Business Link December 2022

Chairman’s Column page 2

Industry Appreciation page 4

Small Business of the Month page 6

Meetings & Events page 7

Member News page 10 New Members page 11

Youth Leadership Hall page 12

Cuttings

14-15

Thursday, February 16

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Lanier Technical College

Ramsey Conference Center

Business Expo is FREE and Open to the Public!

Annual Small Business Luncheon February 16 | 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Lunch Meeting to Celebrate Small Business & Entrepreneurs

Join us for lunch with local small business owner and entrepreneur Amanda Wilbanks, founder and CEO of Southern Baked Pie Company. Opening in 2012, the Gainesville-based company now has four locations. While born and baked in our hometown, Southern Baked Pie ships to corporate and individual clients nationwide. Amanda is a UGA graduate and a two-time Bulldog 100 recipient. She’s formed alliances with Williams-Sonoma and Dean and Deluca to sell pies and has been spotlighted on The Today Show, Oprah Magazine, Garden and Gun, Hallmark Channel, Taste of the South and Country Living. Small Business Luncheon: $15, Chamber Member; $25 Non-Member. Reservations required. Reservations online: GHCC.com/events.com

Business EXPO 2023 February 16 | 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

Northeast Georgia’s Largest Trade Show with 60+ Exhibitors

Exhibit space is filling fast for the Business EXPO on February 16 at Lanier Technical College. Reserve your space today. The EXPO is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC and creates great business exposure! Over 60 exhibitors will participate with outstanding networking and leads development. Call now and inquire about great sponsorships! Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206 • eparker@ghcc.com

Tuesday, December 13

Small Business Seminar

In Person at Chamber or via Zoom

Tuesday, January 10

Small Business Economic & Political Forecast

Lanier Technical College

Tuesday, January 17

South Hall Business Coalition University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus

Marketing WORKSHOP

Get the latest digital and social media strategies to stay on top of the latest trends. Learn how to turn your audience into customers! .

Social & Digital Marketing 2.0 Wednesday, January 25 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Brenau Downtown Center Info on pages 7 & 16.

from the chairman

Executive Committee

December and the Holiday Season is a special time of year. It's a time for reflection and to prioritize what is important in our lives. For many of us, it is a time for gift giving to others and a means to show appreciation for the special people in our lives.

If you choose purchased gifts, consider shopping locally. Small businesses make up a majority portion of the growing economy in our community. I know our small businesses and services would appreciate having their friends and neighbors come in and make a purchase. The beauty of shopping locally is that each item you purchase not only provides income and helps local businesses, but also goes toward paying employees, who in turn spend their earnings locally. In other words, every dollar you spend can start a ripple effect that will exponentially turn over again and again. Many reasons to Buy Local!

Supporting

About starting a ripple and spreading to others... another reason December is special for many of us is Christmas and the celebration and recognition of the story found in Luke 2. I believe this may be the greatest story ever told.

Remember giving a gift to a child and the excitement it produces to both the giver and the receiver? There is something magical in the eyes of a child which shows a faithful trust that words cannot describe. It seems to be even more so during this time of year. As we grow older, we tend to become more immune to the simplicity of giving gifts to others. It gives great satisfaction to shop locally, find the perfect gift, wrap it and then give it to a family member, friend, neighbor or even a stranger.

So do it. Shop Local, Buy local. Visit one of the hundreds of small businesses in Gainesville-Hall County, and spend a few dollars on someone else. If you don’t know exactly what to give, consider giving a gift certificate to a local restaurant. There are countless ways to shop locally, give to others and support the ripple of dollars in our commu nity. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

Chairman William Bagwell Homestead Investments

Chairman-Elect Brett Fowler Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Treasurer Perry Barnett Rushton

Vice Chair Economic Development Glennis Barnes Georgia Power

Vice Chair Marketing Missy Burgess Lanier Islands

Vice Chair Government Affairs

Drew Echols

Jaemor Farms

Vice Chairs, Education Andi Farmer

Milton Martin Honda Lauren Armour Talley Lanier Technical College

Vice Chair South Hall Council

Mike Zeiler, Marel

Vice Chair Community Development Margaret Spratlin Longstreet Clinic

Chair Vision 2030 Tate O’Rouke Jackson EMC

Staff, Vision 2030 Elizabeth Higgins Anna Hester

Vice Chairs Membership Tammy Caudell, Carroll Daniel Construction Casey Ryals, Hall County Farm Bureau Insurance

Co-Chairs HALLmark Phil Bonelli

Regions Bank Philip Wilheit, Jr Wilheit Packaging

2022-2023 Board of Directors

Christa Andrews, Corporate Storage

Edward Asbridge, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Norman Baggs, The Times Brian Barfield, AT&T

Neal Booth, Pinnacle Bank

Chris Braswell, The Norton Agency

Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Whitney Brown, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Dan Carey, TRUIST

Kit Charest Marel

Mitch Clarke, AccessWDUN

Kay Cochran Cochran Brothers Electric

Sean Couch, Northeast Georgia Health System

Sam Couvillon, Mayor, City of Gainesville

Shanna Cronic, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic

S. Wade Dale, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Andrew Davenport, A New Veteran

Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Beth Downs Northeast Georgia Health System Jessica Dudley, United Way of Hall County

Cody Elder Coca-Cola Bottling Gainesville/United Michelle Moore Ellis, Moore's Wealth Management

Joy Griffin, Gainesville City Schools

Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota

Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall County Commission

Sam Hulsey, United Community Bank

Rick Humphrey, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta

Jordan Hussey J's Place Recovery Center

Ben Jarrard, University of North Georgia

Carli Jones Jaemor Farms

Jay Kelly Signs by Tomorrow

Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel

Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones Investments David Lee, Jackson EMC

Dr. Kate Maine, University of North Georgia

Megan Martin, North GA Community Foundation

Ward McCamy, Bank of America

Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College

Mike McGraw, Ranger Manufacturing

Terry Merck American Yazaki Corporation

Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council

Steve Naughton, Enterprise Solutions

Chris Nish Cottrell

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Matt Nix Duplicating Products

Ryan Owen, Kubota Manufacturing of America

Dr. Jeff Payne Capstone Property Group

Michele Piucci, Peach State Bank & Trust

Stacey Poole McDonald's NEGA

Col. Stas Preczewski, Riverside Military Academy

Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy

Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance Georgia

Britt Sawyer, Sawyer Media Group

Will Schofield Hall County School System

Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry

Jessica Shirley, The Times

John Simpson, Lakeview Academy

Dr. Anne Skleder, Brenau University

Jackie Walters Slaughter Walters Management Co

Terry Spicer King’s Hawaiian Bakery

Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons

Joe Thomas Mayor, City of Lula

Kurt Ward Mayor, Town of Braselton

Layna Weldon, State Farm Insurance

Lila Westmoreland, Brenau University

Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging

Jeff Williams Conditioned Air Systems

Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools

John Wright Fieldale Farms

Greater Hall Chamber Staff

Over 130 attended the 27th Annual Farm City Breakfast on November 15 at the North Hall Community Center to recognize local farmers and those working in agriculture and agribusiness. Dozens of students from Hall County Schools Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4H were on hand for the event.

Senior Advisor Brian Daniel Carroll Daniel Construction

Immediate Past Chair Phil Sutton Kubota Manufacturing of America

Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap

William Bagwell

Homestead Investments 2022-23 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber

Guest speaker Dr. Doug Britton (left), Georgia Tech Research Institute, and Mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation.

economic development

Expansion at Agile Cold Storage

A groundbreaking ceremony for an expansion was held at Agile Cold Storage in November for a 48,000 pallet position automated facility at 3117 Athens Highway in Gainesville. (L-R) Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging and the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority Board; Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging and the Georgia Ports Authority Board; David Lee, Jackson EMC; Katrina Cochran, Senator Raphael Warnock’s Office; Don Schoenl, CEO, Agile Cold Storage; Jimmy Adams, Adams Properties and Corporate Storage; Tate O’Rouke, Jackson EMC; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Walker Adams, NAI Brannen Goddard.

Northeast Georgia Skills Challenge

Regional high school students competed in the Northeast Georgia Skills Challenge hosted by Carroll Daniel Construction in partnership with the Associated General Contractors of Georgia (AGC Georgia).

Nearly 300 construction students from 24 regional high schools competed in skilled trades competitions including blueprint reading, cabinetry, carpentry, construction career displays, electrical, HVAC, masonry, plumbing, team build, and welding. Along with the competitors in attendance, several hundred more students were on site as observers to learn about careers in construction. The highly visible, annual event is geared towards workforce development in Northeast Georgia. Info: Angie Kennedy, Marketing Director at akennedy@carrolldaniel.com.

Industry Appreciation Luncheon

14th Annual Industry of the Year Awards

Friday, February 3, 2023

11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Scott McMurray Interim Deputy Commissioner, Georgia Quick Start

Presented by Lanier Technical College, the Chamber's Industry Appreciation Luncheon features the presentation of the 14th Annual Industry of the Year Awards recognizing Economic Impact, Corporate Responsibility and Workforce Excellence. The guest speaker at the luncheon is Scott McMurray, Interim Deputy Commissioner of Georgia Quick Start, and an economic development veteran. Prior to Quick Start, McMurray served as Deputy Commissioner of Global Commerce at the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

Nominate your industry or another outstanding company for an award online: www.SurveyMonkey.com/r/IndApp2022. Awards will be presented to industries in the following categories: Small Industry (less than 50 employees); Medium Industry (51-200 employees); Large Industry (251+ employees). Awards will also be presented for Work force Development, Corporate Responsibility, Environmental Responsibility and Safety. $50 Chamber Member; $60 Guest; $500 Table (Seats 8). Reservations Required. Info: Nikki Chandler, 770-532-6206 • nchandler@ghcc.com. Online: GHCC.com/events

Economic Development Update

The South Hall Business Coalition met November 3rd and heard from Chamber Economic Development VP Tim Evans. (L-R) Chamber South Hall Council Vice Chair Mike Zeiler, Marel; Tony Funari, Funari Realty; Tim Evans, Chamber. The meeting was sponsored by Tony Funari and Funari Realty and held at Hound stooth Grill in Braselton. The Coalition continues its monthly programs on Tues day, January 17 (9-10am) at the University of North Georgia (UNG) Gainesville Campus where the group will hear from Dr. Steven Smith, Vice President of Regional Campuses. UNG is a regional leader in academic quality and affordability and ranks 18th among Top Public Regional Universities in the South on the U.S. News and World Report 2023 Best Colleges ranking. Hear how UNG plans to continue providing the best possible educational experi ence for students on January 17. UNG.edu. Reservations required. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Register Online: GHCC.com/EVENTS.

economic development

Industry Roundtable at King's Hawaiian

The Chamber's Industry Roundtable, a group of area industry professionals, meets monthly at different industries around Gainesville-Hall County. The group recently met at King's Hawaiian and participated in a plant tour. King’s Hawaiian is investing $85 million to expand it's facility and is adding over 160 new jobs. The new 150,000 square foot bakery will allow for product expansion. (L-R) Mario Matveld, VDL; Todd Gailey and Todd Redish, Boost Transport; Jose Rodriguez, Syfan Logistics; Amanda Higgins, King’s Hawaiian; Trevor Ross, Syfan Logistics; Terry Spicer, King’s Hawaiian; Brad Hart, VDL; Nikki Chandler, Chamber; Jan Vintrlik, ALBAform; Jimmy Adams, Corporate Storage; Terry Merck, American Yazaki; Mike McGraw, Ranger Manufacturing. Info: Nikki Chandler, 770-532-6206, nchandler@ghcc.com

Business Coalition meets at Lanier Islands

A packed house attended the South Hall Business Coalition at Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands for an update from Grier Todd, Vice President of Hospitality at Lanier Islands. The South Hall Business Coalition meets monthly at various businesses in South Hall and is sponsored by AccessWDUN, Milton Martin Honda, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, Signs by Tomorrow, South Hall Rotary, Store More Self Storage

AccessWDUN

Bagwell Insurance

Caldwell Electrical Contractors

Cargill

Chandler Equipment

Chattahoochee Country Club

Clipper Petroleum

Tony

Gainesville Mechanical

Jackson EMC

Jaemor Farms

Milton Martin Honda Mountain Fresh Creamery

NEGA Health System

NEGAMC Braselton North Georgia Community Foundation

Sawyer Media Group

Signs by Tomorrow

South Hall Rotary Club Store More Self Storage

small business development

Small Business of the Month The Uniform Shop

Gainesville native John Nicholson purchased The Uniform Shop in fall 2020. Located on the Downtown Gainesville Square, the store has been in business for over 40 years and has a reputation as the “go-to” place for medical scrubs. The Uniform Shop sells scrubs and medical uniforms to healthcare workers in North Georgia along with chef wear to local restaurants. The shop has a large selection of name-brand apparel, shoes, lab coats, and medical gear. Fitting rooms for clothing try-ons are available for customers to choose their correct uniform size and/or color. 132 Bradford Street NE, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-4701. GvilleUniforms.com

Upcoming Event

Tuesday, January 10

Economic & Political Forecast

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Lanier Technical College • Ramsey Conference

Join us for a panel discussion with local business leaders on the current economic and political climate and the effects on small business and our community. Panelist include Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System; Frank Norton, Jr., The Norton Agency; Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction, and Ron Bracewell, CPA, BatesCarter.

Info

Small Business programs are held monthly on topics of interest to small business. Visit GHCC.com/ EVENTS for up-to-date info, or contact Savannah Garrick, 770-532-6206. Email: sgarrick@ghcc.com

Become a Chamber 2023

CERTIFIED Small Business Partner by participating in six (6) Small Business Seminars in a year.

CERTIFIED Partners Receive

• Certificate of Completion

• Certified Small Business Door Decal

• Recognition at a Chamber Board Meeting

• Announcement in the Business Link

Small Business Success Seminar

Tuesday, December 13

8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

In Person at the Chamber OR Attend via Zoom

The Art of Sales

Molly Knight, Continuing Education Specialist, UGA Small Business Development Center, will discuss the foundations of the sales process and the art of “getting to yes.” Sales may be a science, but the art of sales will make you and your business more effective and efficient as you pursue your goals. We'll cover how to stand out in a crowd, attract customers, and transform your sales tactics to get great results in your business!

Register for IN PERSON or ZOOM: GHCC.com/events

No Charge for Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members

Savannah Garrick, 770-532-6206 x 110 • sgarrick@ghcc.com

Small Business, Big Impact

December 2022 | GreaterHallChamber.com

Chamber members heard from United Way of Hall County both in person and via zoom at the November Small Business Seminar. (L-R) Savannah Garrick, Chamber; Jordan North, United Way of Northeast Georgia; Jessica Dudley and Meghan Fernandez, United Way of Hall County; Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones; Andrew Davenport, A New Veteran; Shawnette Good, Joshua's Voice. Jessica and Meghan led discussion with "Small Business, Big Impact" on ways businesses can get involved and give back to our community. Mark your calendar for the next Small Business Seminar on Tuesday, December 13 (8:30-9:30 am) as Molly Knight, Continuing Education Specialist for the UGA SBDC, discusses the "Art of Sales."

Molly Knight UGA SBDC

meetings events

Economic & Political Forecast

Tuesday, January 10

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

December

Thursday, December 8

Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast

7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Friday, December 9

Network Over Coffee

Tuesday, January 17

South Hall Business Coalition "University of North Georgia Update" Dr. Steven Smith, VP Regional Campuses 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Martha T. Nesbitt Bldg | Gainesville Campus

Tuesday, January 17

Vision 2030 Board Meeting 11:30 a.m. | Brenau University

Wednesday, January 18

Issues Committee

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber

Marketing Workshop

Wednesday, January 25

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Brenau Downtown Center

Join us for a panel discussion with local business leaders on the current economic and political climate and the effects on small business and our community. Panelist include Carol Burrell, President & CEO, Northeast Georgia Health System; Frank Norton, Jr., CEO & Chairman, The Norton Agency; Brian Daniel, President & CEO, Carroll Daniel Construc tion, and Ron Bracewell, CPA, Managing Partner, BatesCarter. $20 Member | $30 Guest | Networking & Light Breakfast | Register: GHCC.com/EVENTS

Last year's marketing workshop was such a success that we're bringing Liz Webber back for Social & Digital Marketing 2.0! Joining Liz is her husband Zach Webber, co-founder of Webber + Co, a boutique marketing agency based in Atlanta. This dynamic team will update us on the latest social media strategies to stay on top of the latest trends. They'll share tips and walk us through all the newest changes in the world of digital marketing. This workshop is one that you'll not want to miss! Email Resume: resumes@ghcc.com Human Resources P. O. Box 347 Gainesville, GA 30503

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Breakwater Grill | Flowery Branch

Tuesday, December 13

Small Business Seminar "The Art of Sales" by Molly Knight UGA Small Business Development Center 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber or Zoom

Wednesday, December 14 Issues Committee

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber

Thursday, December 15

Chamber Executive Committee

12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber

Note: No Board of Directors Meeting in December. The Chamber will be closed December 23-26 for Christmas Holiday.

January

Tuesday, January 10

Annual Small Business Economic & Political Forecast 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Tuesday, January 10

Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m.

Scott's Downtown | Gainesville

Wednesday, January 11

Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Friday, January 13

Economic Development Council

8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Jackson EMC | Gainesville

Thursday, January 19

Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber

Wednesday, January 25

Marketing Workshop

"Social & Digital Marketing"

Liz & Zach Webber, Webber + Co. 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. | Brenau Downtown Center

Thursday, January 26

Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. | Gainesville Civic Center

February

Friday, February 3

Industry Appreciation Luncheon

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Tuesday, February 7

Business After Hours

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Brenau University Jacobs Building | Green Street in Gainesville

Thursday, February 16

Business Expo 2023

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Business Expo 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Luncheon Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Stay Up-to-Date GHCC.com/events

member news

Willis Investment Counsel was recog nized by the Atlanta Business Chronicle on its list of Top 25 Largest Money Managers (for the sixth time) and Top 25 Largest Financial Planning and Advisory Firms lists for 2022. Only eight other firms in the Atlanta area made both lists. Willis Investment Counsel is the only firm outside metro Atlanta to make either list. “Earning a place on both lists is an honor,” said Jay Kilroy, president and portfolio manager. “It also is a tribute to the work our team does on behalf of our clients. We value their trust.”

Founded in 1979, Gainesville-based Willis Investment Counsel manages portfolios for private wealth individuals, institutions, pension funds, 401k plans, foundations, endow ments, captive insurance companies, and private investment funds. wicinvest.com

Adopt a local family for Christmas. Hispanic Alliance GA is having a clothing and toy drive to bring Holiday cheer to the homes of children who would otherwise not have gifts to open this holiday season. Be a part of this much needed event by having your company or family sponsor a family The donation will include a toy and outfit for each child in the family. For more information or to participate, email mgavina@hispanicalliancega.org. 2490 Hilton Drive, Suite A, Gainesville, GA 30501. hispanicalliancega.org

Forum Communications is celebrating 10 years of business and service to the Gainesville-Hall County area and beyond!

Founded in 2012 by Katie Dubnik, Forum has grown from two employees to a team of 14, serving 338 clients in 11 states and two countries over the last decade. Helping clients gain a voice in a crowded marketplace through innovative branding, content creation, digital marketing, website development and design, the team at Forum works hand-in-hand to deliver results and strengthen organizations. From healthcare to education, nonprofits to businesses, Forum partners with people who are passionate about what they do and who seek to better their indus tries and communities. To find out more about Forum and how their team can help serve you, visit forumspeaks.com.

• Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) recently launched Northeast Georgia Health Ventures (NGHV), a partnership between NGHS and Prinnovo, LLC, a company that specializes in working with health systems to establish, staff and manage their own health venture office. “Our goal is to solve the problems our patients, caregivers and support staff face today by creating a path to innovation –not making risky investments in unproven products,” says Carol Burrell, president and CEO of NGHS. nghventures.com

• Hall County Government announces Brent Holloway as the new director of Parks and Community Services. Holloway has served as the assistant director of Parks and Leisure since January 2022. He is a Certified Parks and Recreation Professional who started part-time with the county in 2013 while completing a Business degree. He moved to a full-time role as an athletics coordinator upon graduation in 2015. In 2017 he became the facility coordinator for Mulberry Creek Community Center before assuming the role of assistant director. hallcounty.org

• Syfan Logistics Executive Vice President Steve Syfan has been named to the GEORGIA 500 by Georgia Trend magazine. GEORGIA 500 highlights leaders who impact the state. Appointed by Gov. Brian Kemp, Syfan serves on the Lake Lanier Island Development Authority and is a former member of the Georgia Department of Economic Development Board. Syfan has over 35 years of expertise in the logistics and transportation industry, a key driver of the state’s economy. His company employs more than 400 professionals and operates throughout the continental United States, Canada and Mexico. syfanlogistics.com

raised over $372,000 (equivalent of 1.5 million meals), and Rushton achieved top regional performer for our local region in both points per employee and total points. Georgia’s accounting industry has partners with Feeding Georgia to support their shared mission of ending hunger. Learn more about Georgia Mountain Food Bank’s mission to address hunger, health, and quality of life by serving those in need at gamountainfoodbank.org

• Dr. Mohak Davé, Medical Chief of Emergency Services at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, recently received the Governor Nathan Deal Award for Trauma Excellence by the Region 2 Trauma Advisory Committee. Dr. Davé has worked for Northeast Georgia Health System for over 17 years. He worked with NGHS leaders to see NGMC Gainesville become a Level II Trauma Center that has some 2,600 trauma admissions annually. nghs.com/trauma

• A new 600,000 square foot production facility and customer center is underway for Cottrell Inc. in the Gainesville 85 Business Park. Greater Hall Chamber members Choate Construction and Simpson Trucking & Grading are preparing the site for the building to be completed mid 2023. Apply for job openings at Cottrell and 70+ other companies online at GHCC.com/JOBS.

Lila Westmoreland (left), Director of Operations & Executive Programs, Brenau University College of Business & Communication, with Alexis Rebollar, a student at Brenau and an intern at the Greater Hall Chamber. Alexis is assisting the Chamber's Membership Development Division. Brenau University's Internship Program continues to provide outstanding student interns for the Chamber.

• Christmas at Eagle Ranch is an exciting time of the year. Through generous gifts made toward Eagle Ranch's Christmas Wish List, they are able to provide presents to the boys and girls in the 10 homes, fun events for children and staff, special meals and much more. Learn about all the ways you can get involved by contacting Kelly Brewer at 770967-8500 or kbrewer@eagleranch.org.

• Rushton participated in the 9th Georgia Accounting Food Fight fundraising competition in August. The competition

• Several members of our community were recently recognized on the inaugural Georgia Trend 500 list of Georgia's Most Influential Leaders including Kit Dunlap, President & CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber. Kit was recognized for economic development and her work spearheading several multi-million dollar private business programs. With the Chamber since 1998, Kit received the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executive’s Legacy Award in 2018. georgiatrend.com

• The Greater Hall Chamber has a job opening for a full-time Membership Sales position. Experience is required. Responsible for membership sales, event planning and securing event sponsorships. Email Resume: resumes@ghcc.com

Got news?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

welcome new members membership development

Annual Business Expo is February 16

Exhibit space is now available for the Chamber's Business EXPO on Thursday, February 16 at Lanier Technical College (11am-4pm) at the Ramsey Conference Center. Reserve your space today.

The Business Expo is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC and creates great business exposure! Over 60 exhibitors will participate with outstanding networking and leads development. Call now, and inquire about great sponsorships! Exhibit Space and Sponsorships: Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206. Email: eparker@ghcc.com

CMA Outdoor Services

Monique Hunter

3906 Oak Harbour Drive Gainesville GA 30506

- Irrigation & Lighting 470-691-1337 cmaoutdoorservices.com

Gut and Soul

Jo Miller 6711 Grand Marina Circle Gainesville GA 30506 - Health & Wellness 636-219-3966 gutandsoul.com

North Georgia Cervical Clinics

Dr. Adrian Thane 472 Taylor Road Suwanee GA 30024 - Medical/Chiropractor 678-203-4486 dradrianthane.com

Peoples Bank

Jody Lail

200 Main Street, Suite 100 Gainesville GA 30501

- Financial Institution 706-485-8542 tpbeatonton.com

Roots and Wings Ranch

Julie Selander 6053 Overby Road Flowery Branch GA 30542 - Non-Profit 678-516-6492 rootsandwingsranch.org

StoreEase Gainesville

Browns Bridge Keli Jordan 6775 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville GA 30506 - Warehouse & Storage 205-850-0021 storeease.com

Trailwave Fiber, Inc. Nicole Dover 6135 Hwy 115 West Suite 1-A Clarkesville GA 30523 - Fiber Networking 800-640-6812 habershameemc.com/trailwave

Maximize your business success by joining the Greater Hall Chamber. Call now, 770-5326206, or join online at GreaterHallChamber.com

education leadership

Youth Leadership Hall

SGT Dallas Bright with the Gainesville Police Department rides with Kaitlyn Capehart, Gainesville High School, as she experiences what it is like to drive with “drunk goggles” on as part of Youth Leadership Hall's Police and Fire Day. This simulation shows students the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Partners in Education Hall County Board of Realtors | Tadmore Elementary

A program of the Greater Hall Chamber, Youth Leadership Hall (YLH) was founded in 2005 and now has 1,100 student graduates. A program for high school juniors and seniors, YLH seeks to provide an investment in the community’s future leadership by fostering interest in the community and inspiring students to become the leaders of tomorrow. For sponsorship opportunities or more info, contact Jason Pruitt, 770-532-6206, or jpruitt@ghcc.com.

The Hall County Board of Realtors has partnered with Tadmore Elementary for many years. The group recently sponsored a fundraiser for the school called Taste of the Town. All proceeds from the event will fund school projects and needs. "The Hall County Board of Realtors has been an outstanding partner for Tadmore," said Tracie Brack, Principal, Tadmore Elementary. "They give of their time and support and generously provide school supplies and backpacks for kids. We are very appreciative of their support,"

The Greater Hall Chamber's Partners in Education (PIE) program supports education partnerships in Gainesville-Hall County, including all 44 public elementary, middle and high schools and over 350 partnering organizations. Info: Jason Pruitt, 770-532-6206 or jpruitt@ghcc.com.

Leadership Hall County

Rhonda Samples, Hall County Schools Executive Director of Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE), and CEO of Lanier College and Career Academy (LCCA), speaks to Leadership Hall about opportunities for students through CTAE and WorkBased Learning. Students from LCCA’s culinary pro gram prepared the class a delicious lunch! As part of the Education Program for Leadership Hall County, the class also visited Lakeview Academy, Gainesville High School and the University of North Georgia Gainesville.

Brody Jenrette, East Hall High School, attempts a field sobriety test while wearing “drunk goggles” at the Gainesville Police Department.

Youth Leadership Hall's John Jessup, Gainesville High School, practices CPR.

Angela Banks (left) of Georgia Notary Pros, and Maria Brana of Alpha Media, were prize winners at the recent Business After Hours sponsored by Hasty Pope Davies. Don't miss the Chamber's next great network ing event – Business After Hours on Tuesday, February 7 (5-7pm) at Brenau University at the Jacobs Building on Green Street in Gainesville.

Chamber Member Networking

(L-R) Attorneys Dustin Davies and Jonathan Pope of Hasty Pope Davies, and Rand Carswell of the Chattahoochee Grill at Business After Hours in October. Hasty Pope Davies hosted the event at the grill with some 75 Chamber members in attendance.

ribbon cuttings

Bark Camp Farm

The Partrick Family cuts a ribbon at Bark Camp Farm (L-R) Jan, Tom, Megan (owner), Stephen, Davis and Hannah. Bark Camp Farm is Gainesville's first farm-style dog daycare and boarding facility. The farm has a shuttle that will pick your dog up and bring them to the 30-acre farm to run and play with their friends and staff. They'll bring your dog back to you at the end of the day – worn out and fully alive! Owner Megan Partrick and her team believe dogs were meant to run, and they want to give the dogs of our community a fun, safe, wide-open environment to do just that! Bark Camp Farm, 4294 Hunter Road, Gainesville, GA 30506. 770-530-5647. barkcampfarm.com

DSH Transportation

Katie

and

cut a ribbon for DSH Transportation and Dahlonega Wine Tours. DSH Transportation offers top-level, luxury transportation in North Georgia. They excel in providing clients with the best customer service and comfort. Enjoy your ride in our custom vehicles with the personal attention of professional coachmen who are trained to accommodate all your travel needs. DSH offers multiple types of transportation, from private and social wine tours, brewery tours, to airport transportation and wedding transportation. Book your tour today! 3777 Walnut Grove Way, Gainesville, GA 30506. 770-353-9757. dshtransportation.com

CleanSpace Modular in Flowery Branch

VandeGrift,

and

, CEO, cut a ribbon at

Modular, LLC, an industry-leading clean room design builder headquartered in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. CleanSpace recently opened a 59,000 square foot manufacturing, warehouse and distribution facility in Flowery Branch – its first U.S. manufacturing site. CleanSpace provides customers with a complete and efficient cleanroom, cleanspace and cold storage solutions for the life sciences, healthcare, electronics and battery manufacturing, and industrial market sectors. CleanSpace Modular, LLC, 4350West White Road, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 215-872-7548. cleanspaceus.com

Hopewell Farms GA

Bonelli and his family cut a ribbon at Hopewell Farms GA, a beautiful 43-acre regenera tive family farm located in North Hall County. Phil and his family are passionate about build ing healthy soils to raise healthy animals and feed a healthy community. They provide grass finished beef, pastured chickens, turkeys, and eggs and pastured pork. The farm is chemi cal-free with zero synthetic herbicides, pesticides or added hormones. All animals spend their lives outside on the farm's pastures and forests. The meat is healthier for you and deli cious as well! Come out for a free farm tour on Saturdays at 10:00 am. Hopewell Farms GA, 4828 Hopewell Church Road, Gainesville, GA 30506. 706-254-4406. hopewellfarmsga.com

Glenn

President,

George Wiker

CleanSpace

Phil

Copeland

Victoria Thomas

Georgia Skin Cancer & Dermatology

With seven offices in North Georgia, Georgia Skin Cancer & Aesthetic Dermatology (GSC) recently opened a Gainesville office. (L-R) Brenda Sanchez, Heather Leedahl, Dr. Natalie Meeks, Dr. Misty Caudell, Dr. Ross Campbell and Faith Sinclair. GSC provides expertise in general and cosmetic dermatology as well as offering Fellowship trained Mohs skin cancer removal. GSC is a medical practice doing things differently, because they believe those differences make the difference! As a way of giving back to the community, GSC donates 100% of cosmetic profits to local and global nonprofit groups. This aspect of the practice called "For the Greater Good" positively impacts the local community for years to come! 1498 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Suite D, Gainesville, GA 30501. 706-543-5858. georgiaderm.com

B&M Metals

The Bryan Family opened B&M Metals in 1972, and today president and owner Chris Bryan takes great pride in his family-run business. B&M Metals is the region's largest supplier of metal roofing and one of the area's oldest manufacturers. They make 30+ products for the residential and commercial market and specialize in metal roofing, pole barns, metal buildings, tiny homes, under deck systems, trims, doors and more. With locations in Murrayville and Ellijay, the company employs some 45 people. Visit the showroom at 6195 Highway 52 East, Murrayville, GA 30564. 706-864-6068. bmmetalroofing.com

The UPS Store®

Franchise owners Himanshu Amin and Ekata Patel cut ribbon at The UPS Store® newly opened on at Thompson Bridge Road next to Elevation fitness in the Publix Shopping Center in Gainesville. As a one-stop shop for small businesses, they offer shipping, postal, printing, copying and comprehensive small business services as well as mailboxes, doc ument shredding, packing and notary services. With more than 5,100 locations across North America, The UPS Store® network comprises the nation’s largest franchise system of retail shipping, postal, print and business service centers. 1210 Thompson Bridge, Suite A, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-971-4848. theupsstore.com/7592

Legion Mediation

handicap accessible. 380 Green Street, NE, Gainesville, GA 30501. 470-290-5117. legionmediation.com

Chamber Ambassadors joined Legion Mediation owner Shane Lazenby, Candi Flynn, Office Manager; Deanna Anderson, Paralegal; Scott Busby, Neutral; Pam Doig, Neutral; Kevin Morris, Neutral; Judy Stephens, Neutral, Maxine Trapnell and Tim Klob for a ribbon cutting. Legion Mediation offers high-quality alternative dispute resolution. Their experienced neutrals will work to resolve your dispute quickly and successfully. With multiple meeting spaces available at the convenient Green Street location, they can assist with your mediation needs without hours of travel to the bigger cities. Zoom meeting capabilities and

Brenau Downtown Center

Last year's marketing workshop was such a success that we're bringing Liz Webber back for Social & Digital Marketing 2.0! Joining Liz is her husband Zach, co-founder of Webber + Co, a boutique marketing agency based in Atlanta.

This dynamic team will update us on the latest social media strategies to stay on top of the latest trends. Learn how to turn your audience into customers! They'll share tips and walk us through all the newest changes in the ever-changing world of digital marketing.

Thursday, December 8

Eggs & Issues Breakfast

Presented by Jackson EMC

7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Tuesday, December 13

Small Business Seminar "The Art of Sales"

Molly Knight, UGA SBDC

8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

In Person/Chamber or via Zoom

Tuesday, January 10

Economic & Political Forecast

8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Wednesday, January 25

Marketing Workshop

"Social & Digital Marketing"

Liz & Zach Webber Webber + Co.

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

Brenau Downtown Center

Friday, February 3

Industry Appreciation Lunch

Annual Industry Awards

11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Thursday, February 16

Business Expo 2023

Featuring 60+ Exhibitors 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Door Prizes

Garrick, 770-532-6206

Carol Burrell President & CEO NEGA Health System

Brian Daniel President & CEO Carroll Daniel Const. Business After Hours Tuesday, February 7 5:00 - 7:00 pm Brenau University College of Business & Communication Jacobs Building • Green Street in Gainesville U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #92 GAINESVILLE, GA CAR-RT SORT This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.

Frank Norton, Jr. CEO & Chairman The Norton Agency