Edition Highlights: Medical Plaza 400 opens Lanier Tech chooses new president Breakfast benefits local veterans Children enjoy egg hunt City honors Lady Tigers
April 2013
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Post Office Box 299 292 Hwy. 400, North Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
Chamber unveils new logo By Michele Hester mhester@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce hopes that a new logo will change the way that people perceive its business side of the organization. “The chamber really turned a corner last year, not just in that we hired a new director, but also that we have a new staff that’s come on,” said Peter Hill, board chairman. “With the transition and renovation, it’s a perfect opportunity to rebrand and put a new face with the organi-
zation.” Hill and Chamber President Christie Haynes unveiled the logo, which features mountains and an element of water with the group’s name between them, during the chamber’s membership luncheon March 14. The mountains and lake mimic the longstanding notion of Dawson County being “where the mountains meet the lake.” Missing from the new logo, however, is the county’s signature Scotty dog, a design used for several years that was inspired by Dawson’s unique shape.
“We are looking to create a brand and logo that fits our businesses and community,” Haynes said. “We believe that unveiling our new logo is the first step in the process of creating the chamber’s new brand.” Identifying a separation between the chamber, which focuses on promoting local business, and the newly renamed office of tourism Michele Hester Dawson Community News development, which is Dawson County Chamber of Commerce President des igned to attract tourism Christie Haynes and Peter Hill, board chairman, to the area, was also a vital See LOGO | 3
unveiled the group’s new logo during its March business luncheon at the Lakeview Center.
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
peter hill
Celebrate the change of the season, business Early last week, we had one of those beautiful spring days that reminds us why we live in the south. It was clear, a little breezy and warm. Spring is here. The grass is turning green, the trees are budding and the roses have lots of new growth. It’s funny but I rarely hear people lamenting the changing of the sea-
sons. You don’t see people wearing heavy coats during the summer to protest the passing of winter. The new seasons are not only expected, but often anticipated and celebrated. Yet, when change rears its head in the business community, people often panic. You don’t have to go far to hear
things like “what does this mean” or “why are we changing” and “I don’t like it.” My computer finally bit the dust last week and it had to be replaced. My new computer came loaded with Windows 8. Our IT administrator and I were complaining about why it had to be different. There isn’t even a “start” but-
ton for Pete’s sake. How long is it going to take me to learn all this newfangled stuff? Looking back, I’m not sure that was the right attitude. When change comes to our organizations, I usually see three types of people. See CHANGE | 2
Hill
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Dawson County busier than ever As the weather finally seems to be warming up, the chamber continues to be busier than ever. I encourage you to visit our Web site and browse our calendar of events to find out more about events throughout the community that may pique your interest. At our last membership luncheon, we unveiled our new logo. Unveiling a new logo is the first step in our branding process. We are striving to better meet the needs of our members and community. Keep your eyes out for more unveilings in the near future including a brand new Web site. We are excited to be holding a membership drive which runs through April 19. We invite anyone to participate. Any business that joins the chamber during this time will receive their first month of membership free. There are also many incentives for anyone who refers a new member to the Chamber. We are looking to grow our organization and reach more members of our community. If you have never participated in the Leadership Dawson program,
now is your chance. We are currently accepting applications for the program that starts this fall. Leadership Dawson is an excellent opportunity to Haynes further strengthen your leadership skills, gain a deeper knowledge of this community and develop relationships with other leaders throughout the community. One upcoming event to which I’d like to draw your attention is the Downtown Dawsonville Town Hall Meeting, which will be held on from 6 to 8 p.m. April 30 at the Dawson County Middle School Cafeteria. This meeting is open to anyone in our community who is interested in learning what information the steering committee has collected from the community, hearing and seeing the vision for downtown, learning what steps are already being taken, and learning more about how they can get involved. I personally am particularly excited about watching our hometown
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going to work. Then you have the absolute change resisters. We all have them in our organizations. The reason we all have them is because they are good at what they do. They are deeply rooted in the sanctity and security of the routine. Often times they view their productivity as the single biggest measure of their contribution. It took a lot of time to get their “system” working like a well-oiled machine and changing it is simply out of the question. By the way entire management systems are built around this concept. It is something we have instilled in the American worker from a young age. I believe good leaders have a
‘Unveiling a new logo is the first step in our branding process. We are striving to better meet the needs of our members and community.’
Chamber of Commerce 2013 Board of Directors Brooke Anderson
Etowah Water and Sewer Authority
Pat Anderson
Anderson Family Mediciine
James Askew
United Community Bank-Dawsonville
Charlie Auvermann
Development Authority of Dawson County
Jennifer Baker
United Community Bank-Dawsonville
Mike Berg
Dawson County Board of Commissioners
driver, Chase Elliott, as he begins his truck racing career. We’re so proud of all he has accomplished so far and are looking forward to supporting his racing career for years to come. If you’re interested in keeping up with Chase’s race schedule, visit his Web site at www.chaseelliott. com. We look forward to seeing y’all soon! Christie Haynes President
Carla Boutin
State Farm Insurance
Kathy C. Fuller
KC Fuller & Associates
Chris Gaines
The Gaines Agency
James Grogan
City of Dawsonville
Christie Haynes
Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, tourism development
Peter J. Hill Jr.
Hill Design Associates Architects, Inc.
Change The early adopters are the first to jump in. It is as if they were tired of doing things the old fashioned way and were just waiting for the new protocols. They accept the new ideas or new technology with open arms. God bless those people. Then there is the cautious group, who isn’t necessarily opposed to the new model but would like some proof of its worthiness before they are willing to accept it. I find myself in this group. We are more than willing to go along, but we really don’t want you to waste our time with something that isn’t
mixture of these three personalities, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they weren’t much closer aligned with the early adopter than a change resister. In our capitalist system of free markets, if your organization isn’t innovating, rethinking and asking why not, then you are moving backwards. One of your competitors is certainly asking those questions. Change is all around us. The seasons change, our bodies change, our lives change and our business certainly changes. Let’s celebrate it. Besides, who needs a “start” button anyway? Peter Hill Chairman
Andrew Leavitt
University of North Georgia
Steve Melching
Ambassador representative
George Parson
Cartridge on Wheels of North Georgia
Keith Porter
Dawson County Board of Education
Denny Putlak
Denny Insurance Group
Carol Tyger Individual
Mike Underwood
First Citizens Bank of Georgia
Gloria Wyatt, Northside Hospital-Forsyth
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calendar of events April 10: The Norton Agency’s ribbon cutting and open house will be at 11 a.m. The new Dawsonville location is at 75 Elliott Road in the Chestatee Office Center.
Dawson County’s homeless dogs and cats in preparation for adoption to loving homes. For more information, call (706) 216-2763.
April 11: Lunch with the chamber will be held at noon at the Lakeview Center. Join us as we pay tribute to our teachers and administrative professionals. The monthly luncheons are great opportunities to network. Be sure to R.S.V.P. to the chamber at (706) 265-6278.
April 20: First Baptist Church of Dawsonville is having a free movie viewing at 6 p.m. The rate PG-13 film profiles true stories on the dangers of the Internet. Film and TV star Erik Estrada will be there and will be available for photos and autographs after movie. There will also be activities for younger children. For more information, visit www.firstbaptistdawsonville.com
April 12: The 18th Annual NOA Spring Gala is at 6 p.m. at the Cottrell Ranch in Dahlonega. This year’s gala is An Evening in Monte Carlo, “A Black & White Casino Night.” The event features dinner, dancing, silent and live auction, plus an exciting evening in the casino. For more information, call (706) 864-1306, Ext. 6. April 13: The Dawson County Chamber Ambassadors Relay for Life Team is having a photography fundraiser from 2 to 5 p.m. at War Hill Park. Don’t miss this opportunity to preserve your family’s memories for a great price and contribute to a great cause. $75 includes the sitting fee and a photo package consisting of an 8x10, a 5x7 and two 4x6s, with $15 going to Relay for Life. For more information, contact Michele Krumm at (770) 2959410 or michelekrumm1@allstate.com. April 13: R.E.A.D. presents Oldies, Goldies, Trivia, Dinner & Dancing to Al Dickson’s Music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Peach Brandy Cottage. Tickets are $35 per ticket and include trivia, prizes, silent auction and more. Proceeds benefit local literacy efforts. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (706) 579-1771 or E-mail readdawson@yahoo.com. April 15: The Dawson County Humane Society’s 11th annual Dogleg Charity Golf Tournament is at the Chestatee Golf Club. Registration, lunch and “putting for puppies” begin at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Dinner, awards and silent auction follow tournament. Proceeds benefit the animal shelter and basic needs of
April 20: Big Canoe Chapel presents China Grove, a Doobie Brothers tribute band at 7:30 p.m. at the Terraces at Big Canoe. The public is invited to all concerts. The Terraces is located on Steve Tate Road just beyond the main gate to Big Canoe. Tickets are $17 in advance, $22 at the door. A season ticket is $75 for all 6 concerts. For more information, visit bigcanoechapel.org and click on events, then Terraces. April 23: Business After Hours is from 5 to 7 p.m. at Medical Plaza 400, a service of Northeast Georgia Health System. Join us for a fun opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas. and develop new business relationships during our April Business After Hours. Also, be sure to bring plenty of business cards. Special thanks to our cash drawing sponsor Anderson Family Medicine, Dr. Larry Anderson and The Norton Agency, Kristie Myers. April 26: Relay for Life is from 5:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park. April 27: Wee Books’ annual barn dance is from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at Kinsey Family Farm. Tickets include barbecue dinner, dancing and family fun to support childhood literacy and the Wee Books’ program. For tickets or more information, call (706 216-0173. May 4-5: Spring Fling & Art in the Garden Festival will be held in downtown Dawsonville.
Upcoming dance aids WEE books By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Residents of Dawson County are being invited to a special dance in support of one charity’s goal to bringing books to children each month. Wee Books Inc. will be holding its Fifth Annual Barn Dance at 6:30 p.m. on April 20 at Kinsey Family Farm. The yearly fundraiser helps to provide age-appropriate books to about 700 preschoolers in the Dawson County area. “Our farm has donated the venue for this event for several years now,” said owner Andy Kinsey. “Having attended the barn dance throughout this time I can assure you it is much more than your average festivity.” Tickets are $30 for adults,
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Logo element in the process, according to Haynes. “We are really working toward formalizing tourism in Dawson County. Tourism has a lot greater impact than a lot of people realize,” she said, adding that tourism accounts for about $100,000 in local revenue daily and supports 410 jobs. “That’s a pretty big deal. You don’t see that very frequently in communities like ours.”
children ages 5 to 12 are $10 and children under five get in free. Price of admission includes barbecue dinner, two glasses of wine or beer for adults and square dancing with instruction. Competition barbecue chef Mark Lenyk will be on hand to prepare the food. “The food is excellent, the dancing is the real deal, and the Wee Books Program has been a fabulous advocate and promoter of literacy in our area,” Kinsey said. “And if nothing else you will find great pleasure in watching others flaunt their dancing skills.” For tickets, donations or information call Marge Carey at (706) 216-4872 or Alycia Volk at (706) 2162982.
At Haynes’ suggestion, the chamber board of directors voted last week to rename the convention and visitors bureau as the office of tourism development. The move, she said, more accurately identifies the department’s goal to draw tourism, rather than conventions, which the county cannot adequately accommodate due to limited lodging. The next step in the rebranding process is a new Web site for both the chamber and office of tourism, likely within the next few months.
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Medical Plaza 400 opens By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Health care offerings continue to improve in Dawson County with the opening of Northeast Georgia Health System’s Medical Plaza 400 earlier this month. “We are thrilled to be extending our services in this market and excited about the opening of our new Medical Plaza 400 and all of the services,” said Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System. The hospital system bought the property at 108 Prominence Drive last summer with plans to expand and renovate the former Moto400 building into a multipurpose facility. The official opening on April 2 was a smooth transition, according to Administrative Director Jo Brewer. “Our first day is going great. We’ve had a lot of traffic in and out of the building and the parking lot has been full, so people have found us easily,” she said. “Our focus right now is on offering a great patient experience. All of our departments are working in concert to deliver a unique patient experience.” The plaza was unveiled the evening of March 28 to an invitation-only crowd of several hundred supporters, staff and community
members. “I want to thank the Dawsonville community for supporting us for so many years, and especially those of you coming out tonight to help us initiate and open this facility here,” Burrell said. With more than 25,000 square feet, services at Medical Plaza 400 include urgent care, imaging, outpatient labs, sports medicine and numerous specialty physicians. Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, which has had a local presence for many years, is also relocating from its Hwy. 53 location to the new two-story medical campus. Paul Behrmann, a physician who has been practicing family medicine in Dawson County since 1978, said he sees moving to the new facility as “a milestone for our practice, a benefit to our patients and, really, quite a big step for this community.” “In this single building, our patients will have access to imaging services that are state-of-theart, with the ability to make same-day appointments, as well as a wide range of physician specialists for easy referrals,” he said The Development Authority of Dawson County began working on an initiative several years ago to attract new medical services to the
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Dr. Paul Behrmann cuts a celebratory ribbon March 28 to commemorate the grand opening of Medical Plaza 400, Northeast Georgia Health System’s expansion into Dawson County.
community. “This is a clear example that Dawson County and in particular the Ga. 400 and Hwy. 53 intersection is becoming a medical destination,” said Charlie Auvermann, the authority’s executive director. Northeast Georgia Health System is the third major medical group to open facilities in Dawson County in recent months. Both Northside and Piedmont hospitals have local annexes that offer a variety of medical services. “Physician groups and medical companies are looking at Dawson
County as a potential location for their practices and businesses,” Auvermann said. Christie Haynes, president of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, said she is encouraged by the economic development potential health care facilities such as Medical Plaza 400 carry. “For them to take an existing vacant building right along Ga. 400 and renovate it into a world-class medical facility ... anyone who toured the new facility can see Northeast Georgia Health System’s
commitment to our community,” she said. Brewer said Northeast Georgia Health System is vested in Dawson and will grow with the community. “To the people of this warm and welcoming community, I applaud
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
‘In this single building, our patients will have access to imaging services that are state-of-theart, with the ability to make sameday appointments, as well as a wide range of physician specialists for easy referrals.’ Paul Behrmann Physician
you and your vibrant community,” she said. “Northeast Georgia Health Systems stands ready to grow with you, to provide you with exceptional care, award winning health care to you and to your loved ones and our many visitors and guests.”
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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annual festival
‘Moonshiners’ stars to serve as grand marshal By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
The lore of Dawsonville’s unique moonshining history will have the community seeing stars come October when moonshiners from Discovery Channel’s hit cable series of the same name will be in town to serve as grand marshals for the 46th annual Mountain Moonshine Festival. Named in honor of Dawsonville’s high octane history of white lightning and fast cars, the festival is a kickback to the bygone era when locals made the illicit spirits to support their families and were often chased by revenuers charged with shutting down the illegal trade. K.A.R.E. For Kids President Calvin Byrd said having several stars from the popular docudrama, which is filmed in the woods of Appalachia and dramatizes the life of several moonshiners as they produce
illegal liquor and avoid the revenuers hoping to shut down their stills, is expected to bring a bigger crowd to the festival this fall. Jeff Waldroup and his sidekick Mark, who requests that his last name not be revealed due to the nature of his illegal liquor business, were in town in mid-March to sign the appearance contract and promote the festival that will be held Oct. 26-27. “We’re excited to be coming to Dawsonville for the Moonshine Festival,” Waldroup said. In recent years, organizers have added to the festival’s attractiveness by expanding activities designed to give attendees enough to do to stay for the weekend. “We don’t want this just to be a couple hours event. We want to create a whole day or a whole weekend event,” Byrd said. He said having the moon-
File photo
Jeff Waldroup and his sidekick Mark, who requests that his last name not be revealed due to the nature of his illegal liquor business, were in town in mid-March to sign the appearance contract and promote the Mountain Moonshine Festival that will be held Oct. 26-27. The reality TV stars are this year’s festival grand marshals.
shiners in town is the perfect opportunity to “go all out this year.” Plans were recently put in place to bring nationally acclaimed and Grammy nomi-
nated Confederate Railroad to perform as the festival’s headlining musical entertainment. The band, famous for songs like “Trashy Women,” “When You Leave That Way You Can
Never Go Back” and “She Never Cried,” is set to take the stage the night of Oct. 26 for a concert under the stars. “We’ve been wanting to have a big name band for several years now, and having the moonshiners here too is even better,” Byrd said. Local entertainers will also perform throughout the weekend. Also new this year will be the inaugural Moonshine Hall of Fame induction banquet to be held Friday evening before the festival begins on Saturday. “It’ll be the only Moonshine Hall of Fame in the United States, as far as I can tell,” Byrd said. “Knowing the history of Dawsonville moonshining and its roots in NASCAR with locals hauling moonshine from north Georgia to Atlanta on Hwy. 9, Dawsonville should be the first city to have a nationally recognized moonshine hall of fame.”
Meeting to highlight downtown revitalization By Michele Hester mhester@dawsonnews.com
A meeting later this month will highlight progress of a revitalization plan for downtown Dawsonville. The town hall-style gathering will begin at 6 p.m. April 30 at the Dawson County Middle School cafeteria. “We’re hoping to have a great turnout,” said Christie Haynes, president of the Dawson County Chamber of
Commerce and a member of the steering committee charged with mapping out the renovation plan. “We invite anyone interested in seeing the information from the survey and to see what work has been done already. We want to show our vision for the future and to get input from the community.” The steering committee started working to develop a plan to improve the down-
town area last year. Since that time, the group has collected surveys with the community’s views on the revitalization. “Our downtown area is the heart of our county. It’s the pulse of the economy when you get right down to it. Everything started downtown and from there it all moved outward,” said Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan. Made up of downtown stakeholders from the busi-
ness community, the steering committee is also looking for additional community members to get behind the effort. “Anyone from the community is invited, not just residents of the city,” Haynes said. Dawsonville residents are also getting involved by sharing ways to help improve downtown and lure additional tourism. “Dawsonville’s only known for two things — moonshine and racing. It seems like it’s
accepted now more than in the past,” said Gordon Pirkle, president of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. He has suggested renaming some of the numbered streets in Dawsonville to reflect the city’s unique heritage and honor racing greats such as Raymond Parks, Bernard Long, Ted Chester, Gober Sosebee, Bill Elliott, Harry Melling, Roy Hall and Lloyd Seay.
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Officers compete to raise funds Proceeds from charity game aid Relay for Life By Michele Hester mhester@dawsonnews.com
A longstanding county rivalry deepened last month when the Lumpkin County Sheriff’s Office topped the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office in a charity basketball game. After the 51-37 win in Dahlonega on March 23, Lumpkin County Sheriff Stacy Jarrard said he was proud to take home the coveted pigshaped trophy. “I’m glad we were able to regain the title from Dawson County, because I think the
last matchup, they were the winner,” he said. “We’re honored to be able to take the trophy home tonight.” Dawson County Sheriff Billy Carlisle told Jarrard not to get too comfortable having the 2-foot-tall statue in his office. “They’ve won the battle, but they’ve not won the war. The trophy’s coming back next year,” Carlisle said. “We’ll have a rematch in Dawson County next year. We’ll come back and we’ll win.” The game at Lumpkin County High School raised more than $800, which was divided equally to benefit each department’s Relay for Life team. Kaselyn Martin, 10, won $100 in the 50/50 raffle and opted to give her win-
nings back to the cause. Her mother, Shelly Townley Martin, said she couldn’t be more proud of her daughter. “She just thought about it and decided to donate the money back.” The American Cancer Society’s signature fundraiser, Relay for Life will be held locally April 26 at Veterans Memorial Park in Dawson County. “Everybody has been touched by cancer at some point,” Carlisle said. “We’ve got employees that have had family members pass away from cancer. We’ve got employees who actually had cancer and are recovering. “So things like this go a long way toward research and maybe we’ll be able to find a cure for it.”
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Lumpkin County Sheriff Stacy Jarrard boasts the coveted pigshape trophy his team won in a charity match up against Dawson County Sheriff Billy Carlisle’s department. Funds were split between the two departments’ Relay for Life teams.
Rotarians speak about careers with students Attorney Amanda Yenerall of Stewart, Melvin and Frost, LLP, Maj. Tony Wooten of the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, former Dawson County Fire Marshal Ken Grosch and Delta Pilot Randy Wells speak to Dale Auten’s Foundation Engineering and Technology Class on Feb. 7 at Dawson County High School during the Rotary Club of Dawson County’s Career Fair.
Bulletin board
David Renner Dawson Community News
• Business After Hours is from 5 to 7 p.m. April 23 at Medical Plaza 400 • Wee Books’ annual barn dance is from 6:30 to 9 p.m. April 20 at Kinsey Family Farm. • 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. Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.
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dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 7
THE TEEN BRAIN
EXPLAINED Knowledge is Power Teen brains are wired differently. So what can you do to CONNECT with your kids? Join expert speaker Mike Nerney for a thought-provoking and entertaining evening as he explains what’s really going on inside your teen’s head.
[Hint: It’s a lot more than you think.]
April 23, 7:00 p.m. at Dawson High School Details at capa-ga.org or 706-265-1981
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Local food mart joins Chamber By David Renner drenner@dawsonnews.com
A new owner has taken over the Chevron Food Mart on Highway 400 and he says that it’s his goal to give Dawson County a great shopping experience. “When I took this place over about a year ago, I promised every person that came in that I wouldn’t let them down,” said owner Aseem Khan. “I promised I would run this place 100 percent the way a business should be run. I intend to do just that.” Khan said that the only thing he is looking for is to “run a good, clean business” and to keep prices competitive. He also said that if customers come in looking for something special, he tries to accommodate for that, as well. “I’ve got a book in the back just to bring in stuff that people want here,” said Khan. “If a customer comes in and asks for some-
thing that we may not carry, we put it in the book to order.” Chamber members and officials welcomed Khan to the community during a ribbon cutting celebration March 29. “We’re just so happy to have them here as part of our business community on the 400 Corridor as it expands,” said Chamber President Christie Haynes. Khan echoed Haynes’ sentiments. “We’re very happy to be part of the chamber of commerce here in Dawsonville,” he said. “I had been to Athens, Atlanta and Dawsonville. I saw this store and saw that it had good people going in and out of it. It was also at a great location. All of this just pulled me to the store.” The Chevron Food Mart is located near the intersection of Ga. 400 and Hwy. 53, next to McDonald’s.
David Renner Dawson Community News
Chevron Food Mart owner Aseem Khan and his employees celebrate the store’s ribbon-cutting during the March 29 grand opening.
(706) 974-9161
w w w. b a l l e t e t c . o r g Now Offering Guitar, Piano, and Banjo Lessons!
Gift Certificates Available 258 Beartooth Pkwy, Suite 170 Dawsonville, GA, 30534
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EXTEND YOUR ADVERTISING MARKET in our monthly D A W S O N
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Chamber Chronicle is the monthly newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. The editorial content includes Chamber News and goals of interest to the business and residential community. The Chamber will keep the community informed about ribbon cuttings, business expansions, chamber functions QUICK TAKES and events, community events and the benefits of Chamber membership through Chamber REASONABLE RATES Chronicle. Advertising offered only to
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Frequency...Monthly 2nd Wednesday of Every Month Deadline: Monday One Week Prior to Publication
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Perren named president
lanier tech Retiring Lanier Technical College President Russell Vandiver looks over a cake with Brenda Mathis during a retirement party for Vandiver in March.
By Savannah King DCN regional staff
Tom Reed DNC Regional Staff
Vandiver exits after 37 years BY Jeff Gill
DCN Regional Staff
OAKWOOD — Telling stories and giving gifts, friends, colleagues and former bosses of Lanier Technical College President Russell Vandiver paid homage March 22 to the longtime campus leader and economic development guru. Kenneth Breeden, who led the school from 1975 to 1984, said that when he heard that Vandiver had been named president in September 2010, he thought “lucky Lanier Tech.” “He knows his business and he knows your customers, which is the business community,” said Breeden, who went on to become the first commissioner of the state Department of Technical and Adult Education, which is now the Technical College System of Georgia. During a reception for Vandiver in the school’s student center, Breeden presented Vandiver with a miniature glass sailboat and unveiled a portrait of the white-bearded leader. “You’re a great friend and it’s an honor to be ... able to say some words at your retirement,” Breeden said. “And thank goodness for the people of Hall County that you stopped by Lanier Tech for 15 to 20 years, or 30 to 40.” Vandiver, 60, spent 37-plus years
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at Lanier Tech, mostly serving as vice president of economic development. Over the years, he watched as it grew from a small trade school to a technical college with satellite campuses. After announcing his retirement in the fall, Vandiver said that among his proudest accomplishments were opening the Dawson County campus and a conference center and new classrooms at the Forsyth County campus. Former presidents Michael Moye and Joe Hill, also attended Thursday’s reception, which was mostly lighthearted, with punch, cake and laughter among the 50 or so guests. But it also hit a serious note, as Vandiver talked at one point about state legislation that would allow Georgians to carry concealed weapons on college campuses. Such a prospect “is very frightening to me,” he said. “I cannot imagine a scenario where you could allow students to freely walk the halls of Lanier Tech with a gun,” Vandiver said. He wrapped the reception up with a more upbeat message, saying, “We’re going to have one of the premier schools in the future, going forward.” “Things are in good shape. We’ve got a bright future in front of us,” Vandiver said.
Ray Perren was chosen as new president of Lanier Technical College in a unanimous vote by the Technical College System of Georgia at its meeting April 4 in Atlanta. Perren will succeed Russell Vandiver, who retired at the end of March after 37 years at Lanier Tech, including the last three as president. The appointment is effective May 1. Perren was previously president at Wiregrass Georgia Technical College in Valdosta. He has served as president of the college since 2009 when it was known as Valdosta Technical College. Technical College System Commissioner Ron Jackson said Perren has been an accomplished college president focused on enhancing the accomplishments of both his college and its students. “I’m very confident that he’ll provide the faculty and staff of Lanier Technical College with strong support and effective leadership as they continue to grow their great work of changing lives, building careers and contributing to the region’s economic development,” Jackson said. Perren said he’s “thrilled and can’t wait to get started.” “Lanier Tech is a great college, in fact it’s one of the models across the state in terms of doing workforce development in contract training and continuing education,” Perren said. “So I hope to be able to continue to build on the strong legacy of workforce development that already exists. I’m excited about expanding the credit programs and increasing enrollment through the several campuses that Lanier Tech has.” During his time at Wiregrass, Perren worked with faculty and staff to lay the groundwork for several new programs, including a degree in nursing and engineering technology. Perren admits he has mixed feelings about leaving Wiregrass. “I’ve spent six of the past seven years serving the two colleges that are now Wiregrass Georgia Technical College,” Perren said. “I’m most appreciative of the entire Wiregrass team and the many accomplishments that we’ve achieved together. Those great people are the heart and soul of what we do. And it’s because
of them that the college will continue to prosper and serve its students well for many years to come.” Perren was the TCSG assistant commissioner for technical education from 2008 to 2009. Prior to Perren working with the system, he was dean of academic affairs of DeVry University and superintendent of the Paulding County School System. Perren has worked in education for the last 33 years. After graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in education in 1979, he worked as a teacher in Paulding County. He rose through several positions in Paulding schools, becoming an elementary and middle school principal, curriculum director and assistant superintendent. Perren said he was drawn to the position at Lanier Tech because of the school’s reputation and his desire to expand on it. “Needless to say, I’m a huge believer in technical education,” Perren said. “I’m a huge believer in workforce development. I believe that what we do changes lives and it makes communities better. I just look forward to working with the faculty and staff and the directors and trustees at Lanier Tech to continue doing that work.” Perren, a North Georgia native, and his wife will relocate to the area. Perren said the move will be, in many respects, an opportunity to move back home. He and his wife have six grown children. The other finalists for the job were Joanne Tolleson, vice president of institutional effectiveness and operations at Lanier Tech, and Jamie Loyd, vice president of economic development at Columbus Technical College in Columbus. The search committee interviewed six candidates to replace Vandiver. Three were recommended as finalists to Jackson, who interviewed the finalists in March and made his recommendation to the board Thursday. Lanier Tech’s main campus is in Oakwood, with satellite campuses in Cumming, Dawsonville, Winder and Commerce.
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APRIL 2013
R.E.A.D. dancing for donations By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
R.E.A.D. will be having its Oldies but Goodies trivia and dancing night this weekend and everyone is invited to join in for food, fun and musical facts. “It is a really fun evening,” said R.E.A.D. Executive Director Sandy Lipkowitz. “All of the trivia will about the oldies goldies music.” The event will be from 6 to 10 p.m. on April 13 at Peach Brandy Cottage in Dawsonville. Tickets are $35 per
person and all proceeds will benefit R.E.A.D.’s literacy initiatives. There will be trivia — with prizes being awarded, a cash bar, dinner, a silent auction and dancing. Music for dancing will be from the ’50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. “Al Dickson is our DJ and he also lives in Big Canoe,” said Lipkowitz. “He is terrific.” For tickets, call (706) 579-1771 or e-mail readdawson@yahoo.com.
Thank You Chamber Building Fund Sponsors
member renewals Special thanks to the following members for renewing in March • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Atlanta Gas Light Company Big Canoe Chapel Terraces Amphitheater Superior Arbor Management Inc. Wildwood Christian Academy North Georgia Sales Center Inc. Hillcrest Orchards Mill Creek Environmental Services Inc. Shaw Automotive and Core Supply North Georgia Wealth Management Group Bounce Athletic Club Bodyplex- Dawsonville Crystal Falls Lake & Golf Club Living Rotary Club of Dawson County Premier Landcare LLC The Committee to Re-Elect Clint Smith Northeast Georgia Health Systems Georgia Power Company
new members • • • • • •
PC Doctors of Georgia, LLC Greg Scott Construction Inc. Modern Woodmen of America IHOP Brooks Brothers Badcock Home Furnishings and More
• • • • •
North Georgia Staffing Chevron Food Mart Stephens Insurance Agency Chip Pearson United Way for Dawson County
monthly totals Walk-in visitors: 53
Referrals: 76 Newcomer packages: 21
Property Investment Associates
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APRIL 2013
ambassador of the month
Pancake breakfast supports veterans
Hosea an active volunteer at the hall of fame facility The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce wants to congratulate Tommy Hosea who was named Ambassador of the Month at the group’s March 20 breakfast meeting held at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Hosea was chosen for his involvement in the ambassador program. He is also an active volunteer at the racing hall of fame and arranged for the ambassadors to tour Bill Elliott’s racing shop during the group’s monthly
breakfast meeting. The ambassadors are an informed, select group of motivated, enthusiastic and articulate businessmen and women Hosea who serve as liaisons to the chamber’s membership and represent the chamber at many civic and social events.
Photos by Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Vietnam veterans Wayne Watkins, left, and Tommy Matera prepare food March 23 during the Veterans Affairs of Daw son County’s annual pancake breakfast. The event raised nearly $800 that will support the county’s Memorial Day cer emony, MIA/POW remembrance and Veterans Day celebrations. Left, Dawson County Emergency Services personnel were among nearly 100 supporters.
spotlight
Group tours Bill Elliott’s shop The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors were treated to a lesson in Dawsonville’s unique racing history when the group toured legendary driver and NASCAR Champion Bill Elliott’s shop last month. Several of the 1988 Winston Cup Champion’s cars were on display as well as a number of cars driven by his son Chase Elliott, who at 17 is also expected to make Dawsonville history as a stock car driver. Chase Elliott was scheduled to make his first start in NASCAR’s Camping World Truck Series on Sunday. Results of the teen’s NASCAR debut were not available as of press time, though local racing historian
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors take a tour of legendary driver and 1988 Winston Cup Champion Bill Eilliott’s shop.
Gordon Pirkle predicts he’ll be one to watch this season. “There’s no doubt he’s going to be one of the finest drivers [to] come along,” said Pirkle, who gives tours of the Elliott shop on a regular basis to guests visiting the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. The chamber would like to thank Bill, Cindy
and Chase Elliott for their hospitality and contributions to Dawsonville and Dawson County’s place in racing history. The ambassadors would also like to the thank Pirkle and the staff at the Dawsonville Pool Room for providing breakfast for the group before the racing shop tour. — Michele Hester
Doughnut sales will benefit Relay for Life From staff reports
The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors are taking pre-orders for fresh Krispy Kreme doughnuts that will be delivered the morning of April 19. The cost is $7 for a dozen glazed doughnuts. Proceeds benefit the Ambassadors Relay for Life team. The doughnuts will arrive at the chamber office by 8 a.m. Ambassadors will then deliver the doughnuts to your business or they will be available for pick up. The ambassador team is also hav-
ing a photography fundraiser from 2 to 5 p.m. at War Hill Park. Don’t miss this opportunity to preserve your family’s memories for a great price and contribute to a great cause. The $75 sitting fee includes a photo package consisting of an 8x10, 5x7 and 2-4x6’s with $15 going to Relay for Life. To place a doughnut order, call Kara Hewatt at the chamber office at (706) 265-6278. For photography appointments, call Michele Krumm at (770) 295-9410 or michelekrumm1@allstate.com.
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APRIL 2013
City leaders declare Lady Tigers Day By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
The Dawson County Lady Tigers got its own day set aside by the city of Dawsonville in honor of the team’s accomplishments in the 2012-13 season. During a luncheon in their honor at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan proclaimed March 17, 2013, to be “Lady Tiger Day.” “Dawson County is blessed to have some of the finest coaches in the state of Georgia,” Grogan said. “Not only do they coach sports, they coach life skills. And that’s what’s really important.” Grogan and the city council decided to set apart the day in honor of how the team drew together the community. While the Lady Tigers came in second place, they were still winners in the eyes of Dawson resi-
dents. “The people in this community have walked up to me and told me ‘Thank y’all for giving the community something to be proud of.’ It wasn’t about winning or losing,” said Lady Tiger head coach Steve Sweat. “I’ve had the joy and the pleasure that we got do this. It has been an honor to have the people in Dawson County behind this team.” Grogan said it was the hard work and determination that got the girls to the finals. “There were no egos on that team. They worked hard, they practiced hard together and they set a goal and met - and exceeded that goal,” he said. “These folks are a testament to our community and we’re lucky to have them as a part of it.” The girls exemplify Grogan’s assessment of the team’s attitude. “I just love all the girls on
Members of the community line up for food.
Photos by David Renner Dawson Community News
The 2012-13Girls Varsity Basketball team, along with Coach Steve Sweat and Mayor James Grogan, stand with personal copies of the city’s proclamation of Lady Tigers Day.
the team,” said senior Whitney Glover. “I never expected to make it as far as we did. It was a great way to end my senior year.” In senior Carly Gilreath’s eyes, it wasn’t an individual that got the Lady Tigers to the finals. It was the team as a whole. “The team as a whole brought us as far as we got,” Gilreath said. “I’m so proud of everyone and I’m thankful for every one of my teammates.” Senior Allie Costley agreed. “I’m really proud of our team and all that we accomplished,” Costley said. Sweat said that, looking back, he was still in awe of how the community came together for the players. “It’s an honor to be in this community. I saw a sea of
Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan presents Lady Tigers head coach Steve Sweat with the city’s official proclamation.
maroon at the [Savannah and Macon] games and I had to turn around,” he said.”I was going to get
emotional and we were about to play a game. I decided then wasn’t the time for that.”
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APRIL 2013
Annual egg hunt fun for all By David Renner
By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Veterans Memorial Park was a wash of neon colors as the football field was littered with plastic eggs and prizes the Saturday before Easter. Sponsored by Dawson County Parks and Recreation, K.A.R.E. for Kids and the church @ War Hill, the 27th annual Easter egg hunt at the park drew a large crowd to hunt eggs, take train rides and get their faces painted. There also was a burger-eating contest. “I think we had about 1,200 [participants in the egg hunt] this year,” said Mike Meade, K.A.R.E. for Kids board member. The annual event always draws a crowd, according to Meade. “We do this as a service for the community,” he said. “We help provide things throughout the year for kids, like Christmas, schools supplies, we help out with prom, things like that.” New this year, the church @ War Hill joined with K.A.R.E. for Kids to provide donations and volunteers, according to Meade. Susy Holloway came Saturday to help out and watch her kids gather eggs. “This is my first year coming to this,” she said. “I came because my church ... is working the egg hunt. I’ve got twins that are 6, a 10-year-old and 12-year-old. I’m looking forward to seeing how much they can get and just watching the kids have fun.” The parents weren’t the only ones looking forward to the hunt. One little girl was pressed against the gate five minutes before the hunt started. “I’m going to get a prize first and then some eggs and candy,” said Shay Lingerfelt, 6.
Best Western welcomes chamber members
Photos by David Renner Dawson Community News
Children rush onto the field to gather eggs during the annual Easter egg hunt at Veterans Memorial Park.
A few minutes before the hunt was scheduled to begin, the gates opened and the children were led onto the field by their parents. Organizers then lined them up in front of plastic ribbon barriers based on age. At 2:30 p.m., the signal was given and waves of children tore through the ribbons in a mad dash for eggs. In a matter of minutes, they had cleaned the field of egg, each scurrying back to their parents to show their loot. “Yeah! I’m excited!” Andy Abernathy, 5, told his father. “I got a lot. You can have the eggs, Daddy.”
Best Western in Dawsonville was open for tours March 26 when hotel staff welcomed the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce membership to Business After Hours. Located adjacent to North Georgia Premium Outlets, Best Western is a popular destination for out of town shoppers. Manager Jean Fabian said she hopes the inn will also become a stop for local residents. “We have a fabulous breakfast that we serve every day,” she said. “We’d love to have you all come here for our breakfast.” Fabian also offered
chamber members a 15 percent discount on their stay. The chamber’s next Business After gathering will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. April 23 at Medical Plaza 400. Business After Hours is an opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas and develop a network of contacts in the business community. The chamber would like that thank sponsors Anderson Family Medicine, Dr. Larry Anderson and The Norton Agency, Kristie Myers for their monthly contributions to the cash drawing. Remember you must be present to claim the cash prize.
Local businesses partner for Relay for Life event From staff reports
Destiny Nichols, 5, gets a butterfly painted on her face. Left, Andy Abernathy, 5, shows off his haul from the egg hunt.
State Farm Insurance and Lanier Technical College are partnering with the Pool Room to raise money for Relay for Life. According to Roger Slaton, owner of the local State Farm branch and former chair of the Relay for Life board for Dawson County, the Pool Room will be offering their “famous” hotdogs, hamburgers, French fries and sweet tea. Food and fun will be served from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on April 12 at the old Lanier Tech building at the corner of Allen
Street and Perimeter Road. Donations will be accepted. All proceeds will go to Relay for Life, an event sponsored by the American Cancer Society designed to celebrate survivors of cancer, remember those lost in the fight against cancer and fight back by taking tangible action against the diseases. Dawson County’s Relay for Life will be held from 5:30 to 11:30 p.m. on April 26 at Veterans Memorial Park. For more information, call State Farm at (706) 216-8700.
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APRIL 2013
Art in the Garden around the corner
United Way board member John Sheffield presents Ed Loy, manager of Dawsonville Kroger, with an award that named the store’s employees top contributors to United Way’s 2013 fundraising campaign.
By David Renner drenner@dawsonnews.com
File photo
Kroger awarded top United Way contributor By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Kroger employees believe in giving back. For the last seven years, Dawsonville Kroger has led the way with United Way for Dawson County contributions, this year collecting nearly $20,000 for the local campaign. “This year Dawsonville Kroger had the highest campaign in their entire division. That’s incredible. We are so lucky to have Ed Loy and his staff here to accept their plaque,” said Mandy Power, United Way board member. Kroger was named the campaign’s top contributor March 13 during United Way’s annual appreciation luncheon that recognizes top donors and celebrates the local organization’s successful 2013 fundraising effort. Northside Hospital-Forsyth was the second place finisher, collecting about $7,400, and Dawson County schools pulled in a close third with more than $7,000 in employee contributions. First Citizens Bank of Georgia was recognized as the top contributing bank and received the Community Chest Award. While the overall campaign goal fell a few thousand dollars short, United Way collected more than $94,000 that will be distributed to partner agencies serving Dawson County. United Way for Dawson County,
Top campaign donors • The Kroger Co. • Northside Hospital-Forsyth • Dawson County Schools • PCL Industrial Construction Co. • Publix Super Markets • Nordson Corporation • Walmart • First Citizens Bank of Georgia, also received the Community Chest award • Dawson County Government • Cummings and Kelley PC
whose mission is to improve lives ... by mobilizing the caring power and spirit of residents, provides monetary support to 14 area service agencies, such as the American Red Cross, Challenged Child & Friends, Children’s Center for Hope and Healing, 4-H, Family Connection and Reading Education of Dawson County, among others. Partner agencies say the support is much needed and appreciated. “Four years ago we took over a program that had a lot of children that were expecting books. Now thanks to the work of these people and contributions from people like United Way…we have about twice the number of children,” said Lionel Graves, a volunteer with partner agency WEE Books. “Also the schools have told us the children that come in from this are more advanced than the children who have not. We appreciate what you do for us.”
The Dawson County Art Council’s 12th annual Art in the Garden event is right around the corner and, according to Bowen Center for the Arts Executive Director Marcia Chelf, it’s going to be a lot of fun for everyone. “Art in the Garden is great fun every year,” she said. “We want to invite everyone to come out for food, fun, music and arts and crafts.” The two day event will be from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on May 4 and 5 at the Bowen Center for the Arts in Dawsonville. A wide variety of music is planned to appeal to all interests. To kick off the event, the Dawson Chorale will be performing on May 3. Lanier Jazz will be playing under the music tent on May 4. The Sawnee Band, a 60 member band, will be playing on May 5. Other groups ranging from bluegrass to rock have also been booked. Presentations are also scheduled
throughout the weekend on topics like pollination gardens, native plants and general tips. Blacksmiths and woodworkers will also show off their craft. Children will also be able to pot a plant for Mother’s Day free of charge. The University of Georgia will also have a booth on site this year, giving illustrations on what the downtown area might look like after a planned revitalization project is completed. Finally, the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a movie night May 4. They will be presenting “Trouble with the Curve,” starring Clint Eastwood, Amy Adams and Justin Timberlake. According to Chamber President Christie Haynes, the movie “was filmed in Dawson County and we just want to showcase the movie filmed in our backyard.” For more information on the event, call (706) 216-2787 or visit www. dawsonarts.org.
City honored for literacy support R.E.A.D. Executive Director Sandy Lipkowitz presents Mayor James Grogan and the Dawsonville City Council with a certificate during the April 1 meeting. The city, on behalf of R.E.A.D. and the David Renner Dawson Community News state of Georgia, was nominated for the Literacy Honor Roll based on the city’s support to improve literacy in the county.
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We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care. Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people chooseNorthside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care. Visit us online at www.northside.com
APRIL 2013