, children's fun area, food and musical entertainment, all free to the public. Vendors are welcome. For more information or a vendor application, visit www.dawsonarts.org or call (706) 216-2787. May 7: Dawson County Kiwanis Club will be having its annual 5K/10K races. The event will benefit the children of Dawson County. For more information, call Joey Homans at (706) 265-3090 or email joey@fchhm.com. May 12: Chamber luncheon will be held at noon at the Lakeview Center. Guest speaker will be announced soon.
See CALENDAR | 4
Upcoming BAH focuses on wellness By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
With spring upon us and summer just around the corner, many are looking to improve health and wellness. The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce hopes a health fair on April 26 at Rock Creek Park will be the inspiration community members needs to improve their health. “Healthy businesses need healthy people working for them,” said Dawson County Chamber of Commerce President Linda Williams. The fair from 5-7 p.m. at Rock Creek Park will act as the group’s Business After Hours event for April. More than two dozen local chamber business members associated with the healthcare industry are scheduled to participate in the fair. Pam Hamalainen, the chamber’s information specialist, said participating businesses include area hospitals, physicians, health insurance providers and counselors to name a few.
Hearing, vision and diabetes screenings and blood pressure checks will also be available at no charge. Additionally, a local literacy group will be at the fair to give tips on “reading prescriptions and knowing what questions to ask during a doctor’s visit,” Hamalainen said. Williams said holding the health fair is two-fold. “It’s a way for more of our small businesses to get exposure,” she said, adding there is an expense associated with sponsoring an after hours affair that many small businesses could not afford. Williams said the fair also shines a spotlight on the county’s park system. “We’re very proud of Rock Creek Park and all the parks in our system. We wanted to do what we can to support the parks, that are not just used for ball games,” she said. “There are many activities for adults and the entire family.” The health fair is open to the public and is free.
FROM 1
Event came to a close, Alvarez passed out several door prizes to guests and later drew for the chamber’s monthly cash prize drawing. The chamber would like to thank the monthly drawing sponsors: United Community Bank-James Askew, Anderson Family Medicine-Larry Anderson, Weddings & WellnessBarbara Roberts, The Norton AgencyKristie Myers and AFLAC-Sharon Reagan. The owners of Tri-Star Trophies, Byron and Michele Arceneaux, were the grand prize winners, but were not present to claim the cash prize, as required. The cash drawing is at $975 for this month’s event, which will be held from
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Monthly drawing sponsors include: from left, Sharon Reagan of AFLAC, Kristie Myers of The Norton Agency, Larry Anderson of Anderson Family Medicine and Barbara Roberts of Weddings & Wellness. United Community Bank’s James Askew is not pictured.
5-7 p.m. April 26 at Rock Creek Park. The event will be a health fair and is open to members and the public.
4 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
City’s population County receives more than doubles excellence award By Michele Hester
michele@dawsonnews.com
The City of Dawsonville grew by more than 139 percent between 2000 and 2010, according to U.S. Census results released last month. “People finally found out what a hidden secret we have been for a long time,” said Mayor Joe Lane Cox. “This is great.” Looking back over the last 10 years, Cox said the little city that’s grown from 1,059 in 2000 to 2,536 residents today has seen much change. “We have a grocery store and some new, good places to eat that we didn’t have before,” he said. Land annexations in early 2007 about doubled land space and added a few residents. “It wasn’t very many when we first annexed, but it’s grown a good bit since
FROM 3
Calendar May 16-20: National Small Business Week. Join the chamber in recognizing and supporting the small business members and remember to shop local. May 17: The University of Georgia SBDC and Dawson County Chamber of Commerce present "Navigating Health Care Reform."The event will help business leaders better understand the complexities of Health Care Reform.The event will be held at United Community Bank, in the upstairs conference oom) from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Admission will be $10 for members and nonmembers. Members will receive a $5 voucher redeemable toward any 2011 chamber membership luncheon. For more information, call Linda Williams at (706) 265-6278 or Morgan Blakely at (770) 531-5681.
then,” Cox said. Cox said a surge of residential construction starting in mid-2006 also played a role. He pointed to Red Hawk Ridge, a single family neighborhood on Shoal Creek Road, as proof. “The houses are affordable, starter homes and people really bought them up,” he said. While residential construction has halted with the economic downturn the last few years, Cox anticipates an upswing this spring. Meanwhile, Dawson County saw a population increase of 39.53 percent, or 6,326 residents, growing from 16,004 in 2000 to 22,330 in 2010. Charlie Auvermann, executive director of the Development Authority of Dawson County, said the numbers were in line with the authority’s 2009 projection of 22,006 people in the county. May 20-21: Dawson County Relay for Life event will be held at the Dawson County High School track. For more information, call (770) 2971176, Ext. 23 or visit www.dawsoncountyrelay.org. May 24: Hill Design Associates Architects and Longhorn Steakhouse of Dawsonville will host the May Business After Hours event from 5-7 p.m.The business is at 436 Academy Ave., Dawsonville. Special thanks to AFLAC-Sharon Reagan, Anderson Family Medicine-Dr. Larry Anderson, Weddings and Wellness EnterprisesBarbara Roberts, Kristie Myers-The Norton Agency and United Community Bank-James Askew for sponsoring the cash drawing. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is drawn. May 28: Grand re-opening of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame will begin at 10 a.m. with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Festivities will take place all day.
By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
For the third time in six years, Dawson County Government has been recognized as a leader in excellence. Dawson County was named one of six recipients in the annual County Excellence Award by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia and Georgia Trend last month. The awards were created six years ago to reward counties for developing programs designed to make county government more efficient and enhance the quality of life in Georgia communities. County Manager Kevin Tanner said he was excited the county’s BEST, or Building Educated Students for Tomorrow, program, a collaborative with the local school system that introduces ninth graders to their local government, was selected to receive the statewide honor. “So many of our kids coming out of school have very little interest in national, state or local politics. They don’t understand them; they’re not interested,” he said.
FROM 1
Health every one of us occasionally needs the services of a health care provider. This month, your chamber of commerce is providing two opportunities to learn more about the health-related services in our area. First, join us on April 14 for our monthly membership luncheon with our guest speaker, Lynn Jackson, administrator for Northside HospitalForsyth. I am excited to hear from Jackson about the
The 25-day program taught by elected officials and county employees explores local government operations, as well as introduces students to various government facilities such as the law enforcement center, fire stations and court proceedings. According to the county’s Government and Community Affairs Director Cathy Brooks, BEST gives students a better understanding of how their lives are affected by government. “The primary objective is for each student to find his or her role in the community,” she said. Mike Berg, chairman of the Dawson County Board of Commissioners, said he is “elated” the county has been recognized once again for its work in citizen communication, “especially with young adults — our future leaders.” Dawson County was also recognized in 2007 for its collaboration with the local Adult Learning Center and again in 2009 for the “In Touch with your Dawson County Government” communication program. This year’s award will be presented at the 2011 ACCG annual meeting in April.
impressive growth the hospital is experiencing and how it will benefit Dawson County for years to come. Take the time to come learn about this awardwinning facility and the high level of care available to us.
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
Next, join us April 26 for a Business After Hours Health Fair at Rock Creek Park. Come out and meet a variety of health-related businesses and get familiar with the services they offer.
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 5
APRIL 2011
High-speed Internet network has begun By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Photos by Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Trophies, awards and plaques are available in every price range and can be as simple or as extravagant as the customer chooses at Tri-Star Trophy in downtown Dawsonville.
Trophy shop expands By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Tri-Star Trophy in downtown Dawsonville recently expanded operations to include a youth soccer equipment shop. Owner Michele Arceneaux said the business, which opened about a year ago, continues to specialize in trophies, awards, plaques and engraving. She said the growing popularity of soccer in the county makes the collaboration work well. “We added the soccer shop in February, and that was already about 25 percent of our business,” Arceneaux said. “All three of our kids are involved in soccer as well, so we are very excited to add that.” Since opening, the awards and trophy business has also more than doubled. Tri-Star Trophies has worked with the local school system, park and recreation and Dawson County government to provide trophies and awards. Trophies, awards and plaques are available in every price range and can be as simple or as extravagant as the
Tri-Star Trophy recently expanded operations to open a soccer shop inside the store.
customer chooses. Turn around is also pretty quick. “We can usually finish most orders for customer anywhere between 24-72 hours,” she said. The business also creates logos and images on shirts, towels, mouse pads and gifts. The store, located on the Dawsonville square, is open 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call (678) 7076007 or visit www.tristartrophy.com.
Construction has begun on a 260mile fiber optic network that could mean lightning-fast Internet for thousands of businesses and households in North Georgia. It’s the first building phase for North Georgia Network, a nonprofit organization that plans to deliver broadband access to more than 334,000 residents in Dawson, Forsyth, Habersham, Lumpkin, Rabun, Towns, Union and White counties. Builders were scheduled to break ground March 28 in rural Rabun County, with the Habersham and White County portions next in line. According to a news release, the network will be routed to pass hundreds of public and community institutions such as K-12 and technical schools, colleges, universities, hospitals, municipal buildings and public safety facilities. Bruce Abraham, network president, announced the start of construction last month at the 2011 Economic Development Summit at North
Georgia College & State University. “The network will support bandwidth-hungry applications like distance learning, telemedicine, e-commerce and e-government,” he said. According to Abraham, the planned fiber optic network will use Infinera technology, a new wave of broadband that provides speeds of up to 1.6 terabits per second. “Infinera technology will enable NGN to offer the same broadband speeds as world-class cities like Hong Kong, London and New York,” he said. “This kind of capacity will help us attract technology-reliant businesses and jobs to the north Georgia region.” The major ring portion of the network is scheduled to be finished this year, while off-shoots of the core will be finished by the end of 2012, according to Abraham. Vice President Joe Biden visited Dawsonville in December 2009 to announce federal stimulus assistance for local broadband Internet development. Federal grants will help fund a large portion of the $33.5 million North Georgia Network project.
POKER RUN BENEFITS CHILDREN’S CHARITY John Pandzic and Tom Curtis of the Dawson County Wingmen motorcycle club were part of about 85 bikers who rode in a poker run March 19 to benefit KARE for Kids. The local nonprofit organization benefits underprivileged youth in Dawson County.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
6 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
Thanking teachers for service at luncheon Williams:‘It all comes back to education’ By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
The link between business and education cannot be understated, said Linda Williams. “It all comes back to education,” said the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce president. “Teachers are educating the future workforce.” Members of the business community came together March 10 to honor the Dawson County School System’s teachers of the year. The system’s overall 2010-11 teacher of the year got to say a few words to the crowd of more than 100 at the March 10 Dawson County Chamber of Commerce luncheon. “It’s been a journey,” said Kilough Elementary second-
grade teacher Kay Wiley. “It’s been a pleasure teaching in Dawson County, and I’m honored to be here.” Wiley’s boss, Principal Lois Zangara, got the chance to brag on the 32-year veteran of the local school system. “Day in and day out, I can say that she is a rock to all the people around her and to all her students,” Zangara said. “She comes to school with a passion and a joy.” It’s the second time Wiley has won the award. She was system-wide teacher of the year in 1990-91 as well. Superintendent Keith Porter thanked the chamber of commerce for its support of teachers like Wiley. “I think it speaks volumes each year when the business
community comes together to recognize educators,” Porter said. Added Porter: “Whenever I have a bad day, all I have to do is step into a classroom and see the great things our teachers are doing and see those kids who are thirsty for knowledge.” School-wide teachers of the year were also honored at the luncheon, including: • Becky Guisasola, Black’s Mill Elementary School • Lori Hubbard, Robinson Elementary School • Randall Harris, Riverview Middle School • Jonathan Tinsley, Dawson County Middle School • Nickie Rogers, Dawson County High School • Lauren Hinton, Hightower Academy
File photo
Kilough Elementary School teacher Kay Wiley talks with second grade student Jade Payne, 7, about a paper she wrote. Wiley was selected as districtwide teacher of the year for 2010-11.
Wells Team serves county By Frank Reddy
From left, Sue and Randy Wells and Barbara Dumont make up the The Wells Team of the Norton Agency.
frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
The Wells Team of the Norton Agency is a three-person team that offers services designed to meet the unique needs of its clients. With clients in Cherokee, Cobb, Dawson, Fulton, Forsyth, Gwinnett and Hall counties, the group helps individuals looking to sell or buy a home. According to its Web site, the team specializes in short sales, real estate owned properties, foreclosure and properties located on Lake Lanier. When clients list with the Wells Team, their home is marketed in several ways.
For the Dawson Community News
“We stage homes, do extensive researches of the market values to get the most effective price for sale, place home warranties on all homes we list and have houses pre-inspected,” said Agent Randy Wells. Located in Cumming, the team is made up of Wells, Agent Barbara Dumont and Administrative Assistant Sue Wells.
According to its Web site: “Since joining the Norton Agency the team has consistently ranked as the number one team in the office — a distinction they have yet to relinquish despite the fickle market.” For more information about the Wells Team of the Norton Agency, visit www.randywellsteam.com or call (770) 8870053.
• Congratulations to Digital Interiors for being named a 2011 CEA’s Mark of Excellence winner. • Don’t forget National Volunteer Week continues through April 16. Honor the people that give time, talent and energy to help strengthen communities. • Congratulations to Sen. Saxby Chambliss and Sen. Johnny Isakson for being recognized with the Spirit of Enterprise Award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for supporting economic growth and job creation. • Past issues of the Dawson County Chamber Chronicle can be seen on the chamber’s Web site, www.dawson.org. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 7
APRIL 2011
®
Find it here! Spend it here! Buy it here!
(706) 974-9161 www.balletetc.org "Call Now to Register for Thursday Night Line Dancing!"
“Quality Service at a Quality Price” FARM • HOME • COMMERCIAL
PROPANE SALES, SERVICE & REPAIR Big Green Egg Sold Here
GAS HEATERS • GAS LOGS
20 Lbs. GRILL TANK REFILL $12 Mon. - Fri. 8am-5 pm Saturday 8am - 12pm
Gainesville 770-536-6734 Dawsonville 706-216-1906
OPEN MON-FRI 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. SATURDAY 8 A.M. - 12 P.M.
706-344-1GAS 236 Hwy., Dawsonville Locally Owned and Operated
C HAM B E R MEMBER YOU Can ADVERTISE HERE...
8 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 9
APRIL 2011
EXTEND YOUR ADVERTISING MARKET in our D A W S O N
C O U N T Y
Chamber Chronicle is the monthly newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. The editorial content includes Chamber News and goals of interest to the business and residential community. The Chamber will keep the community informed about ribbon cuttings, business expansions, chamber functions QUICK TAKES and events, community events and the benefits of Chamber membership through Chamber Advertising offered only to Chronicle. Chamber members. Delivery...Dawson Community News Subscribers, All Dawson County Chamber Members Size...10� X 9.5� Frequency...Monthly 2nd Wednesday of Every Month Deadline: Monday One Week Prior to Publication
The Chronicle is mailed to all subscribers of the Dawson Community News, plus all Chamber members. Additional copies are available at the Chamber office.
Dawson Community News A Community Newspaper Serving Community Needs
Call Jennifer Lyness at 770-887-3126 for rates
10 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
Bank honored by national company By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Photos by Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
A ribbon cutting ceremony was held April 6 for Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits in Dawsonville.
Restaurant celebrates with ribbon cutting
A California-based global marketing services company has named United Community Bank to its list of 2011 Customer Service Champions. J.D. Power and Associates included the Blairsville-based bank in the list of 40 businesses nationwide based on customer feedback “attesting to their service excellence.” United Community Bank has 106 banking offices located throughout north Georgia including Dawsonville. United Community Bank was the only bank named to the list. According to J.D. Power and Associates senior vice president Gary Tucker: “To be good in any industry, it makes sense to look at the best practices across industries.” According to its Web site, J.D. Power and Associates bases its “quali-
ty and satisfaction measurements on responses from millions of consumers annually.” United Community Bank is the thirdlargest traditional bank holding with assets of $7.4 billion, according to its Web site. Formed in 1950 as Union County Bank, it has operated “on the philosophy of providing exceptional banking service while caring deeply for the communities we serve. “This philosophy has fueled our growth from a $40 million bank just a little more than two decades ago,” the Web site stated. Dawson County Chamber of Commerce President Linda Williams said the organization is “proud that our local community bank has garnered national recognition. “Customer service relationships are important, and United Community Bank really has it right,” Williams said.
By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits in Dawsonville celebrated its ribbon cutting ceremony April 6. Members and staff from the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce arrived to show support for the business. Area Director Antonio Aquino said it’s the “southern flavor” that sets the restaurant apart. “The chicken has a real, real southern flavor,” Aquino said. “We marinate the chicken for at least 12 hours before we even pre-cook and bread it.” He added that the biscuits are worth bragging about as well. “We make batches of them throughout the day, so that they stay fresh,” he said. He said the sweet tea is also hard to beat. “It’s a secret recipe,” Aquino said. “It tastes just like grandma used to make it at home.” Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits is located in downtown Dawsonville. It opened for business in fall 2009. The
Car show benefits Relay By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Chamber members sample biscuits and sweet tea during the ribbon cutting ceremony.
restaurant is open from 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday and 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Sunday. According to its Web site, the restaurant chain opened in 1977, when businessmen “saw an opportunity to develop a quick-service, restaurant chain based on three attributes: A distinctive flavor profile, wholesome, high-quality products made from scratch, and a fun, festive restaurant design with fast, friendly service.” For more information, visit www.bojangles.com.
A local bank is asking residents who want to show off their classic cars to attend the Relay Rod Run from noon to 3 p.m. April 16 at the Ga. 400 location of United Community Bank. Organizer Kara Hewatt said it’s the second year that the Junior Board of Directors has organized the event. “It will probably become an annual event from now on, because it did pretty well last year,” Hewatt said. Those wishing to participate can pre-register for $15. Participants registering the day of the event pay $20. Awards will be presented at 3 p.m. Honors include first, second and third place as well as people’s choice award and “work in progress” award.
All proceeds benefit Relay for Life Dawson County. Hewatt said the junior board planned the car show. The junior board is made up of about 15 seniors from Dawson County High School who were chosen by bank members based on “academic excellence and extracurricular involvement.” Throughout the year, the board plans community service activities such as the car show fundraiser. American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life is scheduled for May 20 at Dawson County High School. To pre-register for the event, call Hewatt at (706) 265-3232, or e-mail kara_hewatt@ucbi.com. For more information about Relay for Life Dawson County visit www.dawsoncountyrelay.org.
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 11
MARCH 2011
MEMBER RENEWALS Special thanks to the following members that renewed memberships last month:
• AmeriVap Systems Inc. • Big D's BBQ No. 2 • Chattahoochee Insurance Agency • Clarkes Cleaners • Clement, Joel W. Dentistry for Children • Duncan Pipeline Inc. • Goodson's Pharmacy • Joh, John and Jane
• Kelo Company Inc. • Kristie Myers Inc, The Norton Agency • Maintenance and • Restoration Services Inc. • Mountain Wireless • MRX Professional Services Inc. • RIC Rack • Wallace, Vic and Duane • White Interiors
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
NEW MEMBERS Cartridges on Wheels N. GA George Parson (706) 225-7623 829 Mayapple Glen Dawsonville, GA 30534 george@cartridgesonwheels.com Category: Printing Service & Maintenance Wellspring Counseling Center Doug Klesius (706) 499-5620 800 Old Dawson Village Rd., Suite 10 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Doug@wellspringlife.com Category: Counseling
Everything Embroidery Mike Ehrlich (706) 579-2438 3554 Bobcat Ridge Dr. Jasper, GA 30143 ehrlich@yahoo.com Category: Embroidery Big Canoe Chapel Terraces Amphitheater Mike Ehrlich (706) 579-2438 1851 Steve Tate Hwy. Marble Hill, GA 30143 ehrlich@yahoo.com Category: Non-profit Amphitheater
March totals Walk-in visitors: 377
Telephone referrals: 2,203
Property Investment Associates
12 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
Secretary of State meets with chamber to discuss needs By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Secretary of State Brian Kemp made several stops throughout Dawsonville last month in an effort to meet constituents and leaders from each of the state’s 159 counties this year. “I’ve tried to be a secretary of state that’s not just stuck behind my desk in my office at the capitol,” Kemp said. “I can learn a lot more if I’m going around the state, trying to see what happens where the rubber meets the road.” A Republican from Athens and former State Senator, Kemp, whose office oversees business and professional licensing, visited the Dawson
C o u n t y Chamber of Commerce to discuss the local business community and its needs. “He wanted Kemp to know what wa s g o i n g o n here, what was coming and what was impacting us from an economic development standpoint,” said Marty Williams, vice president of travel and tourism. Williams said he and Kemp also talked about the business community’s current and future economic development, like the motorsports park on the western end of the county and a new distillery in the
works in downtown Dawsonville. During his stops, Kemp promoted a new initiative that will create an elections advisory council made up of elected officials, citizens and “anyone who has ideas on elections.” “My charge to the group is to go through the elections code and state election board rules and look for ways to streamline the process, continue to make them more secure and see how we can reduce cost at the state and the local level,” Kemp said. Kemp has served as Secretary of State since January 2010 when Karen Handel stepped down to run for governor.
AMBASSADOR OF THE MONTH: NICOLE STEWART Name: Nicole Stewart Business: SunTrust Bank Licensed Financial Service Representative the last four years Education: Graduate of North Georgia College & State University Phone: (706) 344-7418 Email: nicole.stewart@suntrust.com Family: Parents Jeff Stewart and Annette Stewart, sister Autumn Belle Stewart Hobbies: Cooking, reading, UGA football, movies, fishing and spending time with my family, friends and my dog. Community involvement: Relay for Life and March of Dimes You have recently rejoined the Chamber’s Ambassador Program. What brought you back? “SunTrust offered me the opportunity to rejoin the Chamber Ambassador Program and I was very excited. I was looking for an opportunity to be more involved in the community. The Ambassador Program is a wonderful way to meet people in the community and network.”
Stewart
Almost everyone has had their 15 minutes of fame? Have you and what was it? “When I was a Georgia cheerleader in the Down Under Bowl in Australia, everyone treated us like celebrities and got our autographs.”
Have you ever been told you look like someone famous? If so, who? “Lauren Ambrose from ‘Six Feet Under.’ I’ve never seen the show, but when it was on everyone thought I was her. People always asked for my autograph at the mall.” What would people be surprised to learn about you? “That I have a bachelor degree in criminal justice.” Stewart plans to pursue her masters degree later this year.
Program launches Get Zoo Atlanta family pass From staff reports
Georgia families can now check out free excursions to Zoo Atlanta, just by owning a library card. Announced in February from the steps of the state capitol, a new partnership between Zoo Atlanta and the Georgia Public Library Service allows adults with valid library cards access to the Zoo Atlanta Family Pass at any participating public library branch throughout the state of Georgia. Launched in 2009, the program originally applied only to branches of the AtlantaFulton Public Library System. The recent announcement marks the first time the program has been available in all 159 Georgia counties. “As one of the state’s largest living science labs, Zoo Atlanta is a resource for all of Georgia, not just Atlanta,” said Raymond B. King, president and CEO of Zoo Atlanta. “We’re proud to partner with the Georgia Public Library Service on increased access for everyone in our state.” “This wonderful collaboration between Zoo Atlanta and Georgia’s public libraries brings a new dimension to our services,” said Dr. Lamar Veatch, Georgia’s State Librarian. “We are very pleased to play a role in bringing this Georgia treas-
ure to all corners of our state.” Here’s how it works: Stop by Dawson or Lumpkin County Library and ask at the circulation desk for the Zoo Atlanta Family Pass DVD. Check out the DVD and enjoy it with the family. Once you return the DVD, you will be issued a receipt with your name printed on it and the issuing library system. Take the receipt and your valid library card with you on your visit to Zoo Atlanta, where you will receive free general admissions to Zoo Atlanta for up to two adults and two children. One Zoo Atlanta Family Pass is available for checkout in each participating public library. “We are very excited about seeing this program expand, not just throughout the Atlanta metro area, but throughout Georgia,” said Marcus E. Margerum, vice president of marketing and sales at Zoo Atlanta. Visit zooatlanta.org for full details on accessing and using the Zoo Atlanta Family Pass, or call or stop by either of the library branches in the Chestatee Regional Library System: Dawson County Library is at 342 Allen Street in Dawsonville, (706) 344-3690; Lumpkin County Library is at 342 Courthouse Hill in Dahlonega, (706) 864-3668.
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 13
APRIL 2011
Fire chief named to state council Swafford appointed by House Speaker By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Photos by Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Celebrating Dr. Seuss Conner Mitchell, right, and Jenna Burke color new Dr. Seuss door knob decorations during a celebration last month of the children's author at the Dawson County Library. Right, dressed as Dr. Seuss, Stacey Leonhardt shakes hands with 2-year-old Alexander Robinson at the Dawson County Library last month. Leonhardt is branch manager at the library.
Dawson County Emergency Services Fire Chief Lanier Swafford was recently named to the Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council. Swafford is one of two appointments to the council by House Speaker David Ralston of Blue Ridge. “It’s not everyday the Speaker of the House calls you on your personal cell phone and asks you to serve on a board,” said Swafford. “This is a real honor. I just appreciate the confidence he has in me.” The council administers rules and regulations for firefighters and fire houses in the state. In addition to his duties as chief, Swafford currently serves as EMS director, emergency management deputy director and deputy coroner for Dawson County. A graduate of Lanier Technical College with an associates degree in
‘I just appreciate the confidence he has in me.’ Lanier Swafford Dawson County Emergency Services fire chief health studies and fire science, Swafford is also a certified EMT and paramedic. In 2009, he received the Master Emergency Manager Award from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and is currently serving as the 1st vice president of the Georgia State Firefighter’s Association, vice chair of the Area 6 All Hazards Council and is a member of the Region II EMS Advisory Council.
Amphitheater announces summer lineup By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
The Terraces Amphitheater at Big Canoe Chapel will have its first concert of the summer Mother’s Day weekend. The May 7 concert will feature The 7 Bridges, an Eagles tribute band. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door the night of the event. “The Eagles are my favorite group in the world,” said Mike
Erhlich, part of the volunteer group that runs the venue. “They’re one of the best Eagle tribute bands in the southeast. It’s going to be incredible.” The Terraces Amphitheater opened about 10 years ago and sits on property just north of the Big Canoe Main Gate on Steve Tate Hwy. The outdoor concert hall can seat as many as 1,000 and offers a range of performances from country and
Dixieland to Big Band and rock bands. Concerts are generally held on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m., though the June 17 performance by The Del Baroni Orchestra is on Friday night. Erhlich said promoters encourage concert goers to arrive early and tailgate before the shows. Local restaurants will be on hand to cater the events. The summer lineup includes Banks and Shane, The Live
Bait Band, von Grey and the Holmes Family Trio among others. “It’s going to be a great year. You can’t beat this for a Saturday night,” Erhlich said. The Terraces wraps up its 2011 season with a performance on Aug. 13 by The Hotlanta Dixieland Jazz Band. Within a few days, there will be a groundbreaking at the site to construct a semi
enclosed building on the property to house the concerts. “We hope to break ground the middle of August,” Erhlich said. The amphitheater is located at 1851 Steve Tate Hwy., a quarter mile north of the Main Entrance to Big Canoe. For more information or to purchase tickets online, go to www.bigcanoechapel.org and click on The Terraces. You may also call (706) 579-2438.
14 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011
Kroger named top contributor Donates more than $20K to campaign By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Kroger employees have done it again. For the past five years, Dawsonville Kroger has been the leader of United Way for Dawson County contributions. This year the store collected more than $22,000 for the local campaign. The announcement was made last month at a luncheon to recognize top donors and celebrate the local organization’s successful 2010 fundraising effort. “We reached our goal this year and raised $102,695.54,” said Jay Sessions, chairman of United Way for Dawson County’s board of directors. “This money will be used to serve and improve the community in which we live.” Dawson County schools was the second place finisher, collecting about $7,100, and
Northside Hospital-Forsyth pulled in a close third with more than $7,000 in employee contributions. Presenting the awards, board member Katie Strayhorn said the hospital increased giving by 150 percent in the last year. “We appreciate everyone from Northside Forsyth Hospital who lives in Dawson County and made that possible,” Strayhorn said. United Way for Dawson County, whose mission is to improve lives...by mobilizing the caring power and spirit of citizens, provides monetary support to 14 area service agencies. Partner agencies say the support is much needed and appreciated. “We are so thankful for all you do for children in North Georgia and here in Dawson County,” said Lee Highsmith, development and marketing director for Challenged Child
and Friends. The agency provides education, therapy, nursing and family support services to children with disabilities. Children’s Center for Hope and Healing offers counseling services to surviving victims of childhood sexual assault. Executive Director Rebecca Davis said support from United Way and its donors helped save a young woman, who was contemplating suicide, earlier this year. “This is a huge success story. She didn’t slash her wrist and she didn’t take pills,” Davis said. “Instead she walked into our door and told somebody she trusted ... and she asked us for help.”
Dawson named ‘Camera Ready’
Top five contributors:
By Michele Hester
The Kroger Company Dawson County School System Northside Hospital-Forsyth PCL Industrial Construction Dawson County Government
MURDER MYSTERY THEATER A HIT Nina Grigio, performed by Jackie Somerville, center, of the Paris Players, fields questions from the audience regarding her relationship to the deceased during the murder mystery theater at the Bowen Center for the Arts March 26. Also pictured are Tom and Tammy Roberts.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
For the Dawson Community News
Marty Williams accepted the county’s official Camera Ready Designation last month from Program Manager Craig Dominey.
michele@dawsonnews.com
Dawson County was among more than 70 counties designated ‘Camera Ready’ by Gov. Nathan Deal in a ceremony March 21 under the Gold Dome. The distinction places Dawson County on the forefront when companies in search of locales for film and television productions come calling. “They’re calling Georgia the Hollywood of the Southeast,” said Marty Williams, vice president of tourism for the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and the county’s camera ready liaison. A program of Georgia’s Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office, Camera Ready Communities have in place a program that provides film and television production companies with easier, faster and better access to local resources and location information. As liaison, Williams will work with production com-
panies to offer insight at the local level, while profiling what makes Dawson County camera ready. Williams said the county’s vast and unique natural resources, like Amicalola Falls State Park, is an ideal natural backdrop for film crews. “A movie about hiking the Appalachian Trail based on the book, ‘A Walk in the Woods’ was already scheduled with Robert Redford and Paul Newman before Paul Newman died,” Williams said. Williams is looking at the designation as “another bullet in the arsenal to promote the county. “There are numerous qualitative benefits received during filmmaking, from actual production dollars spent in a community to the economic impact of those dollars,” Williams said. “But the real return comes from the long-term impact that hosting film projects will have on our regional image and tourism effort.”
dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 15
APRIL 2011
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
MANAGER ARRESTED FOR CHARITY Dawson County Sheriff's Deputy Steven Swofford places handcuffs on Walmart manager Thinh Truong on March 31 for a Relay for Life fundraising event that left Truong behind bars until employees and customers could collect $2,000. The store plans to collect $15,000 for the county's annual Relay for Life campaign.
File photo
Hightower Academy students began classes in the new building on April 11.
Hightower Academy gets new building By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
BREAKFAST TEA CELEBRATES MADELINE Zoe Matteson and Alexa Harkey were among dozens of little girls wearing sailor hats and identical coats at a breakfast tea March 19 that celebrated Madeline at the Bowen Center for the Arts.
When Hightower Academy students came back from spring break April 11, they got to start classes in a brand-new building. Last month, Dawson County officials celebrated what the superintendent called a “truly historic event” for the district’s only nontraditional school. A building dedication ceremony for the district’s only non-traditional school was held March 27 at the facility located off of Allen Street in Dawsonville. Paid for by the education local option sales tax, construction for the new building cost about $2 million. The money was set aside for the project after Dawson County voters approved the latest ELOST referendum, which provided for such projects.
The 15,000-square-foot facility is an upgrade from Hightower’s last building, which was located in a warehouse on Allen Street. The school serves students in grades sixth through 12 who have diverse learning needs. Said Superintendent Keith Porter: “Many Hightower Academy students have benefited greatly from the opportunity to complete credit recovery units, and in turn become graduates through the years.” The Dawson County Board of Education voted unanimously July 6, 2010 to fund construction of Hightower Academy’s building. Staff and students of the school were temporarily relocated to a wing of Dawson County Middle School, while construction was completed. “These students, faculty and staff will now have a facility that reflects the wonderful work that they are doing,” Porter said.
16 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
APRIL 2011