D A W S O N
C O U N T Y
Spring Fling right around the corner April 2010
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Post Office Box 299 “Old Jail” west of the square Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
Egg hunt attracts crowd Local children ‘love the prizes’ By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Dawson County residents and visitors came out earlier this month for the 24th Annual Community Egg Hunt, sponsored by KARE for Kids. Thousands showed up for the event at Veterans Memorial Park, where volunteers hid more than 15,000 prize-filled, plastic eggs. The gathering also featured a hot dog eating contest, inflatable bounce houses, train rides and photo opportunities with the Easter
bunny. Proceeds from concessions benefitted KARE for Kids, a local organization that provides for Dawson County’s children in need. Betty Hendrix said the organization’s aim “is a good thing for Dawson County.” Hendrix and husband, Mark, brought children, Ashley, 12, and Dustin, 10, Saturday. It’s the family’s fifth straight egg hunt. “The kids have a great time,” she said. Jaime Herndon of Dawson County agreed. She said her children, Riley, 8, and Natalie, 3, have
a blast hunting eggs. “It’s the prizes,” Herndon said. “They love the prizes.” Some children got some pointers on prize hunting. Albert Stevens and wife, Anne, coached 5-year-old William prior to the egg hunt’s start. “Now, when they say ‘go,’ run for the biggest eggs,” said Anne Stevens, gesturing toward the field. “Don’t stop when you see the other kids stop for the little eggs. Big eggs mean big prizes.” Young William Stevens looked out toward the field, his eyes narrowing. Following the hunt, some parents See HUNT | 6
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Jacquelyne Johns and son Kaden scour the football field for eggs at Veterans Memorial Park.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Chamber encourages residents to shop local One of your Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s many goals this year will be pushing the idea of shopping local. This will be accomplished by volunteers visiting local merchants, handing out window stickers, signage
where appropriate and local media advertising. “Shop local” is a campaign so simple, yet very beneficial to our county. One of many success stories happened when a volunteer visited with a local business to ask if she could place a win-
dow sticker in their shop. The volunteer discussed with the merchant the importance of shopping local. As it turned out, she liked the idea of “shop local” so much, and since it was time to renew her insurance, the
merchant decided to get a quote from a local company. After receiving the quotes, she ended up purchasing her insurance with one of our local agents. The merchant had previously dealt with the other company for more than 10 years.
Great story. In today’s busy times, it can be so easy to forget the importance of doing business with our local neighbors and friends. It only takes a short conversation See SHOP | 2
Underwood
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Leadership is the key in communities Since its Around the inception, nation you will more than 150 find that many participants communities have graduated offer leadership from this qualdevelopment ity program. programs. The study Your Dawson topics and County interactive lesChamber of Williams sons are based Commerce, along on the Fanning Institute with the local UGA curriculum available County Extension, has through the University been the organizer of of Georgia. our program since Past participants have 1992. included promising In the beginning, the young leaders, as well program was appropriately named Leadership as those seasoned in true 2000, in preparation for servant leadership roles. The program is particthe challenges and ularly valuable because opportunities of the it not only addresses new millennium. After what it takes to be a that time it became leader, but it specifically known as Leadership familiarizes attendees Dawson.
with Dawson County and gives the student an inside look at the areas where strong leadership is needed. Some of the topics covered include state and local government, local demographics, communication, decision-making and economic development. Students begin the bonding process with classmates at the initial overnight retreat. Subsequent classes are held bi-weekly and consist of eight afternoon sessions and a graduation dinner and ceremony for participants and their guests. Due to the economy, the class originally set for 2010 was resched-
uled to begin in 2011. The planning committee will soon be receiving nominations for the next class. Participants must be able to commit to attendance at each session. Tuition per person is $350, which will be applied toward costs of the program. Sponsorships are also being sought on a variety of levels. “Leadership Dawson has provided me with not only new friends, but friends who are valuable resources. More than once I have contacted a classmate for assistance on a project or other community need. I highly recommend Leadership Dawson for anyone who
Helping a neighbor out also helps us. Taxes from local sales go back to our county, which provides many services to us all. As we all know, most counties and school systems are suffering from lack of funds right now. How can we help? Another meaning for county tax revenue is shop local. So you ask why did I say it is good for the soul? Well let me tell you. It just makes you feel good down deep inside when we can help a neighbor out. It has been said that: “Service to others is the rent we pay for the space we occupy here on earth.” Also, Jesus was the ultimate example of a servant. He advocated that provid-
ing service to others should be one of our mandates. So, it really is good for the soul. During these hard times, it is a great time to help one another out. Since this month, April 18-24, is National Volunteer Week, it makes it an even better time to help. In closing, we should all
take the time, the talent and energy that God has blessed us with and volunteer to help someone or some community need out that is less fortunate than we are. Pulling together is a lot easier than pulling apart.
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Shop with someone to remind us of that importance. While visiting the local printing company to have our signs and window decals printed for the “shop local” campaign. The owner of the printing company had an interesting story. It seems one of our neighboring counties had also approached them to print their shop local decals and signs. Now, what is wrong with that picture? It takes effort from all of us to help make something happen that is so beneficial to our local merchants and service providers.
Mike Underwood Chairman
Appraisal Advisor, LLC Industrial, Retail, Office, Land Martinn E. Winters Certified General Real Estate Appraiser Office: 706.265.2537 • Fax: 706.265.2539 mwinters@appraisaladvisorllc.com www.appraisaladvisorllc.com
wishes to learn about Dawson County and give back in a positive way,” said Jay Walker, a graduate from the class of 2008. Alumni now gather semi-annually for a luncheon program. The spring alumni event is being planned for May. Details will be announced soon. Alumni that are not on the cur-
rent contact list are urged to contact the chamber to be included in upcoming communications. For more information about Leadership Dawson, contact the chamber at (706) 2656278.
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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CALENDAR OF EVENTS April April 15: Ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m. for Amedeo’s Italian Cookie Co., 231 Nix Bridge Road, Suite 110. For more information, call Robert at (770) 844-9012. April 16-18: Dawson County Arts Council Children’s Theater is presenting “High School Musical Junior.” Come enjoy some fun with the Wildcats as they perform this fun musical. Come and be part of a new and growing theater experience here in Dawsonville. Support our young actors. For more information, call Marcia Chelf at (706) 216-2787 or visit www.dawsonarts.org. April 17: United Community Bank Junior Board’s fundraiser for Relay for Life. This year the Junior Board of Directors will be hosting a car show to raise money for Relay for Life. The car show is called the Relay Rod Run. It will be held in the UCB (400) parking lot. The show will take place from noon until 4 p.m. The cost is only $15 per car for pre-registration, and $20 for day of registration. Cumming’s Junior Board of Directors is taking part in the car
show as well. There will be hot dogs, drinks, chips and dessert for sale. For more information, call Kara Hewatt, business development officer United Community Bank at (706) 2653232, Ext. 1126 or email kara_hewatt@ucbi.com. April 18 - 24: National Volunteer Week. This week is designated to honor the people that give their time, talent and energy to help strengthen communities around the world. The theme this year is “Celebrating People in Action.” Be sure to celebrate the people in action within your community and industry throughout National Volunteer Week. We appreciate our ambassadors, board of directors and volunteers. The chamber and community benefits greatly from all of our volunteer’s efforts. April 23: R.E.A.D. will be hosting an Oldies Goldie’s Trivia and Dance Fundraiser at Peach Brandy Cottage. Join the fun with music from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Dance the night away and have fun answering music trivia. There will be prizes for the top three winning trivia teams. Emcee is Big Canoe’s Al Dickson. The funds raised will be used to improve liter-
acy in Dawson County. For more information, contact Sandy at ReadDawson@yahoo.com. April 27: The Dawson County Humane Society, 633 Martin Road, will host this month’s Business after Hours from 5-7 p.m. Special thanks to our cash drawing sponsors: AFLACSharon Reagan, Anderson Family Medicine-Dr. Larry Anderson, The Norton AgencyKristie Myers, United Community BankJames Askew, Van Keith Insurance Agency of Dawsonville, LLCAnn Grizzle and Healthy Eating on the Run-Barbara Roberts. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is called. For more information, call Kay Harris at (706) 265-9160.
May May 1-2: Dawson County Arts Council will sponsor the 9th annual Spring Fling Festival. Juried garden related arts and crafts, as well as plants are garden supplies will be available. There will be entertainment, children’s activities and food vendors. The art center will feature the nationally juried Georgia Water Color Exhibition and the
old Thunder Road (now city hall) will present an antique car show. There will be something for everyone. For more information, contact Marcia Chelf at (706) 216-2787 or visit www.dawsonarts.org. May 8: Join NOA (No One Alone) on the Red Carpet at its 15th annual Spring Gala. The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the dining hall at North Georgia College & State Univeristy. The “Classic Hollywood” themed event will include dinner, entertainment and a silent and live auction. All proceeds benefit local victims of domestic violence and their children. Tickets are $65 each or a table for eight is $500. Reservations can be made online at www.noonealone.org or by calling (706) 864-1306, Ext. 6. May 8: The Dawson County Community Chorale will perform its Spring Concert at the Bowen Center for the Arts. Come hear some old favorites and a few classics. For more information, contact Marcia Chelf at (706) 2162787 or visit www.dawsonarts.org. May 13: Lunch with the Chamber will be at noon at the
Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road, Dawsonville. The guest speaker will be announced soon. May 15:Third annual WEE Books Barn Dance will be at 6:30 p.m. at Kinsey Family Farm, 7170 Jot Em Down Road. There will be a BBQ dinner, dancing and wagon rides. There is a suggested donation of $25 per person. Ticket includes admission, dinner, wine and beer and square dancing with instruction. The event is in support of the WEE Books Program’s goal to bring an age appropriate book to every Dawson County preschool aged child each month. For tickets or more information, call Judy Cahill at (706) 216-1931 or Marge Carey at (706) 216-4872. May 25: First Citizens Bank of Georgia and Chick-fil-A will host Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. The bank is located at 70 Carlisle Road, off Ga. 400. For more information, call Chyrl at (706) 216-5900. Special thanks to our cash drawing sponsors: AFLAC-Sharon Reagan, Anderson Family Medicine-Dr. Larry Anderson, The Norton Agency-Kristie Myers, United Community Bank-
James Askew, Van Keith Insurance Agency of Dawsonville, LLC-Ann Grizzle and Healthy Eating on the RunBarbara Roberts. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is called. May 31: Join the Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, Dawson County V.V.A Chapter 970, Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and American Legion Post 247 at 3 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park for a Memorial Day Service. The event will honor the memory of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Wayne Watkins, Georgia president of the Vietnam Veterans of America will be the Master of Services. Keynote speaker will be Bill Cain, colonel, US Army (retired), deputy executive director, GMACC. There will be a dedication for the Veterans Walk of Honor at 2:30 p.m., prior to the service.
June June 10: Lunch with the Chamber will be at noon at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road, Dawsonville. The guest speaker will be Frank Norton Jr.
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New bank comes to Dawson By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Community & Southern Bank of Carrollton has arrived in Dawson County after taking over the assets of Appalachian Community Bank of Ellijay. Appalachian’s chamber of commerce credentials will transfer with Community & Southern Bank, according to chamber president Linda
Williams. “We’ve assumed everything will stay the same,” Williams said. According to a news release from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., 10 branches of Appalachian, including both Dawson County locations, were acquired by Community & Southern Bank. Depositors of Appalachian Community Bank automati-
cally became depositors of Community & Southern Bank, according to the news release. Community & Southern Bank agreed to assume all deposits and assets of Appalachian Community Bank. Kim Turner, bank marketing representative, said employees plan to “continue to serve our customers, that’s top priority.”
The bank announced April 1 that 30-year banking veteran Keith Caudell will serve as president of the North Georgia region. “Although Georgia has been hit hard by a real estate driven banking crisis, Community & Southern Bank is uniquely positioned to help restore confidence with a strong community banking model...” stated Caudell in a news release.
Caudell has been president and CEO of three community banks during his career. After graduating from the University of Georgia, he worked for Wachovia and its predecessors for 10 years. He later became president and CEO of Synovus and Bank of Hiawassee. For more information about Community & Southern Bank, call (706) 265-5090.
Water authority celebrates 30 years Founding member looks back By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
A lot can happen in 30 years. Just ask Dawson County’s Ben Overstreet, one of five founding members of Etowah Water and Sewer Authority. Overstreet was appointed as a board member after the 1980 Georgia General Assembly created the authority as a political subdivision of the state and a public corporation. Prior to that, he recalls going door to door, trying to sign-up customers for the service. “We had to have 750 customers, so we could borrow the money to get started,” said Overstreet March 18, exactly 30 years after creation of the authority “Each of the five board members, we divided up
our sections of the county and went around asking people to sign up for water service,” he said. Infrastructure for the authority had not yet been built, and in order to begin construction of the facilities, officials first needed a minimum number of customers. Overstreet said signing up for service at the time costed $50. “We had a hard time getting people to do it at first,” Overstreet said. “We went house to house, and we had to fight off a number of dogs on people’s lawns. “We finally got enough customers to borrow the money,” he said. In April 1985, a groundbreaking was held for a water treatment plant and distribution system to serve the eastern portion of Dawson County. Board members, Overstreet, Frank Roberts, Don
Gordon, William Jessee and George David were there to mark the occasion. Construction was completed on the plant, and service began in August 1986. “After we got the water, the next step was sewage,” Overstreet said. Plans for the outlet mall on Ga. 400 helped usher in the authority’s addition of sewage operations. “The people from North Georgia Premium Outlets, they came and talked to us,” he said. “They wanted to put the mall down here, but said they wouldn’t do it if we couldn’t furnish them with sewage.” Nine months later, June 1995, Etowah Water and Sewer Authority officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for a wastewater treatment plant to serve the Ga. 400 commercial corridor. Rosalind Chambers, the
authority’s financial manager and a longtime employee, recalls that “after the outlet mall came and we got sewer to them, that whole area just started popping.” Overstreet agreed. “[Along Ga. 400], one business would want to come, and then another one, and they just kept building and building,” he said. Added Overstreet: “Our county wouldn’t be what it is today if it wasn’t for water and sewage, because there’s no way businesses would have come here without it.” Overstreet remembers when the authority started out with 750 customers. Now, it’s grown to 5,100. He thinks there’s room for even more growth “as soon as the economy picks up.” Following in the footsteps of Etowah Water and Sewer Authority leaders like Overstreet, current General Manager Brooke Anderson said the
For the Dawson Community News
Founding Etowah Water and Sewer Authority board members break ground for a water treatment plant in April 1985. From left, Ben Overstreet, Frank Roberts, Don Gordon, William Jessee and George David.
business “continues to build on a strong foundation. “Without that founda-
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
tion, we wouldn’t be able to move forward the way that we are,” Anderson said.
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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Society welcomes chamber By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Humane Society would like to invite the community to see the shelter April 27 during the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s monthly business after hours event. Guests will be allowed to tour the year-old facility that provides food, shelter, compassion and nurturing for the county’s homeless pet population until permanent homes can be found. Located on property adjacent to Rock Creek Sports Complex, the shelter currently houses more than 115 dogs and cats and has aggressive plans to raise $85,000 this year to improve operations. Upcoming fundraisers include a community yard sale, golf tournament and several entertainment events, including a murder mystery dinner in May and a rock ‘n’ roll oldies concert in June. The after hours networking opportunity begins at 5 p.m. and will conclude with the chamber’s monthly cash prize drawing. The cash prize is currently at $650, after the March event at Keller Williams - Legacy Group, when Matt Richardson of Amicalola Propane, was not present to claim the prize. Winners must be present to take home the money. The chamber would like to thank the following members for sponsoring the cash drawing: AFLAC-Sharon Reagan, Anderson Family MedicineLarry Anderson, Healthy Eating on the Run-Barbara Roberts, The Norton Agency-Kristie Myers and United Community Bank-James Askew, Van Keith Insurance Agency of Dawsonville, LLC-Ann Grizzle. The chamber would also like to thank all of the members that donate door prizes for business after hours events.
Teachers honored at luncheon By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Business leaders and public officials honored Dawson County’s teachers of the year during a luncheon last month. School administrators got a chance to brag on some of the district’s best educators. The annual Dawson County Chamber of Commerce event recognizes those who excelled in their jobs during the past year of teaching. A district-wide 2009-10 teacher of the year was also honored at the event. Kilough Elementary teacher Teresa Conowal was given that honor. Principal Lois Zangara Frank Reddy Dawson Community News introduced Conowal. “If I Kilough Elementary School teacher Teresa Conowal speaks March 11 during the had one word to describe annual teacher of the year appreciation luncheon. Mrs. Conowal, that word would be ‘phenomenal,’” Riverview Middle Zangara said. “We love ‘By year’s end, when students move on School’s teacher of the her, because she is the Pat Harris, said the best of the best.” to continue their journey in learning, the year, honor goes to her students. Conowal spoke of her lessons they have taught me will be with “They’re the reason I’m love for the job. standing here today.” “Each day, I am given Principal Bill Zadernak me for a lifetime.’ the privilege of working said Harris’ students are with children,” Conowal “some of t h e b e s t a n d said. Teresa Conowal brightest kids in the “By year’s end, when Dawson County teacher of the year school, and she has a big students move on to conimpact on them.” tinue their journey in Neil Harrison, interim learning, the lessons they have taught me will be for the honor. “I love takes all of those in stride.” p r i n c i p a l a t D a w s o n Dawson County Middle C o u n t y H i g h S c h o o l , with me for a lifetime,” teaching, and I love working with kids,” Robin said. School Principal Mark introduced Chris Gore. she said. Said Harrison: “[Gore] Black’s Mill Elementary “Thank you so much for Merges spoke highly of Paula Cox, the school’s t a l k s t o s t u d e n t s l i k e teacher Lisa Robin was having me here today.” Robinson Elementary’s teacher of the year. introduced by Principal t h ey ’r e h i s c o l l e a g u e s , Julia Mashburn. “She’s a very dependable and he’s able to get mesteacher of the year, Vicki Said Mashburn: “It Carlisle, said working in person,” Merges said. sages across to them in doesn’t take long to see Dawson County has been “When you go into her an effective manner.” the dedication Mrs. Robin “a pleasure.” classroom, you see a very Gore thanked his stuhas for her students. It’s a Vice Principal Kim engaging educator.” dents. “I’m only as good as blessing to work with her, Bennett said Carlisle is “an Cox said she was “grate- my students. If they and Black’s Mill is a bet- outstanding teacher. We ful” and thanked the com- weren’t good, I wouldn’t ter school because of her.” have given her very chal- munity “for supporting be good,” Gore said. “It’s a Robin thanked the group lenging situations, and she educators.” two-way street.”
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Volunteer week set for mid-April By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
‘There’s so much good work that’s done by volunteers, and we don’t have a paycheck to thank them, so this is a way to acknowledge the value of a volunteer.’
Members of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce would like the community to recognize its most generous helpers during National Volunteer Linda Williams Week. Dawson County chamber president Linda Williams, president of the Dawson County don’t have a paycheck to unteer with the chamber of Chamber of Commerce, thank them, so this is a way commerce. The organizasaid April 18-24 is a “great to acknowledge the value of tion is currently looking for time to acknowledge the a volunteer.” helpers for a golf tournamany hours of time that volDoris Cook, a fellow ment fundraiser June 18. unteers give to their favorite chamber member, agreed. “Our organization deorganizations, whether it’s “The whole community pends so heavily on volunchamber or non-profit, has a lot of volunteers,” teers,” Williams said. “So social or service organiza- Cook said. “Any organiza- many things would not get tions.” tion cannot survive without done if it wasn’t for volunAdded Williams: “There’s volunteers.” teers.” so much good work that’s For more information, Williams said there are done by volunteers, and we always opportunities to vol- call (706) 265-6278.
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Hunt seemed distressed over the behavior of others. “There were some parents out there, I ain’t naming names, they were acting like heathens,” said Felicia Pirkle of Dawson County. “They didn’t want nobody else to have a chance.” Pirkle brought 2year-old daughter, Amanda, to the event. Parents with very young children
were permitted to walk the field with their toddlers. Others seemed content with their share. Like Billie Anglin and son, Keith, 7. “He did good,” she said. “It’s his first time doing this.” Keith smiled as he tore into an orange hunk of taffy. Event organizer and KARE for Kids President Calvin Byrd said the event was “a success.” For more information about KARE for Kids, visit www.kareforkids.us.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Volunteer Judy Baer clears out brush around the Bowen Center for the Arts last week.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Drew, 2, and Brooklyn Ledford, 3, examine their Easter treasures following the egg hunt as mother Jenny Ledford looks on.
• Congratulations to SleeveCo for receiving three international awards. • Shop chamber members first. • Shopping local keeps sales tax dollars working for you. • Are you certified Work Ready? To learn more, call (706) 265-6278. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event
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APRIL 2010
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Spring Fling May 1-2
Tim Satterfield took the plunge at a previous Independen ce Day celebration.
By Kirstie Broadwell For the Dawson Community News
File photo
Picnic makes way for Sparks By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
From 1998 to 2009, the Community Picnic was a way for Dawson County residents to get together, eat some food and enjoy each other’s company. For the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce-sponsored event, 2009 was the final year. Linda Williams, chamber president, is asking volunteers to put their efforts instead toward Dawson County’s Independence Day Celebration in July, Sparks in the Park. Williams said the chamber of commerce will be looking for volunteers for the event. “We will be looking for volunteers to take turns manning the table, and we’ll be helping the county with some of the duties,” she said. “We’re also going to have the dunk tank ready to go. We’re looking for volunteers to be dunked.”
APRIL 2010
Asking volunteers to come instead to the Sparks in the Park event was an economy-based decision, she said. “With so many businesses struggling with their own operations, the board of directors felt it was not a good thing to ask them to participate with money and contributions of food like we have in the past for the community picnic.” It was not an easy decision to make, Williams said. “We regret that what was such a great family event we won’t be able to do anymore,” she said. “So, we’re encouraging everybody to come out and support Sparks in the Park and enjoy that as a family get-together and as a way to come together as a community.” Sparks in the Park is scheduled for 5-10 p.m. July 3 at Rock Creek Park. For more information, call the chamber at (706) 265-6278.
Leave April showers behind and enjoy May flowers by attending the ninth annual Spring Fling Festival on May 1 and 2 at the Dawson County Middle School Complex in downtown Dawsonville. The festival is free and will be open between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on both days. The garden themed festival will feature juried arts and crafts, jewelers, photographers and planters, a fun area for children and plenty of food and entertainment for the entire family. Entertainment will include the Dawson Community Chorale, the Sounds of Sawnee and the Georgia watercolor show. The watercolor show will feature art from across the country that will be judged in the competition. There will be a prize package of $10,000 for winners. There will be events taking place outside of the school, as well as inside. Outdoor events will
For the Dawson Community News
The garden themed festival will feature juried arts and crafts, jewelers, photographers and planters.
include an antique and classic car show, a Mountain Art Bicycle Ride for bikers on Saturday and a fun run Sunday. “When I came last year, I was so excited that spring was here. It was inspiring to get out and enjoy the festival. It’s a great event for families to
March totals Walk-in visitors: 231 Telephone referrals: 1,941
come and enjoy themselves. It’s quite a festival,” said Jeanne Tompkins, art center volunteer. “This will be a wonderful kids opportunity, as well as an artists’ opportunity. It’s really a whole two days of fun. We had a blast last year even though it got rained
on. You don’t want to miss this festival. We’ve got celebrities coming this year,” said Marcia Chelf, director of the Bowen Center for the Arts. For more information, visit www.dawsonarts.org, or call the Bowen Center for the Arts at (706) 216-2787.
Timothy A.Annis,D.C.
Dr.Timothy A.Annis 66 South 400 Center Lane,Suite 105 Dawsonville,GA 30534
(706) 216-4875
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MEMBER RENEWALS All Animals Veterinary Hospital Amicalola Propane Inc. Anderson Family Medicine Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Metro Brokers Boling Rice LLC Bradley M. Maple, CPA, P.C. Budget Trucks- Tower Enterprise Chestatee Emergent Medical Care Clarke's Cleaners Comfort Inn Corporate Massage Therapist Cummings & Kelley P.C. Cunningham & Associates Inc. Dawson County Homeowners Association Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry First Baptist Church of Dawsonville Food Lion, LLC Frank Suddeth & Sons Inc. Gold City Corral and Carriage Company Goodson's Pharmacy Grace Presbyterian Church Healthy Eating on the Run.com Hill Design Associates Architects Inc. HomePoint Mortgage Group Impulse Manufacturing Inc. Joel Clement JTC Jerry Townley Construction
Keller Williams Realty Legacy Group MA Kroger Laurel Ridge Farms Liberty Tax Service Lily Creek Lodge M Tanner Contracting Maintenance and Restoration Services, Inc Mill Creek Environmental Services Inc. MPH Systems Specialties Inc. MSE Hospitality - Dawsonville, Inc. North Georgia Title Inc. North Georgia Trailer Center Inc. Painted Lady Enterprises Paul Thomas Chocolates Pearl Izumi Factory Store Physicians Immediate Med of Dawsonville Puckett's Mini Storage RE/MAX 400 North Stelor Handyman Services, LLC Superior Arbor Management Inc. Taco Bell of Dawsonville The Norton Agency Tower Automotive True, Dave and Judy Wallace, Vic and Duane White Interiors Windstream
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
NEW MEMBERS Rapid Refill Ink George Parson (770) 844-1465 1195 Peachtree Parkway No. 200 Cumming, GA 30041 Category: Retail, ink and toner Dress Barn Cindy Bearden (706) 216-4144 North Georgia Outlets 800 Hwy. 400 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Category: Retail Amedeo’s Italian Cookie Company Robert Roberti (770) 844-9012
231 Nix Bridge Road No. 110 Dawsonville, GA 30534 Category: Wholesale/retail cookies AmeriVap Systems Inc. Wendy Richards (404) 350-0239 31 Successful Way Dawsonville, GA 30534 Category: Industrial steam cleaning Tri-Star Trophy Company Bryan Arceneaux (678) 707-6007 527 Cicero Trail Dawsonville, GA 30534 Category: Trophy’s and awards
Property Investment Associates
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AMBASSADORS CORNER
Ambassador of the Month is Ed Combs By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Re/Max 400 North agent Ed Combs is optimistic the economy will pick up, though he’s not expecting an upturn this year. “I don’t see any difference this year than I did last year,” said the veteran Realtor, who was originally licensed in real estate in 1984. Combs said while the commercial market is in dire distress, there are great deals
Combs
available for those shopping for homes. “There are a lot of homes for sale at substantially low prices. This is a great time to buy a home,”
he said. One of the few agents in the country certified as a distressed property expert, Combs said there are also many alternatives as the economy continues to hit
homeowners. “With the current economic condition, more and more people are losing their homes. I’m there to help people try to avoid foreclosure. Sometimes I can help,” he said. Combs is the father of three grown children and three grandchildren. He attends First Redeemer Church in Cumming, where he serves as an usher and Bible fellowship class director. He is also an active volunteer with the Dawson County
Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Program welcomes new volunteers: Mandy Powell, BB&T Diane Lemley, individual member Marsha Darlow, returning ambassador Mary Ann Witcher, Georgia Farmgirls
Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Program and was selected as the group’s Ambassador of the Month in March for his service to the chamber.
Combs can be reached at (404) 641-8102 or edcombs@remax.net. Re/Max 400 North is located at 391 Quill Dr., Suite 100 Dawsonville, GA 30534.
AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT
Residents take advantage of shop local campaign Organization shares success story By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
After several years with a provider in a neighboring county, a local organization brought their insurance needs home and found a better rate with a Dawson County agent. “Changing to another insurance company was not easy because we had been with the prior carrier since 1998,” said Nancy Stites, director for Family Connection. “Establishing a new relationship has been a good experience and we are happy with the services and happy to be doing business here in Dawson County.” After hearing about the
chamber’s “Find it here, spend it here” shop local campaign, Stites and her associate Marjean Miller decided it was time to research insurance rates. With a goal to find a provider that offered the needed services at a reasonable rate, Family Connection requested bids from both local and out of county companies. Stites said she was very pleased to find competitive rates within Dawson County. The chamber learned of Family Connection’s good fortune when a chamber ambassador stopped by the office to pass out a “Thank you for your busi-
ness” campaign window decal. Family Connection is a collaborative that serves as a local decision-making body, bringing community partners together to develop, implement and evaluate plans that address the serious challenges facing Georgia’s children and families. The organization’s vision is for all children in Dawson County to have the opportunity to become successful, healthy, selfsustaining adults. If you or your business has had a pleasant experience doing business in Dawson County, call the chamber at (706) 2656278 or speak with a chamber ambassador about your experience.
For the Dawson Community News
Nancy Stites with Family Connection looks over the organization’s new insurance policy, which she took out with a Dawson County firm and found a better rate.
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Local Kroger raising funds By Kirstie Broadwell For the Dawson Community News
For the Dawson Community News
Several volunteers with the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador Program toured the RIC Rack Thrift Store and Food Pantry last month to thank staff and volunteers for their service to the community.
Ambassadors tour local businesses By Michele Hester michelehester@ dawsonnews.com
Ambassadors with the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce took a ‘Spring Tour’ of the RIC Rack Thrift Store and Food Pantry last month to thank staff and volunteers for service to the community. “RIC Rack is such a wonderful place,” said Ambassador Angela Harben, who not only saw how the thrift store operates, but also found several items to purchase at the shop. Proceeds from sales at the recently remodeled and expanded thrift shop benefit the organization’s food pantry, which provides dietary needs and essentials to hundreds of local families each month. Carol Tyger, co-chair for the ambassador program and a routine volunteer at RIC Rack, said volunteers were preparing food to be
distributed while the group toured the facility. “We were lucky to be there on a day they were giving out food. RIC Rack is really helping others and becoming a centerpiece for help in this community,” Tyger said. Later this year, RIC Rack volunteers will also provide bags of groceries to area students for their breakfast and lunch while school is out for the summer. Volunteer Alicia Volk, who also serves as a chamber ambassador, said the group also plans to provide books for the children to read this summer to boost literacy. The ambassadors will meet for their next Spring Tour at noon April 14 at the Bowen Center for the Arts. If you would like the group to tour your business or organization, call the chamber at (706) 2656278.
Kroger is helping Jerry’s Kids fight along side the Muscular Dystrophy Association to help find a cure for muscular dystrophy, ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Scierosis, and related diseases. Events will be held during the month of April, with all proceeds going to the association. There will be two events taking place on April 17. Events include a book sale and a yard sale. There will also be an employee bake sale and hot dogs served. At the book sale, people are
encouraged to donate unwanted books and to purchase books. All books will be sold for $1, unless otherwise marked. Vendor spaces for the annual yard sale are currently being reserved. Prices are as follows: $10 for one space, $15 for two spaces and $20 for three spaces. Sellers can choose the location once they have paid. Set up for the yard sale will begin at 6 a.m., and the sale will start at 8 a.m. The third annual MDA Car Show will be held on April 24. The event will feature a silent auction, and there will be trophies
awarded for best overall, best interior, best paint, best engine and the people’s choice award. Local officials will judge the show. There will be prizes for kids as well. The entry fee for the show will be $10 for advanced registration and $15 for registration the day of the event. The show will run from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. MDA is the world’s leading supporter of research of neuromuscular disease. For more information about Kroger’s fundraisers or to sign up to participate, call Wanda Tallant or Jay Walker at (706) 216-5500.
Park renovation complete By Frank Reddy frankreddy@ dawsonnews.com
The public is invited to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the recently renovated War Hill Park in southeastern Dawson County. The ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. April 22 at the park at 4081 War Hill Park Road. Attendees should meet at the newly renovated fishing pier. Recent additions to the park include the renovated fishing pier and bathhouse. Last year, Dawson County received an $80,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to renovate the property. Renovations included new timber frames and gravel for campsites, as well as improvements to the beach.
For the Dawson Community News
The public is invited to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. April 22 at the pier at War Hill Park.
Shortly before renovation started in January 2009, the county entered into a 25-year
lease with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. For more information,
contact Dawson County Parks and Recreation Director Lisa Henson at (706) 344-3646.
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Company receives loan for $2.4M expansion project By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Gail Loggins, with United Community Bank, was one of nine administrative professionals recognized last week when the chamber of commerce celebrated Administrati ve Professionals Day. Mike Underwood, chairman of the chamber’s board of directors, presented Loggins with a rose.
Chamber recognizes local professionals By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Administrative professionals were at the center of attention last week as the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce paid tribute to the ones who keep local offices running smoothly. Nine employers treated their administrative assistants to lunch at the Lakeview Center on Thursday in honor of Administrative Professionals Day, which will be celebrated nationwide April 21. Each administrative professional received a certificate of appreciation from the chamber. The chamber also welcomed Gary Black, president of the Georgia Agriculture Council, as
the group’s guest speaker during the monthly luncheon. Black, one of several candidates running for offices in the upcoming state elections to speak to the chamber membership in the last few months, applauded local agriculture, the county’s leading industry. Black told members the “moral fiber of a community is supported by a rural, country life.” He also encouraged the chamber to build concrete relationships with youth in an effort to promote the growing field of agricultural research. The chamber’s next luncheon will be held at noon May 13 at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road. The guest speaker has not been announced.
A recognized leader in industrial dry steam vapor sanitizing technology recently secured a loan to expand operations and relocate to a new facility in Dawsonville. AmeriVap Systems Inc., the makers of Xtreme Steam, has experienced significant growth in the last few years, according to a press release sent out by the company. AmeriVap representatives attribute the growth to an increased interest in sustainability, water conservation and green sanitizing solutions by the industrial sector. “We are very fortunate to be a growing company in this tough economy,” said Werner Diercks, owner of AmeriVap Systems, in the release. “We’re very excited about the many opportunities made possible through this funding, especially our expansion to a much larger facility.” AmeriVap secured the loan
from the USDA Rural Development, which has loan and grant programs to promote economic development and improve the quality of life in rural areas. “We do have funds to help businesses who need credit,” Shirley Sherrod, state director of USDA Rural Development, said in the release. “We need solid companies with good business plans, goals and dynamic leadership.” Sherrod describes AmeriVap as a promising company with a bright future. “This will be very good for Dawson County,” she added. Linda Williams, president of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, agrees. “In this economic time, it’s very promising that an established company like AmeriVap would choose Dawson County to expand their facility,” she said. With the expansion, AmeriVap would bring jobs to the county and create several new positions in the next
year, according to representatives. Williams said AmeriVap is considering utilizing the county’s Work Ready Initiative “as a hiring tool.” A Work Ready Certificate, achieved through a series of free tests, validates an individual’s skill and knowledge levels in areas of applied mathematics, locating information and reading for information to potential employers. “They came to the chamber themselves and wanted to get involved,” Williams said. “We’re very happy to welcome them to the community and to our chamber.” AmeriVap purchased a portion of the vacated Mountain View Business Park, located on Grizzle Road, just west of the outlet mall. “We’re real pleased they chose to put that building back to work in Dawson County,” Williams said. “Often times a new business coming will be a drive for others to follow.”
Business receives honors By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Dawsonville-based Sleeveco, a shrink and stretch sleeve printing company, was recently honored with three awards from the International Association of Printing House Craftsmen. The plant received awards for its shrink sleeve packag-
ing of Frank’s RedHot Sauce Combo Pack, Wrigley’s Juicy Fruit-Olympic promo and Ensueno BeBe. The awards recognize artistic quality and market appeal of their products. “Labels play a vital role in consumer choice and influence buying behavior said,” Sleeveco Marketing Director Jyl Gryder.
In business for over two decades, Sleeveco officials say they are committed to having the best printing presses, latest technology and a great sales and service department. “We’re the ones to call when the stakes are high and you want it done right,” Sleeveco President Martin Wilson said.
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Open house for busy intersection set for April 15 Public invited to view proposed changes By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
An open house in the gymnasium at Kilough Elementary School on April 15 will show the public plans for the busy Ga. 400 and Hwy. 53 intersection. The state Department of Transportation unveiled a proposal last month to convert the crossing into a two-legged continuous flow intersection that would move left turning vehicles out of the main flow of traffic. The informal open house will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. The school is located at 1005 Kilough Church Road, just of Ga. 400. Transportation representatives say Dawson County could be the first in the state to have the new at-grade intersection, which uses signals for left turn traffic several hundred feet before the main intersection and allows left turning vehicles to cross over oncoming traffic. DOT spokeswoman Teri Pope said the project would fulfill two main objectives, increasing capacity to help motorists get where they need to go and doing so in the safest way possible. “This is going to be the poster child in Georgia for doing that,” she said. The changes also include lengthened double left turn lanes both east and west on Hwy. 53. DOT is expected to begin purchasing right of way in fiscal year 2011, which starts in July and should take about nine months to complete. At the open house, Georgia DOT engineers will be available to discuss the proposed project, though no for-
‘The whole idea is to get people moving through the intersection faster.’ Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Steve Gooch Represents 9th District on DOT board mal presentation is planned. Steve Gooch, who represents the 9th District on the Department of Transportation board, last month called the design cost effective and “almost fail-proof.” “There’s one in Louisiana that’s working out real well,” he said. “The whole idea is to get people moving through the intersection faster.” Gooch said the project would require minimal land acquisition and would not displace any current businesses. “Hopefully that will satisfy the landholders there. This area is so congested,” he said. With a price tag at about $12 to 14 million, the project would cost about a tenth of what it would have taken to build a flyover, which was one of several options for the intersection. The flyover, at about $120 million, would have elevated Ga. 400 traffic over Hwy. 53 and included a series of access roads, at the intersection. Once the design and land acquisition phases are complete, Project Manager Robert Murphy said the construction time would be about 18 months.
RAPID REFILL INK CUTS RIBBON New Dawson County Chamber of Commerce business Rapid Refill Ink held a ribbon cutting ceremony March 30 at the chamber office. The business carries a large selection of ink and laser toner cartridges and specialty paper products. It also carries name brands like HP, Epson, Canon and Lexmark. The store is located at 1595 Peachtree Parkway in Cumming. For more information, visit www.rapidrefill.com.
For the Dawson Community News
VIETNAM VETERANS HONORED Vietnam veterans were recently honored at the state Capitol as Gov. Sonny Perdue proclaimed March 29 Vietnam Veterans Day in Georgia. Rep. Amos Amerson, from left, Roy Riggs and Wayne Watkins represented Dawson County at the Capitol.
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