February 2014 Business Link

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 2013 Review page 4 Upcoming Events page 5 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 Chamber Chase page 11 New Members page 12 Small Business of the Month page 13 Leadership & Education page 15

Buy Local Expo is February 11 2:00-7:00 pm • Gainesville Civic Center • FREE • Open to the Public The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Buy Local Expo and Safe & Green Forum is Tuesday, February 11 from 2:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center in Downtown Gainesville. Gold Sponsors, Cotton Eyed Joe's, Milton Martin Honda and Oakwood Occasions along with Chamber officials are preparing for yet another successful Expo and look forward to showcasing over 60 Gainesville-Hall County's businesses at the event. There will be no admission fee charged, and the events are open to the public.

The Annual Transportation Forum is Thursday, March 13 at the University of North Georgia, Gainesville Campus, Continuing Education Transportation Forum Auditorium, 11:30 Thursday, March 13 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

11:30 am - 1:00 pm The forum is open University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus to the public and creates discussion with transportation officials, Chamber members, business professionals and community leaders.

"This Expo is full of opportunities for exposure," said Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO, "Exhibitors will have the unique opportunity to showcase their products and services to hundreds of potential clients from small businesses to large manufacturers.

We are proud to sponsor this event."

The Expo showcases businesses in Greater Hall County and offers great business-tobusiness networking. Safe & Green pulls together industry representatives for connection to environmentally friendly services and safety program initiatives for the workplace.

A few exhibit spaces are still available.

Exhibitors will be able to utilize business-tobusiness services, while exchanging leads and developing professional relationships. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Transportation Forum on March 13

EXPO At-A-GLANCE • Expo/Exhibits: 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm • Business After Hours: 5:00 - 7:00 pm • Over 60 Exhibitors (see list on page 2) • Great Networking Opportunities • Largest Trade Show in the Area • No Admission Fee & Open to Public • Free Business Seminars • Door Prizes and Giveaways • Free Shuttle Service

Speakers will include officials from the Georgia Department of Transportation as well as representatives from the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Planning Organization.

The event is presented by Independence Bank of Georgia and Rochester & Associates.

Additional sponsors are Coca-Cola of Gainesville, Highland Mountain Beverage, McDonald’s, AccessNorthGa.com and The Times. Cost for the Transportation Forum is $15 for Chamber Members, $20 Non-members, and includes a boxed lunch.

Reservations required. Joy Sims, 770-532-6206 x 106. Email: jsims@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Save the Date Tuesday, February 11 Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green Tuesday, February 18 South Hall Business Coalition Friday, February 28 Business Before Hours

FEBRUARY 2014

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chair

Spend it here, Keep it here Growing up in this community, I watched as my parents purchased supplies for the farm, items for the house, clothes for us – always from a local business. I remember walking into shops and owners calling my parents by name. Today, it seems for a lot of communities, buying online has taken the place of walking into the local store. Fortunately, as the retail hub of Northeast Georgia, we have direct access to most goods and services right here at home.

On February 11, we will host the Annual Buy Local Expo. Over 85% of the Chamber's membership are small businesses, and this event is one of our signature programs to support our small businesses and the buy local campaign. Buying locally sustains the unique character and quality of life of our community. Beyond the economic impact of our spending, buying locally supports the businesses that reinvest in our commuDixie Truelove Truelove Dairy, Inc. nity's social and environmental well-being. Gainesville-Hall County Chair, Greater Hall Chamber businesses give generously to area churches, schools and non-profits and enhance the social welfare of friends and neighbors. Dollars spent here are reinvested in our community's employees through wages and reinvested in other organizations through the purchase of legal, accounting and other business services. The most significant reason to shop locally is to continue to strengthen the economic base of the community. Sales taxes in Gainesville-Hall County help to fund such basics as police and fire protection, EMS, and street repairs. Here are a few more reasons: 10 Reasons Why to Buy Locally 1. Creates jobs.

2. Funds wages and benefits paid to local residents.

3. Supports profits earned by local owners.

4. Keeps dollars in the community and stimulates the local economy.

5. Recycles dollars back into the community.

5. Protects our local character and unique quality of life.

6. Sustains community well-being and contributions to local charities and non profit organizations.

7. Fuels entrepreneurship - America's economic engine.

8. Encourages competition in the marketplace - better deals!

9. Makes for better customer care and a higher standard of service.

10. Saves you money in fuel and travel time.

February 4, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

In addition to the Buy Local Expo, the Safe & Green Forum will take place on February 11. Industry representatives will be on hand to promote environmentally friendly services and safety program initiatives for the workplace. Join us at the Gainesville Civic Center, 2pm-7pm, with Business After Hours from 5pm-7pm. Remember, when we spend it here, we keep it here.

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Exhibitors Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green –– Tuesday, February 11 • 2:00 - 7:00 pm • Gainesville Civic Center –– AccessNorthGa.com **** Gainesville Design Center *** McGarity's ** Affordable Accessories Gainesville Mechanical ** Milton Martin Honda * All American Solar Services Gallery on the Square Milton Martin Toyota All Outdoor Lawn Services Ga Mfg Extension Partnership New Leaf Landscaping American Security Shredding, Inc. Georgia Power Northeast Georgia Health System Anderson Networks Habitat for Humanity Oakwood Occasions * Ansley Communications Hall County Resource Recovery PeopleCheck BB&T Insurance ** HallCo Community Credit Union Pure Water Technology Bitzer *** Halski Systems ** Sam's Club Busker Communications Hayes Chrysler Dodge/Jeep/Ram Safety Solutions Charter Business ** Highland Mountain Beverage Signs by Tomorrow Chris Wolski Presents Homestar Financial Corp ** SKF USA *** Comcast Spotlight Hope Chiropractic Spherion Community Bank & Trust Keep Hall Beautiful The Longstreet Clinic Cotton Eyed Joe's * Kipper Tool Company USA Vascular Specialists Diamond Auto Spa KYF Process Documentation Watkins Total Healthcare District 2 Public Health Lakeshore Mall ** WDUN Radio **** Fisher-Phillips LLP Legacy Landscape Management WSI Digital Rainmakers *Gold Sponsor / **Silver Sponsor / ***Safe & Green Sponsor / ****Business After Hours Sponsor (Exhibitors as of 1-28-14)

Business Link VOLUME 20 ISSUE 2 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2013-2014 Executive Committee Chairman Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy Chairman Elect David Lee, Jackson EMC

Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications Jullie King The Longstreet Clinic

Vice Chair, Membership Treasurer Development Jody Lail, Chattahoochee Bank Tony Paramore of Georgia Gainesville Design Center Vice Chair, Economic Development Chris Braswell PB Property Management

Vice Chair, Government William Bagwell Homestead Investments

Senior Advisor Denise Deal The Sassafras Group

Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Brian Cantel Randall Frost Cantel Wealth Management Stewart, Melvin & Frost Vice Chair, Community Development Deborah Mack, Volunteer

Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda

Co-Chairs, HALLmark David Abee, Regions Bank Paul Chambers, AT&T Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Chair, VISION 2030 Carl Romberg, Direct South, Inc. Meg Nivens, Executive Director

Board of Directors 2013-2014 Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness Col James Benson, Riverside Military Academy Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Sid Chandler, Independence Bank of Georgia Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Scott McGarity, McGarity’s Business Products Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health System Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Greg Ours, Poly Enterprises Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools

Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Will Schofield, Hall County Schools

Sam Evans, Oakwood City Council Tony Funari, Funari Realty, City of Braselton

Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Pao Sengkhammee, Zebra Technologies

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising

Darrell Snyder, Georgia Power Dennis Stockton, The Times

Will Hicks, Stifel Nicolaus Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia

Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Dr. Mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care

Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications

Mike Williams, Lake Lanier Islands Resort Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Associate Directors 2013-2014 Jonathan Collins, BB&T

Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow

Bruce Eades, Insurance Office of America

Sierra McMullen, Charter Business

Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services

Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx

Joy Fowler, Hamilton State Bank

Sherry Ridgway, Global IT

Connie Hagler, CMIT Solutions

Trey Wood, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Andy Kalinauskus, Conditioned Air Systems

Todd Young, Publix

Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy Sims, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Joshua Stephens, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President Finance & HR Membership Development Megan Martin, Vice President Kara Tate, Membership Coordinator Education Dana Miller, Vice President

Government Affairs Joshua Stephens, Project Manager South Hall Council Megan Martin, Vice President Membership Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Meg Nivens, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

February 4, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Gainesville-Hall County 2013 Economic Development in Review

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2014 PROJECTIONS

Gainesville-Hall County is home to 47 Fortune 500 firms, more than 300 manufacturing and processing concerns, and 41 international companies representing 16 foreign countries. The Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council (EDC) and the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce report a successful 2013 with positive trends for 2014, including increased capital expansion, continued job creation, major construction projects in the community and a positive job creation forecast for the next two years.

In 2013, economic development efforts of the EDC and the Greater Hall Chamber assisted 33 existing and new companies with 36 projects to create 950 new jobs and invest $180 million. Several companies had more than one project expansion during the period.

Manufacturing and processing firms that contributed new growth in 2013 represented a diverse mix of businesses including life sciences, automotive, medical devices, international firms, food processing and other broad industry segments. The community’s growing life sciences and medical device businesses included expansions by Merial (France), Albert International (Germany) and the growth of a new sector for the South Hall County manufacturer Elringklinger Engineered Plastics (Germany). The life sciences sector added two new production labs with Atlanta Biologicals (Germany) and Aeon Clinical Laboratories, and the new Georgia Poultry Laboratory is set to open in 2014 in the newly developed Gateway Industrial Centre business park. Hall County’s growth in the life sciences industry benefits from a strong association with the poultry and food processing industries, as these industries share many support services, cold-chain logistics and demand similar specialized technical skills in quality control for food processing and life sciences.

Food processors Cargill and King’s Hawaiian continued to grow, with King’s Hawaiian announcing multiple line expansions in the manufacturer’s Oakwood Bakery that will be installed between 2014 and 2017 and contribute 481 new jobs in the years to come.

Regretfully, Schreiber Foods will cease operations in Gainesville in 2014. The dairy, headquartered in Green Bay, Wisconsin, will consolidate for lower cost operations. At full production, the company employed 250 at the Gainesville plant.

Over half the growing firms the Chamber assisted have a combined location for their business headquarters and operations, and more than 80% of those with their headquarters in Hall County are U.S. subsidiaries of international firms. These included expansions by Bitzer (Germany), American Yazaki (Japan) as well as an additional location by ZF (Germany) and a

Kit Dunlap President & CEO Greater Hall Chamber

Tim Evans VP, Economic Development Greater Hall Chamber

new location for ALBAForm of the Czech Republic – Georgia’s first manufacturing and headquarters from the Czech Republic.

“The Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council’s investment in our Existing Industry Program is the cornerstone effort to growing the entire business community and the economy,” said Tim Evans, Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Hall Chamber. “Hall County is home to nearly 300 manufacturing, processing operations representing over 27% of the County’s employment. These industries are the largest single segment of primary economic drivers in Hall County. Many of these existing industries support other non-production jobs in their headquarters, administration and in professional services such as finance, construction, real estate, logistics and healthcare.”

In addition to manufacturing and processing expansions, the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce reports growth in Healthcare – another primary employer for Hall County and the region. According to the Georgia Department of Labor, Healthcare is the largest share of the service sector employing 14% of Hall County’s employment base. Construction continues at the new South Hall Campus of Northeast Georgia Health System in Braselton adding to short term construction employment. With the opening planned for 2015, the campus will contribute to long-term employment growth for the region and improve access to the best quality healthcare system in Georgia.

“The outlook for 2014 and beyond is headed in a good direction for the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Area, said Kit Dunlap, President and CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber. “Many of the expansions announced in 2013 will be hiring in 2014 and 2015, and for consecutive years, unemployment in Hall County continues its steady decline.”

• The economic development pipeline for additional project activity from new and expanding firms is at an encouraging level with 67 active projects and several additional project expansions pending in the first months of 2014.

• Hall County’s regional role as a center for top ranked Healthcare services will be enhanced with the addition of the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Braselton in 2015.

• The growing and vibrant retail sectors in Hall County – Flowery Branch, Oakwood and Gainesville’s Downtown, Dawsonville Highway and New Holland Market areas – will compliment our role as a center for employment in automotive, professional and healthcare services.

• The 365 Corridor from Jesse Jewell Parkway North is a center for future commercial growth beginning from the New Holland Market, to the Gateway Industrial Centre and the newly acquired 145 acres at Howard Road and 365 acquired by TPA Realty, a world-class developer.

• New private residential development activity is responding to a decreasing supply of good quality available housing stock to meet current demand and a growing population.

• Future economic development growth will be supported by long-term public and private infrastructure investments to expand gas service, water, sewer, electrical distribution and telecommunications in Gainesville-Hall County.

The Greater Hall Chamber continues to partner with the Georgia Department of Labor and recommends interested job-seekers contact the Gainesville Career Center for employment opportunities. (dol.state.ga.us) Skills development opportunities are available at Lanier Technical College (laniertech.edu) for in-demand jobs that require skills in welding, industrial maintenance/ Mechatronix and CNC Machining. “There is a growing skills gap and high demand for some key positions in manufacturing and healthcare that require training and certification that can be obtained here in Hall County at Lanier Technical College, Brenau University and the University of North Georgia,” said Evans.

The Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council is a public-private partnership of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, Hall County and the Cities of Gainesville, Flowery Branch and Oakwood. The Economic Development Council provides one-stop marketing and economic development services to support the community’s efforts in existing industry retention, new business recruitment, small business development and retail development. greaterhallchamber.com

Wednesday, February 5 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Brenau Downtown Center Wednesday, February 5 Human Resources Council 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant Tuesday, February 11 Small Business Seminar “Prospecting for Profit” presented by Al Trembley, WSI Digital Marketing 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, February 11 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, February 11 Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Tuesday, February 11 Business After Hours at the Buy Local Expo 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Wednesday, February 12 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

McDonald's in Oakwood Thursday, February 13 Leadership Hall County Legislative Program at Capitol 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, February 18 South Hall Business Coalition Internships & Career Services at UNG 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus Tuesday, February 18 Youth Leadership Hall Healthcare/Community Service Program 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, February 18 Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café Wednesday, February 19 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, February 19 Lunch 'n Learn 11:45 a.m. – Recess Pub Thursday, February 20 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber Friday, February 21 Annual Arbor Day Celebration 10:00 a.m. – Don Carter State Park Wednesday, February 26 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Natural Juice Café in Gainesville Thursday, February 27 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Friday, February 28 Business Before Hours North Georgia Christian School 5285 Strickland Rd in Flowery Branch 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

MARCH 2014 Thursday, March 13 Annual Transportation Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus Thursday, March 13 Business After Hours Holiday Inn Express Lake Lanier 4951 Bristol Industrial Way in Buford 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, March 27 Annual Chamber Chase 5K and 2 Mile Wellness Walk 6:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy

APRIL 2014 Wednesday, April 2 Job Fair & Career Expo 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Friday, April 25 Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start Legacy on Lanier Golf Club Lake Lanier Islands Resort Get details on these and other Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

1/2 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x10"

February 4, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Friday, February 14 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber

Meetings & Events

February 2014

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Meetings & Events

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, February 18

Tuesday, February 11

University of North Georgia, Gainesville Campus 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN AM/FM Radio

7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber No Charge for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Prospecting for Profit!

Learn how you can partner with the University of North Georgia (UNG) to place student interns at your business at this joint presentation from a participating employer and UNG Career Services. You'll also learn how to post jobs at UNG, details on upcoming campus recruiting events, and more. With four campuses, UNG has a total enrollment of over 15,000 and is the seventh-largest institution in the University System of Georgia. ung.edu

Presented by WSI Digital Marketing's Al Trembley, the program will help you perform a high-level review of your prospecting efforts and fine-tune client acquisition. Al assists businesses and non-profits increase revenues by implementing lead generation through a variety of digital marketing channels. WSI is located at Lanier Tech's (MDC) Business Incubator. Check Al out on LinkedIn. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111.

Business Before Hours

Annual Transportation Forum

Friday, February 28

Thursday, March 13

7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Sponsored by North Georgia Christian Academy 5285 Strickland Road in Flowery Branch No Charge • Complimentary Breakfast Join us for networking and a complimentary breakfast while learning about the exciting future of North Georgia Christian School! Located in Chestnut Mountain Church off Hwy 53 in Flowery Branch, North Georgia Christian offers K-12 students a challenging, biblically based educational experience while partnering with parents to prepare their children spiritually, mentally, physically and socially. NorthGeorgiaChristian.org

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2 columns 4.4167 x2" Serving Northeast Georgia’s Office Solution needs since 1974 2305 Centennial Dr • Gainesville, GA 30506 770.532.9932 • www.duplicatingproducts.com

The Chamber's Annual Transportation Forum is open to the public with business professionals, community leaders, GDOT officials and Gainesville-Hall County MPO representatives. Get all the updates on area projects. Includes Lunch. Reservations required. Joy Sims, 770-532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

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The Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 27 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville.

Convenient online registration is available now through March 21 at chamberchase5k.com. Register in person at the Chamber office now through March 26. The registration fee is $25, and $30 after March 15. Free 8-week training passes to area fitness centers (limited, 1st come-1st serve) are available. For sponsorship opportunities, team race information or more, contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ ghcc.com. Online: chamberchase5k.com

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

University of North Georgia, Gainesville Sponsors: Rochester & Associates and Independence Bank of Georgia $15 Members • $20 Non-Members • Open to the Public • Lunch

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Register for the Race/Walk Online

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Small Business Seminar

Georgia Licensed & Insured Master Plumber

• Commercial Plumbing Service • Commercial Tenant Finish & New Construction • Backflow Testing and Certification, • Video Drain Inspection • GPS Dispatched Technicians • Jet/Vacuum Services 2 columns • Water & Sewer Line Repairs 4.4167 x5" • Residential New Home Construction

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Call: 770-534-2373 Today! callrobertsplumbing.com Plumbing & Mechanical Association “Contractor of the Year”!

Meet our Community Dev

Abit Massey

Abit is Chairman of the Community Development Board of Peach State Bank & Trust. He is employed at Georgia Poultry Federation as President Emeritus. He and wife, Kayanne, received honorary diplomas from Gainesville High School in 2012. His community involvement includes;Trustee and Past Chair of Deacons, First Baptist Church. Past Chairman of Gainesville Board of Education. Past President, Gainesville Rotary Club. Past President, University of Georgia Alumni Association. Director, UGA Research Foundation and Real Estate Foundation. Director, Junior Achievement of Northeast Georgia and Georgia Council on Economic Education. Chairman, FDR Warm Springs Memorial Advisory Committee which conducts programs at the Little White House, Georgia’s most visited historic site. Chairman, Georgia State Games Commission which conducts the official state amateur games in cooperation with Georgia Recreation & Parks Association and others. Vice President, Georgia Women of Achievement. Past President, Georgia Jaycees, when Georgia was selected as best state organization in country. Established Empty Stocking Fund in Hall County for Gainesville Jaycees.

John Melvin

Jack Is owner of Memorial Park Funeral Homes He began his career In 1956 in Elizabethton, Te chased his first cemetery In 19611n College Pa oped funeral homes and cemeteries in twelve dif Billings, Montana to Charleston, South Carolina. H morial Park Cemetery In 1988 from the Vicker Memorial Park Funeral Home In 1990. He has Memorial Park South In 2000 and Memorial Park in 2009. He received the first ever Lifetime Ac from the Southern Cemetery, Cremation and Fu in 2010. He Is very supportive of our Gainesvil was also recently awarded the Distinguished Ser American Legion 2011 and excellence In comm Daughters of the American Revolution 2011.

A native of Columbia, S.C., Nancy is a fifth generation Gainesvilleian and has made Gainesville her home for over 26 years. She is Vice-President and Relocation Director at The Norton Agency where she coordinates referrals from Leading Real State Companies of the World and other third party companies. Nancy is a member of the Junior League of Gainesville-Hall County and has been involved with Challenged Child, Quinlan Art Center, NGHS MarketPlace and Junior Achievement. Nancy enjoys mentoring through CenterPoint and The Torch Ministries Afterschool Program. She is an active member of First Methodist Church. Nancy is married to Frank K. Norton, Jr. and they have three grown children Teddie, Tripp and Emilie.

Nancy Norton

Jack Frost

John Wright was named Vice President Oper Farms, effective Dec. 31, 2009. The company em members in Hall County and another 2,000 in Stephens Counties; it is one of the nation’s larg producers of poultry products. Wright joined Fieldale in 1991 and has held numerous leade sales and operations. He serves on the board Boys and Girls Club, The Gainesville Braves Base Gainesville Athletic Club. He is a retired Lieuten over twenty years service in the Georgia Arm An Auburn, AL., native, Wright holds a Bachelor from Auburn University. He and his wife Kelli Lakewood Baptist Church and have two child High School, Drew and Katherine.

Gary Funk is a native of Clermont, Georgia and is a graduate of West Georgia College with a BBA in Management. He has worked for Georgia Power Company for 28 years and is working in the Energy Efficiency Group. Gary is married to Dr. Denise Smith Funk and they have two children, Joseph, a sophomore at University of Georgia and Rachel, a senior at Gainesville High school. His community involvement includes Gainesville Athletic Club, past president; Medical Center Foundation-Healthy Journey Campaign, Corporate Gifts Committee; Greater Hall Chamber, Energy and Air Committee; Gainesville / Hall County “Young Man of the Year”, 2001 Award Recipient; YMCA - Gainesville /Hall County, Board of Directors 1998 – 2005; Gainesville Jaycees, President 1990-91 where he received the Lifetime Service Award - 1996; Lakewood Baptist Church,Youth Group Leader and Deacon Ministry Team.

Gary Funk

John retired from the firm which bears his nam & Frost, LLP, where he Invested a 41-year care in Real Estate Law during his tenure as a pract and the staff of the Real Estate Practice Group approved agents for Lawyers Title Insurance Republic National Title Insurance Company and Title Insurance Company, New York. He has bee of civic and arts-related causes throughout the c has held a number of leadership positions in c and Is a past President of the Rotary Club of G also served as Deacon and Elder at First Pre Gainesville and is a recipient of the Distinguish from Gainesville College and Brenau University.

University of Georgia with a degree In Finance, his law degree from the University Of Georgia La Prior to joining Stewart, Melvin and Frost In 19 Captain In the Judge Advocate Department of th

John Wright

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me: Stewart, Melvin eer. He specialized ticing attorney. He p of his firm were Corporation, Old d Fidelity National en active in a host community. Melvin civic organizations Gainesville. He has esbyterian Church, hed Service Award . A graduate of the Mr. Melvin earned aw School in 1965.

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325 Washington Street Gainesville, Ga. 30501

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Ron Quinn, President CEO

Member Announcements February 4, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

10

• Northeast Georgia Health System announces Krista Landy, BSN, RN, as new director of Professional Practice. She will help implement processes to enhance professionalism of clinical staff. Landy worked 20 years at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, most recently serving as project manager for Nursing Services, director of Patient and Family Support Services and operations manager. nghs.com • SKB Industries, Inc., a 35 year old commercial landscaping company and new Chamber member, recently completed a major project at Epps Bridge Centre, a $76 million, 468,000 square foot shopping mall in Athens. One one of the largest retail developments in the Atlanta Metro area in recent history, SKB installed over 1,100 trees, 21,665 shrubs and plants and 185,000 square feet of sod. SKBind.com • Gainesville Design Center has acquired South Hall Paint & Decorating in Oakwood as owner, Jack Tims retires after 28 years. Gainesville Paint has acquired their inventory and will service their customers at the design center at 662 Main Street in Gainesville. Tony Paramore, owner, noted that Gainesville Design Center, home of Gainesville Paint and Budget Carpet & Flooring is Hall County’s only independent paint store. gainesvilledesigncenter.com • Join fellow professionals at one or more of these Chamber Networking Functions: February 12, Network Over Coffee at McDonald’s in Oakwood at 8:30 am; February 19, Lunch ‘n Learn at Recess at 11:45 am with Guest Speaker – Anna Harrison, Brenau University; February 26, Network Over Coffee at Natural Juice Café at 8:30 am. Details: Kara Tate, 770532-6206 x 116 or email: ktate@ghcc.com • WomenSource welcomes seven women to serve on the Board of Directors: Katie Dubnik, Regina Edmondson, Jane Fleming, Joy Green, Kelly Anne Miles, Lauren Samples and Rhonda Thompson.

Founded in 2008, WomenSource encourages personal and professional success for women of all ages. womensource.info • The Quinlan Visual Arts Center's 36th Annual Fine Art Auction & Gala is Saturday, March 2. Presented by sponsor Willis Investment Counsel, the event is the Quinlan’s signature fund raiser and impacts the Art Center’s ability to offer premier programming to our community.

Tickets: $125 each. quinlanartcenter.org • The March of Dimes luncheon to kick off the 2014 Campaign is February 13 at 12 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center.

The event is hosted by Gainesville Parks & Recreation and presented by Harris Products. Additional sponsors are Cargill, Northeast Georgia Medical Center and

The Longstreet Clinic. March for Babies is April 19 at Wilshire Trails. Details and RSVP: lsallen@marchofdimes.com • Registration is open for Hall County Government's Scholars Academy, which will be held March 18-May 13. Nine sessions will focus on a different aspect of local government and will include facility tours. No cost to participate. Registration and syllabus are online: hallcounty.org or call Katie Crumley at 770-297-5504.

• Our Neighbor, based in Gainesville, is a nonprofit that provides housing, job training and life skills to young adults with disabilities and is serving as a model for other communities. The organization seeks to bring Georgia up from its present ranking as 49th in the nation for care of the disabled. Check out Our Neighbors Video: http://igg.me/at/ourneighbor • Dr. Bonita Jacobs, President of the University of North Georgia, has been named to Georgia Trend magazine's 16th Annual 100 Most Influential Georgians list, featured in the magazine's January issue.

The list recognizes leaders in government, community, education, business, and the arts from across the state. ung.edu • The Hall County Library System and Goodwill of North Georgia are offering a Resume Workshop on Monday, February 10 from 2:00-3:30 p.m. at the main branch library, 127 Main Street in Downtown Gainesville. The workshop is free and open to the public. hallcountylibrary.org • The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) StartSmart™ Series (Thursdays, February 27-March 20) will provide resources to implement a business plan and tools for success. Hosted by professionals at the SBDC. See more on page 13. Details: Dede Gossage: dgossage@georgiasbdc.org • The Greater Hall Chamber and community will miss former Chamber Board Chairman Mike Banks, banking and business leader, most recently an officer at the Mike Cottrell College of Business at the University of North Georgia.

• The Kiwanis Club of Gainesville is accepting nominations for the John W. Jacobs, Jr. Youth Service Award to recognize an individual who has given both time and resources for the betterment of youth in the community. Nomination forms are available online: gainesvillegakiwanis.org • The AAA Auto Club Group has named Chateau Elan Winery & Resort to its Four-Diamond list, AAA's highest designations for hotels and restaurants. chateauelan.com

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Riverside Pharmacy for 60 Years

(Front, L-R): City of Gainesville Major Danny Dunagan, JoAnne Adams and Wayne Gee (with scissors), Scottie Barton, Stephen Gee, Governor Nathan Deal and Sandra Deal, Kit Dunlap.

Founded in January 1954, Riverside Pharmacy celebrated its 60th anniversary with Governor Deal, other dignitaries and Scottie Barton, who bought the store with former owner Wayne Gee’s son, Stephen, in 2010. Also on hand was JoAnne Adams, who co-founded the business with Charlie Johnson and was the first female pharmacist in Hall County. The pharmacy provides medications to the local community with free deliveries and also packages medication for long-term homes in Gainesville, Cumming, Blairsville and Hiawassee. The pharmacy also houses a unique gift shop. 935 Green Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-6253.

Restaurant and Kitchen Supply Nick Adams cuts ribbon at Restaurant and Kitchen Supply (the retail division of Direct South, Inc.) in Gainesville. Serving the Southeast and based in Macon, GA, Direct South has been a leading dealer of food service equipment and supplies for 50 years. In the late 90’s, the company developed a design, install and contract division that has worked with schools, restaurants, hotels, colleges and government locations, including the Army’s largest dining facility in Ft. Lee, VA. In 2011 Direct South merged with long-time Gainesville dealer Citisco. Citisco began as City Ice Company and expanded with showrooms in Gainesville, Macon, Warner Robins and now has a new showroom opening in Chattanooga. 206 College Avenue, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-535-3700. restaurantandkitchensupply.com

Albert International Expansion Cutting Ribbon (L-R): Albert International's Raeburn Smith, General Manager, and Rainer Behrendt, President, with Jimmy Adams, President of The Adams Companies.

Albert International located to Gainesville in 1984, leasing space from The Adams Companies. The company is investing over $1 million for an expansion with new equipment and an additional 25,000 square feet (total of 60,000 square feet).

Albert employs 40 people and manufactures medical devices (syringes, bulbs, etc.). 989 Athens Street, SE, Gainesville GA 30501. 770-287-7424. albertinternational.com

ENGE

•

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The 7th Annual Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 27 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Register online now for the race at chamberchase5k.com

ALL

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Cost is $25 and $30 after March 15. Register online through March 21. In person registration is available TA E YF IT CORPORAT tiati at the Chamber office through March 26. All particiini pants will receive a complimentary Race Shirt. FREE A Training Passes are available to those registering for the event from several area fitness centers including Jazzercise, GetFit Workforce, Elevation Fitness, First Baptist’s Family Life Center, Frances Meadows Center, Hall County Parks & Leisure Community Centers, Iron Beast, and J.A. Walters YMCA! Training Passes are limited and distributed on a first come, first serve basis.

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While open to the entire community, the Chamber Chase encourages corporate wellness and is a healthcare initiative of the Chamber’s VISION 2030 program.

Team Awards will be presented including: Fastest Corporate Team; Fastest Community Team and the Fastest CEO! Team Spirit Awards are presented as well as T-Shirt Contest Awards. For the more serious runners, awards are presented to the Overall Male & Female and Top Male & Female in several age groups. Food and drink, awards, music and giveaways are part of the fun following the race at “Hall County’s Largest Office Party”! Tent rentals available for corporate teams. Gold Sponsors: Athens Area Health Plan Select, Milton Martin Toyota, ProCare Rx. For sponsorship opportunities, team information or more, contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. Online: chamberchase5k.com

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Membership Development

R CH BE A M A

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Register Online Chamber Chase 5K

Buy Local / Safe & Green Exhibit Space Still Available!

Wednesday, February 11 • 2:00-7:00 pm • Gainesville Civic Center Contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Member SIPC

IRT-2046F-A

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February 4, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Membership Development

Welcome New Members!

12

601 Broad Street, Suite C Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4553 - Medical / Chiropractic hopechiropractic.com

Aaron's, Inc. Todd Wilson 926 McEver Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 503-1234 - Retail / Furniture aarons.com Buttermilk Pie Company Amanda Wilbanks 302 Broad Street SE, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 499-5234 - Restaurant & Catering Canongate Golf Clubs Corey Strzalka 1995 Hamilton Mill Parkway Dacula, GA 30019 (770) 880-0788 - Golf Course canongategolf.com Growlers On Main Alan & Ashley Davenport 5509 Main Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (678) 960-3026 - Retail growlersonmain.com Hope Chiropractic Drs. Bryan & Marjorie Butler

Jet’s Pizza Eric Robertson 1872 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 450-0031 - Restaurant & Catering jetspizza.com Labor Ready, Inc. Lisa Gillespie 2295 Skelton Rd, Suite A-1 Gainesville, GA30504 (770) 532-2088 - Employment Agency laborready.com Metro Appraisals David Griffin 100 College Avenue, SE Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-0384 - Real Estate Appraisal metroappraisals.com Ridgecrest Apartments Jennifer Bender 1640 Roper Hill Road

Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-7749 - Apartments ridgecrestgainesville.com Shoreline Transfer Inc. Aaron Conner 3292 Thompson Bridge Road, Suite 336 Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 297-0235 - Transportation & Trucking shorelinetransfer.com State Standards Publishing Jill Ward 320 E Clayton Street Suite 414 Athens, GA 30601 (706) 621-5225 - Publications & Publishing statestandardspublishing.com

Business After Hours Networking Lakeview Academy sponsored the January Business After Hours with over 100 people enjoying great networking, food and fun.

Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap (left) with Dr. John Kennedy, Headmaster, Lakeview Academy. Don't miss another great networking opportunity at Business After Hours (sponsored by Jacobs Media) at the Buy Local Expo on Tuesday, February 11 from 5:00 7:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center and Business BEFORE Hours on Friday, February 28 at 7:30 a.m. at North Georgia Christian School. Megan Martin, 770-5326206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Stewart, Melvin & Frost Amanda Yenerall, Bucky Highsmith, Chuck DuBose Jim Coyle, Steven Cornelison 200 Main Street, Suite 600 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-0101 - Attorneys smf-law.com

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT • Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 20,000 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.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

Got Your Attention?

PUBLICATION DATE: First Tuesday of every month for advertising contact:

Sherrie Jones • 770 535.6304 sjones@gainesvilletimes.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

New Leaf Landscape Services was established in 1989 as a maintenance company with four employees and two crews.

Now celebrating 25 years, the company has grown to 50 employees, 16 crews, and has evolved into a full service landscape design, installation and maintenance business. "We have been honored to receive over 14 Residential and Commercial Maintenance (L-R): Henry Evans, Steve Murray, Josh Everett of New Leaf Landscape Services, Small Business of the Month. awards through the Urban Ag Council," said Josh Everett, Director of Business Development. "These awards show our commitment to professionalism, quality and curb appeal." New Leaf's management team consists of a landscape architect, horticulturist and landscape contracting specialists. The company has been a member of the Greater Hall Chamber for the past 10 years and volunteers time and landscaping resources to Eagle Ranch, My Sisters Place, Randy & Friends, Challenged Child, Habitat for Humanity, Choice Pregnancy Center, Chattahoochee Baptist Association, Mansfield's Adopt-a-Park and many educational and athletic programs in local schools.

New Leaf Landscape Services, Inc., 2341 Danbury Lane, Suite C, Gainesville, GA 30507. 678-450-6599. newleafls.com

(L-R): Robert Mallon, Program Presenter; Patti Russell, Gallery on the Square; Jason Everett, Gainesville Design Center.

Robert Mallon led the recent seminar titled "Your Best Year Ever!" guiding attendees on how to accomplish more in 2014 based on both work and personal goals. Don't miss the February 11 Small Business Seminar "Prospecting for Profit" by Al Trembley of WSI Digital Marketing. No Charge for Chamber members; $15, Non-members.

Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com Launch your business with solid tools for success. Designed for entrepreneurs, StartSmart™ is created and hosted by the trained professionals at the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Refine your business concept with in-depth market research and competitive analysis tools, develop a financial forecast and benefit from free one-on-one coaching from SBDC consultants. The StartSmart™ Series is February 27 – March 20th (Thursdays), 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the UGA-SBDC offices at Featherbone Communiversity, 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville. Partial scholarships (based on approval) available thanks to event sponsor, Wells Fargo. 770-531-5681 or email Dede at dgossage@georgiasbdc.org

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February 4, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Ask about CareCredit 2-year interest free financing

Small Business Success Seminar

Small Business

Small Business of the Month New Leaf Landscape Services

13

Key Economic Indicators

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Latest

Dec. 2013

5.9 Previous Month

South Hall Business Coalition

8

5.7 5.5

6

Forsyth

5.3

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

6.3 6.6 6.1 7.7

12-Month High

Oct 2013

6.6

8.7%

2

One Year Ago

Dec. 2012

N

6.5

D

F

M

A

M

2012

J

J

A

S

U.S.

O N

7

2013 Updated 12/19

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 212,303,749 2 columns 217,778,335 225, 571, 801 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

Latest December 2013

2.0

100’s millions of dollars

The Chamber's Beautification Committee and the Georgia Forestry Service announce winners of the 2014 Arbor Day Student Art and Essay Contest. With over 100 entries in art and the topic “I Speak for the Trees” 1st place in the 3rd Grade Art Contest goes to Juliet Edge, McEver Arts Academy. Honorable Mention: Allison Pineda, Enota MI Academy and Yvette Gonzalez, New Holland Knowledge Academy. 1st Place in the 5th Grade Essay Contest is Ally Cook, Enota Elementary.

Honorable Mention: Isaiah Willock and Ashely Andrade-Sosa, Enota Elementary.

Annual Arbor Day Celebration is Friday, February 21 at 10 a.m. at Don Carter State Park. Open to the public, the event is sponsored by the Hall County Master Gardeners, Keep Hall Beautiful and Georgia Power. Festivities include student contest recognition and a joint city/county proclamation with Tree City USA recognition. Details: Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206 x 101. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

7.1

Cherokee Dawson

4

Nov. 2013

1st Place Art by 3rd Grader Juliet Edge, McEver Arts Academy, as part of the Arbor Day Art Contest with topic, "I Speak for the Trees".

Gainesville City

10

Percent

Community Development

Arbor Day Celebration

Previous Month (available)

One Year Ago

November 2013

December 2012

$

$

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 N retail sales of approximately $100 million.

D

J

F

M

2012

A

M

J

J

A

S

2013

February 4, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Updated 12/19

14

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County

Latest

December 44 Previous Month

One Year Ago

2012 Total

Nov 2013

Dec. 2012

257

60

21

600

2013 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Hall Jackson

Dec. 2013 20 0 118 149 44 3

Dec. 2012 10 0 61 153 21 4

Nov. 2013 20 9 135 125 60 10

Total 2012 44 13 603 1,468 257 30

2013 YTD 196 65 1,938 2103 600 92

Avg Total Price 2013

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Dec. 2013

Avg Price

Dec. 2012

Avg Price

Nov. 2013

Avg Price

Total 2012

City

18

176,901

10

203,098

12

194,500

137

125,172

North

35

278,939

29

194,955

28

176,436

322

151,731

250

239,636

East

12

125,758

24

59,425

16

71,309

167

64,758

124

106,323

South

24

229,695

16

120,638

20

192,306

198

163,552

184

180,106

West

52

274,871

23

175,694

47

211,045

558

174,979

440

242,959

Area

The South Hall Business Coalition recently met at Elachee Nature Science Center for an update on the 1,400 acre nature preserve. (L-R): Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap; Lavon Callahan, Elachee Director of Development; Chamber South Hall Council Chair Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Andrea Timpone, Elachee President/CEO; Peter Gordon, Elachee Director of Education; R.K. Whitehead, Whitehead Die Casting. The Coalition will meet on Tuesday, February 18 at the University of North Georgia (UNG), Gainesville Campus for a program on Career Services and how organizations can partner with UNG for student interns.

You'll also learn how to post jobs at UNG, details on upcoming on-campus recruiting events and more. Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and Jacobs Media. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115.

162 $180,838

Updated 12/19

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

Leadership Hall County

Leadership Class Nominations

Youth Leadership Hall Youth Leadership Hall Class at the State Capitol with (Front, L-R): Senator Butch Miller; Senator John Wilkinson; Governor Nathan Deal; Representative Timothy Barr and Representative Carl Rogers.

Many thanks to our legislative delegation for hosting the class.

Leadership Hall Program Presenters (L-R): Rhonda Thompson, Special Projects Coordinator, Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS); David Griffin, Metro Appraisals; Will Dyer, First Baptist Church; Lt. Bonner Burton, Hall County Sheriff ’s Department; Carol Burrell, President & CEO, NGHS; Patrick O’Rouke, Georgia Department of Natural Resources; Laura Haynes, WomenSource; Kelley Robertson, Office of the District Attorney; Lee Alexander, NGHS; Ellen DeFoor, NGHS Foundation.

Leadership Hall County's Healthcare & Community Service program included presentations from Jackie Wallace, United Way of Hall County; Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence Center; Mark Mendoza, Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County; Dr. Dave Earnest and Robyn Shoaf, Challenged Child & Friends. The class was treated to lunch and a presentation at The Longstreet Clinic led by classmate, Dr. Jeff Reinhardt and Mimi Collins, CEO. The presentation focused on changes in healthcare for patients, employers and providers. Alan Wills, Northeast Georgia Health System, spoke on collaboration to secure health information exchange between participating health providers in Northeast Georgia. Carol Burrell, President & CEO, Northeast Georgia Health System, spoke about future plans for expansion and hospital services. The day ended with a tour of the hospital led by Melissa Tymchuk, Director of Public Relations, NGHS. Many thanks to The Longstreet Clinic for sponsoring lunch.

CHARLES E. WHITE, MSFS, CPA 2 columns Email: Charles@LTCiGA.com - Website: www.LTCiGA.com 4.4167 x2" Office: 770-380-9727 Life • Health • Disability Income • Long/Short -Term Care

Serving Hall and Surrounding Counties Since 1987.

Specializing In: Chiropractic Family Medicine

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GIANT INDOOR 1/4 Page Ad TENT EVENT! 2 columns

Save up to 80% at our Annual 4.4167 x5" Office Furniture Clearance Sale Top named brands like Haworth, Hon, Lacasse, United Chair, Safeco & More Open Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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February 4, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Chartered Financial Consultant Biz Card Ad

Education / Leadership

Nominations are being accepted for the 2014-2015 Leadership Hall County Class.

Participants develop a knowledge of the community through a series of one-day sessions on topics such as education, health and social services, governments, and economic development. Tuition is $800 for Chamber members; $970 Non-Members (includes a one-year Chamber individual membership). Must be 25 or older. Fees cover materials, monthly program expenses, annual retreat, graduation reception and more. Nomination Deadline is March 15. To make a nomination, contact Dana Miller at the Chamber, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

15 www.mcgaritys.com • 770-536-9852

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

UpcomingChamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Tuesday, February 11 Workshop Small Business Marketing Small Business Seminar Tuesday, February 14 “Prospecting for Trends Profit” Marketing presented Trembley, PresentedbybyAl Gordon Sawyer WSI 8:00Digital - 10:00Marketing a.m. – The Oaks at 7:45 a.m.

- 9:00 a.m.Academy Lanier Charter Career Chamber Business After Hours Tuesday, February 11 16 Thursday, February Annual Buy 5:00Local - 7:00 Expo p.m.

Safe & Green Forum Luna's Restaurant 2:00 p.m.200 - 7:00 Mainp.m.

Street Gainesville Center Hunt Tower in Civic Downtown Gainesville FREE! Open to the Public!

Tuesday, 11 ArborFebruary Day Celebration Business AfterFebruary Hours 17 Friday, (At the Buy10:00 Locala.m.

Expo) 5:00Frances p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Center Meadows Gainesville Civic Center Safe & Green Regional Assembly Tuesday, February 1824 Friday, February South 8:00 Halla.m.

Business - 12:00 Coalition p.m.

Internships Career Center Services Georgia & Mountains at University of North Georgia 8:00 a.m.Transportation - 9:00 a.m. Forum Annual University of North Georgia Wednesday, March 14 Gainesville Campus 11:30 a.m.

- 1:00 p.m.

Continuing Ed State Auditorium Gainesville College

U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA

Friday, 28 Expo Job February Fair and Career Business Before Hours Wednesday, March 28 7:30 a.m.

9:00- 3:00 a.m.p.m.

10:00- a.m.

North Georgia Christian Georgia Mountains Center Academy, 5285 Strickland Road Flowery Branch Get in Details & Register Online: Complimentary Breakfast! greaterhallchamber.com

Details & Register Online greaterhallchamber.com

CAR-RT SORT

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.