Business Link October 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 Existing Industry of the Month page 4 Small Business of the Month page 5 Upcoming Events page 6 Member Announcements page 10 Ribbon Cuttings page 12 New Members page 13 Partners in Education page 15

HealthSmart Expo offers the public free health screenings You'll not want to miss the FREE health screenings as part of the Greater HealthSmart Hall Chamber's 5th Annual HealthSmart Expo on October 12 at the Geor-

Breakfast

gia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville. There is no entry fee and screenings will be open to the public from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

October 12

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.

Wednesday

Georgia Mountains Center Downtown Gainesville

7:30 - 9:00 a.m.

Featuring

America's Fitness Coach®

Dave Hubbard $10 Chamber Members $15 Non-members Reservations: 770-532-6206 Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Dave Hubbard America’s Fitness Coach®

Dave Hubbard, coach and motivational speaker, author and former NFL Player, will be guest speaker at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast on Wednesday, October 12 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center.

Dave has been a health and fitness speaker for over 30 years and has spoken to hundreds of Fortune 500 and Fortune 100 companies. Dave’s books include "BAD CHUTE, Why most Americans fail with fitness" and "Fat to Fit in only 10 minutes a day." The Chamber's Most Fit Company Awards will also be presented at the Breakfast. $10 Greater Hall Chamber members; $15 non-members. HealthSmart Expo Info and Breakfast Reservations: 770-5326206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Wellness Expo Open to the Public!

5th Annual HealthSmart Expo Wednesday, October 12

Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville • 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

FREE Health Screenings • NO Admission Fee

Save the Date Tuesday, October 11 Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, October 18 South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, October 25 Business After Hours

OCTOBER 2011

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

A Healthy Community Makes a Healthy Local Economy The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce VISION 2030 program identified healthcare as a significant issue in planning for the future of Gainesville-Hall County. Specifically, this statement was composed as one of the major VISION 2030 initiatives: Gainesville-Hall County is a model for providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to its residents. An important part of this initiative is an innovative set of wellness programs that involve residents managing their own health.

To develop the VISION 2030 health and wellness initiative, the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce formed the Healthcare Committee in 2007. The committee includes representatives from Northeast Georgia Jay Jacobs Health System, physician groups and health-related organizations. The Jacobs Media Corporation group oversees a set of community-wide programs and events and meets Chairman, Greater Hall monthly to discuss access to healthcare, wellness programs and benefits, Chamber of Commerce healthcare services, legislative issues, health insurance and other important health and wellness topics. Through this VISION 2030 Initiative – HealthSmart – was born.

HealthSmart programs seek to increase the community's capacity to achieve positive change in health and wellness through specific programs, education, communication, and information.

HealthSmart aims to improve the environmental, social, and economic conditions that contribute to poor health, and support a quality of life that promotes the health and well-being of all GainesvilleHall County residents, with special attention to those under served.

Now in its fifth year, the Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo on Wednesday, October 12 will features some 70 booth exhibits providing interactive wellness services. The event is 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center and is free and open to the public. The Expo focuses on community health and wellness and continues to be one of VISION 2030’s most successful initiatives.

Dozens of services are provided at the Expo including free health screenings.

October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Also part of the VISION 2030 HealthSmart Community Challenge is the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce “Most Fit Company Award.” The Chamber’s Healthcare Committee initiated this program to raise company wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in our community. The awards will be presented at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast also on Wednesday, October 12 at the Georgia Mountains Center from 7:30-9:00 a.m.

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Be sure to attend these two important events on October 12. We know that a healthy community creates a healthy economy. HealthSmart is one initiative that does just that.

Greater Hall Chamber News & Events • mark your calendar for the Business Before Hours on Friday, November 4 from 7:30-9:00 a.m. at Delta Community Credit union at the Village shoppes at Gainesville, 891 Dawsonville Highway. Holiday Business After Hours & Main Street Gainesville's Downtown Open House is Thursday, November 17 on the Gainesville square from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast, a pre-legislative forum, is Thursday, December 8 at 7:30 a.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center. Details: Joy sims, 770-532-6206. email: jsims@ghcc.com. Get all the details on these and other events online: greaterhallchamber.com • Georgia Trend magazine's October issue features a section on Gainesville-Hall County. Copies available at the Chamber Welcome Center. The new Community Magazine is also available. Details: Robin Halstead, Welcome Center manager, 770-532-6206. email: rhalstead@ghcc.com.

• Chamber Board of Directors luncheon meetings are now open to Chamber members. The monthly meetings review division reports and feature a guest speaker, usually on a timely topic or issue facing GainesvilleHall County. learn about the inner workings of the Chamber, network with Chamber leadership, get involved!

The upcoming meeting is Thursday, October 27 at 12 noon at Eagle Ranch in Chestnut Mountain. Reservations required. space limited. Cost $12. Reservations: Joy sims, 770-532-6206. email: jsims@ghcc.com

Business Link VOlume 17 Issue 10 mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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

Vice Chair, Government Affairs Chair, VISION 2030 lee Hemmer Kelly miles, Smith, Gilliam, 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

Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin BB&T

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 Council

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

Ruth Bruner, Mayor, City of Gainesville

Terry Roberts, Lake Lanier CVB

Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

Bob Coleman, Coleman & Chambers

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

lance Compton, Red Clay Interactive

Joyce stephens, United Community Bank

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Dennis stockton, The Times

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

Greg Vitek, IMS Gear

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic

Tommy Howard, The Norton Agency

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, North Georgia College & SU

Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Materials

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

Kelly lee, Wells Fargo Advisors

Associate Directors 2011-2012 Julie Nicholson, Community Bank & Trust

Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness Jimmy Hernandez, Milton Martin Toyota

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

Jody Nelson, Georgia Power

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 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

October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

Wilheit named Volunteer of Year

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The Georgia Economic Development Association (GEDA), the state's leading organization dedicated to enhancing Georgia's economic vitality, named Philip Wilheit Volunteer of the Year. The award recognizes an economic development volunteer for outstanding service to the state and the community. One statewide recipient is selected annually by the Board of Directors and Wilheit's award was presented at the association's conference in September.

Philip has served as a member of the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority for 30 years and as chairman for the last 15 years. He is a founding Philip Wilheit member of the Gainesville and Hall County EconomWilheit Packaging ic Development Council and was directly involved in Chairman, Gainesville-Hall County Development Authority recruiting businesses and thousands of jobs to Hall County and Georgia, including Kubota, the Atlanta Falcons Headquarters and Training Camp, ZF Industries, IMS Gear, ATEX, Elan Drug Technologies, and most recently, ZF Wind Power, American Yazaki Corporation and King’s Hawaiian Bakery.

As the Chairman of the Authority, Philip has also been a leader in the development of many industrial parks in Gainesville-Hall County, most recently assisting in a public-private partnership between the City of Gainesville, Hall County and Pattillo Construction to develop a new 175-acre park, Gainesville Business Park, now home to ZF Wind Power.

Philip served on the board of the Georgia Department of Economic Development under Governor Sonny Perdue, on the board for the Georgia Department of Education under Governor Zell Miller, and he was Governor Nathan Deal’s first appointment to the Board of Regents. Philip is a past Chairman of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, and United Way of Hall County. He is a past President of the Gainesville Rotary Club and the Gainesville Jaycees. He has served as Chairman of the board for the top-ranked Northeast Georgia Medical Center that employs 5,000 medical professionals. In addition to all his volunteerism, Philip is also a business owner with 70 employees at Wilheit Packaging in Gainesville.

Tim Evans Named GEDA Secretary-Treasurer The Georgia Economic Developers Association named Tim Evans to its 2012 Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer. Evans joins a team of economic development leaders from positions held all over Georgia as officers and directors of the organization. GEDA is a non-profit association of professionals and volunteers dedicated to enhancing Georgia’s economic vitality. GEDA provides networking and professional development resources to its members and advocates public policies to support quality economic development and job creation throughout the state. geda.org Tim Evans joined the Greater Hall Chamber as Vice President of Economic Development in 2005. Evans is Executive Director of the Gainesville-Hall Economic Development Council and also serves as the staff for the Gainesville & Hall County Development Authority. He is responsible for managing business recruitment, expansions and retention efforts by marketing and representing Gainesville-Hall County to key business decision makers in the U.S. and internationally. Prior to his current position, Evans worked with the Georgia Department of Economic Development for 11 years and was involved in marketing, project management, export assistance and business recruitment for domestic and international markets. greaterhallchamber.com

Existing Industry of the Month Wrigley Celebrates 40th Anniversary

(L-R): Mark Kempa, Wrigley People & Organization Senior Manager, Janice Bryans, a 40 year Wrigley Associate; Jim Fitzgerald, Plant Manger; Mike Miller, Mayor of Flowery Branch, at Wrigley's 40th Anniversary Celebration in Flowery Branch.

William Wrigley Jr. arrived in Chicago in the spring of 1891. He was 29 years old, had $32 in his pocket, and possessed unlimited energy and great talent as a salesman. He started out selling soap. As an extra incentive to merchants to carry Wrigley's soap, he offered them free baking powder. When baking powder proved to be more popular than soap, he switched to the baking powder business. One day, Mr. Wrigley got the idea to offer merchants free chewing gum with each can of baking powder. The rest is history.

Wrigley opened in Hall County, at I-985 and Atlanta Highway, in 1971 with 100 associates and production of Juicy Fruit, Spearmint and Doublemint gums. The 550,000-square-foot Flowery Branch factory now employs 785 associates and produces 33 flavors of stick, 10 flavors of pellet and five flavors of sugar gum.

The Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company merged with Mars, Incorporated in 2008. Mars is a family-owned company that produces some of the world's leading confectionery, food and petcare products and has growing beverage, health and nutrition businesses.

Wrigley celebrated its 40th anniversary of the Flowery Branch plant on Saturday, September 24 with approximately 970 attendees including associates, families and retirees. Janice Bryans was presented with an award for her 40 years of service.

She followed her father, who was chief of general services, into employment there.

Wrigley, a Subsidiary of Mars Incorporated, 4500 Atlanta Highway, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-5605. wrigley.com

Thank You HealthSmart Sponsors Platinum Sponsors: CIGNA, Gainesville Eye Associates, NGMT Ambulance Service, Northeast Georgia Health System, The Longstreet Clinic Breakfast Sponsor: Charter Business Gold Sponsors: Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic, Northeast Georgia Heart Center, Georgia Medport Medical Transport Silver Sponsors: McDonald's, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group, Peachtree Plantation, NEGA General Restorative & Implant Dentistry, United Healthcare, City of Gainesville Media Sponsors: Jacobs Media, The Times, Fairway Outdoor

The Syfan family, an American tradition in the transportation industry, introduces its newest business endeavor – Syfan Logistics, Inc. The 3PL asset-based logistics management company held a ribbon cutting ceremony with Governor Nathan Deal on September 27 at the company headquarters, located off I-985 at Exit 20 in Gainesville-Hall County.

A group of employees are already on site at a 48,000 square-foot, full-service truck/trailer repair center covering some 60 acres that supports the fast-growing transportation markets in Northeast Georgia with a convenient location and 24/7 support services. The facility houses a combined staff of 78 employees, hiring skilled professionals and training newcomers to the industries. Syfan Logistics provides refrigerated and dry shipping services in the U.S., Mexico and Canada with a team of 27 professionals and over 10,000 qualified carriers. Focusing on food products, company’s principals, Jim, Greg, and Steve Syfan and with their logistics team, have worked extensively within the nation’s largest food companies in the poultry, seafood, confectionery, cereal and soft drinks industries. Their vast experience also extends to the largest package delivery companies through the world as well as all expedited divisions of the major automotive manufacturers.

Jim Syfan, his wife, Gloria and their sonsstarted a transportation brokerage company in 1984 with only one paid employee. Over the next 22 years, the company grew to over 130 employees with over $100 million in revenue and became one of the largest truck and transportation brokers in the country. The Syfan family sold the company in 2006 and was awarded the Greater Hall Chamber's Community Service Award in 2009. Syfan Logistics, Inc., 2037 Old Candler Road, Gainesville GA. 770-287-8485. syfanlogistics.com

Small Business of the Month Gem Jewelry Mose Eplan located to Gainesville, opening Gem Jewelry in 1936 following the hit of one of the nation's deadliest tornados.

Mr. Eplan's daughter, Elise, married Marvin Orenstein.

After serving in defense work during WWII, Marvin and Gem Jewelry's Marvin Orenstein, Temme Orenstein Schooler and Elise returned to Linda Orenstein were named Greater Hall Chamber Small Business Gainesville to take of the Month Recipients. over the business in 1944 after Mr. Eplans death. As Marvin and Elise’s daughters, Linda Orenstein and Temme Orenstein Schooler, completed college, they joined their parents in running Gem Jewelry, the business their grandfather began 75 years ago on the Square in Downtown Gainesville. In 1946, Marvin began the "Most Valuable Football Player Award" in Mose’s memory, as he was a dedicated supporter of Gainesville High athletics. Marvin and Dr. John Jacobs, Sr. would travel to the University of Georgia and Georgia Tech to beg for their used sports equipment! The MVP Award now includes all Gainesville-Hall County schools, and each winner is presented a topof-the-line Bulova watch. For 65 years, the most outstanding athletes from our area have won this award. Many have gone on to play at the collegiate and professional level, and more importantly, are among the most outstanding citizens of our area.

Gem Jewelry, 111 Bradford Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-532-6305.

Wednesday

– October 12 –

Economic Development

Syfan Family Continues Tradition in Transportation

Georgia Mountains Center

FREE Health Screenings & Wellness Expo Dozens of Wellness Exhibits • No Admission Fee • Open to the Public

HealthSmart Breakfast

2011 Most Fit Company Awards Presentation HealthSmart Breakfast, sponsored by Charter Business, features motivational, health and fitness speaker Dave Hubbard, "America's Fitness Coach," a former NFL Player and author of "Fat to Fit in Only 10 Minutes a Day!" $10 Members; $15 Non-members. For breakfast reservations or exhibitor information, contact Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206.

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

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

October 4, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Breakfast 7:30 am- 9:00 am Expo 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

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Meetings & Events

October 2011 Wednesday, October 5 Healthcare Committee Benefits of an Employee Wellness Program

by Holmes Marchman, MD, and Jullie King, The Longstreet Clinic, 8:00 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, October 5 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Friday, October 7 New Member Breakfast 8:00 a.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center Tuesday, October 11 Small Business Success Seminar Benefits of an Employee Wellness Program 7:45 a.m -9:00 a.m. - Chamber Tuesday, October 11 Youth Leadership Hall Team B Lake Lanier/Tourism Program 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club Tuesday, October 11 Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. – Scott's on the Square Wednesday, October 12 5th Annual HealthSmart Expo 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Wellness Expo Georgia Mountains Center

October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Wednesday, October 12 Beautification Committee 10 a.m. – Elachee Nature Science Center

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Thursday, October 13 Leadership Hall County Economic Development Program 8:00 a.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center Friday, October 14 Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, October 18 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Atlanta Falcons Football Complex in Flowery Branch Tuesday, October 18 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Wednesday, October 19 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - Chamber Wednesday, October 19 Leads Group 11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli Thursday, October 20 Greater Hall Chamber Executive Committee 11:30 a.m. – Chamber Friday, October 21 Environmental Health & Safety 8:30 a.m. – American Security Shredding Tour & Best Practices Discussion Tuesday, October 25 Business After Hours 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. – New Regions Branch (Note: Held Tuesday NOT Thursday) Wednesday, October 26 Network Over Coffee 8:30-9:30 a.m. – Pud's Place Restaurant Thursday, October 27 Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. – Eagle Ranch Get all the details on these and other Greater Hall Chamber events online: greaterhallchamber.com

Chamber Events Friday, November 4: Business Before Hours 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Sponsored by Delta Community Credit Union Tuesday, November 15: Annual Farm City Breakfast 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. – East Hall Community Center – Breakfast sponsored by JEMC Thursday, November 17: Holiday Business After Hours & Downtown Open House 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. – Gainesville Square – Sponsored by Main Street Gainesville Thursday, December 8: Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast 7:30 a.m. – Gainesville Civic Center – Sponsored by Jackson EMC

Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, October 11 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

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

Benefits of an Employee Wellness Program Learn how to achieve a return on company wellness initiatives and how to develop an effective wellness strategy for both large and small businesses. Jullie King, MBA, SPHR, Director of Community Development & Human Resources for The Longstreet Clinic, P.C., will help employers define realistic, tangible goals and give incentive tips for employees to become healthier. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com

HealthSmart Expo 2011 Wednesday, October 12 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Wellness Expo Georgia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville Breakfast: $10 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members Wellness Expo: FREE and Open to the Public Sponsorship opportunities and exhibit space available for the Chamber's 5th Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo. Breakfast will feature former NFL player and motivational speaker Dave Hubbard and presentation of the 2011 Most Fit Company Awards. Free health screenings at the Expo. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, October 18 8:00-8:15 a.m. Networking • 8:15-9:00 a.m. Program Atlanta Falcons Football Complex in Flowery Branch $5 Members • $15 Non-members • Includes Breakfast Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN Radio

2011 Atlanta Falcons Update Reservations Required. Space Limited.

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

Business After Hours Tuesday, October 25 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. (Note this is Tuesday!)

Sponsored by Regions Bank New Regions Main Branch on E.E. Butler Parkway $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Cash Pot Prize!

Regions Bank recently opened a new, 7,000-square-foot main branch on the corner of Washington Street and E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. David Abee is Regions Market President of the prototype branch that features a drive-thru window and an ATM area with access from Washington Street and Brenau Avenue. regions.com Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com

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Member Announcements October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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• Belk completed a 8,500 square foot expansion/remodeling of its ladies shoe department at Lakeshore Mall in Gainesville.

The $1 million project created a new fashion jewelry and handbags areas. Belk has served the community since 1934, opening its first store at Colonial Mall/Lakeshore in 1973. Elizabeth Davis, a Belk Gainesville sales associate, was named a winner of the 2011 Belk Award of Excellence and recognized for her for outstanding community achievements and spirit of giving. belk.com • Ron Simmons, area director of the Gainesville office of the Georgia Small Business Development Center, was named Consultant of the Year for Georgia by his peers and selected a Star Performer by the National Association of SBDC. The SBDC's 3rd Annual Women in Business Conference is October 14, 8:00 am-3:30 pm, at Featherbone Communiversity in Gainesville. $39 per person; includes lunch. Registration required. The oneday, multi-track conference provides skill enhancement and networking opportunities for women business owners. Sponsored

by Wells Fargo Bank and the Gainesville State College SIFE TEAM. Register online at georgiasbdc.org or call 770-531-5681.

• North Georgia College & State University (NGCSU) is ranked 18th among the South’s public regional universities in the 2012 edition of Best Colleges by U.S. News Media Group. The university and its Mike Cottrell School of Business continue the speaker series with Michael Higley of Fedex on Thursday, October 13, 12:451:45 pm, at the 2nd floor auditorium in the Health & Natural Sciences Building, 159 Sunset Drive in Dahlonega. John Trautwein of Source Support Services speaks on October 20. Details: Max Burns, 706-8641610. Email: mburns@northgeorgia.edu.

• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County is serving 150 young people at the Joseph F. Walters Club and recently opened a new library and reading center sponsored by the United Way of Hall County's J. Cleon Nalley Educational Fund and Gainesville First United Methodist Church's Great Day of Service. boysgirlsclubs.com • The Northeast Georgia Speech Center's Spokes for Speech is October 8. The Bike Ride fundraiser starts at 8:00 am and offers 20/40/60 mile routes beginning and ending at North Hall High School on Mt. Vernon Road in Gainesville. 770-534-5141. Register online at negaspeechcenter.org • Debra Lang and Jeanne Hoag of Village Nursing Care announce accreditation

by CARF International, an accreditor of health and human services agencies. Village Nursing is an entity of ACTS RetirementLife Communities, owner of Lanier Village Estates, and offers many services including personal support services for several Medicaid Waiver programs, in-home personal care, nursing supervision, meal preparation and errands. villagenursingcare.com

• The Greater Hall Chamber Beautification Committee is sponsoring an Art Contest for all 3rd graders and Essay Contest for all 5th graders in Gainesville-Hall County.

The topic is “My Favorite Tree & What it Needs to Grow!” and art/essays are due to the Chamber by December 2. Winners announced at the Arbor Day Celebration on February 17, 2012. Robin Halstead, 770532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com.

• For the 2nd year in a row, Mansfield Oil Company was named by CIO magazine to its annual CIO 100 list, the top 100 companies that are using information technology in innovative ways to add value to their organizations. mansfieldoil.com • Hall County placed 10th in the nation for the 150,000-249,999 population category in the annual Digital Counties Survey.

This survey identifies the best examples of counties using technology to communicate with residents, reduce operations costs and enhance service delivery. Residents have two new ways to interact with their local government: a monthly e-newsletter and its first Citizens’ Government Academy in the spring. 770-297-5504. hallcounty.org • Profile your company in the Chamber Welcome Center! The Information and Resource Display located in the Welcome Center at the Greater Hall Chamber’s office offers a great way to get your business noticed. Spaces limited. Details: 770-2252843 or online at touchhall.com • M3 Hotel Accounting, the Gainesvillebased industry leader in hotel-specific accounting software announces Scott Watson new Vice President of Sales. Watson has over 26 years of sales and management experience in the financial software industry, most recently as national sales manager at Reich & Tang. M3 currently provides internet-based accounting and payroll services to over 2,700 hotels across the country. hotelaccounting.com • Join INK (Interactive Neighborhood for Kids) on the second Tuesday of the month for "Target $2 Day" from 2pm-7pm. INK is partnering with Target to bring fun days for the whole family throughout the year. The second Tuesday of each month during the school year from 2-7 pm is $2 per person.

Next date is October 11. inkfun.org • The Central Avenue Cafe, 582 Central Avenue in Gainesville, is open 24/7 and offers free delivery. The "$100 Burger Challenge" offers $100 cash for eating a 4 pound burger in 20 minutes! 770-287-5690.

• The City of Lula is having a "city wide" picnic with hot dogs and hamburgers in celebration of Rafe Banks walking park re-opening on Saturday, October 15 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Details: City Clerk Rosemary Totty, 770-869-3801. Email: lulacity@bellsouth.net • The 25th Annual Gainesville State College Alumni Golf Open is Friday, October 14 at Chattahoochee Golf Club with a shotgun start at 9 am. The event is

an important fund raising opportunity and helped provide 591 student scholarships in 2010-11. Register by calling 678-717-3648 or online at gsc.edu.

• The merger of Elan Drug Technologies and Alkermes, Inc. was recently completed. The new company, Alkermes plc, is a global biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Ireland. The former Elan Drug Technologies in Gainesville now operates as Alkermes Gainesville LLC. Alkermes plc has a diversified portfolio of more than 20 commercial drug products and a substantial clinical pipeline of product candidates that address central nervous system disorders. alkermes.com • U.S. News & World Report recognized the Northeast Georgia Medical Center as one of the nation’s Best Hospitals for 2011-2012. NGMC is designated as a High Performing Hospital in eight specialties.

The report also named J. Jeffrey Marshall, MD, an interventional cardiologist with Northeast Georgia Heart Center and medical director of Cardiac Cath Labs at NGMC, one of the nation’s Top Doctors for 2011-2012. He has also been selected as one of the Best Doctors in America®

by Best Doctors, Inc., from 2003-2012.

NGMC also made this year’s InformationWeek 500, an annual listing of the nation’s most innovative users of business technology, for its electronic patient tracking board project which increased efficiency and quality of care. nghs.com • The Chamber's Farm City Breakfast is Tuesday, November 15, 7:30am at the East Hall Community Center. Guest speaker is Bryan R. Tolar, President of the Georgia

Agribusiness Council, the State's trade association for the entire food and fiber industry. Breakfast is sponsored by Jackson EMC. Details: Robin Halstead, 770-5326206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com • United Way of Hall County launched its 64th Annual Campaign with 2011 Campaign Chair Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction, announcing this year's $1.8 million goal. unitedwayhallcounty.org • Homecoming at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center is Saturday, October 22. Tailgating begins at 12:30 p.m. with BBQ, raffle and prizes! Donate your under appreciated art and antiques from your basement, attics and closets and we will find them a good home! Donations are tax deductible and will be accepted October 10 - 21. $15 per person/$25 a couple. quinlanartscenter.org • Gainesville Civic Center announces Monday-Thursday Rental Discounts.

Great pricing for business meetings, seminars and trainings. Details, call 770531-2680 or visit online at www. gainesville. org/civic-center.

• Featherbone Communiversity's Second Annual "Entrepreneurs... Masters of Innovation” is Wednesday, October 19 at 8:30 a.m. Sponsored by BB&T, the event will be held at Lanier Technical College's Manufacturing Development Center at Featherbone and encourages excellence through innovation with community recognition and appreciation of local entrepreneurs. Reservations: Lila Weaver: lweaver1@brenau.edu. 770-538-4707.

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Business After Hours

(L-R): Phil Bonelli and Jeanne Mahnke, Wells Fargo; Michelle Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber, and Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design, at the Business After Hours sponsored by Wells Fargo. Don't miss the next Business After Hours on Tuesday, October 21 (note Tuesday, not Thursday) at the new Regions main branch in Gainesville.

Beautification Committee (Front row, L-R): Greater Hall Chamber Vice Chair of Community Development Phillippa Moss, GainesvilleHall County Community Service Center; Rachel Schneider, Community Volunteer; Wanda Cannon, Hall County Master Gardeners. (Standing, L-R): Tracy Hambrick and Rick Foote, Hall County Resource/Recovery; Nancy Beckemeyer, Georgia Power; Ethan Guthrie and Mildred Pinnell, Smithgall Woodland Gardens; Dan Owen, Gainesville Public Works.

The Chamber's Healthcare Committee heard from a panel of experts on childhood obesity. (Front, L-R): Jacob Weiers, United Health Group-Hall County Schools District Care Coordinator; Hillary Savage, Hall County Schools Director for School Nutrition & Wellness; Mamie Coker, RN, Hall County Schools Health Services Coordinator; Jullie King, The Longstreet Clinic. (Back, L-R): Gordon Higgins, Hall County Schools Director of Community Relations & Athletics; Shanna Cronic, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic; Shelley Davis, Junior League of Gainesville Hall County. The October 5 meeting will feature a discussion on employee wellness programs by Holmes Marchman, MD, Medical Director, Longstreet Clinic, P.C. and Jullie King, MBA, SPHR, Director of Community Development & HR.

The Greater Hall Chamber's Beautification Committee recently gathered at Smithgall Woodland Gardens for an update from Mildred Fockele, Horticulture Director for Atlanta Botanical Gardens and Smithgall Woodland Gardens. Smithgall Woodland Garden is a 168-acre satellite garden of the Atlanta Botanical Garden in Gainesville where collections of trees and shrubs are grown and studied. Charles and Lessie Smithgall of Gainesville donated the land to the Garden in 2000. The Committee is seeking volunteers for one meeting or for the committee's year-long activities! Upcoming meetings: October 12 at Elachee Nature Science Center and November 9 at the Georgia Forestry Commission Office in Lula. Details: Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206 or email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

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October 4, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

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Community Development

Healthcare group focuses on Childhood Obesity

11

October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Ribbon Cuttings

Yonah Burger in Gainesville

12

Owner Gary Haynes, Store Manager Ron Hahne and Mayor of Gainesville Ruth Bruner cut ribbon at Yonah Burger, 1191 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville. The new restaurant opened in July, and the original store in Cleveland has been serving its "made fresh to order” meals for 40 years. Meats are fresh daily, and all combo meals include burger, fries, and a drink. Homemade buttermilk biscuits made every day and ready by 6:00 am! 770-534-1991. yonahburger.com

Kids of Covenant Childcare Pastor Jerry Leaphart cuts ribbon at Kids of Covenant Childcare and Development Center in Flowery Branch. The center is based on a quality care environment that fosters safety, health and learning through physical, cognitive, emotional and social development. The program and instructors invite a forward-focused classroom experience engaging children in growing and learning with challenging curriculum and biblical principals. Schedule a visit to see the program in action. Enroll before November 10th and receive the fourth week free. Kids of Covenant, 5818 Atlanta Highway, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-769-5327. kidsofcovenant.com

B2B CFO

Wray Russell is a partner with B2B CFO®, the largest CFO firm in the United States. It was recently named a Blue Ribbon winner by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in the 2011 Small Business of the Year category. The firm provides chief financial officer services in the following areas: banking and lending relationships, financial & strategic planning, profit improvement, cash flow projections, expense reduction, working capital improvement, gross profit optimization, timely and accurate financial statements and successful exit strategies. 404-915-8414. b2bcfo.com/partners/wrayrussell/

Cactus Car Wash

Patrick McCabe cuts ribbon at Cactus Car Wash in Gainesville. Cactus sets the highest standard of quality, comfort and customer service in fullservice car washing and detailing. The lobby has a southwestern theme for you to enjoy while catching up on current events on TV, or relaxing with a cup of cappuccino from the coffee bar. You may also explore the Internet using the courtesy Internet access while you wait. Cactus Car Wash is named as “Best Car Wash” in Atlanta by both Atlanta Magazine and Creative Loafing. Cactus Car Wash, 950 McEver Rod Extension, Gainesville, GA 30504. 678-450-7277. cactuscarwash.com

Partners in Care Pharmacy Cutting ribbon is Chuck Fulmer, pharmacist and CEO of Partners In Care Compounding Pharmacy. He is a third generation pharmacist and first in Georgia to obtain a Fellowship from the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists, with they highest in quality control standards and sanitation before and after compounding. All chemicals are scanned into the computer and finished products are quarantined until a second technician verifies the product meets formula specifications and each dosage form is consistent. Patients are assured their custom individualized medication ordered by their physician received from Partners In Care meets their needs. Partners In Care, Inc., 2551 Limestone Park, Suite 2, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-9805. picrx.com

ACT Financial Services, Inc.

Jennifer Zody, president of ACT Financial Services cuts ribbon. The Gainesville firm provides accounting, consulting and tax services to small businesses, individuals and non-profit organizations throughout Northeast Georgia. New business start-up services include accounting system selection and setup, and registration with federal and state tax agencies. ACT can fill a wide range of accounting needs, including: general ledger clean-up, on-site training, temporary write-up services, monthly reconciliations and monthly, quarterly and year-end tax services. 678-617-2054. actfsi.com

Bill Worley Plumbing Bill Worley 2427 Hiton Way Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-1882 - Plumbing Builders Floor Covering & Tile - Bryan Ahreus 1382 Buford Hwy, Suite 101 Buford, GA 30518 (770) 945-4097 - Floor Covering getnewfloorstoday.com Classic Painting Inc. Joe Long 1963 Delta Drive, Unit 200 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-0417 - Paint Contractor classicpaintinginc.com Computerized Payroll Solutions, Inc. Christy Krummert 3739 Beaver Creek Rd Gainesville, GA 30506 (678) 234-9383 - Financial/Payroll Services cpspayroll.com

CORT Robin Crick 1641 Cobb Pkwy S Marietta, GA 30060 (678) 909-0170 - Retail/Furniture Rent cort.com Edward Jones/ Kevin Clary 439 Green Street, NW Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 534-1220 edwardjones.com Gainesville Eye Assoicates Dr. Stephen J Farkas 2061 Beverly Road Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-4444 - Medical/Optometry gainesvilleeye.com

Global IT Department, LLC Sherry Ridgway 999 Chestnut Street, Suite 14 Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4193 - Information Technology globalitdepartment.com Greg Ward 2178 W Berkshire Lane Hanford, CA 93230 (559) 816-3618 - Individual Member Hall Book Exchange Myra Meade 1854 Thompson Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-6693 - Book Store hallbookexchange.com Home: Living in North Georgia Tracy Wingate 8043 Sleepy Lagoon Way Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 686-6295 - Advertising/Magazine homemagazinenorthgeorgia.com iCard Now, Inc. Sean Johnsen 2490 Hilton Drive, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-2273 - Business Service /Printing icardnow.com Kids of Covenant Childcare and Development Center Pastor Jerry Leaphart 5818 Atlanta Hwy Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 943-0292 - Childcare Services kidsofcovenant.com Lanier Dental Elizabeth Witcher, D.M.D. 819 Thompson Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 535-8900 - Dentistry lanierdental.com Laurie Scales 6100 Back Bay Cir Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 696-7329 - Individual Member lscales.myrandf.com

Line-X of Lanier Jayme Meadows 2312 Browns Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 535-2611 - Automotive Accessories line-x.com

Richard Riley 230 Dixon Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-6967 - Individual Member

Moonpie's Sporting Goods Mike Wilson 195 Pearl Nix Pkwy, Suite 2 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 538-2990 - Retail/Sporting Goods

Smokehouse BBQ & Catering, Inc. Rae Rogers 3205 Atlanta Highway Gainesville, GA 30507 (770) 536-7971 - Restaurant and Catering Smokehousebbqandcatering.com

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North Georgia Terry Humphrey 2140 Hilton Dr, Suite D Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 718-1063 - Plumbing

Super Tee's Augie Bazemore 791 Hospital Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (931) 636-6715 - T-shirt Printing idotees.com

North Georgia Pediatric Dentistry Dr. Chris Halper 2695 Old Winder Hwy Braselton, GA 30517 (770) 965-2340 - Dentistry Pediatric startlifesmiling.com

Susan Rogers Travels / Boomers & Beyond Travel Group - Susan Rogers 3146 Camp Branch Rd Buford, GA 30519 (770) 560-2411 - Travel Agent susanrogerstravels.com

Tailwaggers Mary Lawrence 2380 Murphy Blvd Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 532-1917 - Pet Boarding/Services tailwaggersga.com The Dance Company Denise Kiser 3292 Thompson Bridge Road, Box 362 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 534-9667 - Recreation thedancecompany.info TRW Automotive Carly Bohrer 5531 Rafe Court Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 965-5750 - Manufacturer trwauto.com USA Mobile Drug Testing Kathleen Hardrick 6438 Dawson Blvd, Suite D Norcross, GA 30093 (770) 715-4771 - Drug Testing USAMDT.com/NE_Georgia

The Norton Agency Sherry Myers 3747 Cochran Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 654-3232 - Real Estate sherrymyers.com O'Reilly Auto Parts Rufino Velaquez 3462 Winder Hwy Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 287-3187 - Automobile Parts/Supplies oreillyauto.com Peckerwood Farms Beth Buffington Weikel 3803 Holly Springs Road Gillsville, GA 30543 (770) 536-4795 - Agriculture Premiere Building Maintenance Co. Tom Poovey 1416 McCalla Avenue Knoxville, TN 37915 - Janitorial Services premierebuilding.com Pud's Place John Roberts 2125 Wilson Dr Gainesville, GA 30507 (678) 316-6774 - Restaurant and Catering

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5

Victoria Giesegh 2654 Westview Cir Gainesville, GA 30506 (727) 510-7843 - Individual Member Warren S. Minton, DDS 1208 Sherwood Park Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-4419 - Dentistry drwarrensminton.com (New Members as of 9/20/2011.)

To join the Greater Hall Chamber or learn about benefits, call Membership Coordinator Kara Matter, 770-532-6206. Email: kmatter@ghcc.com or visit greaterhallchamber.com and join online!

October 4, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Copia Limousine 3789 Hardy Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (404) 310-6957 - Limousine Service copialimo.com

Genevieve Sprabery 2611 Kensington Alley Gainesville, GA 30504 (228) 493-4435 - Individual Member

Welcome New Members

Affinis Hospice Roxann Bradford 2465 Thompson Bridge Road, Suite 110 Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 989-0981 - Non-profit/Healthcare affinishospice.org

13

Key Economic Indicators

October 4, 2011 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Aug 2011

8.7

12-Month High

8

Latest

Previous Month

South Hall Business Coalition

10 Jan 2011

10.3%

6

Percent

9

2

One Year Ago

Aug 2010

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

9.1

Gainesville City

9.5

Cherokee Dawson

8.7 10

Forsyth

7.8

Gwinnett 9.2 Jackson 10.3 Ga Mountains 9.1 State of Georgia 10.2

4

July 2011

U.S.

9.1

2011

2010

Updated 9/27

Retail Sales

3.0

The Norton Agency Key Economic Indicators $ 228,764,600 2 columns 201,888,821 209,931,900 4.4167 x 10 Hall County

2.0

Latest August 2011

(L-R): Mark Boggs, Milton Martin Honda; Shelley Davis and Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Andi Farmer and Butch Miller, Milton Martin Honda; Kit Dunlap, President/ CEO, Greater Hall Chamber. Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN Radio, the South Hall Business Coalition meeting featured an economic update by Tim Evans, Chamber VP of Economic Development. The next meeting on Tuesday, October 18 will be held at the Atlanta Falcons Football Complex and include a 2011 Falcons Football Update. Space limited. Reservations: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online reservations: greaterhallchamber.com

100’s millions of dollars

Community Development

New Website for VISION 2030 VISION 2030 has launched a new website through the work of Full Media, a Gainesvillebased web design and internet marketing firm. (L-R): Davis White, President, Full Media, CEO Kris Nordholtz and VISION 2030 Executive Director Meg Nivens. The new site – vision2030.org – includes overviews on the program's 15 Big Ideas, the newly organized Board of Directors, featured projects with news, reports and updates.

Previous Month

One Year Ago

July 2011

August 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 retail sales of approximately $100 million.

O N D J

F

M A M J J A

2010

2011 Updated 9/27

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County Latest

Small Business Success Seminar

August 19 Aug 2010

152

Jules Ciotta of MoCom Associates presented the recent seminar on customer service to over 112 people.

Small Business Success Seminars are sponsored by United Community Bank and Jacobs Media and are free for Chamber members. The October 11th program "The Benefits of an Employee Wellness Program" will be presented by Jullie King of The Longstreet Clinic. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206.

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

July 2011

21

6

138

Previous Month

2010 Total

One Year Ago

2011 YTD

Area Permits

County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Jackson

Aug 2011 6 4 39 120 1

Aug 2010 3 5 2 70 1

Jul 2011 4 2 45 11 2

Total 2010 45 33 647 1,012 39

2011 YTD 20 30 375 799 14

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home

Area

Aug 2011

Avg Aug Price 2010

Avg Price

Jul 2011

Avg Price

Total 2010

Avg Total Price 2011

Avg Price

City

15

94,731

8

137,518

17

120,544

119

130,529 126

175,236

North

31

190,151

25

190,768

35

206,274

279

203,389 264

191,607

East

20

71,945

10

89,000

23

60,985

144

89,653 165

69,538

South

36

165,610

20

171,714

23

114,575

172

133,791 175

152,870

West

56

228,083

444

212,337

57

196,025

374

170,098 377

207,173 Updated 9/27

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

(L-R): Chicopee Woods Elementary Principal Hank Ramey with Cargill employees Dave Ellis, Donna Turner, Amy Ferguson, Nancy Henry, Sandhya Das, Doug Harris, Sandy Harrison, Sharel Stowe, Luther Giles, and Jessie Gonzalez of Center Point Mentoring.

Staci Tunkel, Director of the Center Point Mentor Program, recently trained 15 Cargill employees to serve as mentors for Chicopee Woods Elementary. Cargill became a Partner in Education with Chicopee Woods in 2008. Facility Manager Dave Ellis helped to coordinate the training. “We have been involved with the mentor program at Chicopee Woods Elementary school over the years, but this year Principal Hank Ramey challenged us to support the needs of the students at Chicopee Woods even more. From the efforts of our Cargill Cares Committee and the personal commitment from each of our employee volunteers, I am proud of our site’s response and Cargill is more than happy to allow our employees the time each week to serve.”

According to a Gainesville-Hall County school counselor survey of 484 mentored students in 2010-11, 90% of the improved in academics, 85% increased school attendance, 91% exhibited enhanced bonding to school, 86% demonstrated better behavior and 91% improved peer relationships. “We are thrilled to have Cargill as a Partner in Education and could not be happier about their commitment to our students by serving as mentors. The kids really enjoy the one-on-one attention and the time they get with their Mentors,” states Leigh Caputo, Counselor at Chicopee Woods Elementary.

“I feel so lucky that our school has this kind of support.”

Pud’s Place Restaurant has partnered with four Hall County elementary schools: White Sulphur, Sugar Hill, Tadmore and Myers. Officials recently met to discuss the Partners in Education agreement (L-R): Dana Miller, Chamber VP of Education; Beth Skarda, Principal, Sugar Hill Elementary; Beth Hudgins, Principal, Myers Elementary; Cheryl Roberts, Pud's owner; Robin Gower, Principal, Tadmore Elementary; Ann Murphey, Principal, White Sulphur Elementary; John Roberts, Pud's owner.

Pud’s is sponsoring a contest between schools with the winner receiving $500. Schools are challenged to eat at Pud’s Place, and the school with the highest total receipts wins!

Each time you, a friend or relative makes a purchase, place the receipt in the box of the school you support. At the end of the contest, the first place winner will receive $500, 2nd place $250, 3rd place $100 and 4th place $50. Contest ends December 31. Pud's Place is located at Highway 129 at Wilson Street, 1.5 miles south of I-985 and serves breakfast and lunch. Hours: Tues-Friday 5:30 am-1:30 pm; Saturday, 7:00 am-1:00 pm; closed Sunday and Monday. Weekly results will be posted on the Pud’s Place Facebook page. Details: 678-316-6774.

Leadership Hall County

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

Partners in Education Partners in Education Cargill employees mentor students Pud's Place Restaurant

For more on the Greater Hall Chamber Partners in Education program, contact Dana Miller, VP of Education, 770-532-6206. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

All 58 Youth leadership Hall students gathered at Riverside Military Academy to learn about themselves and take part in a leadership evaluation: The Winning Colors, an assessment tool that allows participants to identify their behaviors in terms of developing the four parts of self: the leadership part (Builder), the thinking part (Planner), the team-building part (Relater), and the action part of self (Adventurer).

The class participated in team building exercises led by Kevin Lloyd, Laurelwood, and experienced Riverside's indoor Marksmanship Training Range and indoor 30 foot rappel tower. Many thanks to Sgt. Jeff Chandler for facilitating the program, Riverside Military Academy for hosting the group, and Tim Bunch, Longstreet Café, for breakfast.

Winners of THE GREAT RACE – Red Team (L-R): Kingsley Peeples, BatesCarter; Shae Whitmire, Whitmire Homes; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint Design Center; Allana Cummings, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.; Sandra Gentry, Georgia Power; Karina Costantini, City of Gainesville; Emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota; Shane Gaddy, Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC; Bill Youngblood, Right At Home.

The Leadership Hall County class took part in a successful day-long retreat at Montara Farm in Clermont. Members of the class learned about their fellow class mates, their leadership style and the importance of understanding diversity and team building through a variety of exercises, activities and discussions. The class participated in THE GREAT RACE, an exciting competitive activity that uses a full range of skills, including physical and mental abilities. Through the activities the class bonded as a group and learned about trust and teambuilding while having a great time together. Thank you Montara Farm for another great event and fantastic food!

October 4, 2011 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Youth Leadership Hall

15

CHATTAHOOCHEE BANK OF GEORGIA FREE DEbit CaRD, FREE atm withDRawals, FREE E-statEmEnts Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Community Owned, locally managed, locally invested 643 E. E. Butler Parkway • (770) 536-0607 • www.chattahoocheebank.com MEMBER FDIC

Upcoming Chamber Events Small Business Success Seminar Tuesday, October 11 The Benefits of an Employee Wellness Program by Jullie King, Longstreet Clinic 7:45 - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Sponsored by Jacobs Media and United Community Bank

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, October 18 Atlanta Falcons Football Update 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.

Falcons Complex in Flowery Branch Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN Radio

HealthSmart Wellness Expo Wednesday, October 12 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Expo Georgia Mountains Center Expo is Free & Open to the Public

Business After Hours Tuesday, October 25 Sponsored by Regions New Branch on E.E. Butler Pkwy in Downtown Gainesville 5:00 - 7:00 p.m

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

Get Details & Register Online:

greaterhallchamber.com

CAR-RT SORT

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.