Business Link November 2021 by The Times

N O V E M B E R 2021

contents Chairman’s Column page 2 Industry Appreciation page 5 Meetings & Events page 7 Member News page 10

The Greater Hall Chamber’s 2021 Industry of the Year Awards will be presented at the 13th Annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon on November 17 (11am-1pm) at Lanier Technical College in Gainesville. The awards program honors area existing industries based on economic impact, workforce excellence and corporate responsibility. Georgia Senator Butch Miller is Keynote Speaker for the event. The Chamber and the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council continue to focus on the importance of existing industry in Gainesville-Hall County, and business remains strong. Gainesville-Hall County is home to 330 manufacturing and processing

Highlights, pages 12-13

Community Vaccine Day pages 12-13 Ribbon Cuttings pages 14-15 New Members page 15

Ramsey Conference Center

Wednesday, December 9 Eggs & Issues Breakfast Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

The Greater Hall Chamber and its business and non-profit partners hosted COMMUNITY VACCINE DAY on October 6. The one-day, all day vaccination clinic was a one-stop, get the shot clinic with COVID-19 vaccines and flu shots. If you missed this event, there's still an abundance of providers administering the vaccine and flu shot. We thank our community partners and appreciate all those making Gainesville-Hall County a healthier, safer HealthSmart community. See highlights on pages 12-13.

featured member

save the date

Wednesday, November 17 Industry of the Year Awards Lanier Technical College

Come celebrate our existing industry at the Industry Appreciation Luncheon on November 17. See page 5 for details.

Community Vaccine Day

Small Business of the Month page 11

Thursday, November 11 Farm City Breakfast North Hall Community Center

companies and 50 international company locations representing 16 foreign countries. Since 2015, the Greater Hall Chamber’s Economic Development Division has assisted over 118 new and expanding businesses and announced 6,100 jobs and $1.6 billion in new capital investment. CoStar, a commercial real estate information company, has ranked Gainesville-Hall County in the Top 5 Markets for Industrial Expansion since 2018. The CoStar ranking follows other Top-10 rankings in the U.S. by Milken Institute for Best Performing Metros (5 years in a row), and Gainesville-Hall County has made Site Selection Magazine's Top 10 Performing Small Metro Areas for eight out of the last 10 years.

BUSINESS LINK

from the chairman

VOLUME 27 ISSUE 5

Membership Value: Learning from others' experiences I was honored to have had the opportunity to speak to our new members at the recent breakfast orientation at Elachee Nature Science Center. In preparing my remarks, I reflected on my initial experience as a newcomer to Gainesville-Hall County. I first joined Kubota and moved to this community in Phil Sutton 2005. The first three people Kubota Manufacturing I met were Kit Dunlap, Tim of America, Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber Evans and Shelley Logan with the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, and I have been involved in the Chamber ever since. Although I work for a large company, we all recognize that small businesses are the real economic engine in our community. And, though our existing industries make a powerful impact, some 90% of Chamber members are small businesses. Small business is BIG business, and the diversity of Gainesville-Hall County businesses create the sound economy we enjoy today. The Greater Hall Chamber's mission is to help make all of our businesses successful – to be our community's "Voice of Business." When our businesses thrive, the entire community benefits.

The most valuable aspects of Chamber membership are the endless opportunities to learn from others' experiences – to learn what's going on in the world around them and the incredible opportunities to network and to promote their business. In my experience, dollar for dollar, active involvement in the Chamber is exponentially more valuable than any traditional advertising available. I emphasized to our new members that joining the Chamber means more than just paying dues and putting a sticker on their window. It means being a part of the community. In fact, in order to get the most out of Chamber membership, I encourage ALL members to take advantage of Chamber activities on a regular basis. When my son opened his podiatry practice in Gainesville (Lanier Foot & Ankle) two years ago, the first thing I advised him to do was to join the Greater Hall Chamber, and get involved in the community. This fatherly advice has paid off for him in many ways! There are many ways to engage with the Greater Hall Chamber. Enhance your membership by joining a committee, serving as an Ambassador, learning from a Small Business Seminar, networking at events. You'll build profitable business relationships and, most importantly, play a role in growing your business and the Greater Hall business community at large.

New Member Breakfast & Orientation Thank you Elachee Nature Science Center for hosting the Fall New Member Breakfast. (L-R) Leslee Shaw, Diversified Resource Group; Kit Dunlap and Ellie Parker, Greater Hall Chamber; Jenifer Wright, Everclear Enterprises; Brandon Kirby, Vertical Earth; Amy Bradford, Elachee Nature Science Center; Ken Armstrong, Mack Professional Services; Dennis McCormack, Acopia Home Loans. 2

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com 230 E.E. Butler Pkwy • Gainesville GA 30501 • 770-532-6206 • GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2021-2022 Executive Committee Chairman Vice Chair, Government Phil Sutton, Kubota Affairs Manufacturing of America Drew Echols Jaemor Farms Chairman-Elect William Bagwell Vice Chairs, Education Homestead Investments Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda Treasurer Lauren Armour Talley Perry Barnett, Rushton Lanier Technical College Vice Chair, Economic Development Glennis Barnes Georgia Power Vice Chair, Marketing Missy Burgess Lanier Islands

Vice Chair, South Hall Council Mike Zeiler, Bitzer US Vice Chair, Community Development Margaret Spratlin Longstreet Clinic

Vice Chairs, Membership Tammy Caudell, Carroll Daniel Construction Casey Ryals, Hall County Farm Bureau Insurance Co-Chairs, HALLmark Phil Bonelli Regions Bank Brett Fowler Turner, Wood & Smith Philip Wilheit, Jr. Wilheit Packaging

Senior Advisor Carol Burrell Northeast Georgia Health System Immediate Past Chair Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap

Chair, Vision 2030 Tate O’Rouke Jackson EMC Exec Director, Vision 2030 Elizabeth Higgins

2021-2022 Board of Directors Christa Andrews, Corporate Storage Norman Baggs, The Times Neal Booth, Pinnacle Bank Haley Bower, Clipper Petroleum Chris Braswell, The Norton Agency Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Whitney Brown, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Dan Carey, BB&T/TRUIST Paul Chambers, AT&T Mitch Clarke, AccessWDUN Sean Couch, Northeast Georgia Health System Shanna Cronic, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic Ashley Davis, Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Beth Downs, Northeast Georgia Health System Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Jim Grier, Mayor, City of Lula Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall County Commission Sam Hulsey, United Community Bank Rick Humphrey, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Brooke Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems Jay Kelly, Signs by Tomorrow Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones Investments David Lee, Jackson EMC Dr. Kate Maine, University of North Georgia Ward McCamy, Bank of America Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College Ashton Meeks, Starke Family Office

Terry Merck, American Yazaki Corporation Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council Dr. Kirsty Montgomery, Lakeview Academy Chris Nish, Cottrell James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Jeff Payne, North Georgia Eye Clinic Todd Pennington, McGarity’s Business Products Michele Piucci, Peach State Bank & Trust Col. Stas Preczewski, Riverside Military Academy Chris Purvis, First Citizens Bank Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Scott Rizzo, Recro Pharma Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance Georgia Will Schofield, Hall County School System Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry John Simpson, Lakeview Academy Dr. Anne Skleder, Brenau University Jackie Walters Slaughter, Walters Management Co Terry Spicer, King’s Hawaiian Bakery Ahna Still, Halski Systems Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons John Turner, Northeast Georgia Health System Roy Turpin, Mayor, City of Gillsville Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Robert Woody, Liberty Darryl Workman, South State Bank John Wright, Fieldale Farms Nancy Jo Zimmer, JP Morgan Chase Bank

Greater Hall Chamber Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Nikki Chandler, Vice President Existing Industry Ellie Parker, Project Manager Anna Hester, Project Manager Finance & Administration Mark VanTassel, Vice President Education & Leadership Andi Tippens, Vice President Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President & CEO

South Hall Council Kara Tate, Vice President, Sales & Programs Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Christen Wilbanks, Vice President, Sales 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

The mission of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is to improve the overall business climate for member growth, promote community development, facilitate political action, and enhance the quality of life.

economic development

South Hall Business Coalition

24th Annual Motul Petit Le Mans Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta hosts the Motul Petit Le Mans on November 1013 and expects upwards of 150,000 fans and over $50 million in economic impact for the area. For the past 20+ years, Motul Petit Le Mans has been THE sporting event in the southeast to experience. With four days’ worth of on-track battles, culminating in the 10-hour IMSA WeatherTech Championship finale showdown on Saturday, November 13th, the action is nonstop. Kid’s zone, vendors, food trucks, displays, car corrals, camping, Patrón bar, grid walk, autograph sessions and so much more! Tickets & Info: roadatlanta.com

South Hall Business Coalition at the University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus (L-R) Andrew Meyers, Student, University of North Georgia (UNG); Dr. Jeff Marker, UNG; South Hall Chairman Mike Zeiler, Bitzer US; Jennifer Herring, UNG; Dr. Richard Oates, UNG; Bobbi Larson, UNG; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber. Dr. Richard Oats, VP, University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus, gave an update on UNG’s growing student population, expansion of facilities formerly occupied by Lanier Technical College, and the new and exciting majors available at the Gainesville Campus. Attendees also heard from Dr. Jeff Marker, Department Head, Communication, Media & Journalism, and UNG student Andrew Meyers about the impact the facility expansion has on faculty and students.

Economic Development Update

The South Hall Business Coalition met October 19 in the Michelin Tower at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta for breakfast and all the latest on the 24th Annual Motul Petit Le Mans. (L-R) Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Rick Humphrey, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta; South Hall Chairman Mike Zeiler, Bitzer US; Kelsi Miller, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta; Guest Speaker Dylan Murry, Driver, IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship; Casey Walsh, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. Dylan Murry drives the No. 91 Riley Motorsports Ligier JS P3 in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. The South Hall Business Coalition is sponsored by AccessWDUN, Halski Systems, Milton Martin Honda, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, Signs by Tomorrow, South Hall Rotary and Store More Self Storage. For information, contact Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 103. Email: ktate@ghcc.com. Register for Chamber events online: GHCC.com/EVENTS

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

Tim Evans Vice President, Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber

You'll not want to miss Tim Evans, Chamber VP of Economic Development, as he reports on projects in the region at the South Hall Business Coalition meeting on November 16 (9-10am) at Houndstooth Grill in Braselton. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, Tim and his team have been hard at work. In the last year, 12 new and expanded industries resulted in nearly $200 million in new investment and 460 new jobs for our community. Georgia has been ranked the #1 Place to Do Business in the U.S. for 8 years in a row by Site Selection. Get all the scoop at this annual breakfast sponsored by Tony Funari, Funari Realty. Space limited. Reservations required. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Detail: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 103. Email: ktate@ghcc.com. Register online: GHCC.com/EVENTS

Mark your calendar for a South Hall Medical Update at the South Hall Business Coalition meeting on January 25 (9-10am) at The Venue at Friendship Springs. Enjoy a light breakfast and hear all the latest from Anthony Williamson, President, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, and Mimi Collins, CEO, Longstreet Clinic. Get details, and register online: GHCC.com/EVENTS.

Industry Appreciation Luncheon Wednesday, November 17 11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Presented by Lanier Technical College, the 2021 Industry Appreciation Luncheon features the presentation of the 13th Annual Industry of the Year Awards recognizing Economic Impact, Corporate Responsibility and Workforce Excellence.

Keynote Speaker

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Senator Butch Miller 49th Georgia Senate District

4.91" x 10" - MVC for RUSHTON -

Reservations

$50 Chamber Member $60 Non-Member/Guest $500 Table (Seats 6) Reservations Required • Includes Lunch INFO: Nikki Chandler, 770-532-6206 x 108 Email: nchandler@ghcc.com

AT&T | Georgia Power Liberty | Rushton Specialty Orthopaedics Pattillo Industrial Real Estate Workforce Strategies Group

Thank You Chamber Sponsors! AccessWDUN Ag Georgia Farm Credit AT&T Bagwell Insurance Bojangle's Cargill Caldwell Electrical Contractors Carroll Daniel Construction Chattahoochee Country Club Clipper Petroleum Cook Law Group Delta Community Credit Union Gainesville Mechanical Georgia Power

Funari Realty Halski Systems Hall County Farm Bureau Hall Co Soil & Water Conservation Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar Jackson EMC Jaemor Farms Lanier Technical College Law Offices of Michelle Hall Lazenby Law Group Liberty McCall at Law Milton Martin Honda Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta

Mountain Fresh Creamery NGMC Braselton Pattillo Industrial Real Estate Rushton Scott's Downtown Signs by Tomorrow Smith Gilliam Williams & Miles Stewart, Melvin & Frost South Hall Rotary Specialty Orthopaedics Store More Self Storage The Times Wilheit Packaging Workforce Strategies Group

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

education

leadership

Partners in Education

Chick-fil-A Gainesville West | Chestatee High School

Leadership Hall County

Anna Hewell, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance, works with Firefighter Zach Slayton, Hall County Fire Department, to dismantle a car for a mock recovery effort. Hall County Fire Services provided demonstrations on emergency medicine and fire recruit training. Class members dressed in protective gear, disassembled cars and learned how to put out fires. Activities for the day also included an overview of courtroom procedures by Judge John Breakfield, State Court. DUI awareness, shooting simulations and crime scene processing were presented by the Gainesville Police Department. A helicopter demonstration was given by Georgia State Patrol Aviation, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team provided a live demonstration, as well as the K-9 Team used for drug and bomb detection. The Annual Law Lunch at Scott’s Downtown recognized judges and elected officials who serve in law and fire. Janet Walden, Executive Director of CASA, spoke about their mission and work in the community. Thank you program sponsors: Bojangle’s; Clipper Petroleum; Cook Law Group; Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar; Law Office of Michelle Hall; Lazenby Law Group; McCall at Law; Scott’s Downtown; Smith, Gilliam, William & Miles; Stewart, Melvin & Frost.

Chestatee High School R.A.C.E. (Renaissance Academy of Creative Enterprise) Students (L-R) Madi Conley, Hayden Barriqueiro, Charlie Bradshaw, (Betsy Pruitt, Chick-fil-A Gainesville) Valiree Schmus, Caroline Bull, Charlee Mize. Christy Cantrell, Chestatee Principal, sends a special thanks to Chick-fil-A Gainesville West and Bobby Shoemaker for their continued support. "We are so proud to be a part of the CFA Leadership Academy and are honored to spend time learning about leadership principles with their staff," said Cantrell. "They are always supportive of our special projects and initiatives. For our 10th Anniversary Celebration of the RACE Program, they donated 170 lunches to our RACE students and staff. We are so appreciative of their generous donations of time and food." Coordinated by the Greater Hall Chamber, the Partners in Education (PIE) program supports regional education partnerships, including all 44 public city and county elementary, middle and high schools and over 350 partnering organizations. Info: Andi Tippens, 678-971-6331, or email andi@ghcc.com.

Youth Leadership Hall

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4.91" x 10" – SKYLINE CONTRACTING –

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

Youth Leadership Fashion Show Models Youth Leadership Hall consists of 80 students selected from 12 private and public Hall County high schools. On October 5, Team A enjoyed Quality of Life Day and learned how to be successful at any stage of life regardless of income by utilizing community resources. The Chattahoochee Country Club hosted and sponsored the event at their beautiful lakeside venue. Thank you Vaughn Smith! Highlights from the day included: • "Dressing to Impress" by Dario Perla, Master's Apparel, and Abby Murray, Style Collectíf • "Interview Skills" by Leslie White, Resource Property Management • "Interactive Fashion Show" hosted by My Sister's Place Boutique Thrift Store • "Social Etiquette for Every Occasion" presented by Staci Crain, retired teacher • "The Game of Life Challenge" by Jessica Dudley, United Way of Hall County • "Effective Communication & Correspondence" by Dr. Juli Clay, Brenau University

meetings

events

26th Annual Farm City Breakfast Thursday, November 11 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. North Hall Community Center 4175 Nopone Road | Gainesville 30506

calendar

November Friday, November 5

Economic Development Council 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Jackson EMC Tuesday, November 9

Small Business Seminar

Since 1995, the Hall County Farm City Breakfast has recognized local farmers and those working in agribusiness. The Chamber, UGA Extension Hall County and the Hall County Farm Bureau host the event, sponsored by Jackson EMC. This year's keynote speaker is Nick Place, new dean and director for the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia. Thank you, Jackson EMC and sponsors: Ag Georgia Farm Credit, Bagwell Insurance, Cargill, Hall County Soil & Water Conservation, Hall County Farm Bureau, Jaemor Farms and Mountain Fresh Creamery. The complimentary breakfast is open to the public. No charge. Reservations required. Reservations: Karen Davis, 770-535-8293, or email: karen.davis2@uga.edu

"Cyber Security: Protect Your Business" Presented by John Madigan, ATS Tech Solutions | 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Business After Hours Tuesday, December 7

Get in the holiday spirit with delicious food, beverage, music and great networking at the newly renovated Gainesville Civic Center. Built in the 1940’s, the Civic Center has played host to generations of senior proms, charity balls, wrestling matches, square dances, beauty pageants and more! Operated by Gainesville Parks & Recreation, the facility now offers a variety space perfect for your next social, business or commercial event. Gainesville.org/recreation Networking | Food & Drink | Door Prizes | Cash Prize Drawing $5 Chamber Members. Info: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com

Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast Thursday, December 9 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College

IN PERSON!

Ramsey Conference Center

The Greater Hall Chamber continues to assist local businesses and citizens in communicating their concerns and discussing issues with our legislative delegation at the Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast. Presented by Jackson EMC, the forum features the Hall County Legislative Delegation: Butch Miller, State Senator, 49th District Lee Hawkins, State Representative, 27th District Matt Dubnik, State Representative, 29th District Emory Dunahoo, Jr., State Representative, 30th District Timothy Barr, State Representative, 103rd District Reservations: Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106 | gcollins@ghcc.com Registration Required | Register Online: GHCC.com/EVENTS

NOTE: Chamber office is closed November 25-26 for Thanksgiving Holiday.

December Wednesday, December 1

Healthcare Committee

Ambassadors Council

Tuesday, December 7

Wednesday, November 10

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 830 Green Street | Gainesville

11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m

Thursday, December 9

3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Scott's Downtown | Gainesville

Human Resource Council Thursday, November 11 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. North Hall Community Center

830 Green Street | Gainesville 30501

12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, November 9

Farm City Breakfast

5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center

Thursday, November 18

Chamber Board of Directors

Thursday, November 11

Business After Hours Gainesville Civic Center

Eggs & Issues Breakfast "Featuring the Gainesville-Hall County Legislative Delegation" 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Chamber Executive Committee

Friday, December 10

Friday, November 12

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Lake Lanier Nutrition

12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Network Over Coffee

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Longstreet Café | Riverside Terrace

Network Over Coffee Tuesday, December 14

Small Business Seminar

South Hall Business Coalition

"Meeting the Needs of a Diverse Community" Presented by Jai Rogers, Delta Community Credit Unition 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber

Tuesday, November 16

The Greater Hall Chamber continues to monitor COVID-19 health safety mandates and regulations. Check our online calendar regularly for the status of Chamber events and programs. ghcc.com/events.

Tuesday, November 16

"Economic Development Update" Sponsored by Funari Realty 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Houndstooth Grill | Braselton

VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday, November 17

Issues Committee

9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber Wednesday, November 17

Industry Appreciation Luncheon "Industry of the Year Awards" 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 .m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center

Up-to-date INFO:

GHCC.com/events November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

he 24th Annual Motul Petit Le Mans roars into town November 10th through 13th for four days of the best sportscar racing in the world!

Although the traditional October date has been shifted to midNovember, we’re expecting record crowds and intense competition for what is sure to be one of the most exciting weekends on the calendar! Join us beginning Wednesday, November 10th as cars take to the track for four days of absolute non-stop action, beginning with practices and qualifying earlier in the week and ending with the drop of the checkered

flag under the stars after 10 hours of IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship endurance racing. As the season finale for both the IMSA WeatherTech season and the Michelin Endurance Cup, this fight to the finish is sure to be a mix of strategy, rivalry, a little luck and a lot of wheel-towheel competition.

Fans can browse manufacturer car corrals, check out the Fan Zone for interactive displays, shopping, dining and more. Plan on eating around the world at the all-new food village, grabbing drinks at one of the many bars on property, and visiting Spectator Hill during Thursday night practice for some of the most breathtaking views. Get autographs during the driver autograph session, walk the front straight right before cars take the green flag during the fan walk, and so much more. Camping is available for fans who don’t want to leave the property and to help make this event even more enjoyable for the whole family, kids 12 and under always enter free.

FOUR DAYS OF NON-STOP ACTION The 24th Annual Motul Petit Le Mans is one of the most spectacular sportscar races in the world and is one of the greatest fall traditions in the southeast! Mark your calendars for November 10th through 13th, the new date for this year, so that you can be a part of all this event has to offer. Tickets are selling at the advance price through November 2nd, so order yours now and save that extra cash for a cold beverage or race souvenir once you get here!

FOX FACTORY 120 The FOX Factory 120 on Friday of race week is a 120-minute flat out sprint to the checkered flag for all IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge teams! This exciting race showcases manufacturers from the likes of Chevrolet, BMW, Porsche, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG, Aston Martin and more as they duel for the top step of the podium in the season finale!

MOTUL PETIT LE MANS WEEKEND ADDITIONAL FEATURE RACES The spotlight is on the 10-hour IMSA WeatherTech Championship season finale during the Motul Petit Le Mans weekend, but that’s certainly not the only exciting racing action happening over the course of the four-day event! Starting on Wednesday morning and spanning into Friday afternoon with the FOX Factory 120, fans will get to enjoy competition from four additional series, including some single-make racing. Make sure you’ve found your viewing spot on property for the other action – including the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge in the FOX Factory 120, IMSA Prototype Challenge, Idemitsu Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich Tires, and the Porsche Carrera Cup North America – as this weekend also serves as the season finales and possible championship deciders for these featured series. There is no shortage of entertainment, both on- and off-track, at the 24th Annual Motul Petit Le Mans!

ALL-INCLUSIVE UPSCALE HOSPITALITY CLUB IN THE MICHELIN TOWER Enjoy your favorite sporting event by joining an exclusive club tailored to all sports car enthusiasts who want an unforgettable, all-inclusive experience at one of the premier road racing courses in the world. The Podium Club is the ideal place to take a break and indulge with food and drink in a comfortable, climate-controlled setting with excellent viewing and live race coverage. VISIT www.roadatlanta.com/podium-club TO LEARN MORE

Our multi-purpose motor sports facility is situated on 750 park-like acres in the rolling hills of Northeast Ga.

n 2.54-mile, 12-turn natural terrain road course built in 1970 n Built on 750 acres in the rolling hills of north Georgia n Home of Motul Petit Le Mans, the largest annual international sporting event in Georgia, with over two decades of history n All-new Michelin Tower available to host events n Birthplace of Formula Drift n Host to The Mitty & MotoAmerica n Family friendly, park-like facility n Paddock access included with every ticketed admission n Kids 12 and under always enter for free n Infield parking and camping for most spectator events

TICKETS ON SALE NOW AT ROADATLANTA.COM OR CALL 800.849.7223

member news Mushroom farm featured in Georgia Grown Green Box Mushrooms was recently featured in Georgia Grown magazine. The mushroom farm opened in June 2019 and is the first branch of Korean-based DDLEACHE in the U.S. Owners John and Elizabeth Moon grow hundreds of pounds of Oyster Mushrooms daily. They use a method popular in Asia. “We use bottle cultivation instead of the old methodology of growing mushrooms in plastic bags,” explains Elizabeth. “Bottles are less labor intensive than bags and very ecologically sustainable. We believe we are the only ones east of the Mississippi growing mushrooms this way.” All mushrooms are 100% born and raised in Gainesville, and plans are underway for a hands-on education center to engage and teach younger generations about mushroom benefits. The farm is open to the public with tours available on Saturdays (10 am to 2 pm). Reservations are required. Online shopping and U-Pick available! greenboxmushrooms.com

Honey Baked Ham for the Holidays Matt and Alison Bengochea, owners of Honey Baked Ham in Gainesville announce new fall specials. For catering, they are introducing lettuce wraps featuring premium meats and toppings to boxed lunch choices. For your morning meetings, they now have a boxed breakfast option with a toasty breakfast sandwich. For employee or client gifts, they now have a gift card specifically for the bone-in ham, which allows the recipient flexibility on how and when they use it. To place an order, drop by the restaurant at 1237 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville. Call 770-287-1773, or order online at honeybakedham.com. Longstreet Clinic opened its new Neuroscience & Orthopedic Center by combining physical medicine & rehabilitation, neurosurgery, orthopedics, interventional pain management, sports medicine, and physical therapy into one location. The center offers patients of all ages a comprehensive approach to treating a broad range of physical and neurological conditions. “What this does is allow a patient that is experiencing a physical or neurological concern the most direct path to receiving comprehensive care,” said Longstreet Clinic physiatrist Holmes B. Marchman, M.D. “Since so many physical and neurological concerns cross over in treatment needs, and this allows providers to combine their efforts while easing the process for the patient.” longstreetclinic.com 10

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

• The Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees announced the 2022 Class of Leadership Georgia which includes local leaders Judge John Breakfield, Hall County State Court, and Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance. Leadership Georgia has grown into one of the most successful state leadership programs in the country with over 3,000 graduates and celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2022. Congratulations John and Brett! • Gainesville Chicken Festival is Saturday, November 6 (11am-4pm) at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. As the Official Chicken Cook-off for the State of Georgia, the festival provides a full day of great food, friendly competition, live entertainment, a marketplace, kids’ zone and beverage tents. lakelanierolympicvenue.com • For the past 23 years Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta's Motul Petit Le Mans has been THE sporting event in the Southeast to experience. The action is nonstop with four days of on-track battles, culminating in the 10-hour IMSA WeatherTech Championship finale showdown. Join the race festivities November 10- 13 with Kids Zone, vendors, food trucks, displays, car corrals, camping, and much more. This event has it all, and family-friendly prices, too! roadatlanta.com • An agreement was signed between Jan Vintrlík, CEO of ALBAform, and Radoslav Putna, Director of VOP CZ, in the presence of Monika Vintrlíková, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic in Atlanta and VP ALBAform. The aim of the agreement is to find the usage of robotic autonomic systems produced by VOP CZ in the civil sector in the US market. Representatives of the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic Department (MoD) of the Industrial Cooperation were on hand. ALBAform in Flowery Branch designs, develops and manufactures precision metal components for the automotive industry. • Jingle Mingle is Saturday, November 20 (4-8pm) on the Downtown Gainesville Square. Join us as we light up the Chicken to kick off Gainesville’s Holiday Season! Santa Photos, Carriage Rides, Train Rides, Family-Friendly Fun. Mark your calendar for Christmas on Green Street on Sunday, December 5 (4-7pm) on Historic Green Street. Don't miss this Traditional Christmas

parade with Open Houses in Historic Homes, live entertainment, and more! downtowngainesville.com • The UGA Small Business Development Center Gainesville welcomes their newest team member – Amber Bennett. Amber has a 10-year career in accounting, business management and cash flow operations. She has also worked in community relations and accounting consulting. Amber enjoys educating small business owners on access to capital options, cash flow management techniques as well as financial forecasts and financial projection models. georgiasbdc.org • Chamber Ambassador Jeff Williams of Conditioned Air Systems was named to Georgia Trend magazine's "40 Under 40" listing of state-wide leaders making an impact on their community. Jeff is a member of the 2021-22 Leadership Hall Class, and in addition to his ongoing Chamber support, is involved with the youth apprenticeship program and the South Hall Rotary Club. • Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) in Gainesville is the only hospital north of Atlanta to be certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center – the highest level of certification awarded to hospitals for stroke treatment. This certification proves NGMC has the infrastructure, staffing and resources to treat even the most serious stroke events right here in Gainesville without needing to transfer patients to Atlanta nghs.com • Wisdom Project 2030, Jackson EMC and the Cresswind at Lake Lanier Community Fund are supporting a mental health program available through the United Way of Hall County’s “Reach Out” Initiative. The program provides training on mental health first aid – tools for helping someone before professional help is available. Nearly 200 persons have been trained so far in the oneday program, either virtually or in-person. Free training available for business and private groups. For info or to schedule, contact Teigha Snowden, 770-536-1121, or tsnowden@unitedwayhallcounty.org

Got news?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

small business development Small Business of the Month Locos Grill & Pub

Hudson Wilson, owner of Locos Grill & Pub in Gainesville.

Locos Grill & Pub in Gainesville opened in October 1997 and just celebrated 24 years in business. The Gainesville location was the first franchised store and is still operated by original owner Hudson Wilson. Locos is a local pub and eatery providing our neighborhood with a great place to meet friends, watch sports, grab a meal, get takeout, or have a delicious meal delivered. Over the years, Hudson and his team have partnered with local elementary schools in the area to reward teachers for their service as well as sponsoring the SHOP WITH A COP program to provide kids with school supplies and Christmas gifts. 601 South Enota Drive in Gainesville. locosgrill.com

Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, November 9

9-10 am | via Zoom or IN PERSON at the Chamber (230 EE Butler Pkwy in Gainesville) Cyber Security: Protecting Your Business

Presented by John Madigan, CEO, ATS Tech Solutions News reports of companies suffering from cyber-attacks are becoming quite frequent. Many organizations do not understand what it takes to protect against a cyber-invasion OR what to do after being hacked. Join John Madigan as he shares the latest in cyber activity and how hackers today are adapting technology with new tricks and tools to use against us. Discover effective leadership strategies to engage employees with cyber-safety training to prevent acts of fraud, breach and data theft. Info: 770-532-6206. Register online: GHCC.com/EVENTS

Upcoming Seminar Tuesday, December 14

Small Business Seminar

Meeting Needs of a Diverse Community 9:00-10:00 am | In Person & via Zoom

Initiatives that foster Diversity and Inclusion are increasingly important in our communities and our workplaces. Now more than ever, businesses have great opportunities to assess and understand the diverse needs of the local communities they serve and to make a positive impact in residents’ lives. Join Jai Rogers, VP Business & Community Development at Delta Community Credit Union, for a discussion of strategies for defining your business’ impact and why doing good is good for business.

INFO: Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206 x 111

Become a Chamber CERTIFIED Small Business Partner by participating in six (6) Small Business Seminars this year. CERTIFIED Partners Receive

• Certificate of Completion • Certified Small Business Decal • Recognition at a Chamber Board Meeting

• Promote on social media and in Business Link

Inf0: 770-532-6206

COVID-19 Safety

The October Small Business Seminar – Be Extraordinary – was presented by Mike Hill, Managing Director of Trenton Consulting. (L-R) : Small Business Roundtable Chairman Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions; Mike Hill, Trenton Consulting; Layna Weldon, State Farm Insurance; Stacey Reece, Spherion Staffing & Recruiting; Michele Piucci, Peach State Bank; Ellie Parker, Chamber.

As we continue to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic, the Greater Hall Chamber is monitoring health safety mandates and regulations. Check the Chamber calendar online at GHCC.com/events regularly for the status of events, and keep an eye on your inbox for updates and information.

GHCC.com/EVENTS November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

COMMUNITY VACCINE DAY on October 6th at the Gainesville Civic Center was a success thanks to outstanding partners, providers and sponsors. Some 300 COVID-19 Vaccines/Boosters were given as well as 300 Flu Shots to a diverse group of people from across the community. Community Vaccine Day showed us how amazing feats can be accomplished when uniting together in purpose and working together for a common goal.

community development

Longstreet Clinic Team (L-R) Renee Ward, Victoria Truelove, Kelly Towe, Margaret Spratlin, Lisa Nash.

State Rep. Lee Hawkins gets the COVID-19 Booster and a flu shot.

We appreciated Elida Lopez of CareSource helping out in the Observation Room! Dozens of our elderly residents received vaccinations and flu shots.

(L-R) Kelsey Keith, NGPG Patient Center Medical Home; Sandy Smith, RN, NGPG Urgent Care & Occupational Medicine; Rhonda Thompson, NGHS. 12

Northeast Georgia Physician Group Team (L-R) Sheila Thomas, Sandy Gulle, Cole Waters, Ana Simental (kneeling), Erika Huizar, Santa Chanon, Abby Brooks, Sheila Evans, Kelsey Keith, Alix Schnibben, Whitney Huddleston, Crystal Tompkins, Mandy Crews, Sandy Smith.

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

Norma Hernandez and the Northeast Georgia Latino Chamber was instrumental in providing translators, outstanding prizes and assisting throughout the day. Students from Brenau University's Department of Physician Assistant Studies administered shots (L-R) Dr. Kyrus Patch, Ashley Murchison, Michael Benfield; Juli Clay & Lila Westmoreland, Brenau's College of Business & Communication; Bryce Cardin.

Thank you Deanna Ditty and Truist for providing snacks for volunteers all day!

community development

Thank you Vanesa Sarazúa and the Hispanic Alliance Georgia for promoting the event, providing translators, door prizes and transportation. Over 75 individuals received the first dose of the COVID-19 Vaccine at Community Vaccine Day.

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We appreciate St. John Baptist Church, GainesvilleHall County Black History Society, Newtown Florist Club and Fairstreet Butler Alumni for getting the word out. Santa Chanon, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, and Lisa Nash, Longstreet Clinic, teamed up at registration and got the process started for the hundreds of residents participating in the HealthSmart Community Vaccine Day.

Thank You

Alliant Health Plans – BGW Dental Group CareSource – Cigna – Clipper Petroleum Coca-Cola United Gainesville – District 2 Public Health – Fairstreet Butler Alumni Fieldale – Gainesville Civic Center Gainesville Parks & Recreation Gainesville-Hall Co. Black History Society Gainesville Civic Center – Good News Clinics – Grace Episcopal Church Hispanic Alliance GA – Grady Young Foundation – Kubota – McDonald's Longstreet Clinic – MedLink Georgia Newtown Florist Club – North Georgia Audiology – Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic – Northeast Georgia Health System Northeast Georgia Latino Chamber Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Recro Pharma – St. John Baptist Church St. Paul UMC-Summitt – United Way of Hall County – One Hall

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935 Green Street, GaineSville 30501 callriverSidepharmacy.com 770.532.6253 • Fax 770.532.6592

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WE HAVE A SOLUTION FOR EVERY DATA NEED! November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

ribbon cuttings

Whole Being Café in Flowery Branch

The Uniform Shop

Owner John Nicholson cuts the ribbon for The Uniform Shop in Downtown Gainesville. The Uniform Shop sells medical uniforms and supplies including scrubs, lab coats, shoes, stethoscopes, and more to hospital employees and medical offices in the North Georgia area. The Uniform Shop offers fitting rooms for clothing try-ons so their customers may choose their perfect size and correct scrub color. Support The Uniform Shop by “buying local” from a small business, instead of online from big-box retailers. Visit them today, and use the free, convenient parking lot available at their back door! 132 Bradford Street NE, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-4701. TheUniformShopGainesville.com

Good News at Noon

Gainesville-Hall County officials and Good News at Noon Board Members break ground for a new facility at the corner of Pearl Nix Parkway and Dorsey Street in Gainesville. Good News is a community ministry that provides food, clothing and basic necessities to the homeless and poor in our community. The transitional shelter, currently serving up to 18 men, will double capacity at the new facility and include services for women. Good News provide meals 365 days a year to our low income neighbors as well as grocery distribution every Thursday. They assist with obtaining personal identification and provide referral information to applicable agencies. Individuals come to Good News At Noon to find physical, mental, emotional, relational and spiritual healing. 979 Davis Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-503-1366. goodnewsatnoon.org

Promote your company with a FREE Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. 14

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

Owners Kevin and Gail Tomlinson cut the ribbon for Whole Being Café in Flowery Branch. Kevin and Gail are passionate about great coffee, great food, and loving their neighbors which inspired the opening of the café in 2020. "We moved to Flowery Branch in 2003, and what an opportunity we get to serve our friends and neighbors in this beautiful city," says Gail. Their desire is to be the center of the community where everyone feels welcomed and celebrated each time they visit – to serve, lift up and enrich the lives of those encountered daily. No good cause is worth a bad cup of coffee, so they serve only organic, pesticide-free coffee with food prepared fresh daily. Kevin and Gail believe in supporting small businesses and partner with local bakeries for fresh breads, pastries and desserts. They serve a variety of coffees, hot and iced, including Cold-brew and Nitro-Brew. Breakfast specialties are available all day, and lunch starts at 11am. Visit Whole Being Café Tuesday–Saturday, 8am-2pm. 5510 Main Street, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-4080. WholeBeingCafe.com

Jennifer McCall, Attorney at Law

Local family law attorney Jennifer McCall cuts a ribbon at her new office (L-R) Will Stump, Huong Nguyen, Dianne McCall, Josh McCall, Jennifer McCall, Kore McCall, Mia Koch, Kate McCall. The firm has operated for five years and recently moved into a new office in the Hunt Tower. Jennifer is passionate about family law and is grateful to practice in her beloved hometown. She is very involved in local non-profit organizations and serves on several boards. 200 Main Street SW, Suite 104, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-696-5348. McCallatLaw.com It's a free service if you're a member of the Chamber. Not a member? Join now, call 770-532-6206.

welcome new members

B-Entertainment / Bourbon Brothers Robert Mudd Jesse Jewell & Academy Gainesville, GA 30501 678-617-4726 - Entertainment Venue b-entertainment.live Billy Grimes PO Box 907788 Gainesville, GA30501 770-315-0271 - Art billygrimes.com

International Ink Co. Heather Farag 775 Dorsey Street Gainesville, GA 30501 770-531-0033 - Manufacturer iicink.com

El Campesino Mexican Restaurant David Carrillo 150 Pearl Nix Pkwy, Suite B-12 Gainesville, GA 30501 678-971-4894 - Restaurant & Catering elcampesinomexicanrest.com

John Garrison Gainesville, GA 30507 770-540-5370 - Individual Member

Lebolo Roofing & Development Emilio Lebolo 1566 Thompson Bridge Road Firestone Complete Auto Care Gainesville, GA 30501 Chaz Bentley 470-670-7663 3466 Winder Highway - Roofing Contractor Flowery Branch, GA 30542 leboloroofing.com 470-778-4677 - Automobile Parts & Supplies Pandya Medical Center firestonecompleteautocare.com Amy Robertson 5670 Old Winder Highway Hemma Elevations Suite 101 Shane Blackburn Braselton, GA 30517 1252 Old Alpharetta Road 678-943-6778 Alpharetta, GA 30005 - Medical Center 678-300-0505 pandyamedicalcenter.com - Architects & Engineers hemmaconcrete.com

Pinnacle Bank Gateway Branch

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Atlas Medical Services Brandon Sullins 2436 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30506 470-892-6622 - Ambulance Provider atlasmedicalservices.org

Choate Construction Company Davis Myers 8200 Roberts Drive, Suite 600 Atlanta, GA 30350 678-892-1200 - Construction choateco.com

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Acopia Home Loans Dennis McCormick 340 Jesse Jewell Parkway Suite 426 Gainesville, GA 30501 770-335-3543 - Mortgage acopiahomeloans.com/dmccormick

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Pinnacle Bank employees at the new Gateway Branch in Gainesville (L-R) Steve Taylor, Neal Booth, Ayerim Arana, Savannah Hines, Taylor Jones, Miranda Harned, Nathan Hamby, David Voyles, Tripp Conner, Greg Merritt, Jackson McConnell, Jeff Sims, Russell Hewatt, Shannon Fortson. Pinnacle is one of the largest community banks in Georgia with $1.5 billion in total assets and 23 branches across 15 counties in Northeast Georgia. The Pinnacle Bank team is made up of local people who want to serve their customers and communities. 340 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Suite 100, Gainesville, GA. 678-928-5350. PinnacleBank.com

Vote today

November 2021 | GreaterHallChamber.com

2022 Chamber Events Marketing Workshop

New Trends in Digital & Social Media Marketing

In Person!

Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Eggs & Issues Breakfast 2021

Thursday, December 9 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Lanier Technical College

8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Brenau University | John Burd Center | Hosch Theatre

Ramsey Conference Center

Business Expo 2022

Thursday, February 17, 2022

Presented by

11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey Conference Center

Healthy Hall Awards Luncheon Wednesday, March 2, 2022

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey Conference Center

Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk Thursday, March 24, 2022

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. | Lanier Islands

Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament Friday, April 22, 2022

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Legacy on Lanier Golf Club | Lanier Islands

Senator Butch Miller 49th GA Senate District

Rep. Lee Hawkins

27th GA House District

Call about SPONSORSHIPS: 770-532-6206

Rep. Emory Dunahoo 30th GA House District

Business After Hours

Registration Required Breakfast Included Chamber Member: $40 Non-Member: $50 Table: $400 (seats 6)

5-7 pm | 830 Green Street

RESERVATIONS: Gerri Collins 770-532-6206 x 106

Tuesday, December 7