Horizons June 2014
A publication of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce
Prestige Members Northside Hospital-Forsyth Premier Corporate Sponsor
Forsyth County Government
DeKalb Office
The City of Cumming
Georgia Power
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
Inspiring Smiles
Taubman
Alpharetta Children’s Dentistry
Kaiser Permanente
Michael Williams Smithfield Farmland
jTech Networks
Lou Sobh Honda
Chamber Leads the Way in Doing Business I
n January of 2014 the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce launched a strategic plan to increase the economic vitality of our community. The plan, which is appropriately named “Business First,” seeks to grow the commercial segment of Forsyth County’s tax digest over a five-year time frame. By doing so, the Business First initiative will generate new jobs and new capital investment within the City of Cumming and Forsyth County. In 2013 the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce successfully participated in 19 economic development projects that are forecasted to generate more than 600 new jobs and nearly $60 million in new capital investment. Since launching the Business First initiative in January of 2014 the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has participated in ten economic development projects that are collectively forecasted to generate 417 new jobs and $83.4 million in new capital investment.
See Chamber page 2
Economic Development Chamber, from page 1
H
ealth care continues to serve as Forsyth County’s fastest growing industry sector. Nationally, the construction of health care facilities is projected to increase by approximately 5 percent. Locally, the growth of our community’s senior services market is forecasted to bring about the development of several new senior living and care facilities. Furthermore, recent expansions of Northside Hospital-Forsyth and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta will prompt further growth in our community’s wellness sector. During the first quarter of 2014 our community participated in two health care projects that are forecasted to generate $1.2 million in new capital investment.
Home to 8 percent of the region’s data centers, Forsyth County remains a hub for technology companies. In 2014 Forsyth County was selected as the regional headquarters for Whitlock – a global audiovisual solutions provider that specializes in collaborative technology design, integration and managed services. Our community is home to more than 500 manufacturing companies – including Smithfield, Metcam and Scientific Games. In 2014 the Manufacturing Society of Forsyth County, a business unit of the Chamber of Commerce, partnered with Lanier Technical College to host the 2014 Manufacturers’ Boot Camp. The organization also partnered with the Georgia Department of Labor to host the 2014 Career Expo – a job fair for technically trained workers. Additionally, local manufacturers such as North Georgia Promotions and Scientific Games expanded their production facilities, thereby creating more than 50 new jobs within Forsyth County.
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HORIZONS June 2014
In the past ten years our community has emerged as a dominant hub for global commerce. Our community’s vibrant quality of life and close proximity to the world’s busiest airport have caused nearly 70 international companies – such as Trox, Siemens, Dieffenbacher and Hansgrohe – to establish multinational offices in Forsyth County and the City of Cumming. In 2014 the Chamber hosted an International Business Roundtable meeting that attracted nearly twenty representatives from multinational corporations. Additionally, in June of 2014 the Chamber of Commerce’s International Engagement Committee will partner with the French Trade Commission to host a red carpet tour for a delegation of health care and technology companies who are seeking to establish themselves in the U.S. market. A recent opportunity gap analysis confirmed that Forsyth County’s retail market is currently underserved. In 2014 the Chamber partnered with the City of Cumming and Forsyth County to attract such retailers as Costco, Fairfield Marriott, Aldi, JoAnn Fabrics and a new Kia dealership. The Chamber of Commerce also supported the expansions of such small business titans as Lenny’s and the Law Offices of Steve Leibel. Our goal is focused. Our mission is specific: Business First. We look forward to serving you in 2014. If you would like to learn more about this initiative please contact the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce at (770) 887-6461, or visit us online at www.cummingforsythchamber.org.
Welcome Welcome Erik Christensen, President of Hansgrohe, Inc.
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ansgrohe, Inc., is proud to announce it has appointed Erik Christensen as President/GM, effective April 7. Formerly a Vice President at Armstrong World Industries, Christensen comes equipped with more than 25 years of experience in the building products and flooring industries. Christensen has a proven track record in logistics, operations and sales, including successful establishment of distribution networks in foreign markets and development of strategic plans based on region specific demand. According to Interim President Sibylle Mair,
“Hansgrohe’s foundation is built on leadership, innovation, dedication and service. It was important to find those core qualities in our next president. We cast a wide net and very carefully reviewed each candidate to ensure that we found just the right person to guide our US team. Christensen’s strong work ethic along with his industry experience and accomplishments in the commercial and residential markets made him stand out from the rest.” Christensen comes to Hansgrohe having worked with some of the most recognized manufacturers in the building products sector.
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HORIZONS June 2014
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Member Spotlight
Premier Promotions in North Georgia
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orth Georgia Promotions (NGA Promotions) was established in Forsyth County in 2010 and is owned by Shawn and Laura LaFave. NGA Promotions started in the LaFave’s basement as a way to supply their son’s Scout Troop with caps and t-shirts. Shawn and Laura saw that there was a need in Forsyth County for a company that could provide quality embroidered, screen printed and promotional products at competitive prices. They decided to invest in additional equipment, move into a retail facility and start marketing to scouts, schools, churches and other small bu s i n e s s ow n e r s i n t h e community. Over the next three years they continued to grow the business, during what was considered to be a very tough recession period.
“NGA Promotions not only does embroidery and screen printing, we also produce: Banners and Signs, Business Cards and Paper Print, D i r e c t To G a r m e n t A p p a r e l , Rhinestones and Multi-decoration, Spirit Wear, Team Wear, Sublimation and Heat Applied Embellishment.”
Shawn LaFave On May 1, 2014, NGA Promotions moved into a new facility that is three times larger than the last space the company occupied. With this expansion, Laura and Shawn have invested additional resources into state of the art equipment and training initiatives. The company also hired additional staff to make NGA Promotions the premier promotions company in Forsyth County and North Georgia. The LaFaves would love to have you stop by their new production facility (located at 4040 Nine McFarland Drive, Suite 1200 in Alpharetta) to see everything they can do for you, your business and organization. NGA Promotions’ commitment to community extends beyond providing their customers with great promotional items. Shawn is an active Chairman’s Cabinet level member of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce as well as a current member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. He is also a recent graduate of the Leadership Forsyth Class of 2014. Through their professional and personal activities, Shawn and Laura hope to see the small business sector of our area grow and flourish.
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North Georgia Promotions Top left: NGA Promotions’ T-shirts at the annual Boulder Dash race Left: In addition to its local business, NGA Promotions also provides items for contract projects. Below:This six-head Baradun Embroidery machine can sew up to 15 colors per design.
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“If I had known how quick and easy this procedure would be I would have done it years ago. Thank you so much. This has changed my life. Thank you Dr. G.” Dr. Goldman founded The Hemorrhoid Centers of America in 2006. He is the most experienced physician in the United States when it comes to the non-operative treatment of hemorrhoids and anal fissures. He is a Board Certified Surgeon who now dedicates his practice to help patients avoid surgery.
HCA has six offices to serve you; Atlanta, Cumming, Holly Springs, Lawrenceville, Marietta, and Roswell. Call us at 770-442-3117 or visit us at HCofAmerica.com to schedule an appointment. HORIZONS June 2014
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Month in Review
Annual 5K-10K Boulder Dash and Spring Fling
Representatives from Alpharetta Children’s Dentistry enjoy the displayed equipment from Bluegrass Materials Company at the post-race, Spring Fling.
Title Sponsor, Northside Hospital-Forsyth provided nourishment to runners at the Spring Fling.
Bruce Longmore and the Lenny’s Sub Shop Cup were on-hand to greet runners as they crossed the finish line.
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HORIZONS June 2014
Month in Review State of the County
Lynn Jackson delivers Title Sponsor remarks on behalf of Northside Hospital- Forsyth.
L to R: Board of Commissioners Chairman, R. J. (Pete) Amos, Board of Education Chair, Darla Light, President/CEO of the Council for Quality Growth, Michael Paris, President/CEO of the Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce, James McCoy and Council for Quality Growth Board of Directors Chairman, Brent Reid.
Business After Hours
L to R: Inez Silva, Jeff Smith and Jackie Martin
L to R: Sean Houston and Beth O’Donoghue
HORIZONS June 2014
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Congratulations! (Now Let’s Celebrate) Whether you’re planning an intimate rehearsal dinner, or a large reception for your entire wedding party, we have a beautiful space for your celebration with exceptional food and wine. Please contact us and we’ll create every last detail to make your special occasion… truly special.
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HORIZONS June 2014
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Economic Development
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HORIZONS June 2014
SBSC & WWMB
HCA
Tourism
Expanding and Strengthening Local Healthcare Commerce T
he Healthcare Association of Forsyth County (HCA) will host its annual Jazz in June event on June 19th at Northside Hospital-Forsyth from 5 to 7 p.m. This year’s event will have a new twist to it, so it’s an event you won’t want to miss! The mission of the HCA is to expand and strengthen local health care commerce through the combined efforts of physicians, health care professionals, organizations and community leaders. It promotes healthier lives in Forsyth County through advocacy, leadership, education and service. The association is a collective voice for current health care issues affecting Forsyth County and provides a conduit for information and resources to ensure the highest quality of health care to meet the needs of those living and working in Forsyth County. If you would like to find out more about the HCA or would like to join, please contact the Cumming Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce at 770887-6461.
Ride for Kids Event Benefits Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
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early 13 children are diagnosed with a brain tumor every day in the United States, adding to the more than 28,000 other kids coping with one of the deadliest forms of childhood cancer. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation (PBTF) is on a mission to eliminate the challenges of this devastating disease. For the 31st year, motorcyclists will join the PBTF’s Atlanta Ride for Kids to raise funds for r e s e a r c h a n d fa m i l y support. The Atlanta Ride for Kids is Sunday, June 1, at the Cumming Fairgrounds. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the ride begins at 10 a.m. The family-friendly event gives local children with brain tumors and their families a chance to have fun and forget about medical battles. You don’t have to be a rider to join the fun! Come enjoy live music from the Black Cloud Band and Caryn Womack, catered lunch from Deep South BBQ, a motorcycle stunt show and more. Go to www. rideforkids.org to register today.
Jazz in June 2013
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Thank You to All of the State of the County Sponsors!
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HORIZONS June 2014
Member News Rep. Hamilton’s Legislation Signed by Governor Deal
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ponsored by State Representative Mark Hamilton, HB 714 passed the General Assembly during this year’s legislative session and received the support of business groups across the state. “This new law will create uniformity in administering unemployment benefits across Georgia, ultimately saving businesses $8-10 million annually because of the elimination of a loophole that benefited a small group of employers and employees,” said Rep. Hamilton. “The other part of the bill will allow the Georgia Department of Labor to be more efficient in their processing of claims while preserving an additional $80 million annually in the Unemployment Trust Fund. I want to thank all the businesses, organizations,
GDOL staff, my colleagues and Governor Deal for working so hard and for supporting this measure that will continue to help keep Georgia the “Number 1” place to do business.” Governor Deal signed HB 714 on Thursday, April, 24, 2014 at a bill signing ceremony in the Governor’s office at the State Capitol. “HB 714 sponsored by Representative Hamilton will create an important cost savings for Georgia businesses and will help us keep Georgia number one for doing business,” said James McCoy, President of Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce. “On a local level, the bill is important for companies in Forsyth County and ultimately will mean that companies can use the cost savings to create to new jobs and expand.”
New Members The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Our Newest Members! Absolute Association Management Acceptance Capital Mortgage LLC Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Institute AIM Primary Care, LLC Allen’s All About Lawn Care Allstate Insurance American Home Mortgage American National Insurance Atlanta Landscape Group, LLC Atlanta Ride for Kids Atlanta Water Lines Bales Capital Management Better Health By Design BIS Benefits, Inc. Blastec Inc. BusinessInsite, Inc. Carneiro Cleaning, LLC Century Painting CGP - Custom Graphics Printing Colliers International Commonwealth Primary Care Compass Relocation Group Conway & Owen Creative Windows by Carol D Cay Group, LLC DayBreak Enterprises, LLC Definity Partners Emergency Heating and Air Conditioning Evolve Engineering & Analysis, LLC First Citizens Bank Forsyth Dental Town Full House Merch Georgia Foothills Hand Surgery Georgia Institute of Cosmetology Get2it Global Quality Management Solutions GraBird Software Development, Inc.
Greater Atlanta Oral Facial Surgery Hooves on Fire Its Learning Jennifer Colosimo Jet’s Pizza, LLC - Cumming Kuck Immigration Partners Lanier Fuller Center for Housing Law Offices of Mark Weinstein PC Lendmark Financial LLC Local Kitchen and Tap Lord’s Computer Group Partners Inc Mace Salon & Co. Maxwell-Reddick and Associates, Inc. Meals By Grace Millie Collier Mind Your Culture, LLC Mountain Education Charter High School New Image Roofing Pure Barre Cumming RE/MAX All Properties Ryland Homes SAFFT Sip Wine & Tapas Soul Shine Marketing Inc. Storey Consulting Suddath Workplace Solutions Sword & Shield Enterprise Security, Inc. TCD Concrete The Old Mill Store Community Outreach Program The Pier Foundation TriNet HR Corporations Virtual Management Technologies Weinstock Immigration Lawyers P.C. Wheeler Services Inc. Wholesale Merchant Group Zoom Design
HORIZONS June 2014
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Upcoming Events May 28
Commercial Real Estate Roundtable11 a.m., Polo Golf & Country Club
June 3
June 12
Key to the events
Business After Hours5 p.m., Catalyst Physical Medicine
Member Power Networking Lunch — Meets every Tuesday at noon at a different location and includes casual networking for 20-35 other business professionals. Business After Hours — Meets the second Tuesday of every month from 5-7 p.m. at a different host location every month. The purpose is networking and to experience new businesses in the community. Women Who Mean Business — Meets the first Tuesday of every month at 7:30 a.m. This is a specialized networking group of over 50 female business professionals. Join them for breakfast.
June 17
Women Who Mean Business Networking7:30 a.m., The Cupbearer
Member Power Networking LunchNoon, Wildflower Eatery
June 19
June 3
Member Power Networking LunchNoon, Marie’s Italian Deli
Jazz in June 5 p.m., Northside Hospital-Forsyth
June 24
June 10
Member Power Networking LunchNoon, Mestizo Southwest Grill
• Please visit our Event’s Calendar at www.cummingforsythchamber.org to see a full list of events, more information and registration.
Member Power Networking LunchNoon, Sip Wine & Tapas
Calling All Chamber Members! ns o z i r Ho Post 14
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Market Your Business in the Ultimate B2B Publication, Horizons.
PUBLISHES
4th Friday of every month in the Forsyth County News and following Sunday in the South Forsyth News
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For more information contact Ryan Garmon at 770-205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com. 14
HORIZONS June 2014
Horizons 2014 Officers
Board of Directors
Ann-Margaret Johnston, Chair,
Nelish Patel
Johnston & Associates
Linda Cole, Past-Chair Chris Ethridge, Secretary/Treasurer Frazier & Deeter, LLC
Chamber Staff
Bob Russell
Russell Landscape
Bill Cupp
Jon McDaniel
Chris Stockhoff
Thom Smith
Rep. Mark Hamilton
James McCoy
Hampton Inn
Bruce Longmore
Terry Smith
Darla Light
Mary Helen McGruder
Walter Sears
Matt McClure
Rep. Mike Dudgeon
Randall Toussaint
Lynn Jackson
Connie Sanders
Dr. Buster Evans
Doug Derrer
Charles Banks
Carter Barrett
Sen. Jack Murphy
Alex Girrbach
Kevin Garmon
Sen. Steve Gooch
Laura Stewart
Drew Walker
Rep. Geoff Duncan
Jason Mock
Pam Bowman
Rep. Kevin Tanner
Anna Barlow
Mike Wathen
Rep. Sam Moore
Jimmy Lane
Lenny’s Sub Shop
CHOA
Ex-Officio
Northside Hospital-Forsyth
Shawn LaFave
North Georgia Promotions
Tracy Moon
Fisher & Phillips LLP
Jeff Pruitt
Forsyth Conference Center
Bruce Hagenau Metcam
John Rasper
Dekalb Office
A.C. Smith Poultry Co.
Wells Fargo
Bert Durand
United Community Bank
Ethan Underwood
Lipscomb, Johnson, Sleister, Dailey, & Smith LLP
Pete Amos
Chairman, Forsyth County Board of Commissioners
Paul Chambers AT&T
AGL Resources
Chair, Forsyth County Board of Education
Superintendent, Forsyth County Schools
Jay Ryerse
Jtech Networks, LLC
Mark Bond
Hayes, James & Associates, Inc.
H. Ford Gravitt
Mayor, City of Cumming
Blake House Sawnee EMC
Forsyth County Public Library
Sawnee Mountain Foundation
Forsyth County Manager
Hon. Phil Smith State Court Judge
David Seago
Chair, Forsyth County Development Authority
Dr. Joanne Tolleson Lanier Technical College
Jen Bruno Hansgrohe
Anchor Home Mortgage
Alpharetta Children’s Dentistry
PNC Bank
Daniel Shaffer
Snap Technology, Inc
Derek Brooks
Brandywine Printing
BB&T
Bank of North Georgia
Community Business Bank
Bannister Creek, LLC
Alliance National Bank
PB Consulting Services
Kaiser Permanente
President & CEO
Vice President of Economic Development
Director of Operations
Director of Communications & Events
Director of Small Business Services
Director of Tourism Development
Director of Membership Services
Jeff Tweed
Membership Services Executive
Maggie Schmitz, Sherri Klug Administrative Assistants
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In an emergency, experience matters Emergencies happen. And when they do, rest assured that you’ll get the best care close to home. Northside’s board-certified emergency medicine physicians and Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) certified nurses are just right up the road. We hope we don’t have to see you, but if we do, you’ll be in the best possible hands. Visit us online at www.northside.com.
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HORIZONS June 2014