Horizons January 2012
A publication of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce
What’s inside Member Spotlight — Wells Fargo .......................................... 2 Christmas parade ...................................................................... 6 Calendar of events ................................................................... 14
Prestige Members Northside Hospital-Forsyth Premier Corporate Sponsor
Forsyth County Government
The City of Cumming
jTech Networks Georgia Power
DeKalb Office
Taubman
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
St. Joseph’s Hospital of Atlanta
www.cummingforsythchamber.org
Norton to highlight growth and opportunities in 2012 A
nnually, Frank Norton delivers his economic forecast to Cumming and Forsyth County as a joint meeting hosted by the CummingForsyth County Chamber of Commerce and the LanierNorton Forsyth Rotary Club. This exciting and informative event has been a sell-out for many years attracting more than 200 business professionals. The forecast will take place at 7:30 a.m. Jan. 24 at the Forsyth Conference Center, sponsored by Metcam. Frank Norton Jr., president of the Gainesville-based Norton Agency real estate and insurance firm, is known for giving accurate economic projections on communities across north Georgia.
Norton became president of the Norton Agency in 1997 and today manages a network of 49 associated businesses. He also is widely known for his excellent marketing strategies and keen business intuition. For the past several years, Frank has outlined growth and business trends for our community in his annual economic forecast. These predictions are based on a wealth of data collected by the Norton Agency’s Native Intelligence Report. At the most recent economic outlook in late 2011, Norton revealed Forsyth County is recovering well from the economic downturn and is actually the “first, fastest and strongest” of counties in metro Atlanta. He also disclosed that Forsyth County is one of the only com-
munities that hasn’t halted real estate sales completely. It is no doubt that Norton will have even more positives to discuss about Cumming and Forsyth County. With the spike in economic development during 2011, it seems that 2012 will be an even better and more promising year for our community. Don’t miss out on this outstanding education al event on Jan. 24. Visit www.cummingforsythchamber. org to register for this event.
Member Spotlight
JTECH Networks provides support to many businesses A
fter working in different areas of the tech industry for nearly 10 years, Jay Ryerse broke out on his own and created JTECH Networks in 2004. His goal was to provide affordable computer and network solutions to Forsyth’s small businesses that otherwise would not have the means for a full-time engineer on staff. Initially working out of h i s h o m e o f f i c e , h e Ryerse assisted residential customers and small businesses with their computer and network problems. Today, Jay and his staff of seven employees work from the JTECH office in downtown Cumming to provide both onsite and remote support to their local customers. Those customers have grown to include users in more than 30 states, all supported by JTECH engineers. “Over the years, our philosophy has changed from ‘break-fix’ to ‘proactive support,’” said Jay. “Anybody can put a laptop in their car and call themselves a computer tech. We’ve moved the bar to a point where our customers find value in avoiding problems. Our staff takes pride in preventing problems before they cause downtime for our clients.” “Several years ago, we invested heavily in tools that allow us to automate support,” Jay added. “Our tools manage everything from updating security
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HORIZONS January 2012
The members of JTECH’s team include, from left: Michael Chihlas, Jay Ryerse, Don Helvey, Jeff Smith, Dawn Thomas, Mark Tallant and Brandon Booth.
patches and preventing viruses to oversight of data backup. By watching over a network 24 hours a day, we can identify and prevent potential problems before they ever affect a client. From our customers’ perspective, we have found that they experience fewer problems and spend less money.” With Microsoft, Apple, Cisco, and A+ certified engineers on staff, JTECH Networks can support your business, regardless of whether you’re a PC or a MAC.
JTECH has also joined the chamber as a prestige level member! Our prestige level is the highest level of membership with the chamber, and we couldn’t be more proud to have them invest with us at such a high level. Additionally, JTECH has taken over the chamber’s network management, and they have been wonderful to work with. Thanks again JTECH for your great support! For more information, please visit www.jtechnetworks.com.
Partners in Education
Tanner’s teams with system to honor kids T
he Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce and Forsyth County Schools is proud to announce this month’s Partner in Education Spotlight: Tanner’s Grille in Vickery Village. The mission of Vickery Creek Middle School is “the relentless pursuit for the highest possible achievement for all.” Each month Tanner’s assist VCMS in honoring students by honoring “Making A Difference” winners. Tanner’s treats these winners to a delicious breakfast with the main entrée being the extremely tasty chicken biscuit. Rick Tanner and his staff engage
the winners in conversation and provide compliments for their efforts. This simply makes the experience more rewarding and meaningful. Before departing, Rick Tanner takes the time to pose for a picture that is posted in the school rotunda and shared on the morning announcements. Besides supporting this monthly student celebration, Rick Tanner is sponsoring the VCMS Teacher of the Month with a $20 gift card to enjoy lunch with a friend. Rick Tanner has also catered school events and provided gift cards. The chamber and Forsyth County Schools commends Tanner’s for its dedication to our students and
schools. He is making a difference and always supports the school. On behalf of the faculty at Vickery Creek Middle School, Forsyth County Schools and the C u m m i n g - Fo r s y t h C o u n t y Chamber of Commerce, we congratulate Rick Tanner and Tanner’s Bar and Grille for its continued contribution to celebrate students and staff success. It is community members like you that make Forsyth a great place to learn and a great place to live.
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Local economy thrives in 2011 he economic vitality of our community thrived at an accelerated rate during 2011. As of November, the CummingForsyth Chamber of Commerce successfully worked on 16 economic development projects that are projected to generate 924 new jobs and $32.7 million in new capital investment. On average, the chamber successfully closed one out of every five economic development leads that entered our community. If current trends remain constant, our community will generate approximately 1,000 new jobs by the end of 2011 (see chart below). This year we were also privileged to witness the addition of several new retail establishments within the community. The growth in our retail sector included the addition of such retailers as Cracker Barrel and Academy Sports. Additionally in 2011, our community became the designated home of Gainesville State University and North Georgia College & State University’s new
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HORIZONS January 2012
academic campus, as well as the home of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s new $6.1 million urgent care facility. Our community’s international market also thrived in 2011. On-Spex (Canada) and Motovario (Italy) both announced the expansion of their respective facilities. Our community also become the new international headquarters of such global corporations as Artagia (Indonesia), Algae-Tec (Australia), and IUS Technologies (South Korea). We have also witnessed expansions from such local manufacturers as GMB Plastics and Metcam. The impact of these projects is clearly illustrated by the continued decline in our community’s unemployment rate. Presently Forsyth County maintains an unemployment rate of 7.7 percent — as compared to the national rate of 8.6 percent and Georgia’s rate of 10.2 percent. Moreover, our community continues to serve as the fastest growing and most affluent community in Georgia — and one of the top ranked communities in the nation.
Tourism Development
Chamber, parks department draw tourneys he Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce and Forsyth Parks and Recreation Department attended the 80th Amateur Softball Association (ASA) of America Conference, the national governing body of softball in the United States, on Nov. 5-11 in Myrtle Beach South Carolina. The ASA youth program, a l s o k n ow n a s t h e J u n i o r Olympic program, is among t h e n a t i o n ’s l a rg e s t y o u t h sports organization with more than 80,000 teams, 1.3 million players and 300,000 coaches participating in youth softball on an annual basis across the U.S. It is the single fastest growing program in the ASA and has had membership growth every year since its inception in 1974. The ASA National Council is comprised of about 300 voting members from all aspects of the sport. They consist of ASA commissioners from each state, regional player representatives and elite athlete reps, just to name a few, and they are all charged with making the decisions on the rules and awarding tournaments to the host cities. More than 100 tournaments
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were awarded at this show in N ove m b e r. We b i d o n t h e Men’s Southern National Class D Slow Pitch Tournament for 2013 and were awarded the honor of hosting this event. Our Parks and Recreation Department has received a rating of 99 percent out of 100 with ASA. This rating is comprised of participant evaluations on past tournaments concerning staff, facilities, and the overall tournament experience. More than 1,000 people attend t h e s h ow a n d c i t i e s f r o m across the country bid on different tournaments. We will have the opportunity to bid on the ASA National Championship tournaments at the 2012 show for the year 2014 tournaments. If awarded one of these tournaments, they can bring in anywhere from 60- 150 teams of girls ages 1016. These tournaments are awarded each year and can produce a positive affect for the local economy. We are very excited about the great partnership we have with the Forsyth Parks and Recreation Department and will continue to work together for future years. It takes a great team to make a great community.
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Month in Review
Parade, celebration and jog a hit
he 2011 Cumming Christmas Parade & Festival was a huge s u c c e s s ! Ti t l e S p o n s o r Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, 60 floats, over 70 volunteers and hundreds of families and children lined Market Place Boulevard on Dec. 3 to watch the parade progression, celebrate the holiday season and see Santa and his sleigh! Numerous floats, performing groups, Boy and Girl Scout Troops, businesses and government entities took part in the parade, which lasted more than an hour. Awards were given to several of the parade floats. Honorees included: “Best All Around,” La Rocca of Georgia Bilingual Ministries; “Best Use of Christmas Theme,” Sawnee Ballet; “Most Creative,” Rooter Plus; and “Most Original,” Forsyth County Schools’ transportation department. Saturday’s festivities kicked off at 9 a.m. with the second annual Jingle Jog 5K, a fundraiser for Forsyth Community Connection. The Jingle Jog had another successful year, with beautiful weather and a great crowd! After the parade, many in the crowd made their way across Hwy. 20 to Northside Hospital-Forsyth for its annual Celebration of Lights. The annual Celebration of Lights event hosts anywhere from 3,0005,000 people and includes performances by local groups, refreshments, a petting zoo and Christmas bazaar. The celebration culminates with the lighting of a giant Christmas tree atop the hospital’s roof. Each light represents someone who has battled cancer. Thank you to all the sponsors, volunteers and those who attended this year’s Cumming Christmas Parade & Festival! We hope it was the perfect start to your holiday season.
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HORIZONS January 2012
Santa waves to the crowd on Market Place Boulevard on Dec. 3 during the annual Cumming Christmas Parade & Festival. Hundreds gathered to kick off the Christmas season.
Photos courtesy Forsyth County News
Left, both Lenny’s Sub Shop (top) and Rooter Plus (bottom) participated in the parade. Below, Vicky Edwards, left, and Jullianne Grogan, 2, cheer on the procession.
Month in Review Transportation talked during fall luncheon T he 2011 Fall Economic D eve l o p m e n t L u n c h e o n brought together 150 business l e a d e r s a t t h e Fo r s y t h Conference Center. For a portion of the program, Matthew Fowler, assistant planning administrator of the Georgia DOT, spoke about transportation funding and the Transportation Investment Act of 2010. Forsyth County is part of the Georgia Mountains Region, which also includes Hall, Dawson, Lumpkin and nine other northeast Georgia counties. Fowler said it is projected the tax
could generate as much as $1.26 billion over a 10-year period, with 75 percent of the total revenue being used for regional projects and 25 percent being split among the counties for local projects. If voters approve, all 12 regions would be funded by the tax. Thank you to AT&T for sponsoring the very informative lunch!
Photos courtesy Forsyth County News
Matthew Fowler, assistant planning administrator for the Georgia Department of Transportation, addresses attendees during the chamber’s Fall 2011 Economic Development Luncheon.
Above, guests listen during the luncheon. Right, Steve Naughton, left, Randall Toussaint, center, and Elizabeth Shin talk after the event.
HORIZONS January 2012
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Forsyth Coun omecare.com Lumpkin Coun ty has k #1 www.aldentrace. ty, Near opening on may pick up com 2nd shift for GA 400. 3BR/2 MAKES A GRE their CNC Machine 1BR/ IN upsca 1 acre lot, $800+ BA / Crane AT le neighborcopies at the depos Opera it. hood 5 min. from to, must have Water/gargage GIFT. good Northincluded PLACING A Forsyth Cou basic math skills. side Forsyth also a 2BR at nty hospi $650/mo Company offers attractive furnis tal a News Office CLASSIFIED excellent 770-540-3350 hed or benefit packa AD unfurnished, ge. CLASSIFIED with office Monday - Frid PILGRIM MILL person at 2005 Apply in ALL HARDWO area, all new ay AREA DEADLINES: Grassland kitchen REAL ESTA OD 3BR/2BA SUP *All price quo Pkwy, Alpha TE SCHOOL 8am applia 12-NOON FRID Deliv 5pm ER retta, nces NICE ered. $80 tes + new GA computerized, AY $925 404-444washer/dryer. Pre/Post CLASS A CDL FOR SUN EDIT 1/2 cord 770provided by Private 5572 License, contin Driver ION All real estate 757-6804 our entrance, furnis Clean MVR, uing 12-NOON MON adver tised hed screen & 2 yrs Education Visa, DAY herein is subje classified porch overlo experience requir OTR MC FOR WED EDIT ct to the oking park-like 400nschoolofreal FIREWOOD ed ION Federal Fair wooded area. estate.com - Seasoned 12-NOON TUES Housing Act, adv 770-6 ertis 54-13 Utilitie ing 37 oak & hickory. 678-366-0739 s DAY which makes included + free FOR THURS Delivered & it illegal to CLASS A CDL representativ WiFi EDITION stacked. Reas adver tise “any 12-NOON WED service $775m es onable. needed in Canto drivers preference, o NESDAY limitation, or n, GA for 770-885-8910 are estimates unfurnished. discrimination FOR FRI EDIT OTR positions LOOKING FOR $800 and ION 2yrs flatbed because of race, furnished. $400 Roommate to experience requir actual costs color, deposit share 2BR religion, sex, ed, may Must see! Refer apartment in handicap, Call 770-704-51 Cumming ences familial status vary from initi 52 requir $400/ ed 770-888-39 , or mo.which includ DOMESTIC al 88 origin, or intent national es – Full Time utilities Depo Pat or Roy. ion to make quotes. Seek sit may be ing experience any such prefer required. 678-4 d, 3BR, in down ence, responsible, 85-5973 town limitation to make hones Dawsonville, any meticulous Englis t, FOUND A PET? new carpet such preference, h & paint $575 *Certain limitation speaking house + electr or discriminat B85 CASE Front keeper pets. 770-695-88 ic No ion.” DO YOU KNOW for full time, long end categories (state law also 32 loader 770-8 term forbids 87-0899 YOU CAN RUN THAT commitment GREA discri T in minat LOCA A FREE Johns of classified 404-831-8448 or ion based on TION. Creek area. CLASSIFIED 2BR/2BA Apart Must "FOUND these factors.) IN TOWN Single advertising own transportati have close to GA 400 ments Office AD" IN THE We will not know must on and also 600 to 2200 in Forsyth HEATING & ingly FORSYTH COUN excel Air Coun sq lent Comp ft accep ty. references. $650 per month any t any adver tising be paid in offices, utilitie TY has used &/or . s included. Call Pam betwe or scratched/ No Security Depo NEWS? knowingly accep en 770-887-9176 dented Heati sit. t any advance. 9AM – 5PM 4 LINES/2 EDIT ng and Air adver tising for 404-391-2488 for details IONS Units for sale real 770-754-1486 at reduced which is in violat estate NEWLY REMO x225. prices with instal ion of the DELED 1 CLASSIFIED EXPERIENCED lation law. All perso room apt. privat *Those plac COO Call 770-886-19 ns are e ing needed. All shifts KS hereby inform 98 DEADLINES: 1st floor. $500/ entrance ed that all mo If interested classified dwellings adver everything 770-6 includes please go Want to buy tised are 95-8832 non-running beefobradys.com to available on advertising / an equal running riding . 12-NOON FRID BREAKFAST are Beef O’Brady’s, mowers, 4 with SANTA oppor tunity basis AY Cumm Wheelers dirt 12/18/11, 9AM responsible . FOR SUN EDIT bikes, small No phone calls ing & 10:30AM for ION cars & trucks $9.00 adult $6.00 ; storage checking thei GENERAL OFFI child buildings, tools; r Singing Elves ads CE other , Puppet Dealership near equipments. 12-NOON MON for mistakes WINDER, GA Show & Santa Fulton 706-265-4525 DAY on 1.15 acre lot Indus at The !!3 trial BR Blvd. seeks / 2 BA home or 678-776-98 Legends 678-9 FOR WED EDIT located in down first insertion s, 26 person for gener 08-8368 large bedrooms, town. ION . We al office Prime Office storage duties includ Retail or are not liable building.$895. ing basic convenience for accounting. Cand store/ All !! 3/2 with fence 12-NOON TUES All real estate idate mistakes that d yard, uses allowed. DAY adver tised must have good fireplace. $865 CLASSIFIED herein is subje 2BR/1BA ON FOR THURS work All utilities availa AD RATES: private ct to the EDITION history, good occur beyond Call for appoi ble. Federal Fair computer 5240 Valley Drive lot ntment. the Traffic Housing Act, and communica count is 770-886-4102 WE WILL BUY PRIVATE PART which makes $450/mo + $250 tion first insertion CHPM or Junk Cars 8,260 a day. it illegal to Y RATE deposit $16.00 per hour skills. 12-NOON WED www.cummingho of adver tise “any and Scrap Metal $2.00 PER LINE 678-677-7678 DOE, Contact Charl NESDAY merental. preference, any classifie , company paid es Morris limitation, or Aluminum & Approx. 3 1/2 com FOR FRI EDIT d ad. Health at 678-777-27 discrimination Copper words Insurance/Sick/Va ION 78 2924 Dawson because of race, If you find a cation/ 2BR/1BA, East per line for more inform !!FREE 1/2 FREE Forrest Rd. color, Holiday pay, ation. Dawsonville !! religion, sex, Forsyth 8320 and 401K. Outlet Mall 400 706-216-0004 PREPAYMEN handicap, Little Mill Rd. mistake in a For area, consi T brick, family derat , all appliances Minimum Char status, or ion ranch 3BR/2 IS REQUIRED including ge BA, den, e-mail resum classified ad origin, or intent national for 1 time: $8 e FOR centra to: firepla l heat/air, ion to you ce, dining room hanko@ogdenfork ALL YARD SAL any such prefer make washer/dryer, lifts.com have placed, 2 car garage, ence, or Fax to: 404-6 E water $895 call limitation to make 3 times: $19.2 /garbage & grass 96-0956 678-362-8431 ADS 0 any cut. HIRING: WAR 770-887-3126 such preference, No pets. $140/ EHOUSE 678-230-6155 limitation Personnel Requ GUNSMITH or discriminat $100 deposit770- wk + immediately HUGE YARD irements: $700/MO 2BR/1 +BUY ion.” (state 287-4703 SALE with Warehouse and to BA, 5 min trade, consign, , SELL, BUSINESS RATE law also forbid X-Mas items Forklift GA 400 Outle appraise. have it correcte s Fields Expe 3 BEDR rience Pond t discrimination Mall, Sullivan’s 678-5 OOM, 2 bath .Handle $2.25 PER LINE subdivision Scott d. 770-887-3900 based on 13-7575. mobile home Lifting.Organizati Heavy sfield 101 Atlanta Rd. office Approx. 3 1/2 these factors.) Extra clean Trace off Mock onal 770-527-3448 next to DQ words No pets $800 ingbird Rd Skills.Honest cell We will not know per month / Reliable per line 12/17/11 Sat. ingly Pleas Morn 2 YR old house Send Resumes e call 404-574-88 ing accept any adver in North to: 79 tising for Forsyth schoo swoo BUSINESS MINIM MOVI knowingly accep dhead NG SALE furnitu EMPLOYME l district, 4 @ 3BR/2BA NEAR t any UM NT GUIDE BR/2-1/2 BA, re, usjetting.com 1998 FORD adver tising for CHARGE FOR Outlet firewood and wood F150 floors real Mall NOTI more 1 TIME: , 6 acres, large CE granite count with topper low pickup which is in violat estate 12/16, 8am-11am ! Fri out CDL TUITION The Forsyth ers, 2 car $9.00 building $650/ mileage ion of the County News Paid/ . 6025 garage, great mo $400 98K was gover Conners Path, law. All perso does not know WIA Approved location deposit 404-4 nment ns are Gainesville ingly accept near 400, shopp vehicle $3400 56-9375 hereby inform Rain or Shine Transportation 3 Times: $21.6 adver tisements ing and OBO call ed . Cash only. Companies 0 regarding restaurants. dwellings adver that all are hiring CDL 404-406-6579 employment FURNISHED $1350/mo tised are drivers. that are not CAMPER plus deposit available on You may be eligib bona fide job and utilities. TRAILERS for an equal offers. We alle for rent No Smok federa oppor tunity basis ing, No pets. so do not l grants that 1 & 2BR, startin know will pay . g at credit check $135/wk. utilitie cept adver tisem ingly acyour full tuition and s ents that references requir Call 770-614-60 . Families welco included. discriminate ed or intend to me Security 22 870-251-7900 1-877-GET-A-CD or discriminate provided. Dogs on any illega L (toll allowed 2BR/3BA HOM free) now to l basis, or that with non-refund see if E with are otherable large family room eligible for Paid you are deposit Call wise illegal. 770-887-8906 for information Tuitio in daylight basem Or visit us online n. regarding ent and a discriminatory LARGE 2 Bedro bonus www.dtruckschoo @ practices, call room $865 mo. om/2Bath l.com. the Georgia Mobile Home 770-886-4102 Equa PART on Private l Opportunit CHPM or S COUNTER Lot. $600 per www.cummingho Sales mission at (404) y ComOgden Forkli month merental. 562-6800. fts needs 404-391-2488 The Georgia experienced com A In id
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HORIZONS January 2012
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HORIZONS January 2012
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Member News Hansgrohe presents gift to Children’s Healthcare in Forsyth
JTECH Networks upgrades to prestige level, supports chamber
This past summer, the nationally recognized Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta opened a brand new Forsyth County urgent care facility. More than thrilled to have the world-class pediatric care available in our backyard, Hansgrohe North America was quick to lend a hand. To date, Hansgrohe made significant contributions, enhancing CHOA’s interior, as well as helping with its external operations by providing funds for a critical-care transport unit. As the company prides itself on service and supporting their community, Hansgrohe was pleased to help a local organization in its very worthy mission. In June, Hansgrohe donated faucets for the 47 exam rooms, 11 restrooms, staff breakroom and several other multi-use areas of the new facility. The faucets can withstand many years of heavy use, offer 30 percent water savings and boast a classic look and feel. Just recently, it was determined that a transport ambulance was at the top of CHOA’s holiday wish list, as expanding and expediting access to the facility requires a unique transportation system which addresses the highly-specialized needs of pediatric patients. In lieu of sending greeting cards this festive season, Hansgrohe helped make the hospital’s wish come true. On Dec. 7, Russ Wheeler, president of Hansgrohe North America, presented a check for $5,000 to the hospital for the special ambulance. From one prestigious organization to another, Hansgrohe’s state-of-the-art fixtures and latest donation are being put to exceedingly good use in the nationally recognized hospital. We are so proud that Hansgrohe decided to donate this generous gift to one of our prestige members! In that spirit, Hansgrohe, CHOA and the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce wishes you and your family a happy and healthy holiday!
Congratulations to our newest prestige level member, JTECH Networks! JTECH upgraded its membership to prestige and is now supporting the chamber’s network. Congratulations to JTECH and thank you for your great service. Visit www.jtechnetworks.com for more information.
County government makes it easy to recycle your Christmas tree Forsyth County Government is offering free recycling programs for your Christmas tree at several locations after Christmas. Last year, more than 6,000 trees were recycled in Forsyth, providing mulch to many of the parks in our community. Visit www.forsythco.com for more information.
Reminder to drop business cards off at chamber’s office Attention members: Please don’t forget to bring your business cards to the chamber. We have people in constantly picking these up, so we need you to replenish often. If you’ve never put your business cards out at the chamber office, bring some by and we’ll help you find where they need to go.
Have a special announcement for your company? Submit Member News to: lnelson@cummingforsythchamber.org.
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HORIZONS January 2012
SBSC News
Lunch and Learn to tackle legal business analysis B
usiness owners, have you ever lay awake at night thinking about your business? Most if not all business owners answer
yes. Have you ever asked yourself what if I miss work for an extended period of time, do I have a plan in place to handle this? Am I protecting my company’s private information, such as client lists or internal operating procedures? Do I maintain employee files to 1) ensure compliance with government regulations and 2) protect against wrongful termination claims? Are my corporate documents current as to annual meetings, management responsibilities, and ownership of the company? If you answered yes to any of these questions you need to attend the February SBSC Lunch and Learn. On Thursday Feb. 9, the SBSC will host its first Lunch and Learn for the year. Kevin McDonough, attorney with the law office of Kevin J. McDonough, P.C., will go over the “Cogent Business Analysis.”
Conceptually it is like a financial audit. McDonough will cover corporate governance, succession planning, business operations, employment matters and McDonough much more. McDonough has helped businesses grow and succeed for the better part of a decade. The concept of performing a legal business analysis was born out of his experience and understanding that proactive legal management of business leads to better business practices and results. Join the SBSC and McDonough as he goes over ways to protect your business. For more information or to register please contact the Cumming Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce at (770) 887-6461. The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce would like to thank BB&T, the 2012 title svponsor for the SBSC.
HCA looking forward to classes, 5K The Healthcare Association of Forsyth County has teamed up with North Georgia College & State University’s Continuing Education Department to offer three classes for practice administrators and office staff. The three classes will cover leadership, handling change, and conflict resolution. The HCA will be sending information out to all our health care members about these classes and how to register in the coming months. In addition, be on the lookout for information regarding the third annual Boulder Dash 5K.
The race has been set for Saturday, April 28, so mark your calendar! The race will start at Northside Hospital-Forsyth and end on the grounds of the LaFarge quarry. If you would like more information on the race or would like to be a sponsor, please contact the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce at (770) 887-6461. The Cumming Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Bank of North Georgia the 2012 Title Sponsor for the HCA.
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Education
“We found a bank that understands our business.”
Lanier Technical College receives full accreditation Dale McCord, M.D. Atlanta Oncology Assoc.
Janice McKenzie-Crayton Big Brothers Big Sisters
Fred L. Aycock, CEO Remington Medical
Learn more about our banking success at gacommercebank.com or call 770-887-9220
Visit our new Location in Cumming! Mathis Airport Par k w
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fter a five-year process, Lanier Technical College received full accreditation in December. The college has grown 40 percent in four years and is a huge part of our community. The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce congratulates Lanier Tech on this achievement. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges voted to make Lanier Tech one of 800 regionally accredited colleges in the South, joining institutions such as the University of Georgia, Emory University, Georgia State University and Georgia Tech as well as most of the state’s technical schools, according to a news release. The new accreditation focuses on academic quality. It will also enhance career programs as well showcasing that the college is proving to provide high-quality education. The hope is that high school students will consider a dual enrollment with Lanier Tech in order to achieve college credit before graduating high school. Additionally, having this accreditation, transitions from Lanier Tech to other colleges will be more seamless as more credits will be transferable. The economic impact of this accreditation will be seen immediately and for years to come. It’s important to those looking to attend Lanier Tech, and other colleges that an accredited technical school is available in their backyard. This makes higher education more easily accessible. Lanier Tech is a large part of our community, and the chamber couldn’t be more proud of this accomplishment! Congratulations Lanier Tech! For information on courses offered at Lanier Tech, please visit www.laniertech.edu.
Pe ac htr ee Pa rkw ay
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Carrie Garmon Branch Manager
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2555 Peachtree Parkway, Cumming, GA 30041 Hours: 9am to 5pm M-F
Welcome New Members • American Pool Service of Georgia • Data Rx Management, Inc. • David W True • Delta Global Services • Edible Arrangements
• iUS Technologies • Piedmont Geotechnical Consultants, Inc. — Silver Chairman’s Cabinet • Regus Management Group • Savvy Exchange
Save the Date HCA Boulder Dash 5K When: Saturday, April 28 Where: Start line at Northside Hospital-Forsyth, finish line at the Lafarge quarry What: A 5K and fun run event for the whole community to join in
Membership Upgrades • JTECH Networks — Prestige Chairman’s Cabinet • Track Seven Events — Platinum Chairman’s Cabinet
Member Thank Yous
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s a nonprofit organization, the Chamber’s work would not be possible without the support and contributions made by many dedicated companies and individuals in Forsyth County. The Cumming-Forsyth Chamber would like to show sincere appreciation and gratitude to the following sponsors and volunteers who supported Chamber programs and events.
• Altus • Amedisys • American Proteins • AT&T • Bank of North Georgia • Bright Star • Buckhead Pizza • Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta • City of Cumming • Community & Southern Bank • Embracing Hospice • Farmland Foods • FASTSigns • Forsyth Community Connection • Forsyth County News
• Greenlake Studios • IMAC • Lenny’s Sub Shop • Medicity • Northside HospitalForsyth • Peachstate Promotions • Peak Profit Solutions • Smokejack Southern Grill & BBQ • St. Joseph’s Hospital • Tam’s Backstage • The Avenue Forsyth • Visiting Angels of Lanier • Wells Fargo • Wal-Mart
Small Business Services
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f you’re a small business owner or dreaming about owning your own business but have questions and not sure who to ask then contact the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Small Business Services Center for help. The Small Business Services Center strives to provide small and emerging businesses with resources necessary to succeed. This is accomplished through educational opportunities via classes, roundtable discussions, business coaching and mentoring, while providing a network for small businesses to support and learn
from one another. Consider the following; Forsyth County continues to be ranked as one of the fastest growing county’s in the nation, 63 percent of Chamber members h av e 1 0 o r f ew e r employees and more than 70 percent of the state’s growth potential comes from the small business community. The SBSC Advisory Council has launched the Small Business Tool Kit. If you would like a copy of the kit or more information about the Small Business Services Center, contact Jason Mock at jmock@cummingforsythchamber.org or at (770) 887-6461.
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Upcoming Events Jan. 17
Member Power Networking Lunch — Noon, Mellow Mushroom
Jan. 24
Economic Outlook with Frank Norton Jr. — 7:30 a.m., Forsyth Conference Center Member Power Networking Lunch — Noon, Ted’s Montana Grill
Jan. 31
Member Power Networking Lunch — Noon, Quanto Basta
Mark Your Calendars Feb. 9
SBSC Seminar for Business Analyst — 11:30 a.m., Location TBD
Feb. 15
HCA Seminar for Practice Administrators and Office Staff — 9 a.m.-noon, Location TBD
Feb. 17
Celebration of Excellence — 11:30 a.m., Forsyth Conference Center
Feb. 23
Small Business Awards Luncheon — 11:30 a.m., Forsyth Conference Center
April 10
Business After Hours — 5 p.m., MRI Imaging of Cumming
April 28
Boulder Dash 5K — Northside Hospital-Forsyth and Lafarge (www.boulderdash5k.com)
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To learn more or to register for one of these events, go online at www.cummingforsythchamber.org.
Horizons
A publication of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce
2012 Officers
Board of Directors
John Kieffer, Chair
Linda Cole
Tracy Moon, Past-Chair
John Derucki
Mimms Enterprises
Bruce Longmore
Lipscomb, Johnson, Sleister, Dailey, & Smith LLP
Cumming Station LLC
Fisher & Phillips, LLP
Children’s Health Care of Atlanta
Bob Russell
Mike Caspar
Royce Owens
Scott Jordan
Russell Landscape
Lenny’s Sub Shop
Georgia Power - retired
Hansgrohe
Bank of North Georgia
Johnston & Associates, Inc.
Northside HospitalForsyth
John Hall
Forsyth County News
Citizen’s Bank
Terry Smith
Chuck Button
Jordan, Jones, & Goulding
John Rasper Lynn Jackson
Chair, Forsyth Co. Commission
Paul Chambers
Judge Phil Smith
James McCoy
State Court Judge
President & CEO
AT&T
Dr. Max Burns
Randall Toussaint
Mayor, City of Cumming
North Georgia College & State University
Jon McDaniel
H. Ford Gravitt
Forsyth County Public Library
Vice President of Economic Development
Bobby Thomas
Dr. Buster Evans
Doug Derrer
Alex Girrbach
Tom Cleveland
Louise Scott
Chair, Forsyth County Development Authority
Chair, Forsyth County Board of Education
Todd Moran
Conservation Resource Solutions
Superintendent, Forsyth County Schools
Georgia Power
Blake House Jerry Bowman
Cardinal Logistics Management
Tim Hopkins
Keller Williams Community Partners
Chamber Staff
Tim Perry
Cris Burgum
The Avenue-Forsyth Dekalb Office
Ann-Margaret Johnston, Secretary/ Treasurer
BB&T
Brian Tam
A.C. Smith Poultry Co.
Kevin Garmon Russ Wheeler, Second Chair-Elect,
Walmart
Deruki Construction
Ethan Underwood
David Seago, First Chair-Elect
Community Directors
Cindy Mills
Dr. Joanne Tolleson
Sawnee EMC
Bill Cupp
Mary Helen McGruder
Lanier Technical College
AGL Resources
Sawnee Mountain Foundation
Forsyth County Manager
Operations Administrator
Lindsey Nelson
Director of Communications & Events
Jason Mock
Director of Small Business Services
Anna Brostrom
Director of Tourism Development
Jimmy Lane, Jeremiah Dickerson Sales Executives
Maggie Schmitz, Sherri Klug Administrative Assistants
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We’re honored to serve you It’s an honor to be recognized as the nation’s leading hospital for maternity and newborn care. Look a little closer and you’ll discover that Northside performs more surgeries and diagnoses and treats more breast and gynecologic cancer than any other hospital in Georgia. While people chooseNorthside for our expertise, they also know us for our exceptional compassionate care. Visit us online at www.northside.com
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