Business Link - Feb 2011

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 2010 Year-End Report page 4 Upcoming Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10

Chamber Presents 2010 Industry of the Year Awards The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2nd Annual Industry Appreciation event in January. Sponsored by Lanier Technical College, the program included the presentation of Industry of the Year awards to small, medium and large industries in the Greater Hall area. Gainesville-Hall County is home to over 300 manufacturers, processors and distributors, including over 40 international subsidiaries, and automotive suppliers, food processors, life science companies and others. Industries were recognized for their economic impact on the community, corporate responsibility and workforce excellence.

"Though Gainesville-Hall County's existing industries don’t make front page headlines every day, the investments that these companies provide, the jobs they create and their community involvement is invaluable," said Shelley Davis, Vice President of Existing Industry for the Greater Hall Chamber. "The Greater Hall Chamber appreciates our industries, and we want the entire community to recognize what they mean to us and the impact they have upon our economy." Continued on page 5.

Industry of the Year (0-150 employees) IMS Gear Georgia, Inc. (L-R): Tim Evans, Vice President Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Royce Glenn, Director of Economic Development, Lanier Technical College; Greg Vitek and Tim Corbin, IMS Gear. See page 5 for more on Industry Awards.

Industry of the Year (500+ employees) Coleman Natural Foods/King's Delight. (L-R): Tim Evans, Vice President Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Royce Glenn, Director of Economic Development, Lanier Technical College; Dale Duncan, Dave Strawn and Linda Lauer of Coleman Natural Foods.

Industry of the Year (151-500 employees) ZF Group. (L-R): Tim Evans, VP Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Royce Glenn, Director of Economic Development, Lanier Technical College; Elizabeth Umberson and Phillip Lindenstruth, ZF Group; Shelley Davis, VP Existing Industry, Greater Hall Chamber.

Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Run-Walk page 11 Ribbon Cuttings page 12 Small Business of the Month page 13 New Members page 13

Save the Date Friday, February 18 Business Before Hours Wednesday, February 23 South Hall Marketing Workshop Thursday, February 24 Business After Hours

FEBRUARY 2011

The Rotary Club of Gainesville • Mondays at 12:30pm First Baptist Church Banquet Hall • 751 Green Street, Gainesville Rotary Club of South Hall County • Wednesdays at 12:00pm Royal Lakes Golf and Country Club • 4700 Royal Lakes Drive, Flowery Branch Rotary Club of Hall County – Sunset • Tuesdays at 5:30pm Chattahoochee Country Club • 3000 Club Drive, Gainesville

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

What's Happening at The Chamber?

What activities take place at the Chamber of Commerce in a typical month? While no two months are the same, dozens of programs, seminars, meetings, special events and networking opportunities are offered throughout the year. Also, economic development recruitment and retention and education leadership programs are continuous efforts.

February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Volume 17 Issue 2 mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Darrell Snyder Georgia Power Company Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Monthly networking opportunities include the Leads Group which meets the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month during lunch; Network over Coffee group meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month in the morning, and Business After Hours is normally held the last Thursday of the month in the evening. Each of these events provides a great opportunity for employees of small and large businesses to meet each other and learn more about other businesses in the community. Another upcoming networking opportunity is the 32nd Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament at Lake Lanier Islands Resort on April 15.

The South Hall Business Coalition meets monthly and brings together our members in the South Hall community to discuss local government updates, transportation, education and a variety of other topics. The Annual GDOT Transportation Forum will be held on March 15 at Gainesville State College and provides valuable updates on current and upcoming transportation projects.

Small Business Success Seminars are usually held on the 2nd or 3rd Tuesday of each month and cover a variety of topics from retirement planning to marketing. Don't miss the special South Hall Marketing Workshop on social media on February 23. We also have seasonal programs such as the upcoming Arbor Day Celebration which will be held on February 18.

Leadership Hall County and Youth Leadership Hall County meet throughout most of the year and focus on providing a broad overview of our community to the participants in the programs.

The Human Resource Council, Healthcare Committee, and Issues Committee meet on a monthly basis to discuss topics relevant to business and industry members. Please don’t forget to register for the upcoming 4th Annual Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Run-Walk Corporate Challenge on April 21 which helps to promote community wellness. Send a representative from your organization to the February 10 Team Captains Update for all the news on the race.

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Business Link

VISION 2030 is establishing a number of committees under the leadership of Chairman Kelly Miles to focus on items such as land use planning, education, healthcare and wellness, and other important community issues. We welcome Meg Nivens as the new VISION 2030 Executive Director (see page 11 for more information on Meg and VISION 2030).

The Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council meets monthly to hear updates from local industries and to review and discuss topics that make the Greater Hall area a great place for business. Existing industry visits are also made each month by Chamber staff to better understand what issues are being faced by businesses in our community. The Chamber just held the 2nd Annual Industry Appreciation event to recognize several of the outstanding existing industries. With over 300 manufacturers, processors and distributors, we are very fortunate to have a diverse and active industrial community.

Thanks to the efforts of our Marketing Committee you can visit our newly updated website at greaterhallchamber.com for a complete list of the dates and times of Chamber activities.

The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce has an opportunity for every Chamber Member to play an active role. Get involved with your community and the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce today, and make a difference in the lives of others. If you have any questions or would like to become more involved in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, please contact Robyn Lynch at 770-532-6206 or email: rlynch@ghcc.com. If you are not a Chamber member, we invite you to join and be a part of our business networking team! Call Michelle Wiley, Chamber Membership Coordinator, at 770-5326202, email: mwiley@ghcc.com, or join online at greaterhallchamber.com!

2010-2011 executive Committee Chairman Darrell snyder Georgia Power Company Chairman Elect Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Treasurer Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction Company Vice Chair, Economic Development Russell Vandiver Lanier Technical College Vice Chair, Education Beth Baldwin Edward Jones Investments

Vice Chair, Government Affairs Chair, VISION 2030 lee Hemmer Kelly miles, Smith, Gilliam, The Simpson Company Williams & Miles, P.A. meg Nivens, Executive Director Vice Chair, Marketing and Co-Chairs, HALLmark Communications Paul Chambers, AT&T melissa Tymchuk Northeast Georgia Medical Cnt David lee, Jackson EMC mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic Vice Chair, Membership Senior Advisor Development Rob Fowler, Turner, Wood & Allen Nivens, Indigo Energy Smith Insurance Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Geoff lee, Road Atlanta emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker Vice Chair, Community Development President & CEO Phillipa moss, Gainesville-Hall Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Co. Community Service Center Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2010-2011 Brenda Bahel, The Starke Companies

Keith mcleod, NEGA Urological Associates

elisabeth Baldwin, BB&T Bank

mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company

Willie mitchell, Gainesville City Schools

Wade Beavers, Beavers/Rogers Law & Advisory

Dr. martha Nesbitt, Gainesville State College

Dr. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall County Commission

Chad Bolton, NEGA Health System, Inc.

Bill orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton

Ruth Bruner, Mayor, City of Gainesville

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Terry Roberts, Lake Lanier CVB

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

Jim Fitzgerald, Wrigley Manufacturing

David smith, Merial Select

Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Dennis stockton, The Times

Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost LLP

Phil sutton, Kubota Manufacturing

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

Jody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors

Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Materials

Deborah mack, Community Volunteer

mike Williams, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Associate Directors 2010-2011 Drew Addison, Industrial Properties Group

Conrad smith, NEGA Diagnostic Clinic LLC

Kellie Bowen, Full Bloom Nursery

Dr. Gale starich, Brenau University

Dede Gossage, Heritage Academy

Zack Thompson, Pro Touch Landscapes

melanie Fuller Hill, Regions Bank

Andrea Timpone, Elachee Nature Science Cnt

Hart Payne, Community Volunteer

Tracy Whitmire, Accusite Surgical Services

Kingsley Peeples, Bates Carter Company

staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim evans, Vice President shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Jean mcCullough, Project Manager Finance & Operations David umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources Education & Workforce Development Dana miller, Vice President Government Affairs & South Hall Council michelle Wiley, Membership Coordinator

Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 meg Nivens, Executive Director Membership Development Robyn lynch, Vice President michelle Wiley, Membership Coordinator Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Economic Year-End Report: 867 New Jobs; $217 million investments

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65% Increase in Jobs and Double the Investment Over 2009 867 new jobs and $217 million in investments from 16 businesses was reported as part of year-end results of economic development efforts in Gainesville-Hall County. The total jobs and investment for 2010 represents a 65% increase in jobs and double the investment over the previous year.

Gainesville-Hall County’s economic development efforts are coordinated with a unified public-private partnership – the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council (EDC). EDC stakeholders Tim Evans include the Greater Hall Chamber, Hall County and Vice President of Economic the Cities of Gainesville, Oakwood, Flowery Branch Development, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Lula. The EDC’s 52-member board is comprised of business and elected leadership in Gainesville-Hall County and chaired by Lanier Technical College President Russell Vandiver. The EDC is a division of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, and the dedicated staff coordinates marketing and sales activities in business recruitment, existing industry, small business and retail development.

“Creating new jobs is the foundation for building a healthy economy,” said Darrell Snyder, 2011 Chairman of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. “Thanks to the efforts of our members and community partners, these new jobs and investments will help our community continue with the progress that has made the area so attractive for quality growth.”

The 2010 year-end figures include investments from new and existing industries.

New investments included American Yazaki Corporation (Japan), GMI (Scotland), ZF Wind Power (Germany) and King’s Hawaiian (California). For many of these new industries, the bulk of their permanent job hiring will take place in 2011.

Several of the existing industry expansions, like IMS (Germany) and elringklinger (Germany), began hiring additional staff in 2010.

“Our existing industry program is a cornerstone of job creation and retention effort for the community,” said Russell Vandiver, Chairman of the EDC. “As a community, we’ve survived a real consolidation period in U.S. manufacturing, and I credit the Existing Industry Program.”

“Existing industry executives are among the first people that new industry representatives contact for discussion and input,” said Shelley Davis, Vice President of Existing Industry for the Greater Hall Chamber “Any business owner knows that your best source of new business is to take care of your existing customers first.”

Gainesville Business Park, a 175-acre development partnership between the City of Gainesville, Hall County, Pattillo Industrial Real Estate and the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority, opened this year, and Hall County residents will continue to see redevelopment activity in the urban centers of Gainesville, Flowery Branch, Oakwood and Lula. These cities are actively leveraging public investment in their downtown areas to encourage additional private investment.

“Our existing industry program is a cornerstone of job creation and retention effort for the community. As a community, we’ve survived a real consolidation period in U.S. manufacturing, and I credit the Chamber's Existing Industry Program."

Russell Vandiver President, Lanier Technical College Chairman, Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council

New Economic Development Staff

Jean McCullough Project Manager, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Jean McCullough has joined the Greater Hall Chamber staff as Project Manager. Jean will assist the Economic Development Division with programs and services including small business and retail development. Jean has an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies from Athens Technical College and a BA in Political Science from Piedmont College. She has five years of economic development experience and most recently was a Commercial Associate Broker for Jack Waldrip Real Estate in Northeast Georgia.

Jean is a former entrepreneur and passionate about helping small businesses and individuals. She is married to Charles McCullough, Jr., is a mother of three grown children and a grandmother of a one-yearold. Jean McCullough, Project Manager, Greater Hall Chamber. 770-532-6206 x 110. Email: jean@ghcc.com

GDOT

Annual Transportation Forum Tuesday, March 15 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Gainesville State College Get all the updates on important area transportation issues and projects... and LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROPOSED T-SPLOST Featuring

Todd Long Georgia Department of Transportation Director of Planning

Todd McDuffie Georgia Department of Transportation District 1 Engineer

The EDC staff is currently working with 55 active projects including new businesses, existing industry expansions, small businesses and retail development. “We have some retail and industrial announcements on the horizon in early 2011,” said Evans. “The UGA Terry College of Business has forecasted a robust year ahead for manufacturing, life sciences and the service sector, and we are well positioned to benefit from that expected growth.” For more economic development news, contact Tim Evans, 770-532-6206. Email: tim@ghcc.com

The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Transportation Forum is open to the public and creates discussion with Chamber members, business and community leaders, and transportation professionals. Reservations required. $15 for Chamber Members, and $20 for guests. Includes lunch. For reservations: contact Jean McCullough at 770-532-6206.

Email: jean@ghcc.com. Make your reservations online at greaterhallchamber.com

Awards Recognize Area Existing Industries, continued from page 1 The Employer Recognition Award went to ElringKlinger USA, Inc. (L-R): Stephan Kruger and Cate Haubert of ElringKlinger with Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Existing Industry Shelley Davis at the January 19 Industry Awards Luncheon.

ZF Group - Industry of the Year - (151 - 500 Employees) Commitment, Quality and Excellence are the components making ZF Group the Industry of the Year in the medium-sized industry category. In 1987, ZF located in Gainesville Industrial Park South and in 2011, the second ZF (ZF Wind Power) location will open in Gainesville Business Park. ZF employs 282 people at the Palmour Drive facility in Gainesville that manufactures drive axles and transmissions. The new plant will start production in late 2011 and represents a $95 million investment to produce gear boxes for the wind industry. zf.com

Chamber President Kit Dunlap with guests at the Industry Awards Luncheon.

(L-R): Brian Arnold, Kubota Manufacturing of America; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber ; Phillip Lindenstruth, ZF Group; Phil Sutton and Henry Kubota, Kubota Manufacturing.

Coleman Natural Foods/Kings Delight - Industry of the Year (501+ Employees) Coleman Natural Foods was established in the Gainesville in 1989 and now employs 850 people producing organic protein products and chicken sausage.

Economic impact is illustrated by new lines installed, an addition of 75 new positions, and doubled vendor spending over the past two years. Coleman extends Workforce Excellence by employee tuition reimbursement and scholarship programs for children of employees. colemannatural.com SKF USA, Inc. - Environmental and Safety Recognition Award SKF has been a part of our community since 1975 and currently employs 229 people producing precision ball bearings. This year they celebrate over 5 million hours without a lost time accident. SKF participates in extensive recycling efforts (wood, plastic, paper, grease, metals, water, etc) including recycling air conditioning condensate for use in the central coolant system for machinery. The industry recycles waste grease for conversion to engineering fuel. While addressing current economic conditions, the company introduced new bearing sizes for wind and solar energy, E2 energy as well as other applicants. skf.com

The Environmental and Safety Recognition Award went to SKF USA, Inc. (L-R): Sam Rundell, JeanLuc Gardelle and Donna Reed of SKF USA, with Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Existing Industry Shelley Davis.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

February 1, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

ElringKlinger USA, Inc. - Employer Recognition Award ElringKlinger acquired Sevex in Buford, Hall County in 2008 and have been in an expansion mode since. Balance, Security and Involvement are why ElringKlinger receives the 2011 Employer Recognition Award. ElringKlinger recognizes that the most important aspect of expansion is taking care of employees. ElringKlinger has increased from 47 to 163 employees in the past year and a half while manufacturing automotive shielding systems. elringklinger.com

Economic Development

IMS Gear Georgia, Inc.- Industry of the Year (0 - 150 Employees) Doubled is the key word for IMS Gear. In the past year, IMS has doubled their employee count and doubled their floor space to allow for the business to succeed in a declining market. IMS Gear located in Gainesville-Hall County in 1995 in 48,000 square feet. In reaction to the declining automotive market of the past few years, IMS has concentrated on gaining new business and growing their existing business base. With 45 employees a little over a year ago, IMS now has 82 employees and soon will be over 100. IMS has more than doubled existing production floor space.

In the next three years, power steering, brake system and new seat component programs will be added to the facility. The needed investment is high as the new products require advanced and specialized production techniques. imsgear.com

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Meetings & Events February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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February 2011 Wednesday, February 2 HALLmark Celebration Breakfast Featuring Guest Speaker John Addison Co-Chief Executive Officer, Primerica 7:30 a.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Wednesday, February 2 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Friday, February 4 New Member Breakfast 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, February 8 Small Business Success Seminar Retirement Plans for Small Business presented

by Jay Burkett, United Community Bank 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, February 16 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Turnstile Deli Thursday, February 17 Membership Committee 10:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, February 17 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 p.m. – Chamber Friday, February 18 Business Before Hours 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. – Summers Landing at Limestone Assisted Living in Gainesville Friday, February 18 Arbor Day Celebration 10 a.m. – New City Public Safety Complex

Tuesday, February 8 Youth Leadership Hall Wednesday, February 23 Judicial Program South Hall Marketing Workshop 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. – Frances Meadows Center Using Social Media to Your Advantage Presented by FullMedia Tuesday, February 8 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – Spout Springs Library VISION 2030 Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, February 24 Chamber Board of Directors Tuesday, February 8 12:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club Ambassadors Council Sponsored by AT&T 3:45-4:45 p.m. – Scott's on the Square Thursday, February 24 Wednesday, February 9 Business After Hours Healthcare Committee Sponsored by Northeast Georgia General, 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Restorative & Implant Dentistry Wednesday, February 9 Network Over Coffee 8:30 -9:30 a.m. – Calliope Sweets

Friday, February 25 Environmental Management 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, February 9 Get Fit Corporate Challenge Committee 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

MARCH 2011

Wednesday, February 9 Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant Thursday, February 10 Leadership Hall County State Government Program at the Capitol 7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m Thursday, February 10 Get Fit Stay Fit Team Captains Update 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. Drop-In – Chamber Friday, February 11 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, February 16 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, March 15 Annual GDOT Transportation Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. – Gainesville State College Thursday, March 24 Youth Apprenticeship Celebration 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

APRIL 2011 Friday, April 15 32nd Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament 10:00 a.m. – Lake Lanier Islands Resort Thursday, April 21 4th Annual Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Run-Walk 6:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy

MAY 2011 Thursday, May 12 103rd Chamber Annual Meeting & Gala 6:30 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club

Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, February 8 7:45 - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Sponsored by United Community Bank Free for Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members

Retirement Plans for Small Businesses This seminar is presented by Jay Burkett, United Community Bank. Jay is a Certified Financial Planner and has 18 years of experience in the financial services industry. He has been with UCB for 10 years working primarily with individuals and small business owners.

Details, Jean McCullough, Project Manager, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com

Business BEFORE Hours Friday, February 18 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Summers Landing Limestone 2030 Windward Lane in Gainesville Sponsored by Summers Landing at Limestone Assisted Living Community Join Chamber members and friends for this special before work networking event at Gainesville’s newest assisted living community, located just off Limestone Parkway, with assisted living apartments as well as long-term, Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. summerslandingatlimestone.com Details: Robyn Lynch, 770-532-6206. Email: rlynch@ ghcc.com Online: greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Marketing Workshop Wednesday, February 23 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch $10 Chamber Members • $20 Non-Members

Using Social Media to Your Advantage Full Media, a website design firm located in Gainesville, specializes in web design and internet marketing. With in-house designers and programmers, they create a professional looking site, while giving clients control over content, photos and navigation. Light breakfast included. Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

Business AFTER Hours Thursday, February 24 5:15 - 7:15 p.m.

1223 Sherwood Park Drive $5 Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!

Sponsored by Northeast Georgia General, Restorative & Implant Dentistry Meet Rick Gadbois DDS, J. Andrew Ramsey DMD, and their dental team. Don't miss this premier networking event with live music, a Cash Pot Prize, great doorprizes, delicious food by Mellow Mushroom and Panera Bread and drink by Hometown Spirits... all outdoors under a Lanier Tent! Details: Robyn Lynch, 770-532-6206.

Email: rlynch@ghcc.com Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Member Announcements February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Gainesville Care Center’s Annual fundraiser is March 17, 6:45-8:45 pm at First Baptist Church with keynote speaker Kelly Wright, co-anchor of Fox News Channel’s “Fox & Friends Weekend.” $30 per person/$240 table of 8. 770-5351413. Reservations online at the center's new website: gainesvillecarepartners.org • Gainesville-based Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia is the only Hall County bank to hold a four-star rating from independent analyst Bauer Financial. Founded in 2008, Chattahoochee received the rating on a five-star scale for overall financial stability. Banks are assessed every two years making Chattahoochee's high first ranking rare for a new bank. Kristie McMahan recently joined Chattahoochee Bank as Vice President and Portfolio Specialist. chattahoocheebank.com • Founded in 1992, David Williamson Construction, Inc. has endured through these hard times as a Georgia licensed, insured and experienced contractor in renovations, additions, custom and speculative homes and light commercial. Recently launching a new website, Williamson personally quotes and oversees all projects and is a Certified Construction Arbitrator, authorized Rockford Steel Building builder and Certified Home Inspector. davidwilliamsonconstruction.net • Paul Chambers, AT&T Northeast Georgia Regional Director, announced that AT&T employees nationwide have volunteered over 24,000 times and served over 65,000 students in AT&T's Junior Achievement Worldwide Job Shadow program, a high school retention and workforce readiness initiative. As a result, received the Presidential Award from Junior Achievement. att.com • The UGA Small Business Development Center in Gainesville's FastTrac NewVenture course, sponsored by Wells Fargo, starts February 17 and introduces the key elements of successful entrepreneurship.

FastTrac is a comprehensive, 30+ hour

course covering all areas of business startup, planning and management. 10 sessions, 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville.

5- 8 pm. 770-531-5681. georgiasbdc.org • Two award-winning playwrights take the Gainesville Theatre Alliance stage at Brenau University’s Hosch Theatre February 8-19. Intimate Apparel, written by Lynn Nottage follows the story of seamstress Ester, who stitches exquisite undergarments for both boudoir and bordello. The Underpants, was adapted by comedian Steve Martin and follows the zany antics of a proper German butcher and his voluptuous wife, whose bloomers accidentally create a sensation in their 1910 alpine town. Tickets: $16-18 for adults, $14-16 seniors; $10-12 students. 678-717-3624. gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.org • United Way of Hall County will host "Conversations with Leaders – Inspiring You to Lead" with special guest Doug Ivestor, former CEO of Coca-Cola, and other local leaders on March 15, 6:00 p.m. at the North Georgia History Center in Gainesville. unitedwayhallcounty.org • Wine and dine with an evening of delicious food at 2 Dog Restaurant on Valentine's Day, February 14, to benefit the Georgia Mountains Food Bank in the fight against hunger in North Georgia.

Limited seating. Reservations: 770-287-8384.

• Newland, the nation’s largest privately held land developer and parent company of Sterling on the Lake, a 1,000-acre community in Flowery Branch, was recognized for its commitment to creating healthier communities across the country.

Sterling's Harvest Balloon Festival raised $22,500 for The National Military Family Association providing support to military families, and Challenged Child and Friends, serving children with disabilities.

Since 2004, Sterling on the Lake has raised or donated nearly $100,000 to its community partners. sterlingonthelake.com • Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) was recognized as #1 in Georgia

Thank You Event Sponsors Thank You to the following companies that recently sponsored various Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce programs and activities:

Jackson EMC • Jacobs Media Lanier Technical College McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc. The Times • United Community Bank

in several categories in the article, “Top Georgia Hospitals” in the December 2010 issue of Georgia Trend magazine. HealthGrades® scores for 15 clinical categories reveals the top 10 hospitals in the state for each category. Some of NGMC's #1 rankings include: Overall Cardiac Services, Cardiac Surgery, Cardiology Services, and Coronary Interventional Procedures. The Diabetes Education and Self-Management Program at NGMC is offering a low-cost pre-diabetes class on February 15 from 122 pm at the Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Dawsonville office, at 45 Medical Center Drive in Dawsonville. nghs.com • Scott Satory, owner of Service First Roofing Service, announced a portion of 2010 profits, $10,000, went to both St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Wounded Warrior Project. 678-787-4754. servicefirstroofing.com • Laurelwood mental health and substance abuse treatment center is sponsoring two, free seminars; one on Tuesday, February 1, 6-7:30 pm at the Spout Springs Library, and one on Thursday, February 24, 6-7:30 pm in Walters Auditorium at NGMC. Psychiatrists Jeffery R. Black, MD, and Thomas G. Cobb, MD, of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Psychiatry, will discuss depression signs, symptoms and treatment options. Free sandwich supper at 5:30 p.m. To register, call 770-219-3840.

• Rushton & Company has named Certified Pubic Accountant Kelly Keifer Jackson as Senior Tax Associate. Jackson has consulted individuals and small businesses on tax planning and preparation for 17 years, serving most recently as a Tax Senior for an Atlanta accounting firm. rushtonandcompany.com • The Longstreet Clinic (TLC) announces that Fatimah Manzoor, MD, has joined the Department of Internal Medicine in Gainesville. Dr. Manzoor is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is a member of the American College of Physicians. James L. Taylor, MD has

joined Longstreet Inpatient Medicine. Dr. Taylor is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine and is board eligible in infectious diseases. He is a member of the American College of Physicians and the American Medical Association.

TLC has nearly 90 physicians in over 15 specialties with over 40 nurse practitioners, physicians assistants and certified nurse midwives. longstreetclinic.com • Cindy Widner Wall, BB&T Wealth Management, speak on estate planning at WomenSource's Brown Bag Lunch on February 3 at the Frances Meadows Center. Lunch served at 11:45 am. $5 per person. Register by calling 770-503-9060 or register online at womensource.info • Riverside Pharmacy recently celebrated its 57th Anniversary and recognized original pharmacists Charles Johnson and Jo Ann Adams, who started the business in 1954. Longtime pharmacists Wayne Gee and James Hollis were also recognized by current owners Scottie Barton and Wayne's son, Steve Gee. 770-532-6253.

• Terry Evans, President/CEO of Independence Bank, announces the opening of a new location at 311 Green Street in Downtown Gainesville. Independence Bank first opened in Braselton in 2008.

Gainesville branch executives include Executive VP and City Executives John Stump and Ricky Pugh; Senior Lending Officer Sid Chandler; VP Steve Sorrells; Banking Officer and CSR Gerri Collins; Loan Administrators Wendy Smith and Terri Underwood; Head Teller Jana Lovell. ibankga.com • Try Gainesville Parks & Recreation fitness all inclusive 90 Days $90 at the Frances Meadows Center with experienced instructors and a variety of classes. Limited time only thru February 15. 770-533-5850. gainesville.org/recreation

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Scan & Browse the Chamber's Membership Directory Scan this code with your smartphone. You'll go directly to the Greater Hall Chamber's Membership Directory for a listing of Chamber members.

Gainesville High wins national award Meg Nivens Joins Chamber Staff

United States Senator Johnny Isakson recently presented the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award to Gainesville High School. Gainesville High was one of 20 high schools in the nation to earn the award based on student achievement and progress.

The Blue Ribbon School program honors public and private schools whose students achieve at very high levels or have made significant progress and helped close gaps in achievement, especially among disadvantaged and minority students. gcssk12.net

Gainesville-native Meg Nivens is the new Executive Director of VISION 2030. In the position, formerly held by Denise Deal, Meg will oversee VISION 2030 programs and activities. The Greater Hall Chamber's VISION 2030 program was initiated in 2005 when program coordinators heard from over 1,000 Gainesville-Hall County citizens describing the community they’d like to live, work and raise families in with a “common vision.” The result is a set of long-term goals now in place, the 15 Big Ideas or action steps of where we'd like to be in 2030. (See 15 Big Ideas below.) A University of Georgia graduate, Meg formerly served as a marketing representative Meg Nivens for Northeast Georgia Health System managing Executive Director care relationships with business and industry in a VISION 2030 14-county area and initiating the sale of the system's products and services to employer groups. Meg and husband, Allen Nivens, are active in the community. She serves on the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Auxiliary board and as a tri-chairman of Marketplace. She is a Leadership Hall County graduate, former Chamber Associate Director, executive board member of the Gainesville-Hall County Junior League and involved with committee work for Challenged Child and the Chamber's Beautification and Drugs Don't Work programs.

VISION 2030: The 15 Big Ideas In 2030...

5K Corporate Run-Walk

Thursday, April 21, 2011 Riverside Military Academy • Gainesville

TEAM CAPTAINS UPDATE on Thursday, February 10th Drop by the Chamber anytime between 3-5 pm and...

Register your team for the Run/Walk • Preview the Race Course Route Get all the details on Free Training Offers • Hear about the T-Shirt Contest Learn about all the Team Awards • Doorprizes and Giveaways!

Last year, over 1,500 people participated in the Greater Hall Chamber's 3rd Annual Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Corporate Challenge. This year will again include Hall County’s Largest Office Party with live music, food, awards, recognition and fun following the 5K Walk/ Run at Riverside Military Academy.

For information on the Team Captains Update on February 10, details on sponsorships, or to register for the Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Corporate Challenge on April 21, contact Robyn Lynch, 770-532-6206. Email: rlynch@ghcc.com

getfitstayfit5k.com

2. All students in Gainesville-Hall County high schools have taken some classes from a postsecondary institution before graduation.

3. Gainesville-Hall County is a model for providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to residents and has an innovative set of wellness programs for residents to manage their own health.

4. Gainesville-Hall County is a center for health care education, employment, life sciences and medical-devices manufacturers. These industries work closely together on training and research.

5. There is high-speed rail service linking Gainesville with Athens and Atlanta and HartsfieldJackson Airport. Each of these destinations is only a 30-minute trip away.

6. Gainesville-Hall County has the greatest amount of protected green space, parks, recreation areas and privately owned open land of any urban county in Georgia.

7. There is a major, mixed-use community on Lake Lanier with restaurants, amphitheater and commercial, retail and residential space. The community is a tourist attraction and model for blending of residential and commercial development 8. A state-of-the-art regional visitors’ center near

Interstate 985 makes Gainesville-Hall County the necessary first stop for tourists looking to explore Lake Lanier and Northeast Georgia.

9. Gainesville-Hall County is the summer lakeside host of an annual music festival that includes a wide range of music indicative of the community.

10. Gainesville-Hall County hosts the Southeastern Community Theater Festival, with groups from schools, colleges and local theaters competing from around the region.

11. There are unique arts districts across Gainesville-Hall County, including ones centered in Downtown Gainesville, Lake Lanier, Oakwood, Flowery Branch, Gillsville and Lula.

12. There’s an organization, OneHall, that helps Gainesville-Hall County residents connect across racial, ethnic and other barriers.

13. Gainesville-Hall County’s Outreach Center is a national model for integrating residents of all cultures into the life of the community through a multitude of educational, informational, citizenship and English-language programs.

14. The Intercultural Arts Conference Center is a meeting place for groups looking to bring together our diverse population to work on community issues and as a center for ethnic culture and arts.

15. There are highway bypasses around Gainesville, and traffic on downtown’s Green Street has lessened considerably. The Post Office has been relocated.

VISION 2030 is funded by private investments from the business community through the Greater Hall Chamber's HALLMark: The Next Generation 2010-2015 Initiative.

February 1, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Attention all companies interested in participating in the 2011 Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Corporate Challenge Run/Walk...

1. Development in most of Gainesville-Hall County is built around town squares, where people can walk, bike or use golf carts to reach important services and meet neighbors easily.

Community Development

Gainesville High School Principal Chris Mance (left) and Senator Johnny Isakson during presentation of the school's National Blue Ribbon Schools Award in January.

11

February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Ribbon Cuttings

Bulldawg Collision

12

Bulldawg Collision is a fullservice automotive, truck and RV collision repair shop servicing Gainesville and surrounding areas with door dings, glass repairs and fender benders, to major collisions and frame straightening. The 40,000 square foot facility has some of the most advanced equipment available, enabling professionals at the shop the ability to repair vehicles back to factory specifications quickly. They use only the finest materials available allowing warranties for repairs as long as you own your vehicle. Employees continually train and attend classes to keep knowledge and skills up-to-date with today's hitech manufacturing and repair techniques Bulldawg Collision is "the Top Dawg" among bodyshops in Gainesville! Bulldawg Collision, 2323-A Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-503-7116. bulldawgcollision.com

The Ship Station

The Ship Station is a locally owned Independent Pack & Ship store that provides “Many Great Services… All Under One Roof.”

With the ability to ship UPS, FedEx, and US Postal, they find the best price to fit your needs. Drop off ready to ship, pre-paid packages at no charge. They offer a wide variety of other services such as, Private Mailbox Rentals, Copy-Fax-Notary Services, Laminating & Binding, Business Cards, Rubber Stamps, Packing Supplies and over 50 different sizes of boxes in stock. Also, in the same location, EZ Signs can fill your need for Signs, Banners, Car Magnets, Yard Signs and much, much more. The Ship Station is conveniently located at 250 John W. Morrow Jr Parkway, next to CiCi’s Pizza, with easy access and ample parking.

The Ship Station makes Shipping Easy! 770-536-SHIP (7447). theshipstation.com

Host a Ribbon Cutting The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce conducts ribbon cutting ceremonies as a FREE service for Chamber members. Ceremonies can be performed as a single event or in conjunction with an open house or grand opening. Greater Hall Chamber staff provides the camera, the guests, and, of course, the very large scissors.

There are many benefits to hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony including free publicity with photo and company info published in the Greater Hall Chamber’s BusinessLink newsletter. Ribbon Cuttings are conducted only for new Chamber members or a member celebrating a large-scale renovation or relocation. The staff assists in coordinating the event, adds the event to the Chamber’s online calendar at greaterhallchamber.com, posts photo on Chamber’s Facebook page, invites the Chamber’s Ambassadors Council to assist, provides VIP Lists, and publishes photo and description of company in BusinessLink newsletter. Details: Michelle Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber Membership Coordinator, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

Shape Innovation, Inc.

Molly Hubbard, owner of Shape Innovation, cuts ribbon to celebrate their new Greater Hall Chamber membership. Shape Innovation specializes in foam and styrofoam products including architectural shapes, balls and spheres, cake dummies, floral shapes, packaging foam, movie and event props, signs & more.

5806 Hood Street, Lula GA, 30554. 800-224-3036. shapeinnovation.com

Lakeshore Family & Cosmetic Dentistry Lakeshore Family and Cosmetic Dentistry recently celebrated the grand re-opening of their office with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The office offers the newest technology including digital x-rays, intraoral pictures, Cerec Crowns (made in the office and 4-times stronger than traditional crowns), Captek crowns, implants, Valplast partials, veneers, one-hour whitening, and much more. They have convenient hours including Saturday's and accept most insurance plans. The staff is very knowledgeable and bilingual (Se Habla Espanol).

Lakeshore Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is conveniently located at 300 Pearl Nix Parkway, Suite D, in Gainesville. 770-536-1957.

Love it Again Thrift Store

Sheneva Whitley, President, Ps51 Ministries, Inc., cuts ribbon at Love It Again, a unique thrift store and the face of Ps51 Ministries, a non-profit organization confronting the social injustice of human trafficking in the area. The ministry raises awareness in the community and educates on the issues of trafficking. Love It Again, open MondaySaturday, 10 am-6pm, sells new and gently used stylish fashions at affordable prices and specializes in home décor, accessories, shoes, and clothing for women, men and children. They also accept items in good to excellent condition, and all donations are tax deductible. Ps51 Ministries is developing a program to specifically meet the recovery needs of girls rescued from human trafficking, and 100% of the proceeds from Love It Again Thrift will fund this developing project. 2888 Browns Bridge Road, Suite K, Gainesville, GA 30504. (678) 318-1880. ps51ministries.com

Small Business of the Month

Daniel's Charter bus amenities include comfortable Jimmy Cantrell (left) and brother Ricky seats, overhead storage, DVD System, individual founded Daniel's Charters in 1998 and ventilation, wireless microphones and rest room. now run three company divisions.

Daniel's Charters began in 1995 as a family vacation when Jimmy Cantrell bought and remodled an old bus. After the vacation, the bus was used to transport youth to church camp. The next year, a large group of people wanted to go on the "Cantrell Out-West" vacation. To accommodate so many people, Jimmy bought a newer bus.

As the need for the bus grew, so did the need for forming a business. In 1998, Jimmy and his brother Ricky formed Daniel's Charters. Today, Daniel's is a full-service charter bus company. Daniel's Discovery Tours, formed in 2007, provides highquality, comfortable, escorted motor coach tours to destinations throughout the United States and Canada. And, in 2008 Daniel's Educational Tours was added to ensure students were experiencing fun and educational opportunities outside the confines of the classroom. The company also offers motor coach repair and service and was named Georgia Motorcoach Operator of the Year in 2004 and 2008 and won United Motor Coach Association's Vision Award in 2006. danielscharters.com

2 columns 4.4167 x5

Creative Remodeling Ed Poitras 2274 Sidney Drive Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 344-9615 Building/Remodeling Dollar Wise Discount Grocery Tony Craft 528 Bradford Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 533-9473 Retail /Grocery Fogo Data Centers Curtis Martin 340 Tom Reeve Drive Carrollton, GA 30117 (678) 340-3646 Information Technology fogodatacenters.com

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Ben Haupt 600 S Enota Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-2428 Church goodshepherdgainesville.org Pete Keys 5214 Forest Cove Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (678) 997-9682 Individual member pcaga.biz Love It Again Thrift Sheneva Whitley 2888 Browns Bridge Road Suite K Gainesville, GA 30504 (678) 318-1880 Non-Profit/Ministry ps51ministries.com Martin Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Mike Fowler 160 Maxey Boulevard Athens, GA 30601

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

(706) 543-3851 Heating & Air/Electric martinmechanical.com Ready Set Load, LLC AJ Brown 5207 Belle Wood Court Suite 100 Buford, GA 30518 (678) 394-2200 Transportation & Trucking readysetload.net Mandy Reece 761 Chattahoochee Place Gainesville, GA 30506 (678) 407-7364 Individual member School Tools & Office Pro's John Jones 2121 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-7767 Retail - Office Equipment officeprosonline.com To join the Chamber, call 770-532-6206 or online at greaterhallchamber.com

February 1, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/4 Page Ad

Comfort Keepers Lisa Smith Post Office Box 668 Blairsville, GA 30512 (706) 835-2607 Medical/Home Health comfortkeeper.com

Membership Development

Daniel's Charters

Welcome New Chamber Members

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Key Economic Indicators

February 1, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

Nominations for 2011-12 Class Now Accepted

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2011-2012 class. Participants will include a cross-section of individuals and must be 25 years old. Leadership Hall participants develop knowledge of the community through a series of one-day sessions, August through April. Topics covered include quality of life, education, health and social services, city and state governments, judicial, and economic development.

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Dec 2010

N/A

To make a nomination for Leadership Hall County, contact Dana Miller, Vice President of Education at the Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206 ext. 113.

Download a Leadership Hall nomination form online at greaterhallchamber.com

Hackers Holiday Golf

Tournament Sponsorships Now Available!

Nov 2010

8.8

Mar 10

10.1%

6

2

Dec 2009

N/A

Cherokee Dawson

N/A N/A

Forsyth

N/A

U.S.

D J F M A M J J A S O N D

9

Gainesville City

Gwinnett N/A Jackson N/A Ga Mountains N/A State of Georgia 10.2

4

One Year Ago

9.4

2010

09

Updated 1/28

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators 193,548,422 2 columns 224,002,928 190,188,360 4.4167 x 10 12-Month Low

Hall County

2.0

$

Previous Month

One Year Ago

November 2010

December 2009

$

$

March 10

193,716,240

$

Latest December 2010

1.0

Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents J F M A M J J A S O N retail sales of approximately $100 million.

2010 Updated 1/28

Join scratch golfers and hackers alike for the Chamber's 32nd Annual Hackers Holiday on Friday, April 15 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands.

Cost is $150 per player; $600 team (4some). Fee includes green fee, cart fee, box lunch and reception. Register yourself or a team. Awards include a Hole-In-One prize along with closest to the pin, longest drive and more. 19th Hole Reception at Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament the clubhouse follows the tournament.

Friday, April 15

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

December 6 Previous Month

One Year Ago

2009 Total

Nov 2010

Dec 2009

214

6

21

152

2010 YTD

Area Permits

County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Dec 2010 3 2 43 92 1

Dec 2009 1 1 29 78 8

Nov 2010 4 1 48 3 3

Total 2009 53 26 328 823 76

2010 YTD 45 33 647 1,012 39

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home

Area

WIN $1,000 CASH! A Golf Ball Drop Raffle will take place at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club to kick of the 32nd Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on April 15.

A helicopter will drop a numbered ball for each ticket sold! Closest to hole wins! $10 per ticket or 3 tickets for $20. Do not have to be present to win. Details: Robyn Lynch, 770-532-6202. Email: rlynch@ghcc.com

12-Month High

8

Latest

Previous Month

Tuition for each participant is $800 for Chamber members and $970 for non-Chamber members, which includes a one-year Chamber individual membership. Individuals must be nominated for the program by March 15, 2011. Once nominated, the person will be asked to complete a detailed application. All applicants are reviewed by a selection committee, and final class members are selected from all applications submitted.

10

100’s millions of dollars

Leadership Hall County was initiated by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce in 1983, and since then, over 600 people have graduated from the program. Class members are nominated by former participants and selected by the Leadership Hall County Committee. The Greater Hall Chamber Leadership Hall County program provides a learning experience for existing and emerging leaders of the Greater Hall area and graduates continue to be involved in many areas of volunteer and civic service in our community.

Percent

E d uc at i o n & Wo r k f o r c e

Leadership Hall County

Dec 2010

Avg Dec Price 2009

Avg Price

Nov 2010

Avg Price

Total 2009

Avg Total Price 2010

Avg Price

City

13

92,331

10

97,630

10

95,675

90

112,473 119

130,529

North

21

228,542

20

254,194

24

177,353

254

237,285 279

203,389

East

20

94,030

19

94,347

17

106,852

153

94,058 144

89,653

South

23

202,615

19

205,055

14

135,561

191

186,246 172

133,791

West

32

209,684

29

223,806

39

160,728

338

219,429 374

170,098 Updated 1/28

Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:

Tommy Howard 770-718-5204

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

Student Art & Essay Winners

The Annual Arbor Day Celebration is February 18 at 10 a.m. at the new Gainesville Public Service Complex. Open to the public, the event is sponsored by Hall County Master Gardeners, Full Bloom Nursery, Keep Hall Beautiful, Premier Georgia Printing 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. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

New Community Magazine The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Great Southern Publishers continue advertising sales through this month for the 20112012 Community Magazine. The four-color publication will be used as a promotional tool in recruiting business, retaining existing businesses, and as a quality-of-life snapshot of the Greater Hall County area. It will also be an all-inclusive newcomer's guide to greet and inform new residents about all our community has to offer.

The magazine contains in-depth community information, economic development statistics and information on education, healthcare, and anything else a newcomer would need to know.

The guide will be distributed to all advertisers and at the Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center in Gainesville. Many Chamber businesses will display the magazine year round. If there is but one publication to be included in this year, this is it! Capture this exciting opportunity! Contact Audrey Rawls at the Chamber, 770-532-6206, or on her cell, 404-431-3363, to reserve your space in the new edition and put your business in touch with this exclusive market. The magazine is being produced in partnership with Great Southern Publishers, Inc., a leader in publishing chamber publications, visitors guides, newcomers guides, maps and regional magazines throughout Georgia, and the Carolinas for more than 25 years.

4 columns 4.4167 x5

February 1, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/2 Page Ad

Community Development

The Greater Hall Chamber Beautification Committee and Georgia Forestry Service announce winners of the 2011 Arbor Day Art and Essay Contest. Over 25 works of art and 15 essays were entered by 3rd and 5th grade elementary students from schools in Gainesville-Hall County, along with home schoolers.

Art contest for third graders. Topic: "Trees, the Perfect Renewable Resource!" Art by Joshua Castillo, a third grader at McEver First place: Joshua Castillo, McEver Elementary, won the Arbor Day Art Contest.

Elementary, teacher: Kristi Copous. Runner ups: Alivia Farley, Lula Elementary, teacher: Larrece Groover and Eduardo Gutierrez, Myers Elementary, teacher: Ms. Halley. This year’s winning artwork will be sent on to the National Competition this month, and a copy of the three winners will hang in the Quinlan Visual Arts Center after Arbor Day. Essay contest for fifth graders: Topic: "What role should trees play in meeting our country’s energy needs?" First Place: Chalet Watkins, Friendship Elementary, teacher: Annette Taylor. Runner ups: Brooklyn Wilson, Lula Elementary, teacher: Vicki Savage and Lindsey Grater, Lanier Elementary, teacher: Marilyn Hamblen.

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Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber Events HALLmark Investors Celebration Wednesday, February 2 7:30 a.m.

Gainesville Civic Center

Business BEFORE Hours Friday, February 18 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Summers Landing Limestone Assisted Living Gainesville

Small Business Seminar Tuesday, February 8 "Retirement Plans" Presented by Jay Burkett, United Community Bank 7:45 - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber

Arbor Day Celebration Friday, February 18 10:00 a.m.

City Public Service Center

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

South Hall Marketing Workshop Wednesday, February 23 Presented by FullMedia 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Spout Springs Library Business AFTER Hours Thursday, Feburary 24 5:15 - 7:15 p.m.

Northeast Georgia General, Restorative & Implant Dentistry

CAR-RT SORT

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.