Edition Highlights: Chamber to celebrate 35 years Room dedicated to late mayor Local photographer wins award Sparks in the Park on the radar
June 2012 Post Office Box 299 292 Hwy. 400, North Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Candidates discuss the issues at forum
By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Organizers are calling a political forum earlier this month a success after hundreds of citizens turned out to hear local candidates talk about their views on issues. A capacity crowd filled the auditorium at Dawson County Middle School for the June 4 forum that featured hopefuls in contested city, county and state races in the July 31 primary. “Tonight’s event was a great success for the organizations involved,” said Clint Bearden, county GOP chairman. Sponsored by the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, in conjunction with the county’s Republican and Tea parties, separate forums were held for sheriff, tax commissioner, surveyor, commission chairman and mayor, as well as the races for District 9 State House of
Representatives and District 9 U.S. House. The candidates, all of whom are Republicans, fielded questions compiled by a committee of representatives from the three sponsor groups. Candidates did not see the topics ahead of time. “We are very fortunate to have sincere people with good intentions willing to run for public office and serve our community,” Bearden said. “And we’re also blessed to have such a strong level of participation from our local citizens that attended.” Prior to the political forum, Melissa Sessa was on the fence about which candidates would receive her vote. “[I] hadn’t really made up my mind yet on the candidates and I wanted to hear the candidates’ viewpoints on the questions presented See FORUM | 2
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Dawson County Tea Party representatives talk with voters before the June 4 political forum that featured hopefuls in contested city, county and state races.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Jennifer Baker
What to do with the long days of summer What to do, what to do... Have you been saying that to yourself lately amongst a houseful of bored kids? Then you are in luck — because you live in an area with a lot going on. “Hike, shop, fish, canoe and commune with Mother Nature where the mountains
meet the lakes” is our motto here in Dawson County. If you have yet to discover all that our county has to offer, then let me fill you in... If you’re the outdoors type, then there is no shortage of great things for you to do. We are home to Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge, where
you can hike to a 729-foot waterfall and then explore the park’s 1,020 acres at your leisure. When you’re done you can enjoy dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, and even spend the night if your dogs are tired. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, hop on the 8 mile path that leads to
Springer Mountain and the beginning of the Appalachian Trail. Not to be outdone in the outdoor arena, Len Foote Hike Inn offers visitors great food, a soft bed and beautiful views — all to be had after a scenic 5 mile hike to the property. You can also access the
Appalachian Trail from Len Foote, as they are located just 1 mile south of Springer Mountain.
Baker
See SUMMER | 14
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president’s message
linda williams
Thank you for 16 years at chamber This shall by my last article for our Chamber Chronicle. Little did I realize that when I began working part-time as an information specialist for your chamber in 1996 that my adventure would last all these years and give me so many wonderful opportunities. After beginning as your information specialist, I worked every position in the organization, next as executive assistant, the bookkeeper, payroll clerk, vice president of administration services and tourism director. My proudest day was when the board of directors honored me with the position of president of your chamber in 1999. I have certainly learned a wide variety of things over the years, met a diverse group of people, and been involved with many, many worthwhile projects that have benefited our community. Of the many important
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Forum tonight,” she said. Mark Summerour attended the forum to learn how congressional candidates plan to address matters of local importance. “I just wanted to see
projects I have been associated with, none of them could have happened Williams without the teamwork of so many others. The relationships I have developed and people I have met locally, regionally, state wide and even nationally are ones that I will always treasure. It would take pages and pages to recap all of the projects that the chamber and I have been affiliated with over the years, but I will name just a few. Several people have asked me what program was I most proud of. I would have to say that early in my career I organized a group of two dozen local leaders who met monthly during an 18 month period. Our goal was to create a Grassroots Economic Development Plan for Dawson County. what the candidates had to say about the issues and how they will affect Dawson County and the congressional district,” he said. Resident Barney Sullivan said he’s never missed an election as long as he’s had the opportunity to vote. He came to the forum to ensure he would
‘My proudest day was when the board of directors honored me with the position of president of your chamber in 1999.’ We all learned a great deal through that process, including the fact that when we finished, we were now one of the very few counties in our region that actually had an Economic Development Plan on paper. It was a living document and served us for many years. Our plan was given high acclaim by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and other counties began seeking our input as they prepared to create their own plans. The other programs we have been involved with are those you are probably familiar with by name, including Leadership Dawson, Georgia Work Ready and Georgia’s be able to make informed choices at the polls. “I think it’s a bit stupid to go and vote when you don’t know who you’re voting for,” he said. Linda Williams, chamber president, said voters could consider such forums as job interviews for the candidates. “It is so important for us
Entrepreneur Friendly, among many others. But again, the greatest value to me has come from the people I have met. Our business members are strong, smart and brave individuals who are willing to take a chance on entrepreneurship. Being a business owner is not for the weak or wimpy. It is for someone with a vision and a plan to accomplish that vision. It is not for someone who is afraid of failure, but rather for those who have confidence in themselves and are willing to try again if things do not go as originally planned. So, to each of my chamber members, your board of directors and hundreds of volunteers as voters to see these people in action on their feet, to see how they respond to the questions as well as how they perform in public,” she said. “Essentially, we’re re-hiring, hiring for the first time or possibly firing those by our votes. We’re the (human resources) department and this is our interview process.”
over the years, I send a huge thank you for this opportunity. This organization will continue to be an important voice for business in Dawson County, the region and the state. I will observe anxiously as the chamber continues
to grow and make a difference to its residents and businesses. As always, if you are not a member already, I invite you to join us.
Dawson County Chamber of Commerce 2012 Board of Directors James Askew United Community Bank
Gwen Kellar Chick-fil-A
Brooke Anderson (ex-officio) Etowah Water and Sewer Authority
Andrew J. Leavitt, PhD North Georgia College & State University
Charlie Auvermann (ex-officio) Development Authority of Dawson County, executive director Jennifer Baker (2012 chair) United Community Bank Mike Berg (ex-officio) Dawson County Board of Commissioners Carla Boutin State Farm Insurance Doris Cook Etowah Water and Sewer Authority James Grogan (ex-officio) Dawsonville City Council
Stephanie Mathis (2011 chair) Bank of the Ozarks Kristie Myers The Norton Agency Keith Porter (ex-officio) Dawson County schools Denny Putlak Denny Insurance Group Vernon Smith Lakeview Center of Dawson County Carol Tyger Ambassador representative Mike Underwood (2010 chairman) First Citizens Bank of Georgia
Kathy Fuller K.C. Fuller and Associates
Linda Williams (ex-officio) Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Peter Hill (2014 chair) Hill Design Associates Architects
Gloria Wyatt (2013 chair-elect) Northside HospitalForsyth
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calendar of events June 13: Racer’s Retreat B&B, 137 Duck Thurmond Rd., will have a ribbon cutting ceremony at 11:30 a.m. June 14: Join the chamber at noon for the monthly luncheon at the Lakeview Center, 2057 Dawson Forest Road. The guest speaker will be Joselyn Baker, senior VP of external affairs for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. For more information or to register and prepay, visit www.dawson.org. June 15: Complete Shear Madness Salon, 749 Hwy. 53 East, Suite 120, will have a ribbon cutting at 11:30 a.m. June 15: Get your speed going as the Atlanta Motorsports Park, on Duck Thurmond Road welcomes you to a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3 p.m. The celebration will continue until 5 p.m. The event is open to all chamber members, adults only though due to safety reasons. There will be bottled water and light refreshments. Members attending will be required to sign a waiver and wear a wrist band. Check in at the chamber’s welcome table. For more information, call the chamber at (706) 265-6278. June 15-16: Benefit yard sale for James Carnes of Mobile Mender-Onsite Mobile Welding from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Carnes was injured on vacation in 2011. He suffered a broken neck while diving and is now a quadriplegic. The money raised will go towards medical bills not covered by insurance. For more information, contact Barbara Carnes at (770) 490-2549. June 18: Join in the fun at Crystal Falls Golf Club as the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce gets ready to tee off for its annual golf tournament. Teams, players and hole sponsors may call the chamber at (706) 265-6278 for more information. June 26: Join the chamber from 5 to 7 p.m. at the chamber office on Ga. 400 to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the organization. There will be member appreciation hot dogs, drinks and more. For more information, call (706) 2656278. In addition to event sponsorships, the board of directors is now offering “Tiered Membership” levels. Members interested in supporting the chamber throughout the year, you may now select a package of event sponsorships and your membership dues will automatically be included. This “one and done” approach will benefit your chamber and bring valuable exposure to your business. Call the chamber for more information.
Chamber president, VP to retire By Michele Hester
Longtime president Linda Williams and husband Marty Williams, vice president of travel and tourism, said last month they will step down together July 6.
mhester@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce is preparing for a leadership transition after its top two officials announced plans to retire. Longtime president Linda Williams and husband Marty Williams, vice president of travel and tourism, said last month they will step down together July 6. “I have been blessed by my association with this organization and I have met and worked with so many wonderful people over the years,” Linda Williams said. “I couldn’t have written a better script for my life during these chamber years. It has truly been a blessing to serve this organization and each of you.” Hired in 1996 as the chamber’s information specialist, she was selected to lead the group as president in 1999, a time when Dawson County would soon experience great growth. Marty Williams has held his position since 2006. Jennifer Baker, chairwoman of the chamber’s board of directors, said Linda Williams will leave a legacy of commitment to the organization and the local business community. “She has done a tremendous
Mark Watkins Dawson Community News
job with it,” Baker said. “I think she took something that started, obviously very small just like the county has, and was vital in growing it. “Linda has absolutely put her heart and soul into the chamber. I don’t think there has been any aspect of what has happened in this community that she hasn’t somehow had her finger in or tried to support.” Baker said she and the couple began talking about their retirement late last year. “It’s been something they’ve been considering for some time. I think the timing was just right for them,” she said. The board is currently working with a consultant to pinpoint the direction it will take toward the transition. “We’re looking at a lot, all at
once. I don’t foresee any huge changes,” Baker said. “We’re just trying to make sure that we keep the core foundation that we have strong and build on it to hopefully be able to better serve the members and be a better representation of our business community going forward.” The board, she said, plans to move quickly to begin the search for a replacement. Baker said the board members know they have big shoes to fill. “She’s a tough one to replace and she’s going to be definitely missed by everybody that’s worked with her, that knows her, that’s ever had to deal with the chamber at all,” Baker said. Linda Williams said she looks forward to the next chapter in her life.
Search is on for the chamber’s next president The search is on for the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s next president. “We’ve got big shoes to fill, but the [chamber’s] board of directors is up to the task,” said Jennifer Baker, board chairman. “We don’t anticipate it taking long to fill the position; however, we are committed to bringing in the absolute best person for the job regardless of the time frame.” Baker said it’s important to the board and chamber membership to have someone with a passion for the job who will bring energy and excitement to the organization. “While we believe that we have a solid foundation
to build on, the chamber, like any organization, has room to grow and we are excited about that opportunity,” she said. “While change can sometimes be daunting, this is an excellent chance for us to learn, grow and evolve. We are here to serve our business community and their needs, and I believe we can not only rise to that challenge but exceed it.” Baker said the board looks forward to announcing “the addition of our newest family member soon. This is an exciting time for us.” Anyone interested in inquiring about the open position should forward a resume to jennifer_baker@ucbi. com.
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Sparks in the Park on the horizon By Chelsea Thomas
Bella Bourne laughs on stage during the dance contest at Dawson Day Sparks in the Park last year.
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Members of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce tour the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame at the May 22 Business After Hours affair.
Chamber celebrates Racing Hall of Fame By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s May 22 Business After Hours was held at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame for the museum’s 10 year anniversary. Chamber Membership Director Pam Hamalainen introduced Acting Mayor James Grogan, who thanked the museum for its contribution to the community. The event allowed members to dine while networking and touring the racing memorabilia. After dinner, the event came to a close with chamber business members passing out door prizes, including racing-themed T-shirts, bandanas and movies. The chamber would like to thank all
of the business members that donated prizes for the event. A special thank you also goes to Larry Anderson-Anderson Family Medicine, James Askew-United Community Bank and Kristie MyersThe Norton Agency for their contributions to the chamber’s cash drawing. Since the winner was not present for the May business after hours drawing, the cash prize grows to $775 for the June event. The chamber will sponsor the June 26 event at its office on Ga. 400. The event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. and will celebrate the chamber’s 35th anniversary. The affair will express the chamber’s appreciation for their members with hot dogs, drinks and more. For more information, call (706) 265-6278.
The whistle and cracks of soaring firecrackers will resound throughout Rock Creek Park on July 3 when Dawson County celebrates Independence Day with a fireworks extravaganza. In its fourth year, Dawson Day Sparks in the Park begins at 5 p.m. with activities for the entire family. With a carnival-like atmosphere, activities include a dance contest, face painting, inflatable slides and a rock climbing wall, among others. Admission is free. Last year the event had a record 6,000 attendees, according to officials. One of the favorite attractions was a dunk tank for local celebrities. Also expect to find a wide range of concessions including cotton candy, popcorn, boiled peanuts, hamburgers and barbecue. Picnics are also welcome. No alcohol is allowed on park grounds or outside parking areas. Presented by Dawson County and the Dawson Community News, locals recognize it as a family event that has something for everyone. The highlight of the night is the fireworks dis-
File photo
play, which is set to start at about 9:45 p.m. and last about 20 minutes. Officials promise it will be one of the most extravagant in north Georgia. Children’s activities, souvenirs and concessions are available for purchase. Free parking is available at Rock Creek Park and on lots adjacent to the park, if weather per-
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
mits. Handicap accessible parking will be on the park grounds. Additional free parking is available at River Park Canoe Launch, Riverview Middle and Riverview Elementary schools, with free shuttle service to and from the event. Those not attending are encouraged to avoid the area from 5 to 11 p.m.
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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Fling draws crowd
The winner of the “Best in Photography” category during the art show in April at Cumming First United Methodist Church was “Winter in the Smokies,” a photograph by John Seibel of Dawsonville.
Festival benefits art programs By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
For the Dawson Community News
Local artist named ‘Best in Photography’ From staff reports
Local photographer John Seibel was awarded ‘Best in Photography’ during an art show in April at Cumming First United Methodist Church. The fourth annual Festival of the Arts was held April 22-29 and is professionally judged and offers high quality art and music throughout the week. Entrant categories are two dimensional work (multi-media, oils, acrylics, water colors, etc.), three dimensional work (pottery, glass, wood, bronze, etc.) and photography. An award for “Best in Category” is given in each entrant group along with 10 honorable mentions across the categories. During the intermission of the concert
by the North Georgia Symphony Orchestra, John Hutchinson, festival director, announced the winners. The winner of the “Best in Photography” category was “Winter in the Smokies,” a photograph by Seibel. Seibel, a Dawson County resident, was thrilled at the announcement. Hutchinson went on to say that the church was purchasing the piece for its permanent art collection. The church buys only one piece from the show each year. Plans are already in the works for next year’s show, which will be held in April. For more information about John Seibel Photography, visit www.johnseibelphotography.com or call (678) 4276183.
Spring was in the air the first weekend in May as thousands flocked to downtown Dawsonville for the Dawson County Arts Council’s 11th annual Spring Fling Festival. The two-day event was held May 5-6 at the Bowen Center for the Arts. It featured more than 60 vendors offering an array of garden-inspired art, collectibles and flowers just in time for spring. Karen Smith, owner of Abbott Creek Nurser y in Dawsonville, said the festival exceeded her expectations. “It was amazing to get more exposure,” she said. “We had some people from the festival actually come out to our greenhouse the next day saying they need a few more plants.” Ann Bosworth, a jewelry artist from Dawsonville, said she
enjoyed meeting people from so many different places. “That was fun,” she said. “I like beads from different countries and telling people where they are from. I have beads from Nepal, Africa, the Czech Republic and some from the United States.” Proceeds from the weekend event benefit the ar t center’s many community programs. “We’re not tr ying to make a profit,” said Council President Jeanne Tompkins. “Our goal is to make enough to pay our director’s salar y, build up our children’s programs and of fer more classes. We want to be a ser vice for our community.” Council members also added activities to the festival this year in an effort to increase the arts center’s visibility. “We had a variety of demonstrations, a blacksmith and a wood artist, live music throughout the weekend, and we kept the gallery open to show people that we do have art shows here,” she said. To kick off the weekend, the group held a street dance with live music. Scott Carter carries flowers from Dawsonville’s Abbott Creek Nursery on May 5 during the Dawson County Arts Council’s Spring Fling. Proceeds from the event benefit the art center’s programs throughout the year. Michele Hester Dawson Community News
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City dedicates room to late mayor By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
The community room at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex was designated as the “Joe Lane Cox Community Room” recently in memory of the late mayor. Cox, who was 72, was three months into his third term as mayor when he died on March 9. Local residents, community affiliates, politicians and Georgia Mountains Regional Commission officials packed the room to honor and commemorate his legacy. Acting Mayor James Grogan opened the dedication by welcoming Cox’s family and the numerous dignitaries in attendance. Grogan shared his personal memories of Cox, going back
to their days at Dawson County High School. “Joe Lane Cox won just about every award you can imagine for a high school student,” he said with a smile. Danny Lewis, executive director of the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission, also spoke at the dedication, reflecting on his friendship with Cox and the years Cox served as chairman of the organization. “He loved the mountains, he loved this area and he loved Dawsonville people,” Lewis said. “I thank you for naming this room after my friend … He was such a great guy.” Widow Judy Cox thanked those who designed the wall commemorating her husbands service. “I would like to especially
thank the city staff who has worked so hard on this,” she said. The wall included plaques and pictures from the late mayor’s career, as well as his Bible and gavel encased in a hanging shadow box. “Joe Lane loved Dawson County and the city of Dawsonville. That was his life,” she said. Near the end of the ceremony, Grogan announced that the city is planning to finish Cox’s sidewalk project this year. Cox was known for spearheading a project to place sidewalks throughout downtown. “There are many citizens that walk the paths every day,” Grogan said. “We have one little part on that project that is not complete,
Judy Cox, wife of late mayor Joe Lane Cox, stands in front of the wall commemorating her late husband’s community service in the newly dedicated “Joe Lane Cox Community Room” at city hall. Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
so we will be starting the final leg soon.” Grogan also mentioned that Cox helped save and support the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame through times of trouble. Recently, the Hall of Fame celebrated its 10th anniversary. ”Joe Lane Cox was a man
of commitment, whose great desire was to have the infrastructure in place to meet the city’s future needs,” Grogan said. “He had a heart for the people … and this community, and that’s the reason we dedicate this room to Joe Lane Cox.”
Golf tournament this month By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Golf Tournament will be June 18 at Crystal Falls Golf Course. “This has always been a favorite activity for our chamber and community members to network and build stronger relationships with those they do business with,” said Linda Williams, chamber president. “We invite everyone to come enjoy a spring day at a beautiful course.” The chamber’s last tournament was in October and had 11 teams participate on “a wonderful fall day” at Chestatee Golf Course, according to Marty Williams, vice president of tourism. “This year we tried to take into consideration all the other tournaments and decided on June,” he said. “June is always a good time of the year.” Beginning with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., the tournament will feature a hole-in-one contest with
the grand prize being a new Chevrolet Malibu from John Megel Chevrolet. Later there will also be a putting contest, featuring a $5,000 grand prize. Tournament registration will begin at 8 a.m. with breakfast sponsored by North Georgia College & State University. “We are expecting about 20 teams and think it will be a great time,” Marty Williams said. Registration for individuals is $125 each and teams of four participants are $500. Hole sponsorships are available for $150 each. The last tourney netted more than $6,000 for the chamber and the organization has similar hopes for this event. According to the chamber Web site, companies can save $50 by calling the chamber and registering a team of four as a corporate sponsor for $600, which includes a hole sponsorship. To register or for more event information, golfers can call (706) 265-6278 or log on to www.dawson.org.
• Join the chamber in celebrating its 35th anniversary from 5 to 7 p.m. on June 26 at the chamber office. • Don’t forget to sign up for the chamber’s June 18 golf tournament. For more information, call (706) 265-6278 or visit www.dawson.org. • Improve your skills … take an online class. For more information, visit www.dawson.org. • Past issues of the Dawson County Chamber Chronicle can be found on the chamber’s Web site, www.dawson. org. • Remember to shop local. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.
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8 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com
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JUNE 2012
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GRHOF reaches a decade Chamber celebrates 35 years By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame reached a milestone last month as it celebrated its 10 year anniversary. Opening in 2002, the museum, originally a tourist attraction called “Thunder Road,” had to overcome numerous speed bumps before experiencing success. Following some hardship, the city of Dawsonville offered some financial stability to the museum in 2007. One of the big steps for the museum came last year when it was renamed a 501(c)3 organization, operating under the volunteer-run Dawsonville History Museum Inc. In recent months, since beginning to charge admission, there has actually been an increase in visitors, according to board member and local racing historian Gordon Pirkle. Pirkle said the 10th anniversary of the museum represents a “landmark for the organization.” “In a bad economy it was hard opening, but now we are getting lots of visitors and are basically self-sufficient,” he said. “We are running over where we were at this time last year.” On May 26 the museum celebrated its success with numerous car-focused festivities, including a car show, a swap meet, arts and crafts and a driver autograph session. Pirkle said he was “real proud of the turnout” and was happy to see many
Reflects on ‘positive growth’ By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Jasper resident Ricky Byrd, left, looks at Dale Earnhardt’s Goodwrench Chevrolet last month during the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame’s 10th anniversary celebration.
new faces. “I [saw] lots of new faces. I was surprised at that. I see the same people a lot but [May 26 there were lots of people I didn’t know,” he said. The enthusiasm of racing fans and event attendees was perhaps most apparent when the five new hall of fame inductees were announced at 11 a.m. A list of 15 semifinalists had previously been released. The five finalists included: Pete Hamilton, Bill Ingram, Warren Johnson, Doug Kenimer and Herman Wise. Johnson and Kenimer were the only two racers present to accept their designation. Another special event honored legendary racecar driver Raymond Parks. Local Cody Dinsmore, 15, unveiled a new display he designed dedicated to the driver. “Parks is one of the most influential guys in Georgia
racing history. He has done so much not only for NASCAR and racing in Georgia, but for the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. I just thought he should be remembered even more than he already is,” Dinsmore said. The display included pictures, programs and newspaper articles donated by his widow Violet Parks. “Parks, although I didn’t really know him that well, he has been a hero of mine. Everything he ever done is how I would like to live my life,” he said. After the inductees were announced and the display unveiled visitors mingled throughout the museum and strolled along the outdoor car show. Lula resident Paul Lamonica was showing his 1966 Shelby Cobra and participating in the swap meet. He noted the museum was teeming
with visitors. “We actually have several swap meets here and my wife and I come to every one of them. We try not to miss a single Dawsonville show because we like it here,” he said. Lamonica said he believes the museum is an asset to Dawsonville and knows from personal experience how it draws people to the area. A retired commercial pilot, he said he has “traveled around” and yet, few museums compare to what the Georgia Racing Hall of fame offers. “Other than the NASCAR Hall of Fame in Charlotte, [N.C.], there is no question about it, the museum offers the most comprehensive collection of racing memorabilia and cars,” he said. For more information, call (706) 216-7223 or visit www.georgiaracinghof.com.
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce will celebrate 35 years of community service in June. For the event, the chamber will host the monthly Business After Hours event beginning at 5 p.m. June 26 at the chamber offices on Ga. 400. There will be member appreciation activities, hot dogs, drinks and more. President Linda Williams said the chamber staff is eager to celebrate the organization’s milestone with members, ambassadors and community members. “We are really excited that we are going on 35 years,” she said. “So much has happened in those 35 years since only a handful of business owners began meeting. We’ve grown so much.” Williams reflected on the chamber’s origins and how far it has come. “It used to be that we could fit at just two tables when we met. Now we have 50 to 70 people attend our monthly luncheons and 50 to 100 people at Business After Hours monthly,” she said. At its peak, the chamber had more than 500 members, according to officials. Williams said that when she first remembers attending the chamber meetings in 1994 they were held at Amicalola Falls. Since then they have moved from Forrest Hills Mountain Resort to Gold Creek Golf Course to the North Georgia Premium Outlets to the Lakeview Center. Each time it was in response to growth. “We are proud of all the businesses to come here. We have had a lot of positive growth,” she said. For more information call (706) 265-6278 or stop by the Welcome Center, located on Ga. 400 just north of the intersection with Hwy. 53.
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new members J.A.B. Painting & Pressure Cleaning Allan Browder 594 Rainbow Lake Drive Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-1328 Category: Painting & Pressure Cleaning apbrowder@aol.com New York Life Chuck Miller 249 Park Ave Dawsonville, GA 30534 (678) 858-0923 Category: Financial Planning & Life Insurance millerc@ft.newyorklife.com Tugaloo Home Health Agency Cynthia Reynolds 135 Tipton Drive Dahlonega, GA 30533 (706) 864-1000 Category: Home Health Cynthia.reynolds@amedisys.com Country Home Kennels Jean Schilling 336 Elliott Family Parkway
Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-3142 Category: Boarding Kennels chkennels@windstream.net Happy Dog Fat Cat Board & Bath Inc. Jane Carpenter 733 Elliott Family Parkway Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-1002 Category: Boarding Kennel & Grooming jane@happydogfatcat.com
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
Embracing Hospicecare 5775 Peachtree Dunwoody Rd., Ste D-580 Atlanta, GA 30342 (404) 659-0110 Category: Hospice infoga@americanhospice.com Racer’s Retreat B & B Alise Armstrong 137 Duck Thurmond Rd Dawsonville, GA 30534 Category: Bed & Breakfast maarmstrong1919@hotmail.com
member renewals Special thanks to the following members for renewing in May Denny Insurance Group Kelo Company Inc. MAM Counseling Inc. R.E.A.D. White Interiors
monthly totals Walk-in visitors: 322 Referrals: 2,019 Newcomers: 38
Property Investment Associates
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JUNE 2012
Commission Knight co-chaired Relay team chair says county in ‘good shape’ ambassador of the month
Dee Knight was named the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador of the Month when the group met May 16 for its monthly breakfast. Knight, a new chamber member, was recognized for her involvement and contributions to the Ambassador Program. Since joining the chamber in March, Knight has been actively involved with the Ambassador Program and volunteered to serve as co-chair of the Ambassadors’ Relay for Life team. The ambassadors are an elite group of volunteer chamber members who act as liaisons between the business community and the organization. Ambassadors attend ribbon cutting ceremonies, grand opening celebrations and vol-
Dee Knight unteer at chamber functions to promote the chamber. Knight is a travel agent with All Travel by Dee Knight. In addition to offering stateside and international travel expertise, Knight is currently promoting day and weekend trips to areas such as attractions in
Atlanta, Helen, Dollywood and casino packages. She holds information gathering meetings at 2 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce to discuss day trip travel opportunities. “I will be looking for suggestions from others, so feel free to contact me with your suggestions,” she said. Knight and her husband Tommy have been married for nearly 12 years. She has two children, Candace and Noah, and two grandchildren, David and Hannah, whom she describes as the loves of her life. She can be reached at (706) 531-4791 or at deetravelcompany@gmail.com. For more information on the Ambassador Program, call (706) 265-6278.
Bojangles’ sponsors ambassador breakfast By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Bojangles’ sponsored the May 16 Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassador breakfast. The restaurant, located at 25 Main Street in downtown Dawsonville is open from 5:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bojangles’ core menu of fried chicken, buttermilk biscuits and one-of-a-kind “fixin’s” like Dirty Rice and Cajun Pintos has remained the same for more than three decades. The Dawsonville location has been open for two and a half years and employees a staff of 25.
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Manager Melissa Cook said the Dawsonville business is proud of its involvement in the local community, especially in school sports sponsorships. “We are proud of our relation-
ships we have with the schools,” she said. “We sponsor basketball, football, track and wrestling.” The ambassadors’ next meeting will be at 8 a.m. June 20 at the chamber office on Ga. 400.
By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Sales tax revenue is up, there are no talks of furlough days and commissioners aren’t planning a millage increase for 2013. “We’re in pretty good shape,” Dawson County Commission Chair Mike Berg said May 10 when he gave his annual State of the County address at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce luncheon. Citing new development like the RaceTrac gas station on Ga. 400, Atlanta Motorsports Park on the westside of the county and the creation of the North Georgia Network fiber optic program, Berg praised the chamber and the local development authority for bringing business to the county. “The development authority and the chamber do a good job promoting us,” he said. “To have that interest in Dawson County is positive.” Berg said the county’s 2013 spending plan is likely to be less than this year’s $21.6 million budget due to about a 12 percent decline in property tax. “Thank goodness for [the] North Georgia Premium Outlet mall,” he said. “A majority of (1-cent sales tax), 60 to 75 percent, comes from outside the county.” According to Berg, county officials have planned and positioned the county to come out of the recession on top. “Our best news is that by 2014 to 2015 ... we’ll be all but $2 million debt free,” he said. “We’ll still have about $1 million in water and sewer and about another million for three fire trucks, but that’s it. Not many counties can say that.” Berg said the board of commissioners plans to look at revenue later this year and possibly to compensate employees, who have not received raises in the last four years. He also discussed how the proposed regional transportation tax and legislative mandates could affect Dawson County.
Upcoming The chamber’s next luncheon will be at noon June 14 at the Lakeview Center on Dawson Forest Road, Dawsonville.The featured speaker is Joselyn Baker, senior VP of external affairs for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.The cost is $16 for members, $19 for guests.
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Salon offers Refuge By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Master Cosmetologist Dianne Hanniger wants clients at her new salon in Dawsonville to feel as though they are entering a refuge when they walk through her doors. Refuge Hair Salon opened in March and offers a variety of services for the entire family. A professional stylist who moved to the area nearly eight years ago, Hanniger recently realized and acted on her dream to open her own salon. “Having worked in other hair salons, I knew how I wanted the atmosphere to feel for my clients. The name says it all, ‘Refuge Hair Salon,’” she said. According to Hanniger, listening to the needs of her clients in conjunction with their lifestyle helps her make informed decisions as to what the best course of action is regarding services and maintenance. Refuge Hair Salon also offers a selection of retail products to help clients get the best results after they leave the salon. “There’s nothing worse than looking great when you leave the salon and not being able to duplicate that look at home,” she said. In addition to Hanniger, Refuge Hair Salon has three highly trained profesStylists at Refuge Hair Salon celebrated its grand opening in April. The salon is located at 258 Beartooth Parkway, Dawsonville.
For the Dawson Community News
sional stylists. Rebecca Lee is a master cosmetologist with 12 years of experience, including four years as a salon owner in downtown Dawsonville. While she has mastered all areas of working with hair, cutting is her favorite part of being a cosmetologist. Jessica Wolfel has been doing hair in Forsyth County for the past four years. She focused most of her attention on cutting yet she loves the creative side associated with color. She also creates flawless looks with her make-up application techniques. Alyssa Pittman of Gainesville enjoys razor cuts and experimenting with color and style trends. She also specializes in make-up for proms, weddings and special occasions. Hanniger said she is proud to offer a high-end salon experience without high-end salon prices. “Detailed consultations, experienced stylists, professional products and a knowledgeable staff will make your visit to Refuge an enjoyable one. We all love what we do and it shows,” she said. Refuge Hair Salon is located at 258 Beartooth Parkway, Suite 120, Dawsonville. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (706) 2658074.
Hamalainen receives award By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
Pam Hamalainen, president of Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, was surprised last month when she received a certificate from Gov. Nathan Deal appointing her “Lieutenant Colonel, Aide De Camp Governor’s Staff formed for the defense of the State.” Dated Jan. 10, 2011, the certificate was delayed in its arrival, surprising Hamalainen even more. She said she was quite honored. “It was ver y unexpected. I was humbled, I didn’t feel I had done that much,” she said. Dawson County Commission Chair Mike Berg officially presented it to her on June 1 at the Dawson County Government Center. “It’s a great honor for her and it’s a great honor for the county. We are one of the few in the state that are recognized, and primarily because of Pam. She does such a wonderful job. You see her organizing all the time,” he said. The certificate stated: “Whereas, reposing especial trust in your patriotism, valor and fidelity, I do, by these presents, constitute and appoint you Lieutenant Colonel… .” Pam said she shares this honor with the affair’s board of directors and veterans. “There is no ‘I’ in team. We have all worked ver y hard to honor and respect our veterans and active militar y through Memorial Day ser vices, welcomehome ceremonies and Veterans Day celebrations in Dawson
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Pam Hamalainen, president of Veterans Affairs of Dawson County, was recently presented a certificate from the governor by Dawson County Commission Chair Mike Berg.
County and throughout the state,” she said in a statement. “It is because of all our other veterans that we put our heart and soul into all we do.” Hamalainen has been involved in Veterans Affairs of Dawson County for eight years.
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Ambassadors shine during Relay for Life By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Team work, collaboration and a goal to celebrate survivorship propelled the Dawson County Ambassadors into the spotlight when the group was awarded “Best Onsite Activities” at Dawson County’s Relay for Life event May 18 and 19. The volunteer group led by co-captains Angela Harben and Dee Knight offered face painting, balloon animals, a cake walk, basketball and dozens of raffles throughout the overnight event. There was also a racecar from the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame on display. “The ambassador team formed a team to be involved in all aspects of our community and also to try and raise as much money as they could to help with the daily battle of cancer,” Harben said. “We are a tight knit group…we really are like a little family….we work so well together. Everyone pitches in on everything that we do to make it as successful as possible.” Additionally, in its first year as a Relay for Life team, the ambassadors exceeded their fundraising goal by more than 50 percent and was able to collect more than $2,200 for the cause. Relay for Life is a nationwide fundraising campaign that supports the American Cancer Society’s research and programs. Overall, $83,137 was raised in Dawson County. Suzanne Hendricks, American Cancer Society community manager for Dawson and Forsyth counties, said she is proud of the community’s support of Relay for Life. “We are very proud of the $80,000 we have raised, and we think the community should be as well,” she said. The overnight event began with more than 130 cancer survivors taking a lap
around the track. Justin Power, who served as the event’s co-chair, said the survivor lap was the high point of the night. “It just touches you every year to see these survivors after everything they’ve gone through to take their walk around the track. That’s what it’s all about,” he said. Among the survivors was Rhonda Stone, who for the fourth consecutive year walked the entire 12 hours, and Kenny Stewart and Tori Overmyer. “It’s a great thing to see what we can do for Relay for Life and to see Kenny Stewart and Tori Overmyer, those two young folks, and all the people that have suffered with cancer here as survivors,” Slaton said.
The chamber would like to thank the following Ambassadors for support during Relay for Life. • Angela Harben, KC. Fuller & Associates • Dee Knight, All Travel By Dee • Steve Melching, ambassador chair • Diane Lemley, ambassador co-chair • Jay Thomason, H&R Block • Ashley Sheridan, Edward Jones • Michele Krumm, AllStateCumming • Tommy Hosea, Georgia Racing Hall of Fame • George Parson, Rapid Refill Ink • Nicole Stewart, SunTrust Bank • Pam Hamalainen, Dawson County Chamber of Commerce • Stephanie Griffin, Dawson Community News • Michele Hester, Dawson Community News
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Bank gives tomato plants
United Community Bank celebrated Customer Appreciation Day on May 4 by providing its customers with free tomato plants. Banker Judy Abercrombie presented customer Arthur “Art” Dover his plant.
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Summer Is water more your style? We are surrounded by it. Lake Lanier and the Etowah, Chestatee and Amicalola rivers are all easily accessed throughout the county. Whether you prefer boating, canoeing or fishing, you can be in the water in a matter of minutes. Prefer the beach? Head off to War Hill Park and put your toes in the sand. Extend your visit by camping overnight and you can fall asleep to the sounds of the waves gently lapping the shore (sounds nice, doesn’t it?). Speaking of parks, let’s not forget the other great parks we have here — from Veterans Memorial to Rock Creek, these family-friendly venues offer something for every age. Got boys? Then you need to head to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, where your favorite little race car driver can gaze in wonder at real race cars and other memorabilia. Boys and girls alike will enjoy a trip to the North Georgia Zoo/
Wildlife Wonders where they can get up close and personal with pigs, rabbits and goats. This licensed zoological facility is also home to many rare, exotic or endangered species that the whole family will enjoy seeing. For those of you who enjoy spirits (not the recently-departed kind) we are home to Crimson & Scarlett Vineyards and the new Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery. Stop by either — or both — and enjoy a taste of local spirits you won’t find anywhere else. And if shopping is more your speed, then you can’t get much better than the North Georgia Premium Outlets. Boasting 140 premium stores, you can find anything your heart desires in one spot. Prefer artwork to designer jeans? Around Back at Rocky’s Place offers eccentric pieces in a unique setting, while the Dawson County Arts Center showcases the best in local and regional talent. For more information about these and the countless other things to do here in Dawson County, go to www.dawson. org and click on “What to do.” You won’t believe what all you can do in your own back yard.
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JUNE 2012
County ‘Work Ready’ By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Alice Gordon, widow of Don D. Gordon, the first chairman of the board of Etowah Water and Sewer Authority, prepares to cut the ribbon on the newly declared Don. D. Gordon Conference Room on May 31.
Authority dedicates room and new garden By Chelsea Thomas
cthomas@dawsonnews.com
Etowah Water and Sewer Authority dedicated its conference room to Don D. Gordon, the first chairman of the authority’s board of directors, on May 31. Gordon and four other individuals are responsible for pioneering the plan for a new water authority in the 1970s by establishing community support and gaining approved legislation. His widow, Alice Gordon, cut the ribbon for the conference room Thursday. “Sometimes when people are gone we tend to forget about them and I just want to say thank you so much to everyone at Etowah who has been so nice to do this … and remember him,” Alice Gordon said. General Manager Brooke Anderson said pre-ceremony that he wishes he could have known Gordon. “I never had the honor of meeting
[Gordon] or working with him, but what everyone tells me is he is the guy that got it all going and brought other people on board,” Anderson said. “Don was one of the original board members and our original chair. He was chair for about 20 years,” he added. The conference room was dedicated along with a new garden called “The Garden of Distinction” in honor of the five original board members. Five trees were planted for the board members Ben Overstreet, George David, William Jessee, Frank Roberts and Gordon. “It’s no comparison to what they did for the authority. It’s just a way for us to honor the commitment and dedication of our five original board members,” Anderson said. Currently, the authority serves 5,200 water customers and more than 500 wastewater customers.
Dawson County is officially a Work Ready Community, according to the the Governor’s Office of Workforce Development. Established in 2006, Work Ready is a certification process based on a skills assessment for job seekers and a job profiling system for businesses designed to generate a workforce that meets the needs of local businesses. “As we seek to recruit quality businesses to our community and thus quality job creation, we will be able to tell prospective business owners that our workforce is Certified Work Ready,” said Linda Williams, president of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Work Ready liaison. “This is important to them as it means we can fill their job openings.” Williams said the certification also means the community is trainable to high skill set levels. “With more than 80 percent of our work-
force leaving the county each day to travel to their job, it is clear that we need to create diverse and quality jobs,” she said. “Being a Work Ready Community is one of the best tools to do that.” Williams applauded the local residents who took the time to complete the assessment and helped the community earn the designation. “Each one of them certainly helped contribute to the earning of this designation for Dawson County,” she said. “A huge thank you to the Dawson County School System for the tremendous role they played in having our seniors assessed for the last few years. Their total numbers in the high school sector were over the top.” With certification, the county is now eligible to apply for a $7,000 grant to be used to improve the high school graduation rate by working with at-risk students and out of school youth. An official sign will soon be installed at the county line on Ga. 400 announcing Dawson County as a Certified Work Ready Community, according to Williams.
Chelsea Thomas Dawson Community News
Edward Jones shows appreciation
Edward Jones, who recently branched out to Dawsonville, held a celebratory cookout on April 18 at its location at 278 Hwy. 400 North, Suite 1190, Dawsonville.
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