Edition Highlights: Library puts teens in Christmas spirit Hall of fame pays tribute to founder Shop with a Cop event successful Contract inked on hotel/motel revenue
January 2014
The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce
Post Office Box 299 44 Commerce Drive Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-6278
Parade brings Christmas cheer By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Makayla Couch shivered from the chilly weather as she waited for Dawsonville’s inaugural Dec. 7 Christmas parade to begin. “Parade, parade, I want to see a parade,” the 2-year-old said as she clapped her hands and looked for the first floats to wind around the town square where she waited anxiously with her family. Within minutes, a police siren rang out through the downtown streets and children darted for
The Norton Agency’s Home for the Holidays with Santa float won for Most Creative in the Dec. 7 Christmas parade.
candy tossed out to them. “Oh wow, the candy, we got so much candy, pockets full that we gave to the smaller kids,” said 11-year-old Emily Coley. “The parade was so much fun. They’ve got to keep doing this every year.” Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan also wants to see the parade become a local, holiday tradition. “The parade was an absolute blast,” he said. “Everyone was enthusiastic about it. I can’t thank the people that participated enough. Thank
Michele Hester Dawson Community News
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MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Happy New Year! Where did 2013 go? It seems I blinked and it was gone. Now I am excited to see what 2014 has in store for each of us and our Dawson County Chamber of Commerce. I look forward to serving as your 2014 Chamber of Commerce chair along with a dedicated board and staff who are devoted to our members, our businesses
and our community. As we move forward, our goal as an organization is to offer resources, opportunities, support and information to our membership. We are committed to the growth and financial success of our members. I have been asked the question on several occasions: “How can a
chamber membership help me or my business?” My answer to that is that membership will offer you opportunities to meet business prospects and ways to grow your business. As an individual, it will offer you the chance to become more active in your community. “How?” they may ask.
By attending the monthly membership luncheons, attending and hosting Business After Hours, as well as, numerous additional chamber events that offer opportunities to network, learn and grow. The chamber also hosts workshops offering information that will See NEW | 2
Wyatt
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Renewed commitment in new year The beginning of the year is a great time to refresh our thoughts and make new commitments. As we look back on 2013, we at the chamber would like to thank this community for their support of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Office of Tourism Development. We had a successful year, which is a direct result of the hard work of our members, volunteers, board of directors and staff. As we enter the Haynes new year, we are energized by our plans and commitments to our members.We continue to remain committed to our mission of “cultivating a successful economic environment and desirable quality of life for our businesses and community.” We are committed to providing educational opportunities to our members and partnering with community organizations to ensure a viable workforce in Dawson County and enhance the existing business community. We are committed to providing networking opportunities to strengthen the knowledge of available products and services as well as the relationships between business leaders. We are committed to being the voice of business and advocating on their behalf on local, state and federal issues that impact our businesses and community. We are committed to putting our members first and continually look
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
Carla Boutin
State Farm Insurance
Kathy C. Fuller
KC Fuller & Associates
Chris Gaines
Taylor, Turner & Hartsfield
James Grogan
City of Dawsonville For the Dawson Community News
for ways to promote them. We are committed to being a resource for visitors, residents and businesses. We are committed to promoting Dawson County as a top tourism destination. We are looking forward to serving our businesses and community through fulfilling these commitments in 2014. We encourage our members to join us in striving to accomplish our plans. We ask that our members consider serving on one of our committees, attending monthly events, becoming a sponsor and inviting
other business leaders to join them. Our doors are always open and we encourage our members to share their thoughts and ideas with us. We hope you will consider joining us for our 23rd Annual Gala on Jan. 10 at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. We will be celebrating our members and reflecting on all the successes of 2013 for which we are truly grateful. Christie Haynes President
Christie Haynes
Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, tourism development
Peter Hill
Hill Design Associates Architects, Inc.
Andrew Leavitt
University of North Georgia
Steve Melching
Big Canoe Homeowners Association
George Parson
Cartridge on Wheels of North Georgia
Keith Porter
Dawson County Board of Education
Denny Putlak
Denny Insurance Group
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New help you to effectively grow your business or for individuals, to learn new skills, such as how to develop
your social media network. We would love to hear your suggestions for workshops that would be of interest to you in the future. To find out more information about Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, check the website at www.dawson.org.
Again, I look forward to 2014 as the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Board and staff strive to make Dawsonville and Dawson County the “place to be” for business and recreation. Gloria Wyatt Chairwoman
Carol Tyger Individual
Mike Underwood
First Citizens Bank of Georgia
Gloria Wyatt, Northside Hospital-Forsyth Scott Yochum, Yochum Financial Group
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calendar of events Jan. 9 – Lunch with the chamber at Peach Brandy Cottage, noon. This is a great opportunity to network and hear from speakers on issues that impact your business and our community. This month’s speaker will be Carroll Turner with Lanier Technical College. Members that register online no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 7 will pay an early bird price of $12.50. The price after the cutoff date will be $15. Visitors are invited to attend and pay a visitor fee of $15. Visit www.dawson.org or call (706) 265-6278 to make your reservations. Jan. 10 – Chamber’s Annual Gala at the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame. Invitations have been sent. Call the chamber today to reserve your seats. A Perfect Gathering Catering by Cathie Waddell will be catering the dinner and Mike Ehrlich will provide the music for the evening. Cocktail hour begins at 6 p.m. and dinner begins at 7 p.m. Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Northside Hospital-Forsyth. There are still event sponsorship opportunities available. Call the chamber for more information on becoming a sponsor and to reserve your tickets. Jan. 11 – Banks and Shane at the Holly Theater, 8 p.m. For 40 years, Banks Burgess, Paul Shane and their band have brought folks in Atlanta the best entertainment the town has ever seen. Their high-spirited renditions of old-time rock n’ roll, folk, bluegrass and country are known for bringing capacity crowds to their feet. Their show is not just musical entertainment for your party, the Banks and Shane show is the party. It’s high-energy good-time music, spiced with a healthy dose of the good-natured wit and patter that Banks and Paul have fine-tuned on their tours across the U.S. and around the world. For more information or to purchase tickets at (706) 864-3759. Jan. 28 – Business After Hours at Northside Dawson Medical Campus, 5 to 7 p.m. Come and network with your fellow chamber members. There will be food and beverages to enjoy. Special thanks to our host, Northside Dawson Medical Campus. We would also like to thank our cash drawing sponsors, Mills Fuel Service and The Norton Agency-Kristie Myers and John Drew.
Photos by Michele Hester Dawson Community News
Harmony Baptist Church’s “I Believe” float was among 26 entries in the city’s inaugural Christmas parade. Left, The Grinch (Gary Pichon), Cindy Lou Who (Berenice Garcia) and the Mayor of Whoville (Angie Smith) judged floats. Below, Jeremy Porter cruised through downtown Dawsonville.
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Parade you Dawsonville for turning out for the first annual Christmas parade. It will only be bigger and better next year.” Organized by the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce, the parade featured more than two dozen floats, groups and individual participants. Awards were given in a vari-
ety of categories with Etowah River Church of Christ’s float winning Best of Parade and The Norton Agency’s Home for the Holidays with Santa as Most Creative. Lexi Holloway, 11, attended with her family and was the most excited about seeing Santa arrive by fire engine. “It was great. I really enjoyed it. It was awesome,” she said. “I loved seeing Santa ride in on the fire truck. That was my favorite.”
Her mother Susie Holloway said the entire family enjoyed the day. “Actually, we don’t always attend the city’s tree lighting, so it was the parade that brought us out today,” she said. “We really enjoyed it. It brings out the Christmas spirit.” The city’s annual tree lighting followed at the Dawsonville Municipal Complex where kids visited with Santa, sipped cider and enjoyed live Christmas performances.
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Shop with a Cop event grows Largest turnout for Christmas shopping By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
For the sixth year, the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office has taken kids in the county shopping for things they may not necessarily get on Christmas Day. This year, the sheriff’s office had to split the Dec. 19 event into two days due to the number of children they were able to help, with the initial count coming in at about 70 children. The department returned to Walmart the next day to continue shoping. “This is, by far, the biggest we’ve had,” said Dawson County Sheriff’s Maj. Tony Wooten. “That’s because of the people who came out and donated. On top of Chestatee Golf Club’s $1,300, we had a private citizen donate $1,000, Robinson Elementary donating $3,000 and then Walmart gave us $2,000.” Wooten said the donation from Robinson really helped the event pull ahead this year. “The ornament sale was the largest single contributor we had this
Sheriff Billy Carlisle helps Cameron Jones pick out a toy to go along with the others in his quickly-filling cart. Left, the lines for officers, children and volunteers stretched from one end of the Walmart garden center to the other.
Dawson County Sheriff’s Sgt. Eric Johnson compares two fishing poles with sixth-grader Steven Cook.
‘The money we’ve raised and the volunteers who have come out, not only from my department, but the parents, it’s amazing.’ Billy Carlisle Sheriff
year, and that was after having to cut it short due to overwhelming demand. It’s awesome.” Wooten said the sheriff’s office raised more than $8,000 this year, around $3,000 more than last year. “This year we went above what we thought because of the generosi-
ty of the people in the county,” said Sheriff Billy Carlisle. “The money we’ve raised and the volunteers who have come out, not only from my department, but the parents, it’s amazing.” The store was filled with volunteers not associated with the sheriff’s office. Parents such as
Ashley Segraves came out to support the Shop with a Cop program. “I think this is great opportunity for people who might not be as fortunate as some others when it comes to making sure their kids have a great Christmas,” she said.
Office: 706-216-4806 Fax: 706-216-4807 kfuller@alltel.net
P.O Box 1096 137 Prominence Court Suite 240 Dawsonville, GA 30534
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Sawnee EMC rounds up bright ideas From staff reports
The Sawnee Electric Membership Foundation, through its Operation Round Up program, recently awarded to more than $40,000 to nine local charities and five classroom grants. One Dawson County middle school was chosen to be the recipient of part of the grant. Riverview Middle School teacher Cassandra Tallant received a $1,316.97 Bright Idea grant from Sawnee EMC for her project Textual Evidence Investigators. This project focuses on equipping students to engage and tackle complex nonfiction texts through the use of writing kits. St. Vincent de Paul of Dawson County also received a donation from Sawnee EMC. Interested applicants are required to submit an application to the foundation board for consideration. In order to qualify for a grant, the charity must be located in
Sawnee EMC’s service area and/or provide a service in the communities that Sawnee serves. Teachers can apply for funds through the Bright Ideas program, which is also part of Operation Round Up. A public or private teacher is eligible to apply for funding as long as their school is located within the Sawnee EMC service area. These programs are made possible by more than 20,000 generous plus members of Sawnee EMC that make the decision each month to round their electric bill up to the next highest dollar. The extra change goes directly into the Sawnee Foundation and is gifted back out into the communities Sawnee EMC serves. The average donation a member makes annually is $6. These small, yet generous, donations have allowed the foundation’s board to donate more than $1.4 million back into the communities since inception in 2003.
For the Dawson Community News
Sawnee EMC donated more than $40,000 to local organizations in Dawson and Forsyth counties.
Contract inked on hotel-motel revenue By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
A resolution signed in early December outlines how much of the county’s hotel-motel tax revenue will be split with the chamber of commerce for promoting tourism. The Dawson County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved an arrangement for 2014 that gives the chamber about $181,000, plus $10,000 designated for the
Dawson County Arts Council. The amount equals 62.5 percent of all unrestricted funds collected from hotel-motel taxes aside from a portion that goes to Amicalola Falls Lodge through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, according to Commission Chairman Mike Berg. The funds are restricted to promoting tourism and cannot be used for capital projects such as mortgage payments
for the chamber’s welcome center on Ga. 400. “The money has to go toward tourism. They can spend some of the funds on utilities like electricity, gas and lights, but that’s only a small portion,” he said. Christie Haynes, president of the chamber and office of tourism development, assured the commission that tourism dollars spent on utilities are calculated according to square footage in regards to how much space
is designated for tourism at the welcome center. “We’ve worked the situation so that tourism is paying rent for only their section of the building, per our auditor,” she said. Haynes said there are nearly four dozen tourism-generating attractions and businesses in Dawson, as well as several festivals and fairs that her office promotes. “Even during the recession, our hotel-motel commissions
continue to rise. That’s something that I think says a lot about tourism as a sustainable economic development driver in our community,” she said. The impact of tourism in the county is 410 jobs and $100,000 a day in direct spending, according to Haynes. “That’s huge for a community of our size,” she said.
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businesses of the week-December Each week, the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce randomly selects a chamber member business as the “Business of the Week.” The business is spotlighted for one business week and will receives an announcement every Monday on the chamber’s Facebook and Twitter pages and is placed on the front page of the chamber website as
well as being highlighted in the Chamber Chatter e-newsletter that is sent to the entire membership every Tuesday. The “Business of the Week” program is an opportunity to show the chamber’s appreciation to its members for supporting the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and investing in the community. Businesses of the Week for December are:
James A. Hamilton, Attorney at Law James Hamilton brings to Dawson County 37 years of experience. His business consists of the practice of civil law, where, over the years, he has litigated in 27 counties in Georgia, with ongoing litigation in five counties. Primarily, his focus has been to serve the people of Dawson County who need legal assistance with anything from a quick question to complex litigation. James A. Hamilton, Attorney at Law, can be reached at (706)216-4550. His office is at 300 Old Dawson Village Road, Suite 110.
White Interiors The staff at White Interiors has been helping homes in Dawson County look their best inside and out for eight years. They carefully select unique accessories and redefined furniture that are of a style most sought after by homeowners that are in the mountain and lake area. The company also offers in-house design services and specialize in hand-finished furniture, beautiful artwork and accessories, custom upholstery and enchanting lighting that graces the showroom, all with a laid back elegance that is both welcoming and intriguing. The store is at 278 Highway 400 North, No. 1100. For more information, visit www.whiteinteriorsllc.com or call (706) 216-1230.
Apartment zoning approved Completion date set for 2016 By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Dawson County commissioners have approved a rezoning to allow a new apartment complex near Ga. 400. Ridgeline Land Planning wants to build a 242unit garden-style apartment community with amenities such as a swimming pool and tennis courts on about 40 acres north of Hwy. 53 on Lumpkin Campground Road. The complex, expected to be complete in late 2016, would include one-, two- and three-bedroom units ranging from 800 to 1,400 square feet. The commission delayed a previous vote on the matter, requesting additional information, including a traffic study, for the project. A study by Norcross-based Kimley-Horn and
Associates indicated the need for a right-hand turn lane on Lumpkin Campground Road at the complex entrance. The rezoning was approved Dec. 19 with stipulations that include a second full-service entrance on Prominence Court and acceleration and deceleration turn lanes at the Lumpkin Campground entrance. Also stipulated was the need for 20 feet of additional right of way in case future traffic results in a need to widen Lumpkin Campground. While the proposed project does not align with the county’s future land-use plan, Planning Director David McKee said “the application is a less intensive use, which would be allowable.” According to a letter from Adam Hazell, planning director with the Georgia Mountain Regional Commission, the project is “in the best interest of the state” based on the Department of Community Affair’s procedures related to the review of Developments of Regional Impact.
Bulletin board • Improve your skills … take an online class. For more information, visit www.dawson.org. • Remember to shop local this holiday season. • 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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JANUARY 2014
Physicians group welcomes new members From staff reports
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group is proud to welcome Sherry Dorsey, CMPE, as its new president and chief administrative officer. In this role, Dorsey will guide NGPG — a network of more than 200 physicians, physician assistants and nurse practitioners, representing more than 20 specialties at more than 50 locations throughout Northeast Georgia — which the Atlanta Business Chronicle ranks as Atlanta’s ninth-largest physician practice. Dorsey comes to NGPG from Adventist Health System in Orlando, Fla., where she
was responsible for 21 multispecialty medical practices and more than 1,300 physicians in 10 states as chief operating officer of Physician Enterprise. Among her many duties, Dorsey actively worked with medical leadership to prepare for reform, clinical integration and related Patient Centered Medical Home initiatives. Prior to her time at Adventist, Dorsey worked for 17 years with HealthPoint Medical Group, an affiliate of BayCare Health System and St. Joseph’s Hospitals and one of the largest multi-specialty physician groups in the Tampa Bay, Fla., area.
“Sherry brings a wealth of knowledge to this role, as evidenced by her experience with other large physician groups,” said Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System. “I look forward to her leadership of NGPG and the exceptional primary and specialty care it provides in communities across our region.” Dorsey received her MBA from the University of Alabama and started her career in Atlanta, where she worked for The Emory Clinic until 1991. “I’m excited to be back in Georgia, especially with this great opportunity to lead an
expanding organization like NGPG,” Dorsey said. “I’ve worked with NGPG physicians, leadership and other group employees .... and their passion for delivering excellent health care is unrivaled.” When she’s not working, Dorsey enjoys being involved in the community. During her time in Tampa Bay, she served 11 years on the Hillsborough County Healthcare Advisory Board and was actively involved in several community organizations supporting homeless and abused women and children. Dorsey has a 23-year-old daughter, Katharine, who
‘Sherry brings a wealth of knowledge to this role, as evidenced by her experience with other large physician groups.’ Carol Burrell
President, Northeast Georgia Health System recently graduated from the University of Miami and works with a political consulting firm in Washington, D.C.
THE #1 SOLUTION TO UNDERAGE DRINKING:
P A R E N T S .
Be Open. As the kids prepare to head back to classes, understanding the peer pressure they face at school allows you to provide the support system they need at home. Simply letting your kids know you’re there to listen can help to prevent underage drinking. For useful tips and resources, visit capa-ga.org or call us at 706-265-1981.
[ Be POWER OF PARENTS
the Key
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P P POWER
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Chamber bids 2013 farewell at last BAH By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
December’s Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours packed the rooms of United Community Bank’s Ga. 400 branch Dec. 12. “We’d really like to thank United Community Bank for being such a gracious host and putting on an awesome Business After Hours for us,” said outgoing Chairman Peter Hill. The annual holiday version of the chamber’s networking gathering is one of the busier events. Hill also had an announcement that night, turning over his role as the chairperson of the chamber of commerce board to Gloria Wyatt of Northside-Forsyth. “This is my last business after hours as the chairman and I am excited Discover Dawson Forest Apartments, where you will find a convenient and comfortable lifestyle seldom found in an apartment community. Whether you’re relocating to the area or searching for the perfect place to call “HOME,” Dawson Forest is the place for you. As you relax in our swimming pool or “sweat it out” in our fitness center you will realize why Dawson Forest is the right choice. You will also love the location as we are seconds from the Georgia 400 and the North Georgia Premium Outlets
about turning the reigns over to Gloria,” he said. “It’s been a tremendous pleasure for me, working with Christie and Kara and Brenda and everybody on the board. It’s been an awesome year.” The next Business After Hours will be Jan. 28 at the Northside-Dawson Medical Campus. The January cash drawing sponsors are Mills Fuel Service and The Norton Agency-Kristie Myers and John Drew. The prize has been reset to $50 for 2014. You must be present to claim the cash prize. For more information about Business After Hours, contact the chamber at (706) 265-6278 or visit www. dawson.org.
David Renner Dawson Community News
Chamber President Christie Haynes, left, and Larry Anderson congratulate Jay Thomason with H&R Block for winning the $500 cash prize.
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(706) 974-9161 • www.balletetc.org • 258 Beartooth Pkwy. Ste. 170, Dawsonville balletEtcDawsnChamberOct2013
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JANUARY 2014
EXTEND YOUR ADVERTISING MARKET in our monthly D A W S O N
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Dawsonville: around the square
City close on contract for new Internet option By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Following a special called meeting Dec. 17, the city of Dawsonville is one step closer to having a new option when it comes to high-speed Internet service. The city council voted 3-0, with Angie Smith absent, to approve negotiation of a contract with Clevelandbased Appalachian Broadband Technologies Wireless. The wireless network will transmit an Internet signal from the Trailwave highspeed fiber optic network to relays around the city, and from there to local customers’ receivers. “When we design a system, we do it to be community specific,” said Rich Tarpley, president and CEO of the company. “By using the fiber optics as the backbone, we have loads of bandwidth available.” The council authorized Mayor James Grogan to sign the contract once the wording has been finalized. According to the agreement, Dawsonville will handle the billing for the company. For every residential and commercial customer, ABT will then pay the city 5 percent of the monthly billings. “The contract also allows ABT to put [wireless receiver] antennas on the water towers at the cemetery and at Burt’s Crossing to be able to bounce the [wireless] signals off,” Grogan said. The deal also allows for further expansion, as Grogan said he anticipates “there would be other things in the future” for network growth. “[City Attorney] Dana [Miles], Rich and I have been working on this agreement for some time,” Grogan said. “It’s been revised a few times and we’re
‘We have not spent any taxpayer money on this system. Everything is being done by ABT Wireless. Not a dime is coming from the city.’ Chris Gaines
Council member
For the Dawson Community News
Danny Lewis, far left, and Sam Norton, far right, of the GMRC, present Mayor James Grogan with the 2013 Elected Official of the Year award on Dec. 6.
Mayor receives honor By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
confident in what we have.” Officials estimate that the service will be available sometime in mid- to late January. Dawsonville has been testing the wireless network since October with select local businesses. It also was tested by ABT at the Moonshine Festival, during which more than 1,000 devices were connected at one time. “The city doesn’t have any cost in the infrastructure,” said Councilman Chris Gaines. “We have not spent any taxpayer money on this system. Everything is being done by ABT Wireless. Not a dime is coming from the city.” Grogan said during the meeting that residents are anxious to have access to the network. “We have people already begging to be signed up, even before the ordinance was officially approved,” he said.
The Georgia Mountains Regional Commission has named its 2013 Elected Official of the Year during the group’s annual Christmas meeting and awards dinner. The dinner, held on Dec. 6 at the Dillard House Conference Center in Dillard, announced Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan as this year’s recipient. “I didn’t realize they had called my name. Everyone at the table said they called your name, but I still didn’t believe that I was to receive this award,” Grogan said. “I was totally shocked.” According to Danny Lewis, executive director of the GMRC, the award is selected by himself and the department heads of the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission. Lewis said that he asks for the departments’ input and that they collectively works directly with all of the 51 local governments in the commission. “Mayor Grogan is an example of the leadership we have in this region. He exemplifies what we like to work with each and every day,” Lewis
said. “The city uses the services of this GMRC and we likewise use the facilities owned by the city. He is a friend of the GMRC and we likewise of the Dawsonville community.” Grogan said that he and the city shared Lewis’ view of the GMRC and their partnership. “Danny Lewis and the staff at Georgia Mountains Regional Commission are wonderful to have as friends of Dawsonville,” he said. “They work not only with us, but with 13 other counties in North Georgia. Their help and expertise in many areas make us all better at our particular jobs.” Lewis said that Grogan was chosen due to his constant involvement with the commission. “He is an outstanding council member and makes it a point to attend every one of our monthly council meetings,” he said. “He is active on committees and is open and forthright in his participation in our sessions. James is a perfect example of what an excellent member looks like.” But, to Grogan, the award itself is an affirmation of everything being done in Dawsonville.
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Sawnee announces outage portal From staff reports
Sawnee Electric Membership Corporation recently announced it has completely overhauled the cooperative’s online portal which provides real-time information on power outages, including outage reporting and detailed maps. The online portal can be accessed through the corporate website at www.sawnee.com/ outages and via Sawnee EMC’s mobile application for smart phones and tablets. “This is a major step forward for us, but most importantly, for our members,” said Michael A. Goodroe, president and CEO. “Nobody likes a power outage, but when one occurs, our members need prompt and accurate information about what’s going on and what we are doing to get their lights back on. These new tools accomplish this goal”. Current outages can be filtered and viewed by county, zip code, or outage number, depending on user preference. It is then presented in an easy to read and understand format. The data is also linked
to an interactive map of Sawnee EMC’s service area that shows what area(s) is/ are affected by a power outage, the number of accounts impacted, what likely caused the outage and how long the power has been out thus far. “We listened to our members about outages; and we took their wants and wishes to heart. We have now addressed their issues with this new site,” said Corban Davies, system analyst. “We put all of the known information about a particular outage right there on the map, right in front of them; they asked us for more data, and now it is available 24 hours a day.” For the first time ever, the site not only provides the status of the crew(s) assigned to address the outage, but also reveals what specific information has been gathered thus far from the field. Since outage information is often an evolving process, information visible at the portal can be changed and updated frequently as work in the field progresses.
new members Saddle Buddies Therapy 7985 Knight Road, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 781-4899 www.saddlebuddiestherapy.com The Oaks at Hampton 5610 Hampton Park Drive Cumming, GA 30041 (678) 965-5700 www.oaksseniorliving.com Sage Hair Studio 66 South 400 Center Lane, Suite 115 Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 344-1329
Dawson Community Food Bank & Thrift Store - A Ministry of Jesus Name Apostolic 77 Hugh Stowers Road Dawsonville, GA 30534 (706) 265-7990 Fax: (706) 265-1074 Carry on Youth, Inc. 1025 Westmoreland Lane Lawrenceville, GA 30043 (770) 540-3170 www.carryonyouth.org Vistage International 1038 Chestatee Point Dawsonville, GA 30534 (678) 936-3904 Fax: (706) 216-6788 www.vistage-king.com
monthly totals Walk-in visitors: 119 Referrals: 95 Newcomer packages: 18
dawsonChamber091113_ChamberChronicle
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Making your off-season productive By Randy Donaldson
For the Dawson Community News
Is your business seasonal? Are most of your annual revenues generated during just a handful of months? For example, a wedding planner’s peak time is between April and June, a toy retailer’s year is November through December, whereas a firewood supplier’s peak months are January and February. Many businesses today have a “peak season” and an “off season.” You can help your business grow by working on
your business instead of in your business and doing a little advance planning during your down time as follows: Develop your marketing strategy. Step back and take a look at what methods you are using to generate sales. Plan a marketing campaign that will be strategically timed to generate customer activity and excitement at the beginning of your peak season. Line up part-time help. Your busy season is not the best time to hire and train a new
part-time employee. Do your interviewing, selection and training in the weeks leading up to your peak time to get the most out of your employees. Create a budget calendar. Often, seasonal businesses’ expenses fall just before their season starts, which is when money is the tightest. Plan your purchasing of inventory materials during the most favorable periods (for price, quality, etc.) and budget your cash accordingly. Brain storm new product
ideas. Focus on developing complementary products that will enhance your existing line, or products that will overlap into other seasons. Work on bank credit lines. Credit markets are tough in today’s market, and your bank may take several months to examine your personal finances before approving your line of credit or term loan. Plan ahead so that your finances are in place before your busy season. Supplier terms. Negotiate with suppliers to establish
favorable credit terms or to modify contracts. Suppliers may be willing to grant seasonal businesses extended payment options or make other accommodations. Make the most out of your off-season by planning ahead and you’ll be glad you did. Randy Donaldson is a Business Consultant in The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center’s Gainesville office (770) 531-5681, rdonaldson@ georgiasbdc.org.
Library puts teens in Christmas spirit
The Dawson County Public Library got teens into the holiday spirit during its Dec.12 gingerbread house decorating event. Students decorated cardboard house frames with a wide variety of cookies and candies, sticking it all together with frosting.
Photos by David Renner Dawson Community News
Tre’ Arnold, left, points out some house constructing tips to Austin Locke. All the supplies used were provided by the library.
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Apartment complex joins the chamber By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
While not a new business to the community, Dawson Forest Apartments has joined the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce all the same. “We’re not new to the neighborhood, but we are a new management team in the office,” said Community Director Rhea Chavis. Chavis said that management team agreed that the new year was a perfect time to join the chamber. “This is great place here in our community,” said chamber president Christie Haynes. “It offers awesome apartments and there are a good number of people that live here. We’re very proud to have them as members and in our county.” The gated community, located at 700 Green Forest Drive, off of Ga. 400, offers a number of amenities, such as a pool, gym, private garages and car care area, as well as one-, two- and three-bedroom floor plans.
‘We’re not new to the neighborhood, but we are a new management team in the office.’ Rhea Chavis
Community director, Dawson Forest Apartments “We desperately need this kind of housing in our county and we are glad that they are here,” said County Commissioner Gary Pichon. “We hope over the next couple of years you can add more here. We’re appreciative of the work done here and hope that we can do more.” For more information, call (706) 216-4292 or visit www.dawsonforestapts.com.
David Renner Dawson Community News
The Dawson Forest apartment complex held a ribbon cutting on Dec. 13 to officially join the chamber of commerce.
David Renner Dawson Community News
Sage Hair Studio owner Jessica Wolfel, center, cuts the ribbon on the salon’s Ga. 400 location.
Hair studio opens doors By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
A new salon has recently opened its doors and, according to its owner, its aim is equal parts beauty and relaxation. “We really want people to be calm in our salon,” said Jessica Wolfel, Sage Hair Studio owner and master cosmetologist. “We have complementary hand and forearm massages as well as scalp massages at the [hair washing] bowl. We also give neck massages at the chair.” In addition to playing calming music, scented oils are used throughout the salon to help relax customers who visit. According to Wolfel, some customers get more relaxed than others. “People get so relaxed that they fall asleep,” she said. “They come here to relax and that’s what we’re here for.” The salon also has a licensed medical aesthetician on staff. “I do everything for each person individually. We figure out what your goals are and how we can get there,” said aesthetician Shelia Hickey. “I offer
‘We really want people to be calm in our salon.’ Jessica Wolfel
Owner, Sage Hair Studio
microderm abrasion, chemical peels, ... dermablading, which is new, and facials.” The chamber welcomed the new members during the Dec. 12 ribbon cutting. “We are thrilled to have this new business in our community,” said chamber membership director Kara Hewatt. “We are here to help them in any way that we can and we have a great group of ambassadors who will help in any way that they can.” Sage Hair Studio is located at 66 South 400 Center Lane, Suite 115, right off of Ga. 400. For more information or to make an appointment, call (706) 344-1329.
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Hall of fame pays tribute to founder Pirkle recognized for preserving racing heritage By Michele Hester
mhester@dawsonnews.com
Gordon Pirkle spent a lot of time preparing for the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame’s 2013 induction ceremony only to learn that the spotlight would be on him at the Dec. 13 event. “I don’t believe this. They pulled one on me. Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” he said, accepting the hall of fame’s “first, last and only Founder’s Award.” Hall of fame board member Brandon Reed presented the award and a portrait of Pirkle that will be display at the museum in Dawsonville, where the banquet was held. “Last year, the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame celebrated its 10th anniversary. We would not have made it that far, or even gotten started, without the vision of what can be said to be the heart and soul of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame,” Reed said. “He’s given his time, his money, his strength and his heart to this place. “He asks only in return that people remember the names of the racers enshrined here.” Pirkle’s extended family was in attendance for the momentous occasion. His son Gordon (G.P.) Pirkle Jr. said having a racing hall of fame in Dawsonville, where many say the moonshine runners of yesteryear spurred what is now known as NASCAR, was his father’s dream.
“The night the hall of fame opened, he had just put his mother in the grave. He said, ‘This is the worst day of my life. I just put my mother to rest. But this is the best day of my life, this is a 20 year dream of mine finally come true,’” Pirkle, Jr. recalled. Daughter Haley Garrett said she couldn’t think of a more fitting tribute to her father. “He’s worked really hard. He has so much history in his heart that everybody needs to hear about it,” she said. “All my life, racing has been number one in him. He loves it. He loves racing more than anybody I know and he knows the history of it and he wants to preserve it.” The Georgia Racing Hall of Fame museum in Dawsonville is recognized by the state legislature as the official home of the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, which honors prominent members and their contributions to Georgia’s motorsports heritage. This year’s class of inductees included Charles Barrett, Frank Christian, Huston Platt, Hank Blalock and Freddy Fryar. The racing hall of fame also announced Chase Elliott as the 2013 Driver of the Year. His father, Bill Elliott, winner of the 1988 NASCAR Winston Cup Series and 2002 Georgia Racing Hall of Famer, accepted the award on his son’s
David Renner Dawson Community News
Founder’s Award winner Gordon Pirkle stands with the portrait of himself debuted during the Dec. 13 banquet. The portrait will be on display at the hall of fame.
behalf. “Racing has changed a lot. I look out here and all the guys that paved the road, not only for me, but for Chase, it’s incredible,” said the champion, who added his son could not attend the awards ceremony due to a prior commitment with Hendrick Motorsports. He, too, praised Pirkle for his work with the hall of fame. “We all lose sight of where racing came from. Gordon’s
commitment to make this place work and continue on and support all the guys that’s made racing what it is today — that’s the most important part of this whole deal and what this is about,” Elliott said. Also recognized during the ceremony were several individuals for their work in preserving Georgia’s racing history. Marvin, Linda and Cody Dinsmore, of Dawsonville, were named the Georgia
Racing Hall of Fame 2013 Volunteers of the Year; Ronnie Edwards received the Annie Dean Samples Spirit Award; Jim Mintor was given the Jimmy Mosteler Excellence in Journalism Award and Aline McClure, a longtime volunteer at the museum, received the President’s Award. DCN staff writer David Renner contributed to this story.
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Embroideries for all occasions By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Whether you are looking for that special wedding, birthday or “just because” gift, Michael and Charlene Ehrlich of Ever ything Embroider y can help you get that perfect gift. Located in Big Canoe, Ever ything Embroider y uses state of the art equipment, such as their Tajima 15-needle embroider y machine and heat press. No job is too small or too big, according to the couple. Also, they do not charge a setup fee. Ever ything Embroider y also offers business ser vices, such as work shirt embroider y and logo digitization for a one-time fee of $50. “We will embroider your personal items starting at $6 per hooping, or we can provide many different products from many different suppliers,” said owner Michael Ehrlich. “Some of the products we can provide include but not limited to lighted LED ball caps, shirts, T-shirts, jackets, tote bags, wine bags, ball caps, coolers, golf bags and stuffed plush animals.” Ever ything you need to get star ted is located on the company's website. “Please check out the sites of some of our favorite suppliers under our vendor link on our website,” Ehrlich said. “Many other suppliers are available to us. Call or email us with the style number, size and color and we will respond with the price of the products including embroider y.” Also, Ehrlich said that no funds are needed until you receive your products and are happy with them. For more information, visit Ever ything Embroider y’s web site at www.ever ythingembroi-
Photos for the Dawson Community News
Stained glass windows are just some of the decorative works that Blue Ridge Glass Works can provide.
Top quality glass works By David Renner
drenner@dawsonnews.com
Photos for the Dawson Community News
Whether it’s for your business, club or gifts, Everything Embroidery works with you for the best product to suite your needs.
der y.net. You can also reach them by phone at (706) 5792438, (404) 312-8731 or email ehrlich@yahoo.com.
For more than 30 years, Blue Ridge Glass Works has been providing Dawson and its neighboring counties with stained-glass works of art. “Blue Ridge Glassworks has served the north Georgia area and beyond for over 35 years by providing uncompromising workmanship in the design and construction of custom architectural art glass,” said owner and founder Rob Heath. Located off Ga. 400, this custom glass art studio specializes in leaded stained glass works to accentuate homes, businesses and places of worship. “There is nothing too large or too small,” Heath said. “We have covered everything from garden tub windows and entryways to kitchen cabinets to large commercial or church windows.” Blue Ridge Glass Works offers delivery for any artwork they build. Heath said the business also highly recommends that the customer allow them to install the glass, as well. “We have been doing this for many years and can ensure it is done properly and with the utmost care and precision,” he said.
As for pricing, Heath said that the company takes into account all factors before deciding on a price with the customer. “There are three main factors taken into account in order to accurately estimate pricing — square footage, intricacy of design and the type of glass used,” he said. “When you come to visit our shop, keeping this in mind will help us begin the process of designing your custom artwork more quickly and efficiently.” Following a thorough consultation to determine the needs and desires of the customer and the type of art glass, Blue Ridge hand draws and designs the glasswork before any building happens. “At this point we can ensure your design is just right for you,” Heath said. “From here, we will make your selections for glass and placement and then let the building begin.” For more information about the company or the types of glass works offered, visit www.blueridgeglassworks.com to view the gallery or check out pricing and procedure.
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