J U LY
2019
contents Chamber Chairman’s Column page 2 Meetings & Events page 4 Vision 2030 page 5 Member Announcements page 10 Small Business of the Month page 11 New Members page 13 Ribbon Cuttings page 14 Silver Shovel Award Winners page 16
save the date
New Chamber Leadership Team Greater Hall Chamber 2019-20 Board Chairman Brian Rochester is principal and Executive Vice President of Rochester & Associates, Inc. Brian coordinates multiple teams within Brian Rochester the company Rochester & Associates including developChairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce ment consulting, planning and master infrastructure design. He is responsible for client development and coordination of highly visible projects of the firm, including infrastructure for large master planned communities and municipal projects, such as the new Lanier Technical College campus, State Route 365 Sewer expansion, Margaritaville at Lanier Islands, Road Atlanta, Sterling on the Lake, and the new Kubota Manufacturing of America campus. Brian served for three consecutive years as Chairman of the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council.
Chamber Chairman Elect Geoff Lee has been President and General Manager of Road Atlanta, now Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, since 2004. A California native, Geoff has been Geoff Lee involved in motor Michelin Roadway Road sports since racing Atlanta, Chair-Elect, Greater Hall Chamber formula cars after high school. He retired as a driver in 1984, and worked stints in advertising and marketing before joining the Skip Barber Racing School as Director of Western US Operations. He worked for Speedway Motorsports and joined Panoz Motor Sports Group in 2001. He moved to Georgia to take over as President & GM of the Panoz Racing School, which he led until its merger with Skip Barber Racing School. Recognized as one the world’s best road courses, he oversees the motor sports facility that is utilized for a wide variety of events including the Motul Petit Le Mans.
Small Business Seminar Wednesday, July 10
Network Over Coffee Wednesday, July 24
Network Over Coffee
Art is Everywhere! In 2015, the Public Art Committee cataloged 55 works of existing art in a variety of media. Since then, a total of some 200 pieces are now installed including free range art pieces and sculptures. See page 5 for more on public art.
featured member
Tuesday, July 9
Kit Dunlap, President & CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber since 1998, is recognized as a leader in the industry. Kit has spearheaded several successful multi-million dolKit Dunlap lar initiatives such President & CEO as HALLmark, the Greater Hall Chamber initiative funding top economic development, education and community programs as well as VISION 2030. Kit's leadership continues to guide the Chamber to solid ground with a member base of 2,400 and a staff of 13. A Brenau graduate and current trustee, Kit served on the Georgia Industry, Trade & Tourism Board for 10 years (chair for two years). She is a founding member of the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council, serving as the first chair in 1992. Kit serves on the board of the Metro North Georgia Water Planning District and is a past chair .
BUSINESS LINK
from the chairman
VOLUME 25 ISSUE 1
What Does It Take To Be #1?
Among the dozens of accolades our community receives annually, one of the most distinguished is by The Milken Institute, an independent economic think tank based in California. The 2019 Milken Institute Report named the Gainesville-Hall County Metro Area as the Top Small Metro Area in Brian Rochester Georgia and #3 in the Nation for Executive VP & Principle, Best-Performing Small Metros. Rochester & Associates Site Selection magazine named Chairman, Greater Hall us one of the top Small Metros Chamber of Commerce in the U.S. for job creation and investment, and Forbes Magazine has rated Gainesville-Hall County one of the “Best Small Places for Business & Careers” for the last six years. Serving on the Chamber's executive committee for many years, this praise comes as no surprise. Since 2015, the Greater Hall Chamber’s economic development programs have assisted over 100 new and expanding businesses create some 5,200 jobs and $1.1 billion in new capital investment. Our community's success can be attributed to working partnerships, public and private, as well as intra-governmental cooperation. Outstanding small business development programs
and resources and an unmatched workforce development initiative place our chamber and community at the top in the state and nation for job creation, as well as quality of life. The success of Vision 2030 is evident with public art being continually installed across the county as well as projects like the Highlands to Islands Community Trail – key in uniting greenways together into one multi-use trail. These initiatives, with Chamber community development programs like Leadership Hall, The Wisdom Project, and more, are made possible through the HALLmark Initiative, founded some 25 years ago by leaders. The passionate driven foresight and investment of our early leaders have made Gainesville-Hall County the best community to live, work, and play in the state, nation, and dare I say… UNIVERSE! Staying at the Top To be #1 takes partnerships, innovation and creativity. To stay #1, we must reINVEST in successful programs emotionally and financially. We need to continue to support SPLOST, the Powerful One Penny sales tax that has funded some $667 million in capital improvements. We need to pull out our wallets, our resources and reINVEST in HALLmark, with programs that keep Gainesville-Hall County at the forefront in Georgia and the nation. I look forward to serving as your chairman this year and building on the legacy that makes our community great.
Job Fair & Career Expo on September 24 The Chamber hosts two Job Fair & Career Expos annually -– one in the fall and one in the spring. The events are the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employees. Hiring managers meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face in a convenient location in a short span of time. Consider sponsoring or exhibiting in the upcoming Job Fair on Tuesday, September 24 from 2-6 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. Job fairs are free and open to the public and are a partnership of the Greater Hall Chamber, the Gainesville Area Employers Committee, Lanier Technical College and the Georgia Department of Labor.
How do I sponsor an event?
2
Job Fairs & Small Business events: Amanda | alewis@ghcc.com Business After Hours & Networking events: Mandy | mlathem@ghcc.com Call 770-532-6206 or learn more ONLINE: greaterhallchamber.com
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com www.GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2019-2020 Executive Committee Chairman Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates Chairman-Elect Geoff Lee Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Treasurer Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power
Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Co-Vice Chair, Education Tate O’Rouke, Jackson EMC
Co-Chairs, HALLmark 2015-2020 Paul Chambers, AT&T Mimi Collins, Longstreet Clinic Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Vice Chair, Government Affairs Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging
Vice Chair, Community Development Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms
Vice Chair, Membership Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Vice Chair, Economic Development Smith Insurance Co-Vice Chair, Membership David Lee, Jackson EMC Phil Bonelli, Regions Bank Vice Chair, Marketing Chair, Vision 2030 Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands Phillippa Lewis Moss Community Service Center Vice Chair, South Hall Council Executive Director, Vision 2030 Terry Merck, American Yazaki Elizabeth Higgins
Senior Advisor Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction Company Immediate Past Chair Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap
Board of Directors 2019-2020 Norman Baggs, The Times Haley Bower, Clipper Petroleum Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Nick Bruner, Rushton Caitlin Collins, Mincey Marble Manufacturing Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Dr. Suzanne Erickson, Brenau University Jim Grier, Mayor, City of Lula Richard Higgins, Chairman, Hall County Commission Logan Jones, Wilheit Packaging Brooke Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel Jennifer Landers, Newland Communities David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Manufacturing J.D. Mealor, Regions Bank Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council Terry Morrisey, Intelligent Energy James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Nancy Norton, The Norton Agency
Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Michele Piucci, Peach State Bank Col. Stas Preczewski, Riverside Military Academy Sheila Sanchez, State Farm Insurance Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry John Simpson, Lakeview Academy Sarita Madera Smith, Homestar Financial Corp Terry Spicer, King's Hawaiian Ahna Still, Halski Systems Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons John Turner, Northeast Georgia Health System Roy Turpin, Mayor, City of Gillsville Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Darryl Workman, South State Bank Mike Zeiler, Bitzer US, Inc.
Associate Directors 2019-2020 Carin Booth, UGA Extension Hall County Whitney Brown, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Sean Couch, Northeast Georgia Health System Tracy Hoeltke, Netchex Ben Jarrard, University of North Georgia Ward McCamy, Bank of America Chris Nish, Cottrell
Todd Pennington, McGarity's Business Products Lauren Pugh, Lanier Technical College Steve Rawl, SunTrust Bank Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance Georgia Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic Nancy Jo Zimmer, Chase for Business
Greater Hall Chamber Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Madison Hopkins, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President, Finance & HR Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Christen Wilbanks, Vice President, Sales Kara Tate, Vice President, Sales & Programs Education & Leadership Andi Harmon, Vice President
Government Affairs Madison Hopkins, Project Manager South Hall Council Kara Tate, Vice President, Sales & Programs Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager
Innovative Leaders. Powerful Partnerships. At Jackson EMC, we’re focused on your success. Our team of experts partner with businesses to implement innovative technology to help them manage their energy needs, improve productivity and reduce environmental impact. All to keep energy reliable and affordable now and in the future.
jacksonemc.com/business
To achieve LEED® Gold, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton turned to Jackson EMC to integrate several sustainable innovations, including creating an energy model in which building systems are analyzed for optimal performance. Jackson EMC’s Commercial & Industrial Team: Dylan Munn, Jennifer Fennell, Brandon Ashley, David Cleveland, Tate O’Rouke, Wade Johnson and Garrett Wiley.
meetings
events
calendar July
August
(L-R Front) Greater Hall Chamber Healthcare Committee Guest Speaker Dr. Frank Lake, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Radiation Oncology and Northeast Georgia Medical Center Hospice; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; John Delzell and Gretchen Holmes, Northeast Georgia Health System. (Back) Chamber Healthcare Committee Chairman Dr. David Westfall, Emory - Rollins School of Public Health, and Carl Rogers, Lanier Technical College. As part of the Vision 2030 health and wellness initiative, the Chamber's Healthcare Committee oversees community-wide programs and events and meets monthly to discuss access to healthcare, wellness programs and benefits, healthcare services, legislative issues, health insurance and other important health and wellness topics. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206, or alewis@ghcc.com
Tuesday, July 9
Thursday, August 8
"Emotional Intelligence" Presented by Tim McDonald, Lanier Tech 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Georgia Mountain Food Bank 1642 Calvary Industrial Dr. | Gainesville
Small Business Resource Fair Tuesday, September 10 7:45am - 9:30am Business Incubator at Brenau University
Bill Lampton PhD Championship Communication
Beau Henderson RichLife Best Selling Author
Ambassadors Council
Economic & Political Forecast 7:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center
Wednesday, July 10
Network Over Coffee
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Coffee Shop at Lawrence Pharmacy in Gainesville
Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Luna’s | Gainesville
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Atlanta Bread Company | Gainesville
Wednesday, July 17
7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Milton Martin Honda | Gainesville
8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Chamber
Wednesday, August 21
Thursday, July 18
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Watkins Total Healthcare | Gainesville
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Chamber
Wednesday, August 28
Wednesday, July 24
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Chick-fil-A at Robson Crossing
Issues Committee
Lunch ‘n Learn
Chamber Executive Committee
Network Over Coffee
NOTE: No Chamber Board of Directors meeting in July.
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Network Over Coffee
Friday, August 16
Bill Lampton PhD, Championship Communication, and Beau Henderson, RichLife, team up for a lively presentation! Beau is the bestselling author of The RichLife: Ten Investments for True Wealth and The Roadmap to a RichLife, He's a Master Certified Success Coach and Certified Master Behavioral Analyst. As a media contributor, Beau’s been featured on The Huffington Post, Wall Street Journal, CNBC and MarketWatch.
ghcc.com/events. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Wednesday, August 14
Business Before Hours
Network Over Coffee
20+ Business Resource Exhibitors will be on hand for FREE advice on GROWING your BUSINESS. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Breakfast included. Register online at
Business After Hours
Tuesday, August 13
3:45 p.m. – 4:45 p.m. 2 Dog Cafe | Gainesville
How to Build Your Brand Through Community Involvement
Dr. Bill Lampton (known as the "Biz Communication Guy") spent two decades in management after teaching communication at UGA. Since 1997 he's helped solve business communication problems for top-tier clients including the Ritz-Carlton Cancun, Oceania Cruises, Gillette, Duracell and Procter & Gamble. He's written two books: The Complete Communicator: Change Your Communication, Change Your Life! and 25 Ways to Control Your Stage Fright & Become a Confident Speaker.
4
Small Business Seminar
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Chili’s | Flowery Branch
Get all the details and register for events online at GreaterHallChamber.com
Fall 2019
September 10 Small Business Resource Fair*
October 16 HealthSmart Expo*
7:45-9:30am | Business Incubator at Brenau
7:30am-2pm | Gainesville Civic Center
September 19 Business After Hours
November 7 Farm City Breakfast*
5-7pm | Chattahoochee Country Club
7:30-9:00am | North Hall Community Center
September 24 Fall Job Fair & Career Expo*
November 13 Industry Appreciation Luncheon*
2-6pm | Gainesville Civic Center
11am-1pm | Chattahoochee Country Club
October 3 Business After Hours
*Sponsorship opportunities Call 770-532-6206 GreaterHallChamber.com
5-7pm | Conditioned Air Systems
VISION 2030
Public Art New Installs
Mosaic by artist Mary Frances Hull at the Gainesville Parking Deck
1/2 Page Ad 4.9" x 10"
Kinectic sculpture at the Sarids Roundabout in Hall County
Rick Kimpling, AAMS®
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
Beth Baldwin
64 North Brooks Street Unit B Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-0933
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031
439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220
Financial Advisor
Get Involved:
Financial Advisor
Financial Advisor
Elizabeth Higgins, 770-532-6206 • Email: ehiggins@ghcc.com www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
5
Workforce Development Workbased Learning How Murray Plastics is making a difference in our future workforce Murray Plastics specializes in custom plastic injection molding and for 20 years has been serving customers as well as manufacturing companies in the Greater Hall area. The company employs 37 people, is a recipient of the 2016 Greater Hall Chamber Industry of the Year Award, and are active supporters of the Chamber's Industry Roundtable and the workforce development component of the Vision 2030 initiative. "In the beginning, we became active in workforce development initiatives as we searched for skilled workers," said Bill Hall, CEO of Murray Plastics. "As we found employees that had the willingness to learn, we took the chance, made the time and began to add our company training component. We are now growing our team to be skilled workers." Murray Plastics currently employs students from Lanier College & Career Academy and Gainesville High School as part of their Work Based Learning (WBL) program. They have been involved with WBL for the past five years giving the students hands on experience in different positions such as design, IT, machine operators, quality control and customer service. These students gain real world experience of having a job, building a career and learning Murray Plastics Work responsibilities. They Based Learning Tour. host tours for students/ teacher groups allowing students and educators to see behind the scenes of manufacturing. In the future, they hope to include the parents of WBL students into some of these tours since they have a huge impact on their children. "We are able to see their confidence build and watch them grow into a field of interest to them," said Hall. Murry Plastics recently implemented an apprenticeship program and has a student serving as an Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprentice. "The program has given our apprentice qualification and training, and she is able to learn more skills and has a better understanding of what goes on in the company," noted Hall. In addition to student and apprentice programs, they offer GED testing for employees that wish to continue their education. Murray Plastics is a firm believer in second chance hiring – acknowledging that there are many people that have made mistakes and deserve another chance. Their Second Chance Program is a great success, and some of their best employees have come from this program. murrayplastics.com 6
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
economic development
Small Business Economic & Political Forecast Tuesday, August 13 7:45am - 9:30am
Lanier Technical College | Ramsey Conference Center Join Greater Hall Chamber members for a panel discussion with local business and political leaders on the current economic and political climate and the effects on small business and our community.
Panel of Experts
Lee Hawkins
Georgia House of Representatives 27th District
Carol Burrell
Northeast Georgia Health System Past Chamber Chair
Perry Barnett, CPA Rushton Past Chamber Chair
Brett Fowler
Turner, Wood & Smith Memberhip Vice Chair
No Charge for Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Register online at GreaterHallChamber.com Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Thank you Chamber Sponsors! AccessWDUN AT&T Brenau University Caldwell Electrical Contractors Georgia Power Halski Systems Jackson EMC
Lanier Technical College Liberty Utilities Milton Martin Honda Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton Red Clay Interactive Signs by Tomorrow
Store More Self Storage The Times WSI Digital Rainmakers
RE A C T N URGE
5 1 0inute Wait M
t! o p S y Save M
BECAUSE YOU CAN WAIT AT HOME You can now find the shortest wait time and reserve your appointment online.
NGPG.ORG/URGENT-CARE open 7 days a week | 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. | accepting patients 6 months & older
Braselton 1515 River Place Suite 100 Braselon, GA 30517 Buford 4889 Golden Parkway Suite 100 Buford, GA 30518
NGPG_UC_PrintAd_Clockwise_BusLink-10x10.indd 1
Cleveland 2578 Helen Highway. Cleveland, GA 30528 Dacula 852 Dacula Road Dacula, GA 30019
Dawsonville 108 Prominence Court Suite 100 Dawsonville, GA 30534
Dahlonega 73 Maxwell Lane Dahlonega, GA 30533
Gainesville 597 South Enota Drive Gainesville, GA 30501
6/10/19 11:40 AM
1766 Cleveland Hwy • Gainesville, GA 30501 678-707-5205 • www.libertyutilities.com
member news
South Hall Business Coalition A large Chamber crowd heard what's happening with VISION 2030 at the June South Hall Business Coalition meeting at the Spout Springs Library.
• Pest Control Insulation (PCI), makers of
TAP® Pest Control Insulation, announces the promotion of Matt Paul to Chief Marketing Officer. With PCI since 2014, Matt will focus on developing major strategies and market research. PCI is a national supplier specializing in unique products for the pest management industry. TAPinsulation.com
• The Chamber's newly published
• Founded in 1984, Center Point Mentor
• Animal Medical Care (AMC), located at
• The Humane Society of Northeast Georgia
Gainesville-Hall County Street Map & Resource Guide is now available. The map is distributed via the Chamber Welcome Center (230 E.E. Butler Pkwy in Gainesville) and is a popular item for newcomers, relocation candidates and life long residents. 770-532-6206.
(L-R) Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda; Elizabeth Higgins, Vision 2030; Terry Merck, American Yazaki; Vice Chair Vision 2030 Phillippa Lewis Moss, Community Service Center; Chamber ChairElect Geoff Lee, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta; Richie Aitkin, American Family Insurance.
Join the South Hall Business Coalition on Tuesday, September 17 (8-9am) at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for a presentation by General Manager Geoff Lee. Sponsored by AccessWDUN, Halski Systems, Milton Martin Honda, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, Red Clay Interactive and Store More Self Storage. Enjoy a light breakfast and great networking! Kara Tate, 770-532-6206.
Ambassadors Council
934 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville, has been accredited again by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), a nonprofit organization for companion animal veterinary hospitals, and has been an accredited practice since 2008. vetamc.com
• Gainesville based American Yazaki, (AYC)
a plastic blow molding manufacturer specializing in parts for fuel tanks and other plastic products, was presented the Honda Power Equipment 2018 Delivery Award for delivering shipments on time and with no errors. Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation presented AYC with the 2018 Supplier Excellence Award for Quality & Delivery, still holding on to the Best-of-theBest ranking with zero defects and zero delivery issues and all shipments on time.
• Emilie Cisco will has joined The Norton
Agency as Director of Brand Management Real Estate and will oversee e-commerce initiatives, marketing strategies and public relations. Emilie is a graduate of Georgia Tech and has worked for a number of e-commerce start ups – most recently as head of e-commerce at Southern Proper, the clothing line. gonorton.com
• The Art's Council presents GRAINS OF The Ambassadors Council serves as the Chamber representatives welcoming new members, assisting with ribbon cuttings and volunteering where needed. The group had a year-end celebration at Fish Tales Lakeside Grille in June. (Front, L-R): Steve Fisher, B2B CFO; Richie Aitkin, American Family Insurance; Ahna Still, Halski Systems; Nick Pruner, Edward Jones Investments; Matthew Waters, United Community Bank; Kevin Wells, Humane Society of Northeast Georgia; Emma Johnson, Milton Martin Honda; Rhonda Dellinger, Homestar Financial. (Back, L-R) Darryl Workman, South State Bank; Christen Wilbanks, Chamber; Regina Gore, Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier; Brianna Karum, HALLCO Credit Union; Kara Tate, Chamber; Rena Pendley, American Cancer Society. 10
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
in Law Enforcement from the Kiwanis Club of Gainesville. Lt. Smith is Assistant Commander of the Jail Division and vital to the operation of the facility that employs 200, houses an average daily population of over 750 inmates with an operating budget of over $15 million. Smith also serves as Commander of the agency's SWAT Team.
SAND, a beach, soul and Motown music concert on the Center Lawn on Friday, July 19 at 8pm. Rain date is September 21. Gates open at 6pm. General $25. Table for 8 is $250. theartscouncil.net
• Hall County Sheriff's Office 1st Lt. Jason
Smith (and new Leadership Hall Class Member) received the 2019 John W. Jacobs Sr. Memorial Award for Excellence
Program has served thousands of students in Gainesville City and Hall County Schools. Help impact a child's life by serving as a mentor! Trainings are held at various times in convenient locations or by request. Call Marie Davis, 678-997-1990, to learn more or visit centerpointga.org (HSNEGA) announces its Corporate Companions program designed to recruit businesses to volunteer and spend time exercising and loving on adoptable animals. Volunteers are especially needed Mon-Fri. Coordinate a team of 2 to 10 employees to provide mental and physical enrichment for dogs/cats waiting for a new home while giving your organization a great opportunity to become involved in the community and support a great cause. Details: Olivia Paul at 770-532-6617 x 234 or outreach@HSNEGA.org
• Diamond Kitchen & Bath Design, Inc.
announces a new showroom in Gainesville where clients can get a hands on look at designs and materials. Diamond provides solutions for kitchens, baths and basements and will design, quote, supply materials and construct your project from start to finish. They begin with your budget and design and construct accordingly – ensuring you will get the most efficient use of your time and money on your project. diamondkitchenbathdesign.com
• The University of North Georgia's Starlight
Celebration & Fireworks is Saturday, August 24 at the G.W. Bailey Amphitheatre on the Gainesville Campus. Gates open at 5:30 pm. $10 per car; $20 for bus, van or larger. Reserved tables for six is $100 and includes two event parking passes. All proceeds from the event support University of North Georgia students. The Rain Date for Starlight is September 7th. ung.edu/starlight
Got news?
Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Small Business of the Month
Papa Jack's Country Kitchen Owned and operated by Bill Mays, Papa Jack’s Country Kitchen is lovingly named after Bill’s father. Papa Jack would go out of his way for a good plate of country ham, biscuit and gravy. Papa Jack would also, always be the first to greet someone with a big smile, a handshake and a hug. At Papa Jack’s they strive to always treat their customers with the same welcome feeling and serve those southern home cooked meals that “mama used to make.” They serve a full homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner. Just wait till you try their fresh, made from scratch biscuits and their fried chicken, you’ll be hooked too. Dine in, drive thru or have them cater your next event. 2200 Sparta Way , Buford, GA 30519. papajackscountrykitchen.com
Bill Mays, owner and operator of Papa Jack's Country Kitchen in Buford.
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
1/4 Page Ad 4.9" x 4.75"
Full Service Pharmacy Unique Gifts Embroidery Monogramming Packaged Prescriptions
Friendly, Honest People INESVILLETIME S
THE TIM ES
THE TIM ES
INESVILLETIME S
A |G
M .CO
M .CO
A |G
935 Green Street, GaineSville 30501 callriverSidepharmacy.com 770.532.6253 • Fax 770.532.6592
small business news
Signs by Tomorrow, the Kelly Family (Michael, Jay, Kari and Janet) and team members provide top quality sign and graphic solutions. With 18 years of excellence in sign design products and installation in Gainesville-Hall County and throughout the state, the company is committed to empowering business success in the community. Signs by Tomorrow is a proud sponsor of the Chamber’s Small Business Seminars, and owner, Jay Kelly, serves on the Small Business Roundtable and the Workforce Development Task Force. Jay's son, Michael, is a 2018 Leadership Hall. They contribute to the Chamber's HALLmark initiative and many local non-profits. signsbytomorrow.com
Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1993Ad 1/4 Page 4.9" x 4.75"
NAID (National Association for Information Destruction) Prism (Professional Records & Information Services Management) A Division of Total Information Protection Group
770-287-9605 • ddsga.com
WE HAVE A SOLUTION FOR EVERY DATA NEED! July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
11
small business development
CERTIFIED Small Business Partners Upcoming Small Business Events: Tuesday, July 9
Small Business Seminar
presented by Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College 7:45 am - 9:00 am | Chamber No Charge for Chamber Members $15 Non-Members
Become a Chamber CERTIFIED Small Business Partner by simply attending six (6) Small Business Seminars in 2019.
Tuesday, August 13
CERTIFIED Partners Receive
"Emotional Intelligence & Social Awareness"
Small Business Economic & Political Forecast
Great crowd at the June Small Business Marketing Seminar! Special thanks to presenter, Lee Goff, and the Business Incubator at Brenau University for hosting. (L-R) Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions; Program Presenter Lee Goff, Digital Business Architects; Roger Dixon, SCR Consulting Services; Al Trembley, WSI Digital Rainmakers.
Presented by Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System; Lee Hawkins, Georgia House of Representatives; Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton; Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance 7:45 am - 9:30 am Lanier Technical College No Charge for Chamber Members $15 Non-Members
Tuesday, September 10
Small Business Resource Fair
Keynote Speakers: Bill Lampton PhD, Championship Communication; Beau Henderson, RichLife 20+ Resources/Exhibitors 7:45 am - 9:30 am Business Incubator at Brenau University $5 Members; $15 Non-Members
• Certificate of Completion • Certified Small Business Door Decal
• Recognition at a Chamber Board Meeting
• Announcement in the Business Link
Small Business Seminars are sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers and are free for Chamber members.
Register Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
s Sponsorship Available!
October 16
Expo & Screenings– 7:30 am-1:30 pm Breakfast – 7:30 am-9:00 am
Gainesville Civic Center
13th Annual HealthSmart Expo with over 60 wellness exhibitors • FREE Community Health Screenings for men & women 18 years and older • No Entry Fee • Open to the Public • Screenings: Glucose, Cholesterol, Triglycerides Testing, Blood Pressure, BMI • Convenient Shuttle Service • No Appointment Needed HealthSmart Breakfast kicks of the day with the Most Fit Company Awards. Many levels of sponsorships open! Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com
12
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Details: Amanda Lewis, Project Manager - Small Business Development. 770532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com. Stay updated on events and seminars at GreaterHallChamber.com
Business Link Redesign Hopefully, you've noticed a change in Business Link this month. It's cleaner, sharper, more fun to read. Thanks to John Vardeman and Tina Carlson and the team at Morton, Vardeman & Carlson (MVC), Business Link has had a big makeover. John and Tina developed the Chamber's brand some 15 years ago as well as the original Business Link design, Vision 2030 and HALLmark's brand. Their creativity and talent have served the Chamber well through the years by developing advertising and PR campaigns. Built upon a national base of allied poultry businesses in the 1970s, today MVC represents a diversified range of regional, national and international clients. They strive to bring an organization’s vision to life and have succeeded in doing this for the Chamber. vardeman.com
Welcome New Chamber Members A Good Look Home Inspection Andrew Davenport P.O. Box 1753 Gainesville, GA 30503 - Home Inspections (470) 228-0507 Facebook.com/AGoodLookHomeInspectionLLC Amped Kids Foundation April Rooks 615 Oak Street Gainesville, GA 30501 - Non-Profit (678) 851-4992 AmpedKids.org Comcast Business Edward Flores 150 Hembree Park Drive Roswell, GA 30076 - Telecommunications (404) 637-7392 business.comcast.com Gibson Cuts Kashia Gibson 4305 Friendship Road Buford, GA 30519 - Salon (470) 589-1701
Guild Mortgage Company Keria Nelson 1400 Buford Highway Suite R-1 Sugar Hill, GA 30518 - Mortgages (404) 503-4313 guildmortgage.com/kerianelson Haydee's Café and Meat Market Luis Sepulveda 3204 Atlanta Highway Gainesville, GA 30507 - Restaurant/Butcher/Cater (678) 971-4686 Noble Vines Apartments Katie Heffernan 1500 Noble Vines Drive Braselton, GA 30548 - Apartments (678) 834-0918 noblevinesapts.com Precise Development Bo Brooks P.O. Box 448 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Architects & Engineers (404) 372-4545
How do I join the chamber?
Rachetti's Cafe & Pizzeria Danny Raciti 7437 Spout Springs Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Restaurant & Catering (470) 655-1515 rachettiscafe.com Safeguard Printed Products Randy Benton 2491-A Monroe Drive Gainesville, GA 30507 - Printing/Promotional Items (770) 965-6970 safeguardga.com Tamarack Investments Ryan McCaffrey P.O. Box 133277 Atlanta, GA 30333 - Real Estate / Investments (404) 895-6652 tamarackinv.com
Networking & Lead Development
Many thanks to Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Oakwood for hosting the June Business After Hours. (L-R) Luke Lenahan, PA-C; Thomas Strickland, NP; Alfred Martin, MD; Sahithi Sangapu, MD; Brandi Ricks, FNP-C; Tawanna J. S. Strauther, MD, of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Oakwood. The faces of hunger may surprise you. Come learn more as the Georgia Mountain Food Bank kicks off fall activities at Business After Hours on August 8. Hosted at GMFB, and sponsored by Liberty Utilities, the event introduces the Quinlan Visual Arts Center’s newest exhibit, “Still Hungry in America,” opening August 16 and exploring the faces of hunger over the past 50 years as captured by photographer Al Clayton and his daughter Jennie. Enjoy food, music and fun while networking with Chamber friends. gamountainfoodbank.org
Trent Brown - Individual Member (706) 338-3673
Contact Christen Wilbanks (cwilbanks@ghcc.com) or Kara Tate (ktate@ghcc.com). 770-532-6206 or JOIN ONLINE: greaterhallchamber.com
Business Before Hours
1/4 Page Ad 4.9" x 4.75"
Friday, August 16 | 7:30-9:00 am | Milton Martin Honda You got that right! Milton Martin Honda is excited to host Business Before Hours on Friday, August 16th from 7:30 -9:00 am! Come out for a morning of networking, door prizes, a complimentary breakfast, and meet their exceptional sales and service team. As a top leader in North Georgia’s automobile industry, Milton Martin Honda has proudly served the Hall County community since 1989. We look forward to welcoming you to the dealership! No charge for Chamber Members. Details: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115 or mlathem@ghcc.com
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
13
ribbon cuttings
The Insurance Source
The Insurance Source was founded in 1993 by Gary Reynolds. His daughter, Robin Reynolds Templeton, cuts a ribbon as she takes over the business following her father's retirement. Robin has been with The Insurance Source for over 14 years and looks forward to carrying on the family business. The Insurance Source is here to help the community and would love to work with you to see how they can help meet your insurance needs. Please stop by and see them! The Insurance Source, 4222 McEver Road, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-532-1900. theinsurancesourcega.com
Berkshire Hathaway Home Services
Kerstin Crawford, Senior VP & Managing Broker; Dan Forsman, President & CEO; Toni McGowan, Executive VP/Real Estate Operations, agents and staff cut ribbon to celebrate Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Georgia Properties (BHHS GA Properties). Kerstin Crawford stated, "Our team has been in the Gainesville real estate market for many years, and we believe our customers continue to benefit from our commitment to service and the value of our brand Their motivated and well-trained sales professionals provide the community with seamless home purchase and sale transactions. Sales professionals who are driven to move their careers to the next level should consider BHHS GA Properties. "Our company's culture is ambitious, collaborative and always focused on our agents' success. We are the forever brand," said Crawford. 500 Jesse Jewell Parkway, SE, Suite 300, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-3007. gainesville.bhhsgeorgia.com
Promote your company with a FREE Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. 14
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Huddle House opens in Flowery Branch
The new Huddle House restaurant in Flowery Branch is owned by Joanne Liu (cutting ribbon) and Wes Chong and is operated by Food Masters, Inc. of Raleigh, North Carolina. Town of Braselton officials were on hand to celebrate the opening of the restaurant that is open 6 AM - Midnight, 7 days a week. Order any item anytime! 7378 Friendship Springs Road, Suite G, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-828-7800. huddlehouse.com
Onin Staffing in Gainesville
Hugh Thomas, Managing Partner, cuts a ribbon at Onin Staffing in Gainesville, along with Chris Garner, Area Manager, Lisa Gillespie, Selling Branch Manager, and Josh Gluskin, Regional Manager. Onin Staffing offers a full range of staffing and employment services and is ranked among the top 2% of domestic staffing companies in sales volume. The company is also ranks as one of SIA’s fastest growing Largest Industrial Staffing Firms in the US. 250 John W. Morrow, Jr., Pkwy, Suite 110, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-275-4040. oninstaffing.com It's a free service if you're a member of the Chamber. Not a member? Join now, call 770-532-6206.
Annual Report
2018-2019
– The Chamber’s Workforce Development Task Force, now in its fifth year, has reached a new milestone with dozens of high school students working at industries and healthcare service providers in Hall County. – Workforce initiatives included 7th Grade Career Path Fairs with over 1,200 students attending and 45 businesses discussing careers with the students to help them prepare a career path in high school. – The Chamber continues to provide programs and resources to grow business. Small Business Seminars (700 attending in 2018) have grown 36% in the last two years with 50 small businesses designated a “Certified Small Business Partner.” – HALLmark 2015-2020, a fiveyear economic and community development initiative, has over 150 business investors contributing more than $2 million to support programs.
Be Better
– 51 international companies from 16 countries are located in Gainesville-Hall County, employing 8,700. One-third of goods-producing employees work for foreign-owned firms.
– Gainesville-Hall County is a regional center for healthcare services with some 373 healthcare service providers employing over 12,500 and providing nearly $750 million in annual wages .
– Site Selection Magazine ranked Gainesville-Hall County #3 in the U.S. in 2018 rankings of economic development project locations for small metros, and the Milken Institute named the Gainesville-Hall County Metro as the #1 in Georgia and #3 in the Nation for Best Performing Small Metros.
– Gainesville-Hall County continues to reign as Northeast Georgia’s primary trade area serving over 500,000 residents.
– 14 new and expanded businesses in Gainesville and Hall County announced 1,200 new jobs and $310 million in capital investment – The Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Graduate Medical Education Program has accepted a class of 26 residents and will grow to over 170 residents by 2023 with an anticipated $66 million economic impact for our community.
– Northeast Georgia Inland Port Terminal in Hall County will extend the Port of Savannah’s reach in the region with a new location in the Gateway Industrial Centre on Highway 365. – Hundreds of job seekers attended Chamber Job Fairs held in both the fall and spring. Some 70 employers participated with onsite hiring managers promoting available jobs. – Leadership Hall County has over 943 alumni with its 38th Anniversary this year. Now with 865 student graduates, Youth Leadership Hall celebrates its 14th Anniversary. – Partners in Education program has 330 businesses partnering with schools in Gainesville and Hall County to support and enrich students.
(L-R): Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Tony Funari, Funari Realty; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda, at the August 2018 South Hall Business Coalition meeting.
– Chamber health and wellness initiatives are connecting with local business through programs such as the Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk, finishing its 12th year with over 1,200 participants. Most Fit Company and Healthy Hall Awards, and the HealthSmart Expo with free community health screenings are providing programs and resources that benefit all.
Tomorrow Than You Are Today!
Healthy Hall Award Lifetime Achievement Recipient Dr. David Westfall (center), Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System; David Miller, PhD, Brenau University, at the Healthy Hall Awards Luncheon in February 2018. – Vision 2030’s development of the Highlands to Islands Community Trail is a key goal in uniting greenways together into one multi-use trail.
– 300 famous Gainesville-Hall County “Chicken Boxes” were delivered to the Capitol for the Georgia Legislature filled with area products/services.
– The South Hall Business Coalition continues to grow with presentations focused on issues important to South Hall.
– The Agribusiness Annual Breakfast recognized the importance of agriculture in Gainesville-Hall County with awards to leaders in the industry.
– 90% of Chamber members are small businesses, and networking events such as the Business Expo, Business After Hours and Lunch ’n Learn are engaging members to help grow their business.
– Some 600 people attended the Chamber’s Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast featuring the Hall County Legislative Delegation.
– Weekly ribbon cuttings are held for new and expanding businesses in the community.
– The Chamber’s Beautification Awards Program continues to recognize homeowners and businesses with beautiful landscapes.
– Marketing Workshops with business professionals provide programs on new trends in social media and digital marketing.
– The Chamber’s annual membership campaign netted over 80 new members and the membership base has grown to some 2,500.
– The Chamber hosted the 32nd Arbor Day Celebration this year with Tree City USA and student essay/art recognition.
The Greater Hall Chamber's mission is to be the Voice of Business for Gainesville-Hall County. GreaterHallChamber.com
July 2019 | GreaterHallChamber.com
15
Silver Shovel Award Recipients The Greater Hall Chamber's Silver Shovel Awards are presented annually to outstanding individuals serving the Chamber. These volunteers have gone above the call of duty promoting the Chamber's mission, goals and initiatives. The 2019 Silver Shovel Awards were presented at the Chamber's June Board meeting. (Front, L-R) Tracy Hoeltke, Netchex; Sharon Barrett, South State Bank; Whitney Brown, Stewart Melvin & Frost; Dr. Suzanne Erickson, Brenau University. (Middle, L-R) Tate O’Rouke, Jackson EMC; Rhonda Samples, Hall County School System; Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic; Steve Rawl; SunTrust Bank; Lauren Pugh, Lanier Technical College. (Back, L-R) Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance; Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power; Mark Winters, Georgia Department of Labor; Chris Braswell, The Norton Agency; Larry Becker, Montara Farm; Mark Lane, Hall County Government . (Not Pictured) Tracy Moon, Fisher & Phillips; Trish Stump, Montara Farm.
Business After Hours Thursday, August 8 | 5-7pm
Georgia Mountain Food Bank
Now's the Time to Join "I have been able to make many new friends that I may never have gotten the opportunity to meet had I not been a member of the Greater Hall Chamber. I’ve met many individuals that have helped our company with advice, improvements and assisted us with saving money. The Chamber's Small Business Seminars have provided me with useful information in my dayto-day life, personally, and in my business." J. Terry Merck, VP, American Yazaki Corporation Vice Chair, Chamber South Hall Council
Upcoming Chamber Events Tuesday, July 9 Small Business Seminar 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Wednesday, July 10 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Coffee Shop at Lawrence Pharmacy Wednesday, July 24 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Chili’s | Flowery Branch
Thursday, August 8 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Georgia Mountain Food Bank
Friday, August 16 Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Milton Martin Honda
Tuesday, August 13 Economic & Political Forecast 7:45 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College
Wednesday, August 21 Lunch ‘n Learn 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. Watkins Total Healthcare
Wednesday, August 14 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Atlanta Bread Co. | Gainesville
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA
CAR-RT SORT
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.