Business Link May 2011

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 Newly Elected Chamber Officers page 4 Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Run-Walk page 5 Upcoming Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10 Small Business of the Month page 11 New Members page 11 Ribbon Cuttings page 12 New Leadership Hall Class page 14

Celebrating Success at the 103rd Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 12 - 6:00 p.m. - Chattahoochee Country Club The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce's 103rd Annual Meeting & Gala is Thursday, May 12 at the Chattahoochee Country Club.

"We are jazzing up the festivities this year," said Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap. "We will be presenting our annual business awards as well as spotlighting our new "Commerce Club" – those organizations that have been Chamber members for 25 years or more.

Award presentations will include the Distinguished Service Award, the Annual Small Business and Family Business of the Year Awards, the W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award and Silver Shovel Awards. The evening will include an outdoor reception, cocktails, live music, and an elegant buffet dinner.

Cost is $75 per person; $125 per couple. Reserved table of eight sponsorships are available for $1,000. Event sponsors include AT&T, Georgia Power Company and Lake Lanier Islands Resort.

"After many successful initiatives throughout the year, the Annual Meeting and Gala is another excellent opportunity for us to thank our members and to recognize the many volunteers that make our community a great place to live and work," said Chamber Chairman Darrell Snyder.

Make your reservations by calling Robyn Lynch at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, 770-532-6202. Email: rlynch@ghcc. com, or make your reservations online at greaterhallchamber.com

(L-R): Hackers Holiday Co-Chair Rob Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance, Chamber Membership VP Robyn Lynch and Megan Martin, American Shredding. Megan was winner of the $1,000 cash golf ball drop raffle at the 32nd Annual Hackers Holiday.

Details, page 4.

Over 1,200 runners and walkers participated in the Greater Hall Chamber's 4th Annual Consumers Life Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Corporate Challenge on Apri 21 at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Details, page 5.

Save the Date Thursday, May 12 103rd Annual Meeting & Gala Tuesday, May 17 Small Business Success Seminar Thursday, May 19 South Hall Marketing Workshop

M AY 2011

F ull B loom N ursery A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Volunteerism and Chamber Success The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Meeting & Gala is May 12th. This is an opportunity for the Chamber to recognize many of our members that have played a key role in the success of the Chamber and the community over the past year. As you may be aware, small businesses represent 85% of the membership of your Chamber. At this event, the Small Business of the Year and Family Business of the Year will be recognized along with Silver Shovel Award recipients – individuals that have played a significant role in economic and community development, education and workforce development, marketing, communications, membership development and many other areas that have a positive impact on your community.

The Chamber continues to expand efforts aimed at recruiting and retaining businesses. One-on-one meetings with existing industry are held to identify issues, expansion opportunities and consolidation opportunities Darrell Snyder that provide job growth. Last month, the 52nd Annual Red Carpet Tour Georgia Power Company hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Georgia Allies Chairman, Greater Hall visited the Greater Hall Community. (See page 13 for details.) Thanks Chamber of Commerce to the efforts of many volunteers in the community, the tour was very well received by the industry representatives in attendance. Although the impact of these events is not always immediate, it provides a great opportunity for your community to showcase the many qualities that make the Greater Hall area an excellent place to live and work.

The Chamber also continues to expand partnerships with the state’s economic development marketing efforts including regular contacts with statewide developers. Expanding networks with retailers and retail developers to attract quality retail development to your community is also a key effort of the economic development team. Further outreach to support small businesses can be seen through the regular Small Business Success Seminars that are offered to members. Congratulations to the community on the recent announcements of ZF Wind Power LLC and Kings Hawaiian which will create new job opportunities. Many retail announcements including Aldi, Olive Garden and others are also great additions that will generate additional jobs as well.

May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

I also want to take the opportunity to recognize some of our volunteers that are very important and put in many volunteer hours to make your Chamber and community a success. Our Ambassadors Council is a group of dedicated volunteers that attend many networking events, ribbon cuttings, and other programs to welcome new members and also to learn more about the needs of our members.

Our Youth Leadership Hall and Leadership Hall County advisory committees are additional groups of volunteers that spend many hours organizing programs that are a critical part of the success of each of these educational programs.

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If you would like to find out more information about the Chamber’s economic development efforts, please contact the economic development team of Tim Evans, Shelly Davis, and Jean McCullough. If you are not a Chamber member, call Michelle Wiley, join now and be a part of helping your community. Call 770-532-6206, or get event details and join online at greaterhallchamber.com

Chamber News...

• The Greater Hall Chamber has a Membership Development position opening. The Chamber is seeking a team player and self-starter for event planning and fundraising. Individual must have strong organizational, sales, communications and computer skills. College education, experience and references required. Salary to be determined.

Send resume to: Human Resources, Greater Hall Chamber, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville GA 30503.

• The Greater Hall Chamber's Business Link newsletter is now available in an electronic format. Read the newsletter on The Times home page, gainesvilletimes.com, or the Chamber's home page, greaterhallchamber.com • Hall County is Georgia's 10th healthiest county according to nationwide rankings by the University of Wisconsin and Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The study includes a variety of health factors including premature deaths, low birth weights, smoking, unemployment, poverty and number of uninsured adults. Social and economic factors such as education and income also play large roles in a community’s overall health.

• HALLmark… The Next Generation 2010-2015 has 147 investors including businesses and industries across the community investing $2,231,390 in the program to ensure the economic viability of our region. HALLmark co-chairs are Paul Chambers, AT&T; Mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic and David Lee, Jackson EMC.

Business Link VoluMe 17 Issue 5 McKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2010-2011 executive Committee Chairman Darrell snyder Georgia Power Company Chairman Elect Jay Jacobs Jacobs Media Corporation Treasurer Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction Company Vice Chair, Economic Development Russell Vandiver Lanier Technical College Vice Chair, Education Beth Baldwin Edward Jones Investments

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 Northeast Georgia Medical Cnt David lee, Jackson EMC Mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic Vice Chair, Membership Development Senior Advisor Allen Nivens, Indigo Energy Rob Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair, South Hall Council Geoff lee, Road Atlanta Immediate Past Chairman emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Vice Chair, Community Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker Development Phillippa Moss, Gainesville-Hall President & CEO Co. Community Service Center Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2010-2011 Brenda Bahel, The Starke Companies

Keith Mcleod, NEGA Urological Associates

elisabeth Baldwin, BB&T Bank

Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company

Willie Mitchell, Gainesville City Schools

Wade Beavers, Beavers/Rogers Law & Advisory

Dr. Martha Nesbitt, Gainesville State College

Dr. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall County Commission

Chad Bolton, NEGA Health System, Inc.

Bill orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton

Ruth Bruner, Mayor, City of Gainesville

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Terry Roberts, Lake Lanier CVB

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

Jim Fitzgerald, Wrigley Manufacturing

David smith, Merial Select

Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Dennis stockton, The Times

Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost LLP

Phil sutton, Kubota Manufacturing

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

Jody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors

Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Materials

Deborah Mack, Community Volunteer

Mike Williams, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Associate Directors 2010-2011 Drew Addison, Industrial Properties Group

Kingsley Peeples, Bates Carter Company

Kellie Bowen, Full Bloom Nursery

Dr. Gale starich, Brenau University

Dede Gossage, Heritage Academy

Zack Thompson, Pro Touch Landscapes

Melanie Fuller Hill, BB&T

Andrea Timpone, Elachee Nature Science Cnt

Hart Payne, Community Volunteer

Tracy Whitmire, Accusite Surgical Services

staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy sims, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim evans, Vice President shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Jean McCullough, Project Manager Finance & Operations David umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources Education & Workforce Development Dana Miller, Vice President Government Affairs & South Hall Council Michelle Wiley, Membership Coordinator

Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Meg Nivens, Executive Director Membership Development Robyn lynch, Vice President Michelle Wiley, Membership Coordinator Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager

Ranked Highest in Customer Satisfaction

by J.D. Power and Associates

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Membership Development

32nd Annual Hackers Holiday The Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament 2nd Flight Winners from the Turner Construction Team were (L-R): Gary Swidorski, Ken Alabiso, Avery Niles and Mark Alles. 27 teams participated in the tournament.

Mike Williams, Lake Lanier Islands Resort, piloted his helicopter for a tour of Lake Lanier Islands for Kevin Holman following the golf ball drop raffle.

Former Chamber Chairmen Steve Gilliam, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles, and Dick Valentine, United Community Bank.

Thanks to Cortney Martin (left), Brenau University, and Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust, and the many other volunteers who made the tournament a success.

Ben McMillan, winner of the Longest Drive contest receives gift at the reception.

Outstanding golfers at the Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on April 15 at Legacy on Lanier at Lake Lanier Islands Resort included: 1st Flight Winners – Milton Martin Toyota Team Tommy Martin, Jason Swazowski, Pat Van Norman and Walter Hope

May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2nd Flight Winners – Turner Construction Team Gary Swidorski, Ken Alabiso, Mark Alles and Avery Niles

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3rd Flight Winners – Delta Community Credit Union Team Nick, Anthony, Randy and Ben McMillan Harry Lewis was Closest to the Pin on #2. Ben McMillan won Longest Drive on #18, and David Lee, Jackson EMC, sank a Hole-In-One on #5!

Newly Elected Chamber Officers The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting an aggressive business environment and making a positive contribution to the community.

Founded in 1908, the Chamber is a voice for business in Gainesville-Hall County and the Northeast Georgia region and offers a full range of services for its members.

The following individuals were elected to serve as officers of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce for 2011-2012, beginning July 1, 2011: Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Officers 2011-2012 Chairman: Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corporation Chairman Elect: Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Treasurer: Jody Lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Vice Chair Education: Elisabeth Baldwin, BB&T Vice Chair Economic Development: Chris Braswell, PB Property Management Vice Chair Community Development: Phillipa Moss, Gainesville-Hall County Community Service Center Vice Chair Government Affairs: Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company Vice Chair Marketing/Communications: Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System Vice Chair Membership: Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair South Hall Council: Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta Co-Chairs HALLmark: Paul Chambers, AT&T; Mimi Collins, The Longstreet Clinic; David Lee, Jackson EMC Chair VISION 2030: Kelly Miles, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles Executive Director, VISION 2030: Meg Nivens, Greater Hall Chamber Senior Advisor: Jimmy Adams, The Adams Companies Immediate Past President: Darrell Snyder, Georgia Power Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO: Kit Dunlap The following individuals were recently elected to serve as Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors for a three-year term, July 1, 2011 and ending June 30, 2014: Newly Elected Board of Directors Perry Barnett, Rushton & Company Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Bob Pennington, Willis Investment Counsel Mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging

Business After Hours

Many thanks to tournament sponsors AT&T, Charter Business, Jackson EMC, Lafarge Aggregates, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance and Turnstile Deli.

Hackers Holiday Golf CoChairs Rob Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance, Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media, and Scott McGarity, McGarity's Business Products, with Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap and Membership Vice President Robyn Lynch.

108 golfers participated in the tournament at Legacy on Lanier at Lake Lanier Islands Resort on April 15.

Dr. Ron Wilson (right), Wilson Orthodontics, hosted Business After Hours in April – pictured at the event with Michael Kelly, Signs by Tomorrow. Wilson Orthodontics provided food from the Varsity that was enjoyed by (L-R) Judy Presley, Keller Williams Realty; Jo Stone, CMA Agency; Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty; Andrea Brock, AFLAC; Ginny Johnston, CMA Agency. Don't miss Business After Hours on Thursday, June 9 at Port Royal Marina & Lakeside Community with great food from Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill, the usual Cash Pot Prize, and the newest Yamaha watercrafts from Park Marine Boating Centers on display.

4th Annual Get Fit Stay Fit 5K Corporate Challenge

Diamond Auto Spa won Fastest Corporate Team. Juan Soto (left) won the Overall Fastest Male (18 minutes).

Greg Sanders of OHL (right) was named Fastest CEO.

ZF Wind Power was a winner in the T-shirt contest.

The Sole Sisters nurses won the T-shirt Most Original Award!

The Gainesville Rotary Club was the Fastest Community Team.

The Greater Hall Chamber's 4th Annual Get Fit Stay Fit 5K garnered the support of over 1,200 runners and walkers and targeted employers committed to employee health and wellness. Runners of all ages, including high school and middle school students and runners over 50 participated in the 5K Run/Walk and celebrated afterwards at Hall County’s Largest Office Party with awards and recognition. The Title Sponsor for the event was Consumers Life Insurance Company.

Individual Male and Female Medalists Overall Winners: Juan Soto (18:00) / Christy Elliot (22:40) Student Winners: Dustin Snyder (18:48) / Amy Grace Patterson (22:50) Open 19-29: Luis Zelaya (19:42) / Danielle Jones (23:30) Open 30-39: Aaron Leach (18:45) / Tana Martin (22:41) Master 40-49: Walgreens, an event sponsor, David Paris (21:53) / Traci Webb (25:11) provided water at their corporate Master 50+: tent. Over 25 organizations sponsored the Get Fit Stay Fit 5K and Jerry Learned (19:21) / Loraine Hillard (23:56) provided food and giveaways.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

May 3, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

The Fastest Corporate Team was Diamond Auto Spa and the Fastest Community team was the Gainesville Rotary Club. The Team Spirit Award winner was OHL. The Fastest CEO Award went to Greg Sanders of OHL. A group of nurses from Northeast Georgia Medical Center, The Sole Sisters, won Most Original in the T-shirt Contest. Best use of corporate challenge logo on the t-shirt went to The Longstreet Clinic, and ZF Wind Power won best use of their corporate logo on the t-shirt.

Chamber Chairman Darrell Snyder with son Dustin.

Both father and son were 5K medalists in their age category.

Membership Development

Members of the OHL team won the Most Spirited Team Award.

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Meetings & Events

May 2011 Wednesday, May 4 Healthcare Committee Guest Speaker: Senator Renee Unterman 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, May 4 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Friday, May 6 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber Friday, May 6 Leadership Hall County Alumni Party and Class Graduation 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. – Poolside at the Chattahoochee Country Club Tuesday, May 10 VISION 2030 Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, May 10 Ambassadors Council 3:45 - 4:45 p.m. – Scott's on the Square Wednesday, May 11 Network Over Coffee 8:30 -9:30 a.m. – Chick-fil-A Gainesville

May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday, May 11 Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant

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Thursday, May 19 South Hall Marketing Workshop "Emerging Technology" presented by Red Clay Interactive and sponsored by AT&T 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – Mulberry Creek Community Center Thursday, May 19 Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 p.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, May 17 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Sponsored by United Community Bank Free for Members; $15 Non-Members

How to Apply for Small Business Loans Presented by

Sandy Headley, Vice President, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com

Wednesday, May 25 Network Over Coffee 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Loretta's Country Kitchen in Oakwood

South Hall Marketing Workshop

Thursday, May 26 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Georgia Power Pavilion

8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.

Mulberry Creek Community Center Sponsored by AT&T $10 Chamber Members • $20 Non-Members

JUNE 2011

Thursday, May 19

Emerging Technology Presented by

Thursday, June 2 Annual Agribusiness Awards Breakfast East Hall Community Center – 7:30 a.m.

Thursday, June 2 Leadership Hall County 2011-2012 Class Introduction Program 12:45 - 5:30 p.m. – Walters Auditorium at the Northeast Georgia Medical Center Thursday, June 9 Business After Hours 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. – Port Royale Marina & Lakeside Community

Thursday, May 12 103rd Annual Meeting & Gala 6:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club Tuesday, June 14 Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, May 17 "Branding Your Small Business with Small Business Success Seminar Technology" presented by Wyngate Drive "How to Apply for Small Business Creative Communications Loans" presented by Sandy Headley, VP, 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, June 22 Job Fair & Career Expo Wednesday, May 18 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Issues Committee Georgia Mountains Center 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Meeting Rooms ABC Wednesday, May 18 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Turnstile Deli

Small Business Success Seminar

Get info on these and other Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

Red Clay Interactive Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

Business After Hours Thursday, June 9 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. (new time!)

Sponsors: Port Royale, Yamaha & Park Marine Boat Center 9200 LanMar Road in Gainesville $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!

Don't miss Business After Hours on Lake Lanier at Port Royale Marina & Lakeside Community with great food from Pelican Pete's Bar and Grill. There will be the usual Cash Pot Prize and other giveaways with the newest Yamaha watercrafts from Park Marine Boating Centers on display.

Details: Robyn Lynch, 770-532-6206. Email: rlynch@ghcc.com

Job Fair & Career Expo Wednesday, June 22 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Center • Meeting Rooms ABC Featuring dozens of employer exhibits and sponsored by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Lanier Technical College Free Admission • Open to the Public

Share information about your company!

Employers – recruit qualified job applicants!

Cost is $200 per booth. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. jean@ghcc.com

Member Announcements May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Gainesville State College announces Dr. Al Panu as Vice President for Academic Affairs. Panu came to the college in 2007 as Division Chair of Science, Engineering and Technology. He was appointed Dean of the School of STEM in 2010 and has served as the interim VP of Academic Affairs since June. gsc.edu • Lake Lanier Islands Resort recently launched Legacy Wellness, a program for groups visiting the Islands, offering fitness classes, cardio workouts, dance classes and health educational lectures. Participants can also obtain an evaluation for a confidential in-depth look at their current state of health. lakelanierwellness.com • TV18 Station Manager Ronny Childs, announces the Gainesville-Hall County Government channel's new website, www.tv18online.org. TV18 is a governmental and educational channel jointly funded and operated by Gainesville and Hall County governments on Charter cable channel 18 and Comcast channel 23.

• Governor Nathan Deal named Brian Daniel, president of Carroll Daniel Construction Company in Gainesville, to the State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors and appointed Dr. John C. Sundstrom of Animal Medical Care to the State Board of Veterinary Medicine. Sundstrom has practiced veterinary medicine in Gainesville since 1969.

• Hall County Board of Tax Assessors announces Steve Watson as the new Chief Appraiser. Watson has been an assessment administrator for over 25 years, most recently as Deputy Chief Appraiser for Gwinnett County. hallcounty.org • The Georgia Mountain Food Bank received a 54,000 egg donation from United Egg Distributors in April with Food Bank President Rich White and Country Charm President Brent Booker on hand to represent the partner agencies and the five counties served by the food bank. gamountainfoodbank.org

• Vice President Jason Kempker of Avian Technology International announces an agreement to be the Hill Parts’ distributor in Colombia, a spare parts maker for poultry processing equipment in South America. Avian is a leading American supplier and exporter of broiler hatching eggs, vaccines, and poultry and swine production equipment. aviantech.com • The Home Gardener, the University of Georgia and Hall County Extension Agency's newsletter is available online: hallcounty.org/agencies/ext_service.asp • The Quinlan Visual Arts Center presents Sound Off! Art Inspired by Music, a summer juried exhibition, June 9-August 13.

For exhibit and entry details, call 770-5362575, or visit quinlanartscenter.org • North Georgia College & State University and the Dahlonega Arts Council are co-sponsoring a show of 24 bronzes by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin. The free exhibition is May 7 through July 10 on the third floor of the NGCSU Library Technology Center in Dahlonega and open to the public. northgeorgia.edu • The 13th Annual Rubber Duck Derby to benefit the Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County is Saturday, May 7 at Clark’s Bridge Park on Lake Lanier. Prizes valued over $28,000 include a 2011 Toyota Camry provided the Milton Martin Toyota. Participants can “adopt” a Derby Duck with a $5 donation by calling 770656-2527 or online at rubberduckderby.com • Rehabilitation Industries of Northeast Georgia has received a 3-year accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehab Facilities, granted to facilities to serve individuals with disabilities through referrals received from the Department of Labor. RING also received ISO certification for quality performance in meeting the requirements and completion of their contracts. rehabindustries.org • Jazzercise honored Colleen Manji, owner of Jazzercise Gainesville and Bra-

Healthcare Committee The Chamber's Healthcare Committee recently heard a presentation on Senior Care by (L-R): Jo Stone, CMA Agency; Bill Youngblood, Right at Home; Anita Deraney, Summers Landing Assisted Living, and Committee Chair Dr. Jack Chapman, Gainesville Eye Associates. Senator Renee Unterman, Chair of the Senate Healthcare Committee, will be guest speaker at the committee's May 4 meeting.

selton, with the prestigious President’s Club Platinum Award, as a top money earner and ranking in the top 3% of all Jazzercise franchisees last year. Gainesville and Braselton centers are offering free classes in May as part of National Physical Fitness & Sports Month. jazzercise.com • WomenSource's Brown Bag Lunch is Thursday, May 5, 12 noon at the Frances Meadows Center. "The Great Outdoors" program features Melvin Cooper, Gainesville Parks & Recreation; Becky Kelly, Georgia State Parks Department; Greg Walker, Hall County Parks & Leisure. $5 per person, includes lunch. womensource.info • The Northeast Georgia Medical Center generated over $990 million in revenue for the local economy in 2009, according to a recent report by the Georgia Hospital Association. The NGMC provided almost $38 million in uncompensated care, such as indigent and charity care and bad debt.

The report does not reflect the additional economic impact of physician practices on the community. nghs.com • National Nurses Week, May 6-12, focuses on America’s 3.1 million nurses, and Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) will be honoring the healthcare professionals with various activities and programs. NGHS was named one of

“Metro Atlanta’s Top 100 Workplaces” by the Atlanta Journal Constitution (AJC) for 2011. nghs.com • Jimbo Floyd has been promoted to Vice President and named a partner at Turner, Wood & Smith, Gainesville’s largest independent insurance agency. Floyd is a Chamber Board member and joined the agency in 2005. He is the fourth partner in the company with Joe Wood, Jr., Rob Fowler and Tony Nix. twsinsurance.com • Owner Don Ansley announced that Jerry Gilleland has joined the Ansley Communications team. Ansley Communications provides telephone systems, data/voice cabling, security and camera systems. ansleycomm.com • Hamilton State Bank Chairman and CEO Robert Oliver announced that the Braselton-based bank has acquired Bartow County Bank and its four branches in Bartow and Cobb counties. Oliver stated that as a growing community bank with branches in six Northeast Georgia towns, this opportunity will broaden Hamilton State’s market and serve new communities in Georgia. hamiltonstatebank.com

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

The Board of Directors of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Chairman Darrell Snyder, Chairman-Elect Jay Jacobs and President & CEO Kit Dunlap invite you to celebrate Gainesville-Hall County's success over the past year at the

103rd Annual Meeting & Gala

Thursday, May 12, 2011 6:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club Recognizing Small Business of the Year - Family Business of the Year Silver Shovel Award Winners - W.G. Mealor Award Community Service Award - Long-time Chamber "Commerce Club" Members Black Tie Optional Cocktails 6:00 p.m.

Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m.

Reservations Required Robyn Lynch - 770-532-6206 Email - rlynch@ghcc.com Online - greaterhallchamber.com

Sponsored by AT&T Georgia Power Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Outdoor Cocktail Reception Elegant Buffet Dinner Jazz Music & Dancing Open Bar $75 per person $125 couple $1000 Table Sponsorship

Welcome New Members

Accuquest Hearing Center Jay Temple 601 Broad Street, Suite A Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-4313 -Hearing Aids accuquest.net

Deep South Dogs Scott Dixon 110 Main Street SW Gainesville, GA 30501 -Restaurant & Catering

Deidre Fresquez State Farm Insurance 322 Oak Street NW, Suite 3 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 535-1277 -Insurance Agency deidrefresquez.com

At Home Care Maria Robinson 4528 Nohl Crest Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 362-5299 -Medica/Home Health

Elliott Transport, Inc. Jon Elliott 1612 Candler Road Gainesville, GA 30507 (770) 536-0120 -Transportation & Trucking elliotttrans.com

Avalon Hills Community Steve McKibbon, Sr. PO Box 623 Murrayville, GA 30564 (678) 971-9645 -Real Estate Development Sponsor: Chris McCall

Fish Tales Lakeside Grille Dale Ozaki 6330 Mitchell Street Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 967-3775 -Restaurant & Catering fishtaleslakelanier.com

Burnette Insurance Agency Stan Burnette 3447 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd. Suwanee, GA 30024 (770) 339-8888 -Insurance Agency burnetteinsurance.com

Gainesville Internal Medicine Group Roger Owens, MD 667 Lanier Park Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-7501 -Medical Group

Comcast Spotlight Russ Hallauer 2026 S. Milledge Ave., Suite C2 Athens, GA 30605 (706) 353-5021 -Advertising/Radio/TV comcastspotlight.com

NES Rentals Andy Studdert 2350 Danbury Road Gainesville, GA 30507 (770) 532-7708 -Construction Equip. Sales/Rental nesrentals.com

Pueblos Mexican Cuisine Shelby Scott 3660 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (678) 450-4500 -Restaurant & Catering pueblosmexicancuisine.com RelyLocal - Hall County Joy Allgood 229 EE Butler Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 858-6533 -Marketing relylocal.com Sponsor: Joe Nation Rogers Bridge Company. Inc. Robert White Post Office Box 15517 http://www.rogersbridge.com Atlanta, GA 30333 (404) 633-5522 -Road/Bridge Construction rogersbridge.com Stewart, Melvin & Frost, LLP Frank McKay Post Office Box 3280 Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 536-0101 -Attorney smf-law.com Verizon Wireless Cellular Center Kylene Moedjio 4780 Friendship Road Buford, GA 30518 (678) 835-5985 -Cellular Phones mycellularcenter.com

Small Business of the Month

Budget Carpet Outlet

Budget Carpet Outlet, established in 1992, has expanded from 4,000 to 37,000 square feet, encompassing a city block off Main Street in the heart of Gainesville. Jack Everett and his son, Jason, built the business by placing integrity above all else, providing decades of flooring knowledge and a relaxed buying experience for customers.

They are truly a family business complete with their Disney carpets incorporated into a kid’s playroom for Jason’s two small children, Hudson and Harper. They are a full-service flooring store offering product and installation in carpet, hardwood, ceramic tile, vinyl and have become a Jack Everett and son, Jason, founded Budget Carpet Outlet in 1992 and are leader in commercial flooring products. honored to receive the Small Business of When Jack isn’t leading a project, he can the Month award because of their respect be found riding horses on his farm or of the Hall County community and its toting his grandkids around town. Jason support over the years. enjoys adventures in far away places such as South Africa, Morocco, Russia and Tibet. An avid runner, he conquered a long-time goal by finishing the Lean Horse 100 last summer in South Dakota (100 miles in less than 25 hours)! Budget Carpet Outlet, 684 Main St. SW, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-696-0986. budgetcarpetoutlet.net

Join the Greater Hall Chamber online: greaterhallchamber.com

Over 45 people attended the April seminar on the implications of healthcare reform, presented by Dr. Phaedra Corso, University of Georgia College of Public Health. (L-R): Jim Grier, Pre-Paid Legal Services; Phaedra Corso; Joyce Stephens, United Community Bank; Small Business Council Chair Doug Langman, TRC Staffing.

The Greater Hall Chamber's May 17th Small Business Success Seminar will be presented by Sandy Headley, Vice President, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), and will offer an express loan program for Gainesville-Hall County small businesses and how to apply for a small business loan, what criteria lenders use to make their decisions and how this affects small businesses. ACE loan officers will be on hand to offer an express loan program for loans up to $5,000 for businesses or to discuss needs for loans up to $50,000, available through ACE’s regular loan application process. Free Chamber Members; $15 for non-members. Sponsored by United Community Bank. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Get information on this and other Chamber events online at greaterhallchamber.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

May 3, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Small Business Success Seminars

Membership Development

3 Lil' Pigs Mike "Hoss" Cartwright 1705 Clevelend Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-1312 -Restaurant & Catering

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Ribbon Cuttings

Alpaca4Baby Infant Clothing Caroline Mixon along with family and friends cut ribbon to celebrate the new Alpaca4Baby venture. Alpacas have been raised at the Carodel Farm in South Hall since 1999.

The Mixons recently launched the new company that produces hypoallergenic clothing for newborns from 100% natural alpaca yarn with no dyes. The heirloom-quality products include bonnets, sweaters and receiving blankets. 770-967-4041. alpaca4babynetwork.com

Signs by Tomorrow

Jay Kelly, family, and staff celebrated the 10th Anniversary of Signs By Tomorrow with an open house and ribbon cutting.

As one of the founding companies in the one-day sign business, Signs By Tomorrow creates high quality indoor and outdoor signage that is affordable to businesses of all sizes. College Square Shopping Center, 3640 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood. 770-534-6616. signsbytomorrow.com

Gainesville Physical Therapy

Jeff Skorput cuts ribbon to celebrate the facility expansion for Gainesville Physical Therapy on Sims Street in Gainesville. The recent renovation added 2,400 square feet to the existing facility. Gainesville Physical Therapy has been in business for over 20 years, has 20 employees and seeks to enable patients the opportunity for a return to an active lifestyle through caring, hands-on, personalized attention with state-of-the-art physical therapy services. 770-297-1700. gainesvillept.com

Verizon Wireless Cellular Center

Store Manager Kylene Moedjio cuts ribbon at the Verizon Wireless Cellular Center on Friendship Road in Buford. The company takes pride in providing superior customer service as well as the latest in mobile phone technology for America’s most reliable network. They have an excellent selection of products as well as creative and knowledgeable store representatives and provide assistance with account management and phone repair, and offer weekly classes to help customers get the most out of their phones. 678-835-5985. mycellularcenter.com

May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Fish Tales Lakeside Bar & Grille

12

Dale & Jessica Ozaki, owners, cut ribbon to celebrate the second anniversary of Fish Tales Lakeside Grille in Flowery Branch. Fish Tales is a full service restaurant offering a variety of menu options including fresh seafood. Overlooking the shores of Lake Lanier, the restaurant is a great dining choice for the entire family whether you travel by car or boat. 6330 Mitchell Street, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-3775. fishtaleslakelanier.com

Cozy Corner has new location

Karen Davis & Evelyn Franklin, owners, cut ribbon to celebrate Cozy Corner's new location.

This local boutique has been in Gainesville for 37 years! You can now find Cozy Corner at 110 Washington Street on the Downtown Gainesville Square. Cozy Corner offers great local shopping and options for gifts from a variety of product lines such as Vera Bradley, Casafina, Arthur Court, and Spartina as well as Home Decor items such as Pine Cone Hill and Legacy Home Linens for all ages, Mudge and Molly bedding for children, and Dash and Albert rugs. 770-536-8381.

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Regions Bank Groundbreaking

Participants of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce's 52nd Annual Red Carpet Tour tested race car driving at Road Atlanta's Skip Barber Racing. (L-R): Guests Eike Jordan (in car) and James Georgeff with Walt Farrell, a state host with Electric Cities of Georgia.

Chuck Carter, Regions Trust Department; Brian Kovach, Branch Manager, New Main Office; Kandy McDonald, Consumer Area Sales Manager; David Abee, Market President, Northeast Georgia Banking Group; Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce; Michelle Walters, Consumer Banking Executive, Georgia & South Carolina; Bonnie Marchitto, Private Banking Officer; Anthony Dye, Manager, Morgan Keegan; Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media, Chair Elect, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce.

Red Carpet Tour guest William Terre was "arrested" by Chief Brian Kelly of the Gainesville Police Department for eating fried chicken with a fork during the April tour and visit for lunch at Jaemor Farms.

Regions Bank officials held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new main branch located on the corner of Washington Street and E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. Regions Market President David Abee said the new facility, expected to open for business in July, will be more of a branch prototype – a stand alone facility that will also house the main office retail operations. The ATM that was formerly at the location will be relocated to the end of the new drive-thru window. The current downtown location was purchased by investors to lease for office space.

Thank You Event Sponsors Avita Community Partners • AT&T • Bennett Family Dentistry • Best Buy Biotrauma • Charter Business • Chattahoochee Country Club Chick-fil-A Stonebridge Crossing • Consumers Life Insurance Dairy Queen/Riverside Drive • Dogwood Forest • Fit2Tri Gainesville Eye Associates • Gainesville Heart Group • J&J Foods Jackson EMC • Jacobs Media • KIK Custom Products • Lafarge Aggregate Mansfield Oil • McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic • Northeast Georgia Health Systems Northeast Georgia Physicians Group • Recess Southern Gastro Pub Riverside Military Academy • Rochester • Rubicon Lakefront Office Stevi B's Pizza • The Longstreet Clinic • The Times Turner Wood & Smith Insurance • Turnstile Deli • United Community Bank U.S. Army Recruiting Gainesville Office • Walgreens Willis Investment Council • Wilson Orthodontics

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May 3, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Georgia’s Red Carpet Tour is one of the country’s premier economic development marketing initiatives with the express purpose of attracting national and international companies considering relocating or expanding their businesses in Georgia. 70 business prospects and state hosts visited Gainesville -Hall County on April 7-9. The group stayed at Lake Lanier Islands Resort and toured various area venues including Jaemor Farms where they were treated to a fried chicken lunch with fresh peach pie. The local host committee was chaired by R.K. Whitehead, Whitehead Die Casting, and Community Volunteer Denise Deal.

Economic Development

52nd Annual Red Carpet Tour

13

Key Economic Indicators

May 3, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

Sonia Alcanter - Chestatee Katie Allan - Johnson Megan Bassett - West Hall Joy Bauerband - Gainesville Luis Beltron - Gainesville Chance Bloomer - North Hall Tucker Bond - North Hall Logan Brown - Gainesville Emily Bruns - West Hall Johnathon Casas - East Hall Hayden Chapman - East Hall Yamyly Chavez - East Hall Stanton Collins - North Hall Jodi Cruz - Flowery Branch David English - West Hall Elise Forrester - Lanier Career Academy Andrew Garland - Flowery Branch Candance Garret - Johnson Kylie Gibbs - Flowery Branch Victoria Gibbs - Lanier Career Academy Eli Gilmer - North Hall Sasha Grambrah - Brenau Academy Winston Griffith - Johnson Zach Groover - East Hall Brittney Gunter - North Hall Josaiah Hartog - Chestatee Alexis Hawks - Gainesville Morgan Jackson - East Hall Patrick Kelley - Gainesville

Trent Kenton - Flowery Branch Rachael Kline - West Hall Tyler Kratzer - North Hall Selena Ledford - Johnson Ashton Little - Flowery Branch Merle Ann Manuel - Chestatee Maura Monacella - Lanier Career Acad.

Shannon Mundy - West Hall Laura Grace Myers - North Hall Allison Nelson - West Hall Elie Nwefo - Gainesville Kip O'Kelley - West Hall Thomas Paris - Lakeveiw Acadmey Lillian Peck - Chestatee Lyndsey Pethel - Johnson Hannah Purcell - N. Georgia Christian Amy Rodriquez - East Hall Emma Rowlett - Johnson KayLynnSamples - Chestatee Reid Schwartz - Riverside Military Amanda Seibert - Flowery Branch Wells Stecker - Riverside Military John Stenzel - Gainesville Hope Stockel - Flowery Branch Jesse Strickland - North Hall Lauren Wassel - Chestatee Paige Williams - Chestatee Grady Zachary - Johnson Katie Zottnick - Lakeveiw Academy

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Mar 2011

Previous Month

Cherokee Dawson

12-Month High

8

Latest

8.9

Gainesville City 10.3

10 Jan 2011

10.3%

6

9

2

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

9

8.2

Gwinnett 9.1 Jackson 10.6 Ga Mountains 9.4 State of Georgia 10

One Year Ago

Mar 2010

8.9 10.3

Forsyth

4

Feb 2011

2010

U.S.

8.8

2011 Updated 4/26

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 204,557,284 2 columns 193,716,240 236,458,178 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest March 2011

100’s millions of dollars

Founded in 2005, the Youth Leadership Hall is designed for high school juniors and seniors and enables students to develop leadership skills while increasing awareness of the community. The program provides an investment in the community’s future leadership by fostering interest in the community and inspiring students to become the leaders of tomorrow. The following students were selected for 2011-2012:

Percent

Wo r k f o r c e D e v e l o p m e n t

New Youth Leadership Hall Class

Previous Month

One Year Ago

February 2011

March 2010

$

$

1.0

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

2010 2011 Updated 4/26

Housing

For more on Youth Leadership Hall or other Greater Hall Chamber Education and Workforce Development programs, contact Dana Miller, Chamber Vice President of Education, 770-532-6206.

Email: dmiller@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

March 19 Previous Month

2010 Total

One Year Ago

Feb 2011

Mar 2010

152

7

14

45

2011 YTD

Area Permits

County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Mar 2011 2 4 40 87 2

Mar 2010 4 1 60 104 1

Feb 2011 3 1 43 55 0

Total 2010 45 33 647 1,012 39

2011 YTD 7 9 154 229 5

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home

Area

Mar 2011

Avg Mar Price 2010

Avg Price

Feb 2011

Avg Price

Total 2010

Avg Total Price 2011

Avg Price

City

14

111,182

9

182,933

10

73,350

119

130,529

38

106,395

North

34

215,402

26

216,967

29

161,413

279

203,389

87

191,439

East

16

75,000

18

95,311

20

69,176

144

89,653

43

66,132

South

16

158,503

25

181,927

19

136,251

172

133,791

47

153,662

West

35

135,825

51

173,323

43

156,686

374

170,098 103

155,294 Updated 4/26

Youth Leadership Hall 2010-2011 class members at a Dragon Boat race on Lake Lanier.

The class participated in their final program and graduation festivities at Montara Farm in April. The newly selected class of 58 high school students begins their series of programs in August 2011. Thank you to the Chattahoochee County Club for sponsoring the Lake/Etiquette Program.

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

Annual Agribusiness Awards recognize farming community

Friend of Agribusiness... an individual who has consistently promoted agribusiness and agriculture in Hall County. 2010 Winner – Will Schofield, Superintendent, Hall County Schools. Outstanding Agribusiness... a member of the agribusiness community who demonstrates significant presence and progress (must have been in operation for at least five years to qualify for this award). 2010 Winner – King GREEN. Farmer of the Year... a person who has made significant contribution to agribusiness and community services. 2010 Winner – Paul Bowen, Bowen & Sons Farm. Ag Hall of Fame... given to individuals each year (living or deceased) in recognitions of sustained contributions to Hall County agriculture/agribusiness. 2010 Winner – Larry Nix, Big Oak Farm. Outstanding Community Service: recognizes continued volun-

teer service to the community in the areas of beautification, horticultural education and environmental awareness. 2010 Winner – Hall County Master Gardeners Awards will be presented at the annual breakfast on Thursday, June 2 at 7:30 a.m. at the East Hall Community Center. To make a nomination or for breakfast reservations, call the Hall County Extension Service, 770-535-8293.

Leadership Hall Wrap Up Retreat (Front): Angela Thompson, Main Street Gainesville; David Baston, Sperry Van Ness; Angela Sheppard, City of Gainesville; Beth Truelove, Holiday Inn Lanier Centre; Christie Cruise-Harper, Gainesville State College.

(Back, L-R): John Haynes, Carroll Daniel Construction Co; Kevin Garrison, Hall County State Court; Brain Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Cara Mitchell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker.

Commercial Brokers Meeting Brenda Robbins, Senior Project Manager with Georgia Power’s Economic Development Division (front center) recently spoke to a group of commercial brokers at the Chamber.

(L-R): Brent Hoffman, Prudential Georgia Realty, Darrell Synder, Georgia Power, and Greater Hall Chamber Economic Development Vice President Tim Evans.

Leadership Hall began their wrap up retreat at Riverside Military Academy with Major Kevin Jarrard, Commandant of Cadets, and observed the Pass in Review by the cadets. Lunch, sponsored by Willis Investment Counsel, was followed by team development led by SGM, Jefferey W Chandler and senior cadets. The Leadership Advisory Committee concluded the program with a reception at the Elk’s Lodge.

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May 3, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/2 Page Ad

Community Development

The Greater Hall Chamber's Agribusiness Committee awards program shows appreciation of the agribusiness community in Hall County. Nominations for 2011 awards will be accepted through Friday, May 13.

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Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber Events 103rd Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 12 6:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club Sponsored by AT&T, Georgia Power, and Lake Lanier Islands Resort Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, May 17 "Small Business Loans" Presented by Sandy Headley Vice President, Access to Capital 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Sponsored by United Community Bank

South Hall Marketing Workshop Thursday, May 19 "Emerging Technology" presented by Red Clay Interactive 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Mulberry Creek Community Center Sponsored by AT&T Business After Hours Thursday, June 9 Port Royal Marina 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Yamaha, Port Royale and Park Marine Boating Centers

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

Job Fair & Career Expo Wednesday, June 22 Georgia Mountains Center 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Sponsored by Greater Hall Chamber and Lanier Technical College

CAR-RT SORT

Get information and register for these events and others online at greaterhallchamber.com

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.