Business Link May 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 Job Fair Highlights page 4 Chamber Chase 5K page 5 Upcoming Events page 6 Ribbon Cuttings page 10 Member Announcements page 10

Annual Meeting & Gala is May 10th The Greater Hall Chamber's 104th Annual Meeting & Gala is Thursday, May 10 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Award presentations will include the Distinguished Community Service Award, Annual Small Business and Family Business of the Year Awards, the W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award and Silver Shovel Awards. The evening will be hosted by Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media, Chair-Elect Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, and President/CEO Kit Dunlap, with an outdoor reception, cocktails, live music, and an elegant buffet dinner. $75 per person; $125 per couple; Table (8) sponsorships are $1,000. Event sponsors include AT&T, Jacobs Media, Charter Business and Lake Lanier Islands Resort. For Reservations: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6202. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Chamber Chase 5K Draws over 1,500 The Greater Hall Chamber's 5th Annual Chamber Chase 5K gathered the support of over 1,500 people and targeted organizations committed to employee health and wellness. Runners and walkers of all ages – from middle school students to senior citizens – participated in the 5K Run and the 2 Mile Wellness 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, and Georgia's Lt. Governor Casey Cagle served as Honorary Race Chairman. The Chamber Chase is a VISION 2030 Initiative. See page 5 for race medalists and team award recipients.

New Members Page 13

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

104th

Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 10 6:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club Recognizing

Small Business of the Year Family Business of the Year Silver Shovel Award Winners W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award Community Service Award Sponsored by

Small Business of the Month page 14

AT&T Lake Lanier Islands Resort Jacobs Media Corporation Charter Business

Workforce Development page 15 OHL, with 120 employees participating, won the Fastest Corporate Team and People's Choice Award at the Chamber Chase 5K on April 19 at Riverside Military Academy. Highlights on page 5.

Outdoor Cocktail Reception at 6:00 p.m.

Buffet Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m. $75 per person • $125 couple $1000 Table Sponsorship Reservations Required Call 770-532-6206 • Email: mwiley@ghcc.com Reservations Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Save the Date Tuesday, May 8 Small Business Success Seminar Thursday, May 10 Annual Meeting & Gala Thursday, May 15 South Hall Business Coalition

M AY 2012

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

The Transportation Investment Act of 2010 was approved by the Georgia State Legislature to provide a means for voters to consider a 1 cent sales tax to supplement the funding of transportation infrastructure throughout the state. There are 12 transportation tax regions, and we are part of a 13-county area, the Georgia Mountains Region 2. If approved, each region may levy a 1 cent sales tax for 10 years (2013 - 2022) to fund transportation projects.

The 2012 TSPLOST is an opportunity for all Georgians to take control of their future by choosing to make significant investments in transportation projects that are vital both to the economy and quality of life throughout the state.

The Transportation Referendum Vote is just three months away – July 31, 2012. This Transportation Initiative is an investment in infrastrucJacobs Media Corporation ture for the future of Gainesville-Hall County and our region. Hall Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber County is a recipient county... that means the money collected from of Commerce our county, an expected $360 million over a 10 year period, creates a return of $1.45 for every $1 raised! The monies raised in this region – the Georgia Mountains Region 2 – will stay in the region and will not go to Atlanta. All monies are controlled locally. A Citizens Accountability Committee in each region will ensure that projects are completed on time and on budget. If passed, this 1 cent sales tax will help us in so many ways: Jay Jacobs

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Business Link VoluMe 18 Issue 5 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, Education elisabeth Baldwin BB&T Wealth Management

Vice Chair, Government Affairs Chair, VISION 2030 Kelly Miles, Smith, Gilliam, lee Hemmer Williams & Miles, P.A. The Simpson Company 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

President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2011-2012 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

For specific project info in Gainesville-Hall County or Georgia Mountains Region 2, visit online ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org or call Srikanth Yamala, Transportation Manager, Gainesville-Hall County MPO, 770-531-6809. Email: syamala@hallcounty.org. Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, 770-532-6206. Email: kit@ghcc.com

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

South Hall Business Coalition

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

... Job Creation ... Access to Healthcare ... Access to Education Facilities ... Access to Tourism ... Highway Safety ... Ease Traffic Congestion

ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org

Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors

May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Transportation Referendum Vote is July 31

Associate Directors 2011-2012 Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

emmett Forrester, NEGA Diagnostic Clinic

spence Price, The Adams Companies

Doug langman, TRC Staffing

Dan slott, Service Master

Chris McCall, Keller Williams Realty

Jessica Tullar, City of Gainesville

Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust

Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker

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

The South Hall Business Coalition recently heard an update on the Transportation Referendum (Vote is on July 31, 2012) presented by Srikanth Yamala, Transportation Planning Manager, Gainesville-Hall Metro Planning Organization. (L-R): Tim Pledge, Milton Martin Honda (event sponsor); Ryan Sawyer, Biotrauma; Jimmy Adams, The Adams Companies; Srikanth Yamala, Gainesville-Hall Metro Planning Organization; Greater Hall Chamber South Hall Council Vice Chair Geoff Lee, Road Atlanta.

Education & Workforce Development Dana Miller, Vice President 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

May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Job Fair and Career Expo

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Account Executives Jim Haymore and Shaina Gonzales, Spherion Professional Staffing, at the company's booth at the Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville.

Spherion was Title Sponsor of the Job Fair & Career Expo.

Greg Ours and Karl Keller, volunteers for the Gainesville Area Employer Committee, greeted attendees and distributed exhibitor information. Over 900 job seekers attended the event with 53 employer exhibitors participating.

An exhibitor and a sponsor of the March Job Fair, McDonald's Northeast Georgia, Inc. signed up 63 new employees at the event. The company held an orientation for new employees the following day. McDonald's also donated lunch for fellow exhibitors.

McDonald's Northeast Georgia, Inc. currently operates 11 stores and employs 539 people. (L-R): Travis Mooney, Store Manager Thompson Bridge Road; Danny Hutson, Store Manager Dahlonega; Christine Kerr, Market Recruiter for Northeast Georgia, Inc.; Stacey Poole, Local Store Marketing Rep; Sharon Mooney, Store Manager Jesse Jewell; Latanya Sheppard, Store Manager Dawsonville Highway; Takisha Angeletti, Store Manager Oakwood; Marco Valeriano, Supervisor; Kimberly Dobbs Scott, Director of Operations; Eric Myers, Store Manager Friendship Road.

Ken Orr, Recruiter for Lanier Technical College's Office of Student Affairs at the Job Fair at the Georgia Mountains Center. Lanier Tech was an event sponsor along with Spherion Professional Staffing, The Times, WDUN Radio, McDonald's and the Gainesville Area Employer Committee.

Community Beautification

The Greater Hall Chamber's Beautification Committee recently participated in a litter clean up in the Newtown area of Gainesville and collected over 100 pounds of litter.

(L-R): Scott Broome, Keep Hall Beautiful; Chamber Vice Chair of Community Development Phillippa Moss, City of Gainesville; Dan Owen, City of Gainesville; Rachel Scheider, retired U.S. Forestry Service; Wanda Cannon, Hall County Extension Office; Candis Stephens, City of Gainesville; Michael Wheeler, Hall County Extension Agent; Robin Halstead, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Community Development.

Agribusiness Award Winners

Agribusiness Award Winners (L-R): Outstanding Agribusiness: Dori Bishop, Pony Perfect Party; Friend of Agriculture: Mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation; Agribusiness Hall of Fame presented posthumously to Edna Wilson, wife of recipient Homer Wilson and Randy Bruce, son of recipient Alton Bruce; Farmer of the Year: Peyton Edge.

South Hall Business Coalition

Mitigation Banking was the topic of discussion at the South Hall Business Coalition meeting at Elachee Nature Science Center in April. (L-R): Chairman of the Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission R.K. Whitehead, Whitehead Die Casting; program presenter Steve Jones, Ph.D., Meanders River Restoration; Andrea Timpone, Executive Director, Elachee; Jock Hornor, Elachee Board Chairman; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber.

Chamber Chase 5K Run / Walk at Riverside Military Academy

Krys Crawford and Annabelle Bryant accept the People's Choice Award for OHL from Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs. Krys was also medalist in her age group.

Anthony E. Fritchle, Riverside Military Academy Executive Assistant to the President & Director for Planning, Honorary Race Chairman Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and Greater Hall Chamber Chairman Jay Jacobs at the Chamber Chase 5K on April 19 at Riverside Military Academy.

Bill Sanders, Jackson EMC and VISION 2030 volunteer, warms up before the race with activities led by Holmes Marchman, MD, of The Longstreet Clinic.

Georgia MedPort was one of dozens of corporate and community teams participating in the Chamber Chase 5K Run & 2 Mile Wellness Walk and won the best use of the event logo in the t-shirt design contest.

Thank You Chamber Chase Sponsors!

30-39 Male/Female Aaron Leach 17:57 / Tana Martin 21:15 40-49 Male/Female David Haack 20:00 / Krys Crawford 25:28 50+ Male/Female Tim Grizzle 19:56 / Mamie Coker 24:17

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Jason Everett of Budget Carpet/Gainesville Paint won Fastest CEO Award.

Fastest Overall Female was Brittany Aikens with a time of 19:13.

Fastest Overall Male was Diamond Auto's Juan Soto with a time of 16:46.

May 1, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Individual Male & Female Medalists

Overall Winner Male/Female Juan Soto 16:46 / Brittany Aikens 19:13 18 & under Male/Female Evan Snyder 19:00 / Grace Isakson 23:50 19-29 Male/Female Jarrod Paramore 19:58 / Ashley Tolland 21:05

Community Development

Chamber Chase Team Awards Fastest Corporate Team: OHL Fastest Community Team: Lake Lanier Canoe and Kayak Club Team Spirit Award: City of Gainesville's Chicken City Chasers Fastest CEO Award: Jason Everett, Budget Carpet/Gainesville Paint & Design (21:29) T-Shirt Contest People’s choice: OHL Best Use of Corporate Logo: J&J Foods Best Use of Event Logo: Georgia MedPort Most Creative: The Longstreet Clinic

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Meetings & Events May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

MAY 2012 Wednesday, May 2 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, May 2 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Tuesday, May 8 Small Business Success Seminar "How New Mandated Retirement Plan Disclosures Affect You" Presented by Will Hicks, Stifel Nicolaus Vice President Investments & Branch Manager 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, May 8 Youth Leadership Hall Graduation Program 7:50 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Montara Farm

Tuesday, May 15 South Hall Business Coalition "South Hall /NEGMC Hospital Update" Presented by Anthony Williamson, Northeast Georgia Health System Vice President of Greater Braselton & Service Line Development 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch Tuesday, May 15 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, May 16 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, May 16 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli

Thursday, May 17 Tuesday, May 8 Chamber Executive Committee Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. – Scott's on the Square 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, May 9 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Avocado’s, 109 Bradford St. (on the Square) in Gainesville

Wednesday, May 23 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Subway, 7380 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch

Wednesday, May 9 Human Resources 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant

Thursday, May 24 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Georgia Power Pavilion

Thursday, May 10 104th Annual Meeting & Gala 6:00 p.m. Outdoor Cocktail Reception 7:00 p.m. Buffet Dinner and Program Chattahoochee Country Club

JUNE 2012

Friday, May 11 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber Friday, May 11 Leadership Hall County Graduation and Alumni Party 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Chattahoochee Country Club

Thursday, June 7 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – The Gardens Tuesday, June 12 Small Business NetWeaving 7:45 a.m.-9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity Friday, June 15 Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Lakeshore Mall

Tuesday, May 8 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Free for Members • $15 Non-Members Sponsored by United Community Bank and Jacobs Media

Disclose, Disclose, Disclose...

How the New Mandated Retirement Plan Disclosures Affect You This seminar, presented by Will Hicks, Vice President Investments & Branch Manager of Stifel Nicolaus in Gainesville, will cover all the new retirement plan disclosures and how they affect you. Reservations: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, May 15 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch $5 Members • $15 Non-Members • Breakfast Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN AM-FM Radio

South Hall Hospital Update Anthony Williamson, Northeast Georgia Health System Vice President of Greater Braselton & Service Line Development, will present an update on the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton at River Place. Reservations: Michelle Wiley, 770532-6206. Email mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

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

THE GARDENS Wessell Road in Gainesville $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!

THE GARDENS is a 36-homesite community on Wessell Road between Dixon Drive and Piedmont Road in Gainesville. Set within a forest sanctuary, the in-town neighborhood recently underwent a multi-million dollar redevelopment by McKibbon-Robison. Don’t miss this Business After Hours and the unveiling of an exceptional array of new and upgraded amenities, including a swimming pool, pavilion and sidewalks. And of course, great food, drinks, networking and the exciting Cash Pot Prize! Details: 770-532-6206.

Details online at greaterhallchamber.com

Thank You Chamber Sponsors Advantage Staffing • AT&T • Breakfield & Associates • Charter Business Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia • Chick-fil-A Gainesville Gainesville Coca Cola • Georgia MedPort • Georgia Power Jackson EMC • Jacobs Media Corp Lafarge Aggregates Lake Lanier Islands Resort • Longstreet Inpatient Medicine Milton Martin Honda • Papa John's Pizza • Publix

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Small Business Success Seminar

Simpson Custom Photography • Turner Wood & Smith • Turnstile Deli United Community Bank • WDUN AM-FM Radio • Wilson Orthodontics

Business Before Hours Friday, June 15 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Lakeshore Mall - Food Court 150 Pearl Nix Parkway in Gainesville No Charge • Free Breakfast

shoplakeshoremall.com

Join us for this special morning networking event and delicious complimentary breakfast at in the Food Court at Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville.

Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Get the details on this and other events online: greaterhallchamber.com

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Member Announcements May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Jim Moore, Vice President and Agency Manager at BB&T Sidney O. Smith Insurance, was named Chairman of The Medical Center Foundation Board of Trustees, filling the role previously held by the late W. Woodrow (Woody) Stewart.

• Avery Niles was elected Chairman of Board of the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice. Niles is a 23-year veteran of the Hall County Sheriff`s Department serving as warden of the Hall County Correctional Institution. hallcounty.org • U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., received the 2012 Spirit of Enterprise award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for his support of pro-jobs, progrowth policies. In its 24th year, the award is given annually to members of Congress based on key business votes. Chambliss collectively holds a 91% ranking during his tenure in Congress.

• The Princeton Review profiled Gainesville State College's Dr. Michallene McDaniel, Associate Professor of Sociology, as one of the country's best undergraduate teachers in its new book, The Best 300 Professors. princetonreview.com • Heather Geltz joined Sterling on the Lake, a residential community in Flowery Branch, as the marketing coordinator. sterlingonthelake.com

• Prudential Georgia Realty named Brent Hoffman of the Gainesville office as the organization's #1 Commercial Agent in 2011. prudentialga.com • Gateway Domestic Violence Center's 6th Annual Gateway to Hope is Friday, May 18 at 7:00 pm at Brenau University's Yonah Hall with a silent and live auction, fine wines, delicious foods and live music.

Proceeds benefit the center that provides shelter and services to victims of domestic violence. Tickets: gatewaydvcenter.org • Turner Construction Co., the general contractor for the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton project, will hold a Subcontractor/Vendor Outreach Fair on May 9, 1 pm, at the Gainesville Civic Center. RSVP: yjones@tcco.com

by May 4, 4 pm. The 240,000 sf, 100-bed hospital will break ground in fall 2012 and is scheduled for completion in early 2015.

Project website: ngmcproject.com • Thank You Hackers Holiday Tournament Sponsors: Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia (Title Sponsor), Advantage Staffing, Charter Business, Gainesville Coca Cola, Georgia MedPort, Jackson EMC, Lafarge Aggregates, Publix, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance and Turnstile Deli. Look for event highlights and tournament winners in the June Business Link!

• Elachee's 11th Annual Flights of Fancy Benefit Auction is Friday, May 11, 6:30-9:00 pm, with a cookout, craft brews, a wine bar, silent and live auctions. Tickets: $45 for open seating and bistro tables, 770-535-1976 or email: elachee@elachee.org • Good Nutrition will host a Health Fair on Saturday, May 19 with free samples, new product info, special 10% discounts, and drawings for gift baskets. 1500 Browns Bridge Road, #100 in Gainesville.

770-536-1252. goodnutritionweb.com • WomenSource's Brown Bag Lunch is Thursday, May 3 at 12 pm at the Frances Meadows Center. The program, Small Changes Big Impact: Nutrition & Fitness for Every Woman, is sponsored by Brenau University. Learn how small changes in diet and exercise can make a big impact for a healthier life. $5 WomenSource Members; $6 non-members. To register, call 770-5039060 or online at WomenSource.info • United Way of Hall County's top 10 company contributors were Publix Super Markets, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Cargill Inc., Fieldale Farms, Wrigley Manufacturing Co., Hall County School System, Schreiber Foods Inc., Wilheit Packaging Material, Conditioned Air Systems and UPS. The Chairman's Award,

for support extending beyond campaign giving went to Schreiber Foods. unitedwayhallcounty.org • The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County's 14th Annual Rubber Duck Derby is Saturday, May 12, from 10 am to 4 pm at Clarks Bridge Park. Over 16,000 "adopted" rubber ducks are cast into Lake Lanier with the winning duck fetching a $10,000 cash Grand Prize. The Duck Fest includes food, children’s activities, health screenings, arts and crafts, animals, vendors of all types, a classic car display and live music.

Ducks may be adopted with a $5 donation; Quack Packs are $25 for 6 ducks; Grand Packs $100 for 25 ducks. 770-656-2527. rubberduckderby.com • Dr. Randy Pierce was named interim president of Gainesville State College and will assume the post on July 1, upon the retirement of Dr. Martha Nesbitt.

Pierce served as president of Georgia Highlands College for 10 years before his retirement in 2011. Pierce has held several positions at Georgia Perimeter College and Georgia State University. gsc.edu

GOT NEWS?

Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Bitzer Expands in Oakwood

Stifel Nicolaus Relocates

(L-R): Billy Powell, Hall County Commission; Peter Narreau, President, Bitzer US; Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle; Christian Wehrle, CPO, Bitzer SE. Bitzer, a leading manufacturer of compressors for commercial refrigeration, broke ground in March for an additional 95,000 square foot building on 31 acres in Oakwood.

The new $10 million facility is expected to be complete this fall. Bitzer will maintain their base of 80 employees, adding another 50 employees over the next two years. bitzerus.com

Members of the Stifel Nicolaus Team – Kathy Merck, Will Hicks, Al Crumley, Terry Damron – cut ribbon to open their new office, neighboring the Greater Hall Chamber facility. For over 120 years, Stifel Nicolaus has served as a trusted financial advisor to individuals and businesses.. With over 45 years of local experience, the team's knowledge and service has helped clients navigate all market cycles, even the difficult ones. Stifel Nicolaus, a full service brokerage and investment banking firm, has the professional expertise and resources to assist in developing a financial strategy to meet the challenges of today’s up-and-down market and long term goals. 212 Green Street NE, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-531-1103. stifel.com

Butler Property LLC's Mundy Mill Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Wendell Starke, Butler Property LLC; John Schwartz, Mundy Mill Sales Manager; Delores Diaz, Gainesville City School Board; Brenda Bahel, Butler Property; Gary Anderson at Butler Property LLC's grand re-opening of Mundy Mill, a neighborhood located on McEver Road in Gainesville. Butler Property bought the neighborhood in 2010, and the community features homes with brick, stone and cedar accents – priced in the $129,000 to $149,000 range. Amenities include sidewalks, a pool, playground and picnic pavilion.

4100 Mundy Mill Road SW, Gainesville, GA 30504. 678-617-8887. mundymill.com

Global IT Department LLC David Crook, Dr. Carroll Turner, Sherry Ridgway, Maurice Graham and Jason Whitworth cut ribbon for Global IT Department, a premier provider of information technology and business solutions to public sector organizations, government and non-profits. 999 Chestnut Street, Suite 14, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-971-4193. globalitdepartment.com

Students in Free Enterprise

Networking has long been an effective means of making new professional contacts, often leading to new business. Now there’s a new twist: NETWEAVING. The goal is to learn all you can from as many people as possible about their business, their needs, and their challenges. Then, to try to help as many people as you can by putting them in touch with someone you know or sharing insight that can help the other person succeed in business. Networking and Netweaving are both mechanisms to building relationships – a crucial process to being successful.

Gainesville State College's Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) program has been awarded one of the American Free Enterprise Grants from the National Chamber of Commerce Foundation. As part of the grant, students will be assisting the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce with promoting upcoming events and small business initiatives. The American Free Enterprise Project Partnership between the U.S. Chamber, National Chamber Foundation and SIFE USA seeks to enhance the lives of entrepreneurs by providing them with the resources to succeed and generate awareness of the positive effects of free enterprise through education and communities nationwide. Gainesville State College is one of 50 SIFE teams across the United States that will be mobilized through the American Free Enterprise Project Partnership. sifeamericanfreeenterprise.com

The Greater Hall Chamber will host its first Small Business NetWeaving event on Tuesday, June 12, 7:45-9:00 a.m. at Lanier Tech's Manufacturing Development Center. The Chamber's Business After Hours, Business Before Hours, Network Over Coffee meetings and Leads Group functions all offer the ultimate in networking opportunities. Plan to attend one or ALL of the upcoming programs:

Gainesville State College SIFE students Sandra Torres and Juan Pardo with instructor Katie Simmons. Sandra and Juan assisted the Greater Hall Chamber with the Chamber Chase 5K and will help with other upcoming Chamber events as part of a grant with the U.S. Chamber.

Wednesday, May 2 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli in Downtown Gainesville Wednesday, May 9 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Avocado’s, 109 Bradford St. (on the Square) in Gainesville Wednesday, May 16 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Wednesday, May 23 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Subway at 7380 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch Thursday, June 7 Business After Hours 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – The Gardens, In-town Neighborhood in Gainesville Tuesday, June 12 Small Business NetWeaving 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. - Lanier Tech's Manufacturing Development Center at Featherbone Communiversity in Gainesville

For more on these and other networking events, call Michelle Wiley, Chamber Vice President of Membership Development, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com.

Get all the details online at greaterhallchamber.com

Chamber Sponsorship Opportunities The Greater Hall Chamber is always seeking sponsors for upcoming programs and events. Sponsorships offer a perfect opportunity to promote products and services to area professionals and business leaders. Sponsors have the opportunity to speak and distribute literature at some events as well as being featured on all advertising and promotional pieces. Sponsorships fees can be divided with several other sponsors. Sponsorships and advertising opportunities include Business After Hours, Leadership Hall County programs, South Hall Council forums, Business Before Hours, Environmental Health & Safety programs, Human Resource Council luncheons, membership mailings, as well as Chamber-produced area maps, community magazines, the monthly Business Link newsletter and more.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact Michelle Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com

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May 1, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Friday, June 15 Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Lakeshore Mall Food Court

Membership Development

Networking and Netweaving

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VISION 2030

New Senior Leadership Program

Photos courtesy of Simpson Custom Photography

May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Home of Milton Robson, 3509 Tanners Mill Circle in South Hall County.

The Greater Hall Chamber's Beautification Committee announces winners of the Residential Beautification Award from various sections of Gainesville-Hall County.

Award winners were nominated by neighbors and friends and selected by members of the committee.

Details: Robin Halstead, Vice President Community Development, 770-532-6206.

Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

VISION 2030's new senior leadership program – The Wisdom Project – will begin this fall.

VISION 2030's Senior Leadership Committee, co-chaired by Bill Sanders, Jackson EMC, and Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System, has formed a leadership program for 50+ members of the community. The new program titled The Wisdom Project is a project of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Brenau University’s Center for Lifetime Study.

The Wisdom Project prepares retired and semi-retired individuals to use their wisdom and talents in creative ways through action and advocacy. Through a hands-on service project and interaction with like-minded individuals from throughout the community, The Wisdom Project participants experience a dynamic, multi-faceted view of Gainesville and Hall County, explore local issues and opportunities and engage with community leaders. The Greater Hall Chamber has sponsored Leadership Hall County since 1983 and implemented Youth Leadership Hall in 2005. Brenau University’s BULLI (Brenau University Learning and Leisure Institute) program, has offered academically oriented continuing education courses to lifelong learners for 19 years. The committee has developed marketing tools for The Wisdom Project, including a participant application and expects to host the first session in fall 2012. vision2030.org

12

Residential Beautifcation Awards

VISION 2030 Transportation “Big Ideas” for Hall County The VISION 2030 Transportation Committee, led by community volunteer Richard Riley, recently completed an Executive Summary of Transportation “Big Ideas” and Recommendations for Hall County. This plan will support the need for two important actions that are to take place in the community.

1) The Transportation Referendum vote for highway improvements and continued local support to transit projects. The VISION 2030 Transportation Committee supports the passage of the vote, which will be held on July 31, 2012.

2) The Gainesville-Hall Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is planning to assist the City of Gainesville by conduction a comprehensive transportation study.

The study will be a 8-10 month process and will kick off in August 2012.

For the complete Transportation Executive Summary, visit vision2030.org or call VISION 2030 Executive Director Meg Nivens at 770-532-6206.

Home of Bobbie Page, 815 Lakeview Drive in Gainesville.

Home of James and Barbara Brooks, 728 Summit Street in Gainesville.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

Employee Benefit Savings

2 Dog Restaurant Tina Roberts 317 Spring Street, SE Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-8384 - Restaurant / Catering 2dogrestaurant.com

More Savings, More Choices for Small Businesses through the Chamber Sponsored Healthy Business Alliance™

Aqua-Terra Recycling & Treatment Richard (Dickey) Watson 710 Moore Street Oxford, GA 30054 (678) 625-4025 - Environmental / Recycling aquaterrarecycling.com

Suite 300 Atlanta, GA 30318 (404) 586-6800 - Non-Profit Economic Development Organization gaccsouth.com Orkin Pest Control Don Miller 1945 Old Candler Road Gainesville, GA 30507 (770) 532-0116 - Pest Control orkin.com

Cheddars Gainesville Allen Peake 1195 Dawsonville Hwy NW Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 450-4510 - Restaurant / Catering cheddars.com

Southern Property Management Lynn Collins 4211 Mundy Mill Place Suite D Oakwood, GA 30566 (770) 535-1020 - Property Management southernpropertymgt.com

GACC South Friederike Munzinger 1170 Howell Mill Road

Thomas Concrete of GA, Inc. Bill Davis 3960 Thurmon Tanner Road

2 columns 4.4167 x5

Williams & Associates, RPO Jeff Williams 3420 Green Hill Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (678) 316-9715 - Employment Agency williamsandassociatesrpo.com Jennifer Brown, LCSW 505 Green Street, 2nd Floor Gainesville, GA 30501 (917) 494-1410 - Individual Member Learn all the benefits of Greater Hall Chamber Membership – call Kara Matter, Membership Coordinator, Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: kmatter@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

As part of the Greater Hall Chamber’s continuing effort to provide savings to member business owners, we have joined forces with Purchasing Alliance Solutions and their Healthy Business Alliance™ program for new savings on employee benefits products through A+ rated Companion Life Insurance Company. If a Chamber business member moves their coverage to Companion Life, a special savings will be made on dental, group term life, and disability income protection at 5-10%, depending on group size, below what businesses who participate in the current chamber-sponsored program presently pay. Advantages of this program for participating Chamber members include: • Savings over your existing plans with a special offering of 5-10%.

• Expanded protection through important policy features like accelerated benefits, waiver of premium and conversion privileges on Group Term Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment • Choice of three standard dental benefit plans and a wide range of customizable options with the Dental by Design • Competitive short and long term disability income coverage options • Convenience of a single source for all specialty coverage with an A+ rated carrier For details on this exciting new savings opportunity, contact a local Chambermember insurance agent, call Michelle Wiley at the Greater Hall Chamber, 770532-6206, or Purchasing Alliance Solutions at (800) 782-8254 or via email at info@purchasingalliance.com.

Purchasing Alliance Solutions was established in 1994 to serve Chambers of Commerce, their members, Agents and their clients. These Chamber-sponsored programs cover more than 5,000 businesses and 53,000 employees in 149 local communities throughout Georgia.

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

May 1, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/4 Page Ad

Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 431-3300 - Construction / Concrete thomasconcrete.com

Membership Development

Welcome New Members

13

Key Economic Indicators

Occasions by John & Troy Carol Slaughter, a designer at Occasions by John & Troy works on a floral arrangement at the shop located on the Square in Downtown Gainesville.

The full service florist assists with weddings, parties, events and Holiday decor.

May 1, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Hall County

10 8

Latest

Mar 2012

7.6 Previous Month

12-Month High

Jul 2011

4

Feb 2012

2

One Year Ago

Mar 2011

Over 80 Greater Hall Chamber members and guests attended the recent Small Business Success Seminar presented

by Bill Lampton of Championship Communication.

(L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber; Dave Simpson, Simpson Custom Photography; Bill Lampton, Ph.D. Championship Communication; Sherry Ridgway, President & CEO, Global IT Department; Steve Naughton, President, Enterprising Solutions, Inc. Will Hicks, Vice President of Investments and Branch Manager of Stifel Nicolaus in Gainesville, will present the program at the next seminar on Tuesday, May 8 focusing on how new mandated retirement plan disclosures affect us. Don't miss the Small Business NetWeaving event on Tuesday, June 12. Details, Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

M A M J J A

8.8

S O N D J

2011

8.1

Cherokee Dawson

7.6 8

F M

7

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

8 9.2 8.1 9

U.S.

8.2

12 Updated 4/25

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 209,839,566 2 columns 216,493,324 199,678,703 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest March 2012

100’s millions of dollars

Occasions by John & Troy began as a home-based business offering flowers and decor for private parties. The business expanded into wedding receptions, fundraisers and Holiday decor. In 2008, the business located to a shop on Bradford Street, and after outgrowing that space moved to the current location at 100 Washington Street on the Downtown Square in Gainesville in 2009. The new location proved to be a great move with exposure on the corner increasing business. Occasions by John & Troy specialize in fresh flower bouquets for any occasion, flower arrangement delivery, wedding flowers, as well as special event and party decorating. The shop is owned by John Karluk and operated with years of experience in retail, event and wedding work. Carol Slaughter is a floral designer and Dee Reising is wedding consultant. 678-943-8776. occasionsbyjohnandtroy.com

Gainesville City

Forsyth

9.0%

6

7.6

Small Business Success Seminar

14

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Percent

Economic Development

Small Business of the Month

Previous Month

One Year Ago

February 2012

March 2011

$

$

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 retail sales of approximately $100 million.

M J J A S

O N D J F M

2011

12 Updated 4/25

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

March 15 Previous Month

2011 Total

One Year Ago

Feb 2012

Mar 2011

180

8

19

39

2012 YTD

Area Permits

County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Mar 2012 4 4 83 123 1

Mar 2011 4 4 40 87 2

Feb 2012 3 2 62 99 1

Total 2011 25 34 555 1,099 22

2012 YTD 10 8 192 310 4

Avg Total Price 2012

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home

Area

Mar 2012

Avg Mar Price 2011

Avg Price

Feb 2012

Avg Price

Total 2011

City

18

140,924

14

111

16

97,320

180

132,902

45

129,026

North

27

194,011

34

215,402

30

182,233

384

203,902

74

156,317

East

16

77,656

16

75,000

16

66,720

238

79,629

51

73,576

South

21

125,143

16

158,503

27

121,930

296

131,000

63

146,567

West

60

175,544

35

135,825

43

159,388

558

182,192 140

181,919 Updated 4/25

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

Tommy Howard 770-718-5204

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

Leadership Hall County

Leadership Hall County's Wrap-Up Retreat was held at Riverside Military Academy on April 12. The class was greeted by Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy President, who spoke with the class about the school, its mission and the enrollment population with students from over 18 countries including Kazakhstan-Russia. Following a great lunch sponsored by Longstreet Inpatient Medicine, the class participated in team building exercises on the Leaders Reaction Course led by Sgt. Major Jeff Chandler. The day ended with the class gathering at Little Italy Pizza for a farewell dinner. Leadership Hall County's Graduation & Alumni Party is Friday, May 11, 7:00-10:00 p.m., poolside at the Chattahoochee County Club. Alumni: $10 per person. Reservations: Dana Miller, 770-532-6206.

Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

Youth Leadership Hall

2 columns 4.4167 x10

May 1, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

As part of the Industry Program, Youth Leadership Hall students toured Kipper Tools led by Jim O’Dell. The group learned about the company and their philosophy of providing a safe and healthy environment for their employees. At Truelove Dairy, owners Dixie and Jerry Truelove discussed the dairy farming business milking methods and how milk Brad Beighley of Papa John's Pizza (right) with Youth is transported to a dairy Leadership Hall Class Members (L-R): Ellie Forrester, factory for processing Lanier Charter Career Academy; Shannon Mundy, West Hall for retail sales. Class High School; Tucker Bond, North Hall High School. members were given the opportunity to make their own take home pizza at Papa Johns Pizza on Thompson Bridge Road. Store Manager Brad Beighley gave the class a tour and explained how the business is managed. At Lakewood Baptist Church, Juli Clay of Brenau University worked with the students on speaking skills, and then each member gave an impromptu speech. Semuel Maysonet, BB&T, presented information on banking, how loans work and the importance of good credit. Many thanks to food sponsors, Chick-fil-A of Gainesville and Papa Johns Pizza.

1/2 Page Ad

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

Leadership Hall Class Members (L-R): Keith Whitaker, Smith Gilliam William & Miles; Nick Kastner, Red Clay Interactive; Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance; Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County.

15

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber Events SmallSmall Business Business Marketing Seminar Workshop Tuesday, Tuesday, February May 8 14 New Retirement MarketingPlan Trends Disclosures Presented Presented by by Gordon Will Hicks Sawyer 8:00 - 10:00 Stifela.m.

Nicolaus – The Oaks at 7:45 Lanier a.m.

Charter - 9:00Career a.m. –Academy Chamber 104th Business Annual After Meeting Hours & Gala Thursday, Thursday, February May 1016 6:00 p.m.

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

Reception 7:00 Luna's p.m. Restaurant Buffet Dinner 7:30 p.m.

200Program Main Street & Awards HuntChattahoochee Tower in Downtown Country Gainesville Club

South Arbor HallDay Business Celebration Coalition Friday, Tuesday, February May 15 17 South Hall 10:00 Hospital a.m. Update Presented FrancesbyMeadows Anthony Williamson Center Northeast Georgia Health System Safe & 8:00 Green a.m.

Regional - 9:00 p.m.

Assembly Spout Friday,Springs February Library 24 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Georgia Business Mountains After Hours Center Thursday, June 7 Annual 5:00 Transportation p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Forum Wednesday, The Gardens March 14 Wessell 11:30Road a.m. -in1:00 Gainesville p.m.

Gainesville Great Food,State Fun,College Prizes

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

Job Business Fair and Before Career Hours Expo Wednesday, Friday, June March 15 28 10:00 7:30 a.m. a.m.--9:00 3:00a.m. p.m.

Georgia Lakeshore Mountains MallCenter Food Court Get Details & Register Online: greaterhallchamber.com Get Details & Register Online:

CAR-RT SORT

greaterhallchamber.com

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