Yay glad to see some more local interest!
As far as training, there is a group called SONG (Sighthounds of North Georgia) that does informal practices once a month or so depending on man power & weather. These practices are a great way to introduce a new dog to the lure. However, for most dogs its an instinctual thing & they don't need much training. Lola & Callie both caught on to it their first time. I just let them both watch other dogs doing it first, then let them go & they did their thing.
Website for SONG:
http://www.nghounds.info/index_files/Page430.htm
It doesn't get updated frequently, but go to the lure coursing practice tab, scroll to the bottom & there are instructions to get on the e-mail list for upcoming practices. Hope to see you lure coursing soon!