Business Link April 2014

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 Economic Development page 4 Upcoming Events page 5 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 New Members page 12 Small Business of the Month page 13 Leadership & Education page 15

Hackers Holiday Golf

106th Annual Meeting & Gala

The 35th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament is Friday, April 25 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort.

Cost is $150 per player; $600 team of four. The tournament is presented by Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia (title sponsor) and play begins with a shotgun start at 10:00 a.m. Entry Fee includes green fee, cart, breakfast, box lunch, snacks and drinks, and a reception. Awards will be presented in three flights, along with Hole-In-One prize, closest to the pin, longest drive, a putting contest and much more. AT&T's 19th Hole Reception with delicious free food and drink follows the tournament at the clubhouse.

WIN $1,000 CASH! A Golf Ball Drop will take place at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club to kick off the Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on Friday, April 25. A helicopter will drop a numbered ball for each ticket sold! Closest to hole wins $1000 CASH! $10 per ticket or 3 tickets for $20. Do not have to be present to win. Details: Megan Martin, 770-5326206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Thursday, May 15

6:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club Make your reservations now to attend the Greater Hall Chamber's 106th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club.

Governor Nathan Deal will be a special guest this year. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. with an overview of the Governor Nathan Deal year's success and annual award presentations including the 2013-2014 Small Business of the Year, Family Business of will be a special guest the Year, Silver Shovel Awards, the prestigious W.G. Mealor at the Greater Hall Chamber's Gala on Chairman's Award, and the Community Service Award.

Thursday, May 15.

Sponsorships are available, including Table Sponsorships $1200 (seats 10) and includes recognition in awards program, signage and recognition in Business Link newsletter. Individual tickets are $75 / $125 Couple. For sponsorship information or for reservations for the Annual Meeting & Gala, contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115 or email: mmartin@ghcc.com.

Celebrating a Year of Success

106th Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 15 Chattahoochee Country Club 6:00 pm Outdoor Reception – 7:00 pm Dinner & Program

Save the Date Thursday, April 17 Business After Hours Tuesday, April 22 South Hall Business Coalition Friday, April 25 Hackers Holiday Golf

APRIL 2014

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chair

Providing a Voice for Small Business “You are not here merely to make a living. You are here in order to enable the world to live more amply, with greater vision, with a finer spirit of hope and achievement. You are here to enrich the world, and you impoverish yourself if you forget the errand.”

Woodrow Wilson Small Business represents the heart of the economy and a dominant source of job creation in the nation, our state and our community. Over 85% of the Greater Hall Chamber’s membership are small businesses, and the Chamber provides a wide range of services for small business owners and potential entrepreneurs, working to grow business and strengthen the economy.

• The Chamber has partnered with the Georgia Chamber to create the Small Business Alliance. The new program focuses on businesses with Dixie Truelove 10 or less employees and provides a grassroots initiative to increase the Truelove Dairy, Inc. collective voice and awareness of the small business community at the Chair, Greater Hall Chamber Georgia Capitol. Along with updates on legislation that affects small business, the program also offers discounted entry to Georgia Chamber events. To register, contact Josh Stephens, 770-532-6206 x 110. Email: jstephens@ghcc.com • Small Business Success Seminars are held monthly on topics of concern to small business owners and managers. The next seminar is on April 8. Facilitated by the UGA Small Business Development Center, the program will provide valuable information on financing resources for small business. Contact Amanda Lewis for details. 770-532-6206 x 111. alewis@ghcc.com • The Chamber continues to recognize outstanding small businesses and is seeking nominations for the 2013-2014 Small Business of the Year. The award is presented to an outstanding business and Chamber member with 50 or less employees and will be recognized at the Annual Meeting & Gala on May 15. To make a nomination, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ ghcc.com. The Chamber also recognizes a Small Business of the Month. See page 13 for this month's spotlight on Wilson Orthodontics.

• The Chamber recently held its annual Buy Local Expo. "Buy Local" is an expanded focus of the Chamber seeking to keep a strong local economy. When shopping locally, we simultaneously create jobs, fund more services through sales tax, and promote community development.

April 1, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

• National Small Business Week has recognized the outstanding achievements of America’s small businesses for their contributions in their local communities, and to our nation’s economy. Join us as we celebrate National Small Business Week on May 12-16.

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• The Chamber continues to provide valuable networking opportunities for small business with annual events such as the Chamber Chase and HealthSmart and monthly events – Business After Hours, South Hall Business Coalition, Lunch 'n Learn, Network Over Coffee and ongoing forums, such as the Digital Marketing Seminar, providing marketing tools and resources for small business.

The Chamber continues to provide a voice for small business owners by advocating for initiatives that have a positive effect on small business. My wish is that you utilize the resources provided and enhance your business success. Let the Chamber work for you.

Annual Meeting & Gala is May 15 The Annual Meeting & Gala is Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. Join Chamber members and friends for this exciting event with special guest Governor Nathan Deal. Chair Dixie Truelove (left), Chair Elect David Lee (right) and Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap will present the program and awards.

Table sponsorships available. For Sponsorships and Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115.

Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Business Link VOLUME 20 ISSUE 4 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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

Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications Jullie King The Longstreet Clinic

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

Vice Chair, Government William Bagwell Homestead Investments

Senior Advisor Denise Deal The Sassafras Group

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

Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda

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

President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Chair, VISION 2030 Carl Romberg, Direct South, Inc. Meg Nivens, Executive Director

Board of Directors 2013-2014 Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Scott McGarity, McGarity’s Business Products Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health System

Col James Benson, Riverside Military Academy Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates

Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Sid Chandler, Independence Bank of Georgia Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Greg Ours, Poly Enterprises Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools Sam Evans, Oakwood City Council Tony Funari, Funari Realty, City of Braselton Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Will Schofield, Hall County Schools Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Pao Sengkhammee, Zebra Technologies Darrell Snyder, Georgia Power

John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising Will Hicks, Stifel Nicolaus Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia

Dennis Stockton, The Times Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Dr. Mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care

Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications

Mike Williams, Lake Lanier Islands Resort Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Associate Directors 2013-2014 Jonathan Collins, BB&T

Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow

Bruce Eades, Insurance Office of America

Sierra McMullen, Charter Business

Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services

Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx

Joy Fowler, Hamilton State Bank

Sherry Ridgway, Global IT

Connie Hagler, CMIT Solutions

Trey Wood, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Andy Kalinauskus, Conditioned Air Systems

Todd Young, Publix

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

Government Affairs Joshua Stephens, Project Manager South Hall Council Megan Martin, Vice President Membership Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Meg Nivens, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

Economic Development

Business Awards Nominations

Newly Elected Chamber Officers

The Chamber is seeking nominations for both the 2013-2014 Small Business of the Year and the 2013-2014 Family Business of the Year. The small business award is presented to an outstanding business and Chamber member with 50 or less employees. The family business award is presented to a family-owned business that has operated for 25 or more years. Signs by Tomorrow and Budget Carpet Outlet/Gainesville Paint received the 2012-2013 Small Business of the Year Award, and Carroll Daniel Construction was recognized as last year's Family Business of the Year. A member may nominate their business or another member. Nominations must be received by Friday, April 11. Award winners will be recognized at the Chamber's Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 15 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. Along with award presentations, the event will include an outdoor reception and an elegant dinner buffet. Other awards to be presented are the Community Service Award, the prestigious W.G. Mealor Award and Silver Shovel Awards. Award nominations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

The following individuals were elected to serve as OFFICERS of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce for 2014-2015, beginning July 1, 2014:

Gainesville-Hall named in "Top 5" On the heels of Site Selection magazine naming Gainesville-Hall County among its “Top 5” small metro areas in the nation for business expansions and locations, the Greater Hall Chamber has released its 2014 Economic Development Report. The new report outlines economic development activity contributing to the recent rating as one of the top performing communities in Georgia and the nation. The publication's March 2014 rating marks the second consecutive year that Site Selection has named Gainesville-Hall County among its top performing communities in economic development. In 2013, Gainesville-Hall County had 33 new and expanded businesses that created 950 jobs and generated $180 million in capital investment. View the report online at greaterhallchamber.com or pick up a copy at the Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville.

Chairman: David Lee, Jackson EMC Chairman Elect: Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction Treasurer: David Abee, Regions Bank Vice Chair Education: Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Vice Chair Economic Development: Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates Vice Chair Community Development: Deborah Mack, Community Volunteer Vice Chair Government Affairs: William Bagwell, Homestead Investments Vice Chair Marketing/Communications: Katie Dubnik, Forum Communications Vice Chair Membership: Tony Paramore, Gainesville Design Center Vice Chair South Hall Council: Andy Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems Co-Chairs HALLmark: Paul Chambers, AT&T; Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Chair VISION 2030: Davis White, Community Volunteer Executive Director, VISION 2030: Meg Nivens, Greater Hall Chamber Senior Advisor: R.K. Whitehead, Whitehead Die Casting Immediate Past President: Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO: Kit Dunlap The following individuals were recently elected to serve as Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors for a three-year term, July 1, 2014 and ending June 30, 2017: Katie Dubnik, President, Forum Communications Anna Jacobs, Director, Jacobs Media/AccessNorthGa.com Lane Jones, CEO, Highland Mountain Beverage Jay Kelly, Owner, Signs By Tomorrow Andy Kalinauskas, Vice President Service, Conditioned Air Systems Steve Naughton, Community Volunteer Barbara Rambo, CFO, ProCare Rx

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Wednesday, April 2 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, April 17 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 2 Job Fair 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center

Tuesday, April 22 South Hall Business Coalition Update: City of Oakwood presented by Stan Brown, Oakwood City Manager 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Oakwood City Hall

Tuesday, April 8 Small Business Seminar “Financing for Growth" presented

by UGA SBDC, Angel Investors, Hamilton State Bank, Small Business Access Partners 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, April 8 Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café Wednesday, April 9 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

McDonald's in Oakwood Wednesday, April 9 Human Resources Council 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant Friday, April 11 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, April 15 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 16 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, April 16 Lunch 'n Learn 11:45 a.m. – Recess Pub Thursday, April 17 Leadership Hall County/Wrap Up 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Riverside Military Academy Thursday, April 17 Business After Hours Gainesville Design Center 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 22 Youth Leadership Hall Team Building / Graduation Program 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Montara Farm Wednesday, April 23 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Stan's Biscuit Shop & Deli Thursday, April 24 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Friday, April 25 Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start Legacy on Lanier Golf Club Lake Lanier Islands Resort MAY 2014 Friday, May 9 Leadership Hall Graduation and Alumni Celebration 6:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club Tuesday, May 13 Small Business Seminar “Update on the Affordable Care Act" Presented by Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, May 15 106th Annual Meeting & Gala 6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception 7:00 p.m. Dinner & Awards Chattahoochee Country Club Thursday, May 22 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

North Georgia Canopy Tours Get details and register for Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

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April 1, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Wednesday, April 16 Annual Agribusiness Awards 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

North Hall Technology Park 4175 Nopone Road in Gainesville

Meetings & Events

APRIL 2014

5

Meetings & Events

Job Fair Wednesday, April 2 Gainesville Civic Center 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

No Admission Fee! Open to the Public!

Great event for both employers and job seekers. The Job Fair is OPEN TO THE PUBLIC with NO ADMISSION FEE! 60+ employers will have the opportunity to meet hundreds of job candidates during a short period of time. For job seekers, the event provides coveted face-time and personal contact with hiring managers. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-5326206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, April 22

Oakwood City Hall 4035 Walnut Circle, Oakwood, GA 30566 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Update: City of Oakwood Join the South Hall Business Coalition for an update on the City of Oakwood by City Manager Stan Brown. Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN AM/FM Radio. Includes light breakfast. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Small Business Seminar Tuesday, April 8

7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber No Charge for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

"Financing For Growth" Ron Simmons, Area Director, UGA Small Business Development Center, will facilitate a panel discussion, “Financing for Growth” with representatives from Hamilton State Bank (traditional financing), Small Business Access Partners and Angel Investors (private).

Sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage and Jacobs Media. No Charge for Chamber Members. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Business After Hours Thursday, April 17

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sponsor: Gainesville Design Center GREAT DOOR PRIZES! 684 Main Street in Midtown Gainesville $5 Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Drawing • iPad Touch Door Prize!

Don't miss great networking at Gainesville Design Center – home of Gainesville Paint and Budget Carpet & Flooring. Kicking off spring with a superhero line up including a Smilebooth, King of Pops gourmet popsicles, food catered by 2 Dog Cafe, live music and their superhero team! With a newly renovated tile showroom and exciting things to come in their future, they invite you out for a night of fun! GainesvilleDesignCenter.com

April 1, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

• DESIGN • INSTALLATION • MAINTENANCE

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Member Announcements April 1, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Brett Compton joined Red Clay Interactive as Vice President/Creative Director. Compton brings over 22-years of experience in award-winning creative and marketing campaigns. Former VP and Creative Director for Brunner ad agency, Brett working with Ritz-Carlton, Huffy bicycles, CNN Newsource, Mohawk Flooring, Zippo Lighters and many more and was part of the team responsible for winning the American Association of Advertising Agencies Small Agency of the Year award among all U.S. agencies while at Sawyer Riley Compton. Red Clay Interactive, founded in 2000, is an interactive marketing agency specializing in activating brands online. redclayinteractive.com • The 35th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament sponsored by Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia is Friday, April 25 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands. $150 per player; $600 team (4-some) includes green and cart fee, box lunch and reception. Hole-In-One prize, along with closest to the pin, longest drive, putting contest and more. AT&T's 19th Hole Reception with free food, drink, door prizes and awards follows the tournament at the clubhouse. Sponsor Opportunities!

Win $1000 CASH - Golf Ball Drop Raffle.

Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com • WomenSource's Health & Wellness Series will focus on specific ways women can improve their health by staying active. The three-part series will be held on Tuesday evenings in May. For more information or to register, call 770-503-9060 or visit WomenSource.info • Terry Merck, Plant Manager, American Yazaki Corporation announced the company was the recipient of Yamaha’s Supplier Excellence Award. American Yazaki, a Japanese-based manufacturer of fuel tanks, also won the award in 2011, their first year of production. The award is based on quality, delivery, labeling accuracy, and downtime to the Yamaha facility.

To date, American Yazaki has maintained a 100% score from Yamaha. We salute the American Yazaki employees and their hard work to achieve this record.

• President and founder Lewis Halski of Halski Systems announced that Gainesville-native Anthony Shope has joined the firm as Operations Director. Anthony most recently worked at Rushton & Company and 18 years at Fieldale Farms as comptroller. halski.com • The Georgia Chamber and the Greater Hall Chamber have partnered to create the Small Business Alliance. The new program focuses on businesses with 10 or less employees and provides a grassroots initiative to increase the collective voice and awareness of the small business community at the Georgia Capitol. The free Chamber member benefit provides updates on legislation that affects small businesses

and offers discounted entry to Georgia Chamber events. To register your small business (10 or less employees) in the Alliance, contact Josh Stephens, 770-532-6206 x 110. Email: jstephens@ghcc.com • Military Times magazine named the Mike Cottrell College of Business at the University of North Georgia (UNG) 20th out of 64 schools on its "Best for Vets: Business Schools 2014 rankings" and was also the only business school in Georgia selected. UNG, originally The Military College of Georgia, is one of only six military colleges in the country. ung.edu • The City of Gainesville and Hall County Government are promoting the Citizen's Alert System for the reporting of road and fire hazards, storm damage and other concerns. To utilize the service, citizens must register at alerts.hallcounty.org • Chamber Board of Directors meetings are open to Chamber members. The monthly lunch meetings review division reports, feature a speaker, usually on a timely topic or issue, and offer great networking with Chamber leadership. The next Board Meeting meeting is Thursday, April 24 at 12 noon at the Gainesville Civic Center.

Reservations required. Space limited.

Cost $12. Reservations: Joy Sims, 770532-6206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com • North Georgia Festival of Museums, in partnership with Gainesville Tourism & Trade and the Lake Lanier CVB, is Saturday, May 3 from 10 am - 4 pm with free and discounted entries for the entire family to four venues: Elachee Nature Science Center, Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK), the Northeast Georgia History Center and the Quinlan Visual Arts Center. Live demonstrations, interactive events, guided tours, free craft projects, prizes and more! qvac.org • Rehabilitation Industries (RING) now collects electronics for recycling from business and industry in the region, as well as household electronics. The drop off center is located at 930 Athens Street in Gainesville and is open Monday-Thursday, 7:30 am-4:00 pm. RING provides pickup of large quantities of electronics and will provide a certificate of destruction on hard drives. This new service adds job training opportunities to individuals with disabilities. 770-535-7464. rehabindustries.org • Gainesville Jaycees named Melissa Tymchuk, Public Relations/Marketing Director, Northeast Georgia Health System, 2013 Young Woman of the Year. Jimbo Floyd, Vice President, Turner, Wood and Smith Insurance, was recognized as Young Man of the Year. Melissa and Jimbo, both former Chamber Vice Chairs of Marketing and Membership, were recognized for outstanding community service.

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Kristy Collins Slaton Farmers Agency Kristy Collins Slaton, Agency Owner, cuts ribbon. As a Farmers Insurance Agency the firm provides free insurance quotes for auto, home, life and umbrella policies. Services also include business policies (general liability and worker’s compensation) as well as landlord policies, RV, boat and motorcycle insurance. Kristy Collins Slaton Farmers Agency, 4209 Oakwood Road, Suite 11, Oakwood, GA 30566. 678-343-2543. farmersagent.com/kslaton

Parrish & Childs Dental Office Dr. Grady Parrish, DDS (plaque) and Dr. Chris Childs, DMD (right) at Parrish & Childs Dental Office. Dr. Parrish opened his practice in 1974. A Gainesville native, Dr. Chris Childs returned home to open his practice with a focus on restorative and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Parrish and Dr. Childs merged their practices in 2004. The dentists met on numerous occasions and discovered they shared the same philosophies of dental treatment and how they wanted their patients to be treated. The firm provides a fullservice dental practice for people from 3 to 100 years old. "I look forward to many more years of serving the Gainesville-Hall County community," said Dr. Parrish. "Dentistry is a great profession that allows us to slow down without retiring!" Parrish & Childs Dental Office, 1283 Sims Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-0581. parrishchildsdental.net

The Farm at Lanier Career Academy Officials cut ribbon at Lanier Charter Career Academy (LCCA) at The Oaks, an innovative school in Hall County that serves all high school students in the district.

The CTAE pathways at LCCA provide students with an interest for careers in the hospitality, cosmetology, culinary arts, and marketing industries the opportunity to work in a real work environment while completing their career pathway coursework. LCCA received a $25,000 schools in need grant from Lowe’s/SkillsUSA to launch a new career pathway in Agriculture. The school green space area will soon be home to gardens, a nature trail, barn, and a Farmer’s Market providing organic food to the culinary arts department and the community. The March 21st ribbon cutting event kicked-off the first phase of The Farm at 2719 Tumbling Creek Road in Gainesville. 770-532-3161. hallco.org/theoaks

Industry Directory Now Available Gainesville-Hall County is home to 47 Fortune 500 firms, over 300 manufacturing and processing concerns, and 42 international companies. The Chamber's 2014 Industry Directory is now available and features valuable content from 285 manufacturers, processors and distributors in Gainesville-Hall County. Prepared by the Economic Development Division, the publication includes dozens of facts about each industry and is available at the Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville. $15 Chamber members; $30, Non-Members. Available in bound-book format or PDF. Call to order, 770-532-6206.

South Hall Business Coalition

Over 200 people gathered at the Chamber's March 13th Transportation Forum for updates and discussion by the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).

(L-R): Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer; Emily Dunn, GDOT 9th District Board Member; Keith Golden, GDOT Commissioner; Srikanth Yamala, Director, Gainesville-Hall County MPO. Thank you sponsors: Independence Bank of Georgia and Rochester & Associates (title sponsors), Coca-Cola of Gainesville, Highland Mountain Beverage, University of North Georgia, McDonald's, The Times and AccessNorthGa.com.

(L-R): South Hall Council Chair, Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System; Tony Funari, Funari Realty, at the South Hall Business Coalition in March. The event was hosted by Funari Realty with over 90 people attending to hear an update on the status of the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton presented by Anthony Williamson, VP, Greater Braselton Development, Northeast Georgia Health System. The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on April 22 at Oakwood City Hall for an update by City Manager Stan Brown. South Hall Coalition meetings are sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Register Yourself or a Team!

– Thank You Hackers Holiday Sponsors –

Hacker Holdiay Golf Tournament Friday, April 25

Title Sponsor 19th Hole Sponsor

10 am • Lake Lanier Islands Resort Contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115 Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

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April 1, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

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Community Development

Annual Transportation Forum

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Business After Hours (L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Chamber; Jeff Allen, CT Solutions (door prize winner of night stay at hotel); Kashmira and Husein Khimani, Holiday Inn Express; Leigh Longino, Advocare ($250 cash prize winner); Chamber Chair Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy, at Business After Hours at Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Buford. A ribbon cutting ceremony kicked off the event to celebrate the hotel's million dollar renovation with one and two room suites, new decor and amenities including a 24 hour fitness center and outdoor pool. Don't miss Business After Hours on Thursday, April 17 at Gainesville Design Center, 684 Main Street in Midtown Gainesville. Festivities include a Smilebooth and King of Pops gourmet popsicles, food catered by 2 Dog Cafe and live music.

Clipper Joes Family Hair Salon & Spa Joe Selbee 2415 Old Cornelia Highway Suite C Gainesville, GA 30507 (678) 971-4114 - Spa/Salon clipperjoes.com Collins & Associates Tammy Lunsford 4209 Oakwood Road, Suite 10 Oakwood, GA 30566 (770) 534-1953 - Financial Services Crown Mountain Limo & Group Transportation, Inc. Suzanne Monroe 384 Alex Drive Dahlonega, GA 30533 (706) 867-0747 - Transportation Services CrownMountainLimo.com Edge Innovative Solutions Chad Garrish

915F Interstate Ridge Gainesville, GA 30501 (470) 248-1014 - Consulting edge-innovative.com Edward Jones Investments Flowery Branch Michael Lancaster (678) 790-0668 - Financial Services edwardjones.com Etori USA, Inc. Motoo Etori 5380-B Rafe Banks Drive Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 967-8054 - Manufacturer Georgia Transmission Corp.

Craig Heighton 2100 East Exchange Place Tucker, GA 30084 (770) 270-7552 - Utilities gatrans.com Gold Creek Foods, LLC Eric Tucker 2069 Memorial Park Drive Gainesville, GA 30504 (678) 928-5850 - Manufacturer goldcreekfoods.com

Keller Williams Helene Botch 631 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 503-7070 - Real Estate kw.com/kw/agent/helenebotch Marco's Pizza Amit Patel 4029 Winder Hwy, Suite 440 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (678) 616-1200 - Restaurant & Catering marcos.com Michael McGraw 3507 Dockside Shores Drive Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 530-6101 - Individual Member Tetra Tech, Inc. Debra James 2110 Powers Ferry Rd, #202 Atlanta, GA 30339 (770) 738-6043 - Engineers /Architecture tetratech.com

The Khimani family cuts ribbon at the renovated Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Buford, located near Lake Lanier. 4951 Bristol Industrial Way in Buford. hiexpress.com

Tom Calvert 3030 Royal Blvd South Alpharetta, GA 30022 (770) 530-4197 Individual Member cbchomeloans.com/tomcalvert

Make a

smart business move.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

ADVERTISE IN • Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 20,000 on the 1st Tuesday of the month.

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

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

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

PUBLICATION DATE: First Tuesday of every month for advertising contact • Sherrie Jones 770.535.6304 sjones@gainesvilletimes.com

G R E AT E R H A L L C H A M B E R . C O M

Membership Development April 1, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

12

Welcome New Members!

American Home Mortgage Matthew Pesce 3750 Stone Creek Circle Cumming, GA 30041 (770) 855-9221 - Mortgage Services

ROBERTS

PLUMBING, Inc.

Georgia Licensed & Insured Master Plumber

• Commercial Plumbing Service • Commercial Tenant Finish & New Construction • Backflow Testing and Certification, • Video Drain Inspection • GPS Dispatched Technicians • Jet/Vacuum Services 2 columns • Water & Sewer Line Repairs 4.4167 x5" • Residential New Home Construction

1/4 Page Ad

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

Established in 1976 by Dr. Thomas C. Fields, Dr. Wilson joined the practice in 2006. With over 100 years of combined experience among team members, Wilson Orthodontics has three locations in Gainesville, Flowery Branch, and Cleveland. They Ron and Bonnie-Lynne Wilson and staff at Wilson Orthodontics, offer a variety of Chamber Small Business of the Month. orthodontic solutions, customized to fit patients' needs, and seek to provide the highest quality of orthodontic treatment possible in a fun, friendly environment. Wilson Orthodontics is the community's exclusive provider of the Damon System Braces and Damon Clear Braces and an elite provider of both Invisalign and Invisalign Teen. Dr. Wilson is a member of The Schulman Group, a nationally-recognized association of orthodontic practices who compose the top 1% of all orthodontic practices in North America. The company is involved in the community by supporting local events, schools, and charities, including Gainesville City Schools, Hall County Schools, CASA, Family Ties, Family Promise, Gateway, and their our own Smile for a Lifetime foundation, awarding 10 orthodontic scholarships annually to children in need. A proud member of the Chamber since 2007. wilsonbraces.com

Small Business Success Seminars

Al Trembley, WSI Digital Marketing, presented the March Small Business Seminar providing tips and trends in digital marketing. Small Business Seminars are held monthly at the Chamber office and cover a variety of topics of importance to small business. The seminars are free to Chamber members and are sponsored

by Highland Mountain Beverage Services and Jacobs Media.

1/2 Page Ad

2 columns 4.4167 x10" AAMS® Rick Kimpling, 64 North Brooks Street Unit B Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-0933

Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® 3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031

Beth Baldwin 439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220

April 1, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

(L-R): Program presenters Rustin Smith and Ronny Hulsey, Stewart, Melvin & Frost; Samuel Latimer and Nicholas Bruner, Rushton & Company; Chamber Small Business Roundtable Co-chair Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance.

The recent seminar focused on when it is crucial to seek the advice of a CPA and discussed how to economically use an attorney to address tough legal situations. The next Seminar is April 8. Ron Simmons, Area Director of the UGA Small Business Development Center, will facilitate a panel discussion, “Financing for Growth” with representatives from Hamilton State Bank, Small Business Access Partners and Angel Investors. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Small Business

Small Business of the Month Wilson Orthodontics

13

Key Economic Indicators

The Wisdom Project's Social Services: Putting a Face on Human Needs program focused on prescription drug abuse and support services for aging adults with presentations by Dallas Gay and Dr. Tennent Slack, Think About It Campaign; J.P. Banks, Drug Free Coalition of Hall County; Kevin Young, AVITA; Captain Matt Cunningham, Keith Hamilton and Mayda Allen, The Salvation Army; Phillippa Lewis Moss, Community Service Center; Dana Chapman, The Guest House; Pat Freeman, The Legacy Link; Gary Lawrence, ITN Lanier Project. The Spring Session Class graduation is set for May 16. The Fall Session will begin in late August and run through November. For information on the Wisdom Project or to make a nomination for the fall session, contact Meg Nivens, 770-532-6206. Email: mnivens@ghcc.com

VISION 2030 Read Learn Succeed

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Latest

Jan. 2014

5.9 Previous Month

Gainesville City

6.6

8

Cherokee Dawson

5.6 5.3

6

Forsyth

10

Percent

VISION 2030

The Wisdom Project

12-Month High

4

Feb. 2014

5.7

Oct 2013

8.7%

2

One Year Ago

Feb. 2013

F

7.2

M A

M J

J

A

S

2013

O

N D J

F

5

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

6.1 6.6 6 7.3

U.S.

6.7

2014 Updated 03/25

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 205,585,826 2 columns 194,393,390 263,885,948 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

April 1, 2014 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Healthcare Committee

14

(L-R): Anthony Williamson, VP, Greater Braselton Development, Northeast Georgia Health System; Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Chamber; Chamber Healthcare Committee Chairman Chad Bolton, Northeast Georgia Health System. Anthony Williamson made presentations to the Healthcare Committee and the South Hall Business Coalition on the status of the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton in March.

Thank You Chamber Sponsors AT&T Highland Mountain Beverage McDonald's Chattahoochee Country Club HTI Employment Solutions Publix Chattahoochee Bank of GA Jackson EMC Red Clay Interactive Coca-Cola of Gainesville Jacobs Media Spherion Staffing Solutions Express Employment Pros Kings Hawaiian The Times Funari Realty Lanier Technical College WDUN Radio Gainesville Design Center Milton Martin Honda

2.0

100’s millions of dollars

(L-R): Kelly Lee, Wells Fargo Advisors; Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Superintendent, Gainesville City Schools; Will Schofield, Superintendent, Hall County School System; Dana Miller, Chamber VP of Education; Tracy Vardeman, Vice President, Strategic Planning & Marketing, Northeast Georgia Health System, at the Read Learn Succeed Breakfast in March. The Chamber's VISION 2030 program is partnering with United Way of Hall County to support this new initiative to address early learning in our community.

Latest February 2014

Previous Month (available)

One Year Ago

January 2014

February 2013

$

$

1.0

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

M A

M J

J

A

S

O N

2013

D

J

F

2014 Updated 03/25

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County

Latest

February 63 Previous Month

One Year Ago

2013 Total

Jan. 2014

Feb 2013

600

24

29

87

2014 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Hall Jackson

Feb. 2014 21 4 163 165 63 17

Feb. 2013 6 8 208 160 29 8

Jan. 2014 24 6 128 122 24 8

Total 2013 196 65 1,938 2,103 600 92

2014 YTD 45 10 291 287 87 25

Avg Total Price 2014

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Feb. 2014

Avg Price

Feb. 2013

Avg Price

Jan. 2014

Avg Price

Total 2012

City

14

223,812

28

171,925

11

194,948

162

180,838

25 $209,880

North

16

219,563

30

117,978

21

278,939

250

239,636

37

East

10

82,265

13

87,965

5

50,206

124

106,323

15

66,236

South

8

200,625

35

134,084

15

177,005

184

180,106

23

188,815

West

27

309,117

46

173,350

27

293,778

440

242,959

54

301,448

Area

220,126

Updated 03/25

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

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

Leadership Hall County

Youth Leadership Hall

Leading with experience.

It’s what we do.

Meet Adele Wigley, CPA

1/2 PageSenior Ad Tax Manager 2 columns 4.4167 x10"

Adele Wigley’s 27-year career in public accounting provides our clients with experience in a wide range of practice areas including individual, corporate and partnership taxation, and business consulting.

Youth Leadership Hall class members with Gainesville Fire Chief Jerome Yarborough during an overview and tour of the station. The Quality of Life Program began at Chattahoochee Country Club where students learned about etiquette, letter writing and business ethics. Following the fire station tour, the class participated in an interactive poverty simulation exercise at the Northeast Georgia History Center and learned about the importance of good credit. The class then toured the History Center. Many thanks Matthew Collins, General Manager, Chattahoochee Country Club, for sponsoring the program.

Besides volunteering her time and expertise to professional and church activities, Adele has a great love of the outdoors, hiking, and camping with her family. At home she enjoys the farm life, raising pasture-fed beef and farm-fresh eggs.

Because it’s not only what we do, but why we do it.

Biz Card Ad

2 columns 4.4167 Serving Northeast Georgia’s Officex2" Solution needs since 1974 2305 Centennial Dr • Gainesville, GA 30506 770.532.9932 • www.duplicatingproducts.com

C ERTIFIED P UBLIC A CCOUNTANTS 770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

0316 RUSH_Managers_BusLink_4.4167x10-Wigley.indd 1

April 1, 2014 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

As Rushton & Company’s Senior Tax Manager, Adele designs and implements tax compliance procedures and streamlines work flow. In this role she trains staff and researches complex tax issues, as well as performing tax planning and business and tax consulting.

Education • Leadership

Leadership Hall County's Quality of Life program began at the Senior Life Center where the class heard from Phillippa Lewis Moss, followed by a presentation and tour of the Gainesville Fire Station by Chief Jerome Yarbrough. At Cosa Nostra Italian Restaurant, participants heard (L-R, Front): Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence presentations by Matt Tate, Center; Laura Haynes, Women Source; Gladys Wyant, The Arts Council; Kirk Watkins, North Georgia Canopy Tours; Gainesville City Planning, Lee Alexander, Northeast Georgia Health System; Elizabeth and Randy Knighton, Hall County Administrator. Fielding, Hall County Family Connect Network; (Back): Charles Shadle, Brenau University; Clint Teston, Fox, Chandler, Juvenile Court Judge Homans, Hicks & McKinnon; Greg Katulka, Merrill Lynch.

Lindsay Burton spoke to the class about the critical need for foster care families in Gainesville-Hall County.

At the Rock Creek Parkway and Amphitheater, Johnathon Jackson, Hall County Sheriffs Department, gave a K-9 demonstration of law enforcement dog behavior, and the class was led on a tour by Jeff Morrison, Gainesville Parks & Recreation. At The Arts Council, Frank Norton, Jr., The Norton Agency, led an interactive presentation about the history and quality of life in Gainesville- Hall County. Gladys Wyant and Nairika Cornett discussed how the arts contribute to our community's quality of life.

15

2/18/14 9:33 AM

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

UpcomingChamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Wednesday, 2 Workshop Small BusinessApril Marketing Job Fair 2014 February 14 Tuesday, 10:00 a.m.

- 2:00 p.m.

Marketing Trends Gainesville Center PresentedCivic

by Gordon Sawyer Free & -Open the– The Public 8:00 10:00 to a.m.

Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy Tuesday, April 8 Small Business BusinessAfter Seminar Hours "Financing for Growth” Thursday, February 16 Panel: UGA Business 5:00 -Small 7:00 p.m.

Dev. Center, Hamilton Luna's RestaurantState Bank, Small 200 Business Main StreetAccess Partners and Angel Investors Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville 7:45 - 9:00 am – Chamber

Thursday, 17 ArborApril Day Celebration BusinessFriday, AfterFebruary Hours 17 Sponsored by Gainesville 10:00 a.m.

Design Center Frances Meadows Center 5:00 - 7:00 pm 684 Street in Midtown SafeMain & Green Regional Assembly Gainesville Friday, February 24 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 22 Georgia Mountains Center South Hall Business Coalition "Update: City of Oakwood" Annual Transportation Forum

by CityWednesday, Manager Stan MarchBrown 14 8:00 - 9:00 11:30am a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Oakwood City Hall Gainesville State College

U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA

Friday, 25 Career Expo JobApril Fair and 35th Annual Hackers Wednesday, MarchHoliday 28 Golf Tournament 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

10:00Georgia a.m. Shotgun MountainsStart Center Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort Get Details & Register Online:

CAR-RT SORT

greaterhallchamber.com

Thursday, May 15 106th Annual Meeting & Gala 6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception 7:00 p.m. Dinner & Awards Chattahoochee Country Club Details: greaterhallchamber.com

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.