Business Link August 6, 2013

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– Healthcare Reform Regulations –

FREE ADMISSION! OPEN TO– PUBLIC! – Open to the Public

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Job Fair

Wednesday, April 10

Gainesville Civic Center – 10 am - 3 pm

$15 Chamber Members – $20 Non-Members – Includes Light Breakfast Registration required. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206. alewis@ghcc.com

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A Golf Ball Drop Raffle will take place atGeorgia Legacy Dept. on Lanier Golf Club of Insurance to kick off Hackers Holiday on Friday, April 26. A helicopter will drop Rich Sanders a numbered ball for each ticket sold! Closest to hole wins! $10 per & Rob Fowler, Turner, Wood Sanders Law Firm ticket or 3 tickets for $20. Do not have to be present to win. Megan Smith Insurance Dr. Phaedra Corso Martin, 770-532-6206.

Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. Register for the Steve McNeilly University Georgia Health greaterhallchamber.com tournament andofthe raffle online: Northeast Georgia Health System Policy & Management

Date: April 18 • Race Bold Business Directory Listing and Your Company Logo the ER C Hon B A Run: 6:00 p.m Chamber’s website (Value: $50) M Walk: 6:10 p.m.

A Fee (Value: $35) • Waived Membership Processing/Initiation • Register Greater Hall Chamber Membership CD with 4,000 Chamber Members, Online: address, phone listed (Value: $200) ChamberChase5k.com

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Impact on Small & Large Businesses

WINPanel $1,000 CASH!Commissioner Ralph Hudgens of Experts:

Membership Campaign Incentives

• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and coverage in the Chamber’s monthly Online Ends: BusinessRegistration Link newsletter April 12th • Event Coupons to upcoming Chamber events (Value: $15 per event)

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• Details: Free 48-hour crawler message on AccessNorthGA.com's homepage 770-532-6206 linked to your company's website T

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YF y • TheseTimes: nted b Discount on Business Link newsletter IT COadvertisement(s) RAT itiati Pre O P R • Business Information Listing in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter in • Invitation to the Chamber's New Member BreakfastA&Orientation on Friday, September 27 at the Quinlan Arts Center

Thursday, April 18 • 6:00 pm

Join the Chamber today!

Call Greater Hall Chamber Membership Coordinator Kara Tate at 770-532-6206.

Riverside Military Academy Email: ktate@ghcc.com or join online at greaterhallchamber.com

Save Save the the Date Date Wednesday, April 10 Tuesday, August 13 Job Fair Small Business Seminar Thursday, 1822 Thursday, April August Chamber ChaseHours 5K Business After Friday, April 26 29 Thursday, August Hackers Holiday GolfCoalition South Hall Business

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page 14 VISION 2030 page 15 Leadership Hall County page 15

Wednesday, September 18

OverGreater 500 people registered for the 6th Annual Chamber Chase The Hall are Chamber's Annual 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on Thursday, April 18 at Riverside Membership Recruitment Campaign Military Academy in Gainesville.

A crowd officially kickoffs on Thursday, August 22 of over 2,000 is expected to participate in the community-wide wellness event! Registration at Business After Hours at The Longis available online through April 12 at ChamberChase5K.com. street Clinic, P.C. in Gainesville. The Registration at through the Chamber office,18. open through April 17. Complete campaign runs September details on the event including race courses The campaign celebration will take place and frequently asked questions alsoHours available online.University The Chamber Chase isSeptember more than at Businessare After at Brenau on Thursday, a run/walk with activities including Fastest CEO, Fastest Team, Best 19 with new member recognition and volunteer awards. Greater Hall T-Shirt Contest, great giveaways and Hall County's Largest Office Party Chamber volunteers are seeking to develop new business relationships with music, food, awards, and recognition following the race!

The and recruit 100 new members.

Chamber Chase, formerly Get Fit Stay Fit, is a program of VISION 2030. Call 770-532-6206 or Register Online at ChamberChase5K.com

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Member Events Upcoming Announcements page 6 page 10 Member Small Business of Announcements page 10 the Month page 12 New Members page New13Members page 12 Leadership Programs Healthcare Reform page 14Column Guest

The Chamber's 34th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament is Friday, April 26 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort.

Cost is $150 per player; $600 team (4some). The tournament's title sponsor is Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia, and play begins with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Entry Fee includes green fee, cart, breakfast, box lunch, snacks and Theatre & Lobby – Formerly Georgia Mountains Center drinks.

Awards will be presented in three flights, along with Hole-In-One prize, closest to the pin, longest drive, a putting and much more. The What to Expect in contest 2014-2015 19th Hole Reception, sponsored by AT&T, with delicious free food and Action Steps for Businesses drink follows the tournament at the clubhouse.

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Small Business of Upcoming the Month Events page page 56

HEALTHCARE Reform Seminar

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Newly Elected Economic Officers Development page 4 page 4

34th Annual Hackers Holiday Annual Chamber Chase 5K isDrive April 18 Membership

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Chairman's Column Chairman's Column page 2 page 2

A A Publication Publication of of the the Greater Greater Hall Hall Chamber Chamber of of Commerce Commerce

August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Join the Greater Hall Chamber Now! Membership Drive Aug 22-Sept 18 The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Membership Recruitment Campaign officially kickoffs on Thursday, August 22 at Business After Hours at The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. in Gainesville. Over 50 volunteers are gearing up to recruit new Chamber members and are offering a host of incentives. Chamber Vice Chair of Membership Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design, is leading the drive.

Dixie Truelove Truelove Dairy, Inc. 2013-2014 Chair Greater Hall Chamber

The Membership Campaign runs through September 18 with Business After Hours and campaign awards on September 19 at Brenau University. Volunteers are seeking to develop new business relationships and recruit 100 new members. Chamber Members enjoy so many benefits including group health insurance discounts, advertising opportunities, monthly networking events, committee participation, small business development and more. In addition, a Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce NOW through September 18. (See box below.)

A national survey of 2,000 adults reveals that being active in a local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy because two-thirds of consumers believe that such companies use good business practices, are reputable, care about their customers, and are involved in the community.

The study, conducted by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta-based strategic consulting firm, found consumer perceptions of chamber members to be positive in many ways: • When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 49% more likely to think favorably of it and 80% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future.

• If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber, consumers are 10% more likely to think that its products stack up better against its competition.

• When consumers know that an insurance company is a member of the chamber, they are 36% more likely to think favorably of the company.

Major Impact on Small Businesses Small businesses represent the largest segment of most local chamber membership rolls, and the study indicates that chamber membership has consistent and powerful benefits for small businesses.

(85% of the Greater Hall Chamber's members are small businesses.) If respondents know that a small business is a member of its local chamber, the business enjoys a 49% increase in its consumer favorability rating, a 73% increase in consumer awareness, a 68% increase in its local reputation, and an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future.

The key factor in developing and maintaining positive consumer perception of chamber members, the Schapiro Group said, was that “positive outcomes only occur when consumers know that a business is a chamber member (i.e., being involved in the chamber is a facet of the company's reputation).”

Join today! Call Greater Hall Chamber Membership Coordinator Kara Tate at 770-532-6206.

Email: ktate@ghcc.com or join online at greaterhallchamber.com Special Incentives Package available when you join the Chamber NOW thru September 18: • Bold Business Directory Listing and Your Company Logo on the Chamber’s website (Value: $50) • Waived Processing/Initiation Fee (Value: $35) • Membership CD with 4,000 Chamber Members, address, phone listed (Value: $200) • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and coverage in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter • Event Coupons to upcoming Chamber events (Value: $15 per event) • Free 48-hour crawler message on AccessNorthGA.com's homepage linked to your website • The Times: Discount on Business Link newsletter advertisement(s)

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• Your Business Information Listed in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter • Invitation to the New Member Breakfast & Orientation on Friday, September 27 at the Quinlan Art Center

Business Link VOLUME 19 ISSUE 8 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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

Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications Jullie King The Longstreet Clinic

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

Vice Chair, Government William Bagwell Homestead Investments

Senior Advisor Denise Deal The Sassafras Group

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

Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda

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

President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Chair, VISION 2030 Carl Romberg, Citisco Meg Nivens, Executive Director

Board of Directors 2013-2014 Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness Col James Benson, Riverside Military Academy Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo

Scott McGarity, McGarity’s Business Products Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health System Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Sid Chandler, Independence Bank of Georgia Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Greg Ours, Poly Enterprises Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy

Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools Sam Evans, Oakwood City Council Tony Funari, Funari Realty, City of Braselton Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising Will Hicks, Stifel Nicolaus Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage

Will Schofield, Hall County Schools Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Pao Sengkhammee, Zebra Technologies Darrell Snyder, Georgia Power Dennis Stockton, The Times Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Dr. Mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Associate Directors 2013-2014 Jonathan Collins, BB&T

Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow

Bruce Eades, Insurance Office of America

Sierra McMullen, Charter Business

Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services

Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx

Joy Fowler, Hamilton State Bank

Sherry Ridgway, Global IT

Connie Hagler, CMIT Solutions

Trey Wood, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Andy Kalinauskus, Conditioned Air Systems

Todd Young, Publix

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

Education Dana Miller, Vice President South Hall Council & Goverment Affairs Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Meg Nivens, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

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August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

New Life Science Firm, AEON

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AEON employees participate in a ribbon cutting ceremony in July at the facility in Gainesville. (Center, L-R): Melvina Chapman, Billing Manager; Sana Ali, Foundation & Marketing Director; Shawn Desai, PhD, JD (with scissors), Chief Technology Officer; Lois Bolt, Sales & Marketing Coordinator. Not pictured, William Fasig, Chief Marketing Officer and Alex Roy, Business Development.

Housed in a 28,000 square foot, state-of-the-art facility in Gainesville, AEON Clinical Laboratories provides world-class drug testing services with physician clients across the nation. Abuse of prescription pain medications has increased greatly over the last decade. AEON Clinical assists physicians by using the most advanced technology available to ensure patients are compliant with their pain management therapy. Tests may be ordered online through a secure portal with fast (48-72 hour) turnaround, streamlined reports, and results online or EMR. The company has 60 employees and relocated to Gainesville-Hall County in April.

“We pride ourselves on being 100% client focused, and our customer service is unparalleled. The entire AEON Clinical team is available 24/7,” said Dr. Shawn Desai JD, PhD, CTO of AEON Clinical. “Our company has been very fortunate to experience exponential growth within the last year, and we hope to continue this trend.”

“AEON Clinical Laboratories has joined a great community for supporting life sciences and healthcare related businesses,” said Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Economic Development. “Gainesville-Hall County is a regional center for many healthcare and life sciences services because of the depth of talent, a strong network of service providers and access to a growing regional population.”

Lewis joins Chamber Staff Amanda Lewis has joined the Greater Hall Chamber staff as Project Manager focusing on small business development. Originally from Dublin, Ohio, Amanda has been a Gainesville resident for the last 17 years. She earned an Associates Degree in Business Administration from Gainesville State College in 2008, graduating with honors, and as a member of Phi Theta Kappa. She was employed by Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL), serving nearly 12 years as a Services Specialist in areas of Trade Act Case Management, Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Intake Case Management, Employment Services, Amanda Lewis and Unemployment Insurance Claims Processing.

Project Manager Most recently, she worked as Employer Marketing Greater Hall Chamber Representative, promoting GDOL services within Hall, Forsyth, Lumpkin, Dawson and White counties. She also assisted area employers with obtaining Work Opportunity Tax Credits, administered the Georgia Works job training program, and provided recruitment assistance. Amanda is married to Scott Lewis, owner of Blue Creek Enterprises.

New Wage & Benefit Report The Chamber's 2013-2014 WAGE & BENEFIT REPORT is now available. A resource prepared by the Economic Development Division, the publication is used by companies as a tool to ensure employers remain competitive in local compensation and benefits practices.

There were 47 Greater Hall area employers participating in the study. Of the participants, 74% are manufacturing companies and 26% non-manufacturing. The report includes wage information on 49 job summaries and also a pay practice section. 82% of companies surveyed anticipate giving an employee increase this year with an average increase of 2.9%.

The 2013-2014 Wage & Benefit Report is available at the Greater Hall Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. $30 for Chamber members; $50, Non-Members (+shipping and handling). For more information, contact Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-5326206 x 108. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com

Gainesville-Hall County

Top 20 Employers

AEON Clinical Laboratories, 2225 Centennial Drive , Gainesville, GA 30504.

678-276-8412. aeonclinical.com

Drug testing in business plays an important role in workforce recruitment and ongoing workplace safety. Businesses that participate in the Greater Hall Chamber ’s certified Drugs Don’t Work program reduce medical costs and lost productivity, lower employee turnover and reduce absenteeism, while qualifying for up to a 7.5% discount on workers' compensation premiums. Some 38-50% of workers' compensation claims are related to substance abuse. A program of the Georgia Chamber, the Georgia Department of Human Resources and State Board of Workers Compensation, the Greater Hall Chamber facilitates the Drugs Don't Work program for companies at a minimal cost annually to provide the necessary tools to empower business managers to maintain a drug-free workplace. Over 80 area companies are participating in the program. For enrollment and certification through Drugs Don't Work, contact Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber VP of Existing Industry, 770-532-6206. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com

Northeast Georgia Medical Center

5,200

Gainesville City Government

Fieldale Farms

2,400

Wrigley Manufacturing Company

730 700

Hall County School System

1,840

Wal-Mart Super Centers (2)

690

Pilgrims

1,600

The Longstreet Clinic, PC

620

Hall County Government

1,250

KIK Gainesville

580

Mar-Jac,Inc.

1,250

ZF Gainesville, LLC (3)

560

Kubota Manufacturing of America

1,100

Koch Food, Inc.

520

Perdue Farms

950

Lake Lanier Islands Resort

500

Victory Processing LLC

900

University of North Georgia

470

Gainesville City School System

850

TRW Automotive

440

Listed by number of employees in 2013. Compiled by Chamber Economic Development Division.

Gainesville-Hall County offers new and existing businesses unparalleled opportunities and support in a pro-business atmosphere with stable taxes, incentives, infrastructure, education excellence, and a superior labor force. These factors along with strong and visionary leadership serve to secure Gainesville-Hall County's position of economic vigor, prosperity and quality of life.

South Hall Business Coalition

Small Business Success Seminar

Network Over Coffee Join the Chamber's Network Over Coffee program. The group meets the 2nd & 4th Wednesday each month. The next meeting is Wednesday, August 14 at 8:30 a.m. at Chick-fil-A of Gainesville.

Grab a cup of coffee and catch up with other professionals. Details: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206.

Email: ktate@ghcc.com

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August 6, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

(Front, L-R): Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda (sponsor); Nizar Bhojani, TextByChoice; Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage (sponsor). (Back, L-R): Josh Stephens, Greater Hall Chamber; Curt Sloyer, Milton Martin Honda. Nizar Bhojani presented a program on texting as today's most popular form of marketing. The next Small Business Seminar is Tuesday, August 13 and will feature a program by the UGA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) with discussion and testimonials from local small businesses who have worked with the SBDC. The seminar will include a door prize of one admission to the UGA SBDC's GrowthSmart 2014 Program (a $900 value; subject to admissions criteria set by the UGA SBDC). Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206. Email: alewis@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com

Economic Development

(L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber, with The Longstreet Clinic's Dr. Andrew Reisman, Dr. Kommerina Daling, Dr. John Range, Dr. Marti Gibbs and Mimi Collins, Administrator of TLC. The South Hall Business Coalition met at The Longstreet Clinic's Department of Family Medicine in Oakwood in June. The Coalition will meet on Thursday, August 29 at 8:00 a.m. at Lanier Charter Career Academy for an update on the Hall County School System by Superintendent Will Schofield. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

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Meetings & Events

August 2013 Wednesday, August 7 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, August 8 Leadership Hall County Lake Program Thursday, August 29 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Clarks Bridge Park South Hall Business Coalition "Hall County Schools Update" Friday, August 9 Presented by Will Schofield, Superintendent, Economic Development Council Hall County Schools 7:30 a.m. – Chamber 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Lanier Charter Career Academy Tuesday, August 13 Small Business Success Seminar SEPTEMBER "Small Business Resources" Tuesday, September 10 Presented by the UGA Small Business Small Business Success Seminar Development Center (SBDC) 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, August 13 Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café Wednesday, August 14 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Chick-fil-A of Gainesville Wednesday, August 14 Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Luna's in Downtown Gainesville

August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Thursday, August 15 Chamber Executive Board Retreat 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Lake Lanier Islands Resort

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Wednesday, August 28 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Calliope Sweets in Flowery Branch

Wednesday, August 21 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, August 20 Youth Leadership Kickoff Program 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Wednesday, August 21 Lunch 'n Learn 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Recess Southern Gastro Pub Thursday, August 22 Greater Hall Chamber Board 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Thursday, August 22 Business After Hours Sponsor: The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Longstreet Main Campus at 725 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville

Thursday, September 12 South Hall Business Coalition "Road Atlanta/16th Annual Petit LeMans and City of Braselton Update" 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Road Atlanta Wednesday, September 18 Healthcare Reform Seminar 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Brenau Downtown Center Theater (Formerly Georgia Mountains Center)

Business After Hours Thursday, August 22 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Longstreet Clinic Main Campus Atrium 725 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville Sponsored by The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-members • Food by 2 Dog Cafe • Live Music You'll not want to miss this Business After Hours, as we will gather in the Atrium of The Longstreet Clinic's (TLC) main campus. Enter from Jesse Jewell or Broad Street.

Great food by 2 Dog Cafe, live music by Allen Nivens and Dr. Michael Gottsman, a TLC orthopaedic surgeon! Fantastic door prizes and the Cash Pot Prize!

South Hall Business Coalition Thursday, August 29 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Lanier Charter Career Academy 2719 Tumbling Creek Road in Gainesville $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members; Light Breakfast Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN Radio Join the South Hall Business Coalition for an update on the Hall County School System presented by Superintendent Will Schofield. Information: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com

Wednesday, September 18 Lunch 'n Learn 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Recess Southern Gastro Pub Thursday, September 19 Business After Hours Sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center 5:00-6:00 p.m. – NEGA History Center 6:00-7:00 p.m. – Jacobs Building/Brenau Wednesday, September 25 Small Business Marketing Workshop Presented by Red Clay Interactive A Joint Program of the Small Business Council and the South Hall Business Coalition 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. – Location TBA Thursday, September 26 Chamber Board Meeting 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Friday, September 27 New Member Breakfast & Orientation 8:00 a.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center Get details and make reservations for these and other Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

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Member Announcements August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Congressman Doug Collins will be guest speaker at the Chamber's Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, August 22 at 12 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. Open to Chamber members.

Network with Chamber leadership and get involved! Reservations required. $12, includes lunch. RSVP: Joy Sims, 770-532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com • Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Psychiatry welcomes Parul Dev, MD. NGPG Psychiatry offers treatment for a variety of psychiatric conditions with three locations. ngpg.org/psychiatry • LaDon Shaw of Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia announced troops helped make 1,359 pillow case dresses for girls in Liberia as part of a service project.

The dresses were recently presented to a representative from Liberia at a Rotary Club meeting in Gainesville. gshg.org • Save the date! 2014 Chamber Chase 5K Run & 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 27 at Riverside Military Academy. For details, email: Megan Martin at mmartin@ghcc.com • Healthgrades, the nation’s largest independent healthcare ratings company, awarded the Northeast Georgia Medical Center with the Women’s Health Excellence Award™ for 2013 for providing superior healthcare to women for the second year in a row. nghs.com • Hall County's Allen Creek Soccer Complex hosted the largest lacrosse tournament in the Southeast in July.

The Georgia Southern Shootout brought 15,000 visitors to Hall County, booking all hotels in Gainesville. Tournament officials cite the selection of Hall County because of the quality of the fields at Allen Creek and the support of Mike Little, Director of Parks and Leisure Services. hallcounty.org • Tyler H. Smiley joined the ministry of Lakewood Baptist Church in Gainesville as associate missions pastor. A graduate of the University of North Georgia, he recently earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Denver Theological Seminary in Colorado. lakewoodlife.org • Hall County's fireworks originally scheduled for July 4 at Laurel Park are rescheduled for Labor Day (Sept. 2).

The event benefits the American Legion Paul E. Bolding Post 7. hallcounty.org • Tickets are now on sale for Gainesville Theatre Alliance's (GTA) 2013-14 season. GTA is a collaboration of the University of North Georgia, Brenau University, and theatre professionals in North Georgia. On August 16 GTA’s

Southern Stage production presents LOMBARDI, an all professional production based on the Pulitzer Prize winning biography of football coach Vince Lombardi. GTA Southern Stage is a partnership with the Buford housed in the city's new $18 million community center. gainesvilletheatreallinace.org • All State Agent Namon Collins in conjunction with the Allstate Foundation and Allstate Agency Hands in the Community Grant donated $1000 to Gainesville's Center Point Mentor Program. Namon is an active Chamber volunteer and has been a part of the mentorship program for six years. allstateagencies.com/namoncollins/ • The Children’s Center for Hope & Healing's 6th annual gala is August 17 at 7:00 pm at the Smithgall Arts Center with live music by award-winning Daddy-O-Strut, a high-energy dance band, a silent auction and food by Oakwood Occasions. Tickets: call 770-532-6530 or visit hopeandhealingga.org • Mike Cottrell College of Business at the University of North Georgia announces Dr. Russell Teasley, associate professor of management and international business. He was most recently a graduate professor at Western Carolina University. Nick Kastner was named marketing manager. Kastner previously served as interactive marketing director for Red Clay Interactive. Mike & Lynn Cottrell, longtime supporters of the university, have developed a new scholarship fund to provide current and incoming students opportunities to receive a quality business education and cover many expenses not covered by the HOPE Scholarship. ung.edu • The Association for Corporate Growth (Atlanta chapter) honored Pro View Foods as one of Georgia’s fastest growing companies with a ‘Georgia Fast 40’ award. Pro View ranked 10th in its class of companies with revenues exceeding $60 million. Founded in 2007

by B. Jan Cooley, the company is a poultry provider for school food service, institutional, private label and commodity exports with three plants in Gainesville and Braselton and employing 560. proviewfoods.com • Gregg Gordon, President, GTO 2000, announced plans to increase their workforce by 25% as sales continue to soar.

The transportation logistics industry was founded in 1975 and currently has 30 employees at the Gainesville corporate location and their network of over 25 offices across the U.S. gto2000.com

• Northeast Georgia Medical Center was ranked as one of the best hospitals for 2013-14 by U.S. News & World Report.

Northeast Georgia Health System was recognized as a Most Wired Hospital & Health System in the July issue of Hospitals & Health Networks magazine. NGHS is one of only four health systems in Georgia to make the list. nghs.com • Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia announces J. Frayne Bentley as Senior Vice President & Group Manager of SBA Lending. With over 31 years of commercial lending experience, 26 specializing in SBA Lending, Bentley has established programs for several Metro Atlanta lending institutions. Bentley

is a board member of Small Business Access Partners, a non-profit authorized by the Small Business Administration. chattahoocheebank.com • Colleen Manji, owner and certified instructor of Jazzercise, a dance fitness program, announced the opening of a new fitness center at 3510-C Thompson Bridge Road in the Gainesville-North Hall area. The new fitness center joins Jazzercise of Braselton and will offer 18 classes weekly on opening and 26 classes weekly starting September 30. Details: 678-357-1690, or visit jazzercise.com

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

McEver Road Self Storage Nancy McGaha and John Stoecker from cut ribbon for McEver Road Self Storage, a 600-unit self storage rental facility with units ranging 5x10 to 10x40. Climate controlled units are available. The facility serves the Oakwood, Flowery Branch and Gainesville area and recently upgraded and redesigned the parking areas for boats, RVs and commercial parking of trucks, service vehicles and trailers. Chamber discounts and specials available. 5140 McEver Road, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-534-5011. absolutemgmt.com/mcever

Annual Ambassador Awards The Ambassadors recently celebrated with an end of the year cocktail reception at Fish Tales Lakeside Grille in Flowery Branch. The houseboat was donated by Memorial Park Funeral Home. (L-R): Jeff Allen, CT Solutions; Kara Tate, Greater Hall Chamber; James Wright, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker; Robin Nation, Gainesville Signs & Graphics; Tami Lee, Brenau University; Rosanne Short, Brenau University; Debbie Morrin, Comcast Spotlight; Dave Simpson, Simpson Custom Photography; Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications & Electronics; George Danns, University of North Georgia; Jerry Poirier, Me, Myself & I Home Renovations; Charles White. The Ambassador of the Year Award was presented to Rosanne Short, Brenau University. Other awards included new Ambassador of the Year – Christy Krummert, Inova Payroll. Ambassador MVP – Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications. Ribbon Cutting Award – Robin Nation, Gainesville Signs & Graphics. Perfect Attendance – George Danns, University of North Georgia and Rosanne Short, Brenau University. The 2013-2014 Ambassador Council Co-Chairs are Rosanne Short and Robin Nation. To get involved, contact Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. Email: ktate@ghcc.com

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Membership Development

Welcome New Members!

American Legacy Mortgage Stacy Rogers 332 Washington Street Suite 207 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-4404 - Mortgage americanlegacy4u.com Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Annie Valentry 2660 Satellite Boulevard Duluth, GA 30096 (404) 785-7669 - Medical choa.org Collision Church Pastor Ryan Duncan P.O. Box 60 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (678) 960-8820 - Church collisionchurch.com Epting Events Jennifer Fontana 1430 N Chase Street Athens, GA 30601 (706) 353-1913 - Catering / Events eptingevents.com

Forum Communications Katie Dubnik Gainesville, GA (770) 654-1891 - Marketing / PR forumspeaks.com KYF Process Documentation, LLC Cherie Bates 3451 Hickory Lake Drive Gainesville, GA 30506 (404) 395-8659 - Business Services Liberty Candy Co. Karen Ching 5518 Main Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 965-5577 - Retail / Candy Shop Lula Pharmacy & Foothills Gift Shop Karen Bowling 6102 Banks Street Lula, GA 30554 (770) 869-3616 - Medical - Pharmacy lulapharmacy.com

Morningside of Gainesville Julie Ozley 2435 Limestone Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-6100 - Assisted Living morningsideofgainesville.com Southeast Auction Services Scott Anderson 5510 Elders Ridge Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (678) 200-5177 - Auction Services United Pain & Wellness Center of NEGA Nick Jooma 1016 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 992-5353 - Medical unitedpainandwellness.com To join the Greater Hall Chamber, call Kara Tate, Membership Coordinator at 770-532-6206. Annual Membership Campaign kicks off August 22 with a special incentive package! Online: greaterhallchamber.com

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August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Full Media is an Internet marketing and web development company focused on helping its clients, regardless of size or industry, grow through an effective use of the Internet.

Founded in April 2008 by Davis White, Kevin West, Robby Monk and Kris Nordholz, Full Media has grown to a team of 32 professionals with a Chamber Chair Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy; Chamber Vice wide array of skills Chair of Membership Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance, with Full Media's Kris Nordholz, CEO, and Robby in website design, web development, Monk, recipients of the Small Business of the Month Award at web-based program- the Chamber Board of Directors Meeting. ming, Internet marketing, search engine optimization, paid search marketing and social media marketing. The company now has three offices located in Gainesville, Chattanooga, Tennessee and Greenville, South Carolina and serves over 400 clients located in 25 different states. fullmedia.com

Friends and

CHARLES E. WHITE, MSFS, CLU

12

Small Business of the Month Full Media

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Family For the Wedding, Reunion, or just because you haven’t seen each other in a while, a visit with Friends and Family is very special.

Let the Holiday Inn Lanier Centre Hotel assist you in welcoming them graciously with: • Catered Banquets or Intimate Luncheons • New Fireside Lounge and Restaurant • Complimentary American Breakfast Buffet for Hotel Guests • Jacuzzi Suite and Room Service for Romantic Getaways

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Chamber Beautification Programs

MOST FIT COMPANY AWARDS

The Beautification Committee recently toured Enota Elementary School Gardens. Science teacher Gayla Pierce organized 4th grade students to show the group the gardens and answer questions. The school's gardens are irrigated by rainwater and grow everything from conifers and evergreens to perennial flowers. Enota Gardens is a hands-on classroom for students and staff.

As part of the VISION 2030 HealthSmart Community Challenge, the Greater Hall Chamber is conducting its annual survey to seek the “Most Fit Company” in Gainesville-Hall County. Judging criteria for the contest includes wellness, nutrition and fitness opportunities provided for employees. The award is presented in three categories: Large companies (251+ employees), Medium companies (51-250) and Small companies (50 or less). Awards will be presented at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast on October 9 at 7:30 a.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center. 2012 Winners included Aqua-Terra Recycling & Treatment (Small <50 employees); Ace Hardware (Medium); Baldour Electric (Large). Company representatives may complete the Most Fit Company Survey by linking online to the Chamber's homepage at greaterhallchamber.com or dropping by the Chamber office at 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville to pick up a survey. Contact Amanda Lewis at 770-5326206. Email: alewis@ghcc.com. Deadline to submit the survey is September 25.

HEALTHSMART KICKOFF BREAKFAST Wednesday, October 9 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Members of the Hall County “Think About It” Coalition will speak about the prescription drug abuse epidemic at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast. A program of the Medical Association of Georgia (MAG) Foundation, this statewide initiative focuses on implementing a state-wide drug monitoring system, encouraging safe drug disposal, and educating the public and professionals about the dangers of and prevention of prescription drug abuse.

Long time gardeners Jim and Mary Beth Tharp's residence at 3427 Talking Leaves Trail in Gainesville received the Spring Beautification Award and features a large pond with 50 Koi, some over 18 inches, featured in Atlanta Koi Club Pond Tour 2009. The Hosta garden plants date back 30 years and were moved (along with most of the fish) with the Tharps from Illinois. The yard is a registered Wildlife Habitat providing food water and shelter to birds, butterflies and critters.

Full Page Ad 4 columns 10x10"

• Most Fit Company Awards • Catered "HealthSmart" Buffet Breakfast • Great Networking! Important Health & Medical Updates! Door prizes!

Cost: HealthSmart Breakfast is $10 Chamber members; $15 non-members.

HEALTHSMART WELLNESS EXPO Wednesday, October 9 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center

DETAILS For sponsorship opportunities, exhibit information or breakfast reservations, contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

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August 6, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

The Greater Hall Chamber's 7th Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo with complimentary health screenings is FREE and OPEN to the PUBLIC. Over 70 exhibitors will be participating. Health screenings include Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, BMI, Carotid Artery, Asthma and Hearing Screening, and many more. Flu shots available at a minimal cost! FREE salad lunches to first 100 health screening participants. Sponsor opportunities available!

Go ReconÞgure

Community Development

Annual HealthSmart Events

13

Key Economic Indicators

The Kaiser Family Foundation (kff.org) underscored the confusion problem in its latest health tracking poll finding that nearly half of Americans don’t even realize PPACA Rob Fowler Executive Vice President/ is now law and being implemented. More poll results: Partner, Turner, Wood & • 58% of the uninsured and 56% of low-income Smith Insurance households say they lack the information to understand how PPACA will affect them.

• Three in five uninsured Americans say the main reason they currently lack health insurance is because they cannot afford it. There is no indication that PPACA is going to make the coverage any more affordable.

August 6, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Hall County

Latest

June 2013

6.9 Previous Month

Gainesville City

7.9

8

Cherokee Dawson

6.9 6.6

6

Forsyth

6.4

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

7.4 8 7.6 8.3

U.S.

7.6

10

May 2013

6.9

4

12-Month High

2

7.8%

The most significant impacts of the new federal health care plan will hit employers in 2014 and 2015. Now is the time to gain a full understanding of the law and its requirements so that you can make the best decisions possible for you, your employees, and your family.

On July 9, 2013, the IRS provided guidance on the delay of enforcement of the employer mandate under ACA. The delay is until January 1, 2015, however this delay has no effect on the effective date or application of other ACA provisions.

Everyone is confused and wondering which ACA provisions are delayed and what ACA provisions remain in force. Big changes are coming in 2014. Are you ready? There are some key provisions of the law that you must know and that are still in effect:

Employers realize now that their employees have come to expect their employers provide health insurance and other health benefits. Maintaining competitive benefits will be critical to positive recruitment and retention.

Do you understand the details of these key provisions and how it will affect your business, your employees and your bottom line? If your head is spinning and you are confused, then I urge you to make plans to attend the Chamber's Healthcare Reform Seminar on Wednesday, September 18 from 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at the Brenau Downtown Center Theatre (formerly the Georgia Mountains Center).

Last September, this seminar brought 200+ attendees. This year we will have a number of speakers who will provide an overview of the current health care landscape, an update on regulations and provide take away information to help attendees plan for the road ahead. I urge you to sign up early as registration is required, and this year will be a sellout! To register, contact Amanda Lewis at 770-532-6206 Ext. 111 or email: alewis@ghcc.com. See you on September 18.

A past chairman of the Greater Hall Chamber, Rob Fowler is Executive Vice President/ Partner at Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance specializing in employee benefits coverage.

He is recognized as a leader in the insurance profession, in community service and volunteerism, and is a visionary for quality growth and development. Rob is a founding member of the VISION 2030 leadership team and currently serves as chairman of the VISION 2030 Advisory Council.

Aug 2012

One Year Ago

June 2012

Affordability • Minimum Value • Certain Reporting Requirements • SBC Exchange Notices • Application for Advance Premium Credits • ACA Fees W-2 Reporting • Counting Period • Measurement Period • Benefit Mandates

14

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates

J

7.3

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

F

2012

M A M

J

2013 Updated 7/29

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 217,905,584 2 columns 208,524,188 217,672,675 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest May 2013

Previous Month

One Year Ago

March 2013

May 2012

$

$

100’s millions of dollars

It has been over three years since the federal health care law – Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) or Affordable Care Act (ACA) – was signed into law. The law has several other names, but I cannot name them in this article! While the law is overwhelming, confusing and unpopular among Americans across all demographics, it is now the law and vital that we understand it.

Percent

Community Development

Big changes coming in 2014

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 retail sales of approximately $100 million.

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

2012

F

M

A

M

2013 Updated 6/26

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

June 38 Previous Month

2012 Total

One Year Ago

May 2013

June 2012

257

37

21

226

2013 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

June 2013 4 4 145 212 1

June 2012 5 4 99 137 3

May 2013 23 3 289 147 11

Total 2012 44 13 603 1,468 30

2013 YTD 91 30 1,138 1,207 41

Avg Total Price 2013

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home June 2013

Avg Price

June 2012

Avg Price

May 2013

Avg Price

Total 2012

City

19

220,263

18

172,447

18

127,973

137

125,172

110

North

38

213,867

37

192,647

38

195,143

322

151,731

121

195,951

East

22

120,668

18

45,659

10

114,455

167

64,758

66

110,279

Area

166,068

South

29

179,965

31

127,715

27

153,091

198

163,552

96

167,735

West

59

220,158

46

216,982

66

205,622

558

174,979

196

203,313 Updated 7/29

Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call: Tommy Howard 770-718-5204

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

Leadership Hall Kickoff

Leadership Sponsor Opportunities Leadership Hall Transportation Sponsor - $900 Includes sponsor recognition in Chamber’s newsletter, sign on bus, corporate logo on program agenda, marketing materials distributed to class, and opportunity to participate in program.

Youth Leadership Hall Meal Sponsor - $300 Includes recognition in Chamber's newsletter, sign at restaurant/meal venue, corporate logo on agenda, corporate marketing materials distributed to students and chaperons, and opportunity to participate in program. For sponsorship details, contact Dana Miller, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

New Hall County Map

Thank You Chamber Sponsors Chattahoochee Marketing Group • Gainesville Civic Center Georgia Chamber of Commerce • Highland Mountain Beverage J Geyer Advertising • Jacobs Media • Lake Lanier Islands Resort The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. • McDonald's Memorial Park Funeral Home (Houseboat) • Milton Martin Honda Mugele of Amercia • Red Clay Interactive • Riverside Military Academy The Times • WDUN • Wells Fargo

• Bold Business Directory Listing and Company Logo on the Chamber’s website • Waived Processing/Initiation Fee • Membership CD with 4,000 Chamber Members, address, phone listed • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and coverage in Business Link newsletter • Event Coupons to upcoming Chamber events • Free 48-hour crawler message on AccessNorthGA.com linked to your website • The Times: Discount on Business Link newsletter advertisement(s) • Your Business Information Listed in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter • Invitation to New Member Breakfast & Orientation on Friday, September 27 Join TODAY, contact Chamber Membership Coordinator Kara Tate at 770-532-6206 Email: ktate@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com. Incentives expire 9/18/2013

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

August 6, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

The Chamber's NEW Gainesville-Hall County map features the Greater Hall area and municipalities including Gainesville, Clermont, Flowery Branch, Gillsville, Lula, Oakwood, Braselton and Buford.

The map’s cover features the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, the only hospital in Georgia to make two lists: “100 Top Hospitals 2013” by Truven Health Analytics and “America’s 50 Best Hospitals 2013” by HealthGrades. The map is $2 and available at the Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. Details: Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206.

Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

JOIN the Chamber NOW for this Special Incentives Package:

Education / Leadership

The Leadership Hall County Class of 2013-2014 recently held their Kickoff Program at Northeast Georgia Health System. Carol Burrell, President & CEO, welcomed the class. The group participated in team building games and heard presentations from the Greater Hall Chamber's officers and staff. Interactive games followed at Laurelwood, led by Kevin Lloyd, Executive Directory (LHC 2011). The day ended with a reception at Brenau University.

"My name is Reece Riden from Flowery Branch, and I was a member of Youth Leadership Hall 2 years ago during the spring semester. I was the one that was always smiling no matter what the circumstance may have been. It seems like it has been such a long time from the first day of my Youth Leadership Hall orientation. I have an internship in downtown Gainesville at the law firm of Fox & Chandler this summer, and I pass the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce on a daily basis. I made a note last week to email you about how YLH has been a great quality that I can put on applications still to this day, not to mention the proper etiquette I learned at the Chattahoochee Country Club. I am currently a rising Junior at Emmanuel College in Royston, GA. I am still focused on the path of Law School considering my undergrad degree will be Pre-Law. I hope all is going well at the GHCC." Sent via email by Reece Riden Youth Leadership Hall Class of 2011

15

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Upcoming Chamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Tuesday, Workshop August 13 Thursday, Small Business Marketing Arbor Day Celebration JobAugust Fair and29Career Expo Small Business Seminar South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, February Success 14 Friday, February 17 Wednesday, March 28 Marketing Trends Resources" 10:00 a.m. "Hall County School 10:00 a.m. - Update" 3:00 p.m.

"Small Business System Presented by Gordon Sawyerby Frances Meadows Center Georgiaby Mountains Center Presented Presented 8:00 - 10:00 – The Oaks at UGA Smalla.m.

Business Development Center Will Schofield, Superintendent Hall Co. Schools Lanier7:45 Charter Career Academy Safe & Green Regional Assembly Get Career Details &Academy Register Online: a.m.

- 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Lanier Charter Friday, February 24 greaterhallchamber.com 2719 Tumbling Creek Road in Gainesville Business After Hours 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Thursday, August 22 Thursday, February 16 Business After Hours Georgia Mountains Center 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Sponsored by The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. Luna's Restaurant Annual Transportation Forum p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

200 5:00 Main Street Wednesday, March 14 The Clinic Gainesville - Main Campus - Atrium Hunt Longstreet Tower in Downtown 11:30 a.m. - 1:00Details p.m. & Register Online: greaterhallchamber.com 725 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville Gainesville State College

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