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
Jacobs, third generation takes realm as Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs follows in his father's footsteps and his grandfather's footsteps becoming the first third-generation leader of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. Jay's grandfather, John Jacobs, Sr., served as president of the Chamber in 1928. His father, John Jacobs, Jr., founder of WDUN Radio, served two terms as Chamber President/Chairman, first in 1956 and again in 1970. Jay officially took office on July 1 and hopes to focus this year on "connecting, communicating and promoting."
Drugs Don't Work page 4 Upcoming Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings page 12 Small Business of the Month page 13 New Members page 13 Leadership Hall page 14
New Greater Hall Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs (left), Jacobs Media Corporation, with Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap and parents Martha and John Jacobs.
"My grandfather never would have imagined he'd have a grandson who could take photos with a cell phone or even operate a cell phone. There's no doubt that the world we live in has changed drastically because of technology," Jacobs said. "I see challenges ahead in learning new ways to communicate with the members we serve and the businesses we hope to attract. While my grandfather could not have imaged the technology advances, we can, and we will."
Job Fair Success: Over 40 companies and 1,325 job seekers Over 40 area businesses participated as exhibitors at the Greater Hall Chamber's June 22 Job Fair and Career Expo at the Georgia Mountains Center. With over 1,325 job seekers on hand, companies saved time and money by seeing prospective employees face-to-face. The Georgia Department of Labor offered free resume consultation and writing tips.
Kevin Eckels, plant manager, King's Hawaiian Bakery Southeast, reviews the employment application process at the company's job fair exhibit. King's Hawaiian cosponsored the event and is hiring 126 people over the next two years for the new bakery located in Oakwood.
"I literally have a box of hundreds of applications," said Brian Daniel, president of Carroll Daniel Construction Company and a job fair exhibitor. "The event was extremely productive. I was able to interact with dozens of prospective employees." Thank you event sponsors: King's Hawaiian, The Times, Gainesville Area Employers Committee, Lanier Technical College. More on page 5.
Save the Date Wednesday, July 13 Network Over Coffee Wednesday, July 20 Leads Group Meeting Wednesday, July 27 Network Over Coffee
J U LY 2011
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From the Chairman
Connecting, Communicating, Promoting Historically, our community has been most fortunate in having leaders of past generations involved in our Chamber of Commerce. Our forefathers helped pave the way in making visionary decisions and developing new and successful programs of work. Though our basic mission remains the same – being a voice for business – communicating our mission has changed drastically. Suddenly, and particularly in my field of communications, our world is changing at a warp speed. The digital revolution has shattered old marketing methods with a series of new information processing. This leads me to approach the future of distribution and connecting with members with anxiety yet great energy and enthusiasm. Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
As in the past, our role should remain sound in judgment but our approach and communications with our members should be very different. Key words like apps, Droids and iPhones, unheard of a decade ago, represent today’s new way of producing and receiving news and information.
Kicking off my term as chairman was a recent trip to Cary, North Carolina. Fellow Chamber officers along with volunteers, VISION 2030 Board members and government officials had the unique opportunity to visit this dynamic community and learn of their visionary programs and initiatives. Cary, "the Technology Town of North Carolina," is a thriving community in the heart of an area between Raleigh and Research Triangle Park. The town is repeatedly ranked among the top in the county to live, work, find a home, start a business or retire. Over two-thirds of adults hold a college degree and nearly 9 in 10 citizens have Internet access. The folks in Cary believe an involved citizenry is the hallmark of a strong community and an effective government. They recognize and value the importance of citizen participation in the government. We were impressed by their public arts programs, sidewalk campaigns, Area Transit Authority and consolidated school board. The VISION 2030 team is inspired by our visit, and we look forward to sharing with our community the great new ideas we learned in Cary. I am determined to be a part of our Chamber’s forward movement to the digital age and am honored to serve as Chairman this year. I take great pride in following the lead of my father and grandfather and do not take the responsibility lightly. I thank Darrell Snyder for an extremely successful job last year and look forward to his support and guidance over the next few months. I hope that you are currently a Chamber member, and if not, will consider joining. We are working to make Gainesville-Hall County an even greater place to do business, raise a family and enjoy a unique quality of life. Your support and investment would be appreciated.
VISION 2030 Group Visits Cary, NC
Business Link Volume 17 Issue 7 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
July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors
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Associate Directors 2011-2012 Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness
Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust
Jimmy Hernandez, Milton Martin Toyota
Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design
emmett Forrester, NEGA Diagnostic Clinic
spence Price, The Adams Companies
Doug langman, TRC Staffing
Dan slott, Service Master
Chris mcCall, Keller Williams Realty
Jessica Tullar, City of Gainesville
Jody Nelson, Georgia Power
Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker
staff
VISION 2030 Board, business and government leaders recenly visited Cary, NC. Front (L-R): Darrell Snyder, Georgia Power, 2010-11 Chamber Chairman; RK Whitehead, Whitehead Die Casting; Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap; Meg Nivens, VISION 2030; Tara Richards, Flowery Branch City Council; Cindy Wilson, Georgia Mounains YMCA; Mary Meadows, The Norton Agency; Mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic; VISION 2020 Chair Kelly Miles, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles; Cindy Bryant, Volunteer; Benny Bagwell, Jackson EMC; Mary Lou Melvin,Volunteer. Back (L-R): Mike Miller, Mayor of Flowery Branch; Kip Padgett, Gainesville City Manager; Allen Nivens, Indigo Engergy; Mark Alexander, Stewart, Melvin & Frost; Anna, John and Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media and 2011-12 Chamber Chairman; Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy; Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System; Enrique Montiel, Merial Select; Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta; LeTrell Simpson, Con-Sen-Sus. Not pictured: David Abee, Regions Bank; Martha May, Volunteer; Berlinda Lipscomb, Volunteer; Melvin Cooper, Gainesville Park & Rec.
Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant
South Hall Council Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant
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
July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Economic Development
80 area companies now participating in Drugs Don't Work
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Drug abuse has an enormous impact on business and industry in Georgia and the nation. Drug use in your business costs money, customers and lost productivity. Consider these facts*: • 38-50% of workers' compensation claims are related to substance abuse. • Substance abusers file 3-5 times more workers' comp claims. • Substance abusers have 300% higher medical costs/benefits. • Substance abusers are 2.5 times more likely to be absent from work. • Over 77% of illicit drug users are employed. • Absenteeism, increased healthcare costs and decreased productivity due to alcohol/substance abuse costs your company $1,000 per employee per year. The Benefits of a Drug Free workplace: • Reduces medical costs and lost productivity • Lowers employee turnover and reduces absenteeism • Protects loyal employees Drugs Don't Work Program: 7.5%** Discount on Workers' Comp Premiums Drugs Don’t Work is a Georgia Chamber of Commerce program that makes certification of a drug-free workplace a simple and cost effective procedure. The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce facilitates the Drugs Don't Work program locally at a cost of $50 annually and offers the necessary tools to empower businesses to maintain a drug-free workplace. Enrollment and certification through the Drugs Don't Work program can also help lower insurance costs with a 7.5% discount on workers' comp premiums. To obtain drug free workplace certification and qualify for the 7.5% discount on workers' compensation premiums, companies must complete the following steps: Drugs Don't Work Check List: 1. Institute a substance abuse policy in English and Spanish translations. Translations are provided by the Chamber. 2. Conduct drug testing. Not all employees are required to be tested, however, pre-employment, reasonable suspicion, and post-accident testing are required. While random drug testing is not required, it is suggested. The program provides a certified testing provider list. 3. Conduct on-going employee education. The program provides a monthly newsletter for employees in both English and Spanish to equal the required two hours of training annually. Half of the training must be complete before applying for certification. 4. Oversee supervisor education. The program provides with a newsletter to distribute to supervisors for one hour of annual training. The balance of required training can be accomplished by a drug awareness trainer. Half of the training must be complete before applying for certification. 5. Post the provided referral list of treatment services. 6. Submit your application to the State Board of Worker's Compensation annually for Certification. For more information on Drugs Don't Work or how your company can participate, call Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Existing Industry, 770-532-6202, or email: sdavis@ghcc.com. Visit livedrugfree.com *Source: The Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Inc.; 'Working Partners' National Conference Proceedings Report: US Dept. of Labor, the Small Business Administration, and the Office of National Drug Control Policy. **7.5% Discount available on Worker's Comp Insurance Premiums to all certified Drug Free Workplaces that purchase a premium; if you are self-insured, the 7.5% is from your state assessment fee.
AAA Scales & Systems, Inc. Ace Hardware Corporation ACH Foam Technologies Albert International American Waste & Recycling APCON, Inc./Appalachian Contracting Atlanta Jet Professionals Baldor Electric Barbe America, Inc. BBS of America, Inc. Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County Busker Communications Cabinet Place Cain Electric Company Carriage Auto Group Challenged Child and Friends, Inc. City Plumbing & Electric Supply Co. Conditioned Air Systems, Inc. Cottrell, Inc. Country Charm Egg Distributors, Inc. Daniel's Charters Duncan Exterminating Company Dunlap Stainless, Inc. Echols Glass & Mirror Elan Drug Technologies Elliott Transport, Inc. Georgia Mountain Components Georgia Powder Coating, Inc. Gibson Dental Designs, Inc. GRG Design, Inc. Hall County Library System Hamilton State Bank Harris Products Group Home Instead Senior Care Hulsey Tree, Inc. Humane Society of Northeast Georgia IMS Gear Georgia, Inc. J & J Foods Keep Hall Beautiful KIK Gainesville
Kubota Industrial Equipment Corp. Kubota Manufacturing of America Corp. Lasercraft Technologies, Inc. M & M Welding and Fabrication Mansfield Oil Company of Gainesville Martin Docks Inc. Mincey Marble Manufacturing, Inc. Mugele of America, Inc. Mulberry Farms, Inc. North Georgia Medical Transport, Inc. Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. Northeast Georgia Rentals, Inc. Packaging Specialties of Ga., Inc. Protech Fire, Inc. Pruitt Heating & Air, Inc. Queen Capital Group Quillian's Corner Dental Care ReConserve of Georgia, Inc. Right at Home Riverside Military Academy Rochester & Associates, Inc. Rotating Engineered Products, Inc. Scroggs & Grizzel Contracting, Inc. Service First Roofing ServiceMaster Expert Cleaning Simpson Trucking SKF USA Inc. Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles, P.A. Sonstegard Foods of Georgia Southland Industrial Supply Staff Right Tatsumi Intermodal, Inc. The Truck Center Unique Tool & Bending, Inc. USA Production Parts USA Slide, Inc. WeldingTechnologies WellBeing, Inc. Wilheit Packaging, LLC Will Spurlock Electrical Contractor
Gainesville Named a Top 100 City for Job Growth
Gainesville was named in the Top 100 among all cities in "Best Cities for Job Growth 2011" by newgeography.com. The site's Best Cities for Job Growth 2011 Rankings are a performance measure of job growth over short and longer terms. The methodology for the 2011 rankings emphasizes the robustness of a region's growth both recently and over time. It allows the rankings to include all of the metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) for which the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports monthly employment data. They are derived from three-month rolling averages of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics "state and area" unadjusted employment data reported from November 1999 to January 2011. Job creation from new and existing businesses in Gainesville-Hall County contributed to the overall ratings. Tim Evans, Chamber VP of Economic Development, cited 34 new and expanded businesses in 2010-2011 that collectively announced 1,140 new jobs and nearly $250 million in capital investment. “Recently, we have had many global companies expand their operations in Gainesville-Hall County to better serve their North American customers," stated Evans. "ZF, American Yazaki, GMI, King’s Hawaiian, ATEX, Elringklinger, Kubota, Skip Barber Racing and IMS Gear are among the new and expanded firms assisted by the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council." See the full article and report at newgeography.com
Job Fair & Career Expo continued from page 1 Annual Agribusiness Awards
Alan Schuetze of Carroll Daniel Construction Company presents a job seeker with employment application and company information. The commercial construction services firm is filling several job positions.
Riverside Military Academy Chamber Chairman 2010-2011 Darrell Snyder (left); Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap and 2011-2012 Chamber Chair Jay Jacobs recognized Col. James Benson (center) and Riverside Military Academy as the 2010-2011 Community Service Award Recipient.
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
July 5, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
(Left): Gary Gilliam and Sarah Fink of Wrigley/Mars staffed their company's exhibit. (Above): Job seekers, numbering over 1300, were able to complete and submit job applications back to employers on site.
The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce honored several local agriculturalists at the Annual Agribusiness Breakfast in June. Allen and Doris Conner were announced as winners of the 2011 Farmer of Agribusiness Award Recipients (L-R): Billy Skaggs, Agribusiness the Year Award. Hall of Fame Inductee; Doris and Allen Conner, Farmer of Year Award; Tim Evans for Kit Dunlap, Friend of Agriculture Award; The two own a farm in Clermont Kabe Cain, Cain Equipment, Outstanding Agribusiness. that former Hall County Extension Agent Gene Anderson said was "green before green was cool." Cain Equipment, a Clermont-based farming equipment dealer since 1958, was named the 2011 Outstanding Agribusiness, and Kit Dunlap, President/CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, was named Friend of Agriculture. Billy Skaggs, chief operating officer of the Georgia Department of Agriculture and former Hall County Extension Agent, was inducted into the Ag Hall of Fame. The Title Sponsor for the event was Jackson EMC and other sponsors included Hall County Soil and Water, Chandler Equipment, Crystal Farms, Ag Georgia Farm Credit and the Hall County Farm Bureau.
Economic Development
Shelia Henningsen, ATEX, at the company's booth at the Job Fair on June 22 at the Georgia Mountains Center. ATEX, Inc. is an internationally successful manufacturing operation seeking to fill several positions at the Gainesville plant.
5
Meetings & Events
July/August 2011 Wednesday, July 13 Network Over Coffee 8:30-9:30 a.m. – Panera Bread Wednesday, July 13 Human Resource Council 11:30 a.m. – Georgia Mountains Center Thursday, July 14 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, July 20 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - Chamber Wednesday, July 20 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Wednesday, July 27 Network Over Coffee 8:30-9:30 a.m. – Chick-fil-A at Stonebridge Village in Flowery Branch NOTE: There will be NO Chamber Board of Directors Meeting in July. Wednesday, August 3 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, August 9 Small Business Success Seminar Tax Saving Strategies for Small Business Presented by R. Josh Crisp, CPA 7:45 a.m -9:00 a.m. - Chamber
South Hall Council The Greater Hall Chamber's South Hall Council is chaired by Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta, and provides a monthly forum for small businesses and professionals in South Hall by communicating ideas, sharing knowledge and experience, and providing leads in order to become more successful. Programs include South Hall Business Coalition meetings and ongoing South Hall Marketing Workshops. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com (L-R): Beau Austin, Diana Cardenas and Tim Zack of Red Clay Interactive recently conducted the South Hall Council's Marketing Workshop. The event was sponsored by AT&T and focused on social media and internet marketing strategies.
Thursday, August 11 Leadership Hall County Lake Program 8:00 a.m. – Clarks Bridge Park Thursday, August 18 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, August 18 Business After Hours & Tailgate Party 4:30-6:30 p.m. – McGarity's Business Products, 870 Grove Street in Gainesville Tuesday, August 23 Youth Leadership Hall Kickoff 4:30-6:30 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Thursday, August 25 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Get details on these and other Chamber events and register for events online: greaterhallchamber.com
Michelle Wiley Greater Hall Chamber Membership Vice President, Dr. Mark Coleman, Principal, Flowery Branch High School, and South Hall Council Chair Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta. Dr. Coleman gave an update and tour of Flowery Branch High School at the June South Hall Business Coalition meeting.
Chamber Events July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, October 12, 2011: HealthSmart Wellness Expo Georgia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville Featuring the Annual Kickoff Breakfast and Wellness Expo 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – HealthSmart Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Wellness Expo
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Thursday, November 17, 2011: Downtown Gainesville Business After Hours On the Square in Downtown Gainesville Featuring Open Houses, Food, Drink, Santa and more! 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. – Business After Hours & Shop Open Houses
Business After Hours Thursday, August 18 4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Sponsored by McGarity's Business Products 870 Grove Street in Gainesville $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!
– Annual Tail Gate Party with The Varsity! – McGarity's Business Products has been in business for over 25 years and is a one-stop shop for all your office needs with over 25,000 different office products ranging from pens and paper to upscale office furniture and the latest Xerox Products. mcgaritys.com Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com
Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, August 9 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Sponsored by Jacobs Media Corporation and United Community Bank Free for Members; $15 Non-Members
Tax Saving Strategies for Small Business Presented by
R. Josh Crisp, CPA Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com
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The river’s
The Chattahoochee River’s power lies in its rushing water, the habitat it provides and the life it brings to those who live along its shores
Which is why so many struggle to control it about this series
BY ashLeY FieLDiNG
Out of the hills of Habersham, Down the valleys of Hall, I hurry amain to reach the plain ... ‘Song of the Chattahoochee,’ Sidney Lanier, 1877
The Chattahoochee River flows through dozens of towns and millions of lives in three states. Along its 550-mile journey, the river provides water, power, recreation and economic growth for every city and hamlet in its path. This is why Georgia, Alabama and Florida continue to duel over how much of its waters each should get, leading to political and legal battles that have raged for nearly two decades. Times reporter Ashley Fielding and photographer Sara Guevara traveled the river’s length to witness its effect, and, for the next eight days, will tell the stories of the people whose livelihood depends on the Chattahoochee’s flow.
iNsiDe After spending a week on the Chattahoochee, what lessons have our reporter and photographer learned? VIEWPOINT, 1D
cOMiNG MONDaY A look at the power generated by the Chattahoochee.
scOTT rOGers | The Times
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ABOVE: A view of Lake Harding, one of many man-made lakes along the Chattahoochee River used to generate power. The lake was built by the Columbus Power Company in the 1920s and today, power is generated by Bartletts Ferry Dam in Harris County.
Paul House of the Hall County Sheriff Department’s Gang Task Force chats Friday with a group of suspected gang members while partner John Higginbotham watches at some apartments near Old Clarks Bridge Road.
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Member Announcements July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
10
• The Quinlan Visual Arts Center is offering a series of workshops and opportunities for intensive study with nationally recognized artists. Details, 770-536-2575, or visit quinlanartscenter.org • The Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center has commemorative platters for $25 that feature a painted border of community landmarks. The Chamber Welcome Center also has maps, Membership Lists, Industry Guides, Wage & Benefit Surveys, Community Magazines, postcards and more. 770532-6206. greaterhallchamber.com • The Center for Women’s Health at The Longstreet Clinic announced OB/GYN Tommy Jenkins, MD, was honored with the Alpha Omega Alpha Volunteer Clinical Faculty Award by the Medical College of Georgia. Jenkins began practicing in Gainesville in 1978 and is a founding member of TLC. longstreetclinic.com • Sara Lewis is a Chamber summer intern and a rising senior at North Georgia College & State University with a Major in Accounting. A Ringgold-native, Sara will assist with membership and economic development projects and gain exposure to business issues, member firms and potential job opportunities. northgeorgia.edu • Main Street Gainesville's "Summer on the Square" is the first Friday of July, August and September from 5pm– 10pm. Shop, dine and enjoy art and live music. Stores open late. Downtown Gainesville Farmers Market is 2:30pm-6:30pm on the Square with locally grown vegetables, fruits, plants, honey, baked goods, crafts and flowers. downtowngainesville.com • Lake Lanier Islands Resort's new LanierWorld includes Family Fun Park with water attractions, the Island Grill, shops and Landlubber's Lagoon Carnival with 12 rides. Big Beach offers live entertainment
from a floating stage, a beach area, Lakeside Links miniature golf, Boardwalk Shops and new restaurants. Sunset Cove has the Beach Cafe & Club, nightly entertainment and more eateries. Rick Whorf, former chef and proprietor at four restaurants in Dahlonega, is now head chef at the resort with Windows Restaurant and BullFrogs Bar & Grille at the Legacy Lodge & Conference Center and the many seasonal restaurants at LanierWorld. lakelanierislands.com • Junior Achievement honored Jim Walters and Gus Whalen inducting both into the Northeast Georgia Business Hall of Fame. Walters and Whalen were recognized for serving as role models for students and giving socially and economically to the community. Junior Achievement of Georgia partners with corporations, organizations, schools and individuals for the success of our students. georgia.ja.org • Elachee Nature Science Center is conducting a feasibility study for a nature-based preschool – the first of its kind in the Southeast. The concept is based on outdoor classrooms with students predominately outside during the day. elachee.org • Cindy Wilson has joined the Georgia Mountains YMCA as development director responsible for fundraising and community outreach. Cindy is a long-time Chamber volunteer and spent 30 years in the banking industry. gamountainsymca.org • A newly released report from the Selig Center for Economic Growth in the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business shows North Georgia College & State University made a regional economic impact of over $230 million and accounted for 2,462 jobs in a six-county area in 2010. The economic impact of Gainesville State College reached $204 million and generated 2,254 full- and part-time jobs.
Wiley Promoted to Membership VP Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kit Dunlap announces the promotion of Michelle Wiley as Vice President of Membership Development. Michelle joined the Chamber in March 2007 as Membership Coordinator. She guided one of the most successful membership campaigns in Chamber history in 2010 netting over 100 new members. She also implemented professional networking groups for members including the successful Leads Group and oversees the programs of the popular Ambassadors Council, the South Hall Council and the growing South Hall Business Coalition. Michelle is a Walton County-native and graduate of Brenau University. Michelle and her husband, Chris, a City of GainesMichelle Wiley ville Firefighter/EMT have one daughter. Vice President Membership Kara Matter has joined the Greater Hall Chamber staff Greater Hall Chamber of as Membership Coordinator. A recent graduate of North Commerce Georgia College & State University, Kara served as an intern with the Chamber in 2010. In her new position, she is responsible for Chamber membership recruitment and retention programs.
• Travis Rogers, president/CEO, and Hal Sims, director of operations, of Gainesvillebased Franville Corporation, a Krystal franchise company, were awarded top corporate honors with Krystal Brand Excellence scores for one of the lowest customer complaint teams in the company. Currently, the franchisee owns 9 restaurants. • 90-Day Individual Fit Plus Passports through Gainesville Parks & Recreation include access to pools, Splash Zone and all fitness classes. Family Passports are available for the Splash Zone and pools. Learn to Swim with Red Cross Certified Instructors or join a cooking class. 770-533-5850. gainesville.org/recreation • Hoschton businessman Scott Roberts of Roberts Plumbing Inc. was named Contractor of the Year by the Georgia Plumbing and Mechanical Association and chosen by his peers for the award. callrobertsplumbing.com • The Georgia Press Association inducted the late Charles A. Smithgall Jr. into the Georgia Newspaper Hall of Fame. Smithgall co-founded The Times in 1947 with his wife Lessie. He founded WGGA, a Gainesville radio station, with a group of friends in 1941. gainesvilletimes.com • Gainesville SBDC's Starting a Business: Q&A is July 13, 5-7 pm, 999 Chestnut Street. Free. georgiasbdc.org
• The Arts Council Summer MusicFest features the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, July 16 and A1A, the official Jimmy Buffet tribute band on Saturday, August 6. theartscouncil.net • Carol H. Burrell was named President & CEO of the Northeast Georgia Health System. Burrell has served as interim CEO since last November. She was recruited to NGHS in 1999 to work with the primary care network and promoted to Executive Vice President and COO in 2004. NGMC was accredited by DNV Healthcare, a new federally approved accreditation that offers NGMC the opportunity to satisfy its Medicare compliance requirements for reimbursement and implement the ISO 9001 Quality Management System. nghs.com • The 2011 Sprint National Championships will be held on Lake Lanier at the Olympic Rowing Venue August 4-7 with an expected 3000+ visitors from around the U.S. lckc.org • The Jaeger Company, a landscape architecture and planning firm with offices in Gainesville and Athens, was featured in the May 2011 issue of Landscape Architecture Magazine. The company's projects have a strong emphasis on cultural resources, historic preservation, and ecological design. jaegerco.com
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Wednesday, October 12 Georgia Mountains Center HealthSmart Breakfast Featuring Dave Hubbard, Motivational Speaker/Author and Former NFL Player Developer of Americas Fitness Coach® Exercise Method and presentation of the 2011 Most Fit Company Awards
7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Breakfast: $10 Chamber Members; $15 Non-members
FREE Health Screenings & Wellness Expo 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Wellness Expo is Open to the Public • No Charge Dozens of Exhibits • FREE Health Screenings
Sponsorship & Exhibitor Opportunities! Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com
Braselton & Gainesville
Workplace Drug Testing to Meet Your Company’s Needs
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Northeast Georgia Medical Center 743 Spring Street Gainesville, GA 30501 770-219-STAT (7828)
Ribbon Cuttings
Deep South Dogs
Jeremy Wilkson and Scott Dixon cut ribbon at Deep South Dogs, located in Main Street Market on the Square in Downtown Gainesville. Deep South Dogs features a signature toasted baguette and 1/4 pound dog topped with an array fresh toppings, from homemade spicy chili to tangy sauerkraut. 118 Main Street SW, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-3647. deepsouthdogs.com
Small Business Success Seminar
RelyLocal Hall County
Joy Allgood cuts ribbon for RelyLocal Hall County, an "advertising incubator" and community campaign to build the local economy and strengthen the community. RelyLocal assists businesses with search engine optimization, social media, advertising and marketing. Visit relylocal.com for details, job listings, coupons and much more. 678-858-6533.
Elizabeth Carswell and Jamie Reynolds recently presented the brand marketing Small Business Success Seminar to a group of over 30 Chamber members. Front (LR): Marilynn Grier, Prepaid Legal Services, Inc.; Laura Haynes, WomenSource; Gary Whitaker, Whitaker Business Law. Back (L-R): Jim Grier, Prepaid Legal Services, Inc.; Elizabeth Carswell, Wyngate Drive Creative Communications; Jan Beasley, Run Spot Carpet Cleaning; Jamie Reynolds, Wyngate Drive Creative Communications. Don't miss the next seminar "Tax Strategies for Small Business" on August 9 at the Chamber. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6203. Email: jean@ghcc.com
July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Robson Crossing Family Dentistry
12
Dr. Andrea Nicola cuts ribbon at Robson Crossing Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, 3446 Winder Highway in Flowery Branch. The practice is now taking new patients and serves the entire family with general and cosmetic dentistry, Invisalign® Orthodontics, veneers, teeth whitening, crowns and much more. 770-297-5110. robsoncrossingdentistry.com
New Pizza Hut in Flowery Branch
NPC International/ Pizza Hut held a ribbon cutting for their new location at 7330 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch. Owned by NPC International, Pizza Hut is the world’s largest pizza franchise. This location is identified as a DELCO location for Delivery and Carryout ONLY serving the Flowery Branch and Braselton area. Hours: Sun-Thurs, 11am-10pm; Friday/Saturday, 11am-12am. 770-965-2221.
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• Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 22,000 on the 1st Tuesday of the month. • Reach decision makers from the area businesses for current chamber membership in excess of 2700. • Featured member of the month gets 2 full pages or center spread. • Advertising pricing is available for 1,6 or 12 issues.
Publication Date: First Tuesday of every month for advertising contact Sherrie Jones • 770.535.6304 sjones@gainesvilletimes.com
260977 10-5 em
Welcome New Members
Heartfelt Home Care, LLC Amanda Jackson 4528 Nohl Crest Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 362-5299 - Medical / Home Health Joseph West 4004 Cochran Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 534-4657 - Individual Member John Satterfield P.O. Drawer V Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 531-6839 - Individual Member Joshua Hoynes Photography Joshua Hoynes 4431-7B Township Dr. Oakwood, GA 30566 (770) 676-8897 - Photography joshuahoynesphotography.com Konica Minolta Business Solutions U.S.A., INC. Stuart Lancaster
1700 Corporate Drive Norcross, GA 30093 (678) 533-2137 - Business Services kmbs.konicaminolta.us Legacy Family Dentistry Kristin Jorgensen 224 Shallowford Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 536-1170 - Dentist legacyfamilydentistry.com Little Italy Pizza Ben Cortese 990 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 450-1515 - Restaurant & Catering littleitalypizzeriaga.com NPC International/Pizza Hut Zana Martin 7330 Spout Springs Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 965-2221 -Restaurant & Catering pizzahut.com Rejuvenation Clinics of Georgia, LLC Lisa Jue 726 S Enota Drive, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (404) 585-1724 - Medical rejuvenationclinicsofgeorgia.com
Relitek Solutions John Bowles 2101 Lakewood Circle Grayson, GA 30017 (678) 344-7481 - Computers / Networking reliteksolutions.com Robson Crossing Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Andrea Nicola 3446 Winder Highway Suite 501-Q Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 297-5110 - Dentist robsoncrossingdentistry.com Wilson Orthodontics Ron Wilson 5415 Thompson Mill Rd, # A Hoschton, GA 30548 (770) 967-8462 - Orthodontics wilsonbraces.com Yarn Rhapsody Inc. Ruth Thompson 475 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-3130 - Retail yarnrhapsody.com To join the Greater Hall Chamber or learn about membership benefits, call 770-532-6206 or visit us online at greaterhallchamber.com
Business After Hours on the Lake
Thank You June Event Sponsors Ag Georgia Farm Credit • Chandler Equipment • Crystal Farms Gainesville Area Employers Committee • Hall County Farm Bureau Hall County Soil & Water • Jackson EMC • Jaemor Farms King's Hawaiian • Lanier Technical College • Milton Martin Honda Park Marine Boating Centers • Port Royale Marina & Lakeside Community The Times • United Community Bank • Yamaha
Don Kerns Wrecker Service celebrates 52 years of business this year. Don Kerns and his wife founded the towing company in 1959 with one homemade tow truck, then three years later moved to the current location at on Spring Road in Gainesville. Today, Don and his family operate a fleet of 10 trucks ranging from light to heavy duty. Open 24 hours each day, the company specializing in wheel lift towing, flatbed (rollback) towing, lockouts, jump starts, RV & bus towing and tire changes. Don stresses that he has not run a sucSmall Business of the Month Recipient Don Kerns cessful business alone. He credits and daughter Kathy Martin at the Greater Hall his family with helping with the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting. many facets of the company. Son, Chip, began shadowing Don while in diapers, and the two worked together for many years before Chip was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident in 2002. Chip's son, D.J., hopes to follow in his father's footsteps after graduation. Don's daughter, Kathy, has been involved in the business for many years and covers the phones, books and dispatch. Kathy's son, Joey, joined the company after graduating from Gainesville State College and is also an integral part of the family business. Don Kerns Wrecker Service, 2021 Spring Road, Suite # A, Gainesville, GA 30504-4076. 770-536-5477.
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
July 5, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Business After Hours in June at Port Royale Marine (L-R): Darrell Synder, Georgia Power; Alan Hope, Lakeside on Lanier; Brent Danneman, Port Royale Marine & Lakeside Community; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO; Chris Greene, Greene Ford; Jim Hardman, Jim Hardman Buick GMC; David Umberson, Greater Hall Chamber VP Finance. Don't miss the August 18th Business After Hours & Annual Tailgate party at McGarity's Business Products with food from The Varsity!
Don Kerns Wrecker Service
Membership Development
Blue Ridge Supply, Inc. Priscilla Bartlett 2076 Allied Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-8100 - Retail / Industrial blueridgesupply.com
Small Business of the Month
13
Key Economic Indicators
Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County
10
May 2011
The recently selected 2011-2012 Class of Leadership Hall County (LHC) gathered for their kickoff session at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center and heard from Chamber Executive Committee members about their volunteer role with the Chamber. 1989 LHC graduate Kelley Miles, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles, Chairman of VISION 2030 spoke about the initiative and its objectives. The class participated in interactive games at Laurelwood, led by 2011 LHC graduate Kevin Lloyd, Director of Laurelwood. The program concluded at 2005 graduate and Chamber Vice Chair of Education Beth Baldwin’s, Edward Jones, home with a reception hosted by the LHC Program Advisory Committee.
8 Previous Month
12-Month High
8
Latest
Jan 2011
10.3%
6
Percent
4
Apr 2011
8.5
2
One Year Ago
May 2010
M J J A S O N D J F M A M
8.7
2010
Gainesville City
8.3
Cherokee Dawson
8.4 8.8
Forsyth
7.5
Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia
8.7 10 8.5 9.9
U.S.
9.1
2011 Updated 6/28
Retail Sales
3.0
The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 209,931,980 2 columns 198,867,876 216,493,324 4.4167 x 10 Hall County
2.0
Latest May 2011
Previous Month
One Year Ago
April 2011
May 2010
$
$
100’s millions of dollars
E d u c a t i o n & Wo r k f o r c e
Leadership Hall County
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 J A S O N D J F M A M retail sales of approximately $100 million. 2010 2011
July 5, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Updated 6/28
14
Housing Permits Issued - Hall County
The 2010-2011 Class of Leadership Hall County gathered for a graduation celebration and alumni reunion poolside at the Chattahoochee Country Club. Over 150 people attended the event, and three Leadership Program Advisory Committee members were honored for their three-year commitment of service: Beth Baldwin, Edward Jones; Deanna Eden, The Adams Companies; Pyper Macloskie, Children’s Center for Hope & Healing. Many thanks to The ComTran Group Inc. for sponsoring the event.
Latest
May 15 Previous Month
152
20
16
60
2011 YTD
Apr 2011 1 3 59 77 2
Apr 2010 0 8 76 90 5
Mar 2011 2 4 48 102 2
Total 2010 45 33 647 1,012 39
2011 YTD 10 16 261 306 9
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home
Leadership Sponsorships Available
Details: Dana Miller, 770-532-6206. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com
May 2010
Area
Leadership Hall County transportation sponsors are needed. Cost is $900 per session and includes: Sponsor recognition in Greater Hall Chamber’s Business Link newsletter; Signage on bus; Corporate logo on Leadership Hall County agenda; Corporate marketing materials distributed on bus; Opportunity to participate in program. Youth Leadership Hall meal sponsors are needed. Cost is $300 per session and includes: Sponsor recognition in Greater Hall Chamber’s Business Link newsletter; Signage at restaurant; Corporate logo on agenda; Corporate marketing materials distributed to students and chaperones; Opportunity to participate in program.
2010 Total
One Year Ago
Apr 2011
Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson
May 2011
Avg May Price 2010
Avg Price
Apr 2011
Avg Price
Total 2010
Avg Total Price 2011
Avg Price
City
21
126,234
20
119,925
9
181,925
119
130,529
68
135,197
North
36
172,437
45
241,029
31
183,092
279
203,389 154
179,852
East
26
85,040
23
73,187
22
56,885
144
89,653
91
73,275
South
23
179,647
25
155,634
23
149,765
172
133,791
93
165,682
West
58
201,548
41
168,762
50
147,606
374
170,098 211
176,499 Updated 6/28
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 Business Resources
The Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center is located at 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. Details: Robin Halstead, Welcome Center Manager, 770-532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com. Order resources online: greaterhallchamber.com
Gainesville City Schools Academic Booster Club officials and students with representatives from Papa John’s, an ongoing Greater Hall Chamber Partner in Education and Leadership Hall Program supporter. Front Row (L-R): Havilyn Towns, Chair, Gainesville Booster Club; Students Will Thompson and Rick Martin; Margie Braff, Gainesville Booster Club Secretary; Kim Jones, Gainesville Middle Booster Liaison; Kim Davis, Fairstreet Booster Liaison; Back Row (LR) Deidre and Dean Thompson, Owners, Papa John’s; Brad Beighley, Manager, Papa John’s. The Gainesville Booster Club seeks to meet academic needs by providing funds for everything from computer equipment to microscopes, equipment for projects, teaching materials, books and many “extras.” As a partner with Gainesville City Schools, Papa Johns donated over 2,500 free pizza gift certificates during Teacher Appreciation Week and for incentives for grades and attendance. To assist the booster club, they will tape school event flyers to pizza box tops and offer other marketing outlets. For more on this and other Chamber Education and Workforce Initiatives, contact Dana Miller, 770-532-6206. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com
Farmers markets open for summer
The Gainesville Farmers Market on the Square in Gainesville opened in June and runs through September, every Friday from 2:30 - 6:30 p.m. The Market is located on lot at Main and Spring Streets with fresh, locally grown produce and locally produced items such as plants, herbs, honey, breads, granola, and more. Come by and support your local farmers and vendors, and visit the shops around Gainesville's historic downtown business district. 678-943-4442. hallfarmers.org The NEW Spout Springs Library Farmers Market in South Hall County opened in April. The market is held at the Spout Springs Library parking lot on Thursdays from 4 - 7 p.m. and provides the freshest, highest quality, homegrown produce in the area. All homemade canned products, baked goods, and freshly prepared foods are produced in state-approved and licensed kitchens. 678-943-4442. hallfarmers.org Jaemor Farms, off Interstate-985 in North Hall County, is family owned and operated since 1981 and stocks a large variety of fresh produce and farm products, jams, jelly, pickles, relishes, ciders, and much more. The farm includes peach and apple orchards, strawberries, fruits and vegetables, fresh churned peach ice cream and gifts items. 770-869-3999. Hours through August: Monday-Saturday, 7am7pm, Sunday, 1-6 pm. Shop online: jamsjellies.com
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5
July 5, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
The 38th Annual Hall County Farmers Market is now open and selling locally grown farm produce. The market operates every Tuesday, beginning at 6:00 a.m., and every Saturday at 7:00 a.m., through September. Located at the intersection of East Crescent Drive and Jesse Jewel Parkway, the covered facility is easily accessible from Interstate 985 at Exit 24. All produce sold are locally grown and now includes a wide variety of farm fresh early-season celery, cabbage, onions, radishes, turnips, and eggs. Later in the summer, melons, corn and tomatoes will be available. Details: Hall County Extension Service, 770-531-6988. hallcounty.org
Community Development
The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center in Downtown Gainesville stocks many resources helpful to both businesses and newcomers: • Georgia Trend Magazine's 2011-2012 Small Business Guide is free and provides solutions on starting and growing a small business. The publication seeks to serve the information needs of the state's growing number of small businesses. • Greater Hall Wage & Benefit Report 2011 includes over 60 area employers and 70+ jobs including average salary. The Pay Practice and Benefits Sections feature over 80 responses to keep employers competitive. $30 Chamber Members; $50 non-members. • Greater Hall Industrial Directory 2011 was recently updated with profiles on 230+ Manufacturers, Processors and Distributors located in Gainesville-Hall County with up to 18 facts about each. $15 Chamber Members; $30 non-members. • Greater Hall Chamber Membership List is updated regularly and lists all Chamber members with contact information. The list is available by company category or alphabetically. $10 Chamber Members; $20 non-members. Electronic Version for Chamber Members only, $200. • Maps, Community Magazine, postcards and more are available at the Chamber.
Papa John's: Partners in Education
15
Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events Network Over Coffee Wednesday, July 13 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Panera Bread Leads Group Wednesday, July 20 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Network Over Coffee Wednesday, July 27 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Chick-fil-A Stone Bridge Village Flowery Branch
Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, August 9 Tax Saving Strategies Presented by R. Josh Crisp, CPA 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Sponsored by Jacobs Media and United Community Bank Business After Hours Tailgate Party Thursday, August 18 Sponsored by McGarity's Business Products with food from The Varsity! 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at McGarity's
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA
HealthSmart Wellness Expo Wednesday, October 12 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Expo Georgia Mountains Center
Get information and register for these events and others online at greaterhallchamber.com
CAR-RT SORT
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