Biz link 06 04 2

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

Awards & Recognition at the 105th Annual Meeting & Gala Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012-2013 Business Awards: Small Business of the Year: Budget Carpet Outlet / Gainesville Paint & Design Center (Jason Everett and Tony Paramore)

105th Annual Meeting Highlights pages 2, 4, 5

Signs By Tomorrow (Jay Kelly)

Upcoming Events page 6

Family Business of the Year: Carroll Daniel Construction (Brian Daniel)

Member Announcements page 10 Small Business of the Month page 12 New Members page 12 Wisdom Project page 14 Hackers Holiday Golf Highlights page 15

Community Service Award: Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates Chairman Elect Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy, Chamber Chairman Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, and Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap at the 105th Annual Meeting & Gala on May 12.

Mark Fockele accepts the Distinguished Citizen Award for Lessie Smithgall for Smithgall Woodland Garden, destined to be one of the largest and most diverse woodland gardens in the country and an extension of the Atlanta Botanical Garden. See more Gala highlights on pages 2, 4 and 5.

Distinguished Citizen Award: Lessie Smithgall, Smithgall Woodland Garden W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award: Chris Braswell, PB Property Management Silver Shovel Awards: Elisabeth Baldwin, Raymond James/Morgan Keegan Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation Kevin Lloyd, Northeast Georgia Health System / Laurelwood Enrique Montiel, Merial Select Dr. David Sargent, Community Volunteer Lea Tavani, ACE Hardware Retail Support Center Tracey Vardeman, Northeast Georgia Health System Michael Wheeler, Hall County Extension Service Charles White, Community Volunteer

Save the Date Thursday, June 6 Business After Hours Tuesday, June 11 Small Business Seminar Tuesday, June 25 South Hall Business Coalition

JUNE 2013

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

A Year of Accomplishments As I wind up my year as Chairman of the Greater Hall Chamber, I would like to reflect upon some of the highlights of the year.

In 2012-2013, over 24 new and existing industries created 1,660 jobs in Gainesville-Hall County providing $203 million in capital investment.

Global firms expanding this year included Atlanta Biologicals, Procare Rx, Bitzer, Yazaki, ElringKlinger, Kubota, ATEX, IMS Gear, Zebra Technologies, Lupold, ZF and Alba Form. The Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network broke ground on a new science lab and headquarters in the new Gateway Industrial Centre (see page 10).

Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost 2012-2013 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Gainesville-Hall County remains Northeast Georgia's primary trade area serving over 462,000 residents. Lakeshore Mall, Beechwood Crossing, and retail centers on Highway 53 continue to grow. Construction is underway on the new Kroger-anchored New Holland Market retail complex.

Leadership Hall County now has over 750 alumni, is celebrating its 30th Anniversary in 2013, and is launching a new brand/logo as part of the celebration. VISION 2030's Wisdom Project, a senior leadership program, kicked off in 2012 with two classes graduating, and Youth Leadership Hall completed its 6th year and now has over 350 student graduates from area high schools. Youth Apprenticeships and Partners in Education program continue to enrich the education of students and our future workforce.

The South Hall Business Coalition and Small Business Seminars continue to update Chamber members on issues covering a variety of hot topics such as healthcare, water, education, transportation.

Special Marketing Workshops featured forums with professionals in the industry on the use of social media, internet marketing, sales, advertising and text/email marketing.

Successful community-wide events included the Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast featuring the Hall County Legislative Delegation and Lt. Governor Casey Cagle, the 6th Annual Chamber Chase 5K was held at Riverside Military Academy with 2,000 participants running, walking and cheering on their corporate and community teams, and the 6th Annual HealthSmart Expo featured free health screenings and other interactive health testings for the community as part of the Chamber's HealthSmart initiative. Over 1150 job seekers attended the Job Fair with 56 employers participating with exhibits and on-site hiring. The event provides great benefits for both employers and job seekers.

June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

I would like to thank the Chamber staff for their hard work and dedication and Chamber Officers (listed above right) for volunteering their time and talents to make our Chamber and community the most outstanding in the state.

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Silver Shovel Award Recipients

Silver Shovel Award Recipients (L-R): Michael Wheeler, Hall County Extension Service; Charles White, Community Volunteer; Dr. Eloise Barron for Enrique Montiel, Merial Select; Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College.

Not Pictured: Elisabeth Baldwin, Raymond James/ Morgan Keegan; Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia; Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance; Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation; Kevin Lloyd, Northeast Georgia Health System/Laurelwood ; Enrique Montiel, Merial Select; Dr. David Sargent, Community Volunteer; Lea Tavani, ACE Hardware Retail Support Center; Tracey Vardeman, Northeast Georgia Health System. More highlights on pages 4 & 5.

Business Link VOLUME 19 ISSUE 6 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2012-2013 Executive Committee Chair, VISION 2030 Carl Romberg, Citisco Meg Nivens, Executive Director

Chairman Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost

Vice Chair, Government Affairs David Lee, Jackson EMC

Chairman Elect Dixie Truelove Truelove Dairy

Vice Chair, Marketing and Co-Chairs, HALLmark Communications David Abee, Regions Bank Jullie King, The Longstreet Clinic Perry Barnett, Rushton & Co. Paul Chambers, AT&T Vice Chair, Membership Development Senior Advisor Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Smith Insurance Packaging

Treasurer Jody Lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Vice Chair, Economic Development Chris Braswell PB Property Management

Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corp.

Management President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Vice Chair, Community Vice Chair, Education Chamber of Commerce Development Elisabeth Baldwin Raymond James/Morgan Keegan Deborah Mack, Volunteer

Board of Directors 2012-2013 William Bagwell, Jr., Homestead Investments

Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Dr. Randy Pierce, University of North Georgia

Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Spence Price, The Adams Companies

Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville

Will Schofield, Hall County Schools

Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools

Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University

Sam Evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Joyce Stephens, United Community Bank

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Dennis Stockton, The Times

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

Lance Gardner, Georgia Power

Melissa Tymchuk, NEGA Health System

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising

Dr. Mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care

Mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation

Davis White, Full Media

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

Dick Mecum, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission

Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Associate Directors 2012-2013 Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo

Brian Hollis, Hollis Transport Agency

John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates

Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage

Burton Brown, Woodmen of the World

Megan Martin, American Security Shredding

Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance

Charles White, Community Volunteer

Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith

Emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota

Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County

Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy Sims, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Josh Stephens, Project Manager

South Hall Council Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Meg Nivens, Executive Director

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

Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant

Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy Sims, Executive Assistant

Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

Gville Times BizLink-10x10_JEMC 4/29/13 1:09 PM Page 1

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105th Annual Meeting June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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Small Business of the Year Family Business of the Year Budget Carpet / Gainesville Paint Carroll Daniel Construction

Recipients of the Small Business of the Year Award (Center): Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint Design Center and Jason Everett, Budget Carpet Outlet.

Budget Carpet Outlet is a family owned and operated business located in Midtown Gainesville since 1991. Jack Everett worked as an installer before opening the store managed now by son Jason. They started with carpet and expanded to include tile, hardwood, and rugs with a trained sales force and professional installers to make sure your experience is perfect from start to finish. Gainesville Paint has been helping North Georgia homes and businesses look their best since 1958. Located in Midtown Gainesville next to Budget Carpet, Tony Paramore and his color specialists have over 60 years combined experience. Budget Carpet and Gainesville Paint Design Center joined together in 2009 allowing them to better meet the design needs of their customers. Both Tony and Jason are active with the Chamber and supporting local charities. budgetcarpetoutlet.com – gainesvillepaint.com

Small Business of the Year Signs by Tomorrow

Carroll E. Daniel settled in Georgia in 1946 after completing his service with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He started a construction company from a small rented office in Downtown Gainesville and built his company, Carroll Daniel Construction, on a foundation of integrity.

The reputation he developed allowed the business to grow with work throughout the Southeastern U.S. with a second office near Orlando, Florida. Through the 1950's and 1960's Carroll Daniel Construction Company worked on notable projects from pouring concrete on the launch pad at Cape Canaveral, building the observatory atop Georgia's highest peak, Brasstown Bald Mountain, and building the campus for Lanier Technical College. Their first Brian Daniel, recipient of the Family new school project was an elementary Business of the Year Award. school in Dublin, GA in 1951, and since then, have built more education facilities than any other type of project. Today Carroll Daniel Construction is in its third generation of family leadership, led by Brian Daniel and is one of Georgia's fastest growing commercial construction companies. As company president, Brian plays an active role in each project and serves on many local and state Boards including: the Georgia World Congress Center, the Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia and Riverside Military Academy. He is a member of Leadership Georgia. carrolldaniel.com

Silver Shovel Award Recipient Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation.

Small Business of the Year Award Recipients – The Kelly Family (L-R): Kari, Kevin, Katherine, Janet, Michael and Jay Kelly.

With over 12 years of client satisfaction, Jay Kelly and the Kelly Team - Michael, Janet and Kari, have created high quality indoor and outdoor signage that is easily accessible and affordable, to businesses of all sizes. Jay Kelly leads the family owned and operated business and founded Signs By Tomorrow in 2001. He is involved in the community with the Rotary Club, Georgia Department of Labor Employers Committee and is a Trustee at the University of North Georgia. Jay is a long-time Chamber supporter, as is his son Michael, owner and general manager of the company. Michael is involved with the Chamber’s Ambassador Council and is a Partner in Education for several schools. signsbytomorrow.com

Silver Shovel Award Recipient Dr. David Sargent, Community Volunteer .

Some 400 Chamber members and guests attended the 105th Annual Meeting & Gala at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville with an outdoor reception and a dinner awards program.

The W.G. Mealor Award is named after the first chairman/ president of the Chamber, W.G. Mealor, who served from 1908-1917. The award is given by the Chairman to a Chamber volunteer who has gone beyond "the call of duty.”

Chris Braswell has a 30-year history of working tirelessly for the Chamber and Economic Development in Gainesville-Hall County. He is a principle in the development and property management firm PB Property Management.

In his volunteer role as the Chamber’s Vice Chair of Economic Development and the Chair of the Economic Development Council, Chris has spent countless hours extending his experience and professionalism. Chris has been a committed leader toward renewing the Chris and Marie Braswell. Chris partnership of business and government leaders is the recipient of the W.G. Mealor contributing toward Hall County’s economic Chairman's Award. development success and has given his time to support the economic development sales efforts to retain and grow existing industry, recruit new businesses, grow quality retail environments and support small businesses. Under his leadership, the Economic Development Council has thrived for the last two years announcing 24 new and expanded businesses and 1,660 new jobs and more than $200 million in new capital investment. He is a member of the Hall County Planning Commission and a graduate of Leadership Hall.

Community Service Award Brian Rochester

That’s who we are.

Meet Clay Pilgrim Rushton & Company’s Newest Partner

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For Clay Pilgrim, performing audits for Rushton’s government, non-profit and private business clients means getting to know their operations from the inside out. So much so, that the quality of information and analysis goes well beyond standard audit practice to improve bottom-line efficiency and operations.

As Rushton & Company’s newly named Audit Partner, Clay is also designated as a “Certified Fraud Examiner” and has served as an adjunct professor of fraud examination at the University of North Georgia. Active in the community, Clay is a member of the new 2013-14 class of Leadership Hall. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Northeast Georgia Chapter of the American Red Cross and the Georgia Mountain Food Bank.

“At Rushton & Company, we have the expertise to guide you and help strengthen your business.”

Because that’s what partners do.

C ERTIFIED P UBLIC A CCOUNTANTS 770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

June 4, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Rochester & Associates was established in 1966 by Keith Rochester as a surveying firm serving the Southeastern United States. Keith began in his home with nothing but a $2000 investment and a dream of creating a significant company. Since that time and under the leadership of his sons, the firm has grown in size and scope of services to become a multifaceted land development consulting firm. Today, the company is owned and operated by Brian and Darrell Rochester. Rochester & Associates has supported community Brian Rochester (left), recipient of the economic development efforts through Community Service Award with brother, volunteering their professional time and Darrell Rochester. engineering talents and serves as the Engineer of Record for the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority on projects like the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network facility and the Gateway Industrial Centre. Brian is heavily involved with Church Planting and currently serves as the Chairman of the Executive Trustees for the Chattahoochee Baptist Association’s New Works Foundation which has a mission to start 60 new healthy, sustainable and reproducing churches in our region by 2027. He’s an active member of Lakewood Baptist Church where he teaches Sunday School and will lead a mission team to Guatemala this summer. Brian also serves on the Board for Independence Bank of Georgia and Mycelx, a Gainesville industry that has developed an Oil-Free Water Technology for the oil and gas industry.

A new generation of leadership.

105th Annual Meeting

W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award Chris Braswell

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Meetings & Events June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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JUNE 2013 Wednesday, June 5 Healthcare Committee "America's New Epidemic: Rx Drug Abuse" presented by Dr. Jack Chapman, Dr. P. Tennent Slack and Dallas Gay 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, June 6 Business After Hours Sponsored by Hasty Pope Law Firm 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club

Wednesday, June 19 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, June 19 Lunch 'n Learn 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Recess Southern Gastro Pub Thursday, June 20 Chamber Executive Board 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, June 11 Small Business Success Seminar "Text Message Marketing" Presented by Nizar Bhojani, TextByChoice 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, June 25 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

The Longstreet Clinic Department of Family Medicine in Oakwood

Wednesday, June 12 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Panera Bread

Tuesday, June 25 Ambassador Council End of Year Celebration 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. – Aqualand Marina

Wednesday, June 12 Human Resource Council "Federal HR Issues" Presented by Tracy Moon Fisher & Phillips LLP 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Luna's in Downtown Gainesville

Wednesday, June 26 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Hilton Garden Inn Thursday, June 27 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Thursday, June 13 Leadership Hall Intro Program JULY 2013 12:30 p.m. - Northeast Georgia Medical Center Thursday, July 11 Georgia Chamber of Commerce Friday, June 14 Regional Power Breakfast Economic Development Council Georgia Chamber 2013 Board Chair Steve 7:30 a.m. – University of North Georgia Green & President/CEO Chris Clark Gainesville Campus - Nesbitt Building 8:00 a.m. - Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville Tuesday, June 18 VISION 2030 Board of Directors Register for these and other Chamber 11:30 a.m. – Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business After Hours Thursday, June 6 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville Sponsored by Hasty Pope Law Firm $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-members • Cash Pot Prize!

Join us at the Chattahoochee Country Club Pavilion on June 6. Bring your business card to enter the drawing! Hasty Pope is an family law firm of trial attorneys with over 100 years of combined experience in settling and litigating law suits. With offices in Canton, Atlanta and Gainesville, Hasty Pope has the knowledge, experience and history of success to help clients across North Georgia. hastypope.com

Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, June 11 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber Free for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Text Message Marketing Come learn from Nizar Bhojani of TextByChoice Communication why texting is the most popular form of marketing today, about the laws governing it, the different ways this technology can be harnessed, and its uses in multiple industries. Information: Josh Stephens, 770-532-6206. Email: jstephens@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, June 25 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

The Longstreet Clinic Family Medicine Oakwood 4222 Fairbanks Drive in Oakwood $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members; Light Breakfast Come hear about The Longstreet Clinic's Level 3 Patient-Centered Medical Home, an innovative program for improving primary care, tour the recently renovated and expanded office and meet Dr. Kommerina Daling, TLC’s newest family practice physician in Oakwood. Drawings for Laser & Aesthetic Services! Information: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com

Regional Power Breakfast Thursday, July 11

Thank You Chamber Sponsors AT&T Charter Business Crystal Springs Georgia Design & Graphics Georgia Power Hasty Pope Law Firm Highland Mountain Beverage

Jacobs Media Corporation J Geyer Advertising Jr. League of Gainesville-Hall Lake Lanier Association Lake Lanier Islands Resort Memorial Park Funeral Home Milton Martin Honda

Red Clay Interactive The ComTran Group, Inc. The Longstreet Clinic The Times WDUN Radio WomenSource

8:00 - 9:30 a.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club No Charge • Complimentary Breakfast Georgia Chamber of Commerce 2013 Board Chair Steve Green and President/ CEO Chris Clark will be on hand to interact with Georgia Chamber members and professionals from our community. Learn about issues that are important to our state’s business community. Complimentary Breakfast. Registration is required.

Details: Lauren Moore, Georgia Chamber, 404-223-2269 or lmoore@gachamber.com

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Member Announcements June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Lane Jones of Highland Mountain Beverage Services, announces the acquisition of Springer Mountain Waters from Fieldale Farms. Michael Morris joins the Highland Mountain family and the company will soon add another employee as a result of the acquisition.

The company began in 1981 as Lane’s Coffee Service and with partner Shane Taylor has become one of North Georgia's premier beverage service providers. highlandmountainwater.com • Northeast Georgia Health System honored Nancy Perrin, an 18 year employee and RN, as Employee of the Year. Perrin is a charge nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit. nghs.com • Chamber Board of Directors monthly lunch meetings are open to members.

Network with Chamber leadership! The next meeting is Thursday, June 27 at 12 noon at the Gainesville Civic Center.

Reservations required. $12 per person. Joy Sims, 770-532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com. Online reservations: greaterhallchamber.com • WomenSource's June 6 Brown Bag Lunch features Mimi Collins and Mary Ann Clever of The Longstreet Clinic presenting “Community Healthy Status & Small Steps That Can Make a Difference” at the Frances Meadows Center at 12 p.m. The healthy menu using recipes provided by Mary Ann Clever is sponsored and catered by Brenau University.

Reservations: WomenSource.info • Hall County Government is now utilizing Twitter to communicate with citizens. Follow at #hallcountygov for all of the latest news and information about your local government!

• Habersham EMC released a new book and CD travel guide called Experience Northeast Georgia – John Kollock’s guide to 75 Special Places. Well-known artist, John Kollock narrates the guide produced to commemorate HEMC’s 75th anniversary. The guide highlights 75 “must see” locations in eight Northeast Georgia counties. To purchase, call 706219-4947 or visit seenortheastgeorgia.com • Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is one of “Metro Atlanta’s Top 100 Workplaces” for a third consecutive year according to the Atlanta Journal Constitution. NGHS is also one of only

20 large companies (more than 500 employees) to make the list. The recognition is based on direct feedback from NGHS employees. nghs.com • Habitat for Humanity in Gainesville brings people together to build homes with a vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live. Donate gently used furniture, home accessories, building materials and appliances to the ReStore. Donation pick up available, and donations are tax deductible.

Visit the NEW location at 2287 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville 30501. Open Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm. 770-7181070. habitathallcounty.org • Rushton & Company announces the promotion of Clay Pilgrim to partner in the Northeast Georgia-based accounting and business consulting firm. Pilgrim serves as Audit Partner and joined the company in 2006. He specializes in audits for government, non-profit and businesses. rushtonandcompany.com • Gainesville-Hall County and Lake Lanier is featured as a Top 10 Boating Community in an article in the JuneJuly 2013 issue of Boat U.S. Magazine.

The article lists 10 great boating places in the U.S., including Gainesville and Lake Lanier. boatus.com/magazine • Belk, the nation’s largest family owned and operated department store company with 300 locations across 16 Southern states, celebrated the company’s 125th anniversary on May 29, the date that William Henry Belk opened his first store in Monroe, N.C. belk.com • The summer kicks off at LanierWorld at Lake Lanier Islands Resort with over a dozen wet and wild water attractions, beach with swim area, Coca Cola® Floating Stage, lakeside miniature golf course, carnival rides, concerts, the new Boardwalk stage and a slew of restaurants including the Dockside Bar, the Sunset Cantina and the Scoop Shack.

At the Wake the Lake Cable Park, beginners to experienced daredevils can wakeboard, water ski, kneeboard or tube safely WITHOUT the use of a boat!

Get all the details at lanierworld.com

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Chamber Job Opening Economic Development Project Director Specializing in Small Business Research, Special Events Coordinator, Support for New and Existing Business.

Apply in writing to: David Umberson - Email: dumberson@ghcc.com Mail to: Greater Hall Chamber, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503

IMS Gear's 150th Anniversary

Celebrating the 150 year anniversary of IMS Gear's German parent company (L-R): Tim Corbin, Director, Finance, IMS Gear Americas; Bernd Schilling, Managing Director, IMS Gear GmbH; Greg Vitek, President, IMS Gear Americas; Barry Anderson, President, IMS Gear Georgia; Dieter Lebzelter, Managing Director, IMS Gear GmbH; Wolfgang Weber, Managing Director, IMS Gear GmbH.

IMS Gear was founded in 1863 in the Black Forest region initially producing gears for the Cuckoo clock industry. The company has evolved into a gear systems supplier with products such as window lift gearboxes, seat adjusters, engine management actuators, and newer items like electrical power steering gears, tailgate lifter gearboxes and electrical parking brake actuators. IMS Gear is well positioned for the continued electrification of automobiles. World-wide the company has over 2,000 employees with locations in Germany; Gainesville; Virginia Beach, Virginia; Queretaro, Mexico; and Taicang, China. The operation in Gainesville was started in 1995 when IMS Gear was a supplier to Siemens. The 200+ employees currently in Gainesville will grow to approach 300 by mid 2014 as new products are added. imsgear.com

Georgia Poultry Laboratory

(L-R): Georgia State Representative Carl Rogers; Representative Lee Hawkins; Governor Nathan Deal; Representative Emory Dunahoo; Commissioner Gary Black, Georgia Department of Agriculture; Steve Stancil, Executive Director of the Georgia Building Authority and State Properties Commission.

Governor Nathan Deal, state and local officials participated in the groundbreaking for the new, 39,000 square foot Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network on 10 acres at Hall County’s new Gateway Industrial Centre on GA 365 North. The Lab supports Georgia’s poultry industry by providing health monitoring and veterinary diagnostic services aimed at ensuring healthy flocks and safe poultry products for consumers. With 37 highly skilled veterinary scientists and lab technicians, it provides a critical food safety role by working with the gigantic commercial poultry industry to keep Georgia’s poultry population healthy. The new $13.7 million facility will enable the Lab to continue and expand its mission of poultry health, export certification and food safety. gapoultrylab.org

Gallery on the Square

Todays Traditions & Design Mickey Carroll, Gail Wolfe, Phill Wilson, Christy Wolfe, Cameron Wolfe, Kadence Wolfe and Havolynne Saxon cut ribbon at Todays Traditions Furniture & Design, a retail and interior design center in Gainesville.

With four designers, they can help with any project from custom window treatments to decorating an entire home. The store specializes in quality upholstery, lamps, prints, area rugs and accessories. Brands include Henredon, Century, Bernhardt, CR Laine, Hooker Furniture, Drexel Heritage, and many more. 120 Thompson Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-0080.

Roberts Plumbing in Braselton

Scott Roberts cuts ribbon for Roberts Plumbing at the recently completed construction of a new, 5,000 square foot office warehouse in the Raceway Technology Industrial Park in Braselton. The new facility will help Roberts Plumbing better serve it’s commercial and residential service accounts and new home builders. Scott Roberts started Roberts Plumbing in 2000 and is a Licensed Master Plumber in Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina. Scott was awarded the Plumbing Contractor of the Year in 2011 by the Plumbing and Mechanical Association of Georgia (PMA) and serves on the Board of Directors of the organization as its Secretary-Treasurer of the Athens, Georgia chapter. Roberts Plumbing, Inc., 5454 Dalton Court, Braselton, GA 30517. 770- 967–1119. callrobertsplumbing.com

Ribbon Cuttings

Anna Miller and Maja Kumelj (Interns) and Gallery on the Square Artists Joyce Horner, Shirley Seguin, Paula Hoffman, Patti Russell, Ruth Money and Carmen Stolorena cut the ribbon at the locally owned art gallery featuring original artwork created by artist members. The business was founded in 2009 and recently restructured and moved to its new location on the Gainesville Square in the Main Street Market at 118 Main Street, Suite 4, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-893-9880. gallerysq.com

Good News Clinics Expansion

CHARLES E. WHITE, MSFS, CPA

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Life • Health • Disability Income • Long/Short Term Care Flowery Branch, GA Email: charles@LTCiGA.com

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1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

June 4, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

George and Anne Thomas; Dr. Ed Burnette, Good News Clinics Dental (GNC) Clinic Director; Bess Poole; Dr. Richard Bennett, GNC Board President; Dr. Jim Butts, GNC Medical Clinic Director, recently broke ground on the clinic's G. Warren Thomas Patient Education Center, named in memory of the late son of George and Anne Thomas. The expansion will add 2,000 square feet for a patient education classroom, physical therapy room, and office space.

Through the volunteer service of 43 physicians, 7 mid-level providers and 41 volunteer dentists, GNC provides free ongoing primary care, specialty care referrals, and acute dental care services to low income residents of Hall County who have no health insurance. Services include physical therapy, imaging, counseling, and patient education. Good News Clinics serves an average of 1,000 individuals each month and is the largest free clinic in Georgia. goodnewsclinics.org

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Membership Development June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

12

Small Business of the Month Diamond Auto Spa & Lube With four locations in the area, Diamond Auto Spa & Lube offers car care services ranging from car washes to oil changes.

Services include Batteries, Brakes, Car Detailing, Car Repair Services, Car Wash, Car Window Tinting, Emissions Inspections, Headlight Restoration, Oil Change, Preventative Maintenance and Vehicle Inspection Checklist. They even offer pick-up, delivery and drop-off services!

By calling or emailing, customers can have their vehicle picked up and taken to one of the stores for service. Free Carwash Chad Klinck (Owner) and Steven Duron (Vice President) of Diamond Auto Spa. Tuesday at all locations (Buford, Oakwood, Flowery Branch, Gainesville, Sugar Hill)! Stop by between 8:30 and 11:30 every Tuesday morning for a free exterior wash. No strings attached! Also with this wash you have access to our free self-serve vacuums. mydiamondautospa.com

Business After Hours Chamber President/ CEO Kit Dunlap; Joanna Cloud, Lake Lanier Association; Missy Burgess, Lake Lanier Islands Resort; Doug Mooney, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage (prize winner), aboard a Lake Lanier Islands houseboat at the Chamber's Business After Hours in May. Thank you Lake Lanier Association and Lake Lanier Islands Resort for a memorable outing on the lake!

Don't miss Business After Hours on Thursday, June 6th, 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club as The Law Firm of Hasty Pope sponsors an outstanding event. Cash pot prize! Cost: $5 for Members; $15 Non-members. Details: 770-532-6206.

Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Biz Card Ad

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

Welcome New Members!

Adventures in Missions Bill Gabler 6000 Wellspring Trail Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 983-1060 - Non-Profit / Ministries adventures.org Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival Chris Gray P.O. Box 921051 Norcross, GA 30010 (770) 561-0577 - Non-profit atlantadragonboatfestival.com Block n Blade Butcher Shoppe Donna Eskew 7433 Spout Springs Road Suite 103 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 965-9600 - Food / Meat Product blocknblade.com Browns Superior Cleaning Services Travis Brown 4001 Amberleigh Trace Gainesville, GA 30507

(404) 447-1354 - Janitorial Services

(770) 536-6881 - Spa / Salon

First Edge Solutions Terry Graham P.O. Box 1184 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 309-4476 - Printing & Copying firstedgesolutions.com

T.A.P. Pest Control Insulation Bill Turk 104 Turk Street Homer, GA 30547 (706) 677-4050 - Pest Control tapinsulation.com

iCard Now Sean Johnsen 2490 Hilton Drive, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-227 - Printing icardnow.com

Today's Traditions Furniture & Design Gail Wolfe 1236 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 297-0080 - Furniture / Interior Design

Involution Furniture, LLC Zachary Dollhausen 999 Chestnut Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 617-0210 - Furniture Manufacturing involution.com

Uzun & Case Engineers James Case 1230 Peachtree Street Suite 2500 Atlanta, GA 30309 (678) 553-5200 - Structural Engineering uzuncase.com

Precision Hair Kutters Janene Epperson 1290 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501

Join the Chamber online: GreaterHallChamber.com

PUT YOUR BUSINESS IN THE SPOTLIGHT • Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 22,000 on the 1st Tuesday of the month.

• Reach decision makers from the area businesses for current chamber membership in excess of 2700.

• Featured member of the month gets 2 full pages or center spread.

• Advertising pricing is available for 1,6 or 12 issues.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

Got Your Attention?

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

Sherrie Jones • 770 535.6304 sjones@gainesvilletimes.com

Budget Carpet & Flooring and Gainesville Paint would like to thank the Hall County Chamber of Commerce for recognizing us as the Small Business of the Year for 2012-2013!

BUDGET CARPET & FLOORING G A I N E S V I L L E PA I N T HALL COUNTY

SMALL BUSINESS

Full Page Ad 4 columns 10x10"

OF THE YEAR

A sincere THANK YOU to all of our customers for inviting us into their homes and businesses. You are the key to our success every year!

Budget Carpet & Flooring Gainesville Paint 684 Main Street, Gainesville 662 Main Street, Gainesville 770-287-8463 770-532-3146 GAINESVILLEDESIGNCENTER.COM

Key Economic Indicators

Josh Stephens has joined the Greater Hall Chamber Staff as Project Manager for the Economic Development Division. Josh manages the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council events and meetings, compiles research and reports, and coordinates prospective business and industry visits.

Josh Stephens

A Gainesville-native and son of Rosemary Allen and Bill Stephens, Josh was a standout athlete graduating from North Hall High School in 2004. He was a member of the University of Georgia Basketball Team, graduating in 2009 from UGA.

Project Manager, Greater Hall Chamber

Josh previously served as a Legislative Aide for Senator Jeff Mullis (53rd District) during the 2013 Legislative Session working on policy development, tracking legislation and operation of the Senate Rules Committee. He served as a Business Developer for a construction firm in Tampa, Florida for several years, prior to joining the Georgia General Assembly as a Legislative Aide. Email: jstephens@ghcc.com

Wisdom Project Class Graduates

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Latest

Apr 2013

6.8 Previous Month

Gainesville City

8.2

8

Cherokee Dawson

6.7 6.8

6

Forsyth

6.1

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

7.1 7.7 7.1 8.4

U.S.

7.6

10

Percent

Mar 2013

6.6

4

12-Month High

2

7.8%

Aug 2012

One Year Ago

Apr 2012

A

7.7

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

June 4, 2013 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

F

M

A

2013 Updated 5/29

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 217,672,675 2 columns 233,517,141 230,933,302 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest April 2013

Previous Month

One Year Ago

March 2013

April 2012

$

$

1.0

Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents retail sales of approximately $100 million.

14

J

2012

100’s millions of dollars

Economic Development

Stephens Joins Chamber Staff

Wisdom Project Spring 2013 Class Graduates: Front Row (L-R): Evelyn Wittgens, Deborah Mack, Pat Guthrie, Carol Perkins, Cindy Nivens. Back Row (L-R): Bill Wittel, Fleming Weaver, Larry Preiss, Sandra Hoffman, Kathy Amos, Tom McAllister, Sonya Atkins, Henry Roberts. (Not pictured) Susan Gannaway, Crevolyn Wiley, Sandra Williams and Dot Dusenberry.

South Hall Business Coalition (L-R): Joy Guilford, Block n Blade Butcher Shoppe; Chef Nicholas St. Clair, Antebellum Restaurant; Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Bill Andrew, City of Flowery Branch; Christie Sims, Hayes James & Associates, at the South Hall Business Coalition meeting featuring an update

by Flowery Branch City Manager Bill Andrew. The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, June 25 at 8:00 a.m. at The Longstreet Clinic's Department of Family Medicine in Oakwood. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

F

2012

M

A

2013 Updated 5/29

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

April 26 Previous Month

2012 Total

One Year Ago

Mar 2013

Apr 2012

257

37

19

113

2013 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Apr 2013 14 8 199 192 12

Apr 2012 6 1 83 257 7

Mar 2013 16 4 182 148 8

Total 2012 44 13 603 1,468 30

2013 YTD 46 19 559 636 28

Avg Total Price 2013

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Apr 2013

Avg Price

Apr 2012

City

15

131,987

12

97,944

15

199,338

137

125,172

73

95,771

North

23

169,991

28

163,424

32

191,534

322

151,731

45

160,927

East

14

79,957

26

72,225

13

80,454

167

64,758

34

87,325

South

28

166,543

26

126,230

25

147,247

198

163,552

40

157,918

West

43

170,544

44

190,257

49

184,427

558

174,979

71

167,332

Area

Avg Price

Mar 2013

Avg Price

Total 2012

Updated 5/29

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

34th Annual Hackers Holiday

Outstanding golfers at the Chamber's Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on April 26 at Legacy on Lanier at Lake Lanier Islands Resort included: 1st Flight Winner: BB&T’s Team - Jonathan Collins, Bryan Baumgarder, Stuart Moore, Robert Schuetze. 2nd Flight Winner: David Lee and Benny Bagwell (Jackson EMC), Preston Bowen and Larry Glover (Lanier Cold Storage). 3rd Flight Winner: Todd Young, John Hemel, Kurt Fullerton (Publix), Shaun Dodson (Georgia EMC). Closest to the Pin (#2): Jody Lail (Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia); Womens Longest Drive (#11): Kingsley Peeples (Bates Carter); Mens Longest Drive (#18): Tom Calkins (Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar)

Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament 1st Flight Winners BB&T Team (L-R): Jonathan Collins, BB&T; Stuart Moore, Turner, Wood & Smith; Hackers Holiday Chair Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia; Bryan Baumgarder and Robert Schuetze, BB&T. (L-R): Chamber Membership Vice President Megan Martin with Tom Calkins, Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar, winner of the Mens Longest Drive Contest, and Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament Chairman Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia.

Dixie Truelove was winner of the Golf Ball Drop Raffle! Thank You Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament Sponsors: Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia (Title Sponsor), AT&T (19th Hole Reception), Jackson EMC, Coca-Cola Gainesville, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance and Publix.

Friends and

Family 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

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

400 E.E. Butler Parkway (770) 531-0907

•

Gainesville, GA 30501

• Fax: (770) 531-0788 • (800) 782-8966

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

June 4, 2013 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

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.

Membership Development

Hackers Holiday 2nd Flight Winners (L-R): Larry Glover, Lanier Cold Storage; Benny Bagwell, Jackson EMC; Preston Bowen, Lanier Cold Storage; David Lee, Jackson EMC.

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TOP DRAWER BANKING ON THE FIRST FLOOR.

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

From the first floor of the Green Street Building in Gainesville, Independence Bank of Georgia is delivering top-drawer banking for business owners and families. As an independent bank, we have the flexibility to tailor unique financial solutions and to respond quickly when you have a loan need...all the while delivering a level of personal service that is equally exceptional.

If you would benefit from relationship-based, service-driven banking, make the short drive to our first-floor office today. We may just be around the corner, but we’re miles ahead in the solutions and service we provide.

311 Green Street NW • Suite 100 • Gainesville, GA • 678.928.5350 6322 Grand Hickory Drive • Braselton, GA • 678.866.0100 www.ibankga.com

A Financial 5-Star 5-Star rated ratedbank. bank.

A Bauer Bauer Financial

Committed to Community. Dedicated to Service.

Upcoming Chamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Tuesday, June 25 Thursday, June 6 Small Business Marketing Workshop Arbor Day Celebration Job Fair and Career Expo Tuesday, Friday, February 17 Hall Business Coalition Wednesday, March 28 South Business AfterFebruary Hours 14 Marketing 10:00 a.m.

8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Sponsored

by TheTrends Hasty Pope Law Firm Presented by Gordon Sawyer Frances Meadows Center Georgia Mountains Center The Longstreet Clinic, PC Department of Family 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Medicine in OakwoodGet Details & Register Online: Chattahoochee Country Club PavilionSafe & Green Regional Lanier Charter Career Academy Assembly 4222 Fairbanks Drivegreaterhallchamber.com in Oakwood 3000 Club Drive in Gainesville Friday, February 24 Business After Hours 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, June February 11 Thursday, 16 Georgia Mountains Center 5:00 - 7:00Success p.m.

Small Business Seminar Luna's Restaurant Annual Transportation Forum "Text Message Marketing" 200 Main Street Wednesday, March 14 Presented by Nizar Bhojani, TextByChoice11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville Details & Register Online: greaterhallchamber.com 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Gainesville State College

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