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 Certified Small Business Parters page 4
Healthy Hall Awards of Excellence
Thursday, February 15 1-6pm | Gainesville Civic Center
Business Association of Steel Fabricators and served on its The Chamber's new Healthy Hall Awards of Excellence Program spotlights those in the healthcare industry making a significant impact on our quality of life through excellence in health and wellness. A luncheon honoring award recipients is Wednesday, February 28 at 11:30 am at the Brenau Downtown Center in Gainesville.
Workforce Development page 4
EXPO 2018
nine years. Ricky has past experience with two Welcome New Members page 5
Louis G. Smith, Jr., President & CEO, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, as keynote speaker. Louis' Louis G. Smith extensive healthcare experience spans decades, Northeast Georgia Meetings & Events and his involvement in civic groups like local Medical Center chambers and Rotary speak to his commitment to community. Prepage 6 sented by Northeast Georgia Health System, the awards program cKibbon, Ricky Presley, Ron Quinn, Joe Hatfield, Tracy Vardeman, will recognize professionals in over a dozen categories. Nominations Member tewart Teaver, Clifton Hastings, Nancy Nortonaccepted and Wesley Martin. through February 9. $20 per person; Table $300 (seats 8). Announcements Reservations required. Reservations/Nominations: Amanda Lewis, page 10 770-532-6206 x 111. Register online: GreaterHallChamber.com/events
• Over 60 Exhibitors • Networking • Leads Development • Taste of Gainesville • Door Prizes & Drawings • Business EXPO is FREE • Open to the Public
onal bank boards prior to joining Peach No State Bank. Entry Fee & Open to the Public 11:30 am - 1:00 pm – Business Luncheon (Reservations Required) 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm – Business EXPO (No Entry Fee) 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm – A Taste of Gainesville ($5)
deman is Chief Strategy Executive with Northeast
Small Business of bout our newest directors:
The Small Business Luncheon featuring Bob Swoszowski, owner and operator of McDonald's of Northeast Georgia, kicks off Business Expo 2018served on Thursday, February 15 followed by 60+ exhibitors! Southern Association of Steel Fabricators and on its Several restaurants will be serving menu items at an expanded Taste board for nine years. Ricky has past experience with two After Hours. Participating restaurants: of Gainesville at Business
Businesshealthcare After Hours system ealth System, a regional Norton is a fifth-generation Gainesville resident. the Month page 11
bank boards prior to joining Peach State Bank. A Tasteotherofregional Gainesville
population base offrom over 750,000 people across Thursday, February 15 ton Agency where she coordinates referrals
enior Vice President and Relocation Director at Ribbon Cuttings page 14
ty companies. Nancy is a member of the4:00-6:00 Junior
2 Dog Restaurant | Fajitas Mexican Restaurant Gainesville Seafood Market | Amici Gainesville Tracy Vardeman is Chief Strategy ExecutiveChicken with Northeast Salad Chick | Firehouse Subs | Panera Bread Mountain Georgia Health System, a regional healthcare systemFresh Creamery | Kebab & Curry Buffet
pm at the Business Expo
s of northeast Georgia. Tracy has served on the
Expo Exhibit Info & Details: 770-532-6206 serving a population base of over 750,000 Business people across of Gainesville-Hall County and has been involved Featuring Local Restaurants • Networking 19 counties of northeast Georgia. Tracy has served on the llenged Child, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, NGHS
Peach State Bank Community Development Board since lace and Junior Achievement. She joined the te Bank Community Development Board since January 2016. ate Bank Community Development Save the Date Board in
er 2013.
016. esley is a successful local businessman and founder Tuesday, February 13 Small Business Seminar Thursday, February 15
o Steel Company. selling BusinessSince Luncheon & Expothe company in
e has managed and developed Wednesday, February 28 personal commercial
Healthy Hall Awards Luncheon te investments. He is the past president of the
FEBRUARY 2018
p each st a t eb a nk . c o m A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
From the Chairman
Don't Do Business Alone! The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Membership Drive kicked off on January 29 with dozens of volunteers working to recruit new members, NOW through March 2. With the slogan, "Don't Do Business Alone!" Volunteers are seeking to develop new business relationships and recruit new members. Helping business succeed and fostering a thriving and vigorous business environment are the Chamber's primary goals. With over 2,300 business members, the Chamber offers a full range of resources and business services.
Perry Barnett, CPA Rushton Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber’s greatest benefits? Networking, relationships and lead development. Building relationships is the key to acquiring new business, growing existing business and solving problems, and there’s no better place to form business relationships than through the Greater Hall Chamber. Businesses can get ahead by taking part in the many Chamber events to meet prospective clients and generate business leads. Plus, the Chamber only refers its member businesses through the in-house Welcome Center and staff referrals.
With a membership base that is over 85% small businesses, the Chamber offers a variety of resources to grow small businesses. From marketing workshops to monthly seminars, the Chamber is a valuable resource to grow your business. See page 4 to see how you can become a CERTIFIED Small Business Partner. Join Now for Special Deals! In addition, a Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce NOW through MARCH 2, 2018. • Featured Member Listing and Logo on the Chamber’s website (Value: $50) • Complimentary Electronic Membership listing of 2,300 Chamber Members (Value: $200) • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and coverage in the Business Link newsletter • Advertising discounts on AccessWDUN • Advertising discounts in The Times • Business Information Listing in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter • Invitation to the New Member Breakfast and Orientation on March 16.
February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Don't waste a minute. Join today! Call Christen Wilbanks, Chamber Vice President of Membership Sales: 770-532-6206 x 116. Email: cwilbanks@ghcc.com
2
Membership Drive Now Underway
Business Link VOLUME 23 ISSUE 8 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com
GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2017-2018 Executive Committee Chairman Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton Chair Elect Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System
Vice Chair, Government Philip Wilheit, Jr. Wilheit Packaging Vice Chair, Membership Katie Dubnik Forum Communications
Treasurer Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair, Economic Development David Lee, Jackson EMC Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Vice Chair, Marketing Tate O'Rouke, Jackson EMC
Vice Chair, South Hall Council Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta Vice Chair, Community Development Caroline Lewallen Jaemor Farms
Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers, AT&T Mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Senior Advisor John Vardeman, Morton, Vardeman & Carlson Immediate Past Chairman Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company
President & CEO Kit Dunlap Chair, VISION 2030 Greater Hall Chamber of Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Commerce Georgia Health System Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director
Board of Directors 2017-2018 Norman Baggs, The Times Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo Nick Bruner, Rushton Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Sam Evans, Councilman, City of Oakwood Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Tony Funari, Funari Realty Col. Bill Gallagher, Riverside Military Academy Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall Co. Commission Morgan House, Keller Williams Lanier Partners Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Corp Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Mfg Terry Merck, American Yazaki Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Nancy Norton, The Norton Agency
Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Robert Schuetze, BB&T Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry Carol Shirley, South State Bank Jody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’s Andy Stewart, Peach State Bank & Trust Ahna Still, Halski Systems Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons Phil Sutton, Kubota Steve Syfan, Syfan Logistics Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Lila Westmoreland, Brenau University Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Mike Williams, Lanier Islands Darryl Workman, BrandBank
Associate Directors 2017-2018 Lindsay Addison, Sisu Sues Alexander, Regions Bank Sharon Barrett, South State Bank Kay Blackstock, Georgia Mountain Food Bank Caitlin Collins, Mincey Marble Brook Davidson, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Logan Jones, AccessWDUN Terry Morrisey, Caldwell Electrical Contractors Nick Pruner, Edward Jones Investments Misty Waldrop, HALLCO Credit Union John Wheeler, Bizzy Bee Exterminators Emily Wiley, J & J Foods/The Market on Limestone
Greater Hall Chamber Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Peyton Wilhoite, Project Manager
Chamber Membership Drive Team Captains: (L-R): Christen Wilbanks, Greater Hall Chamber, VP Membership Sales; Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction; Darryl Workman, BrandBank; Sues Alexander, Regions Bank; Steve Naughton, Chamber Volunteer; Logan Jones, Jacobs Media. Not Pictured: Nick Bruner, Rushton and Lila Westmoreland, Brenau University. Team Captains and some 43 volunteers are recruiting new Chamber members now through March 2.
Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President, Finance and Human Resources Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Christen Wilbanks, Vice President, Sales Education & Leadership Andi Harmon, Vice President
Government Affairs Peyton Wilhoite, Project Manager South Hall Council Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager Intern Carli Echols, University North Georgia
The Jackson EMC commercial & industrial team on location at corporate headquarters.
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February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
E c o no m ic D e ve lo pme n t
0
Workforce Development: Kubota Manufacturing For Kubota Manufacturing of America, hiring high school students is a vital part of the company's workforce development strategy. As they continue to grow, the industry's goal is to be the employer of choice in Northeast Georgia, filling their pipeline with young, motivated high school graduates. The work based learning program is the perfect vehicle to accomplish this goal. Kubota currently has 10 students working at the Gainesville plant and 16 students at the Jefferson facility. These students work an average of 20 hours per week learning various aspects of the manufacturing business from assembly and welding to planning and logistics. High school students are paid $10.50/hour as they work and learn with great opportunities for full time employment including benefits immediately upon graduation. The company has been able to offer full time employment to 100% of the students who have completed this program. As an added benefit, current Kubota team members also receive the chance to grow by having the opportunity to train and mentor these young folks. Many of Kubota's work based learning students have gone on to pursue higher education opportunities, but they see that as a win for Kubota and the community! Kubota is located on a new, recently developed 180-acre campus on Highway 365 in Gateway Industrial Centre. The $220 million project included some 600 additional jobs. Kubota now employs 1,880 in Gainesville-Hall County, and the company recently celebrated their “One-Millionth” tractor produced since opening its Gainesville facility in 1988. For more information on the Chamber's Workforce Development initiatives, contact Shelley Davis, Chamber Vice President of Existing Industry, 770-532-6206. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com
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Recognized at the Greater Hall Chamber's January Board of Directors meeting, 25 companies have been named CERTIFIED Small Business Partners.
CONGRATULATIONS!
CERTIFIED Small Business Partners 4 Aces Real Estate American Yazaki Boost Business Caldwell Electrical Contractors Ceramic Tile Services Collins Property Group Count On Tools Damsel in Defense Edward Jones Enterprising Solutions Gainesville Paint Grab Innovations and Services Halski Systems
Keller Williams Realty / Lanier Partners Lane Jones, Community Volunteer Lanier Technical College MDC N2Publishing NE Georgia School of Music & Dance Randy & Friends SCORE Scott Gibson Studios Signs By Tomorrow The Bellton Group Small Business Development Center Your Trusted Servant
Become a Chamber CERTIFIED Small Business Partner by simply attending six (6) Small Business Seminars in 2018. Parters Receive: • Certificate of Completion • Certified Small Business Door Decal • Recognition at a Chamber Board Meeting • Announcement in the Business Link Newsletter Small Business Seminars are sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers and are free for Chamber members. Stay updated at GreaterHallChamber.com. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Upcoming Small Business Seminars Tuesday, February 13 "Bricks & Mortar Can Compete & Win vs. Internet" presented by marketing strategist David Hays, Boost Business 7:45 am - 9:00 am at the Chamber
Tuesday, March 13 "The Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace" presented by Dr. Nikki Tobias, Certified Life and Career Coach 7:45 am - 9:00 am at the Chamber
Retirement
but the April 15 deadline for IRA contributions isn’t.
JOIN THE GREATER HALL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE.
JOIN the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce during the annual membership drive – NOW through March 2 for added benefits including advertising and promotional discounts, a free ribbon cutting ceremony, complimentary electronic listing of 2,400 Chamber members and much more! Bring in 2018 on a path to success by allowing the Chamber to assist your business with increased visibility, consumer credibility and community involvement through networking opportunities and economic development. Your membership will build business relationships and enhance our community as a whole... When we work together, we ALL win!
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Blue Sky Refurbishing Rob Shuler 1581 Fullenwider Road Gainesville GA 30507 -Manufacturing 770-287-3899 SA Recycling Berto Hernandez 859 Athens Street Gainesville GA 30542 -Recycling 770-534-5614 sarecycling.com
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Sweetman’s Plumbing Lorie Sams PO Box 739 Clermont GA 30507 -Plumbing 770-538-0727
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Financial Advisor
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031
Crystal Creek Inert Landfill JC McDaniel 2393 Monroe Drive Gainesville GA30507 -Landfill 770-867-0026 cclandfill.com Paul Godden 7946 Gooseneck Place Flowery Branch GA 30542 -Individual Member 770-560-1727 paulyg99.com
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Ben Robinson 625 Old Peachtree Road Suwanee GA 30024 -Educational Institution 770-682-2347 Join the Chamber NOW – March 2 for added benefits. Details: Christen pcom.edu Wilbanks, 770-532-6206 x 115. Join online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Beth Baldwin
Financial Advisor
439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220
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February 6, 2018 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Mueko Machinery Inc Peter Strobel 4961 Golden Parkway Buford GA 30518 -Engineering Consulting 678-730-8161 mueko.us
OTR Wheel Engineering Lee Chestnut 1242 West Ridge Road Gainesville GA 30501 -Manufacturer 770-547-7752 otrwheel.com
By contributing now, we your retirement savings At Edward Jones, stop to ask you the question: can“What’s have more opportunity to grow. Even if you important to you?” Without that insight already IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to investing transfer and ahave realan understanding of your goals, it toholds an Edward Jones IRA and begin receiving the little meaning. face-to-face guidance you deserve. Contact your Edward Jones financial advisor for To learn more about the advantages an a one-on-one appointment to discussofwhat’s Edward IRA,your call goals. or visit today. really Jones important:
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Membership Development
may be far off,
5
Meetings & Events
Chamber Chase 5K Register NOW The 11th Annual Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 22 at 6:00 pm at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Register online NOW -March 18 at runsignup.com/chamberchase Register in person at the Chamber now through March 22. Registration fee is $30; $35 after March 8. • Register as a Team or Individual • Free Training Passes (quantity limited) • Reserve a Tent for your Team • T-Shirt Design Contest • Individual and Group Awards Details: 770-532-6206
REGISTER NOW
RunSignup.com/ChamberChase – Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk –
Thursday, March 22
6:00 pm | Riverside Military Academy Registration Fee Increases March 8!
FEBRUARY 2018 Wednesday, February 7 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber Thursday, February 8 Leadership Hall County 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday, February 9 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | Chamber Tuesday, February 13 Small Business Seminar 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Tuesday, February 13 Youth Leadership Hall 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 13 Ambassador Council 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. 2 Dog Cafe | Gainesville Wednesday, February 14 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m. Atlanta Bread Company | Gainesville
February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, February 14 Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Luna's | Gainesville
6
Wednesday, February 14 Marketing Committee 12:00 p.m. | Chamber
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Thursday, February 15 Chamber Executive Committee 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber
Friday, February 16 Arbor Day Celebration 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville Tuesday, February 20 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. King's Hawaiian| Oakwood Tuesday, February 20 Vision 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Chamber Wednesday, February 21 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Wednesday, February 21 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Avenues of Life Counseling 439 Green Street | Gainesville Thursday, February 22 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center Friday, February 23 WomenSource Power Breakfast 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber Wednesday, February 28 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Papa Jack's Country Kitchen | Buford Wednesday, February 28 Healthy Hall Awards Luncheon 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Brenau Downtown Center
MARCH 2018 Thursday, February 15 Business EXPO 2018 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Business Lunch Thursday, March 8 Transportation Forum 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Business Expo 11:30 a.m.- 1:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center University of North Georgia | Gville Thursday, February 15 Wednesday, March 21 A Taste of Gainesville at Business Job Fair After Hours (Business EXPO) 10:00 a.m. -2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center Gainesville Civic Center Friday, February 16 Membership Drive Meeting 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber
Thursday, March 22 Chamber Chase 5K 6:00 p.m. | Riverside Military Academy
Our Heart is in Northeast Georgia
Georgia’s #1 Heart Hospital, 12 Years and Counting
Request an appointment with a cardiologist at one of The Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s 14 locations by calling 770-534-2020 or by visiting heartngmc.org/appointment.
One & Only Peach State Bank Strengthens Local Leadership NORTON, PRESLEY & VARDEMAN JOIN BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018 marks some significant milestones for Peach State Bank. Stewart Teaver, local business executive and longtime Peach State Bank board member, has been elected chairman of the board of directors. The announcement was made by William House, Chairman of Peach State Bancshares, the bank’s holding company which was formed in 2017 to better position the bank for long-term growth. Stewart is president of City Plumbing and Electric Supply Co. as well as President of Area Realty, Manager of Area Realty 1 and Manager of CPE Realty. And, we are pleased to announce the appointment of new board members Nancy Norton, Ricky Presley and Tracy Vardeman, adding another dimension of local commitment, knowledge and strength to our board of directors. They join Andy Fuller, Clifton Hastings, Joe Hatfield, Wesley Martin, Steve McKibbon, Ron Hastings Quinn and Stewart Teaver. In business since 2005, Peach State Bank is now GainesvilleHall County’s ONE & ONLY independently owned and operated bank. Our commitment to our community is stronger and more focused than ever as we look forward to growing with Gainesville in the years to come. L - R: Nancy Norton, Ricky Presley, Tracy Vardeman
L - R: Steve McKibbon, Ricky Presley, Ron Quinn, Joe Hatfield, Tracy Vardeman, Andy Fuller, Stewart Teaver, Clifton Hastings, Nancy Norton and Wesley Martin.
A little about our newest directors: Nancy Norton is a fifth-generation Gainesville resident. She is Senior Vice President and Relocation Director at
Southern Association of Steel Fabricators and served on its board for nine years. Ricky has past experience with two other regional bank boards prior to joining Peach State Bank.
The Norton Agency where she coordinates referrals from
Tracy Vardeman is Chief Strategy Executive with Northeast
third-party companies. Nancy is a member of the Junior
Georgia Health System, a regional healthcare system
League of Gainesville-Hall County and has been involved
serving a population base of over 750,000 people across
with Challenged Child, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, NGHS
19 counties of northeast Georgia. Tracy has served on the
MarketPlace and Junior Achievement. She joined the
Peach State Bank Community Development Board since
Peach State Bank Community Development Board in
January 2016.
November 2013. Ricky Presley is a successful local businessman and founder of Presco Steel Company. Since selling the company in 2000, he has managed and developed personal commercial real estate investments. He is the past president of the
p e a c h sta te b a n k .c o m
February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Member Announcements
0
10
• Michele Piucci joined Peach State Bank & Trust as Senior Vice President and Deposit Operations Manager, specializing in business development and corporate cash management. A veteran banker and Gainesville native, Michele most recently served as VP of treasury management and business development at Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia. Active in the Chamber and community, she a board member and former chief volunteer officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier. peachstatebank.com • Founded in 1818, Hall County Government is kicking off its Bicentennial Year with a 2018 Bicentennial calendar, produced in partnership with Lake Lanier CVB, University of North Georgia and The Times. Calendars are free and available at the reception desk on the 1st floor of the Hall County Government Center at 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. hallcounty.org/bicentennial • SCORE of Northeast Georgia, a resource partner of the Small Business Administration, is hosting a Small Business Expo on March 23 from 8:30 am - 4:00 pm at Lanier College & Career Academy, 2723 Tumbling Creek Road in Gainesville. Exhibitor and sponsorship opportunities available. Details: Charles White, 770-380-9727. Email: charles.white@scorevolunteer.org • Gainesville Theatre Alliance’s February Festival of Theatre includes exciting productions of the award winning Avenue Q (Feb 13-24) and Sir Terry Pratchett’s Monstrous Regiment (Feb 1624). The Alliance is a collaboration of the University of North Georgia, Brenau University and theatre professionals. gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.org • Longstreet Clinic, with over 200 providers, 19 specialties and nine locations, welcomes Mark Wilson, MD, to its Pediatrics practice, and Jessica Kobleur, MD, to its Pediatric Inpatient Service in Gainesville. Dr. Wilson sees patients at the Baldwin office. Dr. Kobleur treats pediatric patients who are hospitalized at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville. longstreetclinic.com • The Chamber's Annual Job Fair presented by Express Employment Professionals is Wednesday, March 21 from 10 am - 2 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. Job Seekers will meet 60+ employers and hiring managers face-to-face and complete job applications on site. Open to the public and no admission fee. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-5326206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
• Agribusiness Recognition Awards will be presented at the Annual Agribusiness Breakfast on Tuesday, March 27 at 7:30 a.m. at the North Hall Community Center. The breakfast, held in conjunction with National Ag Day, is open to the public and presented by Jackson EMC. Nominations for awards are now being accepted: Friend of Agribusiness, Outstanding Agribusiness, Farmer of the Year and Ag Hall of Fame. The award nomination deadline is March 2. Details and Reservations: Hall County Cooperative Extension, 770-535-8293. • Hall County Farm Bureau (HCFB) received the Georgia Farm Bureau's (GFB) McKemie Award (large membership division), the highest honor awarded to a county in recognition of its efforts to promote agriculture in its local community. The HCFB also received the GFB's Outstanding Young Farmer Committee Award, chaired by Chamber Board Member Caroline Lewallen of Jaemor Farms. Formed in 1937 by 50 farmers, the GFB continues its strong grassroots network as a united voice in the legislative arena, promoting farm markets and providing leadership to Georgia's agricultural community. gfb.org • There's still time to nominate your favorite healthcare professional for a Healthy Hall Award of Excellence. Awards will be presented in over a dozen categories at the awards luncheon on February 28. Nominations online: SurveyMonkey.com/r/HealthyHallAwards Nomination deadline is Friday, February 9. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com • The 40th Annual Quinlan Gala Fine Art Auction is Saturday, March 3 featuring the highest caliber original art work by local, regional and national talents including Jill and Patrick McGannon. $125 per person for Gala and Preview Night (March 1). Proceeds fund Quinlan programming, classes, exhibitions and community outreach. 770-536-2575. QuinlanArtsCenter.org • Château Élan Winery & Resort in Braselton has been acquired by Wheelock Street Capital, and the real estate developer will invest over $20 million to renovate the resort's 394 guest rooms, world-class spa, award winning winery and golf clubhouse. HEI Hotels & Resorts will manage operations including seven restaurants, 40,000 sf of meeting space and the destination spa. The 45holes of championship golf is managed by Troon Golf. ChateauElan.com
• For the 5th year, the University of North Georgia (UNG) was named to Kiplinger’s Personal Finance national list of Best College Values. UNG is one of only four public universities in Georgia on the 2018 ranking, reflecting academic quality and affordability. ung.edu • Hall County Board of Commissioners appointed Jock Connell as County Administrator and Lisa Johnsa as Assistant County Administrator. Both previously held the same positions on an interim basis. Connell and Johnsa join Assistant County Administrator Marty Nix on the administrative leadership team. Johnsa and Nix's dual Assistant County Administrator positions are part of a restructuring plan to strengthen the County's
service to citizens as population numbers increase and development continues up the I-985 corridor. hallcounty.org • Carroll Daniel Construction's division manager, Trent Brown, was selected to join the steering committee for the Association of General Contractors of America’s Construction Leadership Council, a collection of emerging construction industry leaders who provide organization for industry networking and continuing educational opportunities involving professional development and leadership skills. carrolldaniel.com
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
South Hall Business Coalition
(L-R): Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Sheri Millwood, City of Oakwood; Chamber South Hall Council Chair Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta; Pat Jones, City of Oakwood; Program Presenter Stan Brown, Oakwood City Manager. Come hear Joe Leonardo, King's Hawaiian, Vice President of Manufacturing, speak about the success and future of the bakery in Oakwood at the next South Hall Business Coalition meeting on Tuesday, February 20. Space Limited. RSVP: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206x115.
Transportation Forum: March 8
Russell McMurry Commissioner, Georgia Department of Transportation
The Chamber's Annual Transportation Forum is Thursday, March 8, 11:30am - 1:00pm at the University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus. The forum creates discussion with transportation officials, Chamber members, business professionals and community leaders. Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell McMurry and Brent Cook, District 1 Engineer, will present the program as well as Srikanth Yamala, Director, Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Planning Organization. Presented by Pinnacle Bank and Rochester & Associates. $20 for Chamber Members, $25 Non-members. Includes a boxed lunch. Reservations required. Reservations: Gerri Collins, 770532-6206 x 106. Email: gcollins@ghcc.com or make your reservations online at GreaterHallChamber.com/events
Small Business Development
Dimo Fine Jewelry, a family operated business for over 25 years, plans to continue with the third generation of the Dimo Family. Siblings, Missy, Lusi and Robert, along with their father, Dimo, have been setting the standards of customer care and service for Hall County. Together, they aspired to establish a fine jewelry business, and they have succeeded. As we've all seen and heard, they are expanding and plan on making their store both distinct and innovative. We look forward to what Missy Dimo of Dimo Fine Jewelry. is to come ahead. The Dimo Family pledges to continue the loyalty they have earned from our community over the last 25 years, and the best is yet to come. 1318 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-533-9070. dimofinejewelry.com
Small Business Seminar (L-R): Arrik Williams, Tatsumi USA; Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow; Steve Hungerford, Amici Café; Nathan Crumley, M&R Equipment Rental & Sales; Program Presenter Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo; Debra Catron, Ceramic Tile Services; Tony Paramore, Lanier Technical College. Thank you, Phil Bonelli for presenting the January program. The next seminar is Tuesday, February 13 from 7:45-9:00 am at the Chamber. "Bricks & Mortar Can Compete & Win vs. Internet" will be presented by marketing strategist David Hays, Boost Business. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Small Business
Small Business of the Month Dimo Fine Jewelry
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Choose Liberty. Choose Natural Gas. 1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4 Col x5"
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1766 Cleveland Highway Gainesville, GA 3050 678-707-5205 • www.libertyutilities.com
February 6, 2018 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Liberty Utilities Georgia is pleased to offer refund opportunities to new and existing costumers of Liberty Utilities. Start here to learn more about how the Refund Program can increase comfort and save you money.
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February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Leadership & Education
Youth Leadership Hall
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Youth Leadership Hall took over the State Capitol on January 22! The program in Atlanta was a phenomenal learning experience for our young leaders. Thank you to Senator Butch Miller and Ashton Blackwood for hosting the class. Students visited with our local legislative delegation as well as Abit Massey and Mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation, Harris Blackwood, Governor's Office of Highway Safety, and TJ Kaplan with Jay Morgan. A special thanks to Jackson EMC and Tate Izlar O'Rouke for sponsoring lunch, as well as McDonald's for providing breakfast. Nominations for Youth Leadership Hall Class of 2018-2019 are now open through area high schools.
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"
Leadership Hall County
Rachel Bahin, Longstreet Clinic; Dr. Drew Pearl, University of North Georgia; Janet Walden, Hall-Dawson CASA; Deuce Roark, Lakeview Academy; Susan Holman, BSN, RN, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville; Kyle Lewallen, Lew’s Cutting Boards; Michael Kelly, Signs by Tomorrow; Sean Couch, Northeast Georgia Health System. Leadership Hall County's Healthcare Day was a huge success thanks to Longstreet Clinic, Northeast Georgia Health System and Brenau University. We are fortunate to have top notch professional medical care in our community and are thankful for these partnerships. The Leadership group visited both Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville and NGMC Braselton, Longstreet Clinic in Gainesville and Braselton, and finished the day at Brenau University’s Human Donor Cadaver Lab.
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WE HAVE A SOLUTION FOR EVERY DATA NEED!
Arbor Day is February 16
Stonebridge Village
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February 6, 2018 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
#WINVDAY
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Community Development
Arbor Day is Friday, February 16 and includes a community celebration at 10 a.m. at the Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville. Open to the public, the event is coordinated by the Chamber and sponsored by the Hall County Master Gardeners, Keep Hall Beautiful and Georgia Power. Festivities include 2018 Arbor Day Student Art and Winning art by 3rd Grader Erik Fuentes, Enota Elementary. Essay Contest Awards and a joint city/county proclamation with Tree City USA recognition. Over 100 student entries were submitted with the topic “I Speak for the Trees.” 3rd Grade Art Award Recipients: 1st Place: Erik Fuentes, Enota Elementary; Runner Up: Leilani Moreno, McEver Arts Academy; Runner Up: Makaylah Terveen, Sardis Enrichment School. 5th Grade Essay Award Recipients: 1st Place: Evelyn Crow, Riverbend Elementary; Runner Up: Emily Hudson, Riverbend Elementary; Runner Up: McKennah Korab, Spout Springs School of Enrichment. For information on Arbor Day or other Greater Hall Chamber Community Development programs, including Agribusiness programs and Business & Residential Beautification Awards, contact Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206 x 101. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com
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Ribbon Cuttings
State Farm|Sheila Sánchez
Gainesville Toastmasters
Sheila Sánchez, family and business associates cut a ribbon for State Farm Insurance / Sheila Sanchez. The firm provides personalized insurance and financial services based on each customer's needs. The company's success is built on a foundation of shared values, quality service and relationships. Servicing Hall County and the surrounding area since 2012, the agency is now in a new location at 654 Browns Bridge Road, Suite A, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-536-9400. sanchezagent.com
Dale Herndon and Nicole Columbo cut ribbon for Gainesville Toastmasters, a membership organization that helps members improve their communications, public speaking and leadership skills in a supportive, positive learning environment. Established in February 1958, it is one of the oldest and most successful Toastmaster clubs in Georgia and the only club in Hall County. Meetings are every Monday evening from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Jacobs Building at 340 Green Street in Gainesville, next to the Post Office. gainesvilletoastmasters.org
February 6, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Royale Nails Spa
Great Expression Dental Center
Lang & Tina Doan cut a ribbon to open Royale Nails Spa in Gainesville. The salon, that has been in business nearly 12 years, has a committed and competent team ready to help keep your nails, skin and body healthy and beautiful. In addition to regular beauty services such as pedicures and manicures, they work closely with medical specialists in the field of dermatology to find the best treatment for each individual client. Royale Nails Spa, 545 Park Lane, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-539-9102. RoyaleNails.com
ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS
Biz Card Ad
984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA
Sandra Rocha, Maitri Patel, Rachel Mosher, Lamara Moore, Dr. Mina Youssef and Serria McCollum cut a ribbon at Great Expressions Dental Center Gainesville. The talented and dedicated Dr. Mina Youssef, Registered Dental Hygienist Lamara Moore, and the entire Gainesville team put patients’ needs first and aims to be your dental provider for life, providing services for the entire family – from general dentistry to Invisalign and specialists for children’s dentistry to oral surgery, periodontics and orthodontics. They are in-network with all major insurance programs and offer a Smile Protection Plan for those without dental insurance. 300 Pearl Nix Parkway, Suite D, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-1957. greatexpressions.com
770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com Serving
Northeast 2 columns Georgia Since 1967 4.4167 x2"
Gain Exposure with a Ribbon Cutting Want to promote your company with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony? This is a free service if you're a member of the Greater Hall Chamber. Not a member? Join now and receive numerous benefits. For membership information or to schedule your event, contact Christen Wilbanks, Chamber Vice President of Membership Sales, 770-532-6206 x 116 or email cwilbanks@ghcc.com
14 Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
Job Fair 2018
Wednesday, March 21 10 am - 2 pm
Gainesville Civic Center 830 Green Street in Gainesville Share Information About Your Company Recruit Qualified Job Applicants Meet Hundreds of Job Seekers
Transportation Forum Thursday, March 8 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus | Continuing Education Building Featuring Russell McMurry, Commissioner, GDOT Brent Cook, District 1 Engineer, GDOT Srikanth Yamala, Director, Gainesville-Hall Co MPO
Great Sponsorships Available! The Chamber's Job Fair, presented by Express Employment Professionals, provides the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employees. Meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face. The event is free and open to the public. Employer Booths: $300 ($345/electricity); $200 Non-Profits ($245 /electricity). Reserve your exhibit space NOW! Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-5326206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com. Online: GreaterHallChamber.com/events
REGISTER NOW RunSignup.com/ChamberChase – Chamber Chase 5K – Thursday, March 22
6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy Registration Fee Increases March 8!
Presented by Pinnacle Bank and Rochester & Associates. Additional sponsors include McDonald's, the University of North Georgia, Highland Mountain Water, Coca-Cola of Gainesville, AccessWDUN and The Times. Cost is $20 for Chamber Members, $25 Non-members and includes a boxed lunch. Reservations required. For reservations, contact Gerri Collins at the Chamber, 770-532-6206 x 106. Email: gcollins@ghcc.com | Reservations online: GreaterHallChamber.com/events
Since 1983, Leadership Hall County has provided a learning experience for our community's existing and emerging leaders and now has over 900 graduates. Nominations are open for the 2018-2019 Class. Each year a class of professionals in the midst of their careers develop an understanding of our community through a series of sessions on topics such as agriculture, education, healthcare, social services, governments, and economic development. Nomination Deadline is March 15. Nominate yourself, a business associate or friend. Contact Andi Harmon at the Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: aharmon@ghcc.com or download a Nomination Form online at GreaterHallChamber.com
Upcoming Chamber Events Tuesday, February 13 Small Business Seminar 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Wednesday, February 14 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m. Atlanta Bread Company | Gville Thursday, February 15 Business Expo 2018 11:30 a.m. Business Lunch 1:00 - 6:00 p.m. Business Expo Gainesville Civic Center
Thursday, February 15 Business After Hours 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center
Thursday, February 22 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center
Tuesday, February 20 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. King's Hawaiian | Oakwood
Wednesday, February 28 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Papa Jack's | Buford
Wednesday, February 21 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Avenues of Life Counseling | Gville
Wednesday, February 28 Healthy Hall Awards Luncheon 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Brenau Downtown Center
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