Business Link February 2012

Business Link G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m

Chairman's Column page 2 Economic Development Report, page 4 Upcoming Events page 6 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 Member Announcements page 11

Job Fair & Career Expo The Greater Hall Chamber will host a Job Fair and Career Expo on Wednesday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. The event will serve both employers and job seekers and is sponsored by Spherion (Title Sponsor), McDonald's, Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Lanier Technical College and WDUN Radio. Employers will have a chance to fill openings faster by meeting hundreds of job candidates face-to-face during a short period of time.

Employer booths ($225) are available for the event. For people looking for work, the event provides coveted face-time and personal contact with hiring managers. The 2012 Job Fair & Career Expo is free and open to the public. Employer Booths and Details: Jean McCullough, 770-5326206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Existing Industry Appreciation

Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Chamber Chase page 12 New Members Page 13 Partners in Education page 14 Workforce Development page 15

Gus Whalen, Featherbone Communiversity, Shelley Davis, Chamber, and Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media, at the 2012 Industry Appreciation Luncheon.

The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 3rd Annual Industry Appreciation event. Sponsored

by Lanier Technical College, the program included presentations of Industry of the Year awards in the Greater Hall area.

Gainesville-Hall County is home to 47 Fortune 500 firms, more than 300 manufacturing and processing concerns, and 41 international companies representing 16 foreign countries. Industries were recognized for their economic impact, corporate responsibility and workforce excellence.

(Highlights on page 5.)

Transportation Forum Wednesday, March 14 11:30 am - 1:00 pm Gainesville State College Get updates on important area transportation issues and projects... and LEARN ABOUT THE T-SPLOST The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Transportation Forum is open to the public and creates discussion with Chamber members, business and community leaders, and transportation professionals. Guest Speaker is Todd Long, Director of Planning for the Georgia Department of Transportation. Reservations required. $15 for Chamber Members, and $20 for guests. Includes lunch. For reservations: contact Jean McCullough at 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Make your reservations online at greaterhallchamber.com Sponsored by Rochester & Associates Lunch sponsored by McDonald's • Open to the Public

Get Fit Stay Fit 5K

CHAMBER CHASE April 19, 2012

Riverside Military Academy Runners 6:00 pm Walkers 6:15 pm –––––––––––– Team Captains Meeting on February 9. Special Registration for individuals and teams is February 23. (Details, page 12.)

Save the Date Tuesday, February 14 Marketing Workshop Friday, February 17 Arbor Day Celebration Friday, February 24 Save & Green Assembly

The Rotary Club of Gainesville

otary Club of Gainesville, founded in 1923, has more than 200 members and is a part of Rotary International – an organization of nearly 34,000 service clubs worldwi strates the Rotary motto of “service above self” and this year’s Rotary International theme of “Reach within to embrace humanity” through its work in the local comm

FEBRUARY 2012

aL Service projects help home bound citizens

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

members volunteer their time and club funds to build ramps for area residents with limited mobility and financial resources.

Rotary Club of Gainesville has built 40 ramps, 13 of those completed in 2011. dents who were once considered home bound were able to leave their homes without assistance after the ramps were installed.

iNterNatioNaL Service Polio Eradication

Polio-Plus, a campaign designed to eradicate polio in the world, ha major emphasis of Rotary International for decades. Gainesville Bill St. Clair is this year’s Rotary District Governor and is helpin

February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Opportunity at the Chamber The Greater Hall Chamber's ongoing "Buy Local" economic initiative was in full swing at the January Buy Local Business Expo featuring 78 exhibitors and over 600 attendees. The Chamber continues it's mission to boost the economy while offering our members exceptional benefits and services. Upcoming events and programs include the following:

Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Small Business Marketing Workshop - February 14 Business After Hours at Luna's - February 16 Chamber Chase 5K Special Registration - February 23 7th Annual SAFE & GREEN Assembly - February 24 Business After Hours at Gainesville State College - March 8 Annual Transportation Forum - March 14 Job Fair & Career Expo - March 28 2012 Chamber Chase 5K Run/Walk - April 19 33rd Annual Hacker's Holiday Golf Tournament - April 27 104th Annual Meeting & Gala - May 10

We've got a lot going on in the next few months. Many opportunities to get involved. For all the details, sponsorship information or to register for these events online, visit greaterhallchamber.com or call the Chamber at 770-532-6206.

Business Link Volume 18 Issue 2 mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2011-2012 executive Committee Chairman Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Chairman Elect Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost Treasurer Jody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Vice Chair, Economic Development Chris Braswell PB Property Management

Vice Chair, Government Affairs Chair, VISION 2030 lee Hemmer Kelly miles, Smith, Gilliam, The Simpson Company Williams & Miles, P.A. meg Nivens, Executive Director Vice Chair, Marketing and Communications Co-Chairs, HALLmark melissa Tymchuk Paul Chambers, AT&T NEGA Health System David lee, Jackson EMC mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic Vice Chair, Membership Development Senior Advisor Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Jimmy Adams, The Adams Smith Insurance Companies Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Geoff lee, Road Atlanta Darrell snyder, Georgia Power Vice Chair, Community Development Phillippa moss, Gainesville-Hall Co. Community Service Center

Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin BB&T

Board of Directors 2011-2012

Charter Business (L-R): Michael Baldwin, Lauren Ohaya, Kevin Perez, Sierra McMullen, Tiffiny Harrison.

The Times (L-R): Connie Sosebee and Stephanie Weismantel.

AT&T Advertising & Publishing-Real Yellow Pages (L-R): Angie Hamilton and Victoria Harrison Lemke.

David Abee, Regions Bank

Deborah mack, Community Volunteer

emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker

mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Brenda Bahel, The Starke Companies

Willie mitchell, Gainesville City Schools

Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company

Dr. martha Nesbitt, Gainesville State College

Wade Beavers, Beavers/Rogers Law & Advisory

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Bob Pennington, Willis Investment Counsel

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management

Terry Roberts, Lake Lanier CVB

Bob Coleman, Coleman, Chambers & Rogers

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

lance Compton, Red Clay Interactive

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville

Joyce stephens, United Community Bank

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Dennis stockton, The Times

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

Greg Vitek, IMS Gear

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic

Tommy Howard, The Norton Agency

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, North Georgia College & SU

Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Materials

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors

Associate Directors 2011-2012 Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

Jimmy Hernandez, Milton Martin Toyota

spence Price, The Adams Companies

emmett Forrester, NEGA Diagnostic Clinic

Dan slott, Service Master

Doug langman, TRC Staffing

Jessica Tullar, City of Gainesville

Chris mcCall, Keller Williams Realty

Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker

Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust

staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant

South Hall Council Kit Dunlap, President/CEO michelle Wiley, Membership Vice President

Economic Development Tim evans, Vice President shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Jean mcCullough, Project Manager

Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President

Finance & Operations David umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources Education & Workforce Development Dana miller, Vice President

2

President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

WDUN Radio/AccessNorthGa.com (L-R): Dick Huff and Al Gainey.

Milton Martin Honda (L-R): Andi Farmer and Denise Rider.

Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant

VISION 2030 meg Nivens, Executive Director Membership Development michelle Wiley, Vice President Kara matter, Membership Coordinator sara lewis, Intern, NGCSU Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

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February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Economic Development Council Year-End Report

4

1420 New Jobs and $320 million in capital investment

Tim Evans

2011 was a year of recovery for Gainesville-Hall County, with new and expanding businesses adding to private sector employment ahead of much of the rest of Georgia and the nation. Employment growth in Hall County’s largest sectors – manufacturing, services and healthcare – bolstered job growth in 2010-2011 and helped offset some of the contraction in the housing and construction sectors. The I-85 and I985 corridors northeast of Atlanta continue to attract growth, jobs and investment, and the overall trend for unemployment the past 24 months has been a gradual decline due to job creation.

Vice President of Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Hall County’s largest base of private employment comes from more than 240 diverse manufacturers and processors employing more than 18,000 people. These industries include life sciences, automotive, machinery, green technology and food processing. In 20102011, the Economic Development Council worked with 38 new and expanded industries that will create 1,420 new jobs, retain 523 existing jobs, and invest more than $320 million.

This fall, Governor Deal helped celebrate the grand opening of ZF Wind Power’s new 250,000-square-foot headquarters and operations center in the Gainesville Business Park. The company will produce gear boxes for the wind turbine industry and will employ over 200 highly skilled people. Additional business milestones in fourth quarter 2011 included the start of operations for King’s Hawaiian Bakery Southeast, the grand opening of Syfan Logisitcs’ headquarters, and the groundbreaking for the new ProCare Rx facility, which should be complete by summer 2012. It will house the pharmacy benefits management company’s 120 Georgia-based employees in their corporate headquarters, operations support and state-of-the-art data center. ProCare Rx is among a growing set of professional service firms calling Gainesville-Hall County home.

Recent successes in business recruitment and expansion have depleted Hall County’s inventory of larger, quality industrial buildings, but a skilled workforce remains plentiful. In response to those market conditions and continued demand for larger buildings in Hall County, Pattillo Industrial Real Estate announced in December construction on a 77,100-square-foot speculative building in the Gainesville Business Park. The building is the first speculative building to be built in four years and will be expandable to 140,000 square feet.

Healthcare accounts for 14% of employment in Hall County, with more than 9,600 high paying healthcare-related jobs. Initial construction on the Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s 100-bed inpatient hospital at River Place in Braselton will begin in 2013, joining the existing Medical Plaza 1 on the 119-acre campus. Construction activity will have an immediate impact through construction jobs and sales tax revenues. The hospital will generate direct economic benefits from the many highpaying medical professional jobs. Best of all, it will provide medical services to an under-served population and can provide indigent care to needy families.

Tourism and retail development also continue to make positive contributions.

Attractions like Lake Lanier, Lake Lanier Islands Resort, Road Atlanta, North Georgia Canopy Tours, Chateau Elan, sporting events and unique retail destinations draw visitors and tourist dollars, and they require very few public services.

Permanent gains in retail employment have also had an impact, with recent openings of businesses like Cheddars, Olive Garden, Michaels, Ulta, Aldi and many others.

2012 Bright but Challenging International investment will lead new and expanded business activity in GainesvilleHall County during the first quarter of 2012. We have a significant cluster of firms

from Asia (Japan and Korea) and Europe (Germany, France, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Sweden), and we will add to the base of global companies that have their North American headquarters and operations centers here. Momentum in Hall County’s retail sector will continue, and healthcare and professional services will remain strong. Barring a major global event, we expect Hall County unemployment rate to continue to decline in 2012.

The outlook for 2012 is very positive, but there are challenges ahead. Without progress on the issues of water and transportation, our quality of life will be threatened with growing congestion, low lake levels and water scarcity. The Port Deepening Project on the Savannah River remains an important issue for 2012 that will directly impact international commerce. Also, the competitive landscape outside Georgia has intensified in recent years; Georgia’s neighboring states have sharpened their game for new jobs and investment. During 2011, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute organized a series of regional meetings with business and elected leadership to identify and ultimately offer a set of recommendations to address inadequacies in Georgia’s business climate, education and workforce development, innovation development, infrastructure, global commerce and efficiency in government. This effort has been a priority for Governor Deal and key members of the General Assembly. The 2012 Georgia General Assembly will have an important menu to address for Georgia’s economic development future.

The challenges ahead can be addressed with time and money and a key ingredient: Leadership. Fortunately, Gainesville-Hall County and Georgia’s business and elected leadership have an ongoing dialogue and all the ingredients to accomplish an important agenda in 2012.

Mansfield Energy Corporation, Industry of the Year (151 - 500 Employees). (L-R): Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College (event sponsor); Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber; Michael Mansfield, CEO, Mansfield Energy Corp; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Chamber Economic Development Vice Chair Chris Braswell, PB Property Management.

Fieldale Farms Corp, Industry of the Year (501+ Employees).

(L-R): Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College; Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber; John Wright, Fieldale VP of Operations; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Chamber Economic Development Vice Chair Chris Braswell, PB Property Management.

Awards Recognize Area Existing Industries, continued from page 1 Industry Recognition (L-R): Shelley Davis, Chamber; Pao Senglchammee, Zebra Technologies (Environment); Mitch Rylee, Baldor Electric (Safety); Dave Ellis, Cargill (Employer); Jim Syfan, Syfan Logistics (Citizenship).

Mansfield Energy Corporation – Industry of the Year (151 - 500 Employees) Michael Mansfield, CEO In business for 54 years, Mansfield has 330 employees and provides transportation fuels and fuels services. In 2011, the company had a 15% increase in volume with over 2.5 billion gallons delivered. The company had 53% of gross revenue increased over 2010 along with a 10,000 square foot facility build out. Employment increased by 20%, and Mansfield offers full benefit and retirement plans. Employees stay engaged through a company newsletter and company-sponsored family events.

Education is a focus as well as computer training and tuition reimbursement for employees. mansfield.com Fieldale Farms Corporation – Industry of the Year (501+ Employees) John Wright, Vice President of Operations With 40 years in business and 2500 employees, the poultry processing and further processing industry has expanded its customer base, increase sales and invested in new equipment in the last year. Fieldale Farms believes in giving back by participating with more than 15 local non-profits including United Way of Hall County. Fieldale offers employees health benefits and a retirement plan. Looking towards the future, Fieldale offers a 10-week paid internship each summer for college students who desire to work in the poultry industry. Fieldale is proud to be an active recycler and continues to meet and beat records on reduction of water usage in the poultry field. fieldale.com

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Baldor Electric – Safety Recognition Award / Mitch Rylee, Safety Director In business for 34 years and with 410 employees, the Flowery Branch-based industry qualified for 12 consecutive years for the Georgia Department of Labor Award of Excellence and in 2011 logged 4.5 million hours without lost time injury. baldor.com

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Cargill, Inc. – Employer Recognition Award / Dave Ellis, Plant Superintendent Gainesville-based Cargill is a soy food and cooking oils industry with 310 employees.

In business for 35 years, the company added 15 new positions in 2011 and offers a comprehensive benefits plan focusing on wellness with included gym memberships, education and tuition reimbursements, and employee family events. cargill.com Syfan Logistics, Inc. – Corporate Citizenship Award / Jim Syfan, President Jim Syfan and his family have been in the transportation industry for over 35 years.

Currently with 77 employees, the company is a vital part of the Gainesville-Hall County community, contributing and participating with programs including the Boys & Girls Clubs, Challenged Child, Humane Society, Red Cross, United Way and Partners in Education. syfanlogistics.com

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February 7, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Zebra Technologies Corporation – Environmental Stewardship Award Pao Sengkhammee, Plant Manager Zebra Technologies is a die cut and printed labels and tags company with 34 employees. In 2012, they converted trim waste resulting in diverting over 25 tons of waste from the landfill per month. As a part of the zero waste vision for the plant, Zebra also recycles paper and corrugated cardboard. zebra.com

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Industry of the Year (0150 Employees) AdEdge Water Technologies. (LR): Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College; Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber; Rich Cavagnaro, President, and Vice President Greg Gilles, AdEdge; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Chamber Economic Development Vice Chair Chris Braswell, PB Property Management.

Economic Development

AdEdge Water Technologies, Inc. – Industry of the Year (0 - 150 Employees) Rich Cavagnaro, President With 38 employees, the 10 year old, Buford-based company supplies water treatment systems that remove contaminants. In the past five years, AdEdge's sales have increased over 400%, and employment has grown from 24 to 40 employees in the past 14 months. In the past two years, facility space has tripled and in 2011, 100% of manufacturing was completed in-house. AdEdge has a Community Outreach program with events ranging from Habitat for Humanity to a drive for building a drug recovery center. Last year, a safety manager was hired and a recycling program initiated. AdEdge offers employees and family’s full benefits with option of a retirement plan with company match. A weekly company newsletter keeps employees informed. adedgetechnologies.com

770-287-9605

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Meetings & Events

February 2012 Wednesday, February 8 Wednesday, February 22 Network Over Coffee Network Over Coffee 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Yonah Burger Gainesville 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Mulberry Creek Community Center in Flowery Branch Wednesday, February 8 Human Resources Thursday, February 23 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant Chamber Chase 5K Special Registration 7:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.; 3:00-6:00 p.m. Chamber Thursday, February 9 Leadership Hall County Thursday, February 23 State Government Day at Capitol Chamber Board of Directors 7:30 a.m. – Hall County Extension 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center Farmers Market Friday, February 24 Thursday, February 9 7th Annual SAFE & GREEN Chamber Chase 5K Captains Meeting Environmental & Safety Assembly 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (Drop-In) – Chamber Sponsored by PeopleCheck 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Friday, February 10 Georgia Mountains Center Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber MARCH Tuesday, February 14 Youth Leadership Hall Healthcare/Community Service Program 7:50 a.m.-3:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Thursday, March 8 Business After Hours 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Gainesville State College in Oakwood New Academic Building IV, Room 3110

Tuesday, February 14 Small Business Marketing Workshop Presented by Gordon Sawyer Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, United Community Bank and WDUN Radio 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy

Wednesday, March 14 Annual Transportation Forum Sponsored by Rochester & Associates Lunch sponsored by McDonald's 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Gainesville State College

February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday, February 15 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

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Wednesday, February 15 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli

Wednesday, March 28 Job Fair & Career Expo Sponsored by Spherion (Title Sponsor), McDonald's, Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Lanier Technical College and WDUN 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Center APRIL

Thursday, February 16 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, February 16 Ireland Trip Informational Meeting 4:30 p.m. – Chamber Thursday, February 16 Business After Hours 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Luna's Restaurant

Thursday, April 19 2012 Chamber Chase 5K 6:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy Friday, April 27 33rd Annual Hacker's Holiday Golf 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start – Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Sponsored by Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia MAY

Friday, February 17 Arbor Day Celebration Sponsored by Georgia Power, Keep Hall Beautiful and Hall County Master Gardeners 10:00 a.m. – Frances Meadows Center Tuesday, February 21 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, May 10 104th Annual Meeting & Gala 6:30 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club Get all the details and register for these events online at greaterhallchamber.com Call the Chamber at 770-532-6206.

Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy $10 Members • $20 Non-Members • Breakfast Sponsors: Milton Martin Honda, United Community Bank, WDUN

Marketing Workshop for Small Business Join marketing guru Gordon Sawyer, founder and retired chairman of Sawyer, Riley, Compton, and Chairman of the Board of Red Clay Interactive, for this workshop focusing on marketing methods for success. Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Register online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business After Hours Thursday, February 16 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Luna's Restaurant Historic Hunt Tower – 200 Main Street On the Square in Downtown Gainesville $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!

Luna’s Restaurant, established in 1997 by Juan and Frankie Luna, offers exquisite cuisine and unparalleled service. Luna’s features live local entertainment in Gainesville’s premier Piano Lounge as well as private dining rooms and full service offsite catering. lunas.com Event details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com.

South Hall Business Coalition

(L-R): Darren Kendall, Senator Saxby Chambliss Office; Rich Cavagnaro, AdEdge Water Technologies; Pat Stevens, Chief of Environmental Planning, ARC and Manager of the Metro Water District; Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber; William Bagwell, Homestead Investments, at the January South Hall Business Coalition meeting. A Small Business Marketing Workshop is Tuesday, February 14, 8:00-10:00 a.m. at The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy and is a program of the South Hall Business Coalition and Small Business Success Seminars.

Small Business Success Seminar

(L-R): Ron Ciccarone, Construction Data Services; Jim Maddox, The Adams Companies; Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media; Program Speakers Megan Martin, American Security Shredding, Inc. and Mary Pat Schaff, Adams Data Management.

The Rotary Club

The Rotary Club of Gainesville, founded in 1923, has more than 200 members and is a part of Rotary Internat demonstrates the Rotary motto of “service above self” and this year’s Rotary International theme of “Reach w

LocaL Service

Ramp projects help home bound citizens

• Club members volunteer their time and club funds to build ramps for area residents with limited mobility and financial resources.

• The Rotary Club of Gainesville has built 40 ramps, 13 of those completed in 2011.

• Residents who were once considered home bound were able to leave their homes without assistance after the ramps were installed.

Education and Literacy Support Because education is so important to our community’s well-being, the Rotary Club of Gainesville is committed to supporting area schools and students in various ways, including:

• Recognizing area fifth-graders who have distinguished themselves at their schools. Students are treated to a limousine ride from their schools to attend a club meeting with their parents and teachers.

• Donating books to area elementary schools in honor of the club’s guest speakers.

• Helping area teenagers learn the importance of service to their communities through support of high school Interact Clubs and their service projects, like the 2011 effort to raise funds for Shelter Boxes for victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

NatioNaL Service

A simple solution - shaving cream - saves soldiers’ lives

In response to a need identified by Rotarian Tony Herdener whose son is a Marine and was serving in the dangerous area of Sangin, Afghanistan, the Rotary Club of Gainesville spearheaded a community campaign, Operation Shaving Cream, to collect and ship more than 10,000 cans of shaving cream to U.S. Marines serving in Afghanistan, where the soldiers use the foam to mark sites of roadside bombs or improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Though they had tried several things to mark possible bomb locations, such as spray paint, nothing seemed to work as well as shaving cream, which marks the dangerous spot for troops moving through but dissipates before enemy forces can see it. Previously, the IEDs had been responsible for many injuries and deaths, but Operation Shaving Cream is attributed with saving countless limbs and lives. The community response was so great that the shipments of shaving cream were able to be distributed to other units in need of supplies as well.

Herdener’s son’s battalion of more than 1,000 Marines returned to the United States in fall 2011, and though many of his company of 200 Marines had suffered some injuries during their service, 100 percent of Marines in his company survived their tour of duty and returned to the United States.

b of Gainesville

tional – an organization of nearly 34,000 service clubs worldwide dedicated to humanitarian efforts. The club within to embrace humanity” through its work in the local community, the nation, and to the global community.

iNterNatioNaL Service Polio Eradication

Polio still cripples thousands of children around the world. With your help, we can wipe this disease off the face of the earth forever. Visit rotary.org/endpolio to help.

Polio-Plus, a campaign designed to eradicate polio in the world, has been a major emphasis of Rotary International for decades. Gainesville Rotarian Bill St. Clair is this year’s Rotary District Governor and is helping promote Rotary’s continued work toward eradicating polio worldwide.

• Since its launch in 1985, reported cases have dropped from 350,000 to less than 2,000 cases a year.

• Today, only four countries in the world are still fighting polio, Nigeria, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

• The Gainesville Rotary Club donated more than $6,000 toward Polio Plus this past year.

END POLIO NOW

Rotary

Georgia Rotary Study Program The Rotary Club of Gainesville participates in the Georgia Rotary Study Program (GRSP), which allows international students to travel to Georgia and stay with a host family while pursuing their education at an American university.

• The 2011-12 GRSP student sponsored by the Rotary Club of Gainesville is Becky Love from Balerno in Edinburgh, Scotland. Love, 18, is a freshman theatre student at Brenau University and has performed at the International Fringe Festival in Edinburgh.

• Gainesville Rotarian Lee Highsmith and her family are Love’s hosts.

• This year, Georgia has 55 GRSP students from 20 countries attending 28 colleges.

Join Us

Rotary President Martha Nesbitt and the Rotary Club of Gainesville invite you to visit a meeting soon.

Club meetings

Mondays - Lunch, noon; Meeting, 12:30 Banquet Hall at First Baptist Church on Green Street

Ribbon Cuttings February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

10

Home Instead Senior Care

Strong Gaddy Lilly Group

David Rigg, Franchise Owner, cuts the ribbon at Home Instead Senior Care in Downtown Gainesville.

Home Instead provides one-onone, non-medical assistance for seniors. Care givers assist with personal care, meal preparation, transition, housekeeping, medication reminders, respite care and transportation. Home Instead professionals are reliable, dependable, screened, trained, bonded and insured. Home Instead is located on the square in Gainesville and services Hall, Dawson, Forsyth and North Gwinnett counties. 115 1/2 Bradford Street, Suite 210, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-534-5880. homeinstead.com/678

Team Members (LR): Carrie Wade, LeAnne Gilleland, Kelly Lee, John Lilly III, Shane Gaddy and Charlie Strong of The Strong Gaddy Lilly Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, cut ribbon. The advisory practice has over 50 years of combined industry experience and is a dedicated financial team with a collaborative work ethic. Whether you are a small business owner who needs assistance with your professional and personal financial goals or an individual investor looking to build a secure retirement, the team is well equipped to help create a plan, implement the most appropriate strategies and provide ongoing reviews to help ensure your investments remain on track in achieving the financial life you desire. The Strong Gaddy Lilly Wealth Management Group, 600 Spring Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-533-5129 wellsfargoadvisors.com/strong-gaddy-lilly

NorthGa Families

Amy Dobbins, Jessica Justin, Madison, and Andrew Wade cut ribbon. NorthGaFamilies Community Resource consists of several local marketing guru’s who have compiled marketing packages for small businesses in North Georgia – from print and social media advertising to cutting edge mobile media marketing.

NorthGaFamilies Community Directory has a printed distribution of 12,000 copies monthly in Hall County and a strong social media presence. Contact for a free consultation.

NorthGaFamilies Community Resource, 3446 Winder Highway, Suite M#147, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-804-3472. northgafamilies.com

Plato's Closet in Gainesville Tammy Hensley and Marla Teter cut ribbon for the grand opening of Plato’s Closet in Gainesville.

Turn those Cool Clothes into CASH! They buy and sell gently used, name brand apparel and accessories for teens and young adults. Sizes range from 00 to 15/16 for girls and 28 to 40 for guys. They are looking for current styles in good condition and will purchase all seasons. Plato’s Closet, 960 Dawsonville Highway, Suite 300A, Gainesville, GA 30501.

770-534-9500. platosclosetgainesvillega.com

Anytime Fitness with 24/7 access Owner Michael Burns cuts ribbon for Anytime Fitness at Gainesville Towne Center on Browns Bridge Road. The club offers 24/7 access with convenient, affordable exercise. Members can work out any time using a security access key with state-of-the-art strength training and cardiovascular equipment.

Members can also take advantage of the 1000+ clubs in the U.S. For membership information, call 535-0424. Anytime Fitness, 1500 Browns Bridge Road, Unit 120, Gainesville, GA 30501. anytimefitness.com

New at The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. The Longstreet Clinic's newly remodeled, expanded in-house Pharmacy provides convenience for patients with a knowledgeable staff and a 10-minute or less average wait time. The pharmacy stocks competitively priced over-the-counter items as well. 770-533-6680. Part of Longstreet Pediatrics, Wee Care offers pediatric care in a small, intimate setting designed for newborns and parents, providing protection from diseases. Open for appointments, 770-535-3611.

725 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Downtown Gainesville longstreetclinic.com

• The Fockele Garden Company received a 2011 Grand Award for Anne's Garden at Northeast Georgia Medical Center sponsored by the Professional Landcare Network. The garden was one of only 29 projects nationwide to earn the top level designation. fockelegardencompany.com • Greater Hall Chamber in partnership with Wide Travel Service presents A Trip to Ireland, October 29-November 5, includes 8 days, 9 meals, 3 dinners. Learn more at a meeting on Thursday, February 16 at 4:30 pm at the Chamber. Joy Sims, 770-5326206. Email: jsims@ghcc.com • The Northeast Georgia Medical Center recently was recognized as one of the HealthStrong™ Top 100 Hospitals in the nation by the Hospital Strength Index, recognizing the top 3% of all U.S. hospitals.

Rita Shingleton, RN, CBN, is new program manager of the Bariatric Weight Loss Center at NGMC. nghs.com • Zack Tumlin and Scotty Hall have joined Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance (TWS) as property and casualty agents. Both North Hall High graduates, Tumlin most recently worked in the legal profession, is a member of the Georgia and Florida bar associations. Hall worked with a regional insurance firm in Oconee County. Serving the area for over 100 years, TWS has a staff of 32 professionals and is Northeast Georgia's largest independent insurance agency. twsinsurance.com

2 columns 4.4167 x5

roll Daniel Construction, were named to the Leadership Georgia class of 2012, a prestigious 40-year-old organization of community and state leaders affiliated with the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

• Early voting is available for the March 6th presidential preference primary from February 13-March 2, 8 am-5 pm, MondayFriday at the Elections Office, 2285 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. The office will be open for voting on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 770-531-6945.

• The Hall County Board of Commissioners has appointed former Flowery Branch clerk Melissa McCain as the new Commission Clerk. hallcounty.org • Hasty Pope LLP named John Andrew Early as lead counsel for their workers’ compensation division. With offices in Canton, Atlanta and Gainesville, the firm handles all types of personal injury and workers’ comp cases. hastypope.com • Drane Watson, IV, Liberty Mutual Insurance in Gainesville earned prestigious life underwriter training council fellow designation. Watson joined Liberty Mutual in 1997 and has earned several achievement awards. libertymutual.com • Al Crumley and Will Hicks announce the opening of Stifel Nicolaus at 212 Green Street in Gainesville. 770-531-1103. stifel.com

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

February 7, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/4 Page Ad

• Heritage Ob-Gyn welcomes Jeffrey Ward, MD. Dr. Ward is a member of the American Medical Association, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Medical Association and is scheduling patients at the new Stone Crossing, 2695 Winder Hwy, Suite 250 in Braselton.

770-531-1515. theheritageobgyn.com • North Georgia College & State University was named to Kiplinger's Personal Finance's list of 100 best values in public colleges in the nation for 2011-12. The ranking cites four-year schools that combine outstanding education with economic value. North Georgia is one of only three public universities in Georgia to be named.

The University's Great Decisions lecture series is underway on Monday evenings at the Gainesville Civic Center with issues impacting our economy and world politics facilitated by faculty members. For topics and dates, visit north georgia.edu • Continuing Education at Gainesville State College now offers a Clinical Medical Assistant Program. Employment of medical assistants is expected to grow 35% through 2016. 678-717-3605. gsc.edu/ce • North Georgia College & State University and Gainesville State College broke ground on a new instructional facility on Ga. 400 in Cumming. The facility is expected to be complete in fall 2012.

• Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System, and Brian Daniel, Car-

Member Announcements

• WDUN Radio's longtime news director Ken Stanford retired in January after more than four decades leading the news department for Jacobs Media. jacobsmedia.net • The City of Gainesville appointed three new members to the Redevelopment Authority: George Hokayem, Sperry Van Ness; Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health Systems and Joe Wood, Jr., Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance. Mike Whitmire, Community Bank & Trust, was reappointed to another four year term.

• Condolences to the families of former Chamber Chairmen Woody Stewart and Miller Watkins. Woody Stewart, former managing partner of Stewart, Melvin and Frost was a member of many civic groups including the Northeast Georgia Health Systems Board of Directors where he played a large role in the success of hospital fundraising initiatives. Retired Georgia Power executive Miller Watkins, Jr. Watkins was Northeast Georgia District Manager for the utility for 23 years, a past president of the Rotary Club of Gainesville, and an original board member for Lanier Park Hospital.

• Gainesville Care Center’s 2012 Gala Fundraiser Dinner is February 28, 6:45 p.m. at First Baptist Church Banquet Hall with Keynote Speaker Bruce Wilkinson, Author of #1 bestselling book Prayer of Jabez. $30 per person; $240 table (8). Reservations Required. Must be 18 to attend. 770-5351413. gainesvillecarepartners.org

11

February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Community Development

Arbor Day is February 17

12

Get Fit Stay Fit 5K

CHAMBER CHASE

April 19, 2012

Riverside Military Academy Runners 6 pm – Walkers 6:15 pm

Get your running shoes and get ready...The all new 2012 Chamber Chase 5K (formerly Get Fit Stay Fit 5K) presented by Consumers Life Insurance is Thursday, April 19 at Riverside Military Academy! Team Captains will drop by the Greater Hall Chamber on Thursday, February 9 between 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. for updates on this year's event including the new race course, free training offers, t-shirt contest rules and more! Special Registration is Thursday, February 23 at the Chamber.

Drop by from 7:00 am-1:00 pm or 3:00 pm-6:00 pm and register yourself or a team.

Registration is available after February 23rd online or at the Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville, 8:30 am-5:00pm Monday-Thursday or 8:30 am-4:00pm on Fridays. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

Special Chamber Chase 5K Registration will take place on February 23! Drop by the Chamber between 7am-1pm or 3pm-6pm and register yourself or a team!

Students Promote Local Economy The Lanier Charter Career Academy DECA Chapter launched a buy local campaign called Buy Hall Y'all, designed to impact the local economy by promoting businesses in Hall County. The 2012 focus of the student-operated campaign is "The Hall Pass," a discount card distributed to area residents to stimulate local spending. Businesses can be profiled and offer discounts/coupons for free on the website, under construction by the Flowery Branch High School business program students. Participating businesses will be given a window decal with a customized QR code which can be scanned by customers upon entering the place of business to access information and savings. Details: 770-287-5156. buyhallyall.com

Chamber Board Meeting Update

The Greater Hall Chamber's Beautification Committee and the Georgia Forestry Service announce winners of the 2012 Arbor Day Student Art and Essay Contest.

Essays were entered by 3rd and 5th grade elementary students from 10 schools in GainesvilleHall County, along with home schoolers.

Jenifer Rebollar, a 3rd grader at Chicopee Woods Elementary, won the Arbor Day Art Contest.

Art contest for 3rd graders, “My Favorite Tree and What It Needs to Grow." 1st place: Jenifer Rebollar, Chicopee Woods Elementary; Teacher, Heather Kotula. Runner up: Anna Catherine Brewer, Mount Vernon Elementary; Teacher, Stacy Deweese. Runner up: Gwenyth Miller, McEver Elementary; Teacher, Kristi Copous. Essay contest for 5th graders, "What role should trees play in meeting our country's energy needs?" 1st Place: Katherine Edwards, Enota Elementary; Teacher, Beth Hester. Runner ups: Cassidy Adams and Skylar Kitchen, Friendship Elementary; Teacher, Jana Brown The Annual Arbor Day Celebration is Friday, February 17 at 10 a.m. at the Frances Meadows Center. Open to the public, the event is sponsored by the Hall County Master Gardeners, Keep Hall Beautiful and Georgia Power. Festivities include student contest recognition and a joint city/county proclamation with Tree City USA recognition. Details: 770-532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

Put Your buSineSS in the SPotliGht • Publication is distributed to The Times daily circulation of 22,000 on the 1st Tuesday of the month.

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

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

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

1/4 Page Ad

Busines

s Link

o m e r . c a m b l C h o 2012 H a l a t e r Business Exp G r e Buy Local

's Annual Hall Chamber Thursday, is The Greater Business Expo the many Buy Local and will highlight that you can January 19 and services great products at home. Booth space find right here ips are now available. and sponsorsh rooms in meeting will be held ns Center The Expo Georgia Mountai feature ABC at the and will - 6:00 p.m.

Sponsors s and nonfrom 1:00 p.m. Event local businesse with food, Union, 4:00 - 6:00 dozens of Hours After the event from Delta Community Credit profits. Business bar coincides with Business, a cash Pages, Charter WDUN AM-FM Radio. drink and Real Yellow has Times and are AT&T and the event Honda, The years ago, g a variety Milton Martin Expo two s displayin Local Business ng 60-70 exhibitor This is one ille Civic Center d the first Buy • Gainesv are anticipati er products and services. a.m. introduce We President "We 7:30 - 9:00 us success. to-consum Chamber Vice been a tremendo and businessGreater Hall Casey Cagle to-business miss!" said n of businessnot want to Lt. GovernorCounty legislative delegatio event you'll ng NonWiley. networki lle-Hall bers; $100 hip Michelle and the Gainesvi of Members $300 for Non-Mem and two chairs.

Senate District Members; a table skirt your 49th Georgia Butch Miller a table cloth, each for Chamber or to reserve table, on $195 foot are (6) Exhibits more informati State Senator include a six $25 fee. For Email: mwiley@ghcc.com Profits. Exhibits House District for an extra 206. is available 26th Georgia Rogers Wiley, 770-532-6 Electricity call Michelle Rep. Carl booth space,

Column Chairman's page 2 New Industry Ground Breaking page 4 Events Upcoming page 6

Thursday,

Ribbon Cuttings page 10 Member Announcements page 11 VISION 2030 page 12

8

Now for Booth

House District 27th Georgia Collins Rep. Doug House District 31st Georgia Benton Rep. Tommy House District6) er 25th Georgia on Decemb (TBD – Runoff

s New Member Page 13 Small Business the Month page 14

December

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Register o Business Exp Buy Local January 19, 2012

Thursday,

ains Center

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EXPO 1:00-6:

Workforce Development page 15

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Save the Date er 8

Decemb Thursday, Eggs & Issues

er 13 Tuesday, Decemb Success Seminar Small Business 15 December Thursday, Business Coalition South Hall

BER DECEM 2011

The Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors recently heard from Steve Wrigley (center) Vice Chancellor of the University System of Georgia. Wrigley gave an update on the Gainesville State College (GSC) and North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) consolidation, due for completion by fall 2013. (L-R): Doug Carter, Don Carter Realty; Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging; Steve Wrigley, University System of Georgia; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO; Rich White, GSC/NGCSU Merger Team.

2 columns 4.4167 x5

erce

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Got Your attention?

Publication Date: First Tuesday of every month for advertising contact

Sherrie Jones • 770 535.6304 sjones@gainesvilletimes.com

Small Business of the Month Scott Roberts is a Master Plumber with over 14 years of commercial and residential plumbing experience. Scott serves on the Board of the Plumbing and Mechanical Association (PMA) of Georgia and was named 2011 Plumber of the Year by the association. Roberts Plumbing is a member of the Keever, Dalton, Johnson, Inc. family of (L-R): Phil Olin, Vice President, Keever, Dalton, Johnson, Inc; plumbing companies, Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap; Small Business of the Month Recipient Scott Roberts, Roberts Plumbing; serving metro Atlanta Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media. and Northeast Georgia since 1988. Scott has a degree from Lanier Technical College in HVAC and Refrigeration and provides a highly experienced team using leading technology, on standby 24/7. All technicians are fully certified and licensed professional plumbers and offer no-charge appraisals or proposals. They are the only plumbing company in the area that specializes in trenchless plumbing applications with Scientific Detection Services. Roberts Plumbing maintains a "Drug Free Workplace."

Roberts Plumbing, Inc. 706-654-2188. callrobertsplumbing.com

2 columns 4.4167 x5

Pediatric Associates Kaylee Welch 200 S. Enota Drive, Suite 150 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-5255 Medical - Pediatric pediassoc.com

Security Finance Danielle Dorsey 237 John W. Morrow Parkway Suite 1014 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-4283 Finance Company

AtWork Personnel Services Chelsea Luttrell 935 Interstate Ridge Dr, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-3200 Employment Agency - Staffing ppsstaffing.net

R. David Sargent, Ph.D. 4015 Sargent Drive Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 536-5509 Individual Member

The Oaks at Braselton Linda Smith 5373 Thompson Mill Road Hoschton, GA 30548 (770) 965-7003 Assisted Living Facility oaksseniorliving.com

Gresham Motorsports Park Dan Elliott 500 Lyle Field Road Jefferson, GA 30549 (706) 367-9461 Motor Sports GreshamMotorsportsPark.com Labor Finders Heather McMichael 214 B Atlanta Highway Cumming, GA 30040 (678) 513-7328 Payroll laborfinders.com

Real Estate Mortgage Network, Inc. - Nancy Hortman (770) 289-5493 - James Maddox (770) 685-6651 - Karen Widner (770) 685-6625 3175 Satellite Boulevard Building 600, Suite 100 Duluth, GA 30096 (770) 685-6625 Financial - Mortgage duluth.remn.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

Robert Mallon P.O. Box 1620 Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 906-7397 Individual Member rmallon.com For Greater Hall Chamber membership information call Kara Matter at 770-532-6206 or join the Chamber online at greaterhallchamber.com

February 7, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/4 Page Ad

AAA Specialty Wholesale, Inc. Jason Ray PO Box 318 Murrayville, GA 30564 (770) 534-8114 Retail - Promotional Items aaaspecialtywholesale.com

Membership Development

Roberts Plumbing, Inc.

Welcome New Members

13

Key Economic Indicators

February 7, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

10 8

Latest

Dec 2011

Kipper Tool recently became a Partner in Education with Johnson High School and will provide staff to serve as Center Point Mentors. “I have been mentoring for years and know first-hand the importance of this type of relationship,” said Kipper Tool Vice President and PIE contact, Darrin Lee. “We have a wonderful and caring staff of willing community members, and I know they will make great mentors.”

Johnson launched an informal teacher/mentoring program last year with great success and is expanding the program. “If we can get our students the encouragement and personal attention they need early in high school, we feel confident it will impact their overall success and graduation rates,” said Principal Stan Lewis. Johnson High expects to have as many as 65 mentors this year.

Gainesville-based Kipper Tool Company (KTC) was established in 1994 and is a distributor for over 300 tool and industrial supply manufacturers. KTC supplies quality tools of all types to business, industry, and government agencies and has been assisting the U.S. military both domestically and overseas for over ten years.

Previous Month

12-Month High

Jan 2011

10.3%

6 4

Nov 2011

8.3

2

One Year Ago

Dec 2010

D J F M A M J J A S O N D

9.2

8.4

Cherokee Dawson

7.7 8.3

Forsyth

7.1

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

8.2 9.1 8 9.9

U.S.

8.9 Updated 1/30

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 199,902,105 2 columns 190,188,360 228,297,111 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest December 2011

Previous Month

One Year Ago

November 2011

December 2010

$

$

1.0

For information on this partnership or how your company can join the Partners in Education program, contact Dana Miller, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Education, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

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

21st Century Instructional Tour

Housing

Georgia's First Lady Sandra Deal, a former Hall County educator, joined 40 community leaders for a tour of seven Hall County school classrooms to observe innovative teaching methods that the school district hopes will provide a more successful learning environment. Students from Wauka Mountain Elementary School with (L-R, adults): Meg Nivens, Vision 2030; Dr. Jo Dinnan, Principal, Wauka Mountain Elementary; Quinn Seay, Coca-Cola Bottling Company Gainesville; Will Schofield, Superintendent Hall County Schools; Aaron Turpin, Hall County Executive Director of Technology; Sandra Deal; Nath Morris, Hall County Schools Board Chair; Lee Lovett, Hall County Deputy Superintendent; Dana Miller, Greater Hall Chamber.

Gainesville City

2011

10

100’s millions of dollars

Staci Tunkel, Center Point; Darrin Lee, Kipper Tool Company; Stan Lewis, Principal, Johnson High School; Dana Miller, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Education.

7.7

Percent

E d u c a t i o n & Wo r k f o r c e

Kipper Tool and Center Point

F M A M J J A S O N D 2011 Updated 1/30

Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

December 7 Previous Month

One Year Ago

2010 Total

Nov 2011

Dec 2010

152

8

8

180

2011 YTD

Area Permits

County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Dec 2011 3 2 47 88 1

Dec 2010 2 3 43 92 1

Nov 2011 3 1 45 106 3

Total 2010 45 33 647 1,012 39

2011 YTD 25 34 555 1,099 22

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home

Area

Dec 2011

Avg Dec Price 2010

Avg Price

Nov 2011

Avg Price

Total 2010

Avg Total Price 2011

Avg Price

City

14

146,626

15

93,261

20

111,885

119

130,529 180

132,021

North

31

196,494

18

191,611

27

111,885

279

203,389 384

203,902

East

15

72,448

12

100,275

22

56,197

144

89,653 238

79,629

South

17

122,355

23

119,911

63

116,688

172

133,791 296

131,000

West

49

181,384

47

209,476

53

179,434

374

170,098 558

182,192 Updated 1/30

Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:

Tommy Howard 770-718-5204

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

Leadership Hall County

Youth Leadership Hall Students Eli Gilmer (left), Ashton Litle and Jesse Strickland with Sergeant Ashley of the Hall County Sheriff's Department during a tour of the Hall County Detention Center. The program included a presentation by Solicitor General Stephanie Woodard, witnessing a trial in Judge Jason Deal's court and a mock trial with Mark Alexander of Stewart, Melvin & Frost.

Thank you meal sponsors: Chickfil-A of Gainesville and Mountain Valley Community Bank.

Leadership Hall's Healthcare and Community Service program began at the Good News Clinics where the class heard from nonprofit agencies including the Good News Clinics, the Georgia Mountain Food Bank, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County and Challenged Child & Friends, Inc. The class enjoyed lunch and heard from representatives at The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. The Leadership Hall Class Member Reverend Ben program concluded with comments Haupt of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church with from Carol Burrell, CEO, Northeast children from Challenged Child & Friends.

Georgia Health System, and a tour of the hospital. Many thanks to program sponsors: The Longstreet Clinic, P.C., and Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.

Leadership Hall Nominations Nominations are now being accepted for the 2012-2013 Leadership Hall County class. Participants include a cross-section of individuals and must be 25 years old.

Tuition for each participant is $800 for Chamber members and $970 for non-Chamber members, which includes a one-year Chamber individual membership. Individuals must be nominated for the program by March 15, 2012. Once nominated, the person will be asked to complete a detailed application. All applicants are reviewed by a selection committee, and final participants are selected from all applications submitted. Contact: Dana Miller, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206 ext. 113.

Download a Leadership Hall nomination form online at greaterhallchamber.com

Thank You Chamber Sponsors AT&T Yellow Pages • Best Buy • Charter Business • Chick-fil-A Gainesville Delta Community Credit Union • Electronic Sales Company • Fieldale Farms Jackson EMC • Jacobs Media • Lanier Technical College The Longstreet Clinic • Milton Martin Honda • Mountain Community Bank NEGA Occupational Med • Next Star Communications Pattillo Industrial Real Estate • Primary Care Clinics of GA Rushton & Company • Spherion Professional Recruiting • The Times United Community Bank • WDUN Radio • Wilheit Packaging

Does your business plan still fit?

Let us help you see it through.

E d uc at i o n & Wo r k f o r c e

Youth Leadership Hall

So you’ve tightened your belt, cut costs, downsized and maybe even restructured your business. You’ve been flexible enough to adapt to the changing economic landscape and weathered the recession – now what?

4 columns 9 x5

It’s a new world out there for business. Let Rushton & Company see you through.

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

February 7, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/2 Page Ad

Chances are, your company looks a little different today than it did a few years ago. The business plan you had in place may not apply to your new business model.

At Rushton & Company, our team of experienced business planning consultants can help you develop the roadmap that will move you forward on the path to long-term success.

15

In the Market for a new Bank In 2012?

Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia understands the needs of small business owners. We are committed to do what we can to help our community grow and flourish.

Our focus is simply an extension of the community support and philanthropic efforts of our bank’s Board of Directors who helped develop this community into what it is today.

Our bank, through its staff, supports a wide variety of local efforts, donating our time and talents to non-profits andBack Page Ad 10 x 7.5 community groups.

Why not resolve to improve your banking relationship in 2012? Call us or stop by our headquarters located at 643 E. E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville.

Community Owned, Locally Managed, Locally Invested 643 E. E. Butler Parkway • (770) 536-0607 • www.chattahoocheebank.com

Upcoming Chamber Events Small Business Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14 Marketing Trends Presented by Gordon Sawyer 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy Business After Hours Thursday, February 16 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Luna's Restaurant 200 Main Street Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville

Arbor Day Celebration Friday, February 17 10:00 a.m.

Frances Meadows Center

Job Fair and Career Expo Wednesday, March 28 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Center

Safe & Green Regional Assembly Friday, February 24 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Center

Get Details & Register Online:

Annual Transportation Forum Wednesday, March 14 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Gainesville State College

MEMBER FDIC

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

CAR-RT SORT

greaterhallchamber.com

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