Dahlonega-Lumpkin CountyChamber of Commerce13 South Park StreetDahlonega, GA 30533(706) 864-3711(800) 231-5543

INSIDE:

Dahlonega - Lumpkin County Chamber of CommerceThe Chamber

2008 | AUGUST

SAVE THE DATES:

August 1

First Friday Concert SeriesCome enjoy one of Dahlonega’s own - Fool’s Gold of Dahlonega - as they blend new sounds with tradi-tional American music, combining rock, blues, country and bluegrass into the Fool’s Gold sound. Show starts at 6:30pm on the Conner House Lawn.

August 5

Business After HoursCome join us at Silver Summit at Mountain Park located on Hwy 19/60. Enjoy networking, food, and drinks. Don’t forget to bring $1 for the cash prize drawing! And remember door prizes are always a great way to showcase your busi-ness!

August 8-10Dahlonega Literary Festival

Come join your favorite authors at free workshops and book-signings. Headliners this year include Karen Abbott, Steve Berry, Patti Callahan Henry, and Joshilyn Jackson. For a complete schedule of events, go to www.literaryfestival.org.

and Writer’s Conference

Business Expo & Job Fair

Diterary estivalFL

ahlonega

August 8th -10th

5th Annual

Read More | Page 14

3:00 PM – 7:00 PM Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Page 4 Northview Orthopedics shares their insight on total hip replacements for

Otheoarthritis

Business Expo & Career Fair, dates and registration information

Page 9“Every day is opening Day” at North Georgia College and State Univer-sity. For over a year, the beautiful NGCSU campus has been impacted by the construction of a number of projects. In many ways, these construction efforts have spilled over and impacted the surrounding community.

Page 10 - 12Picture Gallery : 4th of July Celebra-tions n Dahlonega were fun and festive!

Page 13Georgia Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Meeting: During the second week of July, Chamber staff members Amy Booker (Mem-bership & Marketing Director) and Stefani Logsdon (VP of Operations) attended the 3-day Georgia As-sociation of Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Meeting (GACCE).

Spotlight on Business: Magical Threads

Page 145th Annual Dahlonega Literary Festival & Writer’s Conference

Read More | Page 7

Mission Statement

Board of Directors OFFICERSJennifer Herring, ChairmanBB&TEddie Wayne, Chair ElectAppalachian Community BankDon Bacek, TreasurerLily Creek Lodge Appalachian Community BankCyndi Fraser, SecretaryBelle Avance SalonGary L. Powers, President & CEODahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce

DIRECTORS Larry Banister, Banister Funeral HomeMax Burns, North Georgia College & StateUniversityKristy FairbanksTommy Folger, Folger’sAlan George, Chestatee Regional HospitalAlan Grizzle, EXIT Four Seasons RealtyKelso C. (Casey) Horne, Horne and Horne, P.C.Donna Minnich, State Farm InsuranceJ. Kevin McCraney, Georgia Power CompanyTony Owens, The Fudge FactoryEd Willis, The Louver ShopAngelia Wilson, Dahlonega Tasting RoomKenneth H. Kurtz, CPA

EX OFFICIO DIRECTORS

Mayor Gary McCullough, City of DahlonegaCommissioner Steve Gooch, Lumpkin CountyBruce Abraham, Development AuthorityJoel Cordle, Downtown Development AuthorityStan Kelley, Lumpkin CountyBill Lewis, City of DahlonegaSheriff Mark McClure, Lumpkin CountyDewey Moye, Lumpkin County SchoolsJoshua Wright, U.S. Army Camp Frank D. Merrill

STAFF

Amy Booker, Membership & Marketing DirectorMary Ann Knight, Visitors Center ManagerStefani Logsdon, VP Operations

Hal Williams, CVB Director

Amy Laseter, Administrative AssistantKim Bruce, Graphic Designer / Newsletter

The Chamber | Page 2

As I See It

Gary Powers, President and CEO

Making our community a great place to live, work, visit,

and do business.

Gold Mines vs.Gold Minds.

In the Success Book published in 1937 there was an article called Gold Mines vs. Gold Minds. The interesting thing about this article was it said $35 an ounce for gold has sent many would-be prospectors scurrying into the hills and valleys. Well if that is the case back then, then where are the prospectors today as Gold is now $973 an ounce? Perhaps you should buy one of our tickets for $20 and have the chance to win a $5 Gold Coin minted between 1839 and 1861 at the Dahlonega Mint or $10,000 in cash.

Back to our Gold Minds. Hills and valleys are not the only places to search for gold. In fact, you don’t even have to look beyond yourself. For every one has potential gold mine in his head!

Explore the workings of your mind, as carefully as a prospector hunts for gold, and you will discover nuggets of THOUGHTS and IDEAS that may enrich you beyond your wildest dreams!

The most valuable, most complex machine in the world – YOUR MIND – cost nothing to run, no matter how much you use it. This miracle-ma-chine can be made to pay handsome dividends.

Don’t wait for repeated encouragement to start your brain working on constructive thoughts and ideas. Your mind, remember, is your most important, most eager ally. There are no limits whatsoever to its creative

When you begin to make new demands upon your mind, it may respond grudgingly at first. Don’t be impatient. Keep trying. Gradually you will acquire the knack of calling upon it more and more. Persevere and you will be amazed at the ease in which ideas will fairly leap from your head!

The most powerful forces in the world are noth-ing compared to the great Forces and Ideas that are waiting to be unleashed from the HUMAN MIND.

As I See It, during these harder economic times we can let our mind destroy us and our business. We can let it break our spirit. But if you put your MIND to thinking creatively and band together with other business owners you will survive an-other down market, down economy and negative national press.

From the Desk of Jennifer Herring

The Chamber | Page 3

BronzeDaniel’s Charters

Georgia Power Company

Habersham EMC

North Georgia College & State University

Regions Bank

PlatinumBB&T Bank

Chestatee Regional Hospital

Jackson EMC

GoldAppalachian Community Bank

SilverAchasta, A Residential Golf Community

All About Storage

Mountain State Bank

Nicklaus Golf Club at Achasta

Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.

The Smith House

Timken US Corporation

United Community Bank of Lumpkin County

Wal-Mart SuperCenter

Windstream Communications

SMALL BUSINESSES TAKE CHARGE!!

Chairman’s CircleThe Chairman's Circle has been created to prominently recognize companies whose continual support has been instrumental in the growth of the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce.

Mint Club Members

Major DonorCity of Dahlonega

Lumpkin County

Cottrell Circle C Ranch

I was sitting in the nursery at church Sunday morning and I noticed this poem on the bulletin board by an unknown author. It struck a cord with me and I thought, “This is good advice for us all, maybe if we all planted our gardens of life like this, the world would be a better place.”

“Come to the garden alone, while dew is still on the roses…. For the garden of your daily living…

Plant three rows of Peas:Peace of Mind•Peace of Heart•Peace of Soul•

Plant four rows of Squash:Squash gossip•Squash indifference•Squash grumbling•

Squash selfishnessPlant four rows of Lettuce:

Lettuce be faithful•Lettuce be kind•Lettuce be patient•Lettuce really love one another•

No garden is without Turnips:Turnips for meetings•Turnips for service•Turnips to help one another•

To conclude our garden we must have Thyme:Thyme for each other•Thyme for family•Thyme for friends•

Water freely with patience and cultivate with love. There is much fruit in your garden because you reap what you sow.”

Jennifer Herring Chairman of the Board

Surf the Web!

There is a cleaner front page with Icons to take you to current events, member directory, and the weekly Taking Care of Business. Newly created this past week by our Webmaster 3by400 is the Manual created on "Starting a Business".

Take a look at some of the new changes and features on the Chamber & Convention &

Visitors Bureau web site.

www.dahlonega.org

With 14 Million hits a year we are one of the top web sites in Georgia!

Jennifer L. Herring, Business Services Offi cer

Dahlonega, GA

706-864-3314

jherring@bbandt.com

©2008 BB&T. BBT.com

B A N K I N G I N S U R A N C E I N V E S T M E N T S

The Chamber | Page 4

Perspective on Healthcare: Total Hip Replacements for Osteoarthritis

Researchers at Duke Medical Center find that seniors with osteoarthritis who receive a total hip replacement are twice as likely to have improved physical functioning and independence. Re-searchers found that seniors of any age realized this benefit and proved to keep them active longer. The benefits of the surgery don’t stop at improved quality of life either.

The research concluded that concomitant to longer more productive year’s seniors—and their insurers—could save money from the procedure. The procedure’s reimbursement averaged roughly five thousand dollars which was far less than the expense to provide long-term care to disabled seniors.

Osteoarthritis is very closeley related to aging and

obesity, affecting roughly 10 million Americans. Conversely, the study found that fewer than 25% of the patients eligible to receive the surgery actually elect to go through with it. The surgery is usually only recommended after less invasive courses of treatment have proven ineffective. Doctors typically have patients try physical ther-apy and NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) medication to control the pain and maintain range of motion. When these fail or offer minimal benefit the patient’s next course of treatment is often hip replacement surgery.

Hip replacement surgery is an invasive procedure, and full recovery can take months. However, the long term benefits are significant and the patient satisfaction rate is high.

PROVIDED AS A SERVICE BY NORTHVIEW ASSOCIATESDR. G. ALAN BINKLEY DR. DAVID HOCHSCHILD ASSOCIATES

Northview AssociatesG. Alan Binkley, M.D. • David P. Hochschild, M.D.

• Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeons• Fellows of American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Northview Associatesis proud to announce

the addition ofRAY POLK, PA

To Our Practice— Ray comes to Northview with 15 Years

Experience as a Physician’s Assistant in civilian & military clinics

— Ray’s service at home & abroad equips him with extensive orthopaedic & sports medicine experience.

We will now have expanded orthopaedic primary care availability to better serve our community!

NORTHVIEWOPEN MRI

* 706-864-790470 Ansley Drive • Dahlonega, GA

• Same Day Appointments Available• Late Appointments Available on

Tuesdays

91503b

Business Expo & Career Fair

The Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce In Cooperation with Lumpkin County High School Presents the Dahlonega 2008 Business Expo & Job Fair on Tuesday, August 19, 2008 from 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

The fair will be held at:

Lumpkin County High School 2001 Indian Drive, Dahlonega, GA

Please plan to attend the Business Expo & Job Fair! Whether you are looking for a new job or are a student trying to decide your future career path, you will not want to miss this opportunity to meet and gain valuable information on employment oppor-tunities!

Businesses interested in registering as an exhibitor, should contact:

Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce

Phone (706)-864-3711 Fax (706)-864-0139

or visit the Chamber web site at: www.dahlonega.org.

You can also email: amy@dahlonega.org.

Payment & Application Deadline:

Thursday, August 14th, no exceptions; spaces are on a first come, first served basis. One table and two chairs will be provided. We look forward to hearing from you!

MEMBER BOOTH $100

NON-MEMBER BOOTH $200

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

The Chamber | Page 5

Ambassador Spotlight: Marilou KinneyMarilou Kinney grew up in Atlanta, Georgia. She later moved to Carrolton, Georgia, where she lived and raised her family until 1981. In Carrol-ton, Marilou got her taste for the travel planning industry as she taught and worked during her summers for West Georgia College, giving group tours. She also worked with groups of marathon runners, taking them to their destinations.

Since Marilou’s days in Carrolton, she has gained many years of experience in the travel planning business. Thank goodness for Dahlonega, in 1993 Marilou brought that experience to Dahlonega and she currently is a contract agent for Travel Planning, Inc.

Joan Papst started Travel Planning, Inc. in 1991. Marilou joined Joan’s operation in 1998, after 11 years in Atlanta working at AAA and 7 of those years with Gainesville Caravelle. After September 11th, 2001, Marilou decided to move her office home, when Joan moved the headquarters to Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Marilou has evolved her business through seeing many changes in the travel planning industry. One of the things that she most enjoys in her business is the long lasting relationships that she has developed with so many of her clients. To be successful in travel planning you must develop a level of trust and Marilou has achieved this with her clients through personal attention, an empha-sis on tailoring vacation packages to her client’s personal desires and budget.

Through these many changes, Marilou realizes that there will always be travelers who want to consult with a professional that has many years of experience, especially when it comes to International travel. In Marilou’s 27 years as a travel agent, she pays attention to the details and investigates her travel packages by actually experiencing the trips first hand. This attention to the details and information gathering is crucial to a well planned and successful travel package.

Marilou started coming up for visits to the North Georgia Mountains when she was 8 years old with

her family. One of her best friend’s family owned a house in the Hiawassee area and Marilou has many fun memories of her visits there. Through the years, Marilou was drawn to this area while raising her own family, camping at Lake Winfield Scott and Vogel State Park.

In the 1980’s, Marilou decided to buy property in the Big Canoe community. It was not long before Marilou traveled a little further north to live in Dahlonega in 1993. Originally, she commuted to the Buckhead area for her job, which took only 48 minutes in 1992. Marilou’s brother also lives in Dahlonega and retired as a professor from North Georgia College and State University (he also started the Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta, Georgia!).

Marilou has been married to her husband, Jim Kinney a retired FBI Agent, for 14 years. Marilou and Jim first met when Marilou became his travel agent in 1988. Jim took a tour group with Marilou to the Amazon Jungle in 1998 and the group stayed in contact through the jungle project.

Upon retiring from the FBI, Jim moved to Daytona Beach, Florida, where he opened an Irish Bar called O’Malley’s. One day Jim contacted Marilou, his trusted travel agent and friend, during the month of September and wanted to travel with a group of his friends from England during the month of October. Marilou informed him that they would not be able to find lodging during this popular month and generously offered for the group to lodge at her new home in Dahlonega, which they did! Marilou and Jim began dating long distance in October through April, 1994 and were married at the Episcopal Church July 30th, 1994!

Thank goodness Marilou and Jim decided to live in Dahlonega. They are both very active members of this community. Marilou has been involved in so many organizations it is almost hard to list! She has served as loyal Chamber Ambassador for four years, has served as the Chair Docents for tours with the Historical Society, as well as, their Secretary to the Board.

Marilou has also served as the Chair of the Arts Department for the Dahlonega Woman’s Club, Congregational Care at St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church, the Food Pantry and currently volunteers many hours giving information out in Dahlone-ga’s Welcome and Visitor’s Center.

Marilou recognizes that some of her biggest chal-lenges facing her business today is the economic slowdown and the impact that has on travel. International travel is a luxury in today’s market. Important to any business is the support and re-ferral’s that their local community gives to them. Marilou is most appreciative of the Dahlonega Woman’s Club, who has been most helpful to her as a business owner.

Marilou looks forward to her life and future in Dahlonega. She hopes to see very careful and planned growth her community and that there will be cooperation between the City of Dahl-onega and Lumpkin County.

Marilou….thank you for your many contributions to this community and for you and Jim choosing to call Dahlonega home! To contact Marilou for travel counseling email her at jamalkinney@alltel.net or call 706-864-8685.

Tuskegee Chamber of Commerce Visits Dahlonega

On June 26th and 27th members of the Tuskegee, Al. Chamber of Commerce and City Council visited Dahlonega to determine the best practices followed by the city and Chamber/CVB in developing tourism.

The group engaged in an exchange of ideas with Mayor McCullough and City Manager Bill Lewis along with Gary Powers and Hal Williams on Friday evening before dining at the Smith House. On Saturday Morning Hal acted as tour guide vis-iting several attractions and answering questions about downtown restoration and the business mix in the community.

Since the visit we have followed up on requests from our guests for guide-lines and strategies used to develop Dahlonega and Lumpkin County into one of Georgia’s most visited communities.

Spotlight on the Board: Alan George

The Chamber | Page 6

Alan George

Alan George is the CEO of Chestatee Regional Hospital and has been in Dahlonega since March 2007. He has been a member of the Board of Directors since he arrived.

Alan’s entire career has been in working with hospitals. When he was 14, he decided that he wanted to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a hospital CEO. He received a BBA in Mar-keting/Management from Stephen F. Austin State University and an MBA/MHA from the University of Houston Clear Lake. Alan spent his Adminis-trative Residency at Mainland Regional Medical Center in Texas City, Texas, and has spent more than 20 years working in hospitals with the last 10 years as a hospital CEO. Alan believes that the success of an organization does not come from just one person, saying “I learned from my father that you treat everyone with respect and take a team approach organizationally. Everyone in the organization is important and makes a significant contribution to its success.”

As far as his decision to come to Dahlonega goes, Alan says, “Who wouldn’t want to live in this beautiful place. My wife, Kelly An, and I felt that this was a perfect location to raise our family. Small town feel with access to recreational op-portunities in the mountains and an hour from a large city. In addition, a great hospital, medical staff and employees, all with a great future ahead.” Alan especially enjoys the genuine friendliness of everyone in the community.

Alan decided to accept a position as a director of the Chamber board because he strongly believes in the importance of the Chamber of Commerce to the community as a whole. He says, “It is a way to become involved in the community and help make a difference.” During his term on the Cham-ber board, Alan hopes to help support the local businesses, draw tourism to the area, establish financial stability, and support the right kind of

growth that will allow Dahlonega and Lumpkin County to continue to flourish.

Alan has settled down quickly in Dahlonega, quickly becoming active as a member of the Dahlonega Rotary Club, the Chairman of the 2008 Rotary Golf Tournament, and a United Way for Lumpkin County Board Member where he also acted as the 2007 Vice Chair of the Campaign Committee and is the 2008 Chairman of the Campaign Committee for United Way of Lumpkin County.

In regards to some of the biggest challenges facing healthcare today, this is one of the most challenging times to be in healthcare. “We are approaching a major crisis. Insurers, both private and government, are paying hospital and physi-cians less and less every year. In addition, cost of health insurance continues to increase. With soaring gas prices and the escalation of living expenses, people are having to choose between health insurance or gas in the car to get to work.” There is also a large amount of working poor that are uninsured and not eligible for Medicaid. Alan states that the hospital gave over $6 million of free care last year, and that number will increase to $7 or $8 million this year. “Several small rural Georgia hospitals have not been able to survive, forcing them to close. This affects the accessibility of healthcare to the citizens of those communi-ties. It will be interesting to see the healthcare policy changes implemented by a new President.”

Alan recognizes that there is a tremendous amount of growth coming up the 400 corridor and would like to make sure that the growth com-ing to Dahlonega is the right kind of growth. “I don’t want to see Dahlonega lose any of its charm that makes it so special. We can maintain that charm if we can keep the majority of the “big box” growth in the 400/60 area.”

Alan would like to thank all of Dahlonega’s local civic organizations, recognizing how important they are to the hospital. “It is a way to get feed-back on the patient care we provide, and is also a forum for educational opportunities related to people’s health and wellbeing.” Alan also reminds everyone that the Chamber has been especially helpful in keeping the hospital’s name in people’s mind.

“We don’t want you to be sick, but if you have a need for healthcare, we would like to see you stay local.”

Alan has been married to his wife, Kelly An, for 18 years and they have three children, Aaron (15), Brandan (12) and Grace An (5). During their spare time, they love being active with golf, camping, and boating.

A little more rain wouldn't hurt say the guides at Appalachian Outfitters but folks are still paddling and tubing right on. Ben LaChance sums it up in that people are now becoming used to the Chestatee River of the 21st century vs. the high water mark of the 1980's. The biggest change is from canoes to kayaks. Those renting kayaks now

out number 2 person canoes about 3 to 1. The river is still cool and relaxing for those wanting to lay back a bit.

Tommy at Tritt's Sporting Goods simply says the trout don't like hot weather either but trout fishermen are still out there trying. There maybe a few more lures on the shelves but fisherman don't give up easily.

The bicyclists may be the most positively affected by the weather and seem the least discouraged by higher gas prices. Dahlonega Wheelworks is busier than ever. According to Jon Dalman the local folks may lay down a bit due to the hot weather but we are still a great destination and the roads are packed on weekends.

The consensus among our outdoor oriented busi-nesses is that people are still enjoying the natural beauty Dahlonega has to offer. That translates positively for our local economy.

Have you taken advantage of what's available in your own back yard? Get out and give it a try!

Hot weather and Gas Prices Not Withstanding, Mother Nature Still Calls.

Business After Hours at Rick’s

The Chamber | Page 7

John and Evelyn Martin, orginally of Dekalb County, Georgia married September 8th, 1961. They have two children, Tracy and Johnny, and are the proud grand-parents of two boys, Tylor an d Troy.

They lived in Suwannee, Georgia until they retired in 2003. Having always loved the North Georgia Mountains, they decided to move to thei rfavorite North Georgia destination, Dahlonega. “The people are so warm and friendly, “say John and Evelyn.

John and Evelyn moved to Dahlonega in 2003 and currenlty reside in Lake Forest subdivision off Seven Mile Hill Road. They are members of Northlake Baptist Church of Murrayville.

John and Evelyn both love meeting people and

sharing their love for our community and the town of Dahlonega with folks they greet at the local Visitor’s Center. Volun-teering on Friday mornings, they work together in greeting visitors with a kind smile, and friendly warmth that makes it seems as though they’ve lived here all their llves. “We love helping people learn about Dahlonega,” say John and Evelyn.

The Chamber of Commerce would like to say a special thanks to John and Evelyn Martin for all that they do in making Dahlonega a warm and inviting place. We are truly blessed to have them, and proud to call them friends!

Volunteer Spotlight: John & Evelyn Martin

LVSHomeswww.LVSHomes.com

Ask about solar for existing homesQuality Renovations for 35 Years

Larry Stouffer Tel: 706.864.0790

Energy EfficientHealthy Homes

with Solar Features

Rick’s, located at 989 North Grove St. in Dahl-onega, hosted a spectacular Business After Hours Mixer on July 1st.

A Big “Thank You” goes out to Rick Whorf and Kim-berle Cooley for their hospitality and wonderful food. A crawfish boil was served on their private back patio, as members and guests enjoyed a fun summer evening together!

(Above) Jennifer Herring, Chairman of the Board, gives a big thank you to Rick Whorf and Kimberle Cooley, of “Rick’s” for their generosity in hosting the wonderful Business After Hours Mixer for the Chamber and its Members!

(Left) Mayor Gary Mc-Cullough wins a yummy cake prepared by Carol Williams of Razzle Dazzle Cakes & Sweets.

(Right) Jim Combs, of Appalachian Contracting Services, a loyal chamber member and advertiser in our monthly newsletter, wins the “big bucks” at the mixer. Jim is pictured with Jennifer Herring and Chamber Ambassador, Dobbin Buck.

(Far Right) Chamber Ambassador, Dana Whitfield, enjoys conversation with Chamber Member in front of mural created by talented Bill Lawson.

June 2008 Renewals

Advanced Applications Group, Inc.American Red Cross, NE GA ChapterAppalachian Community BankPaula BinghamCane Creek StorageCitruSolution- Dawson/LumpkinCottonwood Village AntiquesCPL Renovations, Inc.Donald P. CrivelloneFerrell GasFleetwood Security and Electronic ServiceThe Glassblowing ShopGold City Landscape & Supply CompanyGreatFyndsGreylock HomesThe Home Team Inspection ServiceMcDonald’s #6413McGarity’s Business ProductsMontaluce Winery & EstatesMountain Laurel Creek Inn & SpaOasis of LifeOcoee Adventure CenterPurchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc.Rainbow Children’s Home, Inc.Sockwell, Susan L., DMDSoutheastern ExpeditionsTownley Portable Toilet Inc.Treasures WithinTrent G. Conner, DMD, PCTritt’s Sporting GoodsTwo Sisters Cards and CraftsVictory Custom Homes, Inc.Woodmen of the World Lodge #1374Wylie’s Restaurant

The Chamber | Page 8

I challenge you to get involved with the Chamber Ambassador Program. Learn what your commu-nity has to offer. You might learn something that will help your business become more visible or you might find a new source for something need-ed to get your business growing.

Small-business owners don’t get involved in the community with the expectation of getting some-thing back. However, the return on their efforts can be documented in tangible ways – new cus-tomers – publicity – expansion of the network of people who can help you build your business.

The following people have made the decision to highlight their businesses by serving on the Chamber Ambassador Program:

Attention: Small Business Owners

Dobbin Buck - 400 Edition

Kelly Finocchio – BB& T Bank

Marilou Kinney – Travel Planning, Inc.

Bill Lawson – Bleu Art Gallery

Donna Logan – Adams Insurance

Trina Pellegrino - Mountain Top Massage

Lynn Pfeiffer - Oasis of Life

Sharon Ravert – Animals@Home, Inc.

Joanna Stern - Papa John’s Pizza

Penny Sharp – Sage Credit/Checking Services

Bonnie Small – The Lily Garden

Ivy Spraker – Ivy’s Gifts From the Vine

Dr. Keith Tyre – Watts Chiropractic Services

Dana Whitfield – Oasis of Life

Michael Woody – United Community Bank

Jana Collett - Studio Twenty One Makeovers

CALL THE CHAMBER AT (706) 864-3711

For more information on the Ambassador Program

Or contact:

Donna Logan 2008 Ambassador Chair

(706) 864-3721

Take a positive step for your business.

Come join us!

Welcome New Members

Do You Want to Raise the Visibility of Your Business?

Accents By Moggy

Appalachian Vending & Party Supply Rental

Bessie Mae’s Cottage

Carson’s Run

DahlonegaWeddings.com

Edward Jones - Chuck Simpson

Hoka-Hoka

Knight’s Cleaning

Mountain Education Center

North Georgia Walls

Orbiting Code

Starbridge Sanctuary

Taylor Made Resale

Tebor Computing

Terri’s Attic Treasures

Thomas and Company

Jeff Weltzien

JuneChamber Ambassadors

The Chamber | Page 9

August 5

Business After Hours at Silver Summit Mountain Park Community, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

August 8-10

Dahlonega Literary Festival, 5th Annual (www.literaryfestival.org)

August 19

Economic Development, 8:00 am

August 20

Women in Lumpkin Leadership Breakfast at Stewart Center for Con-tinuing Education, 8:00 am

August 21

Board Meeting, 12:00 pm

August 27

Ambassadors Meeting, 12:00 pm

September 2

Business After Hours at Just Off the Square Country Cafe, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

September 16

Economic Development, 8:00 am

September 17

Women in Lumpkin Leadership Breakfast at Stewart Center for Con-tinuing Education, 8:00 am

September 27

Six Gap Bike Expo on the Square, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm

September 28

20th AnnualSix Gap Century & Three Gap Fifty Bike Ride presented by Dahlonega Wheelworks, 7:30 am

Save the Dates

The City of Atlanta has invested large amounts of money and effort to promote a new tag line: “Every day is opening day”. While that may or may not be true in Atlanta, without doubt, Dahlonega and North Georgia College and State University will be celebrating many important opening days this fall.

For over a year, the beautiful NGCSU campus has been impacted by the construction of a number of projects. In many ways, these construction efforts have spilled over and impacted the sur-rounding community. But, now, both campus and community are preparing to enjoy the new and renewed facilities that all the dust, traffic, and congestion brought about. It is opening day at NGCSU!

Perhaps the most obvious new facility at the Uni-versity is the combination Parking Deck and Rec-reation Center that is located between the South Chestatee and Church Streets. This stunning new recreation facility will open in September, provid-ing NGCSU students with 54,000 square feet of space, to include 3 basketball courts, workout areas, and an indoor track. The parking deck will be open in August, in time for the beginning of classes. The deck will provide over 500 new spaces for NGCSU non-resident student parking, and will be available for metered parking on nights and weekends.

On the other end of campus, just off South Chestatee Street, the new Library and Technology Center has been rising out of the hillside for months. In August, it will open, in time to greet returning students. This new 85,000 square foot structure will replace the current Stewart Library, which was built in 1969. The new building will house the Library, several IT functions, and

the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence. As an added bonus, a new Java City coffee house will operate just inside the front door, adding ambience and aroma to the new facility. Come by for a cup!

Finally, one of the campus’ oldest structures, the Historic Education Building, will re-open in August to begin a new mission. This structure was originally built in 1913, and has served the University in a number of capacities over the years. For the past several months, the building has been “off line” while the interior was totally renovated. When it reopens this fall, it will house faculty members from Political Science, Informa-tion Technology, and Fine Arts. Along with new occupants, the building will get a new name – beginning this fall, the building will be known as “West Main Hall”, highlighting it’s presence on Dahlonega’s main thoroughfare.

So, at last, the dust has settled. The construction crews have packed up and headed to the next job. The windows are washed, the ribbons are cut, and, at last, it’s opening day at NGCSU! We welcome our neighbors to come by and have a look at the new buildings.

At NGCSU, “Every Day Is Opening Day”.

Above - The combination Parking Deck and Recreation Center that is located between the South Chestatee and Church Streets. will open in September, providing NGCSU students with 54,000 square feet of space including indoor track and exercise facilities, as well as a new parking deck.

Above - The new library at NGCSU

By Jeff Davis

The Chamber | Page 10

(Above)Keynote speaker, Retired General Guy Laboa.(Above) Joe and Debbie Whelchel at Appalachian Jam.

(Left) Not only were there dogs in the Pet show but Roosters, one with a halo and one with horns to match their owner. (Below) Young pickers at Appalachian

Jam in front of Gold Museum.

(Right)

Mayor Gary McCullough and his wife Charlotte and their grandchildren celebrating his Birthday.

Happy 4th of July Celebration...

The Chamber | Page 11

(Right) Families enjoy watermelon in

Hancock Park. The watermelon was

cut by Mayor Gary McCullough

(Left) Proof that pets come in all shapes and sizes, a young lady shows up with her ferret.

(Right) Grand Marshall General

Bill O’leksy

(Above) Deborah Hutcheson visits the booth of the local affili-ate for Habitat for Humanity.

(Left) Little Miss Georgia Peach.

(Right) This little guy thought this was a

dog show and so did his owner. - Sorry fella, it

was a Pet Show.

Parades, Birthdays, Fun and Laughter!

The Chamber | Page 12

Solutions with choices are easy, just call

Apply online at: www.caroltuftsinsurance.com

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia, Inc. is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield names and symbols are registered marks of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Raising Public Awareness - 4th Annual Hemlockfest

To increase public awareness about the plight of the Hemlock tree and what can be done, the Lumpkin Coalition is facilitating the fourth annual Hemlockfest in North Georgia on November 7, 8 and 9 of 2008 just a few miles from Dahlonega. There will be three days of music and fun, two nights of camping, experts on hand, lots of fam-ily/ child activities. So far, the Lumpkin Coalition has helped raise over $100,000 for the Hemlock cause. Sponsorship Level System:

Hemlock Forest >/= $10,000

Hemlock >/= $5,000

Canopy >/= $1,000

Cambium >/= $500

Trunk >/= $250

Root >/= $100

Seed < $100

Trunk, Cambium, and Canopy level sponsors ($250 +) will be listed on the programs in distinguishing fonts according to level.

Cambium and Canopy level sponsors ($500 +) will be included on a banner in distinguishing fonts according to level and will include one color logo. The Banner will be exhibited at the festival.

Hemlock level sponsors ($5,000 +) will be given one half of a page in the program and a promi-nent place on the banner to be exhibited at the festival for name and logo (one color but will be different color than other sponsors listed for stand out purposes).Hemlock Forest level sponsors ($10,000 +) will get a full page devoted to them in the program and will be listed on a separate ban-ner from other sponsors. The banner will include name and logo in original full color. Website can be included if desired.

The Lumpkin Coalition is a 100% volunteer 501c3 charity organization. All donations are fully tax deductible.

Donations in the forms of check or money order may be made out to Lumpkin Coalition and mailed to 3865 Dawsonville Hwy, Dahlonega Ga. 30533. Donations by credit card may be made through a pay-pal service at the following

website: http://www lumpkincoalition.org. The Lumpkin Coalition has no paid staff members.

For more information, please visit our website or contact Forest Hilyer, at 706-265-5282 or via e-mail: forest@lumpkincoalition.org .

Teaching with TechnologyWhile maintaining the significance of opening a book and perusing the shelves of the library, Lumpkin County School System (LCSS) is fully utilizing current technology to maximally benefit and motivate our students.

Technology drives our culture and is the motivat-ing force behind industry, so to best prepare our students, LCSS finds it necessary to enable students to be proficient operators fully capable of utilizing the infinite outlets of technology. The goal of LCSS’s technology plan is to secure the software and develop the human resources required to make every student a successful and productive citizen of the information age.

The method to achieve our goal has been to ensure that technology is in the classroom and that our teachers are technologically competent. LCSS houses 1,742 computers, which is a ratio of one instructional computer per 2.32 students. With computers readily accessible to all students, they are able to hone their skills in a vast array of programs, learn how to confidently and efficiently

research databases, and to obtain information technology skills, which are essential in post-secondary education and the workforce.

At the elementary level, teachers introduce students to a variety of educational websites and familiarize them with computers and other tech-nology. Each elementary classroom is equipped with an interactive projection system. It is not uncommon to walk into a first grade class and see students confidently maneuvering through differ-ent computer applications.

Each Lumpkin County Middle School academic classroom is also equipped with an interactive projection system. Teachers incorporate these tools into instruction to engage and interest students. Students also have the ability to access instructional websites at home by going to the school’s website, which can be accessed from www.lumpkin.k12.ga.us. Brain Pop for example features video clips, interactive sessions, quizzes, and a question and answer segment with ani-mated characters.

Lumpkin County High School has also expanded their technology capabilities through instruc-tional computer labs and interactive projection systems in 55% of classrooms. The Engineer-ing lab has been updated and focuses on using technology to solve engineering problems. The Business Department has also upgraded their software according to the latest industry standard programs, allowing students to study Web Page design and Multi-media creation. To provide the most effective instruction for the Chinese class of-fered at LCHS, the school has installed a computer that operates solely in Chinese. Students can take also take classes on-line via Georgia Virtual High School.

Technology is prevalent today, and it will be the crux of the job market for our students. To best prepare and educate students, LCSS continues to infuse classrooms and teaching methods with advanced and effective technology. Our students’ success in the future depends on what we teach them today.

The Chamber | Page 13

Spotlight on Business: Magical Threads

Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Meeting

Magical Threads is Dahlonega’s best kept secret! This is truly a candy store for the fabric and yarn enthusiast. As soon as you walk in the door you’re surrounded by all the colors in the color wheel in fabric. Magical Threads carries over 7500 bolts of cotton and a building of yarn.

Magical Threads has wide selection of batiks, Asian prints, juveniles, flannel, wilderness, nov-elty, and reproduction fabrics. Fabric is sorted by color and type to help you quickly find whatever you need for your quilting projects. They also carry patterns, books, and notions to spark your creativity.

A separate building houses the wide selection of yarn. The yarn comes in many different colors and textures. Not only wool and cotton like your grandmother used, but bamboo, mohair, alpaca, and the new novelty textured yarns. Magical Threads carries yarn notions, such as the needles, patterns, books and other accessories to help you with all your yarn projects.

Want to learn to quilt and/or knit or crochet? Need to brush up on your skills? Magical Threads

offers classes from beginner’s level on up. Call, email, or drop by for informa-tion on our classes.

Magical Threads uses and sells one of the best affordable long arm machines, the HQ16 from Handi Quilter. It is an affordable, easy to use quilting machine that makes quilting your quilt tops a breeze. It handles very much like a sewing machine and can easily handle any size quilt from wall hanging to king. They even have a robotic quilting system. This is something that you just have to see and try out for yourself.

Magical Threads is truly a magical place for all quilters and knitters. Magical Threads has everything you need for your quilting and knitting projects and a wonderful and knowledgeable crew to greet and help you with all your proj-ects, big or small. Located 2 blocks off the town square at 315 Church Street. The store is open 10AM-5PM Monday through Saturday and 1PM-4PM on Sundays. If have question please

contact Magical Threads at 706-867-8918. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to touch and feel the material that you love.

Mick StephensChestatee Ford

Cell: (706) 265-9537www.chestateeford.com

44 Lumpkin County ParkwayDahlonega, GA 30533

(706) 864-6504 or(404) 681-1957

Fax (706) 864-8444Email: Mick1341@yahoo.com

BLUE OVAL CERTIFIED

In addition to the great networking and ideas we got from other Chamber folks from our state, we had wonderful speakers. Our speakers covered everything from “How to Plan a Successful Board Retreat” to “Creating a Member-Centric Organiza-tion”. One topic that really stood out to us that we felt we could share with our members was about Volunteers.

Like most Chambers of Commerce and other non-profit organizations, we rely on our volunteers’ hard work to help us get the job done. We feel very blessed here at the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber to have the privilege to work with so many talented and generous volunteers. And the more programs and events that our Chamber gets involved in as we grow, the more volunteers we need!

Our speaker at the conference, Cathi Hight of Hight Performance Group in Boulder, Colorado, said that the key to finding and retaining great volunteers is to provide an invitation to the party. We realized that there may be a lot of potential volunteers out there who would love to get more involved in their community, but they just haven’t been asked. So all of us here at the Dahlonega-Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to participate as a volunteer for one of our many committees and events. We have included a brief description of each volunteer opportunity, and welcome any questions or com-ments you may have.

1. At the Chamber office – The Chamber has lots of volunteer/intern positions available in the office in order to get some important projects off the ground. Contact Gary Powers.

2. At the Dahlonega Visitor’s Center – Are you the kind of personality that likes to meet and chat with new people, and share your love for Dahlonega and Lumpkin County with others? This

may be the position for you. Contact Mary Ann Knight or Hal Williams.

3. Chamber Ambassador – Our wonder-ful Ambassadors assist us with our Business After Hours, participate in Ribbon Cuttings, and help bring new ideas to life. They are the Chamber’s front line and are vital to our Chamber’s success. Contact Amy Booker.

4. Economic Development Committee – This group meets the 3rd Tuesday morning of every month and is committed to creating a high-quality business environment for our community. Contact Gary Powers.

5. 4th of July Committee – This group plans, organizes, and executes the 4th of July Celebration in Dahlonega each year. We welcome new ideas and look forward to growing this fam-ily celebration. Contact Stefani Logsdon or Amy Booker.

6. Six Gap Century Bike Ride Commit-tee – Are you a cyclist or just love being near all the action? The Six Gap Century Bike Ride is the Chamber’s biggest fundraiser during the year and our committee is our key to success. We also use over 100 volunteers each year during the last weekend in September to help put on the Ride. Contact Stefani Logsdon.

7. Celtic Music Festival Committee – Dahlonega’s newest Festival was a huge success in 2008 and we look forward to doing it again in 2009. Anyone interested in joining the Celtic Mu-sic Festival planning committee should contact Amy Booker.

8. Old Fashioned Christmas Committee – This festive group plans, organizes, and executes Old Fashioned Christmas – Dahlonega’s favorite month-long celebration. Contact Amy Booker or Stefani Logsdon.

9. Annual Banquet Committee – Do you just like to plan and attend parties? This commit-tee takes charge of the Chamber Annual Banquet, which has been a fun Casino Night the past two years! Contact Stefani Logsdon or Amy Booker.

If there are any other areas that you have a special talent in or are interested in, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 706-864-3711.

The Chamber | Page 14

July 12, 2008-Dahlonega, GA. – On August 8, the Fifth Annual Dahlonega Literary Festival returns to north Georgia. Making a rare public appear-ance will be Steve Berry, one of five headliners for this year’s weekend-long festival. Sharing the spotlight with Steve are Karen Abbott, Nath-alie Dupree, Patti Callahan Henry, and Joshylin Jackson!

Ms. Dupree will add a new element this year, teaching a cooking class at Montaluce, Dahlone-ga’s recent addition to its collection of vineyards and wineries. Playing host to Dupree’s talents is Le Vigne, the winery’s on-site restaurant.

On Saturday (only) July 12th, award-winning author and Dahlonega resident Brian Jay Corrigan is conducting the Dahlonega Writer’s Conference, an all-day seminar on the art of writing and the business of publishing.

Aspiring authors are invited to join Corrigan and a host of other best-selling authors, including Karen Abbott, Steve Berry, Patti Callahan Henry, and Joshylin Jackson, for an all-day seminar on the art of writing and the business of publishing. Participants in the conference, for which space is limited, will also receive a copy of Corrigan’s forth-coming book on the trade, The Shape of Words.

Brian Jay Corrigan is the author of The Poet of Loch Ness (St. Martin’s Press), which won the Bancroft Prize, Florida First Coast Novel Award, and Georgia Author of the Year in 2006. He also is a professor of Renaissance Literature at North Georgia College & State University, where he is the senior faculty member in the Department of English Literature. He participates in writers conferences throughout the southeast, and has three more novels planned to join The Poet of Loch Ness in a Four Seasons Quartet.

The Dahlonega Writers Conference will be on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. on the campus of North Georgia College & State Univer-sity. The cost of the conference is $100. Space is limited, so sign up on our web site now at: www.literaryfestival.org.

The weekend also features author panels from all of our visiting authors, Premier Lunches with the Stars with our headliners, a literary scavenger hunt with a $100 first prize, and events for young children, on Saturday, Aug. 9 and Sunday, Aug. 10.

The 2008 Dahlonega Literary Festival will also feature Mitchell Graham, Dana Wildsmith, Lenore Hart, William Rawlings, John Mark Eberhart, Mark Braught and Laura Knorr Braught, Jackie Cooper, Cathy Kaemmerlen, Walter Sorrells, Karen White and the Dixie Divas: Julie Cannon, Jackie Miles and Patricia Sprinkle.

The 2008 Dahlonega Liter-ary Festival is sponsored by North Georgia College & State University, the NGCSU Foundation, Lily Creek Lodge, Long Mountain Lodge, and Mountain Laurel Creek Inn & Spa.

For more information on the festival and the au-thors, visit our Web site: www.literaryfestival.org

You can also call Stephen at (706)429-5548 or Sharon at (706) 864-6848.

To sign up for the conference, go to the Web site, www.literaryfestival.org, and click on the Writers Conference link. For more information on the writer’s conference, you may also contact Brian Corrigan at bcorrigan@ngcsu.edu.

Fifth Annual Dahlonega Literary Festival and Writer’s ConferenceFEATURING BEST-SELLING AUTHORS, A COOKING CLASS, AND A WRITERS CONFERENCE

(Above) Nathalie Dupree, Authur, “Shrimp & Grits”

(Above) Brian Jay Corrigan, Author of The Poet of Loch Ness (St. Martin’s Press), which won the Bancroft Prize, Florida First Coast Novel Award, and Georgia Author of the Year , is also a professional at NGCSUin 2006.

Come experience "Team Dahlonega" Customer service.

Located in theGreenbriar Shopping Center

706-867-9000

of Dahlonega

406 East Main Street, Suite EDahlonega, GA 30533

Has a new owner and a brand new committment to serve you!

The Chamber | Page 15

Ribbon Cuttings

Taylor Made Resale offers the finest in quality, styles and sizes in BRAND NAME new and gently used clothing for ladies size 2 to 22, men's, chil-dren's in size infant to 16, a room full of the most popular brands and styles for junior girls in size 0 to 15, jewelry, handbags, home decor, shoes and small indoor and outdoor furniture.

TMR would like to introduce it newest addition to it's great items offered: a wedding/evening/prom gowns room. Wedding gowns new and worn once will be offered in traditional and non-tra-ditional styles. These beautiful gowns all in mint condition are the only items in the store that TMR will accept from our wonderful customers on con-signment. For your gown need of any style, TMR will be the place to go to get the best in quality, styles, sizes, and the very best in price.

TMR purchases BRAND NAME items weekly from wholesalers out of At-lanta. Some of the items purchased are from store closeouts, outlet mar-ket, salesman samples and catalog returns. This is how TMR can offer BRAND NAME new and gently used items at deeply discounted prices to our customers starting as low as $5.00. Taylor Made Resale welcomes you to visit on Mon-Sat 10:00 -5:30.

Garage Sale City celebrated their Grand Opening on July 4th and 5th with a LCCC ribbon cutting ceremony and with the dedication of a large American flag conducted by the Lumpkin County Veterans Affairs Committee.

Garage Sale City is located next to Lumpkin County Airport and provides local/regional individuals and groups the ability to display their garage sale items every Friday and Saturday from 7am to 5pm. Pick-up/delivery trailers are available for those without access to a truck.

“Many people in the county are either restricted from having garage sales in their neighborhood, or their homes are not in suitable locations or they simply do not like the idea of strangers mill-ing about their house.” says Grant Moore, Garage Sale City founder and president. I love garage sales, had some extra parking/warehouse space, saw there was a need and said, Let’s do it!”

“Timing could not be better. Statistics show the average family has over $2000 worth of unused items lying around the house and with gas prices going out of sight everyone is looking to sell

something they don’t need and buy something for a great price.”

The company has designed a website www.garagesalecity.org that not only allows local customers to list their items for the upcoming weekend but also allows anyone in the country to post their own ga-rage sale information, includ-ing a list of items. Anyone can search by zip code for garage sales in their area.

We intend to be the “go-to” site for all garage sales, not just the Garage Sale City location in Dahlonega.

No stranger to thinking big, Moore is the founder and president of DRY-B-LO International, the na-tions leading deck drain system company. Having been a franchisor for over eleven years Moore says he believes this new business model has

franchise written all over it. “We’ll see. Franchising a business is a lot of work but we are quickly mov-ing in that direction. In the meantime, remember our slogan, Bring it, Sell it, Buy it, Take it. Garage Sale City!”

Casha’ Hair Studio is a full service salon. We offer Schwartzkopf color, styling products and hair therapy. Casey Beck and Tasha Allen, the new owners, are offer-ing new clients a 20% discount on all hair services. The salon is offering tanning memberships

and the specials are $35.00 for one month and $60.00 for two months. Please stop by or call 706-864-5888 and let the staff of Casha’ Hair Studio pamper you.

They are located across from Bannister Funeral Home at 2065 Hwy 19 Business North, Dahlone-ga, Georgia 30533.

Taylor Made Resale

Casha’ Hair Studio

Garage Sale City

(Left) Owners Casey Beck and Tasha Allen cut the ribbon with Tommy Allen, Caeden Allen, Lana Pruitt, Kay D Sims, Kim Padgett and the many active Chamber Ambassador’s and friends from the community.

Owner Kim Padgett cuts ribbon with husband Craig Padgett and daughter Taylor, holding the big red bow. Other family members and friends in photo are Marilyn Edwards, Jeanette Livingston, Judy Butler, Betty Butler, Jim Butler, Casey Beck, Lana Pruitt, Tasha Allen, Kay Dickerson and our many wonderful Chamber Ambassadors, staff and CVB staff who support our local businesses.

(Above) Grant Moore, owner of Garage Sale City, cuts ribbon!

13 South Park Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533Tel: 706-864-3711 Toll Free: (800) 231-5543

www.dahlonega.org

Site of the First US Gold Rush.

Dahlonega - Lumpkin County Chamber of Commerce

FIRST CLASS

US POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT 30

DAWSONVILLE GA

The Joy of Connecting An Exciting Networking Opportunity for Women Who Are Serious About Growing their Business

Thursday evening, August 14, 20087:00 pm – 9:30 pm

The Joy of Connecting is a relaxed dinner/networking gathering for women business owners, entrepreneurs, other professionals that are interested in strengthening and growing their business.

Reservations and pre-payment required to secure your spot:

for questions and information

www.TheJoyofConnecting.com

This monthly experience is open to anyone interested in building relationships, expanding her business and having fun! Invite friends to come, AND remember to bring business cards/brochures.

Call 770-861-8885