Business Link G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m Chamber Chair's Column page 2 Business Awards & Gala Highlights pages 4-5
2018-2019 Business Award Recipients Small Business of the Year
BGW Dental Group M & R Equipment Rental & Sales Family Business of the Year
Meetings & Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10
Riverside Pharmacy WDUN Community Service Award
Lanier Technical College / Dr. Ray Perren Distinguished Citizen Award
Small Business of the Month page 12 New Members page 13 Ribbon Cuttings page 14 New Leadership Hall Class page 15
Save the Date
111th Annual Meeting & Gala
Congressman Doug Collins WG Mealor Chairman’s Award
Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda
(L-R): Chamber Chair-Elect Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates, Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO and Chamber Chair Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System, at the Annual Meeting & Gala on May 16.
Silver Shovel Awards Glennis Barnes Georgia Power Sharon Barrett South State Bank
Whitney Brown Stewart Melvin & Frost Namon Collins Allstate Insurance
Mark Lane Hall County
Steve Rawl SunTrust Bank
Tracy Moon Fisher & Phillips
Rhonda Samples Hall County Schools
Larry Becker Trish Stump Montara Farm
Suzanne Erickson Brenau University
Tate O’Rouke Jackson EMC
Chris Braswell The Norton Agency
Tracy Hoeltke Netchex
Lauren Pugh Lanier Tech
#1 Margaret Spratlin Longstreet Clinic Mark Winters GA Department of Labor
IN THE NATION
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(L-R): Steve and Carol Burrell and Alana and Brian Rochester at the Gala at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville.
June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
From the Chair
Be Better Tomorrow Than You Are Today
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Carol Burrell President & CEO, NEGA Health System; Chair, Greater Hall Chamber
As my term as Chamber Chair concludes, I would like to reflect on this past year. Gainesville-Hall County is a special place to live, thanks to years of deliberate effort by our Chamber and community leaders to create a thriving economy while enhancing an already exceptional quality of life with a focus of being better tomorrow than we are today.
Quality of Life Downtown areas are experiencing new population growth with many choosing the walkability and lifestyle of urban living. Lake Lanier is full! Lake Lanier Olympic Park continues to shine, hosting many local, state and international rowing, canoe and kayak events. Vision 2030 continues to spread Public Art throughout the community, and the Highlands to Islands multi-purpose trail is expanding throughout Hall County. Access to world-class healthcare continues to play a growing role in our quality of life in the region, while having a significant economic impact. In the next few weeks, 26 new doctors will move to Gainesville-Hall County for their residencies. We hope they love our community as we do, grow new roots, stay and make their homes here. Economic Development Numerous national rankings (Site Selection, the Milken Institute and the Terry Colleges Economic Outlook) have named Gainesville-Hall County #1 in Georgia and a leader in the U.S. among metro areas for job growth, small business and economic development. New and existing industries continue to prosper and expand with 14 businesses announcing plans to add 1,200 new jobs and $310 million in capital investment in
2018-2019. Several industries are under construction with their new headquarters facilities, and Carroll Daniel Construction is building their new headquarters in Downtown Gainesville. New businesses from Sweden, Taiwan and Netherlands recently joined more than 50 international businesses from 16 countries that do business in Gainesville-Hall County. New housing developments are under construction with over 1,100 new single family home permits issued in 2018. Infrastructure Major road improvements are underway with 129 South, the new Exit 14 and many local road improvements across Gainesville-Hall County. The new Northeast Georgia Inland Port Terminal will create a trade connection to the Port of Savannah, and Gainesville-Hall County will be the center of the region for that important trade facility. The Terminal at Lee Gilmer Airport is getting a much needed makeover. And the Post Office is moving... well, eventually. With Gainesville-Hall County surpassing the 200,000 population mark, there are many infrastructure improvements to plan and fund. Voters in Hall County will have a say with the SPLOST VIII Referendum in November 2019. Workforce Development Founded in 2015, the Workforce Development Initiative is growing with outstanding programs in career development. Work based learning, apprenticeships and dual enrollment programs are expanding with school-business partnerships with Lanier Technical College, the University of North Georgia and the Gainesville City and Hall County schools. The New Lanier Technical College is a shining example of this community coming together. It will serve Gainesville-Hall County and the region for generations to come. The theme this year is "Be Better Tomorrow Than You Are Today," and I believe these successes demonstrate that we did, in fact, live up to the theme's goal. Thanks to each and every one of you for making this a truly incredible year. Andi Miller Farmer (right) with husband Mark Farmer and her mother Mac Miller. Andi was the recipient of the Greater Hall Chamber's prestigious W.G. Mealor Award, named after the first Chamber Chairman. Andi has served as Chamber Vice Chair of Education for several years and was recognized for her passion for education and going beyond the call of duty as a Chamber volunteer and community leader.
Kat B usiness Link VOLUME 24 ISSUE 12 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com www.GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2019-2020 Executive Committee Vice Chair, Education Chair Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda Health System
Vice Chair, South Hall Council Geoff Lee Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta
Chair Elect Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates
Vice Chair, Marketing Tate O'Rouke Jackson EMC
Treasurer Glennis Barnes Georgia Power
Vice Chair, Government Philip Wilheit, Jr. Wilheit Packaging
Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers, AT&T Mimi Collins, Longstreet Clinic Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Vice Chair, Economic Development David Lee Jackson EMC
Vice Chair, Membership Brett Fowler Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Immediate Past Chairman Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton Chair, VISION 2030 Chamber President & CEO Phillippa Lewis Moss Kit Dunlap Community Service Center Elizabeth Higgins Executive Director
Vice Chair, Community Development Caroline Lewallen Jaemor Farms
Senior Advisor Dixie Truelove Truelove Family Farms
Board of Directors 2019-2020 Norman Baggs, The Times Nick Bruner, Rushton Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands Caitlin Collins, Mincey Marble Manufacturing Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Dr. Suzanne Erickson, Brenau University Terry Evans, Pinnacle Bank Jim Grier, Mayor, City of Lula Joy Griffin, Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall Co. Commission Logan Jones, Wilheit Packaging Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Jennifer Landers, Newland Communities David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Mfg J.D. Mealor, Regions Bank Terry Merck, American Yazaki 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 Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry 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 Christa Andrews, Corporate Storage, LLC Carin Booth, UGA Extension Hall County Haley Bower, Clipper Petroleum Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Jonathan Collins, Capstone Properties Group Regina Dyer, Gainesville CVB Renee Ginn, Chick-fil-A Gainesville
Dianne Hicks, eXp Realty Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel Robyn Lynch, Lake Lanier Olympic Park Andrew May, Atlanta Rehab & Performance Casey Ryals, Hall County Farm Bureau Insurance Sheila Sanchez, State Farm Insurance Alison Smith, Bagwell Insurance Group
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 and Human Resources 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 Kit Dunlap, President & CEO 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 Intern Jacquelyn Christoph, Brenau University
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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.
June 6 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Annual Business Awards
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Small Business of the Year BGW Dental Group
Family Business of the Year Riverside Pharmacy
Dr. Richard Bennett with staff from BGW Dental Group. In 1998, Richard Bennett joined his uncle, Dr. Rep Bennett's practice. Dr. Cindy Fulenwider Greene joined Richard in 2006, and they began offering sedation dentistry, expanded hours and a unique working relationship with local medical and radiation oncologists providing preventive, restorative, and extensive surgical dental care to cancer patients, often reduced fee or pro bono. Dr. Ryan Wood joined the team and the practice became BGW Dental Group (Bennett, Greene, and Wood) in 2012. Experiencing vast growth, the partners added Dr. Matt Vaughn, Dr. Raina Graham and Dr. Brett Maddox in 2018. With two locations, Vine Street in Gainesville and a new office in Braselton, BGW Dental Group employs 35 people and is involved in numerous nonprofits and community outreach programs. bgwdentalgroup.com
Riverside Pharmacy Team (L-R): Wayne Gee, Alesha Godoy, Mara Lucas, Scottie Barton and Ashley McCain. Riverside Pharmacy was opened in 1954 in Gainesville by Charles Johnson and Joann Adams, who was the first female pharmacist in Hall County. For its first 50 years, the pharmacy was housed next to Green’s Grocery. They moved to the current location, just down the road at 935 Green Street, in 2004. The business was purchased by Wayne Gee in 1982 and sold to Scottie Barton in 2010. Their motto "SERVICE IS TRADITION" is practiced daily and gives every customer one-on-one attention – treating each person like family. Riverside Pharmacy provides medications to the local community with free deliveries and also packages medication for assisted living and long-term homes in Gainesville, Cumming, Blairsville and Hiawassee. With 20 employees, they continue to serve generations of customers, just as they did 65 years ago.
Small Business of the Year M & R Equipment Rental & Sales
Family Business of the Year WDUN
(L-R): Will, Nathan and Don Crumley are owners of M&R Equipment Rental & Sales, supplying customers with everything from boom lifts and jack hammers to skid steers and cranes. The company was founded in 1967 by Billy Hood and remains in its original location on Enota Drive (off Thompson Bridge Road) in Gainesville. Nathan, a Clemson graduate, bought the company in 2008. Don was in college then but worked after classes and on weekends. Following graduation, Don joined the business full time. Will, a UGA Law School graduate, realized he preferred working outdoors, saw great opportunity with his brothers, and joined the company. Since purchasing the business, M&R has grown its team of equipment rental experts and expanded its inventory to provide equipment to a variety of customers, whether they are a large commercial construction company or a fearless weekend warrior planning to work around the house. mandrrental.com
The Jacobs Family celebrates WDUN's 70th Anniversary this year under the leadership of Jay Jacobs (far right) who took over the business from his father in 1988. Over its 70-year history, dial positions have changed and an FM station was added along with the development of AccessWDUN, an online local newspaper that boasted over 3 million unique visitors to the site in 2018. INNOVATE, NOT WAIT – that’s the path that the company has followed, as evident in John Jacobs, Jr.'s founding of cable television in Hall County in 1966. With a staff, much like family, WDUN remains on the cutting edge in the communications industry. Bill Maine, now executive vice president and general manager, has been with the company for 39 years. The outstanding WDUN team continues to deliver great content to our community. accessWDUN.com
Distinguished Citizen Award Congressman Doug Collins
The new $135 million Lanier Technical College campus provides state of the art facilities, greatly benefiting our community and our future workforce. Founded in 1964, Lanier Tech’s mission since day one has been Workforce Development. In 2017 under the leadership of Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Tech had 100% student job placement. Lanier Tech partners with the 10 school systems in the 7-county service area, and dual enrollment has seen a 36% increase in just one year. With over 200 community business partners – from poultry processing to tourism – the college has forged strong relationships that remain beneficial to business as well as students. Dr. Ray Perren came to Lanier Tech in 2013 and now oversees some 650 full- and part-time employees. A new sculpture in front of the campus is named “Partners in Progress” reflecting the college's original motto. laniertech.edu
Congressman Doug Collins and Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap. Doug Collins saw public service modeled by his father, a Georgia State Trooper, and mother, who provided care to local senior citizens. A North Hall High graduate, Doug earned a degree in political science and criminal justice from the University of North Georgia and a master’s degree in divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. He pastored Chicopee Baptist Church for 11 years, and in 2006 was elected to Georgia’s 27th State District. During his first term in the state legislature, Doug graduated from Atlanta’s John Marshall Law School and established his own legal practice. He became the Governor’s Floor Leader in the state house, where he shepherded legislation to strengthen the HOPE scholarship program for future generations of Georgia students. As a U.S. Air Force Reserve chaplain, Doug has ministered to our country's military since 2002. He completed a 2008-2009 deployment to Iraq while stationed at Balad Air Force Base. As a Lieutenant Colonel, Doug remains active in the Air Force Reserve. Doug has served as a U.S. Representative for Georgia's Ninth Congressional District since 2013. In the 116th Congress, Doug serves as Ranking Member of the U.S. House Committee on the Judiciary.
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June 6, 2019 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
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Annual Business Awards
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Meeting & Events
Chicopee expands golf programs
June 2019 Friday, June 7 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | Chamber Tuesday, June 11 Small Business Seminar "Marketing Automation: Eliminate Follow Up Failure for Higher Profits" Lee Goff, MarketingAgencyCoach.com 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Business Incubator at Brenau University 999 Chestnut Street | Gainesville Wednesday, June 12 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville
South Hall Business Coalition's April meeting was held at Chicopee Woods Golf Course with a full crowd on hand to hear from General Manager Lennie Holland and Head Golf Pro Al Morrison. (L-R): Merri Briscoe and Lennie Holland, Chicopee Woods Golf Course; Marc Eggers, AccessWDUN; Al Morrison; Chicopee Woods; Chamber Vice Chair, South Hall Council, Geoff Lee, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta; Chamber Vice Chair, Education, Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda. The South Hall Business Coalition, sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, AccessWDUN, Store More Self Storage and Red Clay Interactive, will meet at Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch for a VISION 2030 Update on Tuesday, June 25 from 8:00-9:00 a.m. Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 103 or email: ktate@ghcc.com
Chateau Elan begins renovations
Wednesday, June 12 Human Resources Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Luna's Restaurant | Gainesville Tuesday, June 18 Vision 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Chamber Tuesday, June 18 Business After Hours Sponsored by Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Oakwood 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 3931 Mundy Mill Road | Oakwood
June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, June 19 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber
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Wednesday, June 19 Lunch 'n Learn Speaker: Nick Pruner, Edward Jones 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. BGW Dental Group Braselton 1205 Friendship Road | Braselton Thursday, June 20 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber
South Hall Business Coalition's recently met at Chateau Elan and learned about the Braselton resort's $25 million renovation now underway. (L-R): Chamber South Hall Council Vice Chair, Geoff Lee, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta; Ed Walls, General Manager, Chateau Elan; Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber; Chamber Chairman-Elect Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates. For more information on the South Hall Business Coalition and upcoming programs, contact Kara Tate, Chamber Vice President of Programs & Sales., 770-532-6206 x 103 or email: ktate@ghcc.com
Tuesday, June 25 South Hall Business Coalition Vision 2030 Update 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Spout Springs Library | Flowery Branch Wednesday, June 26 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lakeside Market 5609-A Main Street | Flowery Branch Thursday, June 27 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center
JULY 2019 Tuesday, July 9 Small Business Seminar "Emotional Intelligence and Social Awareness" by Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College 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 5851 Spout Springs Road Flowery Branch NOTE: NO Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors Meeting in July.
Register and learn more about these and more Chamber events online:
GreaterHallChamber.com/events
– Thank You Event Sponsors – AccessWDUN BGW Dental Group Braselton Business Incubator at Brenau Caldwell Electrical Halski Systems Milton Martin Honda
NEGA Physicians Group Oakwood Red Clay Interactive Signs by Tomorrow Spout Springs Library Store More Self Storage WSI Digital Rainmakers
LORRIE HAD A HE ART AT TA C K 8 0 M I L E S F R O M H E L P. W H E N E V E R Y SECOND COUNTED, SHE COUNTED ON US. Long live Lorrie. Long live hearts. The care Lorrie Griffith needed when she had a heart attack in her home in North Carolina was more than an hour’s drive away. That’s why first responders knew the only chance to save her life was to fly her by helicopter to Northeast Georgia Medical Center, where a team known for some of the fastest response times in the nation were standing by. They restored blood flow to her heart in just 14 minutes.
Watch Lorries’s story and request your appointment online: nghs.com/lorrie l 770-282-1090
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June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Member Announcements
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• Hasty Pope, a family-run law firm with over 100 years of combined experience in settling and litigating personal injury and workers’ compensation lawsuits, announces Dustin Davies as partner. With the firm since 2012, Davies joins partners Jonathan Pope and Tom Pope III. He is a Leadership Hall graduate and has been named a Georgia Super Lawyers “Rising Star” six years in a row. hastypope.com • Angel Retana, owner of Fajitas Mexican Cuisine and Gainesville Seafood Market, announces 787 Hacienda, a new sports bar and entertainment venue. Celebrating the Hispanic community, the facility offers indoor/outdoor spaces, Latin themed music, Blanco Bar with craft beer and mixed drinks, unique dining space for special events and a meeting venue for corporate events. The refurbished 10,000 sf building is located at 787 Hospital Drive in Gainesville. Facebook.com/787-Hacienda • UGA Hall County Cooperative Extension is hosting Summer Canning Classes. Join Carin Booth, Family & Consumer Sciences Agent, on June 25 for Pickling & Fermenting; July 25 or August 15 for Pressure Canning. $5 per session. Classes are at 734 E. Crescent Drive, Suite 300 in Gainesville. To register: 770-535-8293 or boothc@uga.edu • Downtown Braselton's Second Saturday Concert Series includes events on June 8, July 13 and August 10 with rockin’ evenings of music. All concerts will be staged on the Town Green at 9924 Davis Street with free parking at the town’s parking deck. Food trucks and beverage tents on site. Braselton Main Street earned its recertification from the National Main Street Center that recognizes exemplary commitment to preservation-based economic development and community revitalization. DowntownBraselton.com • Lake Lanier Olympic Park's (LLOP) Summer Food Truck Fridays with live music, a variety of food trucks, games and more are Friday, June 14 featuring
the April Rooks Band and Friday, July 12 with Kenny Kirby Trio. The City of Gainesville's Annual Beach Bash has moved from the square to LLOP and is Saturday, July 13 with Electric Avenue. lakelanierolympicvenue.org • Chamber Board meetings are open to members. Attend one and network with Chamber leadership while learning what's happening in Greater Hall County! The next meeting is Thursday, June 27 at the Gainesville Civic Center, 121:30 pm. Reservations Required. $15, includes lunch. Gerri Collins, 770-5326206 x 106. Email: gcollins@ghcc.com • American Red Cross (ARC) will host Community Blood Drives on Friday, June 7 (10am-4pm) and Tuesday, June 18 (12:30-6:30pm) at Lakeshore Mall (JCPenny Wing), 150 Pearl Nix Parkway in Gainesville. Your blood donation can impact up to 3 patients! Every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. ARC is the largest supplier of blood in the U.S., seeking 13,000 blood donations every day to meed these needs. Appointments: redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code: GVILLECOM • Forbes magazine ranked University of North Georgia (UNG) one of the nation's Best Value Colleges for the second consecutive year. UNG serves nearly 20,000 students across its five campuses and ranked 20th among all public regional universities in the South on the U.S. News & World Report 2019 Best Regional Universities list. UNG was also ranked on the magazine’s Most Innovative Schools list. ung.edu • Georgia Mountain Food Bank (GMFB) recently earned the Platinum Nonprofit Profile Seal of Transparency by GuideStar, the world’s largest source of nonprofit information. GMFB, an affiliate of the Atlanta Community Food Bank, collects food and grocery products serving the hungry in Northeast Georgia. gamountainfoodbank.org
GOT NEWS?
Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Wisdom Project 2030 is seeking individuals age 55 and wiser to apply for the Fall 2019 Class. Participants join in a series of learning sessions and experience a multi-faceted view of Gainesville-Hall County, exploring local issues and engaging with community leaders. The application deadline is June 28. Wisdom Project 2030 is a 501c3 organization that partners with the Chamber, Vision 2030 and the University of North Georgia Center on Healthy Aging. Rebecca Smith or Gail Baucom at wisdomproject2030@gmail.com or online at vision2030.org >Big Ideas
Vision 2030 Block Party
Vision 2030's 2nd Annual Block pARTy was a complete success with a sold out crowd of 450 attending the event featuring art for sale, live music and food trucks. Committee members (Front, L-R): Allyson Everett, Leigh-Anne O’Brien, Elizabeth Higgins, Christie Gregory, Julie Butler, Tina Carlson, Whitney Brown (Event Chair). (Back): Ashton Meeks, Katie Crumley, Amanda McClure. All proceeds will fund community public art projects. Facebook.com/Vision2030PublicArt
Business After Hours
Thank you Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance for hosting Business After Hours in May. (L-R): Trey Wood, Joe Wood, Jr., Rob Fowler, Brett Fowler and Jimbo Floyd. Chamber members and friends enjoyed networking and tours of the company's new headquarters in Gainesville. Business After Hours on June 18 is at Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Oakwood with delicious food, drinks, door prizes and the Cash Prize Drawing. Socialize while you make valuable contacts and build business connections. Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115 or mlathem@ghcc.com
Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith, Kit Dunlap, Chamber, and Cash Drawing Winner Terry Merck, American Yazaki Corporation.
New Trends Marketing Workshop
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Economic Development Update
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June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Over 100 commercial real estate executives and existing industry leaders gathered for an economic update on the Northeast Georgia Inland Port and Lanier Technical College. (L-R): Georgia Ports Authority Board Member Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Jamie McCurry, Georgia Ports Authority; Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College; Commercial Real Estate Committee Chair Brent Hoffman, Berkshire Hathaway; Rope Roberts, Georgia Power (Event Sponsor); Chair of the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging; Tim Evans, Chamber VP of Economic Development. Construction is expected to start in August on the Inland Port on 104 acres off Gateway Centre Parkway, along a strip of land next to Norfolk Southern railroad lines. The port will serve the I-85 region of Georgia, an important area for the production of heavy equipment, food and forest products.
Economic Development
Over 200 Greater Hall Chamber members attended the dynamic and informative "New Trends in Digital and Social Media Workshop" in April. Team members from Forum Communications gave a top quality presentation followed by a lively panel of entrepreneurs and marketing specialists (L-R): Juli Clay, Brenau University; Ryan Brackett, Northeast Georgia Health System; Emmie Howard, Southern Proper; Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms; Maggie Griffin, Maggie Griffin Design; Nick Kastner and Katie Dubnik, Forum Communications. Thank you presenting sponsors: Brenau University, Forum Communications and Small Business Access Partners.
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Small Business
Small Business Success Seminar A packed house gathered to hear Perry Barnett CPA's "Tax Tips for Success" Small Business Seminar in May. (Clockwise from top): Darla Eden, Hall County Tax Commissioner; Andrew Davenport, A Good Look Home Inspection; Dr. Carroll Turner, Chamber Volunteer; Kaitlin Pharr, Elisabeth Baldwin, Perry Barnett, Todd Mershon and Liza Vasyliv, Rushton. Small Business Seminars are held monthly and sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Halski Systems, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers. Attend six seminars in a year and become a Greater Hall Chamber CERTIFIED Small Business Partner. 770-532-6206 or alewis@ghcc.com Join us for a Small Business Marketing Workshop on June 11 at the Business Incubator at Brenau University with Marketing Specialist Lee Goff. Since founding digital marketing agency GetUWired in 2003 and selling it in 2016, Lee has helped thousands of business owners make more money with less work – providing more time to do the things they love. He now helps small businesses to grow faster and more profitable than ever imagined. No charge for Chamber Members. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111 or alewis@ghcc.com
Small Business of the Month Runners Fit Zack Loggins (left) and Ryan Kyranakis of Runners Fit, a specialty running store that opened in Flowery Branch in 2006 to service new growth in South Hall County. Runners Fit not only sells running shoes, clothes, and accessories but also helps customers find the right type of shoe based on their foot structure. They observe each customer's walk to see their natural structure and recommend shoes that are designed for their specific foot type. They also ask questions about injury history, what surfaces they run most, and how many miles a week they typically run. Most people purchase shoes based on what they look like or if they are comfortable, not knowing that shoes are designed for specific foot types. Runners Fit works closely with many high school cross country and track teams in the area to help keep students in the proper gear. In 2008, they began a professional road running timing service. Since Zack Loggins, a former West Hall High School and University of North Georgia runner, began this service, it has grown into one of the largest timing companies in the Southeast. Runners Fit has been the proud race timer of the Chamber Chase since 2013. Runners Fit, 7419 Spout Springs Road, #103, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-9755. runnersfit.com
Residential Beautification Awards
June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Hall Chamber Beautification Committee announces 2019 Residential Beautification Awards from various sections of Gainesville-Hall County. For Residential and Business Beautification Award information: Robin Halstead, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com
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Residential Beautification Award Recipients Sharon and Jerry Van de Water, 7070 Boathouse Way, Flowery Branch at Sterling on the Lake.
Spring 2019 Residential Beautification Award Recipient Don Linke at 3651 Mariner Bluff Court, Gainesville, in the Harbor Pointe subdivision.
LDC Management Group Russell Hulsey 5662 Cemetery Road Lula, GA 30554 - Landscape (855) 532-3477 ldcgroups.com
Don Odell 5510 Main Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Real Estate (770) 842-3307
Georgia Commercial Construction William Thigpen 4802 Union Church Road Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Construction (770) 967-6415
M & L Painting Liliana Galicia 151 Slate Drive Buford, GA 30518 - Paint Contractor (678) 651-4909
Creative Inc. Susan Daniel 1129 Green Street Circle Gainesville, GA 30506 - Marketing & Adverting (678) 696-8585 creativeinconline.com
Kal-Polymers, Americas Gobi Saha 4350 Avery Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Manufacturing (905) 273-7400 kalpolymers.com
MC Superior Roofing John Campbell 2365 Monroe Dr, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30507 - Roofing Contractor (706) 612-4911 mcsuperiorroofing.com
Dahlonega Assisted Living Elizabeth Zylstra 55 Mechanicsville Road Dahlonega, GA 30533 - Senior Living Community (706) 864-3000 dahlonegaassistedliving.com
Kimley-Horn and Associates Reid Irwin 11720 Amber Park Dr, Suite 600 Alpharetta, GA 30009 - Architects & Civil Engineers (770) 545-6106 kimley-horn.com
Diamond Kitchen & Bath Design Beth Sheehan 2719 Dawsonville Highway, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30506 - Construction (678) 282-7934 diamondkitchenbathdesign.com
Lanier Foot and Ankle Dr. Gregory Sutton 447 E. E. Butler Pkwy, Suite F11 Gainesville, GA 30501 - Podiatrist (770) 796-0005 lanierfootandankle.com
Northeast Georgia Plastic Surgery Associates, PC Dr. DJ Campbell 1296 Sims Street, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 - Plastic Surgeons (770) 534-1856 negpsa.com
Breathe Better Allergy Asthma & Sinus Center Ronald Beebe, MD 950 South Enota Drive, Suite A Gainesville, GA 30501 - Medical / Allergy & Asthma (770) 536-0470 breathebetterallergy.com
Advanced Professional Practices Brad Lloyd 4661 Windsor Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Marketing (779) 330-9595 Profit-Triggers.com Angel House of Georgia Angela English 838 Maple Street, SW Gainesville, GA 30501 - Non-Profit (770) 572-7945 angelhouseofgeorgia.org Bear Mountain Custom Painting Brenda Pavia 1690 Redi Road Suite 200 Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 455-2887 - Paint Contractor bearmountainpainting.com
Norton Commercial Acreage Group Patrick Cisco 1043 Green Street Circle Gainesville, GA 30501 - Commercial/Land Real Estate (404) 772-8608
Stewart, Melvin & Frost Andrew Gould Anna A. Orkins Jenifir Dimo John P. Stroupe 200 Main Street SW Suite 600 Gainesville, GA 30501 - Attorneys (770) 536-0101 smf-law.com VEND Food Services Cindy Edwards 1120 Vend Drive Watkinsville, GA 30677 - Vending Services (706) 765-4047 vendfoodservices.com Wild Birds Unlimited Judy Stoops 5887 Spout Springs Road #D201 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 - Retail (678) 828-7889 flowerybranch.wbu.com
JOIN NOW For details on Chamber member benefits or upcoming events, contact Christen Wilbanks, VP Membership Sales, or Kara Tate, VP Membership Sales & Programs, 770-532-6206.
Welcome New Members
Energy Assurance Cindy Millsaps 2350 Centennial Drive Gainesville, GA 30504 - Business Services (404) 954-2054 energy-assurance.com
787 Hacienda Angel Retana Travis Binns 787 Hospital Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 - Restaurant & Catering (770) 800-8002 787hacienda.com
INESVILLETIME S
THE TIM ES
M .CO
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Voted
BEST PHARMACY
1/4 Page Ad
Riverside Pharmacy
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"
June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2016, 2017
•Gift baskets & 2019 •Embroidery •Unique gifts •Screen printing 2 columns •Balloons for all occasions 4.4167 x5" Pharmacy •Full Service •Free Local Delivery •Compounding Unit Dose Packaging
Serving Gainesville Since 1954
935 Green St., Gainesville, GA
770.532.6253
callriversidepharmacy.com
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Ribbon Cuttings
MedLink Gainesville
Dave Ward (with scissors), CEO of MedLink Gainesville, cuts a ribbon with staff, board members and community friends to celebrate the opening of MedLink Gainesville Family Health Center & Pharmacy. MedLink Gainesville is one of 17 Community Health Centers in North Georgia offering pediatric and adult healthcare for the entire family. MedLink accepts nearly all commercial insurances, Medicaid and offers a sliding fee scale for those who qualify. 520 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Gainesville GA 30501. 770-287-0290. medlinkga.org
Level Up Haircuts for Men
Landscape Plus Services
Mike Easter cuts ribbon for Landscape Plus Services in Gainesville, a locally owned landscape maintenance and supplies company. They provide maintenance services including all mowing services, turf care to maintain your lawn and full service planting and installation services. They now also provide landscape materials for pickup and delivery! Supplies include all varieties of mulch, pine straw, rock, seasonal flowers and much more. They service all of Hall County as well as the surrounding areas and offer free estimates for all your landscape needs. Landscape Plus Services, 1643 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770967-343. landscapeplusservices.com
June 6, 2019 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
TC Mobile Auto Repair
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Staff and friends cut ribbon at Level Up Haircuts for Men – Kelly Randolph, Dustin Tew, Shannon Howard, Rage Ivy, Dorsha Cain, Angelica Tabor, Terrance Wandington, Shelgha Frady, Benjamin Shields and Autumn Campbell. In an effort to convert society's misconception of the word "salon," Level Up is introducing a male salon to Hall County! Level Up aims to cater to men in a conducive, masculine environment and provide a quality haircut experience in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. The salon is best known for its Legendary First Class Treatment. Level Up Haircuts for Men, 3 Washington Street, Suite B, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-971-4341. levelupcuts.business.site Promote your business with a FREE Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. For more information or to schedule your event, contact Christen Wilbanks, Chamber VP Membership Sales, or Kara Tate, VP Sales & Programs, at 770-532-6206. GreaterHallChamber.com
Mark and Jessica Cudd and Kyle and Tiffany Tangel cut a ribbon for TC Mobile Auto Repair, a mobile automotive repair business. Meaning, you give them a call, and they come to you at your home or office to maintain or repair your vehicle. Services include regular scheduled routine maintenance as well as those annoying, unforeseen repairs. On top of all that, the TC Mobile Team also offers executive interior and/or exterior detail services. Their services allow you to remain in the comforts of your home or office while they take care of your vehicle needs from top to bottom, inside and out, without having to waste your time sitting at a repair shop. Available Monday - Friday with later evening and weekend appointments available upon request. 5130 Big Spruce Trail, Gainesville, GA 30507. 404-9466399. tcmobileautorepair.com
Leadership Hall County 2019 Graduation & Alumni Reunion
(L-R): Fox Gradin, Quinlan Visual Arts Center, and Regina Dyer, City of Gainesville, at Leadership Hall County 2019's final program – Quality of Life Day. From painting and exploring the arts to fine dining with Vision 2030 leaders, the day was full of cultural enlightenment! Many Thanks to these LHC program sponsors: Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville, Chattahoochee Country Club, Dominguez & Jones Wealth Management, Quinlan Visual Arts Center and The Arts Council.
Terry Merck, American Yazaki Corp Leah Nelson, The Times Katie Parrish, MS, RN, CHSE, University of North Georgia Kaitlin Pharr, Rushton Derek Reyes, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Jordan Rowland, The Sassafras Group Les Salter, Lanier Technical College Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance Georgia Shanda Sexton, Keep Hall Beautiful Jason Skarda, RLS, Hall County Public Works & Utilities Ashley Sliger, ETCON Employment Solutions Lt. Andy Smith, City of Gainesville Police Department 1st Lt. Jason Smith, Hall County Sheriff's Office Marianne Southerland, BB&T Andrew Thomason, Carroll Daniel Construction Company Lee Towns, Lee Towns State Farm Agency Jody Wall, Brenau University Graham Williams, OSleeper Manufacturing Company
(L-R): Greater Hall Chamber Marketing Vice Chair Tate O'Rouke, Jackson EMC; Chamber Education Vice Chair Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda; 2019 Leadership Graduate Ashton Blackwood, Butch Miller Georgia State Senate; 2020 LHC Class Member Madison Hopkins, Greater Hall Chamber; Chamber Community Development Vice Chair Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms, at the Leadership Hall Graduation Ceremony & Reunion Reception celebrating the 38th Class in May at Lanier Technical College. All alumni were invited, and the Class of 2020 was introduced. Thank you sponsors: Dominguez & Jones Wealth Management, Georgia Power, Jackson EMC, Lanier Technical College, Smile Doctors, Wells Fargo and Wilheit Packaging.
Leadership Planning Committee
Twelve Leadership Hall Class of 2019 representatives were chosen by classmates to serve on the Greater Hall Chamber Leadership Program Advisory Committee. This group will oversee the planning of Leadership Hall and Youth Leadership Hall for the next three years. (L-R): Chris Nish, Cottrell, Inc.; Danielle Perkins, Murray Plastics; Ben Filchak, Deep Roots Landscape; Lauren Pugh, Lanier Technical College; Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic; Dr. Heather Hollimon, Brenau University; Andi Harmon, Chamber VP of Education; Nikki Chandler, Victory Processing; Jess Gravitt, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance; Tate Strayhorn, Count on Tools. (Not Pictured): Makayla Richards, Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville; Katherine Porter, Smile Doctors Braces; Rick Young, Private Client Advisory. Details, Andi Harmon, Chamber Vice President of Education, 770-532-6206, or email: aharmon@ghcc.com
June 6, 2019 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Christa Andrews, Corporate Storage/ The Adams Companies Billie Baker, Longstreet Clinic, PC John Baxter, Deep Roots Landscape Amy Bradford, Elachee Nature Science Center Chris Bray, CFRE, NGHS Medical Center Foundation Christy Carter, Flowery Branch High School Patrick Cisco, Norton Commercial Acreage Group Andrew Davenport, A Good Look Home Inspection Anna Claire Dover, NEGA Health System Beth Downs, NEGA Health System Jason Dunckel, Wilheit Packaging Ana Eguiluz, Smile Doctors Braces Andrew Gould, JD, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Amanda Groover, Cooper & Company General Contractors Tracy Hoeltke, Netchex Madison Hopkins, Greater Hall Chamber Holly Hunter, IMS Gear Georgia Brett Hurst, Jackson EMC Jay Lawson, Lake Lanier Islands Development Authority David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Jennifer McCall, JD, McCall Law Colby Merchant, McGarity's Business Products
Education & Leadership
Founded in 1983, Leadership Hall County (LHC) participants develop knowledge of the community through a series of sessions covering such topics as arts and education to social services and economic development. LHC graduates continue to be involved in many areas of volunteer and civic service in our community. Currently, there are over 900 graduates of Leadership Hall County. Congratulations to the NEW 39th Class (2020) of Leadership Hall County:
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40th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament Thank you Margaritaville at Lanier Islands for sponsoring a great day of golf at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club. Dozens of volunteers helped make the tournament run smoothly with 140 golfers participating. Award presentations included: Flight 1 Winner: Rushton Team: Nick Bruner, Rushton; Chad Hall, Ambassador Personnel; Matt Rucker, Seefried Industrial Properties; Jason Croft, Jason C. Croft, DMD Family Dentistry. Flight 2 Winner: Economic Development Team: Griffin Gambill, Mighty 8th Media; Zack Zaluski, Norfolk Southern Corporation; William Tate, Norfolk Southern Corporation; Matt Moeck, NEXT Star Communications.
Flight 3 Winner: Delta Community Credit Union Team with Joe Leckemby, Brad Swinney, Ben Walker and Frank Zito. Other Award Recipients: Closest to the Hole #2: Ryan Blackburn, Foundry Commercial Closest to the Hole #5: Paul Turner, Halski Systems Longest Drive Ladies #9: Dixie Truelove, Truelove Family Farms Longest Drive Mens #18: Brad Swinney, Delta Community Credit Union
Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands, and Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber.
Flight 1 Winners (L-R): Nick Bruner, Rushton; Chad Hall, Ambassador Personnel; Matt Rucker, Seefried Industrial Properties; Jason Croft, DMD.
Dixie Truelove, Truelove Family Farms, winner of the Ladies Longest Drive!
Thank You to the many Hackers Holiday Volunteers, including (L-R): Julie Nicholson, HUB International; Jordan North and Haruko Watkins, LogoSurfing Promotional Products.
Flight 2 Winners (L-R): Griffin Gambill, Mighty 8th Media; Zack Zaluski and William Tate, Norfolk Southern; Matt Moeck, NEXT Star Communications.
Upcoming Chamber Events Tuesday, June 11 Small Business Seminar Presented by Lee Goff MarketingAgencyCoach.com 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Business Incubator at Brenau Wednesday, June 12 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Atlanta Botanical Garden Gville
Tuesday, June 25 Tuesday, June 18 South Hall Business Coalition Business After Hours & Vision 2030 Update Sponsored by Northeast Georgia 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Physicians Group Oakwood Spout Springs Library 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 3931 Mundy Mill Road | Oakwood Wednesday, June 26 Network Over Coffee Wednesday, June 19 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lunch 'n Learn Lakeside Market 1:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. 5609-A Main St | Flowery Branch BGW Dental Group Braselton
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