CLARKESVILLE - Habersham EMC (HEMC) has released a new book and CD travel guide called "Experience Northeast Georgia - John Kollock's guide to 75 Special Places."
The well-know artist narrates the guide, which was produced to commemorate HEMC's 75th anniversary, the guide highlights 75 "must see" locations in eight Northeast Georgia counties.
"We wanted to do something that would promote this area and give back to the communities we serve through economic development at the same time," says Todd Pealock HEMC President/CEO. "So we asked artist, John Kollock, and writer, Emory Jones, to team up and create something memorable. The result exceeded our wildest expectations. This is not only entertaining and informative, but it also preserves an incredible amount of history. In addition, all HEMC proceeds will be used to support the promotion of the product for the region and local chambers of commerce."
The 84-page booklet features a brief description of each location. Together, the CDs hold four and one half hours of fascinating stories and details about each place. Noted North Georgia musician DeDe Voit provided original music for the audio portion.
"Because he has done so many well-researched and historically accurate paintings, John has a deep knowledge of the history here," says David Foster, Manager of HEMC Marketing and Contact Centre. "He also has the perfect voice to make these tapes come alive with his unique insights. Imagine pulling up to the Nacoochee Valley Indian Mound or Toccoa Falls and having John Kollock tell you about it before you ever get out of the car."
Each location is on an individual track so you can start or stop at any point and travel in any direction. "Or you can listen to it all from your easy chair at home," says Pealock. "It works whether you are at the specific location or not. Since all the featured places have historical significance, this project is designed to be timeless. It's as if you have your own private tour guide."
In addition to the book and CD set, HEMC has created something called The My 75 Club.
"When you visit any of the 75 locations, or just listen to them on the CD, you're automatically a member," says Susan Baker, Director of HEMC Marketing and Contact Centre. "There are no dues, fees or meetings. But there is a website featuring My 75 Club apparel and other items. There are also Facebook and Twitter accounts for the Club so members can post their pictures and thoughts about their visits.
"More significantly though, visitors can download discount coupons to many Northeast Georgia stores, restaurants and hotels."
The guide features locations in Habersham, Hall, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union and White Counties. Sites include The Bartram Trail, Tallulah Falls, The Foxfire Museum, Track Rock Gap, The Dahlonega Gold Museum and 70 others.
The travel guide is available at HEMC headquarters in Clarkesville, Yonah Mountain Treasures in Cleveland, and many other North Georgia locations (visit website for complete listing) at a suggested retail price of $29.95.
The guide set as well as area discount coupons, tee-shirts and other My 75 Club merchandise are also online at www.seenortheastgeorgia.com or by calling 706-219-4947.
The travel guide is also available at the following locations. (More retailers will be added in the future, please visit the website for complete listing):
Habersham County
City of Cornelia
Saturday
July 12th, 2025
3:34PM
