M A R C H 2020
contents Chairman’s Column page 2 Meetings & Events page 4 Small Business of the Month page 6 Member Announcements page 10 Welcome New Members Page 11 Drugs Don't Work Page 12 Leadership Hall page 13 Ribbon Cuttings page 14
save the date
Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk Thursday, March 26 | 6:00 p.m. Riverside Military Academy Register online through March 23:
RunSignup.com/ChamberChase
Register at the Chamber now through March 26. Registration fee: $30; $35 after March 12. Info: 770-532-6206.
Small Business Seminar Chamber
Wednesday, March 18 Job Fair & Career Expo Gainesville Civic Center
Thursday, March 26
Chamber Chase 5K
Riverside Military Academy
Job Seekers! Meet hiring managers and complete applications on site at the Job Fair & Career Expo on Wednesday, March 18 (10am-2pm) at the Gainesville Civic Center. Open to the public. No admission fee. Free on-site shuttle. See page 16 for details.
featured member
Tuesday, March 10
BUSINESS LINK
from the chairman
VOLUME 25 ISSUE 9
McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Investing in Our Next Generation
Brian Rochester
Rochester & Associates Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
SPLOST – Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax – is a one-cent tax on all consumer goods that must be approved by voters in a referendum. Education SPLOST, or E-SPLOST, receipts can be used only for school-related capital improvements.
Since 1997, the E-SPLOST has supported the children of Gainesville-Hall County with new schools, technology and safer campuses. The tax amounts to just one penny on the dollar, but all those “good cents” over the past 23 years add up to over $580 million for our local schools.
E-SPLOST VI
Hall County voters will have the option of extending E-SPLOST for another five years with a referendum vote for E-SPLOST VI on March 24. Early voting is underway now through March 20 at the Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville.
Jump-Start Bond
In the March 24 referendum, the E-SPLOST vote will be paired with a general obligation bond. The bond is designed to jump-start school construction projects. It also will assure continued funding for longer-term projects past the 5-year E-SPLOST collection period. The bond will be repaid with E-SPLOST revenues as they are collected – along with bond-reduction millage if needed. That’s why a 'Yes' vote on both funding measures is critical to meeting school calendar deadlines. If you are a City of Gainesville voter, you’ll see an $83 million bond question on the ballot, while the bond amount is $258 million on the Hall County ballot.
Why E-SPLOST?
• Best alternative to higher property taxes • Everyone pays • Enhances local education • New industry and economic development • NO. 1 REASON: Our Children Join me in investing in our next generation, and vote YES for E-SPLOST VI and the General Obligation Bond. Support a continuation of the one-cent sales tax funding for another five years. E-SPLOST is Just Good Cents, and our children deserve the best.
Arbor Day Winners of the Chamber's Student Art & Essay Contest were recognized at Arbor Day festivities at Atlanta Botanical Garden Gainesville on February 21. (Front, L-R) Ali Short, Sardis Enrichment School; Alexa Dillin, Enota Elementary; Dana Jimenez, McEver Arts Academy; Hattie Nicholson, Sardis Enrichment School. Arbor Day Event Sponsors (Back, L-R) Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power; Shantha McDonald, Hall County Master Gardeners; Shanda Sexton, Keep Hall Beautiful; Student Phineas Sandi, Riverbend Elementary School. 2
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
230 E.E. Butler Pkwy • Gainesville GA 30501 • 770-532-6206 • GreaterHallChamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2019-2020 Executive Committee Chairman Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates Chairman-Elect Geoff Lee Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Treasurer Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power
Vice Chair, Education Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Co-Vice Chair, Education Tate O’Rouke, Jackson EMC Vice Chair, Government Affairs Philip Wilheit, Jr. Wilheit Packaging
Vice Chair, Membership Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Vice Chair, Economic Development Smith Insurance David Lee, Jackson EMC Co-Vice Chair, Membership Phil Bonelli, Regions Bank Vice Chair, Marketing Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands Co-Chairs, HALLmark 2015-2020 Paul Chambers, AT&T Vice Chair, South Hall Council Mimi Collins, Longstreet Clinic Terry Merck, American Yazaki Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost
Chair, Vision 2030 Phillippa Lewis Moss Community Service Center Executive Director, Vision 2030 Elizabeth Higgins Senior Advisor Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction Company Immediate Past Chair Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap
Board of Directors 2019-2020 Norman Baggs, The Times Haley Bower, Clipper Petroleum Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Nick Bruner, Rushton Caitlin Collins, Mincey Marble Manufacturing Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Dr. Suzanne Erickson, Brenau University Jim Grier, Mayor, City of Lula Richard Higgins, Chairman, Hall County Commission Logan Jones, Wilheit Packaging Brooke Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel Jennifer Landers, Newland Communities David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Manufacturing J.D. Mealor, Regions Bank Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council Terry Morrisey, Intelligent Energy James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Nancy Norton, The Norton Agency
Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Michele Piucci, Peach State Bank Col. Stas Preczewski, Riverside Military Academy Sheila Sanchez, State Farm Insurance Will Schofield, Hall County School System Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry John Simpson, Lakeview Academy Dr. Anne Skleder, Brenau University Sarita Madera Smith, Homestar Financial Corp Terry Spicer, King's Hawaiian Ahna Still, Halski Systems Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons John Turner, Northeast Georgia Health System Roy Turpin, Mayor, City of Gillsville Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools Darryl Workman, South State Bank Mike Zeiler, Bitzer US, Inc.
Associate Directors 2019-2020 Lauren Armour, Lanier Technical College Carin Booth, UGA Extension Hall County Whitney Brown, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Sean Couch, Northeast Georgia Health System Tracy Hoeltke, Netchex Ben Jarrard, University of North Georgia Ward McCamy, Bank of America
Chris Nish, Cottrell Todd Pennington, McGarity's Business Products Steve Rawl, SunTrust Bank Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance Georgia Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic Nancy Jo Zimmer, JP Morgan Chase Bank
Greater Hall Chamber Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Nikki Chandler, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Madison Hopkins, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President, Finance & HR Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Events Christen Wilbanks, Vice President, Sales Kara Tate, Vice President, Sales & Programs Education & Leadership Andi Harmon, Vice President
Government Affairs Madison Hopkins, Project Manager South Hall Council Kara Tate, Vice President, Sales & Programs Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager
A N D T H E B E AT G O E S O N .
We do a lot with our hearts, from running the neighborhood 5K to having them filled by those we love. The Heart Center of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) stands ready to make sure your heart beats on. Whether it’s routine care that keeps you in tip-top shape or a complex procedure that may save your life, you can count on The Heart Center of NGMC for the expert care you need, close to home.
To learn more about The Heart Center of NGMC, or to request an appointment with a cardiologist, call 770-343-4239 or visit heartngmc.org/beat
meetings
events
Social Media & Digital Marketing
Over 150 Chamber members gathered for insight from marketing professionals at a workshop on January 29 at the Brenau Downtown Center. Front (L-R) Caroline Lewallen, teXga Farms; Amanda Wilbanks, Southern Baked Pie Company; Workshop Keynote Speaker Jamie Turner, 60SecondMarketer.com. Back (L-R) Juli Clay, Brenau University; Dr. Suzanne Erickson, Brenau University; Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands; Phil Palacios, Cardinal Ridge Group. Photo: Jessica Palacios, Cardinal Ridge Group.
Register NOW
Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk Thursday, March 26 | 6:00 p.m. Riverside Military Academy The Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on March 26 is a great team building and wellness initiative for your business and your employees! Register online through March 23:
RunSignup.com/ChamberChase
Register in person at the Chamber now through March 26.
Registration fee is $30; $35 after March 12.
• Register as a Team or Individual • T-Shirt Design Contest • Individual and Group Awards • Reserve a Tent for Your Team
INFO: Mandy Lathem • 770-532-6206 x 115 • mlathem@ghcc.com 4
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
calendar
March Tuesday, March 10
Small Business Seminar
7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber
7th Grade Career Fair
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College
Ambassadors Council
3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. | 2 Dog Cafe Wednesday, March 11
Network Over Coffee
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Brenau University Tea Room | Gainesville
Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Luna's | Gainesville
Thursday, Wednesday, March 25
Network Over Coffee
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. The Community Place of Braselton Thursday, March 26
7th Grade Career Fair
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. University of North Georgia | Gainesville
Chamber Board of Directors
12:00 – 1:30 p.m. | Gainesville Civic Center
Chamber Chase 5K Run & 2 Mile Wellness Walk 6:00 p.m. 5K Run 6:10 p.m. 2 Mile Wellness Walk 7:00 p.m. Awards Riverside Military Academy Tuesday, March 31
South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands
Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. | Chamber
April
Tuesday, March 17
Tuesday, April 7
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | Chamber
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Beverly's ACE Hardware | Gainesville
Friday, March 13
Vision 2030 Board Meeting Wednesday, March 18
Job Fair & Career Expo 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center Thursday, March 19
Chamber Executive Committee 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber Friday, March 20
New Member Orientation
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Lanier College & Career Academy 2719 Tumbling Creek Road | Gainesville
Business After Hours
Tuesday, April 14
Small Business Seminar
7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. | Chamber Tuesday, April 21
Agribusiness Awards
7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. North Hall Community Center Friday, April 24
Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament
10:oo a.m. Shotgun Start Legacy on Lanier Golf Club | Lanier Island
Wednesday, March 25
Issues Committee
8:00 a.m. | Chamber
Get all the details and register for events online at GreaterHallChamber.com
Retirement
may be far off,
membership development
but the April 15 deadline for IRA contributions isn’t.
Networking & Lead Development Hasty Pope Sponsors Business After Hours
You have only so many years to prepare for retirement. That’s why contributing to your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is so important. Fortunately, you still have time to maximize your 2015 IRA contribution before the April 15 deadline.
Worried about market talk. By volatility? contributing now, your Let’s retirement savings
can have more opportunity to grow. Even if you already have an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer it to an Edward Jones IRA and begin receiving the face-to-face guidance you deserve. Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
Financial Advisor Financial Advisor . To learn more about advantages 3630the Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 of an 3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 30506 today. Edward Jones IRA,Gainesville, call orGAvisit Gainesville, 770-536-2031
GA 30506 770-536-2031
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Thank you Hasty Pope for hosting Chamber members for great food, drink and networking at Business After Hours! Hasty Pope team members (L-R) El Haynes, Amanda Gambill, Jonathan Pope, Dustin Davies and Mandi Hunter. Don't miss Business After Hours on April 7th at the new Beverly's ACE Hardware, 1963 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville. MKT-5894F-A-A1
The Greater Hall Chamber's Marketing Committee, lead by Vice Chair Missy Burgess of Lanier Islands, is a diverse group of marketing and public relations executives. (Clockwise, from bottom left) Cathy Cobb, Harry Norman Realty; Jessica Palacios, Cardinal Ridge Group; Margaret Spratlin, Longstreet Clinic; Erin Williamson, Forum Communications; Carli Echols, Jaemor Farms; Phil Palacios, Cardinal Ridge Group; Missy Burgess, Lanier Islands; Leah Nelson, The Times; Beth Downs, Northeast Georgia Health System; Lance Compton, Red Clay Interactive. The advisory group meets quarterly and assists with social media and digital initiatives, membership communications and marketing strategies. For committee information or to get involved, email Kemie West, kwest@ghcc.com
Beth Baldwin
Financial Advisor
439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220
Rick Kimpling, AAMS® Financial Advisor
64 North Brooks Street Unit B Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-0933
IRT-2046G-A
Marketing & Communications
www.edwardjones.com 4.91" x 10"SIPC Member
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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Small Business of the Month Comfort Keepers
economic development Using technology to improve healthcare Northeast Georgia Health Systems' Sean Couch (left), Director of Public Relations and Marketing, and Ryan Brackett, Manager of Web Services, spoke on using technology to improve healthcare experiences and NGHS's innovative approach in the digital age at the February Healthcare Committee meeting. Jessica Dudley, President & CPO, United Way of Hall County, will speak on "Reaching Out," the community-wide mental health awareness campaign at the Chamber's next meeting on Wednesday, March 4 (8-9am) at the Chamber. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111.
Serving Hall County since 2002, Comfort Keepers is a licensed home care provider specializing in helping adults of any age who need occasional or daily assistance with household and personal tasks or transportation. The staff assists with daily routines and works with clients to find joy in everyday living. With empathy at the core of client care, Comfort Keepers' goal is healthy minds, healthy bodies and a safe home environment. Satellite offices are located in Canton and Alpharetta. 439 Green Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-887-0499. comfortkeepers.com
Comfort Keepers Owner Alan White with Linda Ramey, Marketing Liasion.
Chamber Intern focuses on HR Development South Hall Business Coalition
Nicole Brokaw
Intern, Greater Hall Chamber
Chamber Intern Nicole Brokaw moved to Georgia from Chicago in 2017 to complete a leadership action program as organizing member of the Georgia Forward Young Gamechangers workforce development team – SOWEGA Works. She joined the Chamber’s Vision 2030 Education Consortium to integrate into the community. Nicole is attending Brenau University for a MBA with a concentration in Human Resource Management. She is interning for the Greater Hall Chamber to gain experience in economic development, workforce development, and human resources and is working with the Chamber's HR Council. Nicole is a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and volunteers with the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia.
Thank You Chamber Sponsors! AccessWDUN Ace Hardware Alliant Health Plans BGW Dental Group Brasfield & Gorrie Caldwell Electrical Contractors CIGNA Coca-Cola Gaineville Express Employment Professionals Fox Factory Gainesville Mechanical Halski Systems
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Highland Mountain Water King's Hawaiian Longstreet Clinic Mansfield Mars Wrigley McDonald's NEGA McGarity's Business Products Milton Martin Honda Milton Martin Toyota NEGA Diagnostic Clinic NEGA Health System NEGA Medical Center Braselton
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
NEGA Physicians Group Panera Bread ProCare Rx Red Clay Interactive Riverside Military Academy Signs by Tomorrow Spherion Staffing Services Store More Self Storage The Heart Center of NGMC The Mill at New Holland Wayne Farms ZF Gainesville
(L-R) Chamber Chairman Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates; Flowery Branch Mayor Mike Miller, Lanier Islands; Ed Asbridge, Flowery Branch City Council; Ahna Still, Halski Systems (SHBC Sponsor); Flowery Branch City Manager Bill Andrew (Presenter). Join the South Hall Business Coalition on Tuesday, March 31 (8-9am) at Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands for breakfast and news on what's happening at the Islands! $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Includes breakfast. Info: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 103 or ktate@ghcc.com
Upcoming Small Business Seminars
small business
Tuesday, March 10 Small Business Seminar
"Finding the Right Intern for Your Company" Presented by Brenau University, Lanier Technical College and the University of North Georgia 7:45 am - 9:00 am | Chamber No Charge for Members |$15 Non-Members
Tuesday, April 14 Small Business Seminar
CERTIFIED Partners Receive
• Certificate of Completion • Certified Small Business Door Decal
"Grow Your Business with Traditional Marketing" Presented by a Panel of Experts from Jacobs Media, The Times and Lamar Advertising
• Recognition at a Chamber
Info:
Small Business Seminars are sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Gainesville Mechanical and Signs by Tomorrow.
7:45 am - 9:00 am | Chamber No Charge for Members |$15 Non-Members "Small Business Security & Data Protection" was the topic of the February Small Business Seminar (L-R) Presenter Roger Dixon, SCR Consulting; Andrew Davenport, A Good Look Home Inspection; Presenter Fred Schuchman, Georgia Agreements; Kareem Tarek, Elite Furniture; Tylyn Anderson, Paychex; Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions; Jim Custer, ROI Performance Group.
Become a Chamber 2020 CERTIFIED Small Business Partner by simply attending six (6) Small Business Seminars this year.
Chamber Small Business Seminars are held monthly on topics and issues of interest to small business. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Board Meeting
• Announcement in the Business Link
Choose Liberty. Choose Natural Choose Liberty. Choose Natural Gas. Gas.
1/2 Page Ad 10" x 4.75"
1766 Cleveland Highway 1766 Cleveland Highway Gainesville 30501 Gainesville GA,GA, 30501 678-707-5205 678-707-5205 www.libertyutilities.com www.libertyutilities.com March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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What are your
dreams?
Start a Business? Leave a Charitable Legacy? Retire to a Beachfront Home? Pay for College? Travel the World? Whatever your dreams, the team at Strong, Gaddy, Lee Wealth Management Group is here to help you pursue them. With more than 85 years of combined experience, we work to understand your values and priorities, fit together the pieces of your financial life into one manageable plan, and become your trusted partner in helping you create a strategy to pursue all you desire. Come see us to learn how you can get started today.
301 Green St. | Suite 100D | Gainesville, GA 30501 P: 770-534-0727 | F: 770-462-3393 | stronggaddylee.com Securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through IFG Advisory LLC, a registered investment advisor. IFG Advisory LLC and Strong, Gaddy, Lee Wealth Management Group are separate entities from LPL Financial.
member news Chicken boxes travel to State Capitol
Chamber staff and volunteers worked tirelessly preparing “Chicken Boxes” for the annual trek to the State Capitol. Some 300 boxes, filled with treasures sponsored by local manufacturers and businesses, were delivered by the Leadership Hall County Class to all state legislators on February 6. An initiative of the Chamber’s Government Affairs division, Gainesville-Hall County Chicken Boxes have become a much anticipated treat to our politicians who give so much of their time and energy to benefit our community and state. The gift seeks to show appreciation for making “Georgia the best place to visit, work, play and stay!”
Job Fair & Career Expo on March 18 Spring Job Fair & Career Expo is Wednesday, March 18 (10am-2pm) at the Gainesville Civic Center and is the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employees, as managers meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face in a short span of time. Sponsored by Express Employment Professionals (title sponsor) Fox Factory, Mars Wrigley and The Mill at New Holland (platinum), King's Hawaiian (gold), Spherion and McDonald's NEGA (silver). Free and open to the public, the job fair is a partnership of the Greater Hall Chamber, the Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Lanier Technical College and the Georgia Department of Labor. Info: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111 or email: alewis@ghcc.com 10
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
• Riverside Military Academy (RMA) CFO Kelly Smith announced her retirement concluding an outstanding 26-year career. Laura Maxwell, former VP of business and finance at Georgia Gwinnett College, has been named Smith’s successor. Maxwell worked for 20 years at West Point as senior associate athletic director and CFO, army athletics. Established in 1907, RMA is one of the nation's premier all-boys college preparatory schools. riversidemilitary.com • Rotary Club of Gainesville named Ruth Bruner and R.K. Whitehead as Woman and Man of the Year. Bruner served on the Gainesville City Council for 16 years and has served on boards of the Beulah Rucker Center, Georgia Municipal Association, Guest House and Gateway Domestic Violence Center. Whitehead, a past Chamber Chairman, took over the family business in 1990 and has been instrumental in the development of Elachee Nature Science Center and the Chicopee Woods Area Park Commission. He was awarded Outstanding Young Engineer by Georgia Tech and is a Leadership Georgia graduate. • Dr. Ray Perren, President, Lanier Technical College announced that enrollment numbers have hit the highest recorded number in the school’s history, with 4,707 students enrolled in the 2020 spring semester. laniertech.edu • Lake Lanier Olympic Park's (LLOP) new Olympic Ring Plaza nears completion, housing a historic monument for the finish line tower, seating and refurbished Olympic Rings. Food Truck Friday at LLOP is Friday, March 13 (5-9pm) with fun for the family with food and beer trucks and live music. The John Hunter Regatta is March 21-22 and features college, scholastic and youth rowing teams. lakelanierolympicvenue.org • The University of North Georgia (UNG) announced that Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is the new official healthcare partner of UNG Athletics, a NCAA Division II athletics program. Both organizations are also exploring ways that NGHS can support programs within UNG’s College of Health Sciences and Professions. ung.edu • The Chamber's Community Guide will be published in May 2020. Both print and digital versions will be available.
Distribution outlets include the Chamber Welcome Center, economic development and business relocation packages, banks, schools and real estate offices. Additional copies provided for all advertisers. For Ad Info: Dana Erwin, The Times, 770-535-6380. derwin@gainesvilletimes.com • UGA Cooperative Extension announces Garrett Hibbs as Hall County Ag & Natural Resources/Extension Agent. Earning a BS in Biological Sciences and an MS in Plant Pathology at UGA, Garrett most recently worked at the USDA Richard B. Russell Research Center researching fungal plant pathogens. The UGA Extension operates through a partnership with the State of Georgia, Hall County and the USDA. Backed by specialists and a network of resources, extension agents have been on the job in Georgia since 1914. extension.uga.edu • The American Red Cross Gainesville Community upcoming Blood Drives are March 6 and March 17 (9:00am – 3:00pm) at the Martha Hope Cabin, 528 Prior Street in Gainesville. Appointments: 1-800-REDCROSS or visit redcrossblood.org (locate the “find a drive” in the upper right corner & enter GVILLECOM). • Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) announces Luisa Gutman as its Chief HR Officer. With almost 30 years of human resources expertise, Gutman most recently served as a consultant for Jefferson Health in Philadelphia, where she helped standardize compensation and benefit programs across the five-hospital system. nghs.com • UGA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) StartSmart™ program provides the tools to valuate your business concept, develop plans to move forward, improve business fundamentals and build an infrastructure for business operations. StartSmart™ graduates acquire an actionable business plan, access to financial and business resources and a network of entrepreneurial peers and professionals. To sign up, call Molly Knight, 770-531-5681 or email, mknight@georgiasbdc.org
Got news?
Email: kwest@ghcc.com
membership development
Welcome New Members AIM Leasing Company Jessica Bochy 2975 Old Oakwood Drive Gainesville GA 30504 -Transportation Services 706-429-6853 aimntls.com
Gravity Junction Sharla Crawford 3858 Walnut Grove Lane Gainesville GA 30506 -Marketing & Website Design 843-478-4578 gravityjunction.com
Aim to Be 3 Marianne Thomas 112 West Academy St., Suite 100 Gainesville GA 30501 -Non-Profit 678-971-5220 aimtobe3.com
Jeff Greene P.O. Box 465003 Lawrenceville GA 30042 -Individual Member 404-421-9686 staffmetrixhr.com
Bertin Enterprises George Bertin 654 Bramlett Shoals Road Lawrenceville GA 30045 -Janitorial & Cleaning Services 678-225-0660 bertinenterprises.com Boots Etc. Chris Stowers 30465 Highway 441 S Commerce GA 30527 -Retail 706-335-2668 boots-etc.com Chattahoochee Christian School Debbie Thomas 640 Main Street Clermont GA 30527 -School/Private Academy 770-983-9433 chattahoocheechristian.org Concord Christian Preschool Robin Bryson 640 Main Street Gainesville GA 30527 -School/Childcare 770-983-7272 concordgo.com
La Casa del Taco Oscar Munoz 5533 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch GA 30542 -Restaurant & Catering 678-997-9630 Facebook.com/lacasadeltacoo Lakeside Marine & Motorsports Dane Michael 9605 Jot Em Down Road Gainesville GA 30506 -Boat Sales & Service 678-538-7807 lakesidemarine.org Lanier Carts & Outdoor Mike Quisenberry 4324 Mundy Mill Road Oakwood GA 30566 -Retail 470-252-5622 laniercarts.com LDG Accounting Services Linda Gober 2345 Thompson Mill Road Braselton GA 30519 -Finance Services & Accounting 678-472-5794 LDGaccountingservices.com
Elite Furniture Kareem Tarek 1210 Thompson Bridge Road, #D Gainesville GA 30501 -Furniture Retail 678-971-5671 elitefurnituredesigns.com
Logistics Property Company Jay Mitchell 3340 Peachtree Road, NE Suite 580 Atlanta GA 30326 -Commercial Real Estate 404-358-4992 logisticspropco.com
Family Recovery Lisa Southerland 703 Grove Street Gainesville GA 30501 -Counseling Services 770-535-1073 familyrecovery.com
Marlow's Tavern Samantha Guley 3333 Buford Drive, Suite VD01C Buford GA 30519 -Restaurant & Catering 678-765-8689 marlowstavern.com
Geveko Markings Laura Clark 1883 New Harvest Road Gainesville GA 30507 -Manufacturer 770-847-9410 geveko-markings.us
Orangetheory Fitness Mary Lynch 833 Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 220 Gainesville GA 30501 -Fitness Center 770-631-5966 orangetheoryfitness.com
O U r t e a m i s yo u r
Peaks of Oakwood Mark Adams 3500 Peaks Circle Flowery Branch GA 30542 -Apartments 770-296-7640 fairwaymanagement.com/ peaksofoakwood Riverwood Associates Peter Sherman 4756 Promontory Court Dunwoody GA 30338 Business Services & Training 678-595-7942 riverwoodassociates.com Ryals Brothers Joshua Ryals 360 Clear View Court Clermont GA 30527 -Grading Contractor 770-654-7411 Soulshine Farms Michael Farmer 2411 White Sulphur Road Gainesville GA 30501 -Manufacturer & Processor 470-892-6553 Traveling with Tab Affiliate of Family Memories Travel Tabitha Ward 4512 North Gate Drive Gainesville GA 30506 -Travel Agency 706-255-6490 Facebook.com/travelingwithtab Trinity Dental Care Ashley Ellis 592 Medical Park Drive, Suite B Gainesville GA 30501 -Dentist 770-863-7324 Workforce Strategies Group Shelley Davis 605 Candler Street, B9 Gainesville GA 30501 -Workforce Development 678-316-0792 workforcestrategiesgroup.com Join the Greater Hall Chamber during the Annual New Member Campaign that runs NOW through March 13. Receive added benefits and incentives! For details, call 770-532-6206 and ask for Christen Wilbanks, VP Membership Sales, or Kara Tate, VP Sales & Programs. JOIN ONLINE: GreaterHallChamber.com
team Tax Supervisor Kaitlin Pharr and Rushton’s tax-centric team go beyond state borders to provide the most current multistate tax law advice for the least burden and highest return for our clients. Multistate business? These issues may apply to you:
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• Franchise tax versus income tax
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• Differing qualifications for nexus state to state • Navigating multistate state and local tax (SALT) • Tax implications based on physical presence in a state
Rushton
ACCOUNTING & BUSINESS ADVISORS | CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com 0484 RUSH-BizLinkMAR20.indd 1
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1/30/20 10:53 AM
Drugs Don't Work
community development
102 Businesses Participate in Drug Free Workplace Initiative Chuck Wade, Executive Director, The Council on Alcohol & Drugs and Georgia Drugs Don’t Work (DDW), recently trained Nikki Chandler, Chamber Vice President of Existing Industry, for certification as a DDW Coordinator. Facilitated by the Greater Hall Chamber, there are currently 102 certified Drug Free Workplaces in Hall County. Drug Free Workplaces are eligible to receive a 7.5% discount on Worker’s Compensation Insurance premiums. If your organization is self-insured, the 7.5% discount is from your state assessment fee. See what companies are participating or how your business can get involved, visit GHCC.com/healthcare/drugs-dontwork. Nikki Chandler, 770-5326206, or nchandler@ghcc.com
E-SPLOST: Good Cents for Education Early Voting Now - March 20th
Since 1997, the Education SPLOST – a one-penny local sales tax – has funded new schools, technology and safer campuses in Gainesville-Hall County. Though the tax amounts to just one penny on the dollar, all those "Good Cents" produced $580 million over the past 23 years. The E-SPLOST VI Vote is Tuesday, March 24. In the March referendum, the E-SPLOST vote will be paired with a general obligation bond designed to jump-start construction projects.
Why E-SPLOST?
• Best alternative to higher property taxes • Everyone pays – non-residents, visitors, homeowners, renters • For the future of our children For information on Gainesville City School E-SPLOST, visit gcssk12.net/community/esplost For Hall County E-SPLOST, visit esplost.hallco.org Early voting for E-SPLOST VI and the General Obligation Bond runs through March 20 at the Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road.
VOTE YES FOR
OUR CHILDREN!
Tuesday
March 24
REFEREN D U M
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY
SUPPORTING GAINESVILLE & HALL COUNTY SCHOOLS E-SPLOST VI and GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND A continuation of the school sales tax program for another 5 years
1/4 Page Ad
4.91" x Full 4.75" Service Pharmacy Unique Gifts Embroidery Monogramming Packaged Prescriptions
g Votin Early H 2-20
MARC
12
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
THE TIM ES
THE TIM ES
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Paid for by Citizens for Better Education 2020
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935 Green Street, GaineeSville ville 30501 callriverSidepharmacy callriver idepharmacy.com 770.532.6253 • Fax 770.532.6592
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(L-R) Naia Vincent, Flowery Branch High School; Karina Collins and Kat Le, Gainesville High School. From industrial manufacturing to dairy farming, Youth Leadership Hall's Industry and Economic Development Program included visits to Glo-Crest Dairy, Mountain Fresh Creamery, BITZER US and Carroll Daniel Construction. Thank you program sponsors: McDonald's of Northeast Georgia, Inc. and Bitzer US.
Leadership Hall traveled to the Georgia State Capitol, delivered "Chicken Boxes" to each delegate and visited with our local delegation. The class heard from Senator John Wilkinson, Rep. Lee Hawkins, Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black, and the legendary Abit Massey. The highlight of the day was joining President Pro Tempore Senator Butch Miller on the Senate Floor for Q&A. Thank you to planners and sponsors: Andi Miller Farmer, Milton Martin Honda, Senator Butch Miller, Chick-fil-A Robson Crossing, Tate Izlar O'Rouke, Jackson EMC and Kelly Tours.
2020 GREATER HALL Chamber of CommerCe COMMUNITY GUIDE
The Official Publication of the Chamber GreaterHallChamber.com
The Official bi-annual publication for the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce First impression of the area’s quality of life and community First point of contact for industrial, commercial and
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DANA ERWIN 770-535-6380
derwin@gainesvilletimes.com 345 Green St., NW • Gainesville, GA 30503
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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ribbon cuttings
Wagner Staffing
Good News Clinics
Good News Clinics officials, Liz Coates, Executive Director, Dr. Ed Lynch, Medical Co-Director, and Brad Baucom, Board President, cut a ribbon at the Christian nonprofit facility that provides free medical and dental care to low-income, uninsured residents of Hall County. With 42 physicians and 43 dentist volunteers, the clinic serves over 3,500 people each year and is committed to improving access to care and reducing hospital admissions by managing chronic disease in patients. Good News Clinics has expanded eye care and counseling services, and specialty referrals and medications are free for qualifying patients. 810 Pine Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-5040 x 320. goodnewsclinics.org
April Loudermilk, Vice President of Wagner Staffing, cuts the ribbon for their relocated office in Oakwood. Wagner is a full service staffing agency, specializing in manufacturing, distribution and logistics. Wagner has a Professional/Technical branch to help with specialty, professional needs. Wagner is a Georgia-grown company who cares to partner with the best companies. 3715 Mundy Mill Road, Suite J, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-535-8888. WagnerStaffing.com
The Arts Council
Smile Doctors by Wilson Orthodontics
Dr. Ron Wilson and wife, Bonnie-Lynne Wilson, cut the ribbon at the new Smile Doctors by Wilson Orthodontics location in Gainesville. Dr. Wilson, a Gainesville native, has been creating authentic smiles in the Gainesville community for over 13 years. He joined forces with Smile Doctors in 2017 and opened the new location in November 2019. Smile Doctors provides all-inclusive orthodontic treatment and offers both traditional braces and Invisalign. Their mission is to love on people first and straighten teeth second. Call today to schedule a FREE consultation. 1071 South Enota Drive NE Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-088. SmileDoctors.com 14
March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Officials break ground at The Art Council's Smithgall Center for a 6,300 square foot outdoor stage pavilion (L-R) Taylor Sharrett, Ecker Construction Co.; Steve Hill, Hill H Lloyd Architects & Associates; Mayor Danny Dunagan, City of Gainesville; Gladys Wyant, Executive Director, The Arts Council, Inc.; Richard Hunt and Christina Jones, Arts Council Board Members. The pavilion will accommodate 300 seated, and with surrounding grounds, will boost capacity to as many as 2,000 for concerts and other events. Construction is scheduled for completion by early summer. theartscouncil.net
Business Expo 2020
The Business EXPO presented by MegaPrint featured over 60 exhibitors with outstanding business-to-business networking. The EXPO concluded with Business After Hours and A Taste of Gainesville featuring tastings from several area caterers and restaurants. Dozens of door prize drawings were held during the day. (L-R) Michael Sims, BrohmTEK, won a Swag Bag donated by Hayes | James; Liudmila Pengelski, JP Morgan Chase, won a TV donated by Best Buy; and, Kevin Wells, Humane Society of Northeast Georgia, won a cupcake bouquet by DoubleCakes by Chris.
Kicking off the Business EXPO at Lanier Technical College, the Chamber's Annual Small Business Luncheon on February 20th was attended by a sold-out crowd (L-R): Chamber Chairman Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates; Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union (luncheon sponsor); Keynote Speaker Bobby Shoemaker, Franchise Operator, Chick-fil-A Gainesville Locations; Jake Moss, Alliant Health Plans (speaker sponsor). Photos, clockwise from top: Laura Brown and Jessie Matthews, MegaPrint, presenting sponsor of the Business EXPO. Nuria Curacao and Angel Retana, Gainesville Seafood Market and Fajitas.
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Josh Mealor (left) and Tod Peavy, North Georgia LED, with Mitch Clarke (center), AccessWDUN/Jacobs Media.
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WE HAVE A SOLUTION FOR EVERY DATA NEED! March 2020 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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NOW thru March 13
Join the Greater Hall Chamber during the Annual New Member Campaign that concludes March 13. Take your organization on a path to success by joining the 2300 Chamber members already enjoying increased visibility, consumer credibility and involvement through networking opportunities and economic development. Founded as Gainesville-Hall County's Voice for Business 112 years ago, the Chamber staff and leadership will help you grow your business.
Join during the campaign and receive added benefits and incentives! • Membership Directory Listing • Member Networking Events • Forums, Seminars and Committees • Community Involvement • Free Advertising and Publicity • Business Referrals and Connections • Valuable Exposure • Publicly Advertised Ribbon Cutting
Job Fair & Career Expo Wednesday, March 18, 2020
10:00 am - 2:00 pm | Gainesville Civic Center
The Chamber's Job Fair is the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employees. And, job seekers meet prospective employers face-to-face. The event is free and open to the public, and a partnership of the Greater Hall Chamber, the Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Lanier Technical College and the Georgia Department of Labor. • Recruit Quality Employees • Open to the Public • Meet Job Seekers Face to Face • 800+ to Attend • One-Stop Environment • Increase Brand Awareness Presented by
Call 770-532-6206 Ask for Christen Wilbanks, VP Membership Sales, or Kara Tate, VP Sales & Programs, or JOIN ONLINE:
GreaterHallChamber.com
For Job Fair & Career Expo info, email: alewis@ghcc.com
Business After Hours
Leadership Hall County has provided a learning experience for Greater Hall County's existing and emerging leaders since 1983. Nominations are open for the 2020-2021 Class. Each year professionals develop an understanding of our community through a series of sessions on history, agriculture, quality of life, education, healthcare, lake life, social services, governments, public safety and economic development. Nominate yourself or a business associate (deadline is March 13). Online at GreaterHallChamber.com or contact Andi Harmon, Chamber Vice President of Education, 770-532-6206.
April 7 | 5-7 pm Beverly's ACE Hardware
1963 Jesse Jewell Pkwy in Gainesville
Prize Drawings • Networking • Food • Drink
Major 2020 Chamber Events
Thursday, March 26 Chamber Chase 5K 6:00 p.m. 5K Run 6:10 p.m. 2 Mile Walk 7:00 p.m. Awards Riverside Military Academy
• No Admission Fee • Free Shuttle Onsite • 60+ Prospective Employers • Meet Hiring Managers • Convenient Event Location • Complete Applications Onsite
Learn more
Leadership Nominations Open
Wednesday, March 18 Job Fair & Career Expo 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center Free & Open to the Public
Job Seekers
2020 New Member Campaign
Employers
,
Tuesday, April 7 Business After Hours Beverly's ACE Hardware 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 1963 Jesse Jewell Parkway in Gainesville Friday, April 24 Hackers Holiday Golf 10:00 a.m. Shotgun Start Legacy on Lanier Golf Club Lanier Islands
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Thursday, May 14 112th Annual Meeting & Gala 6:00 p.m. Chattahoochee Country Club
CAR-RT SORT
Wednesday, May 20 Transportation Forum 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. UNG Gainesville Details & Registration: GHCC.com/EVENTS
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.