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
110th Annual Meeting & Gala
Annual Business Awards pages 4-6
2017-2018 Business Award Recipients Small Business of the Year Green's Grocery (Ed Waller, Jr.) Millie's Drapery & Decorating (Kinsey Family)
Meetings & Events page 6
Family Business of the Year Duplicating Products (Matt Nix) The Norton Agency (Norton Family)
Member Announcements page 10 Small Business of the Month page 11 New Leadership Hall Class page 12 Ribbon Cuttings pages 14-15 Welcome New Members pages 15
Community Service Award Senator Butch Miller Distinguished Citizen Award Benny Bagwell, Jackson EMC WG Mealor Chairman’s Award Paul Chambers, AT&T
(L-R): Chamber Chair-Elect Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System, Chair Perry Barnett, Rushton; Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO; Brian Rochester, 2018-2019 Chair-Elect, at the Annual Meeting & Gala on May 17.
Business After Hours – Great Networking –
Thursday, June 7
Mountain Fresh Creamery 6615 Cleveland Hwy | Clermont
Bring the Family • Ice Cream • Prizes
Silver Shovel Awards Sues Alexander Regions Bank
Kathline Collins Collins Property Group
Christy Moore NEGA Health System
Deb Bailey NEGA Health System
Julie Ferguson VISION 2030
Dr. Richard Oates University of North Georgia
Lt. Bonner Burton Hall Co. Sheriff ’s Office
Rob Fowler Turner, Wood & Smith
Phil Bonelli Wells Fargo
Logan Jones Jacobs Media
Chris Brown Delta Comm. Credit Union
Bernie Mastracchio The Times
Save the Date Thursday, June 7 Business After Hours Tuesday, June 12 Small Business Workshop Tuesday, June 19 South Hall Business Coalition
JUNE 2018
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Gale Starich Brenau University Tread Syfan Stewart, Melvin & Frost
From the Chairman
Celebrating a Year of Success 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. Now in its fourth year, the Greater Hall Workforce Development Task Force is proactive in keeping our community on the leading edge of providing skill ready employees for area businesses. Over 500 students, 7th graders from eight area schools, participated in the 7th Grade Career Path Fair this spring. The event was a collaborative initiative with over 50 area employers presenting career opportunities and pathways to help guide students with their plan of study in high school. There are 51 international companies from 16 countries in Gainesville-Hall County, employing 8,700 workers. One-third of goods-producing employees Perry Barnett, CPA work locally for foreign-owned firms. The 2017 year-end summary includes Rushton Chairman, Greater Hall 29 new and expanded businesses in Gainesville-Hall County announcing Chamber of Commerce 900 jobs and $170 million in capital investment. Bringing in new businesses to our community while assisting our existing businesses is a top priority. Site Selection ranked Gainesville #2 in its 2017 Project Ratings by Population and is a reflection of the Chamber's work to keep a pipeline of companies interested in locating and expanding in Hall County. We continue to reign as Northeast Georgia’s primary trade area serving over 500,000 residents with significant retail growth in all sections of Gainesville-Hall County. Downtown Gainesville is experiencing tremendous revitalization with the addition of high-end residential, retail and commercial developments. Braselton is booming with growth from the hospital as well as medical offices like Highpoint Medical Campus and BGW Dental Group Braselton. Flowery Branch's Old Town has been repurposed with streetscape improvements, a revitalized railroad depot and a new City Hall. Oakwood continues to grow with new retail services and residential development around the UNG-Gainesville campus, and Lula’s historic downtown is redeveloping historic buildings while the City of Lula is developing a community center in the historic railroad depot. Hall County is served by healthcare service providers that employ nearly 12,600, or 15.4% of the Hall County workforce, producing approximately $575 million in annual wages. Almost 80% of those jobs are located in the region’s healthcare epicenter in Gainesville. Northeast Georgia Medical Center begins a residency program for medical school graduates in 2019 with an estimated $66 million in economic growth (2019-2023) and will help grow our base of already exceptional medical and healthcare professionals.
June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
I would like to thank Kit Dunlap and the Chamber staff for their hard work and dedication and Chamber Officers for volunteering their time and talents to make our Chamber and community the most outstanding in the state.
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Chairman's Award to Paul Chambers The W.G. Mealor Award is named after the first chair of the Chamber who served from 1908-1917 and is presented to a Chamber volunteer who has gone beyond the call of duty. Paul Chambers started his career with AT&T in 1989. After several promotions, he was named AT&T’s Regional Director of External Affairs in 1995. As part of AT&T’s continuing efforts to drive economic development and investment in Georgia, Paul leads AT&T’s charge to make our region AT&T Fiber Ready. As we compete to attract new employers and investment to the area, the ability to highlight high-speed, fiber-optic infrastructure is vital. Paul’s ever-positive, pro-business attitude and work with businessChairman's Award Recipient Paul Chambers, AT&T, es, state and local elected officials continues (left) and Chamber Chairman Perry Barnett, Rushton. to make our region a great place to invest. Paul has served as a leader of the Chamber’s HALLmark Initiative for many years and is also very involved with the Chamber Board of Directors and Economic Development initiatives.
Business Link VOLUME 23 ISSUE 12 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com
GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2017-2018 Executive Committee Chairman Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton Chair Elect Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System
Vice Chair, Government Philip Wilheit, Jr. Wilheit Packaging Vice Chair, Membership Katie Dubnik Forum Communications
Treasurer Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair, Economic Development David Lee, Jackson EMC Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Vice Chair, Marketing Tate O'Rouke, Jackson EMC
Vice Chair, South Hall Council Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta Vice Chair, Community Development Caroline Lewallen Jaemor Farms Chair, VISION 2030 Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director
Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers, AT&T Mimi Collins, Longstreet Clinic Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Senior Advisor John Vardeman, Morton, Vardeman & Carlson Immediate Past Chairman Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2017-2018 Norman Baggs, The Times Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo Nick Bruner, Rushton Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Tony Funari, Funari Realty Jim Grier, Mayor, City of Lula Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall Co. Commission Morgan House, American Canoe Association Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Corp Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Mfg Terry Merck, American Yazaki Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Nancy Norton, The Norton Agency
Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Robert Schuetze, BB&T Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry Carol Shirley, South State Bank Jody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’s Andy Stewart, Peach State Bank & Trust Ahna Still, Halski Systems Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons Phil Sutton, Kubota Steve Syfan, Syfan Logistics Roy Turpin, Mayor, City of Gillsville Lila Westmoreland, Brenau University Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Mike Williams, Lanier Islands Darryl Workman, BrandBank
Associate Directors 2017-2018 Lindsay Addison, Sisu Sues Alexander, Regions Bank Sharon Barrett, South State Bank Kay Blackstock, Georgia Mountain Food Bank Caitlin Collins, Mincey Marble Brook Davidson, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Logan Jones, AccessWDUN Terry Morrisey, Caldwell Electrical Contractors Nick Pruner, Edward Jones Investments Misty Waldrop, HALLCO Credit Union John Wheeler, Bizzy Bee Exterminators Emily Wiley, J & J Foods
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 Hickey, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President, Finance and Human Resources Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Christen Wilbanks, Vice President, Sales Education & Leadership Andi Harmon, Vice President
Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President & CEO South Hall Council Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager Intern Carli Echols, University North Georgia
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June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
A n nua l B u s i n e s s Awa rds
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Small Business of the Year Green's Grocery
Small Business of the Year Millie's Drapery & Decorating
A young teenager by the name of Big Ed Waller started helping out at Green's Grocery during the summer. Little did he know, he would one day become owner. After an “extended college experience," Ed was presented the opportunity to purchase the business. It ended up being a fourminute buying deal when Ed’s dad was on a routine grocery shopping trip and overheard Frank Green Ed Waller, Green's Grocery, and Chamber Chair-Elect talking about selling the Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System. business. That was 1995, and Ed took over ownership. Ed strives to keep Green’s basic business strategy – take care of each customer that walks through the door, offer specialized services and maintain the Green’s Legacy. Green’s is one of the last truly independently owned grocery stores. Ed says he’s as “local as it gets,” and his grocery store is too. Ed created a niche market staying profitable with the Big Box competition right around the corner offering hand-cut, Certified Angus, premium steaks, tenderloin, ribs, chops, and more. Green’s can prepare it for you, smoked or grilled, and can even prepare a gift basket. Their fantastic bakery section offers homemade breads, cakes and cookies. Facebook.com/greensgrocery/
John and June Kinsey started Millie's Drapery and Decorating in 1968, and the company celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year. After a few years of operating as an in-home business, Millie's opened a store on Thompson Bridge Road in the mid-1980s, moving to several locations in the area before finding its permanent home on Cleveland Highway in 1997. John and June's daughter, Melissa Hulsey, joined Millie's in 2002 and Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO; Chris Kinsey added to the already stellar and Melisa Hulsey, Millie's Drapery & Decorating. reputation of the interior design business. She has become one of the top designers in the area for both residential and commercial properties. On August 9, 2016, Millie's suffered a fire that destroyed most of the building, requiring demolition of the old building and a complete rebuild. Son, Chris Kinsey, came on board in October of that year to assist in the rebuilding process and now is office manager. Millie's officially reopened with an open house and Chamber ribbon cutting ceremony exactly one year after the fire. Millie's provides interior design consultation as well as custom draperies and bedding, upholstery, rugs, blinds, shades, and shutters. Millie’s staff includes three designers, two seamstresses, an upholsterer, and an installer. milliesdrapery.com
Family Business of the Year The Norton Agency
Family Business of the Year Duplicating Products
With roots running deep across North Georgia, The Norton Agency celebrates its 90th Anniversary this year. Company founder, W.L. Norton grew up in rural Rabun County and relocated his family to The Norton Family – Nancy, Frank Jr., Betty, Frank Sr., Amanda Gainesville and Bob Norton. in the late 1920’s. He formed The Norton Agency in 1928 in the Jackson Building on the Downtown Gainesville Square. In 1937, Norton began the first planned residential neighborhood development in the community by purchasing the land of General William Longstreet from his widow and developing Longstreet Hills. W.L.’s son Frank Norton, Sr. joined the firm in 1952 extending the company’s reach into home lending, commercial brokerage and insurance. Frank’s wife Betty Norton joined the company in 1968 and built the region’s largest residential sales force in a 22-county reach. In the 1980’s Frank and Betty’s sons, Bob and Frank, Jr., took over operations. With 300 team members and 19 offices across three states, The Norton Agency is North Georgia’s largest real estate and insurance company. gonorton.com
Duplicating Products was founded in 1974 by Ralph and Marquita Nix, who moved to Gainesville from Conyers with their family of five young children – Pam, Blake, Matt, Amber and Amy. They began selling office copiers, before the machines were commonplace in offices, and took on the Savin product line. This was a key start to the business that exists today. Marquita became President and drew Matt Nix, Duplicating Products and Chamber Chairher first paycheck in April Elect Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System. 1983 when Ralph died suddenly and unexpectedly. For the next 23 years, she proved to be an incredibly adept and outstanding business person. Marquita worked right up to when she died in 2010. Son, Matt Nix, joined the business in 1988 and became President in 2006. Over the years, all of Ralph and Marquita Nix’s children, and many of their grandchildren, have worked for the company. Today, Duplicating Products handles two of the top product lines in the industry – Canon and Savin – with over 5,000 customers and some 6,000 systems installed. With 63 employees (Craig Harrington has been with the company 40 years), Duplicating Products posted an annual revenue of just under $20 million in 2017. duplicatingproducts.com
A n n u a l B u s i n e s s A wa r d s June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
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Community Service Award Senator Butch Miller It is quite the journey – the Honda salesman’s rise from volunteer and business owner to among the most influential men in the Georgia Legislature, as President Pro Tempore of the Senate. Butch came to work at Milton Martin Honda through his connection with Challenged Child (Sisu). He was heading up the non-profit’s fundraiser golf tournament, and there was especially bad weather that day. Milton Martin played in the tournament – and afterwards told Butch Senator Butch Miller and Kit Dunlap that anyone that could hold everything together that day needed to come to work for him. Butch joined Milton Martin Honda in 1993. In 1997, Butch and Jim Foote acquired the dealer’s Honda franchise, heading up one of the leading dealerships in Georgia. Though he did not grow up in Hall County, he says he “got here as fast as he could.” He is an active participant in the community, including the Gainesville Rotary Club, Meals on Wheels, Relay for Life, Eagle Ranch, Hall County YMCA, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Foundation, United Way and Partner in Education with numerous schools.
Distinguished Citizen Award Benny Bagwell Benny Bagwell started his career at Jackson EMC in 1972, when he was 19 years old. He began as a Lineman Apprentice, moving up and was promoted to Engineering & Operations District Coordinator and he has been in that position for the last 36 years. Benny is a South Hall High and Gainesville College graduate. He spends a lot of time on the needs and accomplishments of Hall County, mostly behind the scenes and with a low-key, Benny and Susan Bagwell at the Chamber Gala. gracious, Southern charm. Benny has worked with several friends/politicians who have been elected, while forging friendships and building relationships with all officials. Benny’s work has often been around his expertise in fund raising, construction and growing the community. When he started working with the hospital board in 2006, his sweet, loving and devoted wife, Susan, said it opened a new avenue for Benny: improving the health of our community that has touched him in a very inspirational way. He is a great public servant who has helped shape our community for many years as a great advisor. One close Rotary friend noted that Benny is the true definition of a Dedicated and Community Serving Rotarian, always putting Service Above Self.
June 2018 Wednesday, June 6 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Thursday, June 7 Business After Hours Sponsor: Mountain Fresh Creamery 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 6615 Cleveland Highway | Clermont Friday, June 8 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. New Flowery Branch City Hall Tuesday, June 12 Small Business Workshop 7:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Featherbone Communiversity 999 Chestnut Street | Gainesville Tuesday, June 12 Ambassador Council 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Fish Tales | Flowery Branch Wednesday, June 13 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m. Sonic | Pearl Nix Pkwy| Gainesville Wednesday, June 13 Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Luna's | Downtown Gainesville Tuesday, June 19 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Chicopee Woods Golf Course 2515 Atlanta Highway | Gainesville Wednesday, June 20 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber
Wednesday, June 20 Lunch 'n Learn Speaker: Mark Benkiel, Fairway Outdoor Advertising 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Ramada Inn Lanier Center | Lanier A 400 E.E. Butler Parkway | Gainesville Thursday, June 21 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber Wednesday, June 27 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Steak 'n Shake|Thurmond Tanner Road in Oakwood Thursday, June 28 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center | Gainesville
JULY 2018 Tuesday, July 10 Small Business Seminar 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Chamber Tuesday, July 17 Business After Hours Sponsor: Purple House Gallery 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 226 W Academy Street | Gainesville
AUGUST 2018 Thursday, August 2 Business After Hours Georgia Mountain Food Bank 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 1642 Calvary Industrial Drive | Gville Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Thank You Chamber Sponsors! We appreciate these organizations that support Chamber Events: AccessWDUN House Dressing Interiors Atlanta Botanical Gardens King's Hawaiian Caldwell Electrical Liberty Candy Company Chattahoochee Country Club Luna's Chicopee Woods Golf Milton Martin Honda Georgia Design & Graphics Mountain Fresh Creamery Glo-Crest Dairy New Holland Market Kroger
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June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Member Announcements
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• Jacobs Media celebrates its 69th anniversary and company CEO John W. “Jay” Jacobs III announced the promotion of a longtime employee to lead the company and the addition of a new radio station. Bill Maine, host of WDUN’s “Morning News with Bill & Joel” and a 38-year employee of the station, was named executive vice president and general manager. Maine will oversee operations of Jacobs Media, which includes WDUN AM/FM, WGGA AM and AccessWDUN.com • Terry Merck, VP, American Yazaki Corp. (AYC Plastics), a plastics parts producer, announced the company as the recipient of Yamaha Motor Company’s 2017 YMMC Supplier Excellence Award. Merck credits “the greatest employees at AYC help us win these awards year after year. Our team takes the approach that they not only work for AYC, but also for the customer and end users that receives the product.” • Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors meetings are held monthly and open to Chamber Members. Division reports are reviewed, and meetings often include a speaker or program on an issue important to the business community. Join us for the next meeting on Thursday, June 28 at 12-1:30pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. $15 per person; Includes Lunch. Reservations required. Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x106 or gcollins@ghcc.com • John B. “Jack” McKibbon Jr. began flying at the age of 14 from a field now known as Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport. McKibbon was recognized for a history of flying – from bombers in World War II to planes for business travel – with his induction in the Georgia Aviation Hall of Fame. McKibbon founded Mar-Jac Poultry with brother Marvin in 1954. They entered the hotel and restaurant business that today, operated by son, John McKibbon III, is an industry leader developing, owning and managing 80 hotels (partnering with 18 brands) in 30 cities. mckibbon.com • The Town of Braselton’s centennial celebration closed with the unveiling of oil portraits of all five mayors commissioned by accomplished portraitist, Neal Dunlap Hughs of Gainesville. The mayors' (William Henry Braselton, James Lewis Braselton, Henry Edward Braselton, Pat Graham, Bill Orr) portraits hang in the Police & Municipal Court Building. Sandy C. Weinel, is Braselton's new capital projects
coordinator. Weinel brings 20 years of experience most recently working with Oconee County in various related fields. Major projects she will oversee include GA 211 widening, development of a municipal recreation park and ongoing downtown development. braselton.net • ITNLanier continues increased transportation services for seniors and vision impaired adults in Hall County, delivering 3500 total rides with 2200 rides occurring in the second year. Entering its third year, ITNLanier announces Dana Chapman as new Executive Director to manage the growing operation. Dana served for the past six years as Executive Director for The Guest House providing daytime medical care and activities for older seniors. itnlanier.org • Roger Burgess of Gainesville-based ProCare Rx announced a partnership with MC-21, the market leading Pharmacy Benefit Manager in Puerto Rico. Both companies will continue to concentrate on health insurance plans, managed care, self-insured employer groups, government employees, unions, public health organizations, hospices and worker compensations plans. The combination of ProCare Rx and MC-21 will focus on serving the medicare and medicaid MCO market by driving down costs and gaining share in these fast growing markets. procarerx.com • Food Truck Friday is the third Friday of each month. Join the fun on the lake on Friday, June 15 at Lake Lanier Olympic Park from 5pm - 8pm with Food Trucks, Retail Vendors, Beer and Wine from Tap It, DJ and Live Music, Kids Activities and more. Free to attend. lakelanierolympicvenue.org • Gwinnett Stripers Business Special: Save 50% on Infield and Field Box Tickets for Stripers home games on June 7 and June 21 (12:05pm). Offer is online only. Visit GoStripers.com/Tickets and use offer code CHAMBER. Expires 2 hours prior to each game. Details: 678277-0340. gostripers.com • Ken Dixon, MD, FACS, a surgeon with Surgical Oncology of Northeast Georgia practicing over 35 years, launched a new Gainesville-based company leading the way in cancer care tumor storage. SpeciCare's mission is to arm patients with as many options as possible to fight cancer. specicare.com
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Networking at Business After Hours Thank you Jeff Pulliam and Mike Hedden of Danley Sound Labs for sponsoring the April Business After Hours. Join the summer fun at Mountain Fresh Creamery on Thursday, June 7 from 5-7pm with delicious milks and ice creams along with local food companies onsite to sample their products as well. Visit with one of the baby calves from the farm! Bring the whole family! Free giveaways, live music! Mountain Fresh Creamery & Glo-Crest Dairy – Milk so fresh the cow doesn't know it's gone! mountainfreshcreamery.com
BGW Dental celebrated the opening of their new Braselton office with a Business After Hours (L-R): Dr. Matthew Vaughn, Dr. Ryan Wood, Dr. Cindy Greene, Dr. Raina Graham, Dr. Richard Bennett, Jr., Dr. Brett Maddox.
Welcoming the World BACK to Gainesville-Hall County! Lake Lanier Olympic Park (LLOP) will host the largest international sporting event in the area since the 1996 Centennial Olympic Games with the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships (September 13-16) including 20 countries and 1,000 athletes. Team USA will be selected after over 800 athletes participate in five regional trials held across the United States and will gather at Lake Lanier Olympic Park in July for the only training camp prior to the world championships. As a show of support for Team USA and a fundraiser for the ICF Dragon Boat World Championships, a concert will be held on Saturday, July 21 featuring the Fly Betty Band at Brenau University’s Ampitheater in Gainesville. Help support Team USA and prepare for the first World Dragon Boat Championships to be held in North America by attending this concert. For more information on this exciting fundraising event, tickets or sponsorship opportunities: Robyn Lynch, Director, LLOP, 770-535-0397. Email: robyn@lakelanierolympicvenue.org
Zack Thompson, Brad Sample, Ryan Thompson and Patrick McCormac started Tap It Growlers in 2014 and nestled it on one side of the outdoor retail store, Pro Touch Landscapes. The group's knowledge and passion to share great Zack Thompson, Patrick McCormac and Ryan Thompson of craft beer with North Georgia is Tap It Growlers, Small Business of the Month. what drove them to open the first craft beer/growler bar in the City of Gainesville. The seasoned crafters can explain and discuss the differences in various beers, wines or ciders while customers taste and shop, eventually leaving with a growler of craft beer to take home. Undoubtedly, they are the most diverse store in the state – selling goods from BBQ supplies, landscape items, birdseed and mulch to BEER! Tap It has quickly become a Gainesville-Hall County favorite destination for great beer and has become a fixture at local festivals and events. Visit them at 1850 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville or online at tapitgrowler.com
Small Business Development Seminar attendees worked together in groups to discuss time management, individual goals and obstacles during the program by Elizabeth Evans, Avenues of Life Counseling & Coaching. Small Business Seminars are sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, WSI Digital Rainmakers and Signs by Tomorrow. Attend six of the monthly seminars and become a Chamber Certified Small Business Partner. Details: Amanda Lewis to learn more, 770-532-6206 x 111 or alewis@ghcc.com Don't miss the Small Business Workshop "Grow Your Business with Social Media"on Tuesday, June 12 from 7:45-9:30am at the Featherbone Communiversity. Led by Constant Contact™ Authorized Local Expert Howard Flint of Ghost Partners, you'll learn you how to make the most of the combination of email and social media for your business with simple but powerful tips for how to get your messages opened and read, shared and socially visible. ghostpartner.com No charge for Chamber members. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
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June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Community Development
Residential Beautification Awards New Leadership Hall Class
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The Greater Hall Chamber Beautification Committee announces 2018 Residential Beautification Awards from various sections of Gainesville-Hall County.
Richard Harris, East Lake Drive in Gainesville.
2018 City of Gainesville Award: Richard Harris, 687 East Lake Drive in Gainesville. Harris’ lawn and landscape is a masterpiece full of intriguing history. Now in his 90’s, Harris and his late wife designed their lush lawn on the shore of Lake Lanier. He still does plantings and maintains a “vision” for his lawn that contains over 35 varieties of hydrangeas. Harris has multiple themed areas from an oriental garden to his garden shed – so unique that one would want to nap in it! The home landscape has been featured in several garden magazines and has a color-coded map with a legend for his all his different species of plants.
2018 Hall County Award: Jim & Eleanor Casteel, 5258 Lauren Terrace in Flowery Branch. The Casteel’s built their home 22 years ago and love to garden. They are now in their 80’s and do all the yard work themselves. They have a “Hosta of the Year” garden where they have collected specific plants that have been voted as this honor from the American Hosta Growers Association. Their lawn features natural landscaping along with a beautiful Koy pond, over 50 large azalea bushes and 20 varieties of hosta. They love spending time outside gardening and just enjoying their hard work. Jim & Eleanor Casteel in Flowery Branch.
Residential or Business Beautification Award information: Robin Halstead, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com
Vision 2030 Public Art Update Funded by the Chamber’s HALLmark Initiative, Vision 2030 is a community project coordinated by outstanding volunteers leading long-term initiatives. One of the most successful "Big Ideas" is the development of a public art initiative. Through the work of an active Public Art Committee, chaired by Frank Norton, Jr., public Vision 2030 Public Art Block pARTy in Downtown Gainesville. art is EVERYWHERE! Initially, the Public Art Committee cataloged 55 works of existing art in a variety of media. Since that initial catalog in 2015, over 78 new pieces have been installed including Free Range Art Pieces and new sculptures. Most recently, the Committee had a Block pARTy to create awareness of art and sell original art, all for under $100. In a fun new adventure, the Public Art group introduced – Brenau Urban Rural Discovery Secrets (2030 BURDS), golden BURDS that can be “discovered” throughout our community and Play Me Now, artist painted pianos that are being placed for public use throughout Hall County! vision2030.org
The Chamber's Leadership Hall County (LHC) program was founded in 1983 and exposes individuals to the inter-related economic, government, socio-cultural and educational issues of the community. Participants develop knowledge of the community through a series of sessions covering such topics as arts and education to social services and economic development. Leadership Hall County graduates continue to be involved in many areas of volunteer and civic service in our community. Each year local non-profit agencies present service project ideas to the class, and the class then decides the project they will undertake. Currently, there are over 900 graduates of Leadership Hall County. Congratulations to the 37th Class (2018-2019) of Leadership Hall County: Janeann Allison, City of Gainesville
Kas Lawson, JD, Hall County State Court
Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power Company
Scott LeFevre, JD, Hall Co. Superior Court
Sharon Barrett, South State Bank
Capt. Mike Martin, Gainesville Police Dept
Judge Clint Bearden, Georgia Superior Court
Chris Nish, Cottrell, Inc
Ashton Blackwood, Butch Miller State Senate Laine Nowell, Wells Fargo Amy Booth, Georgia Mountains YMCA
Danielle Perkins, Murray Plastics
Donna Brown, NEGA Medical Center
Katherine Porter, Smile Doctors Braces
Whitney Brown, JD, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Lauren Pugh, Lanier Technical College Nikki Chandler-Conner, Victory Processing Morgan Redd, Merrill Lynch 1st Lt. Chris Dale, Hall Co. Sheriff's Office Makayla Richards, Atlanta Botanical Gardens Gainesville Regina Dyer, City of Gainesville Ben Filchak, Deep Roots Landscape Tad Gomez, RPh, NEGA Medical Center Jess Gravitt, Turner, Wood & Smith Brian Heck, Hall County Solicitor s Office
Cassie Sherman, Carroll Daniel Construction Paul Sherman, Clipper Petroleum Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic Tate Strayhorn, Count on Tools
Heather Hollimon, PhD, Brenau University Joey Summer, JD, Summer & Summer Lila Westmoreland, Brenau University Holli Howard, Chestatee High School
Christina Jones, CFP, Dominguez & Jones Amanda Wilkson, CPA, Bates, Carter & Co Wealth Management Darryl Workman, BrandBank Logan Jones, CRMP, CMMC, Jacobs Media Bryson Worley, Ed.S. Gainesville High Mandy Lathem, Greater Hall Chamber
Rick Young, Private Client Advisory
Blythe Hammond, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, and CJ Greene, The Norton Agency Abernathy Cochran Real Estate Group, at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center. Leadership Hall's final program focused on Quality of Life with an overview of Vision 2030, The Arts Council, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, the Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville and the Lake Lanier CVB. Thank you to The Arts Council for sponsoring breakfast; Chattahoochee Country Club for sponsoring lunch; Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville for sponsoring the program tours; and, South State Bank and Luna's for sponsoring the graduation celebration at Luna's.
Commercial Real Estate Developers South Hall Business Coalition
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Riverside Pharmacy
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June 5, 2018 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
•Gift baskets •Embroidery •Unique gifts •Screen printing 2 columns •Balloons for all occasions 4.4167 x5"Service Pharmacy •Full •Free Local Delivery •Compounding Unit Dose Packaging
The South Hall Business Coalition met at the new Flowery Branch City Hall for a town update. (L-R): Mike Miller, Mayor, Flowery Branch; Chamber South Hall Council Chair Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta; Bill Andrew, City Manager, Flowery Branch; Fred Richards, Council Member, Flowery Branch; Tim Evans, VP Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber. The Coalition will meet on June 19 at Chicopee Woods Golf Course and hear from Lennie Holland, General Manager, and Al Morrison, Head Golf Professional. Opening in 1991, Chicopee Woods is a premiere, championship golf facility that is open to the public with many programs for men, women, kids and beginners, including exciting new plans to take golf to local schools. The organization also hosts many civic and corporate golf tournaments and had one of the best golf learning and club fitting facilities in North Georgia. chicopeewoodsgolfcourse.com
Economic Development
(L-R): Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Hall County Commissioner Billy Powell, SVN/Hokayem Company; Chair/Facilitator Brent Hoffman, Berkshire Hathaway Commercial Services; Glennis Barnes and Rope Roberts, Georgia Power. Over 70 commercial real estate developers met in April at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens Gainesville. Sponsored by Georgia Power, the event brought together realtors in the industry for networking and discussion on recent real estate transactions, new listings, new State and Federal Tax benefits for investing in GainesvilleHall County, and a new online listing service for office and industrial space. For more information about the Commercial Real Estate Developers or Chamber Economic Development programs, contact Tim Evans, Vice President, Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber. 678-971-6221. Email: tim@ghcc.com
Phone: 706.778.0322 • Fax: 706.778.0971 support@payco.org • paycopayrollsolutions.com
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Serving Gainesville Since 1954
935 Green St., Gainesville, GA
770.532.6253
callriversidepharmacy.com
2 columns 4.4167 x5"
Ribbon Cuttings
Elastron to open new headquarters Maggie Griffin Design
Elastron, a global developer, producer and marketer of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), executives sign a lease for property on Chestnut Street in Gainesville and will open a North American headquarters with production to begin this fall. (Seated): Yuksel Habip, Elastron, and Jimmy Adams, The Adams Companies. (Standing, L-R): Tim Evans, Chamber; Spence Price, The Adams Companies; Coskun Bayram, Elastron; Dr. Zev Gurion, Elastron USA; Floyd Baldwin, IPG Properties. Elastron has produced TPEs for over 35 years with exports to some 55 countries worldwide. Headquartered near Istanbul, Turkey, Elastron began expanding into the North American market in 2012 and has seen enough demand to justify a local manufacturing facility, said Metin Mizrakli, chairman and CEO of Elastron. Georgia’s business-friendly environment and economic development efforts to attract investment from Turkey led Elaston’s search to Georgia. After an exhaustive site selection process, Elastron USA selected Gainesville for its new North American headquarters. Elastron USA will employ 20-25 in the first 2-3 years and is actively hiring for technical sales representatives and process/technical support engineers. To apply, contact Dr. Zev Gurion at zgurion@elastronusa.com
Maggie Griffin of Maggie Griffin Design, along with Looms & Lighting and Caroline Nix Gallery, cuts ribbon at the new showroom in Gainesville. The Maggie Griffin Design office is proud to share space with Looms and Lighting, a resource for one of a kind vintage and antique rugs, porcelain and unique lamps and Caroline Nix Gallery, a space devoted to original art from local up-and-coming artists in a variety of styles and mediums. Maggie Griffin specializes in residential interiors from new-build construction to remodeling and renovations, as well as commercial and hospitality consulting. 470 Boulevard, Gainesville, GA 30501. 478-893-2781. maggiegriffindesign.com
Parkside on the Square
June 5, 2018 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Compass Pest Management
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(L-R): Dani Brown, The Good Life Group (GLG); Donilyn Hodge, GLG; Jamie Bishop, GLG; Jim Blankenship, Parkside; Bev Knight, GLG; Darlene Plavcan, GLG; Tim Knight, Parkside. Parkside on the Square is a new, 90,000 square foot mixed use project being developed on the Downtown Gainesville Square and consists of 15,000 square feet of street front retail with 32 luxury condominiums above the retail space and facing the square. Residences are priced starting in the mid-$400's for large 2 bedroom/2.5 bath homes with standard features including 9 foot ceilings, hardwood floors, quartz counter tops and Viking appliances. 770-536-4416. parksideonthesquare.com
ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS
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984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA
770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com
Cliff Baird, Sales Manager; Toby Crowe, Branch Manager, and Philip Smith, President, cut ribbon for Compass Pest Management, a provider of innovative solutions to common pest and termite issues. Associates are trained to offer exceptional service that is both effective and efficient. Compass takes pride in its straight forward answers and doing what's right. Compass also involves employees in community service outreach projects by serving on local scholarship boards for students in need and cleaning gutters and lawns for elderly citizens and veterans. 1102 S. Main Street, Cornelia, GA 30531. 706-778-1073. cpestmn.com
Serving
Northeast 2 columns Georgia Since 1967 4.4167 x2"
Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
Retirement
Welcome New Members Orkin Shane Bailey 1945 Old Candler Road Gainesville GA 30507 - Pest Control 678-943-9782 orkin.com
Meineke Car Care Center Mark Knapp 2438 Limestone Parkway Gainesville GA 30501 - Auto Parts Sales & Service 678-943-8763 meineke.com
White Dog Home Malinda O'Brien 118 Main Street SW, #M-2 Gainesville GA 30501 - Home Goods & Design 404-984-9834 whitedoghome.com
may be far off,
Join the Greater Hall Chamber and get all the benefits offered to members. The potential dividends from investment are unlimited! For Greater Hall Chamber membership information and benefits, contact Christen Wilbanks, Vice President of Membership Sales, 770-532-6206 x 115 or email: cwilbanks@ghcc.com
but the April 15 deadline for IRA contributions isn’t. You have only so many years to prepare for retirement. That’s why contributing to your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is so important. Fortunately, you still have time to maximize your 2015 IRA contribution before the April 15 deadline.
Join the Chamber online at GreaterHallChamber.com
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® www.edwardjones.com Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Rick Kimpling, AAMSMember SIPC
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3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031
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Merle Norman Cosmetics
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439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220 IRT-2046G-A
Manager Mary Katherine Wellborn, Owner Jenna Wellborn, Denise Wellborn, and Martha Pass cut ribbon at Merle Norman in Gainesville, a Hall County favorite for over 45 years. One of hundreds of franchises in the U.S. and internationally, Merle Norman Cosmetics is a leading brand of premium skincare, foundations and color cosmetic products. From powder to perfume, mascara to moisturizer, Merle Norman continues to create technologically advanced skincare and color cosmetics that meet the ongoing needs of diverse customers. They are also trained to do ear piercings and organic spray tans will be added soon. Visit for a FREE makeover! 950 Washington St. NW, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-7800. merlenorman.com
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
June 5, 2018 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
State Representatives Matt Dubnik and Emory Dunahoo, Jr. joined Dr. Brett Maddox, Dr. Ryan Wood, Dr. Raina Graham, Dr. Matthew Vaughn, Dr. Cindy Fulenwider Greene, Dr. Richard G. Bennett and staff to cut a ribbon at the new BGW Dental Group office in Braselton. The new 8,042-square foot facility, includes a large reception area, complimentary beverage station, 10 dental suites with intraoral cameras, digital radiography and dental treatment chairs designed with patient comfort in mind, as well as two sedation suites with recovery rooms, and two private consultation rooms to discuss treatment and finances with patients. Ample parking is available with a covered drop-off area. 1205 Friendship Road, Braselton GA 30517. 770-532-4555. bgwdentalgroup.com
Membership Development
Good News at Noon Alejandro Oropeza PO Box 1577 Gainesville GA 30503 - Non Profit 678-989-6679 goodnewsatnoon.org
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Hackers Holiday Highlights Hackers Holiday 1st Flight Winner Lehigh Hanson Team: Don Richards, Lehigh Hanson; Danny Jackson, CW Matthews; Jason Nance, Argos Team; Randy Watkins, Lehigh Hanson. 2nd Flight Winner Jackson EMC Team: Scott McMurray, Georgia Dept of Economic Development; Tate O’Rouke, Jackson EMC; Robert Schuetze, BB&T; Chris Kelley, Jackson EMC. The 39th Annual Hackers Holiday 3rd Flight Winner was the SunTrust Team with Brad Brooker, Stephen Kelly and Craig Dowdy, SunTrust Bank, and Todd Gailey, Boost Transport. Closest to the Pin: Hank Evans, Georgia Department of Economic Development; Longest Drive Women's: Laura Faught, ACG Solutions; Longest Drive Men's: Chad Bingham, Bingham Insurance Group. Thank you presenting sponsors: ACG Solutions and AT&T.
South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, June 19
Chicopee Woods Golf Course 2515 Atlanta Hwy | Gainesville
Why Join the Chamber? "Chamber membership remains one of the greatest business INVESTMENTS in my 18 year real estate career – from relationships made through networking events to the education about my community through Leadership Hall. I am proud to be a part of an organization that has done wonderful things to make Hall County such a great place to live and work!" Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty Lanier Partners Associate Broker, The Fauscett Team
“The #1 reason an organization joins the Greater Hall Chamber is NETWORKING. From small businesses to large manufacturers, we all benefit from building relationships and networking through the Chamber. Take part in the many Chamber events to meet prospective clients and generate business leads.” Terry Merck Vice President, American Yazaki Corporation
Take advantage of all the Chamber has to offer. If you're a member, get involved. If you're not, JOIN now. Contact Christen Wilbanks, VP Membership Sales at 770-532-6206 or JOIN online at GreaterHallChamber.com
Business After Hours Thursday, June 7 Mountain Fresh Creamery 6615 Cleveland Hwy | Clermont Fun at the Farm with delicious milks and ice creams along with samples from local food companies. Baby calves! Giveaways! Live music! Bring the family! mountainfreshcreamery.com
Lennie Holland, General Manager, and Al Morrison, Head Golf Pro, will present an overview of the premiere, championship golf facility that is open to the public. chicopeewoodsgolfcourse.com
Upcoming Chamber Events Thursday, June 7 Business After Hours Mountain Fresh Creamery 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 6615 Cleveland Hwy | Clermont Tuesday, June 12 Small Business Workshop 7:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Featherbone Communiversity 999 Chestnut Street | Gainesville Wednesday, June 13 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. -9:30 a.m.
Sonic Drive-In 400 Pearl Nix Pkwy | Gainesville Tuesday, June 19 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Chicopee Woods Golf Course 2515 Atlanta Hwy | Gainesville Wednesday, June 20 Lunch 'n Learn Mark Benkiel, Fairway Outdoor 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Ramada Inn Lanier Center 400 E.E. Butler Pkwy | Gville
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA
Wednesday, June 27 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Steak 'n Shake at Thurmond Tanner Road in Oakwood
CAR-RT SORT
Details & Register Online for these events and more
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