2012 Business Plan Competition

Are you ready for Christmas? Did you shop our local Chamber member businesses? Did you get a Hot Deal this year? Our Chamber members made it EASY for shoppers to find the perfect gift items and services and at a great price. On behalf of all the 425 Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber members, we thank you for buying local!

Our Economic Development Committee is ready to roll out the 2012 Business Plan Competition at a luncheon on Thursday, January 19th.

Entrepreneurs are encouraged to register for this opportunity to meet resource providers, network with other entrepreneurs and experience the opportunities that come with a Chamber membership.

Participants will meet with Toccoa Falls College business school students as well as business professionals from North Georgia Technical College, UGA Small Business Development Center and SCORE.

The final review of their Business Plans will be done by the Economic Development Committee for a chance to win over $1,200 in prizes designed for small businesses, including web site services, legal services, banking services and much, much, more.

Do you know an entrepreneur working out of their homes with a business idea you think could win? Could they use some start-up capital and resource support to get their businesses off the ground? Please call the Chamber to register for the competition today!

Our Chamber is the leading private business association in our community. We serve, promote and protect our members. Please join the Chamber today and let’s build a better Community, together. Call 706-886-2132.

First Class of Georgia Certified Chambers Announced

HEADLINE: The Georgia Association of Certified Chamber Executives Announces the First Class of Georgia Certified Chambers

It’s an exciting time to be in the chamber industry and to be a chamber in Georgia. The quality of leadership, programs and services that define the over 150 chambers statewide continues to increase. Many chambers have risen to the challenge during these tough economic times to provide unparalleled leadership and direction, helping their members and communities thrive. This type of performance is a reflection of the solid organizational infrastructure built through much hard work and diligence.

Earlier this year, the GACCE Board of Directors sought a way to recognize chambers in the state that have focused internally on their operations to assess their strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities to create efficient, effective organizations positioned to deliver great value. Thus the Georgia Certified Chamber program was created.

The program is modeled after the U.S. Chamber’s accreditation program. The purpose of the program is to facilitate continuing excellence in the chamber industry and to foster a pro-business environment across the State of Georgia. Chambers must meet standards in organization, service intent and capacity, professional administration, financial management, communications, and advocacy in order to achieve the Georgia Certified Chamber designation.

With over 150 chambers in the State of Georgia, the 25 chambers that were recognized during the 2011 GACCE Leadership Conference as Georgia Certified Chambers received a prestigious honor that distinguishes the high quality, expertise, and strong leadership displayed by accredited chambers.

The following chambers make up the first class of Georgia Certified Chambers:

1. Albany Area Chamber

2. Berrien County Chamber

3. Blairsville-Union County Chamber

4. Blakely-Early County Chamber

5. Camden County Chamber

6. Carroll County Chamber

7. Catoosa County Chamber

8. Cherokee County Chamber

9. Columbia County Chamber

10. Conyers-Rockdale Chamber

11. Darien-McIntosh County Chamber

12. Douglas County Chamber

13. Dublin-Laurens County Chamber

14. Forsyth-Monroe County Chamber

15. Gilmer County Chamber

16. Lee County Chamber

17. Newnan-Coweta Chamber

18. Paulding Chamber

19. Pickens County Chamber

20. Robins Regional Chamber

21. Tifton-Tift County Chamber

22. Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber

23. Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber

24. Walton County Chamber

25. Wilkinson County Chamber

GACCE congratulates these chambers for their accomplishment!

Stephens County School System Annual Report Forum Set for Thursday, November 17, 2011

The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Education Committee is committed to partnering and supporting the Stephens County School System with improving education, student achievement and building a skilled workforce.

The Committee is Chaired by Greg Roach-North Georgia Technical College (NGTC) Currahee Campus Operations Director. Committee members include Sherrie Whiten-School Superintendent and representatives from Toccoa Falls College, Department of Labor, Stephens Education and Literacy Foundation (SELF), Partners for Success, Career Technical Agriculture Education (CTAE), Graduation Coach programs and the Chamber Board of Directors.

The Committee is inviting everyone to attend the upcoming Stephens County School System Annual Report Forum to hear from our School Superintendent on our Schools System’s academic achievements and future initiatives.

The Forum is scheduled for Thursday, November 17^th at the North Georgia Technical College Currahee Campus from 11:00am – 1:00pm. Doors open at 10:30am. Call the Chamber to register. Lunch will be served by Cabe Crest Catering and the cost is $10 for pre-registered guests and $12 for day-of registration.

Here are some of the presentation highlights: The Stephens County School System is one of only 25 school systems in Georgia in which all schools and the system met Adequate Yearly Progress goals. The graduation rate for Stephens County students increased to 86.3%, up from 83% the previous year. On the CRCT this year, scores increased in 25 of 30 areas. In every area, Stephens County students outperformed students throughout the state. All six schools were once again named Title I Distinguished Schools by the Georgia Department of Education. 100% of Stephens County’s teachers meet the highly qualified requirement of No Child Left Behind. All schools are accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. SCHS students will move into a new state of the art facility this fall, replacing a building previously occupied in 1970.

Let the Education Committee connect your business with our schools. For more information on how you can become a Partner- in-Education please call the Chamber at 706-886-2132.

CONTACTS

Greg Roach - Education Committee Chair, North Georgia Technical College (NGTC) Currahee Campus Operations Director, 706-779-8113

Sherrie Whiten – Stephens County School Superintendent, 706-886-9415

Karen Caudell – Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Education Committee, Partner-In-Education, Pruitt Foundation, 706-827-2110

Chamber’s Political Debate is Tuesday, October 18th at 6pm, Historic Courthouse

The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee and WNEG AM 630 are sponsoring a political debate prior to the November 1^st General Election this Tuesday October 18^th at 6pm, doors open at 5:30pm. Please plan to attend or tune in live on AM 630 WNEG to learn more about the candidates.

Georgia State Senate 50th District candidates are Rick Austin, John Wilkinson, David Strickland, Curtis Burger and Mary Beth Focer. The City Commissioner Post 1 candidates are incumbent Janice English and Terry Carter. The City Commissioner Post 4 candidates are Gail Fry, Wayne Perry and Bill Good who are all running for the seat currently held by Bob Troup, who is not running for re-election. All Stephens County voters are voting on the continuation of the county’s education SPLOST to pay for the new high school and other capital projects for school improvements.

The Community is invited to the upstairs Court Room in the Historic Stephens County Court House located in downtown Toccoa. Doors will open early at 5:30pm so the audience can submit questions for the candidates.

The Moderator is Lee Hicks, Chairman of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Committee and a lawyer from Moore & Hicks Law Firm in Hartwell. Each candidate will introduce themselves and then take questions from both the moderator and the media representatives. Each candidate will also have the opportunity to ask his opponent an issue-oriented question. At the end of the program, each candidate will be given two minutes for a closing statement.

Early voting has started for elections in Toccoa and Stephens County. In addition to the early voting Monday through Friday, there will be early voting on Saturday, October 29 for both the city and county election from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., also at the Registrar’s Office. The Stephens County Registrar’s Office is located in the Stephens County Government Building in downtown Toccoa. Voters must remember a picture ID.

For more information, call the Stephens County Registrar’s Office at 706-886-8954.

Currahee Military Weekend Highlights

Congratulations to everyone for your support and participation in this year’s Currahee Military Weekend.

The Friday night Hangar Dance was well attended and prizes were given to the winner of the 40’s costume – won by Tucker Joe Loudermilk and the dance contest - won by his parents Robbie and Michelle Loudermilk.

On Saturday we had a record of 428 participants at the Currahee Challenge. The 3mile up and 3mile down event was won by local Clint Sanders with at time of 41:55.

After that the Opening Ceremonies were delivered to a packed crowd and included the Purple Heart Ceremony for US Army Sergeant Jonathan Merck.

The Civil Air Patrol had 60 volunteers and logged 559 man hours to coordinate the airport events. 140 people got a ride on the Huey helicopter.

All this and more - would not be possible without the support of our sponsors and volunteers. For a complete list of sponsors please visit the Chamber’s website at toccoagachamber.com.

Currahee Military Weekend Itinerary

Pull out your American flags and your red, white and blue and let’s celebrate our Camp Toccoa Veterans!

Start by attending the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Community BBQ lunch with the Veterans on Friday at the First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall. After that, wander over to the Train Depot for the Veteran’s book signing and autograph session. Then put on your 40’s outfits and head to the Airport’s old LeTourneau Hanger for the USO Hangar Dance.

But don’t stay up too late - because you will need to wake up early to run or walk the Currahee Challenge – that’s 3 miles up and 3 miles down. Hurry home to shower and then head downtown, get your free American flag and watch the Parachute Team jump at the start the Veteran’s parade. Then attend the Opening Ceremonies and Purple Heart Ceremony for Jonathan Merck.

By then, you will be really hungry so have a nice big lunch downtown and get your energy back up to tour the Currahee Military Museum, the Memorabilia Show on Doyle and the Re-enactor Camp site on the Courthouse Lawn. There will be weapons demonstrations on the hour, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm.

After that, head out to the Airport for a once in a lifetime chance to purchase a ride in one of the Vintage WWII aircraft or the Huey Helicopter. See the Parachute Jump Team jump at 2pm. Walk through static displays of vintage planes. Let you kids climb the Army Rock Wall.

Then go home to get your dress clothes on and get over to the Georgia Baptist Conference Center for a nice Banquet Dinner and Auction and hear speaker, Actor James Madio.

Rise early again on Sunday morning for the Remembrance Service at 8:30am at the Camp Toccoa Memorial - given by Pastor Scott Borderud. William Tucker will blow Taps and the re-enactors will perform a 21 gun salute. We will all meet downtown at BJ’s for a farewell breakfast following the service.

Come see why Toccoa-Stephens County is the MOST American Patriotic Community. For a complete schedule of weekend events and a list of the Camp Toccoa veterans attending visit the Chamber’s website at toccoagachamber.com.

We hope you enjoy the Currahee Military Reunion Weekend Celebration as much as we do! Currahee!

Downtown Toccoa Celebrates Currahee Military Weekend

Downtown Toccoa Celebrates Currahee Military Weekend

Toccoa, GA – Downtown Toccoa is getting ready to welcome returning WWII veterans, their families and friends, and hundreds of visitors during the Currahee Military Weekend, September 30 – Oct. 2, 2011. The mission of this weekend celebration is to honor the courageous men who trained at Camp Toccoa, to teach WWII history to our young people, and to celebrate our military’s commitment to America.

Many of the weekend events will be held in the downtown. Friday, September 30, registration will begin at the Currahee Military Museum at 10:00 a.m. in the Mitchell Allen Memorial Hall. Then from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. there will be a book signing with WWII veteran authors at the same venue.

Saturday, October 1, the day will begin with the Special Forces Association Parachute Jump Team who will jump over Boyd Field at the start of the Veteran’s Parade around 10:50. They will jump with their spectacular signature 20ft by 30ft American Flag. The Veterans parade will start at 11:00 a.m. and will begin on Doyle St and Pond St, go down Doyle St, turn on Sage St, and then go down Foreacre St to the Historic Depot. This year’s parade will be the biggest yet with the returning veterans, several large military vehicles, the SC High School band, as well as the SCHS JR ROTC and CAP.

The opening ceremony will begin at 11:00 a.m. with the Blue Ridge Rifles team from North Georgia College and State University. The special speaker for the event will be, Julie Schugars, daughter of Joe Beryle. During the weekend there is an exhibit from Russia made possible by Russia, the United States and the Joe Beyrle family that will be displayed in the Currahee Military Museum. Beyrle’s story of being captured by the Germans, escaping and then joining up and fighting with the Russians against Germany is told at the exhibit.

Throughout the day, visit the living history displays on the courthouse lawn and see what the living conditions were for the soldiers during the war. There will also be a Memorabilia Show and Sale on Doyle Street. The show will have memorabilia from WWI, WWII, and other foreign wars.

Downtown businesses and restaurants will be open during the weekend.

“We want to welcome all of our guests and visitors to this special weekend. We never want to forget the sacrifices that were made for us, not only by these brave men during WWII, but also by the men and women in uniform today,” said Sharon Crosby of Main Street Toccoa.

WORLD WAR II VETERANS TO BE HONORED DURING CURRAHEE MILITARY WEEKEND

WORLD WAR II VETERANS TO BE HONORED DURING CURRAHEE MILITARY WEEKEND

The ninth annual Currahee Military Weekend is only three weeks away—Friday through Sunday, September 30-October 2. The event is sponsored by the Stephens County Historical Society, Main Street Toccoa, and the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce.

Other community organizations involved in the weekend include the Civil Air Patrol, Marine Corps League, American Legion, VFW, Stephens County High School Junior ROTC, the Pilot Club of Toccoa, Toccoa Lions Club, Rotary Club of Toccoa, Toccoa Falls College Brass Ensemble, and the Stephens County High School and Toccoa Elementary Choruses.

Several World War II veterans who trained at Camp Toccoa in the four parachute infantry regiments (PIR) will be attending the weekend festivities. As of today, the following men have registered to attend: Carl Beck, Robert Meyers, and Robert Wright (501 PIR), Ed Pepping, Ed Shames, and Al Mampre (506 PIR—Easy Company), Robert Parks, Ken Johnson, Ira Moorehart, Fred Bahlau, Pee Wee (Jim) Martin, Mario Patruno, Malcolm Martin, and Jake McNiece (506 PIR). At least five children of Camp Toccoa men will also be in attendance.

These gentlemen will be arriving in Toccoa Thursday, September 29, and Friday, September 30. They will be speaking to students in the Stephens County School System Friday morning; autographing books, pictures, and other memorabilia from 1-4 p.m. Friday afternoon in the Mitchell Allen Memorial Hall at the Currahee Military Museum; participating in the parade Saturday morning at 11 a.m.; attending the banquet Saturday evening; and attending the memorial service at Currahee Mountain Sunday morning. You might even see some of them at the hangar dance to be held in the LeTourneau hangar at the airport Friday night at 7 p.m.

Living historians (re-enactors) from Florida, South Carolina, and Tennessee will be present for the weekend and will set up their camps on the Stephens County Courthouse lawn and other areas near the museum.

The Currahee Challenge Run/Walk, sponsored by the Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, will begin Saturday at 7:45 a.m. for the 3M run and at 8:30 a.m. for the 6M run. The run, of course, is held at Currahee Mountain.

Participants in the parade will include the Stephens County High School Indian Band, Camp Toccoa veterans, re-enactors driving military vehicles, Stephens County High School JROTC, and Shriners. Grand Marshal for the parade will be James Madio, the actor who portrayed Frank Perconte in the HBO mini-series “Band of Brothers.” Madio appears in nine of the “Band of Brothers” episodes. This is the first time that one of the actors has participated in Currahee Military Weekend, and he will be here to honor the veterans and celebrate the tenth anniversary of the mini-series release. The parade will begin after a parachute jump by the Special Forces Association Parachute Team.

Activities at the airport will begin Friday night with the hangar dance and will continue Saturday with plane and helicopter rides, vintage planes on display, and army recruiter displays (including a climbing wall).

Opening ceremonies will be held at the depot following the parade. The Blue Ridge Rifles from North Georgia College will perform; and Rev. David Ritcey, pastor of First Baptist Church will sing the national anthem following the presentation of colors by the Stephens County High School JROTC.

Julie Beyrle Schugars, daughter of Joe Beyrle, will speak at the opening ceremonies. Beyrle trained at Camp Toccoa and jumped into Normandy on D-Day. He was captured by the Germans, and after several attempts he escaped. Unable to locate Americans, he joined the Russians and fought with them against the Germans, their common enemy. . The Joe Beyrle exhibit, “A Hero of Two Nations,” will continue to be displayed through October 2 in the museum.

Visitors to Toccoa/Stephens County are encouraged to visit the Camp Toccoa property recently donated to the Stephens County Historical Society by Pacolet-Milliken, Inc. and the memorials that are nearby.

The Currahee Military Museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day during the weekend, and local citizens are encouraged to visit the museum and become a part of the excitement of this event. Admission prices are $8 for adults and $3 for students under 18.

Currahee Military Weekend gives the community and Northeast Georgia an opportunity to honor the veterans who trained here, the thousands of veterans who have served our country on many other battlefields, and the active military men and women who are currently serving the United States on several battlegrounds and on military posts around the world. There will undoubtedly be active military men and women in attendance during the weekend. Show your appreciation to the active military, as well as to the veterans, when you visit Toccoa during Currahee Military Weekend.

Toccoa-Stephens County Prepares for the 9th Annual Currahee Military Weekend

Toccoa, GA, August 29, 2011 – The Stephens County Historical Society, the Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce, and the Toccoa Main Street are once again teaming up to host the 9^th annual Currahee Military Weekend Sept. 29 – Oct. 2, 2011. The events will take place in downtown Toccoa, the Stephens County Airport, and Currahee Mountain.

The event began 9 years ago to honor the men of Camp Toccoa and as a show of appreciation for the sacrifices they made. It is estimated that as many as 17,000 soldiers from the 501^st, 506^th, 511^th, 517^th Parachute Infantry Regiments trained at Camp Toccoa during the two years that they were located at the base of Currahee Mountain. With the paratrooper population being greater than the town’s population, one can imagine the impact of the soldiers on the community.

“We look forward to the paratroopers who trained at Camp Toccoa and their families coming back to Toccoa for the reunion to reminisce about their experiences with their friends who shared this very significant time in their lives,” says Brenda Carlan, County and Currahee Military Museum Executive Director. Each year, some Camp Toccoa veterans return for the first time since they left in the 1940’s. It can be very emotional for them to see some of the places they frequented while they were in training. During the weekend visitors can meet some of the paratroopers who trained here and listen to their stories. Each year the veterans and re-enactors visit local school and teach the students about WWII from a firsthand perspective.

New this year is a traveling exhibit from Russia made possible by Russia, the United States and the Joe Beyrle family that will be displayed in the Currahee Military Museum during the event. Beyrle’s story of being captured by the Germans, escaping and then joining up and fighting with the Russians against Germany is a fascinating story. Beyrle returned to Toccoa on many occasions to attend reunions, meet with old friends and to visit Stephens County Middle School, where he was very close to the students. He often shared some of his WWII experiences with them during his visits. His daughter, Julie Schugars will be the guest speaker at the Opening Ceremonies on Saturday, October 1 at 11:30 a.m.

Also, this year marks the tenth year anniversary of the release of the HBO miniseries “The Band of Brothers.” This story immortalized the lives of some of the courageous men who trained at Camp Toccoa and fought as paratroopers during WWII. James Madio, who portrayed Frank Perconte in the film, will be the special speaker for the banquet on October 1 at 7:00 p.m. at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center. “Events like this are a small fraction of what I can give back to the men and women who have served our country. It would be pleasure to join you guys,” said Madio about attending the events during the weekend. Tickets are $50.00 and can be purchased from the Stephens County Historical Society. The event is open to the general public.

This will be the first year that the Stephens County Historical Society will have possession of a part of the original property that made up Camp Toccoa. Recently the Pacolet-Milliken company donated nearly six acres of the property as well as the last remaining building of the camp, a long concrete block building that was once a mess hall. Initial plans are for a pavilion holding about 300 people to be built there. Visitors can go and visit the site during the weekend.

The weekend events also include the Hanger Dance on Friday, Sept. 30 at 7:00 p.m., a spectacular parachute jump on Boyd Field, Sat at 10:50 a.m., a Veterans’ Parade, the famous Currahee Challenge Run/Walk “3 Miles Up-3 Miles Down”, special opening ceremonies, as well as weapons displays and living history displays.

There will also be an Airport Show at the Stephens County Airport with the opportunity to ride in one of the vintage WWII aircraft flown by the Commemorative Air Force (CAF) Dixie Wing and the Army Aviation Heritage Foundation.

A solemn remembrance service on Sunday morning at the foot of Currahee Mountain is a fitting end to this special weekend. As “taps” is played in the early morning, the lives of the heroes of the past are remembered as well as the heroes of today.

This is a community-wide collaboration and celebration of Toccoa’s rich military history. The event would not be possible without broad support from community sponsors, volunteers and civic clubs.

For more information, contact the Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce at 706-886-2132 or the Stephens County Historical Society at 706-282-5055.

Weekly Chamber Update July 6, 2011

The 2011 Currahee Military Weekend planning has begun! Please mark your calendars for Friday September 30th through Sunday October 2nd.

Thursday July 14th is an Education Seminar: 12pm Ara Joyce of Edward Jones in Lavonia is offering a seminar titled “Women’s Investments 101”

Thursday the 28th is an Education Seminar: 12 pm Ken Lash of Business Coaching Dynamics is offering a seminar titled “5 steps to freedom in business”
} Learn the top 5 business dangers
} Review the plight of the Entrepreneur
} Introduce business coaching
} Introduce the 5 steps to freedom in business
} Discuss “Rapid Impact” Strategies
} Review strategies to help you move to the next step on the way to business freedom

Both seminars will be held in the Mitchell Allen Conference room. They are FREE for Chamber members and $5 for Non-Members. Please bring your lunch and your drinks and dessert will be provided.

Finally, The Lake Hartwell Marketing Alliance is hosting the Wake Hartwell Wakeboarding Competition on Lake Hartwell July15-17th at the Big Oaks Recreation Area in Hartwell. Admission is free.

Established in 1945, your Chamber is dedicated to furthering the interests of our Members who represent all business and organization sectors. Did you know, you can join the Chamber for as little as $190 a year, that’s $15 a month or .52 cents a day. If you get ONE new customer it will pay for itself. Consider it an investment in our Community that is affordable, tax deductible and will be returned to you many times! Visit our web site, and click the Join Now button today!

Toccoa Gets Grant for Schaefer Center Report
07/06/2011
A state grant will help the city of Toccoa create a report to take a closer look at the Schaefer Center.Last week, the Historic Preservation Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the Tourism Division of the Georgia Division of Economic Development, and the Fox Theater Institute announced that Toccoa would receive $2,000 to help the city create a historic structures report for the Schaefer Center.

Katy Sides with Main Street Toccoa said this report will provide information needed to preserve and care for the theater moving forward.“What a historic structures report does is it gathers documentary information, as well as takes pictures and getting a better understanding of the physical shape of the building to know its current condition, as well as the history of the building, how it was first built, and any additions put on the building over time,” said Sides.The grant provides 50 percent of the funding for the project. The city will provide $750 in additional funding, along with in-kind work to make up its 50 percent.The city plans to use a historic preservation planner or architect to produce the report.Sides said that the grant provides a wonderful opportunity in regards to the building and downtown.“(We are) very excited to be included in the project and hopefully developing some future plans for the Schaefer Center,” said Sides.According to Sides, the city hopes to begin work on the report in late summer or early fall and complete the report either by the end of this year or early next year.

The Currahee Arts Council, which operated the Schaefer Center, announced in February it was closing the downtown theater and performing arts center, which is located at the corner of Doyle and Broad streets. However, just a couple of weeks later, Woody Woods announced that his Southern Gospel Jubilee Concert Series had raised enough through donations to take over operations and keep the center open. The center plays host to the gospel concert series and it has remained open since for those concerts.

The grant program awarded $10,000 in all to a number of projects throughout the state. Georgia Historic Preservation Division Director David Crass said the program’s goal is to provide seed money that can spur other preservation and tourism projects at a historic theater and in its surrounding community.

What is a Chamber of Commerce?

WHAT IS A CHAMBER OF COMMERCE?

A Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization that unites business and professional leaders. It creates a central agency designed to improve the business climate and build a better community. The Chamber’s mission is to be a business advocate, a community partner and an economic development stimulator.

The Chamber of Commerce is people. There is a place in the Chamber of Commerce efforts for ALL who share the desire to improve the community and the conditions under which business is conducted. It directs the energies of those who believe that a community worth living in is a community worth improving.

A Chamber of Commerce enables the members to accomplish collectively what not one of them could do individually. Its strength lies in attracting the greatest number of individuals and firms into membership, creating a pool of resources from which can be drawn ideas, energy, and finances.

A Chamber of Commerce gives a voice to the business person’s natural instincts to improve the local market and the community. The Chamber is not a department of the city, county, or state government, a political body; a civic club or society; a social service, welfare or charitable institution, a private advertising, publicity or public relations agency.

Originally, its function was to protect commerce in transit, in the marketplace, and to promote the sale of goods. Currently, the successful Chamber of Commerce is the one which recognizes all the factors which affect the community and adjusts its programs accordingly.

For more information on how you can join the leading association that is creating positive change for Toccoa-Stephens County please call 706-886-2132.

Leadership Toccoa Stephens County Accepting Nominations for 2011-2012

Good leadership skills are essential for a successful business or organization. They include communication skills, decision-making skills, conflict-resolution skills and the ability to cast vision. These skills are intended to empower people, provide clear direction and keep members of an organization informed.

Leadership Toccoa-Stephens County (T-SC) operates under the umbrella of the T-SC Chamber of Commerce. It is a community awareness and community education program.
It is designed to acquaint emerging and potential community leaders with the needs, issues, services and resources of T-SC. It is hoped that as a result of this improved awareness, participants will be challenged and motivated to assume an active leadership role in making T-SC an even better place in which to work and live.

A new Leadership class is selected each year by the Leadership T-SC Board of Directors. Each class is made up of approximately 20 individuals representing business and industry. It is a diverse group of participants, living and working in the City and the County, and representing a variety of social, economic and professional concerns.

Each year, the participants attend five learning sessions. They learn from each other’s different perspectives and the experience provides them with a broader view the future. With this deeper understanding, and increased knowledge, participants are better prepared to be leaders serving our community.

The Leadership Board is now accepting nominations for the 2011-2012 adult and youth classes. For more information, please call Vicky King at the Chamber, 706-886-2132.

Popping In to See You!

Weekly Chamber Update as heard on WNEG Radio AM630
Thursday June 2, 2011

Your T-SC Chamber of Commerce serves over 400 business members with only 2 full-time paid staff! We are fortunate to have the support of a team of Ambassadors who act as relationship managers with our members.

Each Ambassador is assigned a group of new, existing and potential members. The Chamber values our members and our Ambassadors walk-the-talk.

Every year from April through June, the Ambassadors compete in a challenge. This year the challenge is to see who can make the most personal visits and conduct the most one-on-one survey interviews.

The challenge is called “Popping In to See You” and they are distributing packets of microwave popcorn to all they meet with.

The Ambassador Team is led by Chair Tammy Riddle of Stephens Federal Bank. The Ambassadors competing include: Ann Ash - Georgia Baptists Conference Center, Cheryl Harris - Reins of Life, Christy LeCroy - Next To Me Medical Supplies, Danette Smith - Georgia Department of Labor, Brenda Sorrells - Northeast Georgia Bank, Brooke Stowe - North Georgia Credit Union, Eric Swilling - Habersham Bank and Leon Womack.

There will be prize drawing and a celebration luncheon in July. The biggest and best prizes go to the top three Ambassadors with the most interviews.

So expect a call from one of our Chamber Ambassadors to interview you! We’ll summarize the responses and use them to focus our 2011 Business Plan, based on the needs heard directly from the members.

A strong Chamber reflects a strong Community! Your support enables us to continue to provide the quality support and services you expect from a 4-star chamber. Thank you for your support!

The Toccoa Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Wins the NGCU Chamber Challenge Cup!

The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber came home with the Trophy Cup after their teams won 1st, 2nd and 3rd place in the Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament.

Business leaders in the Toccoa-Stephens County and Franklin County competed in the first ever golf tournament between the Chambers at the Highland Walk Golf Course with Pro Karl Gross at the Victoria Bryant State Park in Royston.

Congratulations to the winners! The 1st Place Team winner was the Toccoa Clinic with Wanda Weaver, Gordon Kelly Jr., Tea Spinks and Andrew Cronic. They each won a $75 certificate to the pro shop. The 2nd Place Team winner was the Black Mountain Golf Course with Byron Kennedy, Allison Smith, Clint Shaw and Trent Peepels. They each won a $50 gift certificate to the pro shop. The 3rd place team winner was Sanders & Ranck
and they each won a round of play at the Highland Walk Golf Course.

The Ball Drop Winner was Lynn Brumby Allen who split the pot with the two Chambers and took home $267.
The Putting Contest winner was Andrew Cronic who split the pot with the two Chambers and took home $70.
The Beat The Pro contest made $140 split between the two Chambers. There were two chances and no
winners of the car from Ford Lincoln of Toccoa and the truck from Tri County Chervolet. The Closest to the Pin
winner was Aaron Hodges and he received a Titleist Golf Bag ($150 value). The Accuracy Drive winner was
Greg Hern who won a Verizon Blue Tooth Set ($70 value). The Last Place Team was the Franklin County high
school and they each won a fishing pole.

It was a great opportunity for two Chamber Communities to come together for a fun and profitable day of golf and networking. They entertained customers, associates, and friends.

For those who do not play, they sponsored a hole sign on the course, and expanded their advertising reach across the County line. Other marketing opportunities included cart sponsorships, donating items for the Hospitality Bags and door prizes!

New this year, ALL Chamber members could participate. They were invited to network before the tournament start and to watch the “Golf Balls From Heaven” Ball Drop. Before the tournament, Georgia Power dropped a bucket full of numbered balls onto the target area and the closest ball to the hole won the grand prize of cash. There will be additional chances to win other prizes. Only 500 balls sold and winner splits the pot with the Chambers.

The Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber Golf Committee Chair was Bill Cochran of Standard Register and his Committee David Plaisted – Edward Jones, Hayley Knight – Wilkinson Clary Center, Nic Black – Gem Southeast, Jeff Whitlock - Windstream, Cam Parker – Georgia Power, James Addison- Sonic and Brian Lingle – 1st Franklin Investments.

T-SC had 13 Teams including 9 Platinum Teams – North Georgia Credit Union, 1st Franklin Financial, Absolute Security, Addington Enterprises, Georgia Power, Stephens County Development Authority, Toccoa Clinic, Windstream, GEM Southeast, and 4 additional teams included Black Mountain, Sanders & Ranck, Skelton Morris Associates and Stephens Federal Bank.

The Franklin County Golf Committee Chair was Steve Williams of Tri-State Distributers. They had
10 Teams - Ty Cobb Healthcare/LifeSprings Resources, Harbin Lumber, Tri-State Distributors, Franklin County H.S., Franklin County H.S., Athens First & Trust Bank, Georgia Power, Edward Jones, Pinnacle Bank and Tri-County Chevrolet.

The title sponsor was North Georgia Credit Union. The hole in one truck was a Silverado from Tri-County Chevrolet. The hole in one car was a Lincoln MKX from Ford, Lincoln of Toccoa. The sign sponsor was Caterpillar. The prize sponsor was DOCO Regional Federal Credit Union. The snack stations were sponsored by Toccoa Super Wal-Mart and Reynolds Pool & Spa. The awards ceremony was sponsored by Zaxby’s.

The player’s hospitality gift bags came from Windstream and were filled with many gift items including portfolio note pads and flash lights from the Army, Gold’s Gym free one month trial membership cards, golf towels from the Edward Jones in Franklin, tees and markers from the North Georgia Credit Union, sunscreen from the Toccoa Clinic, hand sanitizer from the Ty Cobb Healthcare System, tire gauges from the Auto Zone in Lavonia, coupons from the Hardees in Toccoa and from the Waffle House in Franklin.


The sign sponsors in Stephens County were 1st Franklin Financial, AAA Cooper, Absolute Security
Adams Container Corporation, Addington Enterprises, Advertising Unlimited, Army, Brother John’s, Caterpillar
Doco Regional Federal Credit Union, Dr. Wilbanks, D.D.S., P.S., O.F.C., Ed K. Burton, First Citizens Bank, Ford Lincoln, Gem Southeast, Georgia Power, Habersham EMC, Hart EMC, Hartwell Railroad, Hodgepodge New & Used, J. Sam Johnson, C.P.A., P.C., Jarrett Electric, John’s Roofing, John Rooker & Associates, Moore & Hicks, P.C., Next to Me Medical Supplies, North Georgia Credit Union, North Georgia Technical College, Osborne Wood Products, Physical Therapy Specialists, Sanders & Ranck, Stephens County Development Authority
Stephens County Hospital, Toccoa Clinic, Toccoa Veterinary Hospital, Wally’s Royal Cleaners, Wal-Mart
Windstream and WNEG Radio AM 630 sponsored the commercial advertising.

The sign sponsors in Franklin County were North Georgia Technical College, Royston Diagnostic
Athens First Bank & Trust, Georgia Power, LifeSprings Resources, Franklin County Farm Bureau Young Farmers
Pinnacle Bank, Harbin Lumber, Tri-State Distributors, BB&T, Mayberry Tire, Royston Ace Hardware, Fort Realty
Hart EMC, Lavonia Laser Dentistry, Prudential GA Realty–Commercial, Ty Cobb Healthcare System, City of Royston and WHLR broadcast live from the golf course.


On behalf of the Chamber Boards, thank you to all sponsors, players, and volunteers for making the Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament and Fundraiser a success. Your support enables the Chambers to continue to deliver quality services and support for businesses and community.

65th Annual Meeting, Awards Program & Installation of New Board of Directors

The 2011 Toccoa-Stephens County Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting was held last Thursday, May 19th at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center with record attendance at over 160 people attending.
U.S. Representative Dr. Paul Broun, Senator Jim Butterworth, Representative Michael Harden as well as the legislative aides from U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson’s office and U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss’ office attended the meeting.
The participants attended to hear Mr. Tom Bell, the Chairman of the Board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and also to see the awards ceremony and the installation of the new Board of Directors.
The theme this past year was “Band of Businesses…..Lean, Mean, Fighting, Machines. Chamber President Wendi Bailey opened by announcing the Chamber is lean and strong with 400 members. She reviewed one success from each of the Chamber Divisions and recognized the people and projects including Currahee Graphics for the Online Marketing Program, Mainstreet Toccoa for the Camera Ready designation, Great Southern Publishers for completing the T-SC postcards, the Development Authority for the Toccoa-Stephens County Fireworks Over Toccoa Day at the Capitol, Matt Skilling and Entrepreneur and Small Business Week, Tammy Riddle and the Ambassadors Challenge and Membership Surveys. She thanked her City, County, and state agency providers for their support and asked the audience to renew their commitment to the Chamber and our Community.
Mr. Tom Bell provided the keynote address and his speech focused on his concerns regarding the national debt. Bell said he thinks the debt poses a tremendous threat to the future of the free enterprise system. “In a recent speech in Washington, my friend and Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, I think rightly characterized the debt crisis as follows,” said Bell. “Daniels said that it is something as threatening to us as our wartime enemies in the first or second world wars, or the war on terrorism.”
Bell called on the federal government to do a few things well, rather than many things poorly. He added that the federal government needs to live within its means and not spend what it does not have. As for what he sees as the solution, Bell said it all starts with public awareness. In that respect, he said he has reason for optimism. “About 60 percent of the American people say when asked, that debt is the number one problem facing the country,” Bell added. “That is good news. How we do fix things in this country? It all starts here.” He urged those in attendance to talk about the debt issue with others and tout the free enterprise system and the entrepreneurial spirit.
Each year the Chamber members submit nominations and votes for award recipients and the Chamber Awards Committee Chaired by Alan Burton coordinates the presentations. Jay Doss was the Master of Ceremony of the awards presentation. Eleven awards were given out to businesses and individuals for their service to our Chamber and Community:
MWL, Inc. Mark Wilkinson Lumber is Industry of the Year. Sonic is Retail Business of the Year. Sanders & Ranck is the Service and Professional Business of the Year. The Toccoa Record received the Tourism Promotion Business of the Year. John Taylor is Senior of the Year. Greg Roach is Volunteer of the Year. Deidra Nicole Dickson is Youth of the Year.
Non-Profit of the Year award went to the T-SC Humane Shelter. Entrepreneur of the Year was presented by North Georgia Technical College to Alisa Adams of Cabe Crest Catering. The Pruitt Foundation is the Partner-In-Education of the Year presented by Superintendent Sherrie Whiten. Chairman of the Chamber Executive Committee, Lee Hicks presented the Chairman’s award to Greg Roach of North Georgia Technical College. Commissioner Ron Seib presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mr. Bob Troup.
New this year, the Chamber announced Brian and Angie Finnegan of Finnegan’s Baked Goods as the winners of the 2010–2011 Business Plan Competition sponsored by the Chamber’s Economic Development Committee. Brian and Angie Finnegan’s passion is to make delicious baked goods that not only taste good but are also good for you. All baked goods are made from fresh milled organic grains and baked the same day. Finnegan’s uses only pure and simple ingredients and no additives or preservatives. As the winner of the competition, Finnegan’s Baked Goods will receive over $1,200.00 in cash, products, and services that will assist them in operating, marketing, and managing their business.

The Chamber of Commerce would also like to recognize and commend the other businesses and entrepreneurs involved in the Business Plan Competition: The Boys & Girls Club Fab 4 Store, DFV Designs, Infinite Possibilities Internet Broadcasting Network, Jaymarz Signs & Graf-X, Personal Assistance of Toccoa, Reynold’s Pool & Spa, and Walker IT Services.
Also new this year, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized the 10th District U.S. Congressman Paul Broun at the meeting with its “Spirit of Enterprise Award.”Moore Hallmark with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce said the chamber looks at issues important to its members and judges members of Congress accordingly.
Outgoing Chairman Lee Hicks presented and installed the 2011-2012 Board of Directors. The Executive Committee includes Chair – Barry Roberts, Plant Manager of Global Partitions, Vice Chair – Lee Ellen Fields of J. Sam Johnson, C.P.A., P.C., Treasurer - Brian Akin, President and CEO of North Georgia Credit Union and Past Chair – Lee Hicks of Moore & Hicks, P.C.

There are 9 At-Large Board Members: Hayley Knight – SCH Wilkinson & Clary Care Centers, Steve Dougherty-President of North Georgia Technical College(NGTC), Karen Caudell of Pruitt Foundation, Andy Childs – Ebenezer Baptist Church, Michelle Lamping - First Citizens Bank, Eddie Powers - DOCO Regional Federal Credit Union, Tammy Riddle – Stephens Federal Bank, Shannon McFarlin – 1st Franklin Financial, Forest Connelly – County Extension Office.

Senior Sector: Steve Tilley, MC Stowe and Bill Standard. Retail Sector: Patti Joiner - Troup’s Photo and Hallmark, Mike Terrell – Fernside Package Store and Laura Ritcey – Quality Foods. Promotion & Tourism Sector: Angie Rammage – Toccoa Falls College, Bobby Davis - Stephens County Airport and Bill Wheeler – Georgia Baptist Conference Center. Manufacturing Sector: Bill Cochran - Standard Register, Jason Beckerdite - Caterpillar and Joe Moore – American Woodmark. Service & Professional Sector: Brian Lingle of 1st Franklin Financial, Jay Doss – Skelton Morris Associates, Matt Skilling – Sanders & Ranck.

The outgoing 2009-2010 Board of Directors were thanked for their service: Donna Gipson, David Miller, Anne Shurley, Kevin Hayes, April Shirley, Chuck Wright, Wayne Gardner and Tim Batson.

Incoming Chair Barry Roberts closed the program and introduced the new 2011-2012 Theme: Vision, Focus and Resolve….Charting a Course for Excellence. He told the audience he is convinced we are poised to do some great things over the next several years in Toccoa-Stephens County and said, “I firmly believe that this is our time to build on our successes and focus this community in the direction we want it to go. But to do this, we must all be headed in the same direction. To reach that ultimate destination of excellence, we must all be headed in the same direction.”

For more information on how your can become a member of the Chamber of Commerce and invest in your business and community please call 706-886-2132.

Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony

The T-SC Chamber’s Annual Meeting & Awards Ceremony is next Thursday, May 19th at 11am at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center.

This is a time to celebrate the Chamber member’s accomplishments and recognize our outstanding Board of Directors, Ambassadors and business and community partners. Mr. Jay Doss of Skelton-Morris Associates will present the awards program for the Business-of-the-Year in each of the business sectors including Industry, Retail, Service & Professional, Tourism Promotion, Senior and Non-profit.

Our Superintendent will recognize our Partner-In-Education of the year; the NGTC Business Coach will name the Entrepreneur of year; EcD Committee Co-Chair Matt Skilling will announce the winner of the Chamber’s Business Plan Competition and the Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented.

After the awards, Senator Butterworth will introduce this year’s key note speaker Mr. Tom Bell - the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board. U.S. Representative Paul Broun is also attending and will be presented with the US Chamber’s “Spirit of Enterprise” Award for his pro-business voting record.

Outgoing Chairman Lee Hicks will pass the baton to incoming Chairman Barry Roberts and the 2011-2012 Board of Directors will be installed. Come celebrate with us!

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The Chamber Challenge Golf tournament will take place on Wednesday, May 25th at 11am at the Highland Walk Golf Course in Royston. Our presenting sponsor is North Georgia Credit Union.

Franklin and Stephens Chambers are sending their best teams to compete. Be a hole Sign Sponsor or purchase a golf ball raffle ticket for a chance to win cash at the Ball Drop Event. We need volunteers to work the event, too. Come join the fun and expand your marketing and networking reach.

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Tonight at 6:30pm at the Georgia Baptist Conference Center is the Leadership Toccoa Stephens County Video Release & Awards Party. Get your tickets at the Welcome Center!

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Next Thursday at 10am is the Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Celebration for Kakoon Homes.

For more information, on how you can join the leading business association, creating positive change in our community, please call 706-886-2132.

Toccoa Celebrates National Train Day

Toccoa Celebrates National Train Day
Press Release
April 25, 2011

The City of Toccoa will join with Amtrak in celebrating the 2011 National Train Day on May 7, 2011 with a special event at the historic train depot in downtown Toccoa. Mayor Janice English, city officials, and citizens will welcome the train as it stops in Toccoa on its way to Atlanta at 6:15 a.m. AM630 WNEG Radio will broadcast live. A drawing for several prizes will be held at the event. Enter to win at these locations: Ionosphere Travel, WNEG Radio, and the Chamber of Commerce.

New this year to the celebration will be a special train display in the Mitchell Allen room of the Currahee Military Museum. Dess Oliver, from the Railroad Museum in Rabun Gap will display his collection of “trains throughout the decades.” The display will be open from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Admission is free.

The City of Toccoa has had a long history with the railroad industry. In fact, the city originated in 1873, and can be traced back to the development of a coaling station for the Atlanta to Charlotte Railroad after the Civil War. Over the years, due to access to the railroad, industry came to Toccoa as well as a college and a United States military training camp. The city has also benefited for the past thirty years from Amtrak’s Crescent Line being one of only three stops in Georgia. In 2008, more than 3,000 people came through the historic downtown via Amtrak and the number increases every year.

“Not only does the National Train Day celebration help focus on the importance of the railroad to our community, it highlights the opportunities it presents today. We continue to promote Amtrak travel as a relaxing way to visit Toccoa,” states Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator.

The Crescent Line travels through more states – including the District of Columbia – than any other Amtrak route. Offering daily service, the 1,377 - mile route travels from New York’s Penn Station to the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal in 30 hours, stopping in 33 communities along the way.

MEDIA CONTACT
Sharon Crosby, Special Events Coordinator
706.282.3309

Weekly Chamber Update as Heard on WNEG Radio AM 630

Weekly Chamber Update as heard on AM630 WNEG Radio, Our Community Minded Radio Station:

First, we are honored to have the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman, Mr. Tom Bell as our guest speaker at the 65th Annual Meeting on Thursday May 19th, from 11am to 1pm at the GBCC. You can go to our calendar online at www.toccoagachamber.com and nominate a fellow member to receive one of the 11 Awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award. The deadline to vote is Friday, please cast your nomination, today. Come see our Chairman Lee Hicks pass the “gavel” to Vice Chairman Barry Roberts and meet the Officers for our new year that starts in July. Come celebrate with your Chamber! Register online today!

The Chamber’s Golf tournament will take place on Wednesday, May 25th at 11am at the Highland Walk Golf Course in Royston. Please recognize our presenting sponsor, North Georgia Credit Union.
Each Chamber will have 15 teams who will compete for the lowest score to win the Challenge Cup. Hole Sign Sponsors will have their signs seen by 2 different chamber communities. Players will have networking opportunities and great prizes. And ALL the membership can get involved, by purchasing a ball ticket and coming to watch the Ball Drop Event before the tournament starts. Applications are online at www.toccoagachamber.com or at the Chamber. Call 706-886-2132.

The Ambassadors kick off their 2011 Challenge TODAY to see who can make the most personal visits with our members and conduct one-on-one interviews, to listen and to share how to get the most out of their Chamber membership experience. The goal is to visit and interview every one of our 400+ Chamber members. So expect a call from one of our Ambassadors to interview you! We will summarize the responses and use them to focus our Business Plan based on the needs heard directly from the members.

Next Thursday May 5th at 8am we will have our Post Legislative Session Coffee at the Mitchell Allen Meeting Room in downtown Toccoa. Both State Representative Michael Harden and State Senator Jim Butterworth will attend as well as a representative from Congressman Paul Broun’s office. We will hear updates on what they were dealing with in government, this past session and they will take questions from the audience.

Also next Thursday is a Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Celebration at GM Wood Products, one of our newest industries. It will be at their location in the Meadowbrook Industrial Park at 10am.

And after work next Thursday we will have a Business After Hours at the Gloria Adams Day Care Center at their location on Design Point Center Rd from 5pm to 6:30pm the Jackpot is up to $525! You must be present to win.

Invest where you are vested and join the Chamber today so you can be a part of creating positive change in our community.

Chamber Business Plan Competition EXPO hosted at the Clary Care Center

April 25, 2011

Contact
Competition Chair: Matt Skilling, Sanders & Ranck 706-886-7533
Chamber President: Wendi Bailey 706-886-2132

A Chamber Business After Hours and Business EXPO was held at the Clary Care Center for the eight businesses in the Chamber’s Business Plan Competition. The participants turned in their first drafts of their Business Plans in March and received feedback from the Toccoa Falls College business school class. They have been introduced to and encouraged to access the services of the UGA Small Business Development Center, the North Georgia Technical College Small Business Resource Center, SCORE business coaches and Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE).

Here is a list of the entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Chamber’s competition: DFV Designs offers distinctive fresh and silk floral designs for all occasions and all budgets in Toccoa and surrounding areas. Visit www.dfvdesigns.com, 706-716-3698. The Fab 4 Store is at the Boys & Girls Club. It is a thrift store that offers a variety of kids and adult clothing as well as household items with the proceeds benefiting the Club and Teen Center, 706-886-3771. Finnegan's Baked Goods are made from fresh-milled organic grains. They mill and bake the same day to insure freshness and optimal nutritional value. Products range from honey wheat bread and pizza to decadent desserts. facebook.com/finnegansbakedgoods. 706-244-1530. Infinite Possibilities Internet Broadcasting Network announces the launch of the first in it's collective plans of internet based radio stations, all niche marketing driven. For example, BGreenRadio.com will soon come to life with information and ideas on what can be done for sustainable living. The internet opens boundaries to a global effort in exposure and web presence. Email us at ipibnradio@gmail.com, 407-539-4440. Jaymarz Signs & Graf-X offers signs, banners, magnetics, car tags, yard signs, sand blast, lighted, LED, decals, auto lettering, window decals, tinting, spray in-bed liner, t-shirts and more ineedsignz@gmail.com , 706-716-9426. Personal Assistance of Toccoa is an in-home care service as well as a non-medical van service for transportation. 706-297-1380. Reynold's Pool & Spa services both residential and commercial accounts with pool openings and closings, pool and spa equipment repairs and replacement. They sell pool and spa chemicals, parts and accessories. They sell new and used spa's and install above ground and in-ground pools. They offer a cleaning and maintenance service for your pool or spa 7 days a week. Email at reynoldspoolandspa@windstream.net or call 706-716-1765. Walker IT Services provides network and data consulting expertise to small and medium-sized businesses in Toccoa and in Stephens County. They specialize in computer networking and business efficiency, lowering costs and improving value. 972-740-5846.

The participants will turn in their final Business Plans this Wednesday, April 27th and the winner will be announced at the Chamber's Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 19th. The winner will receive over $1,000 worth of prizes designed for a new business. Advertising Unlimited writing pens with business logo; the City waived business license fee; the Chamber of Commerce free 1 year membership; Currahee Graphics free web site development and hosting for 1 year; First Citizens will provide Merchant Services with credit card acceptance fee waived and networking with potential lenders and lending options; Sanders & Ranck legal services free of charge for one year related to lease preparation, negotiation, business formation and advice on these issues and assistance with negotiating, preparing, and obtaining a lease in downtown Toccoa, if needed. Toccoa Record will take 30% off 6-week run on a business card ad; $100 Cash and WNEG Radio will provide 20 FREE radio ads. Thank you to our sponsors for showing our participants that Toccoa-Stephens County is the Entrepreneur Friendliest!

Toccoa Stephens County and Franklin County Chambers Compete in the NGCU Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament

Thursday, April 21, 2011
Toccoa Stephens County and Franklin County Chambers Compete in the NGCU Chamber Challenge Golf Tournament

New this year, the challenge is on to see which Chamber has the best golfers! Business leaders in the Toccoa-Stephens County and Franklin County Chambers have signed on to compete in the first ever golf tournament between the Chambers.

The presenting sponsor is North Georgia Credit Union. The tournament will take place on Wednesday, May 25th at 11am at the Highland Walk Golf Course at Victoria Bryant State Park in Royston. Each Chamber will have 15 teams who will compete for the lowest score to win the Challenge Cup.

It is a great opportunity for two Chamber Communities to come together for a fun and profitable day of golf and networking. Enter a team and entertain customers, associates, and friends.

If you don’t play you can sponsor a hole sign on the course - and expand your advertising reach across the County line. Cart sponsorships allow you to interact with golfers on the course. Other marketing opportunities include donating items for the Hospitality Bags and door prizes!

Golf fees are affordable and prizes are plentiful. There are prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and last place teams; there are 2 hole in one cars thanks to Ford Lincoln of Toccoa and Tri County Chervolet; prizes for the Accuracy Drive, Closest-to-the-Pin and the Putting Contest Winner will split the “fee pot” with both Chambers.

New this year, ALL Chamber members can participate. You are invited to come network before the tournament start and to watch the “Golf Balls From Heaven” Ball Drop. Buy your golf ball now for only $5 each or three for $12. Before the tournament, Georgia Power will drop a bucket full of numbered balls onto the target area and the closest ball to the hole wins the grand prize of cash. There will be additional chances to win other prizes. Only 500 balls sold and winner splits the pot with the Chambers.

Through your support of the NGCU Chamber Challenge golf tournament, you allow the Chambers to promote business and industry start up and growth. Plus it’s a great opportunity to beat Franklin County and bring home the Challenge Cup!

Invest where you are vested and register today. Applications are online at www.toccoagachamber.com or at the Chamber. Call 706-886-2132.

One announcement for you:

Today at 5pm at the Clary Care Center at the Hospital is a Business After Hours. It is also a “meet and greet” with the 8 participants in the Business Plan Competition. The participants will turn in their final Business Plans next Wednesday and the winner will be announced at the Chamber's Annual Meeting on Thursday, May 19th. The winner will receive over $1,000 worth of prizes designed for a new business. Come network with the Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses and congratulate them on completing their Business Plans!

Starting A Business Class, April 13th

PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Gainesville, GA – The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center will offer the following classes in April: Starting a Business: Q&A on April 13th from 5:00 to 7:00 pm (no charge) and Starting a Business: Planning & Financing on April 20th from 5:00 to 8:00 pm ($69 per person). These classes will be held at The Featherbone Center, 999 Chestnut Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. Pre-registration is required.
Topics for discussion for the Starting a Business: Q&A include market research, choices of legal structure for your business, startup cost estimates, cash flow estimation, financing alternatives, failure factors, and business planning. There is no charge for this class but pre-registration is requested.

The Starting a Business: Planning & Finance course will walk participants through the actual development process of creating a marketing strategy, and will cover marketing research, start-up cost estimates, managing cash flow, financing alternatives, choosing legal forms of business, permitting/licensing, and risk management. Class materials include the text, "Mastering Loan Proposals" and other valuable tools. Cost is $69 per person.
Register online at www.georgiasbdc.org or contact Morgan Blakley at 770-531-5681 for more information.
Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Contact info:
Morgan Blakley
Program Coordinator - The University of Georgia SBDC
770-531-5681
mblakley@georgiasbdc.org

Women Owned Small Business Certification Forms

SBA releases WOSB Certification Forms and Implements Repository

Filed under GTPAC News • Tagged with federal contracting, SBA, woman owned business, wosb
February 7, 2011 by admin
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has now released all the information needed for woman-owned small businesses to self-certify as eligible to participate in the federal government’s newest contract set-aside program.
The rules for the woman-owned small business (WOSB) contracting program were published in the Federal Register on Oct. 7, 2010. The rules are designed to get federal contracts to women-owned businesses in 83 industries. Specifically, the program allows contracting officers, for the first time, to set aside specific contracts for certified WOSBs and economically disadvantaged WOSBs to help federal agencies achieve the existing statutory goal of five percent of federal contracting dollars being awarded to WOSBs.
The rules allow WOSBs to either self-certify themselves as eligible to participate or secure certification through an approved third-party. While the SBA has not yet approved any third-party certifiers, WOSBs may now take steps to self-certify.
The Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center (GTPAC) recommends that you take these steps to qualify for the program:
1. Familiarize yourself with the Compliance Guide for WOSB Program 02.2011.
2. Determine whether your firm qualifies as a WOSB or an economically disadvantaged woman owned small business (EDWOSB), and then fill-out the appropriate certification forms: WOSB Certification Form – OMB Approved or EDWOSB Certification Form – OMB Approved. Be sure to assemble and compile all necessary documentation called for on the forms.
3. Register in Central Contractor Registration (CCR) as a WOSB. (Note: Effective Feb. 22, 2011, CCR has added four new women-owned business types in support of the SBA WOSB program. These are: Women-Owned Small Business, Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business, Joint Venture Women-Owned Small Business, and Joint Venture Economically Disadvantaged Women-Owned Small Business.) (Additional Note: CCR is currently experiencing a delay in processing new registrations and updates. If your renewal is affected, CCR will extend your expiration date by sixty (60) days. CCR is working to resolve the backlog by the end of March.)
4. Register your WOSB status in Online Representations and Certifications Application (ORCA). (Note: Necessary changes in ORCA to allow for WOSB registration are not yet made; these changes are now estimated to be made in April 2011.)
5. Establish an account in SBA’s General Login System so that you may upload your certification form and any documentation. You can familiarize yourself with the GLS by reviewing GLS Screen Shots – SBA WOSB Program – 02.2011, and you can set-up your account by clicking here.
The Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center will keep all clients advised on the implementation schedule for this important new federal program. If you need assistance, feel free to contact your nearest GTPAC Counselor.