chamber chronicle november 2010

I have been thinking late-ly about how important it isto take care of the littlethings in our businesses.

Those little things that wetake for granted that canmake such a difference inwhether our customer’sexperience exceptional

quality service or not. Thelittle things can make such adifference.

I teach Sunday school andusually I end up teaching alesson that I need to learnand this is one of thosetimes. Our company, ourchamber, as well as collec-

tively all of our businesses,if we would learn to takecare of those little things, Ibelieve it would move usfrom good to great.

It is so easy to settle forjust good. It has been saidthat “good is the enemy ofgreat.”

So how do you movefrom good to great? Takecare of the minor details.

Have you ever heard ofthe 211 degrees theory?Coach Bill McCartney inhis book “Blind Spots” talksabout this. He says you canplace a pot of water on the

stove and turn on the burn-er. Stick a thermometerinside the pan and watch thewater’s temperature rise. At211 degrees, water is veryhot. But raise it just onedegree, and all of a sudden,

The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce

November 2010

D A W S O N C O U N T Y

Post Office Box 299292 Hwy. 400, North

Dawsonville, GA 30534(706) 265-6278

Chamber holds open house

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR

Underwood

It’s important to take care of the little things

See CARE | 2

Festival boostslocal economyBy Frank [email protected]

Once again, the Mountain MoonshineFestival has come and gone. The cele-bration was an economic boost for localbusinesses in the area, according toLinda Williams, local chamber of com-merce president.

“The festival’s economic impact wasgreat,” Williams said. “It was good forlocal businesses of all kinds.”

The event, held Oct. 22-24, featured

car shows, live entertainment, a paradeand hundreds of merchants throughoutdowntown Dawsonville.

The festival benefited KARE forKids, a nonprofit organization thatworks to provide for underprivilegedchildren in Dawson County.

The 2010 festival grossed more than$115,000.

Thousands of locals and out-of-town-ers arrived for what organizers called Frank Reddy Dawson Community News

Dawson Whitmire of Dawsonville takes in the sights at the 43rd annualMountain Moonshine Festival last month.See FESTIVAL | 4

Each month as I pre-pare to write my articlefor our newsletter, Isometimes am chal-lenged to decide what towrite about.

This month I thought Iwould write about thechallenge of communi-cating. Keeping youinformed of upcomingevents and what yourstaff, board, committeesand ambassadors are cur-rently doing is donethrough this newsletter,our monthly mailer, Website calendar and ourconstant contact mes-sages.

Are you using socialmedia such as Facebook,Twitter, Linked-In andmore? Would those out-lets serve you better? Justas important, how do youcommunicate with thestaff and your board ofdirectors?

Thisbringsme toourannualanony-mousmem-bershipsurvey.

This isyour opportunity to com-municate with us abouthow you think we aredoing and give us yoursuggestions for next year.This is your organizationand we want to build ourplan of action around theactivities that will benefityour business. You canaccess the survey directlyfrom our Web site. Go tochamber of commerceand select membership,or look for a link in yournext constant contact.The survey will be avail-able during the month ofNovember.

One project we areconsidering implement-ing is an optional mem-ber to member discountprogram. There will be asection at the end of thesurvey that you may useto give us your viewpointon this idea and any othercomments you wish tomake.

Since we are talkingabout planning, yourboard has recommenda-tions for the successionof board members fornext year. At the Nov. 18membership meeting andluncheon, you will bepresented with the namesof five members for yourconsideration as directorsfor 2011-12. You willfind a mix of new, return-ing and previous direc-tors who have beenasked to serve.

The five members are:Doris Cook, EtowahWater & Sewer

Authority; Kristie Myers,The Norton Agency;James Askew, UnitedCommunity Bank; CarlaBoutin of State FarmInsurance; and JenniferBaker of UnitedCommunity Bank. Lookelsewhere in the newslet-ter for information onthese proposed directors.

The current board andproposed 2011 boardmembers will meet inearly December for a fullday’s work in planningfor next year. They willconsider the worthinessof past projects andbrainstorm ways to serveyou in new innovativeways. One of the impor-tant tools they will use tocreate a plan is the mem-bership survey that I justmentioned. So pleasegive us your thoughtsand ideas.

In closing, the anony-mous survey is just one

method you may use tocommunicate with us.Please do not hesitate togive me a call or send mean e-mail at any timeduring the year with yourideas or concerns. Ifsomething isn’t workingfor you, we can’t addressit if we don’t know aboutit.

In addition, if youwould like to be moreinvolved in the work of

the chamber, we arealways seeking volun-teers to serve in a varietyof ways. Let me knowyour area of interest.

I hope to see you at achamber event soon.

If you aren’t a mem-ber, won’t you join us?

2 | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | dawsonnews.com NOVEMBER 2010

Dawson Community News514 Academy Ave., Dawsonville

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Do you know what happened in your community lastweek? The Dawson Community News keeps you informed,so you always know what’s happening in your community.

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something remarkablehappens: The waterboils.

At 211 degrees, as hotas that is, you can’t geta steam engine to budge.The scalding waterinside has no power tomove the engine, noteven an inch. But at 212degrees, that samesteam engine can haul amile-long freight trainup and over a ruggedmountain pass. It’s justone degree. But what a

difference one degreemakes.

So for me and anyoneelse, moving from goodto great could be by tak-ing care of those littlepesky details.

The Dawson CountyChamber of Commerceis also here to help youmove from good togreat. It is our desirethat all of our businesseshere in Dawson Countybe as successful as theypossibly can. Please callon us. We are here tohelp.

Mike UnderwoodChairman

FROM 1

Care

dawsonnews.com | DAWSON CHAMBER CHRONICLE | 3NOVEMBER 2010

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Nov. 11: Join the VeteransAffairs of Dawson County andthe Dawson County Chamberof Commerce for the 6thannual Veterans DayCelebration. The keynotespeaker will be Nathan Deal.The formal ceremony beginsat 2:45 p.m. in the DawsonCounty Middle School Gym.The parade will begin at 4p.m. in downtownDawsonville. The grand mar-shals will be Korean War vet-erans.

Nov. 12 - 14: Lily Creak Lodgeis offering a 10 percent dis-count on two night stays dur-ing the Literary Festival andWriter’s Conference. For moreinformation, www.literaryfes-tival.org, or call Sharon at(706) 865-6848

Nov. 16: Dawson Dines theUnited Way. Several arearestaurants will be teaming upwith United Way for DawsonCounty. A portion of the pro-ceeds will be donated fromtoday’s receipts to United Wayfor Dawson County. UnitedWay works through 12 localagencies to provide servicesto local citizens. Plan to eatout for lunch and/or dinner ata participating restaurant andDine United. Check the cham-ber Web site calendar andwatch upcoming e-mails for alist of participating restaurantsas it develops. If you wouldlike more information abouthow you and/or your employ-ees can support United Wayfor Dawson County throughpayroll deduction, call JaySessions at (706) 344-3501,Ext. 245, or e-mail [email protected].

Nov. 18: Special date for theChamber Luncheon that willbe at noon at the LakeviewCenter, 2057 Dawson ForestRoad, Dawsonville. Guestspeaker will be Clark Beusse,

Dawson County extensionagent. Members and visitorsregister online by 5 p.m. Nov.15 by going towww.dawson.org, click on“Chamber of Commerce,”then “Event Registration” orlook for the e-mail reminderwith a link to MembershipLuncheon. For more informa-tion, call (706) 265-6278.

Nov. 23: Join the chamberfrom 5-7 p.m. at Etowah Water& Sewer Authority, as it hoststhe November Business afterHours. The authority will havea ribbon cutting ceremony at4:30 p.m. prior to BusinessAfter Hours. For more infor-mation, call Jessica at (706)216-8474. Special thanks toAFLAC, Sharon Reagan;Anderson Family Medicine,Dr. Larry Anderson;HealthyEatingOnTheRun.com,Barbara Roberts; The NortonAgency, Kristie Myers &United Community Bank,James Askew for sponsoringthe cash drawing. Remember,you must be present to win ifyour name is drawn. Theamount is up to $625.

Nov. 24: Lily Creek Lodge, at2608 Auraria Road, www.lily-creeklodge.com, (706) 864-6848, is celebrating the arrivalof the Capitol Christmas treeon the historic square inDahlonega, by including an“early Christmas present ofroses and chocolates foryour sweetheart” with theprice of a two night stay onNov. 23 and 24, 2011.

Nov. 25 - 26: Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce willbe closed to celebrateThanksgiving holidays. Wewish all our members a safeand Happy Thanksgiving.

Nov. 25: Forrest HillsMountain Resort will beserving all of the traditional

Thanksgiving favorites in itsbeautiful, Rose GardenDining Room. The meal willfeature slow roasted turkey,cornbread dressing withgravy, baked ham, greenbeans, sweet potato soufflé,real mashed potatoes andmuch more. One priceincludes salad bar, hot bar,desserts and non-alcoholicbeverages. Ages 12 & Up-$19.95- Seniors $16.95-Children 5-11 $9.95 4 &Under free. Available byreservation only. Call (706)864-6456 or (770) 534-3244for reservations or moreinformation. Available seat-ing times are 11:30 a.m., 2p.m. and 6 p.m.

Nov. 25: Amicalola FallsState Park & Lodge will havea traditional Thanksgivingdinner in the picturesqueMaple Restaurant overlook-ing the Northeast GeorgiaMountains. Reservations arerequired. Adults: $24.95,Children 4 years & under eatfree, Children ages 5 - 11$12.50 & Seniors 62+ $22.95.Call (706) 344-1505 for moreinformation. Feast on roastturkey with giblet gravy,slow cooked pot roast, roast-ed leg of lamb and all the“fixins.”

Nov. 27 and 28: Live nativityand holiday celebration atNorth Georgia Zoo from 5 to9 p.m. For more informationor directions, visitwww.northgeorgiazoo.comor call (706) 348-7279.

DecemberDec. 24-26:The DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce will be closed Dec.24-26 for Christmas holidays.We wish you all a very MerryChristmas. There will not be aluncheon in December.

By Frank [email protected]

True Value Hardwareowner Dwight Gillelandreceived a gift packagefrom Dawson CountyChamber of Commercemembership director PamHamalainen — dressed asthe “Shop Local Sheriff”— last month.

A “Posse” of fellowchamber of commercemembers followed her asthe group recognized localbusinesses.

“It’s our way of showingappreciation to our mem-bers,” Hamalainen said.“It’s something nice wewanted to do for them.”

Chamber staff visited arandom selection of about20 members Oct. 29 tothank them for their sup-port.

The shop local effortencourages county resi-

dents to keep consumerdollars in the city andcounty, according to LindaWilliams, local chamberpresident.

Earlier this year, cham-ber ambassadors visitedbusinesses to hand outwindow decals to promotethe campaign.

The program kicked offin 2008 originally, butWilliams said it needed tobe refreshed to address thecurrent economic situation.

Frank Reddy Dawson Community News

“Shop Local Sheriff” Pam Hamalainen gives TrueValue Hardware owner Dwight Gilleland a giftpackage last month during a visit from chamber ofcommerce members.

There’s a new‘sheriff’ in town

‘It’s our way of showing appreciation toour members.’

Pam HamalainenChamber membershipdirector


In today’s down econo-my, it’s wise to get anedge over applicants inthe job market.

Marjorie Poss, coun-selor at Dawson CountyHigh School, thinks stu-dents should take everypossible opportunity tobecome more marketable.

An opportunity pre-sented itself Oct. 13, and218 Dawson CountyHigh School studentscould not pass it up.

The students tookGeorgia Work Ready, askills assessment test andcertification for job seek-ers, a job profiling sys-tem for businesses.

Senior MatthewAllison took the testbecause he thought itmight give him “a betterchance of getting a job.

“I also wanted to takeit for the challenge,”Allison said.

Poss said it’s a chal-lenge that’s well worththe outcome.

“It tells a student whatareas he or she is reallystrong in,” Poss said.

The test was adminis-tered on a voluntarybasis. Students were notrequired to take it. Thefact that so many stu-dents volunteeredshowed Poss “theircommitment not only totheir education, but theirfuture careers.”

According to its Website, Georgia WorkReady was launched in

August 2006 by Gov.Sonny Perdue and theGeorgia Chamber ofCommerce “to improvejob training and mar-ketability of Georgia’sworkforce and drivefuture economic growthfor the state.

“By identifying boththe needs of businessand the available skillsof Georgia’s workforce,the state can more effec-tively generate the righttalent for the right jobs.”

For more information,visit www.gawork-ready.org.


Office: 706-216-4806Fax: [email protected]

P.O Box 1096137 Prominence Court

Suite 240Dawsonville, GA 30534

one of the most successful MountainMoonshine Festivals to date.

A combination of comfortable tem-peratures and clear, blue skies playeda big part said Calvin Byrd, presidentof the non-profit organization thatholds the event.

“It’s beautiful weather and every-thing’s great,” said Byrd as he directedvolunteers in historic downtownSaturday morning. “We couldn’t haveasked for a better day.”

Festival attendee Dawson Whitmiresaid it’s no secret what brought peopleout this year.

“Same as every year,” said theDawson County resident. “They’rehere to see these nice, old cars.”

Antique automobiles lined thestreets, many of them ’40 Fords—classic models often preferred bymoonshine runners in the illegalliquor trade.

“I love a ’40 Ford,” said festivalattendee Matt Fuller of Lawrenceville.“It’s the history of it. It’s the way it

looks. Man … I just love everythingabout it.”

Fuller said he plans to purchase andrestore a 1940 Ford and bring it backto next year’s Mountain MoonshineFestival.

“Seeing all these cars, it seals thedeal. I gotta get me one,” Fuller said.

The cars weren’t the only reasonpeople came out. Stacey Dyer ofDahlonega showed up for the festivalfare.

“The food here, you can’t beat it,”Dyer said. “I know it’s not good foryou, but it’s only once a year.”

Those in attendance sampled friedapple pies, funnel cakes, ribbon fries,boiled peanuts and pizza.

Many were drawn to the festival forits racing ties. NASCAR legend DavidPearson served as Grand Marshal. TheGrand Marshal’s job is to formallyannounce the event’s beginning.

Pearson led a parade through down-town Oct. 23 and was later introducedby fellow NASCAR great andDawsonville native Bill Elliott.

KARE for Kids vice presidentRhonda Goodwin said that, overall,the 43rd annual event was “a hugesuccess.”

FROM 1

Festival


From left, Bill Elliott, Gordon Pirkle, David Pearson and David Sosebeetalk prior to the Mountain Moonshine Festival’s opening ceremonies.


From left, Hayley Adams and Britney Adams take the Georgia Work Readyskills assessment test last month at Dawson County High School.

Students test job skills


By Michele [email protected]

A recent interest in the area cou-pled with projects to improve quali-ty of life has Dawson County faringbetter than other regions in the state,according to the county’s top elect-ed official.

Mike Berg, chairman of theDawson County Board ofCommissioners, was the guestspeaker Oct. 14 for the DawsonCounty Chamber of Commercemonthly luncheon.

“It’s fun for me to think aboutwhat Dawson County is today andwhat it will be in the future,” he saidduring his annual state of the countyaddress.

Now in his second term, Berg saidrecent interest in Dawson Countyhas the area poised as the economybegins to turn around.

“Even though we have a lot ofthings going on, it seems like every-body is talking about the Varsitycoming,” he said.

The stimulus-funded fiber opticproject will also lead the way formore development to move thisway, he said.

“We’re pleased we’re a part ofthat,” he said.

While highlighting several localimprovements, like new fire stationsin under-served areas of the county,Berg cautioned continued efforts arevital to create and maintain a highquality of life.

With unemployment locally andat the state level around 10 percent,Berg stressed the need for job cre-ation in the area.

He praised Charlie Auvermann,executive director of DawsonCounty’s development authority.

“I say right now, thank goodnessfor Charlie Auvermann and what hedoes for us,” Berg said. “He’s beenat the forefront of talking to thesedifferent businesses, to find outwhat their interests are and gettingthem to take a look at DawsonCounty.”

The chamber’s next luncheon willbe held at noon Nov. 18 at theLakeview Center on Dawson ForestRoad.

Clark Beusse, county extensionagent, is scheduled to speak on theimportance of agriculture toDawson County.

According to Beusse, the “grossincome from agriculture in DawsonCounty is more than $60 million,with the vast majority from thepoultry industry.”

Members are expected, guests arewelcome.

Call the chamber at (706) 265-6278 to RSVP.

Chairman addressesstate of the countyDawson faring better than others

Michele Hester Dawson Community News

Dawson County Commissionchair Mike Berg was the guestspeaker for the chamber ’smonthly luncheon Oct. 14.


Local residents can show veterans theirsupport Nov. 11 by attending the sixthannual Veterans Day Celebration indowntown Dawsonville.

“Our veterans have given so much andreceived so little in return,” said PamHamalainen, president of VeteransAffairs of Dawson County.

“This is our one day out of the year tohonor and recognize them.”

The event will start a little differentlythis year, with the formal ceremony firstat 2:45 p.m., followed by the downtownparade at 4 p.m.

Governor-elect Nathan Deal is sched-uled to be keynote speaker at the formalceremony, which takes place in the gymat Dawson County Middle School.

The 2010 event marks the fourthstraight year the local parade has beenrecognized by the Department ofVeterans Affairs as a Veterans DayOfficial Site.

It’s one of 58 other sites in the coun-try. Georgia’s only other site is inAtlanta.

Recognizing Dawson County’sVeteran of the Year is a yearly traditionat the event.

Last year’s selection was local physi-cian Larry Anderson, who served inVietnam from 1966-68.

“The veterans feel like a big part ofthe community during the ceremony,and the community comes out to supportthem,” said Wayne Watkins, president ofthe local chapter of Vietnam Veterans ofAmerica.

Added Watkins: “It still makes us feelgood that somebody’s interested enoughto organize events like this.”

The high school band marches in theparade, and most local Boy Scout andCub Scout troops participate by carryingthe colors and marching.

A number of military units and re-enactor groups participate as well.

For more information, call Ham-alainen at (706) 265-6278.

Veterans Day ceremonyhonors those who serve

File photo

A World War II era jeep leads a group of Vietnam War veterans through thesquare in downtown Dawsonville.


The chamber staff sends Thanksgiving greetings to all of itsmembers.

Linda Williams is grateful for the opportunity to live, workand play in such a great community.

Marty Williams is grateful for the new chamber facility andWelcome Center.

Pam Hamalainen is grateful for our veterans and active mili-tary.

Robin Smith is grateful for KARE for Kids Christmas.Barbara Fulmer is grateful for loving family and friends.

Please let the chamber know when you have a special event.


In a room of about 200last month, DuaneWallace was the only per-son who knew which ani-mal kills the most peopleeach year in Africa.

A hippopotamus — forthose who are wondering.

For her steadfastknowledge of what shecalled “useless trivia,”Wallace took the DawsonCounty Woman’s Clubteam to the head of theclass Oct. 12 in the thirdannual Are you Smarterthan a 10-year-oldCompetition.

She and her teammates,Susan McBerry and Larry

Stephenson, credit thewin to a love for reading.

“She (Wallace) readsall the time, and itshows,” McBerry said.“She’s the reason we’rehere.”

The annual competi-tion, which benefits theliteracy group ReadingEducation Association ofDawson County, is muchlike Jeff Foxworthy’sgame show, asking ques-tions taught at the ele-mentary school level.

Fifth graders from eachof the county’s elemen-tary schools were also onhand to help out if thequestions were too diffi-cult.

Four of the 10 teams

made it to the grandprize, million pointround, but only Wallacewas able to answer thequestion.

“Reading is the corner-stone of our community.If people can’t read ordon’t have their GEDs, itjust sets everybody back,”said Wallace, who wasalso part of the woman’sclub’s winning team in2009.

Sandy Lipkowitz, theorganization’s executivedirector, called the event,which raises funds for lit-eracy initiatives in thecommunity, a success.

“I think it wasabsolutely wonderful. Itwas really exciting to

have four teams reach themillion point playoff,”she said. “I thank thecommunity so very much,especially during thesetough times. It’s hardright now for people andyet these businesses andindividuals camethrough.”

A portion of the event’sproceeds will go toward ascholarship for a graduat-ing Dawson County HighSchool senior this spring.

READ will sponsor thescholarship in the nameof the Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce,which was selected

among about two dozenlocal businesses and indi-viduals that helped spon-sor the event by purchas-ing letters in an alphabetraffle.

For more informationabout the READ pro-gram, contact Lipkowitzat (706) 579-1771.

Teams compete for head of the classChamber selected as scholarship sponsor The Dawson

CountyWoman’s Clubteam of LarryStephenson,Duane Wallaceand SusanMcBerryproved to besmarter than a10-year-old inlast month’sannual compe-tition.


From staff reports

In August of 2005 a group of VietnamVeterans in Dawson County wanted to form anorganization to serve not only VietnamVeterans in the county, but to provide veteransservices and resources to local veterans.

Since the formation of the Vietnam Veteranof American Chapter 970, the group has grownto more than 65 members and continues togrow.

The group wanted to help where they could,within the great community they lived in, so,in November of 2005, Dawson CountyChapter 970 received its official Charter, andjoined more than 60,000 Vietnam Veterans ofAmerica members around the United States.

Each year the chapter has awarded two

scholarships to local seniors.Chapter president Wayne Watkins said the

group also supports various efforts throughoutthe community.

The group also assists Etowah Lodge in put-ting up the “Flags of Honor” aroundDawsonville.

Additionally, Watkins said they also supportKARE for Kids each year with the MountainMoonshine Festival.

If you served in the military between 1961and 1975, you are eligible for membership, oryou can join a partner organization the AVVA.

The chapter meets on the second Monday ofeach month at 7 p.m. at Ryan’s Steakhouse.

For more information about joining, callTom Quintrell at (706)429-3201 or WayneWatkins at (706) 429-5002.

Vietnam veterans groupcontinues to gain members


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Retirement planner opens financial services officeBy Michele [email protected]

A local financial planner believesthe current financial state means agingadults must protect their savings.

Scott Yochum, president of YochumFinancial Group, calls himself a “safemoney” expert who special izes inretirement planning for the “50 andolder crowd.”

“I sit down with folks to show them,‘Here’s your nest egg and here’s howwe protect it,’” he said.

With more than 15 years in theindustry, Yochum recently opened hisoffice on Prominence Cour t inDawsonville, near Ga. 400.

“ I t ’s your nes t egg that you’veworked for all these years to build andwe put it in safe money options,” hesaid.

The strategy protects principle, and“then as the market goes up, you getthe uptick of the market without any of

the downside risk,” he said.A native of Newton, Iowa, Yochum

graduated from Drake University withdegrees in both finance and market-ing.

He spent the first 15 years of hisprofessional career in marketing andmanagement postions with both theMaytag and Rayovac Corporations.He then became executive vice presi-dent of the Tarkenton Companies.

“I don’t try to sell or convince any-body to do anything with their money.It’s their money, they’ve earned it. Irespect that,” he said. “In these finan-cial times, it’s important to protect thenest egg that they’ve built.

Yochum and his wife, Debbie, live inDawsonville and have two sons, Brad,a second year law student, and Trevor,a junior at the University of Georgia.

They are active members of BrownsBridge Community Church.

For more information, call (706)216-0022.


Scott Yochum, president of Yochum Financial Group, celebrated thegrand opening of his new office on Prominence Court with a ribbon cut-ting ceremony, held by the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce.



Members of the Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce got just whatthey were after last month: a packedhouse at the new building.

Staff held a grand opening for the Ga.400 location, inviting residents, businessowners and tourists to see the newDawson County Chamber of Commerceand Welcome Center.

It kicked off with a ribbon-cutting cer-emony Oct. 8, which attracted more than150 to the building, according to MartyWilliams.

The chamber vice president of tourismsaid “it went great. We were very happy,very pleased.”

Williams wasn’t alone.“We figured the whole house was

filled,” said Pam Hamalainen, member-ship director. “I think everybody wasimpressed.”

Added Hamalainen: “People said theywere excited about the new location, and

we feel we can capture much more traf-fic here.”

Visitors Michele Kraft and AmandaThompson were impressed by the loca-tion.

“It’s terrific,” Kraft said. “It’s in a con-venient place.”

Thompson said she likes that it’s “outin the open. It lets you know it’s here.”

Visitors like Kraft and Thompsonenjoyed hot apple cider and a meal,compliments of the chamber.

Hamalainen said visitors told her theyenjoyed the atmosphere.

“When you come in, it really does feellike a welcome center,” she said. “Youfeel welcomed when you come in.”

The Dawson County Chamber ofCommerce moved to the new location inAugust, after outgrowing the old facilityin downtown Dawsonville.

The new 2,500-square-foot building ismore than twice the size of the formerheadquarters, located in the historic jail.

For more information, call (706) 265-6278, or visit www.dawson.org.

Chamber ‘very pleased’ with open houseWeekend turnout in the hundreds

Photos by Frank Reddy Dawson Community News

More than 150 people showed up for the ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 8at the new Dawson County Chamber of Commerce and Welcome Center.

From left, Mimi Seibel, Tom Foley, Pete Hill and Hoke Wofford enjoyrefreshments last month at the Dawson County Chamber of Commerceopen house for the new welcome center.

Rielyn Talley, 3, spends time with some critters at the Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony Oct. 8.


Thank YouChamber Building Fund

Sponsors

PropertyInvestmentAssociates

OCTOBER MEMBER RENEWALS

NEW MEMBERS

Special thanks to the following members that renewed memberships last month:

BodyPlex of Dawsonville (new owners)Bruce Stromwall160 Nordson Overlook RoadDawsonville, GA 30534(706) 429-0271Category: Fitness, Health Club and Pool

A Novel Idea Used Book StoreSkip Arnhart3651 Dawson Forrest Rd., EastSte 600Dawsonville, GA 30534(706) 216-0101Category: Retail: Used Bookstore

Jayne Hanlon Realty, LLCJayne Hanlon60 Nature ViewDahlonega, GA 30533(706) 344-2600Category: Realtor

ALS PotteryAmy Strickland34 Instigator CoveDawsonville, GA 30534(706) 531-1392Category: Art Studio

Piazza Italian RestaurantDavid Meyer837 Hwy 400 SouthSte 175Dawsonville, GA 30534(706) 216-3142Category: Restaurant

Genworth FinancialPatricia Nichols192 River Sound LaneDawsonville, GA 30534(706) 265-1225Category: Long Term Care Insurance

Yochum Financial GroupScott Yochum137 Prominence Court, Ste 110Dawsonville, GA 30534(404) 307-4574Category: Financial Planning

CSJ Contracting Inc.Glenn Ulmer36 Collins RdDawsonville, GA 30534(770) 480-2801Category: Construction

Crimson N’ ScarlettGlenn Ulmer36 Collins RdDawsonville, GA 30534(770) 480-2801Category: Winery

Blue Ridge GlassworksRob Heath45 Heath RoadDawsonville, GA 30534(706) 216-2881Category: Art Studio Gallery

Park Place Reverse MortgageCindy Leveille1176 Grimes Bridge RdRoswell, GA 30076(678) 316-3341Category: Mortgage

• Grace Therapy Inc.• Chestatee Golf Club• Gold City Insurance Agency LLC• Burt, Bill and Harriet• Keating Family Medicine• North Georgia Zoo/Wildlife

Wonders• R.E.A.D. (Reading Education

Association of Dawson County)• Dawson County WEE Read Books

Program Inc.• Dawson County Homeowners

Association• Mary Kay Cosmetics-

Independent Sales Dir• Tax Help Doctor LLC

October totals Walk-in visitors: 701Telephone referrals: 2,997


AMBASSADOR SPOTLIGHT

‘Shop Local’ testimonials


For the second time this year,Angela Harben has been selectedas the Dawson County Chamberof Commerce Ambassador of theMonth.

Harben, an administrative assis-tant and office manager at K.C.Fuller & Associates, was also rec-ognized for her contributions tothe chamber’s ambassador pro-gram in March.

The ambassadors are aninformed, select group of motivat-ed, enthusiastic and articulatebusinessmen and women who

serve as theliaisons to thechamber’s mem-bership and rep-resent the cham-ber at many civicand social func-tions.

Harben joinedthe volunteer

program in January.“I joined the Dawson County

Chamber Ambassador program inJanuary 2010, to become moreinvolved in the community and togrow closer to the owners andemployees of business in ourcommunity, also it is a great net-

working tool for our firm,”Harben said.

An Ellijay native, Harben hasworked at K.C. Fuller &Associates for six years.

“We provide tax planning andpreparation for business and indi-vidual along with a list of otherservices,” she said.

Harben said she is looking for-ward to continued involvement inthe chamber and the community.

“I also will be in the class of2011 Leadership Dawson,” shesaid.

She and her husband, Shannon,live in Dawson County and attendJuno Baptist Church.

Harben is Ambassador of the Month

Harben

“Marty and I are getting our wood floors refinishedthrough 400 Paint & Floor Covering, Inc. When wewere meeting with owner, Victor Dowis, about our proj-ect, he said that he definitely gets referrals through thechamber. He said primarily through the Web site andspecifically newcomers who find him on our Web siteand then they come in when they are ready to movehere and have home improvements done!”

Linda WilliamsPresident, Dawson County Chamber of Commerce

New member Harris Georgia, ofThe Graphic Edge, contacted theDawson County Chamber ofCommerce after the Business Expoand said his experience as a newmember has been very positive andhe has gotten new business. He isoffering a 10 percent discount tochamber members on their firstorder through the end of this year.

NEW 2011 BOARD MEMBERS

During the Nov. 18 luncheon of the DawsonCounty Chamber of Commerce, five potentialboard members will be presented to the generalmembership for approval to the 2011-2012 board

of directors. The newly elected board memberswill begin their official term on Jan.1, but willparticipate in the chamber's upcoming planningretreat in December.

James AskewUCB

Jennifer BakerUCB

Carla BoutinState FarmInsurance

Doris Cook EWSA

Kristie MyersThe NortonAgency


The trick was on Judy andDemby Harmon on Oct. 26when the couple’s name wasdrawn as the Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce cashprize winner.

Had the Harmons attendedthe chamber’s monthly busi-ness after hours event a fewdays before Halloween atCommunity & SouthernBank’s conference center,they would have left withextra cash in their pockets.

Winners must be presentto claim the cash prize.

The chamber would like tothank the following memberswho support the monthly

cash drawings with mone-tary donations: JamesAskew-United CommunityBank, Kristie Myers-TheNorton Agency, BarbaraR o b e r t s - H e a l t h y -eatingOnTheRun.com, LarryAnderson-Anderson FamilyMedicine and SharonReagan-Aflac.

The chamber would alsolike to thank the individualsand businesses that donateddoor prizes for the event.

The pot for the cash draw-ing grows to $625 for theNovember affair, which willbe held at Etowah Water andSewer Authority.

Business after hours willbe held from 5-7 p.m. A rib-bon cutting ceremony priorto the event will be held tocelebrate the completion ofthe authority’s newly remod-eled and renovated buildingon Hwy. 53.

For more information, call(706) 216-8474.

Lori andSteve Lewissaid theywere excitedto win aHalloweengingerbreadhouse at thechamber’sbusinessafter hoursevent held atCommunity& SouthernBank’s con-ference cen-ter on Oct.26, which isLori’s birth-day.


Cash drawing growsfor November event

Etowah Waterand Sewer tohold next BAH


Used book storeopens in countyBy Michele [email protected]

S k i p A r n h a r t s t a r t e d c o l -l ec t ing books seve ra l yea r sb e f o r e h e o p e n e d A N o v e lI d e a , a u s e d b o o k s t o r e o nDawson Forest Road.

The store has been open forabout two months and shop-p e r s a r e i n c r e a s i n g e a c hweek.

“We currently have a larges e l e c t i o n o f b o o k s , c l a s s i crock music and horror DVDs,but in the future our selectionwi l l be on ly as good as thei tems brought in for t rade ,”Arnhart said.

The book s to re f ea tu res ava r i e t y o f b o o k s f r o m t h emost popular genres.

There is also a large selec-t ion of ch i ldren’s books , as

well as a sect ion devoted toinspirational reading.

W h e n i t e m s a r e b r o u g h tinto the store, credit is gener-ally issued for one-quarter ofthe i tem’s retai l pr ice l is tedon the cover. The credit maybe used for up to one-half oft h e p u r c h a s e p r i c e o f u s e ditems in the store.

A N o v e l I d e a w i l l n o taccept d i r ty, damaged, poorquality or overstocked items.Vinyl records and CDs mustb e i n g o o d c o n d i t i o n f o rtrade.

Arnhart said merchandise isp r i c e d a t l e a s t h a l f o f f t h ecover price.

For more information, call(706 ) 216 -0101 , o r s top byt h e s t o r e , l o c a t e d a t 3 6 5 1D aw s o n Fo r e s t R o a d , E a s t ,Suite 600.


Holly Jones and Carla Boutin browse the selection of books andassorted media at A Novel Idea, a used book store on DawsonForest Road.

BodyPlex undernew managementBy Frank [email protected]

A fitness center inDawsonville has new man-agement, and DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce members joinedwith the center’s staff lastmonth for a ribbon cuttingceremony.

BodyPlex features a gymand fitness equipment. Inaddition, said GeneralManager Lisa Stanley, theclub has a pool, hot tub,sauna, steam bath andshowers.

“It is a full-service facili-ty, so we have everythingyou might need,” she said.

Stanley said the fitnesscenter strives to “help our

members to execute theirgoals. We sit down withthem on an individual basisand go through what theirgoals are.”

Added Stanley: “Whethertheir goal is being able todo 10 pushups or losing 50pounds, we’re here to help.”

She said front desk staffand trainers are available atall hours the facility isopen.

BodyPlex is open from 5

a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondaythrough Thursday; 5 a.m. to9 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m. to 6p.m. Saturday; and 1 p.m.to 5 p.m. Sunday. It islocated off Ga. 400 South.

According to its Web site,the business “has a passionto deliver an incomparable,over-the-top, dynamic,stimulating, captivating ...workout.”

For more information,call (706) 265-1398.


BodyPlex and the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cuttingceremony last month for the fitness club, located off Ga. 400 South.

‘Whether their goal is being able to do10 pushups or losing 50 pounds, we’rehere to help.’

Lisa StanleyGeneral manager



Crimson ‘N Scarlett’s Vineyard celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremonyearlier this month. The celebration was held in tandem with a ribbon-cut-ting ceremony for CSJ Contracting.


Those who enjoy wine have the oppor-tunity to visit a real winery right in theirown backyard.

Crimson ‘N Scarlett’s Vineyards is afamily owned and operated business offof Hwy. 53 that specializes in fruit wines.

“All of our fruit wines are made fromGeorgia whole fruit,” said MasterWinemaker Glenn Ulmer.

“There’s nothing added to them. It’sjust whole fruit, which makes us a littleunique as far as winemakers go.”

The business specializes in fruit wines,but staff members also make traditionalred and white wines.

For a fruit wine, Ulmer said, “if every-thing works perfectly, it takes about oneyear to 18 months” for the wine to beready to drink.

Those who would like to sample the

local business’s products are welcome.A tasting room is open from 11 a.m. to

5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and12:30 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information, call (770) 480-2801, or visit www.cnsvineyard.com.

The chamber of commerce also held aribbon-cutting ceremony in tandem withthe winery, that of Ulmer’s contractingbusiness.

CSJ Contracting specializes in remod-eling offices and restaurants. The busi-ness number is (706) 429-0114.

Chamber celebrateswinery, contractor

‘All of our fruit wines are made from Georgiawhole fruit.’

Glenn UlmerMaster winemaker

Woman specializesin long term careBy Frank [email protected]

Patricia Nichols of Dawsonville cel-ebrated a ribbon-cutting ceremonywith chamber of commerce staff earli-er this month.

Nichols is a long term care advisorwith a background in nursing andrehabilitation.

“Because of my nursing career, Ihave a passion to help people,”Nichols said.

She consults with individuals, finan-cial planners and provides coverage tomajor organizations and their mem-bers.

Nichols said she specializes in help-ing clients in their 30s, 40s and“Boomers” to provide extended carecoverage before a crisis happens.

“Each plan is designed to specific

needs of the individual,” she said. “Ialso specialize in policies that provideinternational coverage. We are a glob-al society on the move.”

Long Term Care Insurance is locat-ed at 192 River Sound Lane inDawsonville.

For more information, call (706)265-1225, e-mail [email protected] or visit www.nicholsltci-plans.com.


A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the Dawson County Chamber ofCommerce for Patricia Nichols of Long Term Care Insurance.

‘Each plan is designed to specificneeds of the individual.’

Patricia NicholsLong term care advisor



Members of Georgia Farmgirls and the Dawson County Chamber ofCommerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony last month.

Farmgirls touteco-friendlinessBy Frank [email protected]

A local group that strives to promotehomemaking, gardening and achievingan eco-friendly lifestyle held its ribboncutting ceremony last month.

Georgia Farmgirls, a local chapter ofthe international MaryJane Farmgirls,began in June 2009.

Forsyth County resident Mary AnnWitcher said women who join the chap-ter “want to have a simpler lifestyle.”

The international organization beganwith an organic lifestyle magazine bythe original farmgirl, MaryJane Butters.It has since grown into a global sister-hood with 773 chapters worldwide.

The “Henhouse” straddles theDawson-Forsyth county line on Hwy. 9South.

Georgia Farmgirls meets monthly.The 40-member group takes field tripsand visits classes to discuss various top-ics.

Every weekend, the group holds fleamarkets that feature the handiwork of itsmembers.

Georgia Farmgirls meet at the“Henhouse” at 10:30 a.m. the secondSaturday of each month.

For more information, call (770) 845-5728, e-mail [email protected] visit www.georgiafarmgirls.org.

Local center treatspatients like familyBy Michele [email protected]

The staff of about 13 at Keating FamilyMedicine in Dawsonville is dedicated totreating their patients like family.

“That’s what you get here. We’re all afamily,” said Barbara Smart, officeadministrator.

The practice, which recently moved toa medical center on LumkpinCampground Road, was opened aboutseven years ago by William Keating, aboard certified family practice physi-cian.

Keating is also certified to treat addic-tion.

“So we see a wide range of patients,from infancy to centurions,” Smart said.

Keating recently welcomed a newphysician to the practice, Dr. FolakeTaylor, who joined the staff in Marchand is board certified in internal medi-cine.

“Dr. Taylor presents a new face toDawsonville. A female internist issomething that the community reallyneeded,” Smart said, “so we brought heron to expand our services.”

Some of the most common conditionsmanaged at Keating Family Medicineare hypertension, diabetes, high choles-terol, heart disease and arthritis.

Among other illnesses treated aredepression, anxiety, the common cold,allergies and skin conditions.

The office also offers annual physicalexaminations, sports and employmentphysicals, some occupational medicineand any age appropriate health mainte-nance issues.

The practice is open from 7:30 a.m. to6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8a.m. to noon Saturday.

Appointments and walk-ins areaccepted.

For more information, call (706) 265-4100.


The staff of about 13 care givers at Keating Family Medicine inDawsonville is dedicated to treating their patients like family.


Main Branch located at Hwy 53 & GA 400 in Dawsonville,With locations at downtown Dawsonville, Keith Bridge Commons, Cumming and Marble Hill

(706) 216-2265 www.chestateestatebank.com

L-R: Jim Curry, Russell Hewatt, Wanda Smith, Adam Buice, and Philip Hester

MAIN BRANCH DOWNTOWN

L-R: Cheryl Hunsinger, Amanda Gibson,and Susan Bergstrom

WE’RE LENDING MONEY.HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

In these uncertain times, it is nice to know there are still some things you can count on close to home.

At Chestatee State Bank we are still taking care of our customersand their businesses, just as we have been for over a decade.

Come see us.

chamber chronicle november 2010

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