Business Link Chairman's Column page 2 Economic Development page 4 Upcoming Events page 5 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 New Members page 12 Small Business of the Month page 13 Chamber Chase Highlights page 14 New Leadership Classes page 15 G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Save the Date MAY 2014 Tuesday, May 13 Small Business Seminar Thursday, May 15 106th Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 22 Business After Hours Make your reservations now for the Greater Hall Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal will be special guests this year. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception. The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. with an overview of the year's success and annual award presentations by Chamber Chair Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy, Chair- Elect David Lee, Jackson EMC, and Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap. Table Sponsorships $1200 (seats 10). Individual tickets are $75 or $125 couple. For table sponsorships or reservations, contact Megan Martin at the Chamber, 770-532- 6206 x 115 or email: [email protected]. Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal to Attend Chamber Gala Governor Nathan Deal and Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal will be special guests at the Greater Hall Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 106th Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 15 6:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club Presented by AT&T Outdoor Reception at 6:00 p.m. Buffet Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m. $75 per person • $125 couple $1200 Table Sponsorship (seats 10) Black Tie Optional Reservations Required 770-532-6206 • Email: [email protected]Gold Sponsors Bitzer • Gainesville Mechanical • Hamilton State Bank Jackson EMC • Lake Lanier Islands • Liberty Utilities Mike Cottrell College of Business • Northeast Georgia Health System • The Longstreet Clinic • Wilheit Packaging – Small Business of the Year – Family Business of the Year – Silver Shovel Awards – W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award – Community Service Award – Distinguished Citizen Award 2013-2014 Business Awards The Chamber's prestigious business awards will be presented at the Annual Meeting & Gala on May 15 Celebrating a Year of Success... The evening will feature comments from Governor Nathan Deal and presentation of the Chamber's Annual Business Awards Special Guests The Honorable Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal Rotary Club of Gainesville
Transcript
B u s i n e s s L i n kChairman's Columnpage 2
Economic Developmentpage 4
Upcoming Eventspage 5
Member Announcementspage 10
Ribbon Cuttingspage 10
New Memberspage 12
Small Business of the Monthpage 13
Chamber Chase Highlightspage 14
New Leadership Classespage 15
G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Save the Date
M A Y2 0 1 4
Tuesday, May 13Small Business Seminar
Thursday, May 15106th Annual Meeting & Gala
Thursday, May 22Business After Hours
Make your reservations now for the Greater Hall Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal will be special guests this year. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception. The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. with an overview of the year's success and annual award presentations by Chamber Chair Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy, Chair-Elect David Lee, Jackson EMC, and Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap. Table Sponsorships $1200 (seats 10). Individual tickets are $75 or $125 couple. For table sponsorships or reservations, contact Megan Martin at the Chamber, 770-532-6206 x 115 or email: [email protected].
Governor Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal to Attend Chamber Gala
Governor Nathan Deal and Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal will be special guests at the Greater Hall Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville.
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
106th Annual Meeting & Gala
Thursday, May 15 6:00 p.m.
Chattahoochee Country Club
Presented by AT&T
Outdoor Reception at 6:00 p.m. Buffet Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m.
$75 per person • $125 couple$1200 Table Sponsorship (seats 10)
Gold SponsorsBitzer • Gainesville Mechanical • Hamilton State Bank
Jackson EMC • Lake Lanier Islands • Liberty Utilities
Mike Cottrell College of Business • Northeast Georgia
Health System • The Longstreet Clinic • Wilheit Packaging
– Small Business of the Year– Family Business of the Year– Silver Shovel Awards– W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award– Community Service Award – Distinguished Citizen Award
2013-2014Business Awards
The Chamber's prestigious business awards will be presented at the Annual Meeting & Gala on May 15
Celebrating a Year of Success... The evening will feature comments from
Governor Nathan Deal and presentation of the Chamber's Annual Business Awards
Special Guests
The Honorable Nathan Deal and First Lady Sandra Deal
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Rotary Clubof Gainesville
Nearly a year ago, I thought long and hard about my role as incoming Chair of the Chamber's Board of Directors. As with past chairs, I wanted to make a difference. I decided the best means to accomplish this was to take advantage of the great leaders already involved with the Chamber, and pursue the theme "Developing Leadership for Life."
Most effective leaders invest in their strengths by surrounding themselves with the right people to maximize their team. Successful leaders understand that they cannot be everything to everybody and remain effective. Instead, they have a sharp awareness of how to leverage their unique blend of strengths, skills and talents. This has been an easy task with the Chamber's dynamic Board of Directors, Executive Committee and professional staff.
On May 15 we will celebrate the successes of the year at the 106th Annual Meeting and Gala. Awards will be presented to top leaders and outstanding Chamber volunteers. The Silver Shovel awards will recognize those individuals who have worked diligently to support the Chamber's action plan and initiatives making Gainesville-Hall County a great place to live and work. We will also honor a Distinguished Citizen and a Community Service-focused individual.
In addition to outstanding volunteers, we are fortunate to have one of the state's top executives leading the Chamber – Kit Dunlap. Kit has served as President and CEO since 1998 and has been recognized by many organizations, most recently with the "Inspiration in Business" award by the University of North Georgia. Kit leads a tremendous staff that work on projects ranging from new business recruitment and job fairs to 5K races and golf tournaments.
Leadership Hall County celebrated its 30th anniversary last year. On May 9, Leadership Hall alums will gather to celebrate the 2013-2014 class graduation. Successful leaders not only build networks, but they also nurture the connections they make. Leadership Hall, now with over 700 graduates is a powerful network of successful leaders. (See the new Leadership classes on page 15.) Part of VISION 2030, The Wisdom Project is a senior leadership program that recently graduated its fourth class. These groups have vision and lead not just for today but also for the future. Also part of the Chamber's leadership program is Youth Leadership Hall – these young people are our future leaders.
Government AffairsJoshua Stephens, Project Manager
South Hall CouncilMegan Martin, Vice President Membership
Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President
VISION 2030Meg Nivens, Executive Director
Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant
Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager
Leadership for today and our future
Dixie TrueloveTruelove Dairy, Inc.Chair, Greater Hall Chamber
“The task of leadership is not to put greatness into people, but to elicit it, for the greatness is there already.”
– John Buchan
(L-R): Dana Miller, Chamber VP Education; Kat Cole, President of Cinnabon, Inc.; Melissa Tymchuk, Director of Marketing, Northeast Georgia Health System; Kemie West, Chamber Marketing; Kit Dunlap, Chamber President/CEO. Kit Dunlap received the Inspiration in Business Award from the Center for the Future of North Georgia and the Mike Cottrell College of Business at the University of North
Georgia at the Inspirational Leaders Award Luncheon on April 8. The Inspiration in Business and Inspiration in Community award (presented to Dr. Buster Evans, superintendent of Forsyth County Schools) were presented in honor and memory of Mike Banks. Banks, a Gainesville resident and former Chamber chairman, was the Development Officer at the Mike Cottrell College of Business. Kat Cole, president of Cinnabon, Inc., was the keynote speaker for the event. ung.edu
Over 50 businesses and industries participated in the Greater Hall Chamber’s Annual Job Fair in April at the Gainesville Civic Center. Mark Butler, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor, was on hand as over 1,000 job seekers met with hiring managers and applied for jobs with employers onsite.
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Gainesville-Hall County is home to over 300 manufacturing, processing and distribution companies. The logistics and trucking industry plays a large part in this sound economic base with the complex coordination of people, money, transportation, facilities and time to move products.Trucks deliver 98.5% of America’s production and imported goods door to door. Hall County's location is prime, being only one or two transport days away from over 50% of the United States' industrial and commercial markets.*
Hall County is home to 105 warehousing and distribution facilities totaling 10 million square feet. Some of the largest facilities include Kubota Manufacturing of America Corporation (one million square feet), Ace Hardware Retail Support Center (500,000 square feet) and Wrigley Manufacturing Company (500,000 square feet). Additionally, Hall County is home to seven cold-storage facilities that are a critical component for food and pharmaceuticals. In Hall County, 98 logistics providers employ 1,536 people and generate over $200 million in annual sales.* Major logistics companies in the area include: Carolina Handling, Carrier Services, CBT, Elliott Transport, Freedom Trans USA, GTO 2000, Hollis Transport Agency, Mugele of America, Overdrive Logistics, Shoreline Transfer, SYFAN Logistics, Tatsumi Intermodal, Tribe Transportation and XPO Logistics/Turbo Division.
"Transportation companies located here are one of the largest employers and economic contributors in Hall County," said Jim Syfan, CEO of SYFAN Logistics and board member of the Transportation Intermediaries Association. "The trucking industry provides high paying jobs and adds significantly to our tax base while playing an important role in the economy – delivering raw materials to local manufacturers and processors from outside Hall County and delivering finished goods from Hall County to the marketplace. Three full days of no trucks, and America would not have gasoline, food or clothing!"
*Source: Georgia Center of Innovation for Logistics 2013 Report
Hall County Logistics Report Job Fair draws over 1,000
(L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber; Mark Butler, Georgia Commissioner of Labor; Al Gainey of Spherion, Title Sponsor of the Job Fair.
King's Hawaiian's (Gold Sponsor) David Phillips and Cheryl Nishimura at the Chamber's Job Fair. Thank you Spherion (Title Sponsor), Express Employment Professionals (Platinum), HTI Employment Solutions (Silver) for sponsoring the event.
The Agribusiness Awards program increases recognition and appreciation of the agribusiness and agricultural community in Hall County. The 2014 awards were presented in April and include (L-R): Friend of Agribusiness: Atlanta Falcons; Outstanding Agribusiness: United Community Bank; Agribusiness Hall of Fame: Buddy Belflower; Farmer of the Year: Todd Clark. The awards program is presented by the Chamber and Hall County Cooperative Extension. Thank you Jackson EMC, title sponsor, and additional sponsors, AgGeorgia Farm Credit, Cargill, Crystal Farms, United Community Bank, Elmer Truelove Dairy, Hall County Farm Bureau, Hall County Soil & Water Conservation District, Jaemor, KingGreen, Mar-Jac Poultry and Purina Animal Nutrition.
Agribusiness Award Winners
(L-R): Randy Knighton, Hall County Administrator; Stan Brown, Oakwood City Manager, Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; at the South Hall Business Coalition in at Oakwood City Hall. The Coalition will meet on May 20 for a tourism update by the Lake Lanier CVB. South Hall Coalition meetings are sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]
South Hall Business Coalition
(L-R): Chris Millman and Jorge Cimadevilla, Atlanta Falcons; Buddy Belflower, Todd Clark; Lori Armour and Sheila Chapman, United Community Bank.
The Gainesville-Hall '96 Board of Directors announces Morgan House as the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue's (LLOV) new Venue Manager. A Gainesville-native, House is an Olympic-level kayaker and most recently served as a High Performance Canoe/Kayak Coach for the Lanier Canoe Kayak Club. During his kayak career, he participated in over 20 world-class venues in more than 10 countries. As a coach, he has implemented yearly training programs and one-on-one sessions with athletes as well as web page development and club event organization. The LLOV is planning a great team building opportunity for businesses and community organizations with the 1st Annual
Gainesville/Hall Dragon Boat Challenge to help the Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club (LCKC) support the Hall County Special Olympics program. Sign your company up for the competition! Details and registration at lckc.org
Lake Lanier Olympic Venue
Morgan HouseManager, Lake Lanier Olympic Venue
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May 6, 2014 • A
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MAY 2014Wednesday, May 7Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, May 9Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, May 9Leadership Hall Graduation and Alumni Celebration6:00 p.m.Chattahoochee Country Club
Tuesday, May 13Small Business Seminar“Affordable Care Act Update" Presented by Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, May 13Ambassadors Council3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café
Wednesday, May 14Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. The Café at Lanier Career Academy
Wednesday, May 14Human Resources Council11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant
Thursday, May 15106th Annual Meeting & Gala6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception7:00 p.m. Dinner & AwardsChattahoochee Country Club
Tuesday, May 20South Hall Business Coalition"Tourism Update" Presented by Stacey DicksonPresident, Lake Lanier CVB8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Flowery Branch Train Depot
Tuesday, May 20VISION 2030 Board of Directors11:30 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, May 21Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – ChamberWednesday, May 21Lunch 'n Learn with guest speaker Jim Kerlin, Sandler Training11:45 a.m. – Recess Pub
Thursday, May 22Chamber Board of Directors12:00 p.m. – Georgia Power Pavilion
Thursday, May 22Business After Hours at North Georgia Canopy Tours5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.North Georgia Canopy Tours5290 Harris Road in Lula
Wednesday, May 28Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.Publix in Flowery Branch 5900 Spout Springs Road
JUNE 2014
Tuesday, June 10Small Business Seminar“Dealing With Difficult Customers”By Jim Kerlin, Sandler Training7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Thursday, June 12Georgia Chamber Power Breakfast8:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Networking 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. ProgramChattahoochee Country Club
Thursday, June 26Business After Hours at Kipper Tool5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.2375 Murphy Blvd in Gainesville
Get details on these and other Greater Hall Chamber events online: greaaterhallchamber.com
1/2 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x10"
Thank You Chamber SponsorsAEON Clinical
AT&TBitzer
Breakfield & Assocs/Air MethodsCaroll Daniel Construction
Thursday, May 156:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception7:00 p.m. Dinner & AwardsChattahoochee Country Club$75 per person/$125 couple/$1200 table (10)
Join Chamber members and friends for this exciting event with special guest Governor Nathan Deal and Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal. Outdoor reception, elegant dinner buffet, live music! Chair Dixie Truelove, Chair Elect David Lee and Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap will present the program and awards. Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. [email protected]
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Tuesday, May 208:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Flowery Branch Train Depot5302 Railroad Avenue$5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Light Breakfast
– Tourism Update –Come network with the South Hall Business Coalition at the unique Flowery Branch Train Depot and hear an update from Stacey Dickson, President of the Lake Lanier Convention & Visitors Bureau. Includes light breakfast. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
South Hall Business Coalition
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Small Business SeminarTuesday, May 137:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Greater Hall ChamberNo Charge for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members
– Affordable Care Act Update –Brett Fowler, VP & Partner, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance, will update us on the latest with the Affordable Care Act and discuss Qualifying Events Review; 2015 Individual Open Enrollment Dates; Small Group Deductible Limit Update; Employer Compliance Requirements; and Employer Mandate Delay (50+). Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Thursday, May 225:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. North Georgia Canopy Tours5290 Harris Road - Lula, GA 30554$5 Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Drawing • Canopy Tour Giveaway
Join the outdoor fun at Business After Hours on May 22 at North Georgia Canopy Tours in Lula – Georgia's ultimate zipline treetop adventure! Tour a teepee... Participate in a zipline demo... Enjoy draft beer by Rabbittown Package and food by Locos Grill & Deli. Win a Teepee Overnight Stay or a Free Canopy Tour! For details or directions, visit northgeorgiacanopytours.com
Business After Hours
Annual Meeting & GalaPresented by
(L-R): Chamber Chair-Elect David Lee, Jackson EMC; Chair Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy; Beth Shiroishi, President, AT&T Georgia; Chamber Board Member Paul Chambers, AT&T Regional Director of External Affairs; Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Chamber. Many thanks to AT&T for sponsoring the Chamber's April Board meeting, sponsoring the Hackers Holiday 19th Hole Reception and title sponsor of the Annual Meeting & Gala.
AT&T Sponsors Chamber Events
(L-R): Marjorie Butler, Hope Chiropractic; Dr. Gale Starich, Brenau University; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber, Loren Funk, The Longstreet Clinic; Alan Wills, Northeast Georgia Health System, at the Chamber's Healthcare Committee meeting in April. The group heard a presentation by Alan Wills on the Health eConnection, the health information exchange program for Northeast Georgia.
Tony Herdener brought to his Rotary presi-dency in 2013-2014 an emphasis on men and wom-en serving in the military and in roles of public pro-tection such as police and �re. Because of his role as chief �nancial o�cer of the Northeast Georgia Health System, Tony was instrumental in bringing programs to the club on health care, insurance, elec-tronic records, and nutrition.
�e Rotary Club of Gainesville was chartered in 1923 and is 188 members strong today. Under President Herdener’s leadership of the largest Ro-tary club in the area, the Gainesville club joined with other area Rotary clubs to construct a monument to public safety personnel. �e $40,000 project is ex-pected to be completed by May 2015.
�e Rotary Club of Gainesville also donat-ed to the Good News at Noon Clinic, the Disabled Veterans Association of Gainesville, the Gainesville High School Interact Club, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County, among several organizations. Rotary gives $20,000 or more over a year’s time, including the construction of ramps.
Alexandra “Alex” Barrraclough was this year’s Geor-gia Rotary Student Program (GRSP) student. She le� her home in Edinburgh, Scotland, to spend a year in Gainesville attending Brenau Univeristy. She was hosted by Kathy and Richard Oates, Rotarian, and reported to the club that during her year she learned to enjoy BBQ, boiled peanuts, American sports, and the beauty of northeast Georgia’s mountains.
Community leaders were honored at the Rotary annual banquet in Janu-ary. Dr. John Burd, cen-ter, was named Man of the Year and is pictured with Honorable Judge Bonnie Oliver, le�, past president, and right, Ro-tarian LeTrell Simpson.
“Student Showcase of Innovation in the Hall County School District” was a pop-ular program last October presented by Will Scho�eld, superintendent. �e stars were the students and their teach-ers who impressed Rotarians with their range of talents, skills, languages, and accomplishments.
Rotary Club of Gainesville Celebrates
91 Years of Service
Learn more at rotaryclubofgainesville.com or facebook.com/RotaryClubOfGainesville
Woman of the Year, named at the an-nual banquet, is Jane Hemmer, center, pictured with Honorable Judge Bon-nie Oliver and past Rotary president, Dr. Martha Nesbitt. Above right, Tony Herdener and Dr. Ed Schrader, Rotarian and president of Brenau University are pictured at the March Rotary meeting at the new Brenau Downtown Center.
Congressman Doug Collins, second from le�, presented a Signature program at the August 26 meeting and acquainted Ro-tarians with his goals and experiences in D.C. and Congress. Signature programs, an innovation of Tony’s, were longer pro-grams designed to delve deeper into top-ics of note. Pictured with Congressman Collins, are, le�, Georgia State Senator Butch Miller, Tony Herdener, and Mike Giles of the Georgia Poultry Federation.
LTCOL Terry Barron, center, addressed the club in
September and shared her experiences as a Black-
hawk pilot. She has �own over 200 combat missions
and was awarded the Air Medal and the Combat Ac-
tion Badge. She is pictured with Tony Herdener, le�,
and Rotarian Ben Hampton.
�e Rotary Club of Gainesville has built over 70 ramps for disabled individuals and their families. �e club does everything from the design, engineering, con-struction, and funding of the ramps. �e Rotary van, which carries construction supplies and equipment, is spotted almost monthly throughout Hall County as Rotarians volunteer their time and talent to build ramps.
Pepper and Clarissa Brown, le�, and Larry and Patricia Lykins enjoy the annual Rotary barbecue that this year was a �sh fry at the American Legion Pavilion.
Learn more at rotaryclubofgainesville.com or facebook.com/RotaryClubOfGainesville
Skip and Vickie Johnson cut ribbon at Cravings Bakery and Café in Flowery Branch. With 15 years experience in the food service industry, Skip and Vickie bring their passion for all things sweet to the Flowery Branch/Oakwood community. A homey atmosphere coupled with homemade cakes, cupcakes, cheesecakes and specialty confections provides a great place to sit for coffee, lunch with a friend, or simply experience one of their cravings. Fresh made sandwiches are prepared for lunch, and delivered boxed lunches are available for your next meeting. Skip and Vickie look forward to seeing you soon and have just one question for you…."What’s Your Craving?" 3616 Atlanta Highway, #600, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-531-1188. cravingsbakeycafe.com
• Jeannie Copeland announces Natural Juice Cafe's revamped catering menu with more selections and free delivery. Spring specials are back with the Beef Quinoa Burger getting rave reviews along with Jeannie's Famous White Bean Chicken Chili and Spinach Orzo Pasta Salad. 2580 Limestone Parkway in Gainesville. 678-928-4833. naturaljuicecafe.com• Looking for a great team building oppor-tunity for your corporate, governmental, or community organization? Challenge your local competition at the 1st Annual Gainesville/Hall Dragon Boat Challenge and help Lanier Canoe & Kayak Club (LCKC) support the Hall County Special Olympics program. Details at lckc.org• Chamber Networking ! Network Over Coffee on May 14 at 8:30 a.m. at The Café at Lanier Career Academy; Lunch 'n Learn on May 21 at 11:45 a.m. at Recess South-ern Gastro Pub with guest speaker Jim Kerlin of Sandler Training; Network Over Coffee on May 28 at 8:30 a.m. at Publix in Flowery Branch. For text reminders of networking events, text “HALL” to 88588 or email Kara Tate: [email protected]• The Northeast Georgia History Center celebrates its 10th Anniversary on May 8 with a reception from 5-7 p.m. Enjoy mu-sic, food and networking as you tour the building. The NEGAHC at Brenau Uni-versity is a leading resource for promoting the cultural, social, economic and political history of the region. negahc.org• The Law Firm of Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker, LLP (WDJW) is pleased to announce Carla J. Walker and David H. Dickerson as partners. Walker is a member of the firm’s real estate group, and Dickerson is a member of the litiga-tion team. WDJW was founded in 1883 and with over 130 years of experience, the firm offers expert legal services in a variety of diverse practice areas. wdjwlaw.com• The 16th Annual Rubber Duck Derby benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County is Saturday, May 17 at Clarks Bridge Park in Gainesville. Duck Fest fes-tival includes arts, crafts, jewelry, pottery, bounce houses, carnival games, face paint-ing, live entertainment, great food, health screenings and much more! Watch 16,000 rubber ducks race to the finish in Lake Lanier to win great prizes. Free! Fun for the entire family. rubberduckderby.com• Dana Miller, Chamber Vice President of Education, was the recipient of Brenau University's 2014 Alumna Community Service Award for service to Brenau. Dana was recognized at Alumae Reunion Weekend festivities in April for her pas-sion for the community and reflecting the "Brenau Ideal." brenau.edu
• Carry On Youth, a non-profit providing recreational and mentoring services to youth who have lost a parent, is hosting a fundraiser on Saturday June 14 at Laurel Park in Gainesville with charity softball and kickball games, food, bounce house, vendor and sponsor tables, and several live bands. Sponsorship info and event details: 770-540-3170. carryonyouth.org• The Division of Continuing Education at the University of North Georgia, Gainesville Campus offers a variety of classes on topics ranging from photogra-phy and human resources to writing skills. For info on upcoming classes or summer camps, call 678-717-3700. ung.edu/ce• Hall County Board of Commissioners announces former Habersham County Clerk Lisa Ritchie as the new commission clerk for Hall County. hallcounty.org• Got a new driver or graduate? New driv-ers can take advantage of Skip Barber's new High Density Teen Safety and Sur-vival School at Road Atlanta this month. New drivers will develop good accident avoidance techniques, confidence in driv-ing, awareness of others on the road and street driving safety. Skip Barber Driving School, 5290 Winder Hwy, Braselton, GA 30517. 866-932-1949. skipbarber.com• United Way of Hall County present-ed this year’s Chairman’s Award to the Greater Hall Chamber for 100% employee participation in the last five cam-paigns. Tim Evans serves on the Board of Directors; Shelley Davis on the Campaign Cabinet; Dana Miller on the Community Investment Committee; and Meg Nivens, VISION 2030, has partnered with United Way on the ReadLearnSucceed Initiative.• Elachee Nature Preschool's registration is now open for classes for 3, 4 and 5 year olds. Low teacher-student ration (1:8), daily outdoor exploration and a nature playscape is part of this fully licensed SACS accredited school that uses unique discovery-based curriculum and builds a lifelong passion for nature. elachee.org• Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia an-nounces Steve Reagin as Gwinnett Market President. Reagin has over 20 years in the North Atlanta/Gwinnett County market and was formerly with Fidelity Bank where he was top producing lender for 2012 and 2013. chattahoocheebank.com• Collins & Associates "Shred Day" is May 21 from 10am-12pm with free document shredding (accepting donations for Eagle Ranch). For details on Records Retention (what not to shred and how long to keep records) visit caplanning.com
Carefree Boat Club in Buford(L-R): David Rothwell, Kevin Bonnema, Julie Horne, Sally Morgan and Jason Whitmire (Aquamarina Lazy Days) cut ribbon for Carefree Boat Club. The club offers a variety of high-end, premium boats for use by its members. The club takes care of maintenance, insurance, cleaning and training,
and members enjoy boating without the hassles of owning. "We Provide the Boats, You Provide the Fun!" 6700 Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford. 888-439-8757. carefreeboats.com
Cravings Bakery & Café
New Community MagazineThe Chamber's newly published Gainesville-Hall County Community Magazine is now available with information on economic development, tourism, housing, education, culture, government and quality of life. Copies of the community magazine and other information (Gainesville-Hall County map, Wage & Benefit Survey, Membership Direc-tory, Manufacturers & Processors Directory) are available at the Greater Hall Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. For pricing and mailing informa-tion, call, 770-532-6206 or email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
McDonald's at New Holland MarketDan Carey, BB&T; Bob Swoszowski, Danny Hutson, Kim Scott and Marco Valeriano of McDonald's Northeast Georgia, Inc. cut ribbon at the newly opened McDonald’s at New Holland Market,2010 Limestone Parkway in Gainesville. 770-531-0055. mcdonalds.com
Meeting on your schedule, not ours.Face-to-face meetings. One-on-one relationships.
How did Edward Jones become one fo the biggest financial services companies in the country? By not acting like one.
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22Gainesville, GA 30506770-536-2031
Rick Kimpling, AAMS®
64 North Brooks Street Unit BCleveland, GA 30528706-865-0933
Beth Baldwin
439 Green Street NWGainesville, GA 30501770-534-1220
Michael Lancaster
1879 Buford Hwy., Ste 3Buford, GA 30518770-831-4782
Business After Hours at Gainesville Design Center kicked off spring with great fun, live music and food by 2 Dog Cafe. The event introduced Gainesville Flooring as the new name for Budget Carpet & Flooring. Founded in 1992, the Everett family has grown the family owned and operated store to include three addresses and broadened their product offering. Gainesville Flooring and Gainesville Paint are now part of Gainesville Design
Center. Don't miss Business After Hours on Thursday, May 22 at North Georgia Canopy Tours – Georgia's ultimate zipline treetop adventure! Tour a teepee... Participate in a zipline demo... Enjoy draft beer by Rabbittown Package and food by Locos Grill & Deli. Win a Teepee Overnight Stay, a free Canopy Tour or the Cash Drawing! For details or directions, visit northgeorgiacanopytours.com
YMCA Camp High HarbourAndrew Thomason200 Main StreetGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-2267-Non-Profitcamphighharbour.com
For information on Chamber membership benefits, contact Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 116. Email: [email protected]
Business After Hours
(L-R): Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith (TWS) Insurance; Lindsey Kelley and Elizabeth Thompson, House Dressing Interiors; Brett Fowler, TWS Insurance; Greg Barrett, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia.
(L-R): Jason Everett, Gainesville Flooring; Megan Martin, Chamber Membership Vice President; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint.
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IN
B u s i n e s s L i n k
Chairman's Column
page 2
Newly Elected
Officers
page 4
Small Business of
the Month
page 5
Upcoming Events
page 6
Member
Announcements
page 10
New Members
page 13
Leadership
Programs
page 14
VISION 2030
page 15
G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Save the Date
A P R I L2 0 1 3
Wednesday, April 10
Job Fair
Thursday, April 18
Chamber Chase 5K
Friday, April 26
Hackers Holiday Golf
FREE ADMISSION! OPEN TO PUBLIC!
Job FairWednesday, April 10
Gainesville Civic Center – 10 am - 3 pm
CH
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ETFIT
STAY FIT CORPORATE
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Over 500 people are registered for the 6th Annual Chamber Chase
5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on Thursday, April 18 at Riverside
Military Academy in Gainesville. A crowd of over 2,000 is expected
to participate in the community-wide wellness event! Registration
is available online through April 12 at ChamberChase5K.com.
Registration at the Chamber office, open through April 17. Complete
details on the event including race courses and frequently asked
questions are also available online. The Chamber Chase is more than
a run/walk with activities including Fastest CEO, Fastest Team, Best
T-Shirt Contest, great giveaways and Hall County's Largest Office Party
with music, food, awards, and recognition following the race! The
Chamber Chase, formerly Get Fit Stay Fit, is a program of VISION
2030. Call 770-532-6206 or Register Online at ChamberChase5K.com
Chamber Chase 5K is April 18
Thursday, April 18 • 6:00 pmRiverside Military Academy
The Chamber's 34th Annual Hackers
Holiday Golf Tournament is Friday,
April 26 at Legacy on Lanier Golf
Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort.
Cost is $150 per player; $600 team (4-
some). The tournament's title sponsor
is Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia,
and play begins with a shotgun start at
10 a.m. Entry Fee includes green fee,
cart, breakfast, box lunch, snacks and
drinks. Awards will be presented in
three flights, along with Hole-In-One
prize, closest to the pin, longest drive,
a putting contest and much more. The
19th Hole Reception, sponsored by AT&T, with delicious free food and
drink follows the tournament at the clubhouse.
WIN $1,000 CASH!A Golf Ball Drop Raffle will take place at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club
to kick off Hackers Holiday on Friday, April 26. A helicopter will drop
a numbered ball for each ticket sold! Closest to hole wins! $10 per
ticket or 3 tickets for $20. Do not have to be present to win. Megan
tournament and the raffle online: greaterhallchamber.com
34th Annual Hackers Holiday
Presented by
See List of
Employers
on Page 5!
Race Date: April 18
Run: 6:00 p.m
Walk: 6:10 p.m.
Register Online:
ChamberChase5k.com
Online Registration Ends:
April 12th
Details: 770-532-6206
• Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 20,000 on the 1st Tuesday of the month.• Reach decision makers from the area businesses for current chamber membership in excess of 2700.• Featured member of the month gets 2 full pages or center spread.• Advertising pricing is available for 1,6 or 12 issues.
Founded in 1995, Accusite Surgical is a cataract out-sourcing company that has provided quality cataract surgical equipment and technicians to surgeons and hospitals for over 18 years. The company helps eye care providers gain access to state of the art equipment so patients can stay in their local communities. Accusite's goal is to keep patients 'at home' by delivering the most advanced technology to medical professionals and surgeons who choose to provide the best in care. Accusite provides more than the average outsourcing company and is committed to enhancing clinical, surgical and financial outcomes. Network practices are able to take advantage of special financing rates for patients, receive patient education resources and product and staff trainings. 770-531-1460. accusitesurgical.com
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Small Business of the MonthAccusite Surgical Services
(L-R): Accusite Surgical’s Michele Lester, Executive Vice President; Lynn Godfrey, President; Ashlee Craig, Vice President of Operations,Chamber Small Business of the Month.
Small Business Success Seminars(L-R): Ron Simmons, UGA Small Business Development Center, facilitated a panel discussion on financing with representatives from Hamilton State Bank, Small Business Access Partners and Crowd Funding. The next seminar is Tuesday, May 13 and will feature an update on the Affordable Care Act by Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance. Brett will discuss Qualifying Events Review; 2015 Individual Open Enrollment Dates; Small Group Deductible Limit Update; Employer Compliance Requirements; and Employer Mandate Delay (50+). Small Business Seminars are sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage and Jacobs Media. The seminars focus on small business issues and are free for Chamber members. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
1/2 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x10"
National Small Business Week is May 12-16 and recognizes the outstanding achievements of America’s small businesses for their contributions in their local communities and to our nation’s economy.
• 85% of the Greater Hall Chamber's members are Small Businesses• 94.6% of Georgia's businesses haver fewer than 50 employees• Georgia ranks #1 in the U.S. for "Best State for Business"
Learn how your small business can benefit from the Chamber's programs and services. Contact Amada Lewis: 770-532-6206x111. Email: [email protected]
Randy Donaldson, University of Georgia Small Business Development Center; Alan Davenport, Growlers on Main; Ron Simmons, UGA SBDC; Rick Sigmand, University of West Georgia SBDC; Frayne Bentley, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia; Lorra Lee and Matt Schroeder, Small Business Access Partners.
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vardeman.comSTRATEGIC MARKETING | ADVERTISING | PUBLIC RELATIONS
TINA CARLSONCreative Director | Executive Vice President | Name Partner
• CREATIVE – Former newspaper/magazine editor; writer, artist
• COMMUNITY – Past and COMMUNITY – Past and COMMUNITYincoming president of Quinlan Visual Arts Center Board of Trustees; past president and advisory board member of Gateway Domestic Violence Center; WomenSource
• EDUCATION – Magna Cum Laude graduate of UGA in Journalism
• Originally from Virginia, Tina has been leading Morton Vardeman & Carlson’s creative since 1980.
TINA CARLSONCreative Director | Executive Vice President | Name Partner
•
•
•
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Branding. Strategic marketing. Digital and traditional advertising. Internet marketing. Public relations. Social media. For forty years, our work has been reflected in companies across the region and around the world. With experience comes wisdom, led by professionals who have the wisdom to always stay fresh, nimble and on the leading edge of creative and communications strategies.
Some 2,000 runners, walkers, bystanders and cheerlead-ers attended the 7th Annual Chamber Chase at River-side Military Academy on March 27. Congratulations to outstanding individuals and teams!
CH
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Most Creative T-Shirt: ZFBest Incorporation of Event Logo: Lanier ColorMost Creative Use of Company Logo: J&J FoodsPeople’s Choice Award: MansfieldTeam Spirit Award: ProCare RxFastest Corporate Team: Runner’s FitFastest Community Team: Lanier Canoe & Kayak ClubFastest CEO: Richard Smith, Builders Surplus (20:42)Fastest Overall Male: Patrick Chamberlain (17:11)Fastest Overall Female: Nadia Davis (19:54)Fastest 18 & Under Male: Marcus Gouthro (19:24) Fastest 18 & Under Female: Gracyn Potter (25:28)Fastest 19-29 Male: Juan Soto (17:25) Fastest 19-29 Female: Kalen Scholz (21:42) Fastest 30-39 Male: Aaron Leach (18:14)Fastest 30-39 Female: Lauren Freeman (20:24)Fastest 40-49 Male: Matt Brass (20:01)Fastest 40-49 Female: Cathy Stribling (23:12) Fastest 50+ Male: Jack Haire (18:45) Fastest 50+ Female: Robin Willis (23:29)
Patrick Chamberlain of Wayne Farms was Fastest Overall Male (17:11).
(Left) T-shirt Contest Win-ner, Lanier Color, for Best Incorporation of Event Logo. Other contest winners were ZF, J&J Foods, Mansfield and ProCare Rx.
VISION 2030's Meg Nivens (left) with Fastest Female Nadia Davis. (Right) Chamber Chair Dixie Truelove and VISION 2030 Chair Carl Romberg.
Permits Issued - Hall County
Housing Area Permits Mar. Mar. Feb. Total 2014County 2014 2013 2014 2013 YTDBarrow ** 16 21 196 45 Dawson 6 4 4 65 16
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Feb. Avg Feb. Avg Jan. Avg Total Avg Total AvgArea 2014 Price 2013 Price 2014 Price 2012 Price 2014 Price
Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents retail sales of approximately $100 million.
Hall County
Updated 04/25
3.0
100’
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s of
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M A M J J A S O N D J F M
1.0
2.0
2 0 1 4
2 0 1 42013
12-Month HighOct 20138.7%
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Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2"
2013-2014 Leadership Hall Graduation & Alumni Celebration
Friday, May 96:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club
New Leadership Hall ClassLeadership Hall County (LHC) was founded in 1983 and helps participants develop knowledge of the community through a series of sessions that begin this summer. Class members are nominated by former participants and selected by the Leadership Hall County Selection Committee. LHC graduates continue to be involved in many areas of volunteer and civic service in our community. Each year local non-profit agencies present service project ideas to the class, and the class then decides the project they will undertake. The 2014-2015 class will be recognized at the Chamber's Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club.
North Hall High SchoolBetsy BarrettMaKenzie BryantPatricia DialKatie Rose DionneAlexis FlanaganAshlyn HendersonHarrison PottsCarlee ShopeAlec Zimmerman
Riverside Military AcademyTaylor HardinAlexei JoyaJoshua KreitzerTucker Pearson
West Hall High SchoolKatie CanhamAnsley JohnsonTiffany LyleManuel MataChad NewstromMy-Ngoc PhamRoland Stanley
Youth Leadership Hall 2014-2015Established in 2005, Youth Leadership Hall enables students to develop leadership skills while increasing awareness of the community. The program provides an investment in the community’s future leadership and inspires our leaders of tomorrow. Congratulations Class of 2014-2015!
Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2" 1/4 Page Ad
2 columns 4.4167 x5"
John Batchelor, Hall Co. Solicitor's Office
Mary Baxter, Good News Clinics
Julie Brumble, Chick-fil-A of Gainesville
Nick Bruner, Rushton & Company
Bryan Burnette, Carroll Daniel Construction
Gerri Collins, Independence Bank of Georgia
Carolina Diaz, Georgia Power
Jenifir Dimo, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Jessica Emmett, Hall Co. Treatment Services
Angela Ewers, Rock Goodbye Angel, Inc.
Anna M. Guzman, Jackson EMC
Carrie Herdener, ZF Gainesville
Stephanie Hulsey, University of North GA
Johnathon Jackson, Hall Co. Sheriff's Office
Darren Kendall, Congressman Doug Collins
Sally Lanthier, Bates, Carter & Company
Blair Marshall, Blair Marshall Agency
Sonja McLendon, NEGA Health System
Brenda McMillian, LLI Development Authority
Steven Mickens, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall Co.
Anna O'Kelley, Community Bank & Trust
Rena Pendley, American Cancer Society
Wes Perry, Lake Lanier CVB
Zach Reed, Northeast Georgia Health System
Priscilla Salmasi, Full Media
Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman
Dr. Robert Shippey, Brenau University
John Simpson, Lakeview Academy
Tyler Smiley, Lakewood Baptist Church
Josh Stephens, Greater Hall Chamber
Elizabeth Thompson, House Dressing Interiors
Al Trembly, WSI Digital Rainmakers
Danny Tymchuk, Riverside Military Academy
Matthew Vaughn, DMD, Bennett, Greene,
Wood Dental Group
Amanda Wilbanks, Buttermilk Pie Co.
Heather Wilbanks, Peach State Bank
Erin Williamson, The Longstreet Clinic, PC
Biz15
Learning is ever in the freshness of its youth, even for the old. Aeschylus
Join us for FUN, ENTERTAINMENT, PRIZES & MORE
Community-sponsored teams compete and raise money for area literacy programs.
Watch for more details!
Call the Alliance for Literacy at
770-531-4337
Coming Tuesday, May 13, 2014 • 7:00pmBrenau University’s Pearce Auditorium
www.allianceforliteracy.orgSponsored by
The Times and the Gainesville-Hall County Alliance for Literacy, a United Way of Hall County partner agency.
Join us for FUN, ENTERTAINMENT,
Community-sponsored teams compete and raise money for area literacy programs.
23rd Annual
Spelling Bee23rd Annual
Spelling Bee
Serving Northeast Georgia’s O�ce Solution needs since 19742305 Centennial Dr • Gainesville, GA 30506
770.532.9932 • www.duplicatingproducts.com
GENTLE, CARING, & COMPASSIONATE
KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN TRUST, EXPERIENCE YOU
CAN DEPEND ON
984 Thompson Bridge RdGainesville, GA 30501
770-532-1217www.vetamc.com
ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARSVeterinarians Serving
Northeast Georgia Since 1967
Dr. John Sundstrom • Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris PotterDr. John Sundstrom • Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
Tuesday, May 13
Small Business Seminar
"Affordable Care Act Update”
Presented by Brett Fowler
Turner, Wood & Smith
7:45 - 9:00 am – Chamber
Thursday, May 15
106th Annual Meeting & Gala
6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Awards
Chattahoochee Country Club
Tuesday, May 20
South Hall Business Coalition
"Tourism Update"
Presented by Stacey Dickson,
Lake Lanier CVB
8:00 - 9:00 am
Flowery Branch Train Depot
Wednesday, May 21
Lunch 'n Learn
11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Recess Southern Gastro Pub
Thursday, May 22
Business After Hours
Sponsored by North Georgia
Canopy Tours
5:00 - 7:00 pm
5290 Harris Road in Lula
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Details & Register Onlinegreaterhallchamber.com
Tuesday, May 13
Small Business Seminar
"Affordable Care Act Update”
Presented by Brett Fowler
Turner, Wood & Smith
7:45 - 9:00 am – Chamber
Thursday, May 15
106th Annual Meeting & Gala
6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception
7:00 p.m. Dinner & Awards
Chattahoochee Country Club
Tuesday, May 20
South Hall Business Coalition
"Tourism Update"
Presented by Stacey Dickson,
Lake Lanier CVB
8:00 - 9:00 am
Flowery Branch Train Depot
Wednesday, May 21
Lunch 'n Learn
11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Recess Southern Gastro Pub
Thursday, May 22
Business After Hours
Sponsored by North Georgia
Canopy Tours
5:00 - 7:00 pm
5290 Harris Road in Lula
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Details & Register Onlinegreaterhallchamber.com
Biz16
Small Business Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14
Marketing TrendsPresented by Gordon Sawyer
8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy
Business After HoursThursday, February 16
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.Luna's Restaurant 200 Main Street
Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville
Arbor Day CelebrationFriday, February 17
10:00 a.m.Frances Meadows Center
Safe & Green Regional AssemblyFriday, February 24
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Georgia Mountains Center
Annual Transportation ForumWednesday, March 1411:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gainesville State College
Job Fair and Career ExpoWednesday, March 2810:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Georgia Mountains Center
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com
U.S. POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT #47
GAINESVILLE, GA
CAR-RT SORT
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.
