october 2009 chamber chronicle

As Nov. 11 approaches,thoughts turn to those whohave served to protect ourcountry as well as thosewho do now.

As we fight our currentwar (the war on terrorism)we see our loved ones fight

and serve in a very differ-ent theatre from wars past.

E-mails, and in somecases cell phones, makecommunication somewhatbetter, but also the rules ofengagement have changed.

Despite any of our polit-

ical views, our troops arefighting a war where therespect and love of life arenot the same as ours. Andas with our vets that wewill celebrate and honorwith wars past, we respectand care for those who

guard our country and pro-tect us now.

Once again, and for thethird time, Dawsonvillewill be one of only tworegional sites in Georgia tohold the blessing of theVeteran’s Day National

Committee as they preparefor Veteran’s Day festivitiesand remembrances.

Many have workedbehind the scenes, but no

The Member Newsletter of the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce

October 2009

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

Post Office Box 299“Old Jail”west of the square

Dawsonville, GA 30534(706) 265-6278

Christi’s Bridal holdribbon cutting

Jay Walker

Expo brings a crowd

Dawsonville is honored to support veterans

See VETERANS, Page 5

By Michele HesterStaff writer

There was a time whenyou had to travel outsidethe county for many prod-ucts and services.

That’s not the case anylonger, and hundreds ofpeople saw that last week atthe Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce’sannual Business Expo.

About 70 local busi-nesses from across thecounty set up informationalbooths Oct. 6 at theLakeview Center to show-case their products andservices to the community.

“The parking lot was

full by 4:15 p.m.,” saidchamber vice presidentMarty Williams. “Andmore arrived as they got offwork.”

Linda Williams, presi-dent of the chamber, saidshe was happy with theturnout, both from the com-munity and the businessvendors.

“We were glad to seesuch great attendance andso many new faces thisyear, and we are so appre-

ciative of the businessesthat were there, and wow,the door prizes they gaveout were wonderful,” shesaid.

Organizers aren’t sure ifit was the fabulous doorprizes or the food samplesby some of DawsonCounty’s favorite restau-rants and caterers thatbrought out the crowds.

“The food the restau-rants brought out wasexcellent. Everyone wentout of their way to bringthe top of the line food foreveryone to taste,” saidMarty Williams. “We’vehad nothing but positiveresponses to the event.”

For more picturesof the event, seepage 5

Photo/Michele Hester

Organizers aren’t sure if it was the door prizes or the food samplesby some of county’s favorite restaurants and caterers that broughtout the crowds.

There is a commer-cial on television that hasa line that goes some-thing like this: “Re-ducing your advertisingbudget is like turning offyour open sign to saveelectricity.”

In tough economictimes, budget cuts arenecessary and it is tempt-ing to think of youradvertising and market-ing line items as discre-tionary. They are not.

You want your com-pany’s name to be fresh

in your prospects’ andcustomers’ minds fortheir needs today and inthe future.

How to do that istoday’s big question.

Your BusinessDevelopment Council ofthe chamber has beenhard at work to assemblea great line-up of expertsin marketing and adver-tising.

See the line-up belowof topics and speakers.

Opportunities areopening up as we speak

in the areas of socialmedia. I will attend theclass myself and I amparticularly anxious tolearn about how to usethis rapidly evolvingopportunity that is cours-ing its way through theworld-wide-Web.

There are so manyways to market yourcompany.

From print media, e-mail, snail mail andmore, just how do youput it together?

This class is for you.

We have kept this to aminimal cost of $5 forchamber members. Non-members may also attendfor $10.

Please call the cham-ber right away to reserveyour space at (706) 265-6278.

I send a huge thankyou to AppalachianCommunity Bank forsponsoring this event.The class will be heldfrom 1-4 p.m. Oct. 20 atAppalachian CommunityBank’s community room

located at 30 Main Streetin downtown Dawson-ville.

October is a verybusy month. I hope tosee you at a chamberevent soon.

Won’t you join us?

• Dawson Chamber Chronicle • October 2009

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Marketing, advertising seminar planned

Marketing/Advertising seminar1-4 p.m. Oct. 20 at the

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Randy LohrenzRegionalMarketing DirectorDawson News &Advertiser

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Panelist list:

Dawson Chamber Chronicle • October 2009 •

C H A M B E R M E M B E R SChamber events

October

Oct. 19: College Career Seminarwill be held from 4-7 p.m. at theAdult earning Center, free ofcharge. Community leaders willprovide information on how toget a job or enroll in college. Formore information, call (706) 265-1690 or e-mail Kathy Davis [email protected].

Oct. 20: Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce will host“Marketing and Advertising in aFast-Pace World,” from 1-4 p.m.at the Appalachian CommunityBank community center, 30 MainStreet, Dawsonville. Fee will be$5 for chamber members and$10 for nonmembers. For moreinformation or to R.S.V.P., call(706) 265-6278. Special thanksto sponsor AppalachianCommunity Bank.

Oct. 24-25: 42nd AnnualMountain Moonshine Festivalwill be held in downtownDawsonville. The event is spon-sored by KARE for Kids. Formore information, call (706) 265-6278.

Oct. 27: AppalachianCommunity Bank, 4300 DawsonForest Road, will host BusinessAfter Hours from 5-7 p.m. Thecash drawing (Chamber’sEconomic Stimulus Package) issponsored by AFLAC-SharonReagan, Anderson FamilyMedicine-Dr. Larry Anderson,The Norton Agency-KristieMyers, R&D Caulking-MikeDowns, United CommunityBank-James Askew, Van KeithInsurance Agency ofDawsonville-Ann Grizzle and

Denny Insurance Group-DennyPutlak. Remember, you must bepresent to win if your name isdrawn. A costume contest will beheld, so dress your best. Forsecurity purposes, do not wearany masks that would cover yourhead and face.

November

Nov. 12: Lunch with theChamber will be held at noon atthe Lakeview Center, 2057Dawson Forest Road. Secretaryof State Karen Handel will be theguest speaker. R.S.V.P. by Nov.9, by calling (706) 265-6278.Lunch is $12.50 with a reserva-tion or $15 without. Non-mem-bers may attend at $18 per per-son. Pre-payment is required.

Nov. 14: Musical “Turning Thirty,”sponsored by the DawsonCounty Woman’s Club will beheld from 7-9 p.m. at DawsonCounty Middle School. Five tal-ented Atlanta actors and theirband perform an uplifting storyof a young man’s successful bat-tle with cancer. Event will be $15per ticket or $25 per couple.Proceeds benefit Relay for Life.For more information, call Cindyat (706) 344-1288.

Nov. 16: Are you ready to teeoff? Dawson County Chamber ofCommerce Annual GolfTournament at Chestatee GolfClub. Registration will begin at11 a.m. and the event will beginwith a shotgun start at noon. Thetournament will be a Lauderdaleformat. Compete in the hole inone and other contests. Formore information, call (706) 265-6278.

Picnic raises more than $400


Doris Cook, left, sits down with Betty and Ernest Nalley last month for ahotdog fundraiser. Sponsored by Etowah Water and Sewer Authority, theevent raised more than $400 for United Way for Dawson County.

Vietnam Veterans, from left,Tommy Matera and GaryPichon bow their heads inprayer before placing awreath in memory of soldiersmissing in action or prisonersof war on National MIA/POWDay at Veterans MemorialPark on Sept. 18.


Veteranshonor missing soldiers

From staff reports

The Dawson AdultLearning Center ofLanier Technical Collegehas teamed up with areabusiness professionals toprovide expert advice toanyone looking for a job,trying to get a better jobor considering enrollingin college.

The free college andcareer seminar will beheld from 4-6 p.m.,Monday, Oct. 19 at theAdult Learning Center,located at 388 Hwy. 9

North, Dawsonville. Linda Williams, presi-

dent of the chamber ofcommerce, will provideinformation on businesstrends in Dawson Countyand industries that aresucceeding.

She will also explainthe Work Ready test andhow to apply for the $50and $100 incentives cur-rently being offered.

Jay Walker, managerof the local Kroger inDawsonville and currentchairman of the cham-ber's board of directors,

will go over the type ofemployee businesses pre-fer and the attitude andskills that employers areseeking.

Human ResourcesDirector of DawsonCounty Jay Sessions,will provide advice onthe best methods toemploy in a job inter-view.

He can explain theimpression that appear-ance and body languagecan give an employer.

Randy Case, Englishinstructor with the Adult

Learning Center, willpresent the steps to writ-ing a powerful resumeand the type of resumethat would be most suc-cessful for your situationor skills.

Shannon Obermeier,Dual Enrollment Spec-ialist with Lanier Tech,will answer questions onenrolling in Lanier Techand financial aid re-sources available.

The event is free andopen to anyone whowould like to attend.

Reservations are rec-

ommended but notrequired.

For additional infor-mation, call the AdultLearning Center at (706)

265-1690 Mondaythrough Thursday from 8a.m. to 8 p.m. or e-mailKathy Davis at [email protected].


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

P.O Box 1096137 Prominence Court

Suite 240Dawsonville, GA 30534

C H A M B E R M E M B E R S

Ceremony recalls 9/11

By Elizabeth HamiltonStaff writer

Residents of DawsonCounty recently gath-ered at Fire Staion 1 topay tribute to the vic-t ims of the Sept . 11,2001, terrorist attacks onthe eighth anniversary ofthe event.

“Everyone remem-bers exactly where theywere when they firstheard the news,” saidChad Rogers, one of twochaplains for DawsonCounty Public Safety.

“Every individualthat is standing here thismorning was affected insome way by what hap-pened in 2001.”

He reflected on thel ives lost during thetragedy, and challenged

those present to makethe most of each day,expressing love andthanks to family mem-bers and co-workers.

“Sept. 11 reminds usof where we al l aretoday,” Rogers said.“There were peoplekilled that did not get tokiss their loved onesgoodbye, words theycould have said that theydid not get the chance tosay.

“Enjoy the blessingsthat you have right nowtoday. Let’s not be hastyin remembering the past,but let us be hasty intaking care of the neces-sities today. We neverknow when tragedy willhit.”

The flags in front ofthe station were flown at

half staff, as ordered byGov. Sonny Perdue.

Capt. Jamerson Ker-by of Dawson CountyEmergency Services wasone of several publicsafety members toattend the ceremony, andsaid it was a tasteful andappropriate way tohonor those who are nolonger with us.

“Even eight yearslater, we stil l need toremember what hap-pened and take sometime out of our day topay our respects,” Kerbysaid.

“Chad Rogers deliv-ered an excellent mes-sage, and this year hasbeen the biggest turnoutso far.”

Bil ly Thurmond,director of emergencyservices, was pleasedwith the turnout.

“It continues to grow

each year,” Thurmondsaid.

“This is an occasionthat we always want toremember, and remem-

ber those who lost theirlives that day.”

The ceremony endedwith a moment ofsilence shortly after 9

a.m., recogniz ing thetime when the first air-craft crashed into theWorld Trade Center inNew York City.

Eighth annual event held at Station 1

Photo/Elizabeth Hamilton

Members of the community bowed their heads for a moment of silenceduring the Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony.

College and career seminar to be held Oct. 19



one more than the cham-ber’s own PamHamalainen, to bring theattention and respect to theDawson County vets thatthey so deserve.

Dawson County is oneof only 41 designated sitesnationwide that serves as amodel community for theevents that it holds in the

Veterans honor. Gov. Perdue has invited

the local committee to berecognized at the AnnualVeteran’s Day Pro-clamation Signing Cere-mony at 1 p.m. Oct. 29 inthe north wing of the statecapitol.

Several events areplanned in honor of our vet-

erans, including a paradegrand marshaled by S/SgtWaymon Tate and CWO-4William Bill Garner start-ing at 2:30 p.m. onVeteran’s Day.

All veterans, active mil-itary, Dawson County LawEnforcement, Fire andEMS will be honored andrepresented.

As well, a private ban-quet will be held for ourveterans and their spousesbefore the parade atDawson County MiddleSchool at 1 p.m.

As our family ends eachday in prayer, our sonHayden is the first to prayfor my nephew, JustinTaylor, who currently

serves as a mortar specialistin Afghanistan.

Though I pray for hissafety and cherish the daythat he returns unharmed, Iam proud that he has rolemodels who have gonebefore him in battle, such asthose like Capt. LarryFreeland and the fore men-tioned in the parade, who

have set an unprecedentedstandard in leadership andbravery for us all.

For more informationon Veterans Day events,contact Pam Hamalainen orLinda Williams at thechamber at (706) 265-6278.

Jay WalkerChairman

VETERANS from 1

Above, Katie Garbos, 5, rolls a strike in Wii bowling at the Dawson County Library’sbooth at the Business Expo. Left, Liberty Tax Services invited Lady Liberty, AmandaRemington, to the chamber’s expo last week.

Businesses promotePhotos/Michele Hester



One stop wedding, pageant shop


Going to prom is amilestone in the lives ofmost young girls, andthe search for the per-fect dress, date and din-ner location comes sec-ond next to the day thatevery little girl dreamsof: Her wedding day.

From prom dress towedding dress, shoes,jewelry and even formala t t i re for the guys ,Chr is t i ’s Br idal andFormal Wear is NorthGeorgia’s one s topbridal store for the “bigday.”

“I love my job,” saidChristi Franklin, ownerand founder of thestore. “I love being apart of the big day. It’sl ike get t ing marr iedeveryday.”

Franklin opened thes tore in December2008, and recently cele-brated the opening witha ribbon cutting cere-mony sponsored by theDawson County Cham-ber of Commerce.

“It is always great towelcome the first busi-ness of a new categoryto the community,” saidLinda Williams, presi-dent of the chamber. “Itis also a positive thingto fi l l a n iche in thecommunity that hasn’tbeen served.”

Williams added that

Franklin made a wisechoice in opening herbusiness in DawsonCounty due to the sev-era l event fac i l i t iesoffered throughout thecounty, as well as thenatural beauty of theNorth Georgia moun-tains.

Franklin left a fulltime position in corpo-rate human resources,an indust ry in whichshe worked for 10years, to open her ownbusiness.

“While I was work-ing in HR I p lannedweddings on the side,”Frankl in sa id . “Thenature of my job wasplanning events , andwhen I started planningmore and more wed-dings, I realized that itwas what I really lovedand rea l ly wanted todo.”

A Georgia native andres ident of DawsonCounty s ince 1992,Franklin said she choseto open a business herebecause there was not astore of i ts caliber inthe surrounding area.

“When I got marriedin 2003, there was noth-ing here. I had to driveto Gwinnet t County,Alpharetta, Buckheadand At lanta to geteverything that I need-ed,” Franklin said.

She descr ibed herbusiness as a “one stopshop,” a convenience tolimit travel on the partof the c l ient to geteverything they need fortheir special occasion.

The unique shopoffers prom and pageantgowns, tuxedo rentals,as well as invitations,

jewelry, shoes, acces-sories and more.

Franklin noted thatshe welcomed a newaspect to her businessthat completes the wed-ding package.

Cindi Harper hasmore than 20 yearsexper ience planningweddings and otherevents , and recent lyjoined Franklin to offerher expertise in eventdesign, entertainment,formal wear, photogra-phy, t ravel ar range-ments and accommoda-tions, to name a few.

Christi’s Bridal andFormal Wear is locatedat 66 South 400 CenterLane, Suite 230-235 inDawsonville.

For more informa-t ion, ca l l (706) 265-8500.

Ribbon cutting ceremonycelebrates local business

Gloria Smith, left,and Carey Robinsonof AppalachianCommunity Bankbrowse through theformal dress selec-tions at a ribbon cut-ting ceremony forChristi’s Bridal andFormal Wear lastmonth.

Photos/Elizabeth Hamilton

Christi Franklin, front center, recently celebrat-ed the opening of her business with a ribboncutting ceremony sponsored last month by theDawson County Chamber of Commerce.



Chamber’s cash prize grows to $2,950

By Michele HesterStaff Writer

It’s hard to turn down agood tailgate party, espe-cially when there’s a$2,775 cash grand prizeinvolved.

Chestatee State Bankinvited chamber membersto show support for theirfavorite team during themonthly Business AfterHours event held at thebank Sept. 22.

While the red and blackdominated most of theevening, Tennessee orangealso had a good showing.

In the end, no one tookhome the grand prize,because Janice Hale, ofHillcrest Orchards, wasnot present when hername was drawn for thecash.

The cash drawingincreases to $2,950 for thismonth’s Business AfterHours, which will be heldfrom 5-7 p.m. Oct. 27 at

Appalachian CommunityBank’s Ga. 400 branch onDawson Forest Road.

Everyone is invited tobegin trick-or-treatingearly by wearing theirHalloween costume andentering the costume con-test.

For security purposes,please do not wear anymasks that would cover

your head and face. For more information,

call (706) 265-5090.The chamber would

like to thank the followingsponsors for donating tothe cash prize drawing:AFLAC, Anderson FamilyMedicine, The NortonAgency, R&D CaulkingInc., United CommunityBank, Van Keith Insurance

Agency of Dawsonvilleand Denny InsuranceGroup.

Special recognitionalso goes out to Paul

Thomas Chocolates,Anidawehi Spa andWellness Center, Bella SolSalon, Dawson CountyArts Council, Jeanette

Walker, Ashlyn’s Attic,Yorkie Doodle Embroid-ery and Kroger for donat-ing door prizes for theevent.

Costume contest at October event


Calling all local businessesand golfers: The Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce's 11thAnnual Golf Tournament hasbeen rescheduled for Nov. 16 atChestatee Golf Club.

A fundraiser that supports theefforts of the chamber, registra-

tion will begin at 11 and theshotgun start will be at noon.

As in years past, play will bein the Ft. Lauderdale format thatwill include 3 hole-in-one chal-lenges to win prizes, as well asclosest to the pin, and a longestdrive contest.

"We encourage the communi-ty to come out and enjoy a roundof golf while supporting the

chamber," said chamber presi-dent Linda Williams. "The eventis always fun, the food is great,and an awards will be givenout."

Golfers can play individuallyfor $125 or in teams of four for$450.

Entry fees include green feesand golf cart, practice range,lunch, goodie bag, awards din-

ner, raffle and awards. "Participating in the tourna-

ment is a great way to supportthe chamber as well as promoteyour business within the commu-nity," Williams added.

Prizes will be awarded for thefirst and second low gross andlow net. $10,000, courtesy ofChestatee State Bank, is the prizefor the hole-in-one competition.

Sponsorships are available atmany different levels, rangingfrom a $150 Hole Sponsor to$1,000 Awards Sponsor.

Pre-registration is highlyencouraged, but the chamber willregister teams on the morning of,if necessary.

For more information, con-tact the chamber at (706) 265-6278.

Chamber golf tournament rescheduled for Nov. 16

Chestatee State Bank invited chamber mem-bers to show support for their favorite teamduring the monthly Business After Hours eventheld at the bank Sept. 22.

Photos/Michele Hester

Chasity Wysotski, of Prudential Georgia Realty, won a Georgia Bulldogtailgate cooler, courtesy of Kroger during the event. Kroger managerand chairman of the chamber’s board Jay Walker presented the gift.


Chamber Chronicle is the monthly newsletter of the Dawson CountyChamber of Commerce.

The editorial content includes Chamber News and goals of interest to thebusiness and residential community.

The Chamber will keep the community informed about ribbon cuttings, business expansions, chamber functionsand events, community events and the benefits ofChamber membership through ChamberChronicle.

The Chronicle is mailed to all subscribers of theDawson Community News, plus all Chambermembers. Additional copies are available at theChamber office.

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Deadline: MondayOne Week Prior to Publication Call Jennifer Lyness at 770-887-3126 for rates

EXTEND YOUR ADVERTISING MARKETin our

Dawson Community NewsA Community Newspaper Serving Community Needs


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Timothy A.Annis,D.C.Jeremy Elzey

Elzey Exterminating Co., Inc.(Residential & Commercial)

Free Termite inspections

1992 Dr. Bramblett Rd.Cumming, GA 30040

Office # 678-455-9200Cell # 678-887-0038


Chamber members give back at ‘Day of Caring’


Dozens of chamber ofcommerce members gottheir hands dirty Sept. 18when they took the morn-ing off from work andparticipated in UnitedWay for DawsonCounty’s annual Day ofCaring.

Among other activi-ties, volunteers cleanedkennels and walked dogsat the Dawson CountyHumane Society and did

landscape work at AbbaHouse and the DawsonCounty Senior Center.

“Giving back to thecommunity we live andwork in is a part of ourcompany culture,” saidJim Devrise, vice presi-dent of Nordson, whichhas had employees partic-ipate in Day of Caring for12 years.

Jane Alvarez ofSunTrust said employeesat the bank volunteeredbecause “we want tobecome a vital part of the

community.”Helping those in need

is a key issue for theUnited Way for DawsonCounty, which has seendemand for services risedue to the poor economy.

Following the Day ofCaring volunteers met forlunch and United Way forDawson County an-nounced a goal to raise$100,000 over the nextfew months.

“We see more neednow than we have in my35 years as a teacher andadministrator,” saidNicky Gilleland, hon-orary campaign chair andformer superintendent of

Dawson County Schools.“I don’t think I’ve everseen this big of a need.”

“The only way wecan relieve this situationis by giving and livingunited,” he said. “I wantto thank you for the giv-ing of your time and thegiving of your heart toour community.”

In the past six years,more than $424,000 hasbeen allocated to localUnited Way partners,including American RedCross, Boy Scouts andGirl Scouts, CourtAppointed Special Ad-vocates and 4-H DawsonCounty.

United Way sets $100,000 goal


Insurance and FireSafety CommissionerJohn Oxendine told mem-bers of the DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce that Georgiagovernment shouldrearrange its schedules tobetter serve the people.Oxendine was the guestspeaker at the chamber’s

Sept. 10luncheon.

“Whydo allt h e s eg o v e r n -m e n t sclose ata r o u n d4:30 p.m.

when you’re still at workmaking money thatenables you to pay taxesand support the govern-

ment?” Oxendine asked.“It’s kind of like let’shurry up and close beforethe people we work forhave a chance to call andask for help.”

Oxendine announcedearlier this year hisintentions to run for gov-ernor. He is the secondcandidate for governorwho has spoken to thechamber in recentweeks.

Republican U.S. Rep.Nathan Deal, ofGainesville, met with thechamber membership inAugust. Secretary ofState Karen Handel willbe the guest speaker inNovember.

Speaking to thechamber, Oxendinefocused on his currentduties as Insurance andFire Safety Commis-sioner, a position he has

held since 1994. Currently the longest

serving RepublicanStatewide ConstitutionalOfficer, Oxendine saidhe applies small businessprincipals to Georgiastate government by run-ning his departmentunder budget with feweremployees than theoffice had 15 years ago.

“I’ve often said beingan elected official should

be like being a firefight-er, being a police officer,being a teacher, being aminister. We normallydon’t go into those jobsand professions becauseyou want fame andglory,” Oxendine said.“You go into it becauseyou want to make thecommunity better, andthat’s what being a pub-lic official should beabout.”

Photo/Elizabeth Hamilton

David Seabolt, left, and John Riney, bothemployees of Nordson, help spread mulcharound Abba House on Sept. 18 during UnitedWay’s annual Day of Caring.

Insurance commissioner speaks at luncheon event

Oxendine

September totals wereunavailable as of presstime, check back nextmonth for September

and October totals


Thank YouChamber Building Fund

Sponsors

PropertyInvestmentAssociates

New members

• Don’t miss the cham-ber’s marketing seminarto be held from 1-4 p.m.Oct. 20 at theAppalachianCommunity Bank com-munity center.

• Congratulations toHerb Burnsed for being honored with the Lake Gibson LeadershipAward.

• The following have been nominated for two year terms (2010-2011)to the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce Board ofDirectors. The slate will be presented to the membership forapproval at the Nov. 12, 2009 meeting.Kathy Fuller – KC Fuller and AssociatesPeter Hill – Hill Design Associates Architects Inc.Rhonda Tower – Tower AutomotiveMike Underwood – First Citizens Bank of GeorgiaTaylor Wallace – Premier Landcare

Please let the Chamber know when you have a special event so we may add them in our Chamber Chronicle.

Special thanks to the following members that renewed in September

Elrod Heating andCoolingTerry Elrod(678) 648-544359 Hwy. 9 SouthDawsonville, GA300534

DiscoverDawson-.comMari Livsey(706) 692-1164P.O. Box 1134Jasper, GA 30143

Dawson County WeeBooks Program Inc.Marge Carey,Treasurer

(706) 216-2307176 Nix Point RoadDawsonville, GA30534

The Abacus GroupPepper Pettit(404) 401-85866470 Highway 400Bldg. C, Suite 101Cumming, GA

Trail & Son Inc.Ben Trail(706) 974-70463898 War Hill ParkRoadDawsonville, GA30534

Mountain ViewHome and GiftMichelle Ergle(706) 344-1247355 Quill Drive, Suite120Dawsonville, GA30534

New NameCounseling andTeaching CenterJason or Kim Glaze(706) 265-8128200 Old DawsonVillage RoadSuite 110Dawsonville, GA30534

A.D.S. Inc.Regions BankVisiting Angels of Lake Lanier

Southern Select Properties LLCGraphic Innovations


As Dawson CountyChamber of CommerceAmbassadors, volun-teers in the AmbassadorProgram are usuallybusy with registrationwhile other chambermembers are enjoyingthe chamber’s monthlyevents.

Last month, thegroup took a muchdeserved evening forthemselves and met foran early dinner at theKani House and latertried to find their wayout of Uncle Shuck’sCorn Maze.

Recently, severalambassadors shared a

little about themselvesand discussed the rea-sons they stay so active.

For AmbassadorChairman DennyPutlak, his work withthe chamber is a “laborof love.”

“As chamber ambas-sadors, we have theopportunity to get reallyconnected with the localcommunity and all thewonderful events thatthe chamber sponsorseach year,” he said.

Ambassador LoriLewis, who representsthree chamber business-es (Stelor Handyman,Dawson County Home-builders Association andthe Tigers TouchdownClub), said her work as

an ambassador “hashelped build my reputa-tion within the commu-nity and given me achance to meet manypeople.”

“There is nothingbetter than being able toget out and be involvedwith this great commu-nity,” she said.

Jane Alvarez, branchmanager at Suntrust inDawsonville, agrees andis “immensely enjoyingbecoming involved inthe community,” shesaid.

Ambassador EdCombs also enjoys hisinvolvement because itallows him to build hisREMAX real estatebusiness while also pro-

moting business growthin Dawson County.

The ambassadors area group of volunteersthat act as liaisonsbetween the chamberand its membership.

Ambassadors meetonce a month to sharesuccess stories.

They also spend agreat deal of time pro-moting the chamberthrough various activi-ties such as BusinessAfter Hours events, newbusiness ribbon cuttingsand personally meetingnew and existing mem-bers.

For more informa-tion on the chamber’sAmbassador Program,call (706) 265-6278.


Each month a differentbusiness or organizationsponsors the Dawson CountyChamber of CommerceAmbassador’s Breakfast, heldat Ryan’s in Dawsonville thefourth Wednesday of themonth. Kroger sponsored thegroup’s Sept. 23 meeting.

Kroger is an active con-tributor to the DawsonCounty community, withemployees continuously tak-ing time away from work tovolunteer, collecting fundsfor local organizations and

giving back in so many ways.Store manager Jay

Walker, who is also chairmanof the chamber’s board ofdirectors, credits his entirestaff at Kroger for being theunsung heroes that allow himand the store to participateand contribute so much to thecounty.

“The people who work forme do a phenomenal job. Wecouldn’t do it without them,”

he said. The Children’s Miracle

Network, Scottish Rite

Hospital and United Way arealso important causes forWalker and his employees.

Dawsonville Krogeremployees have been the topcontributors to the area’sUnited Way campaign for thelast several years.

Kroger is also a majorcontributor to the DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce and plays anactive role each year inorganizing the chamber’sannual community picniceach September at AmicalolaFalls State Park.

Breakfast sponsorships,at a reasonable cost, are still

available for ambassadorbreakfasts through the year.

The sponsorship is agreat way for businesses tospread the word about them-selves and/or their compa-nies.

The sponsorship providesthe breakfast for the monthlymeeting, gives sponsors 10-15 minutes to briefly speakon their business and includesa short profile in theChamber Chronicle.

To register to sponsor anambassador breakfast or formore information about theprogram, call (706) 216-1750.



Ambassador SpotlightAmbassador SpotlightDawsonville

Kroger

Walker

Ambassadors take time to relax, unwind


Chamber Ambassdors, from left, Lori Lewis and Inezand Bob Couch enjoy dinner at the Kani House lastmonth.

Dawson Chamber Chronicle • September 2009 •


By Elizabeth HamiltonStaff Writer

Dawson County bidfarewell to summer Sept.8 during the 13th AnnualCommunity Picnic atAmicalola Falls StatePark.

The free communitypicnic served up an esti-mated 800 hamburgersand 900 hot dogs. It alsofeatured activities rangingfrom face painting andhayrides to performancesby the Dawson CountyHigh School ChamberSingers and Relative toHim, a local vocalgroup.

“We had an excellentturnout this year, withover 700 people attend-ing,” said Linda Wil-liams, president of theDawson County Chamberof Commerce.

“We were pleasedwith the event and withthe families and childrenwho came out to enjoythemselves.

“We appreciate thepositive feedback thatwe’ve received, and areglad that those whoattended had a good time.We enjoyed ourselves aswell.”

Since the Sept. 11,2001, terrorist attacks, theevent has also providedan opportunity to paytribute to public safetypersonnel who risk theirlives serving the commu-nity.

This year, a specialtribute recognized themen and women of theMeth Task Force, volun-

teers who work behindthe scenes to makeDawson County a drug-free community.

“We are so fortunatein this county to havethese volunteers, becausein so many ways, we aredependent on dedicatedpeople such as yourselvesto make the place that wecall home a better placeto live each and everyday,” said Jay Walker,chamber chairman whopresented a plaque to thegroup.

Walker noted that thegroup gathered 800 sig-natures for a petition that

removed drug parapher-nalia from local conven-ient stores.

“We are so apprecia-tive of this group andcan’t thank you enoughfor what you do,” he said.

Bob King, a task forceboard member, acceptedthe award on behalf of thegroup.

“We are not a legaltask force, but rather agroup of volunteers work-ing together to educatethe public and providecommunity support forpeople to make positivechanges and decisions intheir lives,” King said.

He shared how thegroup recently held awell-attended fair at thelocal high school, stress-ing healthy relationshipsand alternatives for non-narcotic pain relief.

Williams described thepicnic as “one of thoseevents that absolutely ver-ifies the value of volun-teers to a community andto our organization.”

“This event could notand would not have hap-pened without our volun-teers and sponsors whohave worked so hard formonths to make the pic-nic successful,” she said.

“The picnic is a supremevolunteer effort.”

Sponsors for the eventincluded the DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce, AmicalolaFalls State Park andLodge, Kroger, the

Dawsonville Pool Room,United Community Bank,Coca-Cola of Gainesville,Mayfield Dairies, LenFoote Hike Inn, Wal-Mart, Byrd’s MiniStorage and the City ofDawsonville.

Annual picnic draws crowd, honors volunteers

Photos/Elizabeth Hamilton

Ted Bearden lets 2-year-old Bailey Swafford get a closer glimpse at ascreech owl during the annual community picnic, held in September atAmicalola Falls State Park.

Marilyn and Myron Strain enjoy free food fromthe Dawsonville Pool Room at the 13th AnnualCommunity Picnic.

Students from various vocational clubs atDawson County High School and employees ofUnited Community Bank wrap hot dogs to beserved during the community picnic.



Dawsonville selected as regional Veterans Day site


For the third consecu-tive year, Dawson Countyis one of only two citiesin the state selected bythe Secretary of VeteransAffairs in Washington,D.C. as a Veterans DayRegional Site.

The Veterans Affairsof Dawson County,Dawson County Cham-ber of Commerce,Dawson County andDawsonville will holdthe 5th Annual VeteransDay Celebration Nov. 11

in downtown Daw-sonville.

Festivities begin witha parade at 2:30 p.m., ledby Grand MarshalsS/Sgt. Waymon Tate andCWO-4 William (Bill)Garner.

Formal ceremonieswill be held at DawsonCounty Middle School at3:30 p.m. with Capt.Larry Freeland servingas Master of Ceremony.

Veterans and activemilitary from all warsand all branches will behonored, as well as localDawson County Law

Enforcement, fire andemergency services menand women.

The public is invitedto line the streets of

downtown Dawsonvilleand show support for allveterans and active mili-tary.

A private banquet

will be held at 1 p.m. atthe middle school, priorto the parade, for veter-ans and their families.

Veterans Affairs of

Dawson County is cur-rently accepting nomina-tions for Veteran of theYear, who will be hon-ored during the ceremo-ny.

Please submit, in yourown words, a nominationfor a veteran who hasmade a positive impacton our community thisyear.

Nominations can besent to Veterans Affairsof Dawson County,Attention: Pam Hama-lainen, 200 Kathy Lane,Dawsonville, GA 30534,and should be no morethan two paragraphslong.

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


Dawson County is oneof five counties awarded a$35,000 state grant toimprove the local work-force.

A group of leaders inthe county began workingabout a year ago toachieve the state’s WorkReady designation, whichwas created to ensure thatGeorgia’s workers havethe best skills, easy accessto training and world-classjob opportunities.

Linda Williams, presi-dent of the DawsonCounty Chamber ofCommerce, applied for thegrant in June to increase

awareness of the county’sWork Ready initiative.

Work Ready is basedon a skills assessment, cer-tification for job seekersand a job profiling systemfor businesses. The goal isto generate a workforcethat meets the needs oflocal businesses.

“As the team leader forDawson County’s CertifiedWork Ready process, thegroup is very appreciativeof these grant funds. It hasbeen challenging to get theword out to employers andjob seekers alike about thebenefits of the programwithout a budget to workwith,” Williams said.

To be designated aCertified Work Ready

Community, counties mustencourage current workersand the available work-force to earn WorkReady Certificates,demonstrate a commit-ment to improve publichigh school graduationrates and build commu-nity commitment for theprogram.

Williams said the goalto reach the designation inthe next 18 months is inreach.

“Thanks to Mr. Chelfat the high school, 100percent of the 2009 seniorclass took the work readytest. That has played a bigpart toward us getting thecommunity certified workready,” she said.

Funds could be usedto purchase incentives forstudents who improveattendance and testscores.

“Fortunately, our grad-uation rate is well abovethe minimum required.We will be able to usesome of these funds forsoftware to help our stu-dents prepare for thegraduation tests and forthe Work Ready assess-ments as well,” Williamssaid.

Reaching the county’sexisting workforce hasbeen the greatest chal-lenge, according toWilliams. She anticipatesreaching the unemployedto be just as challenging.

“We’d like to use thefunding to market the pro-gram. The grant willallow us to do an advertis-ing campaign with news-papers, online media andwe’ve even talked about abillboard,” she said.

The grant will alsoallow the members of thelocal work ready team toprint and distribute flyersthrough local agenciesthat serve families inneed.

“We want to do any-thing we can to market isand get the word out,” shesaid.

Gov. Sonny Perdueannounced last weekmore than 85 percent ofGeorgia’s communities

will be certified WorkReady with the additionof 30 new counties com-mitting to the program.

“Georgia’s communi-ties are boosting theireconomic developmentcredentials and helpingtheir citizens improvetheir job skills,” Perduesaid. “Becoming aCertified Work ReadyCommunity is proof that acounty is serious aboutdeveloping a capableworkforce and helps posi-tion Georgia for growthand innovation.”

For more informationabout the Work ReadyInitiative, call LindaWilliams at (706) 265-6278.

Workforce initiative awarded $35,000 grant

Nov. 11 event to include paradeand recognition ceremony

Resi-dentsgather fora pastVeteransDay serv-ice.

File photo



Luncheon praises chamber membersBy Michele HesterStaff writer

Last week’s chamber lunch-eon focused on giving backand paid tribute to the manresponsible for so many localcommunity service efforts overthe years.

Herb Burnsed thought hewas being asked to attend thechamber’s luncheon lastThursday to honor a youngleader in the community withthe Lake Gibson LeadershipAward.

He soon learned he hadbeen tricked. The award wasfor him.

Created a few years ago bythe alumni of DawsonCounty’s Leadership Academy,the Lake Gibson LeadershipAward honors an individualwho has made an impact on thecommunity through his tirelessefforts and achievements.

Leadership Dawson alumniwere in attendance for theaward presentation.

The former superintendentof Dawson County Schools,Burnsed has also served on theUnited Way for DawsonCounty and played a role indeveloping the organization inthe county, Rotary, the chamberand Etowah Water and SewerAuthority, among others.

“He is a great mentor tomany folks, including myself.Herb exemplifies leadershipfor all of us,” said Doris Cook,co-chair of LeadershipDawson. “Dawson County is abetter place because of hisinfluence.”

Surprised by the recogni-tion, Burnsed said he was surethere are several people in thecommunity more deserving.

“The Leadership Dawsonclass is our future as we pre-

pare others to be leaders of thiscounty,” Burnsed said. “I’m soappreciative. I want to thankeveryone in Dawson County.My time here has been won-derful.”

Luncheon guest speakerPeggy Prescott, a humanresources director for theKroger Corporation, also

encouraged those in attendanceto give back and make a differ-ence in the community.

“I know you here today arepart of the alumni group andsome are just recent in theleadership program. I believewhat this chamber is doing toeducate and inspire leaders tobecome involved, by providing

opportunities for you to inter-act and explore and make a dif-ference in Dawson County,demonstrates an amazing com-mitment,” Prescott said.

As the meeting came to

close, Chairman Jay Walkerpresented Prescott and DavidHerrington, Kroger ZoneManager, with gifts of grati-tude for all Kroger does forDawson County.

Left, LeadershipDawson co-chairsDoris Cook and PeterHill present HerbBurnsed, right, withthe Lake GibsonLeadership Awardlast Thursday duringthe chamber lunch-eon. Below, Chairmanof the Dawson CountyChamber ofCommerce Board ofDirectors Jay Walker,right, presentedKroger corporate offi-cials Peggy Prescottand David Herringtonfor Kroger’s commit-ment to giving back inDawson County.

Photos/Michele Hester

“He is a great mentor to manyfolks, including myself. Herb exem-

plifies leadership for all of us.”

- Doris Cook, co-chair of Leadership Dawson


Main Office, Hwy. 53 & 400 • (706) 216-BANKWith locations in downtown Dawsonville, Keith Bridge Commons-Cumming & Marble Hill

“A very special thanksgoes to Chestatee StateBank. A talentedgroup of truly serviceoriented people who creatively take dreamsand make a fantasticreality possible. Theyhave always helped uspursue our passionwhich is taking care ofyou. With a leader like

Mr. Philip Hester, you know its going to be a win-win situation.”

Dr. Matthew Dunford & Dr. Michelle MorrowDawsonville Distinctive Dentistry

“Chestatee State Bankprovided personal servicefrom their President,Philip Hester, my initialbusiness loans and secondmortgage, reliable bankingservice for business andpersonal accounts andfriendly, prompt service onall occasions. TheirFinancial Advisory servicesand ancillary bankingservices have been handyand useful, their stafffriendly and courteous at

all times. I have used them exclusively for my busi-ness over the past 7 years since our start up.”

Dr. Gary BerlinerChestatee Emergent Care

“We have been banking withChestatee State Bank since 1998.They have truly made bankingmore efficient for us, by provid-ing the most up to date bankingtechnologies, including remotedeposit and a variety of userfriendly online banking inter-faces. Their customer service isjust as extraordinary. They havealways met all of our needs, andmore. It has been a blessing to

have been partnered with Chestatee State Bank for the last 11 years.”

Drs. Craig and Wendy HarrisHarris Family Dentistry

october 2009 chamber chronicle

Documents

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saidmarty williams

door prizes

marketing line items

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