CORE receives grant and state office at ribbon-cutting

News

ELLIJAY, Ga. – “This is the kind of project that will spread prosperity throughout our entire region. It is the kind of skin-in-the-game project that deserves support…” Georgia Speaker of the House, David Ralston praised the CORE Facility in Ellijay who hosted their official ribbon-cutting today.

Nestled just off Maddox Drive on the banks of the Coosawattee River in Ellijay, Georgia, the CORE Facility hosts business offices and incubation locations for entrepreneurs and start-ups in need of an office or workspace without the hassles of long-term investment.

Left to right, Gilmer Commission Chairman Charlie Paris, Fannin Commission Chairman Stan Helton, and Pickens Commission Chairman Rob Jones celebrate with Greater Gilmer JDA Executive Director Kent Sanford at the CORE Facility ribbon-cutting in Ellijay, Georgia, on July 24, 2019.

However, the facility’s impact reaches so much farther than the city limits or the county’s borders. Today marked a celebration for the region and for the state. Representatives statewide joined together for this ribbon cutting including Gilmer Commission Chairman Charlie Paris, Gilmer Post Commissioner Karleen Ferguson, Pickens Commission Chairman Rob Jones, Fannin Commission Chairman Stan Helton, Georgia Speaker of the House David Ralston, State Senator Steve Gooch, State Representative of District 11 Rick Jasperse, Ellijay City Mayor Al Hoyle, Gilmer Schools Superintendent Dr. Shanna Downs, and many representatives from the Ellijay and East Ellijay City Councils and Gilmer Board of Education. Efforts from many organizations have led into combined organizations such as the Greater Gilmer Joint Development Authority (JDA) and the Greater Gilmer Community Foundation.

That Foundation was the birthplace of the initiative to build CORE. According to Kent Sanford, Executive Director of the Greater Gilmer JDA and part of the Greater Gilmer Community Foundation, a 14-month birth cycle has finally come to full fruition.

While the celebration was a culmination of efforts so far, it is only the beginning. It is a project that holds great impact on the future, according to Ralston who said, “It will create jobs in our area. The jobs of tomorrow will be possible because of the work that goes on in this building.”

Speaker of the House, David Ralston announces a $420,000 state grant for the CORE facility to applause from attendees at the ribbon-cutting on July 24, 2019.

Ralston also dedicated support to the facility as he announced, “Because of the local commitment to the CORE building the State of Georgia, through our OneGeorgia Authority, is awarding $420,000 to this project to be used for Facility purchase and improvement costs. This $420,000 grant is historic, both in terms of its dollar amount and the impact it will have on this project and community.”

Ralston continued speaking about the economic development and job creation in the county before offering the second announcement of the day regarding the Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation, also known as Georgia’s Rural Center.

Ralston stated at the ribbon-cutting, “I am proud to announce that the new North Georgia of the Georgia Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation will be housed right here in Ellijay in this facility. The office will be led by Janet Cochran.”

Ralston’s office later offered a full Press Release on the announcement stating the center serves as a central information and research hub for rural best practices, including community planning, industry-specific assistance and cooperative efforts with community partners. The center was proposed by the House Rural Development Council in 2017 and was created by House Bill 951, which was enacted in 2018.

The Georgia Center for Rural Prosperity & Innovation, also known as Georgia’s Rural Center, was officially announced to open a North Georgia Office at Gilmer’s CORE facility during a ribbon-cutitng on July 24, 2019.

These announcements were applauded by those present and praised by the Chairman of the Gilmer Chamber, John Marshall, who said, “Mr. Speaker, once again you have proven yourself to be the very epitome of a stalwart and faithful advocate not only to your hometown and all the other communities in these beautiful North Georgia Mountains, but to each and every corner of the state of Georgia.”

President of the Gilmer Chamber, Paige Green also praised the facility as the realization of a dream for the community that has spread to benefit not only one county but something larger that now spans the region.

Today was a celebration of completing the first steps of a larger plan for the facility. Though it is now open, it is only the first phase of that dream. Director Sanford noted last year that the hopes for the facility include two more phases.

In Phase II, the foundation will continue renovation onto the second floor to open up a larger area for education and training in a 1,200 square foot space upstairs.

In Phase III, hopes for the CORE Facility could extend into the schools for things like STEM Classes, STEM Saturdays, or other forays into education connection. Consolidating resources for these could include shared STEM kits or a shared expense for a STEM subscription service involving 3d-printing necessary components. However, specific details into PHASE III have yet to be finalized.

Ultimately, the CORE wants to continue spreading and growing this larger community where possible. Opportunities that may come have yet to be revealed, but one ribbon-cutting today, one celebration, can lead to something bigger than imagining tomorrow.

Appalachian Gun, Pawn, Range, & Training Ribbon Cutting

Press Release

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce recently had a ribbon cutting at Appalachian Gun, Pawn, Range, and Training located at 140 Shelby Lane in Jasper.

We encourage you to visit Appalachian Gun, Pawn, Range, & Training and experience the difference. Their friendly staff will gladly help your decision as you make your purchase. Receive free range time to try your new firearm when you purchase your firearm from Appalachian. They also have rental guns to try out at the state of the art shooting range. Bring your pistol or rifle and shoot on the 25-yard range and the 50-yard range.

Appalachian Gun & Pawn is family owned & family operated. They pride themselves on fair prices and excellent customer service. The hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

For more information about Appalachian Gun, Pawn, Range, & Training, as well as many other Pickens County Chamber of Commerce member businesses, please visit the website at www.pickenschamber.com, or call (706) 692-5600 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday.

Chamber ribbon cutting at Angel Babies Boutique

Pickens County Chamber

JASPER, Ga. – The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce recently had a ribbon cutting at Angel Babies Boutique as a way to help the store rise to new heights.  Although separate from North Georgia Pregnancy Center, their missions are aligned on several key objectives, which include bringing compassionate help and hope to women and their families who are experiencing an unplanned pregnancy, influencing community culture in support of Christian values of marriage and family living, and developing community-wide educational programs and events.

At Angel Babies Boutique, one will find new and gently used clothing, toys, shoes, maternity wear, strollers, and other items. They are available for cash purchase or with “Baby Bucks” that are earned as part of the “Earn While You Learn” program at the pregnancy center, where many services are available, such as individual, couple, and family counseling, court-approved parenting classes, childbirth classes, pregnancy tests, and first trimester ultrasounds. The store accepts tax deductible donations of new and used baby items in order to serve the community by enabling people to buy great items at greatly discounted prices.  

Angel Babies Boutique is located at 1549 East Church Street in Jasper and is open Monday and Wednesday from 12:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., as well as Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More information can be found on the Angel Babies Facebook page and at www.babyontheway.org.

For more information about Angel Babies Boutique and many other Pickens County Chamber of Commerce member businesses, please visit the website at www.pickenschamber.com or call 706-692-5600 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Dave Garner, WoodmenLife – Ribbon Cutting

Business, Pickens County Chamber

By: Rachel Coleman

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate WoodmenLife on
their ribbon cutting for their business.

WoodmenLife is a non-profit insurance company that specializes in life insurance and
retirement products. The office is located at 644 West Church Street in Jasper. Local
sales representative Dave Garner opened the office giving WoodmenLife/Woodmen of
the World a full-time presence in Pickens County. Dave is pictured with colleague
Richard York who shares a commitment to serve Woodmen members and the local
community.

For more information on WoodmenLife and many other businesses that are members of
the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or
visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Chamber ribbon cutting for Ball Ground Upper Cervical Chiropractic

Community

BALL GROUND, Ga. – The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce recently had a ribbon cutting at Ball Ground Upper Cervical Chiropractic located at 11027 Ball Ground Highway in Ball Ground.

At Ball Ground Upper Cervical Chiropractic, their mission is to offer impeccable patient care through the latest advancements in chiropractic procedures. Ball Ground Chiropractic Orthospinologist Dr. Ryan Klopfer and his team want you to feel welcome and at ease as they partner with you step by step during the healing process.

Dr. Klopfer has extensive post-doctorate education and training in a sub-specialty of chiropractic called, chiropractic orthospinology. The primary focus of Chiropractic Orthospinology is to observe the structural integrity of the cranio-cervical junction and its relationship with the rest of the spine: the cervical, thoracic, lumbar and pelvic regions.

Their specific 3-D imaging and diagnostic system removes all guesswork thus eliminating the burden of unnecessary care and subsequent health care costs. After a thorough analysis, Dr. Klopfer will utilize gentle, objective and precise corrective procedures that restore balance and function to the human body. There is no twisting, popping or cracking involved.

Dr. Klopfer believes in delivering evidenced-based health care with absolute clarity. The staff is proud to provide clear and concise measurements of progress for each individual patient. Not only will you feel the difference after your first visit, you will see a difference. Call 770-680-7666 for an appointment.

For more information about Ball Ground Upper Cervical Chiropractic and many other Pickens County Chamber of Commerce member businesses, please visit the website at www.pickenschamber.com, or call 706-692-5600 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Piedmont Physicians Mountainside Internal Medicine – Ribbon Cutting

Press Release

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Piedmont Physicians Mountainside Internal Medicine on their ribbon cutting for their business.

Piedmont Physicians Mountainside Internal Medicine specializes in primary care to help patients achieve and maintain better health, focusing on prevention as the best medicine. They feature same-day appointments and provide a wide range of services such as well visits, sick visits, annual exams, women’s health, sports physicals, vaccinations and immunizations.

For more information on Piedmont Physicians Mountainside Internal Medicine and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Dynamite Fitness – Ribbon Cutting

Press Release

 

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Dynamite Fitness on their ribbon cutting for their business. Dynamite Fitness, LLC is a “Boot Camp” style ladies-only gym. They are here to motivate, encourage, and support the ladies of our community to be a healthier and happier YOU! They offer strength, weight, HIIT, circuit, cardio and endurance training BY women FOR women! They offer drop in day rates, weekly, or monthly programs.

Brittany Poole and Bridget Roland started this venture because they knew there were many local ladies who would love the opportunity to get in shape but just did not feel comfortable in a typical gym setting. When you walk through their doors, you will feel welcome and never intimidated or out of place. They have members ranging from young teenagers to 60+ and on ALL fitness levels. Poole and Roland coach and support you through it all! Not only will you be able to get in shape, but you will have a great time while doing so. The laughs and high fives are endless, and the sweat is just a bonus. Kids are also welcome where they are free to play games, color, watch TV or work on homework.

They have been blessed with an AMAZING group of ladies thus far and look forward to all 2018 may bring.

Your first class is always FREE, so just give them a shot.

For more information on Dynamite Fitness and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Magnolia’s On Main ribbon cutting

Business

JASPER, Ga. – The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Magnolia’s on Main on their ribbon cutting for their business.

Kim was born and raised in Jasper, Georgia. She grew up in a restaurant atmosphere alongside her parents. She is married to Bill Lawrence, and has two children, Walker and Will.

In her boutique, Magnolia’s on Main, Kim carries several different types of clothing, hoping to have something for every age group. She also has lots of handmade jewelry, including Lizzy James. With these other selections, she also carries Bedstu shoes and purses, all of which are hand stitched and real leather.

Please stop by and visit Kim at Magnolia’s on Main.

For more information on Magnolia’s on Main and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Dragonflies Birthdays & Events Ribbon Cutting Press Release

Community

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Dragonflies Birthdays & Events on their ribbon cutting for their business.

Dragonflies is introducing a unique approach to events in the north Georgia area. While they specialize in children’s birthday parties, they are excited to offer a variety of services that are easily customized to fit your needs.

Dragonflies offer a venue that is affordable to fit any budget. If you are looking for a place to host an anniversary party, bridal or baby showers, meetings, reunions and intimate weddings, they are the place!

For more information on Dragonflies Birthdays & Events and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Ribbon Cutting for Windsor Lodge Assisted Living

Business
Pickens County Chamber of Commerce
500 Stegall Dr
Jasper, GA 30143
About Us Events Marble Festival Tourism
Ground Breaking & Ribbon Cutting
Friday, July 28, 2017
10:00 am

190 Sammy McGhee Blvd, Jasper, GA 30143

Windsor Lodge Assisted Living is a one-story, 52 apartment facility, and will offer an additional Memory Care Community for clients with memory loss issues. Windsor Lodge is expected to open in April or May of 2018. For more information, visit www.windsorlodgellc.com
Join our Mobile Text Alerts by texting “Pickenschamber” to 662-200-4303
Pickens Co. Chamber of Commerce | 500 Stegall Drive, Jasper, GA | Mon. – Fri.: 9 – 5

Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter View on Instagram View our videos on YouTube Visit our blog

Precision Automotive of Jasper LLC – Ribbon Cutting

Business

Precision Automotive of Jasper LLC – Ribbon Cutting

By: Rachel Whitman

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Precision Automotive of Jasper LLC on their ribbon cutting for their new business.

Precision Automotive had been a dream since 2004. Luckily the stars have aligned and allowed it to become a reality. James Hudgins and Kevin Cooley have a combined 30+ years in the automotive repair industry. They both strive to make Precision Automotive an affordable and honest repair facility. They can do everything from oil changes, brakes, tune-ups, and scheduled maintenance all the way up to engine and transmission replacement. They also do full diagnostics and A/C work as well.

For more information on Precision Automotive of Jasper LLC and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692- 5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Karla’s Korner – Upcoming Events in Gilmer County

Community, Featured

Earch Day clean up

Springtime in Ellijay means a lot of great upcoming events to get outside and enjoy! Dalton State College is hosting an art show for all local students from today until May 5th. There will be a reception tonight to kick off the art show. There are also ribbon cuttings this week at Premier Pools and Spas and Abby’s Ice Cream and Fro Yo. This weekend is Earth Day and it is supposed to be a beautiful weekend. In honor of Earth Day there will be a couple “clean up” events around town one will be at Harrison Park and the other will start at River Pavilion.

 

 

The next big Gilmer County event that we are looking forward to is the Apple Blossom FestivalABF on May 6th and 7th. This is a great festival showcasing local craft vendors, food vendors and businesses. Come out, bring your pups, and meet the FYN team. We will have a “pup-cam” and treats for all our furry friends as well. Also in today’s segment with Karla hear a little confession from BKP about “his spot” at the Apple Blossom Festival.

 

 

 

 

For more information on all these upcoming events and many more check out the events calendar on the Gilmer Chamber website.

 

Pickens Chamber Holds Ribbon Cutting for House of ZOO-OLOGY

Pickens County Chamber

By: Lexi Hardman

The Pickens County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate House of ZOO-OLOGY for their Ribbon Cutting Celebration and brand new business.

Are you looking for a new and exciting way to revamp your workout routine? Gabe Northern, owner and new Pickens County resident, is the person to see. Gabe brings a fresh face to health and wellness. His years of experience playing college and professional football, as well as coaching professional football has prepared him for a career in motivating others to invest in their health. House of ZOO-OLOGY focuses on a combination of yoga, meditation, footwork, core, and football type drills.

Gabe believes in providing a family friendly atmosphere, where anyone from 4 years old to 84 years old can work out. This summer, he will be putting on summer camps for young boys to improve on their health, while also working on their behavior. In addition, he has begun working with the Pickens High School football team in their pursuit of a state title. Gabe wholeheartedly loves this community and asks for your continued support in making his dream of owning this business a success. Information regarding classes and price schedules can be found on their Facebook page (Zoo-Ology) or give them a call at 706-669-9908.

For more information on House of ZOO-OLOGY and many other businesses that are members of the Pickens County Chamber of Commerce, please give us a call at 706-692-5600 or visit our website at www.pickenschamber.com.

Back to Top