D A W S O N
C O U N T Y
Racer donates hood to museum. February 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
Supporters gather for Relay event By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Those involved with the American Cancer Society’s 2011 Relay for Life Dawson County joined together last month for the annual kick off ceremony at Dawson County High School. Event Chairman Jay Walker said it was an opportunity for members, cancer survivors and those affected by cancer to connect. “It’s not just about the money raised,” Jay Walker said. “It’s about the cama-
raderie of the people. They can share their stories and find strength in each other.” Dozens gathered for the annual fundraising kickoff Jan. 27 at Dawson County High School, which will play host to the relay on May 20. Organizers talked about last year’s numbers, discussed plans for 2011 and honored cancer survivors and Relay participants. As this year’s chairman, Walker said See RELAY | 3
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Relay for Life Dawson County Chairman Jay Walker offers Gwen Hyde a celebratory cupcake last month during the American Cancer Society’s 2011 Relay for Life kick off event.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
For the times they are a-changin’ “It is not necessary to change. Survival is not mandatory.” -W. Edwards Deming
I have been a part of this chamber since 2005 and 2011 looks a lot different than any of us thought it would. Over the past few years we
have witnessed some of the biggest economic changes in a generation. Whether it is in your business or personally ... something in your life has most definitely been affected by The Great Recession. As a business owner/employ-
ee/student, how are you managing these changes? I have some experience in managing change. There have recently been some big adjustments in my business; I am now an employee of Bank of the Ozarks. At the same time I have become your chairman for
the chamber. Talk about some big changes. Through this experience I am becoming a better banker, a better employee and I will serve you better as your chairman. For me, it is an adaptation to my new circumstances. It is learning how to thrive in a new
environment, one day at a time. Mathis I bet you have had some major adjustments of your own. I’m sure you have worked See TIMES | 2
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Don’t forget safety in the workplace Safety in the workplace is a responsibility of business owners and managers. It is our duty to make sure that our employees, clients and vendors all enter a safe environment when they come to work or enter our place of business. Your chamber offers a Drugs Don’t Work Program that will help you accomplish safety in the workplace and save your business 7 percent on workman’s compensation premiums. Pam Hamalainen, our Drugs Don’t Work coordinator will easily guide you through the process. Businesses who participate have a drug screening administered for all new hires. You will then make your
own decisions about whether it suits your needs to do random drug Williams screenings. You will also have the discretion about the services to include in your Employee Assistance Program. Ongoing education about the dangers of substance abuse is also a requirement. Participating members must provide two hours of training each year. Supervisors will be required to do some training as well. As a member of our chamber’s program Hamalainen takes care of the employee training details for you.
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Times I’m sure you have worked harder in these past few years than you have ever worked. I expect you are better at whatever you do than you were a few years ago. You are probably tighter on your pocketbook. Maybe you went back to school for some continuing education (always a great idea). Perhaps this “change” has truly been a “correction.” Managing change is about maintaining a positive attitude and utilizing the resources available to you. Remember, you are not alone and your chamber is here to help. On the lines of continuing education, you may know that the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce has a strong working relationship with the Gainesville Small Business Development Center
Each month you will receive a short newsletter with an estimated reading time of 10 minutes. You will distribute this newsletter to your employees and by the end of the year the two hour requirement will be fulfilled. Hamalainen will also provide easy training opportunities for supervisors. The newsletter will provide a variety of information that will most likely surprise you. You are probably unaware of the many household products that are used in inappropriate ways to institute a high, which often results in creating addiction, causing brain damage and even death. In addition to a safe
and secure atmosphere, businesses who provide a drug free environment have increased productivity, better attendance and of course a healthier workforce. Too often owners and managers are lulled into a comfort zone of believing their workplace is drug free because they do not see evidence of abuse. However, did you realize that the workplace is the preferred place by drug dealers to do their business? Drug dealers are not always the stereotypes you see in movies and television lurking in back alleys and rundown areas of the city. Drug dealers usually have regular paying jobs and sell their wares within the safety of the office, locker
(SBDC). By offering classes, seminars, resources and tools for small businesses, the SBDC is a great support system for your business. Look for more information coming soon on our ongoing relationship with the SBDC and ways it will benefit you. Life is subject to change, so be flexible. Our economy is improving but business is constantly evolving, so don’t get left behind. In one-way or another, we are all coming out of this recession. Let’s continue to adapt together; we will all be better for it. “It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent, but rather the one most adaptable to change.” -Charles Darwin
room or break room. Drug dealers know that police and other enforcement agencies are not policing the private work place and thus they see work as a safe haven for their drug sales. I encourage you to give Hamalainen a call at the chamber office to learn more about our Drugs Don’t Work
Program. She can answer your questions and help you create a safe work environment and save 7 percent on your insurance premiums. I hope to see you at a chamber event soon. 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
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FEBRUARY 2011
CALENDAR OF EVENTS February Feb. 10: Join the chamber for the first membership meeting of 2011 at noon at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road. Adam Hazell with the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission will be the guest speaker.The program will provide information about GA House Bill 277 - a transportation bill.The very important bill provides for 12 regional transportation districts in Georgia based on the regional commissions. If passed, a 1 percent sales tax would be used for regional transportation infrastructure projects approved by the voters. Go to www.dawson.org to register for the luncheon. Lunch will be $15 for members who did not R.S.V.P. by Feb. 7. Visitors are welcome to attend and pay $18 for lunch. Feb. 14: Happy Valentine's Day! Feb. 17 through April 21: The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center will offer FastTrac NewVenture atThe Featherbone Center, 999 Chestnut Street Gainesville, Ga. from 5-8 p.m. onThursday evenings. FastTrac NewVenture is a comprehensive course including more than 30 hours of class time covering all areas of business start-up, planning and management.Ten, three hour modules cover the keys to small business success, including: Exploring entrepreneurship, identifying and meeting marketing needs, setting financial goals, planning the product/service, researching and analyzing the market, reaching the market, building the organization and team, planning for a profitable business and implementing next steps.The course is sponsored by Wells Fargo. Register online at www.georgiasbdc.org or contact Morgan Blakley at (770) 531-5681 for more information. Feb. 19: Oh go jump in the lake! The chamber is sure you have a list of folks you would love to say that to .... Well now you can! Join WEE Books Leap for Literacy atThompson Creek Park on Lake Lanier and sponsor a team of up to four people or one indi-
vidual for $100. Want to join in the fun but not get so wet? Sponsor someone for wading bragging rights for $50 and each person to test the water with a toe for $10. By sponsoring those you would like to see take the plunge (or jumping in yourself) it all benefits the Dawson County WEE Books program. The program brings free, age appropriate books each month to Dawson County's under-fives as part of the effort to improve both the reading and learning readiness of our children as they enter kindergarten and in turn help reduce the need and costs of remedial education. WEE Books is a private, Dawson County, nonprofit organization. Over 99 percent of funds raised in 2010 went entirely to the cost of books and mailing. The organization is staffed by volunteers. For more information or to sponsor, call (706) 216-0173. Feb. 22: Join the chamber at Keating Family Medicine as they host the monthly Business after Hours event from 5-7 pm. The office is located at 1080 Lumpkin Campground Road, behind the North Georgia Premium Outlets. Special thanks to AFLAC-Sharon Reagan, Anderson Family Medicine- Dr. Larry Anderson, Weddings and Wellness Enterprises- Barbara Roberts, Kristie Myers- The Norton Agency & United Community Bank- James Askew for sponsoring the cash drawing. Remember, you must be present to win if your name is drawn. The cash drawing is currently at $725. Feb. 26 - 27: The Dawson Lumpkin Home builder's Association is currently planning the 2011 North Georgia Home Expo to be held at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road. The group had a very successful show last year and is looking to an even bigger and better show in 2011. To reserve your booth and guarantee a spot, contact Lori Lewis at lori@dawsonlumpkinhba.com or (866) 522-4055. Spots are filling up fast and being reserved on a first paid basis.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Robin Friday attended the 2011 Relay for Life kick off in honor of family members who have had cancer. At the Jan. 27 event, volunteers ate dinner and discussed fundraising plans.
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Relay he is “pushing for more corporate sponsorships.” “It doesn’t take a whole lot to become a corporate sponsor,” he said. Suzanne Hendricks, Relay for Life community manager, said the American Cancer Society “continues to make great progress against cancer thanks in part to the fundraising power” of its
relays. Fundraising chair Tasha Hamil said she was “excited to see what Dawson County can do this year in the fight against cancer.” Upcoming projects include “Paint the Town Purple,” an April 16 event for relay teams to step up fundraising efforts. Walker announced stats from the 2010 relay, which included 22 teams and 133 cancer survivors. The organization raised $52,136, a figure Walker said he hopes to top this year.
Gala tickets sold out From staff reports
It’s official. The 20th annual Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Gala sold out of tickets. The theme for this year’s gala, which was held Feb. 4 at the Lakeview Center, was “Big Time in the Big Easy.”
Guests enjoyed a selection of traditional and Creole dishes, while Zydeco music entertained the crowd. Linda Williams, chamber president, reported that Northside HospitalForsyth recently came in as a naming sponsor for the event. For complete coverage of this year’s gala don’t miss the March edition of the Chamber Chronicle.
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A plan for economic renewal By Thomas J. Donohue For the Dawson Community News
The U.S. Chamber federation was tested like never before in 2010-a faltering economy, huge policy battles, and an aggressive campaign to vilify the business community, divide it against itself, and silence our voice in the political process. I’m pleased to say that by standing together and speaking with a united voice on the big issues, we made a tremendous impact. But our work is far from over-in 2011, we must redouble our efforts to revitalize the economy and put Americans back to work. We’ve already observed the big changes that can take place in a single year. In January 2010, we worried about the possibility of a double-dip recession. Today, the state of American business has improved. This is due to both the impressive resilience of our economy and the enactment of the tax relief package in late December. For these reasons, the chamber projects that the economy will enjoy solid growth in 2011. Although our economy is improving, the recovery is fragile and we still face many significant challenges. Foremost among these challenges is unemployment, which has exceeded 9 percent for 20 consecutive months. That
hasn’t happened since the 1930s. Next, o u r nation must conDonohue tend with unprecedented competitive challenges as other countries race to implement progrowth reforms. Finally, America faces unsustainable long-term financial burdens-massive deficits, runaway entitlements and unfunded public employee obligations at all levels of government. Overcoming these challenges requires a multifaceted approach. Four areas will be among the business communities’ priorities in 2011-reining in excessive regulations, expanding American trade, rebuilding our economic foundation and reducing deficits and debt. First, we must restrain excessive regulation while reforming the regulatory process. At the federal level alone, regulations already fill 150,000 pages of fine-print text and cost Americans $1.7 trillion a year. In recent years, we have seen an explosion of new regulatory activity that is simply unprecedented. This regulatory tsunami poses, in our view, the single biggest challenge to jobs, our global competitiveness and the future of American free enterprise. Second, we will fight to
advance a pro-America trade agenda with the goal of doubling exports in five years and creating millions of new jobs. Many Americans, regrettably, think that trade agreements kill jobs-that foreign investment and immigration threaten our national sovereignty and U.S. jobs. To change these misperceptions, we’ll soon launch a major initiative to educate citizens and policymakers on trade that will clearly link global engagement to American jobs. Third, we must make it a priority to rebuild the country’s economic foundation. Roads, bridges, rail and mass transit networks, airports, and air transport systems must be modernized. Broadband capacity, power generation, and water supplies must be expanded. At the same time, we must recommit ourselves to developing our human capital by reforming education and training programs. Last, businesses, like all Americans, must do their part to help address another defining challenge of our times-the expansion of government spending and entitlements, and with it, the explosion of government debt. Conventional wisdom says that no effort to address deficits will be considered until after the 2012 elections. We can’t wait that long. At the very least, a serious down payment on bringing deficits and debt under control
‘Four areas will be among the business communities’ priorities in 2011reining in excessive regulations, expanding American trade, rebuilding our economic foundation and reducing deficits and debt.’ should be made this year. The chamber will support congressional efforts to reduce spending, even if we don’t like all the details. These are challenging times and I can’t thank you enough for your continued support of this organization. Our strength doesn’t reside in a building made of marble and stone-it comes from our network of state and local chambers and the grassroots activism of their members. If, in the days ahead, the chamber federation remains united, there is no limit to what we can achieve on behalf of our members. The challenges facing us this year are big-but so are the opportunities. Throughout it all, the business community will lead the way. The following are comments from your local chamber of commerce president, Linda Williams. It is the goal of your board of directors to keep you informed of issues and initiatives at the local, state and federal level that will affect your business here at home.
Mr. Donohue has outlined an aggressive approach to stimulate the American economy. His third priority, America’s infrastructure, is also an important issue to us in Dawson County and the North Georgia region and something you and I can directly control. We as voters will have the opportunity to improve our transportation infrastructure by approving HB 277, a regional transportation bill. Adam Hazell, with Georgia Mountains Regional Commission, will speak about this topic on Feb. 10 at the chamber luncheon. I urge you to attend this important meeting. Our broadband infrastructure is improving at this moment with the development of the North Georgia Network, a
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
broadband initiative. The initiative was funded through stimulus money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and hopefully should be operational later this year. The availability of broadband will allow our community and region the opportunity to attract companies that will provide diverse and quality jobs. Water, as a resource, remains in the forefront of concern everywhere and particularly in Georgia. While our own Etowah Water & Sewer Authority and the City of Dawsonville have water to fulfill our needs for years to come, I applaud the authority’s efforts to build a reservoir so that we may become self-sufficient and not rely on the decision of outsiders regarding our water supply. As we work toward a better America, Georgia and Dawson County, we appreciate your continued support of our organization. Together we can and will make a difference. Thomas J. Donohue is the president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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Cover to Cover expands store By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Arliss Brigman, a volunteer with Friends of Amicalola Falls State Park, brought bar owl, Al Capone, to the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours on Jan. 25. The event was held at the park’s lodge.
State park welcomes chamber for after hours By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
The manager of one of Dawson County’s major tourist destinations said the future is looking bright. “I’m feeling good about our future,” said Bill Tanner, who manages Amicalola Falls State Park and Lodge. Park staff welcomed members of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce to a business after hours event at the park’s lodge Jan. 25. Tanner said in previous years the park partnered with local restaurants and businesses to cater the chamber’s annual event at the lodge. This year, he said, the lodge and staff at the nearby Len Foote Hike Inn, which is part of the state park system, was able to cater the event on their own. “I’m feeling our future is strong,” Tanner said. To add to the park’s allure, members of the volunteer group Friends of
Amicalola Falls State Park brought several critters that call the park home to the after hours affair and invited guests to take advantage of the park’s many events as spring approaches. As the evening came to a close, the chamber held its monthly cash drawing and announced Hope Bennett of North Georgia Zoo as the $600 winner. Bennett was not present to accept the prize, so the pot grows to $725 when Keating Family Medicine hosts the event from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 22. The chamber would like to thank the following members who support the monthly cash drawings with monetary donations: James Askew-United Community Bank, Kristie Myers-The Norton Agency, Barbara RobertsHealthyeatingOnTheRun.com, Larry Anderson-Anderson Family Medicine and Sharon Reagan-AFLAC. The chamber would also like to thank the individuals and businesses that donated door prizes for the event.
Members and staff of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce joined with Cover to Cover Used Books last month to celebrate the store’s expansion. Owner Patricia Moyer said she opened the store in August of 2009, but saw the need for more at the location. “The community wanted more variety and something a little different,” Moyer said, “so we added an arts and crafts studio as well.” Moyer said the store charges 50 percent off the cover price for used books and buys the books for 25 percent of the cover price. According to Cover to Cover’s Web site, Moyer grew up in Pennsylvania, and she spent time in Washington State and Florida.
‘The community wanted more variety and something a little different.’ Patricia Moyer Owner, Cover to Cover Used Books
“I developed a strong knowledge and understanding of running a successful business with my own antique store in Orlando,” Moyer said. For more information, call (706) 265-3772, visit www.covertocoverusedbooks.com or visit the store at 42 Grant Road Suite 100, Dawsonville. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and is closed on Sunday.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce helped Cover to Cover Used Books celebrate its expansion last month.
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Authority manager talks to builders By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Etowah Water and Sewer Authority has some big projects and plans on the horizon, and the entity’s general manager shared them last month with members of the Dawson Lumpkin Home Builder’s Association. Current projects include a water line that will run up Hwy. 136 and a new elevated water storage tank at Keith Evans Road and Hwy. 183. “Currently, that appears to be our best area for growth,” said Anderson at the Dawson Lumpkin Home Builder’s Association regular meeting. “It has a lot of activity around it.” Anderson said the authority is also working toward developing a plan that addresses population growth and water needs for 2050. He said in order to meet the needs of the 2050 projected population — 125,000 people — the authority is completing property acquisition and legal application for a 137-acre reservoir at
Russell Creek. “We do not foresee any reason why we won’t get the permit [for the reservoir] within this calendar year,” Anderson said. He also spoke about plans for another reservoir — a much larger one at Shoal Creek that could provide regional solutions to water needs in the near future. He said the authority has partnered with “the largest privately held water company in the United States” to provide financial and technical assistance in purchasing land for the Shoal Creek Reservoir. Anderson then fielded questions from the group. According to its Web site, the Dawson Lumpkin Home Builder’s Association is a non-profit professional trade association “committed to promoting the growth of the building industry in Dawson and Lumpkin counties.” For more information, call (866) 5224055 or e-mail lori@dawsonlumpkinhba.com.
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Brooke Anderson, general manager with Etowah Water and Sewer Authority, spoke last month to the Dawson Lumpkin Home Builder’s Association at the monthly meeting.
Medical office to host next event From staff reports
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s next Business After Hours event will be held from 5-7 p.m. Feb. 22 at Keating Family Medicine. Owned by William Keating, the medical practice is located at 1080 Lumpkin Campground Road, Suite 300 behind North Georgia Premium Outlets in Dawsonville. Keating is board certified in Family Practice with a special interest in prevention and wellness. The chamber’s monthly cash drawing has grown to $725 for the event, but members must be present to win. For more information, call the office at (706) 265-4100 or the chamber at (706) 265-6278.
... Congratulations to Ron Rimawi of Digital Interiors for once again being invited to the CEPro Top 100 Summit, as Georgia's representative for custom home electronics and home theaters. The CEPro Top 100 recognizes the best in the industry. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.
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FEBRUARY 2011
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United Way reaches goal By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
Volunteers were breathing a sigh of relief Jan. 28 as they calculated the final contributions to United Way for Dawson County’s 2010 fundraising campaign. For the first time in three years, the group met its goal to raise $100,000 for Dawson County social service partners. “The board is thrilled with the results,” said Chairman Jay Sessions. “We think this is a great way to honor Mark’s (Weaver) legacy in the county.” The volunteer board of directors voted last year to dedicate the effort in Weaver’s memory. A longtime supporter of United Way, Weaver served on the board at the time of his death. “We want to thank all the board members, all the individuals and businesses that donated and pledged for this campaign,” Sessions said. A funding allocation committee will meet
‘We think this is a great way to honor Mark’s (Weaver) legacy in the county.’ Jay Sessions Chairman of the United Way for Dawson County
with partner agencies in late February. Funding will be dispersed based on the need by the agencies. Sessions invites community members to join the allocation committee. “That is a unique experience to come in and hear the partner agencies— to learn what they do, the challenges they are faced with and how the funding from United Way dollars helps,” he said. For more information, call (706) 344-3501, Ext. 245.
United Way for Dawson County board members Jay Sessions (front) and Taylor Wallace celebrated by changing the group’s fundraising sign Jan. 28 after learning the 2010 fundraising goal of $100,000 had been reached.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
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WEE Books benefit set for this month By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
The inaugural Leap For Literacy event, a Polar Bear Plunge-style fundraiser, kicks off on Feb. 19 Those looking to participate in the event — which benefits Dawson County WEE Books — can make a contribution as an individual leaper or as a team. The fundraiser is scheduled for 10 a.m. Feb. 19 at Thompson Creek Park. The event also offers charitable opportunities for those not ready to take the plunge. Sponsorships are available to support those planning to participate. WEE Books President Lionel Graves said that “like everyone else, we’re trying to find innovative ways to
get money for our organization. We thought we’d give this a try.” The Leap for Literacy will feature celebrity judges, who will choose the event’s winners. In addition, judges will make the call in categories like most creative costume, funniest routine and oldest leaper. Sponsorship fees are as follows: $250 for leaping teams of up to four members; $100 for individuals; $50 for a ramp run; and $10 to tap your toe in the water. All funds raised go to WEE Books, an independent non-profit literacy program that promotes reading for young children. For more information about WEE Books or to pre-register teams for Leap for Literacy, call (706) 216-0173.
SEVERAL COMPETE IN SCAVENGER HUNT Nicole Stewart and Amanda Anderson, far right, raced to complete 80 tasks in the Dawson County Library's scavenger hunt fundraiser Jan. 28. The team won the grand prize and took home more than $200 in cash for their efforts. Library staff Stacey Leonhardt, far left, and Claudia Gibson presented the awards.
Home expo coming up By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Organizers of the North Georgia Home Expo are finalizing plans for the second annual event—a trade show for builders, remodelers and realtors. The expo is planned for Feb. 26-27 at the Lakeview Center, at 2057 Dawson Forest Road East. The event is organized by the Dawson Lumpkin Home builder’s Association. Association President Bill Goode said the expo “is for the general public. We wanted people to be able to learn more about local help, whether it’s home builders, renovators, insurance, real estate, financing...there’s all kinds of
different exhibitors at the show.” Those who would like to reserve a booth and guarantee a spot at the show should contact organizers no later than Feb. 11. Applications for the expo can be obtained by calling the association’s executive officer, Lori Lewis, at (866) 522-4055. For members of the Dawson Lumpkin Home Builder’s Association, it’s $375 for a regular booth and $450 for nonmembers. For a booth in the lobby, it’s $450 for members, and $525 for non-members. For more information, visit www.dawsonlumpkinhba.com or call (866) 5224055.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
AMERSON TALKS ISSUES OVER BREAKFAST State Representative Amos Amerson kicked off his monthly breakfast meetings with constituents in Dawson County Jan. 29. His next breakfast will be held at 8:30 a.m. Feb. 26 at Ryan's in Dawsonville. Also pictured is Don Cargill.
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Regional planner to speak about transportation bill Monthly luncheon scheduled for Feb. 10 By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
A proposed regional transportation tax will be the topic of discussion at t h e D aw s o n C o u n t y C h a m b e r o f Commerce’s next business luncheon. Adam Hazell, planning director with Georgia Mountains Regional Commission, will be the group’s guest speaker Feb. 10 to provide information about GA House Bill 227. The bill provides for 12 regional transportation districts in Georgia based on regional commissions. If passed, a 1-cent sales tax would
be used for regional transportation infrastructure projects approved by the voters. Hazell was scheduled as the chamber’s January speaker when winter weather forced the group to cancel the luncheon. The luncheon begins at noon and will be held at the Lakeview Center on Dawson Forest Road. Register for the luncheon online at www.dawson.org. Lunch is $15 for members who do not pre-register. Visitors are welcome to attend and pay $18 for lunch. For more information, call (706) 265-6278.
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
NEW MEMBERS AML Computer Services LLC Rick Eubanks (678) 900-0821 6132 Hwy. 53 East Ste. 120 Dawsonville, GA 30534 rick@amlcomputer.com Category: Computer repair and consultation Don and Margaret Cargill (706) 265-4016 561 Gold Bullion Drive East Dawsonville, GA 30534 d.cargill@mindspring.com Category: Individual members Georgia Racing Hall of Fame Tommy Hosea (706) 216-7233 415 Hwy. 53 East
Dawsonville, GA 30534 TommyT499@gmail.com Category: Non-profit museum Georgia Mountain Food Bank Kay Blackstock (770) 967-0075 4515 Cantrell Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542 kay@gamountain foodbank.org Category: Non-profit food distributor
January totals Walk-in visitors: 496 Telephone referrals: 1,935
BANK of the OZARKS Property Investment Associates
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A 'SHOP LOCAL' TESTIMONIAL
MEMBER RENEWALS Special thanks to the following members that renewed memberships last month: 400 Floor Covering, Inc. 400 Jewelry & Loan 400 North Board of Realtors Abba House Alden Trace Apartments Alexander, Almand & Associates LLP All Animals Veterinary Hospital Amicalola Electric Membership Corporation Anna B. Williams Atlanta Gas Light Company B B &T Bank of the Ozarks Barry, Charles and Carol Bastuba, Jim and Phyllis Bearden Funeral Home Bennett Landscape Inc. Big Canoe Property Owners Association Blue Ridge Glassworks Bradfield, Pamela Burnsed, Herb and Karen Carey, Steve and Marge Chestatee Regional Library System Chick-fil-A Chocolate Moose Christ Redeemer Catholic Church Cindy Sedor, Licensed Massage Therapist City of Dawsonville Community & Southern Bank (downtown Dawsonville) Compton, Robert M. Crown Mountain Women’s Health D.D.P. Enterprises Inc. Dawson County Board of Commissioners Dawson County Chapter 970 V.V.A. Dawson Community News Dawson County Arts Council Dawson County Board of Education Dawson County Farm Bureau Dawson County Rehabilitation Center Dawson County Sheriff’s Office Dawson Eye Group
Dawson Fine Wine & Spirits Dawson Insurance Agency Dawson News & Advertiser Dawson Vision Dawson/Lumpkin Home Builders Association Inc. Dawsonville Distinctive Dentistry Dawsonville Hardware Co. Inc Digital Interiors Inc. Donald III, Norman H. Duncan Exterminating Co. Duplicating Products Inc. Economic Development Corporation Etowah Water and Sewer Authority Evans Garbage Service Inc. First Citizens Bank of Georgia Foley, Tom and Jeanne FORESTAR GROUP, Inc Forrest Hills Mountain Resort Forsyth County News Frank A. Kruse III, DDS Gainesville State College Gainesville Welding & Rendering Equipment Georgia Racing HOF Georgia Softworks, Inc. Gold City Corral and Carriage Company Grimes, Jan and Kay H & R Block Harder, Betty Harmon, Dendy and Judy Harris Family Dentistry Hirsch, Joseph Home Heating & Air Conditioning LLC Hometown Appraisals Inc. J.M. and Marie Burt John Seibel Photography Jordan, John F. and Margaret A. Kaleidoscope Window Designs KARE For Kids Inc. Lakeview Publishing.com Lanier Technical College Laurel Ridge Farms Lava Hair Studio M Tanner Contracting Martin, Larry and Pam McClure, Aline
McClure, Cliff and Arlene McCubrey, Ev and Donna McDonald’s McEver Signs and Graphics McGarity’s Business Products Metal Roofing Sales, Inc. Mills Fuel Service MSE Hospitality Dawsonville, Inc. Newell, Kenneth and Jo Ann NOA (No One Alone) North Georgia College & State University Northeast GA Physicians Group Dawsonville Northeast Georgia Medical Center Northside Hospital Forsyth Northview Orthopaedics and Open MRI Painted Lady Enterprises Patricia Portal Peach Brandy Cottage Pearl Izumi Factory Store Prudential Georgia Realty Purchasing Alliance Solutions Inc. R & D Caulking Inc. Rushton & Company LLC Saling, Bill and Fran Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation Southern Southeastern Inc. State Farm Insurance, Carla Boutin Stelor Handyman Services LLC Stowers, Fred and Dru Strickland General Agency Inc. Taylor, Helen The American Legion Post 247 The Blue Bicycle Townley Portable Toilets Inc. True, Dave and Judy Uncle Shucks Victory Custom Homes Inc. Wal-Mart No. 3874 Webb, Tim and Margaret Wendy’s World Wide Manufacturing Company Inc.
"In trying to shop local, I got with Denny Putlak of Denny Insurance Group about getting my AAA auto club renewed through him. It was up for renewal in December 2010 and I saw where Denny offered to donate $5 to the RIC Rack if anyone signed up with him. Since I didn’t know the person in Atlanta through whom I had purchased my AAA club service initially, I thought I might as well go ahead Roberts and use someone local instead. "I certainly am glad I did! Denny asked me if he could give me a quote on my home and auto insurance and what he came up with saved me $522 a year. I asked him if he could give me a quote on health insurance as well, and with the policy I bought from him, I am saving $145 a month. "Another local company that gave me great service is Financial Planning andTaxes with Jim Barkley. He steered me to a financial investment that has served me very well even with the recent recession and economic downturn. Needless to say, I am one happy camper that I decided to shop local right here in Dawsonville." -Barbara Roberts
New technology for BB&T clients From staff reports
BB&T has launched a free iPad application that allows more convenient banking access to its on-the-go clients. According to a news release from BB&T, the iPad App is one of the first of its kind in the United States, which is not just a high definition version of mobile banking. It is now available for download on the iTunes App Store. The App allows clients to: • Access online banking — check account balances, transfer funds, pay bills, sign up for paperless statements and account alerts. • Open new accounts — apply for checking and savings accounts, home equity loans and more. • Find BB&T locations — locate the nearest financial center or ATM using global positioning system . • Learn and plan — access an online library of financial education information and interactive calculators. BB&T Corporation is one of the largest financial services holding companies in the United States, with more than $157.1 billion in assets and market capitalization of $18.3 billion as of Dec. 31, 2010.
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FEBRUARY 2011
Young business leaders win big By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
Frank Reddy Dawson Community News
Alabama resident Brittany Finley sported a pink hood on her truck in an Oct. 9 race she won to support breast cancer awareness. She donated the hood to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame last month.
Item donated to racing museum By Frank Reddy frankreddy@dawsonnews.com
The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame museum was given a little piece of history last month. The first female driver to win a regular Georgia division truck racing title presented volunteers with a victory souvenir. During the Oct. 9 race, a truck d r iv e n b y A l a b a m a r e s i d e n t B r i t t a ny F i n l ey s p o r t e d a p i n k hood in support of the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research. Now, that hood is on display at the racing museum in Dawsonville. Hall of Fame volunteer Brandon Reed said it’s a proud moment for the facility. “We’re going to make a nice dis-
play here,” Reed said. “We have photos from the race night as well. We’ll put those around the hood. “It was a historic championship she won. Very historic for the state o f G e o rg i a , a n d s h e ’s a g r e a t , promising young driver.” Finley, who came to Dawsonville to present the hood to museum volunteers, said she was excited to have the item on display. “It feels good to know it will be here,” she said, adding that she hopes to add more memorabilia to the display in the future. Reed said he has plans to keep the hood and other Finley items as permanent fixtures at the museum. Finley, who began racing in the truck series four years ago, has c o m p e t e d a t va r i o u s t r a c k s throughout the Southeast. She has three wins in the series.
Dawson County High School’s Future Business Leaders of America Chapter won an exceptional number of awards last month at a regional meet. “We’ve always done well at this event, but this is really big,” said Dianne Mayfield, the school’s FBLA adviser. The regional event’s first place winners included: Grant Shope, business calculations; Amanda Florentine, business communications; Christopher Bywaletz for public speaking I and business math; Craig Butler, digital design and introduction to technology concepts; and Maddie Alvarado, future business leader. Second place winners included: Clay Glover, business math; Cole Simmons, introduction to technology concepts; Cody Hall, public speaking II; Miranda Abe, impromptu speaking; and Amanda Martin, computer applications. Third place winners were: Marty
Rogers, introduction to business communication and the team of Allie Costley and Cody Wright, desktop publishing. Other winners included: Jake Hafemalz, business math, fourth place; Lyric Baty, personal finance, fourth place; Larry Florentine, business math, fifth place; Haley Hamil, business communications, ninth place; and Kara Hafermalz, introduction to business communications, 10th place. Mayfield bragged on the students. “We’re proud of all of our students, whether they placed or not,” she said. “As our chapter grows, the excellence of our students grows as well.” For many of the students, next stop is the state finals March 18-19 in Atlanta. In the regional event last month, Dawson County students competed against other students from Cherokee, Cobb, Fannin and Gilmer counties. According to its Web site, Georgia FBLA is a nonprofit student organization “committed to preparing today’s students for success in business leadership.”
For the Dawson Community News
The Dawson County High School chapter of Future Business leaders of America took home dozens of awards at the organization’s regional meet last month.
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Biz student in the hunt for GOAL From staff reports
A business student at the Dawson campus of Lanier Techinical College is among 16 nominated for the Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership, or GOAL, competition. “The purpose of the GOAL program is to spotlight the outstanding achievement by students in Georgia’s technical colleges and to emphasize the importance of technical education in today’s global work force,” said Jennifer Pulliam, Eliasson coordinator of Lanier Tech’s GOAL program. Dawson County student Treasure Eliasson is studying business administrative technology. There are also five nominees from the Forsyth campus and 10 from the Oakwood campus. Instructors made the nominations. A screen-
‘The purpose of the GOAL program is to spotlight the outstanding achievement by students in Georgia’s technical colleges... .’ Jennifer Pulliam Coordinator of GOAL program ing committee of the college’s administrators will review the nominations and interview the students. Four finalists will then take part in another round of interviews and evaluations by a committee of business and industry representatives. The college’s 2011 GOAL winner will go on to compete at a regional level and possibly statewide.
County expands to include e-mail updates From staff reports
Dawson County Government has expanded its communication services to bring news and other important information to citizens through e-mail updates. For some time the county has utilized a monthly newsletter to communicate with citizens. “Recognizing residents’ changing expectations, we are now able to deliver more time-sensitive information directly to the residents’ e-mail inbox when needed,” said Dawson County Government and Community Affairs Director Cathy Brooks. According to Brooks, subscribers may receive useful county updates regularly
including the county manager’s message, news releases, job opportunities, events, road closings and other information that affects the citizenry. “The service is even more valuable in times of emergencies or disaster,” Brooks said. Interested subscribers are invited to visit www.dawsoncounty.org, click on any page other than the home page and look for “Subscribe Now” on the left side. Current newsletter subscribers will automatically be added. Subscribers may opt out at any time. For more information, contact Brooks at (706) 344-3501, Ext. 255 or cbrooks@dawsoncounty.org.
FEBRUARY 2011
North Georgia pressing on ‘through the jungle’ By Tricia L. Nadolny DCN regional staff
During his annual Native Intelligence forecast, real estate executive Frank Norton Jr. stressed that “hope is not a business plan” and that despite economic uncertainty, opportunities are available to those brave enough to take a risk. “Pain, sadness, despair, stubbornness, embarrassment, these emotions run deep as we move into 2011. But the ever present truth is that entrepreneurship is alive and well deep in the bowels of North Georgia’s economy,” Norton said to the nearly 1,000 people who attended his presentation Jan. 20. “Clearly, one must roll up one’s sleeves, dig deep within, risk personal and financial capital and move forward through this jungle,” he said. “North Georgia is moving forward through the jungle.” In a theatrical presentation marked with cautious optimism, Norton unveiled his 24th Native Intelligence forecast at the Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville, highlighting 10 trends centered around the housing market, industry and government spending. Speaking on the general economic climate, Norton cautioned the audience that the word recovery, often thrown around during this recession, is no longer appropriate. He said the region is on the verge of evolution. He likened North Georgia to a man who has suffered a near-death experience that “alters the psyche, alters forever priorities, changes habits, traits and the resulting course of the future.” He said industry will be restructured with fewer employees and smaller overhead, and people will streamline their buying to the bare necessities. “As a society, we will shift priorities, adjust spending habits,” he said. “We will long remember this
For the Dawson Community News
Native Intelligence forecast, real estate executive Frank Norton Jr. speaks to the audience recently at Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville.
toxic shock to our system but hopefully learn from our past transgressions.” Regarding the housing market, Norton said North Georgians are shifting their priorities and buying smaller homes. In partnership with a class at North Georgia College & State University, Norton also assessed the two main industries in North Georgia - poultry and medical - and found the medical industry has surpassed the poultry industry as the region’s largest. He said while poultry is still strong, employing more than 100,000 Georgia workers, the medical industry is simply growing at a remarkable pace as the region’s population expands. As the presentation concluded, Norton stepped down from the stage and tribal music washed over the crowd. He again stressed the importance of a competitive spirit as Georgians brave the jungle. As two live lions in green cages were rolled to the front of the stage, Norton said that like on the show “Survivor,” some people have been voted off the island. “Outwit, outlast and outplay,” he said, “are powerful phrases.”
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FEBRUARY 2011
Officials tapped for committee Berg, Gooch will study future road projects By Michele Hester
Gooch
michele@dawsonnews.com
Berg
The group charged with pushing a new 1-cent sales tax for regional transportation projects met for the first time last month as it aims to put the vote on a ballot in 2012. Made up of 26 officials from counties and cities in the Georgia mountains region, the group elected an executive committee that will determine a priority list of road projects the tax would fund. “That group will take all of the transportation requests and match them to the amount of money that we anticipate will be collected,” said Dawson County Commission Chair Mike Berg, who will represent the subregion of Dawson, Lumpkin and White counties. State Sen. Steve Gooch, who represents the 51st senate district, was named as the Senate appointee to the Georgia Mountains Regional Roundtable. A former department of transportation board member, Gooch said he looks forward to using his knowl-
edge of the state’s transportation issues to help the roundtable move the region forward. “The roundtable will be working closely with the DOT and its planning director to develop projects that respond to our community’s needs,” said Gooch. “Giving voters the ultimate say on what projects are funded is the kind of local control that makes government most successful.” The roundtable must decide on a final project list by Oct. 15. If voters within the district approve the tax on Aug. 21, 2012, the state would begin distributing proceeds in 2013. From there, 75 percent of the money would be dedicated to regional projects decided on by the roundtable and 25 percent would go to local governments. Berg said similar to county 1-cent sales tax votes, county and municipal officials cannot promote the issue. “We would be leaving that up to chambers of commerce, develop-
‘We’ve got to look at this as, in the end, what’s fair for everybody and what suits the region.’ Lamar Paris Chair of the roundtable ment authorities and consultants,” he said. Todd Long, the Georgia Department of Transportation’s planning director, said the catalyst behind the whole sales tax matter are motor fuel taxes. He said those taxes, the state’s traditional road revenue source, are “in bad shape.” People are driving less because of high gas prices and trading for more fuel-efficient vehicles. Long said he recently ditched a 20-year-old pickup truck for a Toyota car. Lamar Paris, who was elected to chair the roundtable, said the tax initiative will call for historic cooperation among officials across the state. “It’s critical we work together,” he said. “We’ve got to look at this as, in the end, what’s fair for everybody and what suits the region.”
Jackson named senior tax associate From staff reports
Gainesville-based Rushton & Company has named Certified Public Accountant Kelly Keifer Jackson as senior tax associate. Jackson has consulted individuals and small businesses on tax planning and preparation matters for 17 years, serving most recently as a tax senior for a Metro Atlanta accounting firm. At Rushton & Company, Jackson will provide tax consulting and
preparation for individuals, businesses and nonprofits, and research and offer analysis of changes in tax law. She will also assist the tax Jackson manager with work flow management and maintenance of the accounting program. Jackson holds an accounting
degree from Georgia State University. Founded in 1981, Rushton & Company, LLC, provides businesses throughout North Georgia with a wide variety of accounting services including auditing, tax planning and return preparation, management consulting, payroll services and business valuation. For information, call (770) 2877800 or visit www.rushtonandcompany.com.
File photo
John and Sari Reid of Dawsonville are among almost three dozen couples who have taken advantage of free wedding and vow renewal ceremonies offered by Dawson County magistrate judges in the last few years in the spirit of Valentine’s Day.
Free Valentine wedding ceremonies available By Michele Hester michele@dawsonnews.com
For the third year, Dawson County magistrate judges are offering free Valentine weddings and vow renewal ceremonies at the county’s historic courthouse. Ceremonies include Valentine decor and refreshments, including wedding cake. “It’s exciting to be able to offer this to the community, especially in these difficult times,” said Dawson County Chief Magistrate Judge Lisa Thurmond. “A lot of people can’t afford large weddings and this
gives them the opportunity to have those wedding memories.” Thurmond said weddings at the historic courthouse can be as elaborate or as simple as the bride and groom choose. “They’ll come in jeans to wedding gowns,” she said. A marriage license from Probate Court is required for new marriages. No license is required for vow renewals. For more information or to schedule your event, call Magistrate Court at (706) 3443730.
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FEBRUARY 2011