Business Link G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m
Chairman's Column page 2 Economic Development page 4
Upcoming Events page 6 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 Member Announcements page 11
Community Development page 12
New Members Page 13
Buy Local Business Expo supports local economy As a part of the Greater Hall Chamber's mission, the Buy Local program is a pro-active and practical approach for connecting the businesses of Gainesville-Hall County with the buying power of the local community. We believe enhancing local spending and providing more opportunities for our businesses to connect with consumers is critical to helping our local economy not only survive but thrive! "Through your involvement in the Buy Local campaign, you are joining businesses, community groups and citizens working together to shape a stronger community economy," said Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kit Dunlap.
Don't miss the Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Buy Local Business Expo on Thursday, January 19. The Expo will be held in meeting rooms ABC at the Georgia Mountains Center from 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Sponsored by and will feature over 60 local businesses and non-profits. Business After Hours with food, drink and & ' ()*
a cash bar coincides with the event from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Exhibitors will be giving out goodies, and +, - . Chamber staff will draw on the hour for great doorprizes donated by business participants.
! "Greater Hall County has so much to offer and the Buy Local Expo is a great opportunity to see just
that," said Butch Miller of Milton Martin Honda, an event sponsor and exhibitor. "Without question, we must do what we can to keep our tax dollars in our community and keep our neighbors working."
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Event Sponsors are AT&T Real Yellow Pages, Charter Business, Delta Community Credit Union, Milton Martin Honda, The Times and WDUN AM-FM Radio. Exhibits still available. $195 each % &' ( for Chamber Members; $300 for Non-Members; $100 Non-Profits. Sign your company up today! For &) (
more information or to reserve your booth space, call Membership VP Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. 1 2* Email: mwiley@ghcc.com
Leadership Hall County page 14
* Exhibit Space Still Available!
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Workforce Development page 15
% EXPO 1:00-6:00 pm • BUSINESS AFTER HOURS 4:00-6:00 pm
Buy Local Business Expo Thursday, January 19, 2012 Georgia Mountains Center
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Save the Date Tuesday, January 10 Small Business Success Seminar Thursday, January 19 Buy Local Business Expo
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Friday, January 27 Business Before Hours
JANUARY 2012
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce ! "#$ %%!!
From the Chairman
Involvement Makes a Difference What comes to mind when someone says ‘get involved in your community?’ Chamber members know that community involvement can be a direct, personal activity such as mentoring a child through Center Point, coaching a team at the Boys & Girls Club or volunteering at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center. And as Chamber members, we have the opportunity to increase the scale of our involvement as we work together on a business agenda that will make our community prosperous. Our strength is in our reputation for effectiveness, innovation, and partnerships. From developing our workforce through Youth Leadership Hall to hosting the Buy Local Business Expo, your Chamber is entrenched in relevant activities that impact the business Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation community. And it is the involvement of our business leaders that Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber make this possible. of Commerce
Under the leadership of President/CEO Kit Dunlap, the seasoned staff at the Greater Hall Chamber leads the way for our business volunteers to be some of the most effective advocates in the state. We are advocates for issues that affect not just Gainesville-Hall County, but the region. Hot topics such as job creation, transportation and education permeate the news for a reason: they are the issues that impact our individual businesses as well as our regional the economy. Our efforts to connect leaders to community issues to bring success and change are recognized across the state. This kind of success serves as a testament that the involvement from our members makes a measurable difference. A difference that is a driving force in shaping the next generation of the Greater Hall workforce. All of this and more is possible with the simple act of getting involved in your Chamber. By working together we can really make a difference in economic development, education, leadership, healthcare, government relations and much more. There are dozens of committees to join to promote our program of work. From the Ambassadors Council to VISION 2030, find one that's right for you and jump start the New Year by getting involved.
January 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Find our more on our website, greaterhallchamber.com
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Chamber Board Nominations The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012 Nominating Committee is seeking nominations for new three-year Directors. Serving with Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs on the Director Nominating Committee are Chairman-Elect Randall Frost, Immediate Past Chairman Darrell Snyder, and Past Chairmen Emily Bagwell, R.K. Whitehead, Denise Deal and Jimmy Adams. The committee will select new director nominees as stated in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce By-Laws: • Any member in good standing may submit one or more nominations. • The nominees will be named in February 2012. • The nominees are elected in March 2012. • Five to seven director positions will be elected. • Each new director will serve a three-year term beginning July 1, 2012. • Nominations must be submitted in writing. • Nominations must be received by Tuesday, January 31 at 5:00 p.m. Send nominations, in writing, to: Jay Jacobs, Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503. Details, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Kit Dunlap, 770-532-6206. Email: kit@ghcc.com
Business Link Volume 18 Issue 1 mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2011-2012 executive Committee Chairman Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Chairman Elect Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost Treasurer Jody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Vice Chair, Economic Development Chris Braswell PB Property Management
Vice Chair, Government Affairs Chair, VISION 2030 lee Hemmer Kelly miles, Smith, Gilliam, The Simpson Company Williams & Miles, P.A. meg Nivens, Executive Director Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications Co-Chairs, HALLmark melissa Tymchuk Paul Chambers, AT&T NEGA Health System David lee, Jackson EMC mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic Vice Chair, Membership Development Senior Advisor Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Jimmy Adams, The Adams Smith Insurance Companies Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Geoff lee, Road Atlanta Darrell snyder, Georgia Power Vice Chair, Community Development Phillippa moss, Gainesville-Hall Co. Community Service Center
Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin BB&T
President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2011-2012 David Abee, Regions Bank
Deborah mack, Community Volunteer
emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker
mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch
Brenda Bahel, The Starke Companies
Willie mitchell, Gainesville City Schools
Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company
Dr. martha Nesbitt, Gainesville State College
Wade Beavers, Beavers/Rogers Law & Advisory
James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont
Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy
Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission
William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center
Bob Pennington, Willis Investment Council
Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System
larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville
Ruth Bruner, Mayor, City of Gainesville
Terry Roberts, Lake Lanier CVB
Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management
Will schofield, Hall County Schools
Bob Coleman, Coleman & Chambers
Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University
lance Compton, Red Clay Interactive
Joyce stephens, United Community Bank
sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman
Dennis stockton, The Times
Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda
milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula
Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty
Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College
Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton
Greg Vitek, IMS Gear
Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons
Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic
Tommy Howard, The Norton Agency
Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods
Dr. Bonita Jacobs, North Georgia College & SU
Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Materials
Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy
Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials
Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors
Associate Directors 2011-2012 Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness
Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design
Jimmy Hernandez, Milton Martin Toyota
spence Price, The Adams Companies
emmett Forrester, NEGA Diagnostic Clinic
Dan slott, Service Master
Doug langman, TRC Staffing
Jessica Tullar, City of Gainesville
Chris mcCall, Keller Williams Realty
Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker
Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust
staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant
South Hall Council Kit Dunlap, President/CEO michelle Wiley, Membership Vice President
Economic Development Tim evans, Vice President shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Jean mcCullough, Project Manager
Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President
Finance & Operations David umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources Education & Workforce Development Dana miller, Vice President Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant
VISION 2030 meg Nivens, Executive Director Membership Development michelle Wiley, Vice President Kara matter, Membership Coordinator sara lewis, Intern, NGCSU Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager
Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates.
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Jackson EMC received the highest numerical score among midsize utilities in the South region in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Electric Utility Residential Customer Satisfaction StudySM. Study based on 98,562 online interviews ranking the 30 largest providers in the South (AL, AK, DC, FL, GA, LA, MS, NM, OK, NC, SC, TN, TX, VA). Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed in July 201- May 2011. Ypour experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.
Janurary 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Economic Development
Small Business Development
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Small Businesses are the majority of the overall Chamber membership by far. Over 85% of our members are small businesses, and we strive to provide programs and opportunities for these companies to grow. Small Business Success Seminars are a monthly forum for small business to assist each other by communicating ideas, sharing knowledge and experience and providing leads in order to become more successful. The next seminar is Tuesday, January 10 and will include a presentation on records information and management. Check our website (greaterhallchamber.com) for more information on these and other events developed for small businesses. The Chamber seeks to be the community's greatest advocate for small businesses deKit Dunlap President & CEO, Greater Hall velopment. Networking events such as the Buy Local Chamber of Commerce Business Expo and Business After Hours (January 19), Business Before Hours (January 27), the Leads Group (January 4 & 11), and Network Over Coffee (January 11 & 25) are more programs designed to assist our small businesses. We also offer options for employers struggling with health insurance affordability. See article on page 13. Why join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce? A national study reveals that membership in a chamber of commerce can significantly boost a business's image among consumers, as well as other businesses. In a scientific survey of 2,000 U.S. adults, The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found positive perceptions of chamber members in a number of areas, including overall favorability, consumer awareness and reputation, and likelihood of future patronage.
Small Business of the Month
Gainesville Signs & Graphics Gainesville Signs & Graphics was started in 2007 by Robin and Joe Nation. They relocated to Gainesville from Arizona after discovering the small Northeast Georgia city on a website. Not knowing anyone in the community, they joined the Greater Hall Chamber right away. Membership Vice President Michelle Wiley suggested a few ways to get involved Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media, with Small and soon Joe was building Business of the Month recipients Robin and Joe Nation business relationships and of Gainesville Signs & Graphics. contacts. Gainesville Signs is a small, family-owned business offering sign, graphics and display needs with cutting edge technology and veteran sign crafters. Joe, Robin, their kids Josie and Logan are often seen at the shop. They also have a full time employee Paul and employ a few part time fabricators when outside help is needed. This December will mark the company's fourth year in Gainesville and Joe's sixteenth year in the sign business. Gainesville Signs & Graphics, 301 Washington Street, Suite 1, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-533-5700. gainesvillesignsandgraphics.com
Small Business Success Seminar
The study showed that when respondents were told that a particular business was a member of a chamber, they were 44 percent more likely to rate it favorably than study respondents who were not told of the chamber affiliation. Respondents were also 63 percent more likely to want to purchase goods or services from a small business that is a chamber member. Take advantage of the many programs and services designed to make your business a success. Join the chamber today!
South Hall Business Coalition Hall County Commission Chairman Tom Oliver presented a government update at the South Hall Business Coalition meeting. (L-R): Megan Martin, American Security Shredding; Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Tom Oliver, Hall County Commission Chairman; Mike Freeman and Husein Khimani, Comfort Inn & Suites. The next meeting is January 24 at Legacy Lodge at Lake Lanier Islands Resort.
(Front, L-R): Small Business Success Seminar Speaker Jeff Smith, ActionCoach Atlanta; Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Water; Megan Martin, American Security Shredding, Priscilla Bartlett, Blue Ridge Supply, Inc. (Back, L-R): Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint; Charles White, 50 Plus Info; Rae Rogers, Smoke House BBQ. Don't miss the Records & Information Management Small Business Success Seminar on Tuesday, January 10. The New Year is the perfect time to get organized and clean-out old files. While you are going through your records, take a minute to learn key principals of planning the information lifecycle of your sensitive material. Presenters include Megan Martin, Director of Sales & Marketing, American Security Shredding, Inc., and Mary Pat Schaaf, Account Executive, Adams Data Management. Details, Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
2012 Industry of the Year Awards Eggs and Issues Breakfast
2011 Winners included IMS Gear Georgia, Inc. (0-150 employees), ZF Group (151500 employees) and Coleman Natural Foods/King's Delight (500+ employees). Applications for 2012 Industry Awards are now being accepted. Complete applications online at greaterhallchamber.com or contact Shelley Davis, Vice President of Existing Industry, 770-532-6206. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com The event is sponsored by Lanier Technical College. $35 Chamber Members and $50 for Guests. Reservations: Jean McCullough, Project Manager, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com
Business Before Hours
Thank You Event Sponsors AT&T Real Yeallow Pages • Charter Business Delta Community Credit Union • Electronic Sales Company Georgia Power Company • Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar • Jacobs Media Jackson EMC • Lanier Technical College • Lowe's of Gainesville McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda • Next Star Communications Northeast Georgia Occupational Med • Pattillo Construction Primary Care Clinics of Georgia • Rushton & Company • Spherion Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles • The Times United Community Bank • WDUN AM-FM Radio Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
January 3, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Amy E. Borrow, MD and Stephen R. Fisher, MD, of The Longstreet Clinic Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in Buford recently hosted Business Before Hours for Chamber members and held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the location. The clinic is now accepting new and established patients at the office off Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford, after practicing in Gainesville for several years. Dr. Borrow and Dr. Fisher are both board-certified orthopaedic surgeons and fellowship-trained sports medicine experts specializing in: General & pediatric orthopaedics; Rotator cuff repair; Fracture, sprain, tendinitis, arthritis care; Sports injury surgeries including ACL & UCL (Tommy John). 5328 Lanier Islands Parkway, Suite 100, located just off I-985 in Buford. 770-533-4755. longstreetclinic.com
Over 350 people attended the Greater Hall Chamber's Eggs & Issues Breakfast in December. The pre-legislative forum was sponsored by Jackson EMC and included discussion on several topics including water, education, reapportionment and jobs. (L-R): Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media; State Senator Butch Miller; Representative Carl Rogers; Representative Emory Dunahoo; Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap; Lt. Governor Casey Cagle; Representative Doug Collins; Chamber Vice President of Government Affairs Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company.
Membership Development
The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Industry of the Year Awards, honoring small, medium and large manufacturers/processors/distributors, will be presented at the 3rd Annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon on Tuesday, January 17 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club.
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Meetings & Events
January 2012 Wednesday, January 4 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli
Wednesday, January 18 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, January 10 Small Business Success Seminar Records & Information Management by Megan Martin, American Security Shredding, and Mary Pat Schaaf, Adams Data Management 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, January 18 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli
Tuesday, January 10 Youth Leadership Hall Judicial Program 7:50 a.m.-3:00 p.m. – Frances Meadows Center Wednesday, January 11 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, January 11 Network Over Coffee 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. –IHOP in Gainesville Wednesday, January 11 Human Resources 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Thursday, January 12 Leadership Hall County Healthcare/Community Service Program 7:30 a.m.
January 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Friday, January 13 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber
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Wednesday, January 18 Ireland Trip Informational Meeting 4:30 p.m. – Chamber Thursday, January 19 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, January 19 Buy Local Business Expo 1:00- 6:00 p.m. - Expo 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. - Business After Hours Georgia Mountains Center - Rooms ABC Tuesday, January 24 South Hall Business Coalition Water Update with Pat Stevens, Chief of Environmental Planning for ARC and Manager of the Metro Water District, and Kit Dunlap, President and CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber 8:00-9:00 a.m. – Lake Lanier Islands Resort Wednesday, January 25 Network Over Coffee 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Subway in Oakwood
South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, January 24 8:00-8:15 a.m. Networking • 8:15-9:00 a.m. Program Lake Lanier Islands Resort - Legacy Lodge Conference Center $5 Members • $15 Non-Members • Includes Breakfast Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN AM-FM Radio
Water Update Join Pat Stevens, Chief of Environmental Planning for ARC and Manager of the Metro Water District, and Kit Dunlap, President and CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce for discussion on water issues. Reservations: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com
Business Before Hours Friday, January 27 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Next Star Communications 130 John W. Morrow, Jr. Parkway No Charge Join us for this special morning networking event and delicious complimentary breakfast at Next Star Communications, a Sprint Preferred Retailer. See how their unlimited data plan can save you and your business money. Come in and get a free complimentary bill analysis showing ways to cut costs on your monthly cell bill. The Certified Business Team offers the best plans, best devices, and best value in wireless. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
Thursday, January 26 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center
Tuesday, January 17 Industry Appreciation Luncheon Presentation of Industry of the Year Awards 11:30 a.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club
Friday, January 27 Business Before Hours 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. – Next Star Communications
Tuesday, January 17 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, January 27 Environmental Health Safety Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Chamber Events Tuesday, February 14: South Hall Marketing Workshop presented by Gordon Sawyer 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy Sponsored by United Community Bank and Jacobs Media Friday, February 17: Arbor Day Celebration 10:00 a.m. – Frances Meadows Center Sponsored by Georgia Power, Hall County Master Gardeners and Keep Hall Beautiful Friday, February 24: SAFE & GREEN Environmental & Safety Assembly 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. – Georgia Mountains Center – Sponsored by Spherion Wednesday, March 14: Annual GDOT Transportation Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Gainesville State College – Sponsored by Rochester & Associates Wednesday, March 28: Job Fair & Career Expo 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Georgia Mountains Center – Sponsored by Spherion McDonald's, Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Lanier Technical College and WDUN AM-FM Radio
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is rated Georgia’s #1 heart hospital for the seventh consecutive year (2006 –2012). In fact, for 2012, NGMC is
to rank #1 in all four cardiac categories measured by HealthGradesŽ: in Georgia for Overall Cardiac Care in Georgia for Cardiac Surgery in Georgia for Coronary Interventional Procedures in Georgia for Non-Surgical Cardiac Services So why choose a heart hospital with less experience than NGMC? Avoid Atlanta traffic and follow the signs to Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, Georgia’s #1
Heart Hospital!
Northeast Georgia Medical Center 770-219-3840 | www.nghs.com/heart
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Ribbon Cuttings
Weaver Law Firm in Gainesville
Recess & Sidebar 120
Attorneys Mike Weaver and Dan Parr cut ribbon to open the new Weaver Law facility in Downtown Gainesville. The firm specializes in personal injury, family and criminal law, and civil litigation. Staff includes paralegals Tammy Siler and Michelle Mobley, office manager Sophia Adam and bookkeeper Jane Weaver. 310 EE Butler Parkway, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-503-1582. weaverfirm.com
Recess Owner/Operator Christopher Richardson and Executive Chef Paul Anthony cut the ribbon for Recess Southern Gastro Pub. Located just off the Downtown Gainesville Square, Recess offers a sophisticated yet laid back environment with a twist on Southern American cuisine. recesspub.com Richardson and Anthony teamed up to open Sidebar 120, located next door to Recess, with a unique blend of Latin dishes. Sidebar 120 offers a back dining area with seating for up to 50. sidebar120.com
Pen Dragon Fine Art Supply Mary Frances Hull, owner, cuts ribbon at the new Pen Dragon Fine Art Supply located downstairs at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center. The boutique-sized art store is well stocked with all the artist quality materials that one would need from start to finish. Gift certificates and special orders for workshops and classes are available upon request. 514 Green Street in Gainesville. 678897-9614. pendragonfineartsupply.com
January 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
The Pear & Twig
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The Pear & Twig Owner Tonya Givogre and her family cut a ribbon for the unique shop close to the Downtown Gainesville Square at 812 Washington Street. Come see all the beautiful home furnishings and interior gifts at The Pear & Twig. 678- 971-4395.
CMIT Solutions of Lanier
Connie Hagler, President, cuts ribbon for CMIT Solutions of Lanier. The company is part of a nationwide franchise and IT partner for small businesses trying to do more with less money and time. CMIT provides responsive, professional support for the entire technology infrastructure, performing regular maintenance monitoring and backups – everything necessary to ensure an efficient, safe and reliable network environment. 329 Oak Street, Suite 203, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-232-3171. cmitsolutions.com/lanier
The BrownStone Project Baron Coker, CEO, Sherryl Coker, COO, and Lynn Roth, LPC, Executive Director, Behavioral Health, cut ribbon for The BrownStone Project Regional Counseling and Development Center at the Rubicon Building in Gainesville. The office serves as an administrative and private practice location for the community healthcare and human development corporation. The company’s corporate office in Smyrna provides community-based behavioral health services to children, adults and families. Services are provided in the consumer’s home, school or supportive environment. CARF accredited, the project conforms to nationally and internationally recognized service standards when delivering a wide range of assessment and counseling services. 2565 Thompson Bridge Road, Suite 112, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-928-5866. brownstonechc.com
Wagner Service Solutions
David Hodges and Melvin Easley cut ribbon for Wagner Service Solutions (WSS) in Oakwood. The company has three divisions: staffing, security and janitorial. WSS staffing provides businesses with the sourced talent and flexibility that will drive productivity to new heights. The security division is fully licensed, insured and possessing over 30 years of industry experience and the janitorial division has over 50 years of commercial cleaning experience providing quality janitorial and facilities management services for a diverse group of clients. 3715 Mundy Mill Road, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-535-8888. wagnerservicesolutionsinc.com
The monthly meetings review division reports and feature a guest speaker, usually on a timely topic or issue facing Gainesville-Hall County. Learn about the inner workings of the Chamber, network with Chamber leadership, get involved! The next meeting is Thursday, January 26, 12 p.m., at the Gainesville Civic Center. Reservations required. Cost $12. Joy Sims, 770-532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com • Highlights for Hall County Board of Commissioners meetings are now available online at tv18online.org and will air on TV18 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. for the following week. hallcounty.org • Carolynn DeSandre, an assistant professor of nursing at North Georgia College & State University, was named a Georgia March of Dimes 2011 Nurse of the Year. In addition to teaching, she maintains her clinical practice at the Appalachian Nurse Practitioner Clinic, a nurse-managed clinic on the university's campus that provides health care to the region's medically underserved residents. northgeorgia.edu • The Guest House named Dana Chapman as interim executive director of non-profit adult day health care center. Chapman has more than 30 years of experience working as a social worker in the health care industry with 13 years working for Rape Response. The Guest House provides elderly clients with mentally stimulating activities and medical monitoring while giving family members a break from care-giving duties. The Guest House works with clients with Alzheimer’s
Meals on Wheels
in Gainesville. Gainesville residents may leave their trees at curbside. Oakwood city residents may drop off their Christmas trees on the vacant lot next to the mulch pile on the corner of Allen Street and Railroad Street. Mulch is available January 9 at the Hall County Recycling Center. Residents' vehicles will be loaded free from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Monday through Friday until gone. 770-535-8284. • Join WomenSource for Frank Norton Jr.’s Economic Forecast for 2012 at the Brown Bag Lunch on Thursday, January 5, at 12:00 pm. Lunch catered by Aramark/ Brenau Catering. $6 per person. Reservations required, 770-503-9060 or online: womensource.info • Leadership Hall County class member Sandra Gentry, Governmental Resource Analyst for Georgia Power Company, was awarded the Southern Style Excellence Award and as a result a non-profit agency of her choice will be given a check for $1500. The award recognizes an employee who demonstrates "Southern Style" on and off the job. southernco.com
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Get Mobilized! Onsite availability 24/7 for all your collection needs
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
See our exhibit at the “Buy Local Business Expo” on January 19th
Janurary 3, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Milon Christman, Meals on Wheels Coordinator, receives money donated at the Holiday Business After Hours from Chamber Membership Vice President Michelle Wiley. Some 450 seniors receive hot lunches delivered five days a week by volunteers. Sign up to volunteer or send donations to Community Council on Aging, 430 Prior Street, SE, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-503-3330. The upcoming Business After Hours coincides with the Buy Local Business Expo at the Georgia Mountains Center, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m., on Thursday, January 19. Great prizes donated by exhibitors will be given away along with delicious food and great networking opportunities. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com
and other age-related conditions and offers educational services for family members. theguesthouse.org • The Chamber's 33rd Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament is Friday, April 27. Cost is $150 per player; $600 a team (foursome). Fee includes Green Fee, Cart Fee, Breakfast, Box Lunch and Tournament Reception. Awards include Hole-In-One prize along with closest to the pin, longest drive and more. A 19th Hole Reception follows the tournament. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com • Georgia Trend magazine recognized the Northeast Georgia Medical Center as #1 in Georgia in several categories in the article, “Top Georgia Hospitals,” which appears in the December 2011 issue. Charles H. Nash, III, MD, an oncologist with The Longstreet Clinic Department of Medical Oncology and Hematology, has been named medical director of the Cancer Center at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Dr. Nash previously served as medical director of the Cancer Center from 2002 to 2005. nghs.com • Bring One for the Chipper – Drop off your Christmas tree at any of the 12 Hall County Compactor Sites or Hall County Recycling Center at 1008 Chestnut Street
Member Announcements
• Rushton & Company partner Perry Barnett CPA recently participated in the Crowe Horwath International meeting in Dubai that brought together business leaders from around the world. Barnett discussed international taxation, diverse business cultures and cross border business development. rushtonandcompany.com • The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County honored Philip & Mary Hart Wilheit with the "Helping Hands Award" for their longtime support of youth. boysgirlsclubs.com • The National Committee for Quality Assurance and the American Heart/Stroke Association announced that Philip Marler, MD, Lajos Toth, MD, KennethFogarty, MD, Marti Gibbs, MD, John Range, MD, and Andrew Reisman, MD, of The Longstreet Clinic, P.C., received recognition for providing quality care to patients with cardiovascular disease or who have had a stroke. longstreetclinic.com • Learn about Featherbone Communiversity's Masters of Innovation at the newly launched website, mastersofinnovation.org • The Gainesville Theatre Alliance celebrates their 32nd season with The Grapes of Wrath, opening at 7:30 pm on February 14 with a free Opening Night Reception. Tickets are $16-18 for adults, $14-16 for seniors and $10-12 for students. Patrons can select their own seats online at gainesvilletheatrealliance.org or purchase tickets through the box office from 10am to 4pm weekdays at 678-717-3624. • Chamber Board of Directors luncheon meetings are open to Chamber members.
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January 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Community Development
Apply to College Day
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A Lifetime of Irish Memories
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Wide Travel Service
Presents A Trip to Ireland October 29, 2012 - November 5, 2012 Includes 8 days - 9 meals - 3 dinners Dana Miller, Chamber Vice President of Education, recently assisted with Georgia's Apply to College Day where over 100 students applied to college at East Hall High School. (L-R): Jeff Cooper, East Hall High School Principal; Senior Erin Watson; Leigh Cumisky, school counselor; Senior Kacie Armour and mother Vicki Armour.
Partners in Education
An informational meeting about the Greater Hall Chamber's Trip to Ireland is Wednesday, January 18 at 4:30 p.m. at the Chamber. Come learn about this exciting trip of a lifetime! Details, Joy Sims, 770-532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com
Students from Fairstreet Elementary School sang Christmas caroles at Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia's customer appreciation open house. Chattahoochee Bank and Fairstreet are Partners in Education.
Leadership Hall Service Project (Standing L-R): Rev. Ben Haupt, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church; Brian Hughs, The Simpson Co.; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design Center; Emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota; Dana Miller, Chamber and Victor Payne and Emiliano Leon with Santa. The Leadership Hall class collected some 1,600 toys/gifts for over 600 Boys & Girls Club members as a service project.
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
Insurance Benefits for Members
Welcome New Members Anytime Fitness Michael Burns 1500 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 535-0424 - Fitness Center anytimefitness.com
Blue Essentials plans offer deductibles of $1,000 or higher and reductions in certain benefits. However, employees would still receive $20 office visit copays and 80% coinsurance reimbursement for in-network covered items. They would also receive the protection and personal security of having Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia as their insurer.
Bradford House and Gardens Debbie Knight 6648 McEver Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 967-7821 - Conference Center bradfordhouseandgardens.com
The best news is that all of BCBSGa’s plans are available at reduced premium rates to eligible business members of the Greater Hall Chamber! Through the group "buying power" of the MemberCare Alliance of Hall CountySM, we are part of a statewide network of over 130 Chambers of Commerce making these insurance products available to Chamber member businesses. The MemberCare Alliance of Hall County program includes a variety of discounted insurance products, such as: group term, voluntary and dependent life insurance with accidental death and dismemberment, group dental insurance, group long term and short term disability,and long term care insurance. All these products are, or course, available through participating Chamber-member insurance agents. For more information, contact Kara Matter, Membership Coordinator, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, 770-532-6206, a participating Chamber-member insurance agent, or Purchasing Alliance Solutions, Inc., 770-579-1214.
2 columns 4.4167 x5
Nurse Management Services of Georgia, Inc. Michelle Cooper 958 McEver Road, Suite D2 Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 991-6645 - Healthcare Service
Drug Free Coalition of Hall County Hall County Board of Education J.P. Banks 711 Green Street • Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-1080 x 277 - Non-Profit Organization faceitpeople.org Jeff Rice 5622 Good Hope Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (404) 317-4331 - Individual Member Mark Pettitt 4636 Countryside Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542
Paychex, Inc. Morgan Hamilton 2790 Clairmont Road, Suite 800 Atlanta, GA 30329 (678) 232-3575 - Payroll Services paychex.com The Pear and Twig Tonya Givogre 812 Washington Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4395 - Retail Gifts & Interiors Richard Mecum 2140 Elysian Circle Gainesville, GA 30501 (770)532-1700 - Individual Member For membership info call 770-532-6206 or join online at greaterhallchamber.com
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
January 3, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
1/4 Page Ad
(770) 789-3149 - Individual Member
Membership Development
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGa) has a new product available through the MemberCare Alliance program sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce that offers lower prices for qualifying business members. The products, called Blue Essentials, offer options for employers struggling with health insurance affordability. These lower cost alternatives were designed for employers who might cut back or eliminate health coverage altogether because of budgetary constraints.
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Key Economic Indicators
January 3, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
14
Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County
10 8
Latest
Nov 2011
7.7 Previous Month
Leadership Hall began their Judicial Program at the Chamber's Eggs & Issues Breakfast, then traveled to the Hall County Detention Center where Captain Mark Bandy and Commander Danny Woods led the class on a tour of the center. The group was given an inside look of the facility and class members were given an opportunity to ask questions about the center. At the Hall County Sheriff ’s Office Special Weapons & Tactics (SWAT) location, 1st Lt. Joe Carter gave an overview of the department including the history of the team and shared some of their field experiences. The class then enjoyed a lunch at Luna’s sponsored by local law firms. While dining the class heard from Solicitor General Stephanie Woodard, Treatment Services Director Debbie Mott and Mike Wilcoxson, Hall County Drug Court graduate and Manager of DUI & Defensive Driving of Midtown. At the Hall County Courthouse, they heard from Gang Task Force member-Investigator Paul House. House presented an in-depth look at gangs, how they operate and how they are trying to combat the problem. Mark Alexander, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, led the class on a mock trial. Alexander described the courtroom structure then facilitated a mock trail where each member of the class was given an opportunity to participate. Many thanks to program sponsors: Georgia Power Company for bus transportation and Hulsey Oliver & Mahar, LLC; Smith, Gilliam, William & Miles; Stewart, Melvin & Frost and Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker for sponsoring lunch at Luna’s.
4
Oct 2011
8.3
2
One Year Ago
Nov 2010
N D J F M A M J J A S O N
9.2
Gainesville City
8.4
Cherokee Dawson
7.7 8.3
Forsyth
7.1
Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia
8.2 9.1 8 9.9
U.S.
8.2
2011
2010
Updated 12/27
Retail Sales
3.0
The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 199,902,105 2 columns 190,188,360 228,697,110 4.4167 x 10 Hall County
2.0
Latest November 2011
Previous Month
One Year Ago
October 2011
November 2010
$
$
1.0
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.
J F M A M J J A S O N 2011 Updated 12/27
Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest
November 8
Leadership Hall Nominations The Greater Hall Chamber Leadership Hall County program provides a learning experience for existing and emerging leaders of the Greater Hall area. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012-2013 class. Participants include a cross-section of individuals and must be 25 years old. Leadership Hall participants develop knowledge of the community through a series of one-day sessions, August through April. Topics covered include quality of life, education, health and social services, city and state governments, judicial, and economic development. Tuition for each participant is $800 for Chamber members and $970 for non-Chamber members, which includes a one-year Chamber individual membership. Individuals must be nominated for the program by March 15, 2012. Once nominated, the person will be asked to complete a detailed application. All applicants are reviewed by a selection committee, and final participants are selected from all applications submitted. To make a nomination for Leadership Hall County, contact Dana Miller, Vice President of Education at the Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206 ext. 113. Download a Leadership Hall nomination form online at greaterhallchamber.com
Jan 2011
10.3%
100’s millions of dollars
Leadership Hall County Class Members with Jonathan Jackson of Hall County SWAT. (L-R): Carol Moore, Georgia Mountain Center; Carol Shirley, Community Bank & Trust; Julie Clay, Brenau University; Tiffany Whitmire, Rushton & Company; Greg Brooks, 3 Dimensional Life.
12-Month High
6
Percent
E d u c a t i o n & Wo r k f o r c e
Leadership Hall County
Previous Month
One Year Ago
2010 Total
Oct 2011
Nov 2010
152
8
5
173
2011 YTD
Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson
Nov 2011 3 1 45 106 3
Nov 2010 1 0 40 107 2
Oct 2011 3 1 45 106 3
Total 2010 45 33 647 1,012 39
2011 YTD 22 32 508 1,011 21
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Area
Nov 2011
Avg Nov Price 2010
Avg Price
Oct 2011
Avg Price
Total 2010
Avg Total Price 2011
Avg Price
City
20
111,885
13
128,164
14
120,357
119
130,529 166
117,416
North
27
235,937
23
235,721
33
196,489
279
203,389 353
211,310
East
22
56,197
61
91,153
20
91,573
144
89,653 223
76,809
South
63
116,688
67
127,796
12
185,907
172
133,791 279
139,645
West
53
179,434
43
179,277
39
174,694
374
170,098 509
183,000 Updated 12/27
Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:
Tommy Howard 770-718-5204
The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com
The Power To Perform
Chamber Healthcare Committee
The class started the Healthcare and Community Service Program at Challenged Child & Friends and heard from Director David Earnest and Eliza Baker, Director of Development, then assisted in the classrooms by playing, singing and reading to the children. During lunch at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, a presentation was given by Hillary Corey, Health Careers Coordinator from Foothills Area Health Education Center. The class was escorted on an in-depth tour of the hospital including the ER, Lab and the Stribling Heart Center. At Laurelwood, students learned of the mission of the facility from Adam Raulerson, Business Manager. After the presentation, the class participated in team building David English, a senior at West Hall games led by Kevin Lloyd, Director of High School, reads to a student from Laurelwood. At the Humane Society of Challenged Child & Friends as part of Northeast Georgia, the class participated Youth Leadership Hall's Healthcare and in a service project led by Director of Community Service program. Education and Volunteer Services, Kelley Über Sterner, and Director of Development & Marketing, Julie Edwards. The class played with the puppies and kittens, cats and large dogs. Many thanks to breakfast sponsor McDonald’s and lunch sponsor, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.
(Clockwise from bottom left): Committee CoChairman Dr. Jack Chapman, Gainesville Eye Associates; Steve McNeilly, Northeast Georgia Health System; Charles White, Certified Senior Adviser, 50 Plus Info; Jeremy Lord, MedPort; Cheryl Christian, Good News Clinics. The upcoming Healthcare Committee meeting on Wednesday, January 11 will feature guest speaker Gale Hansen Starich, Ph.D., of Brenau University. To learn more about the Greater Hall County Chamber's Healthcare Committee, contact Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Make reservations online at greaterhallchamber.com
Does your business plan still fit?
Let us help you see it through.
E d uc at i o n & Wo r k f o r c e
Youth Leadership Hall
So you’ve tightened your belt, cut costs, downsized and maybe even restructured your business. You’ve been flexible enough to adapt to the changing economic landscape and weathered the recession – now what?
4 columns 9 x5
It’s a new world out there for business. Let Rushton & Company see you through.
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com
January 3, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
1/2 Page Ad
Chances are, your company looks a little different today than it did a few years ago. The business plan you had in place may not apply to your new business model. At Rushton & Company, our team of experienced business planning consultants can help you develop the roadmap that will move you forward on the path to long-term success.
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Have a Safe and Happy 2012! Our New Year’s wish is that 2012 brings you good health, good fortune and new opportunities for your family, your business and our community. If we can help you with a banking need in the coming year, please call us or visit us at 643 E. E. Butler Parkway or at www.chattahoocheebank.com
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Community Owned, Locally Managed, Locally Invested
643 E. E. Butler Parkway • (770) 536-0607 • www.chattahoocheebank.com
Upcoming Chamber Events Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, January 10 Records & Information Management Presented by Megan Martin American Security Shredding, Inc. and Mary Pat Schaaf, Adams Data Management 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Industry Appreciation Luncheon Tuesday, January 17 Industry of the Year Awards 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club
Buy Local Business Expo and Business After Hours Thursday, January 19 1:00 - 6:00 Expo 4:00 - 6:00 Business After Hours Georgia Mountains Center Meeting Rooms ABC
Business Before Hours Friday, January 27 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Next Star Communications Sprint Store - 130 John Morrow Jr. Parkway in Gainesville
South Hall Business Coalition Thursday, January 24 Water Update 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. Legacy Lodge Conference Center at Lake Lanier Islands Resort
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