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
E-SPLOST: A good thing for our children and our wallets
New Healthcare Provider Study Page 4 Economic Development Page 5 Upcoming Events Page 6 Member Announcements Page 10 Welcome New Members Page 12 Small Business of the Month Page 12 Leadership and Education Pages 14
Cooper Embry Chairman, Citizens for Better Education 2015
community who are visiting our stores, dining in our restaurants, and purchasing gas on their way through town.
The fifth round of the next Education Sales Tax referendum, or E-SPLOST, is approaching quickly with early voting starting at the Hall County Government Center on October 12, and then at the polls on Election Day on Tuesday, November 3.
I am certain that if every voter took the time to study the benefits of the E-SPLOST, the Yes vote on the ballot would be unanimous.
I have been privileged to be involved in every referendum campaign for E-SPLOST since its inception in 1997. It takes a lot of time and effort to go around the community promoting E-SPLOST and speaking to civic groups and voters, but it’s one of the most rewarding volunteer efforts that I do.
Check out these numbers:
My motivation is very simple. It’s just looking into the faces of my son, my two daughters and all their friends. It’s also in the faces of every child that our family comes into contact with at church, on the ball fields, and all around town.
• E-SPLOST revenues have eased the pressure on property taxes. In fact, the education portion of our property tax bills has been rolled back as a result of lower debt payments made possible by E-SPLOST.
Children are at the heart of E-SPLOST. But there’s another side that is less about emotion and more about finance. With each dollar spent in Gainesville and Hall County, an extra penny of tax is used to fund local education needs. That’s smart financing, and it appeals to the banker side of my brain.
• E-SPLOST funds are used in conjunction with state funds for local education capital expenditures, so we are receiving even more bang for the penny.
• Our local school systems, for the first time in many decades, are now debt-free. This feat was accomplished after using E-SPLOST dollars to pay off long-standing debt from earlier construction bonds.
• And as we all know, a large percentage of our local sales tax is paid by shoppers outside our
So, I encourage everyone to visit the websites of the Hall County Schools and Gainesville City Schools where you will find all the information you need about E-SPLOST expenditures (past funding as well as what’s proposed for the future) to make the most educated and informed decision. Let’s keep a good thing going. The one-penny Education Sales Tax truly does make “good cents” for our children – and for our wallets.
Wednesday, October 7 7:30 am - 1:30 pm Gainesville Civic Center
Free Health Screenings • Free Seminars Open to the Public • No Admission Fee Shuttle Service • Door Prize Drawings Over 60+ Wellness Exhibitors
Save the Date Tuesday, October 13 Small Business Seminar Wednesday, October 21 Lunch 'n Learn Thursday, October 22 Business After Hours
OCTOBER 2015
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
From the Chairman
Education, key to strong economy Education not only builds a skilled workforce, it also provides social, civic and personal development. Access to high-quality education contributes to a strong economy. Gainesville-Hall County is the heart of Northeast Georgia's transportation network, and our community is an employment center for the region. In addition, our educational infrastructure is strong with over 16,000 people enrolled in area colleges and universities with an additional 150,000 enrolled within an hour's drive of Gainesville-Hall County. While providing access to college should remain a top priority, the majority of jobs needed in our market are sectors that require employees trained with specific skills. Creating skilled workers for an economy that is constantly Brian Daniel changing requires strategic investments and better education and workforce Carroll Daniel development programs. Results of a survey polling 58 area manufacturing Construction Co. Chairman, Greater Hall employers shows that only 25% of the industries surveyed in our community Chamber of Commerce employ high school students as part of a Work Based Learning Program. With an estimated 30% of our high school graduates going to college, industry officials agree that we need to do a better job of providing skills leading to a career field for the 70%. After all, this 70% is our future workforce. These programs must be coordinated and aligned with employers' needs. Gainesville-Hall County’s newly formed Workforce Development Task Force seeks to collaborate with area employers, educators and leaders to create new programs, market existing programs, remove barriers and influence perceptions. The group is dedicated to making an impact by building on a sustainable workforce that possesses the skills needed by today’s and tomorrow’s employers. As the Workforce Development Task Force moves ahead with initiatives to increase employer presence in schools and implement dual enrollment programs, we can also play a part. By voting for 'YES' for the E-SPLOST Referendum on November 3, you can help us provide the funding and resources to maintain our quality of excellence in our school systems. Will Schofield, Hall County Schools Superintendent stated "one of the greatest investments this community has made in the educational system over the last 18 years has been the one penny sales tax. It is our intent, along with our sister systems in Gainesville City and Buford, to come back to the voters in November 2015 and ask them to extend E-SPLOST, which will go for an additional five years."
October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Business Partners in Education
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Kona Ice of Greater Gainesville is the newest business partner to join forces with North Hall Middle School (NHMS). Standing behind students: Principal Shane Rayburn, NHMS; Dana Miller, Chamber; Morgan Kleiber, Kona Ice. Kona Ice plans to assist with teacher and student motivation and achievement programs, job shadowing and fundraisers. Kona Ice joins NHMS business partners Chick-fil-A of Gainesville and Memorial Park Funeral Home. Dr. Rayburn said the school endorses their business partners with promotion in publications/banners and quarterly lunches for all business partners. “Already our partnership is off to a fantastic start! The kids (and educators) love the shaved ice, and we are pleased that Kona’s product is 100% fruit juice," said Rayburn. Kona Ice is Smart Snack Approved by the USDA and Food and Nutrition Service. Currently, over 300 businesses are partnering with schools. For information on how your business can partner with a local school to make a difference in the future of Gainesville-Hall County, contact Dana Miller, VP Education, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com
Business Link VOLUME 21 ISSUE 4 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com
greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2015-2016 Executive Committee Vice Chair, Marketing and Chairman Communications Brian Daniel Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Katie Dubnik Forum Communications Chairman Elect Vice Chair, Membership Lee Hemmer Development The Simpson Company Tony Paramore Gainesville Design Center Treasurer David Abee, Regions Bank Vice Chair, South Hall Council Andy Kalinauskas Vice Chair, Economic Conditioned Air Systems Development Brian Rochester Vice Chair, Community Rochester & Associates Development Lila Weaver, Brenau University Vice Chair, Education Kristi Barker, Georgia Power Chair, VISION 2030 Davis White Vice Chair, Government LinkPoint Advantage John Breakfield Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director Breakfield & Associates
Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers AT&T Jimbo Floyd Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Melissa Tymchuk Northeast Georgia Health System Senior Advisor Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost Immediate Past Chairman David Lee, Jackson EMC President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2015-2016 Charlotte Atkins, The Times Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton & Company Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo Dr. Wanda Creel, Gainesville City Schools Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Sam Evans, Councilman, City of Oakwood Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Tony Funari, Funari Realty Loren Funk, The Longstreet Clinic Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Will Hicks, Stifel Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Venue Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage Jay Kelley, Signs By Tomorrow Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications
Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health System Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission Terry Merck, American Yazaki Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Greg Ours, Poly Enterprises Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Jeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet Clinic Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schraeder, Brenau University Carol Shirley, South State Bank Louis Smith, Northeast Georgia Health System Jody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’s Grier Todd, Lanier Islands Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging
Associate Directors 2015-2016 Andy Bangs, Alexander, Almand & Bangs Carolina Diaz, Georgia Power Craig Dowdy, SunTrust Anna Guzman, Jackson EMC Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones Erin Langford, HTI Employment Solutions
Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms Mike McGraw, PrideStaff Steven Mickens, Boys & Girls Clubs Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Gary Smith, Milton Martin Honda Elizabeth Thompson, House Dressing
Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Garrett Wiley, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President Finance & HR Membership Development Megan Martin, Vice President, Development Kara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales Education Dana Miller, Vice President
Government Affairs Garrett Wiley, Project Manager South Hall Council Megan Martin, Vice President Membership 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
Economic Development October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
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2015 Healthcare Providers Study Industry Appreciation Luncheon The Greater Hall Chamber recently completed a visual geographic information sys2015 Industry of the Year Awards tem study of 339 Hall County Healthcare Providers by Employment with a variety of medical and dental service providers profiled. Gainesville-Hall County is a growing regional center of Healthcare Services for over 500,000 people in a 16-county area of Northeast Georgia. Immediate access to healthcare service providers is a benefit to quality of life for area residents, and the concentration of providers in Hall County is a significant source of employment and income. Report highlights: • The community's Healthcare Sector employs 11,520 or 14.6% of the workforce in Gainesville-Hall County. • The Georgia Department of Labor reports the average salary for the Healthcare Sector in Hall County is $50,076, for an estimated $575 million in annual payroll. • Nearly 80% of Hall County’s Healthcare employment is concentrated in the City of Gainesville, with 221 healthcare service provider locations employing 9,159 and providing an estimated $457 million in annual payroll. • The largest provider in the study, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) in Gainesville with 4,700 employees (7,000+ total employees), is the number #1 rated hospital in Georgia and number #2 in the Nation as rated by CareChex, an independent healthcare quality rating service. • NGMC provides an economic impact on our local and state economies that is greater than $1 billion. The majority of that impact is made here in our local community and region. • Other major providers by employment in the study include physicians groups such as The Longstreet Clinic, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic and Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (a physicians group of Northeast Georgia Health System).
The Greater Hall Chamber's 7th Annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon is Thursday, November 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club. The Industry Appreciation program is presented by Lanier Technical College and includes awards honoring area existing industries. NOMINATIONS: The Chamber is seeking nominations for 2015 Industry of the Year Awards to be presented at the luncheon. Nominated companies must: • Be located in the Greater Hall area (3 years) • Be involved in the manufacturing, processing or distribution of a tangible product • Complete an application (Nominees will be contacted by the Chamber) • Awards based on economic impact, corporate responsibility and workforce excellence • Awards are presented in three categories based on number of employees • Nomination deadline is October 15 SPEAKER: Jackie Rohosky, Technical College System of Georgia assistant commissioner of economic development programs and head of Quick Start, will be guest speaker at the luncheon on November 17. Quick Start is Georgia’s internationally acclaimed economic development program that provides customized workforce training at no cost to qualified new, expanding and existing businesses in Georgia. Since 1967, Quick Start has trained more than 877,000 employees through 6,000 projects with a broad range of industries. SPONSORS: The Industry Appreciation Luncheon and Program is presented by Lanier Technical College. Gold sponsors include Merial, Rushton & Company and Liberty Utilities. Silver sponsors are AT&T, Jackson EMC, SYFAN Logistics, Inc., King’s Hawaiian and Spherion Professional Recruiting.
• The study also highlights other growing concentrations of healthcare service providers in South Hall County, employing nearly 2,000 in Braselton, Oakwood, Flowery Branch and Buford.
NOMINATIONS & RESERVATIONS: Industry Appreciation Luncheon: $35 Chamber Members; $50 guests. Limited Table sponsorships are available, $400 (seats 8). To make an Industry of the Year Nomination or for Lunch Reservations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
• Started in 2014, the Governor’s High Demand Career Initiative concluded that healthcare is one of the high-demand career fields anticipated to grow over the next five to ten years in Georgia.
South Hall Business Coalition
• According to the Georgia Department of Labor, employment in healthcare services is expected to grow 2.8% per year and add nearly 140,000 jobs across Georgia through 2022. As part of the study, developers in Hall County were interviewed to collect their perspective of the impact of healthcare providers, employment and income on retail and commercial development. See their comments and the full report that includes maps and listings of providers at greaterhallchamber.com About the Study The Greater Hall Chamber prepared the study of Healthcare Service Providers by compiling data from various sources, including the Georgia Department of Labor, BusinessWise 2015 data and over 100 phone calls and emails with Greater Hall Chamber members in the healthcare community to confirm healthcare employment by location. During the course of the study from June until its release in September 2015, numerous healthcare providers opened their doors for the first time, added employment or additional locations throughout Hall County. The Chamber is grateful for the support of the healthcare community in Hall County for their efforts in supporting this study. References: Governor’s High Demand Career Initiative Report, Georgia Department of Labor, Lanier Technical College, Brenau University – College of Health Sciences, University of North Georgia.
The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition met at Road Atlanta in September. (L-R): Andy Lally, Driver/No. 44 Magnus Racing GTD Porsche; Geoff Lee, President & General Manager, Road Atlanta; Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Grater Hall Chamber. The Coalition will meet at Lanier Charter Career Academy at 8:00 a.m. on October 6 for an overview of the Education SPLOST by Chris Griner, CFO, Gainesville City Schools, and Will Schofield, Superintendent, Hall County Schools. The Coalition will meet at 8:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 17 at Lanier Islands for an update on the resort. Monthly Coalition meetings are sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Light breakfast included. Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-5326206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
Kubota Expansion in Gainesville
Sterling on the Lake Expansion
Meet Conley, 1/2David Page Ad CPA, CFE 2 columns Audit Manager x10"advising Rushton With over nine years4.4167 of experience and Company’s government and nonprofit clients, David Conley has recently been named Audit Manager. In his new role, David oversees audits for government and nonprofit entities – helping clients with accounting, compliance and reporting issues while providing one-on-one training. An active member of the community and father of three, David currently serves on the board of directors for the Children’s Center for Hope and Healing, where he has also served as treasurer and past president. He enjoys family time with his wife and their two sons and daughter. Whether at home or in the office, David is involved in helping our region succeed. Because it’s not only what we do. But why we do it.
C ERTIFIED P UBLIC A CCOUNTANTS 770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com
October 6, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Sterling on the Lake, the award-winning master-planned residential community in Flowery Branch recently held a ground breaking for the development of two new phases. (L-R): John McHenry, Community Developer Director; Ed Asbridge, Community Leader and Sterling on the Lake resident; Jennifer Landers, Vice President of Operations, Newland Communities; Bill Andrew, City Manager of Flowery Branch; Fred Richards, Flowery Branch City Council. With the new phases, 115 homes will be built with access to a resort-style amenities package that includes five private lakes, two clubhouses, three swimming pools, eight lighted tennis courts, walking trails, and a library with cafe. Developed by Newland Communities, Sterling on the Lake is situated on nearly 1,000 acres with over 200 acres of open space, lakes and parks. Designed as a true lakeside village, Sterling on the Lake provides a variety of affordable and luxury homes with extensive community amenities. When complete, the community will have approximately 2,000 homes and over 6,000 residents. Home prices range from the $200’s-$500’s. 770-967-9777. sterlingonthelake.com
Serving our region. It’s what we do.
Economic Development
Georgia Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and local officials participated in a groundbreaking for Kubota Manufacturing of America Corporation's (KMA) 502,000 square-foot manufacturing facility at Gateway Industrial Centre in September. Located on 180 acres near KMA’s existing Gainesville facilities, the plant expects Henry Kubota, President of KMA, and Tim Evans, to open in 2017 and will Chamber VP of Economic Development, with the Kubota manufacture Kubota’s RTV series utility vehicles, with the RTV to be manufactured at the new facility. capacity to produce 50,000 units annually. The existing Gainesville KMA facility, which has been in operation since 1988 and employs approximately 1,300 people, will also undergo enhancements to increase its production capacity to support Kubota’s growing turf business. kubota.com
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Meetings & Events October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
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OCTOBER 2015 Tuesday, October 6 South Hall Business Coalition E-SPLOST Overview 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Lanier Charter Career Academy Wednesday, October 7 HealthSmart Breakfast & Expo 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Expo Gainesville Civic Center Thursday, October 8 Leadership Hall County 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday, October 9 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Oakwood City Hall
Tuesday, October 20 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber Wednesday, October 21 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, October 21 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. Peach State Bank in Gainesville Thursday, October 22 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Eagle Ranch Thursday, October 22 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m.. - 7:00 p.m. Brenau University Brenau Downtown Center
Tuesday, October 13 Small Business Seminar "Workplace Violence" presented by Deputy Chad Mann, Hall County Sheriff's Office Wednesday, October 28 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, October 13 Loretta's Country Kitchen in Oakwood Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. - 2 Dog Cafe in Gainesville NOVEMBER 2015 Wednesday, October 14 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. New Chick-fil-A Gainesville
Tuesday, November 17 Industry Appreciation Luncheon 2105 Industry of the Year Awards 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club
Thursday, October 15 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber
DECEMBER 2015
Tuesday, October 20 Youth Leadership Hall 8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club
Thank You BGW Dental Group
Thursday, December 10 Eggs & Issues Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Gainesville Civic Center Events online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Thank You Chamber Event Sponsors Aetna Medicare • AEON Clinical Laboratories • Amerigroup Brenau University • CIGNA • Coventry Healthcare • Fairway Outdoor Gainesville Eye Associates • Highland Mountain Beverage Jacobs Media • Lanier Charter Career Academy • Lawson AC & Plumbing McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda • Milton Martin Toyota • Montara Farm Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic • Northeast Georgia Health System Northeast Georgia Physicians Group • Peach State Bank • Red Clay Interactive Riverside Military Academy • Sapa Extrusions • Signs by Tomorrow Spectrum Business Enterprise Solutions• The Longstreet Cafe The Longstreet Clinic • The Times • UnitedHealthcare • WSI Digital Rainmakers
BGW Dental Group hosted Business After Hours at their new office in Gainesville in August. (Front, L-R): Dr. Cindy Fulenwider Greene; Erin Langford, HTI Employment; Dr. Brittany Smith Bonds and Dr. Matthew L. Vaughn. (Back, L-R): Dr. Richard G. Bennett, Jr. and Dr. Ryan M. Wood. Door prize winners included Erin Langford, HTI Employment (iPad), and Bobby Banks, CBT, Inc. (Sonicare Toothbrush). Angie Williams, Liberty Mutual, was the Cash Prize Winner ($100)! Don't miss North Georgia's largest networking event at Business After Hours at Brenau University (Brenau Downtown Center) on Thursday, October 22 from 5-7pm. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Drawing for the Cash Prize to one lucky winner! Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com
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October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Member Announcements
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• Jim Hardman, owner and president of Jim Hardman Buick GMC, announced that the Gainesville dealership ranked #5 of 55 GMC dealerships statewide in sales volume. hardmancars.com • Decorated war hero, author, and television host Colonel Oliver North will share his insights on heroism and community at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County's Future for Kids Gala on Tuesday, October 13 at the Gainesville Civic Center. Joyce Wilson, 770-5328102. Email: bgchc_joyce@bellsouth.net • The Center for the Future of North Georgia/University of North Georgia will host the first ever StartItUp conference featuring nationally-recognized entrepreneurs with great information for small business owners on how to better manage and market their organization. The event is Tuesday, October 20, 9am-12:30pm at the Forsyth Conference Center. Tickets $50 with lunch. ung.edu • Milton Martin Toyota relocated to their new store in September, located off I-985 at Exit 16 or 17. The dealership has tripling their inventory with more service bays, an expanded lounge area and a Chick-fil-A Café in the new store. miltonmartintoyota.com • The Chamber's Industry Appreciation Luncheon and 2015 Industry of the Year Awards program is Thursday, November 17 at 11:30 a.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club. The awards program honors area existing industries based on economic impact, workforce excellence and corporate responsibility. For industry award nominations, contact Shelley Davis, 770-532-6206 x 108. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com • The Northeast Georgia History Center celebrated three men that came from very little to remarkable success through hard work and dedication. "Taste of History" recognition went to Jan Cooley, founder of Pro View Foods; Jack Frost, founder of Memorial Park Funeral Homes; and Milton Robson, founder of Prime Pak and PFG Milton's. negahc.org • Hall County Public Works Director Ken Rearden announced that the County's Resource Recovery program was named Georgia's 2015 Outstanding Government Recycling Leader by the Georgia Recycling Coalition. The department was selected from 56 eligible local governments and was specifically recognized for the Adopt-A-Can Program, which has made a major impact in the amount of recycling activity in Hall County. hallcounty.org
• Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) Radiation Oncology welcomes Craig Baden, MD. Dr. Baden has a Physics degree from University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a master's in Theology from Wheaton College and a medical degree and masters in Public Health from the University of North Carolina. Earlier this year, Dr. Baden received the ASTRO (American Society of Therapeutic Radiation Oncology) global health scholarship to work in Lusaka, Zambia. NGPG Heritage OB/ GYN welcomes Dr. Kimberly Barrett. Dr. Barrett received her medical degree from Virginia Tech and her OB/GYN residency at Vanderbilt. ngpg.org • North Georgia Christian School and Heritage Academy are merging to become Lanier Christian Academy in the 2016-2017 school year. The school will be built on 140 acres on Poplar Springs Road in South Hall County. With projected enrollment of 400 students, Lanier Christian Academy will be one of Northeast Georgia’s largest Christian college-preparatory schools. Until the campus is complete, the Academy will hold classes at Chestnut Mountain Church on Winder Highway. lanierchristianacademy.org • Bill Turk, CEO and founder of Pest Control Insulation, announces Mickey Wright as Sales and Client Support Manager and Teresa Cantrell as Admin/Shipping Clerk. Pest Control Insulation, makers of Thermal Acoustical Pest Control (TAP®) Insulation, began in 2001 and provides turnkey equipment packages for pest management and wildlife professionals as well as training and support. tapinsulation.com • VISION 2030's Healthcare Consortium, a group of healthcare leaders, has compiled a report with Hall County data on some of the top health indicators in our children. Read the complete report, Community Health Snapshot: Children, online at VISION2030.org • Sterling on the Lake's Annual Harvest Balloon Festival welcomes over 7,000 visitors each year and has raised over $120,000 for local charities. Now in its eighth year, the event on October 17 will benefit Challenged Child & Friends and the Hall County Animal Shelter. Festival: 1:00–8:00 pm; Balloon Glow: 8:00-8:30 pm. 7005 Lake Sterling Boulevard in Flowery Branch. 770-9679777. harvestballoonfestival.com • Kim English Marks is Elachee Nature Science Center’s new Development Director taking over duties from Lavon
Callahan who retires in December. Kim will focus primarily on fundraising. Celebrating 35 years, Elachee, located in the 1,400-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve, is a SACS AdvanceEd accredited center offering STEM-based environmental education classes for PreK-12 schools, museum exhibits and special programs for the public and home to Elachee Nature Preschool, the first licensed and SACS-accredited nature preschool in the Southeast. elachee.org • Boys & Girls Clubs 17th Annual Golf Tournament is Friday, October 16 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lanier Islands with a Million Dollar Shootout Raffle, Car Hole in One, $25,000 Hole in One, Legacy Golf Package and more. 770-945-7201. boysgirlsclubs.com • Michelle Prater, former banker and current senior director of volunteerism at United Way of Greater Atlanta will
take over as president and CEO of the North Georgia Community Foundation on October 19 for Jim Mathis who is retiring. ngcf.org • The Quinlan Visual Arts Center's 68th Members Exhibit kicks off with a reception on October 22 featuring art by Quinlan members. The popular exhibit runs through December 5. The Quinlan is located at 514 Green Street in Gainesville. quinlanvisualartscenter.org • Master Entrepreneurs will be honored at the annual Masters of Innovation event at Featherbone Communiversity on November 11 from 8:30-11:30 am. For details or to RSVP, contact Lila Weaver at Brenau University, 770-5384707 or email: lweaver2@brenau.edu
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Virtual Properties Realty
Business Partners Steve Wagner and Karen Burks cut a ribbon to open the new Gainesville office of Virtual Properties Realty, 447 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville. 770-495-5050. virtualpropertiesrealty.com
T & D Charter Bus Service
Roosevelt Norman cuts ribbon at T & D Charter, offering bus and travel services. Located at 2245 Gaines Mill Road in Gainesville. 770-536-0079.
Business After Hours
Join fellow Chamber members and friends for a Wine Reception and Business After Hours on Thursday, October 22 at Brenau's Downtown Center (Thomas Atrium). Sponsored by Brenau University's College of Business and Mass Communication, the event will allow guests to tour the Manhattan Art Gallery featuring works from Andy Warhol and the famed Dorothy and Herbert Vogel Collection. Hor d’oeurves will be provided by Brenau Catering along with live musical entertainment, a Grand Prize Drawing, Door Prizes and more! Don’t miss great networking and a chance at the Cash Pot Prize! $5 Chamber Members: $15 Non-Members. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com. Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com
I’ve Been Asked
I’ve Been Asked
How Did I Predict the Future. I Didn’t. I Prepared for It.
How Did I Predict the Future. I Didn’t. I Prepared for It.
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October 6, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Breakfast & Most Fit Company Awards – 7:30 am-9:00 am Free Screenings & Wellness Expo – 7:30 am-1:30 pm
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Buford Corn Maze Owners Tina and Jerome Beggs and Kendra Miller with Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber, at Business After Hours at the Buford Corn Maze in September.
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Small Business
Small Business of the Month A Helping Hand Home Care
A Helping Hand Home Care, LLC was established in 2010 and provides quality, dependable, client-centered home care services. Owner and administrator Anslee Wilson is a Hall County native and loves to help people. Being a caregiver for her grandparents and going through the sometimes overwhelming emotions and hardships of a difficult family illness, she realized the need for a quality group of people whom she could trust with her own family. So, she began A Helping Hand Home Care. The company was recentAnslee Wilson of A Helping Hand Home ly presented "Best of Home Care Care, Chamber Small Business of the Month. Provider of Choice" and "Employer of Choice" awards from Home Care Pulse. Awarded to only the top ranking home care providers and based on client and caregiver satisfaction scores, A Helping Hand Home Care is now ranked among a small handful of home care providers across the country who have proven their ability to provide an exceptional working experience to employees, and the highest quality care to clients. A Helping Hand Home Care, 435 Spring Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-530-1751. ahelpinghandga.com
Welcome New Members!
October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Children's Center for Hope & Healing Sam Shoemaker P.O. Box 907401 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-6530 -Non-Profit hopeandhealingga.org Gray Construction Marcus Taylor 10 Quality Street Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 281-5000 -Contractors gray.com Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. Laurie Jones 1146 Dawsonville Hwy, NW Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 503-9395
-Retail hobbylobby.com MedicareCompareUSA Sharon Fletcher 930H Interstate Ridge Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 725-1949 -Insurance Millard, Inc. Architects Robin J Millard 580 Colonial Park Drive Roswell, GA 30075 (770) 993-2034 -Architects millardinc.net Modern Woodmen of America Melinda Spurlin 125 Clarks Bridge Road
Perry C. Barnett, CPA, Business Services Partner Rushton & Company, LLC "Joining the Greater Hall Chamber was the simplest way that we have found to give back to our community. Our Chamber means business, and your support is vital to our community's success. If you are serving customers in our community, you owe that privilege to the Chamber for their recruiting efforts. We consider the Chamber our partner. I encourage you to join the Chamber today." Josh Everett, Director, Business Development New Leaf Landscape Services “Being a member of the Chamber is critical to our work at United Way of Hall County. Chamber membership gives us affordable learning opportunities and invaluable networking with key leadership in Hall County. Our work at United Way begins with relationships, and the Chamber helps to facilitate those connections that make Living United easy.” Joy Griffin, Vice President, Resource Development United Way of Hall County "The entire Chamber staff does a fantastic job of keeping their finger on the pulse of our local business community – big and small. They keep us on task, on target and on point. What a great example of TEAMWORK! Keep up the good work." Terry Morrisey, Director, Business Development Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Inc.
U.S. Army Recruiting Station 975 Dawsonville Hwy, NW Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 532-1126 -Army Recruiting goarmy.com UniFirst Corporation Charles Brown 3766 Southside Industrial Parkway, SE Atlanta, GA 30354 404-361-3900 -Uniforms/Industry Services unifirst.com Join the Chamber Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967
Biz Card Ad
2 columns GENTLE COMPASSIONATE YOU CAN TRUST, 4.4167CARE,EXPERIENCE x2.0" KNOWLEDGE YOU CAN DEPEND ON
Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
"The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is always one step ahead of issues facing businesses today. The Chamber also works to ensure that all Hall County businesses can successfully compete on a local, national and global stage."
Gainesville, GA 30501 (404) 787 5103 -Financial Services
ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS
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Why Join the Chamber?
984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA 30501 770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"
Brent Hoffman, Commercial Real Estate Berkshire Hathaway / Georgia Properties
Business Beautification Awards The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce’s Business Beautification Awards of Excellence promote attractive and well-maintained areas by publicly recognizing those who have made beautification efforts to property. The Chamber initiated the beautification program 21 years ago and various businesses have received the award, including BatesCarter, 525 Candler Street in Gainesville, the renovated and expanded Lakeshore Mall and the Frierson House (circa 1902) that was beautifully renovated and added to The Norton Agency’s Historical Green Street business campus in Gainesville. The Chamber’s Beautification Committee is seeking nominations for Fall 2015 Business Beautification Awards of Excellence. To nominate your business or another, contact Robin Halstead, Vice President of Community Development, 770-532-6206 x 100. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com
Small Business Development (L-R): Chamber Small Business Roundtable Chairman Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance; Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage; Seminar Presenter Jeff Smith, ActionCOACH Atlanta; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber. Be sure to attend the Small Business Seminar on Tuesday, October 13 as Deputy Chad Mann, Community Service Officer Hall County Sheriff’s Office, presents Workplace Violence. No charge for Chamber members. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com As a Greater Hall Chamber member, businesses are entitled to a host of benefits. The potential dividends from investment are unlimited! Join online: greaterhallchamber.com
Benefits of Membership... • Listing in the Membership Directory / Online • Access to Networking Opportunities and Events • Access to Forums, Seminars and Peer Groups • Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement • Advertising, Publicity, Sponsorship Opportunities • Business Referrals / Leads & Networking Groups • Gain in Exposure / Ribbon Cuttings • Make Business Connections
Small Business
Paula and I had just moved to Hall County back in 1989 when I started to work with Northeast Georgia Real Estate and Joanne Bagwell with my new real estate license in hand. That first day, Joanne said to walk over to the Chamber and join up and pointed toward the Chamber. Being raised a good Southern boy, I said, "Yes Ma’am!" and walked over and joined. I have been a member ever since! Best investment ever for my company. But, what has really paid off is the friends that I have made. I have met hundreds of life-time friends that have helped shape our community – educated my children and helped this community grow. Little did I know that beginning that day, I would be a member for over 25 years and running. The commercial real estate business is all about Return on Investment. There is no better return on your investment than joining the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. You will make life-long returns!
Open 7 days a week.
1/2 Page Ad 4 columns 9" x5"
www.longstreetclinic.com/care
Urgent care and walk-ins welcome On-site pharmacy, X-ray and laboratory Specialists available
SICK? 678-207-HERE (4373)
Extended hours, 7 days a week
Monday-Friday: 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Sunday: 12:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
725 Jesse Jewell Pkwy SE • Gainesville
October 6, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
INJURED?
We are when you need us.
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Key Economic Indicators
Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates (L-R): Krista Goodrich, Masterpiece Mixers Paint & Party Studio; Chris McNeal, BB&T; Steven Pettit, Peach State Bank; Stacey Poole, McDonald's; Amy Fricton, Rushton & Company; Haley Bower, Clipper Petroleum; Blake Poole, Fox, Chandler, Homans, Hicks & McKinnon; Trey Bell, Keller Williams Lanier Partners. The Leadership Hall County class recently participated in a day-long retreat at Montara Farm in Clermont and learned about fellow class mates, their personal leadership style and the importance of understanding diversity and team building. With a variety of exercises, activities and discussions, the program included THE GREAT RACE, an exciting competition using a full range of skills. Through the activities, the class bonded while having a great time together. Thank you Montara Farm for hosting another great event and fantastic food.
Youth Leadership Hall
Hall County
8
Latest
Aug. 2015
5.3 Previous Month
Gainesville City
10 High 12-Month
Sept 2014
6.7%
6
Percent
4
July 2015
5.3
2
One Year Ago
Aug. 2014
S
O
2014
N D J
F
M A
M J
J
2015
A
6
Cherokee Dawson
5.1 5.5
Forsyth
4.9
Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia
5.6 5.3 5.6 6.5
The Norton Agency Key Economic Retail Sales Indicators 2 columns $ 256,501,958 4.4167 x 10 A
6.6
U.S.
5.3 Updated 09/28
3.0
Hall County
Latest Aug. 2015
2.0
Previous Month (available)
One Year Ago
July 2015
Aug. 2014
100’s millions of dollars
Leadership • Education
Leadership Hall County
1.0
256,501,958
255,925,699
$
$
Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents A retail sales of approximately $100 million.
S
O N
D J
F
M
2014
A
M
J
J
A
2015
October 6, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Updated 09/28
14
Housing Permits Issued - Hall County
Latest
Students gathered at Riverside Military Academy (RMA) to learn about leadership skills and took part in a written leadership evaluation, The Winning Colors. Kevin Lloyd (LHC Class of 2011), Northeast Georgia Health System, led the class on interactive activities that were designed for team building and nonverbal communication. The class participated in team challenges, designed to build cooperation, communication and creativity. This led to the final part of the day where the class participated in outdoor, physical team challenges at RMA's Leaders Reaction Course. Thank you, Riverside Military Academy for facilitating the program and hosting the group. Thank Tim Bunch, Longstreet Café, for the delicious biscuits and Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing for sponsoring lunch.
July 2015 79 Previous Month
One Year Ago
2015 Total
June 2015
July 2014
385
75
57
581
2014 YTD
Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Hall Jackson
Aug. 2015 39 15 172 215 101 27
Aug. 2014 37 14 154 186 59 5
July 2015 27 7 188 239 79 7
Total 2014 286 108 2,531 2,662 581 107
2015 YTD 251 72 1,266 1,428 486 126
Avg Total Price 2015
Avg Price
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Aug. 2015
Avg Price
Aug 2014
Avg Price
July 2015
Avg Price
Total 2014
City
43
164,028
13
148,931
39
148,931
239
199,763
191
183,950
North
53
245,474
42
234,890
43
234,890
555
243,134
346
239,627
East
14
154,818
11
125,136
28
125,136
192
119,719
138
142,778
South
48
263,116
22
251,300
21
251,300
184
235,989
252
273,514
West
87
250,665
49
251,057
36
251,057
638
236,685
452
264,942
Area
Great Sponsorship Opportunities! Consider sponsoring Transportation for a Leadership Hall County program ($900) or a Youth Leadership Meal ($350) and receive recognition in the Chamber’s newsletter, signage and corporate logo use, distribution of your marketing materials to the class, and opportunity to participate in the program. Details: Dana Miller, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com
Updated 09/28
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
Healthcare Reform Seminar
Advertising in New Chamber Map
Over 200 people attended the Chamber's Healthcare Reform Seminar. Program Presenters (L-R): Rob Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith; Steve McNeilly, Northeast Georgia Health System; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith; Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company. Seminar topics included the ACA's impact on employers, specialty prescription drugs, reporting requirements and employee benefits. The enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace for the Affordable Healthcare Act starts in November. Thank you seminar sponsors: Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance, Northeast Georgia Health System, Brenau University, Rushton & Company and ProCare Rx. The Chamber places community wellness and healthcare as a top initiative and strives for access to high-quality, affordable healthcare for all residents. The Chamber's 9th Annual HealthSmart Expo presented by CIGNA is October 7 from 7:30 am-1:30 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center and will offer free health screenings to the community.
2 IN A ROW! 1/2 Page Ad
4 columns Named9"Again x5" to Top 100 3PL
• Syfan Logistics including freight management
Syfan Logistics
• Syfan Expedited
For the second year in a row, Syfan Logistics has been named one of the Top 100 Third-Party Logistics companies in America by Inbound Logistics magazine. Founded in 2011, Syfan Logistics earned a place on the Top 100 list last year for the first time.
• Syfan Dedicated
List
“Our team takes a lot of pride in the service we provide our customers,” says Syfan Logistics CEO Jim Syfan. “Recognition like this means a lot to us, and we thank our professional staff, our carrier partners and our loyal shipper customers for making it happen.” Inbound Logistics is the leading trade magazine targeted toward business logistics and supply chain managers.
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SyfanLogistics.com | 855.287.8485 | 770.287.8485 | Gainesville, GA
0149 Syfan - BizLink Top 100 ad_9x5.indd 2
October 6, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
Syfan Services
The Business and Professional Showcase Directory of Members section offers the opportunity to promote your business. This section will classify participating businesses by category, including a brief description of products and/or services. Advertising space on the back cover and a limited number of interior display panel advertisements are also available. Participating advertisers will receive a complimentary supply of the folded maps and will be included on the web counterpart to the printed map which will be prominently linked from the Greater Hall Chamber's web site. Space is limited, and sponsorships are reasonable, especially considering more than 12,000 maps will be printed and available for the next 18-24 months. Act NOW by calling Target Marketing at 800-933-3909!
Community Development
The Greater Hall Chamber is working again with the cartographic and marketing firm of Target Marketing to publish a new, up-to-date, full-color Greater Hall Street Map and Resource Guide. This publication is the only official map endorsed and distributed by the Greater Hall Chamber and is a popular item for newcomers, relocation candidates and even our lifelong residents.
8/10/15 12:16 PM
First-class personal service... because service matters.
Back Page Ad
10 x 7.5 Call Heather Wilbanks at
(770) 531-2732 and let her customize the products and services that will fit your needs.
We offer a variety of products and services designed with you in mind. 325 Washington street • gainesville, ga 770.536.1100 • w w w. p e a c h s t a t e b a n k . c o m
Be cause ser vi ce m a t t e r s.
UpcomingChamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Small BusinessOctober Marketing7Workshop Wednesday, Tuesday,Expo February 14 HealthSmart Marketing Trends 7:30 am - 9:00 am - Breakfast Presented by Gordon Sawyer 7:30 - 1:30 pm– The - Expo 8:00am - 10:00 a.m. Oaks at Gainesville Civic Center Lanier Charter Career Academy Business After13 Hours Tuesday, October Thursday, February 16 Small Business Seminar 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. "Workplace Violence" Luna's Restaurant 7:45 - 9:00 200am Main Street Hunt Tower in Downtown Lanier Tech MDC Gainesville
Job Fair and Career Tuesday, November 17 Expo Wednesday, March Lunch 28 Industry Appreciation 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Industry of the Year Awards Georgia Mountains Center 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Safe & Green Regional Assembly Chattahoochee Country Club Get Details & Register Online: Friday, February Thursday, October 22 24 greaterhallchamber.com 8:00After a.m. -Hours 12:00 p.m. Business Thursday, December 10 Georgia Mountains Center Sponsor: Brenau University Eggs & Issues Breakfast 5:00 -7 :00 pm Pre-Legislative Forum Annual Transportation Forum BrenauWednesday, Downtown Center March 14 7:30 - 9:00 am 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Thomas Atrium Gainesville Civic Center
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA
Arbor Day Celebration Wednesday, October 21 Friday, February 17 Lunch 'n Learn 10:00 a.m. 12:00Frances - 1:00 pm Meadows Center Peach State Bank
Gainesville State College
CAR-RT SORT
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.