Business Link September 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 Existing Industries page 4 Healthcare Reform Guest Column page 5 HealthSmart Expo page 5 Upcoming Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings pages 11-12 New Members page 13 Small Business of the Month page 14

Join the Chamber NOW!

The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Membership Campaign is underway now through September 18. Volunteers are seeking to develop new business relationships and recruit 100 new members. Team Leaders include Andrea Brock, Norton Insurance; Kevin Clary, Edward Jones Investments; Sean Johnsen, iCard Now; Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications and Electronics; Steve Naughton, Community Volunteer; Chris Nish, Home Instead Senior Care; Michele Piucci, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia and Kate Schermerhorn, Eagle Carpet Care.

Chamber Members enjoy numerous benefits including group health insurance discounts, advertising opportunities, monthly networking events, committee participation, small business development and more.

A Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce NOW through September 18, 2012.

Join today! Call Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Membership Coordinator Kara Tate at 770-532-6206. Email: ktate@ghcc.com or join online at greaterhallchamber.com

Chamber Membership Incentives Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber NOW through September 18, 2012: • Business Directory Listing on Chamber’s website (Value: $50) • Processing/Initiation Fee waived (Value: $35) • Membership CD with 3,000 Chamber Members (Value: $200) • Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Business Link newsletter coverage • Event Coupons to upcoming Chamber events (Value: $15 per event) • 48-hour crawler message on AccessNorthGA.com's homepage • The Times: 50% off a Business Link newsletter advertisement • Business Information Listing in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter • Invitation to the New Member Breakfast and Orientation on October 5

Healthcare Reform Seminar

Thursday, September 13 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Georgia Mountains Center TOPICS for DISCUSSION • Do I need to change my health insurance plan and when?

• What will Healthcare Reform do to the rates I am paying?

• How will Healthcare Reform affect my employees?

8:30-9:00 a.m. Light Breakfast 9:00-10:30 a.m. Program 10:30-11:00 a.m. Q&A blic to Pu er ts n e p p O x l of E Pane Q&A

This seminar will update businesses and the community on how we are all affected by Healthcare Reform with discussion with experts in the field and a booklet for participants on Healthcare Reform. $15 Chamber Members; $20 non-members. Registration required. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com.

Online Reservations: greaterhallchamber.com

Save the Date Friday, September 14 Business Before Hours Thursday, September 20 Business After Hours Tuesday, September 25 South Hall Business Coalition

SEPTEMBER 2012

T Healt ake Hom hcare e In Refor m Bo surance oklet !

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Healthcare: Big Business in Hall County Healthcare has become an increasingly important part of the Greater Hall Chamber’s Program of Work and is big business in Gainesville-Hall County. The Northeast Georgia Health System, area physician’s groups, and other health-related businesses continue to make our community the medical hub for healthcare in North Georgia. Insurance and home care agencies, pharmacies, non-profit health agencies, exercise and wellness industries, retail products for healthcare, technology, educational and senior citizen services – the list is mind-boggling. In fact, every business is affected by healthcare, from cost of benefits for employees to providing access to quality medical care. Healthcare is a vital issue to existing businesses and to businesses looking to relocate to Gainesville-Hall County.

The Greater Hall Chamber’s Healthcare Committee was initiated six years ago through VISION 2030 to provide a forum for educating Randall Frost our members and the community on healthcare issues. Led by coStewart, Melvin & Frost chairs Chad Bolton, Northeast Georgia Health System, and Dr. Linda 2012-13 Chairman, Greater Hall Barrow, Lanier Technical College, the Healthcare Committee oversees Chamber of Commerce a set of community-wide programs and events and meets monthly to discuss access to healthcare, wellness programs and benefits, healthcare services, legislative issues, and health insurances. Programs developed through this group include the Annual HealthSmart Expo, Most Fit Company Awards, and the popular Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk.

The Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo is Wednesday, October 10 at the Georgia Mountains Center and will showcase some 70 healthcare, wellness businesses and service products. In addition to exhibits, free public health screenings will be available from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Now in its sixth year, the event continues to be one of VISION 2030’s most successful initiatives.

As part of the HealthSmart event, the Chamber conducts a survey to seek the “Most Fit Company” in Gainesville-Hall County. The program seeks to raise company wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in our community. Sign your company up for the competition. The survey is available online (greaterhallchamber.com), and the deadline to complete the award survey is September 28. Call Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206, for details.

September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

The Annual Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk involves corporate and community teams and includes education and training opportunities for the participants focusing on physical activity and nutrition. Completing its fifth year, the Chamber Chase has become one of the community’s most successful wellness programs. In April 2012, over 2,000 people participated in some aspect of the race. The 2013 race is Thursday, April 18 at Riverside Military Academy.

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On Wednesday, September 13, we are offering Chamber members and the public a Healthcare Reform Seminar. The event will include discussion on how Healthcare Reform affects businesses and individuals. Call the Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206, to register or make reservations for this important event or others online at greaterhallchamber.com

Business After Hours (L-R): Jason Everett, Budget Carpet (event sponsor); Bob Hamrick, Gainesville City Council; Michelle Wiley, Chamber; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint (event sponsor); Rocky Pridgin, Lifeline Church.

Many thanks to Budget Carpet and Gainesville Paint for sponsoring the August Business After Hours and Membership Campaign Kickoff. Don't miss the Business After Hours sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center on Thursday, September 20.

Business Link Volume 18 ISSue 9 mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2012-2013 executive Committee Chair, VISION 2030 Carl Romberg, Citisco meg Nivens, Executive Director

Chairman Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost

Vice Chair, Government Affairs David lee, Jackson EMC

Chairman Elect Dixie Truelove Truelove Dairy

Co-Chairs, HALLmark Vice Chair, Marketing and David Abee, Regions Bank Communications Jullie King, The Longstreet Clinic Perry Barnett, Rushton & Co. Paul Chambers, AT&T Vice Chair, Membership Senior Advisor Development Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Packaging Smith Insurance

Treasurer Jody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Vice Chair, Economic Development Chris Braswell PB Property Management

Vice Chair, South Hall Council Immediate Past Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corp.

Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management President & CEO Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Vice Chair, Community Vice Chair, Education Chamber of Commerce Development elisabeth Baldwin Raymond James/Morgan Keegan Deborah mack, Volunteer

Board of Directors 2012-2013 emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker

Dr. Randy Pierce, Gainesville State College

William Bagwell, Jr., Homestead Investments

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission

Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Bob Pennington, Willis Investment Counsel

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Spence Price, Prime Pak Foods

Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville

Will Schofield, Hall County Schools

Dr. merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools

Dr. ed Schrader, Brenau University

Sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Joyce Stephens, United Community Bank

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Dennis Stockton, The Times

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

lance Gardner, Georgia Power

melissa Tymchuk, NEGA Health System

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising

Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic

mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation

Davis White, Full Media

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, North Georgia College & SU

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Associate Directors 2012-2013 Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo

Brian Hollis, Hollis Transport Agency

John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates

lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage

Burton Brown, First Command Financial Planning

megan martin, American Security Shredding

Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance

Charles White, Community Volunteer

Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith

emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota

Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County

Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy Sims, Executive Assistant

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

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

Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President

Finance & Operations David umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources Education & Workforce Development Dana miller, Vice President Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President/CEO Joy Sims, Executive Assistant

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

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September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Zebra Technologies Expansion

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HealthSmart Expo Open to Public You'll not want to miss the FREE health screenings as part of the Greater Hall Chamber's 6th Annual HealthSmart Expo on Wednesday, October 10 at the Georgia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville. No entry fee and screenings are open to the public from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. HealthSmart, a VISION 2030 Initiative, seeks to raise wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in the community. Screenings include: Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, BMI, Carotid Artery, Asthma and Hearing Screenings, Sleep Disorders, Balance/Fall Risk Assessments, and ABI-Vascular screenings to check for blood clots in legs. Flu shots available at a minimal cost.

(L-R): Mayor Lamar Scroggs, City of Oakwood; Billy Powell, Hall County Commission; Mike Underwood, Vice President of Aftermarket Operations, Zebra Technologies; Pao Sengkhammee, Plant Manager, Zebra Technologies; Paul Danielson, Director of North American Operations, Zebra Technologies; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO.

Zebra Technologies Corporation, a bar coding label manufacturer, located to Oakwood in 2007 to a 20,000 square-foot facility with 10 employees. In 2008, the company expanded to 30,000-square-feet, and in August, Zebra celebrated an expansion to 40,000-square-feet. Now with 36 employees, Zebra manufactures bar coding labels for retail, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive and other industries. The Oakwood Zebra location is the company’s second largest (supplies) plant in North America and services three major distributors in the Southeast. The plant has more than doubled their revenue since manufacturing began at the site, and they continue to see growth in the future. Zebra was the winner of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012 Environmental Stewardship Recognition Award.

“The success of this location is due to the proximity of major customers, the shipping corridor, availability of quality local employees and resources, and the strong support for manufacturing by local officials,” said Zebra Technologies Plant Manager Pao Sengkhammee. “We are proud to be part of this business community and will continue to invest in people, facilities and equipment to ensure we continue to service our customers with Quality Product, Exceptional Service and Value.” Zebra Technologies Corp., Oakwood South Industrial Park, 5322 Rafe Banks Drive, Suite E, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542. zebra.com

Baldor Celebrates 35 Years

Beginning production in 1977, Baldor is now the only facility in North America to manufacture high performance laminated steel frame DC and AC motors and supplies a wide range of specialty motor products including Navy, Nuclear, Submersible, Round Frame DC and Mining motors.

Baldor is ISO9001 quality Baldor's Gainesville plant, a motor manufacturer, certified and focuses on celebrated its 35th anniversary in July. safety. The Gainesville plant is the recipient of numerous awards for outstanding safety performance in Georgia and locally. In 2012, Baldor received the Greater Hall Chamber’s Industry Safety Recognition Award. With over 400 employees, Baldor Gainesville has demonstrated the capability to be a world class manufacturing facility competing successfully in a global market. Baldor Electric, 4349 Avery Drive, Flowery Branch, GA 30542, 678-947-7350. baldor.com

Jeff Hill, a meteorologist and part of the Fox 5 News Team in Atlanta, will be guest speaker at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. Jeff recently suffered complications from a heart disorder. He now has a pacemaker and is sharing his story about the importance of health and fitness and recognizing your body’s symptoms. The HealthSmart Breakfast is $10 Greater Hall Chamber members; $15 non-members.

The Greater Hall Chamber is seeking Gainesville-Hall County's “Most Fit Company” in three categories (large, medium and small companies). Complete the Most Fit Company Survey by linking online on the Chamber's homepage: greaterhallchamber.com or contact Jean McCullough 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ ghcc.com. The deadline to submit a survey is Friday, September 28. Award presentations will be take place at the HealthSmart Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center.

Expo and screenings are free and open to the public. Exhibitor Booths are $350 each ($500 non-members) and Non-Profit Tables are available for $100 each. Sponsorships available. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com.

Online: greaterhallchamber.com

October 10, 2012

Breakfast & Most Fit Company Awards – 7:30 am - 9:00 am Free Screenings & Wellness Expo – 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville

One of the most daunting tasks I face today as a healthcare consultant is managing important information necessary to advise my clients. Since the passing of the Affordable Care Act, there have been countless papers, blogs, books, viral videos, articles, news reports, webinars, and other materials produced on the topic of healthcare reform.

Rob Fowler Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

The majority of this information that is circulating is just plain wrong! It is my job to wade through this enormous amount of material and determine the “good” information from the “bad” or incorrect information.

To assist Chamber members and the public in obtaining a better understanding of healthcare reform, Turner Wood and Smith Insurance, Northeast Georgia Health System and the Greater Hall Chamber is sponsoring a Healthcare Reform Seminar on Thursday, September 13 from 8:30- 11:00 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. You may be asking yourself, "Do I need to attend?" Before you decide, ask yourself the following questions: 1.

2.

3.

4.

Am I required to offer insurance to my employees?

Are there small business tax increases in the health reform law?

I have a pre-existing condition. Can I get health insurance coverage?

Do businesses have to offer health insurance to families who are already covered elsewhere?

5. Will health reform law require nearly all Americans to have health insurance starting in 2014 or else pay a fine?

6. Does the health reform law create a new government run insurance plan to be offered along with private plans?

7. What will the new law do to the rates I am paying?

Program included a presentation

by Tommy Howard, The Norton Agency, on the history of Lake Lanier and current trends in lake property and housing.

The Hall County Leadership Hall with Hall County Diver West Mills (L-R): Lauren Dive Team led Samples, Tillman, Bailey & Associates; Jake Green, Regions Bank; Amber

by SSGT Kelley Sowers, Hall County Solicitor's Office; Vanessa Sykes, Hulsey, Oliver & Edwards and Sgt. Mahar; Tiffany Gillespie, Turner, Wood & Smith; Laura Fowler, Red Steven Wilbanks Clay Interactive; Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker; Pam discussed search Patterson, The Longstreet Clinic; Shanna Cronic, NEGA Diagnostic Center; Angela Payne, NEGA Health System. and rescue followed by a dive demonstration. Harry Chapman and Bob Waterson talked about the Hall County Sheriff ’s Marine Patrol. At the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Lanier Management Office and Buford Dam Power House, Nick Baggett and Cecil L. Quinley led discussion and a tour. The group enjoyed a house boat ride and lunch sponsored by Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort, and then visited the Lakeside Water Treatment Plant Facility where they learned about water treatment for Gainesville-Hall County from Scott Benefield. The day ended with the class competing in Dragon Boat races led by Youth Leadership Hall graduates and members of LCKC, Stanton Collins and Ben Hefner. Thank you sponsors: AT&T, Lake Lanier Islands Resort and McDonald's.

If you do not know the answer to these questions, plan to attend. These questions will be answered at the September 13 seminar. You will also receive a health insurance reform booklet.

Youth Leadership Hall Kickoff

Chamber Chairman Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, greeted the 20122013 Youth Leadership Hall (YLH) Class at the Gainesville Civic Center for the kickoff that included remarks from educators Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Superintendent, Gainesville City Schools; Connie Daniels, Principal, Mount Vernon Elementary School; YLH Liaison Chris Wade Curry, Gainesville City Schools, and YLH Liaison Rhonda Samples, Hall County Schools. The class of high school juniors and seniors is divided into two groups, Team A & B, with each team participating in six day-long programs. The monthly programs cover such topics as the judicial system, economic development, tourism and Lake Lanier, along with financial and banking overviews and etiquette and resume/interview tips.

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September 4, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

The Healthcare Reform Seminar is Thursday, September 13, 8:30 -11:00 a.m., at the Georgia Mountains Center. The seminar will update businesses and the community on how we are all affected by Healthcare Reform with discussion from experts in the field. $15 Chamber Members; $20 Non-Members. Registration required. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Make reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com

Community Development

Healthcare Reform: Get the right Leadership Hall County Leadership Hall information and right answers County's Lake

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Meetings & Events September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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SEPTEMBER 2012 Tuesday, September 11 Small Business Success Seminar Financial Resources for Small Businesses 7:45-9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity Tuesday, September 11 Youth Leadership Hall /Teams A&B 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy Tuesday, September 11 Ambassador Council 3:45-4:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café

Thursday, September 20 Leadership Hall County Fall Retreat 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Montara Farm Thursday, September 20 Chamber Executive Board 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, September 20 Business After Hours Sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center 5:00-6:00 p.m. – Jacobs Building at Brenau 6:00-7:00 p.m. – NEGA History Center

Tuesday, September 11 Tuesday, September 25 VISION 2030 Board Retreat South Hall Business Coalition 3:00-6:00 p.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center Road Atlanta Update, Petit Le Mans and Skip Barber School of Racing Wednesday, September 12 8:00-9:00 a.m. – Road Atlanta Network Over Coffee 8:30-9:30 a.m. – McDonald's, 2105 Tuesday, September 25 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville Youth Leadership Hall /Team A Natural Resources & Etiquette Program Wednesday, September 12 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Human Resources Country Club 11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant Wednesday, September 26 Thursday, September 13 Network Over Coffee Healthcare Reform Seminar 8:30-9:30 a.m. – Loretta’s Country Kitchen 8:30-11:00 a.m. – Georgia Mountains 4305 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood Center Theatre & Lobby Wednesday, September 26 Friday, September 14 Georgia Chamber Webinar Economic Development Council Creating a Culture of Service Excellence 7:30 a.m. – Chamber 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Chamber Friday, September 14 Business Before Hours 7:30-9:00 a.m. – Summer's Landing at Limestone in Gainesville

Thursday, September 27 Chamber Board of Directors and Georgia Chamber Power Luncheon 12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Wednesday, September 19 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Friday, September 28 Environmental/Health/Safety Committee 8:30 a.m. - Chamber

Wednesday, September 19 NEW! Lunch 'n Learn Presented by Matt Dubnik, Full Media 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Recess Southern Gastro Pub in Downtown Gainesville

Get details and make reservations for these and other Chamber events online at greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, September 25 Road Atlanta 8:00-8:15 a.m. Networking • 8:15-9:00 a.m. Program $5 Members • $15 Non-members Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN AM/FM Radio Come hear an update on the exciting 15th Annual Petit Le Mans (October 17-20) and the Skip Barber Racing School that recently located its headquarters to Road Atlanta.

Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Make reservations for this event and others online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business Before Hours Friday, September 14 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Summer's Landing at Limestone Senior and Memory Care Community 2030 Winward Lane in Gainesville (off Limestone Parkway) No Charge • Complimentary Breakfast Join us for this special morning networking event and delicious breakfast at one of Gainesville’s newest assisted living communities, located just off Limestone Parkway, with assisted living apartments as well as long-term, Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business After Hours Thursday, September 20 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members Join us for a Reception with delicious hor d’oeurves at the Jacobs Building at Brenau from 5pm-6pm followed by a Wine Reception & Tour at the Northeast Georgia History Center from 6pm-7pm. Grand Prize Drawing & Membership Campaign Announcements at the Wine Reception. Don't miss great networking, food and drink, and great doorprizes! Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. mwiley@ghcc.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

Reason #2: Our Physicians We opened our state-of-the-art Ronnie Green Heart Center 10 years ago. As we look back at a decade of healing hearts at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), there are many reasons to celebrate. Reasons, like the more than 80 cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists and other physician specialists affiliated

RONNIE GREEN THE

HEART CENTER

with our Heart & Vascular Services who save lives every day.

Many of our physicians have trained at the nation’s most prestigious cardiac programs including Harvard University, Columbia University and the Mayo Clinic. Their work is reflected in NGMC being named Georgia’s #1 heart hospital and top 5% in the nation for cardiac care for seven years in a row (2006 – 2012, HealthGrades®).

See the list of reasons we’re celebrating, share your own reason and learn more about heart services at NGMC by visiting

nghs.com/10reasons

Gainesville | 770-219-3840

Member of the Month 4 columns 10x10

Member of the Month 4 columns 10x10

Member Announcements September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• The Hall County Sheriff's Office was recognized by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, placing 2nd in the nation among offices of comparable size–the third time the organization has been recognized. Hall County announced Srikanth Yamala new Planning Director and Bill Moats joins Hall County as Human Resources Director. hallcounty.org • The Quinlan Visual Arts Center's Mary Ann Klimek Pottery Classes are Thursdays, Sept 6 - Oct 25, 7-9 p.m. Learn how to use a pottery wheel or basics of hand building. Ages 16+. quinlanartscenter.org • The Chamber's 2012-2013 Wage & Benefit Report assists companies in staying competitive in compensation and benefit practices. The report includes 52 employers (63% manufacturers; 37% non-manufacturing) with 71 job summaries and benefit and pay practice sections. $30 Chamber members; $50 non-members.

Shelley Davis, VP Existing Industry, 770532-6206 x 108. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com • Leadership Sponsor Opportunities: Consider sponsoring transportation for the Leadership Hall class, $900, or a meal for Youth Leadership Hall, $300. Includes recognition in the Chamber’s newsletter; signage on bus/restaurant; logo on Leadership materials; opportunity to participate in program. Details: Dana Miller, 770-5326206. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

• WomenSource's Power of the Purse & Vendor Marketplace is Tuesday, September 11 and will be a great opportunity for small businesses to get the word out about their products. For booth information, call Laura Haynes, 770-503-9060. Email: laura@womensource.info • The Fockele Garden Company acquired KMA Gardens, an Atlanta-based landscape design, build, and maintain company. Founded in 1995, KMA Gardens specializes in residential landscapes with a focus on environmental sustainability. fockelegardencompany.com • The Chamber's NEW Lunch ‘n Learn meetings are the third Wednesday of the month, 11:45 am - 1:00 pm, at Recess Southern Gastro Pub in Downtown Gainesville. Includes a short program and time for professional networking. Next meeting is September 19, program by Matt Dubnik, Full Media. Entry fee is $5.

Reservations: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. ktate@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com • Terry Evans, president and CEO of Independence Bank in Braselton, and Mary Neuman, Mulberry Walk Center of Braselton, were elected to the board of the Braselton LifePath Community Improvement District, a program to design and construct pathways connecting neighborhoods to local commercial districts in Braselton. braseltonlifepath.com

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• North Hall Park, a 123-acre park located at 4175 Nopone Road includes four baseball fields, track, walking trails, field, and a children's play area. A grand opening is planned for November. The Community and Technology Center will include basketball courts, a fitness center, indoor track, community/event rooms, showers/lockers, computer lab, coffee shop hallcounty.org • Brent Hoffman of Prudential Georgia Realty announces the lease of the former Rick Pruett's Automotive facility on Mundy Mill Road to Kauffman Tire. Kauffman Tire is well known for automotive and tire service for the last 75 years, and this is Kauffman's first Hall County location.

• Bradley Nurkin is the new President of Northeast Georgia Medical Center.

Nurkin most recently served as President/ CEO of Johnson City Medical Center in Tennessee and oversaw operations of a 501-bed Level I Trauma Center and teaching hospital. nghs.com

• Trey Wood of Turner Wood & Smith Insurance was selected to serve on the Young Agents of Georgia Board of Directors of the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia. Trey joined Turner Wood & Smith in 2008 and is the third generation member of the Wood family to serve the company. twsinsurance.com • Northeast Georgia Heart Center announced that the first patient in Georgia was implanted with the Fortify® ST cardioverter defibrillator device by Joon Ahn, MD at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC). "The cutting edge trial is an extraordinary opportunity to make a vitally important contribution to medical science that may ultimately lead to saving patients’ lives," said Ahn. NGMC is rated Georgia’s #1 heart hospital for the seventh consecutive year. ngheartcenter.com

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Thank You Chamber Sponsors AT&T • Brenau University • Budget Carpet • Charter Business • Crystal Springs Gainesville Civic Center • Gainesville Paint • Highland Mountain Beverage Jacobs Media • Lake Lanier Islands Resort • McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda NEGA Health System • NEGA History Center • Red Clay Interactive Rushton & Company • Summer's Landing • Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Turnstile Deli • WDUN AM-FM Radio

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Antebellum Restaurant SI Communications

Resia McFarland cuts ribbon for BabyCakes Mini Cupcake Bakery. Open for lunch Monday-Friday from 11-3, Chef Taylor makes a daily variety of fresh baked breads for sandwiches and made-from-scratch chicken salads and soups. The BabyCakes mini cupcakes are always baked fresh and all natural with no dyes or preservatives and gluten free on Thursdays!

They are also a full service florist with award winning floral designers with 33 years experience.

On site beautiful rental room and gardens, perfect for meetings, showers, weddings and receptions. 3575 McEver Road, Gainesville GA 30501. 770-536-7306. babycakesminicupcakebakery.net

Ribbon Cuttings

Nicholas and Alison St. Clair cut ribbon at Antebellum Restaurant and invite you to indulge in contemporary Southern cuisine. Come experience Antebellum, where gracious service, a comforting atmosphere and fantastic food meet. The restaurant is located in the Historic District of Flowery Branch. Antebellum is the perfect place to go for a night on the town or to bring your family in for a delicious Sunday Brunch. Antebellum Restaurant, 5510 Church Street, Flowery Branch GA 30542. 770-965-8100. antebellumrestaurant.com

Bob Muggleworth (Sony), Jason Ball (Motorola), Anis Ali, Zeeshan Nagjee, Josh Lewallen, Shabaz Gillani, Samir Virani and Amelita Sims cut ribbon for SI Communications, a neighborhood AT&T Authorized Retailer, locally owned and operated. The company's mission is to ensure that they provide the BEST customer service while ensuring the best products in the industry. They provide AT&T cellular service, U-Verse, Home Solutions, Home Phone, DSL, and Direct TV. AT&T offers discounts based on place of employment. Visit for details: SI Communications, 4009 Winder Highway, Suite 265, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-989-0280. sicommunications.com

BabyCakes Bakery

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September 4, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

WHEN THEY’RE ENTERTAINED!

11

Ribbon Cuttings September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

12

@WORK Personnel

Flowery Branch Chiropractic

Pamela Williams, Chelsea Luttrell (with scissors), and Claudia Madera cut ribbon for @WORK Personnel Services. For over a decade, @WORK Personnel Services has built upon its core foundation of meeting and exceeding the needs and expectations of people seeking employment opportunities as well as clients seeking a full service partner to assist with their company's staffing needs. By providing temporary, temp-to-hire, payrolling and full time placement services, @WORK Personnel Services is committed to offering flexible employment solutions and the highest level of service available today. 935 Interstate Ridge Drive, Suite B, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-531-3200. atworkpersonnel.com

Flowery Branch Chiropractic is a full service practice offering quality chiropractic, physiological therapeutics, nutrition and supplement consultation, and massage therapy. Drs. Chris and Tanya Turner have over 30 years of experience in successfully addressing spinal and other musculoskeletal issues, striving to help patients achieve complete wellness through chiropractic care and education on the components of health. They offer speakers and classes for businesses, such as in-services and lunch and learn sessions on a wide variety of health topics. Flowery Branch Chiropractic, 4875 Hog Mountain Road, Suite D, Flowery Branch GA 30542. 770-967-1900. flowerybranchchiro.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

S&L Pawn

Laura and Scott Taylor cut ribbon at S&L Pawn Shop in Clermont. S&L Pawn Shop offers merchandise, watch and clock repair with an independent jeweler on staff on Mondays. The shop has a large selection of new and used items, watches, hand-crafted, one-of-akind jewelry, clocks and watch batteries for $3! Open seven days a week. S&L Pawn, 5308 Cleveland Highway, Clermont, GA 30527. 770-983-2200.

Interested in a Ribbon Cutting for your company? Call Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. Email: ktate@ghcc.com

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

Welcome New Members

Anderson Advisors Gary Anderson 405 Broad Street, SE Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-0333 -Financial Advisor gary-anderson.com

Raymond James/Morgan Keegan - Elisabeth Baldwin 303 Jesse Jewell Parkway Suite 300 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-2212 -Financial Advisor morgankeegan.com Gainesville Windustrial Co. Tim Davis 2126 Hilton Drive, SW Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-3502 -Retail / Industrial

Breakfield & Associates David Purvis 539 Green Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 783-5296 -Attorney at Law gainesvillegalawyers.com

Hobbs Sporting Goods of Gainesville Nate Miller 1062 Thompson Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4622 -Retail / Sporting Goods

Bucket O' Shrimp Caylor Young 272 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4350 -Restaurant & Catering

J Kevin Tharpe, Attorney 405 Broad Street, SE Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 503-1022 -Attorney at Law tharpelaw.net

Carroll Burnette 682 Tommy Aaron Drive Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 297-8962 -Individual Member

Norton Insurance Andrea Brock 434 Green Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 718-5253 -Insurance Agent nortoninsurance.com

Country Inn & Suites Brittany Thomas 924 Hwy 124 Braselton, GA 30517 (770) 868-5419 -Hotel countryinns.com/braseltonga

Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. (3 Stores) #232 – 1450 McEver Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 534-1920

Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. # 597 – 2410 Cornelia Hwy Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-3659 Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. #621 – 3980 Mundy Mill Rd Oakwood, GA 30566 (770) 297-7378 -Convenience Stores racetrac.com Superior Document Solutions Rory Edlin 1925 Breckinridge Plaza Suite 160 Duluth, GA 30096 (770) 446-5325 -Business Services superiordocumentsolutions.com The Simpson Company Brian Hughs 425 Spring Street Suite 200 Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 316-4445 -Commercial Real Estate simpsoncompany.com United Methodist Children's Home Sondra Rogers 604 Washington Street Suite 146 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-3063 -Non-Profit umchildrenshome.org

The Greater Hall Chamber is hosting Georgia Chamber's monthly webinar series on topics that are pertinent to small businesses. The one-hour virtual lunch webinars provide the opportunity to take advantage of the Georgia Chamber’s educational resources. The upcoming Webinar: Creating a Culture of Service Excellence is Wednesday, September 26, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at the Greater Hall Chamber. This webinar is based on Theo Gilbert-Jamison’s popular leadership book, The Six Principles of Service Excellence. She will reveal common gaps that prevent leaders from maximizing employee performance to positively impact organizational culture, customer loyalty, and bottom-line results with innovative tips, best practices, and lessons learned through Theo’s affiliation with The RitzCarlton and other leading brands renowned for sustaining customer satisfaction. $15 for Chamber Members; $25 non-members. Includes lunch. Reservations: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. jean@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

2 columns 4.4167 x10

September 4, 2012 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

New Webinar Series

1/2 Page Ad

Welcome New Members

All Catered Events David Owen 3820 Mundy Mill Road Oakwood, GA 30566 (706) 781-8597 -Catering allcateredevents.com

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Key Economic Indicators

September 4, 2012 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

Light Sources, Inc. Photography

Art & Music Festival Downtown

The 9th Annual Art In The Square Festival is September 15 & 16 at Gainesville’s Downtown Square with over 120 professional artists and live demonstrations including plein air painting, raku pottery firings, and drum making. Artists will exhibit original paintings, pottery, folk art, birdhouses, jewelry, stain glass, arts and crafts for kids, and more. Entertainment with guitar music by Wayde Powell, belly dancing special performances on the John Jarrard Songwriter’s Stage, and INK's Youth Artist Market. There will also be great food from local restaurants. The 11th Annual John Jarrard & Friends Concert will be held in conjunction with the festival with a FREE concert Friday, September 14 on the Square with Riverstreet and singer/songwriter Jeffery Steele.

"VISION 2030 recognizes this as a great collaboration of efforts," said VISION 2030 Executive Director Meg Nivens. Art Festival: Anne Brodie Hill, 770-886-6126. artinthesquarega.com. Concert: Jody Jackson, 770-710-9191. johnjarrardfoundation.com

Chamber Staff Spotlight

Originally from Dalton Georgia, Dana Miller is a graduate of Brenau University where she earned her undergraduate degree in Mass Communications. Prior to joining the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce as Vice President of Education in 2008, Dana served as Marketing Director for Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) for three years. Dana’s duties for the Education Division include managing Leadership Hall County, Youth Leadership Hall, the Youth Apprentice Program and Partners in Education. In addition, she works closely with Dana Fowler Miller Center Point Mentoring program and Junior Achievement.

VP, Education She serves on the Board of Directors for Boys and Girls Club Greater Hall Chamber of Hall County and the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia and volunteers for several other community programs. Dana is a Certified Memphis BBQ network and Kansas City BBQ judge volunteering for BBQ events at Brenau University and across the state.

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

10 8

Latest

July 2012

7.5 Previous Month

12-Month High

July 2011

6

8.9%

4

June 2012

6.9

2

One Year Ago

July 2011

J

8.6

A

S

O

N D

J

F M

2011

A M

J

J

Gainesville City

8.4

Cherokee Dawson

7.5 8.3

Forsyth

7.1

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

8.3 9.1 8.2 9.6

U.S.

8.2

2012 Updated 8/28

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 236,298,464 2 columns 228,963,688 243,463,210 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest July 2012

Previous Month

One Year Ago

June 2012

July 2011

$

$

100’s millions of dollars

Light Sources Photographic Illustration is celebrating its 31st year as Northeast Georgia’s leading commercial, advertising and aerial photographers.

Owned and operated by Larry Griffeth and Robb Maag, the firm’s work has played a significant role in the marketing and growth of companies throughout the region. Specializing in product, architectural, advertising, public relations, food, corporate and aerial photography, Light Sources’ Small Business of the Month Award Recipients Larry studio has been a part of Griffeth and Robb Maag of Light Sources, Inc. the downtown Gainesville business community since 1981. Their client list includes advertising agencies, electric membership corporations, financial institutions, real estate firms, as well as poultry, agricultural and food industries. A portfolio of their work can be viewed on the web at www.lsiphoto.com or on Facebook. Light Sources, Inc. is located in the Turner Wood & Smith Insurance building at 100 Brenau Avenue, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-534-3361. lsiphoto.com

Percent

Community Development

Small Business of the Month

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.

S

O

N

D

J

F

M

2011

A

M

J

J

2012

Updated 8/28

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

July 27 Previous Month

2011 Total

One Year Ago

June 2012

July 2011

180

21

21

136

2012 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

July 2012 6 1 89 146 6

July 2011 4 2 45 111 2

June 2012 5 4 99 137 3

Total 2011 25 34 555 1,099 22

2012 YTD 22 10 364 713 12

Avg Total Price 2012

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home July 2012

Avg Price

July 2011

Avg Price

June 2012

Avg Price

Total 2011

City

24

178,883

17

120,544

16

155,333

180

132,902

94

166,706

North

40

214,558

35

206,274

34

151,371

384

203,902

193

194,266

East

22

64,070

23

60,983

17

70,302

238

79,629

113

61,158

South

16

136,943

23

114,575

27

202,832

296

131,000

123

144,966

West

43

200,238

57

196,025

45

176,246

558

182,192

278

199,847

Area

Updated 8/28

Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call: Tommy Howard 770-718-5204

The Norton Agency thoward@nortonnorthga.com

The Power To Perform

congratulations to Hall County’s Own

Automotive News

BEst DEalErsHiPs

TO WORK FOR 2012 ONLY Recipient in State of Georgia

Top 100 of 20,600 Dealers in U.S. and Canada A Trustworthy Dealer • With Loyal Employees • Delivering Dedicated Customer Service

2350 Browns Bridge Road • Gainesville, GA 30504 • 770-532-4355

Miltonmartintoyota.com

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber Events Small Business Marketing Tuesday, September 11 Workshop Tuesday, February Small Business Success14 Seminar Marketing Trends Financing for Small Businesses Presented by Gordon Sawyer 7:45 a.m.

- 9:00a.m. a.m.

8:00 - 10:00 – The Oaks at Lanier Tech MDCCareer at Featherbone Lanier Charter Academy Communiversity Business After Hours Thursday, February 16 Thursday, September 13 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Healthcare Reform Seminar Luna's Restaurant 8:30 a.m. -200 11:00 Maina.m.

Street Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville Georgia Mountains Center

Day Celebration Friday,Arbor September 14 Friday, February Business Before Hours17 10:00 a.m.

7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Frances Meadows Center Summer's Landing in Gainesville Safe & Green Regional Assembly

Friday, February Thursday, September 2024 8:00After a.m. Hours - 12:00 p.m.

Business Georgia Mountains Center Brenau University & Northeast Georgia Center Forum AnnualHistory Transportation 5:00-6:00 p.m. – Jacobs Wednesday, MarchBuilding 14 11:30 a.m.

- 1:00 p.m.

6:00-7:00 p.m.

– History Center Gainesville State College

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

Job Fair and Career Tuesday, September 25 Expo Wednesday, March 28 South Hall Business Coalition 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Road Atlanta, Petit Le Mans and Georgia Mountains Center Skip Barber School of Racing 8:00Get a.m.

- 9:00& a.m.

– Road Atlanta Details Register Online:

CAR-RT SORT

greaterhallchamber.com

Wednesday, September 26 Georgia Chamber Webinar Creating a Culture of Customer Service Excellence 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber

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